Christmas Issue #123 by Punxsutawney Hometown Magazine

Coal and Stories of Miracles, Kindness and Good Will C

Schedule Your Advertising In Our Groundhog Day Edition! We reach 100% of the local and area homes! - Concentrated Circulation 8,000+ copies of Punxsutawney Hometown magazine are direct-mailed to homes in Punxsutawney and surrounding towns and areas, giving our advertisers nearly 100% coverage . . . we deliver to every home! (As always — our circulation is verified — mailing and printing statements available.)

We are the only Punxsutawney-owned media! Punx’y Proud — Boosting our Hometown! Publishers William C. Anderson Mary L. Roberts Advertising Mary L. Roberts Tracey Young Contributing Writers S. Thomas Curry Marty Armstrong Marsha Lavelle Bill Anderson Art Director Melissa Salsgiver Graphic Artists Melissa Salsgiver Carol Smouse Nicole McGee Emily Altomare All material submitted becomes the property of Punxsutawney Hometown magazine.

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By PRIDE for Hometown magazine

hristmas is a good time for stories of miracles, acts of kindness and good will to all. Even in the bleakest of circumstances, stories such as these have been told in the mining communities around Punxsutawney. If we were telling a story we would begin, “Once Upon a Time in land of Punxsutawney, there were miracles, acts of kindness and men of good will.” A great miracle happened in the mining community of Adrian on November 23, 1891. At about 11 a.m., the Monday before Thanksgiving, a furious wind and rainstorm passed over the area. From the description of the damage, it may have been a late season tornado. Some of the greatest damage was at Adrian where the Catholic Church was totally destroyed. The church was a new building, built on land donated by Adrian Iselin and constructed with money given by Eleanora O’Donnell Iselin, his wife. It was 44-by94 feet and the walls were eighteen inches thick. The wind struck the church on the side and the building unable to withstand the force, trembled and gave way, falling in from the front toward the rear. At the time the wind struck there were more than forty children in the basement, where they were attending school. The teacher wisely

Women and children return home after picking coal from the rock dump. The rock dumps were created when the slate and clay from the mines were hauled out and dumped in rows on mine property. These rows created hills which may be seen in the area where mines operated today. (Photo from the collection of Shirley J. Sharp.)

closed the door and kept the children in the classroom. This simple action was credited with keeping the panic stricken children from trying to escape in the midst of falling timbers and bricks. Although the children were terribly frightened by the experience, none were hurt; certainly a miracle. It was the women and children of the poorer families, usually the new arrivals, who gathered coal for their home fires in the mining communities. The newest and the poorest suffered the most during the times of slow work. Lucius Watterman Robinson, the General Manager of the Rochester and Pittsburg Coal and Iron Company, was described in his obituary as a strong man, “a dominating figure in the bituminous fields of Pennsylvania…. who could handle men and mine coal… and who was possessed of an indomitable courage that carried him through the difficult early days of the mining industry.” He was not, however, known for his generosity. Unlike his predeThe men of Troop D, Pennsylvania State Police in front of their bar- cessors, he did not give racks about 1908. First Sergeant George F. Lumb and his detail of money for humanitarian men were part of this organization, and may be in this picture. A causes. When, on rare occaWhite photo from the collection of Shirley J. Sharp. sion he did commit an act of

kindness, it made news. One such news item was carried in the December 13, 1893 Punxsutawney Spirit: “Several loads of coal were taken to poor families to-day who had nothing to keep them warm or cook their scant meals excepting the sticks they could gather. This was done through the generosity of General Manager, L.W. Robinson, of the Walston, Adrian and Eleanora Mines.” In the midst of winter, this was certainly an act of kindness. - Continued on page 6

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Best wishes and many thanks for your friendship and continued support.

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On The Job Working For You. Paid for by Citizens for Sam Smith

Save stress, travel expense: Shop locally By Marlene Lellock for Hometown magazine ince the start of the economic downturn, there’s been a lot of emphasis placed on the role small businesses play in a healthy economy. Nowhere is that more evident than in a small town. The dollars you choose to spend in the local stores this holiday season could mean the difference between a budget in the red or the black for some merchants. And if our local stores don’t do well, who loses? Our nonprofit organizations, our sports teams, our charities, ourselves. Just think of the frustration if we had to drive 45 minutes, an hour, or more just to buy everyday necessities because the stores that carried them went out of business!

No, we can’t get everything on our gift list here in town, but what we can buy locally, we should. It may take a little extra effort, but isn’t it worth it? One easy way to keep your gift giving local is to give Punxsutawney Gift Checks. Redeemable at over 100 local businesses, Punxsutawney Gift Checks allow the recipient to choose where they wish to spend their gift, and the money stays in the local economy. The gift checks are available in the standard denominations and are available at the Chamber of Commerce office at 102 West Mahoning Street. If someone you know from out of town would like to purchase gift checks, they can do so online at Groundhogstuff.com. So before you spend close to $3 per gallon to travel many miles to shop this season, stop into our local stores first! •••

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fulfilling a dream Dr. Kevin Merrow PUNXSUTAWNEY -- Dr. Kevin Merrow is opening his own chiropractic office, and fulfilling his dream of providing the best chiropractic care to his hometown and the surrounding areas. Born and raised in Punxsutawney, Dr. Merrow says his intentions are to provide a holistic approach to wellness and healthcare when he opens his new office, Merrow Chiropractic, located in the Nick's Corner Lunch building at 265 North Findley Street, Suite D. He will be open to see patients by Dec. 12, with a grand opening planned for the first week of the new year, date to be announced. "My slogan is 'The Natural Way of Living' and I want to provide care to the greater Punxsutawney area that is all natural," Dr. Merrow explained. Having graduated from Punxsutawney Area High School in 2002, Dr. Merrow received a degree in exercise physiology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. From there, he went on to New York Chiropractic College, graduating in 2009. Dr. Merrow extends a thank you to Dr. David Gigliotti, with whom he did his externship here in Punxsutawney. Dr. Merrow's parents are Tim and Patricia Merrow of Punxsutawney, and he has an older brother, Ryan and his wife Danielle of Erie. Recently Dr. Merrow became engaged to Lindsay Vite, of Punxsutawney, and they are planning an October wedding. He has a great appreciation for his family, who according to Dr. Merrow, has helped and supported him through his educational years, and have also been involved with the opening of his new practice. "This is not just a chiropractic office," Dr. Merrow said, "but a wellness office. I'm really involved with the overall health of my patients." Dr. Merrow says he's "fresh off the books" and can administer the most up-to-date care with research that has been proven to back his chiropractic approach. "In the office, I will focus on neurological exams; physical exams; vitals; and blood pressure checks, among other things. Everyone gets thoroughly checked out," he said. Office hours will be Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome. Saturday, by appointment only. Call Merrow Chiropractic at 814-618-5313. Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123 – 3

A Gift of Recollections, Remembering Punxsutawney

By S. Thomas Curry of Hometown magazine ow many times have conversations at various social gatherings turned to “recollections of the past?” The old, local newspapers that are available for research give many accounts of recollections about the Punxsutawney area in those first years of settlement. The memories of life-long residents, or those of former residents who have returned for a visit after many years, have been put in print for subsequent generations. On one occasion, in December 1887, 86-year-old William Hopkins recalled that when he first came to the area, Punxsutawney had but one house and “nothing but a cow path between here and Clayville [the West End section].” A few years later in 1889, he had recalled “when the wolf and the bear prowled about, and the deer and the porcupine roamed unmolested through the trackless forest which then covered the sandy bottom upon which Punxsutawney now stands.” In 1912, a Punxsutawney native, who left town at age 17, visited her hometown. When she left in 1852, she recalled that log buildings “were the rule, instead of the exception,” and that communication with the outside world was limited to messengers and horses. According to another old-timer with a good

seven churches. There was rapid growth in the town and expansion beyond its former boundaries. When new buildings had to be erected, old buildings had to be removed. Some old landmarks from that earlier period of settlement would pass from the physical landscape of the town. An August 1892 headline read: “The Oldest House in Punxsutawney Torn Down.” That story in the Punxsutawney Spirit gave details about the removal of the old log house that was erected in 1820 by Rev. David Barclay shortly after his arrival to this land with his son-in-law, Dr. John W. Jenks. The structure would be replaced at the spot on the corner of East Mahoning Street and Front Street (then called Water Street), with a large brick building that became the When the residential area of “mansions” on West Mahoning Street was developed from 1905-1910, many older 19th century homes P u n x s u t a w n e y were demolished. The frame house of Captain John Hastings (left) was one of them. However, the house (right) of William P. Hast- Steam Laundry. [By ings, his son, was moved back to Cranberry Alley. (Hometown photo by S. Thomas Curry.) the East End bridge, the building could be mented that if the “iron horse” ever got to memory, in 1854, Punxsutawney was “a remembered for the Dunmire Bakery there this region it would become “a place of consmall speck surrounded by timber-covered in the 1940s. That building was also desiderable business.” hills, and there was not twenty acres of molished at a time of Punxsutawney’s “ReThe railroad did arrive in the 1880s, and the cleared land in the valley.” development” in the 1970s.] beginning of major changes, increased busiA visitor to this area in 1857 had described In the midst of the residential building ness opportunities and population explosion the town along the Mahoning Creek as the boom of the early 1900s, another old buildwould follow. A November 1889 newspa“first village of importance” containing “a ing associated with the early years of Punxper account listed Punxsutawney with 68 dozen to twenty stores, four or five churches sutawney was razed on West Mahoning stores, a number of shops, nine hotels and and three or four good hotels. He com- Continued on next page

4 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123

Gift of Recollections

publisher in the 1870s. Time moved on and another newspaper heading in April 1906 continued the story of removing things of the past for “new and better” things for the future. “OLD LAND MARK GONE.” The story was about the

Continued from previous page Street. In that Mansion Row neighborhood, in 1904, the old homestead of Captain John Hastings was demolished to make room for Davis Goheen’s mansion of Hummelstown stone. brown Captain Hastings was a popular Civil War veteran in town. His house, built in 1844, was considered one of the first frame buildings constructed in Punxsutawney. Next to that lot was the property of W. P. Hastings. It was purchased by In 1892, a three-story brick building for the Punxsutawney Steam Laundry was Senator T. M. built near the East End bridge, at the corner of Front St. and Mahoning Street. An Kurtz for his old landmark building, the log house built in 1820 by Rev. David Barclay was denew home. molished to make way for progress before the 20th century. Kurtz, however, had moved this old frame building to a lot old frame part of the City Hotel that was back of his property along Cranberry Alley. being torn down. That old landmark was the Both lots were originally owned by Charles original part of what was known as the Eagle Gaskill, the agent for the Holland Land Tavern to the east of the park and fronted the Company who sold much of the land in the park on South Penn Street. The news story area to new settlers. Gaskill gave the lots to made note that it was built about 1830 by Dr. his daughter when she and Captain Hastings John W. Jenks, of hewed pine lumber. were married in 1853. W. P. Hastings, son of To older residents of that time these old Captain Hastings, was a local newspaper - Continued on page 16

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Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123 – 5

Best Wishes for a

Merry Christmas from...

District Judge Doug Chambers “Serving Southern Jefferson County”

The Mining Community of Eleanora contained a line of coke ovens. Eleanora, today, has almost disappeared from the landscape. There are remnants of the rock dumps and some houses to mark the site. (Photo courtesy of the Jefferson County Historical Society.)

221 E. Union St., Punxsutawney

Coal and Stories Continued from page 2

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troops keep the strikers from the water from the spring which was on the company’s land. This spring was the only source of good drinking water in the vicinity. Access to the spring was a necessity of life and had been considered as such prior to the strike. Sergeant Lumb refused the request. The mine superintendent continued to insist that the people getting water at the spring were trespassing and demanded that the State Police do their duty and arrest them. Sergeant Lumb patiently explained that the spring was the only accessible drinking water in the area.

