Connections Magazine - November 2016 Issue

PROTECTING PRECIOUS CARGO – P 8

DO A ONE HOUR CHECK-UP: IT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE – P 6

THE IMPORTANCE OF HAVING AN APPROPRIATE SAFETY PLAN – P 10

NOVEMBER 2016

NOVEMBER 8TH

Since 1998

[ www.connections-magazine.com ] spread the word... full issues available online

1

2 spread the word... full issues available online

[ www.connections-magazine.com ]

november ’16

contents

departments Ask the Vet

20

Behavioral Medicine

22

Book Review

16

Classic Cars

19

Events Calendar

25

Film Review

16

Healthy Geezer

23

Laser Vision

24

Living Green

13

Money

14

Ourtowns

4

Outdoor Ramblings

18

Pocono Secrets

17

Reflections of Prison

12

BE GREEN!

Please do your part by recycling your issue of Connections when finished or pass it along to your family and friends.

Just make sure they recycle it, too!

BECOME A FAN! Post Your Events On Our Page!

connectionsmagazine NOVEMBER ’16

VOL. 18 NO. 11

features

6 8 10 11

DO A ONE HOUR CHECK-UP: IT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE This isn’t a new hoax designed to separate you from your hard-earned cash; the kind that seem to appear daily in your email. It’s not even a reminder about that colonoscopy you’ve been putting off for the last three months—that you should do. It’s about something close to home, literally.

PROTECTING PRECIOUS CARGO Despite advancements in auto safety and other factors, vehicle crashes still injure more than 550 children a day in the U.S., according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Experts say that more-widespread use of child seats and seat belts could cut the number of serious and fatal injuries suffered by kids in half.

THE IMPORTANCE OF HAVING AN APPROPRIATE SAFETY PLAN Having a plan in an emergency situation seems simple enough, but do you have situation specific plans? Your plan for a fire may not be the same as your plan for a flood.

Each situation is different, and although you can’t necessarily anticipate every situation, there are several that you should plan for separately.

EVERYTHING FIRE SAFETY “The United States has the highest fatality rate from fire in the industrial world. Why? Because we spend most of our money responding to fires, not preventing them.”

Subscribe Today!

Just $36 per year.

Call now 570.647.0085!

[ www.connections-magazine.com ] spread the word... full issues available online

3

ourtowns

election day – nov. 8th

connections

[YOUR] NEPA MAGAZINE

Does My Vote Count?

Absolutely

president • publisher • editor in chief deborah bailey production manager meica drake account representative barry weiss editorial correction services sandi scull assignment writers allison mowatt contributing writers al hoff, Movie Review lucille norella, ArtScene fred cicetti, The Healthy Geezer charles curtin, Finance terry mooney, Reflections of a Prison Inmate

ith the way our country seems to be going lately, many of us question if our individual vote even matters anymore. The answer is yes, it does.

Our nation was founded on the belief that all men (and women) are born with God given rights. One of those rights is the right to vote. We, as individual citizens, not only have the right but the responsibility to vote for the candidate that most represents our beliefs and opinions.

W

This right to vote is woven into the very fabric that makes up the idealism of our country. The day the citizens of this great country decide that they no longer believe in the power of the individual and surrender their voice by choosing not to vote, this will be the day that power will be placed in the hands of the few, and we as a nation will depart from what it is to be American.

Remember the Sacrifice of Those Who Have Gone Before Us Another defining reason the individual must not surrender their voice is for all the sacrifice paid by those who have come before us. Tens of thousands have paid the ultimate sacrifice by laying down their lives for the defense of our nation, our freedoms, and our way of life. We would be doing a great dishonor to them, their memory, and to their loved ones by casting aside our right to vote. It should be the hope of all Americans that if ever there is an individual who is questioning the point of casting their vote, they will remember the sacrifice of our fallen heroes.

Individual Votes Really Count Despite what some believe, the people still have power when they voice their feelings. We have heard the quote, “All it takes for evil to prevail is for good men to do nothing.” It might be added that it takes good men to say nothing as well. Also, in years past, there have been many elections where candidates win by just a very small margin. Voters should not sit around and hope their candidate will be victorious; they must take action and know that their vote really does count.

4 spread the word... full issues available online

Elected officials do, in fact, listen to their constituents on the issues. When voters go to the polls and cast their votes, they are speaking loud and clear about what they think. Elected officials want to stay in office, and so they will pay attention to what people say by the way they vote.

arthur middleton, MD, FAPA, Behavioral Medicine michael krupa, Finance terri schlichenmeyer, Book Review la guzda, Pocono Secrets arnie milidantri, Classic Cars

How do you know whom to vote for?

Elections seldom provide perfect choices between good and evil. The first step toward informed voting lies in determining your own personal preferences as to the public problems you are most concerned with and the solutions you prefer.

What solutions to current societal problems do you prefer? Should we be spending more money on schools or for national defense? Would it be better if government limited pornography or hate speech on the Internet, or is one’s right to free expression more important? Is abortion a mortal sin or a right some women might choose in desperate situations?

There are not “right” answers to these questions on which everyone agrees, so the informed voter looks for candidates who share their preferences on the issues of most importance to them. Above and beyond shared preferences, informed voters look at the personal characteristics of candidates to help determine how they will perform in office. We usually prefer candidates who are hard working, honest, moral, and skillful since we are entrusting them with decisions that affect our futures.

Sorting out the information about candidates from their speeches, campaign ads, media coverage, and Websites is one of the real challenges to citizens in a democracy. Many voters use short cut aids, such as relying on a candidate’s political party label. Over the years, political parties have taken relatively consistent packages of policy stands. Candidates for more important offices have usually served in previous positions, making it possible to assess their policy preferences and capabilities. A number of nonpartisan Websites also provide useful information for voters. Talking with friends and relatives about politics helps define one’s own outlooks and understand the available options.

Sources: www.online-family-help.com, www.congresslink.org, and http://en.wikipedia.org.

bill deaton, Outdoor Ramblings pike county conservation district, Living Green amy platko-williams, D.V.M, Ask the Vet

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

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

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

To weep is to risk appearing sentimental.

To reach out for another is to risk involvement.

To expose feelings is to risk rejection.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CONNECTIONS COPYRIGHTED 2007

[ www.connections-magazine.com ]

[ www.connections-magazine.com ] spread the word... full issues available online

5

6 spread the word... full issues available online

[ www.connections-magazine.com ]

one hour check-up

safety & rescue

his isn’t a new hoax designed to separate you from your hard-earned cash; the kind that seem to appear daily in your email. It’s not even a reminder about that colonoscopy you’ve been putting off for the last three months—that you should do. It’s about something close to home, literally. A question. Do you have the oil changed in your car, tires rotated, and brakes checked? Sure, you say. Cars are expensive and I want it reliable and safe. Makes sense.

Cars are the second most expensive item most of us will ever buy. Then what about ensuring the safety of our most expensive investment?

T

probably be surprised at the amount of Houses need the same regular safety lint which gets by the screen and accuinspections—check-ups—especially for mulates in the hose. A good annual the most dangerous disease they’re cleaning helps prevent dryer fires. exposed to, fire. Investing an hour or so Do you have a fire extinguisher in once a year can pay inestimable divithe kitchen or garage? As importantly, dends, not only in keeping the property do you know how to use it if you need safe, but also the loved ones who live to? When the stove is on fire is not the and sleep there. time to be reading the instructions.

Start with your heating system. Pick Remembering one word will help you: up the phone and make an appointment PASS, pull, aim, squeeze, sweep. Pull for a professional to inspect and service Smoke Detectors the pin, aim the nozzle at the base of your furnace. Have a fireplace? Get that the fire, squeeze the handle, and sweep chimney cleaned and make sure your Home Evacuation Plan back and forth, applying the agent to wood supply is dry and well seasoned. the fire. An important tip: keep a pot Have a safe place designated to dispose Heating System Check & lid, pizza tray, or similar item out of ashes.

