mr.d

This is the 'real' Rosie the Riveter, a legendary feminist icon She will be forever remembered as the woman behind the bandan Updated: 8:18 AM EST Mar 8, 2021 Victoria Ottomanelli March is all about celebrating womanhood, and throughout the month we'll be honoring influential women in history whose inspirational stories helped pave the way for female empowerment and progress. These advocates and pioneers have contributed incredible things to not only women's history, but to the history of the United States as a whole, and are an inspiration to young girls everywhere. Watch the video above to discover the story of Naomi Parker Fraley, the woman who inspired the design of the legendary feminist icon, Rosie the Riveter.

Throwback Thursday: Shawville Before The Power Plant by David Wulderk Thursday, February 18, 2021 in Features, News, Top Stories 0 0 Share on FacebookShare on Tw Shawville is an old “down river” community that sits on the north bank of the West Branch of the Susquehanna River at the lower end of Goshen Township. People have inhabited the Shawville area longer than most locals would imagine. A few years ago, the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission and PenDot sponsored and archaeological dig at the point where Lick Run empties into the Susquehanna. The dig was in preparation for the construction of the new Route 879 bridge. Artifacts from First Nation People’s sites as well as some from early Euro American settlement were found and collected. The river, of course, defined the encroaching enterprises along its banks. Clearfield County, Judge Richard Shaw, had built and operated a grist mill along Trout Run in 1852. Farmers brought their grain (mostly corn) there to be ground into meal or flour. The rapid downward water was diverted into a chute that gave extra velocity to turn a water wheel that, in turn, allowed a large grindstone to rotate and pulverize the grain that was fed beneath it. In time, the county logging and rafting industry saw Shawville as a stop or a place marker along the distant journey to the lumber mills of Marietta PA. The timber industry was king for nearly fifty years in the wild regions of the mountainous upper Susquehanna. Goshen Township, itself, was nearly uninhabited in its northern lands that stretched to Elk County. Scattered logging camps were found there. The farms, homesteads and villages were located on the township’s southern end near the river. The present Shawville United Methodist Church and adjacent school building continue to stand today as a reflection of that time. The massive change to Shawville came in the late 1950’s with the construction of General Public Utilities’ coal fired electrical power generating plant. The huge plant operates on the Bradford Township side of the river and has turned out vital electrical power for over sixty years. It has been an essential county employer. Today, however, due to cost efficiency and air quality issues, the plant is fired by natural gas. The photo shown was taken from near where the power plant sits today. It looks to be late 19th or very early 20th century scene. The bridge is small but accommodated horses and wagons. A large mill is shown as well as the old Shawville store. The then dirt road made its way up the steep hill to Goshen and on to Mt. Joy, as it does today. https://gantdaily.com/2021/02/18/throwback-thursday-shawville-before-the-power-plant/

Virtual Maple Sugaring Opportunities with Parker Dam State Park in March by Gant Team Friday, February 12, 2021 in Coronavirus Updates, Features, Local News, Top Stories 0 0 Share on FacebookShare on Twitter PENFIELD – March is Maple Sugaring Season at Parker Dam Sate Park and though there will be no in-person Maple Sugaring programs at the park in 2021, you can still discover the tradition of how to make real maple syrup via several virtual programs that the park will offer throughout the month. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, there will not be any in-person Maple Sugaring programs at the park’s Sugar Shack this year. But, anyone with interest in learning more about this rite of spring, or perhaps even trying to make their own syrup at home, can register to participate in the free virtual programs that each week will progress through the various aspects of the maple sugaring process. One goal of these virtual programs is to provide those who are “backyard sugaring” an opportunity to learn new aspects of the process and ask questions of experienced park staff throughout the sugaring season. These virtual programs will be held on-line via Microsoft Teams – they will not be held in the park. During the first virtual program on March 6, the discussion will focus on getting started. Included will be a brief history of maple sugaring, learning when and how the sap moves through the tree and how sugaring techniques have changed over the years – or in some respects, have stayed the same. During the second virtual program on March 13, participants will learn how to identify suitable maple trees, how to place a tap, and park staff will discuss various methods of sap collection. The third virtual program, scheduled for March 20, will be directed at the ways to turn maple sap into pure maple syrup. Various methods of boiling, using scaled-size reverse osmosis to reduce boiling time, and knowing when you have proper syrup density will each be explored. Finally, on March 27 in the last virtual program, park staff will cover ways to filter, bottle, grade, and use pure maple syrup. Each of the four scheduled Maple Sugaring virtual programs will begin at 1 p.m. It is estimated that each will last approximately 30-45 minutes. To register for free to participate in any or all of these Maple Sugaring virtual programs, visit the Events Calendar at www.visitPAparks.com. Once at the Events Calendar, click on the PA Wilds button and then scroll down to find the Virtual – Maple Sugaring program(s) hosted by Parker Dam State Park that you wish to register for, click the “Register” button and complete the registration information requested. Those who complete the registration will then be emailed a link that can be used to join the virtual program at the scheduled date and time. Schools and educators can also inquire about the park’s Maple Sugaring – Distance Learning virtual program, where student groups can learn about maple sugaring from their classroom or current learning environment. Teachers should contact park Outdoor Programming Services staff at 814-765-0630, or parkerdamsp@pa.gov to discuss setting up this virtual program for their students. You can keep up on what is happening at the park by liking “Parker Dam State Park” on Facebook; and, you can find more information about state park programs and special events by logging on to the Bureau of State Parks Web site at www.visitPAparks.com, and clicking on “Events Calendar”. https://gantdaily.com/2021/02/12/virtual-maple-sugaring-opportunities-with-parker-dam-state-park-in-march/

Snowball Rollers ---- SEE SLIDES ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------https://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&ccid=fofnbozr&id=34421639545B93AFA91774B607EC8997047A6F80&thid=OIP.fofnbozry0cUGn9vCaPRMgHaFj&mediaurl=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-Fhzt58Qdtug%2FVF42bNMyN6I%2FAAAAAAAA2O4%2FPtnTk1Qs2YY%2Fs1600%2Fsnow%2Broller%2Bdoughnut%2B23.jpg&exph=765&expw=1021&q=pictures+of+snowball+rollers&simid=608021293636845584&ck=5A02C2DF6061BD9B647AE3FC9403133F&selectedindex=17&form=IRPRST&idpp=overlayview&ajaxhist=0&vt=0&sim=11

You are here: Home » News Local News Snow Rollers: Will We See Them Again? January 28, 2021 12:45 am· Author: Aly Delp JEFFERSON CO., Pa. (EYT) – Seven years ago, in January 2014, residents in our area awakened to find some odd snow formations strewn across local yards and fields. PHOTO: Snow rollers in Clarion County. Captured by Bill Mushrush of Mush Media. Often referred to as snow rollers, snow doughnuts, or even snow bales, these self-rolling, hollow snowballs form naturally when chunks of snow are blown along the ground by wind, picking up additional snow along the way. When these natural oddities were seen widely in our area, they caused quite a buzz, with people sharing photos of fields littered with snow rollers all across social media. According to the National Weather Service, snow rollers are somewhat rare, owing to the particular set of conditions necessary for their creation. “For snow to be ripped up from a flat surface by itself that way, you need some pretty windy conditions,” Jenna Lake, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh, told exploreClairon.com. “It also requires that you have a good, fresh snow base to begin with, probably at least several inches already on the ground.” According to Lake, the type of snow is also important to the formation of snow rollers. “You need packing snow, or snow that would easily stick together to make a snowman.” Another thing integral to the formation of the kind of snow rollers that were seen in our area seven years ago is the right kind of space for them to form. “You need large open spaces without a lot of trees to bring the wind speed down,” Lake noted. While our local area, with many wide, open fields available, offers some ideal geography, it is up to Mother Nature to supply the right weather for these unusual formations. Lake noted that an ideal combination would likely be a few inches of the right kind of snow followed by a low-pressure system moving out and creating some substantial wind. “You just need a lot of these conditions to come together at the right time.” While snow rollers remain rare, Lake also said that you can never rule them out when you have a low-pressure system in the vicinity being followed by windy conditions. Looking forward through the weekend into next week, that perfect combination of conditions may not be likely, but it could be possible. Forecasters are currently tracking a weather system that should bring some snow to our area Sunday through Tuesday, including some possible lake effect snow. While that system is still too far out to accurately predict how much snow we may see, Lake noted that there are strong indicators we may head into the early part of next week with a couple of inches of snow on the ground, followed by a low-pressure system rolling into the area. Could this system set up just the right conditions to see snow rollers here again? Only time will tell. https://www.explorejeffersonpa.com/snow-rollers-will-we-see-them-again/