First Sergeant George F. Lumb was a man whose actions at the Eleanora Mine Strike, exemplified good will to all. He was assigned to lead a detail of fifteen members of the Pennsylvania State Police to a riot at the mining community of Eleanora. The State Police were called in by the sheriff who reported that about two thousand men who had been on strike were starting to riot and to destroy company property. As Lumb and his detail approached Eleanora they were met by representatives of the strikers who warned them to turn back. Lumb calmly assured the strikers that they were on a mission of peace and order, which they would enforce. He stated they were friends of all who were friendly, and proceeded to the hotel at Desire, a community located on the adjacent hill. The strikers had persuaded the hotel staff not to serve the State Policemen. Sergeant Women and children picking coal on the rock dump. Rock dumps Lumb informed the innkeeper were a familiar site in the area. One road, in the area commemoin a quiet voice that if he rates these physical features created by the mines, Rock Dump in Henderson Township. (Photo from the collection of Shirley would provide access to the Road J. Sharp.) kitchen, he would assign sevHe further explained that the United States eral of his men to do the cooking until mail was carried over the same road that other arrangements could be made. When passed by the well, therefore the road was the men went into the kitchen, the hotel considered a public highway. And, alstaff, seeing their kitchen was to be occuthough the spring was on the mining compied, returned to do the cooking thempany property, the people would not be selves. barred from using it to get the water they The mine superintendent, hearing that needed. the State Police were present, came to Sergeant Lumb and requested that he and his - Continued on page 30

Wishing you

Merry Christmas And Peace on Earth From all of us to all of you.

We’re thankful for the precious gift of your goodwill and friendship.

www.jeffersonmanor.net 6 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123

221 West Mahoning Street, Punx’y • 938-5291

10 ways to share the holiday spirit for $25 or less By Sarah Welch and Alicia Rockmore getbuttonedup.com

hen did festive get so expensive? Just flip through any catalog or walk into a department store and it seems that the holidays have become an over-the-top affair. It comes at a time when we're already feeling the pinch with parties and gifts, and now the style police seem to be telling us that we're just not in the holiday spirit if we don't have light-up Nutcrackers on our front lawns. Enough is enough, and it's time to stop the madness. Who said that a $150 wreath was better than one you made yourself? Go old school with a few homemade and crafty ideas and your holidays will be both festive and financially responsible. Our Top 10 Ways to Bring The Festive On: 1. String. Cats love it for a reason. String is like duct tape -- it's the ultimate multitasker. Get yourself a nice ball of red string and you can do everything from tying bows on the tree and hanging holiday cards to making tree-free mistletoe. 2. Pinecones. Grab the kids and make them hunt for pinecones. It's a great way to keep them occupied while you get something else done (wrap gifts, bake cookies, catch up with a friend). And the best part: In the end, you've found yourself a free way to decorate the indoors. Fill a bowl, make a wreath -pinecones can do it all. 3. Trim the Tree for Less. You don't need to break out Grandma's sterling-silver ornaments to have a nice tree. Pop up some popcorn or get some cranberries and string them for a handmade approach to tree trimming. You could even go preschool-style with construction-paper circle chains -- the kids love making them, and so will you. 4. Candles. It's something real-estate agents tell their clients all the time -- make your house smell homey. Pour some apple juice in a pot and throw in some cinnamon sticks and voila! you have that comforting scent. Candles, potpourri, even those spicy-scented pinecones are all great ways to make the house smell fantastic and put you in a spirited mood. But be sure to properly monitor all burning candles. 5. Music sets the Mood. Don't worry if you don't have a collection of holiday CDs, since you can always find holiday music on the radio. Many cable providers include music channels in their packages, and you can always stream it from the Internet. No matter how you find it, nothing says Christmas quite like a little Bing Crosby. 6. Trees. Christmas trees are definitely one of the most expensive aspects of holiday decorating. If you didn't pick up an artificial tree at the after-Christmas sale or you prefer the look and feel of a real tree, try shopping later for the best deal, since stores are more willing to cut a deal the closer it is to Christmas. 7. Get Some Sparkle. You might not be getting diamonds under the tree this year, but put a little sparkle in your life by giving your house a deep clean. You're probably having people over at some point during the holidays, so giving your house that extra "spring cleaning" will make you feel on top of the game. Besides, you'll never know what you

might find (last year's unopened gifts in a top closet maybe?) that could be put to use. 8. Branches. They're not just for peace offerings. Cut a branch and hang it on your front door instead of an expensive wreath, or fill a vase with some pine tree or holly clippings instead of an expensive centerpiece. They're not only inexpensive, but smell heavenly. 9. Tie a Ribbon Around ... Whatever you - Continued on page 30

Happy Holidays Ridge Ave. • 938-7100 Ridge Ave. • 938-0200 Extending Warm Wishes to Everyone for a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123 – 7

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Strategies to help you avoid weight gain during the holidays T

By Lavinia Rodriguez St. Petersburg Times

he holiday season should be filled with joy and fun. But many people approach this time of year fearing weight gain, stress and guilt. What a shame! True, there is an abundance of tempting food available during the holidays. But feeling guilty will never prevent us from getting out of control with food. If you want to get through the holidays without feeling like you've failed again, the first thing to do is shed the shame. Why? Most people believe that guilt is a useful emotion that keeps "bad" behaviors in check. With eating in particular, too many people believe that beating themselves up will keep them on the right track of avoiding temptation and preventing weight gain. Wrong! Concern is a useful emotion. But guilt and shame take concern to the extreme, producing stress, anger, depression, anxiety and a general feeling of being overwhelmed. Put it all together, and it's easy to slip into feeling like you're stewing in your own juices. You just swirl around in this murky concoction that you've created and can't get out of it. Instead of being motivated, you feel stuck. From here you're more likely to want to give up -- leading to more eating and less control. So now you may see why I'm convinced more weight is gained during the holidays because of guilt rather than too much food being available. Guilt and shame about eating during the holidays are like Ebenezer Scrooge in "A Christmas Carol." They take all the fun and joy out of the season. By being stuck in our negative, emotional vortex, we can't focus on the significance of having our loved ones near, savoring traditional tastes or the joy of giving and receiving. How do we keep guilt from getting in the way of our intentions to eat well, enjoy the holidays and avoid weight gain? Try these tips:

-- Use concern, not guilt. Try to focus on a relaxed feeling of concern. It's okay to strive to eat proper portions. But use your head to come up with creative ideas of how to do it instead of worrying about failing. -- Keep stress down. Stress can make anybody overeat and gain weight. Think about all the things you do during the holidays that produce stress but may not be as important as you think. For example, perhaps you don't need to cook all the dishes for the holiday meal from scratch or make them all yourself. Be smart and delegate some of the activities or eliminate some altogether. Make the holidays simpler for yourself and you'll reduce stress and eat less. -- Take the focus off food. Think of activities for yourself and your family that don't involve food. Perhaps everyone can go see a performance, go bike riding or set up a fun game of bocce or croquet in the backyard. -- Stay active for the fun of it. The more active you are during the holidays, the less you'll eat and the more fat you'll burn. And come up with activities you want to do -- maybe dancing suits you better than walking. When we think of pleasing reasons to do something, we want to do more of it. -- Savor your favorites. Don't bother with foods that you can have any time. Pick what you find special and delicious, taking your time to relax and savor each bite. Your brain will feel satisfied sooner and you will eat less. -- Keep hunger in check. Use a rating scale of 0 (no hunger) to 5 (famished) to rate your hunger as you go through each day. Don't let your hunger get beyond a 3 before eating again. When we get too hungry we eat more and feel out of control. -- Sample. Small quantities of many colorful tastes will fill up a plate and satisfy the brain, while helping you avoid the familiar holiday "stuffed" feeling. Lavinia Rodriguez is a clinical psychologist who specializes in weight management. She can be reached at drrod@fatmatters.com. For more stories visit scrippsnews.com •••

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8 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123

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Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123 – 9

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101 Ideas: Holiday entertaining

Home and Garden Television

he holidays don't have to be stressful. With these tips, you can partake in the merriment without breaking down. Tip 1: Plan ahead. You can't do everything, so make a realistic plan. The major goal for most people

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zines and newspapers for gift wrap. It's essentially free, since you already have it, and eco-friendly. Make it interesting with a special ribbon, topper or accent. Tip 6: It doesn't have to be expensive. Inexpensive ornaments from a discount store can look elegant and festive when grouped together. For instance, decorate a mantel with various sizes of clear or colored glass containers filled with similarly colored glass ornaments for a stunning holiday display. Tip 7: Less really is more. The holidays can be about extravagance, but if you overwhelm your home with too much decor it can compete for attention and distract you from some really beautiful and special pieces. Tip 8: Plan for the unexpected. If you have a lot of people coming in and out of your home for the holidays, fill a

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during the holiday season is to enjoy it. If you feel overwhelmed or not prepared, enjoyment goes out the window. Tip 2: Don't stop at the entry. Take your holiday decor throughout your entire home. Simple, small touches in rooms make a huge difference in the way the whole house feels, especially when you're entertaining. Tip 3: Dim the lights. Buy plug-in dimmers for all your lamps. They are inexpensive, sold at most hardware stores and anyone can install them. They bring instant ambiance to any room. Tip 4: Cookies are essential. The holidays are all about the treats. Even if you can't bake, slice up pre-made cookie dough and stick it in the oven. The smell of cookies baking is enough to put anyone in the holiday mood. Tip 5: Get wrapping. Reuse interesting papers, bags, maga-

large bowl or decorative box with simple, inexpensive, individually wrapped gifts. Give yourself a price limit for each gift, and go to town. Your unexpected party guests will be thrilled to receive a gift from you. Courtesy Angelo Surmelis on hgtv.com (For thousands of other ideas, visit www.hgtv.com. Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service.) •••

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10 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123

Paying down mortgage early may not be wise By Kathleen Pender San Francisco Chronicle hile some people are worrying about how they will make their next mortgage payment, others are wondering whether it makes sense to make extra payments in advance. "I keep a few months' mortgage payments in a savings account in case I lose my job," says Steve McBee of Tracy, Calif. "It is earning 0.05 percent in interest. Would it

The advance payments simply push your payment due date forward. There is no change in the amortization schedule (the portion of each payment devoted to interest and principal) and no cost savings. If you pay off the loan "in 355 instead of 360 months, you still made 360 payments. You just made them five months early," Simon says. If you're paying in advance to skip a later payment, you must make a full payment.

be better to use the money to prepay those months of my mortgage and effectively earn my mortgage rate (4.625 percent) as reduced interest on my mortgage? I would continue to make my regular payments. If my situation changed and I found it hard to make the payment, I would have those months of cushion already covered." He thought his mortgage servicer, Bank of America, said this could be done but wasn't sure. If McBee makes additional payments in advance, he can apply them to principal, which will reduce his interest costs but, unfortunately, won't allow him to skip payments in the future. Or he can apply them against future payments, so he can skip some future payments but won't save money. BofA spokesman Rick Simon says that when you pay more than the amount due on your mortgage, you're asked to indicate if you want the extra amount applied to principal. If you do, the loan balance will be reduced by the extra payment. The next month, interest will be calculated on a slightly lower balance. A little more of each monthly payment will go toward principal and a little less toward interest. This reduces the interest cost over the life of the loan. You will repay it sooner -- for example instead of making 360 monthly payments on a 30-year loan, you might make 350. If you sell the house or refinance before the last payment is due, you will have a smaller balance to repay or refinance. But prepaying principal does not let you skip future payments. If you want to skip payments later, you can make payments in advance, but you cannot apply them to principal.

