Christ Lutheran Lenten service
The other evening, my wife and I went to a restaurant with some friends. As we perused the menu, one of my friends inquired about ordering à la carte. The phrase “à la carte” is French meaning “from the menu.” It indicates ordering individual items and not the entire meal. You decide what yo…
Edenburg Presbyterian Church has announced the arrival of its new pastor, Rev. Sarah Sedgwick, who officially began leading the congregation on March 2.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Saturday, March 8, 2025 — You are easygoing yet persevering and independent. You have an intellectually inquiring mind. This is a more relaxed, slower paced year for you. Take time to rejuvenate yourself. Focus on close relationships — both personal and business. Hang out …
DEAR DR. ROACH: I am 90 years old. About 20 years ago, I had prostate cancer and went through 43 weeks of radiation. My PSA level in the past year has risen slightly from .03 ng/mL to .09 ng/mL. My internist has suggested that I get a PET scan. Do you think this is necessary? — H.L.
DEAR DR. ROACH: My son has been diagnosed with a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. I had never heard of this. He has been told that his brain pressure is lower than normal. This caused him to have severe headaches, and he says that his ears feel like they are going to explode. He can only be u…
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Friday, March 7, 2025 — You are sensitive, empathetic and idealistic. You are also intellectual and receptive to your surroundings. This year is the beginning of a new nine-year cycle, which means it’s time for fresh beginnings, adventures and major changes. Keep your eyes…
Car shoppers considering buying an electric vehicle in 2025 will have more factors to consider than buyers in previous years. Most of it is good news. For instance, automakers are continuing to introduce new EVs and improve their current models. Expanded charging options and very attractive …
Dear Car Talk:
In 1976, Bill Hocker’s sister-in-law purchased a brand-new Chevrolet Monte Carlo painted Metallic Lime with a white vinyl roof. She regularly maintained the Chevy and kept it garaged.
DEAR DR. ROACH: I have found what seems like an almost-magical way to stop the progression of the common cold and a cure for it. I am a reasonably healthy 84-year-old male with a medically sound lifestyle. Historically, I have gotten about two common colds per year that always starts with na…
Dear Jim: Our kid’s bedroom is over our garage. The old garage door is noisy when opening. I also do projects in there during winter. What type of new door should I install? — William N.
Q: A blinking check engine light came on setting a number four cylinder misfire code. I suspected a bad ignition coil, which I replaced. I cleared codes and the car runs great. I was able to find an auto parts store open late and fortunately the coil was in front of the engine not in back. A…
A couple of months ago, I reviewed the plug-in hybrid version of the Kia Sorento crossover and compared it with its Hyundai-badged fraternal twin, the Sante Fe.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Thursday, March 6, 2025 — You aspire for excellence and are tenacious about going after your goals. You are sensitive. You appreciate the arts. This year is the final year of a nine-year cycle, which means it’s time for a reality check. Let go of people, places and things …
DEAR DR. ROACH: I am a 78-year-old male in relatively good health. I only take losartan for my blood pressure. Over the past year, my urine has gotten quite foamy. The internet suggests that this means a high amount of protein from protein drinks, high physical activity, or a kidney problem.
Dear Savvy Senior, What can you tell me about reverse mortgages? When my husband passed away last year my income dropped almost in half, and I’ve been struggling to keep up with my monthly living expenses. Senior Homeowner
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Wednesday, March 5, 2025 — You are charming, sympathetic and caring, as well as emotionally colorful. At times you need to retreat from the world for some peace and quiet. This is a wonderful year for you because your past efforts will be recognized. Power, leadership, pro…
Q. How do you tell someone who you have been terrible to that you want them back? Can you say you’re sorry enough when you have hurt them so badly, they tell you they never want to talk to you again? My temper got the best of me during an argument, and I pushed my fiancee to the floor. She g…
DEAR DR. ROACH: About 12 years ago, I had a scan done to look for the cause of a problem that I was having for many months: pain in my abdomen and vomiting. (It turned out to be Barrett’s esophagus, which was found with a scope.) Fortunately for me, I read the report from the scan. The repor…
