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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.
A Piece of Local History Returns to Mifflin County Tomorrow’s Media - A Day Early
Volume 7, No. 3
—by Wayne Stottlar The great thing about this business is that you never know where your next surprise may come from. Most times those surprises can be otherwise described as crises, speed bumps, and sometimes even fate, but just before the February issue of The Valley hit the streets and I was up to my eyeballs in “deadline stuff,” a surprise turned out to be a blessing. Being somewhat of a history freak (most folks that know of my passion for metal detecting know that it isn’t treasure that drives me, but rather saving history), I had always been interested in the early days of Yeagertown and the people that settled here. While doing research for detecting spots, I perpetually ran into little bits and pieces of the way things were when we were still considered frontier in the fledgling nation of America. Before the Mann Axe Factory set up shop on the banks of Kish creek, Yeagertown was just a small cluster of houses at the base of Jack’s Mountain on Mann’s Narrows, which went by the name of Logan’s Gap The creek was the reason for the small cluster of homes just east of the narrows. The creek was also the reason a mill was constructed a few hundred yards downstream of Mann’s Narrows
The Valley, March 2016
at a spot which eventually became The town became prosperous, lowed the Yeager Mill to become known as Mill St. boasting two stores, a church, two known as the producer of some of The land our county now schools and the other necessary the finest flour money could buy. occupies was purchased from the The Yeager family added a pieces for a country town to operIroquois Indians by the Penns in successful coal and lumber diviate efficiently. The local resources 1754. The land went through sevand the dependable Kish Creek al- sion and then four 500-horsepoweral hands as the er turbine wheels original large tract to the mill, and by of land was split 1908 was supplying up and divided and all of Yeagertown sold off. Eventuwith electricity. ally, James Mayes The Yeager purchased the land family was commitalong with several ted to excellence in surrounding tracts, their product—the and in 1798 was Yeager Mill used assessed for 588 the whole kernel acres of land and to make their flour a saw and grist “head and shoulmill. Known at ders” above the the time as Mayes rest. The flour Grist Mill, it operwas shipped to ated until 1806 hotels all over this when it was sold country and even and continued to to South America, change hands evbut that commitery few years until ment to excellence in 1842, Jacob became their partial Yeager came from undoing as a mill Dauphin County in 1917 when two and purchased government inspecthe mill and 50 tors were refused acres of land. He entrance to the mill operated the mill and denied any until 1857 when information on the process that made his son, Jeremiah Yeager Mill flour Yeager, tore the 60 so high in demand. year old building President of the Mifflin County Historical Society, Forest Fisher, accepts down and built a the donation of an 1800s Flour bag from the J. M. Yeager Mill in Yeager- You see, at the time, World War I brand new mill in town. Donation was made by Lonnie Elmore of Waterloo, Iowa. was in progress and its place.
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Complimentary
manufacturers had been ordered to cut their flour with a filler such as potato flour or even sawdust. The two inspectors sent by Herbert Hoover informed Yeager that he was in violation and subject to fines. Yeager refused to switch his process and somehow managed to get the inspectors to let him sell off the remaining flour before he closed the mill. Their much sought after Alfarata Straight Patent Entire Wheat Flour was never made again. I learned all of this because of the email I received just before last issue. In that email, the writer, Lonnie Elmore, told me that she was in possession of a flour bag from the Yeager Mill in Yeagertown, Pennsylvania. Lonnie told me that the bag was among the belongings of her mother who had passed away 8 years earlier and that they had just gotten around to going through her things. Lonnie’s mother, Madelon West, who was born in 1933 in Des Moines, Iowa had a love for collecting antiques, and this must have been the fortune that allowed this bag to find its way back home. Lonnie did some searching for Yeagertown and we were lucky enough to be the ones who responded to her inquiry about the bag, asking us if we had any interest in it. Well, because of that love of history, I also belong to the
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Editor’s Corner Wayne Stottlar The nation is in distress. The sad part is, it may already be too late for anything to save it. I am still angry as hell about the murder of Lavoy Finicum. As more evidence comes out, the government is moving to put a lid on everything via new legislation— rying to protect those criminals who pulled the trigger. The fact of the matter is, there is no defense, so now they are moving to deny access to names of those involved. A lot of folks will say that the shooters were only taking orders from superiors, and while true, they are still every bit as culpable for Lavoy’s murder. Make no mistake, this was a set-up and, an ambush and a murder. The FBI released video footage from a drone that was over head, saying it proved their story. It did NOT, in fact as that video is further scrutinized, it is very
apparent that these criminals, whoever they worked for—FBI, Oregon State Police or BLM— murdered him. The video shows a man with his hands in the air before he is shot from at least three different angles, with the final shot hitting him square in the face from about 15 feet away. The wild reporting of this whole incident proves that in situations like this, the media is flooded with information, most of which is just planted information to formulate public opinion in favor of those in power. The media is not the fourth branch of government, nor is it our watchdog—it is a weapon of government. The media also does its best to quell public anger by not even reporting on actual news, but rather running something to fill the spot, like reporting on an outlier poll for several days, because it supported their agenda,
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and reporting the outlier poll as verified fact, made it all the more obvious to this viewer that the television media should never be trusted as reporting fact. Their shows are about ratings and making money, a theatrical production, if you will. I mean, really, do you need multi-million dollar studios to tell us the news of the day? Of course you don’t, but it is theater, and theater DOES need all of that. Next, while everyone is still reeling from the murder in Oregon, a Supreme Court Justice is found dead at a resort in Texas owned by a huge Obama supporter, and the body is declared dead over the telephone and an autopsy is not performed. Does this not sound fishy to anyone? Especially since this Justice, only a week before handed the president a stunning defeat on his immigration plan. And probably many of you weren’t alive, but the whole nation watched a president have his II brains blown out on national TV, and guess what? There was still an autopsy! I am not going to use this as an opportunity to bash Obama though—he is on his way out— but something is very, very wrong with our government. The reason I say it is too late, is the lack of public
outcry over what is happening. I have watched some people advocate for stricter laws and police state security, and are happy about it. Obviously those fools do not know who Ben Franklin was, or they were taught the revisionist 'American founders were bad” history. And what about the deal with Apple and the FBI? ALL of the news media is reporting this from the perspective that Apple is wrong, not from the middle, but from directly out of the government’s playbook. They never bother to tell anyone that the phone records are already in possession as Verizon handed them over, so the government knows who called the phone and who was called with the phone. We have been told in other situations that this is all they need. Over and above that, the internet data can
Contact Info Editor/Publisher Wayne Stottlar Graphic Artist/ Co-Publisher Lynn Persing Associate Editor Colleen Swetland The Valley PO Box 41 Yeagertown, PA 17099 (717) 363-1550 E-mail: thevalleynewspaper@gmail.com Web: www.thevalleynewspaper.com ©The Valley. All Rights Reserved.
“Liberty and Government are Opposing Forces”
already be available through the NSA. This is a power trip by the government to make precedent for compelling businesses to hand over something at government request. It could also be the fact that Apple’s next operating system has been rumored to being developed to deny any back door access to ANYONE, so maybe that is what this is about. Te government hates encryption because they no longer accept the people’s right to Liberty. This type of over-reach is exactly what Franklin warned about, saying that those who give up Liberty for Security deserve neither. I see a huge problem as society’s dysfunction with being “risk averse.” Life is supposed to be a risk—life is supposed to be full of risks. Society seems to think that guaranteeing equality
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The Valley, March 2016 7. Peace and Calming • Sleep • Overactive Children • Relaxing Massage • Relaxing Bath • Teeth Grinding
Back Talk by Dr. Joseph Kauffman
Not your Car’s Kind of Oil Last month, I wrote about the legitimacy of essential oils. That topic was more informational and not so much controversial—so unlike me. But, in order to get into the meat of why people are using essential oils, I wanted to show that using oils is not practicing voodoo and they do indeed work. The oils are used for many applications from cleaning and deodorizing to pest control to promoting good health. I was enlightened to the application of oils to the body in order to promote health when I was researching alternative forms of fighting cancer. Using essential oils for health has been practiced since Biblical times. We know the three wise men gave baby Jesus the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Frankincense and myrrh are, in fact, essential oils. There is also the theory that the gold given to Jesus when he was a baby was Turmeric, a spice used for many health benefits. http://makeyourlifehealthier. com/5-things-you-didnt-knowabout-turmeric/ “Essential oils are used extensively in aromatherapy and various traditional medicinal systems. Due to the numerous health benefits of essential oils, they are increasingly being explored by the scientific community for the treatment of a variety of diseases including cancer, HIV, asthma, bronchitis, heart strokes, and many more. There are more than 90 essential oils, and each has its own health benefits. Most essential oils blend well with other essential oils in terms of function and odor, which allows herbalists to prepare a vast repertoire of aromatic essential oil combinations. Most of these oils are quite strong in nature and can cause side effects if they are not taken in an appropriate manner and dose. Furthermore, their individual benefits are variable, so you should consult a medical practitioner before using these oils, either internally or topically. In some cases in this article, the benefits of the herb are also provided in greater detail on a separate page, so feel free to click on any of those essential oils to know the full extent of its
health benefits.” For a complete list of the 90 different essential oils and their benefits, see the link from which I quoted the above paragraph: https://www.organicfacts.net/ health-benefits/essential-oils/listof-essential-oils.html. “Young Living Essential Oils has many kits of oils, formulated for everyday common uses, emotions, massage, etc. Some of the most popular oils included in some of the kits are Lavender, Peppermint, Purification, Thieves. Frankincense, and Panaway. I have listed below some of the many uses of these particular oils. All of these oils maybe diffused, added to bath water, or applied to the body for foot and body massage. When applied topically, it takes 20 minutes to affect every cell in the body. These suggested uses apply only to Young Living Essential therapeutic grade oils. 1. Lavender • Calming • Eczema/Dermatitis • Sleep Aid • Motion Sickness • Bee Stings, insect bites • Nosebleed • Burns • Unblock Tear Ducts • Cuts • Dry/Chapped Skin • Chapped sunburned lips • Scar Tissue • Deodorant • Hay Fever • Dandruff • Moths and insects • Water Fountains • Laundry • Cold Sores • Allergies • Sunburn • Rashes 2. Frankincense • Concentration • Immune System • Blisters • Insect Bites • Stretch Marks • Cysts • Skin Health • Warts • Breast Health • Health Maintenance
3. Valor • Emotional Strength • Back Pain/injury • Joint Pain/injury • TMJ • Sciatica • Anxiety • Sleep Apnea • Stiff Neck • Spinal Adjustment 4. Peppermint • Indigestion/gas/diarrhea • Heartburn • Inflammation (unbroken skin) • Injuries (bruises, bumps, swell ing (unbroken skin) • Fever • Itching • Poison Ivy, Poison Oak • Working out • Nausea • Headache • Hiccups • Alertness and Concentration • Concentration and Recall • Travel Sickness • Congestion • Flavoring (pre servative) • Rodents/Ants/ Cockroaches • Paint Fumes • Tea • Aphids • Summer Cooler • Arthritis/Ten donitis • Bad Breath • Curb Appetite • Ticks • Sore Feet 5. Thieves • Cold and Flu • Strep Throat • Household Germs • Gingivitis/ Bleeding Gums • Fungal Skin and Toe Infections 6. Panaway • Inflammation and Bruising • Sore Muscles • Headache • Growing Pains • Arthritis Pain • Sciatic Pain • Arthritis in Pets
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8. Purification • Air Freshener/Purifier • Insect Bites • Skin Blemishes, Sore Throat • Blisters • Sneaker Odors • Humidifier • Flu • Insect Repellent • Cat/Dog Ear Mites 9. Lemon • Gum/Oil/Grease Spots/Cray ons • Varicose Veins • Calluses/Bunions, Warts • Lemonade • Prolong life of fresh fruit • Counter Tops/dishcloths/bath rooms etc. 10. Joy • Depression/Sadness • Perfume/Fragrance/Aftershave • Circulation • Deodorant • Libido • Room Freshener” The above is from: https://sageclinic.org/10-most-popular-essential-oils-by-young-living/
Myrrh has been used to help fight cancer. “Myrrh: Uses, Health Benefits, Precautions —Written by Joseph Nordqvist Myrrh is a resin that comes from trees belonging to the genus Commiphora - which grow in Northern Africa and the Middle East. The sap like substance, which has a unique sweet and smoky aroma, has a wide range of uses. Myrrh is mainly used: • as a fragrance • for embalming • to flavor food products • for its potential therapeutic properties. This Medical News Today article provides details on myrrh’s potential health benefits as well as some possible side effects and precautions. The essential oil has been part of medical practice in traditional therapies for millennia. The word myrrh comes from the Arabic word “murr” which translates into “bitter.” In Ancient Egypt, myrrh was used to treat hay fever and herpes. The ancient Greeks used it as an antiseptic for soldiers to clean up battle wounds —myrrh was commonly carried into the battlefield. Myrrh is mentioned in the New Testament as one of the three
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CBD oil – how does it help with Chronic pain?
Chest Pain Or Rib Pain? Dr. John Mainiero
One of the most common issues that walks into my office is chest pain. I immediately ask, “did you see your family physician or go to the emergency room?” The answer is always yes and they proceed to tell me that they saw their cardiologist and had x-rays and CT scans and blood work and they found nothing. So what do we do next? I ask them to show me where the pain begins and ends. I ask them is the pain high up on the chest or does it start on the shoulder blade and feel as if it is sharp and going through the chest to the front. I also have some patients with pain low on the back radiating around the front, under the breast or to the abdominal area. The most common symptoms are pain with a deep breath or
failure to be able to take a deep breath. Sleeping or lying on the back is also painful. The most common diagnosis is a subluxated rib or pinched nerve between the vertebra and rib and this is called costochondritis. This presents as an inflammation that travels around from the back to the front either by the ribs or just from front to back as a sharp poker going through the chest. If this is something that you are feeling, you must always treat it as a cardiac event and rule out a heart attack first. After you have been checked out, a chiropractic visit or two can alleviate this and make it disappear. The worst case scenario is the chiropractor looks at the area and sees a break out that runs along the ribs and diagnoses you with shingles. If this is the case, then
you should see your family physician. Most cases of shingles are dormant until you are around a child with active chickenpox virus, this will activate your dormant virus and you will have a long painful road till the virus goes dormant. All these differential diagnoses must be explored with this type of back and chest pain. Nothing is cut and dry. A good chiropractor can help you. Check your local yellow pages or ask a few friends who they see. You will in most cases get a good chiropractor who will help you maintain your health and vitality. Dr. John Mainiero Chiropractor. a
CBD is hemp oil manufactured from industrial hemp for its oils not the THC compound. The cannabis compound is the beneficial part of the oil, it is a sublingual, meaning it can be dropped under the tongue and used for its health benefits. Hemp products are legal in all 50 states and do not require a prescription. With the use of CBD oils there is no “HIGH” associated with its use. Anyone can use CBD oil. www.pubmed.gov has articles on its uses and benefits.