"If it's less, it's held in a partial payment account and not credited until you put in a full payment," Simon says. "If you plan to make extra payments, make sure the bank knows where you want the money to go." "If we receive a payment that is more than what is owed (including any late charges or other fees), the excess is automatically applied to principal," says Tom Kelly, a Chase spokesman. "An exception would be made when there are specific instructions such as, 'Here is $6,000 for my next six $1,000 mortgage payments. Please apply $1,000 each month because I will be out of the country and unable to make the payments myself.' We don't have a reserve for some unspecific future use with uncertain dates." Sandi Bragar, a wealth manager with Aspiriant, says she would not pay in advance hoping to avoid a payment later "unless I had it in writing" from the bank. The bigger question, for McBee and many others, is whether prepaying principal is wise. "If he is really worried about being in a situation where he can't make the payment, he should keep the money in a savings account or explore certificates of deposit," Bragar says. Several banks offer online savings accounts yielding 1 to 1.25 percent. (Find them at www.bankrate.com.) If a consumer is not worried about making future mortgage payments, "it's a matter of what his priorities are," Bragar says. If his goal is to reduce debt, he should tackle higher-rate debt before paying down a mortgage. If he's saving for retirement, he should put away at least enough to get an employer match in a workplace plan. If he

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Punxsutawney Hometown â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Christmas 2010 - Issue #123 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 11

With holidays, beware of cyber fraud, FBI warms

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12 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123

By Sean Longoria Scripps Howard News Service he Federal Bureau of Investigation is reminding consumers to be wary of online scams, especially around the holidays. The FBI warns that identity thieves may try to gain personal information by sending e-mails and text messages indicating problems with financial accounts. Complaints about cyber fraud are on the rise. The Internet Crime Complaint Center, or IC3, received 336,655 complaints in 2009, a 22 percent increase over the previous year. The center -- a partnership of the FBI and the nonprofit National White Collar Crime Center -- said the complaints involved losses totaling $559.7 million in 2009, up from $264.6 million a year earlier. Law enforcement investigated almost 44 percent of last year's complaints and roughly 26 percent the previous year, according to IC3 data. Cases are not referred to law enforcement unless there's documented harm or either the complainant or the scammer lives in the U.S. To avoid being victimized by cyber fraud, the FBI recommends that you: -- Be wary of unsolicited e-mail (spam). Do not respond to it or clink on links within it. -- Be cautious of e-mail claiming to contain pictures in attached files; the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders. Scan the attachments for viruses, if possible. -- Avoid filling out forms contained in email messages that ask for personal information. --Always compare the link in the e-mail with the link to which you are directed to determine if they match and will lead you to a legitimate site. -- Log directly onto a store's website identified in the e-mail instead of linking to it from an unsolicited e-mail. If the e-mail appears to be from your bank, credit card issuer or other company you deal with frequently, your statements or official correspondence will provide the proper con-

tact information. -- Verify any requests for personal information by calling the business or financial institution using the phone numbers listed on a billing statement or credit card. -- Contact the actual business that supposedly sent the e-mail to verify if the email is genuine. -- Beware if you are asked to act quickly. Scammers often create a false sense of urgency. For more information on online scams, visit the FBI's E-Scams and Warnings Web page at www.fbi.gov/scams-safety/escams. For information on filing a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center, visit ic3.gov. SIDEBAR The Internet Crime Complaint Center, or IC3, lists the 10 most common cyber fraud complaint categories: 1. FBI scams, in which the sender tries to get money or personal identification via emails claiming to be from the FBI. 2. Advance fee fraud. It involves promises of giving something in exchange for an advance payment. 3. ID theft, involving stolen personal information. 4. Nondelivery of merchandise. An item is purchased but never delivered. 5. Overpayment fraud. Someone receives a bad check or money order with instructions to deposit it into a bank and return some money to the sender. 6. Miscellaneous fraud. An attempt to get the recipient to send money where nothing is bought or sold. 7. Spam. A consumer gets unsolicited or unwanted e-mail, usually mass distributed. 8. Credit card fraud. Someone attempts to make unauthorized charges to another person's account. 9. Auction fraud. Transactions occur in false auctions. 10. Computer damage. Criminals target and damage computers. (Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service, http://www.scrippsnews.com) •••

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Groundhog Day is just around the corner W

ith Christmas and New Year’s Day looming, it’s tough to think beyond those two holidays to Groundhog Day. However, according to Laura Shaffer, event coordinator for Groundhog Day, that’s just what she’d like people to do. “We try to compile the official schedule of events before the end of December so that we can have it printed right after New Years,” says Shaffer. To that end, she’s asking organizations and businesses to submit their events, store promotions, and special hours as soon as possible to be included in the schedule of events that’s posted on Groundhog.org and distributed during the celebration. “For Groundhog Day 2011, we’re starting events on Saturday, Jan. 29 and running through Wednesday, Feb. 2,” says Shaffer.

“As in years past, the schedule is divided into categories, such as events, shopping, restaurants and culture, so that it’s easy for people to find what they’re searching for.” In addition to asking for event listings, Shaffer is still searching for sponsors for the celebration. “There are entertainers and events that I’d like to have, but I still need more money to bring them in,” she says. Shaffer says the more there is to do in town during that time, the more likely it will be that visitors will come and stay longer The forms for both event listings and sponsorship are available at Groundhog.org by clicking on the “Want to be a part of Groundhog Day?” story on the home page. Any questions can be directed to Laura at events@punxsutawney.com or by calling her at 814-938-7700 x3. •••

We wish you peace, joy and enlightenment throughout this holy season and beyond.

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Groundhog Club

Barclay Square 1925 PARTy AT THE NATIoNAL HoTEL FoR GEoRGIA DIxoN (front row, l. to r.) Leila Simpson Mitchell, Georgia Lowe Dixon, Nan McAunalty Hoffman; (2nd row) Nancy Robinson, Alice Tibby, Alice Evans Smith, Ada Brown, Jean Robinson, Margaret Rinn Winslow, Olive Jenks Brown, Carrie young; (3rd row) Myrtle Warren, Anna Beyer, Pauline Rinn Ritter, Bess Simpson Crosby (White Studio photo from the collection of Betty Philliber)

Punxsutawney’s OFFICIAL GuIDE tO GROuNDHOG DAy 2011 is going to press

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This 16-page, easy-to-use, comprehensive map and guide will include the complete schedule of events, map of Punxsutawney, History of Groundhog Day and all the highlights of this year's celebration. Copies of the full-color guide will be printed and available in midJanuary, giving area businesses the opportunity to publicize for 3 weeks.

our tS Reserve y Ry RObER A M Ey yOuNG C ! A y R A t D 2 1 O 3 t -0 938 space : 938-9084 by calling OR Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123 – 13

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he second printing of ‘Groundhog Day,’ the colorful booklet detailing the true story of Punxsutawney Phil, is now available at several locations throughout town. “Groundhog Day, the True Story of Punxsutawney Phil” was written in 2006 by

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season’s Greetings From the Staff of The Law Office of nicholas Gianvito, P.C.

time as well as promoting Punx’y. “I receive many comments about the book,” said Anderson, who published his first Groundhog Day history in 1992. “Most readers want to know if the history of Phil truly began in the 1800s. They are awed by the fact that Groundhog Day in Punxsutawney has spanned three centuries.” The booklet is a popular seller and is available at several locations throughout Punxsutawney, including the local Chamber of Commerce souvenir shop, Punx’y Phil’s restaurant, Fezell’s County Market, Hometown Pharmacy and the Punx’y Historical Society’s gift shop. Local businesses wanting to sell the book may contact Mary Roberts at Hometown magazine, 938-0312. The publication was designed and formatted by the staff at Hometown magazine. •••

Hometown magazine publisher Bill Anderson. The first edition of 2,500 copies sold out and the second printing, featuring several new drawings and updated text, was received in late October. “A colorful story of the legend of Punxsutawney Phil was long overdue,” said Anderson, who is also the Groundhog Club’s long-time historian. “Those visiting Punxsutawney on Groundhog Day and throughout the year were looking for a publication that accurately told the history of Phil and Groundhog Day.” The book is a popular souvenir. Illustrated by artist Dave Mowry, “Groundhog Day” features 19 colorful drawings, which details the legend of Punxsutawney Phil. “It is a piece of Punxsutawney that tourists can take home, serving as a positive reminder of their visit to our town,” Anderson put forth. “I wanted to produce an informative publication in a bright and colorful format that would stand the test of

Continued from page 11 will need a car or has kids going to college, it's probably better to save for those things first. It's true that if he pays down principal, he can essentially earn his mortgage rate. But if he is deducting mortgage interest on his taxes, his after-tax return will be less than his mortgage rate. For example, if his combined federal and state income tax rate is 35 percent, his after-tax return from paying off a 4.625 percent mortgage is about 3.07 percent. If he can find an investment that will return more than 3.07 percent a year after taxes over the long term, it's a better investment than paying down his mortgage. That said, paying down a mortgage might have psychological rewards. Bragar says she has clients who have saved "quite a bit for retirement," have no other debt and have some employment concerns. For them, "it feels better to pay down a mortgage. They realize it's not financially optimal but emotionally it feels right." Rich Arzaga of Cornerstone Wealth Management says that for someone like McBee, it's probably better to hold the - Continued on page 24

nicholas Gianvito, esq. H. Louise Deyarmin, Admin. Assistant Debra Wolfe, Legal Assistant

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We’re offering up a round of thanks to all our good friends and neighbors. May you enjoy our warm wishes for the very merriest holiday season, ever!

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14 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123

Chop down a Christmas tree to save the planet By Carlos Alcala Sacramento Bee ut down a tree. It's good for the environment. "We've been telling people that for years," said Jane Harris, but she would say that. Her family has operated Harris Tree Farm in Pollock Pines, Calif., for half a century. Now she has some environmental movement supporter. The Nature Conservancy is campaigning for people to use real Christmas trees, not the manufactured kind, as a way to lower our carbon footprint. "The Nature Conservancy is all about trees," said Frank Lowenstein, climate adaptation strategy leader for the Arlington, Va.-based organization. "They clean our air, they clean our water." Even when you cut them down? "Real trees give real benefits," Lowenstein said. "Not in the one tree you buy, but in the stream of trees you support." His point is that a tree cut down from one of the nation's estimated 12,000 tree farms supports the continued existence of that farm. Fewer than one in 10 farm trees are harvested each year, said Vanessa Martin, California spokeswoman for the Nature Conservancy. About 30 million Christmas trees are cut annually, out of 350 million to 500 million on farms, she said. The ones that stay provide the benefits. Manufactured trees, by contrast, are largely petrochemical (polyvinyl chloride or PVC) products shipped from overseas with few environmental assets. Nevertheless, as the environmental movement first gained strength decades ago, peo-

ple recoiled at tree cutting. "I remember that time and I remember when a lot of people went out and bought the artificial trees," Martin said. "Some people say, 'It's such a beautiful tree, I hate to cut it down,' " said Mike McGee, owner of McGee Christmas Tree Farm on Apple Hill. In answer, he points to dozens of stumps with new sprouts on them. Each will be a new tree. Such "stump culture" is widely used on Apple Hill tree farms. McGee showed one stump that had produced a half-dozen trees since he planted the first one in the 1970s. "In that way you can bring your carbon footprint benefit even higher," said Lowenstein, who said that practice isn't well known where he lives, in Massachusetts. The fake tree makers aren't taking this lying down. The American Christmas Tree Association's website says a study of 6-foot artificial trees compared with real trees indicated the artificial had a smaller carbon footprint. "The environmental study found that the best way to reduce one's carbon footprint is to choose an artificial Christmas tree and to use it for ten or more years," the website says. Although the actual study hasn't been released, Lowenstein said it didn't account for the benefits of trees still growing on farms, or for the average life of artificial trees, which he said is closer to six years. Jami Warner, the association's executive director, countered that the average artificial tree is used for more than 15 years and that the tree farmland might provide even greater environmental benefit if left wild. (Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service, www.scrippsnews.com.) •••

In the Holiday Spirit...

Happy Holidays! Clark Brown Sheet Metal Shop

We’d like to toast all our good friends as we offer our heartfelt gratitude for your loyal support.

MERRy ChRISTMAS!

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May Our Divine redeemer bestow His Peace on you and your home, and may His Blessing be with you always.

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8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. Masses

- Preceeded by Hymns and Carols beginning at 9:30 p.m.

Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123 – 15

Gift of Recollections

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and feasted on it before morning.” After Hoover had established a residence, other men would soon build cabins and welcome Continued from page 5 visitors. Among the new people who stopped by, structures and more were associated with tradition writes, were two Seneca Indians many sacred memories of a time of struggle named Uncas and Owenoco who came back and beginnings as a town. to the area to visit the graves of their fathers. Within the memory of some Hometown Uncas was described as “so fleet on foot he readers might be the headline news of 1962 could overtake a buck and outrun an Indian when Punxsutawney residents would read dog.” Owenoco was said to be strong, and “Oldest Home Here, Built in 1814, Is Being so skillful “with the bow and arrow he could sever the head from the body of a squirrel while it leaped” among the pine trees. When the Indian visitors left the area on their primitive raft of 16-foot round pine logs, their departure was considered “the first raft that floated on the Mahoning In 1962, the “oldest home in Punxsutawney” was Creek” (James demolished to make way for progress in the West K. Coxson, End section. The frame house was built around writer of “Early a log cabin built in 1814 by Jacob Hoover, the first Days of Punxsettler in what is today’s Punxsutawney. sutawney” 1868) Over many years and a few owners, Dismantled.” Hoover’s original one-room log cabin had The appearadditions constructed to modernize it for livance of the ing quarters. The familiar view as a framed old frame house was built in the middle of the 19th house, built around its original construction century by J. U. Gillespie. The old cabin of logs, was set in time’s past. Twentieth would eventually become the dining room century progress would dictate its removal of the frame house and dwelling. for a new gas station and a supermarket. Mrs. A. C. Allison was the last owner beFor a long time the structure sat there. fore it was demolished. She had gathered a Jacob Hoover built his log cabin there and collection of furniture and household items was considered “the first white man to settle that became in themselves an “unofficial what is now Punxsutawney.” He built it bemuseum” of Punxsutawney artifacts. One side what was known as “Gillespie Spring,” item was a clock which was from the law ofa favorite stop for thirsty travelers before the fice of Phineas Jenks. There were intricate first settlers arrived. His cabin preceded the oil lamps that had originally been used in the arrival of Rev. Barclay and Dr. Jenks and German Lutheran Church, and a pair of others in 1818 to land that would become cherry wood banquet tables that were made Punxsutawney. Hoover’s property extended in 1852 by John P. Reese in Punxsutawney. from Clayville eastward toward PunxThere also were pieces of glassware and sutawney where T. M. Kurtz and Davis Gocopperware that were known to be handheen built their new homes on West made. (November 28, 1952, Punxsutawney Mahoning Street in 1904. Spirit). Allison had always hoped her colAround Hoover’s early cabin in the vicinlection and home could be maintained as a ity of the Mahoning Creek there are stories museum. about him hosting many visitors. One story It would not be until 1977 that an effort was is about three hunters who passed through, made to organize Punxsutawney people to saw Hoover’s cabin, stopped and “shared his - Continued on page 28 hospitality for a night. They killed a bear

richard L. Fait Funeral Home

“We Serve As We Would Be Served. . . Because We Care”

938-8200 117 N. Jefferson St., Punxsutawney 16 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123

Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Matthew 5:9

May your families find peace this holiday season.