See schedule -- https://www.barrett-jackson.com/ PROUD AMERICAN Published 13 hours ago First GMC HUMMER EV could raise millions at charity auction "Supertruck" will raise money for fallen vets and first responders and their families By Gary Gastelu | Fox News Fox News Flash top headlines for January 27 Fox News Flash top headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com. The GMC HUMMER EV "supertruck" could turn out to be a real hero. The 2022 GMC HUMMER EV is designed to be an off-road beast, with all-new features developed to conquer virtually any obstacle or terrain. The first production example of the electric 1,000 hp electric pickup will be auctioned at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale event in March to raise money for the Stephen Siler Tunnel to Towers foundation, which helps injured first responders and military members and the families of the fallen with housing needs. The off-road truck has a starting price of $112,595, but will likely sell for much more than that. When Chevrolet auctioned the last front-engine Corvette for the same charity at a Barrett-Jackson event in 2019, it raised $2.7 million for the organization. Video The HUMMER won’t be the only high-performance pickup on the block in Scottsdale. Ram is selling the first 702 horsepower 1500 TRX to benefit the Southeastern Michigan 211 health and human services organization, which offers assistance to veterans. Video Both trucks will be sharing the stage with a significant Chevrolet Corvette, too. It’s the first of the convertible mid-engine 2020 Corvette Stingrays and will be sold on behalf of the United Way for Southeastern Michigan. SEE VIDEOS ; https://www.foxnews.com/auto/first-gmc-hummer-ev-millions-charity

These bugs have been underground for 17 years. This year, they'll resurface in 15 states. Keith MathenyGeorgea Kovanis Detroit Free Press Updated Jan.26, 2021 View Comments DETROIT – It’s an underground movement now, but it will be all the buzz this spring and summer. This year will mark the re-emergence after 17 years of Brood X, or the Great Eastern Brood, of periodical cicadas – those large, winged, kind of scary-looking but mostly harmless flying insects known for their almost deafening buzz. “The end of May through June, it can get pretty loud – if you are in an area where they are numerous, there can be hundreds of thousands, or millions, of them,” said Howard Russell, an entomologist (insect scientist) at Michigan State University. One of the largest broods of periodical cicadas in the nation, Brood X will emerge this spring in 15 states: Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, as well as Washington D.C. Unlike greenish, annual cicadas, periodical cicadas are known for their black bodies and bold, red eyes. Their mass, in-unison emergence every 17 years is one of nature’s great mysteries. But the bugs haven’t been in hibernation since their last mass appearance in 2004. “They are always there, that’s what people don’t realize,” said John Cooley, an entomologist at the University of Connecticut who studies periodical cicadas. The cicadas live underground in wingless nymph form, about a foot or two down, feeding on sap from tree roots – “and that’s where they feed for 17 years,” Russell said. Sharks! 2020 was an 'unusually deadly year' for shark attacks, with the most deaths since 2013 How do they all know when to resurface? Most cicadas don’t have fixed periods of development like this. When they reach adulthood, away they go, as individuals or small groups. But with periodical cicadas, after 17 years underground, on just the right spring day, when soil temperatures reach 64 degrees Fahrenheit, the nymphs, all together, burrow their way to the surface and make their mass emergence, Russell said. “They climb up on the nearest thing they can find, and molt for the final time,” he said. “At that time they are white – their exoskeleton hasn’t hardened yet. That takes five or six days. Then the adult is ready to look for a mate.” Why they aren't triggered to do this in, say, the 15th or 16th spring isn't fully understood. “No one knows what mechanism they use to trigger their mass emergence,” Russell said. From underground, periodical cicadas have some method of counting the number of times deciduous trees – the kind that lose their leaves in the winter – regrow their leaves, Cooley said. “The cicadas come out after the ‘right’ number,” he said. “Whatever the specific change is, the cicadas can detect that.” The bugs will even, in unison, postpone their emergence for a day or two if the weather is rainy or otherwise uncooperative, he said. That telltale Brood X buzzing noise are the males up in trees, trying to attract a female. “If you go along the Wabash River Valley, on the Illinois-Indiana border, they have all three species there at the same time,” he said. “The noise is just head-splitting.” After mating, female periodical cicadas will lay eggs in soft, new twigs, using a sharp organ called an ovipositor to cut into the branches and place her fertilized eggs inside. This can kill young branches, making the periodical cicada swarm more harmful for tree nurseries and orchards. “You can’t spray enough pesticide to kill them all without also wiping out everything else in the environment,” Cooley said. The solution is to put nets or bags over trees for the period of time the cicadas are active, until around the start of July, he said. Laid eggs hatch in six to 10 weeks, with the tiny nymphs falling to the ground, burrowing in, and starting the 17-year cycle again. Aside from being loud – their sound is a cross between a buzz and a rattle – the cicadas really won't do any major damage. They aren't drawn indoors. They don't bite. "While they may cause cosmetic damage to trees when laying their eggs, cicadas actually provide a number of benefits to nature," Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist for the National Pest Management Association, said in a statement. And you can eat them, too If you're so inclined, cicadas can even make a low-fat, high-protein snack. Dried cicadas provide a crunch with a nutty, earthy taste, according to those who've tried it. In their softer form, before their exoskeletons harden, others say the cicadas are shrimp-like. A group at the University of Maryland even published a periodical cicada cookbook entitled Cicada-licious, featuring recipes for dishes such as Cicada Dumplings, Emergence Cookies and El Chirper tacos. Periodical cicadas have seen some retraction of their habitat. “They seem to be sensitive to habitat degradation,” Cooley said. “I think they are going to be very susceptible to climate change.” The question Cooley gets the most whenever the periodical cicadas’ re-emerge is how to kill them, he said. “The answer is, ‘Don’t,’" he said. "They are one of our natural wonders. Enjoy them while you have them.” SEE VIDEO ; https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2021/01/26/17-year-cicadas-coming-to-michigan/4250507001/

Canned foods popular the decade you were born Jacqui Agate 4 hrs ago Slide 1 of 46: From the post-war home to the modern kitchen, canned food has been a staple of the American diet for decades. Here we delve into the cupboards and pantries of decades gone by to bring you some of the most nostalgic cans from your childhood. Get ready to take a bite out of yesteryear. Next Slide Full screen 1/46 SLIDES © Warren Price Photography/Shutterstock Memories in a can From the post-war home to the modern kitchen, canned food has been a staple of the American diet for decades. Here we delve into the cupboards and pantries of decades gone by to bring you some of the most nostalgic cans from your childhood. Get ready to take a bite out of yesteryear. SEE SLIDES ; https://www.msn.com/en-us/foodanddrink/foodnews/canned-foods-popular-the-decade-you-were-born/ss-BB1d3WTQ?li=BBnb7Kw#image=1

