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Lopez News Archives
by JoAnn McGuire

Past Lopez News articles
 

January 25, 2012

        Still having some pretty nice weather.  The week is to be pretty good, other than some rain/sleet mix.   Just hope it doesn't last.  Monday as I'm typing my news it's close to 40 degrees and a fine mist of rain.  If the temperature goes down, it will get slick, I imagine.
        There will be a Civic meeting on Tuesday, 20 March, 7 p.m. at the Township Building.  There is no meeting in February, but one in March.
        Don't really have much to report this week.  Haven't seen anyone around that's from out of town and no one contacted me with news.  Weather is the only talk around town.
        HINT:  "To keep cookies moist and fresh, store them in a container along with a thick slice of apple.  Change the apple every other day."   (I've been using a slice of bread that I break up in three or four pieces.  I'll have to try the apple.)
        I know there are going to be some winter activities during February, so watch the Sully for those.  Let's hope there is a little snow so they can take place.   Should be fun to attend these events and take part or just watch.
        Happy Birthday wishes to Owen Evans (1), 27th; Scott Aharonian and Jennifer Pequignot, 28th; Lisa Burke and Jason Burke, 30th.  Have a good day.
        Happy belated anniversary to Ted and Mary Lowden for 31 years on the 17th.  (Gotcha!)   Also to Alex and Ginny Stavisky for 40 years on the 22nd.  Hope you all had a good day.
        There are Lopez History books available yet.  Written by Pete Tomasak, a very good book to have.  Contact Bob at the info below if interested.
        We still have some sweat shirts, t-shirts, hats and license plates.  Contact me at info below if you want more information.
        We had minus seven early Sunday morning, but did warm up some during the day, even though it's always pretty windy.  Guess we have to expect some winter weather since it is winter.  Should be on the up-swing pretty soon.   There is always the Valentine's Day snow that folks talk about.  Hopefully, we won't get a big storm then.
        Guess that's the news for now.  Enjoy your week, whatever you might do.  When it's nice outside, it's good to get out and get some fresh air for a time.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll put your news in.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

January 11, 2012 

       Another nice week's worth of weather.  Little cool in the morning, but does warm up nice during the day.   So glad we haven't had any major snow so far and it'd be great if we don't get any at all.   I saw in an article that some weather forecasters think we're going to have a "snow drought" this year.   I know it makes it hard on the resorts who count on the cold and snow for their businesses, but I'm happy without it.   Another nice week on the way.
        St. Vladimir's Church has pierogies for sale.  To order, please call 928-8557.
        Not too much going on in town right now.  Kind of slowed down now that rifle deer season is over.  Can't do any snowmobiling, so many are going to other snowier places.
        Birthday wishes to David Rice and Crystal Pequignot, both on the 12th.  Hope you have a nice day.
        Hey.....B's gang sends birthday wishes to Tyler Higley who celebrates 17 years on the 13th.  Hope you have a great day!!  Time sure flies.
        HINT:  "When you buy a container of cake frosting from the store, whip it with your mixer for a few minutes. You can double it in size. You get to frost more cake/cupcakes
with the same amount. You also eat less sugar and calories per serving."
        The Lopez mug is in the works as to ideas, etc.  If you'd like to reserve a 2012 mug, please contact Bob at the info below and he'll put you on the list.  Any ideas you may have are also welcome for future mugs.
        Lopez History books are still available.  A very good book, written by Pete Tomasak, it is $30 (includes shipping).   Contact Bob at the info below for more information.
        Guess that about does it for this time.  Enjoy this beautiful weather; get out and about while you can.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll put it in for you.  I'll be here next time; thanks for reading.

`

January 4, 2012

        HAPPY NEW YEAR!!   I hope all of you enjoyed your Christmas and New Year holidays.  Let's hope 2012 is the best yet.   I saw two flocks of geese go over the other day; don't know why so late.  Our weather has been really pretty good and hope it continues.  Our best Christmas present was the bridge being opened on the 22nd of December.  Everyone in town, those who come to town, those with cabins in the area are all grateful for the job well done and thank WAGMAN workers for the superb work they did.  Some will be back on the 3rd to remove the outriggers and concrete forms.  They will also get all their equipment removed.  They will come back in the Spring to take care of the ground work.   We will miss them.
        Anthony Sneidar, Declan Fowler, and Danny McGuigan, all from Philadelphia, spent a couple of days over Christmas at the Sneidar home on Church Street.
        Got the following e-mail from Alex Stavisky, Palm Bay, FL, on his recent trip:
        Mike and I did some sailing around lake Okeechobee over the holidays. Mike especially enjoyed watching the locks rise and lower 13ft. at a time. Fishing was so-so.
        Jeff and Stacey Olsen, Edgewater, NJ, spent the Christmas and New Year Holidays at their home on Main Street.
        Joe and Diane Fanning, Landenberg, spent some time after New Year's at their home on Church Street.
        St. Vladimir's Church has pierogies for sale.  To order, please call 928-8557.
        HINT:  "For a cool brownie treat, make brownies as directed. Melt Andes mints in double broiler and pour over warm brownies. Let set for a wonderful minty frosting."  (I'll have to try that for Bob....he's the chocolate lover in the family.)
        The Lopez Civic Association still has sweatshirts, t-shirts, license plates and caps for sale.  If interested, contact me at the info below.
        There are still copies of the new Lopez history book, written by Pete Tomasak, available.  To purchase yours, contact Bob McGuire at the info below.
        The 2012 Lopez mug will be in the making soon.  If you'd like to reserve one, contact Bob.   He has an idea what will be on this year's, but doesn't know for sure just yet.
        Birthdays to start the New Year include Jim Craig, 1st; Georgette Matychak, 3rd; Jean Kapler, Edith Tamburro and Alex Stavisky, all on the 4th; Pete Tomasak, 5th; Matt Weisbrod, 6th; Julia (Gulick) Rosnick, 7th; Craig Germany and John McDonald, Jr., both on the 9th.  Hope you all have a great day.
        Happy Birthday wishes from all to our friend, Frank Baines, as he celebrates on the 5th.  Frank brought our mail from Wilkes-Barre for many years.  Hope you have a nice day Frank.
        Not a lot of news now since the bridge has been finished.  Things are kind of winding down for the winter.  I know there will be cabin folks in, hoping for some snow so they can go snowmobiling.  So far, no luck in that department, and that's good with me.  Maybe we'll have a pretty mild winter.
        That's the news for now.  Enjoy your week, whatever your plans.  Have news call me at 570- 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.  I enjoy the comments and suggestions for the column.

The WAGMAN crew were back in town to remove outside parapet forms and the workway and outriggers.

December 28, 2011

             Well, it is that time of the year again.  There is no Sullivan Review issue this week, so JoAnn has a vacation.  That means that I get to be the news reporter for this one week a year.  Not much news, a brief report on the Lopez web site:  we have had 336,857 hits this year to the 28^th and there is still 3 more days.  We had over a million hits in four years, so I guess we are getting known.  We have been looked at in about 28 countries. JoAnn will be back with the local news of  Christmas season folks visiting, folks traveling and Santa Claus doing his thing.  He did stop by my stocking BRIEFLY but didn’t stop long enough to FILL it.  I must have been not real good this year.

      The best news and the best present is the bridge over the Loyalsock Creek is now open.  On the 16^th of  December, the Lopez Civic Association and the Colley Township supervisors put on a coffee/hot chocolate and donut party for the WAGMAN workers.  They were also given the choice of a Lopez Tee shirt, license plate or baseball cap free to show our appreciation of their friendship and commitment to their job.  Over the years, I have had many jobs where I had to photo document the construction progress for the state or the contractor.  I have to tell you, this WAGMAN crew is the best bunch of people I have seen. 

( this photo gig was my own gig just to keep my shutter finger in shape ) On one day we had a pretty good down pour.  In talking with Joe (foreman), he said Oh! did it rain?  That fantastic crew just kept working.  They will be back to remove the out riggers, and then again to finish landscaping.  The following photos will be sort of a wrap up of the Lopez bridge project.     Webmaster bob

The party that we put on for the workers on the 16th.

Joe Nestlerode rounded up his great crew and thanked the Lopez people for the great treatment he and his men got from us country folk.  Most of these great guys have gone to other jobs or home to wait for their next job.  We miss them already.

We sincerely hope Joe and his crew had a very Merry Christmas and wish them a very Healthy, Safe, Prosperous and HAPPY NEW YEAR.  THANKS AGAIN GUYS.

December 21, 2011 

       Our weather still has been pretty nice, even if it was pretty cool early mornings.  Makes it real nice for the bridge workers to get the job done.  They are doing a great job and hope to be done soon.   This is the last issue of the Sullivan Review for 2011.   Hope you all have a very Merry Christmas and Happy, Healthy New Year.   Let's hope 2012 is another good year.
        Tony, Patti, and Anthony Sneidar and Anthony's girlfriend, Beth Fenster, all from Philadelphia, spent a few days recently at their home on Church Street.
        Congratulations to the following students who made the Distinguished Honor Roll:   Trevor Kinsey; Cassidy Brown; Jaron Williams.  Aaron Silfies made Honor Roll.  Congratulations to all and keep up the good work.
        Sympathy from the community to the family and friends of Janet (Springer) Maxwell who recently passed away in CO.  She was born and raised in Lopez and lived here many years.
        Sympathy also from the community to the family, relatives and friends of Nicholas Kravetz who passed away on Sunday, the 11th.  His funeral was held in NY.
        There are still some Lopez History Books, written by Pete Tomasak, available for sale.  Contact Bob at the info below, if interested.
        St. Vladimir's Church has pierogies for sale.  Please call 928-8557 to order yours.
        HINT:  "When a cake recipe calls for flouring the baking tin, use a bit of dry cake
mix instead and there won't be any white mess on the outside of the cake."   (That's a good idea.  I have tried it and had always had the white mess; no I don't.)
        Happy Birthday wishes to Rev Mother Christophora, 19th; Alice Popso and Alyssa Pequignot, 20th; Kayleigh McDonald (4), 23rd; Don Lansberry, 25th; and Ginny Stavisky, 31st.  Hope you all have a good day.
        If you see Rose Gardner, wish her a Happy 94th birthday on the 22nd.  God Bless and many more.   94 years.  WOW!!  That's great!
        Happy Anniversary to Ted and Evelyn Hubiak as they celebrate 32 years on the 29th.  Hope it's a good day.
        Don and Irene (Kravitz) Risser were in town for a few days.  They recently received some good family news.  Their younger son, Aaron, was named Clipper Magazines Marketing/Designer of the Year for 2011.  The award includes a trip to Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic.  Aaron has worked as a graphic designer for Clipper Magazine since 2005.  The magazine is published monthly and includes ads for local businesses.  It is distributed in many cities in the USA.  Way to go, Aaron! 
        Rev Mother Christophora,Transfiguration Monastery, Ellwood City, spent some time at St. Nicholas House, Church Street.  She enjoyed visiting and walking down to check on the progress of the bridge building.  She got to meet the "boss", Joe, and talked with him about the process.  She told him she was amazed how the workers do their job in the cold, snowy weather and the hours they put in.
        Guess that's the news for this time.  Enjoy your day.  The weather seems to be favorable.  Hopefully, the Christmas Holiday will be nice and no travel problems for those who will be out and about.  Take care if you're out for New Year's Eve.  Have news, call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you with the first paper in the New Year.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

December 14,  2011

        We've been having some pretty cold morning temperatures, but does warm up pretty nice during the day.  We had a pretty good snow storm on Wednesday when 9 inches fell in the area.  Our power was out for over six hours, but at least it wasn't bitter cold.   With the good weather, the bridge guys are moving right along on the bridge.  The box beams are in place and they hope to pour the deck on Wed., the 14th.  Let's hope they can.   They have four heaters running 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to keep things from getting too cold.
        I got this e-mail earlier, but didn't have news in last week, so I'll share it with you this week.  It is from Evalyn Lansberry, Lebanon:
        Kathy, Randy, Don and I were in Lopez over the week-end. WOW! I'm sure the hunters were not too happy with the warm weather, but it was great for sitting around outside and having a campfire. In the 27 years we have been in Lopez, I don't remember ever having beautiful weather like that for the end of November.  Winterland Winery had a great anniversary week-end and everyone had lots of fun.
        A bear was seen recently in the field down at the end of Church Street.  It went up across the road and into the apple tree in the Glenn Springer yard and then went on from there.  There was also a bear, from the tracks seen, later in the week in our yard and at the neighbor's yard.   With the warm weather, I guess the male decides to "roam" and check things out.
        Ted, Mary and TJ Lowden, Allison Corbett, and Gus Tamburro, all from Marlton, NJ, spent a few days at the Lowden home on Church Street.  Did some hunting while they were here, but don't know if they had any luck.
        Sympathy from the community to the family of Lillian (Yarosh) Ferraro who passed away on Tuesday, the 6th.  Funeral was held from St. Vladimir's Church.  A lunch followed at St. Nicholas House on Church Street.   Rev Mother Christophora, Orthodox Monastery, Ellwood City, is spending a few days rest and relaxation at St. Nicholas House.  She enjoys walking and checking out progress on the bridge, like so many folks do.
        St. Vladimir's Church has pierogies for sale.   Please call 928-8557 to get yours.  Make nice addition to your Holiday meal.
        HINT:   "To loosen a rusted bolt, apply a cloth soaked in Coca-Cola to the rusted bolt for several minutes."   (I didn't know there were so many things you can do with Cole, other than drink it.)
        Since I didn't have a column last week, there are some belated birthday wishes to send out.  Happy Belated Birthday to Elexus Dunkleberger, 6th; Tony Sneidar, Jr., 8th; Aaron Risser, 9th; Rose Decker, 10th.  Hope you all had a nice day.
        Happy Birthday this week to Andrea (Matychak) Anderson, 12th; Dylan Amon, 13th; Noah Brown, 14th; Carter Vermiere (3), 17th.  Have a super day.
        There will be only one more Sully for this year.  The week of Christmas there is no paper, so next week's issue will be the last.   Keep checking the Lopez website for photos of bridge progress; www.lopezpa.com.  Click on Lopez news.
        Guess that's the news for now.  I see there are folks getting their decorations out for the Holiday Season.  They do look nice.  Enjoy your week; the weather is to be pretty nice for this time of year and I heard right through Christmas Day.  That will suit me just fine.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I guess rifle for deer is over for right now.  Don't know how many from this area got their buck or doe, but there were sure lots of photos in the Sully last week.  I'm sure they like the snow on the ground now; makes it better for tracking and then dragging the animal out of the woods.  Have a good week; I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

December 7, 2011

 Sorry folks, no news this week.  We were away for a funeral.  News will be back next week.

 Meanwhile, more photos of the progress on replacing the bridge.  The first beam arrived and they are to start placing the beams ( 8 in all ) on Friday.                                                                                        webmaster 

November 30, 2011

        Hope you all had a nice Thanksgiving with family and friends.  The weather couldn't have been nicer for all, especially those who were traveling.   I guess it's to stay nice, with no major storms, for a while yet.  That sounds good to me.
        I see the hunters are out and about but don't know if they've had any luck so far. 
        Ted and TJ Lowden and Gus Tamburro, Marlton, NJ, are spending a few days at the Lowden home on Church Street and doing some hunting.
        Jim and Barbara Craig spent a glorious eleven days here before, during, and after Thanksgiving.  They really enjoyed the weather while they were here.  Sat on the porch and visited with neighbors.
        Sister Mary, Orthodox Monastery, Ellwood City, spent a couple of days at St. Nicholas House on Church Street.  Made her first trip over Dutch Mt. Rd and said it wasn't too bad as she was the only one traveling it at the time.  She went to Towanda as she hadn't been before and said the weather and the trip were great.
        The Whatley family from Philadelphia, spent the Thanksgiving holiday at their home on Route 487.  They enjoyed Black Friday at the Lycoming Mall.
        Sympathy from the community to family, relatives and friends of Vic Gulick, who passed away on Saturday.  He was born and raised in Lopez.  Mother Christophora and Sister Martha, Orthodox Monastery, Ellwood City, along with Vic's family and friends, gathered at St. Nicholas House on Church Street, today (Wed.) for a Requiem service with Rev. Hieromonk Michael Thier, pastor, officiating.  Burial was in St. Vladimir's Cemetery following.
        St. Vladimir's Church has pierogies for sale.  To order yours, please call 928-8557.
        I have been putting HINTS in the paper for some time.  I got a phone call today saying that one I put in a few weeks ago really worked.  Seems they had fruit flies and didn't even have fruit.  Wondered where they were coming from.  They saw the HINT about putting cider vinegar and a couple drops of dish liquid in a bowl to attract them.  They did this and the next day checked the bowl and the bottom of the bowl was filled with fruit flies.  So, I guess some HINTS work and maybe some don't.
        I know there are a few hunters in at the Tally-Ho Retreat on Church Street.  Haven't heard if anyone has had any luck.
        HINT:  "To keep potatoes from budding, place an apple in the bag with the potatoes."   This would be a good one to try as they do seem to bud fairly soon, after buying.
        Happy Anniversary to Don and Wilda (Wood) Paul on 62 years of marriage on the 2nd of December.  Congratulations.
        Guess that's the news for this time.  Take advantage of this great weather and get out for a walk in the fresh air and sunshine.  Bridge work seems to be coming along really well and they're working very hard to get it done as soon as possible.  Let's just hope the weather cooperates for about a month yet.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

November 23, 2011

        We sure have been having some nice weather.  Makes it easy for the bridge workers.  They are coming along quite well and poured cement today (Mon.) on the upper side.  They will pour cement again on town side tomorrow (Tues.), so they are making progress, especially working the two shifts.
        The Lowden family, Marlton, NJ, spent some time at their home on Church Street.
        Tony and Anthony Sneidar, Philadelphia, spent a few days at their home on Church Street and did some bear hunting while they were here.  Didn't hear if they had any luck.
        Jim and Barbara Craig, Media, are spending the Thanksgiving holiday at their home on Church Street, taking advantage of the spectacular weather.
        St. Vladimir's Church has pierogies for sale.  To order, please call 928-8557.
        Civic Assoc. still has sweat shirts, t-shirts, hats and license plates.  These make nice gifts, with the Holidays coming up.   Check with me at the info below, if interested.
        Bob is taking orders for the 2012 Lopez mug.  If you'd like to reserve a mug, contact him at the info below.  He's not sure yet what it will depict, but will be as nice as all the rest.
        Folks...........when going in and out of town, take a look up at the monument.  The Christmas display looks great.  Thanks to Roseanne, Bob, Clair, Dustin and myself, we spent most of the day Sunday getting it together.  I've heard that it looks real nice after dark with all the lights.   I have to check it out.  Still have to get the lights on the big trees in the lower park lit, but they'll be done soon.   Hope the workers enjoy the sight as they work late into the night.
        HINT:  " Did you know that Colgate toothpaste makes an excellent salve for burns?"  (Have to give that one a try next time I burn myself.)
        HINT:  "For easy eyeglass protection, to prevent the screws in eyeglasses from loosening, apply a small drop of clear nail polish to the threads of the screws before tightening them."   (This does work as Bob does this to glasses all the time.)
        Happy Birthday wishes to Cassidy Brown as he celebrates on the 30th.  Hope you have a nice day.
        Guess that's it for now.  Hope you all have a nice Thanksgiving with family and friends.   Enjoy your week.  With the nice weather, it will be good to get out and about.  I sure hope we have a mild, not much snow winter.  Have news, give me a call at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

Joe and all his workers are still shooting for completion by Christmas.

November 16, 2011

        We sure have been having some excellent weather.  I heard it's to stay this nice right through Thanksgiving.  That suits me fine.  The bridge work is really coming along rather well.  On Saturday, they poured cement by the truck load, on this side.  The other side is coming along and driving down the i-beams (40 of them), getting ready to make their frame-work for the cement over there.  It's amazing to see the work they are doing and the way it's done.  The hole is pretty deep, they build the frame-work, pour the cement, let it dry and make another frame-work for the next batch of cement. I heard they are going to work in two shifts so they can get done as soon as possible.   As long as were hear noise down there, means they are working.  If you want to see pictures of the progress, go to www.lopezpa.com.  Click on Lopez news and at the end you'll see photos.  Bob has been putting a few on each week showing progress.
        Tony and Anthony Sneidar, Philadelphia, spent a couple of days at their home on Church Street.
        St. Vladimir's Church has pierogies for sale.  Please call 928-8557 to order yours.  Makes a nice addition to your Holiday meal.
        Hunting season is upon us.  Bear is now and a few days next week and deer comes in after Thanksgiving.  So, if you don't hunt, it's a good time to stay out of the woods.   Maybe deer archery is still now too.   Hopefully, they'll get some of the bear that have been a bother over the summer.
        Happy Birthday wishes to Jaeden Patson (9), 20th; Jeff Olsen (44), 22nd; Serenity Laird (4), 23rd.  Hope you all have a nice day.
        Special birthday wishes from Bob to his "older" cousin, Darlene (Paige) Faulkner, as she celebrates on the 24th.  Hope it's great!
        HINT:  "Sore throat?  Mix 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar with 1/4 cup honey and take one Tablespoon six times a day.  The vinegar will kill the bacteria."   (This is a good one with the cold and flu season here.)
        With the nice weather, I see many are getting their Christmas decorations up.   Makes it much easier now than when it's so much colder.
        Guess that's about it for now.  Enjoy your week..........it's to be super.  Have news, give me a call at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.  I enjoy the comments.

November 9, 2011  

      We sure have been having some nice weather.  Makes it good for the guys to work on the bridge project.  They are coming along pretty well.  Mornings have been quite cool, but warms up fast during the day.  Hope the nice weather continues for some time to come.  Just not ready for that "white" stuff yet.
        NOTICE:  Civic Association will meet on MONDAY, 14th, 7 p.m. at the Pavilion.  Note change of day.
        Ted, Mary, and TJ Lowden and Allison Corbett, all from Marlton, NJ, spent a really nice weekend at their home on Church Street.  Weather was much better than a couple weeks earlier when TJ and Allison were here.   A great weekend this time.
        St. Vladimir's Church has pierogies for sale.  To order, please call 928-8557.
        Haven't heard if any of the local hunters have gotten any game or not.  I don't even know what game is in to hunt.  But, good luck to those who do get out and try their luck.
        Happy Birthday wishes to Wilda (Wood) Paul, 14th; and Alek Laird (1), and Mike McDonald, both 19th.  Hope you all have a nice day.
        HINT:  "To get rid of pesky fruit flies, take a small glass, fill it half with apple cider vinegar.  Add two drops of dish washing liquid; mix well.  You will find those flies drawn to the cup and gone forever."
        I see some folks have taken their Halloween decorations down.  They are now putting out their Christmas decorations.  Sure is a nice day to do that.  Last I heard, our weather is to be pretty nice, right through the 19th.  Let's see if that will be the case.
        Guess that's the news for now.  Enjoy the abundance of sunshine while you can.  Have news, call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at 928-9238.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

November 2,   2011

       Well, we had our first major snow storm over the weekend.  We didn't get quite as much as I thought; about 6+ inches.  At least our leaves are off the trees so now limbs came down and we were lucky not to lose power.  The week is supposed to be much warmer.  It's really bad for those in other parts of PA and other states to be without power for a long period of time.  Hopefully, everything will get taken care of soon.
        St. Vladimir's Church has pierogies for sale.  To order yours, please call 928-8557.
        TJ Lowden and fiance, Allison Corbett, Marlton, NJ, had an enjoyable weekend at the Lowden home on Church Street.  Really liked the snow and did some four wheel riding and making a "snow-a-lantern", rather than a jack-o-lantern.   Good time while they were here.
        Didn't see many folks around over the weekend.  I know there are hunters out and about, but don't know if they've caught anything or not.  I know on Sunday the guys were working on the bridge for a while.  They are coming along pretty nice and just keep going.
        Happy Birthday wishes to Devon DeSanto, the 6th; Teri Bullis and Jim Yarnall, 7th; and "B", 11th.  Birthday wishes also to TAI, son of Tom and Kristin (Anderson) Iwancio, who will be  one year old on the 7th.  Hope you all have a great day.
        Happy Anniversary to V Rev Fr and Mrs. Gary Andrew Matychak as they celebrate 38 years on the 10th.  Have a nice day.
        HINT:  "Did you know that honey is the only food on the planet that will not spoil or rot?  It will do what some call turning to sugar.  In reality, honey is always honey.  When left in a cool, dark place for a long time it will do what's called "crystallizing".  When this happens, loosen the lid, boil some water, and sit the honey container in the hot water.  Turn off the heat and let it liquefy.  It is then as good as it ever was.  Never boil hone or put it in the microwave.  That will kill the enzymes in the honey."   Good to know, now with cold weather, a lot of folks use hone in their tea, cereal and other things.
        Don't forget, there are the new Lopez history books available, written by Peter Tomasak.  They make nice gifts.  Please contact Bob at the info below, if interested.
        Civic meeting, Tuesday, 15 November, 7 p.m. at the Pavilion.  Will be the last meeting until April of 2012.
        Can't think of any more news, so hope you all enjoy your week.  Take advantage of the nice weather; never know what we're going to get next.  I did see more geese heading South the last few days.  Have news, call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.  Thank-you, Connie, for the tips you sent along.  They will be used.

