Penn Lines November 2010

N OV E M B E R 20 1 0

Bringing back Main Street Revitalization programs breathe new life into Pennsylvania’s downtowns

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NOVEMBER Vol. 45 • No. 11 Peter A. Fitzgerald EDITOR/DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

Katherine Hackleman SENIOR EDITOR/WRITER

James Dulley Janette Hess Barbara Martin Marcus Schneck

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E N E R G Y M AT T E R S Watch for big screen savings

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KEEPING CURRENT News items from across the Commonwealth

CONTRIBUTING COLUMNISTS

W. Douglas Shirk LAYOUT & DESIGN

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Vonnie Kloss

Bringing back Main Street

ADVERTISING & CIRCULATION

Revitalization programs breathe new life into Pennsylvania’s downtowns

Michelle M. Smith MEDIA & MARKETING SPECIALIST

Penn Lines (USPS 929-700), the newsmagazine of Pennsylvania’s electric cooperatives, is published monthly by the Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association, 212 Locust Street, P.O. Box 1266, Harrisburg, PA 17108-1266. Penn Lines helps 166,400 households of co-op consumermembers understand issues that affect the electric cooperative program, their local coops, and their quality of life. Electric co-ops are not-for-profit, consumer-owned, locally directed, and taxpaying electric utilities. Penn Lines is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts. The opinions expressed in Penn Lines do not necessarily reflect those of the editors, the Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association, or local electric distribution cooperatives.

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Your newsmagazine through the years

12A C O O P E R AT I V E

CO N N ECT I O N

Information and advice from your local electric co-op

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O U T D O O R A DV E N T U R ES

Caught in time Trapping manual holds place of honor on bookshelf

COUNTRY KITCHEN

A pound of cure 18

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SMART CIRCUITS

Layer bathroom lighting to save Remodeling a bathroom?

Make smart lighting decisions

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POWER PLANTS

Landscapes near and dear: yours, mine and ours 20

CLASSIFIEDS

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PUNCH LINES

Thoughts from Earl Pitts– Uhmerikun!

Board officers and staff, Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association: Chairman, Tim Burkett; Vice Chairman, S. Eugene Herritt; Secretary, Lanny Rodgers; Treasurer, Kevin Barrett; President & CEO, Frank M. Betley © 2010 Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

Visit with us at Penn Lines Online, located at: www.prea.com/Content/ pennlines.asp. Penn Lines Online provides an email link to Penn Lines editorial staff, information on advertising rates, contributor’s guidelines, and an archive of past issues.

Earl takes issue with current crop of football announcers

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RURAL REFLECTIONS

Giving thanks

23 O N T H E COV E R Downtown Indiana Inc. recently received a state award for its downtown revitalization program.

Photo by Kathy Hackleman

NOVEMBER 2010 • PENN

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ENERGYmatters Watch for big screen savings

By B r i a n S l o b o da

THE DAYS of large console televisions, with their wood grain exteriors and antenna wires or rabbit ears, are long gone — no more using needle nose pliers to change channels after the knob breaks or fiddling endlessly to adjust the horizontal and vertical holds. Today’s televisions offer larger, thinner screens and, thanks to digital cable or satellite connections, provide a virtually unlimited number of channels.

However, some models require a tremendous amount of energy to operate — almost as much as a refrigerator. And the average American household owns 2.93 TVs, according to a 2010 Nielsen report.

All of this energy use adds up. The Natural Resources Defenses Council found that U.S. televisions use more than 46 billion kilowatt-hours (kWhs) per year, or about 4 percent of residential electricity use.

In response to consumer concerns, TV manufacturers are designing sets that use less energy without sacrificing screen size or resolution.

Are you in the market for a new TV, or do you want to make sure you’re using your current TV efficiently? These tips will help you tune in to big screen energy savings.

because they employ old technology and screen sizes rarely top 40 inches.

Plasma screens often are cited as the largest energy user — mainly because their large 42-inch to 65-inch screens typically draw between 240 watts and 400 watts. Most consume electricity even when turned off.

LCD TVs don’t need much power to operate — 111 watts on average. Most LCD screens range in size from 21 inches to 49 inches. These TVs fall into two categories: those with cold-cathode fluorescent lamps

to illuminate the screen; and backlit models employing a light-emitting diode (LED). LED units offer several benefits, notably better picture quality, and thinner and lighter screens. They also use slightly less energy, at 101 watts.

Rear projection televisions tend to be the most energy efficient and boast the largest screen sizes. However, due to their overall weight, rear projection sets are not as readily available as plasma and LCD models.

Shopping for an energy-efficient televi-

High-definition=high energy use Although a high-definition TV (HDTV) transforms the latest blockbuster movie into a theater-like living room experience, these sets generally use more power because of better picture clarity.

Also, energy consumption often relates to screen size. The larger the screen, the more electricity required.

Four types of TVs are currently available: plasma, liquid-crystal display (LCD), rear projection, and cathode ray tube (CRT).

CRT televisions are the most difficult to find 4

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COMPARISON GUIDE: Use this information to compare plasma, LCD and rear-projection HDTVs before you pur-

chase a new TV.

sion can be difficult. Television manufacturers rarely advertise energy consumption, and it almost never appears on instore labels, though new Energy StarÂŽ requirements may change that in 2012.

Faced with these difficulties, consumers need to conduct their own energy use research through unbiased online sources such as CNET.com, an online journal for the technology industry. Look for specific model numbers, which you can take to the store.

Tune in to savings If you’re not in the market for a new TV but want to make sure your model is operating efficiently, these tips from CNET.com may help you save energy: k Turn the TV and other connected devices off when they’re not being used. k Turn down the LCD’s backlight — you’ll save energy and still retain better picture quality. k Turn on the power saver mode, which many new TVs offer. k Control room lighting. While many energy-saving tips reduce brightness of the screen, you can compensate by dimming lights around your TV. Sources: CNET.com, Natural Resources Defense Council, Nielsen Brian Sloboda is a program manager specializing in energy efficiency for the Cooperative Research Network, a service of the Arlington, Va.-based National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. Magen Howard contributed to this article.

Scientists call for environmental study Scientists studying the environmental impact from Marcellus Shale gas drilling across Pennsylvania are calling for a comprehensive research study so that any potential environmental issues can be addressed.

Preliminary research by the Acad-

emy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia and a University of Pennsylvania graduate student indicates the environmental impact of drilling may be # =HS\L. ,ZJVY[LK ;V\YZ :PUJL . directly related to the amount of drilling in an area (known as the “density� of drilling).

5L^ MYVT ! 7HUHTH *HUHS, 9HPUMVYLZ[Z HUK )LHJOLZ. The question that needs to be *HSS . .*(9(=(5 MVY MYLL 28 WHNL PUMV N\PKL. addressed, according to academy scien6Y, ]PZP[ \Z VUSPUL H[ *HYH]HU.JVT. tists, is whether there is a threshold point past which a certain amount of 8/14/10 6:50:23 AM drilling has an impact on the ecological2.25w.1h4C8.13.10.Coopertives.indd 1 health of the watershed, regardless of 7HUP /LIH ,QVXUDQFH how the drilling is done. ,VVXH DJHV WKURXJK During the past summer, scientists did some preliminary research on nine f£ää]äää fÓxä]äää

watersheds in northeastern PennsylvaÓÓ°Çx {x £Ó°Çn nia: three where no drilling had been Σ°Ón xx ÂŁĂˆÂ°ÂŁÂ™ done, three with some drilling and three Ăˆn°{Ç Ăˆx ĂŽÂŁÂ°Ă¤Ăˆ with a high density of drilling (defined as 5DWHV ILJXUHG RQ PRQWKO\ FRVW IRU IHPDOH QRQ WREDFFR XVHUV %5$1'21 5$0/(7 four to eight wells per square kilometer).

They tested the water in each location 4!,)# &/2- ./ for conductivity (a measure of the dissolved salts and metals in the stream), along with the presence of certain insects and salamanders known to be particularly vulnerable to environmental changes.

