Connections Magazine - December 2015 Issue

THE SETTLERS INN:

HAWLEY WINTERFEST:

THE LODGE AT WOODLOCH:

Celebrate The Joy & Spirit Of The Season – P 9

Come Enjoy One Of The Most Celebrated Festivals In NEPA– P 10

To Be Or Not To Be Pampered?

To Be! – P 15

DECEMBER 2015

Since 1998

PLUS...

Country

Sidewalks

Reflections – P 16 Living Green – P 17 Money – P 18 Entertainment – P 20 Pocono Secrets – P 21 Outdoor Ramblings – P 22 Classic Cars – P 23 Ask The Vet – P 24 Wellness – P 26 Area Events – P 28

See All The Holiday Celebrations Our Area Has To Offer This Season

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dec ‘15

contents

departments ArtScene

32

Ask the Vet

24

Behavioral Medicine

26

Book Corner

20

Classic Cars

23

Events Calendar

28

Film Review

20

Healthy Geezer

27

Living Green

17

Money

18

Our Towns

connectionsmagazine DEC ’15

VOL. 17 NO. 12

features

4

Outdoor Ramblings

22

Pocono Secrets

21

Reflections of Prison

16

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COUNTRY SIDEWALKS “Country sidewalks, busy sidewalks, dressed in holiday style…” This popular holiday tune speaks of city sidewalks, but here in Northeastern Pennsylvania, our country sidewalks are brimming with shoppers as people flock to the pretty, quaint streets for holiday shopping in our towns.

ADAM’S CHRISTMAS Adam Barziloski knows a thing or two about working with Christmas trees. For him, it’s as natural as breathing air—a fragrant, pine scented air, of course.

CELEBRATE THE JOY & SPIRIT...

The traditional ambience of the Settlers Inn, a beautifully restored Arts and Crafts lodge, is heightened throughout the holiday season, and guests delight in the magical beauty and warmth it emits with the crackling fireplace, soft music, twinkling lights, glowing candles, scents of rich spices and woodsy pine...

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HAWLEY WINTERFEST

15

TO BE OR NOT TO BE PAMPERED? TO BE!

The 17th Annual Hawley Winterfest arrives on Friday, December 11th with wintry fun activities planned through Sunday, December 13th. This three-day winter event is one of the most celebrated holiday festivals in Northeast Pennsylvania with many activities and fun things to do for the entire family.

It’s the middle of a cold northeast Pennsylvania winter.

Close your eyes and imagine the transcendent sensation of swimming in a pool surrounded by an infinity of waterfalls, a warm revitalizing massage infused with summer citrus, and a room that beckons just with its name—the Whisper Lounge.

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[YOUR] NEPA MAGAZINE

Timely Treasures

Photo l. to r.: Timothy Farley, MD, medical director Imaging Services; and Radiology Technologists Doug Buchinski, Michelle Murray and Chelsea David with the new 160-slice Aquilion PRIME CT scanner.

Closing After 30 Years !

New WMH CT Scan

Offers Safer, Faster Exams

W

ayne Memorial Hospital is now offering state-of-the-art computerized tomography (CT) scans that are as fast, safe and accurate as possible in today’s healthcare environment.

The AquilionTM PRIME CT from Toshiba provides faster exams at the lowest doses of radiation that are reasonably achievable while producing highquality images for precise diagnoses.

“We are excited about the new CT scan,” said Timothy Farley, MD, medical director of Imaging, “It delivers extremely high quality and detailed images, and its ultrafast scanning capabilities shorten exams so less contrast and radiation are required, making the procedure much safer.”

Equipped with industry-leading dose-reduction software, the Aquilion PRIME enables exposure-dose notifications for every patient and every procedure.

“The speed of the Aquilion PRIME enables our clinicians to obtain critical patient information for enhanced diagnoses faster than before,” explained Imaging Services Manager Robert Brzuchalski, CRA, RT, RDMS. “It also allows us to expand the range of patients who can be imaged—from pediatric to bariatric— partly because of the Aquilion PRIME’s large bore opening and the industry’s widest couch. It offers a more spacious feeling for patients and a higher table weight limit. And it’s adjustable to different heights so wheelchair access is also possible.”

The new equipment, which cost about $750,000, was purchased in part with monies from state gaming funds acquired through a partnership with Honesdale Borough from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.

A CT scan combines X-ray images from different angles and creates cross-sectional images or slices of bones, blood vessels and soft tissues, offering more detailed information than plain x-rays. The Aquilion PRIME is capable of reconstructing 160 unique slices of information per gantry rotation.

“The Aquilion PRIME is another example of our commitment to excellence in patient care,” said James Hockenbury, director of Ancillary Services, which includes Imaging Services. “This equipment enables us to perform exams that are safer, faster, and more comfortable for our patients.”

WMH CEO David Hoff echoed Hockenbury and added, “We will continue to stay on top of technology that offers our patients the best and safest advances possible.”

In addition to CT, Wayne Memorial Hospital’s Imaging Services offers MRI imaging, digital mammography, PET scans, bone density imaging, nuclear medicine, x-rays, vascular studies and ultrasound. For more information, visit www.wmh.org.

president • publisher • editor in chief deborah bailey production manager meica drake account representative barry weiss editorial correction services sandi scull assignment writers robin scandura allison mowatt contributing writers al hoff, Movie Review lucille norella, ArtScene barry & hillary anthony, In the Company of Books joseph tellish, PhD, Positive Behavior in Children

D

ecember 31, 2015 is the day that Timely Treasures, a local landmark antique and gift retail operation, will be closing for good. The original owners, the late Bob and Pat Ohlson, opened in 1985 as an antique and antique furniture refinishing business.

The business grew into its current location on Route 6, just east of downtown Hawley, adding a larger selection of new and antique inventory and the buying of gold, silver, coins, and rare currency as a PA licensed buyer.

“We had strong store traffic this past summer and fall,” states Alec Dazenski, Store Manager, “but average sale per customer was down and expenses continued to climb.” A walk through Timely Treasures is truly a walk into the past. Their current inventory is a mix of quality antiques, new and antique furniture, jewelry, holiday gifts, décor, lamps, Woodwick candles, mirrors, Moorcroft pottery, watches, coins, antique US paper money and so much more. “Everyone, from vacationers to locals, comments on how much they love the store. Unfortunately, many were not buying, and we just can’t keep the doors open based on this trend,” adds Dazenski.

An inventory liquidation sale will begin mid-November and continue through the end of the year or as long as product is still available. With discounts up to 70% off, customers are urged to shop early for best selection. Timely will also raffle off a $100 Gift Basket, a perfect holiday gift, filled with specialty food items, candles, and other products offered in the store. No purchase necessary. Drawing date will be Sunday, December 20 at noon. The buying of gold, silver, coins, and rate currency will be ongoing during the liquidation sale. The store will be open for the 17th Annual Hawley Winterfest, December 11 thru 13. Free refreshments will be available. Regular hours are Thursday thru Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 570-226-2838 for more information or visit www.TimelyTreasures.com.

fred cicetti, The Healthy Geezer charles curtin, Finance terry mooney, Reflections of a Prison Inmate arthur middleton, MD, FAPA, Behavioral Medicine michael krupa, Finance terri schlichenmeyer, Book Review la guzda, Pocono Secrets arnie milidantri, Classic Cars bill deaton, Outdoor Ramblings pike county conservation district, Living Green amy platko-williams, D.V.M, Ask the Vet

connectionsmagazine 3305 Lake Ariel Highway Honesdale, PA 18431 570.647.0085 • Fax 570.647.0086 cmag@ptd.net • thinkconnections@yahoo.com www.connections-magazine.com

Connections Magazine is not responsible for typographical errors, mistakes or misprints. All advertising, including photographs, is the property of Connections Magazine and not that of the advertiser. The advertiser has purchased the right of reproduction only in Connections Magazine and does not have the right to reproduce the ads in any other place or publication. Connections Magazine reserves its rights to exercise its discretion in the selection of advertisements. © COPYRIGHT 2006 CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE

WHAT A DILEMMA To laugh is to risk appearing a fool.

To weep is to risk appearing sentimental.

To reach out for another is to risk involvement.

To expose feelings is to risk rejection.

To place your visions before the crowd is to risk ridicule.

To love is to risk not being loved in return. **To go forward in the face of overwhelming odds is to risk failure.

But risks must be taken, because the greatest hazard in life is to risk nothing.

The person who risks nothing, does nothing, has nothing, is nothing.

We may avoid suffering and sorrow, but we cannot learn, feel, change, grow, love or know GOD. Chained by our own self-assurances, we are a slave. We have forfeited our freedom.

Only the person who dares to take risk and to trust in their GOD will ever be made FREE.

In 1997,Rev. Edwin E. Bailey, father of the editor, gave this poem to his daughter 8 days before he had a stroke and 3 weeks before he died. The poem was adapted from works by Leo Buscaglia. Edwin hand wrote this on a scrap of paper and gave it to his daughter, Deborah, saying the words, “Someday you’ll understand these words and use them. God bless sweetheart.” **These words were used in making the decision to purchase Connections Magazine in 2002.

CONNECTIONS COPYRIGHTED 2007

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country sidewalks

C

ome to Honesdale and experience all this lovely town has to offer. Downtown Honesdale is the place to go for unique shopping with its cafés, restaurants, gift shops, clothing stores, and much more. There is plenty to do throughout December for people of all ages, from holiday open houses to breakfasts with Santa. Shop till you drop and then head to these businesses for festive holiday fun.

On December 2nd from 5 to 7 p.m., there is a Holiday Open House at Apple Day Spa & Hair Restoration Salon with refreshments, free drawings, and more.

The anticipated 24th Annual Holiday Open House at Highlights for Children takes place on the 5th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., complete with treats, entertainment, storytelling, an art show, craft room, and puppetry. Other open houses include Arts for Him and Her Too on the 3rd from 5 to 8 p.m., and Gina Lenz Photography on the 16th from 6 to 8 p.m.

On the 5th, children can enjoy hot cocoa and donuts with Santa at Papa’s Primo Pizza from 9 to 11 a.m. and a lunch with Santa at the Trackside Grill with two seatingsone at 1 p.m. and another at 2:30 p.m. Reservations are required.

Other holiday events include the annual Children’s Ornament Hunt in Central Park on the 12th at 10 a.m. where children have the opportunity to hunt for ornaments for a chance to win prizes; the annual Holiday Artisans’ Market on the 13th from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at The Cooperage, featuring local and regional artisans selling unique and hand-made items; a reading of “The Night Before Christmas” on the 18th at the Wayne County Historical Society at 6 p.m. with classic holiday stories, treats, letters to Santa, and fun prizes; the Annual Chorus and Band Holiday Concert on the 21st at 7 p.m. in the Honesdale High School Auditorium and a Holiday Light Spectacular from Dec 16th through the 21st from 6 to 9 p.m. in the Honesdale High School parking lot; and Luminaries on Main on Christmas Eve, with 300 luminaries lining historic Main Street and other areas of town.

For more information about these and more December events, contact the Greater Honesdale Partnership at (570) 253-5492 or visit www.visithonesdalepa.com.

The quaint village of Bethany is just three miles north of downtown Honesdale on Route 670. The Annual Christmas in the Village is a free event held on December 5th featuring holiday open houses from 2 to 4 p.m. with seasonal food and beverages at several historic bed and breakfasts: the James Manning House, the E. Kellogg and the Mansion at Noble Lane. At the James Manning House, the Honesdale High School Chamber Choir will sing carols and local author, Will Wyckoff, who recently published his second book, “Rabbit Trails,” will offer a book signing.

At E. Kellogg, there will be a wreath decorating class. There is limited seating and a fee is required for this.

In addition, starting at 2 p.m., there will be a children’s party with Santa at the Bethany Public Library, Christmas crafting and a cookie bake sale at the Bethany United Methodist Church, and tours of the library, historical society, and the Methodist Church from 2 to 4 p.m. There will also be a display of Santas Around the World on the second floor of the library building.

Bethany Village Senior Living Center will be holding a tree lighting at 3:30 p.m. and a tricky tray with drawings at 4 p.m. Information for a self-guided walking tour to see Bethany’s historic architecture will also be available.

For more information about Bethany’s Christmas in the Village, call Janet at the James Manning House (570) 253-5573.

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dam Barziloski knows a thing or two about working with Christmas trees. For him, it’s as natural as breathing air—a fragrant, pine scented air, of course.

“I’ve always enjoyed the Christmas atmosphere, and now I’m sharing it with the Honesdale community,” he said.

His family owns and operates Bennie’s Nurseries in Tunkhannock, which consists of about 100 acres of trees in various fields. In 1932, his grandfather planted his first batch of Christmas trees. Adam worked on the farm from the time he was a little boy.

Over the years, people flocked to the farm with holiday cheer in their spirits, anticipating finding the perfect tree for their home. Now, Adam is bringing the same festive experience to Honesdale.

“This is something I put my heart into,” he said. Adam and his wife, Jean, a Hawley native, recently moved to the area from Tunkhannock. He started Adam’s Hardscape & Excavation in Hawley, and Adam’s Christmas is a brand new venture for him.

Adam’s Christmas opened on Black Friday and will remain open through December 23rd. The business is located at 703 Old Willow Avenue and consists of a two-level barn and parking area where people can browse and take their time. “I want people to feel like they can relax and have all day to pick out their tree.” He tried to re-create the feeling of being in the country in a commercialized setting.

“Hopefully, people will feel like

holidays

they’re walking through a tree farm,” he quipped.

Adam goes to the family farm in Tunkhannock where the trees have been cut and baled, waiting to make the journey to Honesdale in his truck.

People can purchase a variety of trees including Douglas Fir, Frasier Fir, Concolor and Blue Spruce.

Trees span the height from three feet to sixteen feet tall and are perfect for anyone’s home or office. Some helpful hints Adam shared are that Douglas and Frasier firs are best for needle retention, Blue Spruce are sturdy, and Concolor emit a citrus smell, have long needles, and also are ideal for needle retention. In addition to trees, Adam sells beautiful fresh cut wreaths in sizes ranging from 6 inches to 8 feet, bows, swags, garland, and other holiday items.

For ideas on crafting the perfect holiday centerpiece, come to a workshop at Adam’s Christmas on December 3rd and 4th from 4 to 8 p.m. and December 5th from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

On December 6th and 13th from 1 to 3 p.m., free photos with Santa are available, and from 3 to 5 p.m., people can bring their furry friends for pet pictures with Santa.

“With Adam’s Christmas, we hope to bring a new tradition and experience to Honesdale,” he said. Adam hopes to add children’s activities, a small bonfire, hot cocoa, cookies and more.

Adam’s Christmas is located off Route 6 across from Weis Markets in the white barn behind Zefran Dental Group. For more information, call (570) 251-0050.

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his time of year, Hawley is decked out in holiday splendor, resembling a Victorian town. Historic inns, bed and breakfasts, candy shops, novelty stores, a historic company playhouse, a yoga studio, boutiques, and antique shops line the streets beckoning shoppers with the promise of warmth and wonder.

A must-see landmark in Hawley is the historic Hawley Silk Mill, a large bluestone structure built in the 1800s. Once an operating silk factory, the Mill is now open to the public featuring a community college, Harmony Presents, an intimate performing arts space in the Boiler Room, a fitness center, Art on the Edge, the Mill Market with locally sourced produce and other items for sale, art galleries, clothing boutiques, and more. When visiting the Hawley Silk Mill, be sure to stop in the Cocoon Coffee House situated in front of the building for a steaming beverage of any kind and gourmet treats ranging from luscious quiches to mouth-watering muffins. Ledges Hotel is also part of the Hawley Silk Mill campus and is below the Silk Mill on Falls Avenue in Hawley. This is another bluestone building constructed in the 1800s when it operated as a cutting glass factory. Now, it’s a luxury hotel with a wine bar and restaurant called Glass-Wine.Bar. Kitchen., specializing in small plates for sharing, an extensive wine list, and a variety of local beer. Further adding to its uniqueness, the Hawley Silk Mill campus overlooks gorgeous views of cascading falls over the Wallenpaupack Creek.

What better way to celebrate winter and the upcoming holiday than with an old-fashioned festival celebrating the pre-holiday season and Hawley’s historic roots? The town twinkles with holiday cheer, and the cold, fluffy snow provides the perfect backdrop for the 17th Annual Hawley Winterfest, which takes place December 11th through the 13th. This three-day event

throughout the quaint town is one of the most celebrated holiday festivals in the area. The one stop winter wonderland offers wintry fun activities including cookie decorating, holiday theater, ice sculpture demos, horse and carriage rides, author book signings, live musical entertainment, a living nativity, train rides, open houses, holiday feasts, arts and craft shows, holiday house tour, a beer tour, art exhibits, and many more.

