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Serving Mifflin County and the surrounding area.
The Valley A free newspaper dedicated to agriculture, self-reliance, frugal living, and modern homesteading. Tomorrow’s Media - A Day Early Volume 2, No. 12
The Valley, December 2011
Complimentary
Hidden Treasure in the Valley — The Hill Store are there as well. In this part of amount of wooden drawers (as line both sides of the main hall. of this place so spectacular. The mentioned above) housed variThe gorgeous main room, which detail that went into the restoraThe Hill Store, called the Guest now functions as an event hall, is ous wares from powdered paint tion, from the lighting to the oiled Cottage, you’ll find a flat screen complete with all the essentials to spices and hardware items. A wood floors and wood ceilings, to TV, wireless internet, and air you need to pot-bellied stove in the store was conditioning. host a fully the hub for men sharing news of For long term catered event. guests, there are the Valley. Upon John McNabb’s Or perhaps death in 1894, Tom’s grandfather, even laundry you’d rather William James McNabb, took facilities on the do your own over and the store became Mcsecond floor. cooking, or You don’t even Nabb and Sons. Upon William have a pot James’ death in 1932, ownership have to bring luck. That’s of the store was transferred to one your own pots ok too says and pans or cof- of his son’s, Joseph Sylvester, owner, Ann fee, all of that and his wife Charlotte Kennedy McNabb. comes complete McNabb. Joseph and Charlotte The store’s in the kitchen. made very few changes to the old sales I was in awe store other than focusing more counter at the beaution grocery than a general store. Following their deaths, which serves as the ful space that were within six months of each perfect spot Tom and Ann other in 1969, the property was to lay out a are providing to The Hill Store when it was still a store, shelves to the ceiling packed with goods bequeathed to Joseph and Chartasty smortheir guests and represent a by-gone era. gasboard. the price is relotte’s daughter, Mary McNabb The old ally affordable Laughlin. During the time that counters lining the opposite wall for anyone on a budget. Mary owned the store the building the old markings on all the counwork nicely for coffee, punch, and ter drawers--it all just takes you was used for many purposes rang Now, for a little history. The desserts. There is no shortage of ing from a sub shop to an antique back in time. Hill Store at the corner of Main space! Many tables, all done in store. In 2004, Mary sold the Now, if a party isn’t what and Greenwood streets in Belperiod decor and primitive charm, building to Tom and Ann McNabb you had in mind, but rather you leville was established in 1853 adorn the main hall so that everyand in the winter of 2005 the labor are looking for a place to put up by Tom’s great grandfather, John one will have a seat during your of love into the restoration of the a small family for a visit, need McNabb and Mr. Haas. In 1885, feast no matter what its purpose. a place to get away from it all, John brought his son, A small kitchen area is or want a place for a girl’s night William James (Tom’s just what you need for sleepover, Ann and Tom have that grandfather) into the preparation and cleanup. covered as well. In the back of business as a partner. Ann has thought of it all! the main hall, easily secluded by During the years that Need a place to host a big wooden door, is full living Tom’s great grandfather a baby shower, holiday area with its own entrance so as John owned the busiparty, office retreat, or not to disturb any type of party ness, he also served as family get together? This going on in the main hall. Three deputy postmaster and is THE perfect spot! The and a half bedrooms, living room, ran the post office from main hall comfortably bathroom, laundry facilities, and a The Hill Store. The Hill seats about 40 people full kitchen await a lucky group of Store sold all the goods with standing room for people who are looking for a place a family would need in- The new, totally refinished in period design, to stay that’s reasonably priced cluding, but not limited event area, which now offers a warm and many more. Be warned Some of the “Women of The Valley” chatting and packed with charm! Primitive to, penny candy, slabs of welcoming atmosphere to throw a party! though, your guests will during the one year anniversary party, at The four-poster beds and barn wood meat and cheese, matespend quite a bit of time Hill Store. (l to r) Carleen Grossman, Mary Anna Chenoweth, Debra Kulp, Rebecca Harrop pouring over all the defloors and doors adorn the rooms, rial to make clothing, shoes, and Continued on page 3 and Sonieta Harrop. tail that makes the charm but all the modern conveniences men’s suit catalogs. A numerous
About a month ago, Wayne and I walked right into a real surprise. A party thrown in honor of the one year anniversary of The Valley. You may have read about it in Wayne’s Editors Column in the November 2011 issue. As if the party itself and and chatting with many of the The Valley writers wasn’t enough, the venue they picked to host the party was a special treat. So special in fact, that I felt compelled to tell everyone about it on the front page of this month’s issue. If you haven’t ventured to Belleville in a while, be sure to plan a trip soon! Nestled right at the top of the hill in Belleville, and right at the entrance to Rt. 305, is a real gem! If you are old enough, you may remember it as an old general store, but if you’re not, you may remember it as an antique store or a gift shop. But now, once again, thanks to owners Tom and Ann McNabb, it has taken on a whole new purpose. Ann and Tom have beautifully restored The Hill Store, to its old style charm. The counters and drawers that once held oodles of “wares,” from food to hardware,
Lighting Brush Fires in People’s Minds
The Valley, December 2011
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In this Issue To Buy...Or Not to Buy --Dave Wilson Woods, Water and Wildlife --Bob Sleigh Roads Less Traveled --Lynn Persing Understanding the Constitution --Dave Molek Thots on... --Lydia Adventures on Our Nourishing Journey --Sue Burns Grosze Thal Nachbaren --Jeptha I. Yoder Looking Out My Back Door --Mary Anna Chenoweth The Mushroom Guy --Bob Sleigh Julie Mac’s, Wisdom from the Kitchen, Home and Garden --Julie MacConnell Modern Energy and Alternate Heating --Curt Bierly Recipes, Crafts and Gift Ideas --Debra Kulp Memories of a Dairy Princess --Macy Fisher Home-Grown --Mary Eck The Chicken AND the Egg! --Mike Flanagan Contentment Quest --Joanne Wills For the Love of Small Town America --Sarah Hurlburt
Editor’s Corner Wayne Stottlar December...Christmas...winter...wood...cold...rest...the time of the year when we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a busy and magical time to be sure. As I age, the best part of Christmas is seeing truly joyous children with eyes all lit up over the magic of the season. Let’s hope that they are being taught the meaning of the season and getting sheltered a little from the commercialism. First, I would like to congratulate our “Understanding the Constitution” author and my friend Dave Molek on his campaign for Mifflin County District Attorney. Aside from the bitter battle that took place, Mifflin County is in great hands come January, Dave is a man of the people and will make all of us proud to be from Mifflin County. Dave is honest, hard working, highly intelligent and will be a faithful keeper of the public trust. Again, thanks to all of you in Mifflin County who came out to vote, and voted for Dave Molek. In other election news not from this area, but still important to me, the election in Perkasie Borough near Philadelphia turned into a track meet in the final days. With few contested seats on the ballot, the biggest battle took place between my youngest son Justin Stottlar and two incumbents for Borough Council. Justin had
formed a taxpayers group a year or so ago after discovering corruption at the local level of government, something that both parties in the county were privy to and part of, judging by the way contracts were handled. The new group started attending council meetings and speaking out about the problems they had uncovered, only to be intimidated and silenced by the county party offices and local media who answered directly to the council. When roadblocks continued to be put in front of the citizens, Justin threw his name into the campaign via write-in vote a mere two weeks before the election. He received enough votes in the primary to be placed on the ballot and then the real trouble began. Running as a Republican, the county GOP committee refused to endorse him as he wasn’t their hand picked guy...(remember that corruption thing right?) They also started a fierce letter writing campaign in the local paper, describing him as inexperienced and too youthful. This is a common tactic of incumbents in both parties to anyone who dares to upset their plans for the future. Then his car was spray painted and the local police were of little help (thought they were paid to “protect and serve” everyone?) as they didn’t seem to want to investigate obvi-
ous union tactics (remember that corruption right?). Well Justin kept focused and went doorto-door in old fashioned retail politicking style that he learned in NH. He knocked on every door in his ward and some of them a couple times. Election day for me was about as exciting as it can get. Minutes after hearing Dave Molek won his race, my son Justin relayed the news to me that he had WON! In a three way race against two incumbents, Justin was the top vote getter, even though Pat Poprick, the local GOP committee vice chair would not allow Justin’s name to appear on the sample ballot that voters looked at to familiarize themselves with the candidates (remember that corruption thing right?) The GOP chair is ineffectual and is overridden by Poprick who to many is a social ladder climber. The Bucks County GOP committee is in dire need of purging, when you have party officials trying to manipulate the will of the voters, it is time for those officials to be removed. Congratulations Justin, I am a proud Dad, it was a treat to watch you use everything you learned to run a perfect campaign. Remember that the people gave you their trust, they are your new master. Public servant carries a huge responsibility, don’t forget those that put you there, do their
Frugal Living --Laurie Lowe The Horse Scoop --Traci Hanna Yoder Poor Will’s Valley Almanack --Bill Felker
will. Another major event took place recently that caused my chest to swell with pride, my oldest son Jeremy and his wife Shannon and their son Kristopher were all baptized together as a family on Sunday November 13th at their church in NH. The ceremony was filmed so those of us who are so far away could see it within hours of the actual event. It was beautiful and wonderful to be able to see it, thank you kids and Kristopher. Congratulations on your choice to follow Jesus, I know you will thrive. Lastly, I have been trying to figure out a better way for us to help our local economy, our local shop keepers and service businesses. During this time of increased buying stop for a moment and think about how you purchase items. Most hit the big box stores, trying to save a few pennies here and there, but are we? I think no, not in the long run. I have developed what I refer to as The Valley state of mind. When I need something, my first thought is, “Which one of our advertisers sells this product?” I will now go out of my way to support those that make this publication possible. They are our neighbors, and if we all buy from each other, we don’t need much from outside of our area. Get Vocal - Buy Local! Merry Christmas. a
Contact Info
Life in the East End --Rebecca Harrop
Editor/Publisher Wayne Stottlar
Mail Pouch Books --Carleen B Grossman
Ad Designer/Co-Publisher Lynn Persing
Back Talk --Dr. Joseph Kauffman
Associate Editor Colleen Swetland
Christmas is Coming! --Pastor Pat Roller
The Valley PO Box 41 Yeagertown, PA 17099 (717) 363-1550
Homeschooling on the Homestead --Andy Weller Splitting Hares --Julianne Cahill
E-mail: thevalleynewspaper@gmail.com Web: www.thevalleynewspaper.com
Walking on the Wild Side --Julie Shultz Smith
©The Valley. All Rights Reserved.
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The Valley, December 2011 Treasure in The Valley from front page. historic Hill Store began. Over the many years since 1853, the store had fallen into a
of their magazines about the history and renovation of this great landmark. As you enter The Hill Store, you will be greeted by a wonder-
The front of the old Hill Store as it appeared back in the early 1900s
state of disrepair, but luckily it had not been modernized, so there was not much to be removed that wasn’t true to the original identity of the store. However, there were many structural repairs to be made. For more detail on the renovation of the building, including before and after photos, stop by the Hill Store and purchase one
ful photo of John McNabb, Tom’s great grandfather and the original proprietor of the store. According to Ann and Tom, they have hung his portrait with pride right inside the door so that he can once again oversee the store he established in 1853 and welcome a new generation of customers. a
Splitting Hares from page 16
do not separate winter litters until 10-12 weeks of age. Overall, winterizing your rabbitry setup is just as individual as your rabbitry. Keeping your rabbits warm and comfortable is of utmost importance, but it’s also good to keep your own comfort in mind. Farm chores become a bit more tedious over the winter, so it is best to maintain an easy and efficient routine. Now that your rabbitry is in order and ready for the season, the rabbits and I wish you and your loved ones an especially happy holiday season. Merry Christmas! We look forward to “seeing” you in the New Year! a
pregnant does inside the house during the winter. I like to set up new and nursing mothers inside our home because a small escapee will usually be just fine until I arrive home and can place it back into the safety of its nest. Plus, the now naked-bellied doe will be thanking you when she is able to get a head start on growing some new belly fur in a warm environment. Usually at about weaning age, I am able to choose a warmer day to transition the doe and litter back out to the rabbitry. At this time, provide your kits with lots of warm hay or straw to snuggle in. I like to keep the litter together as long as possible and usually
Walking on the Wild Side from page 25 Herb and my sister Mandee Bierly to take a hand at walking the oxen around the yard here at the store that day. Abe had to explain the ropes to Herb and Mandee on how to get them to turn left and right and to stop. The oxen were just so well behaved for Herb and Mandee, that you can tell Abe spends a lot of time with them. Thanks again Abe and Mary, it was so kind of you to bring your oxen to the store for everyone to enjoy them. Out in the yard that day at E & L Supplies, we also had the kids making bird feeders and painting pumpkins. It started out a little chilly in the morning, but as the day progressed, it warmed up. It was so nice to see the smiles on all the kids faces. When it came to getting something to eat, Scotts Roasting was here making fresh pork sandwiches. I have to say that was probably my favorite thing, as I love to eat. But then again, who doesn’t? I do believe that no matter what the age, everyone had a good time. Inside the store there was so much going on as well. We had way too many sales to mention! Everything from Bog Boots to Purina Feeds. I would like to take this time to Thank everyone that has supported us in all we do. December is going to be a little Walk On The Wild Side again here at E&L Supplies. We have our pictures with Santa Saturday December 10 from 9-2, and you just never know what kind of animals we get in for that! Bring the kids and your pets out to have their pictures taken with Santa. Talking about taking a Walk On The Wild Side, there are going to be some changes here at the store as well. Wait until you find out what we are doing next. I think the kids will really enjoy it. More to come about that in the next Valley newspaper. a
J.A.E Designs has you in mind
Christmas, Weddings, Prom, New Babies, and Birthdays too. Let Jay & Carlyn make an arrangement to help you celebrate or let someone know they are in your thoughts and prayers. Come see us for all your floral needs. We are at 1 North Main Street REEDSVILLE, not Milroy!
East Gate Feed & Grain Has Grand Re-Opening East Gate Feed and Grain in Reedsville had a Grand Re-Opening event on Saturday November 19th to introduce recent changes to the retail store. The weather and attendance could not have been better for the event. Purina Mills offered for Buy 1 Get 1 Free on Pet Food and Buy 2 Get 1 Free on Horse, Deer, Companion Animal and other select feeds. Over 300 people came out to take advantage of the deals and to see the newly remodeled retail store. Familiar faces attended to show their support and take advantage of the deals as well as many new customers stopping in to see what was going on at East Gate. Clover Creek Petting Zoo was popular with kids of all ages enjoying feeding the goats and other animals. MAJIC 99 and Preston Change-O were on site for a live broadcast. Rescue Our Furry Friends (ROFF) set up a bake sale on the porch. Not only did they sell out of all the delicious goodies, but also got many donations of pet food. The $500 Grand Prize was drawn at 3pm, bringing the largest crowd of the day. The winner was Jim Kreitzer from Camp Hill, Pa. Jim was attending the event to stock up on dog, cat and bird seed. East Gate would like to thank all those who helped make our event a success. If you didn’t a chance to stop then, you definitely need to check out the new inventory before Christmas. a
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The Valley, December 2011
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A Plea to all Hunters By Deb Brackbill
If you’ve ever seen an eagle soar overhead, count yourself among the lucky ones. The Bald Eagle is making a comeback here in Pennsylvania, but they are facing a danger that a lot of people just don’t think about—lead poisoning. Hunting season is well underway here in Pennsylvania and hunters are being urged to take steps to stop the poisoning of eagles and other wildlife. We’ve already lost a few eagles in Juniata and surrounding counties and the loss of even one of these majestic birds in too many. As little as 1 part per million of lead in
an eagle’s blood is usually lethal. Many of these eagles are exposed to the highly toxic metal by eating lead shotgun pellets or bullet fragments. They eat these fragments while scavenging animals that have been shot but not recovered by hunters, or by eating the entrails of game animals, like deer, that have been harvested and “field dressed.” Usually, these entrails are simply left on the ground. Even the smallest bit of lead from bullets or shot left in these internal organs can quickly disable or kill a bird like a Bald Eagle when it feeds on these remains. There are two solutions to this problem, switching to bullets and shot which don’t contain lead, or simply burying or covering the animals or animal parts left in the field. For many years, huge numbers of ducks and geese died from eating lead shot. In fact, before a nationwide ban on the use of lead shot for waterfowl hunting in 1991, an estimated four million ducks and geese died annually as a result of swallowing lead pellets that had been fired over wetland areas. The birds would find the pellets as they sifted through
bottom sediments looking for food. A single pellet that lodges in the digestive tract of a bird can be fatal. The use of steel and other lead-free materials for the manufacture of shot has dramatically reduced the amount of lead in wetland habitats. There is a sharp contrast between the waterfowl deaths and those of eagles. The eagles aren’t picking up loose pellets from their environment. They are getting the lead by eating other animals, or parts of other animals—ones that have been shot. Animals like doves, rabbits, or squirrels are sometimes difficult to find, and many are never recovered. These animals are a very attractive but deadly meal for scavengers. Also, farmers, and “varmint hunters” often shoot nuisance animals, such as groundhogs, and leave the dead bodies for scavengers to eat. These shot filled animals are toxic to whatever eats them. The risk to eagles and other avian scavengers can be greatly eliminated by simply burying or properly disposing the animal carcasses or entrails. The solution is as simple as covering the remains or discarded parts of shot animals with brush or
sticks, which takes only a few minutes. When eagles and other scavenging birds find and eat these carcasses, they swallow the bullets and lead pellets along with everything else. Even tiny particles of lead can become lodged in their digestive tract. Digestive fluids leach the heavy metal into the blood stream and body tissues, affecting the nervous system and internal organs. Affected birds may appear lethargic and weak and are unable to stand or fly, even though there doesn’t appear to be any outward signs of injury. It’s a terrible way for an animal or bird to die, so please, I urge you to help stop these preventable deaths. a
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“Government is instituted for the common good; for the protection, safety, prosperity, and happiness of the people; and not for profit, honor, or private interest of any one man, family, or class of men; therefore, the people alone have an incontestable, unalienable, and indefeasible right to institute government; and to reform, alter, or totally change the same, when their protection, safety, prosperity, and happiness require it.” —John Adams
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The Valley, December 2011
Looking out my Back Door Life on my Mifflin County Homestead by Mary Anna Chenoweth
Growing the Unusual : Black Pepper Last December (mercy, has it been a year already) we took a look at the practical aspects of growing and using Ginger, a plant that might be considered a bit exotic for central Pennsylvania. This year, let’s celebrate winter by adding another tropical plant to our do-it-ourselves spice chest that pungent culinary staple, black pepper! Like all spices, black pepper, Piper nigrim, has an ancient and fascinating history. But more than most, this spice has been a major player on the world stage for thousands of years. It is hard to believe that these tiny, black seeds have influenced the popular culture, economies and foreign policy of so many countries. Yet there they are, rolling through history. So let’s take an extremely abbreviated look at black pepper’s past before getting down to the nitty-gritty of growing our own.
Found since prehistoric times in its’ native country in south west India, black pepper is historically known to have been used there since at least 2000 B.C.E. Important not just in cooking and medicine (as are all spices), it was also used, from the beginning it would seem, as “commodity money” a.k.a. trade goods, moving east and west in the process. In its’ travels west, through a bit of “lost in translation” mixed with market place compromise, it
Black Pepper plants trained to climb trees.