Tests indicated levels of contamination were almost twice as high in the high-density areas as in the other areas, and both insects and salamanders were reduced by 25 percent in the high-density areas.

Dr. David Velinsky, vice president of the academy’s Patrick Center for Environmental Research, stresses that the information is preliminary and that before a definitive conclusion can be reached, a more comprehensive study must be completed. The academy is seeking funding for that type of study from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. l

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KEEPINGcurrent Somerset County firm plays large role in rescue of miners Center Rock Inc., a Berlin, Pa., company that specializes in manufacturing low-profile drills, was instrumental in the dramatic rescue of 33 trapped Chilean miners that riveted the attention of the

world. The company designed the drill that allowed the miners to be pulled from 2,070 feet underground during a rescue operation that began on Oct. 12, 2010, and extended into the following day. The men had spent 69 days underground at the San Jose Mine in Copiapo, Chile, after part of the gold and copper mine collapsed.

Brandon Fisher, CEO of Center Rock Inc., and Richard Soppe, his director of construction and mining tools, were onsite for 37 days during the drilling process.

Center Rock Inc. has been credited with freeing the miners months before early projections that had estimated the miners would be underground until Christmas.

Once the drill opened up the rescue shaft, a steel capsule designed by the Chilean Navy was lowered into the hole to bring the trapped miners to the surface one at a time.

According to Center Rock Inc.’s website, the pneumatic-based drilling system that bored the rescue shaft hole used four hammers instead of just one — similar to the drill that Center Rock Inc. used to reach the miners with a 12-inch pilot hole 17 days after the mine collapse.

Once the miners were located, rescuers sent them food, medicine, letters, lights and a video camera through a small pipe.

Center Rock Inc. custom manufactures any size of low-profile drill to fit the demand. Its drills are frequently used to cut foundation holes for highway overpasses, bridge supports, building foundations and large utility poles, as well as 6

PENN

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for mining, oil and gas, and geothermal drilling, according to its website.

This was not the first high-profile rescue that the Somerset County firm has been involved in. Founded it 1998, the young company played a significant role in the 2002 rescue of nine miners in the Quecreek Mine near Somerset.

However, the low-profile drill that was used in Chile was not developed until five years ago. Since then, the company has grown from 16 to 75 employees.

Report: Pennsylvania loses 14 percent of its dairy farms Fourteen percent of Pennsylvania’s dairy farms went out of business in the three-year period ending in 2009, according to a new report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The National Agricultural Statistics Service shows that licensed dairy operations in Pennsylvania decreased from 8,610 in 2006 to 7,400 in 2009. Nationwide, dairy farms dropped 11.4 percent

INmemory

during the same time period.

According to the study, one of the major reasons for the drop is the effect of lower milk prices in late 2008 and 2009 brought on by overproduction and a collapse in exports. The average payment for 100 pounds of milk in Pennsylvania — a measure equivalent to 11.6 gallons — dropped from $20.26 in November 2008 to $12.90 in June 2009. This year, the state average payment for 100 pounds of milk through August was $17.61, while the production cost average for 100 pounds this year through August was $15.66 per 100 pounds.

Farmers are facing higher costs this year, as the price of feed and fuel both have been steadily increasing. l

Sullivan County Rural Electric Cooperative apprentice lineman Wayne Rosbach, Forksville, Pa., passed away Sept. 24, 2010, at the age of 45.

Rosbach was featured in the October 2009 Penn Lines article, “On the line: When it counts, co-ops count on their linemen.” In the article, Rosbach was quoted as saying he was thrilled to be working for Sullivan County Rural Electric Cooperative, as being a lineman was a dream he had held for many years. Because his mother, Nancy, had retired from the cooperative, he said he knew it was a good place to work, and he planned to work there until he retired. His favorite parts of the job, he said, were spending time with his co-workers, meetWayne Rosbach ing the cooperative members and working outside.

A lifetime resident of Sullivan County, Rosbach was active in the Forksville United Methodist Church and the Forksville Volunteer Fire Company, where he was serving as second assistant chief. He was company chief from 1987-1997.

Survivors include: wife, Janet Rosbach; son, Derrick James Rosbach; mother, Nancy Rosbach; and brother, Randy A. (Debra) Rosbach, all of Forksville.

Memorials are suggested to: Forksville Volunteer Fire Company, American Heart Association of Northeastern Pennsylvania or Geisinger's Janet Weis Children's Hospital in Danville.

PENNlines

Bringing back

Main Street Revitalization programs breathe new life into Pennsylvania’s downtowns

by Kathy Hackleman S e n i o r E d i t o r / Wr i t e r

NAME A CITY — any city — and the first image that will come to mind for most people is the community’s main street and downtown area. But no matter what you call it — Main Street, as it is in Youngsville, or Philadelphia Street, as it is in Indiana — each community’s main thoroughfare has a charm all of its own.

Today, residents of both Indiana and Youngsville have reason to be proud of their downtowns, as well as their fellow residents who have worked tirelessly to ensure their communities are growing and prospering. Downtown Indiana Inc., headquartered in Indiana, where REA Energy Cooperative, Inc., is based, and Revitaliza-

tion of Youngsville (ROY), headquartered in Youngsville, where Warren Electric Cooperative is based, were recently recognized with “Townie Awards” by the Pennsylvania Downtown Center (PDC) for their 2010 community revitalization efforts.

Designed to recognize communities that create and implement revitalization programs, 12 Townie Awards are given annually by PDC to exemplary communities among the 300 member organizations. The mission of PDC, founded in 1987, is to advance the sense of place, quality of life and economic vitality of Pennsylvania’s downtowns, traditional neighborhood business districts and nearby residential areas.

While the awards are a welcome recognition of their efforts, residents of both Indiana and Youngsville say the awards are not the reason they labor to revitalize their hometowns. Operated mostly by volunteers, community revitalization programs across the state seek to highlight what makes their local community special.

Downtown renaissance

BANK HEADQUARTERS: The First Commonwealth Bank headquarters building anchors a block of Indiana’s downtown.

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Indiana, a city of about 15,000 residents, is the county seat of Indiana County. As such, its main street — Philadelphia Street — is home to the county courthouse and a significant number of attorneys. Multiple retail stores, doctors, insurance companies and the headquarters of two major area banks — S&T Bank and First Commonwealth Bank — also set up shop in Indiana.

But there’s something else that sets downtown Indiana apart from all other communities: Academy Award-winning movie star Jimmy Stewart was born and raised in Indiana, and his acting feats are

FAVORITE SON HONORED: Indiana’s

main street – Philadelphia Street – is home to a number of unique businesses, including the Jimmy Stewart Museum, left, and the Indiana County Courthouse, right.

memorialized in the Jimmy Stewart Museum, located, of course, on Philadelphia Street.

Indiana is in the middle of its “Renaissance Indiana” program to revitalize the downtown area. According to Hastie Kinter, secretary of the Downtown Indiana Inc. Board of Directors, the update includes Philadelphia Street between 5th Street and 10th Street, as well as 7th Street from Philadelphia Street to Vinegar Hill.

“We have completed the block between 9th and 10th streets, and we are moving forward on the block between 5th and 6th streets, as well as North 7th,” Kinter reports. “We are holding off on the remaining blocks until we get more funding.”

The dream that is Renaissance Indiana took a giant step forward several years ago with a formal partnership between Downtown Indiana Inc., Indiana University of Pennsylvania and Indiana Borough when each entity pledged to contribute $500,000 toward the revitalization project. Indiana County pledged

“It’s a Wonderful Life Festival” (named in honor of Stewart’s classic holiday film) held annually on the Friday before Thanksgiving. The Lucy Donnelly Memorial Fund pays the costs associated with the free, community-wide event that celebrates what is best about living in Indiana.

Downtown Indiana Inc. also sponsors “Lovin’ Downtown Every Second” on the second Friday of each month with promotions at the retail shops and local restaurants, plus special activities to draw a crowd to the downtown area.