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The Valley, March 2016
Author: Brian Bari
Ring Return Is Real Reward parks and yards to find coins, jewelry, and who knows what else. So I bought into the hobby and was out detecting in time for Memorial Weekend. Not long after that, I learned that all those stone walls we see everywhere meant something. 200+ years ago, much of New England was 20% forest, and 80% open area due to Colonial settlement. In the years since, Mother Nature has reclaimed much of her territory, and today we’re roughly 80% forest and 20% open area. Hiding in those dense woods are the lost and forgotten home sites, mills, barns, and animal pens that were abandoned long ago. What The ring as it came out of the ground was just the beginning of we refer to as “cela great story. lar hole hunting” is have here in New England is what I focus on now. Finding and history, and lots of it. Just driving preserving lost personal items, around we’re reminded of it since such as buttons, buckles, coins, so much still remains. animal tack, and other bits of his Back around May of 2014 tory from the 1700’s and 1800’s while discovering a new outdoor to display in my home is very hobby, I learned there’s a lot of history hiding under our feet too. After seeing a friend’s metal detector, I became intrigued by the opportunities. I gave the ring a good cleaning and a quick polish before the Hitting return. Being an outdoor enthusiast, I’ve always loved living in Connecticut. The ocean and some great saltwater fishing is forty-five minutes in one direction, and the mountains are less than two hours in the opposite direction. With that, comes the opportunity to be outdoors all year long. Hiking, skiing, mountain biking, and what used to be my favorite until recently, ice fishing. One of the other things we
satisfying. Having said that, the most satisfying moment of detecting came just recently. This past January 30th I went with some friends out in the woods to an early cabin site that was probably abandoned by the 1820’s. After some hours and some finds, my machine gives me a tone and ID that usually means some kind of button. I dig down five inches to my target, and it
The Truth Has No Agenda
A powerful photo of Thomas, reunited with his long lost ring, being part of that happy day is a priceless reward.
definitely wasn’t a button this time. Staring at me is a men’s gold class ring from 1971, and from the town we were detecting in. A little cleaning reveals three initials. The following Monday I place a call to the high school and
talk to the administrative department about my find, and the desire to track down the owner. They were very cooperative, and the next day I got a call back from
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Not Your Car’s Kind of Oil from page 3
About Faith
gifts the three wise men brought to Jesus when he was born (Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh).
by Rev. Robert Zorn, Visitation Minister, Lewistown Presbyterian Church
Of Mud and Marbles
According to an optimistic rumor and a prophetic rodent, spring will soon be ours to enjoy. The snow and ice that has for too long blanketed the front one third of our lot will hopefully be gone. This will leave us with the debris of winter storms scattered over a scene of border to border mud. Crocus buds are beginning to peek out the dead grass and the lilac and forsythia buds are swelling. Robins are tentatively exploring the beams of our front porch and several pair of bluebirds are looking for the boxes that I promised to build for them last year. (So am I.) My rural background suggests that there are certain things that have to be done every spring without fail. One of these tasks is to dig up and grind the horseradish roots that grow in excess in our garden. However, on second thought, it would be easier and more comfortable to just buy a jar of it from the store. The daily news gives us quite enough to cry about without enduring horseradish induced tears. Another required exercise would be to dig some sassafras roots for tea. I started off through the woods to look for the tell-tale green branches that would indicate a sassafras tree. I didn’t immediately find one, but when crossing a small gully I saw something else that reminded me of my boyhood days back at the one room schoolhouse where the first years of my public education took place, and where Miss Sarah Wiggins was my
teacher through all eight grades. The water rushing down the gully had exposed a vein of nice white clay. As boys, we used clay just like that to make our own marbles. We would knead the clay and work out all of the small rock fragments, then roll a small bit of clay between our palms until it was approximately spherical. We even found that we could glaze the marbles by putting them in a shallow pan of milk and firing them in the fireplace ashes. The game of marbles was a spring thing when warmer weather coaxed us outside during recess
and the lunch hour. Electronic games had not been invented yet, and if anyone should bring a deck of playing cards to school, the cards would quickly become fuel for the pot-bellied stove which heated our schoolroom. So, marbles it was. Everybody would have their own Bull Durham (tobacco) bag which would contain their assorted marbles. There were
agates, glass, cats eye, and of course our clay marbles, which we called “commies.” Then we would each have a larger marble which was our “shooter.” A small area in the coke ashes (a by product of the local beehive coke ovens), was scraped clean and swept until smooth. A circle, which would be the “pot” was drawn in the dirt and each player would try to shoot another person’s marble out of the pot. We usually played “funzies,” which meant that after the game each one would collect their own marbles back. One day we decided to play “for keeps” in which case, marbles knocked out of the circle would be kept by the person who knocked them out. On that day, one boy whose father worked in a local factory brought a steel ball bearing for his shooter. Soon he had won or smashed all of our glass or clay marbles, A loud dispute about fairness ensued. Miss Wiggins, upon hearing the loud fuss, made us all take our seats while she read us a story about unselfishness and fair play, “No one can have fun” she said, “when one person has all of the marbles.” Lent and Easter is a season of sharing, symbolized by Calvary’s cross. It is the story of how God has shared his son Jesus for everyone, everywhere. Therefore we celebrate Easter with the concept of unselfishness and sharing, so that we all may participate in the game of life, no matter what kind, or how many marbles we may have. a
Potential health benefits of myrrh Modern scientific research is beginning to find evidence suggesting that myrrh may offer some health benefits. However, it is important to note that many of these claims require further studies. Antioxidant benefits A study published in the prestigious journal, Food and Chemical Toxicology, found that myrrh (Commiphora molmol) emulsion was able to protect against lead (PbAc)-induced hepatotoxicity. The authors of the study concluded that myrrh (Commiphora molmol) emulsion is a “powerful antioxidant” that can “protect against PbAc-induced hepatic oxidative damage and immunotoxicity by reducing lipid peroxidation and enhancing the antioxidant and immune defense mechanisms.”(1) Possible anticancer properties. A group of Chinese researchers revealed that extracts and compounds from Commiphora myrrha resin may be effective against human gynecologic cancer cells(2) Their findings were published in the Journal of Medicinal Plants Research. Other possible uses of myrrh Myrrh features in many products that are used to maintain healthy skin. Despite a current lack of scientific evidence, many people use myrrh for treating: • Cough • Asthma • Indigestion • Ulcers • Sore throat • Congestion • Hemorrhoids • Joint pain • Maintaining healthy skin. Side effects of myrrh People are advised not to consume high amounts of myrrh as it can potentially cause severe heart irregularities, according to a study published in the journal of Phytotherapy Research(3) In addition, people who have sensitive skin may develop allergic contact dermatitis. The finding was reported in a study published in Contact Dermatitis.(4) Women who are pregnant should avoid taking myrrh by mouth as it may be a cause of miscarriage. Side effects of Myrrh may include:
“Liberty and Government are Opposing Forces”
• Making a fever worse • Heart Problems • Lowering blood pressure • Uterine bleeding.” http://www.medicalnewstoday. com/articles/267107.php “Your skin is your body’s largest organ and the amazing thing about essential oils is that they all can enter the body via the skin. Other essential oils, such as sandalwood and lavender, are so incredible at fighting cancer. So many of the products people are using today, the body lotions, the makeups, moisturizers, shampoos, and conditioners are loaded with carcinogens. They are loaded with parabens, phthalates, and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, and all of these different chemicals that cause cancer, versus if people make their own, at-home, personal care products with essential oils rather than causing cancer, they would be fighting cancer.” The Truth About Cancer —Ty Bollinger Frankincense Benefits For over 5,000 years, frankincense has had many vital uses that go well beyond just being an anointing oil. It was used to support the immune system, fight infection and cure disease, even as a potential natural treatment for cancer. Today, the most common frankincense benefits include: • Reduces inflammation • Cancer-fighting properties • Spiritual awareness • Boosts immunity • Fights infections • Improves anxiety • Heals skin and reduces acne and scarring Research conducted by the University of Leicester in the U.K. has rekindled the theory that the “wise men” weren’t just bringing wealth to Jesus, but medicine — for it “demonstrated the potential of treating ovarian cancer using the Christmas gift frankincense.”(1) Using the compound AKBA (acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid), the Omani governmentfunded research has for the first time shown frankincense’s ability to target cancer cells in late-stage ovarian cancer patients. Lead researcher Kamla Al-Salmani explained: After a year of studying the AKBA compound with ovarian cancer cell lines in vitro, we have been able to show it is effective at killing the cancer cells. Frankincense is taken by many people with no known side effects. This finding has enormous potential
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The Valley, March 2016
Dave Wilson
Coins, Precious Metal and a Little of this and That
The Attack On Cash Is About To Begin Cash, that wonderful “folding” stuff that we all enjoy having lots of, is about to come under attack. It is no secret that governments DO NOT LIKE currency, for any number of reasons. They have to print it, maintain a necessary supply, continuously change its design, protect it against counterfeiters and micromanage its distribution, just to name a few. It takes a lot of currency to make all this happen efficiently. Now, there will likely be a new, and even bigger reason why our government will not like cash. Europe has increased its “NIRP” (negative interest rate policy), and Japan, less than a week after assuring its citizens that they would not take rates negative, did so anyway. Our own Federal Reserve has been “discussing” the possibility of taking interest rates negative, and many feel such a move is imminent. If you are unfamiliar with negative rates, the explanation is
simple. If you deposit $1000 into a CD, with a negative 2% interest rate in effect, then, at the end of your one-year term, the bank would pay you $980. Yes, it sounds crazy and unbelievable, but, do believe that it could, and probably will happen, and possibly soon. So, now we have another big, big reason why our government will want to take us as cash-less as possible! When people grasp the real meaning of negative rates, many (most?), will simply try to remove all their money from their accounts. This “could” cause a collapse of our banking system. As well, an “NIRP” will not work to maximum efficiency if people could simply and easily remove their savings. Cash (currency) would allow many to do this, and that option would greatly hinder successful implementation of a negative rate plan. In Europe, the ECB (European central bank) is planning to
eliminate the 500 Euro note, and we now understand that such a possibility is even being considered for the U.S. $100 notes. If these notes are eliminated, they will say that they are doing so to fight the underground economy, and the drug trade. While such a statement does have some basis in fact, it will likely not be the real reason for such a drastic move. As of February 16th, 2016, there was a total of 1.425 trillion dollars in physical U.S. currency in circulation. About 78% of that amount is in the form of $100 notes. Eliminate those, and you have only 22% of currently circulating cash remaining in existence. This would not be enough for people to hoard anything, and banks would have to severely restrict “cash” withdrawals. Keeping any sizable amount of currency out of the banking system will be nearly impossible. That will suit the financial industry, just fine! a
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Snowden Speaks at Free State Project’s Liberty Forum in Libertarian NH —by Carla Gericke. Read more at her blog at https:// freestateproject.org/blogs/carlagericke On February 20, 2016, NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden addressed more than 500 attendees at the Free State Project’s 9th annual NH Liberty Forum in Manchester, NH. People gathered from across the globe to discuss practical ways to expand social and economic liberties. The conference also provided an opportunity for attendees to learn more about the Free Stater community in New Hampshire, where 20,000 libertarians are now moving. Nick Gillespie of Reason TV interviewed Snowden live via
Google Hangouts. Snowden was greeted by audience members
holding masks bearing his likeness—this homage was received
Reason TV’s Nick Gillespie interviews Edward Snowden at Free State Project’s Liberty Forum.
with a wide smile from Snowden in Russia. During the 50 minute talk, Snowden covered several topics, including the recent revelations by Apple that the FBI has requested a “back door” to enable law enforcement authorities to access encrypted data on endpoint devices. Snowden also addressed a question submitted by Silk Road In 2014, Thomas Drake, founder Ross Ulbricht, who has former senior executive of the been sentenced to double life NSA and decorated U.S. Air in prison without the possibility of parole. The question was: “Do you think the NSA could have been involved with the Silk Road investigation?” Watch the interview to hear Snowden’s stunning answer. https://youtu. be/M94ZOSolidarity and Support for Edward Snowden 6jYU6c Liberty Forum has become a place where Force and Navy veteran, spoke whistleblowers can tell their stories.
