Thevalley november2016online

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Serving Mifflin County and the surrounding area.

The Valley A free newspaper dedicated to agriculture, self-reliance, frugal living, and modern homesteading.

Tomorrow’s Media - A Day Early

Turning 50!

Volume 7, No. 11

Complimentary

The Valley, November 2016

by Colette Hartzler

Everything around me is screaming “50!” My parents celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary not long ago, I turned 50 this year (yes I just said that out loud), this year the Super bowl turned 50 and we just celebrated my husband’s 50th birthday as well! In the Jewish tradition, I believe the 50th year is the Year of Jubilee; at least that is what I’ve been told and I like it—I’m going with that! This year we are also celebrating with the Stone Arch Players and, yes, they are reaching that Jubilee year of 50!!

Recently, I was able to sit down and chat with Thiry Olbrich about the Stone Arch Players.

Thiry and her husband, Paul, are founding members of the group from back in 1967. They and friends Kirby Bowen, Charlie Sims, Pat & Bob Robinson, Vicki & Dale Gates, and others saw the need for a place to experience the arts in the way of theater. After discussing the idea for many months, they began by putting on workshops for the community.

During these workshops, they taught skills like reading scripts with expression and character, stage direction, and set construction. These groups were held at the YMCA, Kirby’s beauty salon, the Green Gables Restaurant, or where ever they could find a place. Thiry says it wasn’t long until they had gathered around

them a group of excited thespians and were ready to attempt their first play. The first production was “The Mouse that Roared” and the cast was large; it was a whopping 40 person cast! But, where would they rehearse? Rehearsals were held anywhere they could find a gracious host: sometimes the YMCA, or Miss Judy would allow them to use her studio, and sometimes Kirby opened up his

beauty salon for rehearsal; basically the community was behind them and was happy to work with them to accommodate their needs.

The productions needed a stage; however, and again the community kindly offered through school boards and principals, the use of the area high schools. Those were challenging days as the group could not get into a school building until mid-afternoon on

a Friday for a show that would open that night. Sets were built off location and many items were stored in a building called “Hoops School,”—an old school house in which the owner kindly allowed the Stone Arch players to store their sets and other materials.

Soon momentum was building and the old Sentinel building in Lewistown (where the Salvation Army now resides) allowed

Stone Arch Players, Standing: L to R Colette Hartzler, William Daup, Edward Thome, Matthew Briner, Thomas Craver. Sitting: L to R Linda Swartz, Jared Bassette, Abby Cramer

Veritas vos Liberabit

the group to move into their basement. “It was a wonderful home for a while” states Thiry; “there was a lot of room for seats and the ability to make a stage area.”

It was while they were in this location that one of the members learned of some old theater seats stored in an auction building in Reedsville; and with that, the Stone Arch Players were soon the proud owners of some real seating —blanketed in the latest pigeondung décor. In those days, Thiry recalls, the group worked hard at many work parties—they made props, sewed costumes and, yes, scrubbed pigeon dung. She says she used to tell actors, “yes you can be a star today, but tomorrow you will need to clean the toilets.”

Those seats were eventually reupholstered and were moved into our current location in the Theater in the Park of Kish Park. Those seats were recently replaced, and while it made the theater look amazing, (between you and me) I think the old ones were more comfortable.

So here we are ready to enter our Year of Jubilee. What will it bring? Will we still be here in fifty years? I hope so. This has been a place for people who have that bent to flourish and express themselves in ways that most everyday

Continued on page 19

The Valley, November 2016

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Editor’s Corner Wayne Stottlar

Another year almost officially checked off. This year went incredibly fast, and to be honest, I am glad to see it come to an end.

Poor weather, poor gardening, and a tough year for the bees. Looking forward, we are now starting our 7th year at the paper; I still can’t grasp that, this was just supposed to be a hobby, not another career, but 7 years in and we are still having fun thanks to our wonderful readers, loyal advertisers and the most dedicated and knowledgeable collection of writers anywhere. You all make this fun to do and at Thanksgiving time, we will not forget to add all of you to that for which we give thanks.

Speaking of bees, just a couple days ago I got the first bit of good news concerning bees that I have heard in 5 or more years.

A new study has verified that we continue to lose 30% - 40% of

managed hives every year, but as devastating as this is, we are still winning the battle. How, you ask?

The answer is because there are more new hives being managed each year than the year before thanks to new beekeepers coming into the fold. This can be VERY good news if we can get certain pesticides banned as they have done in Europe. Bees are rebounding across the pond since the ban took effect. We need to do better here, but this was indeed good news. So that is another thing to be thankful for—new beekeepers.

While I am being thankful, I will be VERY thankful when this election is over. We should be embarrassed as a country that the representatives of the two major parties are such pathetic candidates. I am, however, thankful that neither one represents me. I became a Libertarian years ago, and

"WALK" in to Walker & Waker Equipment for ALL your lawn, garden and landscape equipment needs!

We have trailer, used equipment and rentals too!

with the arrival of 2016, that choice was another thing I am thankful for.

Our numbers are growing too, and rapidly! Did you see our float in the Lewistown Halloween Parade?

Thank you to all those cheering and joining the party since! After this election is over, we get to work picking off local offices and seats. No flash in the pan, 2016 is the year the Libertarian Party breaks through. Join us, we are having a great time, and we even have a Facebook page. www.facebook.com/LibertarianPartyMifflinCounty/.

We also want to thank the Susquehanna Valley Libertarian Party for loaning us their float and people to make our appearance in the Halloween Parade happen. It is so nice to see people cooperating and working together toward a common goal.

As this shopping season kicks off, please remember to support our advertisers, as their advertising dollars make this whole gig happen. If II we want to continue, we need to purchase goods from them whenever possible.

When doing so, you are helping a neighbor.

Hopefully with the election cycle coming to an end, people can take a deep breath, surround themselves with family and loved ones, and just be thankful for all that we do have—it should be time to heal. a

Contact Info Editor/Publisher Wayne Stottlar Graphic Artist/ Co-Publisher Lynn Persing 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.

Less Government means more Liberty

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The Valley, November 2016

First off, the coroner may likely have been correct about the dissected artery. But based on the literature, it was NOT caused by the adjustment.

The research makes it clear that an adjustment is NOT able to dissect the vertebral artery any more than turning the head could dissect it.

Here’s a link to the metaanalysis study from this year (2016): http://www.cureus.com/ articles/4155-systematic-reviewand-meta-analysis-of-chiropractic-care-and-cervical-arterydissection-no-evidence-for-causation

Notice the main line in the study: ‘There is no convincing evidence to support a causal link between chiropractic adjustment and cervical artery dissection(CAD).’

And there was other research

published in the reputable Spine Journal in 2008 that also proved no causal link.

But here’s the deal….the neck pain or headaches from a dissected cervical artery cause the patient to schedule a chiropractic adjustment for pain relief. So the dissected vertebral artery is already present before the adjustment takes place. And that’s why so many draw fast conclusions that an adjustment caused it.

Here is the link to a study showing that: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih. gov/pubmed/18204390

Additionally, here are 2 other links to studies that found no causal relationship with a chiropractic adjustment and stroke. http://chiromt.biomedcentral. com/articles/10.1186/s12998-0150063-x

And this study showed that those who were under the care of a Chiropractor had less strokes than those under a primary care physician. https://www.ncbi.nlm. nih.gov/pubmed/25494315

It’s important that your patients understand this and know that you have plenty of research that reveals the safety of your chiropractic adjustment. It pains me to think that a lay person is going to see the headlines of a situation like this model and never get to experience the benefits of

chiropractic because of fear.

Keep up the good work and reassure your current and prospective practice members that chiropractic is safe, effective, and one of the most important aspects of creating and keeping a healthy body, mind, and soul!

Here For You, Dr. Dan Sullivan”

It helps immensely to have research and articles to back you up. There are several links here that you can check up on to verify if you choose. Chiropractic is safe and effective for people of all ages. I can personally compare malpractice insurance premiums to any other health profession and prove that what we do is safe. So, please do not let the media and fear prevent you from going to a chiropractor. If you ever have any questions, please feel free to contact me. Thank you!

And, remember to take the time this month to stop and appreciate all the things around you and do not take life for granted!

Regardless of whoever wins this election, our country is the greatest in the world. Happy Thanksgiving and God Bless everyone who reads!

that will not be expandable. Stick with the MS-4024PAE’s and the MS-4448PAE’s to be safe and these already can interpret MPPT charge controllers, which is a necessity to the longevity of your system. With this set-up, you can also monitor the controller and inverter from the same remote as the inverter gives you complete control of the parameters.

Next, you need figure out your charge controller to see what

size you need. Divide your watts of solar power by battery volts.

In this case, it was mentioned last month that this system has 16 or 20 panels, so it is very likely a 48 volt battery, so you will have 80 amps at max. With 24 volt, you will need two 80 amp controllers.

With Midnite, Magnum PT, Outback, or Tracer BN series you can add controllers in parallel as you need them as your system grows. As long as the parameters

are the same, the previous system can be networked if you have an inverter.

Next month we will discuss “State of Charge” meters—your fuel gauge for sizing your battery bank.

Steven Yoder is salesman and tech support and onsite service for Elk Creek Solar sales in the Reedsville area and surrounding counties. a

Back Talk

by Dr. Joseph Kauffman

The Model Who Was A Patient

By now, I’m sure you’ve all heard about the 26-year-old model who passed away due to what the coroner called a “Chiropractic Manipulation”. First off, we, chiropractors, do not manipulate or “crack,” we adjust the spine.

There is a difference. A manipulation is done grossly, not gross as in disgusting, but gross as in non-specific, whereas an adjustment is specific. It’s specific in the location and correction of Vertebral Subluxations, which are misaligned vertebrae that pinch on spinal nerves causing disease in the body. I have had to explain what happened to this patient to my own patients and to the public.

Instead of sloughing it off to anyone who is interested, please allow me to share with you what was sent to me by a company who specializes in researching the effects of chiropractic adjustments.

This is what was sent to me: “Hey Doc,

I’m sure you saw the article about the Playboy model who passed away after a stroke allegedly caused by a chiropractic adjustment received 3 days before she died. The coroner ruled this week that it was a dissected artery caused by the Chiropractic adjustment. (a dissected artery is a tear or damage to the lining of an artery.) Today I had originally planned to send out the first part of a new free video series I created for you on how to better understand and communicate the adjustment’s unique influence on the brain. But after this story released, I had to send you a response to that stroke claim with research, so you have evidence in your head, heart, and hands in case any practice member asks you about it.

Plain Talk

Solar Explained

by S. Yoder

Hello to all of The Valley readers as another year is coming to a close. As always, we are more than ever dedicated to serving all of your solar needs and to give advice to our customers on how to properly design and maintain your system to be sure you receive the decades of life it was promised when new.

Let’s go to system design

All of this is based on the typical 10 kwh active family system. Of course, as I have often said, there is no typical system when talking about off-grid design as they all differ some. I have never sold two exact systems, but the things that do not differ are that they all produce power and they all have different locations and angles.

As always, we hope that you will choose an MPPT charge controller. Look for the one that is easy, based on your skill, to install and to operate. Brand matters less on these types of controllers of this rating. Look for a company

with an excellent field record as that is a must with any long-lived system.

To size your system, it is based on voltages, so remember, if you have more than 500 watts of solar power or 600 watts of wind power, it is best to use the next step higher, as in 24 volts.

24 volts is suitable for 200 thru 8,000 watts in my book. 48 volt should be at least 500 watts and over, for which there are inverter systems available for up to almost 40,000 watts or 35,000 continuous duty watts.

That’s A LOT of power! The average 10 kw system needs no less than 4,000 and up to an 8,800 continuous watt inverter, given what the buyers budget allows, or as needed. You do want to remember that inverter systems can usually be expanded in the future if your system was carefully designed to accept this option. One of the biggest mistakes is for you to design your system around an inverter

The Truth Has No Agenda

Dr. Joseph Kauffman Kauffman-Hummel Chiropractic Clinic drjosephkauffman@comcast.net a

The Valley, November 2016

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Brannon & Royer Septic Services, LLC would like to thank its customers for their business.

Thank you for your continued patronage of the area’s

original

portable restroom & septic services company

Brannon & Royer

Destination History Mifflin County Historical Society 2017 Trips Thousand Islands, NY

Friday, June 2 through Sunday, June 4, 2017 (three days) Highlights include: Guided tour of Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion, Two Nation Boat Tour and guided tour of Boldt Castle and Yacht House, Rock Island Lighthouse, Antique Boat Museum, Sacketts Harbor Battlefield.

Dinners at Bonnie Castle and Cavallarios Restaurant in Alexandria Bay. Lunches at Sonnenberg Gardens, Rock Island Lighthouse and Boat House Restaurant.

Price includes: Transportation and baggage handling (one bag per person);

2 nights at Bonnie Castle in Alexandria Bay, 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners, all admissions and entrance fees to attractions, tour guides and gratuities.

Member Double $505 Single $585 Non-member Double $525 Single $605

We will provide pricing for a triple upon request.

Bonnie Castle

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The Valley, November 2016

Faneuil Hall We are taking reservations at this time. Please make your reservation quickly as these trips have been filling up fast. All reservations should be made by Friday, January 20, 2017, to reserve your seat.

$100 deposit is required at the time of reservation. Final Payment is due April 1, 2017.

Boston and Cape Cod Sunday, September 24 through Friday, September 29, 2017 (six day trip)

Highlights include: guided tour of Freedom Trail, Boston Common and Public Gardens, Back Bay, Beacon Hill, Quincy Market, Old North Church, Faneuil Hall, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum; Tour of Lexington and Concord, Buckman’s Tavern, Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum; Boston Duck Tour, JFK Library and Museum, Charlestown Navy Yard and USS Constitution Old Ironsides, US Constitution Visitor Center and Museum. Also included: Cape Cod National Seashore, Provincetown, Cape Cod Dune Tour, Chatham and Chatham Light, Nausett and Three Sisters Light.

Price includes: Transportation and baggage handling (one bag per person); 5 nights lodging, 5 breakfasts, 5 dinners and 1 lunch; all admissions and entrance fees to attractions, tour guides and bus driver gratuities.