October 26, 2011  

      We've been having some pretty cold, frosty mornings, but the sun did come out and warm things up pretty nicely.  The geese have been flying again; a couple of flocks at once have been seen the past few days.  Bridge work in town is coming along; it gets pretty noisy there, but that's a good sign, means things are progressing.
        Got the following to share:  From Wilmington, DE, visiting their property on Dutch Mountain was Sharon Hartnett and grandson, Mark Hartnett, Jr.  They stopped by to assess the damages in Lopez and on their property.  They were guests of Sandy Gulich, Dushore.  They also visited Vince Yudzeky, Lopez, Sophie Bundle and Ruth Yudzeky at the Highlands in Laporte.
        St. Vladimir's Church has perogies for sale.  To order yours, please call 928-8557.
        Joe and Diane Fanning, Landenberg, spent a few days at their home on Church Street and enjoyed some of the nice weather while they were here.
        Halloween party, 31 October (Mon.), 6 p.m. at the Pavilion.  Prizes awarded and refreshments for all.  Get your costume ready and see you there.  Trick or treat through town from 7-8 p.m.  Please leave your porch light on if you want anyone to stop by.
        There are still some of the new Lopez history books for sale, written by Pete Tomasak.  Please contact Bob at info below if you'd like to order one.
        The Civic Association has t-shirts, sweat shirts, caps and license plates for sale.  These make nice gifts or for yourself to have.  Please contact me at info below if interested.
        Matt and Scherril Dayton, Dorothy, NJ, spent some time at their home on Route 487.  Did a lot of cleaning up while they were here.
        HINT:  "The time you roast a chicken in the oven, stuff an apple inside the bird before placing it in the roasting pan. This will help keep the meat juicy upon removal from the oven."    (This sounds like a good idea.)
        The Whatley's, from Philadelphia, spent the weekend at their home here.
        Happy Birthday, Doc Shoemaker, who will be 90 years young on the first of November.  All you friends wish you the best.
        Happy Birthday also to Tim Bullis who celebrates on the 5th.  Have a good day.
        Guess that's the news for now.  Enjoy your week.  I hear we may get some "s" on Saturday.  Just hope it doesn't "stick" around.  I'm not ready for that yet.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.

October 19, 2011

        This weather is getting to be pretty much of a pain.  Too much rain and wind.  Guess we have to put up with it, but when the sun shines, it does feel good.   There is noise down at the bridge, so that means they are working.
        Sympathy from the community to Kathy Sandow and Tom McGee on the passing of their brother, John, last week.  Funeral was held on Saturday.
        Halloween is coming up, so get your costumes ready.  Halloween party will be held at the Pavilion on Monday, the 31st.  Prizes will be awarded and refreshments available.  Trick or treat through town from 7-8 p.m. so please leave your porch light on if you want visitors.
        Please be aware that it's hunting season, so watch out for those hunters in the woods.  Might be a good time for non-hunters to stay out of the woods.
        St. Vladimir's Church has perogies.  If you'd like to order, please call 928-8557.
        Sympathy from the community to the Alex Stavisky family on the passing of his mother, Mrs. Florence Stavisky on Saturday, the 15th.  Funeral was held on Tuesday from Dean Homer's Funeral Home, with burial in St. Vladimir's Cemetery.
        Mother Christophora, Orthodox Monastery, Ellwood City, is spending the week at St. Nicholas House on Church Street, taking advantage of the nice weather while she is here.
        Adel Bradshaw, West Chester, spent some time at her home on Church Street.
        Irene Pequignot, Linden, spent the weekend with her mother, Mrs. Irene Huray, Church street.
        Jim and Barbara Craig, Media, are enjoying some time at their home on Church Street.
        Ted and Mary Lowden, TJ Lowden and fiance, Allison, all from Marlton, NJ, spent a few days at their home on Church Street.  They are always busy with projects around the house.
        HINT:  "Achy muscles from a bout of the flu?  Mix one tablespoon of horseradish in one cup of olive oil.  Let the mixture sit for thirty minutes, then apply it as a massage oil, for instant relief for aching muscles."    (Don't know if it works, but it's flu season, so try it and let me know the results.)
        Happy Birthday to Lydia Spinosa, 28th; and Leo McDonald and Misty Pequignot, both on the 31st.   Hope you all have a good day.
        Happy Anniversary to Tom and Kristin Iwancio on three years of marriage on the 25th.  Have a nice day.
        Don't forget, we have t-shirts, caps, license plates and sweatshirts available.  These items make nice gifts or for yourself to have.  If interested, contact me at the info below.
        There are still some of the new Lopez History Book, written by Pete Tomasak, available.  Contact Bob at the info below if you'd like to order one.
        I guess that's the news for now.  The big attraction in Lopez  is the bridge work being done.  Folks stop by often to see how it's coming along.  Then, there are those that are lost and want to know how to get from here to another place, so directions are given to them.   Hopefully, the new bridge will be done as soon as they can do it.   Let's hope for really good weather so the guys can work.   Enjoy your week, whatever you may do.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.    I'm running out of hints and tips, so please send some my way.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

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Some scenes form the bridge work

October 12, 2011 

       Had a really nice weekend after some cool starts early in the morning.  One morning was 24 degrees and another 27 degrees.  Did warm up really good during the day.  The geese and flying, so that probably means something too.  The leaves are really turning fast and falling off their branches.  Guess we can't have "nice" weather all the time.
         Spending a few days recently with Joe and Diane Fanning at their home on Church Street was Jim and Lucy Golt from Nottingham, PA.    They had a great time.   Went to the Grand Canyon and lunch in Wellsboro.
        Alex Stavisky, Palm Bay, FL, spent some time visiting his mom at Manor Care in Williamsport.  Many thanks to Ted & Fay Puzo for putting me up at their home in Lopez.  No rooms in Williamsport at all.
        There are some of the new Lopez History books, written by Pete Tomasak for sale.  If you'd like one for yourself or for a gift, contact me at the info below.  Will make a nice Christmas or birthday present.
        Mary Lowden, Marlton, NJ, spent a few days at the Lowden home on Church Street.
        Barbara Craig, Media, spent the week at the Craig home on Church Street.  Jim came for the weekend through Wednesday.  Nice weather so it was good sitting on the porch and visiting.
        St. Vladimir's Church will have perogies for sale on Thursday.  If you'd like to order, please call 928-8557.
        Spending Sunday with Mrs. Irene Huray to help celebrate her birthday was Irene Pequignot; Kevin and Alyssa Pequignot and her friend, Niki; Shawn, Crystal, Misty and Dylon Pequignot; and Jennifer Pequignot, Elexus Dunkleberger, Shawn Serenity and Alek Laird.
        Halloween party at the Pavilion, Monday, 31 October, 6 p.m.  Come dressed and win a prize.  Refreshments will be served.  Trick or treating through town from 7-8 p.m.  Please have your porch light on if you'd like them to stop by.
        Civic meeting Tuesday, 18 October, 7 p.m. at the Pavilion.  Membership dues now being taken by Molly Johnson.
        HINT:  "Tired of your bathroom mirror fogging up after a shower? Try rubbing a cucumber slice along the mirror, it will eliminate the fog and provide a soothing, spa-like fragrance".    (I don't know if these tips work, so try them and see what happens.)
        Happy Birthday to Josh Anderson, 17th; Marie Cikovic, 19th; and Aine Lee McDonald will be 10 years old on the 21st.  Hope you all have a nice day.
        Happy Anniversary to Kevin and Terri Bullis on 32 years on the 20th.  Have a great day!
        Adel Bradshaw, West Chester, is spending some time during this nice weather at her home on Church Street.
        Guess that's the news for now.  Enjoy your week, whatever you do.  Supposed to be some showers but not cold weather.  Next week is to be extra warm, so that will be super.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

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A lot of equipment here on both sides of the creek, but no bridge yet.

October 5, 2011

        Good God!!  Is it ever going to stop raining.  It gets nice, the sun comes out, and it rains...........again.  Let's see what it's going to do from Wednesday through Sunday.  Report is to be really nice, warm and sunny right through the period.  I hope so.  We can sure use the warmth to dry up some of these wet conditions.   Wasn't a very nice weekend for the Flaming Foliage Festival at the Fair Grounds.   Was cold, windy and rainy.
        Anyone missing some ducks?  There are nine ducks running around Lopez.  There are small ones and bigger ones.  Right now they are in Mike McDonald's yard.  If anyone is missing ducks, or would like nine ducks, please give him a call at 928-7310.  He's not going to keep them for long.  Don't know where they came from, but they've been around town for a couple weeks now.
        Had a nice phone chat with Sophie Bundle on Saturday.  She's doing well and was glad to hear from me.  She'd sure like to hear from some of her other friends, so give her a call at The Highlands.  Or, send her a cheery card to let her know she's being thought of.  Address is P.O. Box 10, Laporte, PA   18626.   She would appreciate hearing from you.
        On Monday, the 26th of September, Kaeleigh McDonald was outside and she spotted geese going South.   Must be too cold here for them.  I sure hope we get some Indian Summer soon.
        With this cold weather upon us, the Lopez Civic Association still has sweatshirts for sale with the deer or bear logo.  Would be a nice gift or for yourself to keep warm.  Call me at the info below for colors, sizes and price.    They also have t-shirts, caps and license plates which make nice gifts too.
        Happy Birthday wishes to Tom Iwancio, 13th; and Brad Hubiak and Bob Burke, both on the 14th.   Hope you all have a good day.
        Civic meeting on Tuesday, the 18th, 7 p.m. at the Pavilion.
        Halloween coming up.  Party on Monday, the 31st, at the Pavilion, 6 p.m.  Get your outfit ready.  Prizes will be awarded.  Refreshments served.  If you'd like to have the kids stop, please leave your porch light on, from 7-8 p.m. for trick or treating.   Hopefully the weather will be nice at that time.

         Spending the weekend at the Lowden home on Church Street was TJ Lowden, Allison Corbett, Her brother Jeff Corbett and Ashley Price. Keven Dougherty and Sam Wishart. They had a great time as always,
Despite the bad weather!   They are from the Marlton, NJ, area.
        John and JoAnn McDonald visited on Sunday with his sister, Rose and Joe Sbardella, Mildred.  They also took a ride around Laporte and Lopez area and saw quite a few deer; not many people since the weather was lousy.
        HINT:  "Honey taken with cinnamon powder cures stomach ache."   Don't know the proportions, so you'll have to make a "concoction" and try it.
        It's flu and cold season and lots of folks I talked to have been down with one or the other.  So, hope all of you who have been "under the weather" are feeling much better.
        Guess that's the news for now.  Enjoy your week; better weather is on the way.  Have news, give me a call at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

September 28, 2011 

       Was a pretty nice weekend and today, Monday, is nice as well.  I hear showers for most of the week, but nothing substantial and it's to be quite warm, so I'll take that.
        I heard the bridge work is to start tomorrow (Tuesday) and sure hope so.  Hopefully, it will be done and ready to use by the date they keep telling us, 15 December 2011.  Yes, I said 2011, so we'll see.
        Irene Pequignot, Linden, visited her mother, Mrs. Irene Huray, on Sunday.
        HINT:   "Have an important meeting or job interview and you realize that you don't have enough time to polish your shoes?  Rub a freshly cut cucumber over the shoe, its chemicals will provide a quick and durable shine that not only looks great but also repels water."    (I didn't know there were so many uses for the cucumber.)
        Don't forget, October 1st and 2nd is the Flaming Foliage Festival at the Forksville Fair Grounds.  Lots of activities going on there, so stop by and see what you like.  This is sponsored by the Craftsmen of the Endless Mountains, Inc.
        Sorry to hear that the Fall Festival, sponsored by the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce for the weekend of the 8th and 9th has been cancelled.
        Sister Mary, Orthodox Monastery, Ellwood City, spent last week at St. Nicholas House on Church Street.  She did enjoy her time here and likes to take walks and was surprised by all the flood damage she saw here and on her way here.  She visited with friends and neighbors while she was here.
        Happy Birthday wishes to Elizabeth Kapler and Peg Maximiek who both celebrate on October 1st; Kyleigh McDonald will be two on the 2nd; Bill Lunkwitz, 6th; Gwen (Burke) Honz and Dylan Pequignot, 7th; and Irene Huray and Ryan Weisbrod, both on the 8th.  Hope you all have a great day!
        Happy Anniversary to Tony and Donna Cikovic as they celebrate 18 years on the 2nd.  Have a good day.
        Not much happening right now.  About the only thing is watching cars go down to the bridge, realize it's out, and ask how to get to Dushore.  They either don't see the sign at the bottom of Red Rock Mountain or don't think it's this bridge.  I guess some do it also coming from Mildred and get here and see they can't go further, so turn around and go back.
        That's the news for now.  Enjoy your week; we won't get too much more of this nice weather.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.  Send me tips; I need some and I'll put them in.      

September 21, 2011

        Weekend wasn't too bad; a little cool, but that's ok.  There was a frost on Friday morning and again early Monday morning, so we know what's coming.   The turkeys are out and about and I've seen them almost every day in the field here across the road and in the cemetery.
        TJ Lowden and fiance, Allison, Marlton, NJ, spent the weekend at the Lowden home on Church Street.  They did more repairs from the second storm that we had.
        Craig Germany and friend, Torie, Wallingford, enjoyed the weekend at the Craig home on Church Street and enjoyed Lake Jean while they were here.  They were amazed at all the flood damage and no bridge.
        Membership dues are due for the Lopez Civic Association.  To renew, please see Molly Johnson.  If you'd like to become a regular member or associate member, you can also see Molly.  Membership is only one buck.
        Don't forget, if you'd like your questions answered on the closing of the Lopez Post Office, there will be a meeting on Thursday, the 22nd, at the Cherry Township Municipal Building in Dushore, from 6-7 p.m.  Representatives will be on hand to answer questions and provide information.
        HINT:    "Tired of your bathroom mirror fogging up after a shower?  Try rubbing a cucumber slice along the mirror, it will eliminate the fog and provide a soothing  spa-like fragrance."   That's one to try.
        Happy Birthday wishes to Annaliese Froese, 25th; Ted Beaver and "Dinky" Burke, 27th; and Curt Schroeder, 29th.  Hope you all have a nice day.
        Happy Anniversary to Jon-Paul and Jen Matychak as they celebrate 7 years on the 25th; and Chris and Michele celebrate 14 years on the 27th.  Congratulations to both and have a good day.
        B's gang sends Happy Birthday wishes to Tom Finan as he celebrates on the 25th.  Have a great day, dude!
        Guess that's the news for now.  Enjoy your week, whatever you may do.  Was a shame that the Bowhunter's Festival was cancelled, along with the Bloomsburg Fair.  There may be other activities to take part in yet during the Fall.  Watch the Sully for that.
Have news, give me a call at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

 FLOOD CLEAN-UP IN LOPEZ PARK

        Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee hit Lopez late August and early September.  Route 487 bridge was totally destroyed and has been removed.  According to Pen Dot, the new bridge will be in place by December 15th, this year.
        The swiftly moving water over flowed the creek banks, inundating the Park.  After the water receded, there was a lot of debris that was left behind.  On Saturday, 17 September, a group of 25 volunteers gathered at the Park at 1 p.m. to clean up.  From the youngest, almost 2 year old Kyleigh McDonald, to our "young" Senior Citizens, Mr. Ferdie Marek and Mrs. Shirley Kinsey, the young,  old, big and small, did a super job of collecting and piling debris.  These volunteers came with shovels, rakes, wheel barrows, saws and a four-wheeler with a wagon.  A bon-fire was started and the clean-up was done in record time.
        After it was all done, everyone went to the Pavilion where Molly, Carole and Shirley had hot dogs and sausages, along with soda, waiting for the hungry folks.  Mr. Marek also brought cookies, which the kids really liked.
        It was great to see the small community of Lopez get together to make the Park look nicer.  The kids really stepped up to the plate to help get the job done.
        Those involved with the clean-up included:  Joey Malkemes; Bob and Lisa Burke; Mike, Heather, Cory, Kaeleigh and Kyleigh McDonald; Amy Burkholder; Jaron and Jacob Williams; Molly and Clair Johnson; Carole Kilgus; Mr. Ferdie Marek; John Ritinski; Sue, Shirley, Aaron and Trevor Kinsey; Brett Snyder; Patricia and Dan Deemer; and Bob and JoAnn McGuire.
        Thank you, thank you to everyone for a job well done.  Thanks to Brett for keeping an eye on the fire Saturday evening and Sunday to be sure it stayed contained.  As John Borick says, "Take Pride in Your Community", and that's what we did.  Next time you drive through town, take a look at the Park.  It's great!!

September 14, 2011

        Hope you all are recovering from all the flood damage in your area.  It will take some time to get things back in shape, if they do get there.   There are so many places that are really disaster areas.   Today, Monday, the sun is so warm and it's so nice out there.  Let's hope it stays that way for some time to come.  With all the rain that we've had this summer, we sure shouldn't get any snow this winter.  But, that's another story.
        The bridge on 487 is being demolished.  They got it up out of the water and today are cutting it in pieces to load on a tractor trailer to take somewhere for scrap.  Hopefully, it will be done by the end of the day.  Then, the next step will start sometime after that.  Prediction is that it will still be finished by the end of the year.
        Really a shame that the Bow Hunter's Festival had to be cancelled for the up-coming weekend.  That was always a big event for everyone who participated.  Last I heard, Bloomsburg Fair is up in the air right now.   Anyone interested in going to that can keep up to date by going to www.bloomsburgfair.com.
        Civic meeting will be held on Tuesday, the 20th, 7 p.m. at the Pavilion.
        St. Vladimir's Church is taking orders for perogies.  To place your order, please call 928-8557.
        Happy Birthday wishes to JoAnn McDonald and Carmela Walosin, both on the 19th; Mya Evans, 20th; Roy Pirritano will be 81 years young on the 23rd.  Hope you all have a nice day.
        Happy Anniversary to Jim and Tina Yarnall as they celebrate 4 years on the 22nd.  Have a great day.
        Jack and Joyce Walsh, Larksville, spent Saturday at their home on Main Street.
        Not much news to report, other than the flooding and destruction and it's gets too much after a while.  You just feel for all those who have lost so much more than you have.
        HINT:  "Those suffering from a common cold should take one tablespoon of lukewarm honey with1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon powder daily for three days.  The process will cure most common colds and clear the sinuses."   With cold season coming, this is one to try.
        Guess that's the news for now.  I'm sure there are many other folks who have been to town to check their homes or cabins, but I didn't see them, or they didn't contact me.
So, if you have news you'd like in the paper call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.   Enjoy your week and this super weather..........for the moment.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

September 7, 2011

       Hope you all had an enjoyable Holiday weekend, despite the rain.   Report was NO rain until Monday, but guess they were wrong.   We sure don't need more rain to wash out our other bridge.  It is very inconvenient now to go Dutch Mountain Road to get to Dushore.  It takes at least 52 freakin' minutes, over a road that isn't really good right now.  Rumors are flying that there will be a temporary bridge, then not, then will, so who knows what's next.   Last I heard, demolition of the bridge was to start on Tuesday, the 6th.  "They" say the bridge will be completed by the end of the year.  Let's hope so, for everyone's sake.  Some you talk to say "no way that's gonna to happen", so we'll see at the end of the year.  School started on Tuesday and the kids now have to get on the bus at 7 a.m., rather than the usual 8 a.m., for that long ride around.
        Sunday's storm was pretty intense with the thunder and lightning and pouring rain for a while.  A few people said they never heard thunder boom that loud.  Power was off for a second or so and came back on, so that was good.
        You want to see some "awesome" photos of the bridge flooded and then the water gone, go to www.lopezpa.com.  Click on Lopez news and you will see three there.  I wasn't over there so didn't realize how high the water really got.  Bob walked over and took the photos.   Water can be very powerful, that's for sure.
        Mary Lowden, Marlton, NJ, and Church Street, was here during the hurricane and that Sunday after the power came back on, was sitting in her computer room by the window.  Something caught her eye and there was a bear walking up her driveway.   Wonder if it was the one that was seen going into the creek up by the jail house.   This would have been about 6:30 p.m.
        Tony and Patti Sneidar, Philly, spent the long weekend at their home on Church Street.
        Joe and Diane Fanning, Landenberg, spent a couple of days at their home on Church Street and did some "clean-up" work after Hurricane Irene.
        Ted, Mary, and TJ Lowden; Allison Corbett and her brother, Jeff, spent the Labor Day holiday at the Lowden home on Church Street.  They were very busy with projects while they were here.
        St. Vladimir's Church is taking orders for perogies.  They don't have any right now, but will be making them again soon.  Please call 928-8557 to order yours.
        Don't forget, this Sunday, the 11th, is the Civic picnic, Noon, at the Pavilion.  Bring a dish to pass and your table service.  This is for everyone in the community and those who helped with our Old Home Day activities.   I know it's a long way around now, but hope to see you there, just to enjoy the day, with no hassles.
        Jim and Barbara Craig, Media, spent some time over the Holiday at their home on Church Street.  They were amazed when they saw the damage to the bridge.   Most people thought it was damaged but not "gone", until the saw it themselves.
        Happy Birthday wishes go out to Alexia Vermiere as she celebrates on the 13th, up there in Anchorage, Alaska.  Hope it's a good day.
        Happy Anniversary to David and Carole (Fedorchak) Underwood (10 years) and Scott and Susan (Pirritano) Aharonian, both on the 14th; and Ed and Kay Walton celebrate 61 years on the 16th.  Hope you all have a nice day.
        Hope many of you got to attend the Sullivan County Fair.   We were there Saturday and the weather was good.  We were there on Sunday for the Aaron Kelly concert and that was great, even though it poured during some of it and was quite muddy when we left the grandstand.  Don't think that bothered anyone; they were wrapped up in seeing Aaron.  He said it was great to be back in Sullivan County and thanked everyone for supporting him and helping to make his dream come true of being a country singer.  He has purchased his first home in Nashville and we all wish him lots of luck in his career.
        HINT:  "For bad breath, first thing in the morning, gargle with one teaspoon of honey and cinnamon powder mixed in hot water."   Now, that's one to try and see if it works.  (People of South America say their breath stays fresh throughout the day.)
        Guess that's the news for now.  Enjoy your week, even if it does rain.  I guess we're just getting used to it already.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  Thanks for reading and I'll be here next time.

EDITOR'S note,

Bridge is out of the water, in pieces, on the Lopez side of the creek.

August 31, 2011

        WOW!!  Where do I start after the wild weekend Sullivan County had!!   I hope everyone is starting to get back to "normal" after we were hit with Hurricane Irene. There are probably lots of photos in this issue of areas of devastation.   There are many photos on Face Book and it will be something everyone will remember for years.  So many were in awe when they saw the creeks rise, the debris, the trees down, and just kept going back to look again.   I know you saw on TV and heard about the bridge on 487.  It's going to take some time to get it back in shape and usable.  We'll just have to wait it out until it's done.  The only way to get out of town or in to town is Dutch Mt. Road.  I know it's an inconvenience, but you gotta do what you gotta do.
        Before Hurricane Irene we had the earthquake on the 23rd that hit VA, but was felt here in Lopez by many residents.   What's next??
        Sympathy from the community to family and friends of Paul Snider who passed away Saturday evening.  Services will be on Thursday, September 1st, from Dean Homer Funeral Home, with burial in St. Vladimir's Cemetery.
        Last Thursday, the 25th Carole (Fedorchak) Underwood and her daughter, Kari Spinosa, Melbourne, FL, attended a Hippy Fest, held at King's Center in Melbourne.  There were many vendors selling hippy stuff from the 60's.  There was a concert for Peace and Love with different people representing many bands.  They had roses died "hippy" colors and all kinds of food.  It was not rained out so was a very nice time for them.
     Rich Ruggerio, wife, Kristine, daughter,  Rachel, and  his son, Richie Savina, Elkton, MD,  spent a few days recently (before Hurricane Irene) with Joe and Diane Fanning at their home on Church Street.   The kids played in the creek on Friday, early afternoon, but then had to kick back because of the rain in the late afternoon.   Saturday, they went to the lake and went row boating for an hour or so and then to the beach.  They had a great time, even got a little sun burn.   But as usual, they no sooner got home when the afternoon rain came again.    John Gavlick, Dushore, enjoyed dinner with them on Friday.
        Perogies from St. Vladimir's Church are sold out.  But...............if you'd like to place an order for the next batch, please call 928-8557 and they will reserve them for you.
        Jeff and Stacey Olsen, Edgewater, spent the "wet" weekend at their home on Main Street.  They had no water damage to their place.
        Mary Lowden, Marlton, NJ, spent a few days at her home on Church Street.  With the threat of Hurricane Irene hitting New Jersey, her husband, Ted, told her to stay here where she'd be safer.  She had no idea what was coming and I guess back home they didn't get what we got.  She was in awe of all the water and damage and especially seeing the bridge out.  She got many photos to send back home to family and friends and will be something she won't soon forget.
        John McDonald, Jr. and daughter, Aine, Worthington, MA, spent a couple of days with his parents, John and JoAnn McDonald.  Sr Ella Mae McDonald was in from New Jersey to spent some time also.  Joe and Rose (McDonald) Sbardella, Warren, RI, are spending time at their home in Mildred and they visit with John and JoAnn often.
        Jerry and Sylvia Dempsey spent a couple of days here, visiting her Mom, Mrs. Sophie Bundle,  at The Highlands in Laporte.  They took her out to a nice lunch.  They also visited Vince and Ruth Yudzeky and Jerry's sister in Dushore while they were here.
        September will soon be upon us.  The Sullivan County Fair will be starting on Wednesday, the 31st and run through Labor Day.  Hope you can find time to attend.
        The Civic Association picnic will be on Sunday, the 11th, Noon, at the Pavilion.  Bring a dish to pass and your table service.  This is for the community and for all who helped make our Old Home Day the good time it was.  Hope to see you there.  Memberships being taken by Molly Johnson.
    Got the following e-mail to share:  Gary, Jill, Cory and Sara Eckhardt of Pen Argyl, Pa. were in Lopez the weekend Irene also came to town.  They enjoyed Knoebels Fri. night and Lopez on Sat., but can't really say we enjoyed Sunday!  The little creek in the back yard got bigger and bigger and BIGGER until it wasn't so little.  We couldn't believe how high the water got and the damage to "Concrete" and the bridge.  We tried to leave town Sun. night but got about 45 minutes away and had to come back to Lopez.  ALL the roads were closed.  Cory and Sara missed their first day of school!   Guess they had quite an experience.

