JANUARY 2019
Since 1998
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CONNECT JANUARY 2019
FEATURES 6
8 10 14
‘HEALTHY’ EATING ON THE GO Before you hit the road on that holiday vacation or business trip with a mindset of maintaining a healthy diet regimen, beware! What you “think” you know about healthy food choices can hurt you. Eating healthfully can be extra challenging when you are out and about, whether traveling remotely, in transit from point A to point B, or dining out locally. A NIGHT AT THE OSCARS They’re rolling out the red carpet—literally—at the Wayne Memorial Hospital Auxiliary’s annual Mistletoe Ball. The theme for the January 19th event at Silver Birches in Tafton will be A Night at the Oscars. MOM, DAD, I’LL LOVE YOU FOREVER... Nothing is more emotionally taxing than caring for a terminally ill parent and preparing them for their end of life care. It can be a bittersweet time as well if you’re able to bond and share the good memories while spending this limited together. BOWLED OVER Making hearty soups, chowders, bisques, chili, and stews is a fun and delicious way to stay warm once the winter chill bites the air. One of the great things about making winter soups is you can basically add whatever you like depending on what's in season and your particular tastes.
COLUMNS 5
WORDS FROM THE TEAM
27 BOOK REVIEW
13 BIG GAME GUIDE
28 MONEY
16 WINTERLIGHTS FEST
30 POCONO SECRETS
18 EAGLE WATCHING
32 OUTDOOR RAMBLINGS
20 DISASTER BLASTER
34 PETS
22 LIVING GREEN 24 MRS. DOGOOD
36 BEHAVIORAL MEDICINE 38 AREA EVENTS
26 PRISON REFLECTIONS
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CONNECTIONS Magazine
resident • publisher • editor in chief deborah bailey production manager meica drake account representatives barry weiss • dwight gregory editorial correction services kay marks assignment writer allison mowatt contributing writers fred cicetti, The Healthy Geezer terry mooney, Reflections of a Prison Inmate arthur middleton, MD, FAPA, Behavioral Medicine michael krupa, Finance josh sheard, Finance terri schlichenmeyer, Book Review la guzda, Pocono Secrets arnie milidantri, Classic Cars bill deaton, Outdoor Ramblings pike/wayne conservation partnership, Living Green
CONNECTIONS Magazine 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.
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 risks and to trust in their GOD will ever be made FREE.
© COPYRIGHT 2017 CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE
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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WORDS FROM THE TEAM
“
And now we welcome the new year. Full of things that have never been. –Rainer Maria Rilke
i
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t’s a new year! Let’s kick it off with CM’s January Issue, packed full of the Good Stuff you want! Healthy Eating. A Night at the Oscars. Aging. Soup. Big Game. Winter Lights. Eagles. Cancer Risk. Hydrilla. Mrs. DoGood. Prison Reflections. Bathing in the Forest. Pet Hotel Stays. Must do events! In 2019, CM is planning to launch a bigger, better, more expansive, user friendly website that is loaded with Good Stuff for you and our advertisers. Make sure to watch future issues or visit our website for the launch date. From all of us at CM... we wish you a happy, healthy & prosperous new year! CM Team 570.647.0085 cmag@ptd.net
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Before you hit the road on that holiday vacation or business trip with a mindset of maintaining a healthy diet regimen, beware! What you “think” you know about healthy food choices can hurt you. Eating healthfully can be extra challenging when you are out and about, whether traveling remotely, in transit from point A to point B, or dining out locally.
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Cardiologist, chef, and martial artist, Dr. Mike Fenster, author of ‘The Fallacy of the Calorie,’ lists eight medically-based food facts to help you correct common dietary deceptions. This is information that will compel you to rethink your approach to healthy eating not only when you travel, but also when you’re preparing everyday fare at home:
Diet salad dressings are equally, or more, detrimental.
1.
Opting for a salad even with “light” dressing when dining out may not be the healthiest choice. Whether it is low calorie, low fat, or regular salad dressing, it’s often loaded with omegasix polyunsaturated plant oils—too much of which is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular problems. In fact, consuming too much of these salad dressings can be even more harmful to your waistline and overall health than what you presume to be “less healthy” menu items you were trying to avoid with the best of intentions. When opting for salad, stick with just a little olive oil, vinegar, fresh lemon juice or nothing at all.
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HEALTHY EATING
2.
Burgers beat deli meat.
Despite conventional thinking, the consumption of fresh red meat that isn’t over processed has not been associated with any increased risk of heart disease, cancer, or mortality. Many restaurants today, outside of the fast food variety, offer freshly ground, quality burgers—some even use beef that’s organic, grass fed, and pasture raised. In contrast to fresh red meat, the consumption of highly processed meat and meat products like that typically used in deli sandwiches often presumed to be a healthier option over burgers- has proven to be associated with an increased risk of heart disease, cancer, and mortality. Piling on a few zombified vegetables that have marginal nutritional value won’t give the meal much more health merit.
3.
Diet drinks are tied to disease.
The common misconception that you can avoid or compensate for poor food choices with diet drinks is a double-edged exercise in futility. In fact, studies have shown women who drink more diet drinks are heavier and have an increased risk of diabetes and heart disease.
Under-salted food may be a diet disservice.
4.
We season our food so it tastes good, and a properly seasoned meal leaves us more satisfied and less likely to binge and over-consume. What’s more, adding salt to fresh food only accounts for about 5% of the daily intake—well within bounds. But, “fresh” is the key word as over 75% of an average person’s daily sodium intake comes from eating highly processed and prepared foods. Seek out those restaurants that utilize fresh ingredients, from produce to proteins. In a worst case scenario, stop into a market and grab some fresh fruit, optimally organically grown, to tide you over.
Low cholesterol advertising is a fat trap.
5.
Most are surprised to learn the cholesterol consumed in one’s diet has little or nothing to do with your blood cholesterol levels. Foods and menu items promoted as “healthy” because they are “low in cholesterol” are often loaded with fat, sugar, or other additives that cause more harm than a three egg omelet ever could.
6.
Bars are bogus.
Energy bars, protein bars, granola bars, and other so-called healthy eating snacks are often marketed as an all-natural or otherwise nutri-
tious choice. The fact is that many of these bars are highly processed and contain high levels of low-nutrient fillers and sweeteners like high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). Diets high in added sugars, fructose in particular, have been associated with an increased risk of developing hypertension, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and other life-threatening medical conditions. Bars are also often loaded with artificial sweeteners such as aspartame that’s linked to a myriad of health ailments. The short term energy boost bars provide is often followed by a “crash” that can cause you to eat yet more unhealthy bars or other food to get revved back up.
Bagels are the “other” white bread.
7.
Many people are aware of the empty calories and the lack of any nutritional redemption in a slice of white bread. Commercial breads are the number one source of sodium in the average American diet. They also often contain significant amounts of refined sugar and fat in the form of detrimental omega-six polyunsaturated fatty acids. While many health-seekers do already avoid that slice of white bread for these many unappealing reasons, they may not know a seemingly benign plain bagel is equivalent to several slices of white bread…even before the addition of toppings or fillings.
8.
Counting calories is a fallacy.
A calorie is measured by turning food to ash and recording the amount of heat given off. The caloric content of a food or beverage item doesn’t have much to do with how we actually metabolize our food. Additionally, calories alone do not accurately reflect a food’s nutritional value. For example, a 100 calorie soft drink is not the nutritional equivalent of a 100 calorie apple. Healthful eating isn’t about focusing on the quantity of calories, but rather it is about the quality of the consumable. Whether you are at home or on-the-go, taking even these few considerations into account relative to the quality of the “healthy” food at hand can have a significantly positive impact on your diet and overall well-being. Indeed, the food and drink choices you make when traveling can put you on the road to good health or result in a figurative food fatality. Dr. Mike Fenster, “America’s Culinary Interventionalist,” is a Board Certified Cardiologist, chef, and athlete whose cuttingedge medical expertise and insight, culinary talents, and dedication to fit living convene in his uniquely integrative Grassroots Gourmet™ approach to food-born health. His upcoming book, “The Fallacy of The Calorie: Why the Modern Western Diet is Killing Us and How to Stop It,” is currently available for preorder at www.CardioChef.com.
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MISTLETOE BALL
A Night at the
OSCARS!