Getting together and hoping for the best I

By Sharon Randall Scripps Howard News Service

f you could choose the family that you were born to, what kind of people would you choose? My 3-month-old, first-ever grandchild spent last weekend getting passed around the room like a box of candy. I hogged most of the pieces, of course. You would, too, if you saw him. I've waited a long time to get my hands on that candy. Now that he's finally here, I'm not big on sharing him. But trying to hold Randy is like trying to hang onto a 16-pound sack of potatoes that suddenly comes alive and tries to make a break from the potato patch. Picture the body of a sumo wrestler with the speed of the Karate Kid, the strength of Iron Man and the neck of a bobblehead doll. Talk about mixed martial arts. He jabs with his arms, kicks with his legs, butts with his head, arches his back to try a double back flip, then lunges sideways, left and right, to throw you off balance. Finally, when all else fails, he looks you straight in the eye, lights up like Christmas, grins from ear to ear and spits up. In your hair. On your sweater. Down your last pair of clean stretch pants. And into the furry lining of your UGG boots. Don't ask me to explain it, but somehow, he even manages to soak your underwear. Not that I mind. On the contrary. I've been spit up on (and worse) plenty of times by his dad and his aunt and uncle. Someday I will tell him that when his dad was a baby, he didn't just spit up; he hosed me down from across the room. I'll tell him other things, too, anything he wants to know, if his dad doesn't bring him to see me as often as he should. This is not blackmail. It's maternal motivation. Grandmas use it only as necessary. Like many families that gather for the holidays, sometimes we enjoy a board game. And sometimes we don't. It's gotten better since the kids are adults and have outgrown, pretty much, their childhood habits of jumping on each other at the least provocation like a bunch of rabid spider monkeys. But childhood habits die hard. And it isn't just the kids. This may surprise you, but they come by their natures honestly. As a family, we (including the people we married) are a hot-blooded clan of knowit-all cutthroat competitors, who hate to lose, love to win and will fight tooth and nail to the finish. I wasn't sure Randy was ready to see that side of his family. But ready or not, the game was on. While the kids paired up for Cranium -a game in which you draw, act, hum or maybe sculpt clues for your partner -- I opted to referee and watch Randy, who sat in his baby swing, cranked up to full speed. One other thing about our family: We are loud. And we laugh a lot. And the more we

laugh, the louder we get. At one point, my oldest, who earns his living as an actor, had to act out a word: toaster. I can't begin to describe his actions, but I can assure you he gave it his all. I laughed so hard that Diet Pepsi blew out of my nose. I looked around the table at those faces that I love, those once-little people who

aren't little anymore. They were laughing as hard as I was. We don't get to choose the family we're born to, the kind of people they may be -rich, poor, Republican, Democrat, lazy or ambitious, straight-laced, fun-loving or hot-blooded, know-it-all, cutthroat competitors. But we can choose to get together and hope for the best — for good times and big laughs and memories that last a lifetime — and try not to fight like spider monkeys. I looked at Randy. Sound asleep, he'd missed the toaster act. It's OK. He'll grow into us. Soon he'll be acting out clues. (Sharon Randall can be contacted at P.O. Box 777394, Henderson NV 89077, or at www.sharonrandall.com.) •••

814.938.3111

Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123 – 17

pizza town All YouR FAvoRites!

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EMERGENCY: 911 18 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123

(Editor’s Note: ‘From Our Past,’ researched by S. Thomas Curry, features items of interest from past editions of Punxsutawney and area newspapers.)

may safely assert without exaggerating the matter, that the depth of the snow in this region at present will average twenty inches. (Punxsutawney Plaindealer)

December 6, 1893 — This newsman was told the other evening of a case of suffering for want of the necessities of life. A certain miner made it a point when he ate his lunch to go away from his companions and eat of his frugal fare alone. It was wondered for awhile why he should do this until it was discovered one day that all the man had for his dinner was weak coffee and boiled potato parings. There are many other like cases that could be cited but one should be enough to awaken in the breast of every citizen a desire to do something to help relieve the want that may exist here. (Punxsutawney News)

December 21, 1892 — Our people are not generally aware that electricity for heating purposes is used right here in Punxsutawney. Car number three of the electric street railway is heated by electricity and gives satisfaction. There are very few towns where electric street cars are in use that have adopted this very modern means of heating. (Punxsutawney News)

December 7, 1904 — T. W. Shearer, proprietor of the Star Meat Market, opposite Hotel Whitney, will present, free of charge, a handsome Christmas turkey to the customer who guesses nearest to the number of turkeys sold by him between now and Christmas; also a chicken to the one guessing nearest to the number of chickens sold. Get your guessing in early. (Punxsutawney Spirit) December 16, 1869 — SNOW STORM. - About six inches of snow fell in this section last Friday night, and on Saturday our ears were greeted with the merry chiming of sleigh-bells. The snow commenced falling again on Monday, and has continued at intervals ever since. On Tuesday and at the present writing, (Wednesday), the snow has been drifting at a fearful rate, delaying our mails, and impeding travel to a great extent. We

December 26, 1907 — Yesterday, the employes of the Punxsutawney Hardware Company were responsible for one of the prettiest Christmas tree presentations enacted in Punxsutawney. Early in the morning all hands “gathered round,” and securing a suitable tree decorated it with candies, fruits, toys and numerous other gifts. The tree was then lifted bodily into a wagon and taken to the home of a family of little children whose father was recently the victim of an accident, thus transforming what would have been a gloomy yuletide into one of unalloyed cheer for the little folks, as well as the parents. (Punxsutawney Spirit) •••

240 N. Findley St., Punxy Tues.-Sat. 1-9 p.m.

814-938-1914

EE oN TIN ’S GS !

Here’s hoping your holiday delivers an abundance of peace and joy, topped off with a generous helping of good cheer.

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Offers good on new and unregistered units purchased between 11/1/10 and 12/31/10. *On select 2011 models. Free winch on select models, does not include installation. See your dealer for details. **On select 2010 models. See your dealer for details. ***Rates as low as 3.99% for 36 months. Offers only available at participating Polaris® dealers. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. Other financing offers are available. Applies to the purchase of all new ATV and RANGER® models made on the Polaris Installment Program from 11/1/10–12/31/10. Fixed APR of 3.99%, 7.99%, or 10.99% will be assigned based on credit approval criteria. Examples of monthly payments over a 36-month term at 3.99% APR: $29.52 per $1,000 fi nanced and at 10.99% APR: $32.73 per $1,000 fi nanced. Vehicles are shown with optional equipment. Warning: ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Avoid operating Polaris ATVs or RANGERs on paved surfaces or public roads. Riders and passengers should always wear helmets, eye protection, protective clothing, and seat belts (on RANGER vehicles). Never carry passengers unless the vehicle has been designed by the manufacturer for that purpose. Polaris adult ATV models are for riders aged 16 and older. Drivers of RANGER vehicles must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license. All ATV riders should take a safety training course. For ATV safety and training information in the U.S. call the SVIA at (800) 887-2887, see your dealer, or call Polaris at (800) 342-3764. In Canada, see your local Polaris dealer about Polaris ATVs. Check your local laws before riding on trails. ©2010 Polaris Industries Inc.

Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123 – 19

Christmas trees’ evergreen stories

ON SELECT MODELS*

FOR QUALIFIED BUYERS**

By Sharon Randall Scripps Howard News Service

f you listen closely -- not just with your ears, but with all your senses, and especially with your heart -- a Christmas tree will tell you a story about the people who give it a home. But it won't be told with words. Christmas trees speak in their own tongues with branches and needles, ornaments and lights, memories and hopes and dreams. It's an uncommon language, spoken only at Christmas, but it's not so hard to understand. Here's an example. Standing in my sister-in-law's living room is one of the finest Christmas trees I've ever seen. Ceiling-tall, fragrant and green, it is perfectly shaped, and so full that Santa and all his elves could barely reach around it. But there it stands, no lights, no decorations, bare as the day it was cut. Why? Because my sister-in-law, bless her, has been spending all her time moving her aging parents to a facility nearby, where she can see them more often and make sure they will get all the help they need. Somehow my sister-in-law will get that tree decorated in time for Christmas, even if she has to stay up all night Christmas Eve. Until then, it stands waiting, telling a story of a daughter's love that knows no bounds, that it is greater by far than her devotion to tradition, or even her own expectations. Here's another example. The Christmas when I was 9, my family fell on hard times, even harder than our usual, and my mother announced that Santa would be arriving a

WACHOB’S Market

Speed and Sport Cycle Center

100 W. Main St.• big Run

Rt. 436 • 430 S. Main St., Punx’y • 938-8780 or 938-6952 SALES • PARTS • SERVICE Cylinder Boring • PA State Inspection *Customer Cash offer good on select 2010 (and prior year) models between 10/29/10-12/28/10. **Finance offer subject to credit approval, applies to purchases of new Yamaha Motorcycles, ATVs & Scooters made on a Yamaha Installment Financing loan account from 10/29/10-12/28/10. Minimum contract length is 24 months and maximum length is 36 months. Minimum amount financed is $5,000. Fixed APR of 3.99% or 12.99% will be assigned based on credit approval criteria. Monthly payments per $1,000 financed based on 36 month term are $29.52 at 3.99% and $33.69 at 12.99%. offer good only in the U.S., excluding the state of Hawaii. Dress properly for your ride with a helmet, eye protection, gloves and boots. Do not drink and ride. It is illegal and dangerous. Yamaha and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation encourage you to ride safely and respect the environment. For further information regarding the MSF course, please call 1-800-446-9227. ATVs with engine sizes over 90cc are recommended for use only by riders age 16 years and older. Yamaha recommends that all ATV riders take an approved training course. For safety and training information, see your dealer or call the ATV Safety Institute at 1-800-887-2887. ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Always avoid paved surfaces. Never ride on public roads. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing; never carry passengers; never engage in stunt riding; riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix; avoid excessive speed; and be particularly careful on difficult terrain. ©2010 Yamaha Motor Corp. U.S.A. All rights reserved. • yamaha-motor.com Published 12/10

20 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123

Made-to-order, Homemade

FReSH douGH PiZZa daily

427-4211

bit late. "How late?" I asked. "Maybe by spring," she said. My stepfather cut down a scraggly pine in the woods. We covered it with lights and strings of popcorn and chains of paper snowflakes that I made all by myself, though I let my brothers think they helped. I wish you could have seen it. We left it up long past New Year's. It told a story I've never forgotten: Christmas is not an abundance of gifts; it's the gift of an abundant heart. I recently had an e-mail from a reader we'll call Karen. "Last year," Karen wrote, "we spent all our hours at the hospital, because my husband had a malignant brain tumor. We ate cafeteria food on Christmas Day in a snowstorm. We went through radiation and chemo ... I say 'we' because it takes a family to get you through it." This year, Karen said, her husband is in remission. He still needs a great deal of care, but they decided to get a puppy. "People think we're nuts. They think I have enough to do. Well, yes, I do, but I still love the puppy and my husband!" I have no idea what Karen's tree looks like this year. But I'll bet its chewed lower limbs tell a story of salvation and hope. My daughter and her husband, who were married last spring, will have a tree that tells a story of a life just begun. My youngest and his wife, who welcomed their first child a few months ago, recently sent me a photo that's almost identical to a - Continued on page 24

A String of Glad Tidings at the Holiday Season ExpErt ElEctrical Work

GRoceRieS lotteRy

oPen Mon.-Fri. 7am - 9pm Sat. & Sun. 8am - 9 pm

Our warmest wishes to you this holiday season. We really appreciate your business and look forward to serving you again soon!