2-Year-Old Defies The Odds, Beats Cancer And Rings The Bell On Her Birthday Doctors didn't believe Faith would make it to her first birthday but two years later, she's cancer-free.January 21, 2021 at 3:28 am Filed Under:cancer, Full Trisomy 18, Local TV, Pittsburgh News, UPMC Children's Hospital, Wilms Tumor By: KDKA-TV News Staff PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – It was a little over two years ago when Faith was born and doctors diagnosed her with Full Trisomy 18. Full Trisomy 18 is a condition that causes a baby’s organs to develop in an abnormal way due to having an extra chromosome in some or all of their body’s cells. When that diagnosis was handed down, she was given at best, a 10% chance of survival. The odds said she would not see her first birthday. Faith defied those odds and made it to January 2020. Unfortunately, months later in August, Faith and her family were handed more bad news. She was then diagnosed with cancer when an abdominal ultrasound revealed a 2-inch tumor on her left kidney and lesions on both kidneys if left untreated. Thanks to the faith of the family and the help of Dr. Julia Meade at UPMC Children’s Hospital, five treatments later, Faith the tumor had disappeared. Even after those treatments, Faith’s battle was not over. She went through dehydration, a UTI that turned septic, and other maladies, but again, Faith overcame. It was January 15, 2021, that Faith had defied the odds one last time. At 2-years-old, she completed her final chemotherapy treatment and rang the bell at UPMC Children’s. “Not only did Faith defy the odds once again by turning 2-years-old, but she also proved that there is power in prayer by completing her final chemo treatment in the war against Wilms Tumor,” Faith’s mother Brandi wrote in a Facebook post. You can watch the full video of Faith and her family ringing the bell on UPMC Children’s Hospital Of Pittsburgh’s Facebook page. https://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2021/01/21/faith-and-family-defy-odds-beat-cancer/

‘Spectacular’ new bright-orange bat species discovered NATIONAL NEWS by: Michelle Robertson, Nexstar Media Wire Posted: Jan 17, 2021 / 10:21 AM EST / Updated: Jan 17, 2021 / 10:21 AM EST Myotis nimbaensisis a new species of bat named for the mountain range in which it is found, the Nimba Mountains in West Africa.© Bat Conservation International (NEXSTAR) – Scientists have announced the discovery of a new bat species, found high in the mountains of West Africa. With its big ears and retracting wings, the new species certainly looks similar to its previously described bat comrades. But one thing makes Myotis nimbaensis stand out from the pack: It boasts bright orange fur and black wings. “This is unlike anything we’ve ever seen before,” said Dr. Winifred Frick, the Chief Scientist at Bat Conservation International. There are currently 1,400 known species of bats. But the discovery of the bright-orange bat in Guinea is particularly exceptional. Hundreds of gray whales dying off Pacific Coast in ‘unusual’ event “It’s such a rare opportunity to discover a bat that hasn’t been previously described,” Frick said. “And it’s such a spectacular animal … This particular bat is one of the showiest in terms of its beautiful fur and wings.” Myotis nimbaensis, a new species of bat found in the Nimba Mountains of West Africa. (Illustration Patricia Wynne) The bat was found while researchers were working on a critically endangered bat in the Nimba mountain range of Guinea. Its shock of bright fur instantly caught researchers eyes as it flew out of an abandoned mining tunnel. The tunnels, Frick said, were built in the 1970s to explore an ore deposit. These days, “They make really great bat homes.” There’s more to discovering a new species than garnering street cred. According to Frick, “Knowing what species are in different areas and documenting biodiversity is such an important part of protecting species.” “Knowing where species live — and making sure we protect these natural habitats — is part of the work we do for conservation and for people.” https://www.wearecentralpa.com/news/national-news/spectacular-bright-orange-bat-species-discovered/

Pennsylvania receiving $1.5 million federal grant to fight spotted lanternfly REGIONAL NEWS by: Sarah Gisriel Posted: Jan 13, 2021 / 10:36 AM EST / Updated: Jan 13, 2021 / 10:36 AM EST HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) — The United States Department of Agriculture is giving Pennsylvania an additional $1.5 million to fight spotted lanternflies through the Plant Protection Act. “The spotted lanternfly is still considered an agricultural emergency,” said Shannon Powers, press secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. The flies have flown the coop to nine states, killing acres of grapes along the way. “The lantern flies feed on the grape vines and then that leaves them vulnerable to winter temperatures,” said Emelie Swackhamer, horticulture educator, PennState Extension. Meanwhile, the fight against the flies is heating up. Experts said the USDA’s grant will fund continued research, like studying Asian birds and fungi that already kill the flies. “I’m hopeful that — you know — maybe, somewhere along the road these natural factors might help us stabilize the populations, and that’s kind of a long-term goal,” Swackhamer said. In the short term, it’s critical to report fly egg masses to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. “You’re not gonna hear back right away, but it does go into a database, and every report, a team follows up on,” Powers said. Although, don’t wait for the team to destroy the egg masses. Powers said you can use any tool to destroy the eggs, which hold between 30 to 50 flies. “Especially if your kids are driving you crazy in the house, send them out to hunt lantern flies, egg masses in your yard,” Powers said. While this may be the latest emergency, experts said it won’t be the last. “As we learn from the situation that is unfolding with spotted lantern fly, and we have resources to better address these issues, it will helps us with the other times, too,” Swackhamer said. These funds will support projects covering a range of plant health and pest mitigation activities, including: $354,690 for spotted lanternfly (SLF) outreach and education to raise public awareness about the pest in the State; $219,290 to improve detection and suppression of SLF; $157,219 to prevent the spread of SLF through automated detection and citizen science; $135,437 to support the Sentinel Plant Network, which contributes to plant conservation nationwide by engaging public garden professionals, volunteers, and visitors in the detection and diagnosis of high consequence pests and pathogens; $91,434 to monitor satellite populations of SLF in the State; and $80,000 to support orchard surveys in the State. SEE VIDEO REPORT ; https://www.wearecentralpa.com/news/regional-news/pennsylvania-receiving-1-5-million-federal-grant-to-fight-spotted-lanternfly/

Throwback Thursday: Christmastime at Leitzinger’s Department Store by David Wulderk Thursday, December 24, 2020 in Features, Holiday Articles, Local News, Top Stories 0 0 Share on FacebookShare on Twitter The era of downtown multi-storied department stores seems to be all but over in most of the nation. The Christmas season brought crowds of shoppers who could buy most of their gifts at stores that were only blocks apart. Middle-aged or older folks often remember those times Skip Large chain “box stores” and online shopping have been game changers since before the turn of the 21st century. Nevertheless, small stores and businesses still persist under the stress of everything from limited parking to this year’s COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, those in Clearfield County are noted for customer attention and friendly service. Leitzinger’s Department Store was a mainstay of downtown Clearfield shopping for generations. The store was begun by A.E. and John Leitzinger in 1882 and moved into its Market Street building in 1901. It can be said that the store was its own version of a box store but with five floors. It had an elevator and, as a memory from the past, an elevator operator. Everything from furniture, glassware, carpeting, home furnishings, clothes and toy could be found at Leitzinger’s. Customers redeemed their filled books of precious S&H green stamps on the fifth floor. The fascinating pneumatic tube system took cash and returned change and receipts. Part of it is on display at the Clearfield County Historical Society’s Kerr House Museum. The late 19th or early 20th century photo shows a huge Christmas display that greeted county shoppers of that time. Hours of meticulous effort and time went into creating Christmas store window displays. The huge Santa Claus looks to be the old-fashioned “Father Christmas” version that was long ago seen in books and ads. His sleigh looks to be pulled by a single 14-point buck instead of eight tiny reindeer. Indoor photography was difficult at the time so the reflective glare from bright lights made its way into the photo. The tall, decorated tree looks to be held in place with ropes. It will be up to GANT News’ readers to find items for sale and other details in the photo! Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and a Happy and Blessed New Year are extended to all from the Clearfield County Historical Society’s Board of Directors! May 2021 bring us all better times! https://gantdaily.com/2020/12/24/throwback-thursday-christmastime-at-leitzingers-department-store/