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Tuesday, March 4, 2025 — You are a sensitive person with a rich imagination. You have excellent powers of concentration and are deeply empathetic. This is a year of learning and teaching. Take time to renew your spiritual or religious beliefs. Explore philosophies that giv…
Jim Rossman Tribune News Service (TNS)
Barbara Intermill Tribune News Service (TNS)
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Monday, March 3, 2025 — Beneath your no-nonsense confidence is a sensitive soul. You are compassionate and tenacious. This is a year of service to others, probably to family. Therefore, take care of yourself, because you are a valuable resource. Could this be the year for …
Good Hope/Zion Lutheran
He (the king of Aram) sent horses and chariots and a great army there, and they came by night and surrounded the city. Now when the attendant of the man of God had risen early and gone out, behold, an army with chariots and horses was circling the city. And his servant said to him,
DEAR DR. ROACH: I was diagnosed with advanced osteoporosis years ago. I started taking vitamin K2 because I read that it helps move calcium from the blood into the bones. Fast forward to last year, my doctor had me do a scan to check for arterial plaque because my total cholesterol went over…
Jim Rossman Tribune News Service (TNS)
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Saturday, March 1, 2025 — You’re charming and easygoing. (Sometimes erratic, but always original.) You have great personal magnetism. This year is about work and building solid foundations in your life, both physically and internally. Simplicity is the key. Stay grounded a…
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Friday, Feb. 28, 2025 — You’re an impulsive adventurer who is intuitive, sensitive and energetic. You live at a demanding pace. This year is your turn to have fun and pleasure! Let your guard down and loosen up a bit. Nurture the happiness and beauty within yourself. Old f…
DEAR DR. ROACH: In 2016, I was fortunate to survive a saddle pulmonary embolism (PE). I was sent home from the hospital with an Eliquis prescription. My medical providers ran several blood tests, but no known reason was found to have caused the PE. My cardiologist recommended staying on Eliq…
DEAR DR. ROACH: My wife and I are planning a three-week trip to South Africa and three other countries nearby. We need to take the antimalaria drug Malarone for 26 days, so we did a trial run of four tablets each. Shortly after our first dose, my wife got very itchy skin on her head, ears an…
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025 — You’re confident, charismatic and observant. You want freedom for yourself and commitment from others. This year is slower paced and more laid-back. Focus on business and personal relationships, and seek out people who have your back. Concentrate …
During the 1960s many young parents bought station wagons, and George and Jean Dusheck were no exception. Their first wagon was a second-hand Ford. They discovered the utilitarian wagon concept worked well for their family. “We found that we liked wagons,” she says.
Q: I am curious about whether the noise from roads will be quieter when there are more electric vehicles. That is, does the noise come from tire/road contact (so no change) or from the engines (great change)? Does the vehicle speed matter, as in highway noise vs. local connector road noise? …
Dear Car Talk:
The Nissan Rogue is an unassuming small crossover that is also Nissan’s bestselling model. More finely, Nissan sells so many of these unassuming small crossovers — around 270,000 per year — that it makes up for Nissan’s other models that aren’t selling well.
Americans love trucks, and not just for towing and hauling. As go-to family vehicles we use them for everything from commuting to people moving to adventuring. Fortunately, for $25,000 or less, you can find excellent options in the used market that balance performance, features, utility and …
Dear Savvy Senior, What can you tell me about service dogs for seniors with disabilities? My 67-year-old father has chronic arthritis and Parkinson’s disease, and I’m wondering if an assistance dog could help make his life a little easier. Dog Loving Leah
DEAR DR. ROACH: I am an 80-year-old woman in good health with low blood pressure, and the only medication I take is levothyroxine. A 6-by-5.5-mm aneurysm was discovered in my brain, and the scan shows one lobular protrusion that may be of concern for rupture.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025 — You are compassionate, impulsive and determined to improve the world around you. You value your freedom. This is the beginning of a nine-year cycle for you. Expect new beginnings, adventure and opportunities. Prepare for leadership. Be ready to a…
DEAR DR. ROACH: About 45 years ago, I came down with a rash on my chest and stomach from taking ampicillin. I was told never to take penicillin again. I’m allergic to many antibiotics, which makes treating me (an elderly person) very challenging.