The 78th Annual Mistletoe Ball possible.” hey’re The rolling out Mistletoe Ball the red will feature live carpet—literalmusic and dancly—at the Wayne ing with disc Memorial Hospijockey Jumping tal Auxiliary’s Jeff Walker from annual Mistletoe WKRZ and a Ball. The theme “fabulous basket for the January raffle” with 19th event at Sildonations from ver Birches in many local venTafton will be A dors, including Night at the Mistletoe Committee, left to right: Apple Day Spa, Oscars. Gary Mesko, Joan Buehl, Marianne McConeghy, Martha Wilson, Black & Brass Carol Sturm, Danielle Hedgelon, Melissa Richard, Kaylee Racht “Come experiand Michelle Corrigan. Missing from picture is Nancy Moro. Coffee, Rustic ence old and new Farmworks, WalHollywood,” says lenpaupack Brewing, VIP Kids Club and co-chair Nancy Moro, “dress like one of your favorite stars, and maybe you’ll win a Wayne County Ford. With more than 200 members, the prize.” Moro, who is considering going as Wayne Memorial Hospital Auxiliary is one Marilyn Monroe, notes that the evening is of the strongest in the state of Pennsylvafun and meaningful. It’s the auxiliary’s nia. Anyone can join, says Mistletoe cobiggest fundraiser of the year to help its chair Danielle Hedgelon. “Come to the community hospital. Mistletoe Ball and find out how much fun “The proceeds this year will go towards we can be while helping our community a fund to purchase the resources—such as hospital at the same time.” equipment and information systems-Tickets are $85 per person. Call (570) needed to recruit physicians and other 226-9750 to reserve your spot. Visit medical talent. We’re building a state-ofwmh.org to find out more about the WMH the-art patient tower, and we want to Auxiliary. assure it’s equipped and staffed as well as
T
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AGING DANGER SIGNS regardless of having a large family who could othing is more emotionally taxing than shoulder some of the responsibility. “My father caring for a terminally ill parent and was my hero and my life,” she said. “He had preparing them for their end of life care. always shared his end of life issues with me, It can be a bittersweet time as well if you’re able relayed his end of life wishes to me, and put to bond and share the good memories while them in writing. He put his total trust in me.” spending this limited together. Depending on Although Ms. Brent had many siblings, she the progression of the illness was her father’s primary or disease, some people caregiver and oversaw all aren’t given this opportuhis needs, from taking nity, so it’s important to him to the doctor to gettake advantage of the ting him into a long term time you have with your care facility so he could parent(s) while they are be watched over while healthy. she worked. A very Millions of baby Make sure to appoint sometumultuous and heartboomers are now taking one as medical directive. It breaking time with her care of their parents durfamily ensued. Her ing the last stages of their can be a family member, a doctor, father needed emergency lives. With an estimated or anyone else you trust. A medsurgery requiring Ms. 13 million baby boomers ical directive records the medical Brent to make difficult caring for elderly parents treatments you wish to have or not decisions she wasn’t and with a full 25% of ready to make. Adding those parents actually have if you can’t express your to this stress, a sibling living in the home of the wishes. was upset with Ms. Brent adult offspring, many See to it that your wishes are as her father’s caregiver, family caregivers nationstated and made known to and lawsuits were filed wide are struggling with against her despite Ms. how to discern, discuss, everyone involved. For example, Brent having done nothand deal with end of life what type of treatment, therapy, or ing wrong. issues with their families. medication is agreed upon? Be While dealing with There are many critical sure to get these details out in the the emotional stress of end of life topics that watching her father deteneed addressing, and it’s open and stated on paper. riorate and the heartache important for families to Choose a Power of Attorney; of being accused of terribe on board and commusomeone who can stand in ble things by a sibling, nicative with one another place for when you can no longer Ms. Brent looked to the so the parents’ wishes are system to help her. Ms. carried out, and their last make suitable financial decisions. Brent found dead ends years, months, weeks, or Let it be known how you everywhere she went and days are spent as lovingwant to be treated when wasn’t getting the ly as possible. you’re ill. answers she was looking Aging and elder care for or the help she needauthority, Carolyn Brent, Think about how you want to ed. The idea for the book has first-hand experience be remembered. What do was a beacon of light durwith this. She is a you want your legacy to be? ing this tough time. nationally regarded “Care-givers need to safeauthor and speaker on guard themselves, and it’s this topic with a book my duty to let the public know what is going addressing these issues called “Why Wait? The on,” she said. “I’ve been working tirelessly with Baby Boomers’ Guide to Preparing Emotionally, U.S. Congress pointing out flaws within the sysFinancially and Legally for a Parent’s Death.” tem.” Over the past few years, Ms. Brent worked For twelve years, Ms. Brent cared for her ailwith legislators. “I’ll spend the rest of my life ing father while he slowly declined, suffering working to get laws changed to safeguard senwith dementia. “I experienced the bureaucracy iors, veterans, and caregivers. My father’s legaof the health care field, enrolling my father in cy is me informing the public about these imporlong term care facilities, and a whole spectrum tant issues.” of other things,” said Ms. Brent, who also works Highlighted on this page are tips and advice in the pharmaceutical industry. from Ms. Brent on how to deal with some of the Ms. Brent understands the emotional toll it important end of life topics baby boomers are can take when caring for a parent who is ill and facing when it comes to caring for their aging preparing them for end of life care, especially parents. when being the only one carrying this weight
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Life or Death Decisions Everyone Must Know
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Aging The Cost of an Average Funeral Today and the Alternatives The cost of an average funeral today nationwide is about $6,000. This is a steep amount, but there are alternatives out there if you still want a memorable service for your loved one without the added cost. A popular alternative is cremation, which runs about $1,500 nationwide. Free cremations are available for those who decide to donate their organs to science. In addition, you can rent a casket. Start off by purchasing an inexpensive casket to put the body in for burial and rent the fancier casket for the showing of the body at the funeral home. “It’s a good idea to purchase a coffin when you or your loved one is still in a functional state and pre-plan the burial,” advised Ms. Brent. “You tend to make smarter decisions and not let grief rule your thinking process.”
How to Know if an Attorney is Needed to Help with Legal Decisions As we all know, utilizing an attorney for any reason can rack up fees. The good news is that an attorney is not always needed for these matters. “When a family gets along, they can get together and put the paperwork in order themselves and then submit it to any federal, state, and county officials required,” said Ms. Brent. This can be accomplished for a small price of anywhere between $50 and $100. If a family gets along but feels more comfortable with an impartial party present or if there may be some disagreements pending over the decisions about to be made, then having a mediator present is a good idea. “This is in case a family is having difficulty coming together to put the documents in order,” said Ms. Brent. Lastly, in the worst case scenario, a family may not get along at all, and in this case, a geriatric attorney would definitely be recommended. “These attorneys specialize in geriatric law,” said Ms. Brent. “I also advise families get a sibling contract drawn up to protect the caregiver who has been caring for the ill parent all along. Also, if a caregiver is abusive, be sure you have proof of this and then file a report.”
The Difference Between Medical Power of Attorney and Directive to Physicians Medical Power of Attorney and Directive to Physicians usually go hand in hand. A Directive to Physicians often states, “These are my directions to do this…,” which can be that you don’t want to be put on life support, for example. A Medical Power of Attorney is a person appointed to make sure these wishes are carried out.
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Tell-Tale Signs Indicating Your Parent(s) Can No Longer Live Alone
1.
What was once a tidy home is now in disarray.
2.
Laundry isn’t getting done and the parent is wearing old, musty clothes.
3. 4. 5.
Dishes are stacked high in the sink.
The bills aren’t getting paid.
There is rotten food in the refrigerator.
6. 7. 8.
Not bathing as frequently.
Showing signs of agitation.
Becoming short tempered more often.
9. 10.
Sinking into a depressive state.
Showing signs of regression and asking the same questions repeatedly. *Information for this article was provided by Carolyn Brent. Find out more about her and her book, Why Wait? The Baby Boomers’ Guide to Preparing Emotionally, Financially and Legally for a Parent’s Death, visit www.CareGiverStory.com. The book is a comprehensive, easy to understand handbook for family caregivers, highlighting the crucial conversations siblings and their aging parents must have.
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Soup
M
aking hearty soups, chowders, bisques, chili, and stews is a fun and delicious way to stay warm once the winter chill bites the air. One of the great things about making winter soups is you can basically add whatever you like depending on what's in season and your particular tastes. With any soup you decide to make, you can include different fresh ingredients, and each time you can be creative by developing unique flavors with spices, herbs, meats, vegetables, and even fruits. You can utilize your local farmers’ market or fresh produce market to find out what local ingredients are in season and select the ones you like best. Making soup is the perfect way to have control over what you put into your mouth because you know exactly what ingredients are going into it. In addition, soup making is very flexible, and you can choose to follow the recipe verbatim or add and eliminate ingredients as you wish. Using fresh spices and herbs is a great way to be creative and have fun when concocting your soup. It's all about personal taste. For a spicier soup, throw in some cayenne pepper and garlic. For a sweeter soup, put in a dash of ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and even apple cider. For creamier soups, add as much heavy cream or milk you need to get that perfect creamy consistency. Squash and pumpkin are two vegetables that are in season this time of year and delicious in soups. Fruits in season such as apples and pears can add an extra element to these soups. To make a soup really hearty, add sausage, chicken, potatoes, kidney beans, and cabbage. Still not full? Make homemade biscuits or crusty bread to either dip in the soup or have with butter on the side. Depending on the soup, adding homemade dumplings to it can make it even more filling and satisfying. To warm up on these chilly days and cold nights this winter, make a pot of soup and indulge in one of the most popular and guilt-free comfort foods. Winter soups often incorporate all of the food groups and make great use of leftovers. They are also crowd pleasers, and the recipes can be passed down through generations. Soup making can be a wonderful conversation; people of all ages and all walks of life can have fun with it. Of course, you can make a fresh pot of soup any time of the year, but when the weather is frosty and chilly, it makes standing by the stove and eating a hot dish even more enjoyable. So have fun and make your favorite soup this winter or try a new recipe that may become another favorite!
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1/4 cup 3 tbsp. 1/2 lb. 1/2 lb. 1/2 lb. 1/2 lb. 1/3 cup 2 cups 1 pint 2 1/2 tsp. 1/4 tsp. 1/4 cup
Minced onion Butter Shrimp, cooked and chopped Crab meat, cooked and flaked Scallops, cooked and chopped Lobster, cooked and cubed (optional) Dry white wine Water Heavy cream Egg yolks, beaten lightly Salt White pepper Sherry or brandy
Sauté onion in butter in a heavy saucepan over medium-low heat until onion is opaque. Add shrimp, crab, scallops and lobster and cook 2-3 minutes. Add wine and water. Cover and simmer about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand 30 minutes to blend flavors. Put pan back on low heat, add cream and heat, stirring constantly for about 5 minutes. Mix a little hot bisque into the egg yolks and mix well. Pour egg yolks into pan and heat for about 5 minutes. Add seasonings and sherry, stir well. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
1/2 lb. 1 1 clove 16 oz. 1 cup 2 1 16 oz. 16 oz. 1 cup 1 tsp. 1/2 tsp.
