Fighting for Our Country: Five Punxsutawney Natives Share their Experiences of Serving in the United States Army
On the cover: Saluting Our Punx’y Sons in the Military — Neil Weaver Photo submitted by Courtney Neal
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By Jade Emhoff of Hometown magazine ith Veteran’s Day upon us, hopefully we will take time out of our busy lives to remember, recognize, and honor those who have served our country in the past, as well as those who are currently serving across the globe. Many of our own community members have made the courageous and admirable decision to join the military, and while I'd like to use this story to thank and recognize all of them, I had the opportunity to talk with a handful of young men, all from Punx’y, who are now spread among the U.S. serving in the United States Army and around the world.
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David Pisano, Sergeant David Pisano, son of John and Shirley Pisano, joined the Army in August 2007 and is currently stationed in Ft. Campbell, Kentucky, where he is a Team Leader. Over the past four years, David was stationed in Ft. Leona, Missouri, where he conducted Basic Training and Adv a n c e d Individual Training (AIT), as well as Ft. Stewart, Georgia. In July 2009, Pisano was deployed to Kandahar C i t y , Afghanistan for a 12David Pisano month tour. David said he wanted to join the Army to serve his country and help others live the American dream. “I don’t think my parents really wanted me to join because we were at war, but they backed my decision one hundred percent,” he said. “I wouldn’t join until both my Mom and Dad said it was okay with them, because I didn’t want to put any type of
stress on them.” “One of a kind” is how David describes his experience thus far. “I’ve seen more in my four years being in the military than many people will see in their lifetime.” After David finishes his service, he plans to join the Pennsylvania State Police or pursue some other type of law enforcement career. Thank you for your service, David! Christopher Reesman, Specialist Christopher Reesman, son of Robert and Sharon Reesman, joined the Army in March 2008 and is currently stationed in West Point, New York, where he is a Team Leader in the Honor Guard. “The Honor Guard conducts military funerals by carrying the casket from the hearse to the grave site, folding the American flag, and with the 21-gunsalute Firing Parties,” he said. Before going to New York, Chris was stationed in Ft. Stewart, Christopher Reesman Georgia, and was part of the Third Infantry Division. From Ft. Stewart, he deployed to Mosul, Iraq in 2009. “I joined the Army out of respect for those who had already given their lives for our country,” Chris said. “In the Army, we have a saying, ‘I would rather me than my brother’.” After the initial “lump in the throat” feeling Chris thinks his family got when they learned he was going to join the military,
he said they were proud of his decision to enlist. Discovering many benefits to serving in the Army, Chris believes the best part is the camaraderie built amongst those with whom he serves. “It is a brotherhood that is unmatched in the civilian sector.” Chris said his experience has been very eye-opening, and he has realized that as Americans we are lucky to be living the way we do. Chris plans to further his military knowledge and to continue serving his country. Thank you for your service, Chris! Aaron Skerkavich, Captain Aaron Skerkavich, son of David and Ann Skerkavich, joined the Army in 2006 after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP). He is currently stationed in Ft. Hood, Texas, where he is a Battalion Operations Officer. He has also been stationed in Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, and recently returned from his second 15-month tour to Iraq. His first was 2007-2009. Aaron said his family was very supportive of his decision, and he has no regrets about joining the Army. Aaron Skerkavich "It has been a great experience," he said. "I've had the opportunity to travel and see many parts of the world which has really broadened my horizons and outlook on life." Aaron plans to earn a master's degree and - Continued on page 4
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2 – Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133
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Coal strikes teach survival By PRIDE The company agreed, and the meeting closed for Hometown magazine with the passing of two resolutions. The first stated that although the miners accepted the oal was then, as it is now, a market reduction offered, they retained the right to driven business. In order for miners to suspend work whenever the national union ofbe paid, someone had to buy the coal ficers called upon them to do so. The second they dug. Between the miner and the annulled their prior agreement requiring the market were other people who depended on company to give fourteen days’ notice of a retheir work for job security. Any rumor of a duction in pay and the miners the same time strike made people in the community anxious. for giving a notice of suspension of work. Early in 1894, when demand for coal Three weeks later about 1200 miners from dropped, the smaller companies reduced their Adrian and Anita, led by a brass band, price in order to continue to sell their coal. marched through PunxThis action quickly ripsutawney to the fairpled through the indusgrounds where they try. were joined by miners The Bell, Lewis, and from Walston and HorYates Coal Mining atio. There were about Company was the first 2,500 miners at the to ask their miners to meeting, making it one take a ten percent reof the largest gatherings duction in pay as a reof workers ever held in sult in a reduction of Punxsutawney. price. The Buffalo, The miners made conRochester and Pittstingency plans for a burg Coal and Iron general suspension of Company followed on work. They created a March 7. And, on system to manage the March 21, the support for workers Berwind-White Coal Mrs. Steiner, a miner’s wife, cultivating her garand their families withMining Company den. (PAHGS Collection) out having to hold large meetings when the posted notices that effective April 1, they strike was called. would be reducing their miner’s pay by the The speakers at the meeting prepared the same amount. miners for the sacrifices that would be needed, When the notices went up at Anita and Horthe actions they should take and the ways they atio, the miners’ association called a meeting and their families could survive a suspension for nine o’clock, Monday morning, March 26 of work. They were advised to support each at the opera house in Punxsutawney. Mr. other, abstain from intoxicating drinks, obAllinson, the miner’s agent, chaired the meetserve the law, maintain order, keep a clear ing and Patrick Sweeney served as their sechead and a brave heart, to make a garden and retary. It was a difficult meeting, and all to go fishing. parties knew there was more at stake than just Two men from each area were chosen as repa wage reduction. resentatives to sit on an executive board, Miners, knowing the hardships a strike which would function as the communication would cause, accepted a reduction of ten perlink among the communities. They were: cent in pay with some conditions. The condiThomas R. Davis and Joseph Harrison, Hortions included rent reduction for company atio; Morgan Lloyd and Thomas Turnbull, houses. Eight dollar a month rentals would be Lindsey; Robert McDonald and E.E. Flier, reduced by one dollar and the $6.50 rentals Anita; and, Thomas Lawton and John Cahoot, would be reduced by seventy five cents. Valier. The other communities would be These would help relieve some of the loss to asked to name two representatives each to the miners who lived in company houses but serve on the executive board. not those who lived elsewhere. There would The miners, for the most part, conducted also be a ten percent reduction on the cost of powder and oil which helped all the miners. - Continued on page 6
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Joshua Stankewich, Staff Sergeant Joshua Stankewich, son of Daryl and Stacey Stankewich, enlisted in the Army in August 2006, and left for Basic Training two days after graduating from high school in 2007. Josh is currently stationed in Ft. Bragg, North Carolina where he holds the position of a 60mm Mortar Section Sergeant in B Co. 1-508 Parachute Infantry Regiment 82d ABN DIV. "I joined the Army because it was something I felt I had to do," he said. "It was not from any pressure but more so something to prove to myself. So many people take the freedoms we have for granted, and I just wanted to do my part."
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In his four years serving, Josh has deployed to Afghanistan twice, 2007-2008 and 2009-2011, in efforts of Operation Enduring Freedom. "Deployments, in my opinion, are the best part," he explained. "There isn't a better feeling in the world than being able to see the difference you can make and the difference we are making in the war. Just the change in the one year we were in Western Afghanistan was remarkable. We brought stability to that region of the country and saved many people from the terror the Taliban had on them." While it's difficult for Josh to spend so much time away from his loved ones, he said he has found something in the Army that he has found nowhere else: friendship and brotherhood. "You serve alongside the best guys in the world as far as I'm concerned. At anytime they will not hesitate to lay down their life to save yours. Anytime you are in a pinch you will have someone lending a hand. It's just something you don't see as often in the
civilian world," he added. As for the civilians, Josh wishes they could see the gains our country has made in this war. "I know everyone doesn't have to agree with everything about it, but recognize what we have done for a change rather than what we have not," he noted. On Josh's last deployment he re-enlisted. "I'm just going to continue doing my job to the best of my ability and see where things go." Thank you for your service, Josh! Neil Weaver, Specialist Neil Weaver, son of Mike and Rose Weaver, joined the Army in August 2008, and is currently stationed in Ft. Benning, Georgia, where he is s Troop Armorer for a basic training unit. Neil has previously been at Ft. Stewart, Georgia and Ft. Knox, Kentucky, and he was deployed to Baghdad, Iraq from December 2009 to December 2010. " T h e Army is one of the few jobs you get paid to work out and shoot weapons Neil Weaver on a regular basis," he commented. "And most importantly I wanted to serve my country." Although Neil enjoys the benefits of travel that come with the Army, he said he is not so thrilled about the early morning and late nights he often endures day after day. Neil has choose to make the military his career. "It's been fun so far," he said. Thank you for your service, Neil! •••
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6 – Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133
Coal Strikes
Strike Survival Recipes
Continued from page 3 Dandelion Greens Pick, clean and wash about four quarts themselves in the manner in which they were of tender dandelion greens. advised. Early in May, the strike was called. Fry a little bacon in a large skillet. ReThe miners at Horatio, Walston, Adrian and move bacon, add flour, salt and pepper, Anita suspended work, and in the district enstir until lightly brown. Add water, a litcompassing Clearfield and Jefferson Counties, tle vinegar, and sugar to make a sauce. 9,000 miners were on strike. The strike forced Put in the dandelion greens and stir until the coke ovens to shut down and the Buffalo, wilted. Sprinkle with crumpled bacon Rochester and Pittsburg Railroad, whose priand hard boiled egg slices. mary business was transporting coal, was all Fricassee but shut down, causing many railroaders to be Cut a chicken, rabbit, squirrel, groundout of work. hog or other game into pieces. Dredge The miners, and all of those who depended with flour, salt and pepper. Brown in fryon the mines, were facing a bleak summer. ing pan using bacon drippings or butter. That summer the communities of the PunxAdd a cup of chopped onion and a cup sutawney area pulled together, to help each of water. Season with spices or herbs to other survive. taste. Cover and simmer until tender. The miners created a commissary to provide Remove from skillet and make gravy with the drippings. Pour gravy over food and necessities. Farmers who were unmeat. Sprinkle with parsley if desired able to sell their remaining stores of vegetaand serve. bles donated them to the commissary. “The commissary committees are kept pretty busy proposal and with the band playing and flags collecting aid, while outside of these commitflying they formed a procession, four abreast, tees men, women and children daily make a and followed Sheriff Gourley, Squire W.W. house-to-house canvas for food. Some of our Crissman and Squire Sherman Gahagan. citizens are giving liberally of flour, having They marched down the public road past the purchased it by the ton and are giving it out tipples and fan houses located on the left side on an order from the proper committee,” reof the road, and across the creek from the new ported the Punxsutawney News. barracks, which housed their replacements The miners planted gardens, as they were adand their guards. As the column of miners apvised, and had early lettuce and peas to helpproached, the entire force of about ninety stave off hunger. The families went in search guards lined the company’s bridge, which of wild berries to supplement their meager spanned the creek. It food supply. Fishing must have been quite a and setting snares occusight to see two thoupied the time of young sand miners marching boys, whose catch past the idle mine helped bring needed works and the guards, protein to the family standing shoulder to table. Even the pesky shoulder with their dandelion was not safe Winchester rifles, on from the frugal housethe bridge By his acwife seeking ways to tion Sheriff Gourley feed her family. had wisely averted a As the miners waited potentially dangerous for the company to nesituation by leading the gotiate with them, they civil march of the minwatched for signs that ers. they would soon be On the hill spectators, back to work. At Anita, women, they saw carpenters A dinkey charges the coke ovens at Walston. The mostly smell of the sulfuric gas from the coke ovens was cheered the men as start a new building. welcomed after the strike. they marched. This When it was far enough was a powerful along to clearly see that demonstration of the miners’ solidarity and it was to be a barracks to house replacement support. miners, the Anita miners asked the carpenters During the strike there were other incidents. not to continue with the building. After a conAt Walston, when the maintenance crew came versation in which the miners made their reto get cinders to improve the railroad bed, quest, assuring the carpenters they were not some of the miners, who thought the mainteordering them but asking them to stop, the carpenters left leaving the barracks unfinished. - Continued on page 14 The company, not being deterred in their effort, had a barracks constructed at Horatio and imported replacement miners and guards to protect them. The miners, hoping to let these replacements know they were being used to break the strike, held a meeting on the hill overlooking Number 1 and Number 6 mines of the BerwindBO O K U S White Mining Company. Adrian and Anita miners, led by a brass band, marched through NOW! Clayville and gathered on the hill. They were joined by miners from Horatio. After listening to several rousing speeches they were anxious to demonstrate their position to the replacement miners. Sheriff Gourley, who was in the area, was asked to speak to the crowd. He told AMPLE OFF STREET PARKING them that if they marched in an orderly way, Air Conditioned • Smoke Eaters • Large Coolers stayed on the public road, and did not insult Call to Reserve: the new miners or the guards, he would lead the procession down past the works and back Dan Coleman again. The miners immediately approved his 952-1777
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The Significance of Columbus Day in Punx’y A celebration of Italian-American heritage
By S. Thomas Curry of Hometown magazine
W
hen the month of October came around on the calendar, many of us, when younger, would anticipate the arrival of Halloween as a special time. But yet, it is difficult to erase from memory another holiday in the month. Dates in long-ago history were not something to get excited
have debated the migration by people to the Americas from Asia across the Bering Strait to what is now Alaska. The controversy over Columbus Day as a holiday is also based upon the claim that Columbus’ arrival to the Americas resulted in the death of many native people and the demise of a culture of “original” Americans. And, also, there now are people asking, “Why should the United States honor Columbus when he only set onto
some islands in the Caribbean and never got to the mainland of the country?” These current sentiments toward the celebration of Columbus Day did not exist in this country or the Punxsutawney area a century ago. With the opening of many mines in the region in the late 19th century, there was a substantial immigration of Italian people who settled various mining towns and resided in larger communities with their neighborhoods that some
could call “Little Italys.” While at first arriving to dig coal, build railroads or shovel coke, they would gradually embrace the “American” culture and develop skills as business people and professionals. In the early 1900s. Punxsutawney would claim that Italians would be represented in 18 businesses and professions. There were grocers — with small shops — and wholesale grocers, - Continued on next page
As a result of efforts of the Knights of Columbus in 1934, the U. S. Congress proclaimed October 12 as a federal holiday under the name Columbus Day to honor the voyage of the Italian explorer to the Americas. Since 1971, the holiday has been fixed to the second Monday in October.