Each event has a theme — in June, the focus was on fathers while in September, pets from rabbits to dogs took center stage as they paraded down Philadelphia Street with their owners.

In addition to its involvement in the Main Street Program, Indiana also participates in the Elm Street Community Project, a revitalization program geared

another $350,000. That partnership went a long way toward providing local matching funds that are usually required for state and federal grants.

Renaissance Indiana includes new signals and street signs. The signals have been installed for the entire downtown area that is being renovated; however, the remaining updates are being done block by block with the blocks most in need of work being renovated first. According to Kinter, updates include street milling and resurfacing, new sidewalks with decorative paving patterns, new lighting with historic-style poles, street furnishings and storm drainage. In addition, overhead electric and telephone wires are being placed in underground conduits.

Kinter credits community residents and businesses for the progress made in revitalizing downtown Indiana.

“Many people are involved,” she emphasizes. “We have people who are passionate about downtown and keeping it alive, and we have an entire community that is very supportive of this project. Our Downtown Indiana Inc. Capital Campaign raised over $500,000 in this fairly small community.”

Of course, many of the downtown projects would not have gone forward without

state and federal funding aid. In addition to money for the revitalization project itself, money is funneled through the national Main Street Program to provide matching funds to assist with façade updates to keep the downtown business MERRY CHRISTMAS: The Hometown Christmas Parade in buildings in tip-top shape.

Youngsville brings out the sights and sounds of the holidays as “We have participated in the Youngsville High School band performs. Revitalization of the Main Street facade grant Youngsville (ROY) sponsors the parade. program for at least 15 years,” Kinter explains. “It’s a 50-50 match- toward the residential areas that surround the downtown. ing program where business owners pay Although REA Energy Cooperative half of the cost of a project and the grant does not provide electricity to the downpays the other half. This program encourages people to reinvest in their businesses.” town area of Indiana, it does provide service to all of the areas surrounding Indiana The owner of Lucy Rae Gifts, a downand uses many of the services offered by town gift shop, Kinter also works at The the various businesses located in Indiana.

Indiana Gazette, the community’s daily “We believe having an attractive newspaper that is owned by her family. downtown area benefits the entire comShe has been active in the revitalization of munity by helping to attract people and downtown Indiana since 1993, but her entice businesses to locate in the general family’s interest goes back even further. area,” REA Energy Co-managers Tom She is the daughter of the late Joe and Borusiewicz and Gary Grindle state.

Lucy Ray Donnelly who, through the “The cooperative participates in many of newspaper, championed the downtown the events of downtown Indiana through area for decades. One of Downtown Indiits civic-minded employees.” ana Inc.’s premier annual events is the NOVEMBER 2010 • PENN

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PENNlines People power While tiny Youngsville, with a population of around 1,800, has just over 10 percent of the population of its fellow award-winner, Indiana, its revitalization program takes a back seat to no one.

“We are just people, people who work hours and hours every month for free,” explains Nancy Holmberg, president of ROY, which promotes the revitalization of the entire Youngsville community, not just its downtown. “We do it because we believe in this community, and we are changing the economic future of this city. … We are just people who decided we are going to take it into our own hands to change our community.”

Holmberg and her core group of about 20 volunteers, including four vice presidents, coordinate the entire revitalization effort in Youngsville as there is no paid staff. Anita Cohan serves as vice president of promotion, while Joanne Oviatt is vice president of design, Sonia Probst is vice president of asset enhancement, and Helga Laibacher is vice president of organization. Together, ROY officers and a cadre of local residents in 2009 clocked 3,408.5 volunteer hours, valued at $66,840.69 in in-kind dollars that can be used as matching funds for grants.

Both Holmberg and Cohan had a background in the Main Street Program through employment at the Warren

CORNFEST:

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Main Street Program, and Holmberg developed outlines for committees based on her Main Street experience.

“We would not be an organization without the vice presidents,” Holmberg notes.

“They had an idea of what their jobs would be, but what they did was go out and make their jobs into ones that would change this community. … Fixing the deteriorated infrastructure, making sure the buildings get painted and the crumbling sidewalks get fixed may seem overwhelming, but we can see progress, and that’s why we keep working.”

In the five years since the inception of ROY, volunteers have nearly raised the $507,977 they need to match a grant that will renovate the community’s streetscape, and the borough has pledged another $253,000 toward the streetscape. The capital campaign continues, and the Organization Committee, chaired by Laibacher, constantly works on fundraisers such as concession stands, yard sales and raffles.

But raising funds is only the beginning of what the ROY volunteers do.

They have organized local festivals, including the A-maize-ing Cornfest with

Organizers of the 2009 Cornfest in Youngsville had this photo taken to inspire community spirit.

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NEW BUILDING: The borough of Youngsville is constructing a new building that will greet visitors as they enter town.

motorcycle and car cruise-ins, Christmas parade, children’s theater productions, annual community sales days; developed plans — and obtained grant funds — for the Brokenstraw Creek Bike-Hike Trail that will tie into a system of trails across Warren County; and worked with the Heritage Route 6 planners to gain the designation of a Heritage Route 6 Community. They also have worked with business owners to upgrade their buildings and sponsored workshops on better business practices, funding new facades, and improving the business district.

Kathleen Reitinger, Warren County Regional Main Street coordinator, who nominated ROY for the Townie Award, says the organization has been the driving influence in the already completed improvements in downtown Youngsville, as well as plans for the future.

“Youngsville is a small community within the Warren County Regional Main Street program,” Reitinger states.

“With a population of fewer than 2,000 residents, it is one of the most organized rural communities in Pennsylvania.”

As vice president of promotions, Cohan’s job is to alert the Youngsville community and those outside the com-

munity about what the area has to offer. viding business training, and She’s quick to point out that the commuplanning for a new streetscape nity offers enough different businesses to make the downtown attracand services that residents do not have to tive and accessible.” go outside the community to have their Responding to the needs of needs met. Residents and visitors can several area manufacturers, purchase restaurant meals, groceries, the ERC members worked gifts, artwork, flowers, medicine, sportwith county and state leaders ing goods, automotive supplies, garden to earmark funding for consupplies, gasoline and hardware. They struction of a rail siding in the can bank in Youngsville, hold a funeral, Youngsville area. go to the doctor, get a haircut, wash their “Although suitable property car, and check out a book from the was not available, the group’s library. Plus, anyone can take advantage efforts raised awareness at the of the natural beauty of the area through state level of the need for betfishing, hunting, hiking, biking, kayakter access to rail transportation ing, camping, picnicking and skydiving. in the Youngsville area,” “Youngsville has so much potential Probst reports. for growth, and the revitalization project ERC also petitioned the and its members strive to make as many Youngsville Borough Council dreams come true as possible,” Cohan to adopt ordinances or plans reports. addressing zoning issues, One of those dreams that is about to stormwater management and come true is the anticipated change to blighted properties to make the community’s downtown area, the the community more attracWORKING DOWNTOWN: Employees of Don Huey Remodeling are design of which was developed through tive to businesses. spiffing up an empty downtown Indiana building in preparation Oviatt’s committee. for its new occupants.

Commitment “The biggest job that the Design Comto community downtown area of Youngsville, its main mittee had was consolidating the verbal office is located there, and the cooperative’s wishes of the community into a workable Holmberg is quick to point out that general manager, Gary Franklin, is actively plan from which E.G.&G., the engineering local officials have been on board with involved in the efforts of ROY. He serves as firm hired to develop the physical plan for ROY’s objectives from the beginning. the organization’s treasurer and also as a the streetscape, could work,” Oviatt Terry Williams, borough manager, reports. “That task required many public adds, “The borough council has been very member of the Economic Restructuring Committee. In addition, the cooperative meetings, phone conversations and many supportive of ROY and not just in saying also participates in ROY events, including committee meetings. The Design Commit- ‘We support them,’ but in providing providing vehicles for parades with tee then made the recommendations as to money and time, and working to make employees handing out candy to children. the style of streetlights, our zoning more business“I think it is important that the cooperbenches, crosswalks, sidefriendly. We’re all in this walk surfaces, etc.” together. Anything that ben- ative reach out to all of the communities that it is involved in, whether we serve the While that committee efits the community and its community or whether it’s where we are was soliciting residents’ residents benefits the borlocated,” Franklin emphasizes. “That’s input for the actual design, ough and vice versa.” part of the cooperative philosophy.”