Ground beef, lean Onion, chopped Garlic, minced Tomatoes, canned Celery, diced Carrots, diced Large potato, diced Frozen corn kernels Frozen mixed vegetables Water Salt Pepper
In a 5 quart pan, over medium heat, sauté the garlic and onion in a small amount of oil until tender. Add the ground beef and cook until brown, stirring to break up meat. Drain if necessary, then add the tomatoes, salt, pepper, and water to the meat. Add the carrots to the pan and cook for 5-10 minutes then add the potatoes and celery. Simmer for 5-10 more minutes then add the frozen corn and vegetables and cook for about 10 more minutes or until vegetables are tender. Adjust seasonings to taste.
2 lbs. 1 lb. 1 1 1 5 cups 1/2 cup 4 tbsp. 2 tbsp. to taste 6 tbsp. 1/2 cup
Russet potatoes Leeks, washed and chopped Onion, chopped Celery stalk, chopped Carrot, chopped Chicken stock or broth Milk Butter Chopped flat leaf parsley Salt and pepper Cream or half-and-half Shredded cheddar cheese or chives
Melt the butter over medium heat in a large saucepan. Add the potatoes, leeks, onion, celery, carrot; cover, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently. Add the chicken stock or broth, 1/2 cup milk, salt and pepper. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until the vegetables are tender and potatoes are soft. Mash the potatoes and vegetables in the pot or transfer to a blender or food processor in batches and process until smooth. Be sure the soup has cooled for 15 minutes before processing in a food processor. When ready to serve, reheat the soup, serve in bowls and swirl 1 tablespoon half-and-half into each serving. Sprinkle with chives or shredded cheddar cheese.
1 tbsp. 1/2 cup 1/2 cup 1 can 1 cup 1 cup 1 cup 2 cans 1/2 tsp. 1/2 tsp. Pinch 1 cup 1/3 cup 3 tbsp.
Olive oil Chopped onion Thinly sliced celery Cream of chicken soup Low-sodium chicken broth Cooked wild rice Canned, sliced carrots, drained Chunk chicken breast in water, drained (3 oz. each) Chili powder Ground cumin Ground chipotle chile Shredded, Pepper Jack cheese, divided Evaporated fat-free canned milk or heavy cream Chopped cilantro
In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium-high heat; add onion and celery. Sauté, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes or until softened. Stir in soup and broth. Add rice, carrots, chicken, chili powder, cumin, chipotle chile and 3/4 cup cheese; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to blend flavors, stirring often. Add evaporated milk and chopped cilantro. Garnish with remaining cheese and sprigs of fresh cilantro.
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WINTER LIGHTS FEST
Winter Lights Festival Celebrating the Arts January 19, 2019
T
o all our wonderful Friends & Sponsors who supported Frozen Feet Theater over the past ten years, through snow, rain, cold, and the last three years of melting ice, it was a true joy and privilege creating short and long stories integrating puppetry revealing who we are, were, and can be. AN OPEN CONVERSATION with MOTHER NATURE: MC: Thank you for allowing us to create FROZEN FEET THEATER as part of Milford’s Winter Lights Festival for the past 10 years. Though we had no lease, it was understood despite your volatile, at times, malevolent, nasty temperament, you would control the rules of engagement. MN: It was payback time for the continual indignities you kept heaping upon me and… MC: Yes, I know you did appreciate our first major effort to integrate puppetry in PERSEPHONE & THE BIRTH OF WINTER, and the tempestuous Frida Kahlo in VIVA LA VIDA, by bringing her paintings to life, but were irritated by FIRE & ICE: THE RISE & FALL of THE NORSE GODS, making us perform in a snowfall, and felt Tom Holms’ Fire Sculpture was distracting from your snow effect. In fact, wasn’t it really because you felt his ice sculpture was a distraction… MN: Excuse me! Everyone is blaming me while blowing smoke in my face as I try to balance the effects of the waste you’re generating, dumping, and the drilling! I’m really getting exasperated. I had this planet set up pretty well until some folks keep denying what they see and feel, and now…
MC: And now you’re indiscriminately opening the faucets, increasing the winds and upping the heat when it should be cold… MN: You’d like me to turn it all off maybe? MC: I didn’t know you had a sense of humor. No, not off! But you’re creating havoc. MN: My but what big eyes you have! Look, I’m sorry the last three years you had to cancel or move your show dates, and to the Parks & Recreation Committee & devoted volunteers, who have maintained my ice for years; I needed to send a sign. Maybe if there were more producers of outdoor ice shows people would understand; whatever anyone says: Listen to Mother Nature! HEY! ENJOY THE COMING SEASON! I’ll try to make it work, depending… MC: Thank you. The WINTER LIGHTS FESTIVAL ICE RINK opens with FREE ICE SKATING on Saturday, January 19, 2019 until you know who… Check on Facebook @winterlightsfestivalmilfordpa for details, and exciting MAC & CHILI news. Sincerely, Mike Carson, Director & Beth Woronoff, Choreographer
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EAGLE WATCHING
Delaware Highlands Conservancy
Eagle Watching J
oin the Delaware Highlands Conservancy for eagle-watching all winter long, including our popular series of Eagle Watch bus tours in January and February.
BUS TOURS Join the conservancy on a guided eagle-viewing bus tour, scheduled on weekends throughout January and February. Learn from an expert guide and take a scenic drive on a heated bus throughout the Upper Delaware River region to look for and learn about bald eagles and their habitat. Seats on trips are limited, and reservations are required, so reserve your space today for the following 2019 winter trips (Fee: $15 for members, $25 for non-members). Get tickets online at www.DelawareHighlands.org/events or call 570-226-3164/845-583-1010. January 12th January 26th February 2nd February 9th The trips commence at the Upper Delaware Visitor Center in Lackawaxen, PA (now located inside the Zane Grey Museum, 135 Scenic Drive) and run from 10am-1pm. Dress warmly in layers and wear waterproof boots. Bring binoculars, camera, and snacks. Snow dates for the trips are the Sundays immediately following. Check www.DelawareHighlands.org for the most up-to-date information and any additional trips. Refunds are not given in the event of cancelled reservations.
EAGLE WATCHING ON YOUR OWN The Upper Delaware Visitor Center in Lackawaxen, PA is generously provided by the National Park Service and staffed by conservan-
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cy volunteers. It is a center of information for visitors looking to learn more about viewing and protecting eagles. Visitors can pick up information about the bald eagle in the Upper Delaware River region, get maps and directions to eagle viewing locations, watch a short film, and view interpretive exhibits. The visitor center is staffed on Saturdays and Sundays in January and February, beginning January 5th, and open to visitors from 10am-4pm. The Delaware Highlands Conservancy has also partnered with the NPS and the New York State Department of Conservation to maintain well-marked eagle observation areas open to the public. These viewing blinds are also staffed by conservancy volunteers on weekends through the winter season, and visitors can look through binoculars and spotting scopes to see bald eagles in the wild. Visit www.DelawareHighlands.org/Eagles for directions and information about eagle viewing on your own. The Upper Delaware River region is one of the largest wintering habitats for eagles in the northeast United States because of abundant clean water and large, undisturbed stands of trees. Protected lands in Sullivan County, NY and Pike and Wayne Counties in PA provide a safe haven for these migratory birds, as well as breeding eagles that live here year-round. The conservancy’s Eagle Watch program is supported in part by grant funding from Sullivan County; The Philadelphia Foundation; and the William Penn Foundation. The February 9th bus trip is donated by the Estate of Becky Finch. The Delaware Highlands Conservancy works with landowners and communities to protect the natural heritage and quality of life of the Upper Delaware River region.
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TIPS FOR YOUR HOME
Indoor Air Quality &
CANCER RISK Provided by Disaster Blaster
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When we think of air pollution, we often think of outdoor air, but studies have shown that indoor air can be just as contaminated. Sometimes these contaminants can even cause cancer. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s research has shown that indoor air can actually be more polluted than outdoor air from the largest and most industrialized cities!
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}
Given the average person spends 90% of their time indoors, exposure to these hazards can add up quickly. For National Cancer Prevention Month, we wanted to focus on this less known risk and what you can do to improve the quality of your indoor air. What’s in your air? Second-hand and third-hand smoke – Smoking indoors doesn’t just expose occupants to second-hand smoke, but also leaves a residue on structural surfaces and content items. This residue can be picked up through contact with surfaces or breathed in as it off-gasses. Radon – Now recognized as the 2nd leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, our understanding of the effects of radon exposure has improved significantly over the last few years. An odorless, colorless, and tasteless gas, radon seeps up through your foundation and can be in your home without you even knowing. Radon testing is available to determine if, and to what extent, you may have a radon issue. Mold – Mold spores and byproducts of mold growth such as mycotoxins and mVOC’s often account for much of the pollution found in indoor air. The effect of exposure to the nearly unimaginable variety of different molds that may be present is still being understood. Research continues to support a number of health issues that are believed to be caused or exacerbated by exposure to mold spores and their byproducts. Asbestos – Viewed as a miracle material, asbestos was used in building materials for decades, and is very commonly found in NEPA homes. When an asbestos building material is damaged or deteriorates, asbestos fibers can be released into the indoor air and result in various cancers such as asbestosis and mesothelioma. Short-term contaminants – Household products, remodeling dust, paint fumes, and pesticides can all contribute to indoor
air pollution. While these are largely short term issues, you may still experience some discomfort and may wish to limit your exposure.