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The Valley, March 2016
The Irony of it All! You’ve probably heard many people say that you can’t really “know” an experience or a person’s “pain” until you’ve experienced it yourself. Well, that’s where I am as I write this article. February was an interesting month for me. We had planned a vacation to New Hampshire about mid-month, but decided for a number of reasons to postpone our trip to another time. Since I had already requested the vacation time from work and I had a zillion things I wanted to accomplish “around the house,” I decided a stay-cation was in order. So, on Thursday, February 18, day one of stay-cation and the day we should have been in the car on the way to NH, I decided to take the dogs for a walk before I headed off to run some errands in the early afternoon. Little did I know at the time, that this wasn’t a good idea. The walk started out normally, with two big dogs pulling at the leash in different directions and me trying to convince them that they needed to walk “together.” Just a few minutes into the walk, they suddenly, at the same time, spied something (a cat? a squirrel? who knows!), that warranted a full speed, full-pull, run. This wasn’t uncommon, but I wasn’t prepared for both of them going full power at the same exact time. Usually one dog will see something, take off, and then a moment or two later, when I’ve had a chance to get dog number one under control and calmed down, the other will see it. As I mentioned, not the case on this day. I spent the next few seconds trying to get them to slow down and even gave a strong jerk of their leashes. That helped a little, but by that time, they had reached the grass of the neighbor’s yard. It was soggy and wet from rain and melting snow, and it all went south from there. I hit that grass and went down quickly, twisting my ankle underneath me. I knew I hurt it, but I was able to get up (covered with mud and wet “clean through”) and started to hobble back to my own driveway. I called for Wayne who was outside
in the driveway doing something. He started to walk toward me, and the dogs thought this was exciting, and started to pull, so I had to let them go as the pain from my ankle radiated up my leg. Ouch! Wayne grabbed the dogs as they headed toward him and I limped back to the house. My thoughts were severe sprain (the ankle had been slightly tender from missing a step on our staircase a few weeks before), but time and ice would tell, I guess. First I had to change my mud-soaked clothes and then I headed for the ace bandage and ice pack. Frustrated, I flopped down on the couch and propped up the foot. First day of vacation? Really? Just my luck! As I sat there all day, I was still of the mindset I’d wake up the next morning and the swelling would be down and I’d be good to go despite a little soreness. Yea, well that didn’t happen. Day two came and I decided that I needed to “suck it up” and go run some errands. I visited several businesses to get pictures for their ads for this issue, and then stopped at Super Shoes to see if I could find a pair of shoes that were easy to get on and off the “big foot.” Sliding my foot forward into a tight clog or any other shoe was extremely painful and I didn’t want to try it twice. I found a pair of shoes (and in typical female fashion, also bought a new pair of boots without trying on the left one. Come on ladies— shoes, I know you’re with me on this one!), and went on my merry way. By the time I got home, swelling was much worse (no kidding, right?) and I decided maybe I should get an ankle brace and a cane to help me walk. So, I did that on our way out to dinner that night. The next day (Saturday), swelling was even worse and I was starting to wonder if this was more than a sprain. As I limped around the house that day, I decided that if it wasn’t better by Monday, my last day of staycation, I’d make an appointment to have it looked at. Sunday night came and I knew seeing the doc was my fate. As I waited in the doc’s office at University Orthopedics, I was
praying for news that it was a severe sprain. Not with my luck... broken. Argghhh! However, there was a silver lining...the bone was not out of place much and so I could get away with just a walking boot (no surgery or cast). Yippee! I felt like I won the lottery right after hearing the news that it was broken. I decided that I’d see if I could get a doctor’s note to get a handicapped parking spot at Penn State, while I was in this awkward boot for six weeks. The doc gave me a State of PA application for a handicapped placard (which I really didn’t need since the only place that required long distance walking was work). But, I guess
for up to four
The Truth Has No Agenda
this is what you need to park in a handicapped space at Penn State. The application requires, of course, the doctor’s signature, plus that of a notary. I secured the notary signature on my way home from the doc and prepared it for mailing to Harrisburg the next day. However, after a little bit of inquiry, I found out that Harrisburg takes several weeks to process it and that it will get to the correct place much more quickly if I have a State Rep’s Office take it there. Surely though, Penn State could issue me a “temporary,” two-week pass to park in a handicapped space—just on campus—until the state-issued placard arrived. Nope! Not even
that, but even after I get the stateissued placard, I have to send the ID card they send me along with another form of ID to the Penn State Parking Office to authorize me to park in one of their handicapped spaces. Say what? I don’t need extra authorization to park in other handicapped spaces as long as I have a state-issued placard, do I? So, why do I need another layer of approval at the Penn State campus level? The irony of it all kills me. You have an accident, injure yourself to the point where it’s painful (and very slow) to walk for the first few weeks, not to mention
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The Valley, March 2016
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Carrier Oils
Add Additional Benefits to Aromatherapy As we are selling essential oils at Shade Mountain: we always direct our customers to use a carrier oil with their essential oil (EO) if they are applying the EO on their skin. Carrier oils have many benefits on their own and can add additional value to your essential oils. SO, WHAT IS A CARRIER OIL? If applied to the skin undiluted, essential oils can cause severe irritation or reactions in some individuals. Carrier oils are used to dilute essential oils prior to topical application. The term carrier oil is derived from their purpose in carrying the essential oil onto the skin. A carrier oil is normally a vegetable oil derived from the fatty portion of a plant, usually from the seeds, kernels or the nuts. The term carrier oil is generally limited to use within the prac-
tice of aromatherapy. In natural skin care (lotions, crèmes, soaps, etc.), oils used are referred to as fixed oils or base oils. Not all carrier oils are vegetable oils, but for this article, we will be discussing carrier oils as being vegetable oils. There are other ingredients that can be used as carriers, but are not the norm; I’ll cover this later—read on! CHOOSE YOURS FOR ADDED BENEFITS Carrier oils are necessary to use with your essential oils in a topical application—the beautiful thing is that each carrier oil also offers a different combination of therapeutic properties and characteristics. The choice of carrier oil can depend on the therapeutic benefit being sought. There are many things to consider when choosing your carrier oil. It is important to select oils that complement your own needs as well as suit your skin type.
VALUABLE NUTRIENTS Carrier oils contain fat soluble vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. • Vitamins are in all carrier oils, although there are many; some are high in Vitamin F (great for anti-ageing and dryness), some in Vitamin E (an antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and UV protector), others in Vitamin C (for collagen production and protecting skin cells from sun damage), and Vitamin A, which is critically responsible for cell repair and growth. • Essential Fatty Acids (EFA) are another benefit that a carrier oil possesses. EFAs are fatty acids that our bodies cannot manufacture and need to get from our diets. When applied topically, they are very nourishing to our skin. Carrier oils vary in their ratio and the specific EFAs that they contain. One great one is Gamma linolenic acid, (an important fatty acid) which helps maintain healthy skin and repair skin dam-
aged by the sun. • With such a large range of carrier oils available, why not choose some that contain powerful antioxidants? Antioxidants are vital to help combat the damaging effects of free radicals and protect our skin cells. Free radical damage is caused by the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, pollution, cigarette smoke, unhealthy diets, medications and other external environmental factors. We consume antioxidants through certain foods, but our skin also needs extra protection via topical applications as the skin is often the last to receive the benefits of antioxidants consumed orally. Some carrier oils high in antioxidants include apricot kernel, brazil nut oil, grapeseed oil, olive, and tamanu. • Some carrier oils work as an anti-inflammatory! Examples are pomegranate, rosehip, wheat germ, apricot kernel, hemp seed, and sweet almond. • Still others have anti-bacterial qualities. Examples include coconut, neem, babbasu, grapeseed oil, and tamanu. VALUE OF AROMA Some Carrier Oils have no aroma, while others have a nutty, sweet smell or a light, fruity aroma. This can sometimes compete with the scent of the essential oils in your blend or recipe. Sometimes it can compliment and other times it can be undesirable! An example of this would be Tamanu oil. It is one of my personal favorites for its ability to heal damaged skin. It stimulates cell regeneration and is good for fragile or broken capillaries. I also love the earthy smell of this oil! This aroma would compliment spicy or earthy essential oils, but would definitely not go well with fruity or flowery scented essential oils!
“Liberty and Government are Opposing Forces”
SHOPPING TIPS: things to look for Trends are changing, but typically vegetable oils sold in grocery stores are not coldpressed. Instead, the oils are processed using heat. For the most nourishing, freshest carrier oils, strive to shop with retailers and suppliers that specialize in the sale of aromatherapy or natural skin care ingredients. Your local health food/nutrition store may be a source for carrier oils. Watch for dust on the bottles when buying oils locally. That can indicate the oil has been sitting around for awhile. Look for oils that are not blends of two or more oils and that have no additives. As always, and with anything—READ YOUR LABELS! LOOK AT THE PROCESSING METHOD As long as it comes from vegetables, then it’ good, right? Not necessarily! You should buy cold-processed oils whenever possible, or expeller pressed, or even solvent extracted (as is sometimes necessary) BUT, I personally try to stay away from refined, bleached, deodorized (RBD) oils. RBD oils go through too much processing for my liking. For topical use and cooking I like to purchase oils I know are healthy. There are some really good YouTube videos on processing methods of oils. I will post these videos on Shade Mountain Naturals Facebook page. Honestly, after watching how canola oil is made, I doubt I will ever eat a refined oil again—yuck! Here is a break down of the most common processing methods: • Cold pressed or cold expeller pressed: This indicates that the
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The Valley, March 2016
Ed’s Railroading News by Ed Forsythe
Here we are in March already and SPRING is almost here, just a few days more. Along with spring comes the celebration of our Lord’ss resurrection on Easter morning. Spring and Easter are a new beginning every year that brings with it all the plants awakening, the wildlife bringing their new young into the world and the days getting longer. So along those lines at the Rockhill Trolley Museum, the Easter Bunny will arrive on March 19th, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Children 13 years old and under will get to meet with him and receive a surprise treat. So come on out to ride the trolleys and have fun with balloon animals, getting your face painted, plus the Easter Bunny. The Rockhill Trolley Museum is always a fun place to visit, but our special events are always an extra
special treat. Please see more information at rockhilltrolley.org. See ad on page 9. Also, beginning March 12th in many downtown stores, children will again find the large Easter eggs for the Downtown Discovery Contest. Please checkout details at their Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/ DiscoveryContest. This fun event is a FREE contest of finding large artful Easter eggs and entering your answers to win prizes. It has been a fun time in the past and I’m sure it will be again this year, so get your children involved and Happy Easter. A friend was regaling me with several stories of events that happened while he was working on the railroad. One such event was when he was driving his train along at about 50 miles per hour
Plain Talk
Solar Explained by S. Yoder Hello to all The Valley readers from Honey Creek Road. It looks like March is about here and many changes have taken place lately, mostly for the better. One thing is for sure, the biggest excitement is the 235 watt panels are down to $170 each, which is truly for the better! I remember only four years ago they were $500 each! Better yet, a whole lot has changed since then as far as the way you install controllers—only two years ago Tracer came to the local market, which brought along with it a whole new line of efficiency for two and four panel systems, that was unknown to them before. I got a little sidetracked on what my article should be about since it is cold outside. Solar can run mostly anything it was designed for, with batteries usually being the biggest limiting source of power. As such, it is important that they are designed to handle what you want them to for their proper life. Also, keep the maintenance to a minimum with watering kits. At this time of year it is important that you choose the day to add water based on the outside temperature to prevent freezing before it turns to acid. Also use
the state of charge to determine if it is ok to add water. Never add water at under 95% of charge, and equalize that same day if at all possible, as this also helps turn the new water to acid to prevent from freezing. Undercharging will drastically shorten battery life and is as bad as constantly overcharging. There’s a need for more than one way to achieve a full charge without overcharging and one that beats traditional two hour absorbing or the two combined, which we recommend. The “controllers” with this feature are the classic or the kid with the whiz bang junior and 500 amp shunt, and also magnum pt 100 with the network and the bmk. All these options take care of this common problem of over/under charging so you don’t have to worry about it. These are a must if adding batteries to your system and here a few more tips. Increase your proper volts by .3 for 12-volt systems, times 2 for 24-volt systems, etc. Depending on your system, it may be more, and equalize a few times more often. Even though many people may tell you it can’t be done, it is possible with all the right settings and perfect solar setup. But don’t try to add to your
when he noticed five telephone workers up on the poles along the rail line. Shortly, he learned just what they were doing. They were pulling new cable up onto the poles that was coming from a very large spool on the opposite side of the tracks. It seems that someone did not notify railroad control about the work that was going on. When my friends engine caught the cable that was stretched across the track the spool quickly began to spin violently and due to the heat generated it also began to smoke. My friend said that he looked in his mirror as he quickly stopped his train and saw that all the poles that were attached to the cable were bending and swaying with all the men hanging on for dear life. He said that if it wasn’t for being so dangerous it would have very funny seeing them hanging on. He’s often mentioned just how eventful a day’s work could be. He never knew just what might transpire each day. So, with that being said, stay safe everyone and Happy Railroading, Ed a
three to four year old batteries. The seller of your specific battery should have your charging voltages, but I have found just the opposite to be true. Some numbers that may be ideal are as follows: Group 24 Deep Cycle: 14.6 absorb time, 13.7 float Golf Cart: 14.7-14.8 absorb time, 13.8 float H.D. Commerical 8L16HC 14.915.0 absorb time, 13.95-14.09 float Don’t just rely on these numbers—try to use what the manufacturer recommends first. If your batteries require equalizing: Golf Carts: 15.3-15.45 time depending on the amount of amp hours. H.D. Commercial 8L16hc: 15.4515.65 time. If you care for your batteries, they will reward you just the same. Just said so you know. See you all later! Steven Yoder Elk Creek Solar You can reach me at 717-6670330 after 3:45 pm Monday-Friday and Saturday 7am -5 pm. a
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R. O. F. F.