Q. Should I send a Valentine to my ex? What’s good ex-etiquette?
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025 — You are selfless, compassionate and deplore social injustices and abuses of power. Others admire your energy and commitment. This is the last year of a nine-year cycle, which means it’s time to take inventory. Let go of people, places and things th…
Jim Rossman Tribune News Service (TNS)
Barbara Intermill Tribune News Service (TNS)
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Monday, Feb. 24, 2025 — You’re practical, vigorous and keen to make a difference in the lives of others. This is a wonderful year for you, because your past efforts will receive recognition. You might get a raise, a promotion, an award, kudos — there will be some kind of a…
Good Hope/Zion Lutheran
ROME (AP) — Pope Francis’ complex respiratory infection isn’t life-threatening but he’s not out of danger, his medical team said Friday, as the 88-year-old pontiff marked his first week in the hospital battling pneumonia in both lungs — along with bacterial, viral and fungal infections on to…
DEAR DR ROACH: My husband will be 80 in a couple of months. He is experiencing what I fear is primary progressive aphasia (PPA). He will not agree to get tested. Five years ago, a neuropsychiatrist diagnosed him with slight cognitive deficiencies. He struggles to find words, uses incorrect w…
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025 — You are focused and you have humanitarian ideals. You have strong principles and are responsible. This is a year of service for you, perhaps service to family. Therefore, it’s important to take care of yourself so you can be a resource. Is it time…
DEAR DR. ROACH: I am a 71-year-old male in good health. I read your recent column on the use of proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs). About eight years ago, I was hospitalized for 10 days due to a severe case of pancreatitis. The pain was beyond horrible. A scan indicated that I had a severe infect…
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 — You are instinctively trusting and endearing to others. Sometimes you hide behind a tough outer shell. This year is full of exciting changes that will bring you increased personal freedom. Stay flexible and seek out new opportunities. Prepare for ne…
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025 — You are charismatic and sympathetic of the welfare of others. You like to please and can attune yourself to the moods of others. Simplicity is the key to life this year. Take charge of your health. It’s time to create solid foundations in your lif…
When something is replaced by a new thing, it is assumed the new thing is an improved or otherwise better thing. A good way to find out is to compare the thing that was replaced with its replacement.
Dear Car Talk:
DEAR DR. ROACH: I am an 88-year-old male who has been taking tamsulosin twice daily for several years because of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). In October 2023, my urologist added finasteride once daily. One year later, in October 2024, I developed extreme tenderness on my left breast t…
Q: Recently you fielded a question about loss of air pressure on vehicles. I have had this problem with my vehicle (F-150). I believe a lot of people go to oil change chains. Part of their service is adjusting tire air pressures. I have found they release hot tires’ air to adjust the pressur…
Ready to buy a new car? Well, you might want to wait because there are some cool and compelling models coming soon to a showroom near you. They range from a retro-themed performance sedan with a traditional gasoline engine to a rugged off-road SUV powered by electricity. There's even a picku…
Ed Johnson’s 1940 Chevrolet dump truck wasn’t considered all that old back when he was in high school in the early 1950s. As a teen driver he used his truck to earn some money by loading his truck with sand — by hand — and delivering it to housing developers.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025 — You are an independent problem-solver who is sensitive to the needs of others. You are also mystical and artistic. This year it’s your turn to socialize and have fun! Let your guard down and loosen up a bit. Old friends may reappear to rekindle r…
DEAR DR. ROACH: I was offered a low price to get abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening. Is it worthwhile? Who should get screened? — K.D.
Dear Savvy Senior, What can you tell me about the IRS income tax filing requirements for retirees this tax season? My earned income stopped when I retired last March, so I’m wondering if I need to file a tax return this year. Retired in 2024
DEAR DR. ROACH: In 2022, I took a trip to France to visit friends and sightsee. My hip/leg pain started after I spent my days walking and climbing stairs in Paris. (I walked 16 miles one day!) I rested during the evening and took ibuprofen before going to bed. I did not stop my activities be…
Q. My son’s father has only come back into our son’s life in the last year. Prior to that he lived in another state. Our son likes to talk to his friends in a social media chat room site, but I do not want him online unmonitored. I believe he is too young and when he does go online, I requir…
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025 — You are sensitive, optimistic and spiritual. You care deeply about those who are closest to you. This year it’s OK to rest, rejuvenate and focus on relationships. Concentrate on your needs and what brings you happiness. Explore relationships with p…
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Monday, Feb. 17, 2025 — You are sensitive and never miss a detail. You are also trusting, empathetic and determined. This is the first year of new nine-year cycle, which promises fresh beginnings, adventures and major changes in your life. Keep your eyes open for new oppor…
Barbara Intermill Tribune News Service (TNS)
Jim Rossman Tribune News Service (TNS)
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025 — You are kind, charming and enthusiastic. You know how to tune yourself to the moods of others. This is a fortunate year for you. You will receive benefits and recognition for your hard work. Expect a promotion, awards, kudos and acknowledgement. B…
On Thursday, I was in Costco with my wife and looking around I said, “There sure are a lot of flowers today.” In about two seconds it hit me. Valentine’s Day. Embarrassing!