obtained a new name. Originally called ‘marica,’ black pepper caravanned with other spices, including one with similar characteristics (Piper longum) called ‘pippali’. The Greeks and then the Romans thought they were the same spice and eventually the latter name stuck to the little round seeds. Over the centuries the word became Romanized to ‘piper’ which became the German ‘pfeffer,’ the French ‘poivre,’ the Dutch ‘peper’ and the Old English ‘piper’ from whence we get pepper. PHEW! (We will restrain ourselves from a digression concerning the use of the word pepper when referring to the various members of genus Capsicum (chiles), which were “discovered” by Europeans following the wake of Captain Columbus after he ran smack dab into the “New World” whilst trying to find a western route to the
spice treasures of the “Indies.”) So, here we have this one particular spice in great demand throughout the ancient world. It was so expensive (like most spices back then) and held in such high esteem (like most spices back then) that, for much of its’ history, pepper was reserved for the life styles of the rich and famous, which as we know, can occasionally get a bit - well - odd. Case in point; it is written that when the great Egyptian pharaoh Ramesses the Second died around 1213 B.C.E., the priests in charge of his mummification stuffed his nostrils full of peppercorns, where they were found, securely nestled, a few thousand years later. Okaaaayyyyy. Well, no doubt it made perfect sense at the time. Let’s move ahead a thousand years, during which time black pepper was crisscrossing oceans and deserts and being sold in bazaars for incredible prices. With the ascendency of the Roman Empire, when the rich and famous indulged themselves in all manner of exotic culinary (and other) delights, pepper was in demand when it came to expensive spices. Inevitably, someone figured out how to cut out the middleman. Roman ships started landing on the Malabar coast of India and sailing back loaded to the gills
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Ripening peppercorns
with goodies to tempt the jaded tastes of well monied Romans. It certainly helped that Rome had conquered Egypt (around 30 B.C.E.) and a goodly chunk of Asia Minor, pretty much clearing a path for unhindered trade. Rather than lowering the prices on what they now imported directly, the Roman merchants just took over the astronomical profits. Not everyone thought pepper worth all the fuss. Around 77 C.E. a fairly famous Roman author, Pliny the Elder, wrote a fairly large book called “Natural History” in which, among many other things, he complained about the price of black pepper. He simply couldn’t understand why so many people were so hot to get their hands on the stuff and at four denarii per pound (roughly $80.00) he had a pretty good reason to
Continued on page 14
The Valley, December 2011
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Thots on...Genesis
A Bible Study for the Lay Christian by Lydia In 2 Timothy 3.16, Paul tells us, “Every inspired scripture has its use for teaching the truth and refuting error, or for reformation of manners and discipline in right living…” [NEB*] *Unless otherwise noted, all Scriptures are quoted from the New International Version. Genesis 9.20-21 Noah, a man of the soil, proceeded to plant a vineyard. When he drank some of its wine, he became drunk and lay uncovered inside his tent. Noah was the only righteous man of his generation. He was “blameless among the people of his time, and he walked with God.” [Genesis 6.9] Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord so, of all the human inhabitants of the earth at that time, only Noah and his family were brought safely through the flood. It sounds like Noah must have been a pretty upright fellow, doesn’t it? After the flood, the first thing Noah did when he walked out of the ark was build an altar and offer sacrifices to God. [Genesis 8.20] The second thing he did was plant a vineyard, drink the wine he made from its grapes, and get falling-down drunk. Can you imagine even a little of the LORD’s sadness and disappointment! He chose the one righteous man from all mankind and saved him and his family from destruction; he’d just made an everlasting covenant with Noah; and Noah turned around
and got stinking drunk. Yet aren’t we just like Noah! God is so long-suffering, loving and patient with us. He blesses us, loves us, provides for us—and then we do something totally stupid, stumble and fall flat on our face! Don’t you wonder how God puts up with us? When I do something utterly stupid, I take great comfort in Psalm 103.13-14 (NEB): “As a father has compassion on his children, so has the LORD compassion on all who fear him. For he knows how we were made, he knows full well that we are dust.” Noah’s son Ham found his father passed-out drunk in his tent, but instead of covering his father’s nakedness, he ratted him out to his brothers. Shem and Japheth, however, behaved respectfully toward their father. They took a cloak, put it over their shoulders, walked backward with it and laid it over their father. [Genesis 9.22-23] When Noah “awoke from his wine” (that’s Bible-speak for “sobered up”) and found out what had happened, he was understandably angry at the disrespectful way in which Ham had behaved toward him and pronounced a curse, not on Ham, but on Ham’s son, Canaan: “Cursed be Canaan! The lowest of slaves will he be to his brothers.” [Genesis 9.25] With his next breath, Noah blessed Shem and Japheth, reiterating his pronouncement that the descendants of Ham would be
slaves to the descendants of both Shem and Japheth. An aside here: I have heard Noah’s curse on the descendants of Ham used as a justification for everything from slavery to segregation to the activities of the Ku Klux Klan, on the grounds that Africans are the descendants of Ham. However, a cursory glance at the 10th chapter of Genesis indicates that the descendants of Ham settled in Babylon, Nineveh, Assyria, Egypt and Canaan. That is not to set aside Noah’s curse on Ham’s descendants, but to expose the faulty logic of those who would use these verses as an excuse for their own baseless bigotry. The next thing we need to be aware of is that words are important. The Bible is full of warnings against idle words. “Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies.” [Psalm 34.12-13] “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” [Proverbs 18.21] “If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless.” [James 1.26] “With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be.” [James 3.9-10]
Christmas is Coming! by Pastor Pat Roller One of the most frustrating phrases many of us face is “Christmas is coming!” Oh, it is not because we don’t like Christmas—most of us love Christmas. The music and the pageantry is heart lifting. Celebrating the birth of Jesus lifts our entire year even if we have faced some difficult times. But, that phrase “Christmas is coming!” sometimes fills us with dread because we want to give meaningful and worthwhile gifts to our families and friends. But, what do you get for someone
who has everything they need? And, what do you get for someone who doesn’t want more things? These questions swirled around the heads of a few faithful people three years ago and they came up with the Alternative Gift Fair held each 1st Sunday in December. Charitable organizations are invited to come to East Kishacoquillas Presbyterian Church and set up displays of their work for the community, the nation and internationally. The East Kish Presbyte-
rian Church will again host this event on Sunday, December 4th from 1:00 PM until 4:00 PM at the church building—the corner of Walnut and Church Streets, Reedsville. This year we have international groups, such as, Smile Train, Habitat for Humanity and Heifer International. The Smile Train provides funds to help children with Cleft Palates have life changing surgery. Habitat for Humanity builds affordable housing for families who would not own a home otherwise. This
Rev. Dr. Henry G. Covert
hgc7@verizon.net Dr. Henry Covert is an ordained minister with the United Church of Christ. After a tour of duty in the military, he worked in law enforcement for twenty years as both a patrol sergeant and county detective. Toward the end of that career he began his studies for the ministry. He has served several parishes, worked in therapeutic communities, was a state prison chaplain, and acquired adjunct faculty status in the criminal justice department at Penn State University. Dr. Covert was the chaplain for Pennsylvania’s first execution in thirty-three years. He has a doctorate from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and has authored six books. • Ministry to the Incarcerated (ISBN 0-8294-0860-6) International market -paperback • Discovering the Parables: An Inspirational Guide for Everyday Life (ISBN 978-0-313-34962-1 ) International market – hard cover & e-book • Spiritual Reflections: A Journey Through the Scriptures (ISBN 978-0-313-35901-9) International market - hardcover & e-book • Christian Beliefs and Prayers (ISBN 978-0-692-01101-0) International market – paperback, e-book & Amazon Kindle • The Crucifixion of Jesus (ISBN 978-0-9833359-0-0) International market – paperback, e-book & Amazon Kindle • The True Church of Jesus Christ (ISBN 978-0-9833359-4-8) International market – Paperback, e-book & Amazon Kindle Lowest Prices: bookfinder.com, bookfinder4U.com, alldiscountbooks.net, cheapbooks.com, Amazon.com Please Visit: https://sites.google.com/site/christianbooksbyhenrycovert David even asked the LORD to put a guard on his tongue. [Psalm 141.3] Throughout the Bible, we read examples of fathers speaking words of blessing or cursing to their children. What do we speak to our children? Do we speak blessing or cursing? Do we bless our children with affirmations of God’s love for them or do we, in effect, curse our children by pronouncing them lazy, incompetent
or worse? It’s something to think about. We must strive to be consistent in our walk with the Lord but remember not to beat ourselves up, should we stumble. Instead, we need to approach our loving Father with a humble heart, seek his forgiveness and ask him to help us walk before him in the beauty of holiness.
is not a gift. Every family is required to give in kind (sweat equity) and to pay the mortgage on the house (but without interest). Heifer International gives animals –heifers and ducks and chickens and rabbits and bee hives and water buffalo—to families around the world so that their lives are better and healthier. Heifer teaches the families how to care for the animals and requires that the first off spring is given to another family in their village of neighborhood. Heifer has been closely involved with the rebuilding of herds in Mississippi and Louisiana after Katrina. We have national groups such as 4- H, Reedsville-Milroy Meals on Wheels, and the MifflinJuniata United Way. Four –H
helps young people learn the art of farming and of hands on creating of items they can use. The students are taught how to raise their animals, create items for gifts and household use, and how to display and show these items. The Meals on Wheels take food to senior adults so they can have a healthy meal. Often the persons who deliver the meals may be the most consistent touch these senior s have with the outside world. The Mifflin –Junita United Way provides funding and encouragement to many of these other groups. They have areas of their own where they are working to improve the health and welfare of the area.
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The Valley, December 2011
Adventures on Our Nourishing Journey by Sue Burns
Welcome Winter Solstice A Great Time To Get Pickled
“A day without sunshine is like, you know, night.” –Steve Martin We certainly are getting an abundance of “night” this time of year. In fact the Winter Solstice will occur very soon, arriving on December 22 at 12:30 am Eastern Standard Time. This marks win-
snow bunny or a hibernating bear? I guess I am a little of both but on the days I feel the winter blues I turn to some kitchen therapy. If by chance you too need a pick me up this time of year, I propose you roll up your sleeves, gather a few basic ingredients, head into your kitchen and prepare to get pickled. No, I am not referring to overindulgence in beer or wine. Instead I encourage you to embrace fermentation of another kind in the form of lacofremented vegetables. Wait, I know what you are thinking. “Lacto what”? But please keep reading. This concept and process is so easy. I promise. In fact the end product will not only be delicious and nutritious but you can wow all your family and friends with homemade sauerkraut just in time for a New Easy 5 step sauerkraut recipe in this artiYear’s Day cle, make some ahead for New Years Eve. feast. You do eat sauerkraut, ter’s official beginning. The word the symbol of solstice comes from the Latin wealth, as part of words “sun” and “to stop”, due your New Year’s to the fact that the sun seems to tradition don’t stop in the sky. The sun is directly you? I thought so, overhead at “high-noon” on Winso let’s get started. ter Solstice at the latitude called The ball at Times the Tropic of Capricorn. In the Square will be Northern Hemisphere, the solstice dropping before days are the days with the fewest you know it. hours of sunlight during the whole Why Pickle? To “pickle” year. In other words the evenings a food means are dark, dark, dark. What do to preserve it in you do this time of year when the brine. Before the “light” goes out? According to the Farmer’s advent of modAlmanac, winter inspires both ern day canning joy and woe. Some people can’t most American wait for the cooler weather, snow, families underskiing and ice skating, curling up stood the process by a fire, and the holiday spirit. of pickling, also Other people dislike the frigid know as lactotemperatures, darkness, and wild fermentation. weather. Which one are you? A They learned that
vegetables combined with salt and spices would produce the lactic acid that would prevent the spoilage of these vitamin storehouses. All winter long our ancestors feasted from their crocks of real sauerkraut, lacto-fermented cucumber pickles and other treasures such as beets, onions or garlic hanging out in the root cellar. When we lost touch with this food preservation technique we also lost touch with the unparalleled health benefits that came with them. Author Sally Fallon is a huge proponent of lacto-fermentation as she explains in her book, Nourishing Traditions. Read what she has to say on the subject: The proliferation of lacto-
bacilli in fermented vegetables enhances their digestibility and increases vitamin levels. These beneficial organisms produce numerous helpful enzymes as well as antibiotic and anti carcinogenic substances. Their main by-product, lactic acid, not only keeps vegetables and fruits in a state of perfect preservation but also promotes the healthy flora throughout the intestine. I understand that this concept of lacto-fermentation can be foreign yet I’m guessing you are probably familiar with fermented dairy products like yogurt and kefir – this is the same process but applied to vegetables and fruits instead. Lacto-fermentation of
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fruits and veggies can give you the same healthy bacteria with added qualities like vitamins, enzymes, digestive help and immune boosting properties. Health benefits of lacto-fermented fruits and vegetables include: Billions of healthy bacteria - just waiting to improve your digestion. Increased digestibility of those fruits and vegetables – lactofermentation actually starts the digestive process for you so that these fruits and vegetables are already partially broken down and the nutrients are more readily available. It also helps break down the tough cell walls to release the nutrients from inside the cells of the fruits and vegetables. Increased vitamin levels – it sounds impossible to create more vitamins in a vegetable by doing something to it, but the awesome bacteria that ferment these vegetables actually release vitamins in the fermentation process. You get more vitamins than you would out of the raw vegetable. Enzymes – your body uses enzymes for literally every chemical process it goes through and as we age our enzyme levels diminish. Adding enzymes in your diet is a great way to turn back the clock and enhance your body’s natural enzyme activity for a return to youthful levels. You will benefit from the enzyme activity on the other foods you eat, which helps to break them down more fully. Also as the enzymes are absorbed into your blood stream they are used to break down inflammation. Abundant lactic acid – this acid actually helps to stabilize your body’s pH and even helps to fight arthritis. It also helps promote the growth of those healthy bacteria in your gut. Gives you an immune boost – The combination of all of the above factors helps boost your immune system, protect you from pathogens like Candida, (yeast) and viruses and keeps your system healthy and strong. As you can see, fermented foods are essential to health – and
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The Valley, December 2011
Julie Mac’s
Wisdom from the Kitchen, Home, and Garden Julie MacConnell
Merry Christmas! I just want to wish all of you a warm and wonderful Holiday season. Whether you are home or far away, may all the wonderful blessings of the season be yours. This is such a busy time for everyone! When it comes to gift giving this Christmas I wanted to give you ideas for food baskets. They are a lot of fun to put together and to get yourself as a gift-let’s face it-Christmas morning one of our favorite things was always opening our stockings-because there was lots of little things to open and look at. Gift baskets can give you that same feeling! You know how expensive premade baskets can be-but it is much cheaper and more heartfelt to do them yourself! In the last few months, I’ve given you a few recipes for canned goods that are wonderful to give, but if you have that extra special friend or relative you want to do a little more for, you can put together a bountiful food basket. Whether large or
small, a thoughtfully appointed container is only limited to your imagination. You can do a “favorite foods” collection, or desserts, or wine and cheese. Have a football fan in the house? Make up a basket of halftime snacks. You could also think about doing a themed basket such as Italian foods. A jar of your homemade
Cranberry Hootycreeks ready for gift giving!
sauce, accompanied by a package of fancy type pasta, fresh heads of garlic tied with a pretty ribbon,
and a nice bottle of good olive oil can be a really nice gift. . I did a coffee themed basket one year for one of my brother in laws that included a pound of gourmet coffee, 2 coffee mugs, flavored spoons that were dipped in chocolate, a gift certificate to his favorite coffee shop, and a metal travel mug that he could take in the car with him during his commute. You could take the same idea and do a tea themed gift for your favorite tea connoisseur. Another favorite one that I have given is all of the ingredients to make vegetarian homemade sushi. My other brother in law was thrilled with it, as he had always wanted to try making it himself. Please don’t forget home baked goods! Cookies, brownies, homemade candy, breads and other treats could be part of the personalized final touch that your friends and family will love. Nothing would be better than giving your favorite sweet tooth a basket filled with his or her private stash of goodies. You can get really creative with your containers too. The
container then becomes part of the gift, reusable after the treats are gone. Of course, you can use baskets, but, galvanized pails, flowerpots, large pasta Gift Baskets are always a welcomed gift because a little bit of you bowls, goes with them. a large cheaply in the craft section of colander, or a wire metal egg most retailers. Just please be carebasket are some alternatives to ful as there is nothing quite like consider. I saw one recently done getting scalding hot glue on your on a miniature wooden sled. That fingers if you are rushing. Ouch! one in particular inspired me! It What I love about giving this even had a cord for a pull strap so type of gift is that it really doesn’t that you could hang it on the wall need to be wrapped. It’s beautiful afterwards. on it’s own and if you put a rib Fillers in the bottom of your bon or bow on the handle, that’s package allow you to not only all you really need. If you really cushion your goods and partially had your heart set on wrapping it fill your container, but they can though, I have seen basket wrap also be part of the theme. If you starting to show up in the gift have a home paper shredder, wrap sections of my local stores. exploring these options can be a It’s kind of like the cellophane lot of fun. After they are filled, you would use if you were wrapyou may wish to tuck evergreen ping an Easter basket, but in sprigs, pinecones or silk poinsetChristmas colors. tias in between to make them fes I am always pouring over tive. You can always also decorate magazines and the internet for the basket itself. Often times, ideas for my food baskets. a hot glue gun can be your best friend when you’re trying to be Continued on page 42 creative. They can be found pretty
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The Valley, December 2011
A case for “real” Christmas Trees by Wayne Stottlar
Ever hear someone pontifiChristmas tree employs “local” cate about how “green” they are people. That’s good! because they didn’t “kill” a tree Secondly, while this tree is for Christmas, but instead used growing to harvestable size, it is an artificial tree, and then smugly informed you that you had “killed” a tree in order to celebrate your holiday? They are everywhere! Only problem is, they are just plain WRONG! First off, guess who benefits the most from the sales of artificial Christmas Trees? CHINA! As The bright red and white tent at Metzlers if enough of our products signals the start of Christmas tree sales! aren’t imported from China already, 85% of artificial trees are manufactured in China. cleaning our air by scrubbing out Factor in the damage to the enthe CO2. The tree also helps to vironment in the manufacture of prevent erosion and improves the these PLASTIC (read that petrosoil where it is grown. leum based) trees, and then there Thirdly, while this trees is the problem that when their 4-5 grows it provides habitat for all year average life is over, they then manners of wildlife. Your real seem to occupy a LOT of space Christmas tree provides you in the landfills. Does this sound and your family with the fresh, “green” to you? I didn’t think so. clean scent of the forest for your It never made sense to me either, holiday, and lastly, when the but I always said it was the fresh holiday and celebration is over, Christmasy (I know, not a word, you can turn that tree into mulch, but work with me here) smell that provided you do not use tinsel or wafted through the house that was the reason I’d never go artificial. Little did I know back then that I was actually being smart (I know, I know, work with me, I said), and really it was me who was being “responsible” to the Earth by using a real tree. How so? The racks at Lewistown Creamery are full and Well first off, buying a “local” real waiting for you!
have the tree flocked. The mulch, of course, will break down and become soil to once again provide the growth medium for another plant or tree. Real Christmas trees are a totally sustainable, and therefore, “green” crop, whereas the artificial is toxic to manufacture and is toxic once in the
landfill. This really isn’t a hard decision after all is it? Three great local outlets for real Christmas trees are Metzler Forest Products on Route 655 in Reedsville, where along with fresh cut trees, you can also purchase a potted, live tree that can be planted in your own yard after it steals the show for Christmas; Henry’s Tree Farm in Bannerville for those wishing to “choose and cut” their tree and make a family tradition of bringing home the
Christmas tree; and the Lewistown Creamery where you can purchase locally grown, fresh cut, trees and wreaths and enjoy a house made ice cream or chili dog while shopping for your tree. All three locations are part of what makes The Valley possible, please support your local businesses. I hope this year you make the wise choice and bring home a “real” Christmas tree to celebrate the holiday season. a
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The Valley, December 2011
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The Horse Scoop by Traci Hanna Yoder
All I Want for Christmas is... It’s hard to believe the holiday season is upon us. Many people have already done their Christmas shopping, but for those who have the horse lover (or even the horse) who is hard to buy for, here are a few suggestions. Of course the ultimate horse gift would be for Santa to bring... the horse! But when we already have enough of those, or are not yet ready for one of our own, there are many other gifts that will be sure to put a smile on someone’s face. Necessity items are always a great gift for someone. Totes, buckets, or baskets filled with small goodies could include a variety of treats and grooming supplies for the horse. Everyday use items for horses are a practical gift, such as color-coordinated brushes, combs, hoof picks, or lead ropes. Gloves and socks make ideal stocking stuffers, especially for the English rider. Socks are fairly inexpensive and now come in a wide variety of horse designs. Other necessity items for horses would be feed related. With the price of feed being high this year, a gift of horse feed would be appreciated by any horse owner. If you are unsure of what the horse is being fed, a gift certificate to your local feed store would be a suitable option. Gift certificates for tack and other supplies, or even the farrier, are always useful for horse owners. I love to encourage investment items for any rider just starting out. When I think of an investment item it is something necessary to the discipline that the rider has chosen. Also it is something that is often a more costly
“investment” and will be used long term. These would be items such as custom or better-made chaps, a good western hat or hard hat, or boots. Big investment tack would be saddles, bridles, or show halters for the person starting into showing or making a step up into more advanced showing. Often when these types of horse related gifts are needed, it is best just to give money towards the purchase of them. For something unique for that one of a kind horse, custom tack is in! Bronc halters with brands,
Western rider into barrel racing, team penning, team roping, and different western events, it’s all about the BLING! Custom hand-made western jewelry, that is big and chunky stones with steer head or cross conchos and spur rowels, are showing up on cowgirls all around. And every cowgirl needs at least one big bling belt. Anything personalized with embroidery or screen printing is always a special gift. Items for on the horse would be sheets or coolers with barn or horse’s name or the person’s initials. Other great customized items include grooming bags, hat cans, boot bags, chairs, saddle or bridle bags, or anything you can put a name on. Collectible gifts are for the horse lover of any age, such as Breyers or the Painted Ponies. Collectors of horse statues don’t even have to be horse owners. Western décor is not only for the horse lover, but has been popular the last few years for those wanting a taste of the ole west. Western-themed designs on frames, rope art, longhorn skulls, or items made with horseshoes are Wishing a “Dynamite” Holiday to the readers a great way to decorate any of The Valley & The Horse Scoop room. For the English rider, gifts with hunt scenes, foxes or snaffle bits seem to be a preferhorse’s names or riders initials ence. on the nose bands are becoming Magazine subscriptions are a more and more popular. Anything fairly inexpensive gift that gives with beads, crystals, or turquoise back year round. Magazines are stones is showing up on the westinformative and educational for ern scene. For the trendy younger a rider of any level. DVDs from (or sometimes even older) female a favorite trainer are becoming popular with the amount of marketPhone (717) 667-6556 141 Three Cent Lane ing done by many Toll Free (888) 567-6556 Reedsville, PA 17084 high level trainers. Riding lessons, especially for those just learning or looking for a change are helpMore than just a feed store ful. Even paying for a month of training on that
special horse would be supportive. Not often thought about ways to give would be making a donation or sponsorship in someone’s name to a favorite rescue that maybe even their horse came from. Other organizations to donate to would be possibly a therapeutic riding program. Now everyone is wondering where we find some of these interesting items. I have found the best way for me to shop for something unique... Facebook! There are a wide variety of new and interesting horse items being sold thru Facebook, Etsy, Ebay or other selling sites. The internet is a great way to get out there and find something different. Other places to look would be your local tack shops or farm and feed stores such as East Gate Feed & Grain. IF Santa is listening... I am all about the chunky unique western jewelry, Ariat ostrich boots, and Wrangler ultimate riding jeans. I never seem to have enough headstalls for my TWO horses… and if Santa feels I have been really good this year I’d definitely like a new roping saddle. a
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The Valley, December 2011 Get Pickled from page 7 lacking in most modern diets. The simple act of fermentation increases the vitamins and food enzymes found in dairy products, grains, legumes, vegetables and fruits – increasing both nourishment and flavor. Bread leavened through sourdough fermentation is richer in folate than regular whole wheat bread. Fermented foods are packed full of vitamin K2- a known cancer fighter. Fermented foods are also rich in probiotics – beneficial bacteria that build immunity, improve digestion and keep you healthy. Friendly Bacteria Are All the Rage - Here is why Prebiotics and probiotics represent essential aspects of a wholesome, nourishing diet. Though not the same, prebiotics and probiotics complement one another and work together to improve overall health and wellness. A prebiotic promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria while probiotics contain the live beneficial bacteria that help to recolonize your intestinal flora. Both prebiotics and probiotics work in harmony with one another. A diet deficient in either prebiotics or probiotics may severely impact health and immune function in particular. Prebiotics Prebiotics promote the growth and proliferation of beneficial bacteria in the digestive system. Unlike probiotics, which are live organisms, prebiotics are components of food that are not otherwise easily digested by humans and these food components essentially feed beneficial bacteria in your gut. Oligosaccharides such as oligofructose and inulin are only partially digested by humans and the remaining components of these carbohydrate molecules feed beneficial bacteria. As inulin and other prebiotics are not well-digested by the body, foods rich in these components do not cause significant rises in blood sugar; moreover, prebiotics like inulin may increase your body’s ability to better absorb iron from the foods you eat. Traditional diets typically contained over twice the amount of inulin that is present in the Standard American Diet. Essentially, humans throughout history ate foods richer in prebiotics than they do today. Tubers, greens and other plant foods offer a great source of prebiotics. Take care, however, if you have not typically consumed a fiber-rich or plantrich diet as these foods may cause gastrointestinal upset if you’re unaccustomed to eating them. Good Sources of Prebiotics
Fresh Dandelion Greens Radicchio (this is a green that is often included in those field green mixes in the produce section of the grocery store.) Endive Jerusalem Artichoke Onions Asparagus Chicory Jicama (This vegetable can be found in larger grocery chains. To me it tastes like a mix of a potato and apple. I like to shred it and put it into salads raw). It is pronounced “hikama” Garlic Wheat & Sprouted Wheat (Ezekiel bread is a wonderfully delicious sprouted grain bread. It can be found at most large grocery chains and at Nature’s Harmony on Belle Ave. in Lewistown.) Probiotics As differentiated from prebiotics which feed beneficial bacteria, probiotics are foods or supplements that contain the actual live, beneficial microorganisms. Probiotics, when ingested properly, help to recolonize the digestive tract with friendly, beneficial bacteria. Beneficial bacteria are essential to health; indeed, without them, you’d die. Seriously. Beneficial bacteria help your body to synthesize vitamins, absorb nutrients, keep pathogens at bay and interact directly with your immune system for your overall health. While everyone’s digestive tract plays host to beneficial bacteria, antibiotics and poor eating habits including diets deficient in prebiotics can kill off and inhibit the proliferation of these friendly intestinal microflora. For this reason, it’s important to consume probiotics either as whole foods or as supplements. Consuming probiotic foods and supplements will help to recolonize your digestive tract’s natural flora and encourage their proliferation. This act is particularly important if you’ve come off a round of antibiotics. Remember: antibiotics kill the good guys too. Good Sources of Probiotics Yogurt Kombucha Kefir Fermented & Cultured Vegetables Probiotic Supplements It’s important to remember that both probiotics and prebiotics work together, synergistically. While you may load up on probiotic supplements, it won’t do your body much good if you continue to eat a diet devoid of fresh fruits, vegetables and other foods rich in inulin, and oligosac-
charides. Similarly, a diet rich in prebiotics will give your intestinal flora something to feed on, but it’s likely that your intestinal flora could use a boost if you’ve typically eaten a poor diet or been on antibiotics at some point (that is, if you’ve lived like most of us). Okay, now we know why we need to get pickled, but how do we do it? Before I share my recipe for sauerkraut let me say that I totally understand that the concept of eating and creating fermented foods is foreign and can be intimidating. We have been raised in a culture, (no pun intended), that believes EVERYTHING needs to be pasteurized. We fear traditional eating. Believe it our not, food preservation in the form of canning was not popularized until after 1810. Up until that time, our ancestors preserved their harvest through lacto-fermentation. Vegetables were preserved simply with salt, water and spices – no boiling water baths necessary. The fermentation process creates lactic acid, nature’s preservative. This was one of the only options for preserving food until canning and electricity were so widespread. There is no need to “process” the jars and they can be stored in a root cellar or other cool place. Traditional food preservation rarely involved high heat. Heat processing kills the enzymes in raw food which may reduce its nutritional content. Fermentation, or the process of pickling, centers on maximizing enzyme and vitamin content. Thus the end result is a healthier product with less time and energy usage. Most of think of pickles as cucumbers processed in vinegar brine. Yet traditional pickling does not use vinegar or heat processing. Instead it uses a vegetable, (or other food), salt, and a controlled environment. To ease you into the fermentation process here are a few tips that helped me. Don’t be confined to recipes. Preserve whatever it is that you have in abundance, in any combination. Add flavors and spices that you like. Just be careful not to cut beets too small as they contain a lot of sugar and can produce alcohol. As an example, I like to include red cabbage along with the traditional green cabbage when I make sauerkraut both for color and added nutrition and I also add caraway seeds because I really like the flavor. Be sure to leave 1-2 inches of head space. The fermentation process can cause the vegetables
to “bubble up”. Clean your jars and equipment very well. You want to avoid bad bacteria at all costs in order to allow the good bacteria to proliferate. Probably the most familiar lacto-fermented vegetable to us in central Pennsylvania is sauerkraut- the German version of cabbage that is salted and lacofermented over a period of time. Sauerkraut is full of active enzymes as well as healthy bacteria contained in the lactic acid and is known to have potent anticarcinogenic properties. No wonder it is the symbol of wealth. If you follow this simple recipe you can create you own homemade sauerkraut that is free of preservatives and chock full of goodness that will sustain you all winter long. Simple Sauerkraut in Five Easy Steps Ingredients: Cabbage, salt Supplies- Pint or quart size glass canning jars and lids. (Do not use plastic or metal containers), cutting board and knife, large bowl. 1. Slice or grate the cabbage. (Peel off a few leaves from the head of cabbage before you start to slice it.) These leaves will be used as a “cover” that sits on top of the shredded cabbage after it
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is stuffed into the jars. Place the shredded cabbage in a large bowl. 2. Salt- Sprinkle Sea salt (2 tablespoons per head of cabbage) on the shredded cabbage. Toss well with your hands. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let sit for one hour. 3. Squeeze- The juices are beginning to come out of the cabbage. Massage, squeeze and toss for a few minutes to release the beginnings of the lactic acid. 4. Stuff - Place handfuls of the cabbage into your VERY clean glass jars. Stuff tightly because you want the brine to cover the cabbage. Add water if necessary. However, make sure you leave ‘head space’ for the gas bubbles that will form. I like to place a piece of the whole cabbage leaf that was set aside before shredding on top of the shredded cabbage to act as a cover. Finally, screw on the lid but not too tightly. 5. Sit- Position the jars on your countertop for approximately 3 days then screw the lids on tightly and transfer to cold storage. I put mine in the refrigerator. Once in cold storage, lacto fermented vegetables will keep almost indefinitely. It is as easy as that! Just remember: Slice, Salt,
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Roads Less Traveled...