Maintenance when you fry. Covering the pot can Check your smoke detectors. Have the smother the fire. batteries been changed? Are the detecChimney Cleaning Annual inspection time is also a tors less than ten years old? Smoke good time to review your home evacuadetectors were never intended to last forDryer Vent Vacuuming tion plan. Don’t have one? They’re ever, and now new models designed for not complicated to develop. Have a a ten-year life with sealed batteries Carbon Monoxide Detector safe meeting place outside the home which never need to be (and can’t be) and teach children never to go back changed are readily available. “Just like Fire Extinguishers inside. Keep bedroom doors closed. If any electrical appliance, the components a hallway fire occurs, a closed door of smoke alarms wear out over time.

House Number Visible? may hinder the smoke from overpowerWhen a smoke alarm reaches ten years of ing family members giving firefighters use, the potential of failing to detect a extra time for rescue. Teach toddlers fire increases substantially,” says the not to hide from firefighters. Their National Association of State Fire protective gear can be scary in times of Marshals. crisis. Teach children that firefighters Do you have detectors everywhere are there to help in an emergency. needed? The answer can differ dependTake children for a tour at your local ing upon the home and local or state fire station so that they can see a firecodes. National standards recommend fighter in full gear. Teach your chilthat for new homes, a smoke alarm is dren how to crawl under the smoke to provided in each bedroom, and at least reduce smoke inhalation. Also, teach one outside the bedroom area, but near your children how to touch closed enough to be heard in the bedrooms with doors to see if they are hot before openthe doors closed. In addition, there ing. If so, use an alternate escape should be at least one detector on each route. floor level of a home, including baseGary Ryman is the author of the novels Check your carbon monoxide detecments. This is so regardless of where a Mayday! Firefighter Down & tor. Over a ten-year period, the Center fire starts; inside or outside a bedroom, for Disease Control and prevention the occupants receive prompt warning.

Fire in His Bones reported over five thousand deaths For existing homes, the National Fire as well as the memoir, from unintentional carbon monoxide Protection Association (NFPA) recomFire Men: Stories From Three poisoning. You can’t see it, smell it, or mends a detector outside the bedrooms Generations of a Firefighting Family. taste it. Without a detector, you can be and at least one on each level of the one of the statistics. Visit your local structure. Both they and the National All three books are available hardware store and make sure that Association of Fire Marshals agree that in paperback and ebook versions won’t happen. more is better, and providing the numfrom Amazon.com.

Is your house address visible from bers called for in new construction is For more information, visit the roadway? This is a big help for best. www.fire-men-book.com. emergency responders who may be tryCheck your dryer. Why, you ask? I ing to find you in the dark. clean the lint trap every time I use it.

You wouldn’t think twice about I’m very careful. spending an hour cleaning the gutters or washing the windows I’m sure you are, but when is the last time you checked the on the house. Take the same amount of time to check it for fire dryer hose itself? First, make sure it’s metallic. The plastic ones safety. It can be as important as that annual physical from your are inexpensive, but burn like solid gasoline. Second, disconnect doctor. the hose and check the interior. Have a vacuum ready. You’ll

Home Fire Inspection Check-list

Get Your Copy Today!

[ www.connections-magazine.com ] spread the word... full issues available online

7

safety & rescue

booster seats

Protecting

Precious Cargo A booster seat for the kids could be your car’s most important safety feature.

espite advancements in auto safety and other factors, vehicle crashes still injure more than 550 children a day in the U.S., according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Experts say that morewidespread use of child seats and seat belts could cut the number of serious and fatal injuries suffered by kids in half.

D

Yet fewer than one out of every five children age 4 through 8 rides in a booster seat, says former Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta, who calls this statistic a “failure” that needs parents’ immediate attention.

Why is this so important?

Because booster seats help to properly position children 4-feet 9-inches and under to minimize injuries in the event of a sudden stop or crash. They can reduce injury by 59 percent, compared with using seat belts alone, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

“Not all states require vehicle booster seats for children, but that shouldn’t stop parents from using them,” Mineta says.

Booster seats work with a vehicle’s lap and shoulder belts – they should never be used with a lap belt alone. Both high-back and lowback models raise the child’s seating position so that the belts fit properly for riders of their height – the lap belt should sit low across the child’s lap, with the shoulder belt crossing the middle of the chest and shoulder. Don’t use an aftermarket seat-belt adjuster to make the belt fit better; unlike seat belts and booster seats, they’re not regulated for safety by National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

A child has outgrown a child safety seat and should move into a booster seat when her shoulders sit above the harness slots, her ears are above the top of the seat or she has reached the top weight or height allowed for her seat with a harness, says the American Academy of Pediatrics. Labels on the seat and in its owner’s manual will list the applicable weight and height limits. For more information about booster seats, visit boosterseat.gov.

While it’s tempting to simply use a hand-me-down booster seat from your sister-in-law, this may not be the best choice for your child or your vehicle. You shouldn’t look for a child safety seat in a thrift shop for the same reason it’s not always wise to take a hand-me-down from your sister-in-law. It could be damaged, even if it looks all right.

8 spread the word... full issues available online

[ www.connections-magazine.com ]

Still, if you are considering using a second-hand car seat, take these precautions: Give an older child’s seat a thorough inspection before passing it on to a younger one. Check the seat’s age. Some manufacturers recommend using seats for only six years.

1

Be sure to thoroughly check the label. Without a label stating the seat’s model number and its manufacture date, you won’t be able to check for any safety-related product recalls that may have been issued. To learn whether a seat has been recalled, contact the federal Department of Transportation’s Vehicle Safety Hot Line: 888.327.4236.

2

Check for the manufacturer’s instructions.

They’ll explain how to install and use the seat properly; don’t just rely on the previous owner’s guidance. If the instructions are missing, contact the seat’s manufacturer to obtain a copy.

3

Check for cracks and missing parts. If the frame has cracks, or if parts are missing, don’t use the seat. The manufacturer may offer replacement parts, but say good-bye to a cracked seat.

4

Each state offers personal guidance for families on child passenger safety. These specialists can help parents choose seats that fit both their children and their vehicles, as well as tips on where and how to secure the seat. For a list of contacts by state, plus a menu of other safety seat information, visit www.nhtsa.dot.gov.

Finally, keep in mind the safest place for children 12 years and younger to ride is in the back seat, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In addition to being placed farther away from the crash forces in a frontal impact, they’ll be out of the way of front passenger-side air bags, which could injure or kill them. Studies have shown that the risk of children receiving a fatal injury in a collision drops by 46 percent when they’re placed in the back seat.

[ www.connections-magazine.com ] spread the word... full issues available online

9

Submitted by Disaster Blaster

Safety Plan

The Importance of Having an Appropriate

safety & rescue

safety plans

Having a plan in an emergency situation seems simple enough, but do you have situation specific plans? Your plan for a fire may not be the same as your plan for a flood. Each situation is different, and although you can’t necessarily anticipate every situation, there are several that you should plan for separately.

Any Safety Plan should be developed by all members of the household in mind and practiced often. Involve children in the development of the plan so they are confident and well aware of what they are expected to do.

Also, stress how important it is for the plan to be strictly adhered to during any emergency.

The most common plan to have is a safety plan in case of a fire. Use a map of the house in planning and design multiple exit strategies specific to the layout of the house with each household member in mind. Decide on a meeting spot outside and once outside, do not reenter the home. Practice should include crawling through the house to the exit, what to do if clothes catch on fire (stop, drop, and roll), and should be timed. Practice twice a year, a good time would be when you change the batteries in the smoke alarms.

You should also develop a safety plan in case of a flood. Prepare for a flood in advance and compile a survival kit complete with drinking water, non-perishable food, medical supplies, and rain gear. Also, be prepared with protective gear such as masks, gloves, and boots for clean-up. A complete list of survival items is available on the American Red Cross website.