During Hawley Winterfest, the Enchanted Christmas at Bingham Park will be held on December 12th from 4 to 6 p.m., including the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Following the tree lighting, adults and children can enjoy visits and pictures with Santa and his friendly Elf, roast marshmallows over a bonfire, place an ornament on the “Angel Tree,” and enjoy music from carolers.

Hawley Winterfest is presented by the Downtown Hawley Partnership, a non-profit organization dedicated to maintaining and enhancing the high standard of living the community and tourists enjoy. The event is made possible through the generous contribution of local sponsors, donations, volunteers, participating residents and merchants, and the Winterfest Committee.

For more information and a complete schedule, pick up a Winterfest brochure at local businesses, visit www.HawleyWinterfest.com or call (570) 226-2141.

For more information about Hawley events year-round, visit www.visithawleypa.com.

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Celebrate the Joy & Spirit of the Season at the Settlers Inn

T

he traditional ambience of the Settlers Inn, a beautifully restored Arts and Crafts lodge, is heightened throughout the holiday season, and guests delight in the magical beauty and warmth it emits with the crackling fireplace, soft music, twinkling lights, glowing candles, scents of rich spices and woodsy pine, deep evergreens, wreaths, large Christmas trees adorned with tinsel and delicate ornaments, glimmering outdoor luminaries, and even a gingerbread replica of The Settlers Inn. What many people remember as the Settlers Inn’s most popular dinner event, “The Victorian Christmas Celebration,” is now called the “Candlelight Christmas Dinner.” The Victorian Christmas Celebration was first introduced on December 10, 1987, and people have anticipated this unique dinner gathering every year.

The cherished event no longer focuses on the Victorian theme, but instead the inn is getting back to its Arts and Crafts roots and simplifying the details while honoring what is most important: the pure joy of the holiday season, farm fresh food, flickering candlelight, the glow and warmth of the fireplace, and seasonal music.

“The Candlelight Christmas is a special dinner,” said Proprietor Jeanne Genzlinger, who manages the inn with her husband, Grant, who is also the Executive Chef.

“Our inn is beautifully decorated with our annual holiday décor and the addition of

candlelight. The simple and elegant holiday dinner features fresh, farm to table seasonal ingredients people recognize and come to anticipate. We like to think that it’s a new version of an old tradition for us.”

The Candlelight Christmas Dinner takes place on December 4th, 5th and 6th from 6 to 9:30 p.m. An elegant holiday dinner is offered each evening in the dining room.

Entertainment includes The Bradley Bunch on Friday and Saturday and the Wallenpaupack Area High School High School Choir on Sunday. This time-honored event is $75 per person. Reserve your table today. Call (570) 226-2993. The Settlers Inn is located at 4 Main Avenue in Hawley, PA. For more information, visit www.thesettlersinn.com. Be sure to stop by the Potting Shed, the gift shop in the garden behind the Inn, for special one-of-akind gifts.

Candlelight Christmas Dinner Menu Amuse Bouche Crispy Polenta with Chevre and Quince Pepper Jam Roasted Concord Grapes with Olives and Mascarpone Crostini Proscuitto Wrapped Fuyu Persimmon with Rosemary Skewer Appetizer Roasted Partridge and Pear Tart with Chestnut Cream Salad “Red and Green” Salad, Pomegranate Vinaigrette Sweet Potato “Icicles,” Poached Cranberries, Clementines Entrées Pan Seared Shrimp, Citrus Saffron Vanilla Sauce, Beet Risotto, Brussels Sprouts Pan Roast Goose with “Figgy Pudding” and Rosemary Demi Glaze, Holiday Gathering Vegetables Braised Jamison Farm Lamb Shank with Chianti Jus Lie, Marble Potatoes, Brussels Sprouts Pan Seared Red Snapper with Blood Orange Vinaigrette, Black Rice, Blood Orange Supremes Beef Two Ways: Grilled Petite Filet Mignon, Cabernet Reduction Holiday “Pot Roast” over Mashed Yukon Potatoes, Pan Reduction Butternut Squash Gratin Desserts English Toffee Pudding Peppermint Pillow Ice Cream “Baked Alaska” House Made Holiday Sorbets

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Hawley Winterfest December 11-13, 2015 The 17th Annual Hawley Winterfest arrives on Friday, December 11th with wintry fun activities planned through Sunday, December 13th. This three-day event is one of the most celebrated holiday festivals in Northeast Pennsylvania with many activities and fun things to do for the entire family.

Winterfest is a one-stop winter wonderland experience reminiscent of an old-fashioned Victorian Christmas. The quaint town of Hawley twinkles with cheer as people of all ages enjoy exploring this lovely town while participating in the many activities. This year’s celebration features many returning time-honored favorites.

Festive fun and adventure are had by all, and residents and visitors are filled with good cheer as they celebrate this pre-holiday event.

[ Returning Favorites ] When the words “Hawley Winterfest” come to mind, certain signature events are remembered and anticipated. With a full itinerary set each day, people can plan on attending popular favorites such as the Virgin Consort, the holiday house tours, horse and carriage rides, author book signings, a holiday show at the Ritz Company Playhouse, the Annual Cookie Walk and Victorian Luncheon, and the Winterfest Brunch at the Settlers Inn. On Friday, the Virgin Consort presents an elegant blend of traditional and Victorian carols and Medieval and Renaissance sacred works sung by an ensemble of eight angelic voices. This year, the concert will take place at the Hawley United Methodist Church. The concert begins at 8 p.m.

Tickets are $15.

On Saturday, the Cookie Walk and Victorian Luncheon will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church on Church Street.

There will be over 5,000 handmade gourmet cookies and candies for sale, and a Victorian Luncheon will be served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Holiday House Tours run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. The self-guided tour begins at Teeter’s Furniture, where an official tour map awaits you. Get an inside look at some of the area’s gorgeous architectural gems during this one day only tour. This year, four beautiful homes

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will be adorned with festive decorations. Some may feature delicious refreshments with holiday music playing in the background. Ticket prices are $20.

Also on Saturday, local authors of all genres will be at the Hawley Library for book signings from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Some authors making an appearance that afternoon include Clara Gillow Clark, Lindsay Barrett George, Christine San Jose, and others. Experience a memorable holiday tradition with horse and carriage rides from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday and 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

People board the carriages at Miss Elly’s Antiques on Church Street. These nostalgic rides bring to mind an old-fashioned Dickens style Christmas.

The rides are $8 per person and weather permitting. In addition, wagon rides will also be available for $5 per person.

The holiday show at the Ritz Company Playhouse is always a popular event when local actors present a fun show that everyone loves.

Come in from the cold and into the historic theater Saturday and Sunday from 2:30 to 4 p.m. for this original children’s free holiday musical full of laughs and holiday spirit. Children can anticipate a special visit from Santa after the show.

On Sunday, treat yourself to a special brunch at the Settlers Inn where delicious food and delicate live music provide an atmosphere of warmth and cheer. From 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., enjoy a holiday brunch featuring a classic menu of gourmet farm to table favorites while listening to soft, seasonal music. The brunch is $35 per person and reservations are required.

[ Better Than Ever: New Events ] Some new additions this year include the Winterfest Flyer on the Stourbridge Line, which is held Saturday and Sunday, and the Visit Lacawac Hike and Tour, taking place on Sunday.

During the Winterfest Flyer on the Stourbridge Line, people can enjoy a 40 minute, round-trip excursion down the Lackawaxen River in all its winter glory. The train will depart Hawley every hour on the hour until its return trip to Honesdale at 5 p.m. The trips are $10 per adult and $5 per child. Call (570) 470-2697 for times and more details.

On Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., a naturalistled hike allows festival goers the opportunity to tour Lacawac Sanctuary’s field station and event facilities. Discover our rich natural and cultural history. Arrive for coffee and tea before a onemile hike to the historic lodge and then return for a home-style lunch. Reservations are required and this event is for people 12 years and up.

Tickets are $20 per person and $35 per couple.

For more information, call (570) 689-9494.

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Winterfest is noted for the variety of seasonal music and performances offered throughout the weekend. For live holiday music during Winterfest, head to Harmony Presents in the Boiler Room at the Hawley Silk Mill, Glass.Wine.Bar. and Kitchen, The Settlers Inn, Gresham’s Chophouse, Ehrhardt’s Pub, Hawley United Methodist Church for the popular Virgin Consort, held on Friday at 8 p.m., the Holiday Hand Bell Concert from 1 to 1:45 p.m. on Sunday at the Hawley United Methodist Church, Jinglebell Jazz at the Hawley Library on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., or Jazz from a Charlie Brown Christmas on Sunday at 4 p.m. in the First Presbyterian Church.

Refer to the Winterfest brochure or website for days and times. In addition, the free Annual Ritz Christmas Show is held Saturday and Sunday from 2:30 to 4 p.m.

Also, don’t miss the popular Beer Tour, an adults-only newer event introduced several years ago. There are eleven participating establishments including newcomers Just Rumors and Cove Haven Resort. The tour is available all weekend. Refer to the Winterfest brochure or website for a full listing of places, times and themes.

Check out the Cocoon Coffee House’s Ice Bar throughout the weekend where specialty cocktails will be served on handcrafted ice bars produced by Sculpted Ice Works. Complimentary samples will be available. On Friday, the bar is open from 6 to 9 p.m. and Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. and on Sunday, noon to 4 p.m.

Free Winterfest Shuttles will loop through town on Saturday between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. So park your car once and take the shuttle to all of the exciting activities. The shuttle will come by each stop approximately every 10 to 15 minutes.

The stops are listed in the Winterfest brochure.

This is just a glimpse into the wintry world of Winterfest and all it has to offer. For more detailed information, call the Lake Wallenpaupack Visitors Center at (570) 226-2141 or pick up a Hawley Winterfest brochure at the Visitors Center or other area businesses. For a complete schedule of events and continuous updates, visit www.HawleyWinterfest.com or “Like” Hawley Winterfest on Facebook.

Hawley Winterfest is presented by the Downtown Hawley Partnership, a non-profit organization dedicated to maintaining and enhancing the high standard of living the community and tourists enjoy.

For more information, visit www.visithawleypa.com. The event is made possible through the generous contributions of local sponsors, donations, volunteers, participating residents and merchants, and The 2015 Winterfest Committee.

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S

cranton, otherwise known as the Electric City, truly lives up to its name this time of year. The town is decked out in lights, wreaths, and snowflakes from streetlights to storefronts. The many storefronts gleam brightly as shoppers discover this interesting city. Downtown Scranton is full of stores, salons, eateries, theaters, and cultural events. There is never a shortage of things to do any time of the year, but the holidays are even more exciting in Scranton.

The city gets electric when the Holiday Light Spectacular begins.

This unique light show on a grand scale is a breathtaking event and highly anticipated every year. Nay Aug Park lights up gloriously every evening during the holiday season beginning at dusk until about 10 p.m. The show depicts scenes of the season and runs through the first week in January. The display is across from the Everhart Museum and can be seen from anywhere in the park, even from parts of the interstate.

Each year, people anticipate the Festival of Trees, now at a new venue, The Mall at Steamtown, as beautifully decorated trees adorn the space throughout the month of December.

Join in the fun during “SCRANTON MADE Holiday Market” in the Mall at Steamtown on December 4th from 4 to 10 p.m. and December 5th from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. This winter market featues some of the area’s finest artists, vendors, live music and activities. The event kicks off that Friday evening at 5 p.m. in conjunction with the 1st Friday Art Walk.

“Christmas in a Small Town,” welcomes Santa on the 5th as he rolls into town on the Santa Train.

At all five stops, people of all ages are included for fun and exciting holiday activities including handing Santa a wish list before he heads back to the North Pole. The event begins at 10:30 a.m., and Santa’s train event is open to the public at no charge. For information on the five stops and times, call (570) 9636730.

From December 26th through the 28th, enjoy the timeless holiday story of “The Nutcracker,” performed by the Ballet Theatre of

Scranton at the Marywood University Performing Arts Theater.

This is the 40th annual free production of the classic ballet, and each day features a show at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. For more information, call (570) 347-2867.

For more detailed information on these and many other events, visit www.visitnepa.org or call the Lackawanna County Convention and Visitors Bureau at (570) 496-1701.

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country sidewalks

holidays

T

his town is a real gem with antique stores, unique cafés, restaurants, inns, coffee shops, a historic theater, and a plethora of specialty shops. The charming streets and alleys throughout Milford are home to many historic architectural structures housing art galleries, salons, bed and breakfasts, and shops. Two of the well- known buildings are Grey Towers, the former home of America’s first forester, Gifford Pinchot, and The Columns Museum, which houses the Pike County Historical Society and features historical artifacts and memorabilia including the famous “Lincoln Flag.” Both buildings are open to the public, offering visitors a glimpse into Pike County’s past.

Other than its historical claims, Milford is considered a destination based on its shopping and dining alone. Strolling along the twinkling tree lined streets is a treat as you will come across such places as the Apple Valley Restaurant and Pub, Balch’s Seafood Restaurant, the Flying Pig Tea Room, Bar Louis at Hotel Fauchere, Chang Mao Chinese Restaurant, the renowned Milford Diner, Laurel Villa Country Inn, the Waterwheel Café, and The Dimmick Inn. One of Milford’s biggest holiday traditions is the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. The town resembles something out of a charming picture book with the entire downtown twinkling with lights and the big star on the cliff glowing from a distance.

The free event is held December 5th at 5 p.m. on the lawn of the Community House at the corner of Broad and Harford Streets. In addition to the tree lighting, people can enjoy a visit from Santa, cookies and cocoa. On December 19th, the Milford Theater hosts a concert called Holidays around the Globe, Mirror Visions Ensemble, via Kindred Spirits. Enjoy traditional carols and other beautiful music. For more information

about these events, visit www.milfordpa.us.

Enjoy Holiday Mansion Tours at Grey Towers National Historic Site beginning December 7th through the 19th. Guided tours of all three floors with each room beautifully decorated for the holidays are available at 1 and 3 p.m. For more information on Grey Towers, visit www.greytowers.org.

Another Milford winter highlight takes place after the holidays when people are looking for fun things to do to break up the long, cold season. The 8th Annual Winter Lights Festival/ Celebrating the Arts takes place January 22nd-24th, 2016. The festival features a 1920s theme and kicks off that Friday evening with the Milford Historical Society’s Dinner and a 1920s movie. Other festival highlights include music at the Good Shepherd Church, a children’s theater event, the popular Mac & Chili Contest, an ice show, public ice skating, and torch light skating. There are many activities offered outside and indoors, so drive the winter blues away in Milford during Winter Lights Fest. For additional information and updates, visit www.winterlightsfest.com.

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13

holidays

country sidewalks

M

ontrose in Susquehanna County is a thriving town with a lot of culture, stores, restaurants, activities, and annual events throughout the year.

Get in the holiday spirit during Christmas in Montrose, which is held December 4th through the 6th with fun for the entire family. On Friday at 5 p.m., a Chocolate Santa Roll gets the fun started in the evening as a four-foot tall chocolate mold crafted by Chocolates by Leopold is rolled up Public Avenue to the delight of the young and young at heart. A tree lighting follows along with festive caroling on the corner of Public Avenue and Church Street. Around 5:45 p.m., enjoy a Chocolate Fountain S’mores Party at JHA Companies’ Garage.

There will be hot chocolate, popcorn, kid-friendly crafts, and contests.

On Saturday, some highlights include a variety of craft fairs at area churches throughout the day, a Jingle Bell Fun Run at 9 a.m., which is a three mile run/walk starting on the Courthouse steps, at 10 a.m. a Chocolate Santa Decorating at Chocolates by Leopold, a free holiday movie from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Montrose Theater, Wagon Rides at the Green, and the Annual Festival of Trees at the Rosemont Inn Bed and Breakfast. The Festival of Trees is from 3 to 5 p.m. and allows people to bid on Christmas trees to take home. Proceeds from the events benefit the Montrose Area Adult School. On Sunday, listen to the Christmas Chorale Concert at 3 p.m. in the First Presbyterian Church.

For full details, visit www.christmasinmontrose.com.

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the lodge at woodloch

Looking for an awesome gift for that special someone this holiday season? How about a gift certificate to the spa at The Lodge at Woodloch?

It’s the middle of a cold northeast Pennsylvania winter. Close your eyes and imagine the transcendent sensation of swimming in a pool surrounded by an infinity of waterfalls, a warm revitalizing massage infused with summer citrus, and a room that beckons just with its name—the Whisper Lounge.