about, but we had learned for memory the significance of October 12, 1492 in “American history.” Since 1971, Columbus Day has been set as a national holiday on the second Monday in October to commemorate the arrival of explorer Christopher Columbus into the land of the Americas, or the “New World.” As we would learn to understand, the Europeans supposedly hadn’t known this land to exist. Clearly marked for recognizing “Columbus” alone for an honor, it is a legal, paid holiday where government offices, and maybe some businesses and schools are generally closed. Two states in the U. S. do not recognize Columbus Day by name. Hawaii celebrates “Discoverers’ Day.” South Dakota has called its day “Native American Day.” While Nevada does not celebrate Columbus Day as an official holiday, its governor is “requested” by law to “proclaim the day” for recognition of Columbus. California, Texas and Florida have eliminated Columbus Day as a paid holiday for their government workers, yet maintain it on their official calendar for a “day of recognition,” or they use the date in October as a legal holiday for other purposes. In recent years, recognition of Christopher Columbus as the first European to sail to the Americas has become controversial with evidence presented that Viking explorers from Scandinavia had entered the Northern Americas earlier than 1492. Some scholars in the academic disciplines of archaeology and anthropology
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Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133 – 7
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Photos from the Past
Young men relax on the front porch of the Haley House, a hotel in Clayville, now West End Punxsutawney. The hotel was located at the corner of Main and Foundry streets and was operated by S.A. Wortman. If the photo was taken the summer of 1894, these young men may have been preparing to canvas houses in Clayville for donations to help the striking miners. (See story on page .) Photograph courtesy of the Punxsutawney Historical and Genealogical Society.
8 – Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133
Columbus Day
Mahoning Street to the Pennsylvania Railroad passenger station, did a reverse march down Mahoning Street to West End and returned to the downtown to the Jefferson Theatre for an assembled meeting of speakers. The societies in the parade included the Christopher Columbus Society of Delancey, the Garibaldi Society and the Princeo Naples Society of Walston (led by the Walston band), Victor Emmanuel So-
Continued from previous page shoemakers, barbers, restaurant owners, doctors, attorneys, bankers, and tradesmen such as plumbers, tailors, etc. They maintained a heritage of a proud homeland of work ethic, arts, worship and language. Soon forgotten were the stories of crimes and violence, the shootings and stabbings, the fist fights and that brawls were often reported when the new immigrants arrived in the 1880s and strived to adapt to a new land. native The people of Italy would bring with them the tales of their national heroes — the 15th century explorer Christoforo Columbo among them. Among European immigrants, who came to the area in the 1890s to work in the There devel- mines and coke ovens, were many Italians. The Italian people brought their heritage oped a respect to mining towns such as Walston, above, and formed Italian fraternal societies, honfor law and oring Italian heroes with names such as Christopher Columbus Society, the Garibaldi order and they Society and the Knights of Columbus. began to organize into social groups to contribute to the ciety of Rossiter and other societies from community and support families. The nearby towns. “Garibaldi Italian Society,” named for the At noon a “Bohemian” dinner was Italian patriot and soldier Giuseppe served at the Washington Hotel at North Garibaldi, was organized in 1889 in WalJefferson Street and East Mahoning Street. ston to aid its members “in case of sickThe banquet food was imported and ness, death and distress.” Punxsutawney’s cooked Italian style. On the menu were Knights of Columbus (K of C) was charsuch delicacies as Antipasto Alla Gentered in October 1899. ovese, Zuppa alla Colombo, Crostini alla In 1892, on the 400th anniversary of Isabella, Spaghetti alla San Salvadore and Columbus’ voyage to the Americas, PresMoscato Spumante. ident Benjamin Harrison had called upon Following an afternoon of “reunions” the people of the United States to celebrate among the members of the Italian sociColumbus Day. The day, October 12, 1492 eties, a dance at Anita concluded the day. was used by schools, churches, and politiOrganizers of the event were Dr. P. G. cians to teach patriotism, loyalty and citiSpinelli, of Punxsutawney and Father zenship, and to celebrate progress. John DeVille, of Walston. The two folPunxsutawney’s celebration was reported lowed up the celebration with a movement in a local newspaper. “Columbus Day in among the Italian groups to raise money Punxsutawney was not celebrated with for a statue of Christopher Columbus. The any great display or pomp and noise, but amount of money raised would determine nevertheless the National program was whether it would be of bronze or marble, carried out by the school.” and whether it would be Columbus alone, On that day, led by a band, school stuor a group of men representing the settling dents at Mary A. Wilson School and Jenks of America. With a successful campaign Hill School marched to the “Public the statue would be unveiled in the town Square” and formed around the flag pole park on Columbus Day in 1910. where “the stars and stripes were flung to Days before Columbus Day 1910, there the breeze.” Surrounded by trees decowas no mention of an anticipated unveilrated with little flags, the nearly 600 stuing of a commemorative statue to the dents followed a program of singing, famed Italian explorer. There was no jureading and recitations. bilee celebration of any kind. And that For several years after that Columbus would be true for several years more. Day there were no celebrations, no menHowever, Columbus Days in the 1920s tion as a big time event, the day having saw the town decorated with banners and evolved into a celebration of Italianflags. Some became three-day events that American heritage. The town had grown included concessions and activities at the in population, became more diversified in old fairgrounds. business, industry, social organizations Life in this area continues today with a and worship houses. It was more cosmorich heritage of Italian-American tradipolitan than its past had been. tions. The local Knights of Columbus The Punxsutawney celebration on Octocontinues with strong leadership. But ber 12, 1909 was declared the best ever. A Columbus Day 2011 has come and gone parade of 1,500 men from area “Italian sowith little celebration. Is Christopher cieties” opened the event. Beginning at Columbus’ famous 1492 voyage fading in the park, a squad of mounted state pohistory? licemen from the local barracks, followed ••• by the Anita band, led the group up East
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Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133 – 9
tUnes FoR tots & aUCtion Benefiting local children at Christmas
Sat., December 3, 2011 6 pm to 12 Midnight Walston Club
Donation: $10.00 plus an unwrapped new Toy donation would be appreciated at the door. For more information contact shelly Fait at 814-938-5368
Featuring Music by: Steve Duffalo, Bruce Walker, Admit 21 and over G3, Joe Pascuzzo Lounge Lizards, Tickets courtesy of Mark Gagliardi, Riding Shotgun, Richard L. Fait Funeral Home B&B, Sound by Rob Strawcutter
Walston Club
2509 Walston Rd. PUNX’Y
Come share in the Season of giving with good friends, good entertainment and food.
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Presented by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc.
10 – Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133
Golfers playing at the country club in Punxsutawney in the early 1900s had a view of the little mining town, Columbus, which was built in 1887 on a hill above Walston. The town, however, did not get its name as a tribute to explorer Columbus, but for a member of the Iselin family, who owned the coal company that built it.