Rescue Our Furry Friends by Patricia Lawson
Oh boy, spring is in the air and it’s time to get out and take your dog for a walk. You don’t have a dog you say, well we have some treasures here at ROFF including this precious pooch, Bailey. “Hi all, you can call me Bailey or my nickname, B Dog! I am so ready to have a home to call my own. I’m a 5 year old lad and love people including kids and other dogs. I might even like cats if I met some. You see, my former people owners were sent to jail, so I was all alone in a trailer with my mommy, Sally. Thanks to the police and ROFF, I’m now up to date on vaccines and looking pretty handsome if I must say so myself. Don’t you think? How about stopping by to visit with me. I think we’d be great companions for each other.” Now let’s take a brief moment for a “commercial.” The next few months are filled with exciting events including: Easter Basket auction - March 15 thru 26; Benefit BINGO - March 20; CASH nite at the Burnham Lions Club - April 9 at the Burnham Lions Club and ROFF yard sale June 4. Bingo details: Sunday, March 20th at the Burnham Lions Club; Doors open at noon; Bingo starts at 1pm; Concession stand will
be open the entire time; $25 in advance/$30 at door. Call 1-877933-ROFF (7633) for tickets. Who do we have here? It’s Buddy and everyone needs a buddy don’t they? “OK, I know I look a bit rough around the edges, but you see I was a sad stray cat with frost bit ears and my left eye was severely damaged and I can’t see out of it anymore. ROFF came
Roads Less Traveled from page 9
by the time I don’t have as much pain in my ankle and I’ve gotten pretty used to clunking around in this boot, I suppose I’ll get my handicapped parking placard from Harrisburg. I’ve never broken a bone or had a serious sprain before. I’ve never had reason to need a placard until now, and would not even need it now if parking wasn’t such a crap shoot at Penn State (some days you can get decent parking— others forget about it!) So there’s my “road less traveled” this month—I’d like it to be sidewalk and parking lot less traveled too, but the jury is still out on that. Rant over! a
that you really aren’t supposed to be walking all that much the first few weeks, but it’s the first few weeks that you must do without any handicapped parking because Harrisburg is slow to issue and Penn State can’t (or won’t, although I suspect there are state regulations behind it) grant a temporary pass. What am I missing? I realize that handicapped parking is probably taken advantage of quite a bit, but when you have a doctor and notary signature saying that you broke your ankle, what’s the hold up? It should be a rubber stamp and placard is mailed. So,
to my rescue and fixed me up and now I love the indoor life. I’m told I’m middle-aged and have personality plus. Age is just a number, right? Playtime is my favorite time and I’d love to play with you in your home…pretty please?” We invite you to open up your hearts and home and rescue these and other precious future companions. Just go to our web site www.roffrescue.com and fill out an online application or call 1-877-933-ROFF (7633). Until they all have homes… www.roffrescue.com; rescueourfurryfriends@yahoo.com; 1-877-933-ROFF (7633) a
The Valley, March 2016
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Unique Home Offered in South Hills by Kim Rickert Yes, I know you’ve heard it before—our home is “unique!” But, this one truly is an eyecatching property in many ways. Located on a 1.5 acre corner wooded lot, this multilevel home presents a dramatic entrance with its two story pillars, large foyer and spacious living room to the left. From the outside, it’s hard not to notice the mature trees and circular driveway that leads to
the home as if waiting for friends and family to stop by for a party! The property includes a fenced rear yard and a tennis court, that’s right, a tennis court! Although lately used as a basketball court and a great play space for kids, the tennis court was once used by the previous owners who were avid tennis players. Step inside the front door and you can feel the welcoming aura of this warm home. The fo-
The Grand entrance with two story pillars hints at the grandeur beyond the door
cal point of the main floor is the country kitchen, with beautifully updated cherry cabinets, pantry and island custom made by Big Valley Cabinets. The room includes a breakfast bar, island with cooktop, eat-in area and home office built-ins. It will become your favorite room in the home as friends gather to chat or eat, kids do homework or you grab a quick breakfast while everyone prepares to leave for their busy day. The room is warmed visually by the hardwood floors, and literally by the brick fireplace with wood burning insert. The newer appliances include a dishwasher, double wall oven, refrigerator and wine cooler. Adjacent to the kitchen is a formal dining room with the same hardwood flooring, recessed lights and huge windows which allow the sun and the view into the house. Step outside of the kitchen into a 15 x 26 screened porch that overlooks the backyard. This space includes a brick wall featuring a wood fireplace and a gas barbeque! Imagine the picnics you could throw on this porch! Got dogs? The fenced yard can be accessed off the screened porch with
The formal dining room features hardwood floors and plenty of windows to brighten the room with natural light during the day.
Newer appliances and hardwood flooring complete a very well designed kitchen.
no worry about the pets getting in approximately 2003. A two car garage is connected to the house outside the area. by a breezeway and has ample The front foyer leads directly storage. into the living room with recessed lighting and large windows. Also The appeal of living in the included on the main floor are South Hills neighborhood has a laundry room and half bath. always drawn people in the comFrom the foyer, several steps lead munity to this location; it is close upstairs to the master bedroom, to the schools, a short drive to an additional bedroom and full the hospital and other downtown bath—both bedrooms have amenities. The privacy afforded hardwood flooring. A few steps by generous sized lots and mature down from the foyer takes you trees gives one the feel of being to the lower level and two more in the woods, yet close to everybedrooms. The bedroom sizes in thing. This home has been well this home are out of the ordinary, loved by the current family, but is with the sizes ranging from 15 now available to a new generation x 16 on the second level, to the of home owners who are looklower level bedrooms at 14 x 16. ing to live in a unique home and All bedrooms have large closets a premiere neighborhood. Call and access to one of two full bath- today for your personal tour! a rooms. An additional basement level includes a large rec room that is unfinished, workshop area and storage areas. One of the best features of this home is the geothermal heating and cooling system, which was added in 2004. The home also has public water and sewer. An architectural A 15 x 26 foot screened room may become shingle roof was installed your favorite room in the house.
“Liberty and Government are Opposing Forces”
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The Valley, March 2016
I gained 50 pounds ...and love it! www.families4kids.org 800-568-6449
foster parent or adopt...you’ll love it too!
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The Valley, March 2016
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Sara’s Dairy Journey by Sara Lucas
MARCH 2016 Mifflin County History Trivia How’s Life in 1967? 1967 was the year I graduated from Kishacoquillas High School. It’s been almost fortyfive years since then, but in some ways it doesn’t seem all that long ago. I came across some old photographs from the era, ones used in our yearbook that prompted some reflection. In 1967, Lyndon Johnson was president, Dr. Christian N. Barnard and a team of surgeons were perfecting heart transplants in South Africa, the U. S. Department of Agriculture noted that cigarette smoking was on a sharp rise and Pennsylvania Governor Raymond Shafer proposed a tax package of $264 million to balance the state’s budget. The movie industry moved with the times and produced movies that would appeal to a younger audience including “The Graduate” Bonnie and Clyde” and “Cool Hand Luke.” TV shows included “The Fugitive” and “The Monkees,” and color television sets become popular as the price dropped and more programs were being produced in color. Gas was 33 cents a gallon; the average new car was $2,750.00. A movie ticket was $1.25 and a Polaroid camera was $50.00. Here are some trivia
Not Your Car’s Kind of Oil from page 6 to be taken to a clinical trial in the future and developed into an additional treatment for ovarian cancer. Bear in mind that this research concerned Boswellic acid — a water soluble compound that is only found in the powder form of frankincense. However, there are other compounds found in frankincense oil that have been shown to be beneficial in test tubes when treating cancer cells. Potential Cancer-Killing Properties of Frankincense Used because of its antiinflammatory properties, frankincense, also known as Boswellia serrata, has been a favorite folk medicine for several health con-
questions about how things were going locally in 1967. 1. Wright Construction Company and the Pennsylvania Department of Highways joined together to change a section of Mifflin County highway in 1967. What was the project? [a] New stretch of bypass near Red’s Diner [b] Remove the “Devils Elbow” in the Seven Mountains [c] Extended the Lewistown Bypass to Pleasant Acres [d] Completed a new bridge in the Reedsville Narrows 2. The Mifflin County School District received the results of a study of the county’s education system conducted by two Penn State University professors. The pair reported… [a] not enough elementary schools to handle an expected baby boom. [b] four high schools should be maintained county wide. [c] a one county high school consisting of grades 11 and 12 should be considered. [d] students per classroom were in excess of state averages. 3. According to the Lewistown Sentinel, for the first time in Lewistown history, downtown merchants kicked in $110,000 for cerns, including asthma, gastroenteritis and skin conditions. New research, like the University of Leicester study, has recently suggested that frankincense’s disease-targeting power may be even more encompassing than previously suspected. Successfully linking AKBA as a potential treatment for brain, breast, colon, pancreatic, prostate and stomach cancers, research trials are filling medical journals like Carcinogenesis and PLoS One about boswellia serrata’s cancertargeting prowess. (2, 3) According to researchers out of Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas, the potential cancerkilling properties of frankincense are due in part to it regulating cellular epigenetic machinery, which highlights its ability to influence genes to promote healing.
a public project. For what was the money used? [a] the Market House Parking Plaza [b] an addition to the YMCA [c] building the Mifflin County Library at Woodlawn [d] replacing all the street lights on Main, Market and Third streets 4. Mifflin County had six cable television companies in 1967 carrying channels from WTTG out of Washington, D.C., KYW from Philadelphia, as well as stations from Altoona, Johnstown, Harrisburg, Lancaster, Wilkes-Barre, Lebanon and University Park, the Penn State main campus. Which of these did NOT offer local cable in ‘67 according to the Lewistown Sentinel’s TV Viewers Guide? [a] Mil-View [b] McVeytown Area [c] Central Electronics [d] Reedsville Area [e] Derry-Decatur [f] Burnham Cable [g] Pennwire [h] Big Valley-Belleville Cable ANSWERS: 1.B 2.C 3.A 4.F,H
The name of March comes from Latin Martius, the first month of the earliest Roman calendar. It was named for Mars, a Roman god of war who was also regarded as a guardian of agriculture. Martius was the beginning of the season for farming, and still is. In the Northern Hemisphere, farmers can start planting certain crops in March. March may have been named for the guardian of agriculture, but it is also known as National Nutrition Month. This month helps us focus on the nutritional value of the foods we choose for our diet. Remember that the dairy case has something for everyone. You can choose from a variety of milk, cheese, and yogurt products to meet your taste and nutritional goals. Below are a few recipes that can help you include dairy in your diet. (Submitted by Centre County Dairy Promotion Committee) • • • •
Cheesy Taco Chip Dip 1-8 oz. pkg. CREAM CHEESE 1 can Hormel chili (no beans) ½ C. medium salsa 1-12 oz. bag pre- shredded TACO CHEESE
SOURCES: MCHS newspaper Archives; The People History for the Year a
Baylor cancer scientists emphasize that this potency makes Boswellia a viable candidate for both cancer prevention and treatment. Natural Treatment of Cancer with Frankincense Oil People who have added Boswellia serrata into their natural health cancer care plan may find themselves experiencing doublebenefits from this amazing essential oil. For many cancer patients, there’s a time when the treatment becomes worse than the cancer itself. It is as this point that quality of life and symptom suppression is the focal point for many diagnosed with this deadly disease. Debilitating in-and-of itself, often the cancer treatment side effects
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“Liberty and Government are Opposing Forces”
•
½ C. sliced black olives to garnish
In microwavable glass 2- quart casserole dish, layer ingredients as listed in order above. Microwave on high for 5 minutes or until heated thoroughly. Serve with tortilla chips. Serves 6. Broccoli- Cauliflower Salad 1 C. Miracle Whip ½ C. sugar 2 T. vinegar 2 T. real bacon bits Medium head of broccoli and cauliflower • Small onion • Fresh mushrooms (optional) • 1 C. shredded CHEDDAR CHEESE • • • • •
Mix Miracle Whip, sugar, vinegar and bacon bits together in small bowl; place in refrigerator. Cut up vegetables and place in large bowl, then add dressing and mix. Add shredded CHEDDAR CHEESE. Serves 12. a
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The Valley, March 2016
March Hiking Tips March is here! And with March, comes spring and the start of another hiking and backpacking season. Before we head out into the woods to shake off the dreariness of winter and shed some pounds that have accumulated since last fall, I thought I would share with you a few tips. These hiking and backpacking tips should make your adventures more enjoyable, and in some cases, help you out when you are in a bind. Trekking Poles Some hikers never venture out on the trail without trekking poles, while other hikers think they are a waste of money. Personally, I feel that trekking poles are an essential piece of hiking gear, especially on longer, multiday hikes. Here are a few tips on how to get the most out of your trekking poles. • Adjust to you - When gripping the poles, your forearms should be parallel with the ground, with your elbow making a 90 degree angle. • Adjust for the terrain - If you are on a steep incline, shorten the poles and plant them the same time you take a step. For downhills, lengthen the poles and plant them just prior to your foot hitting the ground. • Check your adjustments As you hike, especially across
softer ground, you may find your poles shrinking on you as the sections loosen. You should stop and tighten your poles, if needed, about once an hour while hiking.
risks while crossing a stream. If you find yourself on a stream bank without any easy way to cross, keep these tips in mind before plunging in. • Look for a wide section to cross. Water moves quickly in narrower areas of the stream. • Take your time. Walk deliberately, making sure of your footing after each step. • Don’t take off your boots. Traction from boots or camp
Duct Tape Duct tape, in my opinion, is one of the best inventions ever made and a “must-take-accessory” when I go hiking. This durable, adhesive tape is strong enough to hold almost anything together and is “water-proof” enough to get you out of potentially wet situations, such as a leaky tent. A tip given to me a while back is to wrap some duct tape around your water bottle. It’s easily accessible, you know exactly where it is, and it doesn’t take up space in your pack. My favorite use for duct tape: covering blisters. Instead of using mole skin when you develop a blister, put a piece of duct tape on your foot, covering the blister. You can also put a piece of tape on the offending spot inside your boot as well. This quick fix will keep your blister from getting worse and will see you through to the end of your hike. Stream Crossings The need to ford a stream is more typical in the spring than when hiking during other times of the year. Certain precautions should be taken to minimize the
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shoes is much better than bare feet. However, take off your socks and put them back on once you’ve crossed. • If you don’t have trekking poles, pick up a stick or two. This will give you better balance while crossing. • Loosen shoulder straps and hip belts on your pack before attempting the crossing. This will make it easier to slip out of your pack if you happen to fall in. Camping Out During a Hike Just a few tips to keep in mind when you are planning on doing an over-nighter. These tips
are more about your comfort and less about gear needed—that is an entirely different discussion. • Take along camp clothes; something different to sleep in than what you hike in. • Eat a small snack before you go to bed; it will keep you warmer at night. • Keep a bottle of water handy; makes night time thirst easier to quench. • Keep a flashlight nearby; for animals invading your camp and because of all that water you drank throughout the night.
