WARM HEARTS: Remember our debate last year about the benefits of
living in Bradford versus Florida?

Paula Rizzuti Ernst of Tampa, Fla., admits to us she was among
those who chimed in with an opinion not too charitable to her old
hometown but now writes to us with a change of heart.

This past April, her father had a stroke with complications and
was treated at Bradford Regional Medical Center where he received
“wonderful” care.

“My sisters and I drove up from Florida to help my mother and to
see my father. We were there about 10 days and everyone in town
helped us and cooked for us and really showed me something that I
had forgotten which is coming home to a small town and everyone
lending a hand.”

“So hooray for you guys and anyone wanting to come visit the
Rizzutis during summer or winter are welcome.”

She also tells us her dad is home in Tampa recovering and is
“doing great.”

GET SET: How many times do you watch it thunder and lightning
but never search for the flashlight until the power goes out?

It’s that time of the year, folks, so let’s get prepared –
before the lights go out!

First of all, assemble a storm emergency kit. Of course, it will
include that flashlight, a battery-powered radio, extra batteries,
water for drinking and cooking, and a supply of canned and other
non-perishable foods.

Add a candle and matches, too, but be careful you don’t start a
fire!

Allegheny Energy also passes along these tips in case the power
does go out:

* Turn off major appliances (heat pumps, water heaters, stoves
etc.) and unplug sensitive electronic equipment (TVs, computers,
microwaves) to prevent an overload when power is restored.

* Leave one lamp or light on so you can tell when the power is
back.

* Open refrigerators and freezers as little as possible to keep
contents cold.

* Make sure the area is adequately ventilated prior to using
portable or camp-type stoves or lanterns for cooking and
lighting.

* Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using a generator.
Appliances should be connected directly to the generator using
properly sized extension cords. If the generator is wired into the
home’s electrical system, a double-throw transfer switch is
required to prevent voltage from going out on power lines and
endangering work crews.