The Lodge at Woodloch offers all of the above and more year round. Billed as a “sanctuary for the senses,” it boasts 27 rooms for body treatments, facials, pedicures, and salon services in luxurious yet unfussy surroundings, including “soaring walls of windows (that) invite the outdoors in to bring you in harmony with nature.”

Voted one of the ten best destination spas in the United States by readers of Conde Nast Traveler, The Lodge is an experience designed to quiet the mind and invigorate the body while tingling the senses from beginning to end. And, it’s in our own backyard, just minutes from Hawley and Honesdale and a mere 40 miles from Scranton.

Throughout the year, the Lodge caters to the local community with open houses and invitations to sample and explore its offerings, yet many myths persist about its operations—it’s too expensive, it’s not for locals, you have to be an overnight guest or use other services to dine at Tree, the gourmet restaurant on the ground floor opposite the spa.

None of these are true, says Brooke Jennings Roe, the Lodge’s director of Marketing, adding, “Our staff knows the best way to dispel any myths is by personal touch. But don’t take our word for it. Check it out for yourself.”

And so we did. Two friends and I discovered The Lodge’s personal touch begins with a “concierge” who tailors your desired experience to your specific needs, giving you choices ranging from fitness classes (such as Body Pump or Kickboxing) to culinary (wine pairings! Chef-hosted dinners!) to basic spa services—a moisture drench facial, eye rescue treatment, Blues-be-gone massage, etc. As part of the

Kiesendahl-family-owned Woodloch Resort, The Lodge also offers shared amenities such as kayaking on a 15-acre private lake and golfing at nearby Woodloch Springs. And the Woodloch/ Kiesendahl brand of doing business pervades The Lodge—it is indulgence dispensed with down-home friendliness, or more simply put, no pretensions.

“For the last 5+ years, John Kiesendahl of the Woodloch family of resorts has taken over management of The Lodge to filter in the warm and genuine hospitality they are known for,” says Roe. My friends and I enjoyed a host of services— full body massages (one pre-natal), pedicures, and a haircut and styling in the Lotus Salon. Many of the personnel hail from nearby towns, and they all admitted freely how much they enjoyed working at The Lodge. In addition to their expertise, they were respectful of privacy and conversation—they talked easily but only if prompted by the client. Between services, our concierge invited us to sip from glass pitchers of cool cucumber water or visit a sauna or steam room. Time disappeared. There was no hurry…and it was appreciated!

Pricing at The Lodge is “in line with most local upscale salons,” Roe told us, “and we offer an added benefit at no charge: usage of spa facilities (water/relaxation—saunas, steam rooms, pool) for one hour before and after your service.”

The Lodge’s signature 50 minute massage is $135, similar to the Sapphire Spa at Mohegan Sun which offers a 60 minute massage with hair shampoo ritual and style for the same money. Canyon Ranch’s signature massage in Tucson, Arizona, is $150 for 50 minutes. Closer to home—Alexander’s in Scranton or Apple Day in Honesdale for example, both fine establishments—prices are lower, but they are not “destination spas.”

So what is a destination spa? Generally speaking, it’s a residential facility, such as a hotel, where likeminded individuals engage with highly trained personnel in a combination of exercise, healthy eating, wellness education, spa and well-being treatments.

In contrast with a “spa resort,” where many activities are engineered solely for pleasure, a destination spa is focused on lifestyle improvements.

In addition to “beauty” services, The Lodge has a cardio weight studio, a dedicated Pilates training area, yoga, meditation, aerobics, aqua classes, water

holidays

volleyball, and paths for bicycling, walking and running.

And, despite the ‘residential” part of “destination” spa, staying overnight is not required for guests to use The Lodge’s services. Anyone can enjoy a single service, even just a meal at Tree. On our visit, we enjoyed, respectively, grilled southwest shrimp with black bean salad and honey chipotle vinaigrette, a roasted turkey sandwich and butternut squash tartlets. Gluten-free cranberry cookies and chocolate chip ricotta cookies were available on a buffet that also had fresh kale salad.

Roe describes Tree as delightful for anyone. “The amazing atmosphere, live-music nightly- acoustic guitar, healthy meal options, and impeccable service—and oh, did we mention the award-winning wine list?—makes for a very memorable night out,” she enthuses.

The Lodge lists many different spa packages for the day—a Demi Day, a Day Away, or an Evening Escape— or for overnight—Midweek Magic or ONEderous Weekend, for example, in a 57-guest room hotel where each room is adorned with down comforters, a refrigerator, marble bathroom, and an oversized shower.

The Lodge has won many awards—Travel & Leisure World’s Best, Conde Nast Traveler, Organic Spa Magazine, SpaFinder and TripAdvisor to name a few. But it is often the word of friends that carries the most weight… do you know someone who has experienced The Lodge at Woodloch?

When we arrived at The Lodge, my friends and I were harried and full of chatter. We left relatively serene. The experience seemed to have dispelled the “Maggie May” effect—no morning sun will show our age because now we felt ageless.

Refreshed. Isn’t that what a spa is supposed to offer?

Legend tells us that the powerfully-scented herb, rosemary, was draped around the Greek goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite, when she rose fullyformed from the sea. It’s no wonder then that rosemary is the signature scent of the Lodge at Woodloch. Can you smell it even in the dark middle of an NEPA winter? You should—it’s not that far away!

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15

reflections

from inside

“Life Was So Simple & Innocent” Part I

Reflections of a Prison Inmate

By Terry Mooney

T

his wide-eyed, fresh-faced young man tells the story of his life with a child-like perspective full of images and descriptions that draw us in, inviting us to join him on a journey from paradise to hell, and back.

My Story I was born in Puerto Rico in 1993. I remember being there from about two years old until almost seven. There were six of us kids, our mom and our dad. We lived on a farm that was given to my father by his father, acres and acres of beautiful land, three cows, seven horses, and many chickens and pigs. We lived near the race track, so my second oldest brother raced horses professionally. He was small, the perfect size to be a jockey. To this day, there are trophies that he won displayed in the local museum.

We had all of the tropical fruits in our backyard, mangoes, bananas, plantanos, tamarindos, which are a sweet and sour fruit, and a green fruit called quenepas. Puerto Rico has these trees all over the place. On the weekends, my dad put up a little farm stand and would sell the fruits to many people. We kids used to go crazy, climbing the trees to pick them for us to eat every day after school. My dad would milk the cows in the early afternoon so we could drink the milk. It was so rich and creamy.

From the house, we could see the beach. It was less than a quarter of a mile away. We would be able to go swimming anytime during the day, mostly on the weekends. I remember going down to the reef, pulling off pieces of coral and collecting sea shells that were bigger than those I’ve seen in Florida. We would bring them home to give to our mother as a gift, colors of white, orange, yellow, dark red with spots. The water was warm and all light blue. We could see for miles. The sand was pure white.

I’ve not observed anything so beautiful to this day.

Dad would take us to the store on Sky, our family horse. He loved mangoes, so when he called to us with a familiar whinny, we would pick them and feed him. We didn’t have a car, so we rode on horseback. Since we were little, all three of us fit with our dad, riding bareback. It was so fun! Sometimes he would go a little faster to give us excitement. Life was so simple and so innocent. I never heard my parents argue about anything.

My brothers and I would lead the cows from the pasture to be milked. One was named Tony after our cousin. He was our favorite. He was the baby and we especially liked the black spots on his white body. We would talk to all the cows and reassure them that it would be fine and no one would hurt them. They would follow us all the way to the stable. We sold hay, fruit, dairy products and, when the horses had babies, we sold them to the race track. My dad also repaired cars on the side. He was an entrepreneur. We had everything we needed and wanted and could possibly ever have.

In Puerto Rico, there was only one license for everything. It was the same license for driving, boating, motor scooters and fishing. My dad would tell me when I got old enough I could drive his Monte Carlo and the gas boat. I would sit in the back of the boat and practice steering the propeller for when the time came.

One summer, my parents sent my older sister and brother to the States to have a little vacation with my aunts. When they called us on the phone they would tell us all about the good times they were having there. It was mostly about parks. In Puerto Rico, we didn’t have parks. We didn’t need them. In those parks, they said, they met new kids and learned to play new games that we didn’t have in Puerto Rico. I remember one time my sister said that they went out again and got another toy.

You see, they went to this store called McDonald’s and the food would come with a free toy. The Happy Meal they called it. Free

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toy? Freedom? Life could be even better in the states? It all went to our heads.

I didn’t know how different my new life would be at that age, but I was excited. My dad sold all of the horses and cows to people he knew would take care of them. He was the animal lover that taught us to take care of them and respect them. He taught us not to harm anything. Beginning a new adventure, we just got on a plane and left.

I remember that day when we did not know what to do with our pet iguana. Although they run free in Puerto Rico, this one was part of our family for years. His name was “Penny” because he could make his tail turn copper when he felt like it. We knew they wouldn’t let us take him, so my dad put him in his pants, tail down toward his foot; he was about four or five feet long. My dad’s a tall dude so the head came up to about his stomach. He had on a loose sweater so Penny could breathe and Dad secretly held his head so he wouldn’t slide down. Penny loved getting picked up like a baby and the warmness of the body, so he stayed still until we boarded the plane and the gate closed. Then my dad asked to use the bathroom and transferred Penny into a duffle bag. He stayed the entire trip in the bag. Years later Penny died of old age while living with us in America.

It was different when I first went to school here. I didn’t know that my parents were going to leave me my first day. They walked me into the classroom and the teacher introduced me to the other kids. My parents slipped out when I wasn’t looking.

Everyone was talking English and I didn’t understand them. It was rough. Eventually, I gave in at playtime when all the toys came out. The teacher put me with the kids with the Legos. I sat down, wiped the tears off my face and put down my book bag.

I’d been holding it the whole time, ready to leave at the first chance, to make a run for it. But now I settled down to play some Legos. From then on, it was a normal thing to walk to school with my brothers and cousins. My favorite, Celie, would make sure I got into the classroom safely, telling me each time that she’d be back to pick me up when school was over. And she always came back for me. I felt secure.

We went from living on a farm, to an apartment in a bad neighborhood. I still miss our old life. We kids used to pick luscious fruit to eat from the trees, and now we were playing in a fenced in parking lot, littered with garbage, in the heart of the ghetto, losing touch with our beloved heritage. As the English went in, the Spanish went out. Since my dad couldn’t get a job right away and didn’t know how to go about it, the neighborhood locals helped him out, showing him the ways of getting easy money.

I remember standing in the parking lot playing with my brothers, and there would be a brown paper bag sitting there. My dad, standing outside the gate, would have us take turns grabbing the bag and passing it to him. I only remember seeing that little bag for two or three years. Then he got a Toyota Corolla and a job working for a plumbing company. You see, years later, after I grew up, I realized that whatever dad was doing to get on his feet was probably illegal, something to do with what was in the little brown bag.

My mom wasn’t very happy being a housewife and mother here in America. She complained about having so many kids starting at such a young age, only sixteen. Trapped in the apartment in the concrete jungle, her only recreation was to sit in the parking lot with the garbage and watch us play so we wouldn’t get kidnapped or molested. Our beautiful, simple life was becoming very ugly, and very complicated. (To be continued)

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6 GREEN Ways to give

this Holiday Season By: Craig Lukatch, President, Lacawac Sanctuary and Field Station

E

very holiday season in America, as Thanksgiving fades and turkey sandwiches give way to Christmas trees and candy canes, Americans unleash an immense flow of charitable donations. For charities, it’s the busiest time of the year: Salvation Army bell ringers man their corners; workplace pledge drives abound.

The urge to give that is awakened around this time is an important one: Philanthropy plays a crucial role in American society, providing funding for a vast array of services. Giving also connects us as a culture.

Have you ever considered supporting the organizations that protect the environment? One of the best ways to make a difference this holiday season is to give “GREEN.” Below are six of the best local environmental and conservation organizations and why you should consider supporting them before year’s end.

Lacawac Sanctuary and Field Station- Since its inception in 1966, the mission of Lacawac Sanctuary has been to preserve Lake Lacawac, its watershed, the surrounding forest and historic structures; provide a venue for ecological research, scholarly interaction and the training of scientists; provide public education on environmental and conservation issues; and conserve open space in Pennsylvania. For 50 years, Lacawac has accomplished this mission by offering a diverse set of natural areas, facilities, and programs for PreK-12 and post-secondary educators and students, area residents, scientific researchers, and summer visitors to the region.

Financial support through memberships and annual fundraising sustain environmental educational outreach programs for all ages. More information at www.lacawac.org and www.lacawac-outreach.org.

SEEDS (Sustainable Energy Education and Development Support)- SEEDS works with residents and businesses in Northeastern Pennsylvania to reduce energy use, improve energy efficiency, and grow renewable energy resources. There are many exciting projects planned by SEEDS, including more building upgrades for community buildings, presenting our forums to a larger geographic area and presenting customized work-

shops for the Wayne Builders Association on solar energy, ground/air source heat pumps, and designing/building for maximum energy efficiency. More information at: http://seedsgroup.net.

Lake Wallenpaupack Watershed Management District- LWWMD works to protect, maintain, and enhance water quality in Lake Wallenpaupack and its watershed. It is responsible for monitoring water quality in the lake, providing education to residents and visitors, and facilitating the installation of Best Management Practices (BMP’s) to prevent the flow of pollutants into Lake Wallenpaupack. The “Big Lake,” as it’s known locally, is a 5,700 acre impoundment in the Pocono Mountains region of Pennsylvania. More at: wallenpaupackwatershed.org.

Delaware Highlands Conservancy- DHC is an accredited land trust dedicated to conserving the natural heritage and quality of life in the Upper Delaware River region in partnership with the region’s landowners and communities. Through its land protection efforts and community outreach, the Conservancy connects our region’s local communities to the importance of actively supporting and sustaining our farms, forests, and waters. With the support of members and strong core of citizen volunteers, DHC conserves the precious agricultural and forest lands vital to healthy local foods, clean drinking water, biological diversity, outdoor recreation, and to the overall beauty and quality of life we enjoy in the Upper Delaware River region. See more at: www.delawarehighlands.org

Northeast Pennsylvania Audubon Society- The Northeast Pennsylvania Audubon Society (NEPAS) was founded in 1971 as a local chapter of the National Audubon Society. Its mission is “to conserve and restore our environment to benefit humanity, as well as birds and wildlife, through education, action, and advocacy.” With financial support, NPAS can continue supporting students, expanding outreach to the public, providing environmental education, and working to protect birds and their habitats. Find more at www.nepaaudubon.org Pocono Environmental Education Council- PEEC is a residential environmental education center located in the boundaries of a 77,000 acre National Park, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. PEEC is the education partner of the National Park Service in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

This unique public/private partnership has served the education community for over forty years. Approximately 24,000 people visit PEEC annually. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park.

It is that time of year abounding with holiday decorations, pictures with Santa, holiday shopping, and delicious feasts. But these are all about us! In order for us to turn our focus outward—to see what we have to give rather than get—please consider some GREEN ways to give back this year. Your support means “more” – more conservation, more education, more ways to connect people with nature.

Lacawac Sanctuary is a natural living laboratory for field-based research and education.

Comprised of 545 acres along the shore of Lake Wallenpaupack in Northeastern Pennsylvania, Lacawac encompasses protected native terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Lacawac’s field station is comprised of Lake Lacawac, a nearly pristine 52 acre glacial lake (National Natural Landmark), year-round and seasonal analytical biology laboratory, one mile of Lake Wallenpaupack shoreline largest lake shore in a natural state, eight hiking trails, and is a hub for ecological observation networks (national database atmospheric test stations). Lacawac is open to the public 365 days a year from sunrise to sunset. For more information about the station and its education programs, contact Craig Lukatch, President, at craig.lukatch@lacawac.org or by calling 570-689-9494. More information on Lacawac can be obtained by visiting www.lacawac.org.

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17

money

planning

End of Year

“TRAINING” Charles Curtin, JD, LLM, CTFA – Trust Officer, The Honesdale National Bank

Y

ou might have read recently that Canadian Pacific Railway sold its subsidiary, the Delaware and Hudson Line (D & H), to Norfolk Southern. I surmise, for most, this tidbit of news was glanced over and met with nary a second thought. Well, in my household the sale caused great sadness and, yes, a few tears.

You see, I am the father of two young boys who love everything train related. Thanks to Thomas the Train and some overly generous grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, my house is littered with train toys. Thomas, Chuggington, Lionel…we have them all. A large train table even sits in my dining room taking up so much space that I can barely reach the kitchen.