Member Double $1195 Single $1615

Non-member Double $1215 Single $1635

We will provide pricing for a triple upon request.

We are taking reservations at this time. Please make your reservation quickly as these trips have been filling up fast. All reservations should be made by Friday, January 20, 2017, to reserve your seat. Half payment is required at the time of reservation. Final Payment is due June 1, 2017.

For more information: Karen Galbraith (717-250-5152, gkg@ pa.net ) Nancy Kauffman (717-994-4663, npkauffman@embarqmail.com )

You may pay in full when making reservations. You will be assigned a seat when we receive your reservation payment.

Reservation checks may be made out to Nancy Kauffman and sent to: Nancy Kauffman 457 Church Street PO Box #104 Reedsville, PA 17084

Full refund up to 30 days prior to the trip, unless there are unrecoverable deposits/expensed by terms and conditions of the tour vendors. If the cancellation is made within 30 days prior to departure, the cancellation fee is $10.00 per person, per travel day, plus any fees that cannot be recovered. Anyone who is not present on the day of the tour departure will not receive any refund. If you are interested in purchasing trip cancellation insurance, let us know and we can give you more information. The insurance only covers medical issues only. a

If you’ve discovered the joys of feeding birds in your backyard (or schoolyard!), then you know that all birds have a preference when it comes to what they eat, and while they’d love nothing more than to eat what nature provides, in the winter, they need some help. One of the most frequent questions I get asked is, “What can I put in my feeders to attract such and such a bird?”

As a rule, birds are pretty predictable. A good mixture of seed that includes sunflower seed, cracked corn, safflower and millet will attract a wide range of birds including cardinals, chickadees, finches, grackles, grosbeaks, blue jays, mockingbirds, nuthatches, sparrows, titmice, and wrens. All of these birds prefer feeders above ground, either post-mounted or suspended. The same seed, placed in a ground feeding tray will attract cardinals, catbirds, doves, grosbeaks, blue jays, juncos, red-

polls, robins, sparrows, thrushes, and towhees. Some birds don’t care where they get their feed as long as they’re fed!

Suet Feeders that hold suet cakes will attract blackbirds, catbirds, chickadees, grosbeaks, finches, flickers, blue jays, juncos, mockingbirds, nuthatches, redpolls, sapsuckers, sparrows, titmice, towhees, woodpeckers, and wrens. You can even take an old log (about a foot long), drill large holes in it and fill the holes with a homemade mixture of suet and peanut butter to draw in birds, especially woodpeckers.

If you love watching finches, then get a thistle feeder and some Niger (Nyjer) seed. Goldfinches, house finches, purple finches and pine siskins will keep you entertained for hours if you put one of these feeders up. We’ve had great luck with the tube type of feeder.

We tried using one of the sock feeders filled with Niger seed, but

the squirrels made short work of it. So far, they haven’t bothered the tube feeders.

By trial and error, we’ve learned what works to attract birds to our backyard and we usually average at least twenty species of birds on a daily basis, but a lot depends on where you live and what’s going on in your neighborhood. Some birds will never (or seldom) come to a feeder, but they will be attracted to natural food sources in your yard. Every fall, Cedar Waxwings flock to our crabapple trees and stay till they have them picked clean. If you’ve never seen one of these beautiful birds, you’re missing a real treat!

Coopers Hawks and Sharp Shinned Hawks also drop by now and then. They’re attracted to the birds that feed in our yard, but we make sure the feeders are placed near shelter so the birds have somewhere to hide when the hawks try to find an easy meal at the feeders. We hate to see any of

our birds become lunch, but hawks have to eat too and we’ve learned that everything has its place in Mother Nature—it’s On a cold winter day, even a Pileated Woodpecker will come to the feeders for some suet! sometimes not it gets extremely cold). Always pretty, but the food chain is what remember to keep your feeders it is. clean and food fresh. If you feed

A water source is also an Niger Seed, buy it in small bags. important part of attracting birds If it gets old, the birds won’t touch to your yard. A couple of years it. I hope this helps you with your ago, we bought an inexpensive bird feeding efforts this winter, heater (at East Gate Feed & and remember, keep an eye to the Grain) that keeps a birdbath open sky! You never know what you’ll during the winter months (unless see at your feeders! a

Fall for Hummingbirds Contest Attract Migrating Hummingbirds To Your Feeders For A Chance At Prizes.

Hummingbirds are being found with increasing frequency in the fall & winter seasons in Pennsylvania. About 99% of the hummingbirds that are found east of the Mississippi are Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, but sometimes during fall and winter other species of hummingbirds pass through Pennsylvania as the travel from breeding grounds in Alaska to wintering spots along the Gulf Coast. Ornithologists are very interested in learning more about these wayward little birds. Your participation can help contribute to the growing body of information about migrating hummingbirds. If you are able to get a confirmed hummingbird to visit your feeders, you can win a prize. In addition, researchers with federal banding permits would like to band the late season hummingbirds, if the homeowners are willing.

NOTE: Maintain a clean feeder whenever you leave it out for birds. It is recommended that you clean the feeder at least weekly, more often if the sugar mixture gets cloudy. The mixture for the feeders should always be 4 parts water to 1 part sugar. No additives or dyes are ever needed. If temperatures drop below freezing, bring the feeders in overnight. It is a myth that keeping feeders up will prevent them from migrating in the fall. They will come and go as they please. We are only helping them fuel up in their journey.

PRIZES: Any hummingbird species that can be confirmed will be entered into a $100 Drawing. Any species other than Ruby-throated Hummingbird will automatically WIN $25.

This contest will run from 10/1/16 to 1/31/17.

Contest is sponsored by: KAUFFMAN INSURANCE AGENCY in Mifflintown and LOST CREEK SHOE SHOP/OPTICS from Oakland Mills.

Contest is limited to anyone in the Juniata, Mifflin, Perry and Snyder County area.

Anyone in the state, outside of the above areas who are getting hummingbirds, is still welcome to contact us for further information. They can be eligible for other prizes and contests going on.

Contact information: Chad Kauffman 717-436-8257; Aden Troyer 717-463-3117 or email chadkauffman@earthlink.net • www.facebook.com/FallForHummingbirdsContest

Less Government means more Liberty

The Truth Has No Agenda

The Valley, November 2016

6

About Faith

by Rev. Robert Zorn, Visitation Minister, Lewistown Presbyterian Church

Don’t Be A Ginkgo

As everywhere else in our north temperate climate, the leaves of the deciduous trees of our county are falling from their branches. They have finished their annual task of turning the energy of the sun into wood and fruit.

Out here in Treaster Valley, the process is well under way, and the forests are ablaze with multiple shades of color. The ash were the first to shed their summer gamuts of green, followed by the walnut, poplar and birches. The maple and the oak defoliation follows a rather prolonged process, with some waiting well into winter.

There is one tree on our lot that follows a predictable schedule for dropping its leaves. It is our little ginkgo tree. It is one of three seedlings that Mr. Wilson Baker gave us some years ago. When our son, Paul, learned that two of

the ginkgos had died, he was not disappointed. He said that if two or more of this specie cross pollinated they could produce a fruit that is quite obnoxious in both touch and odor.

The ginkgo is a very interesting species. Those who have made a study of such things estimate that ginkgo has been in existence on earth for three hundred million years. It has remained unchanged in characteristics during all of that time. It is believed that it once provided food for plant eating dinosaurs. One of the most interesting features of the ginkgo is the shape of its leaves. The veins of the leaves emerge from a single stem, radiating out as a fan.

Their size and their perfectly flat frond make them ideal for book marks. 1 have found some that have been left in books for many

The Mifflin County Model Railroad Club will present their 2016 open House on the following dates> Thurs. & Fri. Dec. 1st & 2nd from 5:00 to 9:00 PM. Sat. Dec.3rd from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Sun. Dec. 4th from 1;00 to 4:00 PM. Sat. & Sun. Dec. 10th & 11th from 1:00 to 4:00 PM. Sat. & Sun. Jan. 14th & 15th 2017 from 1:00 to 4:00 PM. The club is located in the former Montgomery Ward building on the Square in Lewistown. For further information call Ed Forsythe at Ed’s Trains in Vira. Phone 248-4862.

There will be numerous trains running during the open house. There is no admission and all are welcome.

years. There are several fine examples of these beautiful trees at different locations around Lewistown. State College has hundreds of them planted along their city streets. At this writing, the ginkgo trees may be identified by their pale green leaves, which make them stand out among their more colorful neighbors.

Sometime soon, as the green leaves turn to a bright yellow, when the climate conditions are

just right, a signal will go out through all “ginkgodom” and the trees will shed all of their leaves in the matter of a day. If we are fortunate enough to be in the proximity of a ginkgo on that particular day, it will appear that we are in a blizzard of golden feathers. It is an experience worth seeking and waiting for.

As with many of the subtle lessons learned from nature, there are some to be learned from the scene that has just been described.

From the chronological age of the species, we learn some concept of God’s unchanging providence.

We may also find a reflection of ourselves and our society. How often do we find large segments of our population caught up in some fad or fashion. A celebrity in entertainment, religion or politics may evoke adulation and imitation by masses who surrender their individuality to the wave of the crowd. The tragic and painful examples of this in our history are numerous. It would be good if we all would read and remember Jotham’s Parable: (Judges 9:7-15) Blind conformity is the antithesis of our Reformed Tradition. In short, don’t be a ginkgo - practice individual responsibility

“As each has received a gift, employ it for one another as good stewards of God’s varied grace” 1 Peter 4:10 a

Less Government means more Liberty

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The Valley, November 2016

Ed’s Railroading News

by Ed Forsythe

Well the countdown has begun. Only 9 more Fridays before Christmas and 10 Fridays before 2017. Thanks to our son Edo for this tidbit of unusable information. But, along with all these Fridays arriving, comes many special events to take us to the most wonderful time of year. The time when each year we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. What would Christmas be without him? Just another day of course. To help kick off the celebrations is the Ice Festival in Downtown Lewistown on December 1st & 2nd from 5:00 to 9:00 pm. Of course, the Mifflin County Model Railroad Club will be holding our annual Open House dates beginning those nights also, so come on out and enjoy all the festivities on the Square in Downtown Lewistown.

Our club is located in the basement of 3 West Monument Square, which is the same building as the Snowflake’s on the Square store. We will be open from 5:00 to 9:00 pm on Thursday & Friday, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm Saturday the 3rd, and 1:00 to 4:00 pm the 4th, 10th & 11th. Also, we will be open on January 14th & 15th from 1:00 to 4:00 pm, for our yearly after Christmas show.

Make plans to come often to see all the new details that have be added to both our layouts this past year along with new and different trains running. After all, since all the shows are FREE, there’s no reason not to return often. We will, however, accept donations to help us offset our yearly expenses like rent, material, repair costs, insurances, etc. We will also be selling raffle tickets with several really nice prizes to be won including a really nice “N” scale train layout. You can also follow us at our new website at: mifflincountymodelrailroad.com Along with all that is happening at the model railroad club, you can get involved with several small train layouts in downtown store windows where there will be canned food drives happening again. In the window beside Snowflake’s and in the windows of the South Hills School on Market Street, there will be trains running again and we will once again build mountains and tunnels for the trains to run through.

Donated foods can be dropped off at these two locations and at the Chamber of Commerce office in

the old Courthouse on the square or at Ed’s Trains in Vira. Last year’s food drive netted more than 350 items to help out folks in need throughout this year. This year’s donations will be distributed to assist folks during the Christmas holidays, so don’t be surprised to see the layouts starting earlier this year. Also beginning soon will be the special event at Kishacoquillas Park in December—Shining Light Through the Darkness.

By the time you read this article, set-up will have begun so anyone who wishes to get involved with a great community project come on out on Saturdays and Sundays and help get things rolling. For additional information on any of these items, you can call me at 717 248 4862.

Another interesting item happening can be seen and enjoyed online at CP Rail.com.

The Canadian Pacific Railroad is in their 19th year of sponsoring their Holiday Trains that run all over Canada and parts of the U.S., bringing holiday cheer to all who see them. These trains are all lit up for the season and when they make stops they open up a stage and performers put on free shows.

There’s also food drives happening in each of the towns where the train stops and many folks have benefited from others generosity.

Check it out and enjoy the videos of past events and track this year’s trains.

Another local railroading exhibit can be found in the Isett Museum located on Stone Creek Ridge in Huntingdon. Information can be found at: isettheritagemuseum.com. The Bricktown Model Railroad Club of Mt Union recently completed a really nice “O” gauge train layout to accompany the “G” gauge layout already at the museum. These layouts are surrounded by thousands of local and national historical items on display for all to enjoy. It’s not a far trip to see many long forgotten items and it is definitely worth the time to travel down memory lane.

Why not combine the trip and also take a ride on the trolleys at the Rockhill Trolley Museum? Check out all the trolley holiday fun at rockhilltrolleys.org. As always, Happy Railroading, Ed a

Dave Wilson

Coins, Precious Metal and a Little of this and That

A Gift Horse?

If you’ve haven’t heard the old expression “Never Look a Gift Horse in the Teeth,” then allow me to explain the principle. As I understand it (and a real horse buyer might find this laughable), when buying horses, one should always look in the horse’s mouth, as this, somehow, is an indication, to the astute horse buyer, as to the animal’s general health. However, if you are given the horse free of charge, then looking a “Gift Horse” in the Teeth, would be especially insulting to the person giving the horse away. Even if the horse is unhealthy, for free, you can still make out nicely at the local glue factory!

Now, let us apply that same principle to silver. (No, sorry, I don’t mean the Lone Ranger’s horse. I’m referring to silver bullion.)

The price of silver has been stagnant for quite some time.

Naturally, this leads many to assume that “Supply” is abundant, and “Demand” is sparse. In fact, almost the exact opposite is true.

Demand is excessive, and just

where the silver is coming from to meet that demand is a puzzling question that remains unanswered in the industry. (Gold is in a similar situation.)

The fundamentals for extremely higher prices for Silver Bullion are massively abundant, but market prices remain low and basically unchanged every day.