A battery powered radio is a great addition to any survival kit, as you may find yourself without electricity. It is always recommended to keep your distance from any flood waters, as they can be very unpredictable and unsafe.

Teach young children in advance about the dangers of flood water and make sure that everyone keeps their distance until the waters have receded. Practice driving out of town several different ways, as your normal route may be blocked by water and you may need an alternate route. Your safety plan should also include a contact person in case you are sepa-

10 spread the word... full issues available online

[ www.connections-magazine.com ]

rated. That person would be responsible for any inbound and outbound calls during the emergency.

Also, talk to your insurance agent about flood insurance coverage because it is excluded from a regular homeowner’s policy.

With winter closing in on us, you also want to have a plan for winter storms. Keep a list of what should be done just prior to a storm. Include on that list filling your vehicle with gas, gathering or ordering extra firewood, filling the home heating system, and inspecting your survival kit.

You should have a survival kit already assembled, which should include things like flashlights, extra batteries, extra winter clothes (hats, scarves, and mittens), drinking water, and non-perishable food. (You can find a complete list on the American Red Cross website.)

There should also be one contact person assigned for any inbound and outbound emergency calls.

After you develop the safety plans that work for you and your household, make sure you update them as needed. If you have added an addition to the house or completed a renovation project, it may change your specific plan of getting out in the event of an emergency.

You may also have to change your contact person due to a change in their household status.

Practice your plan to ensure everything runs smoothly and everyone knows their role in the plan. In an emergency, not everyone has the ability to think clearly. By practicing your Safety Plan, everyone will know what they are supposed to do when they are faced with an emergency situation.

We hope you found this information helpful!

If there’s something that YOU want to hear about, please e-mail us at news@disasterblaster.com!

important tips

safety & rescue

[ www.connections-magazine.com ] spread the word... full issues available online

11

reflections

from inside

“A Good Life is Not About Money” – Part II Reflections of a Prison Inmate

By Terry Mooney hile waiting for the bus to take him to state prison, this inmate already displayed a sincerity and desire to improve his life without knowing exactly what he was headed for. As he tells it, at any point, he could have closed up and become as monstrous as the worst inmate there. But the reverse is true. He has become more reflective and compassionate than ever, determined to use horrific experiences for good.

W

My Story After fighting for a living, collecting for a bookie, and being shot three times, I’d never been arrested. Till now.

Someone owed me money but refused to pay up. The guy collected vintage guitars. So, I decided to steal one and hold it hostage. I called the guy and told him I was going to shoot the guitar if he didn’t pay up. Still he refused to pay, so I called him up again, and while he listened I shot up his vintage guitar. He called the police, and the next morning they showed up with guns drawn, took me down in front of my house, and arrested me while my wife and son watched. I was charged with burglary and terroristic threats.

What started out as what I thought was a clever way to get paid landed me six years in state prison. It was bad. I had to fight my own race in order to stay out of their gangs.

They offered protection, but in return you had to do their bidding, from selling drugs to committing violent acts. I spent the whole time alone, constantly defending myself. In spite of it, I still got stabbed by a kid from the Bloods. I tried to close the wound myself, but couldn’t stop the bleeding.

Yet I handled myself in a way that I was not bothered again.

To survive state prison, you have to be a savage. Being violent is hard. You don’t feel good about beating someone up. You’re hurting a human being. It’s not a fair fight like boxing. This is not a sport, but survival, however it turns out. But I hated my dad so much that I would picture him and tap into this full blown anger that allowed me to not care.

Going to state prison was like going to hell. I didn’t care if someone killed me. It was better than being taken advantage of; at least I would die with my head up. The whole environment is deplorable, meant to break us down, make us feel like nothing. But at one point I decided to change and start doing the right thing. My mother and my sister are the ones who helped me turn my life around by repeatedly talking me off the ledge. My mother asked me how I’m going to survive in the real world if I don’t start now. Self defense is one thing, and vigilantism is quite another. This was a really hard concept to swallow. Pride sucks. The plus side though is that once you hit bottom, now you are ready to be retrained. Not everyone is teachable and this is why they stay on the levels they are on.

More humane living conditions do exist at state prison, but they are minimum security so there are certain criteria an inmate must meet to be eligible. Everything goes by the inmate’s institutional record for two years, being drug free is the number one rule, and no serious “tickets” which are disciplinary convictions. As a result, you get weekend visits with your family and stay in a trailer with them. You are drug tested before the visit and after. There is an outdoor picnic area where you can visit with fresh food that you can buy and eat together. This became my goal.

I saw my brother for the first time in five years. He has four kids now. He came to visit me at state and I didn’t rec-

12 spread the word... full issues available online

ognize him. We both look totally different. I cried. I had a lot of animosity because my dad never abused him like he did me. So our difference in opinion about him came between us. When my mother brought him to the jail, I thought she was dying; but she wanted us to reconcile. To this day we are still talking; he sends me pictures of the kids. When I get out, we plan to do things together.

When I had no choice but to go to jail, I sat my son down and explained that I was going away and that he would be alone with his mother for a while. We could talk on the phone and write. He wanted to know what a while was and I told him six years. He said that’s like you dying, Dad. He came once to see me but the handcuffs and shackles upset him too much. Once I was able to have weekend visits, he and my mother came regularly.

While incarcerated, I got to know my son better than if I was home because a letter is completely different than looking at someone face to face. It was like we had reversed roles. He was more like the parent. He woke up the night I came home shot. I was covered in blood because I came home on the motorcycle so the wind blew the blood all over me. He heard my wife screaming, and he saw me lying in the bathtub trying to remove the bullet. At eleven years old, he held my hand the entire time, saying that he knew I wouldn’t die if I could just look at him, that I wouldn’t die in front of him looking into his eyes.

I think he was the reason I fought to make it through State.

I felt bad for him but at the same time I was very proud of him. Both of his parents are junkies, but he doesn’t drink or do drugs. At the age of nineteen, he wants to become a chef.

Back in the Pike County Correctional Facility to finish the part of my sentence regarding this county, it is beautiful here. The officers are polite. The food is restaurant quality.

It is safe and clean. This place runs the way a jail is supposed to. No one is judged here. If you need something, people will go out of their way to get it for you.

As it turns out, prison wasn’t the end of my life, but it brought me to be the guy I really am. I had to ask myself, am I really a junky permanently? Am I really a criminal permanently? Completely working through my anger issues, I am at a peaceful place. I am content. I am the happiest I’ve ever been. I am drug free. I am emotionally and mentally stable. I got my high school diploma at 41; my score was so high that it’s better than a GED. It was awesome. My mom, son and sister came to my graduation. I wore a cap and gown. I am focused on my future and doing some good in the world.

I can honestly say prison has saved my life. My violence was escalating to the point where I would’ve killed someone or they would’ve killed me. The tools are here in jail if you want to improve yourself. Prison does not reform you, you reform you. It is a personal choice.

I’ve learned that a good life is not money, fast cars or big houses, but someone you love who really loves you back, the love and dedication of your family, if you’re lucky, and freedom. And that’s it.

[ www.connections-magazine.com ]

subsection

section

Beneath the Surface

By Nick Spinelli

with your Local Dive Teams s fall temperatures continue to drop and we inch closer to winter, we have the opportunity to reflect on a great summer here in the Poconos. With so many lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams, we have tremendous opportunities to enjoy water-based recreation.

An unusually warm summer saw thousands of people on Penn’s waters enjoying boating, fishing, and swimming.

A

those with different physical abilities or skills. For instance, at Tafton, our best SONAR operators and boat drivers are retirees with technology or military backgrounds. Our best ROV operators have been junior members (computer/video games are great at developing these skills). Dive Team membership isn’t just for divers! Make no mistake, we’re always looking for divers, but we’re also looking for people who are interested in 02.01.15 Ice Dive: Members of the Tafton, Wear It: Members of the Tafton and operating boats or technology, handling Ledgedale, and Germania (Duryea, PA) Ledgedale Dive Teams have passed out logistics, fundraising, or grant writing.