        This summer was a busy one in Lopez for Don E. and Mary Springer, who enjoyed grandchildren Sofia and Charles Springer, kids of Mr. and Mrs. Don A. Springer.  On another occasion they enjoyed Glen and Carol Springer and their kids, Gabriel and Mary.  Both sons and their families reside in Boulder, CO.  They enjoy swimming in the streams and made it to all four swimming holes.  They spent a few days picking huckle berries, and climbing the ledges, which is always a highlight of their visit.
        HINT:  "Dab a bit of vanilla extract onto a few cotton balls and place in the compartments of your too-smelly refrigerator.  The cotton will absorb the bad scent, leaving the good."
        Happy Birthday to these fine folks:  Joe Anderson, 2nd; Kristin McDonald (22), 5th; Miles Baton (2), 8th; and Auden Hubiak (6), 9th.  Hope you have a super day.
        Happy Anniversary to Joe and Andrea (Matychak) Anderson (28),  and Shawn and Crystal Pequignot (12), on the 4th; Joe and Rose (McDonald) Sbardella (58), 5th; and Gus and Edith Tamburro and Jim and Barbara Craig who both celebrate 51 years on the 10th.  Hope you all have a very nice day.
        B's gang send happy birthday wishes to Rhonda Stasiak as she celebrates 46 years on the 6th.  Have a good one!
        That's about it for this time.  Enjoy your week and the sunshine.  We need it after Sunday to dry us out.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.  Keep those "hints" coming and I'll include them in my news from time to time.

EDITORS EXTRA:  Below are three shots of the flood progress on the bridge on RT487 going to Mildred. 

As you can see, there is no bridge to Mildred for some time to come.

August 24, 2011

        Had a couple rain storms, but didn't seem to dampen folks who had outside plans.  The creeks raised some, so was good for the gardens and flower beds.  On Thursday night, Job Corps held their Community Relations picnic at the Pavilion in Lopez.  About 6:30 p.m. while folks were enjoying their "before meal" snacks, we had a visitor.  A large bear, about 350 lbs. ambled around behind the game booths, the Church stand, the Bingo stand and the "outhouses" and went off into the woods.  Was quite a sight for everyone.  I think he smelled the good food that was being prepared.  There were lots of cameras clicking, so hopefully some got good pictures.
        Don and Evalyn Lansberry, Lebanon, their daughter and grand children, Ann, Doug and Amy Fackler, from Vermont, spent a week at the family homestead on Main Street.
        Jim and Barbara Craig, Media, spent some enjoyable time at their home on Church Street.
        Bob McGuire, Jr. and son, Tyler, Harveys Lake, visited Thursday with his parents, Bob and JoAnn McGuire.  Tyler stayed for a few days visit.  Had a good time while he was here, despite one day of rain.  He enjoyed going to the pond to feed the fish; going to the creek to "skip" stones;  finding some awesome fossils down by the jailhouse and playing lots of Frisbee.   He also visited with his friend, Rosie Gardner, while he was here.
        Spending a few days recently at the Sneidar home on Church Street were Mimi Riordan; Kevin, Melissa, Kevin Tyler, Allison & Rylee McCann; Douglas Riordan; Carrie Clark; Samantha Riordan;  Aniyah Garcia; Tyree Tyson.  They all had a great time and enjoyed sitting around their fire in the back yard just visiting, eating and laughing.  They also had a good time at Lake Jean.  Melissa, Douglas and Samantha are Mimi's kids and haven't been to Lopez for quite some time, so was really great for them to come.
        HINT:  "Use a hair dryer to remove labels and tags from gifts.  Just plug in and blow on high.  Gets rid of adhesives."
        St. Vladimir's Church has perogies for sale.  Please call 928-8557 to order yours.
        Happy Birthday wishes to Karly Amon, 27th; and Gaige Burke will be 2 years old on the 29th.  Have a good day.
        Happy Anniversary to Jason and Heather Burke as they celebrate on the 26th.  Have a nice day.
        B's gang sends Anniversary greetings to Tim and Lori Higley as their special day is on the 31st.  Hope it's grand.
        Guess that's the news for now.  Enjoy your week; might get some showers, but that's ok.  If you have news you'd like in the paper, please call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

August 17, 2011

        WOW!!  It is Sunday afternoon about 2 p.m. and I'm sitting here watching it pour down rain outside.   Was nice that it quit raining early on Saturday so some of the activities could take place in the County.    Monday is supposed to be as rainy as today; then a couple of nice days; then rain again on Thursday and Friday.    We really go in spurts; nice for a while; rain for a while.  Guess we have to put up with it and take the rain along with the sun and warmth.
     A great time was enjoyed by many at Lisa and Tom's annual party on Saturday.  Special thanks to DJ "B", Brian McGuire, for providing the music and spectacular BOOM BOOM'S by "B".  Also, thank you to the many neighbors for helping with set-up.  Lopez is full of the greatest people.

        Got the following e-mail to share:   Spending last weekend with Ted and Mary Lowden, at their home on Church Street included:  TJ Lowden and fiance Allison Corbett; Brendan Noone; Gus and Edith Tamburro and their grandson, Anthony Pearce, and his friend Alexis.  They are all from the Marlton, NJ, area.   They all had a nice time while they were here, despite the rain on that weekend.
        Sympathy from the community to the family and friends of Mrs. Dolores Elchak who passed away last Wednesday.  Funeral was held on Saturday at Trinity Chapel, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, Mildred, with burial in the Parish cemetery.
        St. Vladimir's Church has perogies for sale.  Please call 928-8557 to order yours.
        Happy Belated Birthday to Mary Lowden on the 10th.  Hope you had a good day.
Birthday wishes to TJ Lowden, 17th; and Mary Santiago, 21st.  Hope you have a nice day.
        Carole (Fedorchak) Underwood, Melbourne, FL, hosted a birthday party on Saturday for her daughter, Kari Spinosa, and Kari's second cousin, Amy.  They both turned 38 and both born in the same year, but 2 days apart; Amy on 9 August and Kari on 11 August.  Kari hadn't seen Amy for quite some time.  Amy's mother Jackie Chatburn, is a former Dushore resident.  Her parents ran Chappy's Rendezvous, Route 220 North.  She moved to Florida in the 1980's and Carole hadn't seen her in years.   David Underwood's band, Atlantic Bluegrass, played for about 40 who attended this pizza party.   All had a great time together.
        Get well wishes to Florence Stavisky who isn't feeling well.   Florence was a long time resident of Lopez.  Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers.   She now lives in Williamsport.

        HINT:  "Shine your best leather shoes with the same oil you fry with.  Dab a bit of vegetable oil on a cotton ball to remove scuffs and protect leather."
        HINT:  "Next time you let your daughter, or son, crack the eggs on pancake day and she/he spills, sprinkle a few dashes of salt on the gooey yolk.  Let sit a few minutes and wipe clean with a paper towel."
        Did you mark your calendar for the Civic picnic?  Will be on Sunday, 11 September, Noon, at the Pavilion.  Bring a dish to pass and your table service.  This is for the community, so that means you, along with all those who helped to make our Old Home Day a nice day for everyone.   Make note now and hope to see you there.
        Guess that's the news for now.  Enjoy your week; don't get tooooo wet.  If you have news you'd like in the paper call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

August 10, 2011
        After the heavy rain on Saturday, Sunday turned out really nice, until about 6:45 p.m. when the skies opened up and down came the heavy rain.  But, it had been a beautiful day for our Old Home Day activities, so can't really complain.   Many thanks to all those who helped in any way setting up, working, cleaning up; everyone did a great job.  There are just too many to mention, so thanks to all, including all those who came to spend time visiting with old friends and meeting new friends.
        Tony, Patti, Anthony Sneidar and friend, Beth, Philadelphia, spent a couple of days at their home on Church Street.
        Welcome to Dustin Burke, Sam Carroll and their son, Gaige; they have moved back to Lopez.  They purchased the Sophie Bundle home and are getting settled and glad to be here.   Tony has been getting some awesome bear photos in his back yard.
        I know it's early, but mark your calendar now.  The Civic Association picnic will be held on Sunday, 11 September, Noon, at the Pavilion.   This is for anyone from the community who wants to come and to all who helped make our Old Home Day the success that it was.  Bring a dish to pass and your table service.
        Congratulations to Tad and Allyson DeHaven, Quakertown, on the birth of their baby.  A daughter, Annabelle Willow was born on the 27th of July, weighing 6 lb. 12 oz.  Proud grandparents include Bryan Brady, Lopez; Gay Cowell, Harleyville; and Ray and Linda DeHaven, Harleyville.    I'm sure everyone will have lots of fun with the new addition.
        St. Vladimir's Church has perogies for sale.  Please call 928-8557 to order yours.
        Spending Old Home Day Sunday with Mrs. Irene Huray included Irene Pequignot; Sophie Bednar; Paul and Marge Bednar; Mickey Bednar; Shawn, Crystal, Misty, Dylon Pequignot; Kevin and Alyssa Pequignot; Jennifer Pequignot, Elexus Dunkleberger, Serenity, Kent and Shawn Laird.   There probably were others, I don't know.  They all had a good time while here taking part in the Old Home Day activities.
        John Borick, Shirley and Marie Lynn, Pennsauken, NJ, spent the weekend at their home on Main Street.
        Jim and Barbara Craig, Media, spent some time at their home here.
        Adell Bradshaw, West Chester, along with her three cats, enjoyed some time at her home here.
        Roy Pirritano, Exton; Scott, Susan, Adam and Alex Aharonian, Narvon, and Scott's parents, spent the weekend at their home on Dutch Mountain.   They all enjoyed Old Home Day.
        Sure was good to see John and JoAnn McDonald at our Old Home Day festivities.  He said they are both feeling much better and are glad to be able to be out and about.  He enjoyed visiting with his old friends in town.
        Tent City was again set up in the Borick's fields as they held their annual reunion.  The place was filled to capacity from about Thursday to Sunday.  On Monday morning, it was all gone and got real quiet again.  They put on a fantastic pyrotechnics display on Saturday evening which many enjoyed from their porches.   One of the girls in the family even had to be taken to Memorial Hospital in Towanda where she delivered a baby boy on Saturday night.   She had another week before she was due, but guess he wanted to be born here.   Congratulations to her.
        I know I saw many, many folks at Old Home Day, but just don't remember them all, so all I can say is that I hope you enjoyed the activities that went on and visiting with friends and family.
        HINT:  "Try whitening toothpaste on a toothbrush to scrub away crayon and scuff marks."   Good one for those with little ones who "miss" the paper sometimes and it gets on the floor or table.
        Happy Birthday to Lisa (Beaver) Sperry, 14th; Dustin Burke, 15th; Kevin Pequignot, 16th; Andrew Froese, 20th.  Hope you all have a nice day.
        Happy Anniversary to Bill and Bonnie Killian on the 16th for 36 years.  Many more.
        Jeff and Stacey Olsen, Edgewater, NJ, spent a few days at their home on Main Street.
        Guess that's the news for now.  I know I've probably forgotten a lot of folks, so if you'd like your news in, please let me know.  Call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob @epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  Enjoy your week and I'll be here next time.  Thanks for reading and your nice comments on the column.

Some Branosky brothers enjoying LOPEZ OLD HOME DAY 2011

August 3, 2011 

       I guess it was a pretty nice weekend, even though there was some rain.  I think there is a storm brewing as I'm typing this on Monday afternoon, but the week doesn't look too bad.  Hopefully Sunday will be nice for our Old Home Day activities.  There will be free contra dance lessons from 2-3 p.m. so come and learn all about contra dancing and join in the fun.   There will also be lots of other things going on, from our chicken barbecue dinner at noon, to games, sales of t-shirts, hats and license plates, and music from 3-7 p.m.  Hope to see you there.    Pete Tomasak will be available after 1 p.m. to sign your purchased Lopez History book.
        There will be wing night at the Mildred American Legion Post 452 on Thursday, 9 August, starting at 6 p.m.
        Adell Bradshaw, West Chester, is spending some time at her home on Church Street.
        Have you seen that part of Church Street and part of Lilac Lane have been paved?
Looks pretty good right now.
        Ferdie Marek will have Country Store at Old Home Day.  If you have unwanted items in your basement, garage, or attic, please contact him to make arrangements.  Phone number is 928-8654.  Home grown produce is also accepted.
        Bob and I spent Thursday to Sunday with my parents, Ed and Anna Davis, Cobleskill, NY.  Also spending time was my sister, Betty Nozer, Victoria, TX; my sister, Barb and John Hart, my sister, Karen Bowers and friend, Dale, all from Colbleskill, NY; and my brother, Jim Davis, Pine Bush, NY.  Had a great time visiting, laughing and just being together.  Of course, there's always eating in there somewhere.   On Saturday evening, Bob and I attended my 50th class reunion, held at Howe Caverns, NY.  Was a great time with all my classmates and seeing if we recognized each other.
        Happy Birthday wishes to Sherril Dayton, 4th; Gene Weisbrod, 7th; Kyle Froese and Kathy Lebo, 9th; Randy Lebo and Jackie Craig, 10th; Kari Spinosa, 11th; Al Kapler, 12; and Linda Beaver, 13th.  Hope you all have a great day.
        Happy Anniversary to Carol and Jerry Jacques for 38 years on the 3rd; Jim and Darlene Faulkner, 4th;  Don and Evalyn Lansberry for 55 years on the 11th.  Have a nice day.
        HINT:  "Don't waste time with lint rollers.  Add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle and reduce lint build-up on your clothes."
        Welcome to the community to Ted, Mary and TJ Lowden, Marlton, NJ, who have purchased the Tamburro home on Church Street.
        Think that's the news for now.  I know there will be lots of people in town at their homes and cabins to take part in Old Home Day.  Hopefully I'll see a lot of them and get it in next week.  Enjoy your week, whatever.  I know it's a busy time with mowing lawns and gardening.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.  Hope to see you Old Home Day.

July 27, 2011

        Well, hope you all enjoyed the HOT weather over the weekend.  Haven't we been saying it's "too cold", so there ya go......it was warm.  The shower on Sunday helped, but just a little.  I heard the whole week is to be hot and humid again.
        Got the following e-mail to share; was late for last week so it's here for this week:
Gary, Jill and Sara Eckhardt of Pen Argyl, Pa. enjoyed a great weekend at the Neufer place. The weather was just perfect. Much fun was had in the creek. Unfortunately for Aunt Nancy, Jill was unable to clean and/or organize anything..... Maybe next time!
        Joe and Diane Fanning, Landenberg, dog, Molly, and granddaughter, Haley Latch, spent a week at their home on Church Street.  On Wednesday, daughter, Toni, Harry, Harry, Jr. Latch and his friend, Matty, their dog, Panzer, St. George's DE, came to stay until Sunday.  On Thursday, the family went to Knobel's where they had a great time in the water park and with the amusements.  On Friday, Toni and the boys went to walk the trail at Ricketts; they went about three quarters of the way and walked back.  They didn't want to do the whole thing, as there was no car at the bottom to pick them up.  On Saturday, the family went again to walk the trail and then spent the day at Lake Jean swimming.  They also enjoyed a lot of fun at the creek.  The weather was perfect and they all had a great time while they were here.  I'm sure they'll be back again soon.  On Sunday evening, John Gavlick, Dushore, enjoyed dinner with Joe and Diane.
        Got the following phone message from Carole (Fedorchak) Underwood, Melbourne, FL, to share:   On 20 July, Ginny Stavisky, Palm Bay, FL, and I attended a concert at King Center called Happy Together Tour 2011, which featured members of The Turtle's, Grass Roots, The Buckingham's, Association, Mark from Paul Revere and The Raiders.  They were all very good.  The Grass Roots also sang "For Today", a tribute for Viet Nam veterans who had passed away and for those who are still alive.  They also paid tribute to Rob Grille who was a lead singer with Grass Roots who passed away recently.  Carole said the concert was excellent and they had a good time.
        Congratulations from your family and friends to Mother Christophora on 25  years since she took her monastic vows.  She is now Abbess at Transfiguration Orthodox Monastery, Ellwood City.  She is the daughter of the late Andy and Katherine Matychak. She visits often since the Matychak home on Church Street is now St. Nicholas House, where the Nuns and other friends come to relax and enjoy the beauty of Lopez and Sullivan County.  Mother Christophora is spending a few days here.  On Monday, Sister Martha, Ellwood City, came to spend the week with Mother at St. Nicholas House.   Sister Martha always has a nice time here visiting, walking and spending time at the creek.
        HINT:  "Drain cooked pasta thoroughly in a colander without rinsing when it is to be served with a sauce or combined in a baked dish.  Rinsing can wash away starch that may help to lightly thicken the pasta sauce.  Pasta can be rinsed in a colander when it is to be served cold, as in a salad."
        Matt Coleman, Dushore, visited Mother Christophora at St. Nicholas House, Church Street, on Sunday afternoon.  They had a real nice visit and enjoyed pizza together.
        St. Vladimir's Church has perogies for sale.  Please call 928-8557 to order yours.
        Mr. Marek will have Country Store for Old Home Day.  Please call him at 928-8654 to make arrangements to get your unwanted items to him.  Baked goods and home grown produce also accepted.
        Well, guess that's the news for now.  Hope you all enjoy your week, whatever your plans.  I see the gardens and flower beds are looking really nice.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

July 20, 2011
        Was a pretty nice weekend and hope you all enjoyed it.   I'll take all of this nice weather I can get.   I did hear "isolated" thunder storms for later in the week, so we may get some, we may not.
        Congratulations to Jason and Heather Burke on the birth of their son, Garrett, on 27 June.  He joins two sisters at home.   Lots of fun now with a new little one around.
        Greg and Juliana Thetford and daughters, Anya and Marina, Ellwood City,  and their friend Katia, visiting from Russia, spent a few days at St. Nicholas House on Church Street.   I'm sure they had a good time while they were here.  The weather was perfect.
        St. Vladimir's Church has perogies for sale.  Please call 928-8557 to order yours.
        Lopez History books will be available for sale on Old Home Day.  Author, Pete Tomasak, will be on hand to sign any books purchased.
        Mr. Ferdie Marek will again have Country Store, Old Home Day, 7 August.  Please call him at 928-8654 to make arrangements to give any unwanted items.   Baked goods and home grown produce also accepted and appreciated.
        Happy Birthday wishes to Muffin (Benjamin) Manuel, 25th; Chris Popso, 27th; Carole Kilgus, 28th; Madison Burke (9), 29th; Casey Bonardi (15), 30th; and David Underwood, 31st.  Hope you all have a nice day.
        HINT:  "Try whitening toothpaste on a toothbrush to scrub away crayon and scuff marks."
        Guess that's the news for now.  I know there are things going on around the County for you to take part in, so check the Sully for more information.   Enjoy your week, whatever your plans.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

July 13, 2011

        Was a pretty nice weekend and hope everyone got to enjoy and attend some of the activities going on around the area.  I did hear the Fireman's Festival in Mildred was a success.   Bob and I were gone for the weekend.  We went to Syracuse, NY, to attend the Syracuse Mineral Club annual show.  Bob did the fluorescent mineral programs for the two days while we were there.  A nice crowd at the show and a good time.
        Sympathy from the community to the family of John Patson who passed away on Saturday.  Funeral was held on Tuesday, with burial in St. Vladimir's Cemetery.
        Had a nice phone message from Marie Sysock from CA.  She says she's been getting the Sullivan Review since she left Lopez in 1969.  She wanted to let me know that her son, Gary, left CA on his motorcycle and traveled to SC, Canada, and to PA and Lopez to visit.  He stayed with Steven Gulich while he was here.  He also visited with Bob and Lisa Burke.  He took this trip over the Fourth of July Holiday.   I didn't know he had been in town until Lisa Burke told me, so that's why it wasn't in an earlier edition of the paper, as Marie was wondering.   I'm sure he had an enjoyable time visiting while he was here.
        Joe and Diane Fanning, Landenberg, spent a couple of days recently at their home on Church Street.  That Monday evening they saw two bear cross the road on their way to the creek.  Joe says one had to be 500 lbs. and the other 400 lbs.  Diane said since it's mating time, she figured they were husband and wife going on a honeymoon.   Early Tuesday morning there were wet bear prints on their porch, but smaller ones, so was a different bear.  Later that evening, they saw the same to big ones crossing one of the fields up there.  So, the bear are around.  Be on the watch as it seems they come earlier in the day, they aren't afraid and they come closer than usual.
        On Friday morning, I saw four turkeys in the field across the road.  No babies, but was the first I had seen a turkey for quite some time.
        Roseanne Lukachik says thanks to Mike Stavisky for transporting the trees for the Park and to him and Rick Vanderpool for planting the trees.
        Don't forget to check you attic, basement and garage for unwanted items.  They can be give to Mr. Ferdie Marek for the Country Store that he will be in charge of for Old Home Day.  Give him a call at 928-8654 to make arrangements.  Baked goods and home grown veggies also accepted.
        There will be Lopez History books available for sale Old Home Day and author, Pete Tomasak will be on hand to autograph yours when you purchase one.
        St. Vladimir's Church has perogies for sale.  Please call 928-8557 to order yours.
        Happy Birthday wishes to Barbara Craig, 17th; Adam Aharonian, 18th; Amy Fackler, 19th; Evalyn Lansberry and Sr. Ella Mae McDonald, 20th; Matt Beaver, 21st; and Billy Stasiak, 23rd.  Hope you all have a nice day.
        Happy Anniversary to our friends, Jerry and Sally Coleman as they celebrate 37 years on the 19th.  Congratulations and have a great day.  Hope they both are feeling well and out and about.

July 6, 2011

        Hope you all had a safe and happy Fourth of July Holiday.  There were many things going on around the County to take part in, as well as picnics for the locals.   The weather was pretty nice.  Did have a big thunder storm late Saturday evening, into real early Sunday morning,  but that didn't hamper things because of when it happened.  It got cloudy off and on during the day on Sunday, but the rain held off, so made it nice for all.
        Norman and Jane Belcher, Saylorsburg; and Jeff and Bonnie (Belcher) Martinell, Troy, were in Lopez on Saturday checking out local cemeteries.  They stopped at our house saying they were looking for Napoleon Belcher who was buried somewhere here.  Bob decided to take them to the old Ellis Cemetery (once known as Seaman's) to see if Napoleon might be buried there.  They didn't have any luck there or at the other cemeteries in town.   Don't know where he might be buried; guess they'll have to do some more research on him.
        Mrs. Sophie Bundle would like to thank everyone for the phone calls and cards she received, as she celebrated 93 years young on the first of July.  She said she so appreciated that and said it made her feel so good to know that people care.
        Don and Evalyn Lansberry, Lebanon; and grand daughter, Marie Cikovic, Myerstown, spent some time at their home on Main Street.  The ladies enjoyed "shopping" at the Lycoming Mall.
        On Thursday, Adel Bradshaw and I saw an eagle just lazily soaring over Church Street.  Was an awesome sight and a surprise to see.
        Jeff and Stacey Olsen, Edgewater, NJ, spent some time over the Fourth holiday at their home on Main Street.  They held their annual Independence Day picnic on Sunday and also celebrated Stacey's birthday.  A good time was had by everyone who was there.
        Don't forget, Friday and Saturday, the 8th and 9th is the Mildred Fireman's Festival held on St. Francis Hall grounds in Mildred.   Lots of things going on the two evenings, so plan to attend and support your Fire Company.
        Mr. Ferdie Marek will be in charge of Country Store for Old Home Day again this year.  If you'd have anything you'd like to donate, please contact him at 928-8654 to make arrangements to get the things to him.  So, clean out your attic, basement and garage and get rid of the "stuff" you no longer want.   Baked goods and garden produce also accepted.
        There will also be the new Lopez history book available Old Home Day.  Author, Pete Tomasak, will be on hand to sign your book, after purchase.
        St. Vladimir's has perogies for sale.  To buy some of these perogies, call 928-8557.
        Jim and Barbara Craig, Media, spent some time over the Fourth at their home on Church Street.  Barbara got to go "yard saleing" while she was here and got a few good deals.
         John Borick, Shirley and Marie Lynn, Pennsauken, NJ, spent some time over the Fourth at his home on Main Street.      