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by Lynn Persing
Another birthday is getting ready to pass me by, so I’m now approaching the uphill climb to the big half a century mark. When I was younger I couldn’t imagine what I might be doing in middle age, or even what I’d look like. Would I be all old and wrinkly? Well, I’m not quite old and wrinkly yet, but I am noticing a few crows feet starting to appear! In the blink of an eye, here I am approaching 50. Now I know all the young people reading this are saying “yea, 50....that IS old.” Well let me tell you, it goes by FAST, really fast, so don’t sit back and think that you’ll never get there. You will wake up one day and it will be upon you. The good thing is that I still feel like a kid, especially when I’m around my parents. Why is that? Are you always a kid when you are in the presence of your parents? As I was trying to decide what I’d write about this month, I thought about my age and about
all the things that I’ve owned, or my parents have owned, that have become obsolete over the years. I decided I wouldn’t venture into the fashion world as I could spend hours listing styles that have come and gone. I’m sure there are kids (and maybe some people in their early 30s) that probably don’t even know what some of these things are! • clamp on roller skates (As kids we roller skated for hours on these in the basement. Remember the skate key?) • 8-track tapes (My parents had an 8 track player. I heard lots of Johnny Cash—see, I AM old.) • cassette tapes (Several of my
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cars had cassette players. It ruined my day when the tape got wound around the knobs inside the player and it came out like spaghetti. I still have a case of my old cassettes in the attic. Time to purge those I guess.) record players and vinyl records (I played my parents 45s for hours on end. And when I was younger, I had 72s of all the classics like Hansel and Gretel, Cindarella, etc.) Polaroid cameras (Ahhh, just sit back and wait for the image to magically appear!) typewriters (My college roommates and I used the typewriter to type our papers for classes. Thank goodness it had a builtin correction tape. Remember having to insert that white correcting tape in front of the ribbon?) cameras that used a roll of film (Drop off the film at the drug store or camera shop and wait a week to get your pictures. Re-
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member the anticipation only to find out half of them were too dark or over-exposed?) phones with a cord and a dial (I believe I must have broken the world’s record for stretching the home phone cord the longest without breaking it.) TVs with knobs (That’s when Dads had it rough.) VCRs and VHS tapes (They were great until you accidentally taped over something important or you forgot to label them. Remember those big camcorders that you had to heft up onto your shoulder?) phone booths (Where did they
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all go? Was someone in charge of dismantling them all?) encyclopedias (My parents had a set of these. They collected a lot of dust after the internet came out!) full service gas stations (My Dad pumped his own gas anyway. He was too worried his car would get scratched or gas would be dripped down the side of it!) drive-in movie theaters (These are so cool. I think they should bring them back just for nostalgia sake.) thermal fax paper (Changing that roll was a real treat!) floppy disks (512K and then 1.44 MB. One picture from this publication wouldn’t fit on one of those!) S&H Green Stamps (I bought a few things for my first apartment with these.) coffee perculators (My Mom and Nana used these. It smelled so good!)
There are so many more, but now take some time to think about the things that will probably be obsolete in the next ten to twenty years. What about phone books, newspapers (yikes!), TV remotes, the desktop computer, DVD players, etc. I’ll follow up with an article when I’m approaching 70 and fill you in on what survived the decades and what didn’t. a
The Valley, December 2011
Understanding the Constitution Every Vote Counts
Our United States government is not a direct democracy in which the majority of our citizens have the right to govern. Our United States is a democratic republic in which the people exercise only some degree of influence on government decision-making. Lately, it seems to me that we the people have less and less influence on our entrenched federal representatives in Congress and even less on our President. Today, it is widely accepted that a necessary component of this republican form of government, and a basic human right, is the right of the people to vote for our representatives. It appears to me that the peoples’ right to vote is the most effective mechanism
by David Molek
to hold government officials accountable and ensure that they act in a manner consistent with their constituents’ freedom. Our right to vote is protected throughout our Constitution. Authority for determining elector status is given to the states in Article I, section 2. The 17th Amendment adopted the same qualification language to apply to the popular election of United States Senators (a mistake if you ask me). This authority is superseded only insofar as the Constitution itself forbids the denial of equal protection and the exclusion of voters on specific grounds, such as race (15th Amendment), sex (19th Amendment), failure to pay a poll tax (24th Amendment), and, for
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those 18 years old or older, age (26th Amendment). Surprisingly, neither the original United States Constitution, nor the Bill of Rights, explicitly grants or recognizes a federal right to vote. Rather, our Constitution protects the right to vote only when it is granted by the states. Voting privileges extend only as far as our respective state legislatures permit. Our founders originally gave our state legislatures the power to select their United States Senators. The 17th Amendment changed that to popular vote of the people. Our founders sought to give the States a voice in the federal government, and therefore provide a structural check on the power of the federal government. The 17th Amendment attacked federalism.
Breakfast with Santa Claus
Saturday, December 10, 2011 8:30 am to 10:00 am or 10:30 am to 12 noon Calvary Bible Church, Lewistown
The founders believed the Senate would protect the states’ powers. Holding federal power in check was a major concern. They discussed ways to prevent a central government from abusing its power. With the Amendment, federal government tyranny is left unchecked and it prevents state legislatures from having any influence in the federal government. Sure the 17th Amendment ensures that all members of Congress are elected by the people, but the people of an entire state are unable to affect the actions of their U.S. Senators, except for voting them out of office after their lengthy 6-year terms. It is no coincidence that the size of the federal government has grown exponentially since the adoption of the 17th Amendment. Our Senators are controlled by special interests often exercising their influence from outside the states that the Senators represent.
Our state itself has no direct representation as the Founders intended. It seems to me that political parties, controlled by powerful interests, work to preserve their power. Both parties seem to promote changing Washington, but in reality seem to like Washington just the way it is. Little gets done that they don’t like and few are truly held accountable. I feel sometimes that we the people have little influence on the political process. Government goes to great lengths to leave the impression that our vote counts. Even though we often feel otherwise, our vote does count. The recent local election shows that grassroots efforts can succeed. Those efforts just need to be expanded, enlarged and promoted to deliver messages to state and federal elected officials. Our vote does count. a
Let each citizen remember at the moment he is offering his vote that he is not making a present or a compliment to please an individual — or at least that he ought not so to do; but that he is executing one of the most solemn trusts in human society for which he is accountable to God and his country. —Samuel Adams, in the Boston Gazette, April 16, 1781
Tickets:
Adults $ 10 — Children (4-12) $ 5.00 Children (3 and under) Free
Event Includes:
Photo with Santa Activities Give-away A Buffet Breakfast to include: scrambled eggs, toast, bacon, sausage, home fries, French toast sticks, juice and coffee.
We will be accepting donations of non-perishable food items as well as scarves and mittens.
Ticket Deadline is December 1st Tickets can be purchased in Community Relations at Lewistown Hospital, Monday thru Friday from 9 am to 4 pm or by calling 717-242-7464. Friends of Lewistown Hospital
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The Valley, December 2011
14 Growing the unusual from page 5 gripe! Ya think prices are bad now? At any rate, the political and sociological upheavals from the fall of the Roman Empire, the ‘Dark Ages’ and the ‘Middle Ages’ had little long term effect on continued trade to the East. Spices (especially black pepper) were pretty close to the top of the list when it came to desirable luxury imports that funneled into Europe mostly through Italy. With the coming of the Renaissance (a ‘rebirth’ in so many ways,) people began to look at the trade directed through Italy - and the riches that resulted - and thought, “Well, let’s give it a try.” The effort to break the Italian trade monopoly helped lead to Spain’s western adventures, starting with that expatriate Italian explorer, Columbus. But it was the seafaring Portuguese who circled Africa and sailed east to hit the jackpot. In 1498, Vasco da Gama landed in India and returned, perhaps a year later, with a cargo of - you guessed it - spices! King Manuel I named him Admiral of the Sea of the Indies and a whole new age in exploration and trade began. Of course, now that direct sea routes to the riches of the world were being established, others entered the great trading game most notably Holland, England and France. With all the competition, prices slowly came down to where luxury goods became available to more and more social classes. Some companies still in business had their beginnings in the hurly - burly of the 18th and 19th century spice trade. As a result, today we can go into and market and find shelves loaded with all manner of spicy delights. now, we can buy black peppercorns for about $11.00 per pound - depending on the type of pepper and the fluctuation of the world market. As with everything, quantity and quality vary from year to year and place to place since plantations are found worldwide. Black pepper is grown in, and exported from India, Brazil, Indonesia, China, Sri Lanka, Malaysia with the bilk of world wide production recently shifting to Vietnam. Now that we have a bit of background, let’s get on with growing our own. You should know up front that patience is one of the necessary ingredients for growing black pepper. It may take four or five years for the plant to mature
enough to begin fruiting but in that time you will get to know a fascinating plant with interesting little quirks. Quirks like, once they do start to produce they do so almost year round, a good quirk and a good return on time and effort. Though my pepper journey is only entering year two, there is plenty to share and the rest we’ll cover with the help of experts. Black pepper is a woody, branching perennial vine that, left to its’ own devises can grow upwards of twenty feet in length. On plantations they are usually pruned to around half of that and are trained up trees or poles. We can use trellising, wrapping and pruning to keep the plants to a manageable size. My plants started out at six inches and were just under three feet at summers end, by which time I had built them willow towers to climb on (you have to wrap or tie the stems to what ever you are using to support them.) The smooth stems grow in sections (caleed articulations) and the leaves grow out at the section joints. They are dark green, oval with straight, prominent veins and a sharply pointed tip. When the vines branch, which mine were just starting to do at the beginning of September, they do so at the slightly bulging joints. While we’re on the topic of stems and leaves, let me give you a heads up about another delightful little quirk of the black pepper plant sugar spheres. The black pepper plant produces balls of a fluid partly made up of sugar - the technical term is exudates. They look like tiny crystal balls, a little less in size than the head of a pin; but it wasn’t dancing angels that first came to mind when I noticed them under the leaves and on the stems. It was insects that I thought of, vicious egg-laying INSECTS. Even though no bugs had been seen crawling or flitting, for a moment it seemed that unidentifiable poor management had doomed the pepper plants. So I wiped them off and hoped for the best. The little crystal balls came back. Finally, the rational part of the old brain kicked in and by observing closely with my trusty magnifying glass (a must have tool for any plant junkie), I figured out that they weren’t eggs or weird bugs. It was one of those “Well, duh!” moments. After a few weeks they dried up into little black specs. It took months and a bit of sleuthing to find out that this is just part of a black pepper plants’ natural way. TOO COOL!
I haven’t yet found information as to why the plant produces these unusual sugar balls and to tell you the truth, it doesn’t matter. It’s a bit like cats purring; don’t care why, don’t care how, it’s just a joy to live in a natural environment that has such wonders, great and small. Now, let’s talk about specifics. Plant your black pepper plants in a potting soil that is rich in organic matter, either your own mix or one of the commercial brands that are available today, Throughout our growing season, when your plant is outside, use a balanced fertilizer once a month but slack off once the plants are indoors. Water when you nortice that the soil is dry. The potting soil you use should drain well. In their natural environment pepper plants are used to periods of very wet tropical weather, but in a pot we have to avoid the possibility of root diseases that can come from soggy feet. Speaking of soggy feet, let’s talk pots. Use clay pots. Period. Just in case you don’t remember why, here’s a brief recap: clay pots allow the water to move out as well as down, and lets the air in, which means the soil in the pots dries out as well as the surface and the roots stay healthy, hence a healthy plant. The issue of weight with a clay pot is not a drastic one with our black pepper plants. They like being a bit pot bound so they don’t need a lot of space. The four inch clay pot you start out with should keep your pepper plant happy at least for a year, and according to the experts (the ones that literally wrote the book - which you’ll find in the resources) you should be able to keep them healthy and productive in an eight incher. Now, let’s assume we’ve raised our black pepper plants for four years. We’ve fed them, watered them correctly, given them their own jungle gym and moved them indoors as soon as temperatures start to dip into the upper sixties at night. This last bit is VERY important. My pepper plants got hit with an unexpected 40-ish degree night; one died completely back and now is struggling along with one leaf and the other is finally starting to vine again. Anyway, our pepper plants have also had warmth (above 70 degrees is best) and GOOD light throughout the winter. In short, we’ve babied them. One day you notice that your pepper vine has grown a long stem covered with little white flowers. These soon turn into what
look like long chains of tightly strung green beads - our first peppercorns! Now what do we do? Black, white, green and red peppercorns all come from the same plant (although sometimes the ‘red peppercorns’ found in mixes are fruit from either the Peruvian or Brazilian peppertree, Schinus molle or Schinus thifolius). The different forms are a matter of when you pick the pepper and how you process them; all of this information can be found in the book recommended at the end of the article or on various web sites (for those who like to surf). For black pepper, pick when they are still mostly green (peppercorns are red when ripe). Most of the information recommends that you scald them in boiling water for a minute, drain and dry (whatever your technique) in a single layer. Your harvest is ready when the peppercorns become black, hard and wrinkled. Grind and enjoy not just the warmth (which comes mainly from a substance called piperine) but all the subtle variations of flavor that can only be appreciated when you use freshly ground pepper - in this case imported from our own backyards right here in central Pennsylvania!
So, consider spicing up your self sufficient lifestyle with some homegrown black pepper - hopefully grown next to your own ginger plants - and you’ll be well on your way to adding some culinary luxuries to the endless list of things that we can easily, and enjoyably, do for ourselves! Plant Sources: This is where I’ve gotten most of my ‘unusual’ plants. You can scope out others online. Logee’s Tropical Plants, 141 North Street, Danielson, CT 06239-1939 1-888-330-8038 The co-owners of Logee’s have written THE book to have if you want to grow tropical edibles (and you’d be AMAZED at what you CAN grow.) We strongly recommend this book for your home library! Growing Tasty Tropical Plants by Laurelynn G. Martin and Byron Martin. It’s available from the catalog and online. Potting Soil: Pennsylvania’s own, of course! Organic Mechanics Soil Company LLC, 110 East Biddle Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania 19380 484557-2961 www.organicmechanicsoil.com a
A human being should be able to change a diaper, plan an invasion, butcher a hog, conn a ship, design a building, write a sonnet, balance accounts, build a wall, set a bone, comfort the dying, take orders, give orders, cooperate, act alone, solve equations, analyze a new problem, pitch manure, program a computer, cook a tasty meal, fight efficiently, die gallantly. Specialization is for insects. -Robert A. Heinlein
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The Valley, December 2011
The Mushroom Guy Tasty fungal morsels and other wild edibles. by Bob Sleigh
What a Strange Trip This Year Was As with most mushroom hunting years, things were just a little strange this year. Morels started a little early in my neck of the woods, went away and then came back again. It wasn’t a great Morel season, but not a bad one either as weather conditions seemed to favor the later and larger Yellow Morels. In most years it’s the Black Morels that fill up the shelves in our pantry, this year the yellows outnumbered the blacks nearly 2 to 1. As the strange weather patterns began to set in shortly after Morel season my usual harvest of
Wine Cap Stropharias never amounted to anything. I do know of other areas that had decent fruitings of this delicious and sometimes prolific mushroom. It’s Reishi (Ganoderma sp.) could be found in good quantities for the all about first half of the summer, growth slowed considerably as the summer microcliprogressed.
My first Morel find of 2011 was on April 10th in one of my early spots, a South facing ridge with constant moisture and more than a few large rocks.
mates when it comes to finding fungi, especially when conditions go sour. Then came summer and the anticipation of copious patches of Chanterelles and Black Trumpets. Unfortunately Mother Nature had
other ideas and in turn created on of the strangest seasons of the year. The Chants and Trumpets didn’t show up in my area until nearly the end of September and we were still finding both growing together into early October. In a normal year they both start in July and go through the beginning of September, you just never know when it comes to mushrooms. Next on the strange list was the
early explosion of Grifola frondosa that started in the last week of August and just kept on coming for the next 4 weeks. We personally found up to 15 Sheepheads growing around one tree, and many other trees with multiple shrooms around them of varying sizes. In keeping with the strangeness going into later October our searches for Blewits were coming up,
used to seeing. Sometimes the strangeness is a benefit, sometimes not. Mushrooms are as mushroom hunters should be, very adaptable and in the right conditions will fruit just about anytime. a
well, fruitless. Apparently the Blewits had also fruited early and in not near the All of the Sheepheads in this photo are around a single tree and numbers this is just one side of the tree. It was not difficult to have 100 we are pound days this year in some areas.