For the last decade or so, Canadian Pacific Railway has run an annual Christmas train across Canada and the northern tier of Pennsylvania and New York. The train is a delight. It is illuminated with thousands of bright lights, and Santa Claus sits atop riding the steel behemoth. Each year, my family treks out into the cold to watch the train whiz by. We have waited in freezing rain, snow, and ice, but have never been disappointed. Last year, we only caught the tail end of the show. I did not want to stand outside for an hour so we got to our favorite spot a bit late. I recall saying not to worry and that we will see it all next year for sure.

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Well…there will be no next year. The sale of the railway by Canadian Pacific Railway to Norfolk Southern means no more Christmas train. My older son is crestfallen. Together, we wrote a letter to Norfolk Southern’s CEO pleading with them to continue the tradition.

Procrastination, the art of putting matters aside for a while, is so easy. Why do something now when it can be done later? Well, not to sound overly fatalistic, but there may be no later. The Christmas train might not run next year. Things need to get done. As the end of the year approaches, it is time to get off of the couch, roll up the sleeves, and get to work putting our financial and estate house in order.

First, the tax year ends on December 31st so it is time to take advantage of some tax planning opportunities before time runs out. The following is just a sampling of year-end tax plays: (1) generate a last minute tax deduction by making a gift to your favorite charity; (2) tax loss harvesting, which I discussed in October’s article. If you did not get the chance to read it (I highly suggest you do), you will learn that tax loss harvesting is basically the selling of investments in taxable accounts that are trading at a loss in order to offset any taxable gains that may have also been incurred during the year; and (3) contribute as much as possible to your retirement accounts during the year. Traditional 401(k)s and IRAs (not Roth) take earnings before income taxes and place those earnings into a retirement account. Since the money is contributed to the retirement account before taxes, your overall income for the year will be reduced, resulting in a lower income tax bill.

Next, sit down and complete your estate plan. It is a misnomer that estate documents are only for the ultra-wealthy. Everybody needs a Last Will and Testament and Powers of Attorney. Without a Last Will and Testament, the state and its courts will decide which heirs of your estate will receive what property - regardless of your wishes. A Last Will and Testament provides the opportunity for you to decide what is best for your estate, including who should take care of your minor children, what specific property should your heirs receive, and who is the best person to act as your estate’s administrator/executor.

An estate plan is not just a Last Will and Testament. It should also include Powers of Attorney for both Health Care and financial matters. Powers of Attorney are legal documents appointing an agent to assist you in handling both your health and financial

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matters during your life for convenience purposes or in the event you become disabled. For instance, if something catastrophic happens to you like a stroke or car accident, without proper Powers of Attorney, no person, even your spouse, will be able to act on your behalf (pay bills, speak to a credit card company, speak to Social Security or other governmental agencies) or talk to your health care providers without lengthy and costly court proceedings to appoint a guardian.

Be it a new child, loss of a job, or a windfall, the circumstances of life are always changing. People often forget to make updates to their financial or insurance plan as life evolves. This is the time of year to do such things and start next year off with a bang. For example, if work has been kind to you, consider increasing your 2016 contributions to your retirement accounts. Retirement contributions provide excellent tax deferment and investment growth benefits. Or, if you have added members to your family during the year, revisit the amount of your life insurance to make sure your family is adequately covered in the event of a catastrophic event.

On the health insurance side, contemplate whether your current plan is right for you, and make sure you take advantage of any special annual benefits your plan offers. I know that some plans offer annual gym discounts, free exams, or teeth cleanings. If you don’t use these perks, you lose them as they do not roll over into the next year.

In the midst of your holiday cheer, please take a few moments to quickly review your current situation. Don’t procrastinate as I did in the Christmas train debacle. Perhaps, schedule a year-end meeting with one of the many great local advisers here in Northeastern Pennsylvania, because, as I like to say, “Local advice is often the best advice.”

From myself and The Honesdale National Bank, please have a safe and joyous Holiday Season!

The Honesdale National Bank and its employees do not render legal, tax, or accounting advice. Accordingly, you and your attorneys and accountants are ultimately responsible for determining the legal, tax, and accounting consequences of any suggestions offered herein. Furthermore, all decisions regarding financial, tax, and estate planning will ultimately rest with you and your legal, tax, and accounting advisors.

Any description pertaining to federal taxation contained herein is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used by you or any other person, for the purpose of avoiding any penalties that may be imposed by the Internal Revenue Code.

This disclosure is made in accordance with the rules of Treasury Department Circular 230 governing standards of practice before the Internal Revenue Service.

fraud

money

SENIORS: Helping Prevent Investment Fraud Part II –Provided by Michael Krupa

P

rotecting your retirement nest egg and sustaining your retirement income are challenging enough.

Taking precautions to help guard your investments from fraud is important.

Here are a few more guidelines to follow that may help protect you or a loved one from investment fraud.

or the person is fraudulent, there are a few steps to take before investing your money.

Skepticism Is Healthy

End the Conversation

Contact your law enforcement agency immediately if you suspect an individual or organization is employing fraudulent actions.

Investment fraud can take many forms. There are Ponzi schemes, for example, where fraudsters advertise high rates of return on client investments. High payouts may continue until new investors are no longer available. Then the scheme and all the money disappear.

Practice saying “no,” or telling the person you always speak with someone else before making decisions.

Have an exit strategy.

Other common schemes to watch out for: • Pyramid schemes • Scams involving coins and precious metals • Ownership interests in oil and gas interests • Viatical scams (known as “cashing out” of a life insurance policy, or a “living benefit”) • Affinity fraud through community groups, clubs, and even places of worship

Talk to Someone

Healthy skepticism is a wise strategy for seniors when approached by any person with a sales pitch.

What to Do Wells Fargo Advisors is very concerned about protecting seniors from financial fraud. We believe your financial health is an important aspect of your retirement and that it must be guarded carefully.

Even if you don’t suspect the deal

Turn the Tables Ask questions. A legitimate investment professional – as well as his or her firm – must be properly licensed with a regulator depending on the type of business the individual (or firm) conducts.

Stepping away from the situation and asking for another opinion can help you see the true value of an offer.

Talk with a Financial Advisor about the ways you can protect yourself or a loved one by monitoring your personal financial information and being selective in providing access to personal data.

Find out more and print out a pamphlet to read over later.

The SEC has prepared “Seniors: Protect Yourself Against Investment Fraud”.

The Better Business Bureau and the FINRA Foundation created a website and pamphlet for seniors and their families to find out more. Visit http://www.bbb.org/smart-investing/ for more tips, and download “Fighting Fraud 101: Smart Tips For Investors”.

This article was written by Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Michael J Krupa, Krupa Wealth Management, 614 Church Street, Honesdale PA 570-253-0121.

Investments in securities and insurance products are: NOT FDIC-INSURED/NOT BANK-GUARANTEED/MAY LOSE VALUE.

Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC (WFAFN), Member SIPC. Krupa Wealth Mangement is a separate entity from WFAFN. ©2015 Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. All rights reserved.

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19

entertainment

book/film reviews

SUFFRAGETTE

“Little Shaq”

By Shaquille O’Neal Illustrated by Theodore Taylor III Reviewed by Terri Schlichenmeyer

F

or almost every day of your life, someone has reminded you to share. Usually, it’s about sharing your toys, but that’s not all. You share games, the sofa, your ideas, snacks, and any chore that needs four hands. Sharing is often about teamwork, and in the new book, “Little Shaq” (illustrated by Theodore Taylor III), author Shaquille O’Neal shares a story…

It was almost the end of the ball game and Little Shaq was hot. Every shot he took was “nothin’ but net.” He just could not miss – nor did he miss seeing his cousin, Barry, who called for the ball, but Little Shaq never passed it to him.

When the game was over and his team won, Little Shaq went looking for Barry.

He knew something was wrong. Barry didn’t want to talk. Barry was angry.

Once they got home, Little Shaq tried everything to make Barry laugh.

Finally, he offered to let Barry be “Player One” on their favorite video game, which meant that Barry got to pick the team name. Barry accepted the offer and the boys started playing, but Little Shaq couldn’t help himself. He wouldn’t – couldn’t – share; one thing led to another and bang! The boys’ favorite game was accidentally broken.

Their friend, Rosa, who’d seen everything, pointed out that both boys were at fault. Little Shaq’s Dad said they needed to work together to replace the broken game. But would they ever be able to earn that kind of money?

The answer came that week in school when the boys’ teacher, Ms. Terpenny, announced that the class was going to study plants by growing a garden. Both Barry and Little Shaq knew people who loved plants. Some of their neighbors had gardens, and someone had to make sure the flowers and vegetables were watered. He and Barry could start a gardening business!

And so they did, learning as they went along, making mistakes, but earning money, too. It was a great way to save for a video game replacement, and their new business also gave them time to play basketball. But could they put their new talents together with their old ones to make a difference in their neighborhood?

Remember back when your coach used to tell you that there’s no “I” in “team”? Your young sportsman has likely heard those same words – but “Little Shaq” will show him how they work.

Kids who live for basketball will love this easy-reader story, partly because it’s written by retired b-ball player and author, Shaquille O’Neal. O’Neal reached back into his own childhood to create this tale, which is something 7to-10-year-olds will enjoy knowing; teachers and parents will appreciate that, in reading this book, kids will get gently-told lessons in working together, figuring out problems independently, and being responsible and self-sufficient.

For children who are just starting to enjoy chapter books, this is a great choice to read and, with illustrations by Theodore Taylor III, it’s a good book to browse. For any young buckets fan especially, “Little Shaq” is one he’ll want to share.

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Sarah Gavron’s docudrama puts viewers into the mix of the burgeoning British suffragette movement in the early 20th Century. There is a fleeting glimpse of the movement’s leader, Emily Pankhurst (Meryl Streep), but the story focuses instead on efforts to rally working-class women to the cause.

Women like Maud (Carey Mulligan) and Violet (Anne-Marie Duff), who toil in miserable East London laundries, while also managing a household. The right to vote promises at least a chance at agency — a collective means that could push back against workplace harassment and unequal pay, as well as secure legal maternal rights and a wider chance at social, economic, and political opportunity.

Gavron’s film is a fine piece of cinematic broccoli in that it is handsomely produced, well acted, and wholly edifying to the point where it feels often more nutritious than delicious. It focuses primarily on Maud’s slow conversion from disinterested to tentative to manning the barricades and risking it all. It’s such a rote form of plot development that none of it is very surprising or inspiring.

Still, it’s an important and oft-neglected piece of history, and even with its PBS-style steadiness, it should prove a fascinating window for those unfamiliar with the suffrage movement. out of 4

BRIDGE OF SPIES Steven Spielberg’s drama is a handsomely produced Cold War tale, “inspired by true events,” in which an American lawyer negotiates an exchange of prisoners between then adversaries, the Soviet Union and the United States.

The story opens in 1957, with the arrest of a Brooklyn man, Rudolf Abel (Mark Rylance). Abel is accused of being a Soviet spy, and a straight-shooting insurance attorney, Jim Donovan (Tom Hanks), is tapped to provide his defense. Abel is convicted, but after the Soviets capture a U.S. pilot, the CIA approaches Donovan, asking him to negotiate a prisoner swap. Thus, in 1960, Donovan winds up in Berlin, a fractured city in the process of being walled into two halves. There, Donovan will need his lawyering skills and more as bargaining takes place between a variety of parties, some shadowy and all of whom are playing multiple hands.

Bridge is not quite a thriller, not quite a legal drama, but a straightforward re-telling history that falls between engaging and stodgy. The most interesting part of the film is the relationship between Abel and Donovan — one, because it explores the respective commitments that anchor each man, and two, because Hanks and Rylance have the chops to sell their quiet conversations as entertainment. out of 4

All of these ran previously in the Pittsburgh City Paper.

eastern state penitentiary

Eastern State Penitentiary From Capone to Contemporary Art

By LA Guzda

T

he Eastern State Penitentiary is a must-see in Philadelphia. This is a “Candy Store” for photographers. Everywhere you turn is a photo. The peeling paint and the rusty iron among the scattered debris form a distinct and beautiful patina. The skylights and slight slits for windows in the cells create dramatic lighting.

Located at 2027 Fairmount Avenue between Corinthian Avenue and North 22nd Street, you are greeted by mammoth gargoyles perched upon the ledge over the main gate. The Eastern State Penitentiary (ESP) opened in 1829. It was one of the most expensive American buildings of its day and soon the most famous prison in the world.

The Penitentiary would not simply punish, but move the criminal toward spiritual reflection and change. The method was a Quaker-inspired system of isolation from other prisoners, with labor.

The early system was strict. Inmates were hooded whenever they were outside their cells. It was believed that the criminals exposed in silence to thoughts of their behavior and the ugliness of their crimes would become genuinely penitent; thus the new word, penitentiary.

When gangster, Al Capone, found himself in front of a judge for the first time in 1929, he was sentenced to one year in prison. He spent most of that sentence in relative comfort at Eastern State, where he was allowed to

did you know?

furnish his cell with antiques, rugs, and oil paintings. Bank robber, Willie Sutton, joined eleven other men in a doomed 1945 tunnel escape.

By the 1960’s, the aged prison was in need of costly repairs. After operating for 142 years, the Commonwealth closed the facility in 1971. The City of Philadelphia purchased the site in 1980.

It was open in 1994 for historic public tours.

The $14 entrance fee includes “The Voices of Eastern State” audio tour narrated by Steve Buscemi. This self-guided audio guide contains a main route plus additional stops that feature escapes, riots, sports, sexuality, and more, several of which are hands-on history interactive experiences.

The highlight of my visit was the compelling art exhibits. My favorite installations were:

Chorus by Jess Perlitz The artist asked incarcerated men and women from throughout the United States, “If you could sing one song, and have that song heard, what would it be?” Her recordings are played inside a cell. In the resulting “choir,” triggered by the visitor’s arrival, these voices are layered, escalating, colliding, and eventually grow overwhelming.

Apocalyptic:16389067

by Jesse Krimes Philadelphia-based artist and returning citizen Jesse Krimes holds a BA in Studio Art from Millersville University. In 2009, he was indicted by the U.S. Government on non-violent drug charges, labeled a “drug kingpin,” and sentenced to a 70-month prison term. While incarcerated, he produced Apocalyptic:16389067, a vast multipanel work, established prison art programs, and worked collaboratively with fellow inmates. I was mesmerized with this installation. I particularly loved its muted colors, but the design flowed seamlessly around the cell with whimsical and beautiful images.

Beware the Lily Law by Michelle Handleman The piece uses the 1969 Stonewall Riots as a starting point to address issues facing gay and transgender inmates.

The riots began after a police

raid on the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York City. Police arrested men dressed as women and transgender patrons. Many of the patrons resisted the police raid, and the following day thousands of people marched in the streets, speaking out about unfair treatment under the law. It was the start of the modern gay rights movement. This piece features a projected image on the far wall that is haunting and powerful.

Cozy by Karen Schmidt “I hand-knit every square inch of Cozy. I think of knitting as time materialized. The stitches are like tick marks that an inmate might scratch into the cell wall to mark the days.

Bringing comfort to a bleak, cold place makes it warm and inviting. I want to bar entry into the cell to create a sense of longing in the viewer. I want the viewer to want to enter the cell, much like the inmate must have wanted to leave it.” -K.S. There are a total of 419,879 stitches in Cozy (the bed alone is comprised of 41,998).

The piece uses more than 25,000 yards of yarn. It took me a moment or two to realize that the room I was looking at was completely covered in a knitting façade! The attention to detail and how perfectly it fit was amazing.

Identity Control by Tyler Held Reflecting on the idea that a man is “too easily reduced to an object” when institutionalized, artist Tyler Held uses a car, stripped inside a cell, as a metaphor for relinquished individuality. I was “surprised” as I discovered this cell.

Its unexpectedness is what struck me and made it one of my favorites. I still wonder how he fit the car in the cell.

Visit www.easternstate.org for further details.

Visit www.LAGuzda.com or www.PoconoSecrets.com for past articles. Do you have a Pocono Secret to share? Send an email to: PoconoSecrets@aol.com

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lifestyle

outdoor ramblings

It’s a wonderful winter morning, perfect for slapping on your snowshoes and taking to the trail for a trek. A few miles into your journey you find yourself on a narrow trail; you’re heading uphill and coming toward you in the other direction is a cross-country skier. There’s not enough room for you to safely stay on the trail and pass each other. So who moves?

It’s a rare thing to find a trail anywhere in the country that is solely restricted to one sort of outdoor activity.