Probst’s committee was The borough is in the It’s not just in Indiana and surveying local businesses process of constructing a Youngsville — all across Pennsylvania, to determine their needs. new borough building, volunteers and business leaders are “In general, businesses which Williams expects to expressed a need for more be occupying before Christ- donating their time, energy and money consumer traffic,” Probst mas. The building is located to revitalization programs to ensure the PETS ON PARADE: Ashleigh communities they live in are safe, states. “The Economic on the main street into Bowman, daughter of Jess friendly, family-oriented and economiRestructuring Committee Youngsville from Route 6, Bowman, Indiana, snuggles a cally healthy. They want to be a part of (ERC) and all of ROY’s and will serve as a welcomrabbit prior to a pet parade, the positive step forward into the future other committees have ing face to the community. which was held as part of the of Pennsylvania where main streets are addressed this in various Although Warren Elec“Lovin’ Downtown Every once again where people come together ways — introducing events, Second” event on Sept. 11, tric Cooperative does not 2011, in downtown Indiana. to live, work and play. l increasing marketing, proprovide electricity to the NOVEMBER 2010 • PENN

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TIMElines

Yo u r N e w s m a g a z i n e T h r o u g h t h e Y e a r s

1990 TWENTY YEARS AGO, the latest news in energy efficiency was compact fluorescent lighting. In November 1990, Penn Lines reported that compact fluorescent lamps combine the versatility of regular incandescent bulbs with the low energy consumption of fluorescent lights while eliminating the annoying characteristics associated with fluorescent lighting (the hum, flicker and harsh light). And even better, it was being reported that the new compact fluorescent lamps would not generate much heat, would last nine times longer than incandescent bulbs and would use less electricity.

Back then, there were three types of compact fluorescent lighting: twin or double twin (quad) tube lamps, globe and cylinder types, and circular. Although the current popular version of the compact fluorescent lightbulb — the twisted bulb — was not available 20 years ago, the advice on how to buy the bulbs is similar to today’s advice.

Tips for buying bulbs include: light intensity (look for lumens — the measure of the brightness of the bulb — not watts), light quality (try different lightbulbs to find the quality of light that you like best); and bulb size (choose the correct size for the use).

Today, an Energy Star-qualified compact fluorescent lightbulb — most often known as a CFL — can save more than $40 in electricity costs over its lifetime; uses about 75 percent less energy than standard incandescent bulbs and lasts up to 10 times longer; and produces about 75 percent less heat so it is safer to operate.

1970 A section of a pole barn under construction at the Evan Wilcox Farm near Lander demonstrates a modern, free-stall installation, the latest innovation in the automatic operation of dairy barns.

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1980 In the first of a series of articles examining the conflict between the environment and the need to supply energy demands while relying less on foreign oil, Penn Lines focuses on the role of coal.

2000 Electric cooperatives step forward to address Pennsylvania’s rural wastewater crisis because of their long-standing commitment to protecting the interests of rural residents and the environment.

OUTDOORadventures

by Marcus Schneck

Caught in time Trapping manual holds place of honor on bookshelf THERE ARE three seasonal books that I read every year: Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” beginning Thanksgiving night; “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” which I know is more commonly known as “The Night Before Christmas,” and which I know is a poem not a book (but my copy is in a neat little, beautifully illustrated book), closer to Christmas; and “The Pennsylvania Trapping Manual” in mid-October.

That third choice — a 96page guide to trapping and fur-handling techniques written by the late Paul Failor for initial publication in 1957 by his employer, the Pennsylvania Game Commission, and eventually available in nine editions through 1979 — may seem an odd addition to the list. However, that small, dog-eared, often-mended volume has SCHNECK , is outdoor editor for The (Harrisburg, Pa.) Patriot-News, a contributor to many outdoor publications and websites, and author of more than two dozen books.

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more power to bridge the years back to my youth and tap into deeply felt memories than the other two combined.

A copy of that book, richly illustrated inside with an abundance of scene-capturing illustrations and covered by a full-color red fox in winter by the great Ned Smith, was my Bible every fall from the first time I prepared to run a muskrat trap line at age 6.

It not only instructs in everything the trapper needs to know, it shares the mind of a man who has been

LINES • NOVEMBER 2010

there, facing the challenge of outwitting a cunning wild thing at its own game and on its home turf. I’ve always felt that trappers are more intimately aware of the habits, idiosyncrasies and travels of wild things than any other group of outdoor enthusiasts, and Failor’s book does nothing to dispel that impression.

The book touches only briefly on the history, legend and lore of trapping, but all of that, including a gut-level connection with the mountain men of another age, for me, lies between the lines of the simple how-to manual.

The art by one known for producing work that draws in the viewer doesn’t detract from that feeling.

Inside the pages of that book, although without an actual mention, are a hundred or more wet and freezing feet inside leaky hip

Worn manual has everything a wanna-be trapper needs to know, plus memories.

HOLDING MEMORIES:

waders, the sweet scent of wintergreen and anise lures for muskrat and the pungent odor of bottled fox urine, and countless fingers pinched by the too-soon snap of steeltrap jaws. Also, without a printed mention but in there nonetheless are the well-aged and ever-sweeter memories of time on the trap line with my now-passed father and my matchlessly skilled brother.

Again this fall, I pulled Failor’s little manual from a place of honor on a bookshelf that sees no mundane, daily traffic and made the trip back to the autumns of another age. And then I passed the book over to my son, fulfilling a newer fall ritual that we established a dozen or so years ago. l

COUNTRYkitchen

by Janette He ss

A pound of cure A FAMOUS Pennsylvania resident once wrote, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

Benjamin Franklin, also known as Poor Richard, didn’t have pound cake in mind when he penned that oftrepeated maxim, but, then again, he probably didn’t spend much time in the kitchen. He was too busy writing, publishing, legislating and inventing.

And that’s too bad, because Ben could have added “famous cook” to his list of accomplishments if he’d had access to this month’s recipes. We now know that a few ounces of tasty pound cake can prevent the dessert doldrums — or even cure them, if necessary.

Originally, a “pound cake” was just that — a pound of butter, a pound of flour, a pound of sugar and a pound of eggs.

These days, however, the term is used to describe any number of dense, buttery cakes. These cakes usually are not frosted.

Instead, they’re eaten plain or paired with a scoop of ice cream or a spoonful of sauce. To turn pound cake into a version of short cake, simply top individual pieces with sliced, sweetened fruit and add whipped cream or custard sauce.

So head to your kitchen and cook up a cure! Although the result will be rich, it still will be healthier than flying a kite in a thunderstorm. l

CUSTARD SA UCE (CRÈME ANGLAISE) 3 tablespoons gr anulated

sugar 1 tablespoon corn starch 1 1/2 cups light cr eam (“half and half” ) 2 egg yolks, sligh tly beaten 1/2 teaspoon va nilla extract Combine sugar an d cornstarch in medium saucepan . Bl and egg yolks. Co end in cream ok medium heat until and stir over m about 15 minutes. ixture thickens, Remove from he at and add vanilla.

Serve chilled.

A trained journalist, JANETTE HESS focuses her writing on interesting people and interesting foods. She is a Master Food Volunteer with her local extension service and enjoys collecting, testing and sharing recipes.