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The Valley, December 2011
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Splitting Hares by Julianne Cahill http://oakridgerabbitry.weebly.com My neighbors are hanging Christmas lights, the stores are playing Christmas music, and I’ve seen Santa at least three times already. As I write this, it is still three whole days until Thanksgiving, but our community is already forging ahead with the holiday preparations. By the time Turkey Day arrives, people will be losing their minds with only thirty-one days left until Christmas! As we approach the holiday season, it is important to remember your furry friends in your winter preparations. We have been lucky that most days this fall have only dipped into sweatshirt weather, but the freezing cold days are fast approaching. Winterizing your rabbitry will keep your animals safe and warm when the snow starts to fly. During the winter months, I absolutely encourage you to move your rabbits indoors. You don’t necessarily need to turn your cages into end tables and night stands, but bring them into a garage or a corner of the shed if you can. Usually, a garage or shed
will stay a few degrees warmer than the outside temperature. That slight difference may save you from running frozen water bottles in and out of the house all day. Plus, your rabbits will be out of the wind and have no risk of getting wet or damp from flying snow. Remember that rabbits who are accustomed to living outside will grow a dense winter coat in the fall to stay warm. The extra protection of an indoor room will keep your rabbit comfortable even during the coldest months. Even more importantly, having the rabbits indoors will be much easier for you as caretaker. It is much more comfortable to feed, clean, and give attention to your rabbits when you are out of the elements. Trust me on this; I remember a winter or two of suiting up and bravely trudging out into the arctic winds everyday to feed the few rabbits that I had at the time. Suddenly, twenty steps across the yard turned into four miles of snowy terrain (yes, uphill
both ways). On top of that, try opening a feed container with heavy winter gloves on. Do yourself a favor and move the rabbitry inside, you’ll be glad you did! And if you don’t take my advice this winter, I’ll surely see you pulling them inside next December. I would hate to say “I told you so.” If relocating the rabbits really isn’t possible, I recommend housing them in wooden hutches. At least three sides of the hutch should be solid wood to shelter the rabbits from the elements. You may choose to seal and insulate the hutch even more by wrapping a heavy tarp around the outside walls. Just remember to leave a window for air and light. You may also choose to give your rabbit a wooden nesting box or small cardboard box full of hay and bedding to nest in and keep warm. Check this box frequently to clean it or replace it as needed. The most important thing to keep an eye on is the rabbit’s water. Small amounts of standing water freeze easily in central Pennsylvania winters, and rabbits can easily dehydrate if their water supply is not refreshed often. I recommend using heavy ceramic crocks for watering in the winter. These are best because the rabbit is able to drink from the crock until the water freezes, and you can even invest in two sets so that one
crock is thawing inside while you run the new one out to the hutch. The other option is water bottles, of course. Water bottles are not as efficient for outdoor use in the winter because the metal nozzle can freeze long before the water does. When this happens, your rabbits may be unable to drink even before the water freezes. If you do prefer bottles for one reason or another, you may be able to delay their freezing time by filling them with warm water and slipping a heavy wool sock over the bottle before returning it to the cage. It is still best to check the nozzle several times daily to
ensure that it has not frozen shut. Another suggestion a fellow breeder shared with me was to house same-sex pairs of rabbits
Local Pet Pantry Takes a Bite Out of Hunger By Jessica Echtner
To say The Yorks’ Family dog, Ben, was just a dog is an understatement. He was a member of the family, and when Ben passed away in 2008, he left a huge void in the
The Yorks’ family dog, Ben
Yorks’ home. “I thought what better way to honor Ben’s memory than to do something for animals in need,” recalled Sue Yorks. That’s when she decided to open the area’s first and The Local Pet Pantry set up at a local business only pet food bank, accepting donations. The Mifflin Co. Pantry, as it is often referred to, & Juniata Co. Pet was opened at Yorks’ home in fall Pantry, Inc. 2009 and has recently obtained The goal of The Mifflin Co. & Juniata Co. Pet Pantry, Inc. is to it’s 501(c) (3) status as a non-profit organization allowing donations provide free pet food and supplies to be tax deductible. Eventually, to local residents in need in order she would like the organization to avoid them having to surrender to have its own space to continue their pets to already overcrowded helping even more pets and their local shelters or rescues during owners. economic hardships. Any day of the week, the Running solely on donations lifelong animal lover might find and fundraisers, The Local Pet herself, along with the help of her
together in the winter so that they could keep each other warm. If you have a fairly docile breed or a couple less dominant rabbits that may enjoy each other’s company, this colony-style housing approach may work well. Personally, I haven’t tried this because, when placed together, my normally sweet babies turn into evil predators that want to eat each other. So if you haven’t tried co-housing before, you may want to take it slow and give the pair a supervised playtime together to test the waters. It’s never a good idea to just stick two adult rabbits into the same cage and walk away. However, if all goes well during the play date, I have heard from a number of enthusiasts who prefer colony-style housing and find that it can be a nice way for rabbits to keep each other warm. Aside from adult rabbits, it is important to protect our little ones too. Unless your rabbitry is moved into an enclosed building for the winter, it is usually best to cease breeding for the coldest months of the season. Winter is a hard time for a doe to successfully raise a litter, and she is not able to pick up and move her kits like some other animals can. So if a tiny, furless baby is born on the cage floor or stumbles outside of the nest too early, the prognosis is not good. For this reason, I move any
Continued on page 3 simply because its family doesn’t have the money to feed it,” said Yorks, who tirelessly works to accommodate as many requests as possible. Food pantry recipients often say they feel lucky and blessed to live in a community that extends helping hands. “We wouldn’t be here to help without the support of the community and local businesses. We thank them and appreciate everything they do for us,” says Yorks.
husband, John, in a pet supply store or setting up a table at a local event gathering as many donations as possible. Just this year alone, over 45,000 pounds of pet food have been distributed to our neighbors in need and local food banks including The Mifflintown Food Bank and Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard in Lewistown. Continued on page 23 In recent months, the number of pet owners seeking pet assistance has been growing. “We want to keep as many pet families together as we can. It’s heartbreaking when an animal has to be surrendered One of the many truckloads of pet food to be donated to to a shelter local families in need.
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The Valley, December 2011
Homeschooling on the homestead with andy weller
Reflections Fall is here! I love this time of year, we get to show our thankfulness to our Savior Jesus Christ. In our house Thanksgiving and Christmas are the two top holidays we celebrate. We get real busy at this time of year, because we want to wrap up any projects we have going, our garden is still producing some peppers, watermelon, onions and our first broccoli that we planted in September is developing. The activities with church are going strong with the Ranch Fun Day outreach and other Bible Studies we’re involved in. Couple this with the holiday activities and life gets real busy, real fast. That’s one of the nice things about this time of year because we are surrounded by friends, family, and constant reminders of God’s grace and love. This is the time of year
The garden area, where we make heavy use of containers as a means of improving the soil the plants grow in.
we start reflecting on the things we have, the projects we’ve done as a family, and what we hope we can do in the following year. This year Jake has really started understanding and being involved in the homestead projects, and let me tell you; the boy can work. We started the year by expanding the garden for a third year in a row. This project meant
making a container section of the garden, which included moving precast concrete meter boxes that were on the property when we bought it. These things have an open bottom and are stackable so we ended up stacking them along one side of the container section of the garden and using them for containers. There are plants growing in some and seeds sowed in others, but it ended up being a good use for stuff that seemed like useless material. The next project we tackled was a new fort for Jake. We wanted to rebuild it and give him a fun place to play Nerf battles and cowboys and indians, but still remain shaded in the heat of the summer. The old play center was dry-rotted and falling apart in a lot of ways, but the posts were still good and much of the framing was perfectly fine. So Jake began his education in building and
roofing. Jake learned a lot about measuring and the use of power tools as well as deadlines. See, when we first started this project both he and his mother asked how long it would take me to rebuild it. I told them about 3 weeks of working on the weekends and evenings after work. They doubled the time and were convinced it would take at least six weeks. It turns out that the construction was done in three weeks, all that was left was the painting.
Jake’s old fort offered no protection and was a hazard.
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The new and improved “Fort Jake”
It wasn’t long after we got done with the fort that we got goats, which meant we had to make a pen for them. We did this project in a very frugal manner because the goats themselves cost money. We started with about twenty five recycled pallets and built a giant square pen, using the pallets as fencing. We only had a two day warning from the time we knew we were getting the goats until we had to have the pen built, so time was at a premium. We have added quite a bit since we built the original pen. We have a nice little goat shed and a milking area with an alley from the gate to the milking area. That is going to
Continued on page 25
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The Valley, December 2011
Woods, Water and Wildlife with Bob Sleigh
Special Memories
In keeping with the holiday spirit I have a present for all of you. The following was previously published in 2001 and won that years award for the best Sports/Outdoors Column in Pennsylvania, awarded by the Associated Press Managing Editors. Merry Christmas to all and I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did writing it.
He’s just an old guy sitting along the bank watching the river silently glide by in the dusk like a giant shimmering serpent. With one well-practiced flick of his wrist the old Coleman lantern by his side erupts with two blinding white balls of light. The lantern was a birthday present from Ebbie more years ago than he cares to remember. Ebbie was short for Ebenezer; a nickname he had given
her because of her Scrooge-like spending habits. The nickname had been lovingly shortened when a new boat became possible due to her habits. She had been a special woman, not just the best wife anyone could want, she was also his best friend and most of all - his fishing partner. Thoughts of the first time the two of them had come to the river together slide through his mind with a comfortable ease. He still sees the contorted face she made the first time he baited her hook with a worm. The fact that she wouldn’t even touch the rod after it was baited had worried him; maybe she wasn’t “the one.” In the long run it hadn’t mattered; she was just too good to pass up. Definitely a diamond in the rough; how big of a diamond he would not find out for years.
It began right after the kids left the house. Up until that point, she had been content to stay home while he and the kids sat along the river watching and waiting. Never in that time had she even hinted about tagging along.
The new lantern had been sitting on the table wrapped in plain brown paper that birthday morning. He was like a kid with a new toy that he just had to try out. Ebbie brought him to his senses when she suggested “WE try it out this evening.” It was to be the beginning of a whole different world for him. Even all of his old familiar haunts looked much different now. Having Ebbie along made everything new again; it was the only way he knew how to describe his feelings. Having her along also changed Ebbie. Sure, he still had to bait her hooks for her and remove her fish from those same hooks, but he also noticed that he was spending more time doing those things. The clumsy and confused woman who couldn’t cast beyond the shoreline was becoming quite a bit of competition for him. When she learned about using artificial lures she was hooked, literally. Never seriously, but enough to build some respect for
sharpened treble hooks. The time he saved by not needing to bait her hooks was spent removing more fish from her lures. It was after one particularly lopsided evening of Ebbie catching all the fish that he dubbed her “Annie Oakley with a spinning rod.” In a matter of two short years she had methodically eclipsed his records for nearly every type of fish he had ever caught. He could not have been happier or prouder. She had taken to fishing with the same determined concentration that she used throughout her life. There wasn’t anything she couldn’t do, he now realized. This was his first trip back to the river since the funeral. He couldn’t stay away from a place that held so many good memories for him. Ebbie would have wanted it that way. He’s just an old guy sitting along the bank watching the river go by and happily remembering the best fishing buddy he ever had. An old man told me this story so long ago that the details have long since been forgotten. This column is dedicated to lost fishing partners everywhere, be they man woman or child. The memories will last forever. a
MEAT. WILSON’S MEATS AND GROCERIES
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The Valley, December 2011 Farm to Fork Fiasco from page 23 was calling all the shots from who knows where. Susan deemed our food unfit for consumption and demanded that we call off the event because: 1. Some of the prepared food packages did not have labels on them. (The code actually allows for this if it is to be consumed within 72 hours.) 2. Some of the meat was not USDA certified. (Did I mention that this was a farm to fork meal?) 3. Some of the food that was prepared in advance was not up to temperature at the time of inspection. (It was being prepared to be brought to proper temperature for serving when the inspection occurred.) 4. Even the vegetables prepared in advance had to be thrown out because they were cut and were then considered a “bio-hazard”. 5. We did not have receipts for our food. (Reminder! This food came from farms not from the supermarket! I have talked with several chefs who have said that in all their years cooking they have never been asked for receipts.) At this time Monte, trying to reason with Susan to find a possible solution for the problem, suggested turning this event from a “public” event to a “private” event by allowing the guests to become part of our farm club, thus eliminating any jurisdiction or responsibility on their part. This idea infuriated Susan and threatened that if we did not comply the police would be called and personally escort our guests off the property. This is not the vision of the evening we had in mind! So regretfully, again we complied. The only way to keep our guests on the property was to destroy the food. I can’t tell you how sick to my stomach I was watching that first dish of Mint Lamb Meatballs hit the bottom of the unsanitized trash can. Here we were with guests who had paid in advance and had come from long distances away anticipating a wonderful dining experience, waiting for dinner while we were behind the kitchen curtain throwing it away! I know of the hours and labor that went into the preparation of that food. We asked the inspector if we could save the food for a private family event that we were having the next day. (A personal family choice to use our own food.) We were denied and she was insulted that we would even consider endangering our families health. I assured her that I had complete faith and trust in Giovanni our
chef and the food that was prepared, (obviously, or I wouldn’t be wanting to serve it to our guests). I then asked if we couldn’t feed the food to our “public guests” or even to our private family, then at least let us feed it to our pigs. (I think it should be a criminal action to waste any resource of the land. Being dedicated to our organic farm, we are forever looking for good inputs into our compost and soil and good food that can be fed to our animals. The animals and compost pile always get our left over garden surplus and food. We truly are trying to be as sustainable as possible.) Again, a call to Susan and another negative response. Okay, so let me get this right. So the food that was raised here on our farm and selected and gathered from familiar local sources, cooked and prepared with skill and love was even unfit to feed to my pigs!?! Who gave them the right to tell me what I feed my animals? Not only were we denied the use of the food for any purpose, to ensure that it truly was unfit for feed of any kind we were again threatened with police action if we did not only throw the food in the trash, but then to add insult to injury, we were ordered to pour bleach on it. Now the food is also unfit for compost as I would be negligent to allow any little critters to nibble on it while it was composting and ingest that bleach resulting in a horrible death. Literally hundreds of pounds of food was good for nothing but adding to our ever increasing land fill! At some point in all of this turmoil Monte reminded me that I had the emergency phone number for the Farm-to-Consumer Legal Defense Fund (FTCLDF) on our refrigerator. I put it there never really believing that I would ever have to use it. We became members of the Farm-toConsumer Legal Defense Fund several years ago as a protection for us, but mostly to add support to other farmers battling against the oppressive legal actions taken against the small farmers trying to produce good wholesome food without government intrusion. The local, sustainable food battle is being waged all across America! May I mention that not one battle has been brought on because of any illness to the patrons of these farms! The battles are started by government officials swooping down on farms and farmers like SWAT teams confiscating not only the wholesome food items produced but
even their farm equipment! Some of them actually wearing HAZMAT suits as if they were walking into a nuclear meltdown! I have personally listened to some of their heart wrenching stories and have continued to follow them through the FTCLDF’s updates. Well, I made the call, told • Reliable Propane & Heating Oil Delivery my story and • Budget Payment Plan within a short Call today period of time to learn about our • 24/7 Emergency Service received a phone NEw CustOmER • Heating Equipment Service Plans call back from sPECiAls! the FTCLDF’s • Safety Trained Professionals General Counsel, • Over 80 Years Experience Gary Cox. When told the story, he simply suggested that we apply our fundamental Our Business is Customer Satisfaction constitutional right to be protected against “unlawful 717-248-5476 • 1-800-PROPANE (776-7263) search and seizure.” I simply had to ask Mary two questions. “Do you have a search in Las Vegas and St. George.) we were bonded together. warrant?” “Do you have an arrest They were, of course, The wind taken out of the inspecwarrant?” out-raged at the lack of choice tor’s sails, Gio and his crew With the answers being “No”, I they were given in their meal. got cookin’. It just so happened politely and very simply asked her that we had a cooled trailer full Out-raged at the arrogance of to leave our property. As simple coming to a farm dinner and beof vegetables ready to be taken as that! She had no alternative, no ing required to use only USDA to market the following day. higher power, no choice whatso(government inspected) meats. Monte hooked on to the trailer ever but to now comply with my Outraged at the heavy handedness and backed it up right next to the desire. She left in a huff making of the Health Department into kitchen. Our interns who were a scene shouting that she was their lives. Then there was the there to greet and serve now got calling the police. She left no most tremendous outpouring of to work with lamp oil and began paperwork, no Cease and Desist love and support. harvesting anew. Knives were order, no record of any kind that One of our guests, Marty chopping, pots of pasta and rice implicated us for one thing, (we from our food storage were steam- Keach, informed us that he was had complied to all their orders) an attorney and as appalled as ing, our bonfire was now turned only empty threats and a couple everyone else offered his support into a grill and literal miracles of trash cans full of defiled food. and counsel if need be, even if it were happening before our eyes! I will get back to “the inspector” be to the Supreme Court. He was In the meantime, Monte and I and her threats shortly. a great comfort in a tense time. had to break the news to our Let’s get to where it really gets With their approval, Giovanni and guests. Rather than go into the good. While I am on the verge of crew got cooking and the evening details here, you can see the a literal breakdown, Monte and then truly began. The atmosphere video footage on Mark Bowers Gio get creative. All right, we turned from tense and angry to and Kiki Kalor’s (our friends have just thrown all of this food loving and supportive. As soon as and guests) website at: http:// away, we can’t do this, we can’t I heard my brother Steve sit down www.reallyvegasphoto.com/ do that, what CAN we do? Well, and begin strumming his guitar, Events/CSA-Farm-Governwe have a vegetable farm and I knew something special was ment-Inspection/19707296_ we do have fresh vegetables. (By happening. Paid guests volunv2zFML#1546717636_dJJDZjw the way, we were denied even teered their services. Chef Shawn We explained the situation, ofusing our fresh vegetables until Wallace, a guest, joined Gio and fered anyone interested a full I informed our inspector that I his team his knife flying through refund, and told them that if they do have a Producers Certificate chose to stay their dinner was now the eggplant and squash. Wendy from the Nevada Department of and Thierry Pressyler and so literally being prepared fresh, as Agriculture allowing us to sell many that I am not even aware of, just now being harvested. The reour vegetables and other farm were helping to grill and transport action of our guests was the most products at the Farmers Market. dishes. Jason and Chrissy Doolen sobering and inspirational experiMuch of our produce has gone to ence of the evening. In an instant Continued on page 30 some of the very finest restaurants
Expect More from Your Fuel Supplier!
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The Valley, December 2011
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Dairy Princess Memories by Macy Fisher Mifflin County Dairy Princess 2011-2012
Hi, I’m Macy Fisher the Mifflin County Dairy Princess. I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving! I know I did. I love the holiday season; mostly because I just like eating all of the good food! I’m not a huge turkey person, but I do love everything that goes along with it. Now it’s Christmas time! Christmas is my favorite time of the year and not just because I get gifts. I love all the decorations, the lights, the smells, and the music. I start listening to Christmas music around Halloween. I know that probably sounds crazy, but that’s how much I love Christmas! I have already covered our house in every decoration that we own and I have watched all of our Christmas movies. I just wish there was some snow. Again, I know that probably sounds crazy, but I really like snow. My favorite
thing to decorate our tree in is snowflake ornaments. I think snow is so pretty and is always fun to play in. Of course, this is what I think of snow when I’m inside. When I have to go out to the barn, I have a completely different view on it. Since we have a tie stall barn, our cows go back outside once they are milked. Then they get all wet and muddy from the snow. Also, the cows with longer tails drag them through the snow all day. Then when they come into the barn they have a giant ice ball on the end of their switch. It looks kind of cool, but when they swing their tail and that giant ice ball hits you in the head, you aren’t thinking it looks so cool. Also, I freeze when I go to the barn. I can put on three pairs of socks, but my feet still go numb. I don’t think we are going to get snow any time soon though, so I won’t have to worry about getting “feetcicles” just yet. Let’s hope so any way. I have many promotions coming up in the month of December. I will be at the Ice Festival at the beginning of the month and also the Christmas parade that goes
around the square in Lewistown. Plus, I will be going to talk to the McVeytown Boy Scouts about the importance of dairy in their diets. They will be learning about the food pyramid and about how dairy foods contain nine essential nutrients that their bodies need. The younger girls who help me with all of my promotions throughout the year will have a big surprise later in the month when I throw them a Christmas party. We will play games, eat some great food, and talk about everything that we have done so far this year. Since we have many girls who are younger I thought a great treat for them that also contains dairy, is pudding. Everyone loves pudding so why not add it to your party menu? I even have some recipes for everyone that will class up your pudding so that it can make it to any of your Christmas Parties. I can promise you that you will love these great desserts.
White Baking Chocolate 2 cups cold milk 2 packages Vanilla Instant pudding - ¾ teaspoon rum extract - ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1 ½ cups thawed whipped topping Crush 35 of the wafers; place in a medium bowl. Melt 3 tablespoons of the butter. Add to wafer crumbs along with the sugar; mix well. Spoon into 9-in. square pan; press firmly onto bottom of pan. Set aside. Place chocolate and remaining 1 tablespoon butter in small microwavable bowl. Microwave on HIGH for 1 minute or until butter is melted. Stir until chocolate is completely melted and mixture is well blended. Drizzle over crust. Pour milk into a large bowl. Add dry pudding mixes, extract and nutmeg. Beat with wire whisk for 2 minutes. Gently stir in whipped topping. Spread half of the pudding - -
Holiday Eggnog Squares - 67 Nilla Wafers, divided - ¼ cup butter, divided - 2 tablespoons sugar - 3 squares Baker’s Premium
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mixture over crust; top with 16 of the remaining wafers. Cover with other half of pudding mixture. Refrigerate at least 3 hours or until firm. Cut into squares just before serving. Garnish with the remaining 16 wafers. Store any leftover dessert in refrigerator. Holiday Black Forest Pie - 34 OREO cookies, divided - ¼ cup butter, melted - 2 cups cold milk - 2 packages Chocolate Instant Pudding Mix - 1 tub whipped topping; thawed, divided - 1 cup cherry pie filling - 1 square Baker’s Semi-Sweet Baking Chocolate, melted Cut 10 of the cookies into quarters; set aside for later use. Finely crush remaining 24 cookies; mix with the butter. Press firmly onto bottom and up sides of a 9-in. pie
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The Valley, December 2011
Modern Energy and Alternative Heating
with Curt Bierly
room. There is usually a glass in the door so you can enjoy the ever changing look of the fire and you
Wood Inserts Thanksgiving is over and we’re all turning our attention to Christmas. Some of us will wait until the last minute to shop, while others already have a good start having arisen early to take advantage of the Black Friday specials (starting at midnight, are you kidding me!). It’s time to send out the Christmas cards to family and friends. Although there are many snazzy cards out there, many will picture a traditional symbol or two of Christmas. A favorite one shows “the stockings hanging on the fireplace mantel” with a blazing fire going awaiting Santa’s arrival. Certainly this scenario will give Santa a “warm welcome!” Unfortunately, about 80% of the heat that blazing fire-
place produces will greet Santa as he steps out of his sleigh and approaches the top of the chimney. Although it would be a tough job for Santa to crawl out of a wood insert installed in the fireplace, because of the efficiency of the units today (70%+), the trip down the chimney wouldn’t be near as hot. Most wood inserts today extend only a few inches onto the hearth with the insert’s firebox located in the fireplace (thus the name “insert”) and the smoke vented directly up the flu. They are available in different sizes to fit most fireplaces. A variable speed fan installed in the insert pushes the heat generated by the wood, out of the unit and into the
The Jotul “Rockland” fireplace insert
will benefit from the heat radiating through the door glass into the room. Today’s inserts use secondary air injection technology to burn
gasses before they are lost up the chimney; in addition, the air wash over the front door glass helps keep the viewing area clear. The primary draft control is usually a simple lever and the wood insert is “non-electric” (except for the fan). With an insert and a stack of wood if the lights go out, you still have heat! Call it “heat security.” Depending on the time and money you want to spend, there are numerous ways to provide the fuel for your wood insert. The least expensive method would be if you own tree-covered land or know someone that does and they are willing to allow you to harvest the wood you need. You will of course need to purchase equipment (chainsaw, splitting maul, sledge hammer, etc.) to cut
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21 and split the wood, and you WILL need a truck or trailer to haul it. This is beyond being great exercise and there are safety concerns as you can imagine; therefore, unless you are experienced in the art of harvesting wood and have the necessary equipment, I don’t recommend this method. The next possibility is to purchase a logging truck load of “poles.” These are long logs of various diameters harvested by a professional logger and delivered to your home with a logging truck with a clam unloader. In general they deliver 5 to 6 cords of unseasoned or seasoned hardwood that need to be cut and split. You will need an outside area that is accessible to a logging truck to store this wood. Once received, carefully cover the pile with a couple of waterproof tarps. Finally, you can purchase wood cut, spit and stacked if you like ready-to-place wood for your stove. The choice is yours. a . Curt Bierly is president of the bierly group incorporated of which Stanley C. Bierly is a division. He graduated from Penn State with a BS in Mechanical Engineering and is a member of the Penn College HVAC Advisory Board. You can contact him at cbierly@bierlygroup.com.