Finding the Elusive Statue of Liberty in Harrisburg April 10, 2020by Jim Cheney Please do your best to limit your travels around PA during this time. If you decide to travel, please check the status of the places you are going. Some places around the state are temporarily closed or have changed their hours. We will not be updating individual articles to note these changes. Stay safe and wear a mask! Passing motorists on highway 322 or the combined 11 and 15 just outside of Harrisburg might notice something odd atop an old railroad bridge piling in the middle of the Susquehanna River. In the few fleeting seconds that it’s visible from either road, it can elicit an almost confused feeling. I’m sure the words “Was that the Statue of Liberty?” have been uttered more than a few times by those driving by. In fact, it is a replica of the Statue of Liberty. The current Statue of Liberty is actually the second one to stand in that spot. The first, made of plywood and venetian blinds, was put in place on July 1, 1986 to help commemorate the original Statue of Liberty’s 100th birthday. Placed in the middle of the night by a mixture of patriots, artists, and pranksters, the statue stood for six years until it succumbed to the elements. However, by that time, the statue was so popular that another, more sturdy version was in the works. The current statue, set in place by a helicopter in 1997 is made of metal to ensure that it lasts for many more years to come. Standing 25 feet tall, the statue sits atop a railroad bridge piling of 32 feet that hasn’t been used since the 1880s. It’s located in an area of the Susquehanna River known as the Dauphin Narrows. This section of the river can be dangerous at times, making it difficult to get close to Lady Liberty by water. There’s always the fleeting glances from the highways, but I wanted to find a better vantage point. With this in mind, I started looking at Google Maps. It quickly became obvious that the best land view is from the western shore of the Susquehanna River near Marysville in Perry County. I set out on a beautiful Saturday afternoon with a few friends who were ready for an adventure. Our first attempt was down a dead end street along the water’s edge in Marysville. We knew that we would need to do a bit of hiking from the end of North Main Street in Marysville, but were hoping that there would be a convenient place to park and maybe even a trail. However, when we reached the end of the street, we were met with “No Parking” signs and five “No Trespassing” signs. This clearly didn’t seem like our best option. Next, we drove north along highways 11 and 15 hoping that we might find somewhere to park that offered a good vantage point. Unfortunately, while you can get a good view of the statue’s backside from a bridge along the highway, this is only a good vantage point for those looking for a quick glance and maybe a photo of the Statue of Liberty from behind. "Waterfalls of Pennsylvania" by Jim Cheney If you love PA waterfalls, you won't want to miss this brand-new waterfall book from Jim Cheney, author of Uncovering PA, featuring more than 180 great waterfalls. Order it now on Bookshop.org or Amazon. We decided to make one more attempt at seeing the Statue of Liberty of Harrisburg. This time, we were simply looking for anywhere good to park the car while we hiked down to the water’s edge. Soon, we came to a truck parking area next to a State Farm office (see map below for reference). The best parking area for a hike down to see the Statue of Liberty. Parking the car here, we carefully crossed the 2-lane highway and made our way down the hill towards the railroad tracks. The next step was to cross the four rather busy railroad tracks. Once done, we only had about 150 feet of forest standing between us and the water’s edge. Heading upstream, we eventually saw the remnants of the old railroad bridge down the hill in the distance, with a very overgrown “trail” leading down to it. When you see this old railroad bridge piling, head down along the left side of the structure. Picking our way through the underbrush and muddy terrain, we eventually reached the water’s edge and got what is undoubtedly the best view of the Statue of Liberty from land. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not an amazing view; she still stands several hundred yards away. However, if you want the best possible land view of the Statue of Liberty in Harrisburg, this is definitely it. When I visited, I unfortunately neglected to bring my telephoto camera lens, which would have likely led to much better photos. I would highly recommend you bring a high-powered zoom lens for your camera if you want to get some good shots. Binoculars would be a great addition as well. The four train tracks you have to cross are heavily used. Cross with great caution. It’s also worth noting that this adventure isn’t for the timid. It requires crossing four railroad tracks which can be dangerous and might technically be illegal. Also, while I didn’t see any “No Parking” signs in the parking area, I can’t promise that a local police officer might not think otherwise. This is very much an attempt at your own risk adventure, and as such, I can’t recommend you following in my footsteps. However, if you must go, I’ve provided a map below that shows the location of the Statue of Liberty, as well as the approximate location of the parking area and viewing area. Again, if you wish to attempt this trip, please use extreme caution. See map for other area attractions. https://uncoveringpa.com/statue-of-liberty-harrisburg?fbclid=IwAR0PYFi7LGrEO5ukP6osP4M0rbwuuZor8txCCnfeNfl-nWv7JN4GOwuNywk

Throwback Thursday: Major Israel McCreight’s Wigwam Home in Sandy Township by David Wulderk Thursday, November 26, 2020 in Features, Local News, Top Stories 0 0 Share on FacebookShare on Twitte The DuBois Area Historical Society has recently published a biography of Major Israel McCreight, entitled Major, The Life of Major Israel McCreight: Banker, Conservationist and Indian Chief, by Tom Schott, a local author and a DAHS member. It is a fascinating book that recounts the full and well lived life of progressive man of his times. Israel McCreight was born in Jefferson County, in 1865, and furthered his education in New York State. He, like many young and eager men of his generation, saw his future in the open country of the American West. In 1885, young McCreight made it to Devil’s Lake in the Dakota Territory and settled in at a job selling cattle to the First Nation peoples as well as U.S. Army garrisons. He related well to the Obijwe group and thought highly of them. He learned to dispel the nonsensical prejudices that so many white Euro-Americans had drilled into them, in regard to Native Americans. He earned the nickname, Indian Man. McCreight witnessed the shameful and horrific demise of native culture and the natives, themselves, in the Dakota Territory. Lies, greed, broken treaties, poverty, starvation and slaughter were heaped as abuse after abuse upon the peoples dismissed as Indians and savages by far too many Americans. After working, for a time, for the Great Northern Railway, McCreight came home to Pennsylvania to live in DuBois. His good character and innate business acumen allowed him to quick rise as an assistant director of the DuBois National Bank. He became known as “a one-man Chamber of Commerce” due to his diligence at promoting local DuBois business and serving on numerous commercial and civic boards. McCreight helped to form a bucket brigade to fight the disastrous DuBois fire of 1888. He worked tirelessly to promote the city’s recovery by spearheading public, transportation, lighting and water development. McCreight was also a conservationist in the early the 20th century tradition of Theodore Roosevelt and Gifford Pinchot. The Wigwam was built atop Prospect Knob in Sandy Township and was a reflection of McCreight’s busy life. Prominent Native American guests always felt welcome there. William “Buffalo Bill” Cody, of the “Wild West Show” entertainment fame, and McCreight’s friend, visited in 1908. McCreight lived on until 1958, passing away at the age of 93. He is interred alongside his wife, Alice, in DuBois’ Morningside Cemetery. The Wigwam fell into disrepair and was demolished in 2013. https://gantdaily.com/2020/11/26/throwback-thursday-major-israel-mccreights-wigwam-home-in-sandy-township/

See Faith's picture in Tri-County Weekend 4th Annual Cutest Baby Photo Contest. You can vote as many times as you want. Each vote is .25 cents. Faith is number 4 on list. This was in Tri-County Weekend - Saturday edition - October 3, 2020. See ballot in the newspaper. Ballots in paper from Oct.3 - Oct.24. All together there are 24 baby pictures, My votes are in the mail.