While technically a “hiking trail,” even classic footways such as the Appalachian Trail are open to people on snowshoes, and in certain areas, most paths such as these also welcome cross-country skiers. Around Northeastern Pennsylvania, a good many of the trails in State Forests and even State Parks and PA Game Lands now, are open at certain times of the year to various forms of transportation ranging from hiking to all-terrain-vehicle riding. When different folks using different equipment come upon one another, knowing and respecting who has the right-of-way is an important, and sometimes confusing, topic.

Believe it or not, and no matter what the season, persons using animals as a means of getting around always have the right-of-way and, as a matter of courtesy and caution, you should get off the trail as much as possible if you encounter horseback riders and, on the odd occasion, dog sleds. Ideally, it would also be a good idea to shut off your snowmobile or ATV so as not to spook the animals, but generally stopping and letting them pass is enough. Sled dogs do have the right of way should they encounter horses, but persons being pulled on skis by a dog must yield to both horses and sleds.

Typically, if a trail is open to use by ATVs, almost every other form of conveyance, unless specifically prohibited, is allowed to use the same trail in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. ATVs and snowmobiles are required to be registered with the state if they are going to be used on state lands as well. Generally, snowmobiles and ATVS can’t be used on the same trails at the same time on PA state lands, especially if the

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trails are groomed in the winter, but should an ATV and snowmobile cross paths, technically the ATV has to yield to the snowmobile.

You may think that cyclists and skiers wouldn’t be sharing the same trails at the same time of year, but with the recent spike in fat-tire mountain biking, these two user groups are having more encounters in the winter woods. Bikers, no matter what time of the year, fall in the next tier of priority when yielding to or giving way themselves. Skiers, snowshoers, and hikers all have the right of way when encountering a bicycle user; however, motorized vehicles must allow cyclists to pass by.

Hikers and snowshoers, however, must give way to skiers as well. Finally, hikers and snowshoers occupy equal ground. They have to stop for animals and XC skiers, but otherwise have the right of way.

As for some trail etiquette, when encountering a person travelling by the same means as you, the person moving uphill should be allowed to keep moving. It’s easier for a downhill traveler to get going again than it is for someone moving uphill, but many novice hikers don’t know this and will stop when moving uphill.

When you encounter someone waving you through, keep moving. Lastly, stay out of XC ski tracks if you should encounter them. Once a trail has a track laid in it, don’t mess it up with hoofs, boots, or snowshoes if possible. Clean up after your pet and especially when using trails open to horses, leash your dog when you see equestrian users until they pass, for the safety of everyone. williamjdeaton@yahoo.com

classics

1969

lifestyle

Chevrolet SS 396

Chevelle

By Arnie Milidantri

N

othing warms the blood of a “baby boomer” car enthusiast like the sound of a Muscle Car. Whether you grew up during the “peak of the muscle car era” (the sixties) or not, they hold a special place in our hearts. As winter settles in on Northeast PA and the cars begin their winter hibernation, I am fortunate to be able to recall some of the great cars I ran across this past year. One of my favorite muscle cars is the SS Chevrolet Chevelle, and what could be better for the holiday season than an article on a “Bright Red” SS 396 Chevrolet Chevelle.

The car featured this month is a beautifully restored SS 396 Chevrolet Chevelle owned by Mr. Danny Krol of Honesdale, PA, a regular at Northeastern PA cruises and shows. Danny’s car’s stance, bright red color, and sound make it a car show favorite.

Background The Chevelle model car was manufactured by Chevrolet for three generations from 1964 -1977. As part of the General Motors A Body platform, the Chevelle was one of Chevrolet’s most successful nameplates. The Chevelles were offered in coupes, sedans, convertibles and station wagons. The first generation Chevelles were model years 1964-1967, the second generation model years 1969-1972, and the third generation model years 1973-1977. The first generation Chevelle marked the return to Chevrolet’s lineup to a model similar in size and concept to the popular 1955-57 models. In fact, the wheel base of the Chevelle was in fact the same 115 inches as the 1955-57 Chevy. The Chevelle utilised Chevrolet’s A-platform, a body-on-frame construction using a suspension setup similar to its full sized automobiles with a 4-link rear suspension (the differential has four control arms), which are attached to the frame with rear coil springs sandwiched between the differential and spring pocket.

The Chevelle SS represented Chevrolet’s entry into the muscle car battle. The early 1964 and 1965 Chevelles had a Malibu SS badge on the rear quarter panel. Inside, the vinyl bucket-seat interior featured a floor console for models equipped with the optional Muncie aluminum fourspeed-manual or Powerglide two-speed automatic. Malibu SS also got a four-gauge cluster in place of engine warning lights, and a dash-mounted tachometer was optional. The 283-cubic-inch four-barrel V8 engine rated at 220-horsepower was the same rating as the 1957 Chevy Power-Pak 283 engine. Starting in mid-1964, the Chevelle could be ordered with the division’s 327-cubic-inch V8, in either 250 or 300 hp. Both used a four-barrel carburetor and 10.5:1 compression, but muscle fans would demand more, and get it. In 1965, Chevrolet also added the 350-hp 327 V8 as an option.

The Chevelle SS 396 had its own series in 1966. The SS 396 sport coupes and convertibles used the same Malibu sport coupe and convertible bodies with reinforced frames and revised front suspension: higher-rate springs, recalibrated shocks, and thicker front stabilizer bar, but with different exterior trim. They also had simulated hood scoops, red-striped tires, and bright trim moldings. The performance engines available included three 396 cubic-inch V8s – the standard, rated at 325 hp an optional 360 hp, and an optional 375 hp respectively (the mid-horsepower 396 was rated at 360 hp for 1966 only and 350 hp thereafter). The SS 396 series lasted from 1966 through 1968 before being relegated to an option package in 1969.

Halfway through the first generation years, the 1966 body was completely restyled; the Chevelle, still on the previous frame, included smooth contours, a broad new grille and bumper treatment, and curved side windows.

The new body reflected the “Coke bottle” body shape that became the fad for American cars in the mid-1960s.

Available engines were a 327-cubic-inch V8 instead of either of the sixes, or the mid-level option, a 220-horse-

power 283-cubic-inch V8. The options list could add a tachometer, mag-style wheel covers, and sintered-metallic brakes, four-way power seats, a tissue dispenser, and cruise control.

The 1967 model’s styling was tweaked resulting in a longer, more straightforward appearance. Wraparound taillights went into a new rear end with standard backup lights. Otherwise, visible change was modest. Front disc brakes were available on all models, and a new dual master cylinder brake system incorporated a warning light.

Chevrolet also added 14” wheels and a three speed automatic transmission to their line of transmissions. An entire host of new safety equipment became standard, including a collapsible steering column. The SS 396 continued as its own series with both sport coupe and convertible body styles. The 375-horsepower 396-cubic-inch V8 was dropped from the options list until late in the model year and returned with little fanfare resulting in only 612 being sold. Buyers selected from no less than seven transmissions. Options included Superlift air shock absorbers, Strato-ease headrests, and special instrumentation.

The 1968 models, the first year of the second generation Chevelles (1968-1972), introduced a-new sculpted body with tapered front fenders and a rounded beltline. The car adopted a long-hood/short-deck profile with a high rearquarter “kick-up.” While all 1967 Chevelle models rode a 115-inch wheelbase, the 1968 coupes and convertibles now rode a sporty 112-inch wheelbase. The sedans and wagons turned to a 116-inch span. Tread width grew an inch front and rear. Hardtop coupes featured a semi-fastback, flowing roofline. Top-trim models (including the SS 396 and new luxury Concours) featured GM’s new Hide-A-Way wiper system. Lesser Chevelles would get that change later. The Super Sport (SS 396 sport coupe, convertible, and El Camino pickup) became series on its own. The SS 396 sport coupe started at $2,899.00 just $236.00 more than a comparable Malibu with its 307-cubic-inch V8. All-vinyl bucket seats and a console were optional.

Regular Chevelle engines started with a 140 horsepower Turbo-Thrift six or the new 200 horsepower Turbo-Fire 307 V8, but stretched to a 325 horsepower version of the 327cubic-inch V8. New Federal safety-mandated equipment included side marker lights, as well as shoulder belts for front seat occupants on cars built after December 1, 1967.

There were 1968 SS 427 Chevelles sold on Indian Reservation’s territory to bypass the GM rules that prevented a car from having more than 1 hp per 10 pounds of weight limit.

The 1969 Chevelle body changes included a new grille with a horizontal bar separating the upper and lower section, which gave a wider look to the front end; Parking lamps were moved inboard into the center bumper opening; the body side molding was eliminated and replaced by an optional body side-stripe and larger taillights, and a blacked out center panel gave the rear end a more aggressive look. For 1969, the Super Sport became an option package, rather than a unique model as it was in 1968. The SS 396 package included a mild mannered 325 horsepower 396 cubic-inch V-8, three-speed manual transmission, domed hood, black accented grille, power front disc brakes, wide oval tires, and special suspension system. Buyers were required to pay an additional $347.60 for the option.

The SS’s interior was comfortable but not luxurious. The dash sported twin round gauges centered above the steering column. A vinyl-covered front bench seat was standard equipment, but Strato-bucket seats were offered as an option. The 1969 was the first year for headrests, beating the January 1970 federal requirement by about four months.

All SS models were powered by Chevrolet’s 396 cu bigblock V8s. The base 325-horse engine provided more than adequate performance along with the ability to be ordered with air conditioning. For those wanting more performance, a 350-horsepower version and two versions of a 375horse engine were available. While not on the official option list, a 425 horsepower 427 cu in was available, but dealers were required to place the order via the Central Office Production Order (COPO). The base transmission was a three-speed manual. Additionally, three versions of the Muncie four-speed were available. The wide-ratio M20 was the best package for the street. The close-ratio M21 kept the engine closer to its torque curve, and the closeratio M22 was the ultimate if serious drag racing was the owner’s goal. Chevrolet’s two-speed Powerglide was canceled for 1969 and replaced with the stout three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic trans.

The long list of available performance and comfort options gave the Super Sport broad appeal to the masses, whether they wanted simple, low-cost performance or highend luxury combined with performance. By the end of the 1969 model year, over 86,000 were sold starting at a MSRP of $3,002.00, making the Super Sport a great success for Chevrolet.

Featured Car Danny brought his 1969 SS 396 Chevelle when he was 22 and after eight years of ownership sold it to a local person. The new owner ran the car for a number of years until it was stolen. The car was recovered and returned to its owner. He parked it in his field with the intent of fixing it up. Years passed, but Danny never forgot his first muscle car so when he spotted an old rusty Chevelle in a field while driving by one day, he had to stop and ask. He was amazed to discover it was his car that he had sold fifteen years before. Yes, he brought it back and started a total restoration of an old friend. The body’s rusted floors, trunk pan, quarter panels, and doors were replaced. All the car’s mechanicals were either rebuilt or replaced. The 396 engine was rebuilt to approximately 400 HP; the original Muncie 4 speed was also rebuilt. The arrow straight body received a beautiful bright red paint job that is complemented by all new chrome and glass. The bucket seat interior is all new, and the dash and gauges expertly restored.

The car’s new exhaust gives it a nice mellow sound that gives witness to the car’s power. The choice of old school Crager mag wheels completes the total package. Danny’s 1969 SS 396 Chevelle is a great example of a true “sixties” muscle car!

Owner Mr. Danny Krol is a lifelong resident of Pennsylvania currently living in the town of Honesdale. Danny is currently employed at Seaman’s Marine located in Honesdale, PA, as a marine mechanic. He has always loved muscle cars and has a special place in his heart for Chevrolet Chevelles. He is a fountain of knowledge on Chevelles and is a regular at local Northeast PA shows and cruises. If you are at a cruise or show and happen to see a great looking Red 1969 Chevelle you just might bump into Danny.

Say hi and if you are lucky just might learn something about SS Chevelles!

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23

EMAIL US YOUR QUESTIONS FOR DR. PLATKO AT CMAG@PTD.NET

ASK THE VET:

lifestyle

your pets

Flea & Tick Prevention Why It Doesn’t Stop When Summer Is Over

BY DR. MARTY BECKER

F

leas and ticks are fighting back.

It used to be that they would pester our pets between May and September — but now experts recommend that pet owners give parasite prevention products yearround to fight off the biting little buggers. What’s up with that?

In the case of ticks, we are seeing more of them in more places. Ticks are on the march, spreading to areas where historically they hadn’t been a problem. You might say they are investing in change. They hitch rides on migrating wildlife such as deer, and they infiltrate the edges of urban sprawl when real estate developments clear away woodlands, leaving rodents, popular hosts for ticks, without predators.

Climate change may be a factor, too, although the patterns are different for different types of ticks. According to veterinary parasitologist Susan E. Little at Oklahoma State University, drought has driven the lone star tick population in Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas down, but the same conditions gave a dramatic boost to the brown dog tick population in those areas. “Same climate change,” she says, but a “different effect on different species of ticks.”

In some places, warming trends bringing milder winters have allowed ticks to move into new areas, including those at higher altitudes and latitudes. Even in Alaska, which historically didn’t have a tick problem, the bloodthirsty arachnids are making their presence known, thanks to the presence of dogs from the lower 48 and longer periods of greening in warmer months of the year.

And ticks are tough. They don’t die off in harsh winters but shelter cozily beneath snow cover or leaf litter. They might not be as active, but they are out in winter-

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time. “About 30% of human cases of Lyme disease are transmitted by ticks that are out between October and March,” says Dr. Little.

The tick’s super reproductive capacity is a factor, too. When conditions are just right for ticks — humid and mild — their reproductive abilities go into overdrive, increasing their populations dramatically.

Depending on the species, says Dr. Little, “an adult female tick will produce between 4,000 and 15,000 eggs” at one time. Skipping preventive, she adds, can be catastrophic. “If you have an adult brown dog tick that’s attached to a dog and the dog brings that into the house [and] the dog is not on tick control and [the tick] feeds and it’s been fertilized and it drops off in the environment, she is going to lay several thousand eggs in the home.

“And then the eggs are going to hatch out several thousand larvae and you’ve got a home tick infestation just from the introduction of a single fertilized female tick.”

Indoor-Outdoor Pests What about fleas? While cases of flea allergy dermatitis are less dramatic and less severe than they were back when I first began practicing, thanks to better products for prevention, they do still occur.

The climactic conditions that can lead to a higher flea population vary from year to year, but in many places fleas are out to get our pets seven to twelve months a year. And as with brown dog ticks, fleas enjoy a cushy indoor existence. They can lurk in your home year-round.

Even if your pet — a cat, for instance — lives indoors, fleas and ticks can find their way inside via other pets, people, and wildlife. You or your dog can bring them home from a hike, and critters such as opossums, squirrels and raccoons can spread them if they are living beneath your home or have found their way into a crawl space.

Some of those parasites even prefer to live indoors. Take brown dog ticks — please! They can survive for more than a year indoors, even with nothing to feed

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on. Depending on their life stage, fleas can survive for many weeks indoors.

When you stop administering flea-prevention products, under the assumption that “flea season” is over, you run the risk of having to fight them all over again.

Today’s flea-control products are fast-acting and effective, but depending on which product you use, there can still be a threeto four-month lag between the time you begin treatment and the time you can expect the fleas to, er, flee. Even if new fleas make their way into your home or onto your pet, the important goals are to kill them quickly and make sure they can’t reproduce, as well as to provide your pet with ongoing protection.

Fleas and ticks aren’t just disgusting to us and uncomfortable for our pets; they can transmit diseases to animals. When we come into contact with parasites that have latched onto our pets, we run the risk of disease as well. That makes preventing parasite infestation a public health issue.

Dr. Little and other parasite experts have a mantra: every pet, every month, all year long. The only way to successfully control parasites, especially in a multipet household, is to make sure that every animal is treated on a regular basis.

These days, that means year-round.

–Amy Platko-Williams, D.V.M Dr. Platko is one of the four full time veterarians at the Cherry Ridge Veterinary Clinic in Honesdale.

Send your questions to Dr. Platko, c/o Connections Magazine, 3305 Lake Ariel Highway, Honesdale, Pa. 18431 or e-mail them to cmag@ptd.net and type 'Ask the Vet' in the subject line.

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wellness

behavioral medicine

Homeless for the Holidays

By Arthur Middleton, M.D., FAPA

Home is a shelter from storms — all sorts of storms. ~William J. Bennett

A

s we approach the holidays we begin to see department stores gear up for the shopping frenzy that merchants are hoping for. Walking into any given store, one is likely to hear familiar music often associated with Christmas.

The focus is on buying gifts, celebrating the holidays, and expressing feelings of love, joy, and happiness to all.

But this is not everyone’s experience.

Each year, it is often assumed that the holidays are also a period when depression and even suicide are more prevalent than any other time of the year.