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Recipes-Crafts-Gifts With Debra Kulp Sweet Christmas Potpourri 3 Tbsp whole cloves 2 Bay leaves 3 cinnamon sticks 2 cups water 1 handful of pine needles 3 pieces dried orange of lemon rind Mix all ingredients and place in a saucepan. Ad water bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer (all day if you wish) Add water as needed. When finished refrigerate and reuse. Happy Holidays from all of us at Buckhorn Taxidermy First let’s take a moment to say a prayer for all of our military who aren’t able to be home for the holidays. We express our love and heart filled gratitude for their dedication. Hunting trivia regarding the heart of a deer: Medieval nobles helped themselves to the finer cuts of stag, leaving the “umbels” (the heart and liver) to the servants. Giving birth to the term “Humble Pie”. At Buckhorn Taxidermy we make your memories come alive by creating mounts that you’ll enjoy at camp or in your home. We mount any species of
animal, fish or bird. Any position, life size, shoulder mount, pedestal shoulder mounts, wall mounts with wall habitat. Life size mounts are on a wooden platform with natural habitat. We do European mounts, rugs, tan hides and pelts. Also available, antler mounts on a panel (your choice of style) with leather felt. We do repair work also. In the past year, we’ve had the opportunity to mount a deer from Canada thru the Hunt-of-alifetime organization. This young hunter and his dad not only have the memories from their hunt but a mount on the wall to enjoy as well. We’ve had a variety of animals come from near and afar, each hunter having their own story of the kill. With combined 50 years experience, professional care is given from the time it arrives until the customer picks the mount up. If you are the type that has a difficult time deciding which type of mount you would like, we have mounts and information available. Open 7 days a week. Call for details (717) 242-4490. a
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord Big Valley Bunk Beds And Mattress Sales 65 Stone Barn Lane, Belleville, PA 17004 from Belleville take Rt. 305 west, turn right at E. Back Mtn. Rd. 1/2 mile, then left at Stone Barn Lane 7 Styles in Stock L-Shape w/Dresser - Loft Beds - Stackable - Standard - Twin Over Full - Regular Bookcase - Captain’s Bed - Triple Stacker - Selection of stain on orders. A Bed For Everyone thevalleynewspaper@gmail.com
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The Valley, December 2011
Through the Window: glimpses of nature from the Juniata Valley Random photos shot by amateur photographer, Doug Sabin, Sr. Pastor of Kish Valley Grace Brethren Church, Reedsville. Doug and his wife Barb live in Milroy.
Get Pickled from page 11 Squeeze, Stuff and Sit To summarize; this is why I think everyone should try lactofermentation: 1. The product is a living food, full of enzymes and probiotics. 2. The process is much faster than water bath or pressure canning. 3. The process (and storage) can be done with zero energy usage if you have a cool basement or root cellar. If you’re looking for more information or for a great cook book with lots of recipes for fermented foods I would highly recommend Sally Fallon’s Nourishing Traditions. Nourishing Traditions: The Cookbook that Challenges Politically Correct Nutrition and the Diet Dictocrats. Another great resource is Wild Fermentation –
Pet Pantry from page 16 Donations are desperately needed. If you belong to a group, organization, church or just love animals, please contact them today to learn how you can help. For a full list of items needed or more information, please visit www.localpetpantry.com or call (717) 513-7868. To make a monetary donation, please make your
God’s Hope That We Would Live Simply
Farm to Fork Fiasco Gestapo at the Door! by Laura Bledsoe When an over-zealous regulator shows up at a farm dinner demanding that food be destroyed as hungry guests await, who do you call? Here’s Laura’s account written as a letter to her guests who had come to Quail Hollow Farm expecting a meal of foods harvested from local small family farms. This incident shows the value of the 24/7 legal hotline for farmers like Laura who need help...even on a Friday night! A member benefit like the hotline is available thanks to the financial support of the many FTCLDF members and donors. (Letter written to our dinner guests and our CSA Shareholders after the “Health Department inspection” incident, October 21, 2011.)
Dearest Guests, (You have all become dear to us!) What an evening we had this last Friday night! It had all the makings of a really great novel: drama, suspense, anticipation, crisis, heroic efforts, villains and victors, resolution and a happy
Laura Bledsoe
ending. The evening was everything I had dreamed and hoped it would be. The weather was perfect, the farm was filled with friends and guests roaming around talking about organic, sustainable farming practices. Our young interns were teaching and sharing their passion for farming and their role in it. (A high hope for our future!) The pig didn’t get loose. Our guests were excited to spend an evening together. The food was prepared exquisitely. The long dinner table, under the direction of dear friends, was absolutely stunningly beautiful. The music was superb. The stars were bright and life was really good. And then, … for a few moments, it felt like the rug was pulled out from underneath us and my wonder-
The Flavor, Nutrition and Craft of Live-Culture Foods by Sandor Katz. Have fun and enjoy! Wishing you and yours a Very Blessed Christmas and a Healthy and Happy New Year full of nourishing journeys and homemade sauerkraut! Resources: www.wildfermention.com www.excelonhealth.com (Dr. Amy Neuzil ND) Sue is a holistic nutrition consultant and holistic health educator. Her office is located at 54 Chestnut Street in Lewistown. To learn more about her business go to www.mynourishingjourney. com She can be reached by email at sue@mynourishingjourney.com or give her a call at 2423132. a check payable to: The Mifflin Co. & Juniata Co. Pet Pantry, Inc., P.O. Box 3, McAlisterville, PA 17049 or you may donate online through their website. “It is crucial that humans step up and help,” Yorks says, “since animals do not choose their owners or their circumstances.” a
ful world came crashing down. As now in order, he was informed guests were mingling, finishing that we would not actually be tours of the farm, and while the given the permit until an inspector first course of the meal was being came to check it all out. She came literally while our guests were prepared and ready to be sent out, a Southern Nevada Health District arriving! employee came for an inspection. Because this was a gathering of people invited to our farm for dinner, I had no idea that the Health Department would become involved. I received a phone call from them two days before the event informing me that because this was a “public event” Monte Bledsoe (I would like to know what is the definition of “public” and “private”) we would In order to overcome any be required to apply for a “spetrouble with the Health Departcial use permit”. If we did not ment of cooking on the premises, do so immediately, we would be most of the food was prepared in a charged a ridiculous fine. Stunned, certified kitchen in Las Vegas; and we immediately complied. to further remove any doubt, we We were in the middle of our rented a certified kitchen trailer to harvest day for our CSA shares, a be here on the farm for the prepavery busy time for us, but Monte ration of the meals. The inspector, immediately left to comply with Mary Oaks, clearly not the one the demand and filled out the rein charge of the inspection as she quired paper work and paid for the was constantly on the phone with fee. (Did I mention that we live in her superior Susan somebody who Overton, nowhere near a Health Continued on page 19 Department office?) Paper work
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The Valley, December 2011
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Buckhorn Taxidermy and Sporting Goods has added a new addition of live pets and pet supplies to the store. We also have a line of live bait and live crickets year-round for the fishermen and pet lovers.
The Pen and Thread Custom Calligraphy and Weaving
Mary Anna Chenoweth Proprietor
717-248-6079 131 West Market Street Lewistown, Pennsylvania
Tropical Fish Birds Lizards Frogs Snakes Spiders S corpions Hamsters Gerbils Rats Mice
We are a full time taxidermy shop with over 50 years combined experience. Big game, game heads, small game, fish and exotic animals. 316 N. Logan Blvd. Burnham, PA 17009 Open 7 days a week (717) 242-4490
Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Mon & Fri. 10am - 7pm Tues, Wed, Thurs, Sat - 10am 5pm Sun - 8am - noon
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The Valley, December 2011
Walking on the wild side by julie shultz smith
As I mentioned in the last article of Walking On The Wild Side, we had our First Annual Fall Family Days here at E & L Supplies held on Saturday October 22, 2011. We had a little bit of everything going on that day at E & L Supplies, whether it was the sales inside the store or it was all the excitement outside of the store. There was something for everyone to enjoy that day. But before we go into the day here at the store it was a long Walk On The Wild Side to get some of the animals ready to meet all the people. For starters, Herb thought we could halter brake one of our own buffalo calves to bring to the store for all the people to see that Saturday. Well that wasn’t going to happen. I think he forgot they are wild animals and for a buffalo calf to be halter broken, you would have to start to do that at a very young age and the calves we have are three or four months old. But I went along with him anyhow. We put the calf in the barn in a stall and left her alone for a while to let her calm down and hopefully realize that we were not there to hurt her. The calf was in the stall for about half an hour and Erica, Logan, and
Amanda came into the house and announced “oh we got a halter on the calf for you.” We were not real sure how the girls did it, so Herb and I went out to the barn to have a look. Sure enough, somehow the girls got a halter on the
calf, but God love her, there she stood looking at us as if saying “please let me out.” I mean she is a wild animal from a species that was almost extinct, afterall. She has been out in pasture--she doesn’t want to be in a stall. We kept her in there for about two hours, but she just looked so sad, so I told Herb to put that calf back out into the field where she belonged. She didn’t want to be with us, she wanted to be out with the rest of the herd grazing on the nice green grass. She was too old to bring in the barn and try to halter brake, so I told him next year when the calves are born
we will bring one in at about 24 hours old once it has had some of its mothers colostrum. Then we can work on halter braking it from the start. So that brings on the next question. How are we going to have a buffalo at the store for everyone to see. So, I called up an old friend of mine, Anne Brooks, that has had a buffalo for years by the name of Bentley. I asked her if she could have Bentley at the store on October 22 for everyone to come see up close, and see how big these amazing animals get to be. Thankfully Anne agreed and I do believe everyone enjoyed getting to see the big guy up close and personal. Thanks again Anne. The biggest challenge for me was getting Zahara the zebra ready to be at the store to meet all the people. As I mentioned before, when we brought her home she was untouchable. She really didn’t care to be touched by the human hand. It was so hard for me not to be able to touch her. I just wanted to love on her, and she wanted no part of it. If you would try to touch her or stick your hands in her stall, she would jump into defense mode and try to bite you. It was more out of being scared than anything else. But everyone
in my family helped out with this. We spent as much time as we could with her at first, just trying to show her that humans are not always bad and they don’t always bring pain. Nor are we lions trying to eat her. Let’s just say it took a lot of treats to get her to come up to us. She just loves the Dobbin’s Delight apple and oat horse treats made by Purina Mills—she could eat them by the bag full. Once we gained her trust, we started taking her out in the yard to graze on the nice green grass and go on walks around the farm. The next step was getting her used to different people coming up to her (this is where family and friends helped out a lot.) Zebras are really a one person animal with the trust issues they have. That is something else we had worked on with Zahara quite a bit before bringing her to the store. I knew there were going to be people of all ages wanting their picture with her, so it was very important she didn’t mind others walking up to her. I have to say I am very impressed with the progress she has made within two months of owning her. She did very well with all the new people. We also were lucky enough to have Abe and Mary Allebach from Windmere Farms here with their beautiful oxen. Let me tell you what, if there was ever a man that is dedicated to something, that would be Abe and his oxen. I really think that the oxen would do just about anything that Abe asks of them. Abe even allowed
Continued on page 3
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Homeschooling on the Homestead from page 17 come in nice in the winter when it’s raining and the temp is down below thirty-two degrees. Recently I was on my roof fixing some wind damaged shingles, so I had Jake bring the camera up. I took a picture of the area from the roof of my house. Below is the picture of the finished product.
The new Goat pen and fencing built from re-purposed material and the goats could care less. They LOVE their new home.
This year has brought many changes in our life and on our property. The one constant through it all is God’s love, His Grace and the sacrifice that Jesus Christ made for you and I. I pray that the experience of our family has blessed all y’all in some way!! God Bless! a
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Business Owners There is still time to schedule a Christmas Party china house is a real value Do any of you business owners ever wish you could show your employees your appreciation at Christmas time with an after hours party? If you are like most small business owners, you have probably discovered that space is very expensive to rent, in most
the company party, and do a more relaxed and old time style party? You are in luck. China House in Lewistown has a fantastic bargain for you! They have a private room off the main dining area that Shuzhen Lin calls, “The Party Room.” The room has enough space to seat 40 or so people and is just the perfect place for a small intimate, food and conversation type party. The best part? The rental of the room costs you ZERO! One small section of the spacious and neatly designed, and Just order private “Party Room,” a very cost effective way to give your employees a Christmas Party your food off of their cases, prohibitively expensive for extensive menu (call Shuzhen for a small business owner. help deciding what you want for food), and you’re done. This is Wouldn’t it be nice to be one of the most affordable ways able to lose some of the hyperfor a small business to say Merry commercialism, and expense of
Christmas and Thank You to their employees at Christmas Time. It is also a great time for fellowship outside of the office, it surely helps start off the New Year with employee morale at a high point. You don’t need to spend an
Mail Pouch Books by Carleen B. Grossman THE CHRISTMAS LIST By Richard Paul Evans Copyright 2009 “The Christmas List” is a book that will draw you into some soul searching! This author’s spirituality al-
ways shines through in his books but I never find it too overpowering because he seems wellgrounded in knowing what makes a novel work! This book will make you think about what if you died but had a chance to see your own obituary and also learn just what others thought of you. Then, what if you were given the chance to re-do the bad things that were hurtful to the others in your life. All this is possible in the tale! It is definitely the modern day version of the Charles Dickens “A Christmas Carol.” A twist of plot will take you on a journey three weeks before Christmas and give you much to consider about your own life and how YOU have affected others.
THE INVENTION OF LEFSE: A CHRISTMAS STORY By Larry Woiwode Copyright 2011 A “new” 64 page Christmas tale for the entire family, takes you on a journey to a Norwegian grandparents’ farm where a family with
extravagant amount of money, and spend a month’s payroll to rent a place to have a successful Christmas Party. All you need are your family and friends, some good food and a comfortable place to meet for a few hours and share
good will. Call Szuchen at the China House at 242-2300 to reserve the free party room for your function. Good food and a cozy atmosphere is just the thing for a memorable Christmas or Holiday Party. a
little to give arrives emptyhanded. The extended family setting combines their meager resources to create a glorious Christmas dinner and a heartwarming time together.
developing of a wonderful father/ daughter relationship but in the lessons learned from the books he read to her!
NON FICTION: THE READING PROMISE: My Father and the Books We Shared Alice Ozma Copyright 2011 This author tells about a story telling ritual she and her father had reading aloud together every night of their lives until she left for college. You will share not only in the
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SPICE: THE HISTORY OF A TEMPTATION By Jack Turner Copyright 2005 During this month of family, friendship and bonding over the wonderful aromas of many special foods, what better book to read than this one that tells about the history of the exotic scents of the East and how these spices made their way into our Western culture. a
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The Valley, December 2011
Grosze Thal Nachbaren
(Big Valley Neighbors)
by Jeptha I. Yoder Ein Grusz der Liebe im Namen Unseres Gottes. Mir hen ein schön Spatjahr. Wir hören noch zu Zeiten Kröten. Der 30 Oct. gingen Unkel Christ M. Yoders in die Lang Leen West Gemein ans Samuel I. Yoders. Kirchengasse Gemein war ans Joel E. Yoders. Singen war auch dort. Abraham J. Hostetlers von Milroy Nord waren in Milroy Ost Gemein ans Esle M. Hostetlers. Samuel M. Zugen und zwei Jüngste waren hier fürs Abendessen. Der 6, November waren wir in der Gemein ans Mose C. Yoders. Von McClur waren Yost I. Hostetlers and zwei Jüngste, und. Abner C. Hostetler Iddos’. Von andere gegenden waren, Rudy C. (Sam N.) und Christ E. (Sam I.) beide Yodern. Miriam K. Hostetler (Jesses’) war hier fürs Abendessen. Singen und Lang Leen Ost Gemein war ans Noah D. Hostetlers Nord Milroy Gemein war bei der Johannes D. Zug. Der 13 gingen Mose C. Yoders in West Lang Leen Gemein ans Mose J. Hostetlers Jr. Kirchengasse war ans Christ G. Yoders. Ost Milroy ans Samuel M. Zugen. Unkel Christ M. Yoders waren ans manasse J. Yoders fürs Mittag-essen und darnach ein wenig ans Eli S. Hostetlers. Meine Eltern waren ans Christs abends Der 20, waren wir in der
Gemein ans Manasse J. Yoders. Von McClur war sein Bruder Sam, Schwester-kindern Lydia und Johannes Hostetler (Joseph S); Auch Daniel V. Hostetler (Yost I.), welcher war auch bei seine Schwester, die Mose C. Yoders. Von andere Gegenden waren: Samuel Ns und Söhne und Isaac S. Yoder (Franey) alle, Yodern; Die (Salomon) Mareily und Uria S’ und Tochter, alle Hostetlern. Etliche Jungie waren dort fürs Abendessen und Singen. Ost Lang Leen war ans Johannes I Hostetlers So der Herr Will und wir leben ist nägst mol unser Gemein ans Eli S. Zugen. Der 1 Nov. gingen etliche Leute in die Hochzeit in Penns Thal bei die (Bejamin R.) Lydie E. Yoder. Verheirathet mit ihr Tochter Lissie M. war’s Joseph J. und Betsy R. Bylers ihr Sohn Mose L. Der 3, war Hochzeit ans Michael A. und Franie M. Speichers für ihre Tochter Veronica F. mit Jonathan D. und Esther E. Hostetlers ihr Sohn David S. Es war auch Hochzeit in McClur ans Eli R. und Emma N. Yoders, we ihre Tochter Emma verheirathet war mit Sam I. und Ruth L. Yoders ihr Sohn Johannes T. vom Grosze Thal. Der 8, war Hochzeit ans Mose E. und Emma Z. Hostetlers für ihre Töchter Anna B. mitt die (Noah L.) Rhodä L. Hostetler ihr Sohn, Samuel F., durch Bish.
Abraham N. Yoder. Der 10, war Hochzeit ans Mose S. und Rhodä L. Hostetlers für ihr Salina B. mits Johannes H. und Leah Z. Yoders ihr Jacob B. Gemein war ans Henner R. Hostetlers. Der 24 (Danksagungstag) waren Hochzeiten mit Freundschaft einge laden aus dem Grosze Thal. Eine in Turbotville ans Enos und Linda Bylers. Auch in McClur ans Samuel J. S. und Nancy R. Hostetlers für ihr Tochter Mareily D. mit Steven M. und Anna B. Yoders ihr Steven M. Jr. vom Grosze Thal. Gemein ans Esra S. Hostetlers. Durch Joel Z. Yoder. nevahocker waren: Christian D. Hostetler (Jeff J.) und Rhoda B. Yoder (Steven); Emanuel L. Yoder (Steven) und Nancy K. Hostetler (Samuel J. S.). Von Turbotvill waren David S. Hostetlers und Familie. Dan Hersbergers und Eli Yoders von Montour, und onch mehr von Juniata, Homer City, so wohl als Penn Thal und Winfeld. Auch Kentucky und Andover, Ohio. Ausgeruffen um zu verheirathen am 6 Dec. ist Sam N. und Catharine R. Yoders ihr Rudy C. mits Esra B. und Elizabeth R. Hostetlers ihr Franey E. Gemein ans Eli S. Zugen, wann der Herr Will. Greetings in the Name of Our Lord. This finds us having a mild November after a late October snow. The wintry weather ended
the fig season. We have now harvested the wild “Nov.” apples. On the 5th, Dads among others, were to the “Freundschaft” sale of the late Great Uncle John J. S. Yoder’s earthly belongings. Several woodcutting frolics were held. Saturday the 19th, Widow (Solomon) Aunt Mary R. Hostetler’s family got her wood in. Also, earlier this month, relatives cut wood for the Widow (John Z.) Mattie H. Hostetler, or for John as part of it was done before John passed on. Saturday the 12th Widow (Jeptha H.) Lydia R. Yoder had a frolic for her family to fill her woodshed. New arrivals are a son David E., joining two sisters, on Oct. 29 to Aaron L. and Lydia R. Yoder. Grands are David L. and Mary Y. (Zook) Yoder; Samuel K. and Rhoad Z. (Speicher) Hostetler. October 30, twin daughters, Melinda B. and Madeline B., joining two brothers adn two sisters to Eli E. and Nancy D. Zook. Grands are Tobias P. and Lydia K. (Host) Zook; and widow (John A.) Barbara M. Hostetler. Nov. 5 a Korie J. made firsttime parents of John J. and Catherene B. Zook. Grands are widow (Korie M.) Nancy L. Hostetler. First-time grands are Abraham J. and Mary N. (Yoder) Zook. Firsttime great-grand is widower John B. Yoder. A son Solomon J. joining three sisters on Nov. 8 to Solomon C. and Rebecca C. Zook of McClure. Grands are Christian R. and Mary L. Zook of McClure; Widow (Solomon) Mary R. Hostetler of Milroy. Great-grand is widower Eli B. Zook of Penns
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Valley. John Z. Hostetler, aged 73 years, 3 mos, and 9 days died Nov. 7. Funeral Nov. 9 at 9:00 by Jacob M. Yoder in house with freundschaft. In other house by Joshua J. Hostetler. Relation attended from Enon and Sinking Valleys, Turbotville, Penns Valley, McClure and Winfield. John’s cousin Eli Yoder and wife of Heuvelton, New York visited Johns a few days earlier and stayed in the area over the funeral. Born July 29, 1938, he was the youngest child of the late John Z. and Nancy (Yoder) Hostetler. He was the last of his immediate family. He is survived by his wife Mattie H. (Yoder) of 9730 Back Mountain Road, Milroy, PA, 17063; also, a brother-in-law, Jacob B. Yoder. Preceded by two sisters, three half-brothers, and four half-sisters. John was a stroke patient and recently relatives and neighbors were staying there at night. Pallbearers were: Eli J., Henry R., and Adam N., all Hostetlers and Michael U. Yoder. Hauled by Noah Y. Zook. Some folks butchered on Thanksgiving, some attended weddings, still others (like myself) enjoyed the day out in the sunshine doing some of those last minute garden chores. Some farmers are plowing. Let’s remember the sick and sorrowing (and all those less fortunate) over the holiday season. God’s Blessings wished to all for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Jeptha I. Yoder a
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The Valley, December 2011 WWT answers:1. ”It’s a Wonderful Life”Jimmy Stewart-1946 2. 364 3. Montgomery Ward-Gene Autry
Answers in an ad in this issue
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And seeing His star in the East..... Peace on Earth and Merry Christmas to all. 1. What is the most popular TV Christmas movie? 2. Total number of gifts in "The Twelve Days of Christmas? Quiz # 20040
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3. Who created "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer" - who made the song popular?