Top Fall Foliage sites in Central PA LOCAL NEWS by: Devin Jackson Posted: Oct 2, 2020 / 05:42 PM EDT / Updated: Oct 2, 2020 / 06:34 PM EDT (WTAJ) — Fall is here, and there’s no better place to take in all its beauty than right here in Central PA. We’re giving you a look at some of the best areas in our region to see great fall foliage. We begin in our northern most counties, in Elk and Cameron Counties. Elk State Forest It features over 200,000 acres and over 30 hiking trails, and once boasted a large number of elks romaing its fields. DCNR spokesperson Ryan Reed says this week is a great week to see their fall foliage peak. Courtesy of the PA DCNR Elk Country Visitors Center Elk Country Visitors Center is a place where plenty of elk and trees can be found. It is elk breeding season so there is a chance you can not only see some of these elk, but see the trees turning their colors as well. Courtesy of the Elk Country Visitors Center Facebook Page “You can go there and spend time on viewing platforms just watching the Elk, and take in all of the beautiful fall sites at the same time,” said Ryan Reed, Natural Resource Program Specialist, Communications Specialist for the Bureau of Forestry at the DCNR. Moving south towards State College, several areas pop up: Bald Eagle State Park It has 5,900 acres of land surrounded by forests, Bald Eagle Mountain, wetlands and a 1,700 acre lake. Photo Courtesy of the PA DCNR. Poe Valley State Park Has just 620 acres but also surrounded by Bald Eagle State Park. Photo Courtesy of the PA DCNR. Rothrock State Forest It comprises of 96,975 acres of land, featuring plenty of hiking and mountain biking trails for all to enjoy. Photo Courtesy of the PA DCNR. Tuscarora State Forest It also boasts over 96,000 acres, with some of its land reaching into Huntingdon County, featuring an abundance of different types of trees with narrow valleys and rocky ridges. Photo Courtesy of the PA DCNR. Ryan says by simply driving down route 26 towards route 322 in Centre County will allow you to see the fall foliage of quite a few of these forests. “It’s a really long, scenic state for state forest drive, that will take you basically to the South end of Bald Eagle State forest,” Reed added. And of course, we would remiss to not mention Raystown Lake. Raystown Lake Located out in Huntingdon County, it is an 8,300 acre lake surrounded by forestry and is the largest lake that is entirely in Pennsylvania. It is surrounded by 21,000 acres of forested mountain slopes that gives breathtaking views in the fall. Photo Courtesy of the Raystown Lake Facebook Page. Out west, features several areas in Somerset County that also have fall foliage, including: Forbes State Park It totals 59,000 acres. Photo Courtesy of the PA DCNR. Mount Davis Known as the tallest point in Pennsylvania, also lies in Somerset County, sits 3,213 feet above sea level, and features an observation tower. Photo Courtesy of UncoveringPA Finally, in the Altoona area, some great places to visit fall foliage is none other than: Horseshoe Curve It is an historic landmark that once saw 250 different trains come through on a given day at its peak. Canoe Creek State Park Features 961 acres of land, surrounded by an 155 acre lake, that offers mirgating birds and a host of wildlife. Photo Courtesy of the PA DCNR. Ryan says PA residents are lucky to have such a variety of fall foliage areas across the entire state. “When it comes to our fall color, I really believe that the citizens of Pennsylvania shouldn’t be inclined to take it for granted, we have one of the longest, and most varied fall foliage seasons anywhere in the world.” You can check out the DCNR’s Fall Foliage reports by visiting their website. SEE VIDEO REPORT ; https://www.wearecentralpa.com/news/local-news/top-fall-foliage-sites-in-central-pa/

Life & Culture Why does Pennsylvania have the longest fall foliage season on Earth? Updated Sep 29, 2020; Posted Sep 29, 2020 Pa. fall foliage map By Marcus Schneck | mschneck@pennlive.com Fall foliage season 2020 in Pennsylvania is predicted to run from mid-September through the end of October, according to the Fall Foliage Prediction Map produced annually by SmokyMountains.com. Pulling together thousands of data sets ranging from historical rainfall records to long-range weather forecasts to elevation, the interactive online map produces a county-by-county fall foliage forecast for the entire continental U.S. For the leaf-peeping season we are entering, the map provided the following forecast: Week of September 14 – Minimal change creeping into the northern tier and northeastern corner of Pennsylvania. Week of September 21 – Patchy color in the northern tier and northeastern corner of the state, while minimal change will arrive in the northwestern quarter of the state and the mountain areas of central and western Pennsylvania. Week of September 28 – Partial color in the northern tier and northeastern corner of the state, patchy in the northwestern quarter of the state and the mountain areas of central and western Pennsylvania, and minimal change across the rest of the state. Week of October 5 – Near peak in the northern tier and northeastern corner of the state, partial color in the northwestern quarter of the state and the mountain areas of central and western Pennsylvania, and patchy across the rest of the state. Week of October 12 – Peak in the northern tier and northeastern corner of the state, near peak in the northwestern quarter of the state and the mountain areas of central and western Pennsylvania, and partial color across the rest of the state. Week of October 19 – Past peak in the northern tier and northeastern corner of the state, peak in the northwestern quarter of the state and the mountain areas of central and western Pennsylvania, and near peak color across the rest of the state. Week of October 26 – Past peak in the northern tier, northeastern corner of the state, northwestern quarter of the state and the mountain areas of central and western Pennsylvania, and peak color across the rest of the state. Week of November 2 – Past peak statewide While it may be a bit abbreviated this year because of weather conditions from August through September, Pennsylvania generally has the longest fall foliage season on Earth, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Best fall foliage season in years is possible, says Pennsylvania expert These are Pennsylvania’s top fall foliage spots, according to the state The geographic regions and ecoregions that span the state also give Pennsylvania a more varied fall foliage season than elsewhere on the planet. DCNR notes, "Only three regions of the world support deciduous forests that display fall autumn color: eastern North America, the British Isles and parts of northwestern Europe, and northeastern China and northern Japan. Forests in other regions are either tropical or dominated by conifers. "Pennsylvania’s location between 40 and 42 degrees north latitude and its varied topography from sea level on the coastal plain to over 3,000 feet in the Laurel Highlands supports 134 species of trees and many more shrubs and vines that contribute to the display of autumn color. If you’re looking to go leaf-peeping this fall, you can find places to stay in Pennsylvania on VRBO. “Pennsylvania is the meeting ground of northern trees that flourish only on mountain tops farther south and southern species that are at the northern limits of their range.” https://www.pennlive.com/life/2020/09/why-does-pennsylvania-have-the-longest-fall-foliage-season-on-earth.html