Oil City prayer initiative
Q: I purchased a 2011 Corolla in June. It had a gaping hole for the radio, which the dealer then installed. It is just recently that I have had to use the rear defroster, and I found out that it cuts out my FM radio station while it is on. I have been gathering as much info on this as I can,…
DEAR DR. ROACH: I have suffered from chronic low back pain that affects my knees. I have seen at least six physical therapists, and nothing helps. At times, I have been prescribed 4 mg of methylprednisolone for six days. It helps calm inflammation down and helps me move without severe pain. …
Pressure/Soft Wash by Mark Baughman had a successful eighth year of business in 2024, seeing a growth of customers in the nine counties — Clarion, Forest, Warren, Butler, Crawford, Erie, Mercer, Lawrence, and Allegheny — that surround the business’s home county of Venango, which also saw growth.
DEAR DR. ROACH: I am a 70-year old woman with a prior history of asymptomatic atrial fibrillation (AFib). I’ve been in normal sinus rhythm since having two catheter ablations in 2018. I take Eliquis since my CHA2DS2-VASc score is 2, but I would like to get off of it due to the bleeding risk.…
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Friday, Feb. 14, 2025 — You are sensitive, witty and expressive. You are also purposeful and clear-thinking. This is a year of learning and teaching for you. Take time to renew your spiritual or religious beliefs. Explore philosophies that give you a better understanding o…
Over the past year, business development in Venango County has surged, driven by innovation and collaboration across industries. The Venango Area Chamber of Commerce has been at the forefront of these efforts, championing initiatives that strengthen the local economy and support its diverse …
In 1970, Heath Oil opened one gasoline station in Victory Heights on Rt. 322, Cranberry Township. The company has been expanding ever since and has now served customers in Venango, Mercer, Clarion and Crawford Counties for 54 years.
Five new dancers were admitted into the Oil Region Ballet: Annalese Bresee, Lilly Burkhardt, Lauren Hosick, Ellie Moser and Elise Switzer. Their sojourn with ORB began with a similar experience as Deborah Femovich's piece. After they signed their contracts and attended the orientation meetin…
The Small Business Jump Start Program will continue to offer the Venango County region several different entrepreneurial opportunities to start up a new business and enhance an existing business expansion, as well as providing survival strategies for the current challenging inflationary econ…
For over 35 years, the Steel Valley Authority (SVA) has helped Pennsylvania businesses, their workers and families, and the communities in which they are located survive global economic change. SVA does this through a program it administers called the Strategic Early Warning Network, or SEWN…
Residents and visitors to the area enjoy and frequently utilize its numerous free-to-the-public trails, greenways and other outdoor recreational facilities throughout the four seasons.
Since its creation in 2017, Be Here — an initiative of the Venango Area Chamber of Commerce — has been on a mission to celebrate the heart of Venango County by highlighting its unique stories, remarkable people and outstanding opportunities. This program aims to not only “change the narrativ…
257 Buy Sell Trade, located at 4317 Route 257 in Oil City and owned by Derek Bailey, is business that specializes in buying and selling gold, silver and platinum jewelry and coins.
Krebs Customs LLC, located at 373 Route 157 in Oil City and owned by Michael Krebs, is a repairs service specializing in automotive, diesel, heavy equipment and small engine repairs both in shop and on-site.
Ice Cleaning and Painting LLC continued to expand its coverage area and services in 2024 and intends to carry that momentum into 2025. Notable projects included multiple areas at the Benson Memorial Library in Titusville; both interior and exterior projects at Core Goods in Oil City; complet…
Wet Hose, based in Cooperstown, continued to grow in 2024, providing professional exterior cleaning services to Venango, Clarion, Crawford and Mercer counties. With over 20 years of experience, the company remains dedicated to helping property owners maintain their homes and businesses with …
There are the alpacas — walking down the street, at birthday parties, festivals, church functions and at the river and streams. It doesn’t matter where the alpacas are, people are always excited to see the two beautiful animals owned by Jeanette Demmer Biltz that have lived at 169 East Bisse…
The Friends of Oil Creek State Park (FOCSP), established in 2005, play a vital role in supporting and enhancing the park’s offerings. As a chapter of the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation (PPFF), a 501(c)(3) organization, FOCSP brings together funding and volunteer power to ensure th…
The saying, “Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver, the other is gold,” proved true at DeBence Antique Music World in 2024.
How do you “unplug” and still enjoy family time or just time in the outdoors? In Venango County, there are a lot of options — we have trails, parks and lots of museums that welcome visitors every day. However, Venango also has a unique way to experience all of the above: the Oil Creek & …
High Above 80 is looking for a busy 2025. Having gone through some personnel changes this past year, the new crew has been adding more dance and contemporary material to our collection – along with new (to us) songs from our foundational 80s era.
The past year was full of renovations and new happenings at Core Goods, a local food market located at 2 East First Street in Oil City. The store has been in their current location for two years and in business for six years. Between opening their new Community Space, hosting classes, adding…