How can this be? Again, an excellent question, and with only one plausible answer. Continuous and intense market manipulation. With the recent admission

by Deutsche Bank that they (and several other banks) have been actively manipulating the price of all the precious metals (for years, even decades), the lid is about to blow off the pressure cooker. Deutsche Bank also said that they would “name several other banks that were also involved in the price-fixing scheme,” but as yet have not done so. (Perhaps they were contacted by their Life Insurance representative and told it would be inadvisable to make such information available to the media.)

Still, with both Gold and Silver being harshly suppressed almost every minute of every trading day, the buying public continues to be afforded a wonderful opportunity to continue trading their non-backed, “fiat” currency, for REAL money that has been recognized as the only true store of value for thousands of years.

There is no question that the US National debt of 20+ trillion dollars can never be repaid. Add to that the 100-to-150-trilliondollars in unfunded liabilities (Social Security payments, pensions, etc.), and you can easily see that this will all end up, shall we be polite and just say, “Poorly.”

Dramatically suppressed silver prices (Gold, too) are an excellent example of the proverbial “Gift Horse,” and instead of wondering why their prices are still so

The Truth Has No Agenda

low, perhaps now is the perfect time to step up to the counter and finally “take a strong position.”

With Interest rates still hovering near zero, and negative rates a real possibility, this may be your final chance to buy cheap before Gold and Silver supplies disappear, and prices for all commodities reverse themselves. They are well overdue for such a move.

When prices do start to climb, it could be quick and decisive. In that type scenario, those who have not already purchased physical product, will very likely find themselves completely shut out of the market. a

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(Obligatory Trigger Warning: This article is an OPINION piece, based upon the writers own assessments and evaluation of the topic at hand. You may not agree or align with its content.)

I will never understand the paradox that is third wave feminism. There are many legitimate reasons modern women fail to see the necessity or contextual greater good in the latest incarnation of a once powerful, brave, bold, progressive, and vital movement.

While I could get into a very lengthy and animated diatribe on any one of those, I’ll narrow it to just one. My main point of contention lies with the move-

ments repudiation of women’s right to self-defense. The majority of anecdotal evidence that can be readily acquired from any number of social networking platforms, outspoken entertainers, and activists on the forefront, demonstrates a general disdain for the 2nd Amendment and the use of perceived violence in any context, at large.

The very last thing we should outsource is our own self-defense, as there is no one else that inhibits our bodies on a 24/7 basis, no one else that can control our muscles and limbs, no one else that can coordinate our minds and bodies in unison. Not the police, not your sisterhood of women’s rights

warriors, not your boyfriend, not your husband, not your mother, not your father, not your neighbor, just YOU. If the goal of feminism is empowerment, I can see nothing less empowering than stripping oneself of the biological and instinctual drive for self-preservation.

Following that train of thought, biology is NOT a social construct. In the vast majority of all species, females are significantly smaller in structure and brute force capability.

Though arguably hyperbolic, this quote nonetheless adequately and succinctly highlights those differences: “Men are afraid that women will laugh at them. Women

are afraid that men will kill them” —Margaret Atwood

Because of this, an equalizer becomes a necessity. Do women need to fear every male relationship and encounter? Absolutely not. Not anymore so than vice versa or same sex scenarios.

Though, should they be well versed in what to do if the need arises? Absolutely. If you are not as of yet, start with what you feel most comfortable with. Try kick-boxing, martial arts, a lesson at the range, research the best conceal carry weapons and holsters for women, know the bodies pressure points, etc. As you become more comfortable and proficient, pass the knowledge and skills down to your daughters. Teach them that confidence should not originate from the best bathroom selfie, but through self-awareness, respect, and discipline. Women who value themselves, protect themselves.

Likewise, it is also important for mothers (and fathers) to impart to their daughters (and, out of context, sons), the vast differences in unwarranted aggression versus self-defense. The two should not be blurred or confused. Aggression should only be implemented after being aggressed upon and is very rarely a wise or neces-

sary action. Though the old adage holds: it is better to be a warrior in a garden than a gardener in a war.

We have careened into a

topsy-turvey, upside down world due to a critical lack of common sense, paired with an incessant need for political correctness and synthetic equality. We have forfeited and forsaken our most urgent individual needs for that of the herds’. Group think is upon us with foreseeable tragedy in its wake. The original valor of feminism has faded into a ghost of its former glory. Now, instead of women being resigned to the thoughts and opinions of their male counterparts, women are expected to follow those of the movement’s rank and file. If you are not with HER, you must be with HIM, is the bygone conclusion. How about being for YOU? (Correction from last month’s column: In the 5th paragraph- It was not Laura Ingalls Wilder, but her daughter Rose Wilder Lane, who traveled to Europe and lived in San Fransisco, it was also she who once proclaimed herself a socialist. Thanks June!). a

Lewistown South: New Location! Asher’s Choco- (6th & 7th) lates, 19 Susquehanna Ave., Lewistown

Union: Former Union Elementary

Building, 95 N Penn St. Rear, Belleville

McVeytown Borough: McVeytown Borough

Building, 10 N. Queen

Street, McVeytown

Wayne:

Newton Hamilton: Newton Wayne Banquet Hall,

Front Street, Newton Hamilton

U.S. PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION DAY IS HERE! (GENERAL ELECTION): Tuesday, November 8, 2016

Menno:

In Pennsylvania, the deadline to register to vote in the General Election was October 11, 2016. To check online to see if you are already registered to vote, visit: canivote.org. Questions about voting? Call: 1-877-868-3772

Oliver: Oliver Township Building,

4670 US Hwy 522 S., McVeytown

Menno Township Building, 39 Water Street, Allensville

2016 Mifflin County Polling Locations:

(Note: Addresses in italics are new locations from where they may have been held in the past.)

New Armagh:

Siglerville Baseball Organization, 1122 Locke Mills Rd., Milroy

Old Armagh:

Milroy Hose Co. #1, 190 College Avenue, Milroy

Bratton:

Longfellow Playground Building, 2216 SR 103 North, Lewistown

Brown: Brown Township Building, 7748 SR 655, Reedsville Burnham:

Walnut Street United Methodist Church, 203 N. Walnut Street, Burnham

East Decatur: Decatur Township Building, 100 Snook Road, McClure West Decatur:

Decatur Fireman’s Cookhouse, 4379 US Hwy 522 N, Lewistown

East Derry:

New location! Ohesson Senior Living Community, 276 Green Ave., Lewistown

North Derry:

Burnham Church of the Brethren, 541 E Freedom Avenue, Burnham

South Derry:

Rhodes Memorial Methodist Church, 500 Highland Ave., Lewistown

West Derry: Derry Township Senior Center, 15 W. Mill Street, Yeagertown East Granville: Granville Township Building, 100 Helen Street, Lewistown West Granville: West Granville Fire House, 8392 US Hwy 522 S, Lewistown Juniata Terrace: Juniata Terrace Borough Building, 80 Hudson

Ave, Lewistown Kistler: Kistler Elementary School, 154 School St, Mount Union Lewistown West: Goss Terrace Community Room, W 5th Street, (1st-1st & 1st-2nd) Lewistown Lewistown Central: Mifflin County Library, 123 N Wayne Street, (2nd - 3rd - 4th) Lewistown Lewistown North: New location! Grace United Methodist Church, (5th-1st & 5th-2nd) 101 Logan St., Lewistown

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The Valley, November 2016

The Truth Has No Agenda

Country Crossroads Senior Citizen Center, 3071 Ferguson Valley Rd., McVeytown

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Hair Care: Why Should I Care?

Recently, I have been researching hair conditioner ingredients as I would like to create a conditioner to compliment our Shampoo Bar at Shade Mountain Naturals. But I question my motives, should we even be concerned about hair care products?

Sure, shampoos and conditioners get on the scalp where they can be absorbed by the skin, but they get washed out…right? Yes, they do, but I imagine some are absorbed.

I would also think you would be even more at risk of absorbing your shampoo and conditioner ingredients if you are soaking in a bath as opposed to showering.

These ingredients found in common shampoos and conditioners are chemical-laden products that are not only dangerous for our own health, but are also extremely harmful to our environment.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS

Cosmetic packaging makes up one-third of all waste stored in landfills. Manufacturers of natural products tend to have a greater concern for the environment and package their products accordingly.

Thirty-eight thousand animals die each year testing chemical-laden cosmetics. Natural products do not need to be tested on animals. Therefore, switching to natural alternatives saves thou-

sands of innocent animals’ lives.

Nanoparticles found in sunscreens and other personal healthcare products can lead to premature aging and, in extreme cases, cause the onset of skin cancer. Furthermore, washing these particles from our skin and hair enables them to infiltrate our lakes, streams and rivers harming marine ecosystems. Natural alternatives do not contain these destructive nanoparticles.

Using all-natural shampoos and conditioners helps the environment by allowing biodegradable substances to go down the drain instead of harsh chemicals.

Besides the environmental and potential health concerns, hair just likes to be natural!

HAIR JUST LIKES NATURAL!

Synthetic chemical products can appear to drastically change hair for the better, but the results are only short term. At first, using synthetic chemical shampoos and conditioners can produce wonderful results because they are great at “tricking” the hair, but it doesn’t last. Temporarily smoothing and coating hair with these ingredients make it appear shiny and healthy. However, the miraculous effects are misleading and don’t contribute to long-term hair and scalp health. Over time, these ingredients build up on hair

and actually causes breakage.

The very thing that gives it allure (making hair appear shiny and smooth) is actually what damages the hair in the end.

The scalp has also been stripped of its natural oils from harsh foaming agents, like sulfates, and is no longer responding to the synthetic softeners for replenishment. Silicones, artificial fragrance, synthetic penetration enhancers, synthetic chemical softeners and emulsifiers leave chemical residue on your hair and scalp that can lead to countless issues. Your hair can’t breathe, absorb moisture or “get its shine on” because it’s literally suffocating underneath chemical agents.

You may find that your hair is able to grow longer and have less breakage when using natural hair products. Natural products can also make your hair more manageable and cause your curl pattern to become more defined.

Natural shampoos contain beneficial plant and herb extracts which provide a number of positive results for the hair and scalp.

The benefits include: • The promotion of new hair growth by naturally stimulating the hair follicles • The infusion of natural oils, minerals and herbal extracts into hair follicles to maintain moisture and improve the overall condition

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The Valley, November 2016 • Suitability for all skin types, including sensitive and allergyprone skin, because of the nonallergenic and all-natural ingredients • A more natural and mild aroma (Synthetic products sometimes use heavy fragrances to hide smells that come from chemicals)

Considering these facts, would you make the switch to natural products to care for your hair and body? If so, be aware when shopping for natural products, hair care or otherwise. The label may say “natural,” but you must read the ingredients! Below are some to avoid.

INGREDIENTS THAT WILL DESTROY YOUR HAIR

There are SO many harmful ingredients to avoid! However, silicones and sulfates are most damaging to your hair.

Silicones are often used in hair care products to add shine and gloss, decrease combing friction and tangling, provide conditioning and act as a humectant. However, silicones only give the appearance of healthier hair by coating it to make it appear sleeker and frizz free. Silicone hair products are generally not water soluble, which means they can build-up in your hair over time. This will add weight and give hair a heavy feeling. Over time, the build-up will become dry and brittle causing the hair to break. Silicones will be listed as dimethicone and cyclomethicone (basically, any ingredient ending in -cone) on the label.

Both sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) are common ingredients in many soaps and shampoos and can be damaging to your scalp and hair. Traditionally, SLS was used in industrial factories as a compound to degrease engines.

SLS produces a thick, foamy lather, which consumers typically equate with cleanliness. When, in reality, this foam is stripping the hair of its natural oils - making it unmanageable. This is why conditioner is needed after shampooing.

SLS also causes harm by stripping the hair and scalp of its beneficial bacteria. Your scalp is a very delicate ecosystem and once that is thrown off balance you can experience rashes, hair loss and allergic reactions.

BENEFITS OF USING A BAR SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

I have decided to create a bar shampoo and conditioner versus a liquid or gel. Here’s why…

• Less wasteful: Most liquid products are made with 60 to 80% water. Bars do not contain water and are full of the ingredients you

want. Don’t worry, you will have enough water from your shower or bath to make your bar shampoo lather and to distribute your bar conditioner!

• Easy to use: They just glide on your wet hair and you can use your fingers to distribute.

• Limited packaging: Consider the packaging on a bar versus a liquid. Waste not, want not! Being green is always a plus!

• Long lasting and cost-effective: Bars last! If you let them dry properly after each use, they will last a very long time. Don’t leave your bar directly on the tile or fiberglass. Instead, store it on a wooden deck or dry washcloth, allowing it to drain to ensure longevity.

• Easier traveling: Great for travel because they pack without the worry of leakage.

SHADE MOUNTAIN’S CHOICE OF INGREDIENTS: Shampoo: Panthenol improves hair structure and adds luster.

Grapefruit Essential Oil eliminates oily scalp and is great for shine.

Cedarwood Essential Oil promotes hair growth by stimulating the scalp.

Argan Oil seals in colorants such as henna and amla, increasing the length of time between colorings.

Rich in Vitamin-E, Argan oil nourishes hair, repairing split ends and increasing hair’s shine for an overall healthy appearance.

Hemp Oil enhances hair growth by providing the scalp with necessary Omega Fatty acids. It also nourishes the hair follicles and prevents breakage!

Conditioner: Quinoa is considered a complete protein, containing seventeen amino acids (including all eight essential amino acids). Hydrolyzed Quinoa is a multi-functional ingredient that provides styling benefits and increases the shine and healthy appearance of hair.

The proteins in Hydrolyzed Quinoa penetrate into the hair shaft for powerful protection. It provides film forming and moisture retention benefits typical of other proteins and also helps retain hair color for beautiful, lustrouslooking hair. An ingredient you will LOVE! Baobab Protein provides an antiaging treatment for hair including damage recovery, protection from damage, nourishment, and strength and conditioning effects.

Hair becomes damaged through UV-exposure, heat, pollution and stress.

Rice Protein has been shown to

Continued on page 27

R. O. F. F.

Rescue Our Furry Friends

by Patricia Lawson

Well we all know about Hurricane Matthew and the devastation that it caused, but did you hear about the four-legged animals that were affected by this tragedy?