A New Columbus
By S. Thomas Curry barn of the Carmalt farm behind them, and of Hometown magazine later with their new clubhouse built in 1907, they would have a clear view of a f “spirits” of Punxsutawney’s past from small mining town on the remaining acres more than a century ago would make a of the old farm. These men knew the town visit to Punxsutawney’s West End secas Columbus, built by the Pittsburgh Coal tion this October, they would discover & Iron Company from which they had a New World. With the many improvebought the farmland for their golf course. ments in one portion of the land there, one With the Walston mines over the hill to the wonders if there would be a time of celenorth, the P. C .& I. had bought the land in bration with their view of the changes. 1886 to develop more of the site for its beeAt first, these people would become hive coke ovens that started in a line from aware that the section is no longer called Walston and came around the hillside to a Clayville. Their decade-long wishes in the point west of Clayville. 1890s had come to pass with the official A brief news item in April 1887 weekly consolidation of the little village into PunxValley News in Punxsutawney reported the sutawney in 1907. The two towns, a mere initial plans for the small town. “We learn mile apart, the “courtship” between them that one hundred new frame dwelling had begun earnestly when both had begun houses will be built on the farm lately an era of tremendous growth in population owned and occupied by William B. Carbecause of mining, the railroad, and some malt, [a son of Isaac Carmalt]. These significant new industries, which included houses will be for the benefit of miners and the Punxsutawney Iron Furnace located on cokers of Walland between the ston Mines, and towns. will belong, of Together as one in course, to the 1907, the new Rochester Coal “Greater PunxCompany, who sutawney” had a also owns the population exceedland. This land ing 7,000 people. lies about threeAfter the 1910 cenquarters of a sus, the number of mile north of people was nearly Clayville and on 10,000. A good the hill just east number of “spirits” of Walston of Punxsutawney’s Mines proper, past might find the and when built trip “back to the fuup will virtually ture” an interesting make a new journey. town.” Men, who were golfers at the begin- Once a “station” of the Underground Railroad before the A week later, Civil War, the former Isaac Carmalt farm was purchased ning of the 20th by men in the early 1900s and developed into a fairway to the newspaper would update its century in the new become the Punxsutawney Country Club. news about the Punx’y, would have developing town. “The new town to be seen the transformation of the old farm outbuilt on the Carmalt place by the Rochester side of Clayville into a golf course. & Pittsburg Coal & Iron Company will be In 1907, the 100-acre Carmalt farm on the laid out nicely in streets, and the buildings north side of Main Street was turned over will be first-class. They will be painted to a group of men who had formed the neatly inside and out and supplied with Punxsutawney Country Club in 1904. water and gas.” They would improve the farmland into a And after a month had passed, the newsnine-hole golf course and greens, the pride paper (now called the Punxsutawney News) and joy of these golf enthusiasts. announced, “New coke ovens are built on Some of these men might have been of an the Carmalt farm, out past the brick-yard, age to remember Isaac Carmalt, the owner and will soon be ready to fire up. This of the farm in the mid 19th century. They makes the largest coke plant in the United would recall the tales and accounts about States. Four years ago this was nothing but this Quakers’ experience, operating the woods, and very useless at that.” “underground railroad” through his farm in There is no evidence found, or any memthe years prior to the Civil War. In the lanory, that recalled the completion of the proguage of the historic Underground Railroad jected 100 “dwelling houses” that were to network, he was a “stationmaster” who be built. Available photos from circa 1910 helped runaway slaves through the area to and memories of older citizens, account for the next “station,” as they escaped to freeeight houses. Those eight houses were lodom to the North and to Canada. cated near the 17th green of the PunxAs the golfers strolled along the fairway of their course, with the farmhouse and - Continued on page 16
I
Tunes for Tots, Auction
h
friends, entertainment and food from 6 elping local children is what Bruce p.m. to midnight, Saturday, December 3 Walker of Punxsutawney has set at the Walston Club in Walston. The feaout to do with a little help from tured music of the evening will be Steve some friends. Bruce saw an event Duffalo, Bruce Walker, G3, Joe Pascuzzo like this in Pittsburgh, and thought it Lounge Lizards, Mark Gagliardi & Comwould be a great idea to help children pany, Riding Shotgun, B&B, and sound by Rob Strawcutter. There will be a donation of $10 at the door, and a new untoy wrapped would be appreciated. The toys will be distributed though area social services agencies during their Christmas programs in the Punx’y School (front row) Christi Payson, Kristi Fait, Shelly Fait; (middle) Brooke Henninger, Peg District. There Henninger; (back) Billy Lantz, Bruce Walker, Jay Philliber, Janeen Love, Kenny will also be a Fetterman, Richard Fait; Committee members not present – Darlene Walker and silent auction Taylor Pascuzzo. during the event and all winners will be announced at 10 here in Punxsutawney. p.m. You need not be present to win. So Bruce along with Shelly Fait and JaThe event is open to the public, but you neen Love have put together a team of must be 21 and over. Remember you will local people to organize this fun event need to present your ticket upon entry. called "Tunes for Tots & Auction" beneFor more information about the event or fiting local children at Christmas time. how you can help, please contact Shelly Local and area residents are invited to Fait at 814-938-5368. share in the Season of Giving, with good •••
JEFFERSON COUNTY REPUBlICAN PARTY JOE SCARNATI - SENATOR SAM SMITH - REPRESENTATIVE PAuL CORBIN - COMMISSIONER JIM MCINTYRE - COMMISSIONER DIANE MAIHLE kIEHL - REGISTER & RECORDER JEFF BuRkETT - DISTRICT ATTORNEY BERNARD SNYDER - CORONER JIM “MOON” VANSTEENBERG - TREASURER CARL GOTWALD - SHERIFF MAxINE ZIMMERMAN - COUNTY AUDITOR ROGER RICHARDS - COUNTY AUDITOR MABEL DuNkLE - JURY COMMISSIONER
Guild’s Show Offers laughter and Drama
T
he busy, creative members of the nator, is working with Guild members and Punxsutawney Theatre Arts Guild friends to greet the audience, distribute prowill wrap up their 36th season with grams, and to assist with refreshments and five performances of Ron Osborne's the door prizes. Jeff Kuntz and Charlotte prize-winning play, Showtime at First Baptist. The heartwarming comedy/drama will be staged at the auditorium of the Punxsutawney Area Middle School at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22, and at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23. Additional shows have been scheduled for 7:30, Thursday, Tempers flare, tensions rise, and the name-calling escalates as Lucille Spears Friday, and Satur- (left, portrayed by Krystol Elkin) accuses former Las Vegas showgirl Olene Wifday, Oct. 27, 28, fer (Tracey Young) of "doing the devil's work" in this rehearsal scene from Showand 29. Tickets time at First Baptist, the two-act comedy/drama which the Punxsutawney Theatre Guild will stage on Oct. 22, 23, 27, 28, and 29 at the auditorium of the Punxare sold at the Arts sutawney Area Middle School. Looking on in shock are (left to right) Sandy door. Gearhart, Brenda Cooper, Kathy S. Dinsmore, and Mallory Croasman. Cast members include Sandy Gearhart, Kathy S. Dinsmore, Fye are in charge of the box office. Nancy Tracey Young, Krystol Elkin, Brenda Pearce is the music consultant. Showtime at First Baptist revolves around Cooper, and Mallory Croasman. Matt Dinsmore and Terry Studebaker will oversee six women who come together "to raise lights and sound effects. Stage crew mem- spirits and to raise money" after lightning bers are Debra Dinsmore, Tim Cooper and destroys the sanctuary of their church in Elissa Hill. Uli Battestilli, lobby coordi- Continued on page 28
Election Day Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2011
PLEASE Vote & support!
ElECT
Paul Corbin ......................................Commissioner Jim McIntyre ....................................Commissioner Diane Maihle Kiehl..............Register & Recorder Carl Gotwald, Sr ..........................................Sheriff Maxine Zimmerman ....................County Auditor Roger Richards..............................County Auditor Greg Bazylak ......................District Judge 54-3-03 Doug Chambers ..................District Judge 54-3-01
Paid for by Jefferson County Republican Party • Troy J. Harper Esq. - Chairman
Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133 – 11
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12 – Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133
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Trailhead Gallery
Coal Strikes
Continued from page 6 nance men should not be allowed to work when they were on strike, caused a ruckus. At Adrian the Coal and Iron Police accompanied by General Superintendent Robinson and Sheriff Gourley were surrounded at the station by women, dubbed the “Amazons of Adrian” who tried to turn the police away by throwing dirt and stones at them. At Horatio, the situation grew worse. The Punxsutawney News, on June 20 reported, “The Horatio miners have all left the company’s houses, and in doing this they leave their gardens which in the aggregate would be worth hundreds of dollars to them when vegetation would mature this summer. The majority have moved into Clayville and many homes are now occupied by from two to four families.. Some of the miners are tenting in the woods, having secured the loan of tents belonging to the Sons of Veterans Camp of this place.” By July 2nd the mines at Eleanora, Adrian, Anita and Walston were again working, and the Pennsylvania National Guard had left for home. On July 16 according to the Punxsutawney Spirit, “A ten per cent reduction was made last March, and there was no kick on the part of the men, and now, without a kick, the ten percent is restored.” Gratitude was expressed to the community in the newspaper, “We the miners of Anita take this opportunity of thanking the farmers and business men of our county and other counties for the way in which they have given us relief in our present struggle for living wages, and especially to the miners of Reynoldsville, Rathmel and Eleanora who responded as heartily to us in our call for aid remembering that an injury to one is the concern of all. Alexander Stewart, Secretary.” Punxsutawney Spirit, July 11, 1894. The community was anxious to get back to work and the editor of the Punxsutawney News wrote on July 25th, “The smoke and odor of sulpher from the Walston and Adrian coke ovens is not very pleasant when one gets to the leeward of it, but the ovens have been idle so long that we can stand most anything now for a change. So let the smoke roll upward and let the sulpher fill the air. It indicates that work is going on and money is being put in circulation and that is what helps to relieve our distress.” At Horatio, the strike continued into the fall, and the support for the miners and their families continued until it was ended. “The Reynoldsville miners sent a large wagon load of provisions to Horatio Saturday night for the miners who are on strike at that place.” From the Reynoldsville Star as reprinted in the Punxsutawney News, August 15, 1894. The strike of 1894 brought the whole community together in mutual support and this ethic continues today as members of the Punxsutawney area communities continue to provide for each other.
(Editor’s Note: The resources used in the preparation of this article are available at the Punxsutawney Memorial Library and the Punxsutawney Area Historical and Genealogical Society. Photographs are as attributed. 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, or by calling 814-938-2493 and leaving a message. A PRIDE volunteer will return your call.)