Department of Agriculture, Partners Urge Pennsylvanians to Squash Spotted Lanternflies Today for Future Food Security September 11, 2020 12:30 am· Author: Maxfield Lane LANCASTER, Pa. – Following months of hyper-focus on the availability of food, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture partnered with Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) where they urged Pennsylvanians to act now against the Spotted Lanternfly for the sake of food security. Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding was joined by Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences Dean Richard Roush and APHIS Executive Director for Field Operations Carlos Martinez at Cherry Hill Orchards. “I’ve said time and time again throughout the COVID-19 crisis that we will not accept hunger as our next pandemic,” Redding said. “But we all need to act now to fight a small, but mighty threat to Pennsylvania’s leading agriculture industry and ensure a diverse variety of food is available tomorrow. “If you see a Spotted Lanternfly, squash it. Report it. Check your car before traveling,” Redding said. “These small acts make all the difference for our farmers working hard to feed Pennsylvania and the nation.” Native to Asia and first found in Pennsylvania in 2014, the Spotted Lanternfly is capable of decimating entire grape vineyards and damaging fruit orchards, hops, walnuts, hardwoods and decorative trees. These industries contribute billions annually to Pennsylvania’s economy. According to an economic impact study completed earlier this year by Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences, this bad bug could cost Pennsylvania up to $324 million annually in economic impact with a loss of more than 2,800 jobs if not contained. In addition to endangering agriculture, the Spotted Lanternfly threatens our ability to enjoy the outdoors during spring and summer months. They’re known to swarm in the air, cover trees, and coat decks and play equipment with their excrement, known as honeydew. Honeydew, along with sap from weeping plant wounds that result from feeding of Spotted Lanternfly, can attract bees and other insects and also stimulate the growth of mold and other fungi. “The key to finding strategies for sustainable, long-term management of the Spotted Lanternfly lies in understanding its biology and behavior, finding its weaknesses and exploiting them,” noted Rick Roush, dean of Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences. “To that end, Penn State is working with US Department of Agriculture and Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture scientists and other institutions to develop biological, chemical and physical controls, and other methods to manage the pest around forested areas, homes, parks, buildings, nurseries, vineyards and fruit farms.” Projects include studies on disrupting the lanternfly female reproductive cycle; testing organic control methods such as a fungal-based spray and natural insect predators; investigations of the pest’s flight behavior, where it might travel and the conditions it needs to flourish; and research on its feeding preferences, including its penchant for tree of heaven and at-risk specialty crops such as grapes. Among the most novel approaches is taking advantage of the Spotted Lanternfly’s attraction to poles and other tall objects to design traps and barriers. “Since 2014, the Spotted Lanternfly has been slowly, but steadily, eating away at the commonwealth’s economy,” Roush said. “As this destructive pest continues to put our state’s agricultural crops and recreational areas at risk, it is imperative that research and education efforts be increased and supported. Our efforts to date have yielded valuable insights, and we are sharing that information with growers, citizens and key stakeholders.” USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is working with the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA), universities, private industry, and other government agencies to advance effective strategies for battling the spotted lanternfly. “We are developing new tools for long-term population control and methods to reduce impacts of this pest. This summer we deployed an improved trap for detecting spotted lanternfly populations,” said Carlos Martinez, APHIS Executive Director of Field Operations. “We will continue to work with PDA to detect and treat spotted lanternfly populations and conduct public outreach. We are committed to supporting Pennsylvania’s fight against this invasive pest.” The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture and Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences have worked collaboratively with the USDA over the past several years to educate the public and slow the spread of Spotted Lanternfly in Pennsylvania. With Penn State leading research and education efforts, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture and USDA teams of inspectors follow up on reports of Spotted Lanternfly in Pennsylvania’s newly quarantined counties and counties outside of the quarantine zone, treating confirmed sightings as appropriate. These teams also conduct proactive surveys for the invasive insect to suppress new populations. In early March, Pennsylvania added 12 counties to the area quarantined for Spotted Lanternfly. The 14 counties previously quarantined had widespread insect populations. The new 12 counties have isolated infestations. A detailed map of quarantined counties serves to illustrate how the insect travels – by hitchhiking with people travelling from infested areas to new areas. It is crucial for anyone travelling in and outside the quarantined counties to be vigilant and look before they leave to prevent transporting insects to a new area. Pennsylvanians – even though inside the quarantine zone – should also report insects online or via phone at 1-888-422-3359. Spotted Lanternfly reports from the public provide valuable data for researching insect populations and slowing its spread. For more about the Spotted Lanternfly visit agriculture.pa.gov/spottedlanternfly or the Penn State Extension website. https://www.explorejeffersonpa.com/department-of-agriculture-partners-urge-pennsylvanians-to-squash-spotted-lanternflies-today-for-future-food-security/

A farmer planted over 2 million sunflowers to provide a respite during this rough year By Lauren M. Johnson, CNN Updated 8:23 AM ET, Mon September 7, 2020 Thompson Strawberry Farm has been around for 70 years, but this is the first year it is decorated with sunflowers. (CNN)Everyone could use a little sunshine in their life right now, so a Wisconsin farmer decided that's what he was going to do, and planted more than 2 million sunflowers in his fields. Scott Thompson's family has been farming in Kenosha County for more than 70 years, and this is the first year that flowers are decorating the landscape. Usually, the pick-your-own farm consists of strawberries in summer and raspberries and pumpkins in the fall. Located just 10 miles from Kenosha, Wisconsin, in Bristol, Thompson Strawberry Farm is drawing people to a simpler family outing where they can picnic, wander fields of florals and take home a dozen sunflowers. Thompson and his wife thought with everything going on this year it would be ideal to spread a little happiness to their customers. "We just did it ... and we just kept building," Thompson told CNN. "As the season went on, the pandemic never went anywhere ... and we thought people might be looking for something to do, and what a great way to social distance and ... smile, basically." Thompson said he and his wife wanted to spread a little happiness. Thompson ended up with more than 22 acres of flowers, seven of which haven't even bloomed yet. It makes for over 2 million blooms of sunshine. The flowers are planted in more than 15 fields to provide room to social distance and spread out. clos "One of the things that's so cool about this is everyone is so happy," Thompson said. "We get all these comments on Facebook, or if I'm out in the field, everybody is like, 'Thanks for doing this,' (and) 'This is what I needed.' People are so happy to be out there and have a place to go." Word of their sunshine oasis has spread mostly through word of mouth as people come to enjoy a small break from reality. Thompson said that one woman came from Chicago to get away from the protests and gloom. In addition to sunflowers, Thompson also planted a field of zinnias, a field of wildflowers, and Mexican sunflowers that are known for attracting butterflies. Thompson said the response definitely means the sunflowers will be a regular thing at the farm, even without a pandemic. "I'm just glad we get to have a business people are happy to come to ... and get away from the city," Thompson said. https://www.cnn.com/2020/09/06/us/sunflower-fields-in-wisconsin-trnd/index.html

HOME| ANOTHER CHALLENGING PEST HAS MADE PENNSYLVANIA ITS HOME Another Challenging Pest Has Made Pennsylvania Its Home A few weeks back, you were alerted that the Swede midge was found on a Pennsylvania farm. We now warn you about another invasive pest, jumping worms. Save For Later Print NEWS UPDATED: SEPTEMBER 3, 2020 Jumping worms are highly destructive to soil quality. Photo: John Esslinger, Penn State Jumping worms (Amynthas spp., also known as Asian jumping worms, crazy worms, Alabama jumpers, and snake worms) were identified on a farm in Montour County this week. So, what’s the big deal? Jumping worms are highly destructive to soil quality; they grow fast and reproduce quickly, and consume large amounts of organic matter. The plant nutrients in the worm castings are unavailable for a considerable time, and the castings themselves form a dry pellet. Soils tend to dry out quickly as organic matter is depleted, and soil structure degrades, resulting in a soil structure that some have described as resembling coffee grounds. In the forest, they can destroy the mulch layer on the forest floor, making it impossible for many plant species to germinate and establish themselves. How widespread are these jumping worms in Pennsylvania? We just don’t know. The Montour County growers believe they have been on their farm for at least two years. As you can see from the picture, the adults are about 5 or 6 inches long. They are more active than nightcrawlers. They appear to jerk or jump when disturbed. One characteristic that distinguishes them from a nightcrawler is the clitellum (the narrow band around their middle). The clitellum on the jumping worm is flush with the rest of the body, while on a nightcrawler, it is slightly raised. The clitellum on the jumping worm goes all the way around the body while it does not go around a nightcrawler’s underside. It is creamy white to grey on a jumping worm. The jumping worm has only one generation a year. The adults lay their eggs in the soil then die when the ground freezes. The egg cocoons can survive winters worst and hatch out in the spring. Note the clitellum around the middle is flush with the body. On a nightcrawler, this would be slightly raised. Photo: John Esslinger, Penn State Do they damage crops in ways other than reducing soil quality? It has been documented that they will feed on roots. The Montour County grower had the beet and carrot seedlings eaten off shortly after emergence within the last week. We found an abundance of jumping worms in the area and no other potential pests. What should you do if you find jumping worms? First and foremost, be careful not to spread them around on your farm or to other farms. They move with soil. Keep in mind that soil can contain eggs even if adults are not present—clean soil from equipment and even shoes before moving to the next field. There are no insecticides labeled to control jumping worms. If found on a small scale, the worms can be collected, destroyed, and disposed of. Do not use them for fishing or in a compost bin. We currently know very little about this pest, but that will change. Keep your eyes and ears open By entering your email, you consent to receive communications from Penn State Extension. View our website. https://extension.psu.edu/another-challenging-pest-has-made-pennsylvania-its-home