In reality, the phenomenon of “Holiday Blues,” has long been disputed. In a New York Times article by Dava Sobel titled: “‘Holiday Effect’ Found More Benign Than Depressing (December 29, 1981),” the author writes about research that had been conducted and published in the Archives of General Psychiatry. The researchers noted that psychiatric visits to emergency rooms, in their study, actually dropped “around December 25th and January 1st.”

However, researchers did identify significant stressors associated with increased alcohol intake, as well as changes in sleep patterns along with the additional stress associated with the financial demands of the holiday.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that an analysis showed that “50% of the articles written during the 2009 -2010 holiday season perpetuated the myth that suicides occur more frequently during the holiday season.” But make no mistake. Suicide remains a significant issue throughout the year as it is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. As reported by the CDC, every year more than 36,000 people take their own lives.

Recognizing that the holidays and the theme of joy and happiness are not necessarily experienced to the same degree by everyone, is there anything that is perhaps glaring in contrast to the heightened consumerism of the holidays? The answer is yes, and it is called homelessness.

Homelessness occurs in both urban and rural environments, but it is everywhere, if you look for it, in a busy city. One might ask, “Is this associated with mental illness?” The answer is yes, but homelessness is not exclusively dependent on having a mental illness. The following fictional vignette is presented to highlight the issues associated with a particular segment of the homeless population.

JT is 60 years old, unemployed, widowed and homeless. He does have a family; a daughter and a son from whom he is estranged. He lives in a Shelter for Men, which requires that he leave in the

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morning, but he is allowed to return at night. This has been his routine for the past five years.

Previously, following the death of his wife ten years ago, he had the support of his children and lived with his son after he was evicted from the apartment that he and his wife shared for thirty years.

As his children learned, it was JT’s wife who made sure that JT took his medication, which included meds for hypertension but also for Schizophrenia. Because of his poor compliance for his psychiatric medications, JT was prescribed a long acting antipsychotic medication, Prolixin Decanoate (fluphenazine decanoate), which was administered by injection every two weeks. It was his wife who made certain that JT went to the clinic to receive his injection, and during this time JT was stable.

Previously he had been in and out of hospitals quite literally every two or three years. Following the death of his wife, JT could not manage independently. While he initially had ample funds to support himself, he quickly ran through his savings. His children bailed him out financially several times, but were unable to continue to paying his rent indefinitely. It was only a matter of time before JT was evicted, not only because he could not pay on time, but also because he could not take care of the apartment. It resulted in a circumstance wherein the Board of Health became involved because of calls from neighbors who complained about the smell coming from his apartment that was filled with garbage and decaying food.

After he was evicted, JT first lived with his daughter and then his son. It was during the time when JT lived with his son that his dependence on pain medications became known. JT had been treated for a broken wrist and prescribed OxyContin (oxycodone) for pain relief. While his doctor had prescribed a limited prescription for this medication, JT used this medication in three days (instead of the 10-day period that was prescribed). His doctor would not prescribe additional pain medication, and JT began to obtain this medication on the street, buying it illegally from drug dealers. [ www.connections-magazine.com ]

When his son learned about this, JT was told that he could no longer live with him. His son did everything he could to make certain that his father had a place to stay, encouraging his father to go to a halfway house where he could receive treatment for his psychiatric disorder and substance abuse.

JT did go to the halfway house and remained drug free for three months, but he was discharged after failing a drug test.

JT remains homeless and has been for the last five years. He is known to many homeless shelters in the area, and he has been psychiatrically re-hospitalized several times. His family provides him with a cell phone to remain in contact, but he has frequently sold the cell phone to buy drugs. His family is resigned to the likely possibility that he will overdose on pain medications that were purchased on the street. JT has made it clear to his family that he is fine, has stopped buying drugs, and does not want to accept any offer of help from them. His children do not believe him but hope that he will turn his life around before it is too late.

While fictional, this clinical vignette describes a real phenomenon, which sadly is not uncommon.

According to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), it is estimated that “over 578,000 people were homeless on a single night in January of 2014.” It is further estimated that of this population “nearly 100,000 were chronically homeless.” HUD defines a chronically homeless individual as “an individual with a disabling condition who has been either continuously homeless for at least one year or homeless at least four times in the past three years.”

Most would assume that the homeless population is simply mentally ill. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA) cites statistics from research over the past five years that “about 30% of those who are chronically homeless have mental health conditions and about 50% have co-occurring substance abuse problems.”

The homeless population also includes families, unaccompanied youths; in particular youths who are LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered), as well as older adults (62 years or older)

incontinence and veterans. It is estimated that the veteran population comprises “about 10% of the total homeless population.”

In an article written for NBC News

by Martha C. White titled: Homeless for the Holidays: Many Americans Out in the Cold (December 13, 2014), the author writes about the experiences of everyday Americans who are homeless for a variety of reasons; economic instability, job loss, and domestic violence as examples. This article also highlights the burden of single parent households and even entire families who are living in a single room of a relative or friend. This family is not living in a shelter or the streets, but they are homeless. The author highlights the impact on the children, especially during the holiday period when the season promotes the spirit of gift giving while these children hope for the gift of a home.

The article also underscores the fact that this particular homeless population is hidden as there is a sense of embarrassment about being homeless.

Make no mistake, the homeless population that exists in an out of shelters and on the streets of both urban and rural environments is significant and costly; both in terms of human suffering and death as well as a burden with regard to the heavy use of acute medical and mental health services. According to a report from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (January 2013), it is estimated that 17% of deaths (in a population of 28,000 homeless adults who were studied from 2003-2008) occurred as a result of drug overdose. The drugs responsible were more often narcotic prescription pain medications.

Another article, written by Kim Barker of the New York Times titled: “On the Trail of a Mentally Ill Brother, Lost in Brooklyn (September 5, 2015),” the author describes the plight of a woman seeking to find her brother who suffered from mental illness; paranoid schizophrenia. His mental illness and family discord led to a particular kind of homelessness.

In this instance, her brother was found in “unregulated” rooming houses also known as three-quarter houses. As described in the article, her brother, who had mental illness, found himself in this particular housing as an alternative to being homeless. The article goes on to describe the difficulties that were faced by someone with mental illness and how the situation changed with proper treatment; medication, and housing.

The reality is that the homeless populations, on an individual basis, are often individuals who are not easy to work with owing to the complexity of their problems.

Despite the challenges, there are successful interventions that can impact the homeless population, focusing on mental health treatment,

substance abuse treatment, employment, and housing. One such intervention is Assertive Community Treatment or “ACT,” which is a program that targets severe mental illnesses such as Schizophrenia, focusing on an intervention for individuals with poor compliance, poor insight, co-existing substance abuse, and limited (or none) family support. One clinician would never be able to provide the needed intervention and support. This is why ACT uses a team approach. The goal of this approach is more than just medication. It provides housing, therapeutic intervention with medication, and counseling, as well as employment and housing. The intensity of this approach is not always successful, but a multidisciplinary approach for such a complex problem population has been effective.

In summary, homelessness is a worldwide phenomenon that is not limited to the United States. But it is a problem that has been present in the US for some time, resulting in nearly 600,000 homeless people on any given night, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

The population of the homeless includes individuals with mental illness and substance abuse. It also includes older adults, veterans, families, and children. The solution is not easy. For those affected there are resources, but the problem of homelessness cannot be ignored or minimized.

The following references are provided for the informed consumer: Social Security Administration: Spotlight on Homelessness / What If I Am Homeless? https://www.socialsecurity.gov/ssi/spotlights/spo t-homeless.htm United States Interagency Council on Homelessness For Youth: National Runaway Safeline at 1-800-RUNAWAY (1-800-786-2929).

VA National Call Center for Homeless Veterans Hotline Information http://www1.va.gov/HOMELESS/NationalCallCe nter.asp Dr. Middleton is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, and a Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He received his undergraduate training at New York University and an MD degree from Rutgers Medical School. Dr. Middleton completed his psychiatric residency at St. Vincent’s Hospital & Medical Center, in NYC. He is on the honorary medical staff (retired) of Hackensack University Medical Center in NJ, where he is also Chairman Emeritus of the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Medicine. Dr. Middleton has been on the voluntary teaching faculty of Mount Sinai School of Medicine and Brown Medical School.

He is currently a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. Dr. Middleton is retired as an Associate in the Department of Psychiatry in the Geisinger Health System formerly practicing at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Dr. Middleton lives in Dingmans Ferry, PA, and Manhattan, NY.

wellness

The Healthy

Gee z er

By Fred Cicetti

Q.

I’m a 61-year-old woman and I’ve been experiencing some incontinence lately. A friend told me there are exercises I can do to help the situation.

Do you know what she’s talking about?

F

irst, talk to your doctor about the incontinence.

Don’t begin any exercise program without a check-up.

Your friend is probably referring to “Kegel exercises,” which were developed sixty years ago by Dr. Arnold Kegel to control incontinence in women after childbirth.

These exercises are now recommended for both women and men who experience urinary or fecal incontinence. It should be noted that men can suffer from pelvicfloor disorders, but they are much more common in women.

Kegel exercises strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor. The exercises improve the functioning of both the urethral and rectal sphincters.

The muscles that are developed through the Kegel program are the ones you feel when you try to stop the flow of urine. After about eight weeks of exercising, you usually see results, such as less frequent urine leakage.

Urinary and fecal incontinence are examples of “pelvic-floor disorders.” Others include constipation, rectal pain, vaginal prolapse, rectal prolapse, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction. In medicine, prolapse means that an organ has slipped out of place.

The pelvic floor is a network of muscles, ligaments, and other tissues that hold up the pelvic organs— the vagina, rectum, uterus, and bladder.

When this network— often described as a hammock—weakens, the organs can shift and create disorders.

Women who

delivered several children vaginally and suffered tissue damage during childbirth are at higher risk for pelvic-floor disorders. Another risk factor is obesity because added weight strains the pelvic floor. A predisposition to have weak connective tissue can add to the problem. In severe cases of pelvic dysfunction, women feel pressure or a pull in the vagina or lower back.

The opening of the uterus may stick out from the vagina.

Aging and menopause contribute to disorders. More than half of women age 55 and older suffer a pelvic-floor dysfunction. About one in three women in the U.S. will have one of these dysfunctions in her lifetime. One in nine women will have corrective surgery for one of these problems.

Because women are embarrassed by pelvic-floor disorders, they under-report them.

There are many ways to treat pelvic-floor problems. Some women relieve their symptoms with Kegel exercises. Eliminating caffeine—a diuretic—can help.

Eating more fiber can improve bowel function. Pessaries, plastic devices that come in many sizes and shapes, can be inserted into the vagina to support pelvic organs.

And then there is surgery, which can be done vaginally or through the abdomen. The surgical method is determined by the type of problem.

More than 200,000 American women have corrective surgery annually.

If you would like to ask a question, write to fred@healthygeezer.com.

All Rights Reserved © 2015

by Fred Cicetti

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area events

a+r+e Y O U Ongoing

C O N N E C T E D

Events

DAILY Public Art Displays Nature’s Grace, Dime Bank & Wayne Bank, Wayne Memorial Hospital, Harvey Insurance, Honesdale. & Pocono Lake Region Chamber of Commerce, Hawley.

Wayne County Arts Alliance artists display their work monthly.

MONDAYS Chair Yoga 10–11:15 a.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. Ages 18 & up. All the benefits of yoga for anyone who may feel challenged by a traditional yoga class. Free.

Registration & info: 570-996-1500.

TUESDAYS Bingo American Legion Post 311, Hawley. Doors open 10:30 a.m., games begin at Noon.

Info: legionpost311@qmail.com.

THURSDAYS Trivia Thursdays 8 p.m. Ehrhardt’s Waterfront Banquet Center, Hawley. Hilarious combination of trivia & physical challenges. Compete with teams to win a gift certificate, gold medal & bragging rights.

Info: 570-226-7355.

FRIDAYS Live Music Friday 8–11 p.m. Glass — wine. bar. kitchen. at Ledges Hotel, Hawley. No cover. Info: info@ledgeshotel.com or 570-226-1337.

FRIDAYS Live Music 8 p.m.–Midnight. Ehrhardt’s Pub, Hawley.

Great drink specials, delicious food & live music. Info: 570-226-2124 or waterfront@ehrhardts.com.

SATURDAYS Monroe Farmers’ Market 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Newberry Building, Stroudsburg. Produce, plants, flowers, eggs, raw milk & dairy products, raw natural honey, fresh baked goods, jams, jellies, syrups, gourmet coffee, homemade pasta, sauces, fine wines, meats, herbs, more. Info: 570-595-2321.

SATURDAYS The Main Street Farmers’ Market 11 a.m.–1 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Indoor market offering fresh vegetables, fruits, meats, breads & more. The Market Café featuring The Anthill Farm Kitchen. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.

SATURDAYS FREE Tastings and Demos 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Mill Market, in the Hawley Silk Mill, Hawley.

Info: info@MillMarketPA.com or 570-390-4440.

ARTS, RECREATION & ENTERTAINMENT

DECEMBER ’15

SATURDAYS Glassworks Demonstration 11:30 a.m.–3 p.m. B. Madigan, Hawley.

See glass stretched & made into beautiful items, including watching the glass worked, learning how it is made & what creates the colors. Info: 570-561-3629.

SATURDAYS Live Piano Music in the Dining Room 6–9 p.m. The Settlers Inn, Hawley. Info: 570-226-2993 or desk@thesettlersinn.com.

SATURDAYS Live Music at Barley Creek 8–11 p.m. Barley Creek Brewing Company, Tannersville. The Pocono Mountains’ Original Brewpub. Great food & handcrafted beer brewed on-site. Free brewery tours daily at 12:30 p.m. No cover charge. Info: 570-629-9399.

SATURDAYS Live Music 9 p.m.–1 a.m. Ehrhardt’s Pub, Hawley.

Great drink specials, delicious food & live music. Info: 570-226-2124 or waterfront@ehrhardts.com.

THROUGH DEC. 7 Harvest of Light & Color ARTery Gallery, Milford. Featuring artists Debbie Gioello with three distinct collections of paintings in “Concepts in Color” & Barbara Alice Moir with her exhibit of oil landscapes, “Pathways of Light.”

Artist’s reception Nov. 14, 6–9 p.m.

Info: 570-409-1234 or www.arterygallerymilford.com.

THROUGH DEC. 11 Exhibit: “We Teach Wherever the Mails Reach” Weinberg Memorial Library, The University of Scranton. The 125th Anniversary of the International Correspondence Schools of Scranton. Free during library hours. Info: 570-941-6341 or michael.knies@Scranton.edu.

THROUGH DEC. 23 Valley Artists Holiday Sale Loft Gallery, Narrowsburg, NY. Exhibit & sale. Opening reception: Nov. 21, 7–9 p.m.

Gallery hours: Tues.–Fri., 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sat., 10 a.m.–4 p.m., plus seaonal extended hours. Info: 845-252-7576.

THROUGH DEC. 23 “Art in Sixes” Alliance Gallery, Narrowsburg, NY. Exhibit & sale of mixed-media small works.

Opening reception: Nov. 21, 7–9 p.m.

Gallery hours: Tues.–Fri., 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sat., 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Info: 845-252-7576.

THROUGH DEC. 31 Exhibit: CAS Winter Members Show CAS Arts Center, Livingston Manor, NY. Sponsored & presented by Catskill Art Society.

Info: 845-436-4227 or www.catskillartsociety.org.

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December 1– December 9 DEC. 1 An Evening of Prose and Poetry 5:30 p.m. Pike County Public Library, Milford. Featuring poetry by Joan Polishook & Veronica Coyne, & prose by Eleanor Wagner & Bill Wilson. An open mic follows the featured reading.

Info: 570-296-8211.

DEC. 1 & 8 Nia 5:30–6:30 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. Ages 16 & up. Combination of yoga, martial arts & dance, for your health, wellness & fitness.

Registration & info: 570-996-1500.

DEC. 1 Golden Days of Radio Players Performance 7 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock.

Radio plays presented by the Dietrich Theater Radio Players. Experience the “theatre of the mind,” including live sound effects & music. Free admission.

Tickets & info: 570-996-1500.

DEC. 1 & 2 Broadway Theatre League presents Cirque Dreams Holidaze 7–9 p.m. Scranton Cultural Center, Scranton. A new Cirque show, Broadway musical & family Christmas spectacular all in one, with over 300 costumes, 20 acts & 30 artists from every corner of the globe.

Info: 570-344-1111 or www.scrantonculturalcenter.org.

DEC. 2 The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe 10 a.m. F.M. Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre.