Happy Birthday wishes to Loretta Weidner, 10th; Quinn Vinetelli, 12th; David Black and Molly Johnson, 14th.   Hope you have a great day.
        Happy Anniversary to David and Lavonne Black, Chris and Alice Popso, and Matt and Scherril Dayton who all celebrate on the 14th.  Hope it's nice.
        Bob McGuire, aka UVBOB, did a fluorescent mineral program at World's End State Park on Saturday evening, at the Ampitheater.  Because the program is done outside, it has to be dark, so it begins after 9 p.m.  When using the ultraviolet lights, the bugs seemed to be attracted to the lights and to him.  This year they were much more prevalent than in previous years.  While he talked, a few bugs managed to get into his mouth and down the throat.  He had a hard time getting them all the way down; got coughing and was hard to talk and finish the program.  He managed and everyone enjoyed the presentation, despite the "buggy" situation.  There were 85 kids and adults in attendance.  He thanks all who were there and apologizes for the inconvenience with trying to talk with the bugs being such a bother.  Thanks goes to Jane Swift at World's End for inviting UVBOB down to present his program.
        I know there were some who enjoyed the creek as I saw them down behind what used to be the jail house, having a good time.   I'm sure many also went to Lake Jean and other Parks to picnic, camp and swim.
        HINT:  "Before you put sticky substances into a measuring cup, fill with hot water.  Dump out the hot water, but don't dry the cup.  Next, add your sticky ingredient and watch how easily it comes right out."     "If you seal an envelope and then realize you forgot to include something inside, place the sealed envelope in the freezer for an hour or two.  It unseals easily."   I'll have to try that next time as I'm always sealing and then using another envelope.
        Guess that's the news for now.  Enjoy your week; I know some will be on vacation and the weather is to be sunny and hot.  For others, enjoy your time when you can.  Have news, give me a call at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll put it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

June 29, 2011 

       Had a couple rain showers, but the weekend wasn't all that bad.  This next week is to be pretty nice, right into 4th of July Holiday.  Hope so.  I know there are things planned and the weather can be a problem.
        Sympathy from the community to the family of John Serafini who passed away on Tuesday.  His funeral was held on Friday at St. Francis Church, with burial in the parish cemetery.  John will be missed; he always had a smile and liked visiting with anyone he ran into.
        St. Vladimir's Church has perogies for sale.  Please call 928-8557 to order yours.  They sell fast, so call now.
        Mr. Ferdie Marek will be in charge of Country Store on Old Home Day, Sunday, 7 August.  Clean your attic, garage and basement for those "unwanted" items and contact Mr. Marek at 928-8654 to make arrangements to get the things to him.  Home grown produce and baked goods also accepted.
        Happy Birthday wishes to Sophie Bundle, July 1st; Mary Kravetz, Don Springer and Stacey Olsen, all on the 2nd; Bill Stasiak, 6th; Paul Snider and Frank Andjeski, on the 7th.  Hope you all have a nice day.
        Happy Anniversary to Curt and Linda (Popso) Schroeder as they celebrate on the 3rd.  Mike and Heather McDonald celebrate four years on the 7th.  Congratulations and many more from all your friends.
        Civic meeting 19 July, Pavilion, 7 p.m.
        Adel Bradshaw, West Chester, is enjoying some time at her home on Church Street.  Over the weekend she attended her best friend's wedding, held in MA.  I'm sure it was a special time for all.
        The flower beds and gardens look pretty nice.  I did have someone say their potatoes and bean weren't doing well; it was just too wet, with all that rain we've had.  We just need a slow, gentle rain and warm nights.
        John McDonald is home from the hospital and feeling better.  He's on the road to recovery and we all hope he continues to improve and feel well.  JoAnn is doing quite well now also.   All your friends have you in their thoughts and prayers for getting well soon.
        HINT:   "For a foggy windshield, buy a chalkboard eraser and keep it in the glove box of your car.  When your windows fog, rub with the eraser.  Works better than a cloth."
        HINT:  "Use a wet cotton ball or Q-tip to pick up small shards of glass you can't see easily."
        Fourth of July Holiday coming up.  Hope you all enjoy whatever and stay safe.  I know there are things going on around the County, so check the Sully and see what you might want to attend.
        That's about it for now.  Enjoy your week, whatever you may do.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.   Keep the hints coming.  I do have people tell me they like them and have tried a few.

June 22, 2011

        Was a perfect weekend for all to celebrate Father's Day.  The Civic Association flea market was well attended on Saturday and everyone did well.  I know many attended the Dushore Dairy Parade and Firemen's Parade, as well as the Pow-Wow, held in Forksville.  So, there was a lot going on over the weekend.
        St. Vladimir's Church has pierogies for sale.  Please call 928-8557 to order yours.
        Adel Bradshaw, West Chester, enjoyed a few days at her home on Church Street and will be back for a few more days.
        Irene Pequignot, and friend, Mike, Linden, visited her mother, Mrs. Irene Huray, on Saturday.
        Matt and Scheril Dayton, Dorothy, NJ, spent some time at their place on Route 487.  Had a surprise when they got here.  A squirrel had gotten into their home and did some big damage.  Then, the bear had been there and tore off one part of the cabin.  Don't know if he was trying to get in or not, but Matt had work to do while he was here.
        The bear is around.  It was seen by Ted and Mary behind their home on Church Street, while they were here.  It also leaves his prints in Mike McDonald's garden, along with a pesky woodchuck who seems to like eating the things he has planted.
        Mother Galina and Mother Karitina, Orthodox Monastery, Ellwood City, are spending a few days at St. Nicholas House on Church Street.  They enjoy taking walks, visiting, and had a good time at the flea market.   They visited Jerry, Sally and Matt Coleman, Dushore, on Saturday.  Matt is here for the summer from Sweden where he attends college.  Jerry and Sally are doing fairly well and we hope they continue to improve.
        HINT:  "Heat leftover pizza in a nonstick skillet on top of the stove; set heat to medium/low.  Heat until warm.  This keeps the crust crispy.  No more soggy microwave pizza."  I heard it really works, so give it a try.
        Guess that's about it for now.  Enjoy your week; supposed to get some showers, but stay warm.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

June 15, 2011

        Hope you're enjoying the nicer weather, even the rain is needed.  Last Thursday we did have a thunder storm with lots of lightning and some hail.  Didn't last long, but was there.
        St. Vladimir's Church has perogies for sale.  To order yours, call 928-8557 to make arrangements.
        Don't forget, Saturday, the 18th, is the flea market at the Pavilion.  Got your attic, garage and basement cleaned?  Food will be available.  Hope to see you there.  From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
        Jim and Barbara Craig, Media, enjoyed a few days at their home on Church Street.
        Joe and Diane Fanning, Landenberg; grandchildren, Harry and Haley Latch  and Richie Ruggerio, spent some time at their home on Church Street.  The kids enjoyed the creek and also time spent at Lake Jean.  Of course, Molly also came with them.  A good time while they were here.
        Happy Birthday wishes to Cindy Stavisky, 23rd; Jeannie Woodford, 24th; and Andy Matychak (1), 27th.  Have a nice day.
        Happy Anniversary to Bob and Lisa Burke and Ken and Elaine Kline, both on the 19th.  Hope you have an enjoyable day and many more years together.
        Special Birthday greetings from B's gang to Matt Karchner who celebrates on the 28th.  Hope it's great!!
        Happy Father's Day to all you guys who are Dad's or you're a "special" Dad to someone.  Hope your day is super.

        HINT:  "Don't store potatoes in the refrigerator as the starch in them will quickly turn into sugar, resulting in too sweet when cooked.  Don't wash potatoes until ready to use and use within 2-4 weeks."
        HINT:  "Peppers with three bumps on the bottom are sweeter and better for eating.  Peppers with four bumps on the bottom are firmer and better for cooking."   (I never knew this, so check bumps next time you buy peppers.)
         With the nice weather, I'm sure there are lots of folks spending time at their places.  I don't see you, so you have to contact me if you want to put it in the paper.   There are still things going on in the County for you to take part in.  So, enjoy your week, whatever you may decide to do.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

June 8, 2011 

       Having some pretty nice weather for a change.  I thought we had a frost on Friday, but I guess it was just heavy dew.  The temperature did go down to 35 degrees, but warmed up nicely during the day.  Flowers and gardens were covered, just in case.  Hopefully, the weather will stay warm and covering won't be a worry.
        Graduation on Friday night was really nice.  No worry about the weather.  The sun was out and all turned out well.  Good luck to all the graduates on their future and enjoy.
        Get well wishes to John McDonald from all his friends in Sullivan County.  He is a patient at Memorial Hospital, Towanda.   Hope to hear he's on the mend and home soon.  Send a card and cheer him up.  Room 109, zip code 18848.   Nice to hear that JoAnn is feeling much better.
        On Memorial Day morning, a bear crossed the road near Mr. Marek's as he and his nephew and his wife were heading down town for the parade.  Maybe be wanted to take part.
        On the 31st, there was a bear up at Lopez Winery that got into the refrigerator that Al Kapler had on the porch to keep soda cold.  There wasn't much in it, but he mangled it to death.   Also, on the 5th of June, there was a huge (400 lb.) bear, Al told us, that was roaming around up there, maybe just looking.  Maybe they want to test the wine.   So, they are out there, so be on the look-out for them.
        Remember, school is now out and there will be kids around town.  Please be a little more careful as you're driving through town and watch out for them.
        The next Area Agency on Aging Senior Center Without Walls will be held on Thursday, 23 June, at 11 a.m. at St. Francis Hall, Mildred.  Ed Boardman, EMTA, will provide information on transportation services.  Marcella Yasharian, APPRISE Coordinator for Area Agency on Aging, will do a short presentation on APPRISE, health insurance and how the agency can assist individuals.  Lunch will follow.  Reservations are required by 11 a.m. on Wednesday, 22 June.  Call 1-800-822-6793.  Lunch menu includes chicken pot pie with pot  pie bows, Harvard beets, whole grain bread, a fresh orange and milk.
        Happy Belated Birthday wishes go out to Mrs. Vera Gulich, 90 years young on the 6th.   Happy Birthday to George Beaver (83), on Flag Day, the 14th; and Nate Kinsey, 17th.
        B's Gang send birthday wishes to Marty Slocum as he celebrates on the 16th.  I won't divulge his age.
        Don't forget the flea market is coming up on Saturday, the 18th, at the Pavilion, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Tables first-come, first-served.  Food will be available.  There are small pavilions that can also be used.  Get your basement, attic and garage cleaned out and come to the flea market.
        HINT:  "Don't store bananas in the refrigerator as the low temperatures speed up spoiling.  Store separately on a plate in a cool, dry place."
        Sister Mary, Orthodox Monastery, Ellwood City, is spending a relaxing time at St. Nicholas house on Church Street.  She loves the quiet, taking walks, and visiting with friends and neighbors.
        Lou and Lillian Velardi, Riverdale, NJ, visited Rose Gardner on Monday.  They also visited Lillian's sister, Ruth and Vince Yudzeky, while they were here.  Nice visit for everyone and the day was warm and sunny for travel.

        Sophie Bednar and Irene Huray spent Memorial Day with Paul Bednar family and enjoyed a picnic.  Sophie spent a few days with Irene.
        Marty and Dee Whatley, Philadelphia, and their families, spent a few days over the Memorial Dal Holiday at their home on Route 487.  All had a nice time while they were here.
        The flower beds and hanging baskets that folks have around their homes are really pretty again this year.  Something nice to enjoy during the summer.
        Guess that's all the news for this time.  Enjoy your week.  I think I heard mention of a "stray" shower a couple of days, but to be quite warm.  I'll take it.  Have news, give me a call at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.  I do enjoy your comments and suggestions.

June 1, 2011

        What a beautiful Holiday weekend.  Weather was perfect.  Friday we were hit with two bad thunder storms, but no damage done.  Just heavy down pours and high winds.  Hope you all enjoyed the holiday and were able to attend the various Veterans services held around the County.  It's nice to remember those who have fought, are fighting, and who have passed away to keep us free.   When you see a service person, thank him from the bottom of your heart that we live in the great USA.
        Don and Evalyn Lansberry and Randy and Kathy Lebo, all from Lebanon, spent the long weekend at their home on Main Street.
        Tony and Patti Sneidar spent Friday to Sunday at their home on Church Street.
        Jim and Barbara Craig, Media, are enjoying some time over the Memorial Day holiday at their home on Church Street and visiting with friends and neighbors.  They enjoyed the halupki dinner at Russian Hall on Sunday.
        Congratulations to our Lopez seniors, James Deemer, Elizabeth Kapler and Nick DeSanto as they graduate on Friday evening.  Good luck in your future endeavors.
        Well, we had Mr. Bruin again about 12:30 a.m. Friday morning, right in our front yard.  Guess he was checking things out.  A couple of the other neighbors had a visit from him also.  Was a smaller one; about 150 pounds.
        Irene Pequignot, Linden, spent Saturday with her mother, Mrs. Irene Huray.
        Joe and Diane Fanning, Landenberg, grand daughter, Haley Latch, St. George's, DE, and their dog, Molly, enjoyed a few days last week at their home here.  Despite the rain, they got some grass mowing done.  Haley and Molly sure had a good time playing in the rain.
        Everyone who has flower beds planted and hanging baskets, they look beautiful.
        Bill and Jean Woodford, and some family members, Windsor, NY, spent a couple of days over the Holiday at their home on Main Street.
        Ted and Mary, family and friends, were in from NJ, to spent the long Holiday at the Gus Tamburro home on Church Street.
         On behalf of the Lopez Civic Association, Mr. Ferdie Marek, would like to thank the children and their parents who marched in the Memorial Day parade in Lopez.  They all were so proud to take part.  The kids and parents were treated to hot dogs, hamburgs, chips and soda, after the Parade, at the Pavilion.  This will be an annual event and hopefully more kids and parents will march next year.  Thanks to Mr. Marek for organizing the kids and parents.
        Also, thanks to  members of the Mildred Volunteer Fire Company for coming to our Memorial Day service and stopping traffic, going into and out of town.  It was so much better and meant a lot more not to have traffic going back and forth.   A lot of people also commented on how meaningful the service was without all the extra noise.
  Thanks to everyone who participated, whether marching or just attending.  It was a great day!!      

Happy Birthday Shelly Craig who will be 16 on the first of June.  Lynn Malkemes has a birthday on the 8th; Gus Tamburro and Matt Dayton both celebrate on the 10th.  Hope you all have a great day.
        The Civic Association Flea Market is getting closer.  Saturday, 18 June, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Pavilion.  Tables first come, first served.  Food will be available.  So, clean out your attic, basement and garage and come to the Flea Market.  There are also smaller pavilions that can be used.   Your "junk" is always someone else's "treasure".
        Next Civic meeting will be Tuesday, the 21st, 7 p.m. at the Pavilion.
        HINT:  "Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and use it on shower doors to easily remove soap scum and hard water deposits."
        HINT:  "Sprinkle baking soda into a wet tub and let sit for a few minutes.  Dirt and soap scum will wipe right off -- no hard scrubbing required."
        That about does it for this time.  Enjoy your week, whatever your plans are.  I think for the most part it is to be quite nice.  Such a tragedy for those in areas that were hit with tornadoes or severe storms and suffered so much damage.   I guess we never know what we really have until it's gone.  Will take some time, but Joplin, MO, said they will re-build and come back better than ever.  Have news, call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

May 25, 2011

       Geez!!   What crappy weather we've been getting.  But..............we should all be thankful we don't have the really bad weather that a lot of places are experiencing right now.  Our thoughts and prayers to all those who have lost their homes, their friends and their loved ones.
        Lopez kids....don't forget Monday is Memorial Day.  If you'd like to march in the parade, please contact Mr. Marek at 928-8654 and let him know.  No bikes allowed, but you can pull a wagon, push a stroller or just walk on this special day.    Hope to see you at the Park at 10 a.m. for our Memorial Day services.
        Flea Market, Saturday, 18 June, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Pavilion.  Tables first-come, first-served.  There are also smaller Pavilions that can be used.  Clean out your attic, basement or garage and see you at the flea market.  Food will be available.  Questions or info, please call me at the info below.
        Bob and I attended the 8th annual Mineralogical Society of Northeastern PA club show, held over the weekend in Pittston.  Bob presented the fluorescent mineral programs the two days while we were there.  Was a nice crowd attending and a good time.
        Here are some hints I got in the mail from my friend, Carole, in Melbourne, FL.  Some good stuff to know.
        HINT:  "Don't keep tomatoes in the fridge.  The chilly air dulls the flavor and makes them more acid.  Keep fresh by placing them in a spot away from windows so they don't get direct sunlight.  Try to use them in a week."
        HINT:  "Cucumbers should not be kept in the fridge.  They become yellow and watery.  Keep them in a plastic grocery bag and use within a week."
        I have many more that Carole sent me and will be putting them in now and then.
        Some of the flowers around town are really looking good.  I see folks are getting more planted in their yards, along with hanging baskets.  Gardens are slowly coming along.  If it would dry up some, that would be a big plus for planting.
        Guess that's it.  I know there will be lots of folks in town for the Holiday weekend coming up.  Hopefully the weather will be nice so people can have their picnics and games outside. There are some activities around the County for you to take part in.  So, enjoy your week and long weekend.  Take in the various Memorial Day parades and speeches; thank those who serve, and have served, for all they do to keep us free.  Have news, call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

May 18, 2011
        Well, it's rainy time again.  Looks like the whole week is to be "drizzly", with a chance of thunder storms too.  Grass sure is growing and way too wet to cut.  Maybe by the weekend it will dry up enough to get some taken care of.
        Mother Christophora and Mother Barbara, Orthodox Monastery, Ellwood City, are enjoying a few days at St. Nicholas House on Church Street.  Despite the rain, they say it's pretty nice.
        Matt and Scherril Dayton, Dorothy, NJ. spent some time at their home on Route 487.
        I made a "goof" in the Honor Roll students list I put in a couple weeks ago.  It should have been Kassidy Brown.  I spelled the name wrong and I apologize for the error.
        St. Vladimir's Church has perogies for sale.  Please call 928-8557 or 928-9242 to order yours.
        On Sunday, May 29th, St. Vladimir's Church will hold a Halupki dinner at the Church Hall.  This will be from Noon to 3 p.m.  Eat in or take out.   For information, call 928-8557.
        HINT:  "To really make scrambled eggs or omelets rich, add a couple of spoonfuls of sour cream, cream cheese, or heavy cream; then beat them."
        HINT:  "Add garlic immediately to a recipe if you want a list taste of garlic; add at the end of the recipe if you want a stronger taste of garlic."
        Some birthdays coming up.  Happy Birthday to Susan Aharonian, 24th; Tanya Stasiak, 25th; Michele Craig, Christopher Mowery, and Al Galarneau, all on the 26th, Ruth Yudzeky, 27th; Nick DeSanto, 29th.   Hope you all have a nice day.
        B's Gang sends Happy Birthday wishes to "Navy", Sandy Pardoe, as she celebrates on the 31st.  Have a good day.
        Happy Anniversary to Bob and Kim McGuire as they celebrate 12 years on the 22nd; Tony and Patti Sneidar on 27 years on the 26th.  Also, congrats to Jack and Joyce Walsh as they celebrate on the 29th.  Have a great day.   That rounds out the month of May.
        Memorial Day parades coming up.  Lopez is at 10 a.m. in the Park.  Hope to see you there.
        Civic Association Flea Market, Saturday, 18 June, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Tables first-come, first-served.  Food will be available.  There are also small pavilions that can be used to sell your "wares".  Questions?  Get in touch with me at the info below.
        Adel Bradshaw, West Chester, is spending a few days at her home on Church Street.
        If folks get their flowers planted, they will really grow, with all the rain we're getting.  I see some of the gardens are tilled and little plants poking through the ground.
        Guess that's it for now.  Enjoy your week, rainy or not.  At least it isn't snow or tornadoes.  We are lucky in that respect.  Have news, call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

May 11, 2011

        Looks like a nice week on the way.  We really had some cool mornings.  On Friday it was only 24 degrees, with a heavy frost.  Did warm up nice during the day.  Sunday morning was another cool start, but not quite as bad as Friday.  Now, I hear nice until at least Friday and through the weekend.  But....as you know.....it can change daily.  I'll just take this nice, sunny, warm weather while I can.  Just wish the wind would not be so chilly.
The tulips and daffodils I've seen are doing so well and are so pretty.  Hopefully the other plants and flowers will start to show signs of growing....if the frost stays away.
        Hope you all enjoyed your Mother's Day with family and friends.  Always nice to celebrate "special" days.
        Congratulations to Clair Johnson II as a lucky turkey hunter.  Got his bird on Saturday morning.
        Jeff and Stacey Olsen, Edgewater, NJ, spent the holiday weekend at their home on Main Street.
        Mother Magdalena and Mother Galina, Orthodox Monastery, Ellwood City, are enjoying a relaxing week at St. Nicholas House on Church Street.   They like the quiet and enjoy taking walks and going to the creek.
        St. Vladimir's Church has perogies for sale.  To order yours, please call 928-8557 or 928-9242.
        Lopez kids.....if you'd like to take part in the up-coming Memorial Day parade, please call Mr. Marek at 928-8654.  No bikes are allowed, but you can pull a wagon or push a stroller, or just walk.    It's a nice, patriotic way to spend the day.  Kids will be treated to hamburgs, hot dogs and soda after the Parade, at the Pavilion.  The Parade is on Memorial Day, the 30th, at 10 a.m.    Please call Mr. Marek if you're interested.
        Don't forget the Flea Market is coming up on Saturday, 18 June, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the Pavilion.  Tables are first-come, first-served.  There are also small pavilions that may be used for the sale of your items.   Food will be available.  Clean out your attic, basement and garage and come to the Flea Market.
        On Sunday, the 29th, St. Vladimir's Church is holding a Halupki dinner at the Church Hall in Lopez.  It will be from Noon to 3 p.m.  Cost is $8.00 per person.  Take-outs are also available.   For information or if you have questions, please call 928-8557 or 928-9242.
        Our Memorial Day speaker will be US Navy (Ret.) Master Chief Bryan Brady.  Ceremonies will be held at 10 a.m. in Lopez Park, on the 30th.  Hope to see you there.
        HINT:  "If you can't fix it with a hammer, you've got an electrical problem."  (That's just a "cutie".)
        HINT:  "Wrap celery in aluminum foil when putting it in the refrigerator.  It will keep for weeks."
        Some birthday wishes to send out.   Happy Birthday to Cory McDonald and John McDonald who both celebrate on the 15th; Marian Hubiak and Steve Gulich, Sr., both on the 19th.  Hope you all have a super day.
        Next Civic meeting will be held on MONDAY, the 16th, 7 p.m. at the Pavilion.  Note change in day.  Renewals and new memberships being taken by Molly Johnson.
        Don't forget that Election Day is coming up on Tuesday, the 17th.  It's your right to get out and vote.  Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., so make time during your busy day to do just that.
        Guess that's about it for this time.  Enjoy your week.  The weather should be quite nice.   Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

May 4, 2011  

      Still having on and off rain, but Saturday and Sunday were quite nice.  I'll take a lot more of those "dry, warm, sunny" days.   The grass sure is growing now, but the ground sure is soggy, so hard to mow until it dries a little more.
        Congratulations to 3rd Period Honor Roll students Devon DeSanto, Kassicy Brown, James Deemer, and Elizabeth Kapler.  Keep up the good work.
        Got the following e-mail to share:   Over the Easter weekend the WHOLE gang was in Lopez at the Neufer Family Homestead to celebrate.  Lots of food, family and fun!!  Grandma's house was bursting at seams..... the way she used to loved it!
        This from Alex Stavisky down there in sunny Florida:  "I really like the idea of the kids decorating their bikes for the Memorial Day parade.  It will look like the "Old Days".
        So, kids, get your bikes out and get them decorated for the Memorial Day Parade.  If you are interested in taking part, either on your bike, in a wagon, pushing a stroller, please contact Mr. Ferdie Marek at 928-9238 and let him know.
        Harry Latch and friends, James and Elton, St. George's, DE, spent a few days at the Fanning home on Church Street.  They were here to do some turkey hunting.  They did see the bear one day; said about 300 pounds, and he did take down a couple of the bird feeders that were hanging on the back picture window, pretty high off the ground.
        Don't forget.............mark your calendar.  Saturday, 18 June, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. will be the Civic Association annual Flea Market, at the Pavilion.  Tables are first-come, first-served.   Food will be available.  Get your attics, basements and garages cleaned out and come to the Flea Market.  You would probably have something that someone else would want to take off your hands.   Hope to see you there.   Any questions, contact me at the info below.
        Congratulations to Ashley Heidin, daughter of Chris and Michele Craig, Middletown, PA, and granddaughter of Jim and Barbara Craig, Media and Lopez.   Ashley is graduating from Neumann University, Aston, PA, with a BSN in Nursing.  She is doing her clinical work at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia.  She was inducted into National Honor Society Sigma, Theta, Tau.  Ashley spent many summer vacations here in Lopez.  We wish her good luck in her future.
        HINT:  "If you find the tops are sticking to your tubes of glue, try rubbing a little petroleum jelly around the rim.  This works on paint can lids, also."
        HINT:  For easy deviled eggs:  "Put cooked egg yolks in a zip lock bag.  Seal; mash until they are all broken up.  Add remainder of your ingredients and reseal.  Keep mashing it up mixing thoroughly.  Cut the tip of the baggy and squeeze mixture into the egg halves.  Just throw the bag away when done -- easy clean-up."
        Happy Birthday wishes to Elizabeth Spinosa, 10th.  Hope you have a nice day.
        Happy Anniversary to Steve and Julann (Popso) Rice as they celebrate on the 12th.  Many more happy years.

April 27, 2011

        Hope you all had a really nice Easter, even with the rain showers.  From the last report, it's to shower on and off all week long.  Makes it tough to get anything done with yard work, flower beds or gardens.  I think we've had enough rain to last for quite some time.  We can be thankful it's not snow or tornadoes, like other places are getting hit with.
The kids didn't get much Easter vacation, having to go the week they were to be off to make up snow days.  That was a bummer.
        Joe and Diane Fanning, Landenberg, spent last week at their home on Church Street.  Some friends visited one day while they were here.
        Jim and Barbara Craig, Media, are spending a few days at their home on Church

Street and enjoying some of the nice weather.
        Many family members gathered at the home of Mrs. Irene Huray to enjoy Easter dinner and visiting.