Tips for cleaner air Air it out – Our houses are built much tighter than they used to be and are far better insulated. As a result, indoor air is much less likely to be changed or replaced with new air from outside. This traps potentially polluted indoor air inside, where it continues to worsen. By opening windows and allowing a good cross-breeze, you can dramatically improve the quality of your indoor air. Complete a detailed cleaning – Dust accumulates in the strangest places sometimes. Go through and complete a thorough cleaning, moving furniture, cleaning ceiling fan blades, wiping down baseboards, etc. Use a vacuum cleaner with a hepa filter to prevent this dust from ending up in the air as well! Test for Radon – A radon test can tell you if you have a radon issue in your home and if you do, a licensed radon mitigation contractor can install a system to address this issue for you. Don’t contribute to poor indoor air quality – Are you smoking inside or painting without proper ventilation? If you can complete a task outside, we strongly recommend doing so. If not, always make sure the area is well ventilated. You may even find you have to open the windows to air out the space a few times over the course of a few days. We hope these tips help you improve the quality of your indoor air and that this year’s National Cancer Prevention Month increases awareness of these important concerns.
About Disaster Blaster Disaster Blaster is an indoor environmental firm serving the Northeastern PA Area. We have been providing our local area with unparalleled mold remediation, water damage mitigation, asbestos abatement, and radon mitigation services for decades, and are proud to have been recently named The World’s Greatest Indoor Environmental Firm. For more about Disaster Blaster, as well as more helpful tips, please visit our website at: www.disasterblaster.com or call our office at (570) 963-1123.
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An
INVASIVE PLANT
in Lake Alden Rallies the Community to Action By Colleen Campion, Watershed Specialist, Wayne Conservation District
It may be described on the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission’s website as Long Pond. You may even find it labeled as such on a Wayne County map. But, to those who cherish it the most, it will always be Lake Alden. Measuring 81 acres in size, Lake Alden is owned by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and managed by the Fish and Boat Commission. There are approximately 70 shoreline properties around it and a public boat access at the northwest corner.
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With unlimited-horsepower boating permitted, Lake Alden has always been an attractive site for waterskiing and tubing. Trout are stocked seasonally, and you’ll find people of all ages hauling in big bass and channel catfish throughout the year. Take a look around at the end of almost any summer day and you’ll see kayaks and rowboats retire to the shore. A wise dog catching a nap on a sun-warmed dock while beach towels are put out on a line to dry for the next day’s fun. And as the smoke from a nearby campfire fills the air, people snap pictures of a pink and orange sky. Lake Alden is a place of respite, tranquility, and enjoyment. In September of 2015, Donna Hamill, a property owner and member of the Lake Alden Association, called the Wayne Conservation District for advice on treating an unknown pond weed that had become overgrown near her dock and around other parts of the lake. It grew so thick that it started to restrict the family’s ability to swim and enjoy the lake. Jamie Knecht was the watershed specialist for the conservation district, and she went out to collect a sample. After keying out the plant and consulting with co-workers, Jamie concluded that it was the aquatic invasive species known as Hydrilla verticillata.
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Hydrilla
Addressing the Problem Hydrilla is designated as a state and federal noxious weed because of its rapid growth and ability to aggressively outcompete native species. It can grow to lengths of 25 to 30 feet, even in dark areas of a waterbody, and it creates thick mats on the surface of the water that block sunlight and restrict recreational uses. An Asian native, it is believed to have been introduced in the United States intentionally and sold as an aquarium plant in the 1960s and 1970s. Hydrilla spreads easily to other bodies of water by hitchhiking on waterfowl, boats and trailers, or other recreational equipment. Because it can reproduce through fragmentation, even a small piece can grow in a new area. The species is notoriously difficult and expensive to manage. Jamie alerted the PA Fish and Boat Commission and the news reached agencies across the state. Dr. Timothy Block, Director of Botany at the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania, confirmed its identification, and the collection information was added to their herbarium and the PA iMap Invasives database. Some members of the Lake Alden Association formed a subcommittee to make informed decisions regarding the issue. In August 2016, Jamie shared information about spread prevention and treatment options. Lack of funding made it a challenge for state agencies to address the problem. But, proactive property owners contacted legislators and enlisted the support of Representative Jon Fritz and Senator Lisa Baker. This led to a conference call between agency representatives in August 2017. The Department of Environmental Protection completed an inventory of Lake Alden and found Hydrilla comprised more than 60% of the aquatic plant community. It was DEP’s predication that the lake would be overtaken by Hydrilla in three years, if left untreated. A workshop was held for local residents, which included presentations by Sarah Whitney of PA Sea Grant, Bob Morgan of PA Fish and Boat Commission, and Trilby Libhart of the PA Department of Agriculture. By this time, the Lake Alden Hydrilla Committee had developed a recommendation plan.
They had researched the likely impacts of various treatment strategies, including the use of (sterile) grass carp, and felt introducing another non-native, invasive species was risky and not in the best interest of the lake at that time. The committee obtained the appropriate permits from PA Fish and Boat Commission and were planning to use an initial chemical treatment on select sections of the lake. This effort was intended to buy time to consider other options, obtain 501(c)(3) status, and secure funding for further treatments. The ultimate goal was total eradication of Hydrilla from the lake, potentially through the use of a systemic herbicide called Fluridone.
Community Cooperation The next hurdle was to implement the plan, which required funding. While applying for a grant from the PA Lake Management Society, the community began to pull together and raise necessary funds to start herbicide treatments as soon as possible. They organized a chicken BBQ and pancake breakfast. They started a clothing sale and had t-shirts made to support Lake Alden. The association contracted with Joseph Gallagher, Ecological Solutions Inc., to develop an Aquatic Plant Management Program comprised of: 1) monitoring surveys, 2) herbicide applications, and 3) educational outreach efforts. The first herbicide treatment occurred on July 31, 2018. “We have come to terms with that fact that, at this point, we will never be rid of this. Maybe if we had been able to treat it early on before it spread all over the lake, we would’ve had a shot,” said Dan Nebzydoski, a shoreline property owner and member of the Lake Alden Association. “But, we have a plan that most people are comfortable with. And, if I had to pull out one positive from all this, it would be how the community has really come together to fight this weed.” Some look at Lake Alden’s Hydrilla story as one of success. Not because the threat was eradicated but because a community rallied around the lake that they love – a place that will foster an appreciation of nature in their children and grandchildren.
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MRS. DOGOOD
STANDING UP By The Reverend Mrs. Silence DoGood
Dear Editor, When one of my parishioners goes abroad I always look forward to them coming back so they can tell me about their life in another culture. The world comes to me instead of me having to go out into it. And as I am a very good listener it quickly becomes me on the plane when the tray slipped and the food landed on my lap. It was me who sort of flirted with the handsome tour guide. And oh, the beautiful cathedrals! And oh my goodness the delicious and unique food. Yum. My mouth is watering. As I listen and relive the trip, I am transported away from my little farming village of Halo, PA and away from my First Church of God’s Love where I am the senior pastor. When I heard through the grapevine that Emily Stonebridge was going to England, I thought how wonderful. Her friends told her to travel as it may put some distance between her and the death of her husband which happened a year ago. They were married for 48 years. Emily has never been more than fifty miles away from our farming village. Three weeks before her departure, Emily unexpectedly called me. She tearfully said she had to see me before she boarded the airplane. Emily always looks quiet. Her eyes are quiet. Her gestures are quiet. Her body moves quietly. And she speaks softly. She looked particularly quiet when she entered my house. I invited her into my parlor and we sat there facing each other. We sat in my identical wing back chairs which were a gift from my mother-in-law. She placed her black pocket book on the coffee table between us. She began. “I have fear in my heart. I prayed for an answer but I haven’t resolved my conflict.” “Oh my” I thought. “Go on” I said. “As you know I was raised in a different religion. We were taught very well, but one of the primal and strict lessons we learned was to never intervene with our body. As a girl I learned that my body was sacred and was for child bearing only. Not pleasure. We were taught never to touch ourselves.” “Go on.” “I’ve never been away from Halo. I love my house. It’s so clean. I get nervous thinking of going to the bathroom in a foreign country. Particularly as a woman sitting down to pee.”
“Is that your moral dilemma?” “No. It’s my female urinary director that’s the dilemma. I have to touch my body, you know, when I use it.” “Your what?” “I’ll show you.” She quietly opened her pocketbook and took out a plastic and rubber device with the trademark EZ Pee on it. “It’s so I can pee standing up. You place this on your body when you pee, and see it has a little hose that you can move and direct the urine. This way I don’t have to sit down on strange toilets. Do you think I’m committing a sin if I use it?” Dear sweet and quiet Emily. I quickly absolved her from her guilt, and we finished our tea and oatmeal cookies. Emily had a wonderful time in England. I asked her how the female urinary director had worked. She recounted a scene that happened in a women’s bathroom. She stood facing the toilet using her EZ Pee. When she was finished and was washing her hands the woman who was seated in the stall next to her approached her. The woman had noticed Emily’s shoes facing the toilet and heard her peeing from waist height into the toilet. “Dear. I can imagine how difficult it is for you” said the stranger. “No it’s not difficult at all. I know the language.” “There’s a special language for pre-ops? Like a secret handshake?” “No. I’ve been here four days and I’m on the right time period.” “They gave you a period? How is that possible?” Emily and I laughed. That afternoon Emily wasn’t quiet. Amen.