Enchanting musical based on C.S. Lewis’ adventure story about the strange & wondrous land of Narnia. Grades 1–7. Info: 570-826-1100 or www.kirbycenter.org.

DEC. 2 Simply Yoga 10–11:15 a.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. Ages 16 & up. Wear comfortable clothes, bring a mat, towel or blanket, & water. Series of 6 or per class.

Registration & info: 570-996-1500.

DEC. 2 Tastes of Wayne County The Halfway House, Honesdale. Support the Wayne County Historical Society while enjoying a fabulous meal picked from a great menu. Info: 570-253-6356.

DEC. 2 DIY: Chat ’n Do 7–9 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale.

Presented by The Cooperage Project. A makers’ social. Bring your current project or start something new. Donations collected. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.

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DEC. 2 & 3 Hawley Women’s Club Bus Trip Visit Winterthur Museum, Longwood Gardens, National Christmas Center & Museum and Sight & Sound’s production of the “Miracle of Christmas.” The Hawley Women’s Club bus trips raise funds for scholarships for WAHS seniors & donations to local charities.

Info & reservations: Judy 570-226-6588.

DEC. 3 “Strategizing Scranton’s Recovery” 5:30 p.m. Brennan Hall, The University of Scranton. Schemel Forum & the Office of Community and Government Affairs Collaborative Program. Free. Reservation required. Info: 570-941-6206 or emily.brees@scranton.edu.

DEC. 3 Wayne Choralaires concert “The Joy of Christmas” 7 p.m. St. Rose of Lima Church, Carbondale. Sacred & secular holiday songs. No admission fee. Freewill offering accepted.

Info: 570-253-2782 or 570-253-2104.

DEC. 3 & 10 Writers’ Group 7–8:30 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. Ages 18 & up. Ongoing group. Come read your work or listen & be inspired.

Learn the craft of writing as you write toward a goal of publication. All genres & levels of writing welcome. Free admission. Info: 570-996-1500.

DEC. 3 Lackwanna County Library System presents Christina Baker Kline 7–8 p.m. Scranton Cultural Center, Scranton. Author of Orphan Train.

Admission by ticket only. Tickets free to LCLS library card holders, available at local LCLS branch libraries in person (no phone reservations). Book sale & signing following lecture. Info: 570-344-1111 or www.scrantonculturalcenter.org.

DEC. 3–6 Flying Needles Quilt Camp Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. A relaxing weekend in the Pocono Mtns. Beginners encouraged to join. Focus projects: all fiber arts. Fee includes lodging & meals.

Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org.

DEC. 3–6 Irving Berlin’s White Christmas: The Musical The Music Box Dinner Playhouse, Swoyersville. Call the box office for ticket info & times: 570-283-2195 or visit www.musicbox.org.

DEC. 4 Panuska College of Professional Studies Blessing of the Books 3 p.m. Leahy Hall, The University of

area events

Santa Express DEC. 5 1–2:30 p.m. & 3–4:30 p.m. The Stourbridge Line, Honesdale.

Santa spreads his Christmas cheer on a holiday rail excursion. Enjoy the scenery of Wayne Cty.’s winter wonderland. Reservations suggested. Info: 570-470-2697 or ghp@visithonesdalepa.com.

Scranton. Books donated by members of the Univ. community. Free.

Info: 570-941-6305.

DEC. 4 NEPA Philharmonic: Home for the Holidays! Pops II 7–9 p.m. Scranton Cultural Center, Scranton. Violinist Dr. Victor Liva & other notable performers are back home for a joyful evening of music-making, with traditional & contemporary songs, as well as holiday favorites for Chorus & Orchestra.

Info: 570-344-1111 or www.scrantonculturalcenter.org.

DEC. 4 John Prine 8 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre.

Info: 570-826-1100 or www.kirbycenter.org.

DEC. 4 & 5 Emmet Otter’s Jugband Christmas 5:30 & 7 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. Favorite Jim Henson Christmas movie: a poor otter family risks everything for the chance to win the cash prize of a talent contest for Christmas. Free admission. Seating first come, first served.

Info: 570-996-1500.

DEC. 4 & 5 Twelve Twenty Four TSO Christmas Event 8 p.m. Mauch Chunk Opera House, Jim Thorpe. Featuring the music of the TransSiberian Orchestra, along with selections from their own albums, for a one-of-a-kind holiday experience. Info: 570-325-0249 or mauchchunkoperahouse.com.

DEC. 4, 5, 6 Candlelight Christmas Dinner The Settlers Inn, Hawley. Info: 570-2262993 or desk@thesettlersinn.com.

DEC. 4–20 “Greetings” Shadowland Theatre, Ellenville, NY. A family tale, produced & presented by Shadowland Theatre. Thur.–Sat., 8 p.m., Sun., 2 p.m.

Info or reservations: 845-647-5511.

DEC. 5 Hot Cocoa & Donuts with Santa & Friends!

9–11 a.m. Papa's Primo Pizza, Honesdale.

Bring your camera. Free event.

Info: 570-253-4830.

DEC. 5 Vintage Costume Jewelry Show 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Sparta Avenue Stage, Sparta, NJ. Vintage dazzling necklaces, brooches, rings, bracelets & earrings available. Open to public; no fee. Handicapped-accessible. Info: Joyce Simmons, 201-213-2146 or simmonsjo@yahoo.com.

DEC. 5 Holiday Open House 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Highlights for Children, Honesdale. Treats, entertainment, art show, craft room, storytelling, puppetry, sing-a-longs & more. Surprise gift for kids & a free drawing. Free. Info: 570-253-1080.

DEC. 5 Herbal Teas with the Speichers 10 a.m.–Noon. Kettle Creek Environ-mental Education Center, Bartonsville. Join Darryl & Jackie Speicher for a walk around Kettle Creek discussing the various plants you can use to make teas that not only taste good, but are good for you. Afterward warm up with a hot cup of tea in the critter room. Info: 570-629-3061 or www.mcconservation.org.

DEC. 5 Vaccine Clinic and Santa Photos — Pike County Humane Society 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Dingman Fire Department, Milford. Info: 570-296-7654.

DEC. 5 Art Opening: Photo Contest Display Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, Bartonsville. Enjoy the entrants in the First Annual Monroe County Natural Resources Photo Contest. Opening reception, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Info: 570-629-3061 or www.mcconservation.org.

DEC. 5 Holiday Workshop 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. For all ages. A morning of cookie decorating, holiday crafts, singing & creations by the balloon lady.

Free admission. Info: 570-996-1500.

DEC. 5 Pictures with Santa Noon–3 p.m. Fins and Feathers, Honesdale. Come in, with or without your pet, & have your picture taken with Santa.

Household pets, children & families welcome. Snacks & refreshments. Specials all day. Info: 570-253-3132.

DEC. 5 Lunch with Santa 1 p.m. & 2:30 p.m. Trackside Grill, Honesdale. Kids will enjoy lunch with Santa at the Trackside Grill. Regular menu available for adults. Reservations required. Info: 570-253-2462.

DEC. 5 Christmas in the Village 2–4 p.m. Bethany. Children’s party with Santa at Bethany Public Library. Holiday open houses & events at E. Kellogg B&B, James Manning House B&B & The Mansion at Noble Lane. Tricky-tray & tree lighting at Bethany Village. Seasonal foods & beverages available, & other surprises.

Info: 570-253-5573.

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DEC. 5 Reading/Book Signing 2 p.m. Delaware Arts Center, Narrowsburg, NY. Nancy Dymond reading from her debut poetry collection “Sleep Barn.”

Free admission (donations welcome).

Reception & book signing follow.

Info: 845-252-7506.

DEC. 5 The NEPA Philharmonic 7 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre.

Special guest conductor Dr. Victor Liva & guest artists Mark Kratz, tenor, Jessie Hooker, alto, Ballet Theater of Scranton, The Choral Society of NEPA & surprise visitors. Info: 570-826-1100 or www.kirbycenter.org.

DEC. 5 Brother Sun 7:30 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale.

Presented by RiverFolk Concerts. Trio fusing folk, Americana, blues, pop, jazz, rock & a cappella singing; an explosion of musical diversity & harmony. Snacks available for purchase. BYOB. Donations collected. Reservations & info: Jill, 845-252-6783.

DEC. 5 Cricket Tell The Weather 8 p.m. Hawley Silk Mill, Hawley.

Brooklyn-based string band with roots deep in the bluegrass tradition, embracing folk, old-time, & spirituals as a backdrop for their original songwriting. Info: 570-588-8077 or harmonypresents.com.

DEC. 5 KISStival Featuring Alive! ’75: A Tribute to Kiss 8 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

Featuring Afterimage (Rush tribute), JR Smalling/Lydia Criss. Full KISS-Mart merchandising event on-site. Info: 570-4202808 or www.shermantheater.com.

DEC. 5 Performance Music: “48th Annual Noel Night” 8 p.m. (prelude from 7:05 p.m.) HoulihanMcLean Center, The University of Scranton. Featuring Univ. of Scranton singers & chamber ensembles. Free. Info: 570-941-7624 or music@scranton.edu.

DEC. 5–18 PRINT. Graduate MA Exhibition Mahady Gallery, Marywood University, Scranton. Group exhibition features the graduate thesis work of Amani Ashour, Nadine Kloss–Gannon, Sea Macleish & Natalie Seewen. Reception Dec. 5, 5–7 p.m. Info: 570-348-6278.

DEC. 5–20 Exhibit: “Holiday Show” WAA Gallery, Wurtsboro, NY. Group exhibit by members of the Wurtsboro Art Alliance. Gallery hrs.: Sat. & Sun. Noon–4 p.m. Info: info@waagallery.org.

DEC. 6 Ladies Auxiliary “All You Can Eat” Breakfast 8–11:30 a.m. VFW Post 531, Honesdale.

Kids 5 & under free. Take-out available.

Call ahead to place your order. Info: 570-253-5373 or eap3573@gmail.com.

DEC. 6 Winter Ecology Hike 10 a.m.–Noon. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Learn how different plants & animals survive the

winter. Hike & experience PEEC in the winter. All ages welcome.

Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org.

DEC. 6 Concert: WJFF Holiday Show Noon–3 p.m. Luncheon & Celtic music by Mist Covered Mountains, Settlers Inn, Hawley PA. Info: 845-482-4141.

DEC. 6 Santa Express 1–2:30 p.m. & 3–4:30 p.m. The Stourbridge Line, Honesdale. See description at Dec. 5. Info: 570-470-2697 or ghp@visithonesdalepa.com.

DEC. 6 Photos with Santa 1–3 p.m. Adam’s Christmas, Honesdale.

Meet Santa in winter wonderland scenery.

Bring your own camera. Free.

Info: 570-470-4826.

DEC. 6 Rick Drew Holiday Parade 2 p.m. Starts on Canal St., Port Jervis & ends 7th St., Matamoras.

Info: 570-296-7654.

DEC. 6 Wayne Choralaires concert “The Joy of Christmas” 2:30 p.m. Queen of Peace Church, Hawley.

Sacred & secular holiday songs. No admission fee. Freewill offering accepted.

Info: 570-253-2782 or 570-253-2104.

DEC. 6 The Delaware Valley Choral Society: “Christmas with Rutter & Friends” 7:30 p.m. Milford United Methodist Church, Milford. Tickets: 845-856-5696 or at the door.

DEC. 7 Bus Trip to New York City On Your Own Shop, have lunch, see a show, etc. The Hawley Women’s Club bus trips raise funds for scholarships for WAHS seniors & donations to local charities.

Info & reservations: Judy 570-226-6588.

DEC. 8 The Pocono Garden Club Christmas Luncheon Noon. Inn at Pocono Manor, Pocono Manor. The holiday Design will be “Cheers.” Entertainment by local musicians “Over Duet.” Info & reservations: Sandy, 570-619-8088.

DEC. 7 Kundalini Yoga 5:30–6:30 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. Ages 16–adult. Experience the gifts that Kundalini yoga has to offer as you explore breath, movement & mantra. Bring a yoga mat & blanket. Registration & info: 570-996-1500.

DEC. 8 Nia 5:30–6:30 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. See description at Dec. 1.

Registration & info: 570-996-1500.

DEC. 8 98.5 KRZ Presents Let It Show 2015 7 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre.

Starring Adam Lambert, Rachel Platten & Echosmith. Info: 570-826-1100 or www.kirbycenter.org.

DEC. 9 Bus Trip to New York City On Your Own Shop, have lunch, see a show, etc. The Hawley Women’s Club bus trips raise

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get connected funds for scholarships for WAHS seniors & donations to local charities.

Info & reservations: Judy 570-226-6588.

DEC. 9 Yoga Holiday De-Stressor 10–11:15 a.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. For ages 16 & up. Suitable for all levels of abilities. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat, blanket or towel.

Free. Registration & info: 570-996-1500.

DEC. 9 Dietrich Classic Movie Series: Home Alone 1 & 7 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock.

Free admission. Seating is first come, first served. Info: 570-996-1500.

DEC. 9 Culinary Book Club: German Night 5:30–6:30 p.m. Wayne County Public Library, Honesdale. Everyone loves to eat & share recipes. Info & registration: Elizabeth, 570-253-1220 or ewilson@waynelibraries.org.

DEC. 9 Open Mic Night 7–10 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale.

Presented by The Cooperage Project. Led

by The Crackers. Come to perform or come to listen & watch. Donation-based event; contributions appreciated. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.

December 10–December 19 DEC. 10 Peppa Pig Live! Peppa Pig’s Big Splash!

6 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg. The hit animated Nick Jr. series “Peppa Pig” comes to life on stage. Info: 570-420-2808 or www.shermantheater.com.

DEC. 10 Cabaret at The Shawnee Playhouse 7 p.m. Shawnee Playhouse, Shawnee On Delaware.

Info: 570-421-5093 or www.TheShawneePlayhouse.com.

DEC. 10 Writers’ Group 7–8:30 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. See description at Dec. 3.

Info: 570-996-1500.

DEC. 10–13 Irving Berlin’s White Christmas: The Musical The Music Box Dinner Playhouse, Swoyersville. Call the box office for ticket info & times: 570-283-2195 or visit www.musicbox.org.

area events

DEC. 11 PCDC Craft Store Holiday Open House Noon–2 p.m. The Pike County Developmental Center, Milford.

Info: 570-296-6319.

DEC. 11 Sounds Like Teen Spirit 7–10 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale.

Presented by The Cooperage Project & HHS Keep on Rockin’ Club. Open Mic Night exclusively for teens, but all ages invited to come & watch. Donations make this possible. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.

DEC. 11 “The Toy Shoppe” featuring Alan Thicke 8 p.m. The Theater at Lackawanna College, Scranton. Musical written by Kenny Rogers & Kelly Junkermann. Info: 570-961-7864 or www.lackawanna.edu.

DEC. 11 Start Making Sense — Talking Heads and Hall & Oates Tribute 8 p.m. Mauch Chunk Opera House, Jim Thorpe. Seven-piece band recreates the music & the magic of two great bands.

Info: 570-325-0249 or mauchchunkoperahouse.com.

DEC. 11 & 12 Scranton Civic Ballet Company presents The Nutracker 7:30–9:30 p.m. Scranton Cultural Center, Scranton. Breathtakingly professional holiday production showcases all of the company dancers, ages 8 to 21. Info: 570-3441111 or www.scrantonculturalcenter.org.

DEC. 11–13 Change: A New Christmas Carol 7:30 p.m.; 3 p.m. on Sun. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg. Holiday production about a quarter that comes to life & brings change to the town of Stroudsville.

Featuring a wonderful cast put together by members of the community. Info: 570-4202808 or www.shermantheater.com.

DEC. 12 21st Annual Children’s Ornament Hunt Central Park, Honesdale. 0–4th grade.

Ornaments are scattered throughout the park & children are invited to “hunt” for them by age group. Each child receives “a goodie bag” no matter how they do in the hunt. Info: 570-253-5492 or ghp@visithonesdalepa.com.

DEC. 12 Breakfast with Santa 9–11:30 am. Central Vol. Fire Dept., Hawley. Gifts available to purchase at Santa’s Workshop. Under age 12 free.

Info: Joan, 570-949-4296.

Hawley Winterfest DEC. 11–13 Hawley. From delicious holiday fare to the sounds of the season filling the air, a children’s show at the community theatre, artists & authors mingling with residents & visitors, ice carving, gingerbread decorating, horse-drawn carriage, homes boasting decked halls on the holiday house tours, & more. Info: www.hawleywinterfest.com.

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DEC. 12 KC “Disco” Hike 10–11:30 a.m. Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, Bartonsville. ne of a series of seasonal Discovery Hikes with an exploration of Kettle Creek Wildlife Sanctuary. Search for anything & everything the natural world has to offer in the early winter. Info: 570-629-3061 or www.mcconservation.org.