‘A delightful den of creative arts’ at 124 West Mahoning St., Downtown
By PRIDE for Hometown magazine
V
“With the holiday season approaching, I will be ready to help with the last-minute framing of gifts. My suppliers are also very supportive, and can usually deliver special requests within 24 to 48 hours. And, just to make sure the framing will work in the room where the item will be displayed, we
business like mine. My neighbors at Roseman’s Florist and Beatty’s Jewelry have been a great help to me. We work together on promoting downtown through special events and activities. The next big downtown event will be Mistletoe Madness, Saturday, November 26. I always have special
isit the Trailhead Gallery at 124 West Mahoning Street and you will feel like you have stepped from a small-town street into an upscale specialty shop. Memoree LeCompte, owner and operator of the gallery, has transformed the standard store front into a delightful den for creative arts. You are greeted by color everywhere you look; energizing red walls, gleaming arrays of gourds, hand painted designs, huge color photographs, and works by local artists, all of which attract your attention. Trailhead Gallery is completing its sixth year of operation on Mahoning St. LeCompte who attended The Art Institute of Pittsburgh, first worked as a graphic arts and interior designer. While working on several shows in the Pittsburgh area she discovered she enjoyed the art of framing. “I enjoy working with artists and owners to frame their items,” said LeCompte. “A beautiful piece of handwork, artwork, or a photograph can be enhanced by the proper frame.” Returning to Punxsutawney in 2004, she first tested the market potential for her business by framing and selling artwork at a booth during Groundhog Festival and at Mistletoe Madness that (clockwise from top) A sample of the rooms of framed, readily available art at Trailhead Gallery; this attractive sign welcomes year. It was a highly suc- customers to the gallery; gleaming gourd birdhouses, which make unique gifts, and one of the walls at Trailhead Gallery from cessful endeavor, so she which customers may select the perfect frame for their artwork or picture. used the profits to rent the items on hand for customers who come to store front. With help from family and have samples that a customer can take participate in these activities. It reminds friends, she was able to quickly renovate home to ensure the color is right with the me of the ‘old days’ when it was so much the space and open the gallery the follow- carpet or wallpaper.” fun to go Christmas shopping downtown.” Beginning next spring, Trailhead Gallery ing January. Through the years, she has There are many gift items in addition to been developing the business and enhanc- will be open on Sundays. According to the framing service at the gallery. Among ing her services. In addition to matting and LeCompte, there has been an increase in the items that are sure to attract your attenframing, she offers restoration services for weekend traffic downtown and some busition are the miniature keepsake frames. nesses are opening on Sundays. Next frames and photographs. These are wonderful for putting family pic“I have been able to increase my available spring and summer, she hopes to serve custures on your holiday tree. Be sure to instock of frames and matting and I try to tomers coming for graduations and wedclude Trailhead Gallery on your list of keep sufficient supplies on hand so I can dings, as well as the tourists. places to visit this Holiday Season. “Punxsutawney is a good place for a small meet my customers’ needs,” she said. •••
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14 – Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133
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Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133 – 15
WiSE
Bill Wise, VMD Ben Wise, VMD
VETERINARY CLINIC
About a hundred years after the first Columbus was built in the neighborhood of the former Clayville, a new “Columbus community” came into existence in the 1990s near the same site in Punxsutawney’s West End section. (Hometown photos by S. Thomas Curry)
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A New Columbus
County. The son was Columbus O’Donnell Iselin and he held the office until May 1886. Although Mr. Miller, in his time, Continued from page 10 couldn’t reveal why the town was named sutawney Country Club. Before the course “Columbus,” research has allowed historiwas irrigated, the foundations of the homes ans to affirm positively the name for would appear in extremely dry weather. Columbus followed the pattern of mining The older residents could remember the towns named for family members of mine names of the families living on the streets at owners. And not for the Italian explorer one time. and adventurer, who landed in October By September, in 1887, the News reported 1492 in a New World of the Americas in the new town “is steadily assuming the prothe Caribbean Sea. portions of a good-sized village with all There is now in that area to the southeast modern conveniences.” The name of the of Punxsutawney’s historic Punxsutawney town was announced. “It has been chrisCountry Club a new “Columbus” settletened “Columbus.” The editor of the News, ment. A hundred and ten years after the litHorace G. Miller, was not aware of the tle mining town was built in the “suburbs” source for the name. His question to his of Clayville, in 1996, Mike Defelice, readers was “...why so named we cannot through his various property development tell, unless it is in honor of a gentleman by firms, began construction of “The Columthat name who, as a little girl once said, bus Plan Community.” Of the proposed 68 ‘discovered the new world.’” Miller had a houses in the plan, nearly two-thirds of the better name to offer for the town. He sughouses are completed and with occupants. gested a more appropriate name should be The coke ovens that had reached a point “Carmalt,” to suggest near the Clayville to future residents a Cemetery in that tribute “to the name of vicinity are gone. The one who settled on that brick works that sat farm when this place off the golf course, was a howling wilderand the little railroad ness.” (Carmalt had built to the brickyard settled among the hillto deliver bricks to the side pines in 1821.) Walston coke ovens, Perhaps Editor are gone, too. Miller, in 1887, had What remains is the not learned about the clay pit on the Walston origins of the names side of the hill, where for many of the mining clay was secured to towns opening in the make the bricks. And, area. Walston, as the of course, the reason first mining town of Clayville had its the R, & P. Coal Comname. Remaining too, pany in 1882, was What is known as McHugh Avenue today in is the beautiful Counnamed for Walston Punxsutawney, was once a dirt road in old try Club fairway, Brown, a New York Clayville when pigs, chickens and cows greens, trees and freely over it. For years people refinancier and first pres- roamed ferred to it as “Pig Alley.” One household, shrubs, valued “backident of the coal com- aware of the history in the area, reminds peo- yard” to many of the pany. Adrian Mines ple with an appropriate stone marker and small homes in the new began operation in concrete pig sculpture. “Columbus.” 1884 and was named Also remaining is for Adrian Iselin, a major investor from McHugh Avenue, once a dirt road and a New York City in the coal and iron comside street that connected to property to the pany. The Eleanora Mines began operaeast, to Foundry Street, and to what was tions in 1885, and was named for the wife known as the Punxsutawney-Walston of Adrian Iselin whom he married in 1845. Road. McHugh Avenue is much improved Eleanor Iselin was the daughter of General now for vehicular traffic. No longer do Columbus O’Donnell. people call it “Pig’s Alley” as people long In the months prior to 1886, when the R. ago had done for the pigs, chickens and &P. Coal & Iron Company had bought the cows that were permitted to travel freely Carmalt farm for its future mining and coke over it. oven plans, Adrian Iselin had appointed a That portion of West End is a beautiful son as president of the coal company which new world in Punxsutawney when comwas entering the coal fields surrounding pared to its activity over a century ago. Punxsutawney in southern Jefferson ••• 16 – Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133
P
6 Ways to Pamper Pets
ets are an important component of a household. The American Veterinary Medical Association estimates that 63 percent of all households in the United States feature one pet or more. Today’s pets are genuine members of the family, and pet parents want to do as much
as they can to pamper their cats, dogs, birds, and small mammals. Dogs, cats and other pets are acquired through a number of methods. Statistics indicate that most pets come to families from friends or acquaintances for free or low cost. According to the National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy, 10 to 20 percent of cats and dogs are adopted, while only 2 to 10 percent of animals are purchased from a pet store. Individuals who want to go above and beyond in their treatment of pets frequently
push pampering to the limits. Some people treat dogs and cats as if they were children, with all of the same benefits. Thousands of dollars a year may be spent being sure these animals live the high life. Whether this has any benefit on the animals’ well-being is debatable; the fact remains that individuals spend quite a few dollars caring for their pets. Those who want to take pampering to new levels can consider these ideas. 1. Pet treats: While the occasional catnip or dog bone is a nice idea, there are entire bakeries designated to whipping up gourmet delights for pets. Many feature organically grown food items that are human-grade. Cakes, cookies and the like can be purchased that fit with the specific diet and tastes of the pampered pet. 2. Doggie daycare: Why leave the pooch home alone when he or she can hang out with other tail-wagging friends? There are a number of businesses that now cater to the canines and offer fun activities and socialization for dogs who would otherwise be latch-key pups. Some daycare centers offer accommodations that mimic home, such as cozy couches and quiet corners in which to curl up. Furthermore, they enable dogs to catch up with their friends, a necessity when Mom or Dad won’t let them log onto Facebook. - Continued on page 28
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With Gratitude to Our Veterans SHIELDS INSURANCE AGENCY
DEL Senator Joseph Scarnati SuPPort our VEtErAnS by tHAnkinG tHEm for tHEir SErViCE.
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11.11.11
VETERANS’ DAY
THANk YOu. Throughout history, at home and overseas, they’ve put their love for their country above all else. on Veterans day, we proudly honor these brave men and women for their courage, commitment and patriotism.
To all the men and women of the U.S. Armed forces who have sacrificed so much, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
"This nation will remain the land of the free, only so long as it is the home of the brave." -Elmer Davis
Carl Gotwald Sr. Jefferson County Sheriff
Protect the Ones You Love. EMERGENCY 911 Brookville
800-414-7222 Punxsutawney
814-938-4119 remembering Our Veterans As a member of JCEMS you are provided with care from one of the most advanced emergency medical services in Jefferson County today.
JOHN H. FORADORA Judge of Jefferson County Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133 – 17
www.punxsutawneysoccerassociation.com
U15 DIVISION SOCCER
(front row) Gerald Wright, Josh Walker, Jim Carrier, Zack Condron, Ashley Vite, Lexi Zanaglio, Alexis Vite; (2nd row) Lukas Deet, Alec Roken, Jared Weber, Trenton Peace, Gavin Jache, Alexis McKee, Nathanael Pifer, Joel Triponey, Bryant Rees; (back row) Lindsey Kenworthy, Rachael Fisher, Logan Fisher, Isaiah Snyder, Brittney Magnes, Brock Wymer, Amber Huffman, Noah Magill, Jacob Horner, Josh Godo.
U10 DIVISION SOCCER
U12 DIVISION SOCCER
(front row) Antonio Stello, Andrew Pifer, Kyle Neal, Aiden Hill, Reese Murtuscelli, Benjamin Pifer; (2nd row) Breanna Behrendt, Nick Mancuso, Jordan Fetterman, Bryce Jache, Hannah Swanson; (back row) Coach Mike, Coach Dave.
(front row) Ashton Stonbraker, Eliza Neal, Jakob Catarouche, Baylee Seger, Ben Gigliotti, Garrett Fischer, Trevor Shick, Donovan Swanson, Copeland Whitfield, Graci Whitfield; (2nd row) Gracie Hall, Laney Monroe, Kyle Crawford, Mason Snyder, Caleb Bodenhorn, Graham Lott, Jackson Fezell, Tre Manzo, Camdin McKee, Malachi Pequeen, Vaz Johnson; (back row) Evan Dinger, Garrett Eddy, Jackson Roginels, Dane Shaffer, Matthew Thom, John Mizerock, Riley Franklin, Ryley Casaday, Andrea Steer, Ethan Watt. Names and photos submitted by Christina Maze
GREAT JOB & CONGRATUlATIONS KIDS! Towing • Lock out • Winching Jump Starts • Tire Change • Fuel delivery 18 – Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133
The Path to greatness is along with others. Supporting Our Local Athletes! www.punxsutawneysoccerassociation.com
DR. DAVE GIGlIOTTI
217 W. Mahoning St. Punxsy 814-938-7851 U8 DIVISION SOCCER
(front row) Griffin Barrick, Libby Gianvito, Angelo Pape, Grant Miller, Isabella Lester, Lane Verdill, William Seyler, Ashlyn Catarouche, Evan Reitz; (2nd row) Jake Sikora, Chloe Presloid, Logan Smelko, Preston Martz, Jaugar McDivitt, Easton Gula, Brayden Robicheau, Hannah Fetterman, Ashlyn Christian, Sawyer Hall; (back row) Sydney Hoffman, Aiden Reesman, Gabe Kengersky, Kaitlyn Bair, Ella Newcome, Hannah Pearce, Madison Mahan, Harley Wells, Zach Wymer, Zachery Dinger, Aramy Ferrent.
U6 DIVISION SOCCER
(front row) Evan Mohney, Landon Neal, Alyse Smith, Maddie Neely, Faith Kimmerlee, Ciara Toven, Jack Rentko; (2nd row) Kinsee Barnett, Ava Bodenhorn, Alex Shumaker, Coy Martino, Landon Martz, Jordyn Weber, Briley Monroe, Griffin White; (back row) Noah Kanouff, Emily Dobbins, Anthony Gould, Damon Snyder, Nick Wisneskey, Austin Fisher, Evie Lott, Alexander Deppen, Landon Myers.
GOOD JOB PROTECTORS! Jefferson Insurance Agency 814-938-3115
Call Brad 814-541-4983 1696 Big Run Prescottville Rd. Reynoldsville #PA002689
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Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133 – 19
11.11.11
VETERANS’ DAY
THANk YOu. The shoulders of few, carry the freedom of many.
A special salute to...