Dive Teams are shown at an ice diving drill “Wear It” stickers at events like the There’s a task and a place for almost held on Lake Wallenpaupack in 2015.

Paupack Plunge (pictured here) in an effort to promote safe boating. everyone. If you’re interested in joining a local dive team, reach out to them and ask questions. In Wayne County, previously overlooked. It’s part of our mission as Ledgedale is the only dive team. In Pike County, in public safety dive teams to keep our communities addition to Tafton, you’ll find teams at many of the Unfortunately, for a few families, those opportunisafe. other Volunteer Fire Companies. Check with your ties also brought tragedy. The pursuit of summer fun Despite educational efforts, accidents still happen. local company to see if they have a team. on the water has potential to be dangerous. Often, a When an incident occurs on the water, an expansive Maybe you’re not interested in joining a team. Or, simple oversight can spell disaster. Forgetting a pernetwork of volunteers convenes to provide resources, maybe you’re not able. There’s still a way for you to sonal flotation device (also called PFD or “life jackskills, and equipment toward a rescue effort. In contribute. Our equipment and our training are et”) or having it stowed away and out of reach can be many cases, multiple dive teams from different jurisexpensive. At Tafton, we have Standard Operating the difference between a fun day and a tragedy. dictions assist each other. The dive teams of today Guidelines (SOG’s) designed to keep our divers safe.

Drowning is the 5th leading cause of unintentional are better equipped and better trained than ever These SOG’s specify training and equipment for difinjury deaths in the United States. Despite this before. Our volunteers come from diverse backferent levels of diving. The cost to train and outfit a sobering statistic, there is hope. Drowning is pregrounds and serve in different capacities during resdiver to the highest level of competency approaches ventable. cue and recovery incidents. We’ve developed tech$10,000. In addition, operation and upkeep of boats, There are many organizations working to educate niques and procedures to expedite our search operavehicles, and support equipment, etc. also increases the general public about water safety in an effort to tions and we utilize advances in technology to make our budget requirements. Making financial contribuprevent drowning. Many are national efforts such as us safer and more efficient. Technology has also contions to your respective emergency response agencies the “Wear It” campaign led by the North American tributed to the diversity of our teams. People who can benefit them significantly.

Safe Boating Council (www.safeboatingcampaign. have never donned SCUBA gear are now just as Our most sincere hope is that no one will ever need com) or the many educational programs hosted by important as the most seasoned divers. SONAR has our assistance, but when and if they do, they can be the National Drowning Prevention Alliance become an indispensable part of our operations, and sure that the volunteer responders in our communi(www.ndpa.org). having members skilled in operating SONAR, comties will be there. I’ve frequently told people that I’d Locally, our volunteer fire company dive teams are puter systems, and underwater Remotely Operated much rather meet them at one of our community helping to spread the word. For the past several Vehicles (ROV’s) is vital to our success. Even with all events or fundraisers than I would at an emergency. years, members of the Tafton Dive/Rescue Team and of these advances in training and technology, there There’s a very easy way to help make sure you won’t the Ledgedale Dive/Rescue Team have been working are two areas where we occasionally fall short: manever need our dive teams. Personal Flotation Devices, to share the importance of water safety in the Lake power and money.

PFD’s, Life Jackets; regardless of what you call it, Wallenpaupack Region. Each team has spent time The ranks of volunteer fire companies have been Wear It! visiting with community associations and displaying dwindling since the 1970’s. Our volunteer dive information at public events. Each team has also teams have been hit even harder. Rest assured all promoted water safety messaging through our respecNick Spinelli is a diver with the Tafton hope is not lost. In recent years, we’ve seen a slight tive Facebook pages. It’s an effort worth undertaking, Dive/Rescue Team. The Tafton Dive/Rescue increase in membership and participation, and we’d and it works. A helpful reminder or educational post Team proudly serves Palmyra Township and like to see more. Some of the increase stems from surrounding communities. can encourage a person to wear their life jacket or increased use of technology, opening the door for carry out another safety precaution they might have [ www.connections-magazine.com ] spread the word... full issues available online

13

money

gofundme

21ST CENTURY

CHARITY Charles Curtin, JD, LLM, CTFA – Trust Officer, The Honesdale National Bank

mericans are some of the most charitable people in the world. In fact, according to www.givingusa.org, U.S. citizens gave $373.25 billion in 2015.

Harken back a few years ago, and I would surmise a good portion of donations were made at gas stations and bowling alleys into a jug at the checkout register. That sounds so quaint in retrospect. Today, technology and social media has informed us of so many previously unknown causes.

National, regional, and individuals are now all competing for funds.

A

One website in particular has taken the process of raising money to another level. GoFundMe provides any person with a computer (or smartphone) the opportunity to start a funding campaign. If you have not heard of the site, it basically allows a user to build a website for their chosen cause. The page describes the purpose (i.e. medical treatment expenses, support for orphans, and etc.), the stated goal, and other relevant information. Then, the creator of the project can share it through Facebook and other social media outlets to get the word out.

GoFundMe is impressive. The site is able to shine a light on many local and personal issues that might otherwise go unnoticed. It is bringing the idea of charity to everybody. The design is simple, and you can donate with just the click of a button. Yet, for all of the benefits,

14 spread the word... full issues available online

there are a few things you should consider before making your next GoFundMe donation.

First, GoFundMe is not free. The software and manpower to run the website costs money.

GoFundMe charges a 5% fee for each donation. On top of the 5% donation fee, another 2.9%, plus $.30 is automatically deducted

by WePay, the site’s payment processor.

The charges top out at about 8% of every dollar, so, in essence, the recipient of a $100 donation will actually only receive $92. The GoFundMe transaction costs are a bit steep, but take note almost all national charities use part of your donations to fund their operations. In fact, some charities only provide a small portion of funds collected to their particular cause. The website www.charitynavigator.org is an excellent resource where users can review a charity and determine how much of its total expenses are spent on actually providing charitable support.

In every financial transaction, even giving to charity, you must take into account its tax consequences.

U.S. tax law provides taxpayers who make donations to qualified charities under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code a charitable deduction.

Deductions are helpful in reducing taxpayer’s taxable income. Unfortunately, GoFundMe donations do not normally receive a charitable deduction for income taxes. The majority of donations made to a GoFundMe campaign are considered personal gifts.

This is because the donated money flows directly to the individual and not to a charitable organization.

As a result, if you are considering make a sizable gift, from a tax perspective, it is much wiser to give directly to a charity.

Traditional charities utilize several different gifting programs that are unavailable with GoFundMe. One of the most effective is donor matching. Corporations often try to incentivize their employees and others to think charitability through matching programs. For every $1 donated, the corporation will agree to contribute another $1, a “match.” Thus, the charity is able to double the amount of money it receives via matching.

If the GoFundMe campaign is for an individual’s cause, there will be no matching and the potential loss of thousands of dollars. Perhaps not as important as matching, but important nonetheless, is that traditional charities often accept in-kind donations, while GoFundMe does not.

Charities can and will often accept land, old automobiles, clothes, and I even saw that a charity once received a luxury yacht.

GoFundMe only takes cash, thereby limiting donor’s options.

[ www.connections-magazine.com ]

When providing money to charity, it is always difficult to ascertain whether the intended recipient is actually receiving the funds. This is especially true for GoFundMe. The site, which is rather lax in its vetting process, is rife with fraud. Unfortunately, fraudsters can easily start a campaign, raise money, and then keep the proceeds for themselves. A simple Google search reveals hundreds of GoFundMe scams, some of which are really despicable. While some traditional charities are not as altruistic as you think, at least through websites like www.charitynavigator.org you can research their validity. If you are considering making a donation on GoFundMe, make sure you know the organizer of the page and have as much information as possible about the cause.