Josh Wachob Electric

Fully insured • FrEE Estimates commercial & residential

814-591-1716

New regulations make gift cards a better buy

By Patricia Sabatini Pittsburgh Post-Gazette hances are, you'll be getting, or giving, at least one gift card this holiday season. After years of consumer complaints, regulators enacted rules this year aimed at curtailing the major pitfalls that

to begin printing disclosures on their gift cards about fees and expiration dates. Even with the new rules, gift card owners should take some steps to protect their money. If the card issuer offers the service, register your gift card online as soon as you get it so you can get a replacement if it is lost or stolen. Alternatively, write down the card

“Floral Designs The Way Nature Had in Mind”

Holiday Arrangements FRESH CHRISTMAS TREES (814) 938-8564 Phone/Fax Rt. 310 865 Harmony Rd., Punx’y

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Jon J. Johnston

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R.D. Brown MeMorials

314 north Findley st. Punxsutawney

938-2100

To our patients, associates and their families we wish a season filled with good friends, bright smiles and many occasions for laughter. come with the cards. As of August, new federal regulations require that all gift cards be good for at least five years from the date of the last load. The rules also prohibit monthly dormancy or other service fees that eat away at a card's value unless the card hasn't been used for 12 months or more. The regulations, which apply to cards sold on or after Aug. 22, do not prohibit upfront fees to buy a gift card. The new rules mainly affect general-purpose gift cards -- the type issued by Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express that are good wherever that brand is accepted. Retailer cards, those good at a particular store or chain of stores, generally don't carry upfront fees, service fees or expiration dates. An amendment to the regulations this summer gave card issuers until Jan. 31 (instead of the original start date of Aug. 22)

number and customer service number and keep them in a safe place. Be aware that some retailer cards cannot be replaced if lost or stolen. Even though dormancy fees have been scaled back, you should try to use a gift card as soon as possible to avoid losing it, forgetting about it or ending up holding a worthless card from a retailer that goes belly-up. If you believe a gift card issuer is breaking the rules, contact the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. consumer response center for help at 1-877-275-3342. For more information on gift cards visit www.federalreserve.gov and search for "gift cards." (Contact Patricia Sabatini at psabatini@post-gazette.com.) (Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service, www.scrippsnews.com.) •••

106 W. Mahoning st. Punxsutawney

938-4210

Glad Tidings To You!

Wherever you go this holiday season, please know that our prayers and best wishes are with you.

Merry Christmas and heartfelt thanks for your loyal support this past year.

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Personal Care Home

205 S. Jefferson St., Punx’y Centrally located in Punxsutawney close to park & entities in town

814-618-5160

(local call)

Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123 – 21

Wishing you the Merriest Holiday season ever. Kyle Lingenfelter, MD FACS

Providing all aspects of GENERAL & VASCuLAR SuRGiCAL CARE. Please call for details. 814-938-4121 • (FAX) 814-938-4158

How to keep your house warm this winter W

By Carl Kieke Scripps Howard News Service ith winter weather, keeping your drapes closed and using your fireplace will help keep your energy bill low, right? Wrong, according to energy experts. Those are among common myths

systems each year. -- Adjust your window coverings. During the cooler fall and winter months, open curtains during the day to let sunlight naturally heat your home; close them at night to help keep that natural heat inside. -- Use your fireplace judiciously. A fire

that don't improve heating efficiency and actually may make things worse, according to Reliant Energy, a Houston company. "Even with temperatures dropping like autumn leaves, it is still important to pay close attention to your energy efficiency during … winter months," said Bill Clayton, Reliant's vice president of customer care. "Set it and forget it" is a common myth regarding programmable thermostats. In reality, they need to be adjusted for cooler weather, experts said. You don't need a warm house during the day if no one is there; set your thermostat so the heating unit starts warming the house just before you return home. (Of course, if you have pets in the house during the day, adjust for their comfort.) To improve energy efficiency: -- Schedule professional maintenance for your heating (and air conditioning)

is great on a chilly evening, but it is not the most efficient way to heat your home. Leaving the chimney flue open all the time sends the warm air in your house straight up the chimney. Be sure to close the damper after the fire dies out or you turn off the gas. How can you keep your home comfortable for everyone without a big expense? Let's start with a couple of easy, inexpensive steps: minimizing thermostat adjustments and using ceiling fans. In some households, one person is too hot, the other too cold -- and the thermostat keeps getting reset. Frequent adjustments cause big and costly "swings in operation of the system. Constant is always better than variations," Clayton said in a phone interview. For "every degree above 70 degrees, you increase heating cost 3 to 4 percent. The same is true for cooling; anywhere below

81 Hillcrest Drive, Suite 2600, Punxsutawney office Hours: Weekdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

do you See What i See?

Season’s Greetings from

May His good graces guide you and may the light of His love find you wherever you go this Chistmas season. We appreciate your stopping by this year. Thanks!

Groundhog Auto Parts 110 South gilpin St., Punx’y • 938-6363 Mon.-Fri. 8-6; Sat. 8-5; Closed Sunday

dr. nathan c.

Stebbins and S taFF

Full SeRvice oPtical & coMPlete line oF contact lenS oPtionS

814-938-5920

S. Findley St. PunX’y

Mon., tues., Wed. & Fri. 8 to 5; thur. 8 to noon Wed. evening & Sat. by appt.

Most Insurances Accepted

We Know You’ve Been Nice . . . Merry Christmas!

clEaNiNG SErVicES

427-5255 1-800-525-5283

Punxsutawney Area Historical and Genealogical Society Group and family tours welcome. Gallery Tours of objects of Costume Thurs. & Sun. 1:30 & 3

Genealogy, Children’s Workshops, Exhibits and Photography, Gift Shop Bennis House

1 to 4 p.m. Thurs. - Sun.

Lattimer House

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday & Saturday 1 to 4 p.m. Friday & Sunday

other times, contact

938-2555 (general) or 938-5536 (genealogy) Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas. 22 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123

- Continued on page 24

Happy Holidays DEL D.e. LiMiteD FAMiLY PArtnerSHiP Developers and producers of natural gas 1406 N. Main St., Punx’y, PA 15767 •

814-938-0800

Homefix: Suggestions for Christmas gifts By Dwight Barnett Scripps Howard News Service

o matter what the project is, having the right tools will make the job a lot easier. Here are a few suggestions for Christmas gifts for 2010. -- Woodworkers, handymen and hobbyists will be pleased to see the new Dremel Trio or the Dremel Multi-Max under the Christmas tree. The 120-volt Dremel Trio is a sander, router or jigsaw all in one tool. The compact tool comes with a variety of attachments for woodworking, drywall repair, appliance installation, furniture and wood finishing, and on and on. The Trio retails for $99.99 and is available at all major home and hardware stores. Dremel's 120-volt Multi-Max is an oscillating tool used for cutting, sanding, scraping and grinding, or grout removal. The oscillating, sideto-side motion of the blade and the numerous attachments included allow the user to work in tight places where no other tool will go. The Multi-Max retails for 149.99 and is available at all major home and hardware stores. (http://www.dremel.com) -- For over 80 years Arrow Fasteners has been a staple (pun intended) of any handyman's tool kit. What can you do with a manual stapler/brad nailer? Attach roofing, install carpeting, secure wiring and cable, secure insulation, upholstery repair and work with arts and crafts. The list goes on. No wires and no batteries to buy. The manual stapler works anywhere and anytime. The model T50R.E.D retails for $25 and is

available at Home Depot and other major hardware stores. (http://www.arrowfastener.com) -- Want to spend some quality time with the newer generation of DIYers? Red Tool Box has introduced a line of tools and toolkit projects so that parents and children can experience the thrill of completing a project together. Kits for creating a birdhouse, interactive mini-golf holes or a picture pack are available for under $10 at Lowe's or online at http://www.redtoolbox.com. The line also includes a 10piece tool set for the beginners in your family. -- Need a stocking stuffer? "Find a Light" by PatBay International is a reflective light-switch cover that glows in the dark without using any electricity or batteries. PatBay offers a variety of reflective products to make our lives safer. The switch plates are available for less than $10 and can be found at http://www.patbayreflective.com. -- Need to take care of those tools from Christmas past? Liquid Wrench has a new sixsample pack of specialty spray lubricant and penetrant products that will help tackle a lot of jobs around the house, from squeaky hinges to automotive projects. And it keeps working parts in good working condition. It retails for less than $15 and is available at Lowe's and other major retailers. (http://www.liquidwrench.com.) (Dwight Barnett is a certified master inspector with the American Society of Home Inspectors. Write to him at C. Dwight Barnett, Evansville Courier & Press, P.O. Box 286, Evansville, Ind. 47702 or e-mail him at d.Barnett@insightbb.com.) •••

We’d like to join our neighbors in spreading His message of peace and love this Christmas.

PISANO’S

Personal Care Home

756 Stonetowne Road, Rossiter 938-7407 “Licensed Under Labor & Industry Rehabilitation Services” Wishing you loads of joy and laughter, Throughout the holiday season and after!

Lukehart & Lundy

139 Fairview Rd. Dayton • 257-8231

Attorneys At LAw

country Palace

Darlene Stuchell • Tax Practitioner WE OFFEr • Electronic Filing yEAr-rOuNd sErViCE. • Notary Public • Bookkeeping & accounting Temporary Tags Available Please call for appointment: 938-7070

Season’s Greetings 76 Harvest lane, Punx’y • Fax 939-7070

219 east Union st. Punxsutawney

938-8110

Happy Holidays!

Personal • Consistent • Friendly • Knowledgeable

Spring hillS SheltieS

Dog & Cat Boarding & Grooming

(top row) Nickolas A. Kernich, PharmD - Pharmacist, Jennifer - technician, Norma - technician, Diane - technician; (bottom) Kayla - Associate, Diane - Associate, Stella - Co-Manager

Just Minutes from Town - 370 Big W. Dr., Punx’y

938-9150 fax 938-9151

724-286-9355

“Committed to Caring for Your Pets As though they Are Our Own”

Happy Holidays to All Our Customers. Cindy Hoover, assistant Groomer, Michele Wachob, owner

Family home Care since 1970

Thank You for Your Patronage.

203 N. Hampton Ave. - Groundhog Plaza FREE & Convenient Parking in the

M-F 9-7, Sat 9-3, Closed Sun.

Full Line of Vitamins & Minerals Full sized gift shop with FREE gift wrap or gift bags - including Yankee Candle, home decor, cards, event gifts, Webkinz, personalized Crocks.

Prescriptions • oTCs • Gift Shop and Cards Delivery Service • PA LoTTERy • Prescription Bubble Packs NEW! Licensed UPS shipping center Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123 – 23

Happy Holidays To All Our Residents

H&H

SuPPLy, INC. CHeCK us out:

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evergreen stories Continued from page 20 memory I have cherished for more than 30 years: That of a baby, sitting on his daddy's knee, watching him play "Silent Night" on the piano. In years to come, their trees will tell that story and countless others too precious to forget. I've known a lot of Christmas trees. Each told a different story. My husband and I put our tree up early this year: A tall, skinny, artificial pine. We swore we'd never have a fake Christmas tree. But we also never dreamed we'd live in a desert where freshly cut trees last three days, if you're lucky. And we were never lucky.