A total of 64 dogs were brought up from Horry County, SC. These dogs were at shelters prior to the storm and they were evacuated from shelters to make room for the animals that were misplaced due to the hurricane.

They were transported to Pittsburgh and ROFF picked up nine dogs to bring back to the Lewistown area in order to care for them and soon they will be ready for their forever homes. Four of the nine had to have medical care and the bills are mounting. If you would like to donate to their care, especially our two dogs Luna and Raleigh with leg issues, please drop off or mail a check to us at 133 N. Walnut St., Burnham, PA 17044 or via our PayPal link via our website of www.roffrescue. com. As we are a 501(c)3, your donation is an accepted IRS tax deduction. Your generosity is greatly appreciated.

Now let’s meet June Bug and Herb!

I’m June Bug and I don’t have much of a story yet because I’m only about one year old.

I sure would like to have a home to call my own. It’s a bit crowded here! Won’t you please visit me and see how affectionate I can be?

Herb here and you won’t believe my tale! I lived on a meat farm in South Korea until I was 2 years old. I can’t thank ROFF enough for getting me out of that horrible situation. I am a Jindo mix and I might be a bit shy at times, but I love other dogs, cats and little humans. My foster family bought me a kiddie pool and swimming in now my favorite hobby. As much as I appreciate my foster family, I would like a fur-ever home to call my own. Won’t you please call to plan a date to meet me?

Oh and don’t forget the treats!

June Bug was born at the rescue after her mother was brought in as a stray, and she was born without a back foot. Don’t let the missing back foot worry you because she gets around just fine.

Shhhhhh…she doesn’t know and we haven’t told her.

For more information and additional photos of all of animals up for adoption, just go to our web site www.roffrescue.com or call 1-877-933-ROFF (7633).

Just in time for the holidays, ROFF is having a Pie Shoppe Sale! Orders and money are due on November 8th and they will be ready for you just before Thanksgiving on the Sunday afternoon of November 20th. For more information, please visit our Facebook Page or email or call us. Thank you and Happy Thanksgiving!

Until they all have homes…

www.roffrescue.com; rescueourfurryfriends@yahoo.com; 1-877-933-ROFF (7633) a

Home at the Grange

by Patricia L. Bird

Two Become One Penns Valley Grange 158

What do you get when two Granges merge? This is something that I have always been unsure about. Do you get a new Grange number? Do you have a new location? Well, I just recently learned that two former Centre County Granges did just that. You get Penns Valley Grange #158.

Penns Valley Grange #158 is a result of the merger between Spring Mills Grange #158 and the East Penns Valley Grange #2000.

Spring Mills Grange #158 held its first meeting at the Home of William Rearick on May 5, 1883 at 3:00 p.m. with M. L. Rishel as Master.

Membership dues were $3.00 per member. The first item of new business was to appoint a committee to check into finding and purchasing a lot to build on. The committee chose a lot owned by Ben Bloom for the sum of $65.00. Next, the building committee reported back to members that a Methodist Church building in Aaronsburg was available for the purchase price of tearing it down and cleaning up the site. To complete the process of it all, stock was sold to individual members at 6% interest and $700.00 was borrowed locally.

The first meeting in the new Grange Hall was held on September 27, 1884 at 2:00 p.m. One of the first articles of new business was getting insurance on the building. They decided that the building and grounds should be insured for the amount of $1,050.00. On September 14 and 15, 1887, a Grange picnic was held on top of the Nittany Mountain for the benefit of Spring Mills Grange. The picnic tent rent was $3.00 for the two days.

In 1911, members purchased another church building and the lumber was used for an addition to the Hall. The hall is the current building owned by Penns Valley Grange #158.

In 1935, after three initial

The Truth Has No Agenda

meetings in March and April, the East Penns Valley Grange #2000 was organized in Aaronsburg, PA. Application fees were as follows: $1.50 for men, $1.00 for women and $.50 for juniors ages 16-21.

Election of officers was held and the application for a Charter was sent to National Grange.

East Penns Valley Grange #2000 held its first regular meeting on April 26, 1935 where members learned that their number would be #2000. At the August 9, 1935 meeting it was agreed among the members that they

would place their very first exhibit at the Grange Fair.

December 23, 1942 saw members of East Penns Valley vote to start their own Junior Grange. It held its first regular meeting on March 24, 1943. On January 1, 1952, East Penns Valley adopted a motion to only hold meetings once a month due to poor attendance. The last known records for East Penns Valley are from January 5, 1960. They are in the Aaronsburg Museum.

Due to poor attendance at both East Penns Valley Grange #2000 and Spring Mills Grange #158, the remaining members agreed to consolidate in 1990.

In January of that year, the two Granges consolidated into what is now Penns Valley Grange #158.

The original Spring Mills Grange building is the current home of Penns Valley Grange #158 and is located at 303 Ridge Road in Spring Mills, PA. The current Master is Dale Vonada with the Secretary being Ruth Vonada. They meet at 7:00 p.m. on the 2nd Thursday of the month.

The current membership is eighty-

six. Members serve on not only the subordinate level, but also on Centre County Pomona Grange #13, on committees for the PA State Grange and also on the National Level. They also have members serving on the Grange Encampment and Fair Committee. Penns Valley is also very proud to claim that member Philip Vonada was recently crowned one of the Young Patrons for PA State Grange. Other members of Penns Valley were the PA State Grange Prince and Princess and Youth Ambassadors in the past.

Penns Valley grange is also very active in their community.

They collect soda can tabs to donate to Geisinger Medical Center’s Ronald McDonald House, their members make blankets to also donate. They participated in the Wraps for Hugs program for the Gift of Life Program. They are currently doing a project making Christmas stockings for our veterans and military personnel.

You can also find them donating their time and funds for other community service projects like the recent Pomona Grange #13 Community Service Day at Centre Crest Nursing Home, sponsoring senior scholarships at Penns Valley Area High School, volunteering for PA State Grange Junior and Youth camps and many, many more activities. To help keep their Grange solvent, they run a food truck all summer at the horse shows that are held at the Centre County Pomona Grange Park which is home to the Centre County Grange Encampment and Fair. They enter exhibits annually at both the local fair and for local, county and state Grange competitions.

So you can see, Penns Valley Grange #158 is always busy promoting Agriculture and American Values through Grange activities.

If you would like to become a member of Penns Valley Grange #158, please contact either Dale or Ruth Vonada at 814-422-8365. a

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NOVEMBER 2016 Remembering Pearl Harbor – 75 Years Ago A Day that Changed the World- Part 1

As we approach the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, allow me to diverge from the recent format of this column.

The events of December 7, 1941 ushered the United Sates into the Second World War, and the world was changed. I believe that history is our story, and that we are responsible to pass that story along to up-coming generations. Beginning here and concluding in December, I will share a glimpse of daily life in Mifflin County seventy-five years ago leading up to the day that changed the world.

Front page headlines of the Monday, December 1, 1941 edition of the Lewistown Sentinel blared, AMERICAN-JAPANESE SHOWDOWN IS AVERTED Tokyo Decides to Continue Negotiations with the United States in Hopes of Halting War.

The headlines belied the true nature of fast moving international events, but seemed to allay immediate fears of war in the small villages and boroughs across Mifflin County.

Front page coverage detailing the European war was extensive for some time. Pressure on Japan from the United States made the news almost daily in November that year. This type of report may have soothed the public’s war worries. Most Americans remembered the Great War, however, which ended in 1918 and recalled that no lasting peace was achieved despite the sacrifice of life and expenditure of treasure. In fact, a pre-World War II Gallup poll showed 88 percent of Americans opposed U.S. involvement in the European war. In a bid for an unprecedented third term as president, Franklin D. Roosevelt promised during his 1940 campaign: “I have said this before, but I shall

say it again and again and again: Your boys are not going to be sent into any foreign wars.”

Radio also kept the public informed. NBC carried “News of Europe” every morning, and another report in the evening called “News Here and Abroad.” Both kept the events of the European war streaming into American homes.

November 1, 1941… U. S. ambassador to Japan, Joseph Grew, warns that the Japanese may be planning a sudden attack on U. S. positions. Secretary of State Cordell Hull repeated the warning to President Roosevelt and his cabinet on November 7.

LIFE AS USUAL AROUND MIFFLIN COUNTY

The week that led up to the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor was in many ways, like any other week. Life went on across the county. People bustled about their lives at school, work and church, many preparing for the coming holidays, unaware that their world was about to change forever.

On Saturday, November 30, 1941, members of the Mifflin County Historical Society and representatives from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission participated in the rededication of the Fort Granville marker. The marker’s new location beside the Pennsylvania Department of Highways building west of Lewistown faces U. S. 322. It was moved to this spot from a fieldstone marker a short distance west. Robert Siegel presided for the historical society, while the Lewistown High School Band entertained with patriotic selections. The invocation was by Rev. Charles A. Lantz. Pennsylvania Department of Highways Secretary Lamont Hughes, District Engineer D. C. Stackpole and Mifflin County Highway Superintendent R. E. Cunningham attended. PHMC’s Dr. Sylvester K. Stevens was the guest speaker.

Installation of traffic lights

was planned in Burnham at the congested intersection of Logan Boulevard and Freedom Avenue. The bottleneck had been a traffic problem for some time. Burnham Borough Council voted to accept a $355.13 bid at their regular meeting on December 2. Four lights would be installed by low bidder of CrouseHinds Company, Syracuse, NY.

Reedsville’s Evangelical Lutheran Church had a new minister.

Rev. John W. Whetstone left his Reedsville post for a pastorate in Muncy, PA. His replacement, Rev. Dr. J. K. Robb, a native of Ligonier, had been the registrar of Harrisburg Academy before accepting the Brown Township position. Rev. Robb and his wife Elsie moved into the parsonage on Wednesday December 3. He will preach his first sermon at the Pearl Street church on Sunday December 7 at 10:45 A. M.

The 1941 Christmas Seal drive kicked off December 1.

Citizens of Mifflin County wholehearted supported the annual event, termed by many as an “old American custom.” The Mifflin County Tuberculosis Society’s J. N. Lewis, chairman of the Seal Sale committee, noted, “Each year we get a burst of fresh enthusiasm from early purchases of Christmas Seals. We urge others to place the seals on their letters to get our message out - protect all homes from tuberculosis.”

Joe Krentzman Junk Yard, behind Lewistown Ice Storage Company was collecting rags, batteries, cardboard, iron and paper for national defense. “Your country needs it!” In fact, Krentzman reminded the public, that burning paper was like burning money!

“V” was the heading of Sitkin’s Junk Yard ad in the December 6 edition of the Sentinel.

“National Defense needs your junk now!” The West Charles Street establishment paid cash for all kinds of metals, iron, copper, aluminum and brass, plus tires, batteries, paper and rags. Sitkin urged the public to take the money earned from scrap and buy U. S. Defense Stamps and Bonds.

Next Issue of The Valley: December 7th

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The Valley, November 2016

November 20, 1941…The Japanese government, through its U. S. ambassador, propose the U. S. lift sanctions on trade with Japan and stop interfering with Japanese affairs in the Pacific and China.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING

Many a Mifflin Countian bustled about in anticipation of the holidays during that first week of December. For those who didn’t realize the holiday was creeping up on them, there was a familiar reminder on Market Street. On Saturday, December 6, the Salvation Army’s kettles and bells made their appearance in Lewistown.

The Sentinel noted that the quaint kettles “brought pedestrians up with a jolt and reminds them that just fifteen shopping days remained ‘til Christmas.”

That perfect Christmas gift, according to the advertisements in the daily newspaper, was just a quick stop away. Stores along the main streets — Wolf Furniture, McMeen’s, Montgomery Ward, Gibbs Peoples Service Store, Kauffman’s, Bowman’s Furniture, Danks & Co and Joe the Motorists’ Friend, to name a few — offered Christmas specials to the astute holiday shopper.

Bowman’s Furniture on Five Points advertised a special Cedar Hope Chest Club. $1 down and $1 a week for a beautiful, distinctive Caswell-Runyan cedar hope chest.

“Such a small payment down… you’ll never miss the money!”

On Market Street, Kaffman’s Music and Furniture Store encouraged buyers to ORDER NOW! Enjoy a Merry Christmas with Philco Beam of Light Radio-Phonograph, just $167.50. With no needles to change, longer record life was assured, with a glorious new tone! This offer included easy terms with 18 months to pay.

A Simmons couch, a great new value, was on sale at Wolf Furniture, next to the Lewistown Post Office. “Looks like a smart sofa…turns into a Real Bed!” A free end table, table lamp and two Rayon pillows were part of the deal for a mere $34.50. Phone 4766 for details and easy terms.

At McMeen’s Department Store on Market Street, Santa’s Toyland was proclaimed open for business. Come in and see Santa on Saturday, December 6th until 2 P.M. Shoppers could see the toy chests Santa specially selected for boys and girls, priced from $1 to $5. Erector sets from $1 and Lionel and American Flyer electric trains from $5.95 were available, plus all the accessories.

At Montgomery Ward, you could have your choice of a fully

automatic iron, toaster, waffle iron or table cooker for just $5.49. Add a $1.49 and grids for the table cooker could be added. Plus, for just $3.98, a nine cup matching aluminum coffee percolator would be thrown in the deal.

The featured item in Ward’s ad was that oh, so special gift... that gift for “year-round fun...Extra Equipped...Extra Low-Priced...

With its Streamlined Appearance ...the Hawthorne Bicycle – Only $29.95 for either boys or girls!

Fully equipped with the big new Blue Flash Automatic Safety Light! Mother and Dad will like its safety features and low price!

The Rea & Derrick Cut Rate Store at 142 E. Market Street held holiday specials on toys that December. A Defense Bomber for 25 cents or a Defense Gun for ninety-eight cents were highlight items, but musical tops, doctor’s kits or paint sets could be had for twenty-five cents to ninety-eight cents. An Old Spice Trunk for dad or grandad, which included toilet water, soap, talcum, and aftershave, was on sale for $3.

The Farmers’ Market at 10 West Third Street offered late fall produce that early December.