        There will be an internment service for Kitty Maximiak on Saturday, 7 May, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Vladimir's Cemetery.
        Lopez kids...........if you'd like to march in the Memorial Day Parade, either riding your bike, walking, pulling a wagon, pushing a stroller, please call Mr. Ferdie Marek at 928-8654 and let him know.   Would be a nice way to celebrate the day.
        The annual Civic Association flea market will be held on Saturday, 18 June, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Tables are first-come, first-served.  So, get your attics, basements and garages cleaned out and set up at the flea market.  Your "junk" is always someone else's "treasure".  There will be food available for sale.  Hope to see you there.  Any questions, contact me at the info below.
        Sympathy from the community to the Stewart family, Dutch Mountain Rd. on the passing of Mr. Stewart on the 15th.  Funeral was held on the 25th, with burial at St. Francis Cemetery, Mildred.  He was such a pleasant person to know and will be missed.
        Someone sent me the following, via e-mail, so thought I'd share.  I've gotten it a few times, so must be worth telling you about.
        HINT:  "Once I was cooking some corn and stuck my fork in the boiling water to see if the corn was ready. I missed and my hand went into the boiling water....A friend of mine, who was a Vietnam vet, came into the house, just as I was screaming, and asked me if I had some plain old flour...I pulled out a bag and he stuck my hand in it. He said to keep my hand in the flour for 10 minutes,  which I did. He said that in Vietnam this guy was on fire and in their panic, they threw a bag of flour all over him to put the fire out...well, it not only put the fire out, but he never even had a blister!!!!    SOOOO, long story short, I put my hand in the bag of flour for 10 minutes, pulled it out and had not even a red mark or a blister and absolutely NO PAIN.  Now, I keep a bag of flour in the fridge and every time I burn myself, I use the flour and never ONCE have I ever had a red spot, a burn or a blister!    COLD FLOUR feels even better than room temperature flour.   Miracle, if you ask me. Keep a bag of white flour in your fridge and you will be happy you did. I even burnt my tongue and put the flour on it for about 10 minutes and the pain was gone and no burn. Try it!   BTW, don't run your burn area under cold water first, just put it right into the flour for 10 minutes and experience a miracle!"
        Happy Birthday to Paige and Klyer Burke (8), on May 1st; JoAnn Day, 2nd; and Ryan Dempsey (20), 7th.  Hope you all have a great day.
        Next Civic meeting will be on MONDAY, 16 May, 7 p.m. at the Pavilion.
        Get out and vote for the person/s of your choice on Tuesday, 17 May.  If you don't vote, don't complain if the person you hoped to get into office doesn't make it.  All votes count, and yours is one of them.   The polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
        That's the news for this time.  Enjoy your week, between the showers and thunder storms.  Have news, call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.
 

April 20, 2011 

       Geez................are we ever going to have a couple of days of nice weather.  We get one day that is great.  Then, we get heavy rain, a lot of wind and just "yukky" conditions.  Sure am waiting for some nice warm, sunny days for a change.   The weekend weather wasn't nice at all.  Even the trout fishermen said it was cold and not so good.
        Don't forget, Saturday, the 23rd, is the Easter egg hunt at the Mildred American Legion at 1 p.m.  Should be fun.
        Sympathy from the community to the Bill Woodford family on the passing of their daughter, Roxanne, on the 12th.   Funeral was held on Friday, the 15th.  They live in Windsor, NY, but have a home on Main Street and spend lots of summer time here.
        B's gang also sends sympathy to the family on their loss.  She will be missed.
        Memorial Day will be coming up the end of next month.  Kids......here's something for you to think about.  It would be nice if the town kids would get together, decorate their bikes and ride in the Memorial Day parade.  See what you think and make it happen.
        I see folks are starting or trying to get their yard work done and get some garden in.  Have to work between the rain storms.  At least it isn't snow..................yet.
        Happy Birthday wishes to Vic Gulick, 24th; Katherine Kapler, 25th; Mickie Mowery, 26th; David Spinosa and Jack Walsh, both on the 28th; and  Ken Kline and Abby Matychak (3), both on the 30th.  Hope you all have a nice day.
        Happy Anniversary to Mr. and Mrs. Frank Baines as they celebrate 45 years on the 30th.  Many of you remember Frank when he brought the mail from Wilkes-Barre to Lopez, Mildred, Dushore and Laporte Post Offices.     Hope you have a great day.  I keep in touch with them.  When I get to Forty Fort, I sometimes give them a call to see how things are going, now that he's "retired".
        Summer time coming (I hope) and here's something to try.   Hope it works.
        HINT:  "This clean up trick works while you sleep.  Lay a barbecue grill rack on the lawn overnight -- the dew will combine with the enzymes in the grass to loosen any burned-on grease.  Try it with messy oven racks, too."
        Time to wash the windows, so here's another.
        HINT:  "To make your own cleaning solution for windows that's easy and less expensive than commercial solutions, add 1/2 cup rubbing alcohol to 1 quart water.  Either use it in a pail or pour it into an empty spray bottle."     Check it out.
        Guess that's the news for now.  Enjoy your week.  I think Thursday is to be the nicest day, so get out and find something to do.  Have news, call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll put it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

April 13, 2011

        What a nice Monday morning as I sit and type my news.  The sun is out, the birds are singing and it's just great.  Rain is predicted for later, but I'll take this nice weather while I can.   However, I couldn't believe last Monday coming from the mail when I saw about six geese going South.  They must have been fed up with the cold, snowy weather too.  On Tuesday, we started as rain and it had to change to snow..........what a mess, but cleared up pretty fast.  I sure hope we're done with the snow and cold.
        A reminder to mark your calendar for Thursday, the 28th, for the Senior Center Without Walls program in Mildred.  A representative from Trehab will be giving a short presentation on Trehab services, including a review of the application process and eligibility requirements, followed by a question and answer session.  Marlea Hoyt, Deputy Director, will give a short, informational program on the Area on Aging and the services offered through their numerous programs.  Mark Roinick, Director of Human Services, Housing Authority and Veterans Affairs, will also be giving a presentation on resources available to Sullivan County veterans.  The lunch menu for the day includes breaded chicken thigh, Spanish rice, mixed vegetables, Hawaiian cole slaw, white bread and vanilla pudding.  Reservations are required for this even and must be made by 11 a.m. on Wednesday, the 27th, by calling 1-800-822-6793.  There is never any cost to attend a Senior Center Without Walls event.  However, donations are accepted and appreciated.
        It's getting warmer weather so here's a HINT:  "If you can't sleep because a cricket's come calling, here's a sure cure.  Put a wet washcloth in your kitchen or bathroom sink at night, and you'll find your noisy "neighbor" hiding there in the morning."   Then, you can get rid of him, if you wish.  One of my friends told me she'd never kill a cricket.  She had one in her house for months.  She said they bring good luck.
        Happy Birthday to Carole (Fedorchak) Underwood and Pat Burd, both on the 17th; Roseanne Lukachik and our friend, Tom Beck, both on the 18th; Holly Ann Sperry (4), 20th; and Jon-Paul Matychak, 23rd.  Hope you all have a nice day.
        Happy Anniversary to John and JoAnn McDonald (45), 16th; and Vince and Ruth Yudzeky (53), 19th.  Have a good day.
        Next Civic meeting, MONDAY, the 18th, 7 p.m., at the Pavilion.  Memberships still being taken by Molly Johnson.  Note change of day.
        That's about it.  Not much yet, but with the nicer weather coming, I'm sure we'll start to see more folks coming to their summer homes and cabins.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll put it in for you.  Enjoy your week.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

April 6, 2011

        Wasn't a bad weekend, finally.  Supposed to warm up during the week, even though there are some showers on the way.  Maybe we'll start to see the crocuses and other flowers poking through the ground.  But.......who knows; we may even get more snow, but I sure hope not.   Don't know how the fishermen did.  I didn't even know it was trout season until I saw them mentioning it on TV.  You can tell I'm not a fisherman or a hunter, so don't know these things.
        Mildred American Legion will hold their Easter egg hunt on Easter Saturday on the Legion grounds.  This will be at 1 p.m.
        Joe and Diane Fanning, Landenberg, and her cousin, Charlotte Grant, Bear DE, spent a few days at their home on Church Street.  The weather really didn't cooperate while they were here.  Had more snow and was cold and windy.
        Mother Paula and Sister Mary, Orthodox Monastery, Ellwood City, spent a few days at the Matychak home on Church Street.  They enjoyed their time here and like to take long walks and visit with neighbors and friends.
        Civic Association meeting will be held on MONDAY, 18 April, 7 p.m. at the Pavilion.  Note change of day.  Memberships still being taken by Molly Johnson.
        Happy Birthday to Jaron Williams, 11th; Joyce Walsh, 13th; and Kristin Iwancio, 15th.  Hope you all have a nice day.
        The Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna and Tioga County Area Agency on Aging Community Education Program will hold three Social Networking classes at Sullivan County High School on April 25, 26 and 27.  The classes will begin at 6:00 p.m.
        This class is free to adults age 60 and older and will include an overview of social networking and the various types (such as Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, etc.), purpose, and instruction on use.  Those interested in participating in this class should be familiar with Windows operating system and a web browser such as Internet Explorer.
        Class size is limited so registration is required.  For more information or to register for this class, please call the Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-982-4346 by April 18.
        The B/S/S/T Area Agency on Aging is funded in part by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging and the Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna and Tioga County Commissioners.  For more information on the senior centers in your community or any of the events listed above, please contact the Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-982-4346 or visit www.aaaseniors.org.
        HINT:  "To reduce cat hair around the house, gently run a damp paper towel over your call, frequently.  It collects both dirt and hair."
        HINT:  "To remove candle wax from carpeting, place a brown paper bag over the wax and gently run a warm iron over the bag."
        If you have a hint you want to let folks know about, please send it along to me and I'll put it in.
        Guess that's the news for now.  Enjoy your week, whatever your plans.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll put your item in.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

March 30, 2011

        WOW!!   Some pretty cool weather over the weekend.  Friday morning was only FIVE degrees; Saturday morning was only ONE degree.  Didn't warm up very much during the day either.   Last I heard, we are to get some more "junk" on Wednesday and then again on Friday.  Will it ever end???   Everyone is ready for a change in the weather.
        Mr. Bear was around again on Sunday evening.  Got a couple of the neighbor's feeders.  He already got ours, so we have none out.  Too cold for him even to be out and about.  Should still be in hibernation.
        Not much news for this week.  Guess everyone is staying near the fire to keep warm.  Sure can't do any kind of yard work with all the snow and ice still around.  Sure doesn't seem like March is going out like a lamb.
        Let's see what kind of hints I've got for this time.
        HINT:  "The next time a plastic bread wrapper melts onto the toaster or coffee pot, try this.  Rub some petroleum jelly on the spot, reheat the appliance and use a paper towel to rub off the plastic and printing."
        HINT:  "Use the caps from plastic liter soda bottles as coasters on your porch furniture.  The caps fit nicely and can be replaced whenever you finish another bottle of soda.  The caps help protect both the furniture and the porch floor."
        B's gang sends HAPPY BIRTHDAY wishes to Tim Higley for April 1st.  Guess what day that is!!   Have a great day.
        Happy Birthday to Fr Gary Matychak, April 5th; and Shawn Pequignot, 6th.  Have a nice day.
        Happy Anniversary to Julio and Mary (Maximiak) Santiago as they celebrate 6 years on April 5th.  Also, to Bill and Rhonda Stasiak for 27 years on the 6th.  Congratulations and celebrate.
        Don't forget, the Civic Association will meet on MONDAY, the 18th, 7 p.m. at the Pavilion.  Note change of day.  Memberships still being taken by Molly Johnson.
        Guess that's about it.  Enjoy these really cold and windy days.  It just has to warm up eventually.  Have news, call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

March 30, 2011

        WOW!!   Some pretty cool weather over the weekend.  Friday morning was only FIVE degrees; Saturday morning was only ONE degree.  Didn't warm up very much during the day either.   Last I heard, we are to get some more "junk" on Wednesday and then again on Friday.  Will it ever end???   Everyone is ready for a change in the weather.
        Mr. Bear was around again on Sunday evening.  Got a couple of the neighbor's feeders.  He already got ours, so we have none out.  Too cold for him even to be out and about.  Should still be in hibernation.
        Not much news for this week.  Guess everyone is staying near the fire to keep warm.  Sure can't do any kind of yard work with all the snow and ice still around.  Sure doesn't seem like March is going out like a lamb.
        Let's see what kind of hints I've got for this time.
        HINT:  "The next time a plastic bread wrapper melts onto the toaster or coffee pot, try this.  Rub some petroleum jelly on the spot, reheat the appliance and use a paper towel to rub off the plastic and printing."
        HINT:  "Use the caps from plastic liter soda bottles as coasters on your porch furniture.  The caps fit nicely and can be replaced whenever you finish another bottle of soda.  The caps help protect both the furniture and the porch floor."
        B's gang sends HAPPY BIRTHDAY wishes to Tim Higley for April 1st.  Guess what day that is!!   Have a great day.
        Happy Birthday to Fr Gary Matychak, April 5th; and Shawn Pequignot, 6th.  Have a nice day.
        Happy Anniversary to Julio and Mary (Maximiak) Santiago as they celebrate 6 years on April 5th.  Also, to Bill and Rhonda Stasiak for 27 years on the 6th.  Congratulations and celebrate.
        Don't forget, the Civic Association will meet on MONDAY, the 18th, 7 p.m. at the Pavilion.  Note change of day.  Memberships still being taken by Molly Johnson.
        Guess that's about it.  Enjoy these really cold and windy days.  It just has to warm up eventually.  Have news, call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

March 23, 2011

        We didn't have too bad of a weekend.  Saturday was a bit cooler than Sunday, but bearable.  Monday morning we woke up to slushy, snowy mess, but didn't last long.  Couple of nice days, but still another storm on the horizon, with "plowable" snow, from what I heard.  Hope they're wrong........again.  I'm sure ready for Spring.
        I finally saw a couple of robins last Friday in the yard and have seen many since then.  Someone told me they saw a bluebird at their house, so that sounds good too.  I also saw many more flocks of geese coming back.  But, the groundhog was still wrong, 'cause we didn't get early Spring.  I think March came in like a lion and it almost seems like it's going out the same way.  Then...........it's on to much nicer weather.
        Mother Barbara, Orthodox Monastery, Ellwood City, spent a few days at the Matychak home on Church Street.
        Don't forget, our first Civic Association of 2011 will be on MONDAY, 18 April, 7 p.m. at the Pavilion.  For those of you who haven't paid your membership for the New Year, please see Molly Johnson.  She's also taking new memberships.
        Happy Birthday wishes to Aaron Kinsey, 21st; and Heather McDonald, 30th.  Hope you have a nice day.
          HINT:  "Dry clean" your dog during the winter months by rubbing baking soda into its fur.  Brush out with an old hairbrush."
           HINT:  "Cut corners from used envelopes make great bookmarks.  They just slip over the page you wish to mark."
        Don't forget this weekend, 26th and 27th is the annual Che-Hanna Gem and Mineral Show, held at Athens Township Volunteer Fire Hall, Sayre, PA.  Lots of things to see, so hope to see you there.  Any questions, please feel free to call Bob at 570-928-9238.
        Hopefully the ground will dry up some so folks can start to plan their gardens and flower beds.   That would really be nice.
        That's the news for this time.  Enjoy your week, take the "good" with the "bad".  Have news, call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.   I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

FLASH!!!! Tuesday night we got another 10 inch snow fall:

Is summer on its way yet???????????

March 16, 1011

      What a rain storm again on Thursday.  Made for flooding...........again...............and tough job for lots of folks.  Will this crazy weather ever end?  Hope so and soon.  I think everyone is really ready for warm, sunny weather.
      David and Carole (Fedorchak) Underwood, Melbourne, FL, met at Denny's for breakfast with Alex and Ginny Stavisky, Palm Bay, FL.  Alex is getting ready for his next boat trip and we wish him good luck and safe trip.
      B's gang says "Happy belated birthday" to Bob McGuire on the 13th.  He was treated to pizza and ice cream at Putt's Pizza by Brian McGuire.  Marty Slocum, New Albany, was there to help celebrate.
      B's gang says Happy Birthday to Lori Higley who celebrates on the 19th.  Hope it's a nice day.
      Not too much going on right now.  Guess everyone is waiting for nicer weather before they make the trip.  Some folks are looking at catalogs, trying to decide what to put in their gardens.
      The 2011 Civic meetings will start in April.  First meeting will be MONDAY, the 18th.  Mark your calendar now.  Note change of day.  Memberships still being taken by Molly Johnson.  See her to get yours.
      The Che-Hanna Rock & Mineral Club is holding their 42nd annual gem show on Saturday and Sunday, 26 & 27 March.  This will be held at Athens Township Vol. Fire Hall, Sayre.  Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.   Special exhibit and silent auction by Carnegie Museum; fossil exhibit by PRI; fossil ID by Bill Klose; demos of cabochon making, geode cutting, and faceting; fluorescent mineral programs by UV BOB; exhibits of minerals, gems, and Indian artifacts; many dealers with minerals, gemstones, fossils, jewelry and hobby supplies.  There are also door prizes and there will be food available.  Hope to see you there.
      HINT:  "If you're stung by a bee, apply a slice of onion to the spot and hold it there for a minute or two.  It does the trick!"   Guess it works, but it must stink.
      HINT:  "To get a smoother shave, after showering, soak the head of your razor in some baby oil for a few minutes to keep the blade rust free."   (This, of course, is not for an electric razor.)
      I guess that's about all for this week.  Enjoy your week and hope it'll be warm and sunny.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  Thanks for reading and I'll be here next time.

March 9, 2011

      Did we get a storm or what!!!  What a blizzard we had on Sunday night, into Monday morning.  The wind was brutal.  We had hardly any snow on the ground.  It rained pretty good on Sunday, with the creek almost going over its bank; changed to sleet; changed to snow and did it come down.  I think we got between fifteen and twenty inches.  It's hard to get a good measurement as the wind blew it around so much.    There are three foot drifts in spots.   It's a heavy snow and no fun to shovel.  The sun looks nice, but the wind is still raw.   So, I think the Groundhog was really wrong.  I think the geese want to turn around and go back South.  I haven't seen any robins yet, but I know there are reports of them around.  They sure won't see the ground to get any food.  I saw many, many flocks of geese last weekend and this weekend.  I thought they knew something, but now I'm not so sure.   Well...................look on the bright side................it has to get better.
      Sympathy from the community to the family, relatives and friends of Mrs. Theresa Kulsicavage who passed away on Sunday.  Funeral was Wednesday at St. Vladimir's Church, with burial in the Parish cemetery.
      DON'T FORGET TO TURN YOUR CLOCKS AHEAD ON SUNDAY, THE 13th.  Maybe that will bring us some nicer weather.
      HINT:  "It's easy to read a rain gauge if you put a few drops of food coloring in the tube.  Even if the colored water dries up, there is enough residue to help read the next rainfall."   Could have used one of them on Sunday.
      HINT:  "Place some nonslip strips, normally used in bathtubs, on painted porch steps to give your family and visitors nonslip safety in wet weather."    That's a good one, with all the wet weather we've been having.
      Some birthdays are coming up.  Happy Birthday to Bob McGuire, 13th; Elizabeth Weisbrod, 14th; and our good friend, Lori Higley, 19th.   Hope you all have a great day.
      I bet the snowmobilers and skiers are happy with this new snow fall.  Will give them a little more time to enjoy the winter.   For me, I'll be glad to see sunshine and warmth and no snow.
      Not much to report this time.  Enjoy your week; there's something for you to do.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

March 2, 2011

      Well, we had a pretty nice Sunday for a change.  Sounds like most of the week is to be pretty nice.  Let's just hope March will have no major storms and warm up nicely.  I did hear Noreen Clark mention that we can get blizzards in March, but we're not going to let that happen.
      Sr. Martha and Mother Barbara, Orthodox Monastery, Ellwood City, were in to spent a couple of days with Mother Christophora at the Matychak home on Church Street.  Was a little stormy, but they had an enjoyable time.
      Sr. Ella Mae McDonald, Trenton, NJ, spent some time here recently with her brother, Leo McDonald, Turrell Street, and visited her brother, John and JoAnn McDonald on Main Street.
      Sympathy from the community to the family and many friends of Dick Bradshaw who passed away last Thursday, the 24th.  He had a home on Church Street and spent so many enjoyable times here, fixing the house, going hunting and fishing.  He will be missed by all who knew him.
      Mr. and Mrs. Dan Kulsicavage, Mt. Pleasant, SC, spent some time here visiting his mother, Mrs. Theresa Kulsicavage who is a patient at Robert Packer Hospital.  I'm sure she would appreciate some cards of cheer.  Her Room is 841 and the address is Sayre, PA  18840.  Hope to hear she's much improved and home soon.
      I see the Tamburro home on Church Street was occupied over the weekend.  Snowmobiling was the main activity while they were here.
      Joe and Diane (Charnik) Fanning, Landenberg, spent a Wednesday to Monday at their home on Church Street.   Diane told me down home they are seeing the daffodils and crocuses trying to push up through the ground.  Maybe that's a good sign.
    Alex Stavisky, Palm Bay, FL, received the 2010 "Cruisers Sailing Award" from both the Melbourne Yacht Club and the Malabar Mariners Association.
He said, "It's nice to be recognized by some top sailors down here."
The "Norma Jeane" is ready to go again in mid-March for a run to the Tortugas.  Don't know exactly where that is, but hope he has a good trip and congratulations on your awards.

      March will be upon us very shortly and that means that "Spring" is just around the corner, if you can believe it.  Hopefully the snow will be melting and we'll start to see the grass and maybe even a robin or two.
      HINT:  "Rub shaving cream on your bathroom mirror, then wipe clean to keep it from fogging up for as long as two weeks."
      HINT:  "Instead of toilet cleaner, sprinkle the sides of the toilet bowl with a few teaspoons of Tang, or drop in a couple of denture-cleaning tablets, or a cup of white vinegar.  Let the remedy sit for 10 minutes, then brush and flush."   See, multi-purpose for Tang, denture tablets and vinegar.   Try it, see if one of them does work.
      Some birthdays are coming up.  Happy Birthday to Anthony Sneidar III (18), March 1st; Keene Vinetelli, 5th; Lynn Spence, 7th; Janelle Day, 9th; John Harvey and Ruby Malkemes (3), both on the 10th; and Monte Gulich, 11th.  Hope you all have a nice day.
      Guess that's about it for now.  Have a great week.  There's always something to do.  It's going to be nice, so get out and take advantage of the sunshine for three or four days.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

February 23, 2011

      Well, are you shoveled out from the storm Sunday night into Monday morning?  We got 9-10 inches of snow with this last storm.  It was predicted and this time they were right.  After those couple of nice days and the snow and ice were almost gone, we get this blast of winter weather.  At least schools, banks, post offices, etc. were closed so some folks didn't have to worry about getting out.  Just stayed home and did lots of shoveling.   Another storm is predicted for Friday from the last report I heard.   Hopefully, they will be over soon and we'll get nicer days to stay.
      Tony, Patti and Anthony Sneidar; Tony's sister, Mimi; Patti's cousin, Denine; and Anthony's friend, Beth, all from Philly area, spent a really cold weekend at the Sneidar home on Church Street.  All had a good time, despite the weather.
      Rev Mother Christophora, Orthodox Monastery, Ellwood City, is spending some time at the Matychak home on Church Street.  Said she'll probably be doing some shoveling while she's here.
      Marty Whatley and his son, Philadelphia, spent the weekend at their home on Route 487.
      Not a lot of news to report this week.  While traveling out past Lake Jean on Friday, I couldn't believe how many guys were still on the Lake ice fishing.  I thought with the warmer temperatures, it wouldn't be that solid.  You could see water areas.  Sure wouldn't get me out there.
      HINT:  "Instead of baking soda, try a charcoal briquette to absorb odors inside your fridge and freezer."
      HINT:  "Instead of microfiber cloths on glass surfaces, try coffee filters.  They're lint free."
Try these hints and see if they work for you.
      Guess that's about it for this time.  February will soon be gone and we'll be in to March.  Sounds good to me.  Means that Spring is on the way.  Enjoy your week, whatever your plans.  I'm sure there will be something to interest you.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

February 16, 2011

      Finally had a nice weekend for a change.  Sunday was near perfect.  Wish it would stay with the higher, warmer temperatures.  Supposed to really "warm" up later in the week.  We'll see if it does, or they change the report middle of the week.   Who knows, maybe "Phil" was right and we'll get our early Spring.  We did have a mini blizzard on Saturday around Noon.  Could barely see up or down the road.  Only lasted about fifteen minutes, but did cover the roads.  When it was over, the sun came out and you'd never know we had a "white out" earlier.
      Congratulations to those on the Honor Roll.  Distinguished Honors to Devon DeSanto.  Honor Roll was Kassidy Brown and Nick DeSanto.   Also, congratulations to Trevor Kinsey for being selected Student of the Month at Turnpike.   Good job, kids.
      Frank Romania was in from Michigan for a week to enjoy some snowmobiling around the area.
      Hope you all had a pleasant Valentine's Day with your loved ones.
      I hope many of you had the opportunity to take part in the Polar Bear Plunge and activities on Saturday at Camp Brule.    There will be more activities coming up in the County so watch the Sully for those.  I'm not sure if the toboggan slide is still running or not.  Might get too warm for the up-coming weekend.
    Gary, Jill, Cory and Sara Eckhardt of Pen Argyl, Pa. spent the weekend at the Neufer Family homestead.  Went to the toboggan run in Eagles Mere on Saturday, got in two runs and met some nice people in line.  Did some sleigh riding in Lopez on "Grandma's Hill" and had a great time!!

      Some birthday wishes to go out.  Happy Birthday to Clair Johnson II, 20th; Chloe Burke and Jim Spence,  21st; Armond Spinosa will be 3 on the 22nd; Ray Barber and Jacob Williams, 23rd; Bob McGuire, Jr., 26th; and John Borick, 29th (which we don't have this year), but Happy Birthday anyway.  Hope you all have a great day.
      HINT:  "Pan pointers:  shiny aluminum pans are best for cake baking because they reflect heat away from the cake and produce a tender, light brown crust."
      HINT:  "Pour a cup of white vinegar in the toilet bowl.  Let sit a few minutes.  A quick swish with the brush is all it takes for a sparkling shine."
      Guess that's about it.  Waiting for the warm weather to see folks out and about.  Enjoy your week no matter what you do.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

February 9, 2011

      Had some really cold, icy weather.  As I'm typing my news today (Mon.), it's sunny and warm and snow is melting.  But, it's melting just in time for a freeze coming the next couple of days, so we'll have ice again.  Makes it really hard to get around.  Snow's not too bad as long as we don't get buried in it.  Looks like other than a couple cold mornings, the weather is to be pretty nice and that sounds good.
      Last Friday someone said they spotted a bear while walking on back alley road.  They were pretty sure and saw it go down in Paul Snider's yard.   If the weather is nice, the male will go out and about, so may have been him on one of his "treks".
      Don't forget this weekend is the Polar Bear Plunge and other activities at Camp Brule.  If you get a chance, stop by and see what's going on.  Should be lots of fun.
      Thanks, Elaine, for the comment on the "tips" section.  I will do as you request and make it better by saying "HINTS" in all caps.  Will be easier to spot.
      Valentine's Day is coming up and hope all of you share some time with your special someone.       With the nicer weather part of the day, I see folks out and about to enjoy.  When it gets cold and very windy, they stay inside where's it's nice and warm and just look out.   Pretty soon we should have all nice days and be done with this crazy winter.
      For those of you who watched the Super Bowl, I hope your team won.  I'm not into football; just saw on the news a little about who won.  Too bad about the Stadium being damaged just before the game and those 400 people who so looked forward to being there having their tickets returned.
      HINTS for this time:  "Soak cider vinegar on half a paper towel and put on burns on your hands and arms.  Hold for a few minutes."   This is an old WWI remedy.  Does work as this lady's uncle was a butcher and used it when making scrapple.  The scrapple would bubble up and he would get burned.  The vinegar puts acid back into the skin's surface and avoids a blister most of the time.
      "When hanging a picture, heat the nail with a flame before driving it into the wall.  You won't crack or chip the plaster."
      Guess that's all to report this time.  Get out and enjoy whatever you plan to do.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.  I've received a bunch of good Hints to share in up-coming issues.