CAKE COCONUT POUND OLD-F

ASHION 1 cup (2 ED POU stick ND CA butter, s s) unsalted KE o 1 1/2 cup ftened s granula ted suga 3 eggs r 6 tablesp oons mil k 2 cups fl ou 1/2 teasp r oo 1/2 teasp n vanilla extrac t oon almo n Pinch of salt (1/16 d extract teaspoon ) In mixing bowl, ble nd butter at a time , a milk and beating well after nd sugar until cre extracts. a each add Add salt. greased, ition. Add my. Add eggs one B fl until a kn oured loaf pan. B eat 1 minute. Spo flour alternately w on ak if ith Cool in p e or toothpick ins e at 325 degrees batter into a an. Top w erted into for 1 1/2 ith fruit a h may be d o th u e cake rs, or nd oubled an d baked in whipped cream, comes out clean. if desired a large tu . Th be or ang el food c is recipe ake pan.

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ed butter, softened 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalt ning rte sho ble 1/4 cup vegeta ar sug d ate nul gra s cup 1 1/4 ar sug 1/4 cup brown 3 eggs 1/2 cup milk illa extract (coconut 1 teaspoon Mexican van tuted) sti sub be extract may ur flo s cup 1 1/2 der 1/4 teaspoon baking pow t sal on spo tea 1/4 nal cup for toasting d coconut, plus 1 additio 1/2 cup flaked, sweetene sugar in small amounts. ter and shortening. Add In mixing bowl, blend but Mix dry ingredients and add alternately with e.

Beat in eggs, one at a tim inning and ending with dry ingredients. Stir in beg t, rac ext illa milk and van f pan. Bake at 350 o a greased, floured loa int ter bat on Spo t. onu coc thpick inserted into the rs, or until a knife or too degrees for 1 to 1 1/4 hou in pan. Slice and serve with custard sauce or Cool cake comes out clean. with toasted coconut. whipped cream. Garnish d, ene eet a dollop of sw coconut on cookie sheet.

1 cup flaked, sweetened imately 10 minutes, To toast coconut, spread rox app for n at 325 degrees ove of k rac top on st Toa tly browned. ve from oven when ligh stirring frequently. Remo

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Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation required by 39 USC 3685 TITLE OF PUBLICATION: Penn Lines PUBLICATION NUMBER: 929-700 FILING DATE: September 13, 2010 Issued monthly, 12 times annually.

Subscription price is $5.42 for members of electric distribution cooperatives in Pennsylvania.

Mailing address of office is 212 Locust Street, P.O. Box 1266, Harrisburg, Dauphin County, PA 17108-1266.

Publisher is Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association, P.O. Box 1266, Harrisburg, Dauphin County, PA 17108-1266.

Editor/Director of Communications is Peter A. Fitzgerald, P.O. Box 1266, Harrisburg, Dauphin County, PA 17108-1266.

Owner is Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association, P.O. Box 1266, Harrisburg, PA 17108-1266. There are no other owners or bondholders. The purpose, function, and non-profit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income tax purposes have not changed during the preceding 12 months.

TOTAL NUMBER OF COPIES:: Average number of copies each issue during the preceding 12 months, 166,487.

Actual number of copies of single issue (September 2010) published nearest to filing date, (September 166,732).

PAID CIRCULATION: Average Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions, 165,189 (September 165,474).

Average Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions, 0 (September 0).

Average Paid Distribution Outside the Mails including Sales through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and other Paid Distribution Outside USPS, 757 (September 730).

Average Paid Distribution by other Classes of Mail through the USPS, 46 (September 56).

TOTAL PAID DISTRIBUTION: Average, 165,992 (September 166,260).

FREE OR NOMINAL RATE DISTRIBUTION: Average Outside-County Copies, 252 (September 248).

Average In-County, 0 (September 0).

Average Copies mailed at Other Classes through the USPS, 0 (September 0).

Average Distribution Outside the Mail by carriers or other means, 176 (September 165).

TOTAL FREE OR NOMINAL RATE DISTRIBUTION: Average, 427 (September 413).

TOTAL DISTRIBUTION: Average, 166,419 (September 166,673).

COPIES NOT DISTRIBUTED: Average, 68 (September 59).

TOTAL: Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 166,487 (September 166,732).

PERCENT PAID CIRCULATION: Average percentage during preceding 12 months, 99.73 percent (September 99.75 percent).

PUBLICATION OF STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP: Publication required. Will be printed in the November 2010 issue of this publication.

SIGNATURE AND TITLE OF EDITOR, PUBLISHER, BUSINESS MANAGER, OR OWNER: DATE: 9-13-10 Editor/Director of Communications I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties).

SMARTcircuits

by James Dulley

Layer bathroom lighting to save Remodeling a bathroom?

Make smart lighting decisions PEOPLE don’t often think about lighting and energy efficiency when it comes to bathroom remodeling, but it’s as important as installing the proper vanity or plumbing fixtures. Today’s modern master bathrooms and dressing areas are often as large as some second bedrooms and are more than just a place to shower, shave, etc.

If the lighting in your bathroom is like most older bathrooms, it consists of an overhead light, perhaps built into a vent fan if there is no window. If there is a window in the bathroom, very few builders went to the expense of installing a vent fan. Today, vent fans are almost always installed to address indoor air quality concerns in modern, more airtight houses. While remodeling, definitely install a vent fan.

The lighting for children’s bathrooms is simpler. A basic overhead light should be adequate until they get old enough to shave or wear makeup. There’s likely already an incandescent overhead lightonly or fan/light fixture. In either case, replace it with a new Energy Star ®-qualified fan with a compact fluorescent lightbulb (CFL). It will use 75 percent less electricity than a comparable incandescent bulb and the fan will be much quieter than the old builder-quality vent fan.

Since children tend to forget to turn lights or vent fans off when they leave the bathroom, select a vent fan with a motion or humidity sensor to automatically shut it off at the right time. If you have only a light fixture, use a motion-sensing switch. This allows you to program the length of time the light stays on after no motion is detected.

Planning efficient and effective lighting 18

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for a master bathroom and dressing area is a bit more complicated. Use the basic lighting design technique called layering to provide proper lighting for various activities.

The three basic lighting layers are task, ambient, and accent or decorative. Bathrooms are relatively task oriented (showering, shaving, applying makeup, general grooming, etc.), so adequate task lighting is most important. Other than showering or bathing, the task lighting at the mirror and vanity is most often used.

Ideally, place lighting on both sides of the mirror and perhaps also on top for three-direction lighting that will eliminate shadows. If the mirror is not too wide, wall-mounted vertical fluorescent tube lighting on each side of the mirror is best.

Several companies offer efficient decorative T2 or T5 fluorescent fixtures. Some are designed to be attached to wide mirrors, and decorative sconces with CFLs are effective around narrow mirrors. Daylighttype CFLs provide the best color rendition for makeup. Halogen bulbs may also be used; they offer a longer life, are somewhat more efficient than standard incandescent bulbs, and provide a whiter light.

For over-the-mirror task lighting, try the new decorative rail light design. It is

similar to track lighting with three or four directional fixtures, but they are mounted on a rail that hangs down a couple of inches from the ceiling. It mounts to the ceiling over a standard ceiling electrical box. Several of the rail fixtures use superefficient, long-lasting white light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs.

For the bath/shower area, recessed overhead task lighting works well.

Recessed light fixtures with built-in exhaust fans are efficient because excess moisture is drawn from the shower stall before it enters the room.

For ambient and accent lighting, lowerwattage incandescent fixtures — either overhead or sconces — are effective. These can be controlled by dimmer switches to save energy. As the lights are dimmed, an LED on the faceplate changes from red to green to remind you to dim the lights to save energy. On some models, the switch also functions as an efficient night light. l is a nationally syndicated energy management expert. You can reach him at James Dulley, c/o Penn Lines, 6906 Royalgreen Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45244.

JAMES DULLEY

POWERplants

by Barbara Martin

Landscapes near and dear: yours, mine and ours

BY NOVEMBER we can see the bare bones of our yards, our countryside, our towns.

By bare bones, I mean the hardscape or the man-made elements such as paving and fences.

We notice the materials these improvements are made of. We notice whether or not things are aligned correctly.

We can tell if a fence is crooked or where a wall wobbles. We also see the major design elements, such as pathways and focal points, the shapes of planting beds and the expanses of lawn areas. This is a good time to look around and wonder if things might be improved.