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The Valley, December 2011
The Chicken AND the Egg! by Mike Flanagan
The “Rhode Island Red”
The Dual Purpose Champion of the World As I sit here typing this article it’s not yet Halloween and I am already contemplating shooting the weatherman. That man is already talking about possible snow for this later week. Well, that simply will not do! We haven’t gotten our woodstove installed yet. I haven’t completed repairs to the hen house doors. I have to clean out the girls’ patio area and start a fresh bed of litter in there. And I still have to go pick up my next two dozen bales of hay for freshening the bedding for the rest of this year. Put it on hold, cancel the order, refuse to pay the shipping!. I don’t care how you do it but I don’t want any of that white stuff! A-a-ah, if only it were that simple. So, you sweated and labored for your girls all summer, through all that heat, and now the eggs are coming along steadily. Those
little ping-pong sized eggs are pretty much gone. They run to meet you at the gate to their area, maybe even eat from your hand like some of mine do. To tell the truth, you’ve become rather fond of them. It’s ok, go ahead and admit it. Nobody here’s going to laugh, we can all relate. But now, oh my goodness, THAT four-letter word is in the forecast. Temperatures are dropping steadily. And you found the waterer frozen solid yesterday when you A proud Rhode Island Red rooster watching went to gather eggs. You over his flock. find yourself wondering, through a new chicken keeper’s “How will my precious head as winter approaches is girls ever survive this upcom“How am I going to heat that hen ing winter?” Actually, they’ll do house?” The quick answer is, you much better than you think. don’t. Most breeds of chicken The first thought that runs
are going to winter over just fine without any supplemental heat. There are two bigger concerns for you to worry about, and they sort of go hand-in-hand. Those are humidity and ventilation. As your girls are breathing and pooping there is a lot of moisture being put into the atmosphere. And therein lies the danger. That air gets damp. When it’s a damp, cold day outside like we have in November and December what does it feel like in your house. Not as comfy, is it? It’s the same thing with your girls, except they can’t wrap up in their Snuggie. Instead, when they go to roost at night they cuddle up against each other and share their body heat. The other danger is that as that poop builds up it’s putting ammonia into the air. In fact, if you can smell ammonia in your hen house that’s a good sign that it’s too moist and not getting enough ventilation. There are two things you
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can do to help prevent that. I’m hoping you took care of the first one back in the spring when we talked about building your hen house. You may remember that I told you that I don’t close my eaves. We all know that hot air rises, so the hot moist air in my hen house rises up and flows out the eaves. That draws fresh cool air in through the hen door. In the colder months I keep my human doors closed so there aren’t any drafts in the hen house. Drafts are really not good for them. The other thing you should be doing is spreading fresh litter on the floor on a regular basis. I’ll spread a fresh bale of hay over the floor every weekend in the winter. And during the week I’ll scatter their scratch grains all over that hay. They do what chickens do best, scratch around searching for the grain. In the process they churn up the litter, which helps it
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The Valley, December 2011
30 Farm to Fork Fiasco from page 19 offered to run quick errands. Jeanne Frost, a server for the Wynn hotel, didn’t take a seat and began serving her fellow guests. Before long we were seated at the beautiful table and the most incredible dishes began coming forth. It was literally “loaves and fishes” appearing before our very eyes! We broke bread together, we laughed, we talked, we shared stories, we came together in the most marvelous way. Now this is what I had dreamed, only more marvelous than I could have ever imagined! The sky being bright with glittering stars, we had the telescopes out and invited any guests who desired to look into our starry heaven. While we were looking into the heavens, heaven was looking down upon us! I can’t tell you the number of times I have felt the hand of providence helping us in the work of this farm. As hard and demanding as this work is, I KNOW that this is what
Christmas is Coming from page 6 We also will have a number of local groups represented: Shelter Services which held homeless and recently displaced person, Mifflin Co. Library which brings adventure and travel through books to all of us, Crossroads Pregnancy Center offers counseling and help to women who are expecting children and need to find alternative help, Santa’s Bookbag gives new and gently used books to children in Mifflin County, Reedsville Vol. Fire Co. provides us with fire protection and first responders in times of crisis, Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard helps those who are without sufficient food for the day, week or month, Rescue Our Furry Friends encourages people who are looking for new pets to adopt those who are without homes and helps to feed and care for those pets who are strays, Lumina Center offers activities for children at all times of the day and evenings, and
we are meant to do. I KNOW that it is imperative that we stand up for our food choices. I KNOW that local, organic, sustainable food produced by ourselves or by small family, local farms is indispensible to the health and well-being of our families and our communities now and in the future! If this work were not so vitally important, the “evil forces” would not be working so hard to pull it down. We were victorious, we will be victorious, we must be! Our grandchildren’s future is at stake! Back to the inspector. She did call the police. You must remember that we live in a small town. We know these officers. They responded to the call dutifully but were desperately trying to figure out why they had been called. Never in all of their experience had they ever received a call like this. Mary, the inspector, demanded that they give us a citation. The officer in charge said that she
was to give us the citation, she responded that no, they were to give us the citation, which they then asked her for what violation. Even with the help of her superior on the phone she could not give them a reason. They asked her to leave which she did. The police were very kind and apologetic for the intrusion. All of this was done without fanfare and out of sight of our guests. The police officers are commended for their professionalism! Now that we have come to the last chapter of our novel, I realize that it ends with a cliffhanger. As happy as the ending was, it isn’t “happily ever after” yet. This will remain to be seen in the ensuing days, weeks and even years ahead. Tom Collins, our County Commissioner, furious by the events that took place, having formerly been a board member for the Southern Nevada Health District is putting together a meeting with himself, the current board members and ourselves to make sense of all this mess.
the Abuse Network is available to help those who have been abused find resources and encouragement and help to heal form these events in their lives.. Each of these groups will have a display of what they do to help our community and you will be able to meet people who are the front line involved in each group. In addition, a light lunch and dessert s will be available for a small fee. There will also be a display and sale of fairly traded coffee, teas, and chocolate called Equal Exchange. The East Kishacoquillas Presbyterian Church welcomes you to come and be an important part of this outreach to the community. Come join us for food and fellowship. Leave with a sense of purpose and thanksgiving for the ability to give worthwhile gifts. Come and give a truly meaningful gift to your friends this year. Contributions to these groups are tax deductible. These gifts help you family and friends have an on-going presence in our community. a
Rhode Island Reds from page 29
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stay dry and relatively clean. As a frame of reference, I spread one small rectangular bale of hay over an 8’x12’ floor area each week. And while I’m at it I reserve one flake from the bale to freshen the bedding in my ten nest boxes. Hey, you like fresh sheets in your bed too, right? One last thing to consider. If your hens (or roosters) have large combs and wattles (those dangly red things under their beak) they might get wet while drinking. That could lead to frostbite. You’ll know it from the fact that the tips of the red areas will start t turn black. I’ve never had it happen here in Lycoming County, but if it does you can treat/prevent it by rubbing some Vaseline jelly on their combs and wattles. And there you have it, winter care for your flock in a nutshell. Keep their house free of drafts, their bedding fresh and dry, and make sure you give them plenty of fresh water every day. I used to carry fresh water to them 6am and 6pm every day. Nowadays I have invested in an electric heater base that my three gallon waterer sits on. I only have to exchange it once a day for my 36 birds. I’ve seen it mentioned many times that hens slow down or stop laying altogether in the winter. Again, I’ve never had it happen, but that’s probably because I prevented it by install-
As so many of you have related verbally and through emails your desire to help and be involved, we will keep you informed as events take place. I feel that we have been compelled to truly become active participants in the ongoing battle over our food choices. This is just one small incident that brings to our awareness how fragile our freedoms are. We are now ready to join the fight! We would encourage all of you who can to contribute and to become a member of the Farm-toConsumer Legal Defense Fund. They are not only fighting for the farmers, they are fighting for the consumers to have the right to choose. You can find them at farmtoconsumer.org As I close, I am reminded of the passage written so forcefully by Thomas Jefferson in the Declaration of Independence: “He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harass our people, and eat out their sub-
stance.” The same battle continues. I pray the result of the battle will be the same, that we have been “endowed by our Creator with … life and liberty”. We love you all, and thank you with all our souls for your continued love and support! We will stay in touch. With warmest wishes for you and your families, Monte and Laura Bledsoe Written from Quail Hollow Farm October 24, 2011 View the videos of the incident here: http://www.reallyvegasphoto. com/Events/CSA-Farm-Government-Inspection/19707296_ v2zFML#1546717636_dJJDZjw
ing a supplemental light. I use an extra brooder lamp with a 60 watt bulb and an el cheapo lamp timer to keep my girls lit up from 6am to 10pm each day. That 16 hours of light will usually get me through the winter with hardly any reduction in egg production. I can pretty much count on getting about 2/3 as many eggs as I have hens. So right now I’m harvesting 2 dozen eggs a day. The Rhode Island Red is probably America’s best known breed. It is the most successful dual purpose bird and an excellent choice for a farm chicken. Developed in Massachusetts and Rhode Island in the 1880’s and 1890’s, its distinctive color and good production qualities helped it to spread rapidly. The originators of the Rhode Island Red wanted to create a bird that could lay a good number of eggs yet dress out nicely as a table bird. These birds are very good layers of brown eggs, perhaps the best layers of all of the dual-purpose breeds. In my experience, they can outproduce pretty much any chicken except one of those genetic freaks the egg factories use. They usually lay 200 – 300 eggs a year starting as early as six months of age. Since the 1940’s, the Rhode Island Red has been selectively bred for more efficient egg production, becoming smaller, lighter colored, and less broody as a result. Of greatest conservation interest are the “old-type” Rhode Island Reds, which are
larger, darker, and more broody. These birds are becoming rare as the breed is “improved” to meet industry needs. If you can get your hands on some of those old type birds they will make it worth your while to keep the strain pure. The hens of this breed weigh over 6 pounds and the roosters over 8 pounds. The Rhode Island Red is known for its hardiness and its ability to handle marginal conditions while still producing eggs. The roosters are just down right handsome, although some of them can be aggressive at times. I’ve never had an aggressive hen. If you want to raise your own, the Rhode Island Red is a good choice as the hens can become broody and want to stay on a clutch of eggs. Next month I’ll talk some more about the possibility of raising your own chicks, and we’ll learn about another great dual purpose bird, the Wyandottes. Until then, remember, support your local economy. Buy local, eat local, and live well. (Generous excerpts courtesy of the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy website.) a
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Watch the video’s, you will be shocked, then make a donation to FTCLDF to make sure this doesn’t spread to our area. FTCLDF is on the front lines of our food freedom battle, they need our support. Editor. a
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The Valley, December 2011
Unchained
100 Stine Drive Lewistown, PA 17044
by Sarah Hurlburt
Toll Free 877-248-6405 cshockey@StoneArchRealEstate.com
717-248-6400
Beautiful 2 story in Shawnee Hills
I recently had to have some testing done on my heart and had to wear a 24 hour EKG monitor. I had wires stuck to me and taped to me and had to wear this goofy looking halter monitor with a sling over my shoulder. This test was not painful and at first seemed like no big deal, but as one hour went into the next, the wires and tape, sling and monitor started to get really annoying. After I went the next day and got that monitor off I felt so good, free from the restraints of that thing, keeping me constantly uncomfortable and unable to move about like I usually would. As God often does, He used this experience in my life as a little object lesson to remind me to continue seeking to live a life “unchained” from the bondage of sin. The Bible is clear that God hates sin, I think it’s because God knows how much it hurts us and the fact that it separates us from Him. Some sin may seem fun and exciting at the time and the bondage may not come till later and other things like regret, self pity, fear and anxiety are instantly restraining and binding. The effects of sins, whether they are felt immediately or later, are very restraining and binding and the “chains” that we become entangled in can be very heavy and
damaging. We will want to break free from them and many times we may try in our own power, but it will be in vain. Sin and the clenching effects it has on our lives can only be eliminated by God and that’s why He sent Jesus. We need rescued, we need the chains to be broken and lifted from our frail humanness, because living with the effects of sin that is not dealt with properly will hold you back from a closer relationship with God. The chains of bondage will pull you back, back to your past, back to your lost dreams or even worse back to places of fear and doubt and regret, holding you prisoner. When I walked into the hospital and told them my name and that I needed this mess of tangled wires removed from me, they knew me and knew exactly what to do for me and within minutes I was free from that mess. If you seek freedom, deep and real freedom, all you have to do is cry out to God from that deep place in your soul. He will recognize you and know exactly what to do for you. He will know the chains that are holding you back and Jesus has the power to break those chains. You will walk out from those dark places and into the light of God’s love a place bright and beautiful, a place where you can see clearly the path ahead of you
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and walk it with confidence and grace. But oh, how quickly and easily we can slip back to the places of darkness and find ourselves picking up those heavy chains and dragging them along behind us. Forgetting promises like John 8:32 “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free.” (Jesus is the way, the truth and the life.) What a terrible tragedy when we forget and return to those dark places. And it’s not just our generation, because Paul writes in Galatians 4:9 “But now that you have come to know God, or rather are known by God, how is it that you are turning back to those weak and miserable princi-
by Dave Wilson
concerned that their paper-related savings (C-D’s, Bonds, Checking and Savings accounts) are being ravaged by elevated Inflation rates. We are TOLD that Inflation is running between 2-and-3% annually! However, anyone who buys groceries, electronics and practically anything else certainly knows better! 11-to-14% is probably much closer to reality, and most economists see even higher rates than that in the very near future! There are many reasons WHY gold and silver investments have the “potential” to pay huge rewards. Naturally, profits in speculative markets, like Gold
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To Buy...Or Not to Buy That is a question that is being asked by more and more individuals, couples and even small investor groups regarding precious metals! Gold and Silver related assets have become a favorite topic of discussion among many people who are very
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and Silver, are never guaranteed, and any seller of tangibles that makes income promises should never be trusted! While long term appreciation for precious metals looks excellent, unfortunately for very unsettling reasons, there is always downside risk that must be considered! For now we will cease discussing WHY you should consider Gold and Silver owner-
ples, do you wish to be enslaved all over again?” “Stand fast therefore in the liberty with which Christ has made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.” Galatians 5:1 I read something that really helped me see the selfishness of sin on a deeper level. It was from a book by Ray Stedman. He was talking about the punishments involved with sin and the ultimate punishment in the end of eternal separation from God (if we haven’t believed in Jesus and accepted God’s plan of freedom and redemption) and he reminds us of the following: “God is the source of eveship and pay some attention to what products are available, how you can purchase them, and what we recommend for beginning purchases! First, do you buy silver or gold? If you are on a limited budget, silver should be your first consideration. Silver is also the metal we believe has the possibility of increasing at a potentially higher percentage rate than gold. Naturally, if you have an unusually large investment planned, silver can be exceptionally bulky. In that case, a good mix of both metals would be our best recommendation! There are as number of very popular Gold and Silver items to consider! American Eagle Gold and Silver (Bullion) coins have been around since 1986. There are four denomina-
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rything good: beauty, truth, life, love, joy, peace, grace, strength, forgiveness. All those things come only from God, and if someone chooses sin and self will over these good things, God finally says to that person, ‘I’ve been trying to give you my best, but you prefer the worst. Have it your way.’ When that person gets what he or she has demanded throughout life, it will be the last thing that person ever wanted.” My prayer is that we will all seek a life of true freedom in God’s presence, unchained, free to be who God made us to be. Free to enjoy the beauty of where we are in life and open to God using us to love others. a
tions of gold coins, including the $50 (1-Ounce) coin, the $25 (1/2-Ounce), the $10 (1/4-Ounce) and the 1/10th-Ounce $5.00 coin! Premium prices (over actual spot price) are larger for the smaller $5 and $10 coins than the larger $25 and $50 pieces! United States $1.00 (1-Ounce) Silver coins
Continued on page 36
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The Valley, December 2011
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The Valley, December 2011 He was in the adjusting room, talking to Doc.
Back Talk
It must be the hurry, the tension and all, I simply can’t seem to get on the ball. Life used to be easy; just kids, toys and whistles, Now, I dodge smog, spaceships and missiles.
by Dr. Joseph Kauffman
CHRISTmas & Chiropractic
The holidays are with us once again. The wonderful tradition of Thanksgiving and the gathering of family and friends for great food and conversation are always enjoyable. The celebration of Christ’s birth at Christmas and the revelry of New Years are next on the list of holiday activities with many busy days in between. I hope you look forward to these days with anticipation and excitement and enjoy them to the fullest. Stress is the reason the bones of the spine (vertebrae) misalign. There are three types of stresses that we have to deal with: physical, chemical and emotional. All of these stresses are obvious during the holiday season. Physical stress can not only be shoveling snow or falling on ice but it is also driving to the stores, spending hours on your feet shopping and standing while cooking for everyone. All of these activities take their toll on the body and the muscles and spine. Chemical stress is the things we know to do, but often do not follow, such as not eating enough healthy foods or drinking enough water or eating too many unhealthy foods, drinking beverages we shouldn’t in excess or smoking. These things, too, take their toll on the body. But, in my opinion, the worst stress of all is emotional stress. This is the stress we place on ourselves. Examples include: waiting until the last minute to shop, trying to find the “perfect” gift, dealing with people who are doing the same things and in bad moods both in the stores and driving in their cars, and also grieving for loved ones who are no longer with us during the holidays or feeling depressed in general. Physical stress is certainly bad and is the main reason people come in to my office, but as soon
as the event occurs, the healing process begins. Chiropractic can expedite the healing process by enabling the body to function at 100%, the way God intended it to function. Chemical stress is also bad, but we know what we need to do, we just have to have the willpower to do it. Don’t overeat, eat healthy things and remember everything in moderation. Obesity is not only bad for the heart but it is also tough on the weight-bearing joints such as the feet, ankles, knees, hips and lower back. Emotional stress is the worst because until people can deal with the mental aspect, they continue to suffer this stress through the holidays and it stays with them until they can get past the issue. This type of stress puts tension on the muscles. Since the muscles attach to bones via tendons, tight muscles can pull bones out of place, especially in the spine, leading to misaligned vertebrae and pinched nerves. Chiropractic is not only encouraged but necessary to fix this problem, but until the stress is dealt with and put in the past, it will continue to recur. We deal with these stresses daily to some degree. But, what matters is how the body deals with these stresses. When our nervous system cannot function the way it is supposed, these stresses lead to misalignments which then lead to dis-ease and disease in the body. Remember what Christmas is truly about. Without Christ, there would be no Christmas. Don’t focus on the material end of things. Our staff and our family wish everyone a Safe and Merry Christmas!! Here is a poem I found and tweaked for our use. Hope everyone enjoys:
No jingle bells jingled, no sound of reindeer. The word had gone out that Santa was sick. There would be no visit from jolly St. Nick. The people were sad; no gaiety sounded. For Christmas had come, but Santa was grounded. He drove down the road, and what should he see? But a sign for a doctor, Joseph Kauffman, D.C. Now Santa was not one to like a new tactic, But all else had failed, so he tried Chiropractic. He entered the office and saw at a glance, In a place such as this, illness hasn’t a chance. The office staff smiled, the music was sappy, With all of the patients contented and happy. In a very short time, to judge by the clock,
And Doc, take a look at the size of this pack! Have you any idea what it does to my back? Poor Santa was miserable and just barely able, With the help of the Doctor, to get on the table. The Doctor was gentle; without a fuss or a tussle He examined the vertebrae and relaxed every muscle. He spotted trouble and then with a click, Started aligning the spine of old St. Nick. Santa felt aches and pains slipping away And in no time at all he began to feel gay. The air was a tingle with new fallen snow And a healthy Kris Kringle was rarin’ to go.
T’was A Chiropractic Christmas T’was the day before Christmas, but there was no cheer.