Sweet Paradise apples were 25 cents a peck, and large cabbage heads were 10 each. Potatoes sold for 35 cents a peck, hickory and walnut kernels were $1 a pound, large celery bunches, 15 cents, sweet pumpkins were 10 and 15 cents each, dried corn was 35 cents a pound, while acorn squash was 3 cents each. Dressed ducks and chickens were 35 cents a pound.

Fresh pork, backbone, spare ribs and sausages were in abundance, as a result of late fall butcherings. Sausage was 35 cents a pound. Butter retailed for 40 to 45 cents a pound, while eggs sold for 39 to 45 cents a dozen.

Sauerkraut at 15 and 20 cents a quart was abundant as was pork tenderloin at 55 cents a pound, while smoked bacon retailed for 35 cents a pound. Pig stomachs were 25 cents each, while lard was 12 1/2 cents a pound. Pasteurized milk was 13 cents a quart and lemon pies retailed at 12 and 30 cents each.

Next month we’ll continue our walk through Mifflin County history during the week that led up to the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. It was in many ways, like any other week. Life went on across the county. People bustled about their lives, at school, work and church, many preparing for the coming holidays, unaware that their world was about to change forever. a

Rocky Ridge Natural Area

The Standing Stone Trail reaches from Cowans Gap State Park to Greenwood Furnace State Park. Along the way, one of the unique areas that it passes through is the Rocky Ridge Natural Area. This area is located a little distance south of the northern terminus. What makes this area unique are the rock formations found here. Large pillars of rock stand tall on the ridge top as the Standing Stone Trail meanders amongst them. This is a favorite place for rock climbing and for bouldering.

The trailhead for this circuit hike is located south of Jackson Corner, within the Rocky Ridge Natural Area. Heading from State College you will be traveling south on route PA26. In the village of McAlevey’s Fort, you will come to a stop sign. Turn right here, continuing on route PA26 south. Make sure to stay on route PA26 by keeping left 0.8 miles beyond McAlevey’s Fort. From McAlevy’s Fort, you will drive about 5 miles where you will see a road sign for Martin Gap Road on

your left. Turn here and drive for just a little over a mile where you will cross a bridge and make an immediate right. From the bridge crossing, drive 0.9 miles and bear right onto Frew Road. After another half mile driving back Frew Road, you will see where the Standing Stone Trail crosses the road. There is parking available on both sides of the road here.

Park your car and get ready for a leisurely stroll on the Standing Stone Trail.

Hiking west from the trailhead you will soon cross a small stream. There are some large stepping stones in place to assist for crossing during high water and wet periods. Just after crossing the stream, the trail starts to climb, ascending 200 feet in about a tenth of a mile. At a quarter of a mile, the climb levels off and the hiking becomes easy going on the ridge top.

At about 0.3 miles, you come across the first group of rock outcroppings. These rock formations are quite interesting to view and it is fun hiking through and over

some of these rocks.

The trail meanders for a little less than a tenth of a mile through the rocks before it reenters the openness of the surrounding forest.

The trail exits the Natural Area at about 0.4 miles into the hike and you are now hiking in the Rothrock State Forest. A short distance beyond is a powerline cut that affords views to the left, with a short scramble up some rocks to the right allowing for a sweeping

The Truth Has No Agenda

Hunters Rock

view to the northwest as well.

A little past a half mile there is a yellow-blazed side trail on the left. This is the route that the Standing Stone Trail once took and is now called the Dogwood Trail. The return hike will come back on this trail to complete the circuit hike.

For the next 0.8 miles, the trail hikes along the northwest side of Rocky Ridge, just a hundred feet below the ridge top.

You will pass through more rock formations and there are other, dead-end side trails that go off to

Continued on page 19

The Valley, November 2016

16

The Valley, November 2016

Selling Your Home With A

Centre County’s Wasson Named 2016 Pennsylvania Dairy Princess

Senior Real Estate Specialist

Two Alternates Hail from Berks, Huntingdon Counties

by Kim Rickert

Part 1

Many homeowners have previously bought and sold homes.

However, selling a senior’s home can be much more complicated, due to the number of unique issues and decisions—and sometimes the number of people involved. It is not uncommon for adult children to help their parents sort through the issues involved, including: • Is moving the best alternative? If so, where? Have other options been explored?

• What is the best way to downsize a lifetime’s worth of possessions and family • heirlooms?

• What are the tax-related implications of a sale?

• What effects might a sale have on future income?

The financial, logistical and emotional issues involved in a move can be stressful for a family to navigate. Senior parents and their adult children may feel they are in unfamiliar waters as they deal with these questions. A real estate professional who has experience working with seniors’ issues, and who can put you in touch with other similarly-trained professional advisors, can be an invaluable resource at this time.

You can count on a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) to help guide you through the process and make the transaction less stressful and more successful.

In Mifflin and Juniata County, the only real estate agent currently designated as a SRES is Kim Yoder Rickert. The SRES is a special designation awarded by the National Association of REALTORS to agents who have completed additional education on how to help seniors and their families with later-in-life real estate transactions. Part of the preparation that Kim has done is to develop a network of senior specialists, such as estate planners, eldercare attorneys, and others who are familiar with local community resources and services.

What qualities make a Senior Real Estate Specialist different?

• She has knowledge, experience and compassion in dealing with senior clients.

• She can help explore housing alternatives that may allow

the senior to remain in their current home.

• She will take the time needed to make the client feel comfortable with the process.

• She takes a no-pressure approach to the transaction and is service oriented.

• She can interact easily with all generations, including seniors, adult children and caretakers.

• She has a network of other senior-focused professionals who can assist the client

Some of the professionals. that may be needed to help with the downsizing or sale of a senior’s home includes tax specialists or estate planners to help protect assets; handymen, landscapers, organizational specialists to help prepare a home for sale; real estate attorneys to help with closing or estate planning; downsizing experts, senior moving specialists and estate sale planners to help with the actual move or sale of excess items. Kim has trusted contacts that she will refer to her clients to help them get the assistance that they need.

Before beginning the process to sell a senior’s home, here are some issues to consider: 1. Are all relevant family members aware of the upcoming sale and the reasons for it ? A family discussion including adult children can help prevent any misunderstandings or delays in the process. Adult children often have strong emotional stakes in the sale, and may not want to say goodbye to the home. If the move involves significant downsizing, this may also be a time to bring up property and possession issues.

2. Have the tax consequences of a sale been considered? Selling a home can trigger significant taxation. Capital gains taxes may apply in the event the sales proceeds are not used to purchase another home. Before listing a home, it’s a good idea to consult a tax specialist or financial advisor to determine how the sale will affect your finances.

3. Will an adult child be acting on

the behalf of a parent in the sale?

In the event an aging parent is ill or incapacitated, another family member will need authority to make legally-binding decisions with regard to the home. In this case, a durable power of attorney document must be in place prior to that, naming the person acting on behalf of the senior.

4. If family members are assisting in the sales process, has one member been chosen to be the contact in communicating with the professionals? It’s best to have one family member take the lead in communicating with the SRES and other professionals. Multiple contacts can create confusion and delays.

In next month’s article, we will explore various housing options for seniors and preparing your home for sale. *Excerpts from SRES Council resource guide: Moving On. Free copies of this guide are available by calling Kim at Stone Arch Real Estate 717-248-6400 a

Less Government means more Liberty

The learning never stops. On Thursday September 29th and Friday September 30th, Doug and Amanda Moerschbacher, of Doug’s Rug Care, attended Rug Summit 10. The Summit was hosted by Hagopian Cleaning Service (http://www.originalhagopian.com) in Oak Park, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit. The Event was an educational seminar for the washing, repair, and sales of

oriental and area rugs. Over 150 people from the United States and abroad were in attendance.

Doug’s Rug Care (http://www. dougsrugcare.com) is located at 105 N. Main St Pleasant Gap, and is a WoolSafe service provider and a full service rug washing, repair, and sales facility. For additional information, you can call us at 814808-5071 or email us at dougsrugcare@gmail.com. a

Halee Wasson of State College, Centre County, was crowned the 60th Pennsylvania Dairy Princess on Saturday, October 1, after a three-day competition with 26 county dairy princesses.

Halee, the 20-year-old daughter of Ronald and Candace Wasson, was crowned by outgoing state princess Savannah Zanic of Huntingdon, Huntingdon County.

Contestants were judged on public speaking, dairy industry knowledge, and poise and personality. Each contestant prepared a speech, presentation, radio spot and poster display promoting milk and dairy products; submitted a scrapbook of promotion activities; took a dairy promotion knowledge quiz; and participated in an interview with a panel of four judges. New this year was a royal recipe contest, where Halee was runner-up.

Halee won the poster display and speech contests and received honorable mention in the dairy promotion knowledge, presentation, radio spot and scrapbook competitions.

A junior at Penn State majoring in Agricultural and Extension

Education, Halee is treasurer of the Ag Student Council and liaison to the American Dairy Science Association for the Dairy Science Club. She is a junior member of the Pennsylvania Holstein Association, a member of the Victor Grange and attends Calvary Baptist Church. A 12-year veteran of her county promotion program, she works on the family’s 40-cow Wasson farm and helps with the family’s seasonal produce market.

Halee joins her crown-winning sisters Nicole Wasson Dreibelbis, 2008 Pennsylvania Alternate Dairy Princess; Krystal Wasson, 2009 Pennsylvania Dairy Princess; and Heather Wasson, 2012 Pennsylvania Alternate Dairy Princess.

Two alternates also were selected during the evening festivities. First alternate is Berks County Dairy Princess Brittany Haag of Mohrsville. The 22-yearold daughter of Mary and David Haag, Brittany is a recent cum laude graduate of Delaware Valley University who was named Agribusiness Department Student of the Year. As a student, Brittany was involved with numerous agri-

cultural clubs on campus. She is a dance instructor who, in addition to assisting on the family dairy farm, is active in her local grange and church.

Brittany won best traditional scrapbook, radio spot, presentation, and dairy promotion knowledge competition, and was honorable mention in the speech and poster competitions. She was crowned by outgoing first alternate Morgan Brymesser of Boiling Springs, Cumberland County.

Second alternate is Huntingdon County Dairy Princess Katie Anderson, 19, of Three Springs.

The daughter of Wayne and Carrie Anderson, Katie raises sheep and works on a nearby dairy farm.

Katie is majoring in business management at Pennsylvania Highlands Community College, with hopes to earn a position managing a local dairy farm after graduation. An active 4-H and FFA member who has served in leadership positions, Katie enjoys scrapbooking, sewing, showing livestock, milking cows and attending the Upper Path Valley Presbyterian Church.

Katie was runner-up in

Doug and Amanda Moerschbacher at Rug Summit 10

The Truth Has No Agenda

17 the dairy promotion knowledge competition and received honorable mention in the scrapbook, poster and speech competitions. She was crowned by outgoing second alternate Lydia Szymanski of Waterford, Erie County.

2015 Juniata County Dairy Princess Hannah Kauffman, 18, of Mifflintown, was honored with the Tina M. Shultz Award. The award recognizes the princess who has done the most effective job of serving her area as dairy princess. During her county reign, Hannah completed 779 promotions and logged Halee Wasson 5,200 miles traveling nity to promote. The “Outstanding across Juniata County.

County Promoter Award” was Her parents are James Kauffman rechristened for Shultz after her and Jennifer Mahoney. death in May 1986.

The award honors the legacy

The four overall judges were of 1985-86 Huntingdon County Jill Hoover, Washington, DC; Dairy Princess Tina Marie Shultz, Tess Zuber, Byron, NY; Matt lauded for her outstanding job Lohr, Broadway, VA; and George of promoting the dairy industry Andrew, Newark, NY. and its products under extremely

Scrapbook and radio spot difficult personal circumstances. judges were Mary Foote of HarDespite losing her left leg to risburg, Dauphin Co., and Mindy cancer just three months before her county pageant, Tina seldom missed an engagement or opportu- Continued on page 19

18

The Valley, November 2016

Stone Arch Players turn 50 from front page

Savvy Cents & Sensibility

by JoAnn Wills-Kline MBA

Thanksgiving on a Budget

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19

The Valley, November 2016

A lavish Thanksgiving isn’t always in the cards. Sometimes it is necessary to stick to a tight budget; however, that does not mean feasting is out of the question. It just requires squeezing the fistful of dollars a bit harder and thinking a bit more creatively. Below are six great tips to get the creative juices flowing, and retain a little bit more of the cash in hand.

1. Make your menu from scratch and keep the menu simple

a. For instance, do not try lavish recipes for side dishes, or opt to purchase already prepared foods. You will pay much more for the convenience

b. Stick to: turkey, two sides, such as potatoes and corn, salad or other veggie, gravy, rolls or stuffing, and dessert, such as a pumpkin pie 2. Stick to your shopping list

a. Write out your menu early in November

b. Pick up non perishable items as you shop weekly to offset the need to make one big Thanksgiving grocery purchase

i. Some items can be purchased well in advance and frozen

ii. Canned or Frozen?

1. Some canned and frozen foods are terrific alternatives to fresh. Some frozen veggies are superior to out of season fresh veggies. Canned pumpkin

puree is a great American ingredient 3. Prioritize the dishes you love the most

a. Pick your priority foods, such as the ones that are a Thanksgiving tradition in your family, and simply make less

i. A home-baked pumpkin pie made with canned pumpkin and smothered in real, heavy whipping cream, whipped up, is a high quality dish, and will require much less time that using a fresh baking pumpkin and going through a list of recipe steps.

ii. Sliced, roasted sweet potatoes seasoned with butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar are quick and easy alternative to sweet potato casserole.

iii. Cut corners where you have to, while still keeping the traditional dish, and all people will notice is their heaping plate.