The Reverend Mrs. Silence DoGood Senior Pastor Executive Director President Chairman Choir Master (part-time) The First Church of God’s Love
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Prison Reflections
“Enough is Enough” By Terry Mooney
Part II
A
young mother in her late twenties, this is her first time in jail. From a good home, she has constantly gravitated to the bad boys and tolerated habitual abuse from them. Now she is maturing and realizing she is worth much more than that, for her sake and that of her baby.
My Story Despite his raging drug addiction and constant physical abuse, I agreed to pick my husband up and take him home. He jumped in the car, but as soon as I started to drive he began hitting me in the face, grabbing me by the hair and banging my head against the driver side window. I swerved more than once, barely missing other cars coming the opposite way until I could pull over. I reached the curb and screamed at him to get out of the car. He then leaned over and tried to remove the key from the ignition, breaking it off instead. Suddenly, he pulled out a knife and cut my throat! Luckily, I had my cell phone on my lap and quickly called 911. They came right away as he took off running, and they caught him and arrested him. He managed to cut me but not deep enough to draw a lot of blood. After doing fifteen months in jail, he got out and began stalking me. I had to leave town, going two and a half hours away to my biological father’s parents who had always been good to us and who readily took me in. In a strange town, I had to find a job and get my own place, basically starting over. This would not be the last time I would reinvent myself. I stayed there about seven months and met a new man through my cousin. He too was a substance abuser, but I didn’t want to believe that I was just repeating the past. Still in a dark place because of what had happened with my husband, my new man offered me some pills to make me feel better, and I went for it, getting hooked immediately. It made me not think about what had happened, and it dulled the emotional pain. At first it felt really good. But he also was abusive, and again I did nothing about it. It was the biggest mistake I ever made to even try opioids. The downside is lying, stealing, doing anything to get it to not be sick. It truly is the devil. A functioning addict, I had been using for about four years when my new man violated probation and went to rehab. I moved back to my home town, hoping to get clean, which I managed to do. Moving back with an old boyfriend, I became pregnant after we were together for only about a month. But I still really cared about the last one so I went and collected him from rehab. Moving into my mom’s, it was another attempt at saving myself and bringing yet another broken soul with me. And that ended when I went on the run from parole, this time both of us ending up in jail. When I am RFJ’d (released from jail), I plan to pursue a career in health care. I already have my PCA (Personal Care Aid) certificate in New York State and Dental Assistant Certificate. Another passion of mine is to own my own hair salon/spa. Stability is the name of the game. Finally, I have a great relationship with my brother and three little sisters. We lost track while I was using, but the last time I went home I was clean, spending more time with my family. Our relationship is just great, and they love to be around me now that I am myself again. There is nothing in this world that is worth losing them to. No more abusive men. No more drug abuse. This time I am pushing the boundaries in the right direction.
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Book Review MAY I HAVE THAT, PLEASE?
hood of a sweatshirt but people still wiggled their fingers. Aria was at the end of That’s what you say when you want her rope, and she let go. something, and people are impressed by She yelled and she screamed and she your manners. You’re a kid who never just shook her arms. She stomped and she takes, you always ask first because you shouted. And finally, Aria stood up for herwant the same kind of manners back. But in the new book “Don’t Touch My Hair!” by self, nicely. Because sometimes, “nicely” gets you what you want. Sharee Miller, you might have to ask for No. It’s such a simple word: two letthem, too. ters, one sound, one Aria loved her unambiguous meaning. hair. It can be pretty powerful She loved it when used in the right because it was bouncy situation, and in “Don’t and curly, dark and soft. Touch My Hair!” your She loved it because it child will learn that it’s grew “up toward the a perfectly good word to sun like a flower,” and say. because she could do a And yet, learning whole bunch of differto use “No,” isn’t all ent things with it, your child will get here: depending on her mood. this book also conveys Problem was, deep appreciation for everybody else loved one’s assets, which is her hair, too. And they doubly important at a all wanted to touch it. time when African Aria knew that American girls may people were trying to be struggle with curly-hair nice. They were just issues. Author Sharee curious because they Miller gives her little didn’t have hair as heroine total pride in bouncy-soft as hers. But her “soft and bouncy” nobody ever asked perlocks, and that’s contamission before touching, gious. It almost hurts, and that was a big probBy Sharee Miller later on, when Aria lem! Reviewed by Terri Schlichenmeyer physically hides herself. She tried to hide, But back to that but they found her on word: no. Through an over-the-top tale, land. She pretended to be a mermaid but Miller goes on to show that the desire not even the ocean’s creatures wanted to touch to be touched casually is a normal wish her hair. The jungle was no better, and with a simple solution that won’t chase someone very large was waiting for her away friends. The empowerment to put that when she hid “in the tallest castle tower.” solution to work is in here, too. Not even a trip to the moon helped Aria –
“Don’t Touch My Hair”
even moony creatures were fascinated by fluffy hair! And when she did finally find a spot with no reaching hands, it was a lonely place. That wouldn’t work at all, so Aria just went home, hoping she could ignore the problem. She covered her hair with the
For a child who dislikes handsy people, that’s a game-charger that promotes firm self-preservation, “nicely,” but with the right touch of sass. The 4-to-8-year-old kid who needs “Don’t Touch My Hair!”… shouldn’t she have that?
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Money
10
Real Resolutions
Inspired by FPU I
f you’re passionate about God’s ways of handling money, you’ve probably experienced it a time or two: Mention Financial Peace University (FPU) to one of your friends and within seconds, the eyes glaze over, the ears pick up a distant noise, and the head nods absentmindedly. You know what they’re thinking too: “I feel sorry for this poor guy, living on a budget and all. How boring! In fact, I feel sorry for me that I have to hear about it.” Of course, we know that you in particular— yes, you, reading this article—might not be the person talking about FPU. You might actually be the other guy. The one who’s bored by, skeptical or even scared of the whole idea. That’s why we asked recent FPU graduates to share their goals for 2019 with us! There was only one simple rule: The goal must be inspired by what they learned in FPU. Check out the top 10 real resolutions below. Looks like it’s going to be an exciting year!
1} Get out of debt
We started a debt-reduction tree with tickets wrapped around the artificial Christmas tree. Each ticket represents $10 of debt remaining on our home equity line. Once every ticket is removed at the end of the year, we will be debtfree! —Jamie
2} Buy a new home
We have outgrown our house. We’ve
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wanted to move for years, but it wasn't in the budget. 2019 will be the year! Our goal is to live on half of what we make and save between $3,500 and $4,000 each month toward a down payment on a new home. —Kevin
3} Change careers
I’m planning to find the career that God made me for. I started reading 48 Days to the Work You Love today, and FPU has caused me to be bolder in life. —Jason
4} Retire with dignity
We are planning on retiring this year! We are now debt-free, so FPU has us retiring comfortably. —Edward
5} Move to Mexico
Our goal this year is to make radical changes that enable us to help fulfill the Great Commission. We will be moving as a family to Mexico and paying $1,000 less a month for rent. We will live on the beach and learn to surf, commuting three times a week to San Diego for work. We’ll also have more time as a family, and we won’t have to keep up with other people's lifestyles. —Arceli
6} Grow spiritually
I’m going to read Proverbs and the rest of the Bible in one year. —Jennifer
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7} Lose weight
Using the same concepts I used for budgeting, I have lost 25 pounds! I have more to go, but I know I can do it! To see my massive pile of debt go to zero made me realize I can do anything I want. Is it simple? Yes. It is easy? No. If it were, everyone would be debt-free and thin! But, gazelle-like intensity—making a plan and sticking to it, not being a child and doing what feels good but rather being an adult and doing what is right—got me out of debt and is now helping me lose weight! —Theresa
8} Simplify
I plan to simplify my life and cut out things that drain energy and time. You can trim more than a budget! —Paula
9} Manage time wisely
We will be intentional and spend our time the way we now spend our money—on priorities—and only a set amount on things that don't really matter, like TV or social media. We don't do a zero-based budget for our time, but we keep in mind the goals we have and how our time can help us get there. —Hyatt
10} Act like an adult
Dave’s definition of maturity—the ability to delay pleasure—is applicable in every area of life where maturity is required, beyond just spending and money. It convicts me every time. —Adrianne As you can tell, Financial Peace University is about more than budgets and penny pinching. It encourages you to look beyond your current financial situation and get a glimpse of your hopes and dreams for the future. And hey, if you do what this class teaches, you might even exceed them. Josh is a Dave Ramsey Endorsed Local Provider for this area. He specializes in retirement income strategies, investments strategies, as well as additional financial strategies. His focus is on lifelong financial guidance and his commitment is to place clients first and provide unmatched customer service. He would be glad to answer any questions regarding the content of this article as well as any others. Call today at 570-729-1020 or email Josh at sage@cfiemail.com. You can also visit www.sageinvestments.net. Jonathan Sheard offers securities and advisory services through Centaurus Financial, Inc. member FINRA and SIPA and a registered investment advisor. This is not an offer to sell securities, which may be done only after proper delivery of a prospectus and client suitability is reviewed and determined. Information relating to securities is intended for use by individuals residing in PA, NY, AR, VA, FL, NC, GA, CT. Sage Investments, Dave Ramsey and Centaurus Financial Inc are not affiliated.