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The Valley, March 2016
16 Ring Return is Real Reward from page 5 the high school informing me that they had found and contacted the gentleman who lost the ring, and gave him my number. It didn’t take long for Thomas to get hold of me, he was excited
Snowden Speaks at Liberty Forum from page 8 out about being accused under the Espionage Act of mishandling government documents. Although Drake eventually plead guilty to one misdemeanor count for exceeding “authorized use of a computer,” all ten original charges were dropped. In his defense,
to see his ring again. It became apparent why upon meeting him. At only 63 years of age, Thomas is in poor health, living in a retirement home, and doesn’t have a car or even much family left. He uses a scooter to get around. Having a piece of his life back had an emotional impact on him that
Drake stated he refused to “plea bargain with the truth.” Jesselyn Radack, who has served as Edward Snowden’s attorney, called Drake’s actions “civil disobedience.” You can watch the panel discussion, “The Social and Civic Importance of Whistleblowing,” with Thomas Drake, national security and human rights lawyer Jesselyn Radack, now of Whistle-
became obvious during our meeting. He had lost the ring back in 1971 while riding his dirt bike in the area we had been detecting, and told me had long since forgotten about it. He kept repeating over and over “I can’t believe it.” We chatted for an hour or two before I finally had to leave. Digging a 300-year old coin, or a rare item will probably never give me the same satisfaction as seeing Thomas reunited with that ring. It’s something I won’t forget either. That return is a perfect example of the adventures with a metal detector, and why I love the hobby. You never really know what’s waiting for you under that next tone. a
blower & Source Protection Program (WHISPeR) at ExposeFacts, Trevor Timm of Freedom of the Press Foundation, and Devon Chaffee, executive director of New Hampshire’s Civil Liberties Union. This year, in addition to the historic talk by Edward Snowden, drone technician Cian Westmoreland was Liberty Forum’s closing
Take a step back in time along the highways and byways of Mifflin County, founded in 1789. Through historic photographs and commentary, the Mifflin County Historical Society presents a brief look at how the county has changed. Photographic images are paired to compare past with present. Contemporary photographs approximated the same site or location as seen in vintage views from Mifflin County’s past unique history. Narration highlights Based on the companion books, Mifflin County Then & Now and More Mifflin County Then & Now, published by the Mifflin County Historical Society, author Forest K. Fisher and photographer Nathaniel Thierwechter have teamed for this nostalgic look back to see a changing community through the camera’s lens, and to remember... Mifflin County - Then & Now. Bonus Audio Feature: “History is Our Story” - Listen to the exciting tale of the Logan Guards of Lewistown, Pennsylvania, first militia company to respond to President Lincoln’s call for volunteers in April 1861. In this two-part audio bonus feature, the early days of the Civil War, from a local perspective, are recalled by Mifflin County Historical Society author Forest K. Fisher.
speaker. Westmoreland is one of four former U.S. Air Force service members to claim that targeted drone killings and remote-control bombings fuel the very terrorism the government says it is trying to destroy. In a 2015 interview with Democracy Now, Westmoreland said: “I’m saying it wasn’t all enemies. It was civilians, as well.” Westmoreland’s talk on Sunday was an emotional appeal to seek
With 45 minutes still before his appearance, the Liberty Forum organizers had to set up an overflow room, Edward Snowden was the icing on the cake of Liberty.
“Liberty and Government are Opposing Forces”
better solutions to indiscriminate drone bombings. When an audience member called out: “Skynet is coming!” Westmoreland replied: “Skynet is here.” A video of Westmoreland’s talk will be available soon. - See more at: https://freestateproject.org/blogs/snowden-speaksfree-state-projects-liberty-forumlibertarian-nh#sthash.BHFL7siA. dpuf a
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Looking For Spring
I believe we are all looking for spring, sunshine, warm weather, and getting outside! It’s an early Easter, so let’s get ready for an early spring! At Simply Health we are ready for spring with the following Spa Specials:
Pain Reducer ~ $49 • 5-10 minutes of Whole Body Vibration to get your circulation moving, your lymphatics stimulated, and your muscles relaxed. • 45 minutes in a Himalayan Salt Room in which negative ions are absorbed into the body by breathing the saturated air into the lungs. The salt is anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-fungal. You will be breathing air that is saturated with 84 minerals and trace elements. • 30 minutes on the Amethyst BioMat with the Jewelry Belt. The deep penetrating Far Infrared rays and negative ions helps reduce stress, tension and aches and pains, and is capable of stimulat-
ing the cells of our nervous and musculoskeletal systems. You will wear the Jewelry Belt around your waist, arms, legs, or lay it on top of yourself as you lay on the larger Amythest BioMat. • Hot Butter Hand Treatment during the Amythest BioMat session. The warm butters are drawn into the skin to open pores. • Himalayan Salt Ball to take home to use topically on aches and pains or other skin issues. • 4oz salt scrub to take home. Slimmer Spring ~ $49 • 5-10 minutes of Whole Body Vibration to get your circulation moving, your lymphatics stimulated, and your muscles relaxed. • 20-30 minute Far Infrared sauna. Our sauna has the ability to systemically eliminate internal chemical and heavy metal toxins, including mercury. The Infrared sauna burns 500-700 calories in a 30 minute session. It is also great for stress relief, improving cardiovascular conditioning, and
enhancing your immune system. • 30 minute Jade Infrared Massage. Similar to deep tissue, the far infrared heat delivers deep tissue penetration on the upper body. The infrared heat and jade rollers help to relieve stress, tension, anxiety and increase blood and lymphatic circulation. • Hot Butter Hand Treatment during the Jade Infrared Massage. • 4oz salt scrub to take home. Spring Easter Basket ~ $49 (20% savings!) • 45 minutes in a Himalayan Salt Room in which negative ions
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are absorbed into the body by breathing the saturated air into the lungs. The salt is anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-fungal. You will be breathing air that is saturated with 84 minerals and trace elements. • Medium Himalayan Salt Lamp • 1.5 lbs Himalayan Bath Salts • 8oz Edible Himalayan Salt • Purifying Bar Remember, a 45 minute session in a Himalayan salt room is excellent for anyone and everyone because it is anti inflammatory, anti viral, anti bacterial, and anti fungal.
It doesn’t matter if you have asthma, arthritis, allergies, sinus problems, pain from fibromyalgia, or anything else. Almost all of our health challenges start with inflammation, so a session in a salt room starts to lessen your symptoms. Call us at 814-954-7731 to schedule an appointment and check out our website at www. simplyhealth-calm.com for more information or to schedule online. Wishing everyone a healthy Spring and a blessed Easter! a
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The Valley, March 2016
Tanya's Massage Therapy Modalities: Ashiatsu Cupping Prenatal Deep Tissue Swedish Massage Foot Reflexology Raindrop Therapy Russian Clinical Massage How you treat your body today, is how it will serve you tomorrow! Call to schedule an appointment:
(814) 937-0375 www. tanyasmassagetherapy.com
Email: tanyamassage@live.com !!!!NEW LOCATION!!!! 129 Nolan Drive Lewistown, PA 17044 “Liberty and Government are Opposing Forces�
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The Valley, March 2016
Savvy Cents & Sensibility
The Best Buys For March
March Hiking Tips from page 15
by JoAnn Wills-Kline MBA
Rest assured, the winter months are drawing to a close. Some of us are ready to spring forward, and leave our cozy nests, in search of good bargains for planned purchases. March is the month to find certain items and services at rock bottom prices. So for those of you who are itching to escape cabin fever, or perhaps clean that cabin from top to bottom, listen up, because March is your special month! The top five purchases to make in March are: Travel – March is a great month to find travel bargains. Many major airlines give the best bang for your buck if you are cashing in airline miles. Most major airlines offer the best bargain after 4:30pm EST. Luggage is also a terrific buy in March. Are you up for a little weekend excursion? March is your month! Cleaning Supplies – Sales fliers are packed with bargains on major cleaning brands because the companies are vying for your patronage. We opt for environmentally friendly cleaning supplies. We like to make our own with ingredients found at the local markets – all of which are on sale during March too. If you aren’t
up for concocting your own cleaning supplies, there are many great environmentally friendly cleaning and laundry products on the market such as: Mrs. Myers Clean Day; Method; Seventh Generation; Dr. Bronner’s Sal’s Suds; Biokleen; Simple Green Naturals; Ecover; and Greenworks. Frozen Foods – March is “National Frozen Foods Month” and a great time to stock up on frozen foods if you have the storage space. The National Frozen and Refrigerated Foods Association will be offering manufacturer’s coupons during the month of March to make buying frozen foods even more frugal. Fragrances – Perfume and home fragrances are traditionally on sale in March. Are you wanting to try a new perfume fragrance, but just can’t seem to justify spending so much? Perhaps consider purchasing it in March when many companies offer great sales. Home fragrance items are also on the sales list in March. Candles, diffusers, potpourri, and plug-ins are usually all on the list of discounted items. Seasonal scents from fall and winter are usually slashed in price, while the
A Piece of History Returns to Mifflin County from front page
would have it, he was! He said that the logo on this particular bag is not the more common logo seen in most examples, and that this one was rather rare and he felt it needed to be preserved and displayed for others to enjoy. Thanks to the kind heart of Lonnie Elmore of Waterloo IA, at some point soon her mom’s collectable will forever tie her to our county’s history. a
Historical Society and as all of you know, Forest Fisher, the President of the Society has written a column for The Valley since the beginning, and he is also a friend. I was hoping that he would be interested in protecting and displaying the bag, and as luck
The J. M. Yeager Full Roller Press Mill was located on Mill Street about where the parking lot for the Yeagertown Community Center is today.
new spring/summer scents are often offered at a discount to entice buyers to try them. Garden Tools – Pick up tools in preparation of spring gardening. Many retailers offer early discounts (up to 50%!) on garden tools such as rakes, shovels, and hoes. Sandals – If you want to get a jump start on your warm weather wardrobe, you can take advantage of lots of inventory and early sales in early spring. The first round of markdowns on spring shoes usually happens in March. Seasonal Produce – March is the month to buy certain seasonal produce from your grocer market. Look for best buys on the following fruit: avocados, grapefruit, guavas, lemons, limes, oranges, strawberries, and tangerines. The best vegetable bargains to search for are on the following: artichokes, broccoli, brussels-sprouts, carrots, cauliflower, collards, parsnips, potatoes, and spinach.
Keep Your Bearings While Hiking They say moss grows on the north side of a tree. Well, I’ve been in some dark, damp sections of the woods where moss was growing on all sides of the tree. When the moss can’t help you get your bearings, here are few other tips to keep in mind. • Pine trees/evergreens are the
fullest on eastern slopes. • Plants and brush are more open on northern slopes, smaller and denser on southern slopes. • The tops of hemlocks point east. In today’s electronic age, you should not rely solely on your gadgets. Always take a map with you when you hike. Look at the map for terrain features and relate them to those around you such as ravines, cliffs, hollows, and hilltops. a
If you have not been following their Facebook page, and have been wondering about the Free State Project Liberty Forum and Edward Snowden, see Carla’s blog in this issue. Do yourself a favor and find a way to view this video: YouTube video https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=M94ZO6jYU6c. This one hour video will enable you to see just how the government, with the willing help of the television media have developed a narrative that is repeated over and over and when it is all that is being reported, after a time, that story becomes your reality, unless you work very hard to reject it. Trust me, most people do not, it is easier to be led like sheep, than to think for yourself. Eventually, if you have decided to keep your individual sovereignty, you
are made to feel like you are an island, and everyone around you thinks you are wrong, but remember, those folks are following and they have never objectively challenged the group think mentality. There is no morality or right or wrong with them, just what they have been indoctrinated to believe. One thing that really stood out to me during the Snowden video was his telling of how people that work at the NSA openly mocked the Constitution and said it didn’t matter. They had a job to do and that was what mattered, in other words, the end justifies the means, exactly in contrast to the freedoms guaranteed every citizen. But I suppose when our government can murder a citizen with his hands up, the moral compass they possess is broken. a
Hopefully, March will provide some unique sales, offer some great deals for your household, and present the promise of warm sunshine in your little corner of the world. a
Editor’s Corner from page 2 of outcome is somehow morally superior to ensuring equality of opportunity as we are instructed in the Constitution. If you do not mind becoming a slave, keep going about your life as you have been, be manipulated by the television into believing what they wish—perhaps you can even be indoctrinated to not care that you are no longer free, Colleges and universities have been perfecting that for generations. There are even college students who have no idea who won the Civil War, and have signed petitions relinquishing their First Amendment rights. What exactly are these kids learning in the government indoctrination centers, K-12? It is clear that their education is not complete, and there is no way any of them realize the importance of our founding documents, much less what they actually say. This of course is by design; without the knowledge, they can be told anything and have nothing to weigh that against—no frame of reference.
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The Valley, March 2016
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Safe Organic Pesticides are Available That Work! by Wayne Stottlar
Last year around this time The Valley started a relationship with Job Swarey and Swarey’s TLC Lawn Service. At the time, my interest was piqued when he told me that he was a lawn service who preferred to use an rrganic approach; they could and would apply traditional methods if that is what the customer desired, but with an organic method that worked, he was hoping more folks would follow suit. Soon after our first meeting, Job mentioned that he also could apply an organic pesticide treatment for fleas and ticks too. Having just adopted two Weimaraners and fenced in the yard, I had visions of the high cost of Frontline flea treatment we would go through, not to mention that applying poison directly to the dogs’ skin had always concerned me. So when he mentioned organic, I was all ears. Not using poison around the house or on the animals is a top priority for us. Still though, I had only been told about this, I had never heard of it before, nor did I actually believe 100% that it would work, but we were willing to try. We had Job come every 5 weeks throughout the summer and had amazing results. Not a single flea or tick, and Murphy and El-
wood spent a lot of time out in the yard chasing the shade and sleepor ticks to worry about in the ing many more than first thought ing in the grass. Since it’s a prodas it manifests itself differently uct made from natural ingredients, treated areas. Ticks are a very real problem for everyone, but in people. Protecting your family there is nothing toxic to humans especially children who aren’t as and pets from that danger just or animals in the application, and apt to pay attention. Lyme disease makes sense, not having to apply it is safe along waterways. is exploding as a problem affectpoison and risk other problems, Swarey’s TLC Lawn Service makes it almost necessary. uses a product With the success at our home manufactured and those of many others in in CT, yes, the area, Swarey’s is adding right here in mosquito and gnat control to the USA. The his arsenal this season. Just flea and tick like the flea and tick product, treatment has 100% organic, no poisons Cedar Oil as toxic to the environment and one of the main ingredients, which gives your yard a deligh® ful cedar aroma for a 1/2 hour or so until it drys, then you would never know it has been applied, but for the fact HealthSouth Nittany Valley Rehabilitation Hospital offers Lee Silverman that your Voice Treatment (LSVT ) BIG and LOUD as a versatile treatment for animals Parkinson’s disease. This program is an intensive movement and and chilvoice program. dren won’t have fleas LSVT BIG helps patients learn how to avoid inactivity
all natural ingredients. Imagine, no fleas, ticks, gnats or mosquitoes to ruin your outdoor fun this coming summer season—you can actually use your property! The Garden Girls Repellents Company that manufactures these products also has organic deer repellent and several other products that many in the area might want to try. Give Job a call and find out what other problems you can attack organically, thereby lessening the poi-
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LSVT BIG and LOUD
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The Valley, March 2016
Modern Energy and Alternative Heating with Curt Bierly The Contractor/Customer Team Ok, you’re looking to upgrade your heating/cooling system this year and you’re looking for a contractor to do the work. You have certain expectations in mind, like even temperatures throughout the house in summer and winter, good humidity control and a good filtration system. It’s all about providing a healthy, comfortable place for you and your family to live where you can breathe clean air containing the proper amount of humidity. Once you choose the contractor, keep in mind that you need to be a part of the “Team” to make the project a complete success. There are articles about customer satisfaction in the trade magazines, on the internet, on TV
and in the newspaper. It is certainly a good thing and needs to be the focus of any successful organization, but customer satisfaction is a two way street. It takes a “good” customer and a “good” contractor working together to effectively install, operate and maintain a new or existing HVAC system for customer satisfaction to be achieved from the customer’s perspective and from the contractor’s perspective. Below are a few thoughts for consideration. My worst nightmare is a potential customer that doesn’t want to see a brochure, doesn’t want to visit our showroom to view and discuss the equipment, doesn’t read the proposal we carefully
prepare, but looks at the price and accepts it based on price and reputation alone, gives us the keys and says “Do it—I’ll see you later, and will call you if something goes wrong.” You as the customer needs to listen to the presentation, read and understand the proposal and ask a lot of questions so you can envision the system that is about to be installed. It is important that the contractor explains the system and it is important that the customer understands the system that’s proposed, so once installed, there are no surprises. Beyond that, you, the customer, needs to operate it responsibly by keeping filters clean and alerting the contractor of anything that appears abnormal. If a “good” customer is away from home for an extended period of time, they always have a trusted neighbor or relative check the system occasionally depending on the temperature and weather conditions. They may also choose to purchase an optional WiFi thermostat that can be checked and adjusted remotely from a computer or cell phone. If a problem develops and it is a concern, they know where to shut off the system until the contractor can be contacted. Many contractors have “emergency only” service after business hours, but
a “good” customer has backup electric space heaters to get them through the night so they can call during regular business hours. This is the most effective time for contractors to help because, should they not have the part in stock, supply houses will be open. Also, if your system is beyond the labor warranty period, you won’t incur any extra overtime charges. I can remember recently a customer woke me out of a deep sleep at 4am in the morning. It was above freezing and we open daily at 8am. Once I got my senses together, I told the customer to call our business at 8am and they would schedule a service call. I later discovered that this customer
had electric baseboard heat, which could have easily been utilized to keep the house up to temperature
You are Invited to an Open House at our office at 6678 Towne Ctr. (Walmart Plaza) Huntingdon March 17 & March 18 from 9 to 5, Meet Siemens Rep. Lauren Christmas. Limited seating available.