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As he went out the door, he threw them a kiss; Why, it had been centuries since he felt good as this! Then once more he shouldered the bag full of toys, His heart overflowing with true Christmas joys. a Dr. Joseph Kauffman Kauffman-Hummel Chiropractic Clinic 247 East Third Street Lewistown, PA 17044 717-248-2506 & 3962 West Main Street Belleville, PA 17004 717-935-2027 www.assistinginnate.com
The Valley, December 2011
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Joanne Wills’ Contentment Quest Gifts of the Season
On a recent early Monday morning, I sat in the stillness of my home gazing out a window that overlooks the backyard. New day rays were beginning to permeate the night shadows and melt the frost that blanketed the landscape. I chose just to sit with the stillness, savoring the warm cup of coffee in my hands and the purring cat on my lap. I savored the moment too. The gift of a new day… new beginning… an opportunity to create joy. The brief stillness and pause in my day’s schedule that served as a brief hiatus from the whirl of day to day. I savored the stillness because the days pass by so quickly… spinning faster and faster… likened to the dizzying effect and whirlwind pace of a ride on a
playground merry-go-round ride. On a not so distant day, I lie on the hammock, in the yard, outside this window. I reclined savoring a break in my day. It was a mini break to enjoy a few pages in a book, a break to gaze up into the branches of the majestic maple tree and reflect on its intricate beauty. It was merely a break to just be still and breathe, breathe in deeply, deeply breathe in life. It was a mini gift of time. From the hammock, I could see Rick raking leaves, gathering them from about the yard. As he groomed the yard meticulously, more leaves fell slowly and soundlessly they twirled and glided, cast off from the pin oak and the locust tree. I watched as he filled his arms with brittle autumn, heaped it into the
wheelbarrow and rustled off to the garden where he emptied the wheelbarrow of its summer dried contents, and an avalanche of autumn spilled into the garden. It was the same garden that fed and nourished us just weeks before. Now, the bountiful yield has passed. Now, it is the garden that gets nourished by the leaves and awaits a snow white blanket of winter. Just then, the rustling about of awakened family members pulls me back to the present tense, and for a brief moment, a mild feeling of guilt washes over me as I reckon that it is Monday morning. Most of the neighborhood is scurrying to beat the clock, and beat it out the door on time to begin another whirlwind work week. As an attempt to offset my guilt that it IS Monday morning, and I am here… in my pjs, cat on my lap, warm coffee in hand, savoring the stillness and moments of quiet. I reason with myself that if we don’t take breaks – breaks just to sit with the stillness – then we break. I shuffled to the coffee pot and as I poured another steamy cup of java, I watched the aromatic vapors curl up and away from my coffee mug. I watched the vapors dissipate faster than they appeared, and as I watched, I realized that often we don’t see our life as the “vapor” that it is – how our hours, our days, curl up and away like a deli-
cate vapor, until dissipated, until gone… yet we take no notice. Some of us wind our lives – our world, our bodies – tight like a toy top, tight till it can be wound no more. Then, we let go and expect to be in motion – to stay in unending motion. Others are like watchmakers who polish and shine the hands of time, and adjust the tick-tock of the clock in hopes of squeezing just a few more moments into their days and ultimately into their lives. My household members – family and pets – convened in the kitchen area to commence the daily breakfast flurry of activities, and just as swiftly as the activities had begun, they ceased completed. Once again the house was quiet, and my day was at hand – paused in time – waiting like a blank page to be filled – filled with meaning, memories and purpose – filled with life. I scanned my schedule planner to view what the day’s commitments held, and then I was off to mindfully approach my day. Annie Dillard once said “How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives.” Our days are woven into weeks, months, years, and decades which form the rich tapestry of our lives – our story. As we approach the years end, and bask in this most glorious season of light and miracles, this most blessed season of gifts – gifts of life, won’t you join me on a reflection of how we spent our days in 2011? As I reflect, I know some of those days will bring a smile to my face as they were filled with love, light, and peace. Some of those days will provoke painful emotion, and some will present powerful life learnings – which I will choose to grow from. The sad thing is that we do not get the option of a reset button for our days – for how we have chosen to move through our days. It is one and done – our days can’t be repeated no matter how many times we elect to play the re-run in our heads. Sara Ban Breathnach said “As we become curators of our own contentment… we learn to savor the small with a grateful
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heart.” The word “curator” means “keeper, custodian, and trustee.” So in other words, we become managers of our own contentment. We are responsible for our own contentment – responsible for its depth and breadth, for seeing the glass half full or half empty – it’s our choice how we elect to perceive conditions. Robert Louis Stevenson said “The habit of being happy enables one to be freed, or largely freed, from the dominance of outward conditions.” Read Stevenson’s quote again… powerful isn’t it?! Stevenson and Breathnach comprehended the same concept that we are the custodians of our own happiness. If we exercise our personal power our power of light, and live from our truth – our authentic selves – our truest, purest self – then nothing can dominate us. Nothing can keep us bound. If we live a life that manifests happiness and contentment then chances are we are on track to living our purpose. That sort of deep happiness is felt as a “fire in the belly” a passion. Deep happiness does not occur from possessing material goods or from consumerism. It often occurs when we choose to “seek” and be open to “find,” when we savor the moment – the present tense, and when we choose joy. Deep happiness occurs when one aligns with their life’s purpose, and /or opportunities to be of service to a fellow man. We may never know just how far reaching a small incidental act of kindness or service could be. The wonderful poet Maya Angelou speaks wisdom about the act of service, and the act of serving with our gifts. Angelou stated “When we cast our bread upon the waters, we can presume that someone downstream whose face we may never see will benefit from our action, even as we enjoy the gifts sent to us from a donor up stream.” In other words, our service to help another, and the choice, to be of service, by operating in authenticity of whom we were created to be is a gift in and of itself. When we choose to serve, and to exercise
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The Valley, December 2011
Life in the East End by Rebecca Harrop
I hope you all had a Happy Thanksgiving, I know I did. I always enjoy coming home from the barn in the morning and smelling the turkey in the oven. We have our meal at noon so that means the turkey has to be in the oven early. Thanksgiving is always a special time of year especially for farmers. We usually have all of our crops harvested by Thanksgiving, so we don’t have to worry about working in the fields that day. Some years my dad and brothers will hunt in the morning and come home in time to eat. My sister and I don’t go hunting on Thanksgiving because we help our mom cook all the food. I usually help make the fruit salad and the filling (that gets done the day before). Rachel helps stuff the turkey and sew it shut. Last year she even carved the turkey. She is getting pretty good at it, but don’t tell her or her head will swell. For farmers, Thanksgiving is an important holiday, because we are thankful for our harvest and we reflect back over the growing season. This year has been more difficult than most because we had all the rain in the spring, so we had to wait to plant the fields. There were a few spots we didn’t even get planted because they were low spots and took too long to dry out. Then we had a dry spell in the summer. All in all, most of us had a decent crop. So we are thankful to God for another growing season. Dad always says no matter how bad we think we have things, there is someone who has had it much worse. Of course, after Thanksgiving comes Christmas. As kids, we always think about Santa Claus and all the presents. As we grow up, we start to look at Christmas a little differently. In Sunday School we all learn the Christmas story. Mom always read about Jesus’ birth from the Bible on Christmas morning to us kids. I guess it starts to mean more when we grow up. It becomes more about giving than getting. It’s about giving more than just material things. It’s about giving up your time to spend with family and loved ones. It’s about helping other people. It’s about stopping by an elderly neighbor’s
home to say “Hi” and drop off some Christmas cookies. It’s about dropping some cash in the Salvation Army bucket at the entrance to the store so someone less fortunate can have a nice Christmas. Gram Harrop and Mom always do that and told us kids it was important for us to do also. It’s about going to church on Christmas Eve with family and friends. When we were little, we would always ride around and look at all the Christmas lights. It’s always pretty to see the lights when it’s snowing. It seems each year there are less and less lights out, and people start putting their decorations out sooner. And then ripping them down the day after Christmas. When I was in K-Mart this year, they already had the Christmas things out before Halloween. People forget the REAL reason behind CHRISTmas, and want to see how much money they can make off of the season. I think we loose something important when we rush over Thanksgiving to Christmas. I read somewhere that more people travel to visit family on Thanksgiving than on Christmas. So maybe we should reserve Christmas until after Thanksgiving is over. Some of my favorite memories of Christmas are decorating the tree. My sister and I always loved helping decorate. Even now I enjoy decorating the tree and playing Christmas music as loud as my mom will let me. My brother always gets annoyed when I play Christmas music all day. My favorite decorations are the handmade ones we have. Arlene Knepp, our Sunday School teacher from when we were little, makes these really neat handmade decorations every year for our church Christmas party and everyone gets an ornament as a favor. She’s been making them since before I was born and I’m twenty years old, so at least that long. She always makes a different ornament each year. Every year when we get the decorations out, we always share memories of what year we received each ornament. When we were young our mom would bake tons of cookies, and of course Rachel and I would always steal some when she wasn’t looking. At least back
then we thought she didn’t know. But I don’t think we ever stole as many as Ernie and Ben did. Mom always tried to hide them until Christmas so we wouldn’t eat them all before Christmas. We had fun trying to find them, especially since she usually hid them in the same place. Last year I made some cookies since my mom doesn’t have as much time anymore since she works full time now—my brother even helped
me. It was fun, but I’m not sure I want to start making the amount she made. I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas and makes lots of wonderful memories. Remember during all the bustle of the Christmas season what the real meaning of Christmas is. A babe born in a manger in Bethlehem to save the world from sin. a
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The Valley, December 2011
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Home-Grown! A Homeschooler’s Perspective By Mary Eck Don’t Neglect the Nucleus!
Time. That most precious of commodities! It is, arguably, the best gauge of an individual’s priorities. And as both parents and educators of our children, that weekly to-do list is an indispensable tool for managing those priorities. But, effective as they can be, there is the ever-present danger of becoming slave to it and ultimately compromising the very values we set out to venerate: God, marriage and family. Sure, we might pass two of those three with flying colors most months (maybe half-staff, but flying, nonetheless!); but, it is the middle one that seems to fall by the wayside far too often, especially during the hyper-hectic fall and spring months. So, how goes it in your marriage…if we were to put all airs aside and really take stock of where it falls on that time gauge that can be so painfully accurate? Would our dear husbands/ wives be able to honestly say they feel like the priority we profess them to be? Some of you will no doubt measure up well, and regularly exercise your marriage muscles. If so, you are to be commended for the example you set. If you are
like me, however, it is an exercise in utter humility. Like you, I do not homeschool purely for academic reasons. I feel called to do so as a cultural and spiritual counterweight to prevailing forces. I want our children to be Christian to their very core long before the world gets its chance to school them. But, am I missing the mark? From the moment I wake until nighttime falls, I am explaining algebraic formulas, correcting composition mistakes, helping with science experiments, making meals in between, “keeping house” (my husband smirks at this claim), juggling phone calls and paperwork that cannot wait, squeezing in a bathroom break, and on and on... My best friend, my husband, just doesn’t always (or even usually) make the cut, I am embarrassed to say! If you can relate to my reluctant admission, take heart! God graciously reminded me these last few weeks that my marriage is the nucleus that holds our family together, and that my children are watching closely and taking lifelong mental notes on what I spend my time on. And there is no greater gift I can give our children
than a strong Christian marriage where they readily recognize that the man God has blessed me with is important to me, and my time spent on and with him reflects that priority. Our marriages NEED to come before our children. That might sound uncomfortable to us, and we may fight that truth, but it IS truth. Strong marriages create the emotionally stable, loving environment that makes for happy children. There is NO down-side! The bottom line is that we need to be more intentional about teaching certain things than we often are in this chaotic culture, because our children learn from us both purposeful lessons, and those we neglect to teach. Silence does not mean nothing is being said; just that words are not being used. And it can be more powerful than we think. I exhort all of us to turn the tables and be heard loud and clear in our families and communities, that the marriage relationship— the nucleus of family life—is paramount to all others, and that we will diligently tend to—and defend—it as the immense blessing our God intended it to be! a
Gifts of the Season from page 34
gifts so we may collectively serve humanity. Let us build each other up so we may shine… shine brightly collectively and powerfully upon the world. Will you boldly choose to unwrap the gift of your “gifts” this season? Will you choose to serve? If you chose to live an authentic life, your “truth” what might you become? Will you boldly pencil in time – time in your schedule to just “be?” Will you boldly say “no” to the world’s rat race? How might you get to that new place of being? What steps must you take? Make a
plan; follow through with your first step. In what ways might you help others to get to a new state as well – a new state of being? In this season of miracles, this season of light, let us all choose to shine. In this season of gifts, let us all offer our gifts, just as the world’s greatest gift was offered to us so very long ago. And as the New Year approaches let us all resolve to serve, and to seek our fullest potential. Let us all choose joy. I’ll be waiting by the water… a
our gifts, we choose to nourish mankind. The world is hungry. There are gifts untapped – waiting to be unwrapped and discovered – waiting to be of service. People yearn to be fed. Humanity is suffering a famine. Join me by the water… let us all cast our bread upon the water and nourish each other. Let us nourish ourselves with the gift of time… time to seek and find our gifts… our purpose… so we may serve. Let us take time to nourish each other’s
“He who has not Christmas in his heart will never find it under a tree.”~Roy L. Smith
To buy..or not to buy from page 31 (Walking Liberty Silver Eagles) are the most highly prized silver investment vehicles in the world! While there are many other forms of Gold and Silver to consider, such as United States (Older) Numismatic Gold coins, Foreign Gold and Silver coins and United States 90% Silver coins (Dimes, Quarters and Half-Dollars dated 1964 and earlier), the Silver and Gold Eagle series are preferred because each coin has it’s Silver or Gold weight minted on the coin! Canadian Maple Leaf coins, South African Krugerrands and several other state sponsored bullion items also show exact weights! However, the American Gold and Silver coins are more easily Silver or Gold weight minted on the coin! Canadian Maple Leaf coins, South African Krugerrands and several other state sponsored bullion items also show exact weights! However, the American Gold and Silver coins are more easily obtainable, and, because they are denominated in units of the World Reserve currency (the Dollar) they retain their #1 metals investment status! Once you have decided that investing in Gold and Silver is right for you, the next question is “where should we purchase them”? The easy answer to this question would be, you buy them from the firm (or individual) you trust the most at the lowest price you can find! It sounds easy, and sometimes it really is that simple! Usually, however, there are several considerations that can make an easy decision just a bit more difficult! Larger bullion companies do not (generally) offer the lowest prices, and smaller coin operations do not always have the type of coins, or the quantity of coins that you desire! Probably the worst places to buy gold and silver would be from high-pressure telephone sales people (who almost always try to convince you that high grade collectible coins are your best buy) or from mail order companies who need substantial profits to operate. Guess who provides those profits? Our best suggestion is to make a few telephone calls to local, smaller operations and ask what they have in stock and what their current asking prices are! Don’t be afraid to ask them what their Buy-Sell rates are. Dealers need to make a profit, but you don’t want to buy from anyone who has a large buy/sell spread!
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If a dealer tells you he is buying 1-Ounce, Silver American Eagles for $33 and selling them for $38 .. he wins hands down to the dealer who suggests that he will buy them for $28 and sell for $40! Normally, however, the larger spread dealers will refuse to give you that information. That is certainly reason enough to scratch that dealer off your list! If you can find what you want with a local dealer, the purchase/ sale is easy. You simply walk into the store, select what you want, pay for it, then take it home! No waiting, no worrying about future deliveries, and you will begin to establish a relationship with that dealer that will certainly make future purchases much easier to arrange! Smaller coin operations not only (normally) charge lower prices, but they also offer a level of confidentiality not afforded you when dealing with larger companies who tend to keep accurate records of every transaction you make! Smaller dealers do not have the time, the interest or even the need to collect such information! Yes, large “Cash” purchases (exceeding $10,000.00) must be recorded and reported, but larger buys, in any amount, that are paid for with checks, credit cards or wire-transfers, do not fall into Homeland Securities “Anti-Money laundering” recording requirements! Since very few local dealers, coin shows and flea-market type sellers require a minimum purchase, buying silver and gold can be as simple as walking into the store, agreeing on a price, paying it and walking out with your purchase! It doesn’t have to be any more confusing than that! Converting some of your savings to Gold and Silver just might be the most important investment you could make in these times of rising inflation and extreme economic uncertainty! If you think this type of investment is right for you, don’t wait! Do your research and start buying right now! Editors note: 4 Star Jewelers in Burnham is where I have started a new tradition for my family. From this Christmas forward, I am going to buy all of my grandchildren Silver Eagles for Christmas and their birthdays. This is a much better way to spend your money than on things that will be soon forgotten. Silver or Gold will get you remembered long after you are gone. a
The Valley, December 2011
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Honoring a Man, a Husband, a Father, an Inspiration and a Real Friend
shared vision of a traveling promotional billboard and mobile stage that housed a 10,000 watt sound system. These guys were way ahead of their time in this respect, they had a stage that they could set up in minutes on the roof of the bus, complete with huge screens on either side which displayed patterns that were tied in with the music. The bus also was its own power source via onboard generators that enabled them to perform almost anywhere, and they did. They undertook a 15,000 mile journey across the US, stopping and playing free concerts near popular landmarks across the country. This was the way they created One of the promo photo’s shot a following and a demand for for one of the upcoming CDs their style of music. Their next CD was released nally made it. I remember arriving and rose up the charts, packages at the barn Christmas Eve 1999 were coming and going almost Continued on page 43 daily and it appeared they had fi-
by Wayne Stottlar
Looking at the package in my hand as I was loading my Fedex van for another day out in the nomans land along the Maine/New Hampshire border, I instantly felt a wave of concern. This package said Milton Mills! This was the furthest point out from the station on my particular route, and as
the saying in New England goes, “Ya cain’t git theyah from hea-ah. Or if you could, you might never find your way back out. I had just been down in that area a few days before and it took what seemed like an hour to find the residence for the package I was delivering. Out in Milton Mills the roads are mostly dirt, not very well marked, and some places the roads weren’t marked at all. It takes years sometimes in that environment before you can leave the station knowing you will find a home for every package. This particular day as the Christmas rush was beginning, I knew I didn’t have a lot of time to be floundering around out in the boonies and I was not happy about the prospect of trying to find yet another person who chose to live there just to make it difficult for people to find them. The years on that route were some of the most frustrating, yet also the most rewarding. The name on the package said Chris Hobler, but it could have been Kris Kringle for all I cared, this wasn’t going to be a fun day! All morning I thought about that package in the back of my truck that was going to make my day miserable and perhaps make me late getting back to the station. Milton Mills, as luck would have it, was considered a PM area--that is, even priority packages weren’t due until 4:00PM--there’s no 10:30 service to the boonies. With at least that little bit of comfort, I breezed through my morning deliveries as I worked toward that outpost called Milton Mills.
the next few years I found myself rushing to get their packages delivered way before deadline. In fact, I used to plan my route so I could spend my lunch hour talking with the guys upstairs in the offices of the barn/recording studio. From the very first second I knew there was something special about these guys. They were very unassuming, extremely cordial and down to earth. They seemed like they really cared about their fellow man, and they did. I thought they looked at me like just another necessary interruption to their day until they released a new CD and thought to mention me in their credits on the CD jacket, I was stunned. Of course that also made me want to work even harder for them, I can remember some winters with snow over 2 feet deep in their long winding driveway, having to park in the road and run the packages up to the barn. I didn’t mind, as these guys weren’t just customers, they were friends. Chris and his wife Jen were expecting a baby and Chris seemed to be a little distracted by the whole impending fatherhood that was on the way. He needn’t have worried, I saw right away how proud and excited he was to be a dad after Aiden was born, his first son. I would see Chris going about his work in the studio with Aiden in a sling or back pack, or he would be with Jen out in the garden while Aiden was still an infant. These two were made to be parents. I envied the way Chris seemed to have everything together and the stars lit his way. It wasn’t that his career was hitting the stratosphere or anything, I mean they had great music, and it was original and all that, but besides recording their own music in their own studio, these guys decided to forego an agent and do everything themselves. They did their own promotions, scheduled their own tours, and even drove themselves around the country in a converted school bus called the “Cosmic Sled.” It was a sight to behold when they first obtained it, and A family photo shot shortly after diagnosis. The wheel chair betrays an otherwise they went to work happy family photo. making it into their
Blasting down the road after lunch toward that destination and almost out of my area, something caught my eye and just before I was about to start speaking in some unintelligible language as the border with Maine appeared. There on the new looking mailbox that stood next to a long winding driveway that led up the hill toward and old but well kept New England Farmhouse, in letters so everyone could see, I saw “Hobler.” A couple vehicles parked next to a huge weathered barn restricted the ability to turn around, but I was thankful that this time my internal GPS didn’t let me down. Someone yelled down from an upstairs window in the barn, “Come on in, I’ll be right down!” I walked through the door and was stunned. The weathered exterior gave no hint that inside there was a recording studio, instruments all over the place, a huge board like I had never seen before, and all kinds of computer equipment. Wow, was this out of place in Milton Mills. Bodies started appearing from the stairway, long haired, hippystyled clothing that two of the guys wore seemed somewhat out of place in the late 90s. The apparent recipient stepped forward with an extended hand, “Hi, I’m Chris Hobler, that package for me?” While Chris signed for the package, two other guys introduced themselves as well, Rick Reese, bass guitarist and synthesizer, and Mike Anderson, the business manager. That was my first introduction to the band Sonic Joyride, a semi psychodelic/grunge/new age/alternative rock band. Over
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The Valley, December 2011
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The Valley, December 2011
Notes LEWISTOWN HOSPITAL RECEIVES PROGRAM CERTIFICATION
Lewistown Hospital is proud to announce the certification of its Pulmonary rehabilitation program by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR). Lewistown Hospital was recognized for its commitment to improving the quality of life by enhancing standards of care. Cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation programs are designed to help people with cardiovascular problems (e.g. heart attacks, coronary artery bypass graft surgery, etc.) and pulmonary problems (e.g. chronic obstructive pulmonary disease – COPD, respiratory symptoms, etc.) recover faster and improve their quality of life. Both programs include exercise, education, counseling and support for patients and their families. The Lewistown Hospital Pulmonary rehabilitation program participated in the one month application process which requires extensive documentation of the program’s practices. The AACVPR Program Certification is the only peer-reviewed accreditation process designed to review individual programs for adherence to standards and guidelines developed and published by the AACVPR and other professional societies. Each program is reviewed by the AACVPR National Certification Committee and certification is awarded by the AACVPR Board of Directors. Certified AACVPR programs are recognized as leaders in the field of cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation because they offer the most advanced practices available. AACVPR Program Certification is valid for three years. a
Your Source For…Farm, Auto, Home, & Life Insurance Year Round Tax Planning 4417 East Main Street, Belleville (L-R): Lewistown Hospital Respiratory Therapists Adrienne Runk, Bethany Thompson, Dana Peachey, Dawn McMullen, and Lorraine Herbster.
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935 935--5858
The Valley, December 2011
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POOR WILL’S VALLEY ALMANACK for December of 2011 When woods are bare and birds are flown, And frosts and shortening days portend The aged year is near his end…. --William Cullen Bryant THE STARS After 10:00 p.m., find Taurus right in front of giant Orion. Then look behind Orion for the two bright stars of Castor and Pollux, the anchors of Gemini. Behind Genimi comes Cancer. On the far eastern horizon, the largest star is Regulus, which tells you that you are looking at the constellation of Leo (the apparent source of the Leonid meteors). In the west, Cygnus the swan leads the Milky Way down the path the sun took just five hours earlier. Summer’s Vega finally disappears into the northern horizon. THE SHOOTING STARS On December 13-14 after midnight, the Geminid meteors fall through Gemini (just to the east of Orion). Between December 17 and 25, the Ursid meteors will appear late at night deep in the northeast around the Big Dipper and Little Dipper, the Ursid or Bear Constellations. The later in the month you watch, the less interference you will receive from the waning moon. THE PLANETS Venus in Sagittarius is absent from the night sky this month. Mars comes up in Leo after midnight, moving near the center of the heavens by sunrise. Jupiter moves to Pisces high in the southwest at sundown. Saturn is still in Virgo, rising after midnight and moving almost overhead by sunrise.