Sometimes our improvements are based in simple cleaning up. This could mean trimming a hedge straighter or clearing away last summer’s now-frozen dead annual flowers. It might mean removing an errant shrub or carefully pruning a wayward tree.

BARBARA MARTIN , who says she began gardening as a hobby “too many years ago to count,” currently works for the National Gardening Association as a horticulturist. A former member of Gettysburg-based Adams Electric Cooperative, her articles appear in magazines and on the internet.

It might mean shoring up a shed that has begun to lean.

Improvements can be major — perhaps deciding to install a patio or deck or reposition the front entry to the house and realign and widen the front walk that leads to it. Or we might think the vegetable garden would be more attractive with a permanent wooden fence around it, and possibly a rose arbor could connect it visually to the garage while also hiding the laundry line. Perhaps the play area could be set up just outside the kitchen window, or a new spacious dog run would fit just right on the shady side of the house.

It’s always fine to observe and dream and sketch things out on paper. Why not snap a few photos and take some measurements so you have them handy when the planning phase turns serious.

We might notice smaller details, too. Perhaps the placement of climbing roses is out of balance with the facade of the house, or we might decide the view out the windows would be improved by adding a flowering tree in the yard. Or we might realize that our unwelcome view into the neighbor’s place could be obscured by a carefully sited evergreen tree.

Sometimes only a subtle tweak is needed to make a big improvement. For instance, we might use permanent concrete urns out front rather than flimsy plastic window boxes.

Or we might consider a permanent metal edging strip to

crisply separate the lawn from a planting bed. We might wonder how it would look if we replaced the front yard light with a different style. Perhaps a different color or style of shutter would be better suited to the style of the house? How about adding a fountain, sculpture, arch or garden pond to improve the view?

Just as we look at these types of improvements and stylistic tricks at home, we can also examine the rough edges of our neighborhood.

Are we good stewards of the greater landscape? Does our zoning direct growth and development to the most suitable areas and identify areas we would like to preserve?

Are we protecting our topsoil and water resources? Is there a place nearby for studying and appreciating nature?

Are we maintaining healthy trees in our public spaces? Have we planted trees and shrubs and installed the occasional bench or picnic table so we can enjoy our parks? Do we keep litter

TAKE A GOOD LOOK: It’s the time of year to take a good look at your garden to see if you can make it even better.

picked up and control invasive, exotic weeds along our roads?

In late fall, when the leaves are down and we feel the cold weather descending, the landscape is stark. It is as though the land is naked and suddenly we see all the warts, bald spots and imperfections that summer’s green foliage hid. We also sense the solid ground under our feet, just as we breathe in the beauty of the countryside and appreciate the man-made spaces surrounding and sheltering us.

As much as we are thankful in this season for the bounty of summer and the harvest we now enjoy, it’s as good a time as any to take stock of where we can make improvements, either simple or elaborate. It’s never too early to begin planning ahead to next year’s yard and garden — at home and in our community.

Happy Thanksgiving! l

NOVEMBER 2010 • PENN

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PENNLINESclassified HERE’S MY AD: Yes, I want my message to go into more than 166,400 households in rural Pennsylvania. I have counted _________ words in this ad. (FOR ADS IN ALL CAPITAL LETTERS, ADD 20 PERCENT TO TOTAL COST.)

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Only the following qualify as free headings. Please check your selection: Around the House Business Opportunities Employment Opportunities Gift and Craft Ideas Livestock and Pets Miscellaneous Motor Vehicles and Boats Nursery and Garden Real Estate Recipes Tools and Equipment Vacations and Campsites Wanted to Buy. and Food FOR SPECIAL HEADINGS NOT LISTED: Indicate special heading you would like, and add $5 for co-op members, $10 for non-members. Insertion of classified ad in Penn Lines serves as proof of publication; no proofs are furnished.

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January 2011 . . . . . . . . . . Nov. 17 February 2011 . . . . . . . . . Dec. 16 March 2011. . . . . . . . . . . . Jan. 18 All ads must be received by the specified dates to be included in the corresponding month’s issue. Ads received beyond the deadline dates will automatically be included in the next available issue. Written notice of changes or cancellations must be received prior to the first of the month preceding the month of issue.

For information about display rates, continuous ads, or specialized headings, contact Vonnie Kloss at 717/233-5704, the Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association.

FENCING FREE Fence Guide/Catalog – High-tensile fence, horse fence, rotational grazing, twine, wire, electric netting – cattle, deer, garden, poultry. Kencove Farm Fence Supplies: 800-536-2683. www.kencove.com.

GIFT AND CRAFT IDEAS

AMMUNITION SABOT 12 GAUGE SHOTGUN SLUGS only 85 cents each. Now you can See How at www.slugsrus.com.

AROUND THE HOUSE “COUNTRY COOKING,” Volume 2 — $8, including postage.

“RECIPES REMEMBERED,” Volume 3 — $12, including postage.

Both of these cookbooks are a collection of recipes from men and women of the electric co-ops of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Payable to: Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association, P. O. Box 1266, Harrisburg, PA 17108. Write Attention: Cookbooks.

Volume 1 of “Country Cooking” is SOLD OUT. *HOLIDAY SPECIAL — BOTH COOKBOOKS FOR $15.* OUTSIDE WOOD HEATER - $1,595. Forced air system. Rated 100K BTU. Heats up to 2,400 square feet. Houses, mobiles or shops. Low-cost shipping. Easy install. 417-581-7755 Missouri. www.heatbywood.com.

CLOCK REPAIR: If you have an antique grandfather clock, mantel clock or old pocket watch that needs restored, we can fix any timepiece. Macks Clock Repair: 814-749-6116.

PIANO TUNING & REPAIR — Kevin Luke’s Piano Service offering piano tuning, repairs, regulation, restoration and rebuilding. Serving all of Central Pennsylvania. 814-944-6031. www.lukepiano.vpweb.com FOR SALE — QUILTS — Double, Queen, King-size. Call 814-3713823.

BUILDING SUPPLIES STEEL ROOFING AND SIDING. Discount Prices. “Fall Sale” — Residential roofing $1.95/lineal foot. Also seconds, heavy gauges, odd lots, etc. Located in northwestern Pennsylvania.

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“COUNTRY COOKING,” Volume 2 — $8, including postage.

“RECIPES REMEMBERED,” Volume 3 — $12, including postage.

Both of these cookbooks are a collection of recipes from men and women of the electric co-ops of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Payable to: Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association, P. O. Box 1266, Harrisburg, PA 17108. Write Attention: Cookbooks.

Volume 1 of “Country Cooking” is SOLD OUT. *HOLIDAY SPECIAL — BOTH COOKBOOKS FOR $15.*

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GARDNERS CANDIES OF BEDFORD has Christmas gifts for everyone on your list — employees, clients, family. Prices to fit any budget. Corporate gifts are our specialty. Free gift wrapping.

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HANDCRAFTED FURNITURE

26-GAUGE METAL SHEETING — Large selection of seconds.

Many colors available. $1.50 per linear foot, 36-inch width.

Corle Building Systems, Imler, PA. Call 814-276-9611. Ask for Joe Fink. jfink@corle.com.

CHURCH LIFT SYSTEMS Make your church, business or home wheelchair accessible.

We offer platform lifting systems, stair lifts, porch lifts and ramps. References. Free estimates. Get Up & Go Mobility Inc. 724-746-0992 or 814-926-3622.

CONSULTING FORESTRY SERVICES NOLL’S FORESTRY SERVICES, INC. performs Timber Marketing, Timber Appraisals, Forest Management Planning, and Forest Improvement Work. FREE Timber Land Recommendations. 30 years experience. Call 814-472-8560.

CENTRE FOREST RESOURCES. Maximizing present and future timber values, Forest Management Services, Managing Timber Taxation, Timber Sales, Quality Deer Management. FREE Timber Consultation. College educated, professional, ethical.