But much to my surprise, I am finding I like this fake tree and the true story it tells me: Never say never, anything is possible. Especially at Christmas. What story will your tree tell? (Sharon Randall can be contacted at P.O. Box 777394, Henderson NV 89077, or at www.sharonrandall.com.) •••

keep your house warm Continued from page 22

78, you can save 5 to 7 percent." Be sure the thermostat is set on automatic instead of the "run" position, or the heating system will run constantly, regardless of the temperature. Ceiling fans, if set properly, can increase heating efficiency -- especially in rooms with high ceilings. "Heated air rises," Clayton said. "You want to set (the fan) where it's pulling air up, so it mixes cold air from the bottom of the room and warm air from the top. "Which way should the fan rotate? You can check by standing directly under the fan. If you feel a breeze, it's in summer mode. If you don't, it's in winter." Clayton said he recommends that every system be checked twice a year, in the spring before cooling season starts, and again in the fall before cold weather arrives. "Even if a system is brand-new, someone certified should come out and take a look at it," he said. The return vents are easy to overlook, but they can accumulate dirt, especially when not operated for a long time. Filters need to be checked each month. And keep them clear. "Don't obstruct your return vents," Clayton said. "Keep tables, chairs and other obstacles away from that rectangular square in the wall. That makes the system run longer and could decrease the life expectancy of the system." Clayton advises homeowners to consider insulation, "especially in an all-electric home. Look at the ceiling insulation in attic areas; that's the most cost-effective capital improvement. Most homes built before 1980 don't have enough insulation. "Adding insulation to exterior walls gets costly," he said, "and it's debatable if it's cost-effective." Carl Kieke is a reporter at The Abilene Reporter-News in Texas. •••

Paying down mortgage

Continued from page 11 money in cash. "If he does lose his job, he could negotiate to pay reduced interest or interest only" on his mortgage. Before reducing principal, make sure your loan has no prepayment penalties. If you make substantial prepayments, consider taking out a home equity line of credit you can tap in an emergency. Caveats: You must have enough income and equity to qualify, the interest rate is variable, and there could be origination and annual fees. If the value of your home drops, the lender could cut your line of credit. (E-mail Kathleen Pender at kpender@sfchronicle.com. For more stories, visit scrippsnews.com.) (Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service, http://www.scrippsnews.com) •••

24 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123

DR. DANIEL S. GORDON AND StAFF

Have a Healthy & Happy Holiday! DRMC Primary Care Associates Suite 1, Lower Level 5 North third St. Reynoldsville, PA

(814) 653-7686

Come home For Christmas and Visit

KORNER KUPBOaRD

8th Annual red ribbon sale

all ITEMS WITH BOWS

50% OFF Nov. 26 thru Dec. 31 9 Rooms of: Antiques, Collectibles, Quality Furniture, Melissa’s Primitive Wicks, Primitive Lantern Candles

Give a Piece of Yesteryear This Holiday Season

814-653-2178

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Christmas Greetings Happy Holidays

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Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123 – 25

A Look at Pennsylvania: The Land

With joy in our hearts, we wish you

Merry Christmas!

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Recreationists and businessmen have benefited from the state’s natural diversity

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26 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123

aurice K. Goddard wanted every Pennsylvanian to have the opportunity to live within 25 miles of a state park. He tirelessly worked toward that goal when serving as Secretary of the Department of Forests and Waters and later as the Secretary of the Department of Environmental Resources under five different governors from 1955-79. Thanks to his efforts, 45 new parks, covering 130,000 acres, opened during those years. Today, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources oversees 120 outdoor recreation areas. And, although not every citizen resides as close to a park as Goddard had hoped, over 35 million guests, including many of Pennsylvania's 1 million hunters and 800,000-plus licensed fishermen, annually visit one of the locations. They experience nature in

many ways: hiking, camping, kayaking, bird watching, cross-country skiing, etc. “[The parks] are fairly accessible to almost everybody in the commonwealth no matter where you live, what sort of activity you want to engage in, and your economic means,” said Pennsylvania Parks & Forests Foundation President Marci Mowery. In 2009, the state received the National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management. The American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration, in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association, gave Pennsylvania the gold medal for operating the best state park system in the United States. The system started in 1893 when the state established a park at Valley Forge in order to preserve the location where Gen. George Washington and the Continental Army once encamped. Sixty-one of 67 counties currently have at - Continued on next page

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Pennsylvania: The Land Continued from previous page

least one state park. “I think Pennsylvania has a great legacy as far as land preservation. … A lot of states don't have that,” said Prince Gallitzin State Park Manager Dennis Miller. Nine of the parks are located in the Poconos, a mountain range in Monroe, Pike, Wayne and Carbon counties. The wooded region – with ski resorts, lakes and hills – is a popular vacation destination for individuals from urban centers such as Philadelphia and New York City. “People are coming here to get away from it,” said Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau President / CEO Carl Wilgus. Outdoor recreation is just one of the many ways residents have used the land to their benefit. Rolling hills, flowing rivers and other features of the commonwealth's natural landscape have provided sustenance, created jobs, and rejuvenated minds and bodies for centuries. Perhaps no land-based industry has made more of an impact than agriculture. More than 60,000 farms operate in Pennsylvania. The market value of ag products sold is annually over $6 billion. The milk / dairy products from cows, and poultry / eggs industries ranked first and second, contributing over $1 billion apiece, according to a 2007 report at www.agcensus.usda.gov. Coupled with ancillary businesses, agriculture contributes $45 billion to the economy. One in seven Pennsylvania jobs is connected to agriculture. “It's astonishing how much [agriculture] adds to the economy and the number of jobs,” said Pennsylvania Farm Bureau President Carl Shaffer. Coal mining has played an important role, too. The first recorded extraction of coal in the state occurred when a mine opened at Coal Hill (now the Mount Washington / Duquesne Heights region of Pittsburgh) around 1760. Since then, the coal mining industry has developed into a major economic and social influence in small towns and big cities stretching across the map from Greene County to Scranton. Peak output occurred in 1918 when 330,000 miners combined to take 277 tons from the Pennsylvania terrain, according to a DCNR report called “Coal in Pennsylvania.” In 2006, the industry employed approximately 7,500 workers statewide, who combined to mine 66 million tons. Pennsylvania is still the fourth-leading coal-pro-

ducing state. But, even though approximately half of the commonwealth's energy still comes from coal, according to the Pennsylvania Coal Association, the industry's dominance has waned over the past few decades. There is now much more diversity than in the past. “[We're] working on what could be our industry of the future, which is energy,” said United States Congressman Mark Critz, a Democrat from the 12th District, during the 2010 election cycle. “We have coal, we have Marcellus Shale gas, we have solar power down in Mount Pleasant, we have wind power with Gamesa up in Ebensburg, and we have nuclear with Westinghouse up north of Pittsburgh. Western Pennsylvania could become the energy capital of the world.” Being identified with carbon dioxide, acid mine drainage, soil erosion, land scarring and refuse piles has – rightly or wrongly – provided environmental, financial and image challenges for coal. “You want to keep mining coal, you're going to have to figure someway to put the carbon dioxide in the ground, or change the chemical composition of it, or put it straight into algae or some other plant,” said former United States President Bill Clinton during a 2010 campaign stop in Johnstown. “They're doing it out there in Arizona now. It's great. They just take the carbon dioxide before it comes out of the smokestack, put it into algae. It's like putting it on steroids. They use that for bio-fuel and they let out clean oxygen. There are ways to do this.” Like coal, the oil and timber industries are part of Pennsylvania's heritage. In 1859, Edwin Drake drilled America's first oil well in Titusville. His success created an oil rush in the northwest corner of the state. Lumber thrived around the same time. With over two dozen sawmills situated along a stretch of the Susquehanna River, the Williamsport region became what was often described as “the lumber capital of the world” from 1850-1870. The Susquehanna Boom could hold over 250 million board feet of lumber. However, businesses over-harvested white pine, hemlock and other woods, and, by the early part of the 1900s, Pennsylvania was largely deforested. The lack of trees caused numerous problems. “Because of indiscriminate logging, Pennsylvania forests only made up 17 percent [of the state's land area] in 1920. More important than the deforestation was the threat

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Pennsylvania: The Land Continued from previous page to both rural and urban areas from fire,” states the Pennsylvania Forest Fire Museum Association website. “At the start of the last century, fires added to the denuding of the landscape to create an environmental nightmare of flood water run off, pollution, and smoke / respiratory problems experienced by many.” Mankind also played a major role in one of the nation's worst natural disasters. On May 31, 1889, a dam, holding back Lake Conemaugh near South Fork, burst, sending a 20 million-ton wall of water rushing through a valley toward Johnstown. The death toll reached 2,209. Pittsburgh-born Pulitzer Prize winner

Thanku Yo

David McCullough described the event in his 1968 book “The Johnstown Flood”: “Most of the people in Johnstown never saw the water coming; they only heard it; and those who lived to tell about it would for years after try to describe the sound of the thing as it rushed on them. “It began as a deep, steady rumble, they would say; then it grew louder and louder until it had become an avalanche of sound, 'a roar like thunder' was how they generally described it.” A ferocious two-day rainstorm obviously contributed to the flood. Making the situation worse, wealthy Pittsburgh businessmen, including Andrew Carnegie and Henry Clay Frick, who used the former Pennsylvania Railroad canal reservoir for recreation in the 1880s, neglected the dam. Club members failed to up-

HOMETOWN MAGAZINE

ership of Johnston Furniture Store In May of this year, I took over the own town magazine ~ Mary Roberts, Bill An from Mike Johnston. The staff at Home f ouse ~ were there for me and my staf derson, Melissa Salsgiver, and Carol Sm nston Furniture to the community. from the start to introduce the new Joh ce my transition successful. Their guidan The Hometown magazine staff made ir professionalism and knowledge, and means a lot. I was impressed with the n ing the news of the changes at Johnsto their willingness to work with me in gett community. Furniture out to every member of the my sales and business services and it I use Hometown magazine to promote me establish an affordable advertising has been very rewarding. They helped in s. I wanted to reach every household plan, which was one of my top prioritie ney that every homeowner in Punxsutaw my market area. Now, I am confident fill Johnston Furniture is the best place to and the surrounding area knows that needs. their furniture, carpeting and decorating as, With many thanks and Merry Christm and the Staff at Johnston Furniture

keep the earthen wall that McCullough described as a “dramatic violation of the natural order.” They lowered the top of the dam and put fish screens by spillways which exacerbated problems caused by the strong downpour. [This article is the sixth installment in a seven-part “Hometown” series called “A Look at Pennsylvania.”] •••

Gift of Recollections Continued from page 16 establish and maintain a local museum with a mission to preserve, display and interpret Punxsutawney area history. The local Historical Society operates genealogy research and maintains historical exhibits about area history in buildings on West Mahoning Street, buildings and land that once were property of James E. Mitchell. Mitchell married a daughter of Jacob Hoover in 1857. Allison’s venerable collection, the Hoover home of 1814, and other cherished artifacts and buildings of Punxsutawney’s history are gone. It is understandable that old things must pass away in the ravage of time. It seems almost sacrilege to destroy these things with so much history. Talk will pass away, too, but memories will linger and writings will preserve them. There is great value when people write down the thoughts, those “recollections,” that wander through the mind about their experiences and encounters, or have someone record them in print or audio formats. There is history in the “recollections” of people of our time. The written documents of family, community, and area history are valuable gifts for future generations. •••

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28 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123

A treasure trove of Christmas cookie recipes I

By Janet K. Keeler St. Petersburg Times

worry when I put out the call for Christmas-cookie recipes. After all these years, will there be enough new and tempting recipes to fill our special cookie issue? Why I get anxious, I'll never know. Readers always come through. This year, just like the last few, we had trouble winnowing the roughly 500 reader recipes to just two dozen because so many looked tempting. We chose 30 recipes for testing and selected the yummiest 25 for publication. I do the initial cull, weeding out recipes that can be found in most cookbooks, among them snickerdoodles, oatmeal raisin, chocolate chip and the Mexican wedding cookie -- or, as I like to call it, the Cookie With Many Names. Cookies that require special equipment or are more fussy and time-consuming don't often make the cut. This year, my teenage son, home recovering from getting his wisdom teeth pulled, joined the effort. Margaret Lauck of Sun City Center, Fla., can thank him for the inclusion of her over-the-top Rice Krispies treats. We renamed them Frosted Nutty Krisp-O's, and they are indeed an amazing treat. "Make these, Mom," he mumbled, dreaming of the day when he could eat solid food again. From that point, Karen Pryslopski, a St. Petersburg Times photo editor and the project's chief tester, and I got to work. We sat down one Sunday morning in September with a pot of coffee and an overflowing box of recipes. From that treasure trove, we selected the recipes that sounded good, but also those that represented a range of flavors. As always, we gave high points for simplicity. (The ranks of Keeler Elves also include Times photographer Scott Keeler - my husband --and designer Jennifer DeCamp.) Karen loves coconut and I adore peanut butter, so we have to work to keep our per-

sonal preferences in check during the selection process or you can imagine what the selection would look like. That's part of the reason that the Chocolate Magics and their peanut-butter centers from Gayle Hackbarth of Summerfield, Fla., and the ChocoNut Sandwich Cookies from Kathy Schembs of Clearwater, Fla., made it this year. The other reason is that they are delicious. The most surprising cookies were Merry Christmas Macaroons from Mary Ann Birchmire of Largo, Fla. It's ridiculous how loaded with ingredients they are -- chocolate chips, peppermint candy, candied cherries, pecans and cornflakes. Really, though, we dare you to eat only one. Amazing. Among my favorites are the Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars from Yolanda Cruz of Tampa, Fla. They are a gooey delight, and one I'll add to my regular holiday rotation. This year, just like last, we've rated each recipe for "freezeworthiness." It's good to be able to make a batch or two when you've got time and squirrel them away in the freezer for later. Some cookies are better for that than others. Following is a sampling of the goodies that made the ninth annual St. Petersburg Times Christmas-cookie roster.