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Lawn Art
January
By LA
Gu zd a
Lawn Art Awareness Challenge
I just love driving along these country roads to suddenly come upon “lawn art� or front yard displays that are creative and often make me laugh.
Some of my favorites are:
#1
The Rusty Buick with Gas Pump on Rt 590 heading towards Hamlin. At one point they added a cut out of Humphrey Bogart. Classic.
#2
The Loch Ness Monster of Lake Fred along Rt 390. Makes me laugh every time I pass by. At one time, the monster appeared dead as it floated on its side. I am so happy to see him back to his old self.
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#3
Did someone say Yeti? Driving through Fawn Lake, I passed Sasquatch lurking in the leafless woods.
#4
Fish Bowl that stands guard over a septic field in Lackwaxen. These funny and creative “sculptures� are a testament to the local humor. And, there are many more out there. That is why January is the LAWN ART AWARENESS CHALLENGE!
See something fun that deserves recognition? Post it to Facebook or Instagram with the hashtag -- #PoconoLawnArtSecrets. Prizes will be awarded throughout the month of January. A grand prize winner will win Dinner & Show for 2 at Woodloch Resort! You will enjoy Woodloch's famous Theme Night celebration which features a themed menu and entertainment. Savor four courses served familystyle, and then head to the nightclub to enjoy live music and dancing before and after the signature Broadway-style Theme Show. The best Pocono Secrets are the ones we share. Happy New Year! Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @PoconoSecrets 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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Outdoor Ramblings
Bathing in the Forest
By Bill Deaton | williamjdeaton@yahoo.com
S
hinrin-Yoku is the Japanese practice of taking in the forest. The idea is to let nature enter your body through your five senses in order to become more in tune with nature and yourself. It’s a practice that is becoming more popular in the US, especially in today’s day and age when we are seemingly increasingly living inside our cell phones. You may be one of those people, like myself, who spends a goodly amount of time in the woods already and like me, say, “What the heck is this going to do for me?” There’s a slurry of phycological and physiological benefits to the practice, among which include: • Lowering stress levels, blood sugar, blood pressure, and heart rate • Reducing depression and anxiety • Clearing the mind • Increasing energy However, I’ll approach my recent experience at The Lodge at Woodloch from the vantage points of the “Not so used to nature” person and from that of a seasoned outdoorsman. The 2-hour session was a casual stroll that included a number of places to stop and focus on the senses and surroundings. It isn’t meant to be a physical hike, nor a nature walk with a guide explaining plants and animals. For a nature newbie, it’s a great way to get introduced to the woods. For a person, like myself, who has led hikes and nature walks, it gave me the opportunity to focus on my presence in the forest. As a part of the experience, for 20 minutes away from the others, I quietly contemplated the misty morning, the drizzle drumming on my jacket, and the smell of the spruce I was sitting under. At various times along the route, we stopped in order for people to share what they were experiencing, and we concluded sipping tea, fireside, made of ingredients collected along our trek. All in all, it was an interesting and relaxing way to spend a late autumn morning. The Lodge at Woodloch is offering Shinrin-Yoku to non-resort guests through their Community Forest Bathing program on the first Sundays of every month. Opportunities to take this experience will be on January 6, February 3, March 3, April 7, May 5, and June 2 from 10am-12pm, as well as two evening sessions by the light of the full moon on April 19 and May 18 form 8:30pm-10:30pm, rain or shine. The cost is $30 per person and for an additional $30, one can add-on a day pass to the spa. Reservations can be made by calling 1-800-WOODLOCH. Photo by Nancy Deaton.
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Pets
Pet Etiquette for Hotel Stays P
lanning a getaway for you and your pet? Be sure to plan ahead and take all the necessary precautions to ensure that your pets' travel experience is a happy and safe. For many, pet travel means staying at a pet friendly hotel. It's important to make sure that you and your pet are prepared. Following some simple tips will help to ensure that your hotel stay with your pet is an enjoyable one. • It's recommended to book a room on the ground floor and by an exit. This will make it much easier for you to take your pet out for bathroom breaks. • Make sure to always clean up after your
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pet as well. • Be sure to exercise your pet...this means walks. Ask hotel personnel about the best places to walk your pet. • Treat the hotel room with respect... this means covering any furniture and beds that your pet may be allowed on. • If traveling with cats, place their litter boxes in the bathroom. This will make cleanup much easier. It's recommended to not leave your pet unattended in your hotel room. Even the best behaved pets can bark and become destructive when in new surroundings. If you must leave your pet alone, be sure that it's for a very short
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time. Alert the front desk that your pet is alone in the room and try putting on the TV or a radio to make your pet more comfortable. If your pet travels with a crate or kennel, place them in it when leaving the room. In addition, place a note on the hotel door indicating that your pet is in the room. Don't leave any pests behind. Before leaving home be sure to give your pet a good cleaning and de-flea & de-tick them. This means a good flea and tick bath along with utilizing preventative flea and tick control. Leaving behind a stinky smell, or worse, fleas or ticks is the kind of thing that makes accommodations change their pet friendly policy. In addition, if a deposit is required, these types of things could very well prevent you from getting it back. Accidents happen! Even pets that have never had an "accident" indoors may do so under stress. Bring along a disinfectant as well as a rag in the event that you have to clean up after your pet. Not doing so could also cause a loss of deposit. To ensure that you're welcomed back, keep your pet on a leash and avoid taking them into dining rooms and other restricted areas. Following some common sense rules will help ensure that you and your pet have a happy and safe trip.
Penelope 4 year old short-haired calico who is great with children, cats, dogs, and is house trained. She has a very laid-back, mellow personality.
About TripsWithPets.com TripsWithPets.com is the premier online pet friendly travel guide -- providing online reservations at over 30,000 pet friendly hotels & accommodations across the U.S. and Canada. When planning a trip, pet parents go to TripsWithPets.com for detailed, up-to-date information on hotel pet policies and pet amenities. TripsWithPets.com also features airline & car rental pet policies, pet friendly activities, a user-friendly search-by-route option, as well as pet travel gear. For more information, please visit http://www.tripswithpets.com.
Nico 1 year old Weimaraner Labrador mix. He has a very goofy, playful personality and is great with children, cats & other dogs.
Available for adoption at Dessin Animal Shelter! Call 570-253-4037. www.connections-magazine.com
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BEHAVIORAL MEDICINE
65...
When Old Is Young Again
By Arthur Middleton, M.D., FAPA
Grow old with me! The best is yet to be.
I
~Robert Browning
n recent years, considerable attention has been paid to “Baby Boomers,” focusing on the fact that they are now “YoungOld” adults, as defined by gerontologists. According to Wikipedia, Baby Boomers is a term that refers to individuals who were born between the years 1946 and 1964. They were frequently described as a special generation and, as described in Wikipedia, were the “wealthiest, most active, and most physically fit generation up to that time.” It is estimated that seventy-six million American children were born between the years 1946 and 1964. The “Boomers,” as they were often referred to, were associated with cultural change during the era of the Vietnam War and Civil Rights. In 2013, the Boomers reached retirement age (age 67) facing a new reality; they were older and had the prospective of living longer than their parents’ generation. Gerontologists classify “old age” or “late adulthood” as the beginning of the next life cycle, which starts at the age of 65. Previously, this was the age that was virtually synonymous with retirement, but this is no longer the case. Advertisements from a wide variety of sources abound extolling the virtues of growing old and the premise that being old is young again. Many Boomers did retire, but living longer and sometimes not having enough retirement money caused some to return to the work force. There are many television advertisements that focus on saving more to adapt to a new life expectancy. According to the U.S. Bureau of Census, in 2012 the percentage of adults over the age of 65
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was 13.7 percent of the population. It is estimated that this number will climb to 20 percent of the population by 2050. Further, it is now estimated that individuals who reach the age of 65 have a statistical likelihood of living 18.8 years longer. This breaks down to 17.3 years for males and 20 years for females. It is also estimated that individuals who are over the age of 85, as a population, who were estimated to be a population of 5.5 million in 2010, will increase to 6.6 million in 2020. Aging is a biological process at the cellular level, which ultimately results in the physical changes that are generally associated with getting older; graying of the hair, decrease in bone density, and the effects on senses such as vision and hearing. Aging is also associated with neurological changes, which can affect memory and the ability to learn and retain new information. CAT (Computerized Axial Tomography) allows clinicians to see if there is a change in the size of the brain. For some, aging of the brain can lead to dementia, which is actually not uncommon with respect to disability in individuals aged 56 and older. According to a standard psychiatric text: Kaplan & Sadock’s Synopsis of Psychiatry by B.J. Sadock, M.D., V.A. Sadock, M.D. and P. Ruiz, M.D., the authors cite statistics that in this population approximately 5 percent have severe dementia and 15 percent have mild dementia. With the understanding that we are living longer but cannot stop the eventual decline of our body systems, is there any reason to be optimistic about growing older? The following fictional
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clinical vignette is presented to highlight the experience of aging. JT is a 68-year-old widow. She is a retired school teacher. While she worked as a teacher for over 40 years and has a pension, she is struggling to make ends meet financially. Despite the additional income from Social Security, she still deals with the stresses of her financial situation each month. Her husband died three years ago following a long battle with cancer. His illness depleted their savings as some medical bills were not covered entirely by insurance. JT has two adult sons who each live in a different state. While her children keep in touch, they have not visited her since the death of her husband. At one point, JT worked part time after she retired at the age of 65. She was busy and had a full schedule, which included exercise, as she had always struggled with her weight. Weighing 250 pounds and five feet five inches in height, she had many discussions with her primary care doctor in regard to obesity. She did not like this term but recognized that she was overweight and could probably improve her health if she lost weight. For a period of time, she did focus on her diet in addition to exercising with a fellow teacher who had also retired. However, over the course of the next several years, she lost interest in working part time and began to spend more time at home, alone. She did not exercise and did not pay attention to her diet. When she dropped out of sight completely, her neighbors grew concerned. One of her sons called her and after speaking to JT came to see her. Her son felt that his mother’s physical and emotional health had deteriorated. She was subsequently seen by her primary care doctor who found her blood pressure to be so elevated that she was hospitalized. During the course of the hospitalization, she was seen in consultation by a psychiatrist who started her on an antidepressant. She was prescribed Lexapro or escitalopram, which is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. Celexa or citalopram and Zoloft or sertraline are other antidepressants in this class. After discharge from the hospital, JT met with her two sons who encouraged her to sell her home and move to a senior citizen residential community. JT did think about it but resisted and began seeing a therapist. With the benefits of therapy, she recognized that loneli-
ness contributed to her depression. Therapy helped her to see that she had not recognized the impact of being independent and that she had to take control of her life again. She decided to resume part-time work to improve her financial situation and to reconnect with people. She also recognized the importance of having a companion and decided to adopt a dog. She did so after carefully considering the responsibility of having to care for a pet. She began to pay attention to her diet and increased her physical exercise by taking long walks with her dog. While the antidepressant helped initially, she wanted to see how she felt without it. Her psychiatrist tapered and eventually discontinued it. JT continues in therapy and feels that she is doing well. Her blood pressure has come under control, and with the loss of weight, her primary care doctor has been able to reduce her antihypertensive medication. She has been able to recognize the importance of controlling the direction of her life, and most importantly recognizes that at 68, she “really isn’t that old.” JT was happy to tell her sons that she has gone on a date with a man, also a widower that she met when she was walking her dog. “I feel young again,” she told her sons. Visit CM’s website for more on aging. The following references are provided for the informed consumer: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The State of Aging & Health in America 2013 http://www.cdc.gov/features/agingandhealth/ state_of_aging_and_health_in_america_2013.pdf American Psychiatric Association: Seniors http://www.psychiatry.org/mental-health/people/seniors NIH – National Institute on Aging: Can We Prevent Aging? http://www.nia.nih.gov/health/publication/ can-we-prevent-aging Dr. Middleton is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, and a Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. 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, PA.