DEC. 13 Winterfest Visit to Lacawac 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Coulter Visitor Center, Lacawac Sanctuary, Lake Ariel. Tour the field station & event facilities. Arrive for coffee & tea before a one-mile walk to the historic buildings & return for a home-style lunch. Reservation only, limited seating; ages 12 & up. Info: 570-689-9494 or info@lacawac.org.

DEC. 12 14th Annual Shower for Charity Fred Miller Pavilion, Main St., Honesdale.

10 a.m. until Michael raises $20,000 or gets hypothermia. Michael G. Stanton of Bold Gold Media showers in public to raise money for the Wayne County Children’s Christmas Bureau.

Info: 570-253-5492.

DEC. 13 The Fourth Annual Holiday Artisans’ Market 11 a.m.–5 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale.

Presented by The Cooperage Project. A juried event featuring over 30 talented regional artisans. Food available to purchase from The Anthill Farm Kitchen.

Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.

DEC. 12 Holiday Craft Fair 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Ladore Pavilion, Waymart.

Handmade items, baked goods, maple products, handmade soap, jewelry & more.

Refreshments available for sale. Learn about Christmas around the world.

Info: 570-488-6129.

DEC. 12 Ecozone Discovery Room!

1–4 p.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Explore the indoor discovery room & enjoy hands-on exhibits on natural history, sustainability & the local environment.

Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org.

DEC. 12 Winterfest Flyer The Stourbridge Line, Honesdale. Train ride to the Hawley Winterfest Festival.

Departs from the Honesdale station with a 3-hour layover in Hawley. Reservations recommended. Info: 570-470-2697 or thestourbridgeline.net.

DEC. 12 Open House Holiday Party Ehrhardt’s Waterfront Banquet Center, Hawley. Cocktail hour 6–7 p.m. Dinner & buffet & dessert stations. Music & dancung 8–11 p.m. Celebrate the holidays with other area businesses. Info: 570-226-7355 or www.Ehrhardts.com.

DEC. 12 Opera Takes a Holiday 7–9 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale.

Presented by the Delaware Valley Opera.

Donations collected. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.

DEC. 12 The Amigos 8 p.m. Hawley Silk Mill, Hawley. Footstomping, accordion-infused IndieAmericana music blending folk-rock, zydeco/cajun & hot jazz. Info: 570-588-8077 or harmonypresents.com.

DEC. 12 Craig Thatcher and Friends Rockin’ Christmas 8 p.m. Mauch Chunk Opera House, Jim Thorpe. Takes your favorite traditional Christmas songs & rocks them out.

Info: 570-325-0249 or mauchchunkoperahouse.com.

DEC. 12 & 13 Winterfest Brunch 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m. The Settlers Inn, Hawley. Musical Performance on harp.

Info: 570-226-2993 or desk@thesettlersinn.com.

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DEC. 13 Scranton Club of NEPA Brunch with Santa 11 a.m. Scranton Hilton Hotel and Conference Center. For University of Scranton alumni & their children. Prices vary. Registration required. Info: 570-941-5997 or alumni@scranton.edu.

DEC. 13 Photos with Santa 1–3 p.m. Adam’s Christmas, Honesdale.

Meet Santa in winter wonderland scenery.

Bring your own camera. Free.

Info: 570-470-4826.

DEC. 13 Concert: “Winterscapes” 2:20 p.m. Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Woodbourne, NY. 39th Annual Winter Concert sponsored & presented by Sullivan County Community Chorus. Info: Diane Foster, 845-439-4458.

DEC. 13 Performance Music: “Empty Stocking Fund Benefit Concert” 7:30 p.m. Houlihan-McLean Center, The University of Scranton. Featuring the Univ. of Scranton Brass Orchestra.

Admission: one new toy or piece of children’s clothing or cash donation. Info: 570-941-7624 or music@scranton.edu.

DEC. 14 Kundalini Yoga 5:30–6:30 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. Ages 16–adult. Experience the gifts that Kundalini yoga has to offer as you explore breath, movement & mantra. Bring a yoga mat & blanket. Registration & info: 570-996-1500.

DEC. 14 Warrior Writers 6:30-8:30 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunk-hannock. Ages 18 & up. Writing workshops support artistic exploration & expression & provide a safe space to share experiences in the military culture. Open to all veterans & service members. Empowering veterans through creativity.

Free.

Registration & info: 570-996-1500.

DEC. 14 the Menu — local.fresh.delicious 7–8 p.m. Scranton Cultural Center, Scranton. Cocktail hour, 6 p.m. Featuring culinary creations from local chefs & restaurants, providing you with fresh & exciting ideas to try in your kitchen, & festive concepts for special occasions. Info: 570-3441111 or www.scrantonculturalcenter.org.

area events

DEC. 19 Read to Riley the Therapy Dog 11 a.m. Pike County Public Library, Milford. Early readers are invited to practice their reading skills & have fun reading to Riley. Pike County Public Library, Milford. Info: 570-296-8211.

The Night Before Christmas DEC. 18 6–8 p.m. Wayne County Historical Society, Honesdale. Children’s event. Wear your pajamas for a night of stories, crafts, homemade treats & prizes. Climb aboard the North Pole train car & deposit your letters to Santa.

Registration & info: 570-253-3240.

DEC. 15 It’s a Wonderful Life 2 p.m., 7 p.m. & 8 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. Enjoy three free showings of the classic holiday film. Admission, popcorn & soda are free. Seating is first come, first served. Info: 570-996-1500.

DEC. 15 Kids Book Club 5 p.m. Pike County Public Library, Milford. For ages 7 & up. iscuss books & play games Small Meeting Room.

Info: 570-296-8211.

DEC. 16 Yoga Holiday De-Stressor 10–11:15 a.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunk-hannock. See description at Dec. 9. Free.

Registration & info: 570-996-1500.

DEC. 16 Acoustic Bluegrass Jam 7–9 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Led

by Buckshot Jenkins & Ron Penska. This jam is entirely acoustic. All players welcome: young, old, beginners & seasoned professionals. Donations make this possible. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.

DEC. 16–21 Holiday Light Spectacular 6–9 p.m. Honesdale High School Parking Lot, Honesdale. Tune your radio to 107.7 FM & watch thousands of lights dance, fade & chase to the songs of the holiday season. Info: Shawn Garing, 570-253-2046.

DEC. 17 Game Night 6–9 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale.

Presented by The Cooperage Project. All kinds of games available, or bring your favorite game if you’d like. Donations make this possible. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.

DEC. 17 Cabaret at The Shawnee Playhouse 7 p.m. Shawnee Playhouse, Shawnee On Delaware.

Info: 570-421-5093 or www.TheShawneePlayhouse.com.

DEC. 17 Cherish The Ladies: “A Celtic Christmas” 7:30 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre.

One of the most successful & sought-after groups in Celtic music today with their one-of-a-kind Irish holiday show. Info: 570-826-1100 or www.kirbycenter.org.

DEC. 17 Community Concerts: Danú, a Christmas Gathering 7:30 p.m. The Theater at Lackawanna College, Scranton. Acclaimed Irish ensem-

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ble with their virtuoso players on fiddle, flutes, button accordion, percussion, & the gorgeous voice of Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh, along with top-notch guest dancers. Info: 570-961-7864 or www.lackawanna.edu.

DEC. 17 40 Story Radio Tower — with Craig Thatcher & Nyke Van Wyke 8 p.m. Mauch Chunk Opera House, Jim Thorpe. Show recorded live for podcast, with broadcast-style dramas & comedies & featuring a band with a unique blend of styles. Info: 570-325-0249 or mauchchunkoperahouse.com.

DEC. 17–20 Irving Berlin’s White Christmas: The Musical The Music Box Dinner Playhouse, Swoyersville. Call the box office for ticket info & times: 570-283-2195 or visit www.musicbox.org.

DEC. 18 Third Friday Wilkes-Barre 5–8 p.m. Downtown Wilkes-Barre. Free art walk featuring cultural events in galleries, boutiques, restaurants, cafes & other small businesses, in a family-friendly, walkable environment.

Info: thirdfridaywb@gmail.com or www.thirdfridaywb.com.

DEC. 18 Splintered Sunlight Holiday Show 8 p.m. Mauch Chunk Opera House, Jim Thorpe. Captivating, authentic tribute to The Grateful Dead. Info: 570-325-0249 or mauchchunkoperahouse.com.

DEC. 18 Mac Miller — GO:OD AM Tour 8 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

Energetic & unforgettable Pittsburgh hiphop artist. Featuring Earthgang, Michael Christmas, Choo Jackson.

Info: 570-420-2808 or www.shermantheater.com.

DEC. 18 A Holiday Tribute to John Denver 8–9:45 p.m. Scranton Cultural Center, Scranton. Featuring Chris Collins & Boulder Canyon. Info: 570-344-1111 or www.scrantonculturalcenter.org.

DEC. 18 & 19 Cabinet 8 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre.

Band with roots firmly planted in the Appalachian tradition, honoring the canon of roots, bluegrass, country & folk, weaving the sounds into a patchwork Americana quilt. Info: 570-826-1100 or www.kirbycenter.org.

DEC. 19 NEPA Holiday Show 2015: The Menzingers, Tigers Jaw and More 5–11 p.m. Scranton Cultural Center, Scranton. Concert. Info: 570-344-1111 or www.scrantonculturalcenter.org.

DEC. 19 Holidays Around the Globe with Mirror Visions Vocal Ensemble 5:30 p.m. Milford Theater, Milford.

Kindred Spirits Arts program. Berlioz, Poulenc, Sibelius, Stenhammer, Copland, & traditional carols. Info: 570-409-1269 or kindredspir@yahoo.com or www.kindredspiritsarts.org.

DEC. 19 Patent Pending 6 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

Holiday Tour 2015. Join in an always unforgettable live performance, & help restore freedom & fun to the galaxy…≥ Info: 570-420-2808 or www.shermantheater.com.

DEC. 19 A Contra Dance: A Special Holiday Gathering 7:30–10 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale.

Presented by The Cooperage Project.

Poison Love with Caller Laurie B. Donations collected at the door, under 15 free. Beginners welcome. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.

DEC. 19 Mike + Ruthy 8 p.m. Hawley Silk Mill, Hawley. Hardtouring folk musicians from NY’s Hudson Valley, writing about the times we live in using sturdy old-time roots music as their bedrock. Info: 570-588-8077 or harmonypresents.com.

DEC. 19 Peek-A-Boo Revue Holiday Show 8 p.m. Mauch Chunk Opera House, Jim Thorpe. Philly’s premier Neo-Burlesque Troupe rocks your holiday with good tidings & naughty sightings.

Info: 570-325-0249 or mauchchunkoperahouse.com.

December 20–December 31 DEC. 20 Fuzz 92.1 Presents Third Eye Blind 8 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre.

The Nutcracker Ball, featuring Third Eye Blind with special guests The Wombats & Grizfolk. Info: 570-826-1100 or www.kirbycenter.org.

DEC. 21 Annual Chorus and Band Holiday Concert 7 p.m. Honesdale High School Auditorium, Honesdale. HHS Chorus & Band perform holiday favorites both old & new.

Info: Martha Curtis, 570-253-2046.

DEC. 24 Luminaries on Main Honesdale. Enjoy 300 luminaries lining Main St. from 4th St. all the way over the bridge. Info: 570-253-5492.

DEC. 25 Community Christmas Day Breakfast 8 a.m. Fresh Food Company, DeNaples Center, The University of Scranton. Free.

No reservation required.

Info: 570-941-7401 or info@scranton.edu.

DEC. 25 Christmas Dinner Grace Episcopal Church Parish Hall, Honesdale. Don't be alone on Christmas.

Service at 11:30 a.m. Dinner served at Noon. No charge; free will donation accepted. Info: 570-253-2760.

DEC. 26 BStreet Band 8 p.m. Mauch Chunk Opera House, Jim Thorpe. Branded as NJ’s Own Springsteen Tribute. Info: 570-325-0249 or mauchchunkoperahouse.com.

DEC. 26 Mike Mizwinski 8 p.m. Hawley Silk Mill, Hawley. One of Northeast PA’s favorite singer-songwriters combining his fantastic originals & favorite holiday tunes, fusing folk, rock, bluegrass & blues. Info: 570-588-8077 or harmonypresents.com.

DEC. 31 New Year’s Eve Celebration 5:30–10 p.m. The Settlers Inn, Hawley.

Prix fixe a la carte dinner in the main dining room. Enjoy the soulful tinkling of Dan Bradley on the ivories in a laid-back atmosphere. Info: 570-226-2993 or desk@thesettlersinn.com.

DEC. 31 New Year’s Eve R&B Fest 8 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg. Red Carpet Event, black tie optional. A wonderful star-studded New Year’s Eve celebration with legendary performers & the Groove Yard Dogs orchestra with a big band sound. Info: 570-420-2808 or www.shermantheater.com.

DEC. 31 New Years Eve Bash 8 p.m. Ehrhardt’s Waterfront Banquet Center, Hawley. Ring in the New Year lakeside with an elegant buffet, DJ music & Dancing with Jam. End the night with a champagne toast & balloon drop at midnight. Info: 570-226-7355 x 2 or www.Ehrhardts.com.

DEC. 31 New Year’s Eve Celebration 8:30–Midnight. Undercroft Jazz Supper Club, The Settlers Inn, Hawley. Dress up for a gourmet three-course tasting menu & the smooth sounds of Curtones. Celebrate at midnight with hats, noisemakers, champagne & music. Info: 570-226-2993 or desk@thesettlersinn.com.

DEC. 31 New Year’s Eve Dance Party 9 p.m. Mauch Chunk Opera House, Jim Thorpe. Dance all night to DJ Doctor John spinning the greatest hits of the ’70s, ’80s & ’90s. Info: 570-325-0249 or mauchchunkoperahouse.com.

Happy New Year!

–From all of us at CM

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31

the arts

artscene “Promised Land” Art Type: Photograph – Archival Pigment Print Artist: Lori Ryan Size: 18" x 24" framed 12" x 18" unframed Price: $300 framed Available from: Lori Ryan Greentown, PA Phone: 570-352-2605 laeryan@gmail.com www.loriryanphotography.com INSPIRATION: It was a peaceful, foggy morning at Promised Land State Park. I wandered from the campground down to the lake photographing as I went. The water was blanketed by a dense fog that rendered the distant shoreline untraceable. I found the string of buoys to lead my eye and self into a blank canvas, a new day.

“October Snow” Art Type: Signed Photographic Print Artist: Vince Burke Size: About 10" x 15" matted to 16" x 20" (other sizes available) Price: $89 Available from: Vince Burke Birdsboro, PA Phone: 610-582-1864 vinceburkephoto@gmail.com INSPIRATION: I am a self-taught photographer. For my eighteenth birthday, my father sent me to Jack’s Camera store in Philadelphia to buy a Polaroid camera. I am eternally grateful to Jack for sending me home instead, with a Konica 35 mm rangefinder camera and a book. So began a lifelong passion for photography that helps me to see and appreciate the beauty of this world. Most of my photographs are taken within a few miles from home. October Snow was taken, literally in my own backyard. I find it immensely satisfying to see and capture an image of an everyday subject or scene in a way that reveals its unique beauty.

I personally print each image on fine art professional papers with archival quality pigment inks. I hand mat each image using conservation quality acid-free mat boards and foam core backing boards.

For more information about CM ARTSCENE GALLERY, contact CM Artscene Coordinator Lucille Norella at 570.488.6742 or email Lnorella@echoes.net.

You may also contact Connections Magazine at 570.647.0085 or cmag@ptd.net

“Kicking Santas” Art Type: Silk Screen Artist: John Russo Size: 24" x 24" framed Price: $250 Available from: Missing Pieces 959 Main Street Honesdale, PA sstephenfoster@gmail.com INSPIRATION: John Russo, who was mentor to probably more graphic designers than any other teacher in the profession, spent almost 40 years at the Parsons School of Design, where he was a student, a teacher and the chairman of the Communication Design Department. He was honored as a Living Treasure by the Wayne County Arts Alliance and enjoyed showing his work on the Studio Tours. Christmas was a favorite inspiration for John and these kicking Santas are a reflection of the joyful, whimsical nature of many of his drawings.

CALLING ALL ARTISTS! Artscene allows artists the opportunity to exhibit a piece of their artwork in Connections Magazine and on our website with the intent of selling their artwork and gaining exposure.

The cost is only $105 for three months and will reach over 54,000 readers per month in Pennsylvania and parts of New York and New Jersey.

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