4. Make it a potluck and/or ask for help

a. Recruit help from attending guests

i. Request they bring a dish or two to offset the cost for you

ii. If you are happy making and providing the main course foods, request they provide the dessert or wine 5. Do without the alcohol, or like listed in number 4, have an attending guest provide it

a. Assign attendees to

bring the alcohol – one bring the wine, another bring the beer, and another to provide spiked cider or spiked eggnog

b. If you host an alcoholfree holiday meal, assign attendees to bring the sodas, punches, cider, or eggnog 6. Decorate with what you have

a. Dried grasses, herbs, and decorative gourds go a long way in decorating a Thanksgivingthemed table and dining area.

i. Make nature-themed decorations right from the back yard

1. Pinecones are a great decorating staple

a. Spray paint them for along the table

b. Keep them natural for a simple decor

2. Mini pumpkins on a burlap table runner are a nice simple statement.

3. A hurricane glass globe filled with a pillar candle and dried corn is another simple statement piece

If you follow these simple guidelines, you can host a tasty and memorable Thanksgiving dinner, and still have money left to purchase Christmas gifts. The Pilgrims were on a budget, and yet they offered a fantastic feast!

Get your creative juices flowing for a fantastic feast! a

Pennsylvania Dairy Princess from page 17

Rocky Ridge Natural Area from page 15

a gradual climb back to the top of the ridge.

At 2.4 miles, your climb on the Dogwood Trail ends and the trail begins to level out and even descends a bit. You are at the highest part of the hike at about 1240 feet above sea level. At 2.6 miles, the trail intersects with the Standing Stone Trail. From here, turn right and follow the trail back to the trailhead.

This hike is approximately 3.2 miles in length and should take about 2 hours to hike. There are some ascents on doing this hike, but all-in-all it is a relatively easy hike to do. The rock formations are interesting and this area is a great place to view wild flowers when they are blooming in the spring. a

Criswell of Lewisburg, Union Co. Presentation and poster display judges were Andrea Semmel Lazarus, Schnecksville, Lehigh Co.; Nina Redding, Gettysburg, Adams Co.; and Samuel E. Hayes, Jr., Warriors Mark, Huntingdon Co.

Kirk Sattazahn of Womelsdorf, Berks County, served as master of ceremonies.

For the next year, the new state royalty team will represent Pennsylvania’s dairy industry and its 7,200 dairy farm families. The dairy industry is the state’s top agriculture industry, contributing nearly $6 billion to the economy and supporting more than 60,000 jobs across the state.

MEDIA CONTACT: Will Nichols - 717.787.5085 a

afford rock climbers better access to some of these formations. At 1.3 miles, the trail cuts to the left with a short ascent to the ridgeline.

At 1.5 miles, the Standing Stone Trail begins a sweeping turn to the left, doubling back on itself as it descends the southeast face of the ridge. There is a yellowblazed side trail here that continues straight to Hunter’s Rock.

This rock formation is a favorite for rock climbers.

From the ridge top, you will descend gradually on a dug trail.

At 1.8 miles, the Standing Stone Trail switchbacks to the right to continue the descent to Frew Road. At this point, continue straight on the yellow-blazed Dogwood Trail. This trail makes

The Truth Has No Agenda

situations do not allow. Want to sing your answer to a question posed? If you are in a musical, sing your heart out! Want to do a real spit-take to surprising news?

If you are playing in a farcical play, spit away! Always wanted to smoke a pipe, stoically looking like you have all the answers to life’s mysteries? If you are playing the greatest detective of all time, Mr. Sherlock, or someone much like him, smoke away!

Rehearsals are currently taking place at the theater for this season’s opener “The Mouse Trap” by Agatha Christie. It is the longest running play in history. It opened in the West End theater in London in 1953 and has run continuously since that time. I recently asked the current cast why they became involved in theater.

Many people refer to this need to act as a bug, that the acting bug bit them as a child and they have loved the stage ever since. Many of our back stage crew are teenagers, so hearing their answers was very interesting to me. Most said that they felt accepted here, that they felt safe; that it was great to be with other people/adults who “get them.” For me, it is all those things along with the camaraderie that happens during a production, the ability to practice our craft with like-minded people, the chats with new friends in the dressing

room, and the plain old fun that it brings to myself and to others who come to watch.

Therein lies the real heroes of our story—The Community. Our community has given so much over the years, including businesses donating materials for us to use as theater décor, donating props, offering spaces to practice, and providing places to store our stuff.

Most importantly, we recognize and thank those wonderful patrons and friends who continue to come year after year to see a show --a show that we hope makes them laugh, cry and sit on the edge of their seat in suspense!

We as a group thank you, our community, for your support, your patronage, and your enjoyment of our work. We thank you for the last 50 years and we hope you will honor us for the next 50 as we whisper behind the scenes: “Lights up!”

Tickets for The Mousetrap go on sale to a the public starting Tuesday, Nov 1st. You may reserve tickets by calling the box office at 717-248- 2224 or by email at tickets4sap@gmail.com.

For show times and dates for our Jubilee year, check out our website: www.stonearchplayers.com and like us on Face book- The Stone Arch players. a

Help us honor our veterans past and present Flag Raising East Juniata High School: November 9th at 8:30 AM Flag Raising Juniata High School: November 9th at 10:30 AM The 2016 Juniata County Veterans Day Parade: November 12th 2016 at 2:00 PM Mifflintown, PA

Organizations wishing to participate in the parade, please call the Juniata County Veterans Council Points of contact: John Monteleone: 717-463-2276 Fred Powell: 717-436-6315

The Valley, November 2016

20

Fifty years ago it was common to see a dairy farm with a handful of cows. The dairy producer (farmer) had to carry buckets of milk to a storage tank. The cows may or may not have been milked with a machine. From then to today, our dairy industry has advanced tremendously. We have gone from the milking pail beside a farmer sitting on a stool, to a parlor with automatic milkers.

We have gone from one farmer feeding his family of five, to one farmer being able to feed over 100 people. The quickly advancing industry can be intimidating to consumers, and we in the dairy industry know that. We would also like you to trust us. Trust that your milk comes from a good place. Here are some facts to put your mind at ease about the safety of your dairy products.

From the time the milk comes from the cow to when the milk enters the grocery stores for you to consume, it only takes about two days. This is so that the milk is provided in a timely manner to you and your families for a fresh product. All milk goes through many tests. People who work in processing plants test milk for anything harmful that could be contaminating the milk. In the very rare case that something such as antibiotics would be found, the entire batch of milk is discarded, never to be used again. Once milk is done with the testing stage, it is pasteurized or heated to 161 degrees and quickly cooled to 38-40 degrees. This is to kill all bacteria that tests may have missed and to prolong the shelf life of your products. Keep in mind that through all of these tests and processes, milk is never touched by human hands. Just these few facts are enough for my family and I to drink milk and consume our three every day. I hope this gives you some encouragement as well!

On October 1st, 2016 I was honored to be crowned a 20162017 Pennsylvania Alternate Dairy Princess. This experience means the world to me, and I am so honored to be serving the dairy industry throughout this year. My team mates are Halee

Wasson from Centre County and Brittany Haag from Berks county. Through the year, we will work together to promote dairy throughout Pennsylvania. To become a part of the state royalty team, we had to compete along with 26 other county princesses.

We presented a speech, presentation and radio spots. We sat through an interview with a panel of four judges as well as prepared a scrapbook and display board.

The judges took into consideration our dairy knowledge, poise, etiquette and personal interaction. The competition was very detailed and required a lot of preparation from each county princess. I would like to give credit at this time to each of the girls who were brave enough to attend this three day competition. The other county princesses who were not named state royalty are still going to promote dairy through the rest of their reign on a grassroots level, which can be just as demanding and difficult as being a member of the state royalty team. I would also like to thank the dairy producers who work so tirelessly to provide a fresh and wholesome product to consumers. Without the Pennsylvania Dairy producer, we would not have this opportunity to go into our communities and state to gain life skills such as public speak-

The Valley, November 2016

Modern Energy and Alternative Heating with Curt Bierly

ing, organization and presentation preparation. Plus, we get to talk about the industry that we are passionate about! They also provide monetarily to the Pennsylvania Dairy Princess and Promotion services.

Each 100 pounds of milk that their cows produce, gives our group 15 cents. It may not look like a lot on paper, but it adds up quickly and we appreciate their contribution! I am blessed to be a part of this organization and am excited to begin the year with the state team and continue within Huntingdon county. a

Residential Solar Systems for Domestic Hot Water (DHW)

You walk outside on a sunny day and you can feel the warmth of the sun. You own a vehicle with black seats and you sit on them on a sunny day and they are warm, even hot. You walk on a blacktop road on a sunny day with no shoes on and it is HOT. Wouldn’t it make sense to capture that heat, store it, and use it to heat your home and/or Domestic Hot Water (DHW, i.e. hot water to wash dishes, take a shower, wash your face, etc)? What is absolutely great about a Solar Hot Water System is after you make that initial investment you are not charged for the amount of sunshine you use! No yearly increases in cost, no government

Regain Strength.

Return Home.

intervention, no taxes to pay. The sunshine is FREE! In fact, in addition to sunshine being free, currently the Federal Government will allow residential customers a 30% tax credit on the cost to install a Solar Hot Water System currently good till December 31, 2019 (see requirements listed in

A current two panel DHW Solar System.

Table #1).

In addition to all of those advantages, Solar Hot Water is “green,” it’s renewable, it leaves no carbon foot print, the sun doesn’t need to be delivered with a truck, we don’t need to purchase it from “across the pond” or deal with “drilling or hydrofracking for natural gas.

DHW Solar Panels installed in 1975 and

Ok let’s take a $12,000 residential DHW Solar System still in use. cost for easy numbers. The tial-renewable-energy-tax-credit Federal Tax Credit would be • 30% for systems placed in $3600 ($12,000 x 30% = $3600). service by 12/31/2019 Out of Pocket Cost would be • 26% for systems in ser$8400. In central Pennsylvania, the sun supplies an estimated 80% vice after 12/31/19 and before 01/01/21 of the DHW needs for a family of four. Assume you are paying $60/ • 22% for systems in service after 12/31/20 and before month to heat your DHW. The 01/01/22 yearly savings would be $576.00 • No maximum credit for sys($60.00 x 12 x 80% = $576.00). tems placed in service after 2008.

Assuming no change in the • Systems must be placed in monthly cost to heat your DHW, service on or after January 1, in 14 to 15 years you would save 2006, and on or before December the money you invested in the 31, 2021. system. That is a 6.8% yearly • Equipment must be certireturn on your investment. fied for performance by the Solar

The Federal Government can Rating Certification Corporation change their mind at any time.

(SRCC) or a comparable entity 2016 is a good time to “make the move.” You’ll never regret it. endorsed by the government of the state in which the property is

installed.

Table #1 • At least half the energy used Solar water-heating property --to heat the dwelling’s water must http://energy.gov/savings/residenbe from solar in order for the solar

If you or a loved one is experiencing problems with activities of daily living, consider calling HealthSouth Nittany Valley Rehabilitation Hospital today for a no-cost in-home rehabilitation assessment. Our rehabilitation nurse liaison comes to you in your home, physician’s office or the hospital to determine if rehabilitation may be right for you. Conditions that can benefit include: • Bathing • Bowel and bladder problems • Chronic pain • Desire to return to previous level of functioning • Difficulty recovering from a recent illness

• Dressing • Increased falls • Walking • Weakness

Call 800 842-6026 and ask for a rehabilitation nurse liaison who will assess your needs and coordinate with your physician and caregiving team.

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Less Government means more Liberty

The Truth Has No Agenda

21 water-heating property expenditures to be eligible.

• The tax credit does not apply to solar water-heating property for swimming pools or hot tubs.

• The home served by the system does not have to be the taxpayer’s principal residence.

Curt Bierly is president of the bierly group incorporated of which Stanley C. Bierly is a division. He graduated from Penn State with a BS in Mechanical Engineering and is a member of the Penn College HVAC Advisory Board. You can contact him at cbierly@bierlygroup.com. a

This DHW System is located in a dedicated closet and is piped from here to the solar panels on the roof.

The Valley, November 2016

22

Yes, the Library Has That

It always amazes me when I tell someone all that we have at the library and their response is, “I didn’t know the library had that.” The library has grown with the times and we have so much more than we ever have. Although we still have the books, magazines, and newspapers libraries have always carried, we have much, much more.

We have OverDrive!

OverDrive holds our digital book collection. If you have an electronic device of any kind, a smart phone, kindle, iPad, tablet or computer, you can download an e-book to read or an e-audiobook to listen to. The variety of books is amazing. Whether you like fiction, non-fiction, or science fiction, you are going to find something you want to read.

Have you ever been caught with nothing to read and the library has closed for the day? Jump on our website and click the link to overdrive and you will have a book nearly instantly. Don’t know how? We can show you.

We have public computers with access to a printer!

Both the Lewistown and Kish Branch locations have public computers. Do you just need to print something and you just ran out of ink in your printer? You can print your document right here at the library.

We have Microsoft Office and Libre Office, so you can write up a Word document or fill out a spreadsheet.

We have TumbleBooks!

TumbleBooks is a great little program that you will find on our website. You will find read-along

books, story books, non-fiction, National Geographic videos, language learning, and puzzles and games. You can even set up a playlist that will play one book after another. The story books are great for pre-school and early readers, just hit play and the book gets read to you.

Are you doing research and need a magazine article, book, or image? Take a look at the all new PowerLibrary network. Click on the link on our webpage and you will find access to resources for biographies and find-a-book, business, children’s health/sciences, newspapers and magazines and so much more. And the best thing…?

This is a database, so any citations will be a print citation and not internet.

PowerKids is part of PowerLibrary, but is set up just for kids. Just about anything a kid needs for a research project from

Elementary through Middle School can be found on this page.

This page has easy to use graphic image links to make it easy to find just the right information.

The Mifflin County Library has something for everyone.

Along with everything mentioned, we also have a digital yearbook collection and you can purchase your own yearbook on a flash drive. We have many children’s programs and fun building blocks in the children’s room every day. Do you like making crafts?

Ask about our Coffee and Crafts program. How about trying out those recipes in the new Joanne Fluke novel? Come in for Cook the Books and bring that dish to share. Do you know how to play

The Valley, November 2016

We had hoped to finish pulling up the last of this year’s river cleanup, but we couldn’t get in to do it today. So instead we went to Hawsstone Road and cleaned up two miles of road; below is just a portion of what we found.

article in The Valley paper.

The Tire War has nothing to do with our yearly River Cleanup.