Lieutenant Commander Patrick G. Watkins, United States Navy
Lt. Commander Patrick G. Watkins is currently assigned to NATO Training Mission-Afghanistan (NTM-A), a subordinate command to International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) located in Kabul, Afghanistan. His mission is to generate, train, and equip the Afghan National Security Force (ANSF), consisting of the Afghan National Army and Afghan National Police. He was assigned in November 2010 as a member of the NTM-A Force Integration Division, which synchronizes efforts across NTM-A, and, with the Afghan Ministry of Defense (for the Army) and Ministry of Interior (for the Police), to develop the Afghan civilian and military leadership to more efficiently train and manage the ANSF. Our team seeks to develop systems of efficiency for the limited resources allocated, both financial resources and in human capital, to enable the Afghans to self-sustain their future. Watkins says, “ank you to the more than 130,670 Coalition troops from 45 countries who are also serving here in Afghanistan, which includes over 90,000 Americans. I am very proud to be part of this team. “
Floral Arrangements for any Occasion
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www.decemberroseflorist.net 20 – Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133
When Eddie Went Cruisin’
I
By Bill Anderson of Hometown magazine
wouldn’t be lying if I told you that Eddie, leader of the Victory Cruisers gang, was envied by many of his junior classmates. And why not? Despite his perceived shortcomings, and giving him credit where credit is due, he had it all together … you know, the type of guy who always had a car, a gal wrapped in a tight sweater, a half-dozen friends tagging around after him, a few bucks in his pocket, and a pack of Camels rolled up in his t-shirt sleeve. And where did he find that leather jacket? But, there was “Red,” also, and every athlete had wished they were just half as good on the field as he. It was back in 1966 that I first met Red. We shared the same table in study hall, and then became lunch-line buddies. Red earned his nickname for the number of failing grades, red Fs, on his report card. Upon his graduation — or the year they finally told him that he could leave high school — it is said that he was 22 years old. Red earned “all world” accolades for his high school sports performances, particularly when it came to football. When Red was handed the ball, it was almost certain he would score a touchdown, 45 in his senior year, I recall. On the field, and in the locker-room shower, he was a man among boys. But, let’s get back to Eddie. The following year, several of the high school greasers, or “hoods” as we called them, took exception to me winning the gym class dodge ball championship. It wasn’t winning the title that raised the eyebrows of my classmates, but the idea that I would single out Eddie — considered by most: the “hood” you would least want to reckon with — by ricocheting a small, but hard, rope-wrapped ball off his head. Looking back, that was not a wise decision on my part, as not only did that had to hurt, it made Eddie sit up and take notice, too. Over the next two weeks, as a result of the beaning, Eddie and his dedicated mass of worshippers stalked me at every opportune time. Whether it was in the hallways, outside the school entrance, or after the Friday night dance at the YMCA, Eddie was there, waiting and pushing for a fight. We both seemed to settle on the fact that our conflicting personalities would result in a physical confrontation, but since we both respected the unwritten rule of engagement governing fisticuffs — that only a “chicken” would throw a sucker punch — our rendezvous only resulted in an exchange of words. Nevertheless, it all came to a head after seventh-period gym class when the hoods perpetrated a sneak attack in the hallway maze leading from the locker room. As one of Eddie’s gang turned out the lights, several others pinned me against the wall. When Eddie stroked his brass Zippo into life and feigned an attempt to burn my shirt, a scuffle ensued. Amidst the pushing and shoving in the darkness, I soon realized that I was not alone in my efforts to ward off the aggressors. As the ruckus escalated and bodies flailed about, and eventually spilled out into the lobby, I was surprised to see that Red was interfering on my be-
half, proudly holding back two of my opponents in headlocks — one under each arm. As several teachers led us by our shirt collars to the administrative office, Red walked tall, leading the ensemble, repeatedly proclaiming victory along the way. The principal gave us a stern lecture, made us shake hands, and sent us on our way. There were no suspensions; there were no detention halls; there were no black marks on our records, and there was no counseling. After all, Red did have a football game to play Friday night. A few days later, leaving fourth period history, Eddie grabbed my arm, but this time, there was a smile on his face. He politely asked me to read his essay. It was his way of saying that all the hard feelings
were forgotten. I was taken aback by the request. I had assumed Eddie’s schooling was somewhat cramped, restrained to sheet metal shop or auto mechanics, but, then again, he did sit two rows over in most classes. His paper was better than mine. Perhaps his masquerading as a 50s throw-
back was just a disguise to cover up an academic nerd. At the end of the day, there was no more trouble with Eddie. I asked Red once in study hall as to why he never had schoolwork, and why he didn’t carry a book. He replied, “I don’t have to do my homework.” That was another unwritten rule at old FHS. Nothing short of a miracle could have improved his GPA. Red graduated — or, perhaps, they just let him move on because of his age. That fall, he played football for a college team in Arizona. I heard a rumor that he was seriously injured in an auto accident and was confined to a wheelchair. I wonder, at times, what ever happened to Eddie? After graduation, there was no word of his whereabouts. I hope he hasn’t changed a bit, and is still out there cruisin’ today. You go, Eddie! And if, by chance, Eddie, should you be reading this … sorry about that gym class. •••
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Punxsutawney Hometown magazine 100% direct-mail circulation with USPS statements to prove it! Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133 – 21
Spicy ideas to improve your health
By lee Bowman Scripps Howard News Service e're not suggesting you swap the spice rack for the medicine chest just yet, but researchers have been finding new medicinal possibilities in some common food enhancers. The trend is hardly surprising. A recent report by scientists at the National University of Singapore found that worldwide, 8 of the 20 top selling drugs are derived from molecules made by bacteria, fungi, snails and plants, and another six of the top 20 are mimics of natural products. The drugs treat everything from pain and inflammation to asthma, diabetes and hypertension. The report also pointed out that not every line of plant or microbe is a candidate to make a viable drug. Writing in the July Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers led by Chen Yu Zong showed that drugproducing species are an elite group. Of 886 nature-derived drugs discovered between 1961 and 2010, 783 were from known drug-producing families, and 41 were from neighbors of known productive families. Cancer is the target of many of the natural disease fighters. A September report in the journal Hepatology cited rat studies that suggest saffron has a significant effect against liver cancer, both inhibiting proliferation of cancer cells and stimulating the death of liver tumor cells.
W
Ohio State University researchers discovered in mice studies that indirubin, a compound derived from the Indigo plant, can act to block the migration of brain tumor cells to different parts of the brain. Their work, published online in July in Cancer Research, is important because glioblastomas are so hard for doctors to track and kill. While doctors have pretty good weapons for slowing growth of the tumors in the brain, they've been stymied because the tumors spread so easily. The compound, which has long been used against leukemia in a Chinese herbal remedy called Dang Gui Long Hui Wan, both prevents spread of the cells and blocks the growth of blood vessels that supply tumors. Another September report by scientists at UCLA found that curcumin, the main component of the anti-inflammatory spice turmeric, suppresses a cell-signaling pathway that drives the growth of head and neck cancer. Tests involved human volunteers eating curcumin tablets and showed that the compound reduced levels of inflammation-causing substances in their saliva. Curcumin also starred in a non-human study done by scientists at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center that was released at a conference in February. They found that a compound derived from the spice speeded repair of cells damaged by stroke through several different pathways. Turmeric, along with cinnamon and other - Continued on page 27
Providing: • assistance in Daily living • short & long term care • 24 Hour care • activities • Physician on call • special Diets • safety Bells in each room • Physical, occupational & speech therapy available • Independent apartments available
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22 – Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133
one Park ave., Punx'y
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health insurance premiums spiked this year even as wages stagnated By lee Bowman Scripps Howard News Service remiums for employer sponsored family health plans went up 9 percent this year, and workers' shares of premiums and deductibles also soared, a new national survey shows. The average yearly cost for a family health plan increased to $15,073 this year, up from $13,770 in 2010. The average worker cost for family coverage was $4,129 with employers paying the remaining $10,944. Premiums for worker-only coverage rose 8 percent, to a total of $5,429, with the average worker share reaching $921. And researchers say it's no coincidence that the soaring health coverage costs came as wages rose by 2.1 percent and inflation rose by 3.2 percent. "This is all the more painful in the middle of a struggling recovery, when wages have been falling in real terms for many workers,'' said Drew Altman, president of the Kaiser Family Foundation, which did the survey with the Health Research Educational Trust. "The gap between premium growth and wage growth is one of the largest we've seen in the 13 years we've been doing these surveys,'' he said. The surveys include 2,000 companies of all sizes and from all geographic regions of the U.S. The researchers noted the past four years had seen rate increases of 5 percent or less, and that they can't be sure if 2011 was a single spike or a return to a long period of higher increases. Benefit consultants, such as William Mercer, say their own recent employer surveys show premium increases are likely to be much smaller next year. Altman said the Kaiser study doesn't address why premiums spiked, but speculated that self-insured employers and insurers had expected a stronger economic recovery and thus greater health care utilization than there has been by workers concerned about deductibles and co-pays, along with a contin-
P
ued trend for medical care costs to grow well ahead of general inflation. Employers in the survey also attributed 1 percent to 2 percent of the 9 percent increase in family coverage to expenses associated with complying with provisions in the new health care reform law. One of those provisions was extending the age that young adults could remain on family health plans to 26. Based on survey responses, Kaiser/HRET estimates that 2.3 million adult children were enrolled in their parent's employer sponsored plan. That number is considerably higher than the 1 million-person increase in health coverage among young adults shown in Census figures released last week. But Altman said the difference is likely explained by the fact that many in the 21 to 26 age group who enrolled already had some health coverage through their school or job but took the family plan option when it became available. At the same time, the law required many health plans to end or reduce cost sharing for preventive services or add coverage for those services. However, employers continue to shift costs to workers with higher deductibles and copayments. For instance, 31 percent of workers with individual coverage must meet a $1,000 deductible, up from 10 percent in 2006. "The trend is to shift more of the risk for medical expense to the workers,'' Altman said, noting that the percentage of workers with high-deductible plans and a health savings account is now 17 percent, more than 4 times as many as in 2005. Such plans have lower premiums, and most employers contribute some money to the savings accounts, but they must have annual deductibles of at least $1,200 for an individual and $2,400 for a family this year. (Contact SHNS medical correspondent Lee Bowman at bowmanl(at)shns.com. Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service, http://www.scrippsnews.com)
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GroundhoG PlAzA PunxsuTAwnEy Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133 – 23
FUll serviCe oPTiCAl & CoMPleTe liNe oF CoNTACT leNs oPTioNs
Dr. nathan C.