GoFundMe offers donors a direct connection to the intended recipient. It is able to bring attention to overlooked, personal stories. This benefit is also a drawback in some sense. While sites like GoFundMe have grown exponentially, traditional charities are currently receiving less donations.

These charities have decades of experience of fostering their chosen issue and without funding they would no longer be able to operate. In addition, traditional charities provide needed infrastructure in an effort to try and stop larger societal problems (like homelessness and child slavery) as opposed to single causes.

There is no right way to donate. All causes are noble. Donors currently have so many different ways to give money. If you do need help analyzing the financial and tax consequences of your next charitable endeavor, please contact your local financial advisor because as I like to say, “Local advice is often the best advice.”

The Honesdale National Bank and its employees do not render legal, tax, or accounting advice. Accordingly, you and your attorneys and accountants are ultimately responsible for determining the legal, tax, and accounting consequences of any suggestions offered herein. Furthermore, all decisions regarding financial, tax, and estate planning will ultimately rest with you and your legal, tax, and accounting advisors. Any description pertaining to federal taxation contained herein is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used by you or any other person, for the purpose of avoiding any penalties that may be imposed by the Internal Revenue Code. This disclosure is made in accordance with the rules of Treasury Department Circular 230 governing standards of practice before the Internal Revenue Service.

401(k)

money

Why Your 401(k)

May Not Be Enough for Retirement –Provided by Jonathan “Josh” Sheard, Sage Investments, LLC

our 401(k) is the first place Dave Ramsey recommends you invest for retirement once you reach Baby Step 4. And there are plenty of reasons why:

Y

• If your employer matches your contributions—and many do—you get an instant return on your investment.

• Tax-deferred growth means your money grows faster.

• Pre-tax contributions lower your taxable income and increase the amount you can invest.

Your 401(k)’s Shortcomings As awesome as that is, 401(k)s do have some shortcomings. First is a limited choice of mutual funds, which can keep you from investing in the best funds on the market. Second is the 401(k)’s tax-deferral. While it works to your advantage while you’re saving, it means you will owe taxes on the money you withdraw from your 401(k) in retirement.

A Roth IRA is the perfect choice to accompany to your 401(k) because its features overcome these shortcomings: 1. Flexibility – You can choose from thousands of mutual funds to invest in through your Roth IRA. That means you can choose the best funds and diversify with different fund families.

2. Tax-free growth and withdrawals – When you retire, you’ll be able to use the money in your Roth IRA tax free.

A tax-free option will come in handy

since most people expect tax rates to be higher in the future.

Getting Them to Work Together To adequately fund your retirement, you need to invest 15% of your income. For the average income of $50,000, that’s $7,500 per year. If your employer matches contributions up to 4% of you pay, for example, then you’d contribute $2,000 a year to your 401(k).

The remaining $5,500 will go into your Roth IRA. Some things to remember: • For 2015 and 2016, Roth IRA contribution limits are set at $5,500.

If you reach your Roth IRA limit but still haven’t invested your full 15%, invest the remaining amount in your 401(k).

• If you don’t have a 401(k) or other retirement savings plan through your employer, or if your employer doesn’t match your contributions, start with the Roth IRA. If you max it out and still have money to invest, invest through your 401(k), if you have one, or open a taxable brokerage account.

Get the Most Out of Your 401(k) and Roth IRA To get started, ask your employer how to set up your 401(k). For your Roth IRA, it’s best to work with an investing professional who can also help you choose the right funds—and even coordinate choices within both accounts. © Lampo Licensing, LLC. All rights reserved.

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.

[ www.connections-magazine.com ] spread the word... full issues available online

15

entertainment

book/film reviews

QUEEN OF KATWE

“Paws of Courage: True Tales of Heroic Dogs That Protect and Serve”

By Nancy Furstinger, Foreword by Ronald L. Aiello Reviewed by Terri Schlichenmeyer

o you, your dog is a hero. Nobody else protects you from spiders and shadows. Nobody does a better job of warning you about summer storms or friends a-knocking. You need to give pats and get kisses to feel safe, and in “Paws of Courage” by Nancy Furstinger, you’ll see how some dogs go even further in their heroism.

T

Everybody knows that dog is (wo)man’s best friend, but that goes doubly for a military or police dog and a handler: there are times when that relationship is a life-ordeath matter. In this book, Furstinger offers mini-stories of those bonds, past and present.

Dogs, of course, have served on the battlefield for millennia, but history only remembers a handful of brave canine soldiers. In World War I, Sergeant Stubby, a pit bull mix, saved countless lives by warning soldiers of incoming bombs and by alerting them to enemy presence. Tiny little Smoky, a Yorkshire terrier, helped soldiers by doing the same thing in World War II and, due to her size, was also able to help “thread vital wires through” a narrow underground pipe. From Great Britain, an English Pointer named Judy followed her handler to a POW camp in World War II, and was eventually listed as a POW for her own protection. Also during World War II, the U.S. military asked civilians to enlist pets for the war effort; around 10,000 family dogs became K-9 soldiers, sentries, and sniffers, including a German Shepherd mix named Chips, who was honored for bravery on the battlefield and for capturing enemy soldiers all by himself.

Today’s “battlefield partners” and other canine helpers are no less brave.

Belgian Malinois dogs, says Furstinger, are “canine superheroes” with speed and courage and are a “top breed for police and military work.” Newfoundlands are excellent swimmers and can dive; for those heroic maneuvers, they’re employed in water rescue. Labrador retrievers make great arson dogs, while many breeds serve as companions and helpers for veterans. And as for the future, scientists are looking at robots to replace dogs in battle, but they’ll never replace K-9s in our hearts.

You would’ve had to have been born two months ago to not know that dogs are important members of military troops, crime-fighting organizations, and anti-drug efforts. For most of us, it’s always been that way; K-9 corps are a common sight.

So why read “Paws of Courage”?

I wondered that myself. Author Nancy Furstinger tells some rather common tales of military and working dogs, then and now; you might not recognize them individually but the stories are familiar, if not similar to others you’ve browsed or seen online. Been there, read it, kept the collar – except for two easy-to-love things: the abundance of pictures in this book, and in the sidebars of information.

Yup. They’re like kibble to dog people.

You might find this book in the children’s section of your favorite bookish place, but I think it’s more for readers ages 14-to-adult. Give “Paws of Courage” to your dog-lover especially, and you’ll be a hero.

16 spread the word... full issues available online

[ www.connections-magazine.com ]

This family-friendly film directed by Mira Nair tells the real-life story of Phiona Mutesi, a teenage chess champion from the Katwe slum, in Uganda. The illiterate Phiona (Madina Nalwanga) is introduced to chess by Robert Katende (David Oyelowo), who runs a chess club in a shed, imparting game and life skills to his raggedy young charges.

Nair’s film follows the formula of other inspirational tales, even adapting the “underdog sports” track, though it’s important to be reminded that not all triumphs — and not all supportive teams — are in sports. Celebrating and nurturing intelligence surely is a better long-term takeaway than recounting that one game-winning touchdown.

The story fares best when it explores the personal roadblocks Phiona faces — her insecurity and adolescent impulsiveness — and the psychic challenges of confronting another, more comfortable world beyond Katwe’s poverty. Her mother worries that such exposure will leave Phiona “not here, and not there,” condemned to float between them “like a ghost who cannot rest.” Such fears are warranted, even as their goals are modest by our standards: Can being good at chess get these kids into schools? The film may present chess as another sport to be conquered, but what’s on the line is a life-changing opportunity, not a trophy. out of 4

DEEPWATER HORIZON The three-month oil spill that followed the 2010 blow-out at the Deepwater Horizon rig in the Gulf of Mexico became such a huge news story that folks might have forgotten what horrific industrial accident precipitated it; 11 workers died, and the 100odd other employees were lucky to survive. Peter Berg’s docudrama recounts that fateful day and night on board the mobile offshore drilling unit from the perspective of the workers.