February  2,  2011

      Sunday sure was a perfect day to be out and about.  Was warm, sunny and no wind for a change.  From reports I've heard, the groundhog IS NOT supposed to see his shadow on the 2nd of February so that means, "Spring is around the corner".  Let's see if that's true.  Prediction is another "significant" storm coming in the next few days.  That also may pass us.  Just have to wait and see how it tracks.  I'd go for it passing us and that Spring is on the way.  I think everyone is getting very tired of the cold weather, the wind, and the snow, even though we haven't had all that much so far.
      Tom Beck, Sunbury, and his friend, Barb Dugan, Watsontown, visited Bob and JoAnn McGuire last Friday.  On the way here, the spotted a robin down in the Muncy Valley area.  Also saw a buck and two doe on top of the hill before coming down into Lopez.  Hope that robin means something.
      Joe and Diane Fanning and their dog, Molly, Landenberg, and granddaughter, Haley Latch, St. Georges, DE, spent a few days at their home here.  Had a lot of snow so Haley and Molly enjoyed being out and playing in it.   Joe and Diane did a lot of plowing and shoveling snow while they were here.
      Congratulations to Michael and Jen Evans, Mechanicsburg, on the birth of their second baby.  A son, Owen Michael was born on 27 January 2010 in a Harrisburg hospital, weighing in at 9 lbs.  He joins a sister, Mya, at home.  Proud grandparents are Fr. Michael and Sonya Evans, Mt. Carmel.  Fr. Evans was a priest at one time here at St. Vladimir's Church.  Have fun with the new addition to the family.
      Here's my tip for the week:  "How to make mirrors sparkle....instead of spraying the mirror, spray a clean, lintless cloth with the window cleaner.  Wipe down the mirror.  To avoid streaks, dry immediately with another clean, lintless cloth------an old t-shirt will do fine."
      Some birthdays that are coming up.  Happy Birthday to Tiffany Popso, 7th; Alex Aharonian and Theresa Kulsicavage, both on the 11th; Lisa Williams, 13th; Krystal (Stasiak) Vermeire and Tom Van Dyke, both on the 14th, which is Valentine's Day.  Hope you all have a great day.
      I guess there are many who are enjoying the Eagles Mere toboggan slide this year.  Weather has sure been cold enough.   There are other activities that are coming up in Sullivan County, so watch the Sullivan Review to find out what, where and when.       Guess that's about it for this time.  Enjoy your week, whatever you plan to do.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

January 26, 2011

      WOW!!!!    Didn't we have some COLD temperatures over the weekend.  It was minus 17 on Saturday; minus 18 on Sunday; and minus 24 on Monday morning.  The sun did come out and looked pretty nice, but it was bitter cold to be outside.  Furnaces are sure running over-time during this cold spell.  Don't know how outside workers manage in this kind of weather.  The week is to be a little better, with another cold blast coming in over the weekend.  Predictions of snow keep changing, so guess we just have to take it day by day and see what we get.
      Get well wishes to David Spinosa, son-in-law of Carole (Fedorchak) Underwood, Melbourne, FL, as he had the misfortune to seriously cut his leg that took fifty stitches to close up.   His wife, Kari, has also been under the weather, so get well to her too.
      David and Carole (Fedorchak) Underwood, Melbourne, FL, and Alex and Ginny Stavisky, Palm Bay, FL, enjoyed breakfast recently at the Morning Star Cafe.
      With it being so cold, I guess not too many are venturing out to spend time here.  I know the Eagles Mere toboggan slide is open and saw on TV that many folks enjoyed that over the weekend.
Heather and Kaeleigh McDonald took advantage of the "packy" snow last week and made a big snowman.  It was nice that day, but real cold after that.       Rev Mother Christophora, Ellwood City, and Mother Innes, Guatemala, are spending some time at the Matychak home on Church Street.  Hopefully, the weather will be nice for them while they are here.
      Not too much to report this week, so I'll give you a couple tips.  Here's one:  "Candles should be kept in a dark, cool, dry place.  Light can cause the color to fade, heat can cause the candle to warp and moisture can make the wick difficult to light."   I think that's very true as I had some that did just that.    Another tip:  "Tomatoes should always be kept at room temperature.  In a large shallow ceramic bowl they look beautiful on the kitchen counter or even as a centerpiece.  Place under-ripe tomatoes in a sunny spot or in a brown paper bag for a couple of days to ripen.  Check them every day to catch them at the right time."
      We've got some birthdays coming up.  Happy Birthday to Kyra Vinetelli, 1st of February; Tyler McGuire will be 10 on the 2nd; and Helen Amon's special day is the 5th.  Hope you all have a nice day.
      Happy Anniversary to Al and Pat (Romania) Burd as they celebrate 33 years on the 5th.  Have a great day.
      Well, guess that's about it.  Enjoy your week; let's hope it warms up considerable and one can get out and about.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  Thanks for reading and I'll be here next time.   Keep the tips coming.  They are enjoyed by all.

January 19, 2011

      Been pretty cold lately, but not too much snow, which is good, for me at least.  I know the skiers and snowmobilers don't like it.  We'll see what we get the rest of the week.   At least when the sun is out, makes it feel pretty good.
      Jim and Barbara Craig, Media, spent a few days at their home on Church Street over the Martin Luther King Holiday.       I know there must have been some others who were here over the Holiday, but I don't really know who they are.  So, hope you all had an enjoyable time while you were here.
      Congratulations to Cory McDonald for making the Dean's List at Penn Tech in Williamsport for the Fall 2010 semester.  Way to go and keep up the good work!
      I guess it being so cold, most folks are keeping indoors and not doing much traveling.  Maybe when we get some really nice, warm weather, we'll see more folks around.
      Happy Birthday wishes go out to Adel Bradshaw, 20th; Irene Pequignot and Barb Dugan,  22nd; Judy Rattigan, 23rd; Mike Stavisky (Alex's son) down there in warm Florida, 24th; Scott Aharonian and Jennifer Pequignot, 28th; Lisa Burke and Jason Burke, 30th.   That rounds out the month.  Hope you all have a really nice day.
      So, there's not a lot to report this week.  Here are a couple tips for you to consider:  "A mouse trap placed on top of your alarm clock will prevent you from rolling over and going back to sleep after you hit the snooze button."     Here's a better one:   "Whiten linens, white socks and napkins with lemons.  Fill a pot with water, add a few slices of fresh lemon and bring to a boil.  Turn off heat, add linens, socks, and napkins.  Soak up to one hour.  Launder as usual and dry in sunlight."
      Guess that does it.  Enjoy your week, whatever you may do and hope the icy, snowy mix passes us by.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net and I'll put it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.  I enjoy your comments about the column.

January 12, 2011

      Hope you're all enjoying this nice cold, brisk weather.  Let's see if we're going to get a lot of snow Tuesday into Wednesday.  I guess some places South already have been hit pretty hard.  If it passes us, that would be fine with me.
      Sally Coleman is home from the hospital.  The family thanks everyone for the many cards she has received since her illness.  She's doing quite well, but still has a long road of recovery ahead of her.  She's thankful every day that she feels better.  Keep Jerry and Sally in your thoughts and prayers for their continued recovery.  They were so glad to have Matthew home from his schooling in Sweden to help care for them.  He returns to Sweden on the 14th.
      Sympathy from the community to the family, relatives and many, many friends of Mrs. Anna Waldron who passed away on the 6th.  Funeral was on Monday with burial in SS Peter and Paul Cemetery, Lopez.  She will be missed.
      Saturday, the 15th, is the deadline to order the 2011 Lopez mug.  This year will be St. Vladimir's Church.  If interested, please contact Bob McGuire at 570-928-9238 or e-mail at uvbob@epix.net and let him know.
      Mother Magdalena, Orthodox Monastery, Ellwood City, is enjoying the week at the Matychak home on Church Street.  She loves the outdoors and walking around town.
      It seems there are a lot of good uses for cinnamon and honey.   Here's a couple of tips for you to try:  "Indigestion:  cinnamon powder sprinkled on two tablespoons of honey taken before food relieves acidity and digests the heaviest of meals."  "Skin infections:  Applying honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts on the affected parts cures eczema, and all types of skin infections."   Try them and see.
      Some birthday wishes to send out.  Happy Birthday to Craig Germany and John McDonald, Jr., both on the 9th; and David Rice and Crystal Pequignot, both on the 12th.  Have a great day.
      B's gang says happy 16th birthday to Tyler Higley.  Watch out now, he'll be driving before long.  Have a nice day.
      Happy Anniversary to Ted and Linda Beaver as they celebrate on the 12th.  Congrats and lots more.
      Guess that's the news for now.  Get out and enjoy your week, whatever your plans.  May be enough snow on Wednesday to build a snowman.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

JANUARY 5,2011

      HAPPY NEW YEAR to all!!  Let's say it will be better this year.  Hope you had an enjoyable Christmas and Santa was good to you. The weather was in our favor and made it good for those who were traveling.  New Year's was also pretty good.  We've been having some pretty nice weather, but I hear cold and snow is again on the way.
      Merry Christmas to those of you who celebrate Orthodox Christmas on the 7th of January.   Have a nice day.
      Joe and Diane Fanning, Landenberg, and granddaughter, Haley Latch, St. George's DE, spent a few days at their home on Church Street.  Haley doesn't like to go home and wondered already when she could come again.
      Rose Gardner would like to thank everyone for her 93rd birthday wishes and for the surprise she got at Pam's Restaurant while she was there.  She said everyone made her day, wishing her a Happy Birthday, singing and clapping.  Everyone made her feel good, even some strangers who were in the restaurant at the time.
      Sympathy from the community to the Dennis family on the passing of Alberta (Dennis) Halftown who passed away on December 13th.  She enjoyed spending time in Lopez.  Her sister, Linda Santarelli and family spend a lot of time at the family homestead.
      Don't forget, 2011 Lopez mug will be St. Vladimir's Church.  If interested in reserving a mug, please let Bob McGuire know at the info below, to make sure there are enough ordered.
      Sympathy from the community to Paul Snider and family on the passing of his daughter, Tammi, on 29 December.  Funeral was held on the 4th of January with burial in St. Vladimir's Cemetery.
      Bob and JoAnn McGuire spent Christmas Eve with his sister, Lola and Mike Mattie, Forty Fort.  Also there was Michael, Georgia (Mattie), Casey and Mcguire Martin, Swoyersville; Pat Mattie, Dallas; and Brian McGuire.   Christmas Day, Bob, Kim and Tyler McGuire, Harveys Lake, came to town and we all gathered at the home of Brian McGuire and had a nice time.
      Spending time over the Christmas Holiday with John and JoAnne McDonald was their son, John, Gretchen and Aine Lee McDonald, Worthington, MA.  Sr Ella Mae McDonald came in from New Jersey to spend time with the family and stayed with her brother, Leo McDonald.

      Sister Mary, Orthodox Monastery, Ellwood City, enjoyed a few days at the Matychak home last week.  She enjoyed long walks, since the weather was beautiful.  She also spent time at the creek and got some nice pictures.   Joyce Walsh visited with her while she was here.
        Mrs. Irene Huray spent the Christmas Holiday with her daughter, Irene Pequignot, Linden; grandchildren,  Shawn, Crystal, Misty and Dylon Pequignot; Kevin and Alyssa Pequignot; Jennifer Pequignot, Elexus Dunkleberger, Shawn, Serenity and Alek Laird.
      A tip for you to try:  Do potatoes in the microwave for potato salad.  Check to get the consistency you want, then peel and make your salad.   Another tip is to keep potatoes from budding, put an apple in the bag with the potatoes.
      Jeff and Stacey Olsen, Edgewater, NJ, spent the Holidays at their home on Main Street.
      Birthday wishes to send out for the beginning of the New Year.  Happy Birthday to Jim Craig, 1st; Matushka Georgette Matychak, 3rd; Jeannie Kapler, Edith Tamburro and Alex Stavisky, all on the 4th; Florence Stavisky, Pete Tomasak and Frank Baines, all on the 5th; Matt Weisbrod, 6th; and Julia (Gulick) Rosnick, 7th.   Hope you all have a great day.
      That's the news for this time.  Enjoy your week; it's to be nice to Wednesday at least.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

December 29, 2010

Hi to all visitors and regular readers to the LOPEZ website.  It is that time of the year when there is no SULLY during the week between Christmas and the New Year.  That gives me a chance to put in my two cents.

First of all,  thank you to all the faithful readers and do keep coming back.  Next, I didn’t yet get to add the photos that I planned to but still plan on doing it.  I have many photos of the Lopez centennial celebration and I get from time to time a different old photo of Lopez or its early residents which I will also add. I would still like to receive more I REMEMBER stories from the readers, even if it is only a paragraph or two.  A lot of readers have mentioned that they would but I am still waiting.  There are many very interesting memories related in the stories already on the site.  If you haven’t already read them, take some time and check out a few every time you visit.  I am even going to write one myself.

Something different with the next mug this year, is the fact that the item for the 2011 mug has been decided on and it is St. Vladimir’s Church.  So that I order enough mugs, I am asking that any one other than those on standing order that wants any, contact me and let me know how many you want.  If any one that is on standing order would like to order more, do let me know.  I want to order enough so a reorder later is not necessary as reorders require a minimum number and is more expensive.  The price keeps going up since the mug project started 10 years ago, but we are still trying to keep the cost to you at the original $20.00 each.

If you have an event coming up that you want on the site, send me the info and I will put it on the coming events page.

As of the 30^th of December, the Lopez site had 266,663 hits which is pretty good for a little town this size. 

Now 2011 is at hand so HAPPY NEW YEAR to all.

Bob

December 22, 2010

      Had a couple of days of nice weather to enjoy.  Would be nice to have it stay that way.  Have just enough snow for Santa to make his rounds, then no more and then stay nice until April when it would warm up.  Think that will happen?????????  I don't think so.  Just have to make the best of the weather we get.  We did have some pretty cold days with sharp wind.
      Don't forget, Bob McGuire has announced the 2011 Lopez mug will be St. Vladimir's Church.  If interested, please let him know.  There are many of you already on standing order.  If you want more than your standing order, let him know.  Others can also contact him if interested.  Mugs are still $20.  Contact info below.
      Carole (Fedorchak) Underwood and her husband, David, Melbourne, FL, would like to wish her family and all her friends in Lopez a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.  Also, to her friends, Matt and Scherril Dayton and their families in Dorothy, NJ.
      There are still some perogies available from St. Vladimir's Church.  These make delicious, easy meals for the Holidays.  If you'd like to order, please call 928-9242.
      Tip for the week:  "When a cake recipe calls for flouring the baking pan, use a bit of dry cake mix instead and there won't be any white mess on the outside of the cake."   That's ok if you use a box mix, but not for "scratch" recipes.
      Here's another tip if you're having red wine:  "To remove red wine stains, wet the stain with lukewarm water.  Add a layer of table salt, rub, and let sit for five minutes.  Pull fabric taut across a heat proof bowl and saucer; secure with a rubber band.  Place bowl in the sink and carefully pour boiling water on the stain, from a height of 3 feet.  The combined pressure and heat of the water will eliminate the stain."    The main word here is "carefully".
      As you all know, this is the last issue of the Sullivan Review.  I'd like to wish you and yours a Merry Christmas and Happy, Healthy New Year.   Enjoy your Holidays with friends, family and loved ones.  So, have news for the New Year, call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  Keep those tips coming.  I do enjoy reading them.  Until 2011, stay warm; stay well, and see ya.

December 15, 2010

      Had quite a bit of rain again on Sunday, but not like we have had, which was good.  I couldn't believe the temperature went up to almost 50 degrees.  Glad it wasn't snow; we'd still be shoveling.  Reports are that we are to get some "plowable" snow Tuesday into Wednesday.  Maybe it'll miss us.
   Won't be long and Santa will be bringing all the "good" boys and girls their gifts.  Hope you all have been good and you get what you had on your "wish" list.  Hope we have just enough snow for him to get around on his sleigh.  Don't need much more than that.
      Got the following to share:  Gus Tamburro says that the crew at his Church Street House, both Ted Lowden and his son, TJ, each  bagged deer when they hunted the last two days of deer season. Gus didn't get a shot but all had a great time. All are from Marlton, NJ.   Congratulations to them.
      Also, another e-mail:   Bill, Rhonda, Tanya Stasiak, along with Tom Finan and Lisa Kellogg enjoyed a delicious dinner at the Colley Pub on Saturday night.
      While Joe and Diane Fanning were at their home on Church Street, they enjoyed having John Gavlick, Dushore, over for dinner with them.  Always a good time visiting with him.
      This is going to be the first time that Bob McGuire is announcing the 2011 Lopez mug.  It will be St. Vladimir's Church.  Many of you are already on standing order.  If you want more than your standing order, please let him know.  Anyone else who would like to reserve a 2011 mug, please let Bob know how many.  Price is still $20.  Normally, he uses landmarks that are no longer in existence.  There are important landmarks still in existence, so this year he has chosen St. Vladimir's Church.  E-mail, call, write, see Bob to reserve your mug/s/ now.  This is to make sure he orders enough mugs for 2011.  Info below.
      St. Vladimir's Church has perogies for sale.  To order yours, please call 928-8557.
      Tip for the day:   "How to remove melted wax from votives.  Instead of prying or scraping melted was out of the votives, place glass holders in the freezer for a few hours.  The wax should shrink just enough to pop right out."  That will be one to try when the Holiday season is over and you're done burning your candles for a time.
      Some birthday wishes to send out.  Happy Birthday to Mother Christophora, 19th, Alice Popso, Alyssa Pequignot and John Serafini, all on the 20th; Kayleigh McDonald will be 3 on the 23rd; Ginny Stavisy, 31st.  Hope you all have a nice day.
      If you see this special lady, Rose Gardner, wish her a Happy 93rd birthday.  She still looks young and is as spry as a chicken.  God Bless and many more, Rose.  Have a great day.
      Happy Anniversary to Ted and Evelyn Hubiak as they celebrate 31 years on the 29th.       Hardly seems possible that the month of December is almost over.  Hope you all have your Christmas shopping done (I don't).  All the homes around town that are decorated look nice; makes it seem more like Christmas.
      Guess that's the news for this time.  Enjoy your week, we may still have some nice weather.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.  Thanks for all the tips I've been getting.

December 8, 2010

      WOW!!  Is it ever cold!  That wind is wild and doesn't stop blowing at all.  I guess since it's winter, that's to be expected, but I was hoping for warm weather for a while yet.  At least we haven't gotten the snow that other areas are getting.  I heard on TV today that December is going to be really windy and cold, so make sure you dress warm when you're out and about.  Almost had another flood with all that rain we got, but the creeks stayed between their banks and caused no problems.
      The wind sure is hard on our Christmas displays in the Park at up by the Monument.  Some of our statues have blown over, some are just gone.  So, if you see anything in your travels, please get them back to the Civic Association.  I got quite a few comments from folks passing through that the displays looked really nice.
      Had a nice phone chat with Dave Welch, Fort Wayne, IN, who was staying at a cabin on Dutch Mountain.  He was here for a week to do some scouting for deer.  His friend, Doug Wohl, was also with him.  Dave told me he's been hunting here for 30 years and does enjoy the Sullivan Review.  He wanted to tell me he likes the Lopez news as it's local.  He said he was quite successful already in IN.  He likes walking in the woods and being out.  He and his friend stay at the cabin owned by Linda Mager, Philadelphia.  She was up for that weekend and does the cooking, which they enjoy.   The log cabin was built in 1981 and he helped do the job.
      St. Vladimir's Church has perogies for sale.  Please call 928-8557 to order yours.
      Got an up-date on Sally Coleman.  The Dr.'s are pleased with her recovery and she is getting better, but it's going to take some time.  She is still at UPMC in Pittsburgh, but hopes to come home soon.  Keep the Coleman's in your thoughts and prayers that all will turn out well for them.  She's on the up-hill and we're so glad to hear that.       Here's an interesting tip I got the other day:  "Some of us have used Vicks VapoRub for years for everything from chapped lips to sore toes and many body parts in between.  To stop night time coughing in a child, or an adult, put Vicks VapoRub generously on the soles of your feet, cover with socks, and the heavy deep coughing will stop for many hours of relief.  It is more effective in children than very strong cough medicines with the harsh chemicals.   It is soothing and comforting and you will sleep soundly."   I did try this as I was quite sick over Thanksgiving with a terrible cold and cough.  I think it did work as I didn't cough during the night.  And, it smells good too.  So, try it and see what happens.
      Adel Bradshaw, West Chester, was in for the weekend to join Dick here at their home on Church Street.  Dick had no luck getting his deer.  Maybe next time.
      Joe and Diane (Charnik) Fanning, Landenberg, spent a few days at their home on Church Street.       Got some birthdays to mention.  Happy Birthday wishes to Andrea (Matychak) Anderson, 12th; Dylan Amon, 13th; Noah Brown, 14th; and Carter Vermeire will be 2 years old on the 17th.  Hope you all have a nice day.