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Speed and Sport Cycle Center Rt. 436 • 430 S. Main St., Punx’y • 938-8780 or 938-6952 SALES • PARTS • SERVICE Cylinder Boring • PA State Inspection *Customer Cash offer good on select 2010 (and prior year) models between 10/29/10-12/28/10. **Finance offer subject to credit approval, applies to purchases of new Yamaha Motorcycles, ATVs & Scooters made on a Yamaha Installment Financing loan account from 10/29/10-12/28/10. Minimum contract length is 24 months and maximum length is 36 months. Minimum amount financed is $5,000. Fixed APR of 3.99% or 12.99% will be assigned based on credit approval criteria. Monthly payments per $1,000 financed based on 36 month term are $29.52 at 3.99% and $33.69 at 12.99%. offer good only in the U.S., excluding the state of Hawaii. Dress properly for your ride with a helmet, eye protection, gloves and boots. Do not drink and ride. It is illegal and dangerous. Yamaha and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation encourage you to ride safely and respect the environment. For further information regarding the MSF course, please call 1-800-446-9227. ATVs with engine sizes over 90cc are recommended for use only by riders age 16 years and older. Yamaha recommends that all ATV riders take an approved training course. For safety and training information, see your dealer or call the ATV Safety Institute at 1-800-887-2887. ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Always avoid paved surfaces. Never ride on public roads. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing; never carry passengers; never engage in stunt riding; riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix; avoid excessive speed; and be particularly careful on difficult terrain. ©2010 Yamaha Motor Corp. U.S.A. All rights reserved. • yamaha-motor.com Published 12/10

Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123 – 29

Coal and Stories

Season’s Greetings! MILLER WELDING & MACHINE COMPANY MECHANICAL ASSEMBLY PAINTING & FINISHING MACHINING • WELDING FABRICATING

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Continued from page 6 The mine superintendent, not satisfied with Sergeant Lumb’s response threatened to have the spring guarded by the over 200 deputy sheriff’s on site. Sergeant Lumb calmly replied that if an attempt was made to close the road and to deprive the people of their drinking water, the State Police would find it necessary to interfere. The deputy sheriffs on site were locally recruited men who did not have the benefit of training in the law or in the rights of citizens. One night there was a steady sound of shooting from the deputy sheriffs’ camp. The State Police, upon investigation, found that the deputy sheriffs were firing at the miners’ homes across the

valley for the fun of seeing the lights go out. The next morning Sergeant Lumb took six deputy sheriffs before the sheriff and reported that they were guilty of reckless shooting. He explained that he did not want to embarrass the sheriff publicly and recommended that the sheriff get the deputies out of town immediately. The sheriff did. The mine superintendent, not satisfied that the strike was coming to a speedy end, decided to force the issue and set a date to evict the miners from the company’s houses. On the day of eviction when the miners were still on strike, the sheriff requested that Ser-

The rebuilt St. Adrian’s Catholic Church at Adrian. This church replaced the one destroyed by the wind on November 23, 1891. (Photo courtesy of the Punxsutawney Area Historical & Genealogical Society.)

geant Lumb and the State Police assist in vacating the houses. Lumb knew that under orders, his detail was not to be part of any civil processes such as evictions. His troops were to stay away from the company’s property unless there was evidence of actual violence that had to be suppressed. The sergeant withdrew his patrols to a wider distance from the town during the evictions. Some of the younger miner’s seeing this decided to challenge the troopers to a game of baseball. The troopers refused because they were on duty. The miners then understood that the role of the State Police was to protect the interests and rights of everyone alike, those on strike and those whom they were striking against. Sergeant Lumb in carrying out his responsibilities in a fair and impartial way exemplified good will by protecting the miners’ right to drinking water and the company’s right to manage its property. Certainly acts of good will toward all. (Editor’s Note: The resources used in the preparation of this article are available at the Punxsutawney Memorial Library, the Punxsutawney Area Historical and Genealogical Society and the Jefferson County Historical Society. This article has been prepared by PRIDE – Punxsutawney Revitalization: Investing, Developing, Enhancing. PRIDE is a nonprofit organization which brings together residents, business people, community leaders and civic organizations, to improve the business districts in Punxsutawney. PRIDE is working to develop a Coal Memorial and Welcome Center for the Punxsutawney Area. Comments on this article may be directed to PRIDE, P.O. Box 298, Punxsutawney, PA 15767)

May the harmony  the chriﬆmas season be with you throughout the year.

from everyone at punxsutawn Homown magazine 30 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123

•••

for $25 or less Continued from page 7 Want. From doorknobs to the front oak tree, a red ribbon is the perfect way to say "Merry Christmas"! 10. Holiday Tables. If you haven't been collecting holiday china since your 16th birthday, don't fret. You don't need plates with Santas, snowmen or Christmas trees to have a beautiful and festive table. Most people have white and silver pieces in their cabinets, so dress those up with doilies, ribbons or other cute touches. (The writers are co-founders of Buttoned Up, a company dedicated to helping stressed women get organized. Send ideas and questions to yourlife@getbuttonedup.com. For more columns, go to scrippsnews.com.) •••

Cookie Recipes Continued from page 29 paper towels and set aside. Cream shortening with brown sugar until light and fluffy, then add molasses. Add eggs one at a time. Mix and sift flour, salt, baking soda and spices; add to shortening mixture and mix lightly. Stir in nuts, chopped apples and raisins, and mix well by hand. Drop by tablespoon onto greased cookie sheets. Bake 12 to 15 minutes. Freezeworthy: Yes, but cool completely first. -- Submitted by Wanda Fickey, Temple Terrace, Fla.

CHOCOLATE RASPBERRY CRUMB BARS Makes 36 bars Bottom layer: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed 1/4 teaspoon salt Filling: 2 cups (12-ounce package) Nestle Toll House semisweet chocolate morsels 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk 1/2 cup chopped pecans 1/3 cup seedless raspberry jam

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. With electric mixer, cream together butter, flour, brown sugar and salt until it resembles coarse crumbs. With floured fingers, press 1-3/4 cups of the crumb mixture onto the bottom of a greased 9- by 13inch baking pan. Reserve remaining mixture. Bake 10 to 12 minutes, or until edges are golden brown. Remove to wire rack. Combine 1 cup chocolate morsels and sweetened condensed milk in small, heavyduty saucepan. Melt over low heat, stirring until smooth. Spread over hot crust. Stir chopped pecans into reserved crumb mixture and sprinkle over chocolate filling. Drop teaspoonfuls of raspberry jam over the pecan-crumb mixture. Sprinkle with remaining 1 cup chocolate morsels. Return to oven and bake 25 to 30 minutes, or until center is set. Cool completely on wire rack. Freezeworthy: No. -- Submitted by Yolanda Cruz, Tampa, Fla. GUMDROP COOKIES Makes 4 to 5 dozen 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature 1 cup light brown sugar, packed 1 cup sugar

2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon baking soda, dissolved in 1 tablespoon water 2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour 2 cups quick-cooking oats 1 cup flaked coconut 1 cup fruit-flavored gumdrops, cut in 1/4inch pieces (before measuring) and dredged in flour (see note) Confectioners' sugar (for sprinkling)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cream together the butter and sugars. Add the eggs, vanilla and baking soda solution, and beat until blended. Add flour, oats, coconut and gumdrop pieces. Drop heaping teaspoons of dough onto greased or parchment-lined cookie sheets and bake 12 minutes. Remove to confectioners'-sugar-covered wax paper and sift additional confectioners' sugar on top. Remove to wire rack to cool. Testing note: Gumdrops are often labeled spice drops. They are the same thing. Freezeworthy: Yes, but cool completely first. -- Submitted by Nancy Carns, Largo, Fla., and Linda Broback, Spring Hill, Fla.

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In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add egg and mix well. Combine the flour, baking soda and salt; add to creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in pecans and candied cherries. Shape dough into four 8-inch rolls and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm. Unwrap and cut into 1/8- to 1/4-inch slices. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350 degrees for 7 to 8 minutes, or until lightly browned and edges are set. Cool for 2 minutes before moving to racks. Testing note: We liked these cookies best when they were crispy. To get a crisper cookie, bake for full 8 minutes. Freezeworthy: Yes, but cool completely first. -- Submitted by Gail Sloan, Tampa, Fla.

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PUMPKIN CHOCOLATE-CHIP COOKIES Makes 4 dozen 1 cup canned pumpkin puree - Continued on page 33

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Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123 – 31

2010-2011 Punxsutawney Area High School Winter Sports

Boys Varsity Basketball

Varsity Wrestling

(first row, l. to r.) Daniel Tripony, Corban Cressley, Brodi Lowmaster, Matt Lombardo, Isaac Fugate, and Hunter Tibbs; (second row) Tim Pearce, Alex Fedigan, Jordan Mesoraco, Ian Weaver, and Logan Weaver; (third row) Darren Pifer, Garrett Zimmerman, Ian Miller, Joe Long, Luke Janocha, and Jesse Venturini.

(first row) Anthony Pascuzzo, Joel Bowers, Chelsea Engeholm, and Josh Schuckers; (second row) Kody young, Derek Kerr, Caesar Maruca, Seth Spack, and Neko Capella; (third row) Tige Woodson, Coach Eddy, Brendon Knarr, Duell Thompson, Carl Langley, Josh Neal, and Brant Forrester.

Boys JV Basketball

Girls Varsity Basketball

Girls JV Basketball

(first row, l. to r.) Derick Kelly, Taylor Phillips, Tim Pearce, and Hunter Tibbs; (second row) Mikey Rosenberger, Jesse Venturini, and Luke Janocha; (third row) Luke Spack, Devin Nicholson, Garrett Zimmerman, and Ian Miller.

(first row, l. to r.) Jenna Reitz and Alex Magill; (second row) Kaitlyn Nestel, Shawnna Crago, and Justine Kaza; (third row) Johnna Depp and Lindsey Paulina.

(first row, l. to r.) Taylor Necome, Lauren Giavedoni, and Alison Jones; (second row) Lauren Wolfe, Emily Reitz, Ashley Reitz, Mary Sloniger, and Emily Horner.

JV Cheerleading

Varsity Cheerleading (first row, l. to r.) Samantha Caylor and Marcy Farmery; (second row) Kat Walker, Kristen Mack, and Erin Butler; (third row) Holly Waltman, Morgain Holeva, and Abbi Fedigan.

PAHS SPORTS PHOTOS BY LIFETOUCH

On Site Field Supply oil Field Supply Store

387 Stello Way, Punx’y

938-7400

GOOD LUCK CHUCKS!

O S F S METALS

902 W. Mahoning St. Punx’y

32 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123

938-6230

Best of luck teaMs!

(first row, l. to r.) Emily Travis and Morgan Smith; (second row) Jade Kunselman, Tessa Spearing, and Haley Hartman; (third row) Rebecca Athey, Reba Fairbanks, Tiana Smith, Coach Myers, Kristen Rollan, and Savanna Hallman.