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CORN PELLET STOVES

METAL BUILDINGS — 24 x 40 x 8, $9,900 installed. 30 x 40 x 8, $11,900 installed. Includes one walk door and one garage door. All sizes available. 800-464-3333. www.factorysteelbuildings.com.

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BIXBY CORN or PELLET Stoves — Save with tax credit. Will heat 2,200 square feet. No chimney needed. Burn shelled corn and save over pellets. 717-776-5237. Email: blume@pa.net.

COUNTRY CRAFTED bentwood oak/hickory rockers. Swings, gliders, double rockers, coffee/end tables, bar stools, kitchen sets, cedar log outdoor furniture, log bedrooms, SPECIAL queen log bed, $599. 814-733-9116. www.zimmermanenterprise.com.

HEALTH AND NUTRITION Tired of all those medicines — Still not feeling better? Do you want to feel better, have more energy, better digestion, less joint stiffness, healthier heart/circulation and cholesterol levels? Find out how to empower your own immune system — start IMMUNE-26 today! It’s safe, affordable, and it works. Call 800-557-8477: ID#528390. 90-day money back on first time orders. When ordering from Web, use Option #3. www.mylegacyforlife.net/believeit.

HEALTH INSURANCE DO YOU HAVE THE BLUES regarding your Health Insurance?

We cater to rural America's health insurance needs. For more information, call 800-628-7804 (PA). Call us regarding Medicare supplements, too.

PENNLINESclassified HELP WANTED

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Classroom or home study courses available. For information, call the American Society of Agricultural Appraisers 800-4887570 or visit www.amagappraisers.com.

Out of 20,000 homes, Energy Star found this one to be the most energy efficient home ever tested in PA, NJ, NY & DE. Stops cold, heat, wind and moisture. Vapor barrier and sheathing all in one. Residential - Commercial – Hobby - Shops – Farms – Pole Buildings. Burkenhaus Distribution Center, Thomasville, PA. 717-801-0013. JoeBurkeyp2000@comcast.net or visit www.P2000insulation.com.

SETTLEMENT POST & BEAM BUILDING COMPANY uses timehonored mortise, tenon and peg construction paired with modern engineering standards. Master Craftsman and owner, Greg Sickler, brings over two decades of timber-framing experience to helping you create your dream. We use highquality timbers harvested from sustainable forests for all of our projects. Visit our model home, located on Historic Route 6, Sylvania, in North Central Pennsylvania. For more information phone 570-297-0164 or go to www.settlementpostbeam.com or contact us at cggksick@epix.net.

INFRARED SAUNAS Removes toxins, burns calories, relieves joint pain, relaxes muscles, increases flexibility, strengthens immune system.

Many more HEALTH BENEFITS with infrared radiant heat saunas.

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Pesticide-free powder traps. Over 200,000 satisfied customers.

To order call 814-494-4122 or visit www.4pestsolutions.com.

LAWN AND GARDEN EQUIPMENT RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL – SALES – SERVICE – PARTS. Compact Loaders & Attachments, Mowers, Chainsaws, Tillers, etc.

We sell BCS, Boxer, Dixon, Ferris, Hustler, Grasshopper, Shindaiwa and more. HARRINGTON’S, Taneytown, MD. 410-756-2506. www.harringtonsservicecenter.com.

LIVESTOCK AND PETS GERMAN SHEPHERD puppies $900-$1,500. Young Adult $800 and Adult dogs $500 from imported blood lines. 814-967-2159.

Email:rick@petrusohaus.com Web: www.petrusohaus.com.

PEMBROKE WELSH CORGI Puppies — AKC, adorable, intelligent, highly trainable. Excellent family choice.

Reputable licensed breeder guaranteed “Last breed you’ll ever own.” 814-587-3449.

AKC GERMAN SHEPHERD puppies — Black/silver, Black/red, Ultra whites. 570-924-3650. www.thesecondwindgermanshepherds.com.

LOG CABIN RESTORATIONS VILLAGE RESTORATIONS & CONSULTING specializes in 17th and 18th century log, stone and timber structures. We dismantle, move, re-erect, restore, construct and consult all over the country. Period building materials available. Chestnut boards, hardware, etc. Thirty years experience, fully insured. Call 814696-1379. www.villagerestorations.com.

MAPLE SYRUP STEVEN’S PURE Maple Syrup, Liberty, Pa. Plastic from 3.4 ounces to gallons. Glass containers for gifts and collectors.

Maple Sugar, Maple Cream, Maple Candy, Maple Bar-B-Que Sauce, Maple Salad Dressing, and Gift Baskets for any occasion made to order. Wholesale or retail prices. NEW Number: 570-324-2014 or email: buymaple@epix.net.

MISCELLANEOUS BECOME AN ORDAINED MINISTER, Correspondence study. The harvest truly is great, the laborers are few, Luke 10:2. Free info. Ministers for Christ Outreach, 7549 West Cactus Road, #104-207, Peoria, AZ 85381. www.ordination.org.

PROPANE GAS REFRIGERATOR ideal for remote cabin or hunting camp. About four years old, used very little. I paid $1,200 for it, would like to have $600. 717-359-5932.

REAL ESTATE RAYSTOWN LAKE — $375,000, 35 acres, build-ready, mountaintop vista, close to boat launch. Call 814-599-0790.

HUNTING PARADISE! 81 acres includes: 30 tillable acres, 51 wooded acres, a 16 x 24 hunting cabin, frontage on two roads and adjoins hundreds of acres of gameland. Lease income, OGM rights and gorgeous view included. Canadohta Lake area, Crawford County. REDUCED $199,900. Call 814-881-2751.

BRADFORD COUNTY — $87,500, 3.25 acres, deep well, Aframe, two bedroom and loft, new roof, approximate 920’ meadow, septic system designed/approved. 910-322-1856.

MOUNTAIN LODGE — Owner will help finance. 3.75 acres, Raystown Lake area. 2,000 square feet plus deck, screened porch, workshop, implement shed. Everything stays. Just bring food and toothbrush. $245,000. 717-558-9053.

Nice wooded BUILDING LOTS in N.E. Florida from $7,900 with owner financing. With new home from $98,000. Have use of large lake and State Forest. Owner 717-532-4882.

ALLEGHENY COUNTY — West Mifflin Borough, one mile from county airport, 10 wooded acres, possible gas lease, all utilities including sewers, no structures, potential for development. $42,500. Call 301-831-3781.

28.8 ACRE Raised Ranch Home. Secluded with gorgeous views of the mountains, 2 ponds, with cathedral ceilings and open floor plan. Two-car garage, three bedrooms, three baths, updated home. Food plots for wildlife. Blairsville, Indiana County. $335,000. Call 267-772-0835.

FOR SALE $16,000 — Eight acres more or less. No gas or mineral rights. Penn Township, Clearfield County, PA. Phone 814-236-0188 or write to: 147 Ross Road, Grampian, PA 16838.

ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES — Ranch home previously licensed for eleven residents, two-car detached garage. Almost four acres, barn, four stalls, another outbuilding, cute fake outhouse, blacktop drive. Quiet! 814-259-0058.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT PROFESSIONAL SHARPENING. Clipper blades. Scissors for fabric, groomers and stylists. Knives, chisels and small tools.

Aires Eickert factory trained to sharpen beauty shears. Scissor sales and service. 814-267-5061 or www.theScissorGuy.net.

TRACTOR PARTS – REPAIR/RESTORATION ARTHURS TRACTORS, specializing in vintage Ford tractors, 30years experience, on-line parts catalog/prices, shipped via UPS. Contact us at 877-254-FORD (3673) or www.arthurstractors.com.

TREE TRIMMING/REMOVAL TOM’S TREE SERVICE – Tree Trimming/Removal – Storm Cleanup – Stump Grinding – Land Clearing – Bucket Truck and Chipper – Fully Insured – Free Estimates – Call 24/7 – 814-4483052 – 814-627-0550 – 26 Years Experience.

VACATIONS AND CAMPSITES VACATION PROPERTY — For rent ocean front condo, Myrtle Beach, SC. Excellent condition. Close to major attractions.