December 1, 2010

      The hills are alive with the sound of gunshots.  The hunters are in, in abundance.  The weather is a little warm for them, but I like the warmer weather.  It's too early to hear if anyone got a deer yet, but I'm sure I'll hear later in the day.   Good luck hunters.
      Church Street has many hunters in residence for the first few days of the season.  They include:
      Gus Tamburro and his friends, Marlton, NJ, are in at his home to do some hunting.
      Tony Sneidar and his friends, from the Philadelphia area, are also spending time at his home  and out hunting.
      Dick Bradshaw, West Chester, is at his home and was seen out trying to get his deer.
      Scott Main and some of his friends are down from New York at his home and trying their luck with the deer.   Haven't seen a lot of deer around lately so they must know something is going on.
      I didn't get around town much over the weekend, but I'm sure the cabins and homes on Main Street and Flat Street are filled to capacity with hunters here.
      Matt Dayton is in from Dorothy, NJ, with some relatives and friends at his cabin out Route 487.  They're all trying for the "big" one, I think.  You don't see many deer hanging out now with the weather as warm as it is.  They usually take them home or right to the butcher.
      Mrs. Irene Huray spent the Thanksgiving holiday with her daughter, Irene Pequignot and families.
      Don't forget to see Molly Johnson to renew your Civic Association membership or to join for 2011.
      Jim and Barbara Craig, Media, thoroughly enjoyed the Thanksgiving holiday at their home on Church Street.  With the nice weather, they said they hated to go home.
      Congratulations to Elizabeth Kapler for making the honor roll for the first marking period at Northern Tier Career Center.
      Perogies are available at St. Vladimir's Church.  To order yours, please call 570-928-8557.  They make a good meal for the holidays when you don't feel like cooking.
      Happy Birthday wishes to Elexus Dunkleberger, the 6th; Bernie Popso and Tony Sneidar, Jr., both on the 8th; Aaron Risser, 9th; and Rose Decker, 10th.  Hope you all have a nice day.
      My tip for the week is:       "To keep fresh cut flowers alive, give them sugar nourishment and an acidic ingredient like lemon lime soda or aspirin which allows the plant to absorb water more easily.  A drop of bleach prevents bacteria and also lengthens their life."
      Guess that's the news for now.  I know I've probably missed quite a few, so sorry.  Let me know and I'll get you in next time.  Enjoy your week; the weather seems nice off and on, so take advantage.  Have news, call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll put it in.  I'll be here next

November 24, 2010

      Have some pretty cold mornings, but sure warms up nice during the day.  We've been pretty lucky so far.   Had a pretty good thunder storm on Tuesday night last week.  The lightning was pretty impressive too.  I'll go for this nice weather, with no snow, right through the winter.  Then, warm up really good in April.  We can hope, can't we???
      Congratulations to Kassidy Brown for making Distinguished Honor Roll.  Also, to Jaron Williams and Devon DeSanto for making Honor Roll.  Keep up the good work.
      B's gang says "Way to go" to Tyler Higley for making the Honor Roll this marking period.
      Jennifer Pequignot and Shawn Laird announce the birth of their baby boy, Alek Ryley, on the 19th.  He weighed 5 lbs. 12 1/2 oz. and was 17 1/2 inches long.  He joins two sisters at home.  Good luck with the new baby.  Grandmother is Irene (Huray) Pequignot, Linden; great grandmother is Mrs. Irene Huray, Lopez.       Congratulations to all the cast, crew and those who took part in the play put on for the public on Friday and Saturday evenings at the New Albany Elementary School.  This was to benefit the New Albany Volunteer Fire Company.  If you missed it, you missed a great performance.  It was a Christmas Farce, titled "A Nutcracker....................Sweet" and it was super.   There was a packed house both nights.  They also had a Chinese auction and raffle.  There was a Talent show after the play.  There are some pretty talented people out there and was a joy for all to see.  For the finale, the cast of "A Nutcracker...........Sweet" sang their own rendition of "The 12 Days of Christmas".  Was a blast and got a good laugh from all.
      Lopez Perogie novelty items are still available.  These make great Holiday gifts.  Proceeds benefit St. Vladimir cemetery fund.  Please call 570-928-8415 for tote bags, aprons, sweat shirts, long sleeve t-shirts, as well as summer short sleeve t-shirts.  All items come in a variety of colors and sizes.
      St. Vladimir's Church has perogies for sale.  Please call 928-8557 to order yours.  Will make a nice meal for the Holidays coming up.
      Jim and Barbara Craig, Media, are spending some time at their home on Church Street.  Let's hope the weather will be nice while they are here.
      Dick and Adel were in last week to spend a few days at their home on Church Street.  They come from West Chester.
      Happy Anniversary to Don and Wilda (Wood) Paul as they celebrate 61 years on the 2nd of December.  Have a great day.
      Tip for this week:  "Smooth a table cloth with a spritz of water.  No matter how hard you iron a table cloth, you never seem to get all the wrinkles out.  Lay it on another flat surface the night before it's going to be used, with a pad or towel underneath.  Lightly spray it with water and while you sleep, gravity will pull the cloth smooth."   Good to try with the Holidays coming up and you want your table to look "not all wrinkly".
      Tony Sneidar and his son, Anthony, Philadelphia, spent a couple of days at their home on Church Street.  Did some bear hunting, but had no luck.
      Gee, it's going to be Thanksgiving already.  Hope all of you have a really nice day with family and friends.  It's always nice to spend special time together.  Even not on a special Holiday, it's nice to spend time with loved ones.  Have a great 'TURKEY DAY'.
Guess that's it for now.  Enjoy your week; looks like we're still in for some warm weather, with a little rain.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

November 17,  2010

      Boy!!  We're still having some really nice weather.  Good time to get out and do the last minute yard work before the cold and snow arrive.
      Thanks to Roseanne, Clair and Lynn for the nice job of getting the Christmas decorations put out in the Park and up by the Pavilion.
      Got an e-mail from someone who enjoys the news:  "Just wanted to let you know that I've read your news to my father-in-law who grew up in Mildred and moved away from the area in the 1950's.  He enjoys hearing about what's going on in the area and even recognizes some of the people mentioned.  We live several hours away and we still occasionally run into things from Sullivan County (ex. a Sullivan county sweatshirt on a Dad whose daughter cheers with mine and a boy on my son's hockey team whose grandparents live in Sullivan County).  Keep up the good work!"
      Bob and I had the pleasure of attending the wedding of Pete Tomasak and his new bride, Kelly, on Saturday evening at the Presbyterian Church in Luzerne.  Reception was after in the Church basement.  Was a nice time.  The newlyweds are living in Wilkes-Barre.  Most of you remember Pete as the author of the Lopez history book, "Sawdust City", copies of which are still available.
      Matt Coleman is spending some time with his parents, Jerry and Sally Coleman.  He has come in from Sweden where he goes to school.   Sally is coming along slowly from her recent surgery, but has a long road ahead of her.  We hope to hear she's on the "up-hill" side and will progress more each day.  If you'd like to send Sally some cheer, her address is:  Sarah A. Coleman, UPMC, 320 Lothrope St., Pittsburgh, PA  15647.  I know she'd enjoy hearing from you, being so far from home.   Get well soon, Sally, and keep that smile you always have.  Please keep her and the family in your thoughts and prayers,
      St. Vladimir's Church has perogies for sale.  If you'd like to order, please call 928-8557.
      Some birthdays are coming up.  Happy Birthday to Jeff Olsen, 22nd; Serenity Laird, 23rd; and Cassidy Brown, 30th.  Have a nice day.
      Special birthday wishes to Darlene (Paige) Faulkner, from her "younger" cousin, as she celebrates on the 24th.  Have a good day.
      Here's another tip for you to enjoy or try:  "Put an empty tissue box next to the full box on your night stand.  When you have a cold, just blow and put the used tissue in the empty box and throw out when full.  Keeps things tidy."
      Someone called the other day and mentioned he had heard from his sister in VA.  If you want an "expensive" Christmas tree, go to VA.  They are taking orders now and the cost is $139.00.  Don't think I'll do that.  Gee, could make a fortune taking trees down there to sell.
      I hear it's bear season with bow and arrow now and then bear with rifle coming up.  Good luck hunters and hope you get your "big" one.  Then, deer season will be coming in.  Good luck to all.
      I guess that's the news for now.  Folks are starting to decorate their homes for Christmas and they will look pretty nice when all the lights are on.  Enjoy your week, whatever your plans.  Still should be able to be out and about.  I hear rain is predicted, but no snow...............yet.  That sounds good to me.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.  Keep the tips coming.  I get many comments on them.

 November 10, 2010

      Getting some pretty cool, windy weather.  Had a few flurries flying around on Saturday.  Glad it wasn't anything big.  I know, it's coming, but I'd rather it wait a while.  It's even hard to take a walk; it's so windy, it blows you right along.
      St. Vladimir's Church has perogies for sale.  Please call 570-928-8557 to order yours.  Will be good for the Holidays coming up; you won't have to cook as much as normal.
      Thanks to Jake Gardner, Clair Johnson II, John McDonald, Leo McDonald, Charlie Murray and Mike Stavisky for cleaning up EUB Cemetery on Church Street.  It's appreciated and does look nice.  If you'd like to donate to help keep the cemetery looking nice, please contact Bobbi Jo Brown, 181 Main Street, Lopez, PA  18628.  All donations gladly taken.  There is also a sign denoting the cemetery now that was donated by Jake Gardner and his son, John.
      Lopez Perogie novelty items are still available.  These make great holiday gifts.  Proceeds benefit St. Vladimir's Cemetery Fund.  Please call 570-928-8415 for tote bags, aprons, sweatshirts, long sleeve t-shirts, as well as summer short sleeve tees.  All items are available in a variety of colors and sizes.
      Got the following e-mail to share from some proud parents whose daughter will be going to college.  Irene grew up in Lopez:   "Marisa Ryan, daughter of Irene (Black) and Steve Rohe, AKA Tater, has been accepted to Mansfield University. Marisa will begin in the summer program. She will be a psychology Major. Marisa has been a volunteer at The Muncy Valley hospital
for over three years and has received a scholarship from SHS. She is also active at Hughesville High in track and field,GURO,chorus, and school community service."    Good luck, Marisa.
      Got another e-mail from some very proud parents on the birth of their baby.   "Thomas Allen Iwancio III, affectionately known as Tai, was born on November 6, 2010 at 12:40 pm at Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. He weighed in at 8 lbs, 1.2 oz and is 20.25 inches long. He is the first child to Thomas and Kristin Iwancio of Harrisburg, PA. The proud grandparents are Joseph and Andrea Anderson of Bowmansville, Valerie and Charles York of Codorus, and Thomas and Donna Iwancio of Elgin, SC. Great-grandparents are the late Katherine and Andrew Matychak of Lopez, Ruth M. Ruth of Denver, Freda Tomaschko of Baltimore MD, and Carolyn Iwancio of Cross Keys, PA."   Have fun with the new little one and lots of luck.
      Here's another tip I received:   Newspapers:  Place a few crumpled sheets of newspaper -- preferable the sports section, of course-- to deodorize your son's or daughter's sports sneakers overnight.  Some sneaks may need more than others.       With flu season upon us, here's something to share:  For diarrhea, take one tablespoon of regular flour and stir it into half a glass of water.  Drink it all.  Good to know if you're out of regular medicine.
      I don't really know if these tips work or not, so you'll have to try them and see what happens.
      Next Civic meeting will be on MONDAY, the 15th.  This will be our last meeting until April.  Memberships still being taken by Molly Johnson.  See her to pay your dues or to join the Civic Association.  Note change in day.       Guess that's about it for this time.  Enjoy your week, whatever you may do.  You still have time to get out and about as there is to be a nice warm-up later in the week.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.  Keep those tips coming.

November 3, 2010 

     WOW!!   What a cold, brisk Halloween we had.  Hope you all had an enjoyable time.  We had a nice number of "spooks", "goblins", and other who came to the Halloween party at the Pavilion.  The hot chocolate sure tasted good.  Pictures may be in another part of the paper.  This year, we had no separate winners (in categories).  Everyone was a winner and received an envelope.  This was done in memory of Kitty Maximiak, who loved kids and wanted to do this for them.   A nice time was had by all who stopped by.
      Guess we're in for some more cold weather, until Saturday, when it's to "warm" up again.  Maybe be some of that "white" stuff flying around.  There were a few flurries off and on Sunday during the day.  Wish that would be all we'd get, but I'm sure it's not.
      You know, I have to apologize.  I found a couple notes under some other papers with news that I was to put in last week.  Never saw them; but they're being put in now.  Sorry about that.
      Spending some time recently with Roseann Lukachik was her brother, Mr. and Mrs. Humphrey Lukachik; and their daughter, Linda and Jeff Burch and family.  All are from the Erie area.
      Spending a few days recently with Rose Gardner was her daughter, Lillian Velardi; her granddaughters, Donna Daidone, and Patti and Larry Farley.  They are from the Patterson, NJ, area.  They also visited Ruth Yudzeky at The Highlands and Vince Yudzeky while they were here.
      Get well wishes still go out to Sally Coleman who still has some health problems.  She just had more surgery, but is coming along much better.  Our thoughts and prayers are with her, as well as Jerry, for a good recovery and hope to hear she's home soon.
      NEWS FLASH........don't forget to turn your clocks behind one hour on Sunday night.
      St. Vladimir's Church has perogies for sale.  Please call 928-8557 to order yours.  They do go fast.
      Carole (Fedorchak) Underwood, Melbourne, FL, and Ginny Stavisky, Palm Bay, FL, enjoyed the Eagles Concert, in Orlando, last Tuesday evening.  Cindy Stavisky joined them for dinner at a restaurant before the concert.  Was a really good concert and enjoyed by Carole and Ginny.
      Jim and Barbara Craig, Media, enjoyed a few "cool" days at their home on Church Street.
      Gus and Edith Tamburro, Marlton, NJ, also were here for a few days at their home on Church Street.  They all got together to visit while they were here.
      Hope you all got out to vote.  Can't complain about results if you didn't take advantage of your right and cast your ballot.
      Now that Halloween is over, here's a tip for your leftover candy:   Leftover Snickers bars make a delicious dessert.  Simply chop them up with the food chopper.  Peel, core and slice a few apples.  Place them in a baking dish and sprinkle the chopped candy bars over the apples.  Bake at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes.   Serve alone or with vanilla ice cream.   Try that; sounds pretty good.
      Some birthdays coming up.  Happy birthday to Teri Bullis and Jim Yarnall, 7th; Wilda (Wood) Paul, 14th; Mike McDonald and Philip Elchak, 19th; and Jaeden Patson will be 8 years old on the 20th.  Hope you all have a nice day.
      "B"'s gang sends special birthday wishes to Brian McGuire who celebrates (?) on the 11th.
      Happy Anniversary to V Rev Andrew and Georgette Matychak as they celebrate 37 years of marriage on the 10th.  Have a great day.
      Next Civic meeting will be on MONDAY, the 15th, 7 p.m. at the Pavilion.  Note change of day.
      Guess that about wraps it up for now.  Enjoy your week, whatever you plan to do.  Take a nice, brisk walk before the snow flies.  Hopefully, we'll have a pretty mild winter this year.  That would be good.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.  Remember, send me your tips.

October 27, 2010 

     Aren't we having some nice "summer-like" weather!!  I'll take this all winter long, if possible.
      I know the gardens and flower beds are gone, but they did well all summer long.
      Last Thursday, the 14th, Carole (Fedorchak) Underwood, Melbourne, FL, and Ginny Stavisky, Palm Bay, FL, started out on a trip to PA.  They arrived in Williamsport late Friday evening, at the home of Carole's sister, Mickey Mowery.  Ginny went on to spent the weekend with her family in Tioga County.  On Saturday, Mickey, her friend, Bill, and Carole, came to Lopez to visit their parents, Mike and Alice Fedorchak.  Alice prepared a delicious lunch for all.  They had a nice time visiting and being together.  On Sunday, they all enjoyed breakfast at Pam's Restaurant in Dushore.  They were joined by Carole's friends, Roby and Caroline Robinson, New Albany.  Carole returned to Williamsport with Mickey and Bill.  On Monday, Ginny picked her up and they headed back to FL.  They arrived home late on Tuesday.  Carole said even though it was a short trip, she hadn't been for for some time, so she truly enjoyed the time with her family.  Carole and I also had a nice visit.  Was good to see her.
      Family, relatives and many friends attended the funeral of Kitty Maximiak, held on Saturday at St. Francis Church, Mildred, with burial in St. Vladimir's Cemetery.
      St. Vladimir's Church has perogies for sale.  Call 928-8557 to order yours.
      Some birthdays coming up include:  Doc Shoemaker celebrates on Nov. 1st.  If you see him, wish his a Happy day.  Also, Tim Bullis, 5th; and Devon De Santo, 6th.  Hope you have a nice day.
      Got a call from my friend, Carole, in FL, with a tip she says works for her, so she wanted to share:   The best stain remover for coffee, wine, blood, etc. on your laundry is a bar of Fels Naptha.  She said just rub it on the stain and wash and it's gone.  She has used this for a while and works for her.  Try it; see if it works for you.    She also mentioned for a good, baked potato that doesn't take a whole lot of time, bake them in the microwave.  In about 10 minutes, depending on size, you'll have a good baked potato.       Send me your tips and I'll include them in my column, from time to time.
      Guess that's the news for now.  Enjoy your week, whatever you plans.  Still supposed to be nice, so get out and about.  Have news, call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

October 20, 2010

      Well, we've been having some pretty cool mornings here, but does warm up during the day.  Saturday and Sunday were quite windy and started out with 27 degrees both mornings.  Supposed to warm up later in the week, so that sounds good.  I see the frost has really killed the gardens and flower beds.       Sympathy from the community to the family, relatives and friends of Mrs. Kitty Maximiak who passed away on Sunday morning.   She was a lovely person and a pleasure to know.  She will be missed.
      Bob McGuire, Jr., Harveys Lake, visited his parents, Bob and JoAnn McGuire on Monday.  He made a delicious lunch for us while he was here.

      Mrs. Irene Huray spent a week with her daughter, Irene Pequignot, Linden, and families.  They all helped her celebrate her birthday while she was there.
      Civic Halloween party coming up on Sunday, the 31st, at the Pavilion, 6 p.m.  Prizes and refreshments.  Trick or treat in town from 7-8 p.m.  Please leave your porch light on if you want anyone to stop by.
      Tip of the week:  Linens:  Vintage linen sheets can double as table cloths.  Use tea towels to make simple cafe curtains.
      St. Vladimir's Orthodox Church held a "stuffed cabbage" dinner on Sunday. They had an excellent turn-out of folks who came to support the Church.  Everything went very well and food was gone by the end of the day.
      Not much to report this week.   Our color is almost gone, so not many coming around to see our "beautiful colors" now.  Our peak was a couple weeks ago.
      Guess that's it.  Enjoy your week, whatever you may do.  Still some nice weather on the way.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time.  Thanks for reading and remember........I still need tips.

October 13, 2010

      How was your weekend??  Ours was pretty cool early in the morning; 30 degrees on Saturday, with a frost; 25 degrees on Sunday, with a good frost.  Everything got pretty well "cooked".  The days turned out nice after it warmed up.   The geese have been flying for a while now.  Someone told me to tell them to go back the other way.  I tried, but it didn't work.
      Sympathy from the community to family, relatives and friends of Catherine (Babe Borick) Snider who passed away last Tuesday.  Funeral was held on Monday, with burial at St. Vladimir's Cemetery.  She was loved by all and was such a caring, friendly person; she will be missed by all.       Mr. and Mrs. Dan Kulsicavage and Joe Kulsicavage recently spent a few days with their mother, Mrs. Theresa Kulsicavage.  Ron and Dee, from Dushore, also visited while they were here.
      St. Vladimir's Church will have a holupki, sometimes called stuffed cabbage or pig in a blanket, dinner at the Church Hall on Sunday, the 17th.  This will be from Noon to 3 p.m.  Includes mashed potatoes, corn and dessert,  Eat in or take out.  No reservations needed.  Cost is $8.00.
      Here are a couple tips I got via e-mail.   For people trying to save a little money, washing your dishes in the sink instead of using the dishwasher will cut a little off your electric bill and also hanging your clothes instead of using the dryer.  I know they may be common ones.   For parents who have children who pack a lunch, make cupcakes and put the icing on the inside like a twinkie, put them in the freezer and pull out as needed.  You only need to spend a couple dollars on a decorator bag and tip that can be used each time you make them. you'll spend half the money and get 24 cupcakes instead of  about 6.   Something to think about.
      Some birthdays coming up include Josh Anderson, 17th; Marie Cikovic, 19th; Ted Hubiak, 20th; Lydia Spinosa, 28th; Leo McDonald and Misty Pequignot, both the 31st.  Hope you all have a nice day.
      Happy Anniversary to Kevin and Teri Bullis, 20th; and Tom and Kristin Iwancio, 25th.  Have a great day.
      Next Civic meeting will be on MONDAY, the 18th, 7 p.m. at the Pavilion.  Note change of day.  The Civic sponsored Halloween party will be on Sunday, the 31st, 6 p.m. at the Pavilion.  Refreshments and prizes.  Trick or treat in town from 7-8 p.m.  Please leave your porch light on for those stopping by.
      St. Vladimir's Church has perogies for sale.  Please call 928-8557 to order yours.
      Guess that's about it for this time.  Enjoy your week.  We should still get some nice weather.  have news call me at 928-9238, mail me, see me, or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.  Remember, I still need tips.

October 6, 2010

     Well, Saturday and Sunday mornings we had low temperatures and frost.  Hopefully, most of you have your garden produce inside so it wasn't bothered.  Supposed to warm up later in the week.  Also, the end of September we had to have another flood.  Two in one year, that's something.  The rain just didn't stop and the creek rose and went over its bank up by the jail house and also went over the road at the bridge by the Post Office.   It was a surprise to lots of folks; never thought we'd get that much again in a short time.  By Friday, the water had gone back in the creek where it should have been.  There was some damage to places again that had just gotten their property fixed up from the last flood.  Never ending work, that's for sure.
      Gary, Jill, Cory and Sara Eckhardt of Pen Argyl, Pa. spent a nice COLD weekend at the Neufer Family homestead.
      Alex Stavisky, Palm Bay, FL; and daughter, Cindy, Orlando, FL, spent a couple of days visiting with his mother, Mrs. Florence Stavisky, Williamsport.  They also took a trip to Lopez, but missed the flood.  Talked with Ted Puzo while they were here.  Cindy has recovered from her recent surgery and is back at her teaching job.
      St. Vladimir's Church has perogies for sale.  Call 928-8557 to order yours.
      Get well wishes to Mother Barbara at the Orthodox Monastery as she had recent gall bladder surgery.  Hear she's coming along and we hope she's well soon.
      Jerry and Sally Coleman would like to thank the many friends who've been in touch and for all the cards received during Sally's illness.  They said it is so much appreciated.  Keep them in your thoughts and prayers as Sally is still having medical problems.
      Jeff and Stacey Olsen, Edgewater, NJ, spent a few days at their home on Main Street.  Jeff said his garden was spared; didn't get the frost.
      Happy Birthday wishes to Bill Lunkwitz, 6th; Gwen Burke and Dylon Pequignot, 7th; Irene Huray and Ryan Weisbrod, 8th; and Brad Hubiak and Bob Burke, 14th.  Hope you all have a nice day.
      Don't forget, this weekend, the 9th and 10th, is the 30th Sullivan County Fall Festival at the Fairgrounds in Forksville.  This is held rain or shine and you see some interesting wood carvings and other activities going on.   Also, the same days at the same place is the Fall Art Expo presented by the Sullivan County Council on the Arts.  This is held in the Blue building and should be fun to see.  So, if you have some free time on the weekend, take a trip to Forksville to attend these events and enjoy the Fall foliage on the way.
      Tip for the week:  "China and glass -- Old fashioned medicine bottles make lovely bud vases.  Try clustering several bottles, each containing a single bloom, as a table centerpiece".   This sounds like a nice idea.
      I'm still in need of tips so send them along and I'll put them in every now and then.
      Next Civic meeting will be held on MONDAY, the 18th, 7 p.m. at the Pavilion.  Halloween party coming up on Halloween night, the 31st.  So, get your costumes ready and come on up to the Pavilion, 6 p.m.  Prizes and refreshments.  Trick or treat from 7-8 p.m. through town.  If you'd like anyone to stop by, please leave your porch light on.
      That's the news for now.  Enjoy your week; there is still plenty to do and see around the County.  Probably doing last minute garden and flower things before the really cold weather sets in.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.  I enjoy the comments and remarks.

September 29, 2010

      Getting some much needed rain today (Monday).  It is quite windy so a lot of the leaves are blowing off the trees and look so bare.  Is a little cooler, but not too bad.  There is still some warm weather off in the distance that will be coming our way soon.
      Mr. and Mrs. Mike Sinovich, Wilmington, DE, spent a few days with his sister, Mrs. Theresa Kulsicavage.
      Deepest sympathy from the community to the family, relatives and many friends of Katherine Matychak on her sudden passing on Friday, the 24th.  Funeral was held on Tuesday from St. Vladirmir's Church, with burial in the Parish cemetery.  We have all lost a dear, dear friend who was so kind to everyone who knew her.  She will be so missed.
      Adel Bradshaw, West Chester, is spending some time at her home on Church Street.
      Happy Birthday wishes to Elizabeth Kapler and Peg Maximiak, both on the 1st of October; Kyleigh McDonald will be one year old on the 2nd.  Hope you all have a nice day.
      Happy Anniversary to Tony and Donna (Lansberry) Cikovic as they celebrate on the 2nd.
Have a good day and many more.
      Next Civic Association meeting will be held on MONDAY, the 18th.  Note change of day.  It will be at 7 p.m. at the Pavilion.  Membership dues are due, so see Molly Johnson to re-new or join.  Halloween is shortly coming up, so get your costumes ready and come to the Pavilion on Halloween night, the 31st, 6 p.m. for the annual Halloween party.  Prizes will be awarded and refreshments available.  Trick or treat in town from 7 to 8 p.m., so have your porch light on if you'd like the kids to stop by.
      I got some tips sent to me so have a few to put in.  I'm still in need of more, so if you have any, please send them to me or e-mail them and I'll keep them handy for the future issues.
      This week's tip:  Frames:  "To turn a large, old picture frame into an impressive mirror, or decorate a wall with a grouping of mirrors made from small frames, have a glazier cut mirror glass to fit."   (That sounds like a nice idea.)
        John and JoAnn McDonald spent a week visiting their son, John, Gretchen and Aine Lee McDonald, in Worthington, MA.  I'm sure they had a good time entertaining their grand daughter.
         Guess that's it for this time.  Enjoy your week, whatever your plans.  There is the 43rd annual Flaming Foliage Festival coming up on Saturday and Sunday.  This is held at the S.C. Fairgrounds in Forksville.  Parking and admission is free, so take a ride down and see what's going on.  You might see some nice color on your way.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

September 22, 2010

      Been having some pretty nice weather.  The rain on Sunday was also welcome.  Pretty chilly and cool on Monday, but is to warm up during the week.  I'll take it; before long it will get cold and stay cold.  I guess the gardens are getting done and folks have been canning and freezing vegetables for the winter season.  They also have some for the table to eat now.  The flowers around town are still looking really nice.
      First, the community would like to congratulate the Red Rock Job Corps students who won the Regional District II Academic and Career Olympics Competition, held August 24th at Ramada Inn in Wilkes-Barre.  These kids competed against five other teams.  They now advance to Job Corps national competition, October 6th, in Ocean City, MD.  They compete against two other District winners.  Good luck and let's hope they bring another win home.
      Tony Sneidar, along with "Papa" John Glasson, Rich Berry and Joe Zimmerman, all from Philly area, spent a few days at the Sneidar home on Church Street and got some work done around the house while they were here.
      Adel Bradshaw, West Chester, is spending some time at her home on Church Street.
      Get well wishes from the community to Kitty Maximiak who is a patient at Memorial Hospital in Towanda.  She is showing some improvement and we sure hope to hear she's well enough to come home soon.  Our thoughts and prayers are with her for a speedy recovery.
      Friends of Joyce Walsh also wish her get well and fast recovery from her recent fall and breaking her leg.  Hope to hear she's doing well and will be able to come to Lopez soon.  She and husband, Jack, have the former Alex Stavisky home on Main Street.
      One more get well to send out to Cindy Stavisky, Orlando, FL, daughter of Alex and Ginny, who had recent surgery.  She's home and doing much better.  Hope she continues to improve.
      Hope some of you were able to attend the Bow Hunter's Festival over the weekend.  The weather sure was nice and they usually have a big crowd.   There are a couple of Fall Festivals coming up, early October, so you may want to take part in those.       Since my "tips" in my computer folder aren't there now, I need more tips.  So, send me any that you'd like me to include in my news.  I was trying to think of one to put in, but my mind drew a blank.
      Gus and Edith Tamburro, Marlton, NJ, and Lopez; and Jim and Barbara Craig, Media, and Lopez, enjoyed a trip to the Grand Canyon to celebrate their 50th anniversaries.       The "face lift" on the Chesonis/Grid Iron is coming along pretty nicely.  Looking better every day; keep it up, guys.
      Guess that's it for this time.  Enjoy your week, whatever you might do.  There's still some nice weather on the way.  Have news, call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