Continued from page 31 1 cup sugar 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon baking soda, dissolved in 1 teaspoon milk 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips 1/2 cup chopped nuts

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Combine pumpkin, sugar, vegetable oil, egg, vanilla and baking soda mixture. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon and salt, and add to wet ingredients. Stir in chocolate chips and nuts and mix well. Drop by teaspoonful onto parchment-lined cookie sheets. Bake 10 to 12 minutes. Freezeworthy: Yes, but cool completely first. -- Submitted by Mary Jeanne McIntosh, Indian Rocks Beach, Fla. CHOCOLATE MAGICS Makes 2 dozen 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup sugar (plus extra for dredging) 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature 1/4 cup smooth peanut butter 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 large egg Filling: 1/2 cup peanut butter, crunchy or smooth 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Lightly grease baking sheets (or line with parchment paper). In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt. In another medium-sized bowl, beat together the sugars, butter and peanut butter until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla and egg, beating to combine, then stir in dry ingredients, blending well. To make filling, in a small bowl, stir together the peanut butter and confectioners' sugar until smooth. With floured hands or a teaspoon scoop, roll the filling into 24 1inch balls. To shape the cookies, scoop 1 tablespoon of the dough (a lump about the size of a

walnut), make an indentation in the center with your finger and place one of the peanut-butter balls into the indentation. Bring the cookie dough up and over the filling, pressing the edges together over the center. Roll the cookie in the palms of your hands to smooth it out. Repeat with remaining dough and filling. Roll each rounded cookie in granulated sugar and place on the prepared cookie sheets, leaving about 2 inches between cookies. Grease the bottom of a drinking glass and use it to flatten each cookie to about 1/2 inch thick. Bake the cookies 7 to 9 minutes, or until they're set. Remove from oven and cool on rack. Freezeworthy: Yes, but cool completely first. -- Submitted by Gayle Hackbarth, Summerfield, Fla. SPICY HOT CHOCOLATE COOKIES Makes about 5 dozen 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa 1 tablespoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar 3/4 cup (1-1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature 1/8 teaspoon black pepper 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste) 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 2 egg whites Glaze: 1-1/4 cups confectioners' sugar 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 2 tablespoons milk Generous pinch of cayenne pepper

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine flour, cocoa, cinnamon, baking soda and salt in a medium bowl. Whisk together and set aside. Combine the sugars in a small bowl. Whisk together and set aside. Using an electric mixer, beat butter until creamy. Add sugar mixture, black and cayenne peppers and vanilla. Beat on high speed for about 1 minute. Beat in the egg whites and continue beating until mixture is smooth. Add the flour mixture, beating on the lowest speed, just until incorporated. Form dough into two logs, rolling until 10 to 12 inches long and about 1-1/2 inches in diameter. Wrap logs in plastic wrap. Refrigerate at least 45 minutes. Line baking pans with parchment. Use a sharp knife to slice dough into 1/4-inch

Wishing All A Holiday Season Filled With Peace & Happiness

Jefferson County Housing Authority 201 N. Jefferson St., Punxsutawney (814) 938-7140

- Continued on page 34

Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year from the Staff of

DIalYSIS ClINIC, INC. R R t ENAL EPLACEMENt HERAPY

• Hemodialysis • Peritoneal Dialysis (A Non-Profit Corporation)

Ashok Chaddah, M.D., Medical Director

158 Elmwood Dr., Punx’y, PA 15767 • 814-938-9045

Yuletide Greetings

Mahoning Physical Therapy Twolick Valley P.T.

• Medicare Certified • Aquatic Therapy • Office Hours by Appointment Mahoning Physical Therapy Medical Center, Marion Center, PA

(724) 397-9100

405 Franklin St., Clymer, PA

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Protect the Ones You Love. Brookville

800-414-7222 Punxsutawney

814-938-4119

EMERGENCy 911

As a member of JCEMS you are provided with care from one of the most advanced emergency medical services in Jefferson County today.

Have A Safe & Happy Holiday

Wreaths, Roping, Swags, Poinsettias, Lilies GRAVE BLANKEtS AND CENtERPIECES

Free Baling & Loading

Photo courtesy of Indiana gazette.

Cookie Recipes

Happy Holidays!

1039 Grant St., Reynoldsville (814) 653-7804

1-800-585-5303 TTY/TDD #711 Income Based Rental Apartments Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program

Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123 – 33

Cookie Recipes Continued from previous page rounds. Arrange cookies about 1 inch apart. Bake 11 to 13 minutes. Cool completely on a wire rack. While cookies are cooling, mix all glaze ingredients together and whisk until smooth. Drizzle glaze over cookies. Let sit until glaze sets. Freezeworthy: Yes, but cool completely first. -- Submitted by Nancy Perkins, Tampa, Fla.

NONNO'S SNOWCAP COOKIES Makes 5 dozen 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature 1 cup sugar 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened 2 (1-ounce each) squares unsweetened chocolate, melted 1 egg 3 teaspoons grated orange zest 1-1/2 teaspoons each vanilla and orange extracts 2-3/4 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 cup small nonpareils (Sno-Caps candy, see note)

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Combine butter, sugar and cream cheese until mixed. Add melted chocolate, egg, orange zest and flavorings, and mix well. Add flour and baking powder, mix well. Stir in nonpareils by hand. Grease cookie sheets. Drop rounded teaspoons of dough onto sheets and bake 15 minutes. Recipe is easily doubled. Testing note: We had trouble finding the all-white Sno-Caps candies, but did find a multicolored version. We pressed large ones into the center of cookies before baking. Freezeworthy: Yes, but cool completely first. -- Submitted by Lisa Bazzanella Smith, St. Petersburg, Fla. MERRY CHRISTMAS MACAROONS Makes about 5 dozen 4 egg whites 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1-1/3 cups sugar 1 cup chopped pecans 1 cup shredded coconut 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candy 3 cups cornflakes 1/4 cup red candied cherries (or a mix of red

and green)

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. In large mixing bowl, beat egg whites until foamy. Stir in cream of tartar and vanilla. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff and glossy. Fold in pecans, coconut, chocolate chips, peppermint candy and cornflakes. Drop by rounded tablespoons onto well-greased or parchment-lined baking sheets. Press a piece of red candied cherry into the center of each macaroon. Bake 20 minutes, or until lightly browned. Remove immediately from baking sheets. Cool on wire racks. Freezeworthy: No. -- Submitted by Mary Ann Birchmire, Largo, Fla. PINK AND WHITE PEPPERMINT BARK Makes a few dozen pieces, depending on how big you break them

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814-938-4055 www.valleytireco.com

24 candy canes 24 ounces white chocolate chips 1 to 2 teaspoons peppermint extract 1/8 teaspoon red food coloring Bailey's Irish Cream, for drizzling

Place candy canes in a zippered freezer bag, wrap bag in a towel and use a rubber mallet to crush them. Set aside. Melt half of the white chocolate chips in microwave on medium (50 percent power), checking at 30-second intervals. Add half of peppermint extract and stir. Spread the mixture out on wax-paper-lined cookie sheet and sprinkle with half of the crushed candy canes. Melt other half of chocolate chips, add remaining peppermint extract and red food coloring, and stir. When mixture is cooled and spreadable, frost first layer with pink chocolate. Sprinkle with other half of the crushed candy canes. Drizzle with Bailey's Irish Cream, if desired. Let stand for about an hour, or until cool and hardened; break into pieces. Note: If you want to do one layer in traditional chocolate, use 12 ounces semisweet chocolate chips and 12 ounces white chocolate chips, then follow the same directions for assembly. Freezeworthy: No. -- Submitted by Mary Beth Long, St. Petersburg, Fla. (Janet K. Keeler can be reached at jkeeler@sptimes.com.)(Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service www.scrippsnews.com) •••

Schedule Your Groundhog Day Edition Ad Today!

* Contest Rules 1. Complete the coupon on opposite page. 2. Guess the winning team and the total number of points you think will be scored in the Steelers/Browns game and enter the guess in the space provided on the coupon. 3. Enter one of the participating advertisers on these pages in the space provided to redeem your coupon should you be the contest winner. 4. Clip and forward the coupon to: Steelers Football Contest, Punxsutawney Hometown, P.O. Box 197, Punxsutawney, PA 15767 5. All entries must be received at the Punxsutawney Hometown office by Friday, December 31.

6. Only one entry per person. If you do not wish to clip your magazine, you may photocopy entry blank. 7. In the event two or more contestants correctly pick the winning team and total number of points, one winner will be randomly selected and awarded the winning prize. In event two or more contestants tie for closest to the total score, one winner will be randomly selected to win the $25 certificate. There will be only one $25 winner each month in the contest. 8. Punxsutawney Hometown retains the right to make any final decisions regarding the contest, and by submitting an entry, contestants agree to abide by the rules of the contest.

Mary 938-0312 or Tracey 938-9084

STroehMann bakery outlet Thrift Store • Bread • Rolls • Cakes • Candy • Chips • Drink Mix • Much More Great Buys! Super Values Every Day

S. Main St. Ext., Punx’y • 938-7430 34 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123

Steelers Winner The winner of last month's Steelers football contest is Mark Wood of Rossiter. Mark correctly predicted that the Steelers would defeat the Ravens and guessed 23 points as the total number that would be scored in the game. The Steelers won, 13-10, and Mark will redeem his $25 gift certificate at Pizza Town. You, too, can be a winner. Just complete and clip the coupon appearing in this month's Steelers football contest and return it to Hometown magazine. Here we go, Steelers!

west end

Price HQuality HSelection HService H

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HOURS: Mon-sat 11am-9pm • Closed sundays

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Michael Horner, Kim Horner Joe Presloid & Jennifer Moore (missing from photo) Local Registered Pharmacists

See us For All your beverages!

Mon.- Fri 9 to 7 Sat. 9 to 2

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Indiana Hill, Punx'y

938-4990 Distributor of Many Fine Products

132 West Mahoning Street Punxsutawney

Fezell’s

THIS MONTH’S FEATURE CONTEST GAME:

6 Pickering Street brookville

AWARD WINNING WINGS! - 36 Flavors

Join us for Happy Hour 5-7 Daily

Steelers at Browns JAN. 2

Punx’y Hometown Steelers Football Contest:

Complete, Clip, Drop off or Mail to: Steelers Football Contest Punxsutawney Hometown, P.o. Box 197, Punx’y, PA 15767

Name Address City & Zip Phone

Football Tailgate Time... WE HAVE iT ALL! PaRTY PlaTTERS Pizza SnaCkS

Coupon for Game of Jan. 2 Step 1: Guess the Winning Team:

__ Steelers

Groundhog Plaza, Punx’y

__ Browns

Step 2: Guess the Total Points that

will be Scored in that Game: __________ Step 3: Should I win, I would like to redeem my merchandise certificate at:

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BIg ITALY PIzzA with 3 toppings 10 WINgSTREET WINgS and a 2 liter $19.99 Walmart Plaza - Rt. 119 North Punx’y

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PIttSbuRGH StEELERS SCHEDuLE Sun., Sept. 12 FALCONS W 15-9 Sun., Sept. 19 at Titans W 19-11 Sun., Sept. 26 at Buccaneers W 38-13 Sun., Oct. 3 RAVENS L 14-17 Sun., Oct. 10 Bye Sun., Oct. 17 BRoWNS W 28-10 Sun., Oct. 24 at Dolphins W 23-22 Sun., Oct. 31 at Saints L 20-10 Mon., Nov. 8 at Bengals W 27-21 Sun., Nov. 14 PATRIoTS L 39-26 Sun., Nov. 21 RAIDERS W 35-3 Sun., Nov. 28 at Bills W19-16 Sun., Dec. 5 at Ravens W 10-3 Sun., Dec. 12 BENGALS 1:00 p.m. Sun., Dec. 19 JETS 4:15 p.m. Thur., Dec. 23 PANTHERS 8:20 p.m. Sun., Jan. 2 at Browns 1:00 p.m.

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Here’s hoping the holiday season is custom-made just for you. Thank you for making this past year a merry and bright one for us.

Entry Deadline is Friday, December 31st

TRAIlhEAD Gallery

Let us do the frame work for you. Photos Artwork Keepsakes

WE FEATURE LOCAL ARTISTS’ WORKS 124 West Mahoning st., Punx’y

938-1004

DOUBLE CERAMICS

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Call for hours and class times.

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653-2792

www.doublemceramics.com

Closed Monday; Sun.-Thur. 11 am to 11 pm Fri. & Sat. 11am til Midnight

938-2380

W. Mahoning St., Punxsy Plaza

Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123 – 35

May the warmth of the Holiday Season shine brightly in your home. Thank you & Merry Christmas from all of us at

Caleb Smathers, (left to right): Carl Kunkle, Greg Elkin Jay Philliber, Debbie Walker,

N. Findley Street, Punxsutawney • 939-SOFA • 938-7160 HOURS: Mon-Tues-Thur. 9am to 5pm • Wed 9am to 5pm • Fri 9am to 8pm • Sat 9am to 4pm • Closing at 3pm Dec. 24

36 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Christmas 2010 - Issue #123