Booking for 2011. Please call 814-425-2425 or visit www.oceanfrontmyrtlebcondo.com.

FLORIDA VILLAGES — Two bedroom, two bath, two bikes. Fully furnished. One hour from Disney World. Rent two week minimum or monthly, $1,700 (October to December). Call 716536-0104. Great entertainment. Dancing nightly.

NAPLES, FLORIDA — Two bedroom, two bath condo, full kitchen. Quiet with lake view, heated pools, near beaches.

Available March 2011, $2,300 or March 2-15 or March 18-31 at $1,200 each. 717-872-7930.

FOR SALE BY OWNER — Wyndham Vacation Timeshare – 770,000 points yearly – deeded at Ocean Boulevard, N. Myrtle Beach, S.C. Vacation and rental opportunity. 814-793-3879.

RECIPES AND FOOD WANTED TO BUY “COUNTRY COOKING,” Volume 2 — $8, including postage.

“RECIPES REMEMBERED,” Volume 3 — $12, including postage.

Both of these cookbooks are a collection of recipes from men and women of the electric co-ops of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Payable to: Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association, P. O. Box 1266, Harrisburg, PA 17108. Write Attention: Cookbooks.

Volume 1 of “Country Cooking” is SOLD OUT. *HOLIDAY SPECIAL — BOTH COOKBOOKS FOR $15.*

Anvils, Vices, Fry Pans, Butchering Kettles, Lard Presses, Feather Weight Sewing Machines and Corn Sheller. CALL 570998-9132.

SAWMILLS USED PORTABLE Sawmills and COMMERCIAL Sawmill Equipment! Buy/Sell. Call Sawmill Exchange 800-459-2148.

USA and Canada. www.sawmillexchange.com.

SEA HAG SOAPS & ART MERCANTILE

REFRIGERATOR, FREEZER, Weed Eater, Holly Carburetor, Batch and a half mortar mixer with Honda motor, five complete sets of scaffold, generator, metal table. Call for prices 717-436-6010.

Great OLD RESTORED BARN hosts local regional fine art and craft. We manufacture handmade soap on premise. Open year round. Always worth the trip. We wholesale our soaps. 570663-2297. www.seahagsoaps.com.

MOTORCYCLE-SNOWMOBILE INSURANCE

SHAKLEE

For the best INSURANCE RATES call R & R Insurance Associates from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 800-442-6832 (PA).

FREE SAMPLE Shaklee’s Energy Tea. Combination red, green and white teas that are natural, delicious, refreshing, safe. For sample or more information on tea or other Shaklee Nutrition/Weight Loss Products: 800-403-3381 or www.shaklee.net/sbarton.

CLUSTER FLY & LADY BUG CONTROL Cluster Fly, Lady Bug, Boxelder Bug, Spiders, Crickets

One Price. One Treatment.

Five Results!® GUARANTEED SERVICE

1-800-726-0537 www.ClusterFlyControl.com

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PUNCHlines

Thoughts from Earl Pitts, UHMERIKUN! Earl takes issue with current crop of football announcers

Social commentary from Earl Pitts —— a.k.a.

GARY BURBANK , a nationally syndicated radio personality —— can be heard on the following radio stations that cover electric cooperative service territories in Pennsylvania: WANB-FM 103.1 Pittsburgh; WARM-AM 590 Wilkes-Barre/Scranton; WIOO-AM 1000 Carlisle; WEEO-AM 1480 Shippensburg; WMTZ-FM 96.5 Johnstown; WQBR-FM 99.9/92.7 McElhattan; WLMI-FM 103.9 Kane; and WVNW-FM 96.7 Burnham-Lewistown.

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This is one of my favorite seasons outta the whole year on account of football. It’s giant men crashin’ into other giant men. It’s like sumo, only with more paddin’.

But here’s the deal, I think this year I’m gonna watch with the sound turned down on the TV. ‘Cause these bloviatin’ bone-heads on the tube already jumped on my last nerve.

Here’s some a’ what I’m talkin’ about. This one guy — he done this zigzaggin’, loopdy-loo runnin’ all over the field an’ scored a touchdown. An’ this nim-rod in the booth, he goes, “That was a tremendous demonstration of his ‘physicality.’” What? “Physicality” is not a word. Look that up in your Funk an’ Wagnels, but I can tell ya, it ain’t in there!

An’ besides, if 11, 300-pound dudes was chasin’ you all over creation tryin’ to hurt you, you’d probably be skitter-buggin’ a little, too. That wasn’t physicality; that was a tremendous demonstration of his will to live!

Here’s another one. Now — I been watchin’ football my entire life an’ this one just popped up in the last year or two. An’ it’s already drivin’ me nuts. They want to get the ball to the receivers in space. Yeah — he’s got to get the ball in space. Am I watchin’ football or astronauts? What the heck’s with the “space” thing?

Did we have a kick-off — or a blast-off when I wadn’t payin’ attention?

Then one time the quarterback was checking down his receivers against a nickel defense, threatening a casino blitz.

Uh-huh. I felt like Refrigerator Perry just sat on my head — an’ squished out the important parts.

Wake up, America! You know what scares me the most? The only doofus talkin’ football I understand anymore is Terry Bradshaw. He’s simple-minded, just like the rest of us.

Once again we’re goin’ out of our way to make our children wimps. That’s what we do anymore, you know. We handle them like they was diamonds. Precious little children. HA!!!

I heard this story about some school district in West Virginia that took out all the swing sets on their playgrounds on account a’ some little girl jumped off a swing last year an’ broke her arm. An’ her parents sued the school. So the new rule is no swing sets for no kids at no time.

You know — maybe for recess, instead of gettin’ their coats on, we could wrap every little kid with bubble-wrap an’ send ’em outside.

Now, when I was a kid, your playground was basically your obstacle course a’ death. There wasn’t one piece of equipment on the playground that couldn’t kill you.

We had swing sets. An’ yes, they can be dangerous. I have jumped off a swing in mid-air. An’ I nearly broke my neck. But, it’s the only chance a kid gets all day to fly.

Now, take your teeter-totter. That can be an innocent and fulfilling experience.

But what fun is that? No sir. That is a 6year-old’s launch pad. If you don’t land behind the guy on the other side, you ain’t doin’ it right.

We had a merry-go-round. We called it the vomit comet. You get the queasy girls on there, spin it hard until they either spit up or fly off into the gravel. Yeah, what does an 8-year-old know about centrifical force?

An’ then there was my favorites — the jungle gym an’ the monkey bars. I’ll tell you how much I loved them bad boys — I dislocated my shoulder two times in fifth grade.

Wake up, America. When we got done with recess there’d be so much blood on the ground, the playground looked like a war town. An’ we survived.

Well, most of us.

I’m Earl Pitts, Uhmerikun. l

RURALreflections Giving thanks NOVEMBER is the traditional time for giving thanks, and we want to thank everyone who submitted photos for our 2010 “Rural Reflections” contest, which is now closed. Winning photos, chosen by a panel of judges, will be printed in the January and February issues of Penn Lines.

You can now begin submitting your photos for the 2011 contest. If your photo wins top honors, you could receive a $75 prize in one of our five contest categories: most artistic, best landscape, best human subject, best animal and editor’s choice.

Send photos (no digital files, please) to: Penn Lines Photos, P.O. Box 1266, Harrisburg, PA 17108-1266. On the back of each photo, include your name, address, phone number and the name of the electric cooperative that serves your home, business or seasonal residence. The best way to include that information is by affixing an address label to the back of the photo.

Remember, our publication deadlines require that we work ahead, so send your seasonal photos in early. We need spring photos before mid-January, summer photos before mid-April, fall photos before mid-July and winter photos before mid-September. Photos that do not reflect any specific season may be sent at any time. Please note: photos will not be returned unless a self-addressed, selfstamped envelope is included. l

Robin Little Adams EC

Anne S. Hoehn Tri-County REC

Thad J. Corwin United EC

Tim Reese Somerset REC NOVEMBER 2010 • PENN

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