(2/2013) Groundhog Day is held on February 2nd in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania which is about 170 miles from us. If you are not familiar with the legend, you should watch the 1993 movie "Groundhog Day". The movie is a comedy about a self-absorbed TV meteorologist assigned to cover the annual Groundhog Day festivities. He gets caught in a time loop until he works things out. The self-improvement portrayed by the TV meteorologist, Bill Murray, to get out of the time loop was embraced by many movie goers as a way one should lead their lives using a theme of selflessness.

In 2013 maybe we all can concern ourselves with the needs of those around us rather than concentrating solely on our own wants. If you have room on your list of resolutions, add this one "Be patient and listen when someone is trying to converse with you. Be understanding of others." By the way, what did the Groundhog predict for 2013, "six more weeks of winter" or "spring is near". If you are interested go to www.groundhog.org. February can also be thought of as the Presidents’ month. Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday is celebrated on February 12th while George Washington’s is observed on February 22nd. Remember Valentine’s day on February 14th. Two other days I would like you to recognize are "Do a Grouch a Favor Day" on February 16th and "Love your Pet Day "on February 20th. Both are self-explanatory.

The 2013 Farmers’ Almanac has red flagged February 12-15 and March 20-23 for major coastal storms bringing strong winds and heavy precipitation. Not sure if the prediction will come true but we do know that winter can be hard on animals both domestic and wild. We want to help but we also have to be careful how we provide that help. For example, should we feed the deer population during winter? According to Pennsylvania Game Commission, the answer is "No". It is believed that during winter, the deer move less and rest more as a way to conserve their energy and thereby safeguarding their fat reserves. Setting up a feeding area can lure deer away from their protected areas, using their fat reserves for little gain. If you have an animal friend such as a dog or cat, be sure to clean their legs, feet and stomachs after an ice and snow storm. Remember, the trails are treated with salt and chemicals. These items are ingested when the animals clean themselves. If you park your car outside, be sure to bang your car’s hood to frighten any animals before you starting the car. During cold weather, some animals (cats, squirrels, etc.) climb under the hood to spend time next to the warm engine. For more information, go to www.pgc.state.pa.us website.

As of this writing, we have experienced two snow storms and if the Almanac predictions come true there will be more. There are a couple of things to keep in mind. We need to help out our borough maintenance crew who are trying to clear the trails. This can be accomplished by you not parking your vehicles on the trails. It slows the snow removal process and in some cases can be dangerous to the plow operators trying to getting around partially parked cars. Remember, during a snow emergency, which include most snow events, it is illegal to park on the road or in the right of way just off the road and can result in your car being ticketed and towed. Please help us by doing your part and keep our roads clear.

The topic of emergency brings up the question "Are you prepared?" What happens if there is an ice storm or flood? You can learn about these threats and how to prepare for them by going to www.readypa.org. Recommend you download the Pennsylvania Emergency Preparedness Guide. If an emergency/disaster occurs, you must be prepared to survive on your own for a minimum of three days. Do you need special care? If so, have you registered with the Adams County Department of Emergency Services.

The Adams County Department of Emergency Services has a compiled list of all the Disabled Persons located in Adams County who need special assistance when an emergency arises. When you register, the information is also added to the E-911 Telephone System, so when County receives your call for help, the system will automatically identify your disability and the type of assistance needed. If you are not registered, call (717) 334-8603 and ask to be added to the list. The information provided (over the phone or by filling out the Special Care form) is protected under the Privacy Act regulation.

Can you survive for three days on your own? Do you have an Emergency Kit? The recommended supplies to include in that Emergency Kit are: Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation); Battery-powered radio and extra batteries; Flashlight and extra batteries; Medical (prescription medications, First Aid kit); Food (non-perishable food); Tools (manual can opener, wrench and pliers to turn-off utilities); Garbage bags with ties (for personal sanitation); Whistle (to signal for help); and Plastic sheeting and duct tape (if you need to shelter in place) and cash. If there is a power outage and you have a cell phone, do you know your electric company’s emergency number to let them know the power is out or to follow the progress the company is having in restoring power? If you are going to use a portable generator, do you know how to use it safely?

The biggest worry is carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning generated from the toxic engine exhaust. You should never use a portable generator in a garage, carport, basement, crawl space even with ventilation. Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent CO buildup in the home. Install home CO alarms that are battery-operated or have battery back-up. The Red Cross has information on how to use a portable generator when an emergency or disaster strikes. The website address is www.redcross.org /prepare /disaster /power-outage/safe-generator-use .

"Getting People Involved" is the theme for the Carroll Valley Citizens Association (CVCA) in this new year. Their new president, Chuck Whitlow, told me the 2013 community events are in the planning stages and we should expect details in the near future regarding their CVCA membership drive. Chuck said, "It is the residents’ opportunity to take part in the community and to enjoy all that Carroll Valley has to offer". CVCA is scheduling a "Meet and Greet" event in order for everyone to come out and meet the new board members and see what CVCA has in store for you. For more information go to their website http://www.carrollvalleycitizens.org.

On Wednesday, February 13th at the Fairfield Fire Hall, the next Adams County Commissioners Community Forum will be held from 6:30-8:00 pm. The "State Of The County" will be the main topic. Please come join us and greet the commissioners. Light refreshments will be served. Carroll Valley Borough meetings in February are: Planning Commission (Feb 4th), Borough Council (Feb 12th), and Parks/Recreation Committee (Feb 27th). If you have any questions call me at (301) 606-2021 or email at mayor@carrollvalley.org.