THE SUN The sun reaches a declination of 22 degrees, 22 minutes on the 5th of December, approximately one degree from its declination at winter solstice. The sun’s position will remain within a degree of solstice until January 8, producing a period of solar stability similar to the one between June 4 and July 8. Winter Solstice occurs on December 22 at 12:30 a.m. The sun enters its Deep Winter sign of Capricorn at the same time. DECEMBER - WEEK 1 THE TRANSITION WEEK TO EARLY WINTER LUNAR PHASE AND LORE The Sandhill Crane Migration Moon enters its second quarter at 4:52 a.m. on December 2, this weak lunar position increasing the odds for a mild start to the month. Rising in the middle of the day and setting after midnight, this moon lies overhead in the evening. Fishing and hunting have the best chance of receiving a “lunar bump” if undertaken with the moon above you as daylight wanes, especially while the barometer falls in advance of the December 3 and December 8 weather systems. If you are seeding your bedding plants under lights, lunar position in Pisces on December 1 and 2 and in Taurus on the 6th and 7th may increase the likelihood for improved sprouting. WEATHER PATTERNS All along the 40th parallel, average highs fall three degrees this week into the lower 40s, and typical lows decline to the middle 20s. The first December cold front usually arrives between the 1st and the 3rd, bringing a 40 percent chance for rain or snow on the 2nd and 3rd. The 4th and 5th are dry two years in three; the 6th, however, usually anticipates the second high-pressure system of the month, and it is wet half the days in my record. Afternoons reach the 60s five percent of the
time. Odds are far better for chilly afternoons in the 30s and 40s and lows well below freezing. December 1st is usually the brightest day of the week, with a 60 percent chance for sun; on the other days of this period, odds are better than 50/50 for clouds. DECEMBER – WEEK 2 THE FIRST WEEK OF EARLY WINTER LUNAR PHASE AND LORE The Sandhill Crane Migration Moon brings the last of the sandhill cranes south this week and becomes completely full on December 10 at 9:36 a.m. The only lunar eclipse of 2011 visible in North America will occur at moonset, near dawn on December 10. This will be a partial eclipse, so watch the edge of the round full moon as it sinks into the west. Rising in the afternoon and setting in the morning, the full moon will lie overhead in the middle of the night. Fishing and hunting should be most successful when the moon is beneath the Earth around noon, especially as the December 8 and 15 cold fronts approach. Expect seasonal affective disorders to spike under the full of the moon, but plan on more benign lunar conditions next week. Put in bedding plants under Cancer on the 11th and 12th. WEATHER PATTERNS This week of the year brings the second major cold front of the month between the 8th and the 10th, and the third major highpressure system between the 11th and the 13th. Completely overcast skies dominate 60 percent of the days, and precipitation should be expected as the cold waves approach. Afternoon highs are often in the 20s or 30s (a 55 to 65 percent chance for temperatures so cold). Although full moon typically draws in cold northern air, the 10th and the 12th are, historically speaking, the days this week with the best chance for warmth in the 40s or 50s (slightly better
than a 30 percent chance for that). Severe weather with below-zero temperatures and highs only in the teens is rare; the 14th is the only day when such things might occur.
every day this week bringing a 50 percent chance for rain or snow except December 16th, which is typically the driest and the sunniest day between the 15th and 25th.
DECEMBER - WEEK 3 THE SECOND WEEK OF EARLY WINTER LUNAR PHASE AND LORE The moon wanes throughout the week, entering its final quarter on December 17 at 7:48 p.m. Rising at midday and setting in the middle of the night, this gibbous moon will be overhead near dawn, the hours at which fishing and hunting have the best lunar chance of bringing results. The falling barometer in advance of the cold fronts of the 15th and the 20th should contribute to a successful search for food. Seasonal stress should decline until around the 18th, but then it is expected to rise sharply as the moon darkens. The new moon next week favors the seeding of bedding plants from Christmas Eve all the way through New Year’s Day. Prepare seeds and soil, and set up your grow lights soon. If you choose to plant this week, Scorpio on the 20th and 21st offers the most propitious lunar position.
DECEMBER - WEEK 4 THE THIRD WEEK OF EARLY WINTER LUNAR PHASE AND LORE The first moon of 2012, the Camel-Back Cricket Moon, is new on Christmas Eve at 1:06 p.m. Throughout the months ahead, camel-back crickets often emerge from hidden corners of your house to explore; they bring good luck (according to almanac lore) if you find them and let them go about their work. Rising in the morning and setting in the evening, the new moon moves overhead in the middle of the day and early afternoon, making the hours near noon the most favorable lunar times for hunting, fishing, and feeding children. When the barometer falls in advance of the Christmas cold front and the New Year’s cold front, game and people tend to eat even more. Lunar position in Capricorn on the 24th and 25th and in Pisces on the 28th through the 30th bode well for seeding bedding plants under the dark moon.
WEATHER PATTERNS The third week of December almost always brings in a strong cold wave between the 15th and the 17th, and if this front arrives on its earliest date, the 15th, expect another front on the 19th or 20th. The coldest December days, those with better than a 35 percent chance for highs in the 20s or below, all come at this time of the month: the 17th, 18th, 19th, 25th, and 26th. The most bitter day this week in weather history is the 19th, with a 30 percent chance for highs only in the teens. And more below-zero temperatures occur between the 18th and the 26th than on any other December mornings. Precipitation is common throughout the period, with
WEATHER PATTERNS This time of the year is ordinarily dominated by three major cold waves. The first comes between the 20th and 22nd, the second arrives between the 23rd and the 26th, and the third is the New Year’s front. The high-pressure system of the 20th is the first of the “white Christmas” fronts, and it brings snow to the northern half of the country about half the time. The front that crosses the Mississippi near the 25th also carries a fifty-percent chance for frozen precipitation, but the weather often clears for Christmas. The 28th is the darkest day of the period in the East and Middle Atlantic states, with a 70 percent chance for clouds. The 26th is typically
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The Valley, December 2011 the coldest day of the week and has almost a 40 percent chance for highs just in the teens or 20s above the Ohio Valley. The New Year’s weather system typically brings rain to the South, sleet or snow to the North, and is followed by Deep Winter, the coldest time of year in North America. A DAYBOOK FOR DECEMBER Now weather brings both drafts and ice, and coughing fits and evil lice. Now watch for mold within the hay, and offer herbs throughout the day. December 1: Except along the Gulf Coast, nearly every deciduous tree is bare. The Christmas tree harvest is in progress throughout the North, and Christmas cacti often have reached full bloom. Bats hibernate where insects have been killed by frost. Crows flock to winter roosts. December 2: The moon enters its second quarter today and is likely to soften the cold front due tomorrow - as well as bring down pre-Christmas stress. Take advantage of low lunar influence to work with animals, children, parents and clients. Public service employees often have an easier time at work when the moon comes into its second quarter (but before full moon). December 3: This is the time of year to repair and tighten up homes against yellow jackets and other wasps and hornets. The queens have all gone to live underground, and even though a colony may be still be alive in the wall of a house, they will be small in number and lethargic. December 4: If your sow gives birth now, be sure to provide adequate heat for the piglets (about 80 degrees), especially in the temperature extremes that occur throughout the next five months. Mild weather in advance of a cold front can be a dangerous setup for pig mortality when the cold winds arrive. December 5: In the warm spells between high-pressure systems, watch for spoiled silage – another source of sick livestock in Late Autumn and Early Winter. December 6: During the warmest years, pastures can still be infested with worm eggs and larvae. Consider worming your herd and flock every six to eight weeks in order to break the parasites’ cycles. December 7: The coming week is a pivotal period during which the night lengthens by only three minutes along the 40th Parallel. This is the first time that the day
has shortened so slowly since the middle of July, the first sign of the breakdown of winter – even before it begins. December 8: In the dark afternoons in December, orchids are in their prime. Under lights, in a greenhouse, or in a south window, most varieties bloom before Christmas. Early Winter, a threeweek season that puts a definite end to the floral year, typically starts today and lasts until even colder conditions move in around New Year’s day. December 9: Early Winter is the time during which the last of the deciduous trees lose their leaves and the last of the wildflowers either die back or become dormant. In the South, the arrival of this season may be delayed until the very end of calendar year, but no matter when it arrives, Early Winter’s nights are the coldest and longest of the year, and its cloud cover is the most intense. December 10: The moon is full today, increasing the odds for severe weather. Full moon also makes shopping stress and problems with family and friends more likely. December 11: Remember to keep your water for your pregnant animals between 50 and 60 degrees. You want to have as much water as they’ll drink, and they’ll be thirstier as the babies grow. When that first terrible cold wave hits between the 8th and the 20th of December, give your livestock a treat by bringing out some buckets filled with nice hot water. December 12: Keep up weight and daily milking records for your herd and flock. An unexpected decline in either weight or milk production is often related to problems with feed or health. Of course, keeping track of your children’s weight is important, too! December 13: Make sure your bees have enough ventilation to prevent moisture condensation within the hive. Also consider putting an entrance reducer in your hives to keep mice from coming in as the cold deepens. December 14: Redpoll season arrives in the Northeast, and brown pelican nesting season commences along the Gulf of Mexico. December 15: Greenhouse workers are taking cuttings from mother plants for future stocks of varieties such as impatiens and geraniums. At home, you might consider starting propagating some of your houseplants when the moon becomes new on Christmas Eve. December 16: Crow gathering season becomes obvious as thousands of crows congregate
to spend the winter, their advent announced by beech tree leaf shedding season. December 17:Pregnant animals need to get their exercise, especially when snow and ice and bitter winds can keep a herd or flock in close quarters. Since the moon is weak today, entering its final quarter, working with all your livestock and pets is favored. December 18: Soil temperatures have often fallen into the mid 30s throughout the lower Midwest and Middle Atlantic region. The Christmas tree harvest is almost over. Odds against the survival of garden vegetables rise sharply as the full force of the December 15 cold front settles in across the area. December 19: Between this week and January 3, normal average temperatures drop one degree every four days instead of one degree every three, signaling a slight slowdown in the chilling of most American farms and gardens. Soon the averages become steady; on January 28 they start to climb toward summer. December 20: The December 20 weather system is often relatively mild (compared to systems of December 15 and 25), but it has a good chance of producing snow all across the northern tier of states. Since the moon becomes new on the 24th this year, the chances rise for severe weather (strong winds and rain across the South – blizzard conditions across the North) throughout this holiday period. December 21: Winter generally brings the highest prices for goat’s milk. Plan for increased production for this time next year. December 22: Pruning time gets underway under the dark moon as average highs in your area drop into the 30s; it continues until highs climb once again past 40. Take out suckers, dead and crossing branches. Cut fruit trees down to the right level for picking, but don’t prune what will bloom before June. December 23: Tomorrow is new moon day. Get your bedding plants planted under lights with gentle radiant heat provided below the flats. Root grape vine cuttings, too. December 24: New moon today is expected to intensify the Christmas cold front. December 25: Take note of the deepest incursion of the sun through one of your south windows today. A pencil mark on the floor or wall will provide a comforting measure of the advance of spring not only in your home but in all of North America.
December 26: The period of winter stability is setting in. In most states, average high temperatures fluctuate only about two to three degrees between now and the approach of Early Spring in the third week of February. In the Northeast, red squirrels are getting their white ear tufts – a certain sign of snow to come! December 27: Along the Gulf of Mexico, the sun is already shortening the dormancy of trees and shrubs, hurrying the gestation of spring. Across coastal Georgia, sweet gums and yellow poplars finally lose their leaves, and their buds swell almost immediately to replace the loss. In central Florida, red maples open, and Jessamine produces its yellow blossoms. December 28: When you find antlers in the snow from whitetailed bucks, then you know that mango trees are flowering in southern Florida and that early spring is only 50 days away from Pittsburgh. December 29: Milder December weather near the Great Lakes may open pussy willows and draw up snowdrops, crocus and aconites as the days expand. December 30: The snow and the overwintering robins pull off the honeysuckle berries. Winterberry branches are dropping their fruit. Bittersweet hulls continue to split away from their branches. December 31: In most years, only eleven more severe cold fronts (seven in January, four in February) remain until the arrival of Early Spring. THE NORTH WIND That blustery draught brings power and prosperity, Holds Sirius, the Dog Star, to the night, Where he can do no injury. --Silvanus The Roman naturalist, Pliny, agreed with Silvanus: he praised the cold northern winds as the “healthiest of all.” During the eighteenth century, physicians said the same thing. For example, William Currie, in his Historical Account of the Climate and Diseases of the United States of America (1792) wrote that “the winds which prevail during the greatest part of winter, from the north and northwest, though they are severe and piercing cold...give vigor to the constitutions and a freshness and bloom to the complexion.” Currie backed up this classical medical theory with one of the first compilations of disease statistics to be published in the country. Modern Cincinnati physician, Dr. Clarence Mills, accepted the
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time honored theory about the winds in his Climate Makes the Man (1942), but he gave spring zephyrs the edge over winter’s. “Bodily vigor goes through a yearly cycle,” Mills asserted, “rising to a peak in the spring, declining sharply through the summer heat, and then recovering again during autumn and winter.” Mills even thought fertility in mammals followed that pattern of “vigor.” “Fertility,” he stated, “is highest when outdoor temperatures are around 65 degrees. Conceptions then occur most readily, and the offspring are most lusty. Winter temperatures averaging below 40 degrees make you somewhat less fertile, even though you may be more active physically, and as mean summer temperatures climb above 70 degrees, you decline in both fertility and bodily vigor.” The seasons have more than just a short-range effect on life, said Dr. Mills. “The volumes of Who’s Who,” he alleged, “are largely filled with the names of those conceived during the winter or spring months.” He claimed that those people tend to live longer, and that they choose to attend college twice as often as those conceived “in midsummer heat.” He went so far as to say that one would be wiser to plan one’s children according to the time of year than to worry about saving for their education. Brought to life in the proper wind, he contended, the babe would have the energy and the will to earn his or her way alone. The final step of his theory: not only are the lives of individuals enhanced or diminished by the season of birth; nations themselves rise and fall with the thermometer and barometer. Examining the past from Alexander the Great to the Great Depression, Mills concluded that “practically every prosperity or boom period has been a time of normal or low temperatures.” And if that has not proven true with the current Great Recession, it may foretell a bitter winter to come. Copyright 2011 – Bill Felker The 2012 version of Poor Will is now available: It contains 300 pages full of essays by Bill Felker, reader stories (including some fine outhouse tales), weather outlooks, a calendar of holidays for gardeners, ranchers and homesteaders, a daybook for the entire year, the only S.A.D.
Continued on page 43
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Julie Mac from page 8 I found this and thought it was really neat. I could see a beautiful mason jar filled with this cookie recipe, nestled next to cookie cutters a rolling pin and perhaps an oven mitt or kitchen towels. Cranberry Hootycreeks Ingredients 5/8 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup rolled oats 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/3 cup packed brown sugar 1/3 cup white sugar 1/2 cup dried cranberries 1/2 cup white chocolate chips 1/2 cup chopped pecans Directions Layer the ingredients in a 1 quart or 1 liter jar, in the order listed. Attach a tag with the following instructions: Cranberry Hootycreeks 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a cookie sheet or line with parchment paper. 2. In a medium bowl, beat together 1/2 cup softened butter, 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla until fluffy. Add the entire jar of ingredients, and mix together by hand until well blended. Drop by heaping spoonfuls onto the pre-
pared baking sheets. 3. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until edges start to brown. Cool on baking sheets, or remove to cool on wire racks. If you didn’t have the hinged mason jars you could always try re-purposing a large glass mayonnaise jar. Soaking the jar in hot soapy water would get the label off and you could take a can of leftover spray paint and paint the top of the lid. You could even add a dusting of glitter to the top before the paint dried to add a little extra holiday flair. Another really easy idea to add to your baskets is homemade flavored vinegars. They are really easy to make and because of their high acid content, they don’t need to be water bathed! Have fun experimenting with different flavors in these exotic vinegars. The longer you let them stand the more intense the flavor will be. You can occasionally strain out the solids and replace with fresh herbs, berries, or spices. Here are a few ideas. Apple Spice Vinegar 4 cups apple cider vinegar 3 cinnamon sticks 6 strips orange peel 3 slices dried apple 1/4 cup raisins. Bring vinegar to a boil in a medium saucepan. Fill 3 10-oz.
decorative heatproof bottles with 1 cinnamon stick, 2 strips of orange peel, and 1 slice dried apple (sliced, if necessary, to fit in bottle). Pour hot vinegar through a funnel into the bottles. Cover tightly and let stand at least 14 days before using. Tarragon Vinegar 4 cups apple cider vinegar 3 large sprigs fresh tarragon. Bring vinegar to a boil in a medium saucepan. Fill 3 10-oz. decorative heatproof bottles with tarragon sprig, then, pour hot vinegar through a funnel into the bottles. Cover tightly and let stand in a cool dark place at least 14 days before using. Raspberry Vinegar 4 cups white wine vinegar 1-1/2 cups fresh or frozen raspberries Bring vinegar to a boil in a medium saucepan. Fill 3 10-oz. decorative heat -proof bottles with raspberries, then, pour hot vinegar through a funnel into the bottles. Cover tightly and let stand in a cool dark place at least 14 days before using. I hope that I have given you some ideas to get you started. I am excited to get going myself. The hunt for containers is on! Merry Christmas! a
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Poor Will’s Almanack from page 41 (seasonal affective disorder) Index ever devised, and scrambled word puzzles that offer readers the chance to win cash each month. To order your autographed copy, send $20.00 (includes shipping and handling) to Poor Will, P.O. Box 431, Yellow Springs, Ohio 45387. Bill’s website, www.poorwillsalmanack.com, contains weekly updates and a sizable bank of information about nature. His organization of weather patterns and phenology (what happens when in nature) offers a unique structure for understanding the repeating rhythms of the year. Bill lives with his wife in Yellow Springs, Ohio. They have two daughters, Jeni, who is a psychologist in Portland, Oregon, and Neysa, a photographer in Spoleto, Italy. A DECEMBER OUTLOOK FOR PENNSYLVANIA AND THE MIDDLE ATLANTIC REGION Average high temperatures fall from the middle 40s on the first of the month down to the middle 30s on the 31st. Typical lows move from 29 to 21. Most Decembers bring one or two days above 60, and four days in the 50s, those temperatures frequently recorded before the arrival of early winter (around December 8th). The remaining afternoons reach into the 40s an average of seven times, into the 30s thirteen times, finding the 20s three times, and stay in the teens or lower on three occasions. A morning or two below zero is experienced three years in ten. The period most likely to produce such lows is December 18th through the 26th. The coldest December days, those with better than a 35 percent chance for temperatures in the 20s or below, are the 17th, 18th, 19th, 25th, and 26th. The warmest days, those
Dairy Princess Memories from page 20 plate. Refrigerate while preparing filling. Pour milk into large bowl. Add dry pudding mixes. Beat with wire whisk for 2 minutes or until well blended. (Mixture will be thick) Spoon 1 ½ cups of the pudding into crust. Top with the reserved cookie pieces. Gently stir 1 ½ cups of the whipped topping into the remaining pudding; spoon over cookie layer. Refrigerate 3 hours. Cover with remaining whipped topping just before serving. Top with the cherry
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Chris Hobler from page 37
laps in the driveway as his 4-5 http://www.youtube.com/ year old son pedaled a tricycle watch?v=lZG3q3wQ43g beside him. He fulfilled his role as a father right up to the last. http://www.hopehappens.org/ Chris passed away February Home.aspx?ContentID=12 16th, 2005 at the ripe old age of You can also google Chris 39 years old, I will forever miss him. He did start that foundation though, which still continues to work today to find a cure for ALS. I had always wanted to help in some small way and was never able to until now. Bill From L to R, Mike Anderson business manFaulk who oper- ager, Chris, Jon and Rick beside the future “Cosmic Sled.” ates the Lewistown Creamery has agreed to donate a portion of Hobler or Sonic Joyride to find the profits in Christmas Tree sales out more. Stop by the Lewistown to Chris’ re-named group which Creamery this year for a tree and now calls itself “Hope Happens.” let’s see if we can talk Bill Faulk Chris’ wife Jennifer, and mom into making this a yearly donation Jean continue to work with Hope at Christmas time. Happens to find a cure for this Chris was an incredible terrible disease, and it can’t come person. I love ya bro, and we will soon enough. see each other again someday, but If you would like to learn I will not be bringing your packmore about who Chris Hobler ages to you this time, just joining was, learn a little about his group you for a sit down and conversa“Sonic Joyride” or learn about tion, just like old times, Merry “Hope Happens,” the following Christmas Chris. a websites will get you started.
with a 25 percent or better chance of producing highs in the 60s or 50s, are the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 7th, 10th, 12th, and 29th. Skies are completely cloudy on about 12 December days. They are partly cloudy on 15 days, completely cloudless on only four. The average amount of sunshine available this month is 37 percent, the lowest average of the year. The darkest December days, those with better than a 60 percent chance for totally overcast conditions, are the 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 11th, 15th, 18th, 19th, 21st, 23rd, 26th, 27th, 28th, 29th, and 31st. The sunniest days, those with more than a 60 percent chance for at least partly cloudy conditions, are the 9th, 14th, 22nd, and the 25th. A typical December (except along the Great Lakes) brings a little more than two and a half inches of precipitation - included in which are about five and a half inches of snow (one inch of snow equals approximately .05 of an inch of water). The wettest days of the twelfth month, those with more than a 40 percent chance of precipitation, are the 6th, 8th, 10th, 15th, 17th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 24th, 30th, and 31st. In milder Decembers, rainy days usually outnumber snowy days by about two to one. The days with the least precipitation (just a 20 percent chance): the 1st, 4th, 11th, 16th, and 26th. And will this December be an average December? While the above data are often useful in predicting trends, the likelihood of a return of La Nina conditions this year suggests that we may have a repeat of last December’s bitter cold and heavy snow. If La Nina does come back in a “double dip,” January and February will keep the snow on the ground in the North, and drought will hang on throughout the Southwest. a pie filling. Drizzle with melted chocolate. Store any leftover dessert in refrigerator. a
and the boys just yelling out the window for me to come upstairs. They had a gift and an insistence to spend a little time enjoying holiday spirit with each other. These guys deserved everything that could be good, they really were the kind of people anyone would be honored to call friends. Their next CD was released and this time on the cover it said, “Special thanks to our fearless Fedex driver Wayne,” I couldn’t have been more touched by the gesture, these were great friends. At the end of 2000 life changed for me, and I found myself abruptly leaving my home and losing contact with the band. After a few months, I decided to write Chris an email to touch base and catch up, the response floored me, and I still get teary when I remember him breaking to me that he had been diagnosed with ALS. What? So how soon until they can cure you? I have to admit being uninformed about ALS at the time, but it is pretty much a death sentence, although in Chris’ email to me, he told me he was going to start a group called ALS Hope to help find a cure, and he was going to fight until they could cure him. Even now, I think he believed he could overcome this. He had cleared so many hurdles in his short life already--he was only 35 years old at the time. I was devastated at the news, and wished that I could do something to help, but there was nothing I or anyone could do to save Chris’ life. He waged a 4 year battle, and fought all the way to the end, still taking time to be a father and a husband while his body slowly betrayed him. ALS is a wicked disease, as the mind stays bright and sharp and the body slowly shuts down as the nervous system is attacked. One of the last videos I saw was of Chris in his pedal wheel chair running
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The Valley, December 2011
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