Call for an appointment 1-877-643-4327 The Truth Has No Agenda
until we arrived. To install an HVAC system successfully and achieve true customer and contractor satisfaction, everyone needs to be involved. You count on the contractor’s design and installation expertise, and he counts on your partnership in the project. 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 the chair of the Penn College HVAC Advisory Board. You can contact him at cbierly@bierlygroup.com. a
The Valley, March 2016
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PACleanways of Mifflin County Keep PA Beautiful Register now for the Great American Cleanup of PA! Registration is open for the 2016 Great American Cleanup of PA that is held from March 1st through May 31st. During this period, registered events can get free trash bags, gloves, and safety vests from PennDot district offices, as supplies last. Events can be litter cleanups, illegal dump cleanups, beautification projects, special collections, or educational events and must be registered through the Great American
Cleanup of PA website, www.gacofpa.org in order to receive free cleanup supplies. As part of this event, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and Pennsylvania Waste Industries Association are sponsoring Let’s Pick It Up PA – everyday from April 16th through May 9th with the focus day of April 23rd. During this time, trash collected at registered events can be taken to participating landfills for free or reduced cost disposal. In 2015, 128,157 of Pennsyl-
vania’s residences collected over 6 million pounds of trash from Pennsylvania’s landscape. Help make your community clean and beautiful and register an event today at www.gacofpa.org. If you would like to join PACleanWays of Mifflin County in any of their cleanups, go to the www.keeppabeautiful.org web site and click on events for Mifflin county.
Not You Car’s Kind of Oil from page 14
Unfortunately, these people suffer toxic overload from the drugs that are supposed to help them in the first place and get headaches, migraines, and may even deal with blurred vision because of the steroid treatments. Thankfully, frankincense offers a natural, viable solution to this horrible issue. Back in 2011, the journal Cancer published the results of a 44 person clinical trial evaluating how brain swelling was affected by frankincense. (4) Astoundingly, 60 percent of the patients displayed 75 percent
reduction or greater in cerebral swelling after being treated with 4,200 milligrams per day of frankincense. These results are so significant that scientists are urging the medical community to consider prescribing this potent essential oil instead of steroids for cancer patients assigned to radiation treatment. We hope this spreads like wildfire within cancer treatment circles. Who knows what could happen if more people utilized this frankincense oil as a cancer natural treatment approach. As we’ve seen above, if Boswellia serrata can kill cancer cells and prevent tumors from growing, the sky’s the limit for folks who follow natural health guidelines.
can make having cancer absolutely miserable. Take, for instance, brain cancer patients who experience cerebral edema (swelling in the head) after having their tumors irradiated. Typically, these people are treated with dexamethasone and other corticosteroids to control the swelling, but this is done at a great cost because the deadly complications of steroids are limitless.
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Frankincense Benefits Immune Function A growing body of research has recently unlocked the doors to our understanding of why frankincense benefits our health. In a study published by Phytotherapy Research, for instance, when mice took 1–10 milligrams of Boswellia serrata orally, it was discovered that multiple levels of their immune systems were stimulated including (5): • Delayed hypersensitivity reaction (early 24 hours,
LIbrary Lines Your Mifflin County Library
Who Needs Shoes? Recently, I read a Facebook post from a librarian about her concern that parents let their children walk around barefoot in the library. This post was flooded with replies on how awful it is that parents would let their children wander around barefoot. On a daily basis, children are seen in the Children’s Room at the Mifflin County Library either barefoot or in their socks. So I took a moment to ponder this Facebook post; “Hum, should children be required to wear shoes in the library?” Well, yes I do think that it is a good idea to wear shoes while in a public establishment, but when I walk into the library I feel like I am at home. And what do I do when I walk through my door at home? Yes, I take off my shoes! When I see a child without shoes in the library, I joke with the child, “Oh my, did you lose your shoes?” but I have never asked a child or parent to put their shoes back on. My take on this is simply, when you walk into the library, I want everyone to feel at home, so if you are a small child
and feel that you need to take your shoes off, go ahead. Adults, I will encourage you to keep your shoes on in the library, but when you are at home, embrace the barefoot walk because there are health benefits to going barefoot. Some of these benefits include: greater balance, greater strength, greater circulation, better posture, and decreased blood pressure. Plus going barefoot just makes you feel free! As for now, the next time I see a child in the Children’ Room without shoes, I am simply going to suggest they check out a book about feet. Here are a few fun suggestions: Flying Feet by James Stevenson, Stinky Smelly Feet a Love Story by Margie Palatini, The Barefooted, Bad-Tempered Baby Brigade by Deborah Diesen, or The Foot Book by Dr. Seuss. For more books related to feet, stop in the library, take off your shoes (small children only, please), and read a while! Submitted by: Kelly Rodenbaugh Youth Services Manager Mifflin County Library a
delayed 48 hours) • IgG • IgM • Cytokines (interferon gamma, interleukin-4, and tumor necro sis factor-alpha) • T-cell interactions (i.e. CD4/ CD8, which are generally low in AIDS patients) In layman’s terms, frankincense can significantly boost the immune system. Two fundamental ways this is accomplished is by proliferating lymphocytes (white blood cells, which are the body’s primary defense team) and by keeping inflammation at bay (which is arguably the primary risk factor for most chronic diseases). This may also explain why frankincense is so effective in treating autoimmune conditions like bronchial asthma, Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis. Implement frankincense into your natural health regimen today and see how frankincense benefits your immune function. This essential oil can be used in diffusers with ease to treat respiratory conditions, or you can use it as an
essential oil or salve directly on your skin. Finally, you can also take frankincense (Boswellia) as a supplement with a few essential oil drops placed under your tongue, on the roof of your mouth or in powdered capsule form for treatment of many health conditions.” http://draxe.com/frankincense-oilcancer/
“Liberty and Government are Opposing Forces”
I hope that when you follow up last month’s column with this one, you have at least learned that essential oils are legitimate and can possibly help the body boost the immune system and might be able to help fight cancer. Perhaps, this introduction to you will elicit more extensive research on your own and a possible option may be presented to remedy cancer without, in turn, causing cancer to reoccur, unlike either of the most popular two available options. But, please, as always, study this on your own. Use my
Continued on page 27
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The Valley, March 2016
Massage For a Colicing Horse or Dog Equine colic is a relatively common disorder of the digestive system. Although the term colic, by definition, simply means abdominal pain, colic can be a severe condition characterized by pawing, rolling, and sometimes the inability to defecate. There are a few types of colic, depending on the cause of the condition. There is also a wide range of severity when it comes to colic. Often a horse may have mild abdominal pain that is resolved easily, other times surgery, and unfortunately euthanasia, may be warranted. For this reason, all colic should be treated as an emergency and you should always call your veterinarian. Most horses with this condition display symptoms such as: anxiety or depression, pawing,
looking at the flank, rolling or wanting to lie down, playing in the water bucket, but not drinking, lack of defecation, lack of appetite, excessive sweating, abnormally high pulse rate, lack of normal gut noises, and frequent attempts to urinate. A vet should always be contacted as soon as you suspect colic. It is also recommended that you take a video of your horse’s symptoms to show the vet when he arrives. Massage is something you can do to help relieve your horse’s symptoms until your vet arrives and possibly save your horse’s life. Colic in Dogs Young puppies are particularly prone to colic, but colic affects dogs of all ages and breeds. Most
commonly, the cause is trapped gas, usually associated with bloat and irritability. Along with extreme discomfort in dogs, it can be life threatening in some serious cases if proper treatment is not given. Colic can be acute or chronic. Acute colic is typically caused by something the dog ate, such as spoiled food, garbage, or poisons. It can also be caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. Chronic colic, the more serious of the two, is typically caused by parasites, a deficiency in liver or gallbladder functions, ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, a tumor, or an injury. Your dog may experience some of the following symptoms during colic: pain in stomach (abnormal posture), bloat, gas, appetite loss, fatigue, or restlessness. If your dog is experiencing colic, it is important to have your vet do a physical checkup so the underlying root can be identified and treated. There is a natural remedy to treat the symptoms of colic and make your dog more comfortable until the colic is treated by your vet. Colic Massage Sequence The colic massage sequence is a four step massage that can be done by the owner to significantly reduce and in most cases eradicate the symptoms of colic. Starting at the neck, working to the back, ribs and then the stomach of the animal, the massage will assist in
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Robyn with the happy beneficiary of her talent.
the relieving of gas and bloat. The massage should be given repeatedly until improvement is seen in the animal. Often the animal will defecate as a result of the massage. Massage has the potential to make treatment from the vet a lot less invasive. Because the massage is so effective in relieving the animal’s symptoms, it is always recommend that you video the animal’s symptoms before conducting the massage. You should show this video to your vet so he/she can properly diagnose the condition. The colic massage sequence
Needless to say I made a believer out of the owner—she was so happy and couldn’t stop thanking me. That was a neat feeling! Love your student, Summer” Free Motion Animal Massage is now offering clinics to teach you how to do the colic massage sequence. Clinics are all hands on and will give you the opportunity to practice several times on the horse or dog. You do not have to bring your animal to the clinic; we will have animals available to practice on. Registration fee is $30 per person, $20 for 4-H members. Clinics are limited to ten
is an Equissage taught method. Here are a few testimonials submitted to Equissage following use of the sequence; “I had to do the Colic Sequence for the first time last night. I am so thankful for it too because I don’t think our 38+ yr old mare would still be alive today without it.” “Hi Mary and Team! I did my first client who was colicing last night. The owner was in tears and frantic. I took her old gelding and started the massage from the beginning and did the whole sequence—I had an hour to kill before the vet could arrive. Within 30 minutes, the horse was passing gas, eating, and much more alert. When the vet arrived, he thanked me just as much as the owner.