HOME| SWEDE MIDGE: NOW IN PENNSYLVANIA Swede Midge: Now in Pennsylvania Another invasive species, the swede midge, has made its way to Pennsylvania. Swede midge is a tiny, 1/16 inch long fly that can be a serious pest of Brassica crops, also known as cole crops, and weeds. Save For Later Print NEWS UPDATED: JULY 22, 2020 Brown corky scarring is not limited to the growing points and leaf petioles, but can also cause damage in the heads of cauliflower. Image: Cornell University Native to Europe and parts of Asia, this pest was confirmed in New York about 20 years ago and has spread to additional states and Canada. This midge belongs to a group of insects that are known to be host-plant specialists, often causing galls or other induced plant growth patterns. The swede midge fits this pattern, being tightly connected to a plant family, and larval feeding induces changes in plant physiology, resulting in various forms of distorted growth. We discovered swede midge by responding to a farmer’s problem in broccoli on July 16, 2020, in Bradford County. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first occurrence of swede midge in Pennsylvania. However, the damage has been mistaken for molybdenum injury, herbicide injury, and various abiotic stress factors. Swede midge may be more widespread in Pennsylvania, but damage misdiagnosed, or it may exist in weeds or crops that are planted at higher densities, such as Brassica cover crops. Swede midge damage to broccoli on July 16, 2020, in Bradford County, PA. (B, D) Broccoli plant not producing a head. (A, C) Close up of scarred tissue where the head should be at top. Photos: John Esslinger, Penn State Entomologists working in infested areas have done a great job pulling together a Swede Midge Information Center and all the information in this article comes from those sources. The Damage and Biology PowerPoint includes great photos of symptoms on crops. Swede Midge Damage on Crops and Swede Midge Damage on Weeds has additional symptoms on crops and weeds. Organic Management of Swede Midge. A synthesis of biology, ecology, and management, with a focus on organic growers. Damage varies with the crop and time of infestation. Symptoms include scarring at the growing point resulting in a ‘blind head’, leaf puckering, multiple shoots and growing points, many small heads, brown corky scarring, swollen flower buds/florets or leaves, and other plant growth distortions. Secondary soft rot infections can also occur. There is no host-plant resistance, but there is variation in susceptibility among plants. The problem at the farm in Pennsylvania was with broccoli, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts not producing any heads. Swede midge females lay their eggs deep in the heart of cruciferous plants. They like the youngest actively growing tissue. Eggs are initially transparent becoming creamy yellow as they near maturity, and microscopic and cannot be seen with the naked eye. Image: Cornell University Swede midge overwinter as pupae and emerge in several flushes in the spring. Adults are very short-lived (less than a week), and poor fliers. Adults mate and lay eggs in the developing leaves that make up the growing tip, and larvae feed at within these growing tips, which protects them from contact insecticides. Larvae feed for 1 to 3 weeks, then jump to the ground, and pupate in the upper half-inch of soil. There are multiple generations per year. Eggs hatch into larvae, which are 3-4 mm in size at maturity. They are clear when they first hatch and become more creamy white or yellow. As they near maturity, they have the capability to curl up and flip or jump off of the plant to the ground. Swede midge larvae feed gregariously (in groups), during feeding, larvae produce a secretion that breaks down plant tissue, creating a moist environment. The secretion is toxic to the plant and results in swollen tissue, abnormal growth, and brown scarring that ultimately can result in reduced yield and unmarketable produce. Image: Cornell University Management is tied to their ecology. Strategies that remove a host resource can be effective. This includes rotation, sanitation (e.g., clean harvest), and avoiding Brassica cover crops. Recent research on how to ‘crash’ swede midge populations on a farm through careful timing of crop rotation in space and time, along with updated information on relative preference among 14 different Brassica hosts, is summarized in a free pdf download, New Crop Rotation Recommendations for Swede Midge. Systemic insecticides are effective. Organic insecticides have given only partial control. Multiple kaolin clay applications may be among the most effective organic spray options. Careful application of insect netting is an expensive but effective option. There has been a tendency for this pest to be more of a problem on smaller, diversified farms, and organic farms. Peel back leaves of the suspect growing tip and look for larvae. Swede midge larvae break down plant tissue creating a very moist environment – you will see the moisture in an infected tip compared to a healthy one. Image: Cornell University If swede midge is indeed rare in Pennsylvania, the best management tactic now may be early detection, which would allow management to be directed at very low and scattered populations. Sex pheromone lures that only attract males are available, and trapping protocols developed in northeastern states and Canada. The midges are small (think the size of spotted wing drosophila larvae—you will want a hand lens when searching for them) and can be hard to identify. Efforts to establish early detection would take some skill and organization. https://extension.psu.edu/swede-midge-now-in-pennsylvania

Spotted lanternfly treatment poses threat to non-target wildlife species by Samantha York Thursday, August 6th 2020 Spotted lanternfly (WJAC) CENTRE COUNTY, Pa. (WJAC) - A preventative measure used to stop the spotted lanternfly is now raising concerns among wildlife rehabilitators across Pennsylvania, especially in southeastern parts of the state. Rehabilitators, like Centre Wildlife Care Executive Director Robyn Graboski, warn that while sticky bands are effective in catching the insect, they also pose a serious threat to non-target species, "It's bad. It's really bad. There's already so much in the environment that's detrimental to wildlife and our birds are declining in numbers. They do not need one more thing." She explains the treatment is becoming a trap for other wildlife, "The biggest problem that rehabilitators are seeing is, once these finders find these animals, they try to get the animals off themselves. That is not a good idea because you could pull feathers out, you could break skin, you could hurt the animals. Even little animals are coming in with broken bones." Sticky bands are essentially like tape, with a sticky surface. They are wrapped around the trunk of a tree and designed to catch spotted lanternflies, but rehabilitators are seeing hawks and other birds, bats, snakes and cats get stuck to them and getting hurt, or worse: dying. Graboski says it's a preventable situation, using alternatives like Tree Bands. However, if you do use sticky bands, Graboski recommends putting a form of mesh over the sticky part, "Not chicken wire because little birds and animals can get through chicken wire and still get stuck to the tape and then get tangled up in the wire and that just makes the situation worse." She advises people use a plastic, fine, half-inch mesh to put around the tape. If you discover an animal in danger because of some sort of sticky tape, Graboski advises to cut the tape off with the animals still on it, put paper towels around the animal and set it in a cardboard box with a lid, then call a wildlife rehabilitator immediately. While Graboski says Centre County has seen some spotted lanternflies, and her wildlife rescue has seen some animals stuck to sticky bands, the insect problem has not reached the area yet. She explains that she is raising awareness as a preventative measure, "I want to nip this in the bud before it reaches Centre County, anywhere where people have spotted lanternflies and they use these sticky traps." You can find a licensed rehabilitator closest to you through Pennsylvania Association of Wildlife Rehabilitators or Animal Help Now: Emergency Resource. SEE VIDEO REPORT ; https://wjactv.com/news/local/spotted-lanternfly-treatment-poses-threat-to-non-target-wildlife-species-08-06-2020