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EVENTS
Y O U
ENTERTAINMENT
ARTS
RECREATION
a+r+e JAN ’19
THE AREA’S GOOD STUFF
C O N N E C T E D
Ongoing Events DAILY Art-a-Pelago Black & Brass Coffee Co., The Bodhi Tree Art School & Studio, & D.J. Harvey Agency, Honesdale. One art gallery in three locations (Thasos-Anafi-Paros). Info: waynecountyartsalliance.org. DAILY Public Art Displays Nature’s Grace, Wayne Memorial Hospital, Honesdale & Pocono Lake Region Chamber of Commerce, Hawley. Wayne County Arts Alliance artists display their work. DAILY Public Art Display REMAX Wayne, Honesdale. Art displays of local artists all year long. Info: 570-253-9566. WEEKLY Table Tennis in Honesdale Lakeside Elementary School, Honesdale. Join a group of table tennis enthusiasts who play weekly. Info: John Babyak, 570-253-4379 or jbabyak1@ptd.net. TUESDAYS Bingo American Legion Post 311, Hawley. Doors open 10:30 a.m., games begin at Noon. Info: legionpost311@qmail.com.
Library, Pleasant Mount. Bring your young children & grandchildren to the library for a fun-filled story time. Included will be crafts, games, songs &, of course, a story. Info: 570-448-2573 or www.waynelibraries.org. THURSDAYS Wayne Pike Workforce Alliance 10 a.m.–Noon. Newfoundland Library, Newfoundland. Serves as an intermediary to identify, create & provide educational opportunities. They can help you apply for jobs or refine your resume. No appointment necessary. Free. Info: 570-676-4518. THURSDAYS Thursday Night with John Curtin 6–9 p.m. Glass-wine. bar. kitchen. at Ledges Hotel, Hawley. Classic guitar playing & musical stylings. Info: 570-226-1337 or ledgeshotel.com. THURSDAYS Live Music with Eric Rudy 6 p.m. Kol Steakhouse, Hotel Anthracite, Carbondale. Info: 570-536-6020. THURSDAYS Pub-O-Lympics 8 p.m. The Dock on Wallenpaupack, Hawley. A combination of trivia & physical challenges. Compete with your team to win a gold medal, gift certificate & bragging rights. Info: 570-226-4388.
TUESDAYS Bingo Texas #4 Fire Company, Honesdale. Doors open 5:30 p.m. Games start at 6:30 p.m. Plenty of parking. Info: 570-253-5467.
FRIDAYS Live Music 8 p.m.–Midnight. The Dock on Wallenpaupack, Hawley. Great drink specials, delicious food & live music. Info: 570-226-2124 or silverbirchesresortpa.com.
WEDNESDAYS Story Time 10:30–11:30 a.m. Pleasant Mount Public
FRIDAYS Live Music at Tannery Room 8–11 p.m. Glass-wine. bar. kitchen. at
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EVENTS Ledges Hotel, Hawley. Info: 570-226-1337 or ledgeshotel.com. SATURDAYS Drop-in Family Story Time 11 a.m.–Noon. Wayne County Public Library, Honesdale. Join Miss Melanie for a story, followed by a fun craft for the whole family to enjoy. Info: 570-253-1220 or www.waynelibraries.org. SATURDAYS FREE Tastings and Demos Noon–2 p.m. Mill Market, in the Hawley Silk Mill, Hawley. Info: 570-390-4440.
January 1– January 9 JAN. 1 New Year’s Day Brunch 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m. The Settlers Inn, Hawley. Enjoy Julie Eschler on the piano & the prix fixe menu. Reservations required: 570-226-2993. JAN. 5 Main Street Farmers’ Market 11 a.m.–1 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. A vibrant & friendly gathering of exemplary local producers & enthusiastic con-
JAN. 2 Leaders Save Lives Blood Drive 1–6 p.m. Seelyville Fire Company, Honesdale. Walk-ins welcomed, but appointments are encouraged. Info: 570-253-1425.
SATURDAYS Live Music 9 p.m.–1 a.m. The Dock on Wallenpaupack, Hawley. Great drink specials, delicious food & live music. Info: 570-226-2124 or silverbirchesresortpa.com. THROUGH JAN. 6 “The Colors of Winter” ARTery Gallery, Milford. Images of ice & snow offer some of the most luminous renditions of beauty. Winter, its stark cold earth outside contrasted with the bright, warm colors of the interior, inspires powerful works of art. Info: 570-409-1234 or www.arterygallerymilford.com. THROUGH JAN. 31 Art Exhibit: Photo Contest Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, Stroudsburg. Enjoy the entrants in the Monroe County Natural Resources Photo Contest. The top 12 photos will be available on a 2019 calendar. Proceeds from calendar sales benefit Environmental Education programs at Kettle Creek. Info: 570-629-3061.
sumers, connecting through a mutual appreciation for each other & for our regional foodscape. Enjoy farm-to-table eats from Anthill Farm Kitchen, locally grown produce & other artisanal goods. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org. JAN. 5 Romping Radishes 11 a.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Geared to students K–2, but all children are welcome. Topic: Sun Bread. Hear about the baker who lured the sun out to shine through the winter gloom by baking a magnificent sun bread. Make suns of your own & maybe even eat some warm, golden bread. Parents/guardians must stay with their children for duration of the class. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org. JAN. 5 “New Beginnings” 4–6 p.m. Artists’ Market Community Center, 114 Richardson Avenue, Shohola. Barryville Area Arts Association event with
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EVENTS artwork, poetry & music sharing the theme of new beginnings. Nick Roes gives a brief presentation on “How To Be Happier in 2019.” Free & open to public. Light refreshments served. Info: barryvilleareaarts.org or barryvilleareaarts@gmail.com. JAN. 9 Self-Defense Defense Class 6–7 p.m. Faith Christian Outreach Center, Lords Valley. Family-style class for ages 6 & up taught by Grandmaster Mike Leonard. Could become a weekly class. Info: 570-226-4658. JAN. 9 Open Mic Night 7–10 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Presented by The Cooperage Project. Hosted by Flannel Johnson. Come to perform or come to listen & watch. BYOB. Donations make this event possible. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.
January 10–January 19 JAN. 12 Bridge the Gap: Cross Country Skiing 9 a.m.–Noon. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Enjoy the winter woods with beginner ski lessons. Learn the basics of cross country skiing & practice on PEEC’s campus. Skis, poles & boots provided. Register with shoe size to guarantee a spot. Free admission. Registration & info: 570-828-2319. JAN. 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. No registration required. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org. JAN. 12 Second Saturday Honesdale 6–9 p.m. Downtown Honesdale. Festivaltown happening filled with music, art, comedy & community support. Info on Facebook.