One of the engineers (Mark Wahlberg) is our primary guide. He leaves his family for the trip to the rig, 41 miles out at sea. Berg crafts a story that hits the expected beats: ominous build-up (shots of the ocean floor bubbling), dismissive corporate bean-counters, plucky survivors, on-the-job Coast Guarders, nail-biting escapes, and worried wives back on land.

But the special-effects crew does a great job, and virtual time spent aboard the post-blow-out rig is pretty nerve-wracking: Dangers include high-velocity oily mud, poisonous gases, fire, drowning, flying debris, and the sea being on fire. The film suggests but doesn’t go deep into the tangle of subcontractors and accountability that complicated the situation before, during and after the explosion. But internecine politics are pretty moot when your workplace blows up in the middle of the ocean. out of 4

All of these ran previously in the Pittsburgh City Paper.

thankfulness

What are you Thankful for?

By LA Guzda Tim Sohn, Sohn Social Media Solutions I am thankful for my wife, our two beautiful girls, to be given the opportunity to work and be a stay-at-home dad for the last five years, and for our wonderful friends.

David Good, M3 Internet Marketing / Pocono Business Journal / Visit Poconos I’m thankful for family and friends who have supported me in my work and personal endeavors. It is such a blessing to have a beautiful wife, wonderful kids, and great pets!

Steven Kiesendahl, Woodloch Family My relationships—God, Friends, Family, & Loved ones are what I am most thankful for. — It is interesting that most of these relationships were built through my family’s business; which would be the next on the list of things that I am thankful for- the success of Woodloch. I am also grateful for my health, nature, music, and good food and wine!

Aimee Skier, AMSkier Insurance I am thankful for my newlywed husband, my amazing family, and our first child due to arrive next month. I am also very thankful to have such a meaningful career (our clients are more than clients - they are friends) along with a work family that is so supportive and dedicated to enriching our community.

Mike Mancino, Lackawaxen Township Supervisor I am thankful for my beautiful family and the opportunity to serve as a Lackawaxen Township Supervisor. I am thankful that I have the ability to affect change, protect our pristine environment, and give back to a community rich with caring friends and neighbors.

Rob Howell, General Manager Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort I am thankful for family; my related family, Shawnee family, Stroudsburg family and Pocono Mountains family. Their support, love and kindness make life special.

Jeanne Genzlinger, Setttlers Inn/Ledges/Silver Birches I am thankful for my family and my friends, most importantly, and … thankful for my dog, my home, my health, and for every day I get to see another beautiful sunset!

Patricia Ianniello, Hawley Resident – Retired I am thankful my ex-husband wanted a divorce so I could have the life I have now.

did you know?

Pat Gibbons, Retired – Dan Beard Cabin Boy Scouts Volunteer I am grateful for the opportunity to have driven across this great country of ours, not once, but three times.

Only after doing this do you appreciate what we have here. Our National Parks are the crown jewels of our country. It is unfathomable what the Park Service is able to do on a daily basis, with the pittance they receive to work with! Each and every single Park that we have visited was extraordinary - from the smallest to the largest – and the largest are absolutely spectacular! There are no words to adequately describe them.

Carl Wilgus, Executive Director Pocono Mountains CVB I’m thankful to have the ability to live and work in the Pocono Mountains where I can enjoy my favorite recreation so close to where I live and work.

Evan Shepp, Sr Catering Manager, The Inn at Pocono Manor I am thankful for my job, my home, and my children!

Colleen Edwards, Career Coordinator Wallenpaupack Area School District Time…to do what I love… and be with family, friends, and Paul and enjoy the little things and simple pleasures in life.

Laurie A. Guzda, LAGuzda Creative Arts & Services Gratitude for my freedom, I am thankful that I am an American regardless of who wins this election. I am thankful to all of those who made and make America possible. I am grateful to live in such a beautiful, natural area with kind, thoughtful neighbors and friends. I am grateful that I have enough food to eat, clean water to drink and a warm place to lay my head. I am grateful for friendships that warm my heart. I am grateful to everyone I meet and the lessons they teach me

Happy Thanksgiving!

I invite you to visit www.PoconoSecrets.com for more thoughts on Thank-fullness (I wasn’t able to include everyone and all of what they wrote in the Connections article) and I welcome you to add your own. We have much to be thankful for, even in challenging times. Let us remember to be thankful every day.

I invite you to continue adding #PoconoSecrets to your beautiful images on social media.

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

[ www.connections-magazine.com ] spread the word... full issues available online

17

lifestyle

outdoor ramblings

The weather was fantastic when you started your hike.

It was a brisk late autumn afternoon and there was no bad weather in the forecast.

Along the way, you stopped to watch wildlife and lingered around a lake perhaps a bit too long. Noticing the fleeting twilight, you hurry along the path in order to get back to the trailhead before nightfall, but in your haste, you miss a turn in the trail. Before you notice your mistake, the sun has dropped below the horizon and finding your way has become impossible.

You are lost!

Getting lost during the day is something that happens more frequently than you’d believe. It’s not uncommon for Forest Fire Specialist Supervisor Bill Delling of the Delaware State Forest, who oversees DCNR Search and Rescue operations in Pike County, to field several calls a year from outdoor enthusiasts that are unable to locate their position while the sun is shining. More often than not, Delling can talk them back to a landmark and get them back on the correct path without ever leaving the forestry station, let alone organizing a search party.

Nighttime is a game changer, both for the missing party and for a SAR team. Even if you have cell phone service, without a number of necessary pieces of equipment, you’re likely going to be spending the night in the woods.

Once lost, the best thing to do is to just stay put.

Hug a tree, literally, if you must, but trying to find your way out generally only makes matters worse.

Being prepared for just such an event begins before you even leave your house. The first thing you should always do before heading into the wild is let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return. If you don’t check in, they should begin the process to get help.

Regardless of the season or the time of day you set out, a flashlight should be something you have in your pack or pocket. I don’t suggest you try to use it to navigate your way out once you become lost, but if you are fairly certain of where you are once it gets dark, it can help you find your way and prevent you from losing your way. Furthermore, if you are lost it provides some psychological comfort and can be used to attract the attention of a search party.

Another item that can also help people find you is a whistle. It can be heard from much farther distances than yelling and is more distinct. You can

18 spread the word... full issues available online

[ www.connections-magazine.com ]

also blow a whistle with more ease and for a longer duration than you can holler.

It should go without saying that you should have water and at least some snacks with you on your journey, but I see too many folks “just out for a short walk” who neglect to bring along something to quench their thirst and quiet their rumbling tummy.

I never venture into the forest without a pocketknife and a disposable lighter. A lighter is more efficient than matches when starting a fire. You can whittle a fuzz stick (you’ll have to look that up) to help you get the fire going. Light, heat, a sense of security, and a beacon for searchers, having a fire when you’re stuck in the woods overnight is one of the best things you can have.

Having a map might help you not lose your way, but once you’re lost, put it away. If you must make your way out of the woods, following a stream is a good way to find civilization, generally. In most cases the waterway will cross a road. If you have a map and a landmark, you might be able to pinpoint your location. Traveling along the road most likely will put you in contact with someone driving.

A few other items that you should carry, especially in the fall and early spring when there can be a wide swing in daytime and nighttime temperatures, are an extra sweater or jacket, as well as an extra pair of socks. A knit hat and gloves are also good things to have. A small first-aid kit and a mylar emergency blanket are items to consider taking along as well.