Mifflin County started doing a river cleanup at Musser Run in McVeytown and we pulled out 111 tires. The same year we went

It’s sad that people have to throw their trash out along the road when the leaves are starting to turn beautiful and it is a whole lot better to look at when you’re out for a drive at this time of year.

Last month I wrote about our yearly Tire Recycle Challenge War between the neighboring four counties. Our Tire War has been going on for 11 years. This year, another county close by asked if they could join us next September.

This gives our residents a cost effective way to dispose of their old tires so we are not hauling them up over the roadside banks. This year the four counties received a national award for their efforts to curb illegal dumping of tires from Keep America Beautiful. This month we were asked to do an article for the State Commissioners Magazine. As soon as it comes out, I will put it in for a monthly

to Jacks Creek and pulled out 2100 tires and sent them all for recycling. Dan Dunmire secured a grant to help pay for cleanup costs. Then we did a river cleanup at the Lewistown Borough Boat Ramp. We also had the Granville Fire Company cleaning up at the Granville boat ramp, and a group of volunteers cleaning up at the Newton Hamilton boat ramp.

In this one, we had over 200 tires and a ton of trash. This was done with money that we raised through local fundraisers.

The next year we met with John Dawes from the Community Foundation for the Alleghenies and Dan secured a grant for the four counties: Mifflin, Juniata, Perry and Huntingdon County affiliates. We did an area near Tic Toc Lane. Then Bryson Wagner helped to bring in more volunteers from the Elks Club as well as

Mahjong, or just want to learn?

Check at the library for details.

Remember to check our website, www.mifcolib.org, often for changes and new programs. Like us on facebook www.facebook. com/mifflincountylibrary to see what is happening. And now you know, “Yes the library has that.” a

Less Government means more Liberty

boats. We did three more cleanups in the next three years and this great team of volunteers brought in more jon boats each year and they have managed to pull out over 1200 tires and over a ton of trash. These volunteers have gone over and above pulling out these tires and the trash. They have done a fantastic job and we couldn’t have accomplished what we did without them, They have managed to pull out more tires than any of the other counties. We also would like to thank the City Hook and Ladder Fire Company for helping to pull the loaded boats down the river where more volunteers pulled the tires out and then pulled them up to be loaded for disposal.

Our grants are now done and we are starting new fundraisers for cleanup costs. We also want to thank the Mifflin County Conservation District for their donation and the Mifflin County Solid Waste Authority for their support this year. We depend on donations and fund raisers to help offset the cost of cleanups. There are not as many available grants now as there were in past years. We can’t thank our volunteers enough for all their hard work whether it’s the river, road cleanups, or one of our illegal dump cleanups. If you would like to get involved, you can find out how by going to www.keeppabeautiful.org and click on events to see what we may be doing and contact us. If you would like to adopt a township road near you, contact Keep PA Beautiful. If you want to adopt a state road, call Dee at Penndot in Lewistown.

Pam Sechrist Affiliate Coordinator a

Society in every state is a blessing, but Government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil; in its worst state, an intolerable one.

Thomas Paine The Truth Has No Agenda

23

The Valley, November 2016

24

Hydrology Observation

Though the majority of information on observing your water flow and precipitation is common sense, it’s easy to get so wrapped up in designing your site that you forget to do your due diligence in observation. This past summer, we saw just how important precipitation conditions are. I saw plenty of farms with tiny corn plants. Though sometimes these things just can’t be helped—either because the conditions are so different from what is typical for our climate or because the scale of the farm simply makes it cost prohibitive for a person to install irrigation to suit their needs. In our temperate climate and with the right amount of funding, it should be possible to create extensive pond irrigation systems

for any farm. Just look up Sepp Holzer, the permaculturist who dug a multitude of ponds on his mountainside farm in Austria to irrigate his crops and add an aquaculture system. However, let’s be honest—how many central Pennsylvanians have the cash flow and time to create such a system? Not many.

First, know which watershed your property is in and where you lie within that watershed. Also, look up the annual precipitation rates for each month. Don’t stop there, though. Buy a few rain gauges and pay attention to them every day. While my in-laws live only over Jack’s Mountain, we had greatly varied amounts of rainfall this past summer. Many times I spoke to my mother-in-

law and learned that Big Valley got rain while Ferguson Valley remained dry. This is where microclimates come into play.

No amount of online research can show you the details of your specific site.

Your previous soil tests will also help you in your knowledge of your on-site hydrology. You will find that areas with more clay soils will be slower to drain.

Those places might make excellent sites for water retention ponds in the future. In addition, plant life can sometimes be a clue in determining where soils have difficulty drying out.

If you are interested in water catchment beyond a simple rain barrel, you will need to study your land closely during and after heavy rains to see the specific areas in which water is moving and its velocity. In permaculture,

Less Government means more Liberty

The Valley, November 2016 the general idea is to slow and spread the movement of water.

Direct, channelized waterways are almost never preferable over slow, meandering movements. A good rule of thumb when water meets soil is that either soil will be stored in the water during periods of heavy rain (and thus be washed out into the larger water body), or the water will be stored in the soil.

Of course, we would much rather the water be stored in the soils than our precious topsoil being eroded! So, when water catchment within soils is the goal, we need to know the exact placement of the drainage pattern. Design details just a few inches to either side of its flow will make a huge difference in whether you actually catch water or allow it to slip past.

Understanding your water drainage pattern will help you in other ways, too. You know that water always finds the lowest point—always. We also know that frost and cool temperatures find the lowest points. These clues will help you when you go to choose a site for frost tender trees, animal enclosures, and the like.

Knowing how high your water table is will be great information in the design process, too. The depth of the water table is important to know for choices on wells and ponds. Many people

build “Water Table Ponds,” where the depth of the pond is the same depth of the water table.

These aren’t possible in areas with a very low water table, and of course fluctuate. When the water table is low (as in times of drought), these will be dry. It might be a good choice in some areas, though, and you won’t know unless you know the depth of your water table.

Finally, if you are fortunate enough to have any bodies of water on your site, observe the wildlife around it- especially the small ones. Insects and other invertebrates are a fantastic way to learn about the health of your water. I’ll get more into the monitoring of these species and what they can tell you next month.

Until then, keep your eyes open and keep observing your site! a

Fall Golden Eagle Migration

In the minds of many, November represents shorter days and the permanent arrival of a long, cold winter ahead. Winds from the Northwest become the more dominant direction and the cold air from the northern lakes cut through the layers of wool with ease. Many take this time to sit in front of a woodstove with a book, watch the bird feeders, or sit quietly in their stands hoping for an early white-tail to cross their path.

For me, this month means that two thirds of the fall hawk watch season is behind us and the migrants we counted in September, such as the Broad-winged Hawk, are soaking in Central America’s hot temperatures and terrain. Compared to spring hawk watching, fall has a few bonuses, including more birds because of

all the juveniles and one extra month. It is said that birds migrate at a more leisurely rate in the fall months, as there is no need to rush to the breeding ground to stake claim of a territory. This gives us, the raptor enthusiasts, three months rather than two of raptor identification.

Although many raptor species are still seen in November, Golden Eagles are the main attraction.

This raptor has drawn the attention of many and has caused bird watchers to become obsessed with seeing as many as their 10-power binoculars can handle. This is understandable. Golden Eagles do not breed in Pennsylvania, so we are limited in the opportunities to observe them. So as the fall molds into November, Golden Eagles are seen as the last migrants observed on the watches. They

begin their journey at the rocky ledges of northeast Canada, Nova Scotia, Gaspe Peninsula, and similar areas. But unlike Broadwinged Hawks, they travel only as far south as the southern tip of the Appalachian Ridges in West Virginia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Arkansas. At times, individuals are even seen overwintering here in central Pennsylvania.

In 21 years of reporting, Stone Mountain Hawk Watch had its best Golden Eagle season last fall with 171 individuals. Jack’s Mountain to the south also had a tremendous season, with a total 152 Golden Eagles. Waggoner’s Gap, a well-known site located north of Harrisburg on the Perry and Cumberland County border, reported 259 Golden Eagles last fall, ranking them second in total individuals on the eastern flyway

The Truth Has No Agenda

25 for the 2015 season.

Identifying Golden Eagles in flight can, at times, be tricky and frustrating.

They fall into a category of the general shape and size of vultures, Ospreys, and eagles. At this time of year, Osprey are becoming few and far between and their “M” Adult Golden Eagle photographed at the Stone Mountain shape wing Hawk watch. pattern is very Photo courtesy Nick Bolgiano obvious when Vulture or Northern Harrier. They seen in flight. Black Vultures often soar with wings above the have short and stocky wings with plane of their body in the shape a short tail and a very distinctive of a “V” or a “high dihedral,” flight with quick, snappy wing very much like a Turkey Vulture. beats. That leaves the hopeful Many times I have been fooled hawk identifier with three remaininto thinking that a far off distance ing options: Turkey Vulture, bird was a Turkey Vulture that Golden Eagle and Bald Eagle. All was coming down ridge, only three are large, dark birds. to be surprised when the bird

Adult Golden Eagles are reached overhead to see that it mostly dark with a golden nape was indeed a Golden Eagle. This that can shine from afar if the similarity can fool even the most lighting is right. Juveniles and 2 experienced hawk watcher. One to 3 year old “sub-adults” have behavior to watch for is the fleevarying amounts of white in the ing of a group of Turkey Vultures. tail, along with white patches At times, as many as ten to fifteen on the “palm” of the wing. They vultures will appear from down are steady in flight and do not Continued on page 30 rock back and forth like a Turkey

The Valley, November 2016

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This month is a time that we often focus on family, togetherness, and gratitude. At Simply Health, we are very grateful for all of you .....our faithful and loyal clients....many of you who have become like family to us. We see some of you daily, weekly, and more regular than we see our own family!

This month since we are focusing on family, we would like to suggest a new monthly Spa Special. It was requested/ suggested that we have a “family package.” This is such a great suggestion as the whole family would benefit from using a Himalayan Salt room. Himalayan salt is anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-fungal, and antibacterial. So it doesn’t matter if each member of the family has a different health challenge (such as asthma, allergies, skin issues, respiratory issues, or any other health issue) as almost all of our health challenges begin with inflammation. So when you sit in a salt room for a 45

minute session, your inflammation begins to lessen. It does not disappear in one session as you did not get it in one day either.

But it’s a natural way to begin to feel better by lessening the inflammation in your body. It’s so great for kids and babies to use as well as it often allows kids to improve their asthma and allergies without prescriptive medication at times.

Many clients have shared with us that their children were able to get off of prescriptive inhalers and other prescriptive drugs (with their doctors permission) after a

few sessions in the salt room.

Clients often extend the benefits of the salt room into their homes with an AUTHENTIC Himalayan salt lamp. We guarantee our lamps are authentic. There are some on the market that aren’t. A lamp in the bedroom also allows for better sleeping and many times lessens snoring or eliminates it all together! And who doesn’t want a peaceful sleeping baby!!! When you do any service at the Spa, you can purchase any of our lamps at 15% off our already low prices.

One of Dr. Oz’s favorite items is our Himalayan salt inhaler. Easy to use and so VERY effective because it has the same properties of the Himalayan salt... anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral. The best part is that it’s also all natural!

For the month of November, one of our Spa Specials is our Family Package. A family of 4 or 5 may all use the Salt Spa at one time for $49. They will enjoy having a salt room to themselves.

Check out this special and our other monthly specials at www. simplyhealth-calm.com and call us at 814-954-7731 for your appointment.

Spend some quality family time with us and see how your family benefits from some natural Himalayan Salt therapy.

Happy Thanksgiving and we hope you enjoy some quality family time. If you have family visiting, bring them for a salt

Continued on page 30

Mail Pouch Books

by Carleen B. Grossman

For the month of November, I have reviewed 3 novels about royal lives and how they intermingle with the commoners of the world! I hope you enjoy the books as much as I did!

All three are extraordinary reads.

The Last Painting of Sara de Vos: A Novel

By Dominic Smith Copyright 2016 304 pages

The Last Painting of Sara de Vos is a novel about two people whose lives become entwined due to their mutual obsession with a

Nature’s Remedy from page 10

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27

The Valley, November 2016

significantly increase total hair volume by up to 32%. It also adds natural shine and highlights to hair. By increasing the ability of the hair and skin to bind moisture, it leads to increased flexibility and tensile strength.

Behentrimonium Methosulfate is derived from the natural plant oil Colza. It is both a mild emulsifier and an excellent conditioning agent. It leaves hair with noticeable body and spring. Due to its extreme mildness, it is suitable for a leave-in conditioner.

INGREDIENTS TO USE FROM HOME: • BEER! I have been using beer since I was a teenager (on my hair, of course)! After shampooing, just dump some flat brew right on your head! The natural barley and hops in beer are rich in proteins and B vitamins that help nourish healthy hair and repair damaged strands, it can also help boost your natural hair volume.

Plus, the natural sugars help tighten the cuticle of the hair shaft to enhance natural shine, luster and manageability.

• Weekly virgin coconut oil mask & egg mask: It’s very

17th century Dutch artist, Sara De Vos. The book deals with art theft, art forgery, revenge, old age and love! How forgeries are made and dealt with (or not) was also well worth the read.

This is a fascinating story, taking place in three distinct time eras: 17th century Netherlands, 1950s New York City and Sydney, Australia in 2000. You will learn about artists’ secrets, inspirations, pain, hope, love and loss. And, it centers around the painting of Sara de Vos, the first woman admitted to the Guild of St. Luke’s in Holland. You will learn about her difficult life, as

simple – before showering, wet your hair slightly and apply an oil & egg mixture liberally. Tie your hair up in a bun and go about doing your household chores for 30 minutes or longer. The vitamin E in the coconut oil and proteins in the egg makes your hair supple and soft. (The egg can be omitted, but trust me, it works amazingly together!)

• Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV): This gentle, pH balanced cleanser helps remove build-up from the hair and scalp without stripping the hair of its natural oils. ACV also helps promote blood flow through the scalp, which can encourage hair growth and strengthen roots. Since ACV is naturally antibacterial and anti-fungal, it can help relieve an itchy, flaky scalp.