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Serving the Community. PUNXSUTAWNEY MEDICAL ASSOCIATES Joseph J. Kernich, M.D. Jay E. Elder, M.D. Lisa Witherite-Rieg, D.O. Evan Kennedy, PA-C Cecilia Groman, PA-C Medical arts Building, Punx’y
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WOMEN’S HEALTH SCREENING Punxsutawney Area Hospital & Dr. Emil Dib invite you to take advantage of our FREE mammography/pap screening
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To schedule an appointment, call:
814-938-1827 If you don’t have health insurance, this screening is for you. This screening will be held in Dr. Dib’s Office 81 Hillcrest Drive, Suite 2200 24 – Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133
Origins of the Pink Ribbon
T
hese days ribbons are worn for many different causes. Red signifies AIDS awareness. A yellow ribbon has long represented support for armed forces. However, one of the most prominent ribbon colors is pink, which aims to raise awareness of and support for breast cancer. Pink is a color that is uniquely feminine, and it also represents a person full of health and vibrancy; think of little babies pink with life. Pink is also a color that seems the complete antithesis of cancer, and thusly inspires hope for renewed health and survival. There is some controversy surrounding the origins of the breast cancer mascot — the pink ribbon. There are also suggestions that the ribbon was intended to be peach and not pink. In 1992, just about every organization started using ribbons to raise awareness. The New York Times actually dubbed 1992 "The Year of the Ribbon." Alexandra Penney, the then-editor of Self magazine, wanted to create a ribbon for the publication's second annual Breast Cancer Awareness Month issue. The previous year she had worked with cosmetics giant Estee Lauder. Evelyn Lauder, the senior corporate vice president, was herself a breast cancer survivor. Penney thought a collaboration between the magazine and Lauder could see a ribbon on cosmetic counters across the nation, and help sell a few magazines in the process. The trouble was Penney had read a story about a 68-year-old woman, Charlotte Haley, who was producing handmade ribbons in her home. Haley had a number of people in her immediate family who had battled breast cancer and her handmade "peach" ribbons intended to raise awareness about the limited government funds being used for breast cancer research. Haley's message was spreading by word of mouth. Penney and Lauder contacted Haley and wanted to further collaborate on the peach ribbon theme. However, Haley didn't want to be involved, saying the effort would be too commercial. She refused to turn over rights to the use of the peach ribbon. As a result, Penney consulted with attorneys
who said to come up with another color, and pink was eventually chosen. Pink had already been associated with breast cancer in the past. Just a few years earlier, the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation had given out pink visors to its "Race for the Cure" participants. It had also created a pink ribbon. The pink ribbon quickly took off by leaps and bounds. Millions were distributed by Estee Lauder. There are many philanthropic and commercial businesses who now use the pink ribbon in their breast cancer marketing plans. Every October, women are urged to don pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. One can find the pink ribbon adorning everything from cereal boxes to cans of cleanser. Many embrace the pink ribbon as a symbol of hope, one that has done its share of work toward spreading the word about the need for more breast cancer awareness and research. •••
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Pregnant? See your dentist right away By lee Bowman Scripps Howard News Service nfections are around us all our lives. Most seem to be short-lived, miserable bouts of intestinal or respiratory bugs that so often drive us to a doctor. But researchers have been steadily peeling away the impact that germs and viruses can have in producing other medical problems. The human papillomavirus causes almost all cases of cervical cancer. Hepatatis B virus is blamed for more than 60 percent of liver cancers. A chronic bacterial infection causes ulcers, and there's continuing research pointing to inflammation from infection contributing to the formation of plaque that brings about heart disease. Many other connections are suspected between infectious agents and conditions affecting the immune system, from multiple sclerosis and arthritis to diabetes and obesity. Recently, researchers have found evidence that infections can affect humans even before birth. While the link between sexually-transmitted infections such as Chlamydia and gonorrhea and infertility has long been established, the ties to other types of infection are only beginning to be understood. One study, presented in July during a European meeting on reproduction, reported that chronic gum disease in women can have a significant impact on their ability to conceive, on par with obesity as an obstacle. The Australian scientists tracked conception and pregnancy among more than 3,400 women. They found that women with gum disease took an average of seven months to become pregnant, two months longer than
I
women with good oral health. The effect was even more pronounced among non-Caucasian women. Their increased risk of later conception was nearly 14 percent compared to just over 6 percent for those without gum disease. Roger Hart, a professor at the University of Western Australia who led the study, said the effect held true even taking into account other negatives for conception such as smoking, being overweight or 35 years of age or older. "Gum disease is a risk factor that can be modified and indicates that a dental visit should be part of a prenatal checkup of health," Hart said, adding that non-white women may be more affected because they tend to have a higher level of inflammatory response to the infection." The study was part of a larger research effort that considered whether treatment of gum disease helps prevent premature birth. Those results suggested such care does not prevent pre-term birth in any ethnic group, but neither does it cause mother or infant any harm. That confirms findings from several other studies done in recent years. However, scientists are still looking at possible ways to prevent gum disease in women of child-bearing age as a way of reducing premature birth rates. For instance, a researcher at Baylor College of Medicine recently won seed funding from an international collaborative called Saving Lives at Birth to study whether the sugar alcohol Xylitol used to flavor chewing gum, mints and candies can help prevent gum disease and reduce early birth. - Continued on page 27
• Allow small children draw the face of the pumpkin and have an adult carve it out • Jack-o-lanterns with candles should be kept out of the way of trick-or-treaters so their costumes won’t accidentally catch on fire • Remind kids not to get into cars or talk to strangers, look both ways before crossing streets and follow traffic lights that tell you when to cross • Make sure an adult accompanies your young children • If your older kids are responsible enough to go out without an adult, plan a safe route and set a time for them to be home • Explain the difference between tricks and vandalism to your children • Remind your children to stay in groups and well lit, populated areas • Do not let your kids eat any treats until they are examined by you at home • Have your child carry a flashlight, glow stick or reflective gear so they are more visible for cars
Michael Horner, Kim Horner Joe Presloid & Jennifer Moore (missing from photo) Local Registered Pharmacists
P. Timothy Smatlak
Amy Peace Gigliotti
DMD
DMD
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938-4400
FAMiLY DentistRY Jon J. Johnston, DMD
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PDA MEMBER
203 CLEARFIELD AVE., PUNX’Y
938-5800
Casteel Chiropractic DR. IAN CASTEEL
938-3077
132 West Mahoning Street, Punxsutawney
~ newly Remodeled Office ~ 106 w. Mahoning st. • 938-4210 Accepting new pAtients
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NOW ACCEPtiNG NEW PAtiENtS X-Rays (on your first visit) Highmark, UPMC, Medicare, Access & More NEW HOURS: Mon. 3-8 • Wed. 9-1 & 3-8 • Thur. 3-8 • Fri. 9-1 Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133 – 25
Become a Member Marriage and fat: The two Today! don’t have to go together Jefferson County E.M.S.
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OTHER JEFFERSON MANOR RELATED SERVICES: • Alzheimer’s Specialty Unit • Hospice/Palliative Care • Short-term Rehabilitative Care • Diabetic/Wound Management Care • Assisted Living • Respite Care • Independent Living • Outpatient Therapy
417 rt. 28 North of Brookville exit 81, I-80 814-849-8026 Caring for you...today, tomorrow and always 26 – Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133
By lavinia Rodriguez St. Petersburg Times o weight gain and marriage go together, just like love and marriage? While there are still questions to be answered about this issue, studies have found that obesity appears to be associated with couples living together (married or not) and that there is a stronger association the longer the pair have lived together. A 2009 study suggested that this relationship has less to do with having traits in common and more to do with environment. Bottom line: The researchers found that living with a romantic partner for two or more years was correlated with obesity and sedentary behavior. I don't think this is terribly surprising to most people. Studies like these don't mean, however, that weight gain is an inevitable consequence of love. They do mean that if you don't want to become one of the statistics, you have to put some serious thought and work into the matter. Creating a lifestyle of activity, nutritious eating, health and weight management as a couple isn't easy in a culture that manages to be both fast-paced and sedentary at the same time. But if it's important to you, without a doubt it's possible. That's exactly what my husband and I did. We've lived together 13 years. We have jobs that require a considerable amount of sitting -- much like many other Americans. Add those jobs to other characteristics of the typical American lifestyle (such as the amount of time required to drive to destinations, labor-saving devices like washers and dryers, and sedentary leisure activities such as television and the Internet) and they would definitely get in the way of our health and fitness if we let them. I often hear people say they don't have the time to take better care of themselves. Few of us have a lot of extra time that goes unfilled. They key is to make health and fitness a priority — important enough to make us want to make time for them. Sure, it will take some creativity and habit-changing.
D
Other people might not like your decision. But couples who make the decision together to carve out time for their health can have a wonderful adventure together. Not only will they get leaner and healthier, but they'll likely enjoy a better relationship, too. Here are some things that my husband and I do to keep ourselves lean and healthy instead of growing fat and, maybe, sick together: • Eating: We're always learning about cooking and shopping for nutritious foods. We share the responsibility of grocery shopping, maintaining a grocery list and shopping often enough to have good choices in the house. • We look for fast, easy ways to make nutritious meals. Each of us has specialties. For example, my h u s b a n d makes the hummus and salads. I make pasta sauce, bread and healthy cookies. • Exercise: We schedule and take daily one-hour walks together. This is when we talk about our day and plan ahead. It's a great way to have quality relationship time, away from phones, TVs and computers. In addition, we each have individual exercise time that suits our personal needs. He has his muscle-strengthening routine and I have mine. We also support and praise each other's efforts. • Leisure: We like to watch some TV programs, but often we use that time to catch up on other activities. Commercials are good times to get clothes washed, dried and folded, for example, and stretching can be done while watching a program. Sure, we sometimes just relax, but it's not most of the time. • Hobbies: I've been a gardener for years and now my husband has discovered the joys of gardening. We split responsibilities in the yard and take walks through the garden to view our handiwork. Gardening is both active and relaxing. • Vacations: We prefer trips to places where we can hike and walk a lot over vacations in which the focus is on eating. Even waiting time can be made more ac- Continued on next page
Indiana County link T
here’s a group of knowledgeable professionals preparing to launch a new program in Indiana County. This new group, Link, was formed to provide information and assistance to the aging and disabled population quickly and without delay. Just like a link in a chain, Indiana County Link will connect residents in need of assistance, with agencies that will be able to help them. Core Partners and Collaborative Partners have joined forces to make this effort the first of its kind in Indiana County, and in the State of Pennsylvania. Core Partners include accessAbilities, Inc., Aging Services, Inc., Alleghenies United Cerebral Palsy, Center for Independent Living of South Central PA, Community Resources for Independence and Three Rivers Center for Independent Living (TRCIL). In addition, Collaborative Partners involved in the project are Armstrong-Indiana Drug & Alcohol Commission, Home Care Advantage, Inc., Indiana County Career T.R.A.C.K., Inc., Indiana County Department of Human Services, Indiana County Veterans Services, Indiana Regional Medical Center Casemanagement Department, IndiGO, Senior LIFE, The ARC of Indiana County, VNA Extended Home Care, Indiana County Assistance Office, JEVS Supports for Independence and Home Nursing Agency. Together these two groups of partners form the Link that will assist residents in a confidential and caring manner. The program funded by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Office of Long Term Living will provide assistance to people over the age of 60 and persons between the ages of 18 and 59 with disabilities. For more information, contact Janine Maust at janinemaust@verizon.net or by phone at 724-349-4500. •••
Spicy ideas Continued from page 22
spices that contain a lot of antioxidants have been shown to help alleviate the impact of a high-fat diet. Researchers at Penn State reported in the August issue of The Journal of Nutrition that adding two tablespoons of culinary spices to a high fat meal reduced blood levels of fat (triglycerides) in overweight men who ate them by 30 percent, compared to when they ate the same meal with no spices added. The mix included rosemary, oregano, cinnamon, turmeric, black pepper, cloves, garlic powder and paprika. The scientists also found that with the spicy meal, an-
tioxidant activity in the blood increased by an average of 13 percent, and insulin response fell by about 20 percent. Another recent study of cinnamon extracts, led by scientists at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, found that among a small study group of obese patients with blood glucose levels considered pre-diabetic, those who took 250 milligrams of a dried extract twice a day had sharply reduced markers of the illness after 12 weeks. Taking the extract improved antioxidant function and other factors by 13 to 23 percent compared to a control group that received a placebo rather than the active supplement. (Contact Lee Bowman at Bowmanl(at)shns.com) •••
Pregnant?