Above all, the most important thing to possess is a calm head. Panicking undoubtedly will lead to you making poor decisions and only serve to prolong your misplacement. williamjdeaton@yahoo.com

classics

lifestyle

1971 Chevrolet

Chevelle

By Arnie Milidantri

he days are chilly and the trees have shed their leaves once again, but we true car enthusiasts cherish each sunny day and the chance for one more cruise in our babied rides before they get tucked in for their long winters nap. This is especially true for convertibles, and one of my favorite is the Chevrolet Chevelle. No matter how cold it is outside, nothing warms the blood of a “die hard” car enthusiast like a ride in a classic convertible (preferably with heat on). I have been fortunate to get a ride once in a while in some great cars this past year. One of them just happened to be a 1971 Chevrolet Chevelle convertible, and the heater worked!

T

The car featured this month is a beautifully restored 1971 Chevrolet Chevelle convertible owned by Mr. Lou Filosa of Lake Ariel, PA, a regular at Northeastern PA cruises and shows. Lou’s car is an excellent example of a time when cars had unique styling, sound and almost cult following.

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

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

The Chevelle SS 396 had its own series in 1966. The SS 396 sport coupes and convertibles used the same Malibu sport coupe and convertible bodies with reinforced frames and revised front suspension: higher-rate springs, recalibrated shocks, and thicker front stabilizer bar, but with different exterior trim. Halfway through the first generation years, the 1966 body was completely restyled; the Chevelle, still on the previous frame, included smooth contours, a broad new grille and bumper treatment, and curved side windows. The new body reflected the “Coke bottle” body shape that became the fad for American cars in the mid-1960s.

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

Chevrolet also added 14” wheels and a three speed automatic transmission to their line of transmissions. An entire host of new safety equipment became standard, including a collapsible steering column. Options included Superlift air shock absorbers, Strato-ease headrests, and special instrumentation.

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

The 1969 Chevelle body changes included a new grille with a horizontal bar separating the upper and lower section gave a wider look to the front end. Parking lamps were moved inboard into the center bumper opening. The body side molding was eliminated and replaced by an optional body side-stripe, and larger taillights and a blacked out center panel gave the rear end a more aggressive look. For 1969, the Super Sport became an option package, rather than a unique model as it was in 1968. The SS 396 package included a mild mannered 325 horsepower 396 cubic-inch V-8, three-speed manual transmission, domed hood, black accented grille, power front disc brakes, wide oval tires and special suspension system. The SS’s interior was comfortable but not luxurious. The dash sported twin round gauges centered above the steering column.

A vinyl-covered front bench seat was standard equipment, but Strato-bucket seats were offered as an option. The 1969 was the first year for headrests, beating the January 1970 federal requirement by about four months.

The 1970 Chevelle sheetmetal revisions gave the bodies a more squared-up stance following the coke bottle styling; interiors were also redesigned, too. The 1970 Chevelle shared many sheet metal body parts with the 1970 Buick Skylark GSX; both are GM automobiles and have interchangeable sheet metal. They’re also the only 2 high performance muscle cars to share the same roofline. One year only front and rear bumpers set the 1970 apart from the 1969 and 1971 models. The placement of the rectangular

taillights in the rear bumper, rectangular turn signals in the front bumper and dual headlight with matching body color trim taillights were unique to the 1970 Chevelle.

The 1971 Chevelle got fresh front-end and rear-end styling that included large Power-Beam single-unit headlights, a reworked grille and bumper, and integral park/signal/marker lights. New dual round taillights were integral with the back bumper. Because SS models suffered heavy insurance surcharges, Chevrolet introduced the “Heavy Chevy” at midyear, which was based on the base Chevelle, and was available with any V8 engine except the 454, which was exclusive to SS models. For 1971, the SS option was reduced to one RPO code, RPO Z15, and was only available for the Chevelle Malibu. This RPO code required any optional engine and transmission available in the Chevelle lineup. Since the 307 V8 was the standard base V8 in 1971, it could not be ordered with the SS option; one had to order one of the two 350 V8 engines (L65 or L48 - which reintroduced the small block to the SS option since the 1965 model year for USA market Chevelle), the LS3 402 or the LS5 454. GM mandated all divisions design their engines to run on lower-octane regular, low-lead or unleaded gasoline. This move reduced horsepower ratings on the big-block engines to 300 for the 402 cubic-inch V8 but surprisingly, the LS5 454 option got an “advertised” five-horsepower increase to 365.

Featured Car The car featured this month is a 1971 Chevelle convertible SS “Clone” (the trim and markings of the SS option have been added to a non-original SS Car) owned by Lou Filosa of Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania. The 1971 Chevelle has had a complete refresh of all mechanicals including the front and rear suspension, the 350 cu in engine, and 350 transmission. All new glass, chrome including SS badges and wheels where added once the excellent paint job was completed on the restored body. A completely new black interior was installed along with a new black convertible top. The end result is a eye-catching classic that attracts a crowd were ever it goes

Owner Mr. Louis Filosa retired in 1996 from the New York City Carpenters Union after 35 years of helping to build/rebuild New York City. In 2004, Lou moved to Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania. A lifelong lover of cars, specifically Chevrolet convertibles, he had his first ’64 Chevy Convertible in 1974 and sold the car in 1984. Twenty years later (2004) it was love at first sight when he located the big Goldwood color Chevrolet Impala convertible SS in northeast PA and was able to replace the one that “got away”! He had a 1973 Impala Convertible that he recently sold to make room for his 1971 Chevelle. He is one of our hobby’s characters, quick to laugh, always willing to drive in a parade or lend a helping hand when needed. Besides regularly attending local Northeast PA car shows/cruses, what he loves best is cruising’ in his Chevy Convertibles!

[ www.connections-magazine.com ] spread the word... full issues available online

19

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

ASK THE VET:

lifestyle

your pets

Prepare Your Home for Pets alking through the front door with a new pet is an exciting moment.

Unfortunately, if you are not prepared, the situation can become stressful and even dangerous for your pet in a matter of minutes.

Make sure you take care of these essentials before you pick up your new furry friend.

W

Pet Proof Your House or Apartment Get down on your pet’s level and take a good look at your home. You will probably spot a few potential hazards that you might never have noticed from your vantage point. Before you open that carrier or take off that leash, make sure you:

1}

Move cleaning supplies and medications out of your pet’s reach. If you cannot move them, invest in child-safe latches for your kitchen and bathroom cabinets.

2}

Find a safe place for thread, yarn, and other craft supplies that curious pets may mistake for a snack.

3}

Block small spaces to avoid a middle-of-the-night rescue for your new puppy or kitten. That space between the oven and kitchen cabinet may seem like the perfect hiding spot for a new pet. Unfortunately, your furry friend may discover that it’s easier to get into these spots than out of them.

Remove shoes, clothing, and other items that can become chew toys.

Put electrical and phone cords out of your pet’s reach or place them in a cord protector.

4} 5}

Shorten cords from mini blinds, as dangling cords can become a choking hazard.

20 spread the word... full issues available online

6}

Keep houseplants out of the reach of pets. Not only will pets make a mess if they knock over a plant, but they may become sick if they eat a poisonous plant.

Buy All the Essentials Make sure you have everything your pet needs before his or her homecoming.

Stock up on these pet care essentials: • Carrier • Leash or harness • Crate • Litterbox and litter • Scratching post • Cage and bedding (if you’re bringing home a small animal) • Nail clippers • Food • Treats • Food and water bowls • Pet bed • Toys • Brush • Pet shampoo

Some Things to Think About If you’re bringing home a cat or kitten, consider purchasing multiple litter boxes. Place them on several floors of your home or in several rooms. It may take a little while for your cat to learn the floor plan of your home. Using multiple litter boxes can help prevent accidents.

Dogs, even previously housetrained dogs, can have accidents when adjusting to a new home. In addition to taking your pet outdoors regularly, prepare for the possibility of an accident by placing a wee-wee pad next to the door, just in case you don’t wake up as early as your dog would like. Keep enzymatic cleaner on hand to clean up any messes that do occur. Enzymatic cleaner breaks down stains and neutralizes the smell of urine.