September 15, 2010

      What a beautiful day we had Saturday.  Sunday....that's another story.  Was pretty cool and rainy most of the day.  Guess we have to expect that.  We got so spoiled with the hot weather, we want it to last much longer.  Warmer weather is still on the way, from the reports I heard.  The flowers are still looking pretty nice and the gardens are still producing.
      Thanks to Clair Johnson for mowing and cleaning up Cold Spring to make it look much better.  It is appreciated and he does a good job.
      Get well wishes to our friend, Sally Coleman, who is still having medical problems.  Sure hope to hear she's feeling much better.  Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers, along with Jerry.
      Marino and Linda (Dennis), Jackson Hill, enjoyed company recently.  Joe and Sandie Iracki, Nanticoke; and Matt and Barbara Larkin and daughter, Megan, Stroudsburg, along with their 11 week old bull dog, Oliver Twist, visited last Sunday.  All had a really nice time together.
      Got another tip on boiling macaroni or spaghetti:  Add a little vegetable oil to the water while it's cooking and it won't stick together".
      Next Civic meeting will be MON., 20 Sept., 7 p.m. at the Pavilion.  Don't forget membership dues for 2011 are now being taken by Molly Johnson.  See her to get yours.
      Bow Hunter's Festival at the Forksville Fair Grounds is coming up Friday through Sunday, so if you get a chance, go see what it's all about.
      Some birthdays coming up include JoAnn McDonald and Carmela Walosin, 19th; Mya Evans (1), 20th; Bob Day, 23rd; Annaliese Froese, 25th; Ted Beaver and "Dinky" Burke, 27th; and Curt Schroeder, 29th.  Hope you all have a good day.
      B's gang wishes a happy 32nd birthday to Tom Finan as he celebrates on the 25th.  Have a super day!
      Happy Anniversary to Jon-Paul and Jen Matychak as they celebrate 6 years on the 25th; and Chris and Michele Craig have 13 years of wedded bliss on the 27th.  Have a great day.
      I still need tips for the column.  Since our computer hard drive crashed, I lost the e-mails that I had with all my tips.  So, if you have some good ones, please send them to me.  I also liked the "goofy" ones sent to me and I did use a couple of them, but I need more.
      That's it.  Enjoy your week, whatever you may decide to do.  Still some nice weather, so take advantage while you can.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

September 8, 2010

      Hope you all enjoyed your Labor Day Holiday.  Weather was a "little" cool part of the time, but not real bad.  There were many activities going on in the County that you could take part in, so hope you took advantage of that.   Sunday morning it was cool enough to have some frost on the grass and the tops of the cars.  Don't think it did any damage, but it was there.  Pretty soon there will be frost on the pumpkins.  Sunshine during the day felt really nice.  Supposed to warm up again during the week, so that will be nice.
       Had a nice phone conversation from Carole (Fedorchak) Underwood, Melbourne, FL, who mentioned that her son, Tommy Van Dyke, is coming along well since his illness.  He is still on a pretty strict diet for now.  She thanks everyone who has kept him in their thoughts and prayers and hopes they still do.  He's still on the road to recovery and hope he makes improvement every day.  There were two benefits held for him,  which he was very thankful for.
       St. Vladimir's Church has perogies for sale.  If you'd like to purchase some, please call 928-8557 to order yours.
       Tony, Patti and Anthony Sneidar and friend, Declan Fowler, all from Philly, spent a few days at their home on Church Street.  Get well to Anthony who is recovering from recent surgery.  Hope he's much better soon.
       Joe and Diane (Charnik) Fanning, Landenberg, spent a couple of days at their home on Church Street.
       Jerry and Sylvia Dempsey, Dover, DE, spent the Labor Day Holiday with her mother, Mrs. Sophie Bundle.  Also, enjoyed Mildred Old Home Day on Sunday and visiting with his family in Dushore.
       Don and Mary Springer, Fairfax, VA, spent the Holiday at their home here.  Also, had a nice visit with Katherine Matychak during their stay.
       FOUND:  blue sweatshirt-type jacket at the Pavilion after the Job Corps picnic.  I still have it.  You identify it, it's yours.  Contact me at the info below.
       Got a phone message the other day while I was gone with a tip to share:  "Add salt to your boiling water before you cook spaghetti and it will puff up more".   Give it a try.
       I'm in need of more tips.  Our computer went on the "fritz" so I lost all my e-mails.  So, if you have any good tips to share, please e-mail them to me or call, write, whatever. 
       Some birthdays coming up.  Happy Birthday to Alexia Vermeire, up there in Alaska, on the 13th.
       Happy Anniversary to David and Carole (Fedorchak) Underwood who celebrate 9 years on the 14th;  Scott and Susan (Pirritano) Aharonian also celebrate their anniversary on the 14th;  Ed and Kay Walton celebrate 60 years on the 16th.  They are parents of 5 kids, 10 grandkids, 1 great grand child and one on the way.  Hope you all have a great day.
       Scott, Susan, Adam and Alex Aharonian, Narvon, and some of their friends, spent the Labor Day Holiday at their home on Dutch Mountain.
       Irene Risser and five Millersville University friends held their annual reunion recently.  Those attending were: Adele McKelvy, Lansdale; Diana Raugh, Rochester, PA; Marilyn Pum, Allentown; Patricia Lavelle, Harrisburg; and Linda Walker, Spring House, PA.  Suzanne Fronko of Aliquippa was unable to come because she was tending a sick friend.  The group spent Saturday strollng around Eagles Mere and had lunch at the Sweet Shoppe.  Saturday evening they had dinner at Connor's Grill Room in Dallas.  Everyone enjoyed the stellar week-end weather and Irene's three Westies, Sarah, Cammi, and Quinn.
       Next Civic meeting will be held on MONDAY, the 20th.  Note change of day.  Will be at 7 p.m. at the Pavilion.  Membership dues now being take.  Please contact Molly Johnson to re-new your membership or to join the Civic Assocation.
       Bob and I were at World's End State Park on Saturday evening where he did a fluorescent mineral program for the campers.  There were also some folks who came from Picture Rocks and Williamsport to watch the program.  This is held at the outdoor ampitheater, after dark, and even though it was a little cool, there were 60 adults and kids in attendance.   The program was enjoyed by all.  Thanks to Jane Swift, from the Park, for having us there.
       I know there were many folks in at their cabins and homes and I hope you all enjoyed your "last summer fling" while you were here.  There are still some Fall activities coming up that I hope you'll be able to be part of.  Guess that's it for this time.  Enjoy your week, whatever your plans.  Still time to enjoy the nice weather.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

September 1, 2010

        Aren't we having some really nice weather!!  I heard that over the Labor Day holiday it's to be pretty nice too.  That will be good for end of summer activities and picnics.  School is in full swing and some kids I talked to like it so far...........what else can they say??
        The gardens and flower beds are starting to fade.  I know there was a lot of canning and freezing going on, so the cupboards and freezers will be stocked for the winter.  Sure hope we have a "mild" winter like one forecaster predicted.  Have to wait and see.
        Sympathy from the community to the family, relatives and friends of Mrs. Pauline Hubiak who recently passed away.  Funeral was held on Monday from St. Vladimir's Church, with burial in the Parish cemetery.
        Mrs. Katherine Matychak has come home after spending a week with her daughter, Andrea and Joe Anderson, Denver.  On Saturday she attended the baby shower for granddaughter, Kristin Iwancio.  A good time for all being together.
        Mother Christophora, Ellwood City, is spending a few days with her mother, Mrs. Katherine Matychak.
        Get well wishes from family and friends to Bill Orlowski who suffered a heart attack last week.  He's at Robert Packer Hospital, but is doing well and hopes to be home soon.  Keep him in your thoughts and prayers that he makes a full recovery.
        The Civic Association held their annual picnic on Sunday at the Pavilion.  There were many things going on that day, but we still had a nice group there to enjoy eating and visiting.  As always, Chef Clair Johnson, did a great job with grilling the hot dogs and sausages.  There was a wide variety of good food enjoyed by all who were able to come.  Hope to see more of you next year.
        Next Civic meeting will be on MONDAY, 20 September, 7 p.m. at the Pavilion.  Note change of day.
        Happy Birthday wishes to send out to Joe Anderson, 2nd; Kristin McDonald, 5th; "Roda" Stasiak, 6th; Miles Baton (1), 8th; Auden Hubiak (5), 9th.  Hope you all have a good day.
        Happy Anniversary to Joe and Andrea (Matychak) Anderson, 4th; Shawn and Crystal Pequignot, also 4th; Joe and Rose (McDonald) Sbardella, 5th; and Gus and Edith Tamburro and Jim and Barbara Craig, both celebrate 50 years on the 10th.  Have a good day all of you.
        I'm running out of tips so please send some.  I did have a bunch in my computer folder and somehow they got deleted.  So, those of you who sent already, send them again.  Yours might be some that were lost. 
        I saw the following in something I was reading the other day and thought it was nice to share:  "Through the dark days, keep a Rainbow in your heart!"
        Here's a couple of tips for this week:  "Add a teaspoon of water when frying ground beef.
It will help pull the grease away from the meat while cooking."
        "Add garlic immediately to a recipe if you want a light taste of garlic and at the end of the recipe if you want a stronger taste of garlic."
     Lopez perogie tote bags, sweatshirts, t-shirts and aprons are now available.  They come in various colors and sizes.  If you'd like anything, please call Katherine Matychak at 570-928-8415.  The sales support St. Vladimir's cemetery care.

        Sullivan County Fair is coming up.  Started Tuesday with Home Talent night and the Queen contest.  Then, on Wednesday, the 1st, things are in full swing.  Goes until Labor Day, the 6th.  There's always something there for everyone to enjoy and take part in.
        Guess that's the news for now.  Enjoy your week, whatever you may do.  Have news call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time.  Have a great week!

August 25, 2010

        WOW!!  First day of school was on Monday.  I'm sure some of the kids were anxious to get back and see their old friends.  I'm also sure there were some that would have liked to stay in bed and not worry about going to school yet.  So, watch out for kids on the road going to get the bus and watch out for the bus traveling up and down Main Street and out Route 487.
        Boy!!  We got some much needed rain on Sunday and it's still spittin' down on Monday, as I'm looking out the window.  Will really help the water situation.  Saturday was a really nice day and I think the weekend looks nice right now.
        Got the following e-mail to share.   Gary and Jill Eckhardt and daughter Sara of Pen Argyl, Pa. spent the weekend at the Neufer Family homestead. Found just enough water in the creek to do a little splashing around!
        Russell Boyer and fiancee, Karen, Royersford (near Valley Forge), spent some time at their cabin in Lesterville.   They said Royersford used to be a small town, but not anymore.  Whenever they can get away, they do.  They love the mountains and the friendliness of the small towns.  They don't miss all the traffic back home at all.  They experienced their first Dushore Founder's Day and said it was a blast.  Those outhouses races, they thought, were something to see.  He said he may have to build one for next year.  He's been racing for many years, just not outhouses.  They are now looking forward to the Sullivan County Fair. 
        Don and Evalyn Lansberry, Lebanon, daughter, Ann Fackler and children, Doug and Amy, from VT, spent a few days at the Lansberry home on Main Street.  Doug had the misfortune to have an accident with his bike, but he's okay.  He got bruised up pretty good, but nothing serious.   Hope he's feeling much better.
        Joe and Diane (Charnik) Fanning, Landenberg, spent a few days at their home on Church Street.  Enjoyed the rain, but still got some things done while they were here.
        Marty and Dee Whatley, Philly, spent Wednesday to Sunday at their home on Route 487.  Visited friends while they were here and also got some painting done.   We stopped by to see them while they were aboard.
        The Civic picnic is coming up on Sunday, the 29th, Noon, at the Pavilion.  This is a community picnic, so hope to see some of you from the community come and visit with friends and neighbors.  It's also for those who volunteered their help on Old Home Day to help make it the success that it was.  Please bring a dish to pass and your table service.  Meat and beverage will be provided.  Mark your calendar now and hope to see you Sunday at the picnic.
        The Job Corps picnic was held at the Pavilion on Thursday, the 19th.  I was at the Pavilion today and found a light blue sweatshirt-type jacket that was left there; I think from the picnic.  If this is your jacket, please let me know (info below) and we'll see about getting it to you.
        Bob and JoAnn McGuire attended his 50th class reunion on Friday evening, held at East Mountain Inn and Suites, Wilkes-Barre.  A good number of classmates (and spouses/friends) were there and a great time visiting and bringing up "school days" was had by all.  Bob did a Power Point presentation of "50 Years" and it was enjoyed by all; lots of laughter looking at classmates 50 years ago.  Bob graduated from Forty Fort High School.
       "Kudos" to Lenny Brassington and crew for giving a "face lift" to the old Chesonis/Grid Iron building.  Anxious to see it when it's all finished.       

        Happy Birthday wishes to Gaige Burke who will be one year old on the 29th.  Hope he has a great day.
        Happy anniversary from B's gang to Tim and Lori Higley as they celebrate on the 31st.  Have a good day.
        Here's my tip for the week:  Mayonnaise gets tar off your hands.  This really works!!  Just ask Russ.

        FLASH.............."Nessie" is going for a "make-over", so if you don't see her in the pond, don't get nervous.  She will return shortly.
        Here's another tip you may want to try:  Use a wet cotton ball or Q-tip to pick up the small shards of glass you can't easily see.  (That's a good one as some of those buggers you can't see at all.)
       Next Civic meeting will be on Tuesday, 21 September, 7 p.m. at the Pavilion.
        Jeff and Stacey Olsen, Edgewater, NJ, spent the weekend at their home on Main Street.  They enjoyed visiting friends and neighbors while they were here.
        Well, guess that's it for now.  Enjoy your week, whatever you plan.  I know a lot of you are busy canning and freezing all the produce from your garden.  That will be good for the winter.  Have news, call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

August 18, 2010

        Well, we had some much needed rain on Sunday.  Saturday turned out really nice.  Was good as there was so much going on around the County.  Founder's Day in Dushore was over-run with people.  The Water Carnival in Eagles Mere had many there in attendance.  I think everyone enjoyed whatever they did since the weather was so nice.
        Matt and Scherill Dayton, Dorothy, NJ, enjoyed a quiet weekend at their home here.  They attended Founder's Day and had a great time.
        Marty, Dee and Dana Whatley and her friend, all from Philadelphia, spent the weekend at their home here.  Enjoyed the Outhouse races on Saturday evening.
        Spending last Wednesday with Mrs. Katherine Matychak was her nephew, John Gulick, Oneida, NY, and his grandsons, Trevor and Christian Sawyer, Boston, MA.  They enjoyed going to the creek and went to Cold Spring for some good, fresh water.
        Got the following e-mail to share:   Irene and Don Risser were in town for the week-end.  Their friend, Kitty Glass of Millersville, was also visiting the area.  On Saturday they attended the Blueberry Festival at Berryfieldsl Farm near Overton.  That evening they went out to dinner at Connor's Grill House in Dallas.  Irene's three West Highland white terriers were joined for the week-end by Cooper, a dog belonging to Aaron and Lindsey Risser.  Everyone--people and canines alike--enjoyed the cooler weather.
        Mrs. Katherine Matychak will be getting more of the perogie t-shirts, aprons and totes.  Please contact her if interested.  The money will be used for St. Vladimir's Church cemetery fund.
        Carole (Fedorchak) Underwood, Melbourne, FL, would like to thank all of you who are praying for her son, Tommy Van Dyke, as he is not feeling well.  Carole says he is some better, but has a long road to recovery, so please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.  They are so appreciated.  Hope to hear he's doing much better.
        Jerry and Sylvia Dempsey, Dover, DE, spent a few days with her mother, Mrs. Sophie Bundle.  They visited Jerry's family in Dushore while they were here.
        Don't forget, mark your calendar for the 29th.  The Civic Association picnic will be held at the Pavilion at Noon.  Bring a dish to pass and your table service.  Meat and drinks will be provided.  This is in appreciation to all those who volunteered their help for us to have a successful Old Home Day.
        Here is a good tip someone e-mailed me.  "Pin a small safety pin to the seam of your slip and you won't have a clingy skirt or dress.  Same things works with slacks when wearing pantyhose.  Place pin in the seam of slacks and, "ta-da", static is gone."
       Some birthdays coming up soon.  Happy Birthday to Andrew Froese, 20th; Mary Santiago, 21st; and Karly Amon, 27th.  Hope you all have a nice day.
        Happy Anniversary to Jason and Heather Burke as they celebrate on the 26th.  Congratulations and many more.
        Guess that's the news for now.  Enjoy your week, whatever your plans.  Should be fairly nice, in between the rain showers.  We still need the rain, so can't complain.  Have news, call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.  Glad to hear that folks are reading the tips I've been putting in.  I'll take any you might want to send to share.

 August 
                  11, 2010

        Sure was a nice weekend and hope you all enjoyed whatever you did.  The week is to be pretty nice also.  We do need some rain, but it could rain during the night and be nice during the day.
        Spending Old Home Day Sunday with Mrs. Irene Huray also included Jennifer and  Elexus Pequignot;  Serenity and Shawn Laird; and Paul and Marge Bednar.
        There was a big bear at the home of Jeff and Stacey Olsen on Main Street.  They got a great video of the bear when he climbed the tree and reached out and got the rope holding the bird feeder.  He pulled the rope up until the bird feeder was near; grabbed that and you could hear him smashing it to get at the seeds.  Was pretty neat.
        The annual Civic picnic for all those who volunteered their help to make our Old Home Day the success it was, will be held on Sunday, 29 August, Noon, at the Pavilion.  Please bring a dish to pass and your table service.  Meat will be provided.  Come and visit and not worry about doing a lot of work.
        Next Civic meeting will be held on Tuesday, 17 August, 7 p.m. at the Pavilion.
        Jeff, Donna, and Ryan Dempsey, Laurel, MD, spent a few days over Old Home Day with his grandmother, Mrs. Sophie Bundle.  Had a nice time while they were here.
        Bob McGuire is still looking for a nice photo of the pajama factory.  If you have one that he could borrow, please contact him at the info below.
        Some birthdays to mention:  Happy Birthday to Kyle Froese and Kathy Lebo, 9th; Randy Lebo and Jackie Craig, 10th; Kari Spinosa, 11th; Al Kapler, 12th; Linda Beaver, 13th; Lisa (Beaver) Sperry, 14th; Dustin Burke, 15th; Kevin Pequignot, 16th; and Bruce Day will be 93 years young on the 17th.  Hope you all have a great day!
        Happy Anniversary to Don and Evalyn Lansberry as they celebrate 54 years on the 11th.  Congratulations and Happy Anniversary also to Bill and Bonnie Killian on 35 years on the 16th.  Have a nice day.
        I've had a couple of folks call or see me and say that they enjoy the "tips" that I've been putting in each week.  That's nice, so guess I'll put a few more in, from time to time.
        Here's the tip for this week: "To really make scrambled eggs or omelets rich, add a couple spoonfuls of sour cream, cream cheese, or heavy cream; then beat them."
        Got the following e-mail from Barbara Harvey to share about all the Neufer clan that was here:
        "At the Neufer home for the Old Home Day weekend were:  Nancy and Michael Loporcaro; Barbara and Stephen Harvey; Bob and Kathy Neufer; Rose and Rich Bizup; Roseann and Jim Pignatello;  Jill and Gary Eckhardt, Cory and Sara; Craig Harvey, Kate, Caileen, Connor, CJ, and Clair Harvey; Erica and Chris Burns, Molly and Owen.  Also, Todd, Patty and Fionn; JJ, Allison, Haley and Katie Pignatello; Haley, Steve and Tiffany Pignatello; Cindy, Tim Karson, Alexis and Madison;   Amy and Mike, Karen Bizup; Sara, Zack and Ashley Desrosier; Bert and Ed Vlasick.  Too many others (stopping by to say hello) to mention.  Also,  their "First Annual Anything That Floats Boat Race" was held that Saturday afternoon with 44 entries.  There wasn't much water in the creek, but we managed.  There were some creative boat entries.  Everyone had a great time and can't wait for the race next year.  I'm sure some are already working on their boats.  I hope I didn't miss anyone."
        Guess that's about it for now.  Enjoy your week, whatever your plans.  Dushore Day is coming up on Saturday, with lots of things planned.  Take that in, if you can.  The Eagles Mere Water Carnival is also Saturday evening at dark, so that's something else to watch.  I'm sure there's something to "catch" your interest.  Have news, call me at 928-9238; mail me; see me; or e-mail me at uvbob@epix.net.  I'll get it in for you.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.

August 4, 2010
        Hope you all enjoyed your weekend.  Turned out to be pretty nice, even though we had rain early on Sunday.  However, it didn't spoil our Old Home Day activities.  It was slow early and then the crowd showed up in the afternoon and the rain quit.  Thanks to all of you who helped in any way to make our Old Home Day a success.  It's a lot of hard work and all the volunteers do a great job to put the whole day together.  And, we couldn't succeed without the public who come to spend the day to meet old friends and to make new friends.  So, I hope all of you who were able to attend, had a wonderful time.
        Get well wishes to Tommy Van Dyke, Melbourne, FL, son of Carole (Fedorchak) Underwood, Melbourne, FL, who is in the hospital right now.  He is improving some, but still needs to be kept in your thoughts and prayers for a full and speedy recovery.  Hope to hear he's home soon.
        On Saturday, David and Carole (Fedorchak) Underwood, Melbourne, FL, along with Alex and Ginny Stavisky, Palm Bay, FL; and Ken and Day Parker and daughter, Toni, all enjoyed a birthday dinner for David at the Salt and Sweet Polish restaurant.  When finished, they all returned to David and Carole's home for cake, coffee and ice cream.  All had a really nice time together.
        Weekend visitors at the home of Mrs. Irene Huray included:  Irene Pequignot and Mike Karge; Shawn, Crystal, Misty and Dylon Pequignot; Kevin and Alyssa Pequignot and Jessica Reich; Sophie Bednar; Mickey and Karen Bednar; Don and Fran Litchfield; Cindy Litchfield; Dawn, Dylon and Jakob Hutchison; and George Homza.   The annual Homza reunion was held at Connell's Dam on Saturday where many more family members attended and had a nice, enjoyable day.
        Visiting at the home of Kitty Maximiak and Leo McDonald were:  Dr. Billy Maximiak, Berwick; his daughter Beth with Madison, TN; Midge Maximiak, Bloomsburg, and daughter Alicia, Fort Lee, NJ; Erin and Jim Fuchs and son, Landon, Collegeville, PA; Carrie Maximiak, Bloomsburg; Butch Maximiak, Horseheads, NY; his sister, Peggy and Mike Ciccora and daughter, Annette, FL.  Butch and Peggy also visited his mother, Mrs. Peg Maximiak; Ed, Joe and Jack Caccia, all from Elmira, NY.  All enjoyed Old Home Day too.
        Helen Amon, Karly and Dylan, WI, spent from the 22nd of July until the 2nd of August with her mother, Kitty Maximiak and Leo McDonald.  Julio and Mary Santiago, Kyra and Keensley, Jackson, NJ, spent the weekend at their cottage in Troy.  They all enjoyed the activities at Old Home Day and visiting with friends and relatives.
        Joe and Rose Sbardella, Warren, RI, spent some time at the home in Mildred and visited in Lopez with family and friends.  They had a good time at Old Home Day.
        Sr. Ella Mae McDonald, Ellwood City, was is spending about a month here with her family, John and JoAnn McDonald, Kitty Maximiak and Leo McDonald.  She is enjoying her stay very much, visiting friends and family.  She enjoyed the Mildred Firemen's Festival and Lopez Old Home Day, where she was a big help with the dinner and tickets.
        Jeff and Stacey Olsen, Edgewater, NJ, spent a few days at their home on Main Street and had a nice time at the Old Home Day activities.
        Aine Lee McDonald, Worthington, MA, is spending some time with her grand parents, John and JoAnn McDonald.  She had a great time at Old Home Day, getting to see how the ambulance works and playing games.
        Jim and Barbara Craig, Media, and some friends, spent a few days at their home on Church Street.  Everyone enjoyed Old Home Day.
        Joe and Diane Fanning, Landenberg, her daughter, Toni and kids, Haley and Harry and friend, Mitchell, St. George's, DE, spent a few days at the Fanning home on Church Street.  The kids had a busy, but fun, time bike riding, fishing, going to Lake Jean, and spending time at Old Home Day.
        John Borick, Shirley and Marie Lynn, Pennsauken, NJ, spent a few days at their home on Main Street.
        B's gang sends "belated" birthday wishes to Stacy Olsen, who recently celebrated her special day.  Sorry, 'bout that, but hope it was a good one.
        Mrs. Sally Coleman has come home from the hospital and is feeling a little better.  Hope to hear she's on the road to recovery.  Keep her in your thoughts and prayers for a speedy get well.
        Mary, Luke and Cecelia Swan, Sinclairsville, NY; Bernice, Brittany and Joshua Yarosh, Ithaca, NY; and Lillian Ferraro, Groton, NY, spent time at their home here and enjoyed Old Home Day while they were here.
The three girls are sisters.
        Andrew, Krystal, Alexia and Carter Vermeire, have arrived in Anchorage, AK, where they will now live and work.  It was a ten day trip from MD, but they got there and Krystal starts work already on Monday.  Good luck to them in their new home.
        Mr. and Mrs. Ed Walton, Edwardsville, spent some time at their cabin in Lesterville and attended the Old Home Day festivities.
        Here's a tip someone sent me, via e-mail:  "Take your bananas apart when you get home from the store. If you leave them connected at the stem, they ripen faster."
        Here's another tip for you:  "Store your opened chunks of cheese in aluminum foil.  It will stay fresh much longer and not mold!"  Have to try that one as sometimes my cheese does get moldy, if I don't use it fast enough.
        I know there were a lot more folks around for Old Home Day that I've forgotten, or they haven't contacted me with their list of people.  So, if you'd like your group to be mentioned, please let me know and I'll get it in.  Enjoy your week; seems like it's to be a nice one.  Have news, give me a call at 928-9238; mail me; see me or e-mail me.  I'll be here next time and thanks for reading.  I do enjoy your comments and suggestions.