Continued from page 25 The idea is to supply large number of women in Malawi with the gum and mints over a period of time and measure the impact on pregnancy and delivery in various regions around the country. "Preterm birth is a tremendous maternal and newborn health problem in Malawi," said Dr. Kjersti Aaagaard. "Rates of preterm birth there are more than double that in the United States and nearly triple that of the developed world," she added. "The overwhelming majority of these babies will not survive due to the lack of neonatal care resources." (Contact Lee Bowman at Bowmanl(at)shns.com) •••
Marriage and fat Continued from previous page
tive by taking a walk around the airport together (or separately while one watches the luggage) instead of just sitting for hours. You and your spouse don't have to do things exactly as we do, but if you start with recognizing that your health as a couple is up to you, and look for creative ways to reach and maintain your goals, you won't be one of the statistics. And what if your spouse won't join you down the road to health? Don't let that stop you. Do it anyway. Your partner may join you later when he or she sees what it's doing for you. (Lavinia Rodriguez is a Tampa, Fla., clinical psychologist who specializes in weight management. She can be contacted through her website, www.FatMatters.com.) (Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service www.scrippsnews.com) ••• Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133 – 27
Theatre Guild
BIG RUN CARPET Neko’s "The Store for LY RESTAURANT
Continued from page 11
Ivy Gap, Tennessee. When the proposal for staging a local talent show comes up, the ladies split into two sides. One camp, led by a former showgirl from Las Vegas, thinks the project is wonderful; the other contingent fears the conservative little town isn't ready for "the devil's idea of entertainment." The comic battle of wills unfolds against the background of long-established friendships that may be destroyed if the bickering continues to escalate. Along the way, laughter mingles with a few poignant moments as the women attempt to bridge the differences that separate them. Director Terry Fye says, "The show will offer great entertainment. The humor is ribtickling funny; the tender moments will touch the heart. Watching and listening to our six female characters, the audience will probably recognize types of people from their own congregations." He continued, "There is a bit of nostalgia in, Showtime, too. The story takes place in 1970 when the Vietnam War was dividing the American public. Women were striving for equality, and society was beginning to struggle with some inevitable changes as reflected in the events that affect the women of the First Baptist Church of Ivy Gap. The cast and crew have been working many hours to create a show that will be the ideal way for theater-goers to see how the Guild has been proudly spotlighting talent since 1975. I invite everyone to come out for a terrific and fun-filled community stage production." Anyone wanting more information should contact the Fyes at 938-6928. •••
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Continued from page 16 3. Home away from home: Instead of sending pets to a boarder when individuals are on vacation, people are choosing to take pets along. Road and Travel magazine has reported that many pet parents — approximately 78 percent of them — often take to the roads or the skies with their pets in tow. There are many pet-friendly accommodations, and travelers have been known to compare amenities and regulations when choosing a hotel/motel for their trips. 4. Pet birthday parties: One in four pet parDowntown ents in the U.S. have admitted to celebrating Punxsutawney their pets’ birthdays, according to Best Friends Pet Care. Some go as far as hosting a birthday party in honor of the birthday pup or kitty. Some pet sitters and daycare centers actually will host pet parties where other animals can be invited to celebrate. Pet parties are growing in popularity and can be quite lucrative considering the millions of pets currently in the country. 5. Spa treatment: From lapping in a heated pet pool to receiving a massage, some pet owners treat their favorite friends to relaxCome eat with us ation treatments. Gone are the days of a simple bath and haircut at the local groomer. before or after Today’s dogs and cats can receive massages, the games. aromatherapy and acupuncture while enjoying additional resort-like amenities. Sun.-Thur. 11 am to 11 pm 6. Spending time: Of course, one of the easFri. & Sat. 11am til Midnight iest ways to pamper a pet is simply to spend W. Mahoning St., Punxsy Plaza time and devote attention to the animal. After all, most animals are content with some love and affection from their owners. ••• 28 – Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133
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2011 SteelerS SCHedule Sunday, Sept. 11 ......at Ravens ......L 35-7 Sunday, Sept. 18......SEAHAWkS....1:00 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 25......at Colts ..........W 23-20 Sunday, Oct. 2..........at Texans ........L 17-10 Sunday, Oct. 9..........TITANS............W 38-17 Sunday, Oct. 16........JAGuARS ......1:00 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23........at Cardinals....4:05 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 30........PATRIOTS ......4:15 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 6 ........RAVENS..........8:20 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 13 ......at Bengals ......1:00 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20 ......Bye - No Game Sunday, Nov. 27 ......at Chiefs ........8:20 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4 ........BENGALS ......1:00 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8......BROWNS ........8:20 p.m. Monday, Dec. 19 ......at 49ers ..........8:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 24 ....RAMS..............1:00 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 1 ........at Browns ......1:00 p.m.
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Contest Rules
1. Complete the coupon on this page. 2. Guess the winning team and the total number of points you think will be scored in the Steelers vs. Ravens Game and enter the guesses in the spaces provided on the coupon.
Michael Horner, Kim Horner Joe Presloid & Jennifer Moore (missing from photo) Local Registered Pharmacists Mon.- Fri 9 to 7 Sat. 9 to 2
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3. Enter one of the participating advertisers on these contest pages in the space provided to redeem your coupon should you be the contest winner.
Hometown magazine ‘Steelers Football Contest’:
4. Clip and forward the coupon to:‘Steelers Football Contest,’ c/o hometown magazine, P.O. Box 197, Punxsutawney, PA 15767.
Name ________________________________ Address ______________________________ Zip __________________________________ Phone ______________________________ Coupon for Game of Nov. 6 Step 1: Guess the Winning Team: __ Steelers vs. __ Ravens Step 2: Guess the Total Points that will be Scored in that Game: _______ Total Points Step 3: Should I win, I would like to redeem my merchandise certificate at: (List business from these pages) _____________________
5. All entries must be received at the hometown magazine post office box by 4 p.m. Thursday Nov. 3. 6. No purchase necessary to participate.All entries must be original magazine coupon (no photocopies). 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. Each issue we will give one $25 certificate. 8. Hometown magazine 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.
Complete, Clip, Drop off or Mail to: Steelers Football Contest c/o Hometown magazine, P.O. Box 197, Punxsutawney, PA 15767
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(Editor’s Note: ‘From Our Past,’ researched by S. Thomas Curry, features items of interest from past editions of Punxsutawney and area newspapers.) October 5, 1911 — Rain began Sunday afternoon about 1 o’clock and lasted until midnight, pouring down heavily much of the time. This, with the breaking of the reservoir at Clover Run, resulted in a flood the like of which never has been seen in this town, filling cellars of the residences and business houses along Main Street. Lumber men and mills, the tannery and the flouring mill are among the heavy losers. (Big Run Tribune) October 11, 1887 — The Punxsutawney Water Company is preparing to extend their plant across the creek into the Jefferson and Clearfield addition. The railroad company wants the water for their houses. [Note: The “creek” is the Mahoning Creek and the area referred to in this news is the East End section of Punxsutawney.] (Punxsutawney News) October 16, 1889 — A number of Italians gathered at the house of one of their countrymen in this town last Sunday and had a gay old time. They had three kegs of beer and plenty of music and they hoed it down in regulation style all day and far into the night. Sunday dancing is something new in this part of the country. (Punxsutawney Spirit) October 21, 1869 — ACCIDENT IN A COAL BANK. - On Tuesday last, the 19th, while the miner at Bowers’ coal bank, in Gaskill township, was at work, a mass of earth fell from above, completely burying the lower half of his body and injuring him very seriously. When he was taken from the bank his limbs were entirely paralyzed. Dr. W. A. Means, nearby physician and surgeon of Big Run, was called and attended his injuries, and hopes are entertained of his recovery. (Punxsutawney Plaindealer) October 28, 1885 — Jacob Zeitler is having a good arrangement made for heating his house. He is having a furnace put in the basement and will carry the heat in all the rooms by means of conductors. He will use gas. (Valley News) •••
here we go, Steelers Contest Winner
Congratulations to Martin Byler of Punxsutawney. Martin was the winner of Hometown magazine’s Steelers football contest. Martin correctly predicted that the Steelers would defeat the Titans, and came closest to correctly guessing the total number of points scored in the game. As the contest winner, Martin has chosen to redeem his $25 gift certificate at West End Comet Market. You, too, can enter to win a $25 gift certificate to one of our participating advertisers. See our Steelers contest on this page. complete and clip the coupon and enter to win.
Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133 – 29
Richard L. Fait Funeral Home
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VETERANS’ DAY James “Moon” VanSteenberg Jefferson County Treasurer
Honoring Our Veterans
THANk YOu.
America’s Veterans: Standing Tall for Freedom
We proudly salute America’s veterans and active-duty military for their drive and dedication, contributions and courage. Their commitment to our country and our freedom has protected us for generations, and we owe them a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid. This Veterans Day, please join us in honoring the brave men and women of our Armed Forces who have fought, sacrificed and served their country with pride.
We thank you, veterans and soldiers.
John Jacob Fisher Post 62
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30 – Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133
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Buying Guns, Burning Stumps, and the ‘it’ in Pittsburgh By Bill Anderson of Hometown magazine his is the best time of the year to venture outdoors. A brisk walk in the crisp autumn air, over your favorite trail, is an agreeable early-evening pursuit. The crunching and rustling of redand gold-dry leaves underfoot makes it even more pleasurable. Remember to take your camera, and a small journal and pen. Both can make for a fun hobby, and will preserve your thoughts and memories. Any notebook would do should you decide to record information to help you start your own outdoors story. I have tried many but came across the perfect notepad a few weeks ago near the checkout counter of the local farm store. Called the “Rite in the Rain,” this pocket-sized spiral binder is “All-weather-tough! Survives rain, sweat, grime and the accidental trip through the washing machine.” The company has a website devoted to their products.
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Gun investments Who said a bad economy can’t be good? That gloomy economic cloud overhead may have a silver lining for gun enthusiasts. We saw the stock market and gold/silver prices fluctuate in the last few weeks, leaving us to wonder that, perhaps, the only safe place to put our paychecks is under the mattress. That thinking, however, doesn’t work either, as with each new day, it seems that our dollars are worth less. With all that in mind, investment experts are encouraging their clients to spend money now by purchasing items of quality and value —those manufactured goods that will hold their worth and can’t be replicated at today’s dollars. Big screen televisions are not on the list. Those advisors are quietly telling their customers to invest in desirable, quality American-made firearms. Of course, as with most everything in life, the rule is: Look before your leap. Do your homework and then buy low and sell high … but, then again, you could forget the investment talk and just have some fun by treating yourself to a new gun.
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Stump burning, a how to guide I am contemplating writing a “handyman’s guide to stump burning, the dos and don’ts of wasting a weekend.” Through the years, I have mastered the art of stump dissipation, wasting many a weekend to hone my talents. I have perfected the process to the point that it is a science, even though I always leave myself open to new experimentations. I have discovered and rely upon several time-saving techniques, for example, “laying the groundwork with a shovel,” which is guaranteed to dramatically diminish your tending time. Recently, I tested my “melt-away” process, once again, so that I can dissuade others from depending too heavily on the popular “pile-it-on” principle. So, I will be starting my first chapter, an introduction, “I can burn a stump with one match.” Then I will undertake chapter two, “Burning a stump requires a few buddies, a Steelers game and a couple pizzas.” I could document it with photos, but that wouldn’t be required, as each picture would be similar, me throwing logs on a stump that is unnoticeably smaller than the last photo. Anyway, I bet I would have a bestseller, but, as my subtitle to the book would point out, “Writing a book is quicker than burning a stump.” Old dog, new tricks Following months of contemplating as to whether or not to welcome a puppy to my home, I picked up Ruby, my new black lab, a few weeks back. I have been congratulating myself each day since, for making such a smart decision has provided many benefits. I am quite not sure as to whether it is my patience and calming hand, or whether I have such a smart puppy, but all is going well. As a retriever, she fetches like a little demon, and obeys all her commands. Snow on the pumpkin Chilly weather earlier this month forewarned the coming of a tough winter. When I awoke to mid-30-degree tempera-
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Continued from previous page tures and snow-covered lawns and lanes on the first Sunday of October, it made me wonder whether I should grab my snow shovel or lawn rake, but then I realized that the leaves were still on the trees … and I was still a month away from Halloween, skipping the frost and going straight to accumulations of the white stuff.