It is great to consider not only how everything works or doesn’t, but also how it can affect your body, animals, marine life, and the planet. Well-formulated, natural shampoos and conditioners work differently from synthetic chemical formulations (and are better for the planet).

Natural ingredients are gentle and intelligent. Pure, clean, skillfullyformulated products don’t rely on synthetic chemical softening

well as the difficult early life of a 1950s grad student, freelancing as an art restorer to make money while working on her dissertation

and absorption. They work in natural alignment with the body; it’s a “bio-match.” Plant oils and extracts have distinct molecular similarities to the oils of the body, allowing them to work together naturally. Whole plants have an incredible ability to adapt to the body’s needs at any specific time.

So, if you ask me, I choose natural over synthetic any day!

As always, I would like to thank you for reading my articles and personally invite you into Shade Mountain Naturals. We are a small, family-owned business who LOVES company! We create all our products on site, FRESH! We make soaps, crèmes, lip balms, bath bombs and facial products, to name a few. Smells are unlimited and encouraged!

We will even give you a free sample. At last count, we had over 70 Essential Oils for sale and we love to share information. Our hours are Tuesdays and Wednesdays 9-4, Thursdays and Fridays 9-6 and Saturdays 10-2. We are located at 45 Serenity Lane (off Jack’s Creek Road) in Lewistown, PA. You can also check us out online at www.shade-mountain. com. Hope to see you soon!

- Tamela a

The Truth Has No Agenda

in New York City. And ultimately, you will travel to the year 2000 and meet up with the characters from the 1950s once again!

A Hologram For The King

By Dave Eggers Copyright 2012 312 pages

THREE SISTERS, THREE QUEENS

By Philippa Gregory Copyright August 2016 576 pages

I recently saw the movie A Hologram for the King with Tom Hanks and I enjoyed it so much that I decided to read the book. I am glad I did!

The book is about a strange journey into Saudi Arabia after the financial crisis of the late 2000s.

The novel is about an American man who is currently down on his luck! His only hope is to take a job with an American company, that hopes to secure a contract with a Saudi King to supply a communication system for a city in Saudi Arabia.

This book is an examination of the failure of an energetic and dedicated man, in both his personal relationships and professional life! a

Discover history through Margaret Tudor’s eyes, and learn about the struggles that this remarkable woman, who became the Queen of Scotland at the same time her brother, Henry VIII was King of England. The novel shows how she was full of pride, yet she also had a softer side to her. Ultimately, she was a strong woman!

This is an interesting book with one main character—Margaret Tudor, older sister of Henry VIII and queen to James IV of Scotland—in this tale of the women of the Plantagenet and Tudor dynasties. The novel is a great read, with an interesting history lesson as well!

The Valley, November 2016

28

Life in the East End

by Rebecca Harrop

It’s a busy time in the East End shelling corn and combining soybeans. We’ve been seeing a wide swing in the corn harvest so far. We’ve had anything from 25 to 170 bushels to the acre. In a normal year, we would expect anything from 150 to 200+ an acre. I don’t know how the soybeans will turn out yet.

Some of the things I love about fall are seeing the combines running through the fields with the corn or soybeans filling the trucks, all the wonderful colors of the trees, and hunting season, of course. I have been out a couple times so far. I did miss a deer with my inline. Half the fun of hunting is being outside. Some people think it’s just about shooting and killing something, but that’s only part of it. You are out in God’s creation, breathing fresh air, seeing the wildlife, watching a squirrel run up a tree, a bird flying through the trees, so many other things that have nothing to do with shooting. It’s about fathers or mothers taking their kids out for their first hunting experience and teaching them about respect and an appreciation of nature that you will never get anywhere but out in it. It’s about going out hunting again with dad as an adult and seeing the joy in his eyes

when you get your deer because he’d rather see you get one than himself. It’s about hunting with a special person who taught you so much over the years and wondering if this will be your last hunting season together and wanting to hoard memories so you can revisit them when they are gone. It’s all of these things and so much more that are far more important than if you ever raise that barrel to shoot. So if you are a parent with kids, an aunt or uncle with nieces and nephews, or you know a kid who doesn’t have someone to take them, take them hunting and build memories to last a lifetime.

Another fun fall activity we just did was making apple butter. A couple weekends ago my aunts and uncles, Denise & Mark, Charlene & Alan, my cousin Chrissy, her husband Mike, and Gram & Pap Goss got together and made a kettle of apple butter at our house. Mom’s cousin Jack Weiand also helped. They peeled six bushels of apples the night before. That Saturday morning they boiled about 30 gallons of cider down, which takes about 4-5 hours, then you start adding apples. It takes a long time for them to cook up. You have to keep stirring them the whole time so they cook up and you don’t burn

the butter. You use a copper kettle to make apple butter not an iron one. Our kettle has some family history associated with it. My mom’s grandfather Goss bought it at a farm sale a long time ago.

I don’t remember if it was when he sold the farm, but he sold the kettle to his brother-in-law Chet Wieand (Jack’s dad) for exactly what he paid for it. Great Pap told mom all he wanted was what he paid for it. If anyone knows anything about butcher kettles or copper kettles, they sell for a lot of money. It stayed in Great Uncle Chet’s family until Jack had a farm sale in 2001. At that time the kettle was auctioned off during the farm sale. My Mom and Dad wanted to buy it because it had been Mom’s grandfather’s.

Dad bought it that day and we have made apple butter a couple times with it. It is a fun activity and a good way to get family and friends together. Family and friends get some good apple butter and enjoy sharing memories and making new ones.

In November we celebrate Farm City week. The Mifflin County Farm Bureau, Kiwanas, Mifflin County Extension & 4-H will be hosting a banquet to honor the 2016 Farm Family and Business Family. I will have more on that next month. We will be celebrating Thanksgiving again and it is always a good time to “Thank” our local farmers for their hard work to provide safe, nutritious, food for everyone. This year has been especially hard for our farmers with increasing regulations and production costs, while

Less Government means more Liberty

The Valley, November 2016 prices paid to farmers continue to fall. Most farmers are struggling and some have or are making the difficult decision to quit and sell out. I wonder how long before it impacts our food supply and we see some shortages. Dad tells me

he is an optimist and things will turn around. I sure hope so. On that note I will end this month’s column.

Wishing everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving from the East End! a

The Truth Has No Agenda

29

The Valley, November 2016

30 The Benefits of Alpaca Wool Socks from page 31 in all kinds of garments, including clothing, toys, and bedding.

If you’re seeking a product that can stand the test of time, look no further than alpaca fibers. Soft yet strong, these fibers don’t quit and promise all the softness, strength, and warmth you desire!

THE PERUVIAN LINK AT DP GIFTS

Alpaca fibers are especially good for making warm socks for winter, but they also are great for making cozy summer socks and athletic socks too. Finding good socks is very important for people who suffer from diabetes since if their circulation is cut off, they could suffer from gangrene.

People who suffer from arthritis may also find alpaca socks beneficial to helping relieve the aches and pains in their feet. The socks provide warmth, but are not so tight that they reduce circulation. When circulation is reduced in the foot, the arthritis sufferer feels more aches and pains.

Something Special for hunters. Our ultimate outdoor socks are a huge hit with the local hunters and people that are outdoors in the cold for long periods of time.

These socks are absolutely the ultimate in comfort with its super versatility combined with its super

soft texture. The high ribbed cuff extends to mid-calf. The gathered band at center foot holds the sock in its place. They feel thick to the touch, but yet they are light and breathable. The inside resembles terry cloth.

FEATURES * Plush comfort, yet breathable * Alpaca naturally wicks away perspiration * Retains warmth even when wet * Solid best seller sock for ladies & men

Alpaca socks are machine washable and do not require special care. They are ideal for people who are allergic to sheep’s wool.

Products made from alpaca fiber are long lasting, in fact a well made pair of alpaca socks will last for many years. Alpaca fiber is often said to be stronger and longer lasting than most wools. We now carry a bigger variety of alpaca clothing such as hats, scarves and gloves.

If you are a consumer looking for good quality alpaca socks, you will want to check DP Gifts.

We are located at 15 Commerce Drive, Milroy, PA, next to the Best Western. We ship throughout the USA, and will ship internationally if requested.

Also available are the Alpaca Dryer Balls. Hand felted in Pennsylvania, dryer balls are a natural green alternative to dryer sheets.

Made from hypo-allergenic alpaca wool, dryer balls have no dyes, dry clothes faster, and reduce static and wrinkling while softening. Dryer sheets and fabric softener are petroleum-based products that are making your clothes more flammable and less breathable.

They are coating your clothes and dryer with chemicals and petroleum. An average box of dryer sheets range in price from $3-$6 for a 50 load box compared to one dryer ball at a cost for $7 that is good for several years. These dryer balls, or any of our Alpaca products will make a great and unique gift this holiday season.

(See Dutch Pantry Gifts ad on page 30.) Stop by Dutch Pantry Gifts and see the great selection of Alpaca items. a

When men yield up the privilege of thinking, the last shadow of liberty quits the horizon.

Thomas Paine

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31

The Valley, November 2016 Cave Echoes from page 26 room experience.

Also, we will be having our “Black Friday” experience earlier than most this month. Plan to come by the Spa on Friday and Saturday November 18 and 19th to enjoy any of our services, some refreshments, and shop in a calm atmosphere! We will have gifts sets created and ready to give!

Gift sets available for $10, $15 & $25 (and up) that make a great gift

Fall Golden Eagle Migration from page 25 ridge, flapping quickly as if they are swimming away from a shark in the cold ocean waters. This often occurs shortly after a Golden Eagle is seen, thus explaining why the Turkey Vultures took to the air so quickly.

Adult Bald Eagles are easy to pick out due to the bright white head and tail, but they do not reach the full adult plumage until their fourth year, challenging a hawk watcher to weed out juvenile Bald Eagles from Golden Eagles. With a larger head and smaller tail compared to the Golden Eagle, an observer can be quick to separate the two by general shape, especially when natural lighting is poor. Size and shape are good characteristics to keep in mind when birdwatch-

for teachers, co-workers, family, etc.

If you are out shopping on the traditional Black Friday, stop by and relax with a relaxing and restorative salt room, detoxing footbath, or a massaging jade bed (great for the tired back!) Plan ahead.... our schedule fills up on Black Friday!

See you soon! Remember, the BEST Healthy Gifts come from Simply Health! A gift certificate is always perfect. Enjoy! a ing, as color is often hidden by poor lighting. Bald and Golden Eagles are at times observed soaring closely to each other, giving great comparisons. Occasionally one will dive at the other with talons outstretched, causing the other to become inverted with its talon mirroring the other for its own protection. Observing these behaviors brings me back to the scenes from the legendary Marty Stouffer films “Wild America.”

For more information on the location of Stone Mountain and Jack’s Mountain Hawk Watches, please contact Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center at 814-863-2000 or visit the State College Bird Club website at www.scbirdcl.org

The Benefits of Alpaca Wool Socks

by Scott Keys

The odds are good you’ve never heard of alpaca fleece before. Indeed, it’s quite possible that you haven’t the faintest idea what on earth an Alpaca even is. So I am writing this story to take some of the mystery out of Alpaca’s and alpaca fleece.

An Alpaca is a domesticated species of the South American Camelid. It resembles a Llama in appearance. Alpaca’s are known for their very gentle demeanor.

Indeed, Alpaca’s are frequently purchased for pets, as they are very friendly and calm around young children.

Today, many ranches/farms in the United States raise Alpacas.

used in Ugg Boots, smart wool socks and other products from New Zealand and Australia. Additionally, Alpaca fleece, similar to Merino Wool, does not have the “scratchy” feeling that normal wool has. Similar to other wool, the fleece from Alpacas are very warm—actually warmer than normal sheep’s wool. The fleece has hollow air-fibers that provide superb insulation—even when wet. Alpaca fleece is a lustrous and silky natural fiber, while similar to sheep’s wool, it is warmer, not prickly, and bears no lanolin, which makes it hypoallergenic.

Alpaca fibers have received a lot of attention from fiber enthu-

worry about a bulky or heavy quality to this material. This quality makes alpaca fibers the number one choice for use in apparel, as

These ranches raise the Alpacas for their soft, warm fleece which is sheered off (cut-off) about once a year. No Alpacas are killed or injured in obtaining their fleece.

Instead, they simply get a haircut once a year—not so different than normal sheep that are sheered once a year for their wool. So what makes Alpaca fleece different than normal wool? The softness. Alpaca fleece is significantly softer than normal wool.

The best comparison for Alpaca fleece is that it is roughly equivalent in softness and insulating abilities to Merino wool, which is

siasts and fans of fashion alike over the last few years. Wondering what all the fuss is about? The answer lies in the quality, durability, and hypoallergenic quality of the fibers. The following benefits may astound you; read on to learn exactly what gives alpaca fibers a leg up over traditional wool.

1. Lightweight and Strong Alpaca fibers are lighter than sheep’s wool, so you need not

comfort, look no further than alpaca fibers.

2. Hypoallergenic Forget itchy, scratchy wool sweaters. Alpaca fibers are soft on the skin, lacking the sharp barbs that sheep’s wool contains, which can prick the skin and introduce allergens.

Alpaca wool is an excellent apparel choice for anyone looking to avoid skin irritation, allergic reactions,

well as other fiber crafts, including felting and blanket-making.

Though lightweight, alpaca fibers are still seven times stronger than sheep’s wool. If you’re seeking durability as well as beauty and

Jon Kauffman Assistant Raptor Center Director Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center a

The Truth Has No Agenda

and to enjoy a soft, supportive experience.

3. Zero Lanolin Lanolin is a fatty substance often used as a base for ointments that must be removed from wool before it can be made into garments and other products. While many fiber types require chemical treatment during processing to remove this waxy residue, alpaca fibers do not, due to their lack of lanolin.

Alpaca products are the purest available, free from processing toxins as well as tacky buildup.

4. No Moisture Absorption Alpaca fibers do not absorb moisture and are thus a natural choice

for extreme activities, including cold-weather garments, workout wear, and camping blankets.

5. All-Around Rugged Although alpaca fibers are known for their softness, their pilling-resistant makeup creates endurance

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The Valley, November 2016

Less Government means more Liberty