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JAN. 13 Animal Tracking 1–3 p.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Animals leave behind clues that give us glimpses into their lives. Explore PEEC’s natural areas for tracks, trails, scat, territory marks, chew marks & other signs animals leave as they travel through the fields & forests of the Poconos. Registration & info: 570-828-2319. JAN. 13 Bridge the Gap: Intro to Snowshoeing 10 a.m.–Noon. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Learn the basics of snowshoeing & enjoy a winter walk through the woods. No experience necessary; PEEC provides the equipment & teaches you everything you need to know. Register early to reserve a pair of snowshoes & guarantee a spot. Free admission. Registration & info: 570-828-2319. JAN. 13 Learn the Art of Watercolors 2–4 p.m. The Art Factory of White Mills, White Mills. All skill levels welcome. Participants learn style & technique, & leave with a one-of-a-kind painting. Info: 570-251-1181 or TheArtFactoryofWhiteMills.com. JAN. 16 Chamber Annual Membership Luncheon 11:15 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Waterfront at Silver Birches Resort, Hawley. Speaker is Sheri
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EVENTS Collins, Deputy Secy., Office of Technology & Innovation for the Commonwealth of PA, on bringing broadband service to our rural area. Young Entrepreneur of the Year award & celebration of membership business milestones. Remit reservation & payment by Jan. 12. Registrations & info: 570-253-1960 or www.northernpoconoschamber.com. JAN. 18 Comedy Night 9 p.m. Hotel Anthracite, Carbondale. Hosted by Brandan Donegan, featuring KP Burke & headliner Jimmy Shubert. Cash bar; munchies available. Info: 570-536-6020.
ing & practice on PEEC’s campus. Skis, poles & boots provided. Register with shoe size to guarantee a spot. Registration & info: 570-828-2319. JAN. 19 Main Street Farmers’ Market 11 a.m.–1 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. See description at Jan. 5. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org. JAN. 19 Romping Radishes 11 a.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Geared to students K–2, but all children are welcome. Topic: Snow Science. Take a closer look at the science of snowflakes. Leave boots & gloves at the door for experiments,
JAN. 19 4th “High School Emerging Artists Showcase” 1–4 p.m. The Art Factory of White Mills, White Mills. Featuring art students from Wallenpaupack Area HS, Honesdale HS & Western Wayne HS. Art Factory artists will be on hand to mentor, guide & judge the students. Prizes include gift certificates & the opportunity to hang their art in the gallery for up to 6 months. Come encourage local high school students. Info: 570-251-1181 or TheArtFactoryofWhiteMills.com. JAN. 19 Eagle Watch 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. A trip north in search of eagles & other rare wintering birds. Visit the Mongaup Reservoir, the Delaware R. & the Delaware Highlands Conservancy to look for winter residents & nesting pairs. Bring a lunch, camera & warm clothes. Call to reserve a seat in the van; max. 20 spaces. Registration & info: 570-828-2319. JAN. 19 Cross Country Skiing 10 a.m.–Noon. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Enjoy the winter woods with beginner ski lessons. Learn the basics of cross country ski-
play & crafts all about our white winter weather. Parents/guardians must stay with their children for duration of the class. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org. JAN. 19 Comic Gesture Drawing Class II with Arielle Sekula 4–6 p.m. The Art Factory of White Mills, White Mills. Focus is on Fantasy Character Development. A whirlwind tour of live model gesture drawing, followed by taking your life sketches & altering them for fantasy character designs. Pre-registration required. Bring your own supplies: paper, pencils, pens, erasers, etc. Info: 570-251-1181 or TheArtFactoryofWhiteMills.com.
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EVENTS JAN. 19 A Night at the Oscars The Waterfront at Silver Birches Resort, Hawley. Wayne Memorial Hospital Auxiliary’s 78th annual Mistletoe Ball. Live music & dancing with DJ Jumping Jeff Walker from WKRZ and a “fabulous basket raffle” with donations from many local vendors. Dress like one of your favorite stars & maybe win a prize. Proceeds benefit Wayne Memorial Hospital. Reservations: 570-226-9750.
January 20–January 31 JAN. 20 Intro to Snowshoeing 10 a.m.–Noon. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Learn the basics of snowshoeing & enjoy a winter walk through the woods. No experience necessary; PEEC provides the equipment & teaches you everything you need to know. Register early to reserve a pair of snowshoes & guarantee a spot. Registration & info: 570-828-2319. JAN. 20 Film Screening: Far From The Tree 3 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. An intimate, profoundly human look at families raising children society deems “abnormal.” Tracing their joys, challenges, tragedies, & triumphs, “Far From the Tree” invites viewers to rethink what it means to be a “normal family.” Donations collected at door. Light refreshments available for purchase. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org. JAN. 20 Dinner and Lecture by Bill Thomas, Ph.D., Scientist and Explorer The Columns Museum, Milford. Since
1988, Dr. Thomas has worked in some of the most remote regions of Papua New Guinea to record local environmental knowledge & is particularly interested in the potential for indigenous knowledge to provide a blueprint for the conservation of the earth’s remaining wild lands. Ham & sweet potato dinner, dessert & coffee. Reservations: 570-296-8126 or pikemuse@ptd.net or Info: pikehistorical.org. JAN. 20 Jazz Supper Club 6–9 p.m. The Settlers Inn, Hawley. Live music from Nancy and Spencer Reed & a delectable farm-to-table prix fixe menu. Reservations required: 570-226-2993. JAN. 21 Wayne Highlands Quilt Guild 6:30 p.m. Honesdale Community Church, Honesdale. Welcoming quilters all ages & skill levels. Make new friends who share your passion for quilting. Show & Tell & refreshments. Info: Deb, 570-224-4914 or debszoo@gmail.com. JAN. 25 Chaos Wire Wrapping with Bernice Craft 3:30–5:30 p.m. The Art Factory of White Mills, White Mills. Learn how to “chaos” wire wrap. Create your own unique pieces of jewelry. Bring jewelers pliers (no teeth). Info: 570-251-1181 or TheArtFactoryofWhiteMills.com. JAN. 26 Cross Country Skiing 10 a.m.–Noon. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. See description at Jan. 19. Registration & info: 570-828-2319.
JAN. 25 Comedy Night 8–11 p.m. The Waterfront at Silver Birches Resort, Hawley. Hosted by Mike Calcagno & featuring Jackie Byrne & headliner Richie Byrne. Show starts at 9 p.m. Reservations: 570-226-4388.
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EVENTS JAN. 27 Intro to Snowshoeing 10 a.m.–Noon. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. See description at Jan. 20. Registration & info: 570-828-2319.
JAN. 26–27 Ice Tee Golf Tournament For golfers of all ages & abilities. Nine holes of golf atop frozen Lake Wallenpaupack. New location for 2019 is the Palmyra Township Public Beach (weather & safe ice permitting). Info & registration (pick the day & time you would like to play): northernpoconoschamber.com
JAN. 26 Roger Harvey with Arrah Fisher 7 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Harvey’s album, “Twelve Houses,” is a beautifully lush record & a fiercely deliberate case study on nostalgia, perspective & transformation. Fisher is a singer-songwriter & guitarist, whose warm guitars, ethereal vocals, infectious melodies & dark undertones blend influences of folk, country, indie-pop, soul & blues. BYOB. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org. JAN. 26–27 Wally Ice Fest Around Lake Wallenpaupack. Celebrates winter fun in the Pocono Mountains with everything from ice sculptures to a curling demonstration event, to the two main events: Pocono Pond Hockey Tournament & Ice Tee Golf. The setting is on top of a frozen Lake Wallenpaupack, near the dike at the northeastern end. Info: www.wallyicefest.com or Facebook.
JAN. 27 Winter Ecology Hike 1–3 p.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Learn how different plants & animals survive the winter. Enjoy the interactive activities that show how other living beings have adapted to the cold. Join a hike & experience PEEC in the wintertime. All ages welcome. Registration & info: 570-828-2319. JAN. 27 RiverFolk Concert’s 10th Anniversary: Meghan Cary 3 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Presented by RiverFolk Concerts. With her smoky voice, emotional singing & vulnerable writing, Cary brings people to their feet & at times to tears with high-energy tunes, masterful storytelling & lyrics that resonate universally. BYOB. Reservations & info: 845-252-6783 or riverfolkconcerts@frontier.com.
February 1–February 3 FEB. 1 Wallenpaupack Has Style 5–9 p.m. The Waterfront at Silver Birches Resort, Hawley. Dinner, music, fashion show, tricky tray. Fundraiser for WANES PTA. Tickets: www.eventbrite.com/e/dinner-and-fashion-show-fundraiser-tickets52908466648. Info: wanespta@yahoo.com. FEB. 2 Cross Country Skiing 10 a.m.–Noon. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. See description at Jan. 19. Registration & info: 570-828-2319. FEB. 2 Main Street Farmers’ Market 11 a.m.–1 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. See description at Jan. 5. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.
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EVENTS FEB. 2 Romping Radishes 11 a.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Geared to students K–2, but all children are welcome. Topic: Pint Sized Heroes. Learn how important & special our blood is. Our friends from the American Red Cross help kids understand the amazing gift of donating blood & empower them to help the cause. Parents/guardians must stay with their children for duration of the class. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org. FEB. 3 Intro to Snowshoeing 10 a.m.–Noon. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. See description at Jan. 20. Registration & info: 570-828-2319.
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FEB. 3 Animal Tracking 1–3 p.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Animals leave behind clues that give us glimpses into their lives. Explore PEEC’s natural areas for tracks, trails, scat, territory marks, chew marks & other signs animals leave as they travel through the fields & forests of the Poconos. Registration & info: 570-828-2319. FEB. 7 Andrew Finn Magill 7 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Magill’s new musical voice is a tribute to Brazilian music. Living, playing & studying Brazilian choro music in Rio de Janeiro, he also absorbed other Brazilian traditions, such as forro, samba & bossa nova. Donations collected at the door. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.
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