A live wire From Montana, a while back, comes this fascinating story: Late in the summer, a windstorm blew through the area and knocked down a tree that fell on a power line. The line, though, did not break, but hung close to the ground, leaving power officials unaware that there was a problem. In mid-October, the line finally failed and a maintenance crew responded. What they found makes a great deer camp story. Surrounding the line were the carcasses of over a dozen animals, including five whitetail deer, four black bears, two wolves, one coyote, and a turkey vulture. The dangling line electrocuted them all. Biologists surmised that when the first deer — or a group of deer — walked into the power line and was killed, it set off a bizarre series of events. The dead deer began to attract other predators and scavengers. As more died, more predators visited the scene, and met the same demise. the “it” in Pittsburgh There are those at our Steelers get-togethers who are quick to criticize the play of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. They show that they really don’t understand the game of football. The success of Pittsburgh football is reliant upon the play of its defense and its quarterback, providing the Steelers offensive line can protect him. The defense has been porous as of late, and Roethlisberger — with no protection in the pocket — has been a one-man wrecking crew, even though he is the one being wrecked most of the time. No other quarterback in the league could survive the shots Ben has been taking throughout his career, proving that he is, indeed, the “it” in Pittsburgh, if not the NFL. Here we go, Steelers! Firefighters When you see one of your local firefighters this week, thank him or her for their service to the community. They are true hometown heroes, volunteering their time
and well-being to protect you and your neighbors. Thank you, firefighters! the kill list A secretive panel of senior government officials, according to Reuters, develops a kill list, which is then given to the president. “The role of the president in ordering or ratifying a decision to target a citizen is fuzzy,” Reuters informed its readers. After all I have written criticizing the president, I am sure I am on that list. So, if you read that I have been taken out, you can be assured it was the government, and not an accidental detonation of one of my drone missiles. Steve Jobs and Macs Shame on me should I let this column pass without remembering Steve Jobs. While he was instrumental in causing a couple generations of young adults to take to the sofa instead of the outdoors (technology is a prime competitor to outdoor activities), publications such as this would not be possible without his genius. As with millions of others, Jobs played a significant role in my life when he introduced the first Mac in 1984 and revolutionized the publishing world. As a result, his products have enabled me to provide for my family. Technology, too, can be used while hiking, fishing or hunting. I take my iPhone with me at all times and use it to send photos, texts, and to search for information. It has become a valuable tool in my life, both indoors and outdoors. Raising trout The PF&BC estimates it can save $480,000 a year in feed costs by reducing the average stocked trout from 11 inches to 9.5 inches. This would reverse the fish commission policy adopted in 2007 of stocking bigger but fewer trout. “I would probably be interested in raising more fish if we went to a smaller size, which we could do,” Commissioner Bill Sabatos of Elk County said. “If the fish were an inch shorter but we stocked more of them, I think anglers might be okay with that.” Any changes, however, would be a long time coming. Online all the time This publication of Hometown magazine can be found online at www.punxsutawneymagazine.com meaning that every page, story and advertisement is available to anyone in the world. Tell your out-of-town friends and family to check it out. •••
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By Jon Schmitz Pittsburgh Post-Gazette nlike their gun-toting brethren in the woods, car and truck drivers were less efficient at harvesting deer last season. State Farm Insurance reported a 7 percent national reduction in deer-vehicle collisions for the year ending June 30, the third straight year of decline. Pennsylvania easily maintained its No. 1 ranking in total Bambi vs. Buick-type incidents, with 101,299, a 1 percent reduction compared with 2009-10. Michigan was the distant runner-up, with 78,304. For the fifth straight year, West Virginia held the distinction as the state where an individual driver is most likely to hit a deer, with a 1 in 53 chance -- an improvement over the 1 in 42 chance from the previous year. The Mountain State saw a 22 percent drop in deer-vehicle crashes in 2010-11. In Pennsylvania, the odds of hitting a deer in the next 12 months are 1 in 86, fourth highest in the U.S. The national average is 1 in 193, the insurance company said, based on claims data. And there is this priceless line in the company's news release: "The state in which deervehicle collisions are least likely is still Hawaii (1 in 6,267). The odds of a Hawaiian driver colliding with a deer between now and 12 months from now are approximately equal to the odds that you are a practicing nudist." Well, "mahalo" for that. "Calling attention to potential hazards like this one is part of our DNA," said State Farm vice president Laurette Stiles. "While we can't put our finger directly on what's causing a decline ... we'd like to think media attention to our annual report on this subject has had at least a little bit to do with it." Pittsburgh-area State Farm spokesman Doug Griffith offered a theory, based on his personal observations: The deer are getting smarter. "They seem to be more aware of their surroundings. You see them on the hillsides but you rarely see them close to the road," he said. Another possibility is that there are simply fewer deer to mow down. Pennsylvania
Game Commission estimates have shown a significant decline in deer population in its wildlife management areas in southwestern Pennsylvania over the past several years. Incidentally, the state's hunters took 316,240 deer in the 2010-11 season, a 2 percent increase over the previous season, according to
the game commission. That meant the likelihood of a deer being felled by a hunter was only about three times that of being struck by a driver. November, in the heart of mating and migrating season, is the peak month for deer-ve- Continued on page 35
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By Sam McManis Sacramento Bee ight the table lamp, unscroll the parchment, dip your quill deep into the inkwell and mark these important dates for future reference: • Jan. 23: Best day to castrate animals. • March 15: Plant tomatoes. • July 10: Armadillos mate. • Nov. 19: Skunks hibernate. • Dec. 20: Best day to cut hay. How do we know these forecasts for 2012 — not 1812, as you might presume — are accurate? Because The Old Farmer’s Almanac says so, that’s why. A solid 220-year track record on all things agrarian and pert’ near everything home- and hearth-related is nothing to sneeze at, Sonny. You whippersnappers may prefer to use “The Google” to look up the weather or consult an app for all your animal-husbandry needs. But really, all you need is that 8-by-5 1/4- inch pulp-bound volume with the iconic yellow cover promising “Everything under the sun, including the moon.” In a culture hell-bent on the fresh and new, The Old Farmer’s Almanac is musty and antiquated, willfully old-school. Lo and behold, though, the annual has endured since 1792 as a valued information source. Verily, it has survived the advent of newspapers and magazines, of radio and television, of encyclopedias and databases. It’s not going to be quaking in its hip-wader boots over the current dizzying digital landscape of mobile devices, e-books and who-knowswhat technical innovations to come. There’s something to be said for tradition, after all, for staying power, for withstanding the whims of fashion in favor of the tried and true. But nostalgia alone hasn’t kept The Old Farmer’s Almanac — released last month to, let’s be brutally honest, little fanfare — in business. “For a lot of people, it’s like an old friend,” said Amy Nieskens, associate editor. “This year, we’ve got a section on mac-and-cheese. That’s comfort food. The almanac itself is like a comfort book to a lot of people.” Its editors know the marketplace realities, however. They know the almanac must be just as relevant and relatable to people who think their steaks come magically shrink-wrapped
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in the freezer aisle as to pungent livestock ranchers fresh from the slaughter. The book must make a nod to modernity without alienating its longtime readers. A complete makeover of the almanac, which has never been attempted, would be like outfitting your blue-haired grandma in a halter top and 4-inch heels. It would be just plain wrong. So while the almanac does have a considerable digital presence — website, Facebook page (79,000 “fans”), Twitter account (2,500 followers) and e-newsletter (150,000 subscribers) — its focus and raison d’etre remains print. Almanac editors report selling 3 million copies a year via newsstands, grocery- and hardware-store-checkout aisles, book stores and, yeah, the Web. But Nieskens says the almanac “gets passed around a lot” and actually is read by an estimated 9 million. That passaround phenomena is why, back in 1792, they punched a hole in the upper-left-hand corner — so farmers could hang it from a peg in the outhouse for workers to peruse in, you know, contemplative moments. Nieskens conceded that only very old-school farmers rely on the almanac solely for weather predictions and crop cycles based on solar and planetary alignment. “But the farmers I do hear from are pretty vocal,” she said. “I remember my first week working for the almanac, I got an email from a farmer saying he had to help his calf give birth and he didn’t know when to do it. I was like, ‘What? Where am I?’ So there are still people who really do follow the moon and solar cycles.” If not farmers, then who primarily reads the almanac? A hint might come from the title itself: older folks. “A lot of our readers don’t even have the Internet,” Nieskens said. “Our essay winner this year (82-year-old Elizabeth J. Gortemoller of Elkhorn, Wis.) sent in the essay on a cassette tape. We all sat around the editorial table and listened to it. It was amazing.” One worry is that its loyal generation is dying off. “That’s in the back of our minds a little bit,” Nieskens said. “But we’ve been around 220 years. People who’ve had it in their family will - Continued on next page
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34 – Punxsutawney Hometown – November 2011 - Issue #133
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HuNTING AND ouTDooRS Farmer’s Almanac Continued from previous page always have it in their family.” Hopes for nurturing a younger readership are buoyed by people such as Amy Self, 30, of Sacramento, Calif. She lives in an apartment, not a rural homestead, but says she swears by the almanac’s advice. Self’s parents had never read the book. A self-described “weather freak,” she picked it up on impulse at a Lowe’s during a particularly strong La Nina weather year. “I like to check the weather for my daughter’s birthday in order to plan her party,” Self said. “They’re pretty spot-on concerning the weather. I’m not sure how they predict the weather for an entire year for the entire country.” No one will find out, either. Almanac editors say it’s all hush-hush and proprietary. They call it a “secret formula” developed in 1792 by founder Robert B. Thomas based on climatology, solar cycles and, yes, even newfangled meteorology. These days, the almanac has a licensed meteorologist, Michael Steinberg, listed in its staff box, alongside the staff astronomer, astrologer and “chief doggerel writer.” Editors recently crunched the numbers and were happy to report that the almanac’s weather predictions were 90.6 percent accurate nationwide last winter — 80 percent yearlong. There’s nothing scientific about the nonweather-related predictions that are sprinkled in the pages. These are conjured from observations, extrapolations and anecdotal evidence, and they hew to the almanac’s mission of providing “new, useful & entertaining matter.” Some predictions are quirky — fireplaces will rotate in the middle of the living room and people will cook meat in them. Some are dubious — there will be fast and slow lanes on crowded sidewalks. And some seem so wacky that they just might come true — garments that can be worn backward or upside down. None are meant to be taken as gospel, but the almanac does pride itself on the “useful” mandate. Self says she’s actually learned a thing or two while being entertained. “I think their quirkiness is a way to educate people while holding their interest,” she said. “They bring fresh ideas to farming with this year’s hydroponics section while offering different variations of mac-and-cheese.” Nonfarmers such as Self don’t need to know
the best time in the solar cycle to castrate an animal, or that cranberries will bud on May 11, or that Jan. 7 is Distaff Day — “when women were expected to return to their spinning following the Christmas holiday.” But such miscellany is meant to amuse. Nieskens said that over the years the almanac has tried to adapt to changing mores. Distaff Day notwithstanding, she said much of the sexist information from previous almanacs has been removed, like references to women staying in the kitchen. Alas, one deletion that may be missed by readers is admonitions to refrain from certain behaviors and activities on certain days. Flipping through the 1971 edition, the Sacramento Bee found this warning: “Don’t marry, May 12-31.” Too bad a certain satisfaction-seeking rock star wasn’t up on his almanac. Let the record show that, on May 12, 1971, Mick and Bianca Jagger were married in St. Tropez, France. They were divorced seven years later, at which time Bianca told the New York Post, “My marriage ended on my wedding day.” Yes, you can’t always get what you want from The Old Farmer’s Almanac, but you can get what you need. (Contact Sam McManis at smcmanis(at)sacbee.com.) (Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service, www.scrippsnews.com.) •••
car-deer collisions Continued from page 33 hicle collisions, and October is second. The average damage done in a deer-vehicle crash was $3,171 in 2010-11, the insurance company said. That was up 2.2 percent from the year before. It gave these safety tips: Be aware of deer crossing signs; remember that deer rush hour is 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.; use high beams when possible; remember deer typically travel in herds, so if you see one, more are likely to be nearby; if you can't stop, try not to swerve, lest you lose control or cross into oncoming traffic. Most comprehensive coverage pays fully for deer damage, Griffith said. That's another reason not to swerve, he said -- if you hit another object, it falls under collision coverage and you have to pay the deductible. (Contact Jon Schmitz at jschmitz(at)postgazette.com. Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service, www.scrippsnews.com.) •••
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