participants. Spots are reserved when registration fee is received. Equine Colic Massage Sequence: March 26, 2016 at 10am-1pm in Lewistown, PA. Canine Colic Massage Sequence: April 2, 2016 at 10am- 1pm (currently looking for a host for this clinic.) For more clinic dates or to register for a clinic, visit our website at; www.freemotionanimalmassage.com/events. Free Motion Animal Massage is always looking for hosts for these clinics. If you are interested in hosting a Colic Massage Sequence Clinic, please contact Robyn Boreman at 717-348-8956. Free admission is given to hosts. a
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Political, Economic, and Scriptural I have taken some time away from “penning” a monthly article due to a heavier than normal schedule. While I may not submit a monthly article, I am glad to revisit this regimen of writing and truthfully never seem to be far from it as there is always a topic or two that piques my interest and that I believe is worthy of analysis. In fact, I’m not sure what the opposite of writer’s block would be called (perhaps writer in the headlights?), where one becomes stunned by how many items are worth investigating and writing about, that it becomes hard to decide which ones to put energy toward. The goal of this column is to explore our modern culture and
current events primarily through three lenses, these are political, economic, and one we have chosen as a society to discard, scriptural. I contend that the scriptural lens is the most important and truly defines, clarifies, and helps us focus the other two lenses in a sharper fashion on the topics at hand. You see, there are Biblical themes, precepts, and threads that run throughout all of mankind’s history. While humankind is the cause for our darkest hours, there is an unseen hand moving world events to bring about a Divine conclusion to our own doings. We ignore the Almighty and His Revealed Word to our own detriment. Case in point. My wife and
I have had opportunity to spend significant time in Israel. Most recently, we were blessed to be in The Land from mid-October to mid-November, 2015. Much is written and conveyed about the conflict in the Middle East. What we have lost in the West is the ability to understand that this is a religious conflict. From a December 2015 article in Israel Today magazine entitled: “Jerusalem: A ‘Cup of Reeling’ to the Nations,” author Aviel Schneider writes: “People uttering terms like ‘religious war,’ ‘World War III,’ ‘end times,’ ‘construction of the Third Temple,’and ‘Gog and Magog’ are often described as fanatics. Apocalyptic ideas, especially those that are connected to the
Bible, are taboo in politics—at least in Western politics. In the Middle East, this classic verse of biblical prophecy is taken seriously: ‘Behold, I am going to make Jerusalem a cup that causes reeling to all the nations round about’ (Zechariah 12:2) (I would like to point out that the very next verse amplifies this by saying, ‘On that day, when all the nations of the earth are gathered against her, I will make Jerusalem an immovable rock for all the nations. All who try to move it will injure themselves. (12:3, emphasis added) (I suspect all means all and that includes the United States). Jews and Muslims understand that this is a religious conflict and take heed. The leaders and politicians of the “Christian” West underestimate the role of religion in the Arab-Israeli conflict because they believe in the separation between “church and state.” But in Israel and the Arab countries, the Bible and Koran, respectively, have a deep impact on politics. That’s why terms like ‘end times’ are nothing unusual.” I use this as an example to illustrate how we in the West have lost our vision and to show how critical it is to evaluate our times and seasons and, yes, even our very lives through the
“Liberty and Government are Opposing Forces”
lens of scripture in addition to the political lens and the largest lens we always use as a society, the economic lens. Without the clarity of Scripture, we begin to imagine vain things and run the risk of lining up on the wrong side of history and history’s God as we (as a nation) are doing in the Middle East these days. However, when we understand the ordained course of history, we can free ourselves to accept it and be watchful and perhaps even find ways to creatively oppose efforts to marginalize Israel with regard to the Arab world (as in this case). Perhaps you have heard of the BDS movement. BDS stands for Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions against Israel. This is a global misinformation effort aimed at de-legitimizing Israel’s right to exist by making false claims of harsh Israeli treatment and supposed denial of rights for the Arab populace within its borders (when in fact it’s the other way around). The movement wants people to 1) boycott Israeli products and companies, sporting, cultural, and academic institutions. 2) divest from any holdings that individuals may hold or pension and portfolio managers
Continued on page 27
The Valley, March 2016
Over the years, I have spent a considerable amount of time searching the winter landscape, either by foot or by car, for overwintering birds. I have entertained myself with areas such as unfrozen lakes, rivers, ridge top trails, bird feeders, dense conifers stands, thick rhododendron ravines, and open farmlands. Within these areas I have encountered diverse species such as owls, wrens, woodpeckers, hawks, small songbirds, and buntings. Central Pennsylvanians are blessed to have a diversity of habitats easily accessible (backyards to many), and of these areas, the farmland habitat is often over-looked. The scenery of open farmland is something that I have always enjoyed ever since I was a kid. Even as I traveled to Kansas for college and visited Nebraska, Iowa, and the Dakotas there was something that drew me to the
open country and the tall grasses and wildflowers that dug their roots there. Now that I am rooted here in central Pennsylvania, I have discovered that this enjoyment of open country can be found in tiny pockets throughout the landscape. And as I continue to network in the birding community, these areas have become a second home. One home in particular is an agricultural area within Stone Valley that was known to host wintering Rough-legged Hawks, Red-tailed Hawks, Short-eared Owls, and the graceful flight of the Northern Harriers. Such diversity of raptors indicates that the environmental health of this area was in a good state. Rodents were plentiful to share between the daytime hunters and the nocturnal Short-eared owl. The habitat was ideal for raptors:
high wintering grasses, round bales remaining in the fields, old fence posts and tall snags for perching. This was the go-to spot to observe these elusive raptors. A unique habitat. A winter wonderland for bird watching. The only known location to see Short-eared
The Truth Has No Agenda
25 Owls in Huntingdon County. Following the winter of 2012, the landscape changed drastically from grasses to row crops, particularly corn. Fence rows were removed and the fields were seen as a well-groomed lawn. Since this change, the numerous raptor sightings diminished. Bird watchers and naturalists look to other properties and landscapes with hope that these species returned for another winter. American Kestral Raptors are important for the project. Providing habitat indicators of environmental in the breeding season is just as health and they can benefit landowners by preying on mice, voles, important. During the breeding season, constructing Barn Owl and insects. A family of Barn Owls can consume up to an aston- and American Kestrel nest boxes can provide opportunities to build ishing 3,000 rodents during the a nest and raise their young when nesting season. For years, many natural cavities are not readily have recognized this relationavailable. ship and the decline in valuable The project focuses on four habitat that provides food for dif- ferent species of raptors. In 2012, species of raptors that require large areas of grassland or agriculHawk Mountain Sanctuary, with tural fields: Barn Owl, American the support from the PennsylvaKestrel, Short-eared Owl, and nia Wild Resource Conservation Northern Harrier. It breaks down Program, created the Farmland each species with a description, Raptor Project. Their mission is diet, habitat and nesting, conserto engage private landowners on vation status, and provides tips the conservation improvements for installing nest boxes on your and enhancements they can approperty. It offers ways a priply to their properties. Engaging landowners about the potential to vate landowner can be involved by reporting sightings to Hawk serve as host for wintering raptors is one part of the equation Continued on page 30
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Art in the Fight for Social Justice
Art is often about expressing beauty, conveying a feeling or making a statement about everyday life, but there are times when an artist feels compelled to use their creative gift for a cause they believe in. This can be true for a painter, a writer, a musician, or anyone else with a particular creative gift. Bob Dylan and Pete Seeger used their song lyrics. Film writers and directors often make social statements or address very specific injustices. In a situation that is happening right now in Millheim, a growing number of people, mostly women, are reporting that they have had their drinks drugged at a local establishment (one that
has been around for decades, not a new arrival) and then, in the case of numbers of women, have been raped or otherwise assaulted. Please be aware that this is a very specific place and that in general, Millheim is a wonderful place to visit and one of the safest towns you’ll ever find. As is often the case in sexual assault, most of the victims are held back by fear of reprisal, shame, or the very real possibility that many people won’t believe them, and so have not yet reported the crime to authorities. One victim, however, a courageous young woman, has both reported it to police and recently came out publicly, stopping just short of publicly naming the
establishment and the closely connected perpetrator. I’ve talked directly with her and with one other victim who confided in me earlier, and have no doubt as to the truth of these claims. Of course, sufficient proof for you or me, or even much of a community, is different from charges being filed and guilt being established in court, which is what we are hoping for. A community, however, cannot simply sit and wait, especially when there is still a real danger to others and when many in the community are unaware of the assaults. So, in support of the cause and this courageous young woman, I completed a large painting that now hangs in the window at the Green Drake Gallery in downtown Millheim. Next to it is a sign by with the title, “The Light Commissioned, oil on canvas, 10x8 inches. Many Shines in the Darkness, and more at the Green Drake Gallery in Millheim and the Darkcustom paintings of specific species can be done. ness Has Not Overcome It,” which is actually straight out of the Bible, and a message that “Fighting sexual assault is a community’s moral responsibility.” The painting shows the confident, radiant face of the victim who is fighting back (with her permission and blessing), and the background with shadowy male figures could easily be interpreted as the front of the establishment in question,
“The Light Shines in the Darkness, and the Darkness Has Not Overcome It” Acrylics on canvas, 30x30 inches, by Karl Eric Leitzel
but also as men behind bars. This kind of art should have a strong symbolic component and make people think and ask questions, and perhaps get involved. Part of our hope is that this public awareness will bring forward others who have been similarly victimized in Millheim. This is critical in establishing a pattern that will help in prosecution. If you or anyone you know has suffered this injustice, please
“Magnolia Warbler” Karl Eric Leitzel
karlericleitzel@gmail.com 814-422-8461
“Liberty and Government are Opposing Forces”
get in touch with me and I’ll put you in touch with the young lady. She can help you decide what to do from there. My email is karlericleitzel@gmail.com. Meanwhile, continue to visit and enjoy Millheim, and feel confident patronizing the Elk Creek Café, the Legion, or the Firehall. Supporting the good people of this community who are committed to cleaning things up is just as important as fighting the injustice. a
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The Valley, March 2016 BLUE RIBBON VEGETABLE GARDENING Jodi Torpey
Mail Pouch Books by Carleen B. Grossman These are all ‘new’ books to escort you into your ‘springtime planting.’ The book reviews below are direct from the Storey Publisher’s catalog I hope they will be of help to you in setting up your springtime gardens. Happy gardening ahead! GROWING VEGETABLES IN STRAW BALES Craig LeHoullier This innovative technique is an inexpensive, low-maintenance way to grow a bounty of food in a small space. All you need is a bale of straw, some fertilizer, and
your favorite vegetable seeds! Craig LeHoullier’s step-by-step instructions show you how to do everything from sourcing the straw and setting up your bale to planting, dealing with weeds and pests, and harvesting. BUILDING RAISED BEDS Fern Marshall Bradley For beginning gardeners and homeowners, this handbook shows you exactly how to plan, build, and plant a simple raised bed. Fully illustrated step-by-step instructions make it easy and ensure success! In just a weekend, using basic materials and minimal building skills, you can set up a complete garden bed for vegetables, flowers, or herbs.
the same results. With illustrated step-by-step instructions, David Bainbridge shows you how to install buried clay pots and pipes, wicking systems, and other porous containers that deliver water directly to a plant’s roots with no or minimal evaporation. These systems are available at hardware stores and garden centers; are easy to set up and use; and work for garden beds, container gardens, and trees.
GARDENING WITH LESS WATER David A. Bainbridge Are you facing drought or water shortages? Gardening with Less Water offers simple, inexpensive, low-tech techniques for watering your garden much more efficiently — using up to 90% less water for
Political, Economic and Scriptural from page 24 may have in Israeli companies, and 3) seek governmental body and institutional sanctions against Israel. When we analyze the BDS movement from only a political and economic perspective, we may be swayed. However, when we focus the scriptural lens on this matter, we see that The Almighty
Not Your Car’s Kind of Oil from page 22
provided references as a starting point and go from there. In my opinion, using cancer-causing agents to fight cancer is a lot scarier than using an oil that is a cancer-fighter. Please let me know your thoughts and/or questions. Thank you. Dr. Joseph Kauffman Kauffman-Hummel Chiropractic Clinic drjosephkauffman@comcast.net
promised to make Abraham a great nation. This promise was passed down through his son Isaac to his grandson Jacob, who later was renamed Israel and became the father of the nation that bears his name today. God promises to bless those who bless Israel and curse those who curse Her. (Genesis 12:2-3). The matter becomes much clearer now because of applying scripture to this situation. The course of history is set and the times are aligning. However, we don’t need to follow along. Find ways to bless Israel. Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122). Seek ways to support the people and The Land of Israel. One creative way we have discovered is to support Lev Haolam (which translated means the Heart of the World). Lev Haolam gives the international community an opportunity to support the Jewish pioneers of Judea and Samaria. These pioneers labor with faith as their sustenance. Lev Haolam selects quality products made in Judea and Samaria by these pioneers and sends them directly to your doorstep
in a monthly package. You will enjoy the fullness and variety of handcrafted goods from the Land of Israel, while at the same time taking decisive action against the unjustified boycotts. Your support through this program will make a difference, enabling the pioneers to survive these boycotts, which threaten their livelihoods, so that they can continue to settle the Land of Israel. It’s a special time each month when our box arrives. We are eager to see what types of products have been selected for our enjoyment that particular month. Items range widely from soap and jewelry to honey and rice. Everything produced in Israel. Additionally, we receive a description of each item and are informed as to who made it and where they are from. Along with this is a letter sharing information about events that have transpired over the past month in The Land of Israel. This will give you “in the moment” prayer points if you are so inclined. Learn more at levhaolam.com. When we begin to take scripture seriously and realize
The Truth Has No Agenda
Master Gardener Jodi Torpey (WesternGardeners.com) offers all the information you need to grow champion vegetables — beans, beets, cabbages, cucumbers, eggplants, onions, peppers, pumpkins, squash, and tomatoes — covering everything from choosing the right varieties and scheduling planting dates to harvesting, preparing, and transporting your produce. She also walks you through every aspect of competitive showing, with useful tips for thinking like a judge. CONTAINER THEME GARDENS Nancy J. Ondra
as a handy shopping list so you know exactly what you need. HIGH-YIELD VEGETABLE GARDENING Colin McCrate, Brad Halm Authors Colin McCrate and Brad Halm show you how you can make your food garden much more productive, no matter how big or small it is. You’ll learn their secrets for preparing the soil, selecting and rotating your crops, and mapping out a specific customized schedule that makes the most of your space and your growing season. Packed with all of the charts, tables, schedules, and worksheets you need as well as record-keeping pages so you can repeat your successes next year. a
Simple and foolproof! Enjoy beautiful container plantings with no stress or fuss. Container Theme Gardens offers 42 plans for container arrangements, each using just five specific plants that you can find at your local garden center. There’s something here for every setting and every style, including a meadow in a box, a pond in a pot, a simple salad garden, and a combination that will attract hummingbirds. Each plan includes photographs of what the full planting will look like, as well that The Almighty is ultimately in control, we begin to see with different eyes and our understanding is opened up. While most of us cannot change the course of events globally, we do have the capacity to make changes in our own lives and to impact those within our spheres of influence. This approach can indeed make all the difference in our lives and the lives of our loved ones. Founder and President of The Stewardship Group in Belleville, Mr. Ostrowski earned his Master of Science in Financial Services from The American College in Bryn Mawr, Pa in 2007. His articles ponder various contemporary topics evaluating them from a political, economic and scriptural point of view. He can be reached by visiting www. thesojourningsteward.com See also Israel Today magazine and subscribe at: www.israeltoday.co.il a
Organic Pesticides that Work from page 20 sons you come into contact with. Townships should give Job a call as well, treating outdoor parks and sports fields with a non-poison alternative is best for those people who use the facilities. The best part of all of this? It is affordable! For most anyone. Swarey’s also offers complete organic yard service as well as pesticide application. If interested, you can text swareystlc to 22828 to receive newsletters, tips and promotions. In fact, there is one promotion going on now. If you sign up for a full year of yard service, you will get a free lime application. Lime is important with regard to how everything else you apply to your lawn works. The free application leads to a great season of healthy turf. After a season of great results, Job will be back at our house again this year, and our two Weimaraners will have another flea and tick free year, without being exposed to poisonous chemicals. a
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Life in the East End by Rebecca Harrop March is here in the East End as it is everywhere else. Now that February is behind us, maybe we can say goodbye to all the wacky weather we’ve experienced. I expect snow in February; after all, it is still winter, but it seemed to me we had a lot of rain as well. I for one am ready to move on with a little warmer weather. I love snow, but I’m not a fan of the wind and extreme cold temperatures we had. Our house got pretty cold a couple of those days. So bring on spring! As spring arrives on the farm, it is time to check pasture fences, haul manure from the pens, and sort cattle and prepare the young stock for pasture. It’s also time to get the equipment ready for planting season. Most of the supplies
we will need have been ordered or at least decided on by now. Most farmers have participated in the meetings held by the different supply companies or Extension service to renew their licenses to be able to purchase and use the materials we use on our crops. Most people do not realize farmers have to complete an education process and testing to be able to purchase and use products such as herbicides and pesticides. We don’t just run out and buy “stuff.” There are very strict guidelines for usage of these products. We must keep a record of all products purchased, complete with lot numbers, exact amounts used, which fields they were used on and dates used. These records must be available for inspection.