Ag Progress Days Online Expo Features Live Webinars, Virtual Tours, Education by Gant Team Sunday, August 2, 2020 in Coronavirus Updates, Local News 0 0 Share on FacebookShare on Twitter UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The novel coronavirus pandemic will not stop Penn State’s 2020 Ag Progress Days — scheduled for Aug. 9-12 — from providing educational activities, research tours and commercial interactions, even as the event shifts to a virtual format due to COVID-19 restrictions, according to organizers in the College of Agricultural Sciences. “The global COVID-19 pandemic has presented serious challenges to our agricultural producers, our food supply chains, our businesses, our livelihoods, and our health,” said Jesse Darlington, Ag Progress Days manager. “But as Pennsylvania’s land-grant university, it is Penn State’s mission to help our state’s farmers, families and communities to navigate these challenges, whether we all can be together in one place or not.” Darlington noted that instead of attending in-person events on the show grounds at the Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center at Rock Springs, visitors to the Ag Progress Days website — at http://apd.psu.edu — will find live, interactive webinars, virtual tours of the research center, and video presentations highlighting some of the latest research, educational programs, and best practices in agriculture, natural resources, health and nutrition, and other topics. “Website visitors also can connect with hundreds of our commercial exhibitors to learn about the goods and services they offer and, in some cases, view product demonstration videos and arrange virtual meetings with company representatives,” he said. The “Marketplace” section of the website features registered Ag Progress Days vendors, offering enhanced exhibitor profiles and the opportunity for attendees to connect with participating vendors virtually. From a map of exhibitor booth space or from the exhibitor list, visitors can find contact information, product images, show specials, product videos and other information. Over the four-day period, at least 46 live webinars will provide virtual attendees with valuable and engaging content addressing a wide range of topics. Viewers watching the live webinars will be able to ask questions of the presenters, and the sessions will be recorded for future viewing. The webinars are free, but registration is required. The interactive sessions will cover issues related to dairy, livestock and poultry production and animal health; business management; field and forage crop production; nutrient management; food demonstrations with healthy recipes; food safety and home food preservation; forestry and wildlife; household and landscape pest management; recommendations for beginning farmers; drinking water quality and pond management; and other topics. Another live, online session — hosted by Rick Roush, dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences, and Russell Redding, Pennsylvania secretary of agriculture — will take the form of a town hall meeting. The topic of the hour-long forum, to be held at 2 p.m. Aug. 10, will be the impact of COVID-19 on Pennsylvania agriculture, lessons learned and next steps in recovering from the pandemic. A link to register to view the town hall can be found on the Ag Progress Days website. Among the on-demand attractions of the online expo are virtual tours of the Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center — curated by Penn State’s Pasto Agricultural Museum, which is located at the center — giving viewers a glimpse of some of the field studies conducted at the 2,000-acre facility. Virtual tour locations will feature American Chestnut Foundation efforts to restore the American chestnut to Eastern forests; experiments on vegetable and small-fruit production in high tunnels; Penn State’s Deer Research Center; research on stream riparian buffers; best practices for woodlot management; and dairy beef feedlot management. In addition, the Pasto Museum will highlight its “I Remember Ag Progress Days” oral history project. Website visitors will be able to hear friends of the museum and former Penn State faculty members and extension educators discuss their memories of past events and how Ag Progress Days has evolved over the last half-century. Many other on-demand videos and recorded webinars also will be available from the website, featuring topics typically covered at Ag Progress Days, including home gardening, invasive species such as spotted lanternfly, youth activities, and more. “We hope Ag Progress Days attendees enjoy this online content, which will be available long after the ‘show dates’ of Aug. 9-12, and that they find it interesting and valuable enough that they return often to explore the website to the fullest,” Darlington said. “We also encourage everyone to mark Aug. 10-12, 2021, on their calendars, when we plan to return to Rock Springs for Ag Progress Days 2021.” https://gantdaily.com/2020/08/02/ag-progress-days-online-expo-features-live-webinars-virtual-tours-education/

Home Clearfield County Fair Throwback Thursday: Midway Shows Added Color to Clearfield County Fair by Gant Team Thursday, July 30, 2020 in Clearfield County Fair, Features, Local News, Top Stories 0 0 Share on FacebookShare on Twitter The Clearfield County Fair began as an agricultural exposition in 1860, just as the United States was coming apart at the seams and descending into treasonous session and civil war. The fair began as an organized display of county livestock, home crafts, crops and garden products. The Expo Halls and animal stables have always highlighted those parts of the fair with three notable exceptions. The fair was cancelled in 1944 and 1945. Winning World War II demanded extra working hours, as well as strict rationing of foodstuffs, gasoline and textiles. Many men were serving in the military forces and many women took factory labor jobs and even did the hard farm tasks here at home. This year’s COVID-19 pandemic has caused cancellation of the fair, its parade and most of its trappings. Large gatherings are simply not safe in 2020. Some enterprising and hard-working food vendors are offering to set up shop and sell their ever-popular fair specialties while adhering to social distancing rules. It isn’t easy but they deserve credit for giving their best effort to make things seem a little like “normal.” The two photos show the fair’s midway of a half century ago, during the early 1970’s. The rides and stage shows arrived in Clearfield by train, on Third Street, and then were towed to the Driving Park. The two midway shows, “Decapitated Donna” and “Dungeon of Horrors” were brightly-painted facades that led to a tented area where the oddities were shown. These shows may have been chintzy, lurid and laughably unbelievable but they drew crowds as a public address system roared out the same enticing invitation for anyone to put his/her money down and go on in! No one expected to see a headless woman who had been guillotined and still talked. People were not screaming in authentic agony, as they were tortured on medieval stretching racks or impaled on spikes. But those ridiculous shows were fun and they were part of carnival Americana. Fair workers who travelled with the road shows worked long hours and probably had some hard times as the rides and shows moved, seasonally, throughout the United States. Some may have been rough characters but made the fair’s midway come to life. Hopefully, 2021 will see the fair as we knew it come back to Clearfield County.

Free Webinar on Protecting Animals from Harmful Algae Blooms Penn State Extension is offering a free webinar to the public about protecting dogs and other animals from harmful algae blooms on Thursday, July 23, from 7:00 P.M. - 8:00 P.M. Harmful algae blooms (HABs) are the overgrowths of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) that cause water quality problems in lakes and ponds, including the occasional production of potent toxins. These toxins can poison people, household pets, waterfowl, and livestock. Because HABs are increasing in many areas, the number of dog poisonings from cyanobacterial toxins is also on the rise. This webinar will help you visually identify harmful algae blooms so they can be avoided. If you own a pond or lake, the webinar also will describe actions you can take to prevent or treat harmful algae blooms. You’ll also learn steps to take to protect animals before and after they are exposed to pond and lake water. Additional information, including registration for the webinar, is available at the Penn State Extension website. Posted by Solomon's words for the wise at 7/22/2020 05:30:00 PM