to go to the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers Conference. This was the third year I was able to go. It’s always a great experience. They offer different sessions on many different topics from Farm Labor Laws, AG Promotion, Agronomy, and other topics. I really enjoy the sessions on promoting agriculture and learning positive Author Rebecca Harrop doing an enjoyable chore, feeding the newborns. Always a happy ways to use social and hopeful time of year! media for agriculture. It’s a great time to catch up with Crop farming is a complex occupens as soon as we would have friends from other counties who I pation now compared to the farmliked, so it got a little crowded for don’t get to see very often. ing practices of our forefathers. a while. Thankfully, we did get That’s all for this month. For January and February were things sorted out and now things those of you who have Facebook, also very busy in our calving aren’t quite so crowded. My aunt barn. In January we had 29 Billie Jo was also helping by feed- check out the Harrop Farms page to see how we do things on our calves born and by February 8, ing the real little calves at noon farm. a we had 35. Feeding calves was a during the really cold days. busy business. I love tending the In February, I got the chance calves, but that’s a lot of calves. We weren’t able to move some of the bigger calves into the larger
“Liberty and Government are Opposing Forces”
The Valley, March 2016
The Truth Has No Agenda
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The Valley, March 2016
30 Carrier Oils Add Additional Benefits to Aromatherapy from page 10 oil has been mechanically pressed out from the fatty portions of the botanical without the use of added heat. The process can still generate heat due to the friction of the method, but cold expeller pressed oils are processed under conditions that keep the heat to a minimum. This method helps the oil maintain its original state, constituents and depth. Temperatures are rigorously controlled to ensure no therapeutic benefits are lost to heat. Although not a practical method of extraction for all vegetable oils on the market, it is highly regarded as the extraction method of choice. • Expeller pressed oils: In this method of extraction, a small amount of heat is produced simply through the frictional heat created by hydraulic presses. This makes the oil suitable and economical as a base for cosmetics because of its fairly undisturbed molecular state. It also makes a great food grade oil. • Solvent Extracted: Sometimes it is necessary to use a solvent in order to extract the oil from certain seeds, nuts or kernels in order to make the extraction cost effective. Once the oil has been obtained, the solvent is then removed from the oil, but a trace percentage of the solvent may still be present in the final oil. Coconut, Palm, Grapeseed and Rice Bran are typically solvent extracted. • Unrefined: This means that no additional refining process has taken place after the oil has been extracted. These oils retain a rich, strong flavor and color. The end product is most exquisite! Unrefined oils are always darker in color and richer in scent than refined or those which have undergone any of the refining processes below. • Refined: A fully processed oil has been exposed to all methods of refinement. Refinement processes will remove impurities, improve the color or texture, or stabilize the shelf life of the oil. The oil is reacted with a weak base solution of sodium hydroxide to saponify the free fatty acids into soap. The oil is then centrifuged and washed with water until the pure oil remains. The oil may also be degummed to remove the sticky phospholipids, color pigments and odor lending portions. It will have no color, odor or scent. This is not the healthiest as a food grade oil. There is an interesting video on oil being re-
fined. You can find it if you do a Google search on “How it’s made canola oil.” • Bleached: Bleaching is done to improve the color and clarity of the oil. Bleaching is generally done by passing the oil through fuller’s earth or clay and then filtering the oil. • Deodorized: This is a process in order to remove compounds that lend an unappealing or overpowering aroma to the oil. This is generally done by blowing high temperature steam through the oil to vaporize the aromatic components. This process is made more effective by heating the oil to high temperatures and performing this process under a vacuum. Due to the high temperatures used, deodorization is clearly the most damaging process of refinement. • RBD is sometimes on the label and is the abbreviation for “Refined, Bleached and Deodorized.” Consider the absorption rate of the oil Some oils will penetrate the skin quicker than others thus leaving a less oily feeling. Quick penetrating oils are argan, walnut, grapeseed, jojoba, hemp seed, rose hip, and apricot kernel. On the other hand, slow absorbing oils include: macadamia, castor, avocado, coconut and evening primrose. Some people like a quick penetrating oil and some prefer oils with a slower absorption rate. If you are using the oil to give a massage: you will want to choose an oil that has a slower absorption rate. The oils will lay on top of the skin longer, thus giving you more massage time! If you are making a hand crème, you will want to choose an oil that absorbs quick and does not leave your hands feeling oily. SHOPPING TIPS: things to avoid Mineral oil and petroleum jelly are byproducts of petroleum production. They are not of natural, botanical origin and are not used within the scope of holistic aromatherapy. Mineral oil is used in baby oils and many commercially available moisturizers because it is an inexpensive oil to manufacture. It, however, can clog pores, prevent the skin from breathing naturally, prevent essential oil absorption and prevent toxins from leaving the body through the natural process of sweating. Also, I’ve read reports that it can be absorbed into the body and block vitamins from properly being utilized. These same concerns apply to petroleum
jelly. STORING YOUR CARRIERS Carrier oils will become rancid over time. If you come across an oil that has a strong, bitter aroma, chances are that it has become rancid. When purchasing a new oil, open it and take a good deep whiff and store that smell deep in your memory! Some carrier oils do have a smell to them, but I can always tell if an oil is rancid. Of course, this is assuming that the oil is fresh when you originally purchase it. The more saturated fat contained in an oil, the less susceptible it is to rancidity. The greater the amount of unsaturated fat in an oil, the more susceptible it is to becoming rancid. Since the healthiest plant oils are all highly unsaturated, they are especially susceptible to rancidity. Three enemies of oil are air, heat and light Air: When oxygen reaches your oils it causes rancidity. Oil oxidation is an undesirable series of chemical reactions involving oxygen that degrades the quality of an oil. Oxidation eventually produces rancidity in oil. Store your oils in air tight containers. Plastic is a great deal more porous than glass. Glass is almost impermeable to oxygen and carbon dioxide. When you purchase carrier oils, the supplier may have packaged it in a plastic (PET/HDPE) bottle. This doesn’t mean that the oil is inferior. Often suppliers use plastic bottles to save packaging and shipping costs. Many customers use up the oils shortly after purchase, therefore, the plastic container is not a relevant quality issue. Unlike essential oils that should always be stored in glass (essential oils can dissolve the plastic), carrier oils can be stored in plastic if you are planning on using them up in a month or two. Heat: Keep your oils cool. They do not like heat: as it can harm the vitamins and nutrients. Room temperature is fine. Most carrier oils can be stored in the refrigerator, and this can help prolong the lifespan of fragile oils. Oils stored in the refrigerator may solidify or turn cloudy and will need time to return to room temperature prior to use. Light: Also, keep out of direct sunlight as UV rays can be harmful speed up the rancidity process. If you are transferring to glass, use amber or cobalt colored bottles. Glass will keep out oxygen and the color will keep out UV rays! It can help to extend the life of your oils by buying oils that
Wildlife Notes from Shavers Creek Environmental from page 25 Mountain or through on-line resources such as ebird. This has been a huge success in creating awareness and understanding of the local raptor population. When multiple organizations get together to promote similar raptor conservation values, education can reach the public at a much faster rate. In line with the mission of Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center, we hopped on board in the fall of 2014 by partnering with Hawk Mountain. Since then the raptor center at Shaver’s Creek has had opportunities to visit properties which have natural Vitamin E added. Vitamin E, often listed as tocopherols acts as a natural preservative. I have already added a few drops of Rosemary Oil Extract to help preserve mine, or blended it with wheat germ oil to increase shelf life. I have read where you can also blend with meadowfoam oil. OTHER INGREDIENTS AS CARRIERS Vegetable butters are not typically used as carrier oils, but the beneficial properties of vegetable butters like Cocoa Butter and Shea Butter make them suitable for use in aromatherapy. Vegetable butters are similar to vegetable oils, but are solid at room temperature. Vegetable butters are processed by a wide variety of methods, so it’s especially important to check the method of extraction when shopping for butters. Strive to use butters that are cold pressed. Butters are the best option for when you want essential oils to slowly absorb over a longer period of time. A good tip when using butters—slowly melt your butter over low heat and stir in a carrier oil. Ratio will need to be 3 to 1 depending on how hard the chosen butter is—cocoa butter, mango butter and illipe tree butter are extremely hard, whereas shea is a bit softer. When purchasing butters, make sure there is no added hydrogenated vegetable oils.
exhibit open grasslands or agricultural fields and which provide Barn Owl and American Kestrel boxes to be installed. All it takes is a single moment of observing the graceful flight of a Northern Harrier hunting the open fields to recognize the importance this bird has in the ecosystem. “Those who are observant are rewarded.” – Doug Wentzel, Shaver’s Creek Program Director Contact Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center for more information about Farmland Raptor Project. 814-863-2000 Ext 7512 or farmlandraptor@psu.edu Jon Kauffman Assistant Raptor Center Director Manufacturers will take an oil and add hydrogenated vegetable oil to it to change the consistency to that of a butter and then call it butter. I have seen the percentage to be as high as 50%. I’m not sure why this is done. PURE butters are: cocoa, cupuacu, shea, mango, kokum, tucuma, illipe, and sal. Emu oil (from the emu bird), fish (marine) oils, and other animal-based oils are generally not used for aromatherapy work. But, you could! IN CLOSING Purchase a good quality carrier oil and it can be used for many things other than just carrying your essential oils! You can use about a tablespoon in your bath water to super moisturize skin. You can use just as you would a lotion (but you would need about 80% less!). It could be used for massage, and don’t forget—many of the oils are great to cook with or to use as a salad dressing! At Shade Mountain, we have a large variety of oils and butters for sale. We do not keep these packaged and on the shelf, so you will need to call ahead and let us know how much you need. Or, better yet: stop in and see us! We love company and would love to chat! We are open every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9-4, Thursday and Friday from 9-6 and every Saturday from 10-2. a
Next Issue of The Valley: April 6th
“Liberty and Government are Opposing Forces”
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The Valley, March 2016
For the past 10 years, DP Gifts has been providing the community with unique and high quality chocolates for adults. The idea behind our grown up chocolate is that they’re reminiscent of the chocolate we ate as children, but with an adult twist. We focus on great quality ingredients and love the fact that our chocolates are unashamedly indulgent—we wouldn’t’ have it any other way!. We’ve wowed you with our cordials made with the best liquors and Belgian made chocolate, and have provided adults with their own private stash of chocolate that they will not have to worry about the kids raiding. We thought it was high time to start introducing a larger selection of high quality chocolates to our customers and have searched high and low for small chocolatiers. Over the years you have showed us and told us that you understand the different qualities of chocolates and willing to pay a reasonable price for the best chocolates. During our extensive search and travels we have found two new great candies we hope you will enjoy. First we are offering high quality Chocolate Truffles of Vermont, known to be one of the best chocolatiers in New England. Third generation
confectioners, Jeff & Bill Birnn (pronounced “Burn”), have an ironclad bond. It’s one that’s developed through brotherhood.
Chocolate and an understanding of relationships—even when they include cows. One of the most important ingredients to their success is using fresh, heavy cream from Vermont cows, and gently blending it into the truffle’s ganache center. Birnn Chocolates of Vermont is located in South Burlington, VT. The company has more than eleven retail stores and is also an exclusive manufacturer of premium, wholesale truffles. Birnn Chocolates of Vermont offers more than 100 different truffles to retailers nationwide. It offers a wide variety of flavors, including Black Forrest, Toasted Coconut, Butter Pecan and Hazelnut. What is a chocolate truffle? It is a type of chocolate confectionery, traditionally made with a chocolate ganache center coated in chocolate, cocoa powder or chopped toasted nuts or coconut. Truffles elevate every occasion. Stop in and take a tasting journey with the many chocolates now available. Treat lucky dinner guests to a dessert like no other, they also The Birnn brothers with one of their Vermont make great office gifts cows. or Easter gifts for that
person that is so hard to buy for. If you are a chocolate lover, Birrn Truffles are a must try, so stop in for a free sample.
Our second great find comes from Minnesota and is known as Dutch House Confections. Their specialty is handmade caramels. Dutch House Confections is your typical American dream small business that has struggled at times to make ends meet, but now have a thriving business. Connie and John Hammje struggled to keep their bakeshop and grill of 20 years open after new owners took over the Viking Plaza Mall in Alexandria. Increased lease payments and the cost of running a restaurant led the couple to find an alternative. It came to them with the requests of their customers for one chewy candy that they sold in their bakeshop. In 1997, they started making caramels out of the restaurant. It started out as
The Truth Has No Agenda
Dutch House Caramels are a very special candy that everyone should try once, at the very least. They are so good some would say they are sinful.
a special order for a customer. There was a lot of positive feedback about the candies. After closing the restaurant, Connie Hammje searched for a market to sell her caramels. She began going to wholesaler shows and in 1998, she applied for a booth in Minneapolis. The Dutch House Confections became a thriving business that was conducted from their newly built home in Osakis. A special kitchen was constructed within their new home so that they could continue to manufacture the caramels. What was once a delicious item from a bakeshop is now a business that has expanded many times and continues to grow. It has brought an opportunity to the community and offers
a wholesale option for a special retro candy. For Hammje and her employees, it has offered a sweet alternative to making a living. DP Gifts is proud to carry Dutch House Confection’s caramels and will have them out for sample with the truffles throughout March. My friend Jenny once told me “life is too short to eat bad food.” So put down the store bought chocolates and stop by DP gifts in Milroy and share in some free samples of the highest quality chocolates made in the U.S.A. in small batches by loving families. We are located at 15 Commerce Drive between Best Western and Subway in Milroy. a
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The Valley, March 2016
“Liberty and Government are Opposing Forces