If you don’t remove the odor from the area, your pet may be drawn to that spot in the future and decide it’s a perfectly fine place to urinate.

Do you have a new pet? Why not call us today and schedule an appointment for its first exam and shots, if needed.

[ www.connections-magazine.com ]

3

Questions to Consider Before You Get a Pet Have you been thinking about getting a pet?

Pets offer unconditional love and add joy to our lives, but they are a significant responsibility. Before you get a pet, ask yourself these questions:

Do I Have Time for a Pet? No matter how much you love animals, getting a pet is not a good idea if you are rarely home. Pets need human companionship — and regular bathroom breaks. If you do not have time for a pet, but want to indulge your love of animals, consider volunteering at an animal shelter. You’ll get all the benefits of interacting with pets without the responsibility.

Are My Children Old Enough for a Pet? Most young children love pets but aren’t always gentle with them. Those love taps can hurt an animal or even cause it to bite or scratch your child if it feels threatened. If you won’t be able to provide constant supervision for your child and pet, wait a few years until he or she is a little older.

Can I Afford a Pet? Caring for a pet isn’t cheap. In addition to food, supplies and toys, you’ll also need to budget for yearly veterinary care. Plan for at least one well exam per year when your pet is young and at least two exams as your pet gets older. Pet insurance can help you manage the costs of accidents, illnesses, teeth cleaning and surgeries, particularly if you purchase it soon after you bring your pet home.

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

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

[ www.connections-magazine.com ] spread the word... full issues available online

21

wellness

behavioral medicine

Physician

Heal Thyself

By Arthur Middleton, M.D., FAPA

We cannot banish dangers, but we can banish fears.

We must not demean life by standing in awe of death. ~David Sarnoff

hysicians and clinicians of all disciplines have had to grapple with the complexities of treating patients in a variety of settings; hospitals, clinics and offices. The demands of a busy practice often limit the visit with a patient to twenty minutes, and it is not uncommon for the patient to be seen later than expected. In this setting, it is sometimes hard for patients to address all of their physical complaints. While behavioral health clinicians are focused on specific issues like having thoughts of self-harm, it does not mean that these issues are not also addressed in a primary care office. They are and clinicians in these settings are aware of this issue.

P

In a press release from HealthDay News (September 15, 2016), it was reported that “almost 10 million U.S. Adults seriously thought about committing suicide last year.” It was also reported that “nearly three million adults made a plan to take their own life and 1.4 million adults attempted suicide but weren’t successful.” As noted in the press release, a SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) report noted that there was an increase in suicidal thoughts among the U.S. population of 18 to 25 year olds, “from 7.5 percent in 2014 to 8.3 percent in 2015.” The report also noted that young adults had “higher levels of suicidal thoughts than any other age group.”

While physicians do their best in daily practices to avoid making mistakes and treating their patients with an accurate diagnosis, the cost is often personal stress. While many physicians generally earn well, they also work long hours and often carry their patients’ problems home. The beeper has been replaced by the cell phone. The electronic medical record can now be accessed at home. The physician gradually becomes used to being tied to a practice or a hospital and it is hard to separate the personal life from the professional life. Despite dealing with issues involving family or personal health, many physicians and clinicians involved with direct patient care try to keep their focus on their patients,

22 spread the word... full issues available online

not on themselves. We consider this to be central to good patient care, but it can have a deleterious impact on the emotional health of the clinician.

The following fictional clinical vignette is presented to highlight an aspect of clinical care that may not be considered by their patients.

JT is a 52 y/o primary care doctor. He has been in private practice for twenty years and has become central to the provision of health care in his community. JT is married and has two sons who are currently in college. His wife is a nurse who works in a hospital. JT works long hours and is finding it increasingly difficult to get home at a reasonable time.

Initially, his practice was a joyous experience and he was happy to treat patients and provide competent health care. He partnered with a colleague and saw their practice grow into a successful enterprise, something he never anticipated. He did not have a business background, but his partner did and was the one who focused on the business aspects of the practice. JT was grateful for this as it allowed him to focus on patient care.

As the practice grew, it became less recognizable to JT. He had envisioned an uncomplicated family practice. Over the course of the years, he and his partner hired several nurses and physician assistants. The physical size of the office expanded to include multiple examination rooms. As the technology advanced, JT began to realize that he needed to purchase new equipment every year. As the costs rose, his ability to collect fees decreased as he saw his reimbursement drop. JT continued to remain committed to his patients, treating them without regard to limitations of time, as he often spent more than 30 minutes in follow-up visits.

When he and his clinical business associate reviewed the finances of the practice, it was decided that patient follow-up visits would be limited to twenty minutes. JT was frustrated by this as he found that he was spending a considerable amount of time behind his computer and not as much time as he used to spend with his patients. He felt that he was denying them a standard of care that was important for him to provide. JT’s frustration wors[ www.connections-magazine.com ]

ened when his clinical business partner decided to leave the practice and join a hospital practice.

JT found that without the business expertise of his colleague, he was floundering.

When seeing patients, he was unable to find a positive connection and generally avoided doing the careful examinations to which his patients were accustomed. At the end of the day, he dreaded completing the paperwork that was necessary, and over the course of time began to drink at his office in the evenings when he reviewed correspondence and completed notes. JT knew that this was a serious development. He began to think of selling his practice but soon discovered that this was more difficult than he had thought initially.

JT’s wife knew that her husband was unhappy with his work and urged him to see a psychiatrist, but JT resisted this, thinking that it would “mark” him as unbalanced. JT thought that even the suggestion that he see a psychiatrist might be the end of his career. His drinking at night accelerated and one evening he did not return home. His wife, fearing the worst, drove to his office where she found her husband slumped over his desk with an empty bottle of brandy. She awakened her husband.

When he sat up, she saw a note that he was writing.

It was a suicide note. JT told her that he had been thinking of ending his life, but didn’t feel that he could follow through with it. He told her he was drunk when he wrote the note, and felt that he was getting his emotions out by doing so.

JT was able to get coverage for his practice and took several months off, finally seeing a psychiatrist as well as going to a group comprised of doctors and other professionals who had similar experiences.

When JT returned to his practice, it was because he wanted to do so. He brought in a nurse practitioner and a mental health counselor to expand the services of the practice. He also began to mentor young medical residents to share his experience and help them to understand, and hopefully avoid, “physician burnout.”

The fictional clinical vignette is presented to highlight the experience of stress which is common to

dentures physicians. Physician burnout is a real issue which not only endangers the well-being of the physician but also can lead to poor patient care.

The risk of alcohol abuse is increased as well as suicidal ideation and, in the extreme, a completed suicide.

In an article by Elaine Cox, M.D. titled: Doctor Burnout, Stress and Depression: Not an Easy Fix, in the U.S. News & World Report (April 12, 2016), the author writes about the experience of practicing doctors as well as doctors in training noting that “doctors are 15 times more likely to burn out than professionals in any other line of work.” The author also reports that “there are 300 to 400 physician suicide deaths each year.”

As reported by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), in 2014 “more than 42,000 Americans took their own lives and almost half a million Americans received medical care for self-inflicted injuries.” Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the U.S. The CDC also reports that “more than one million adults self-reported a suicide attempt, and 9.4 million adults selfreported serious thoughts of suicide.”

While the costs associated with suicide; $44.6 billion year in combined medical and work loss costs, are staggering, the emotional costs to survivors is a significant as well. The CDC also reports that “survivors” of suicide can include family members, friends, co-workers and neighbors.

This also includes caregivers.

According to the former NIMH (National Institute of Mental Health) Director, Thomas Insel, M.D., “with every suicide, there are 11 victims – the person who died and 10 caregivers devastated by the loss who are themselves at risk.”

While we cannot predict, with absolute certainty, who might commit suicide, we can identify the risk factors and warning signs that are central to prevention. The CDC identifies these risk factors, which includes a family history of suicide, history of a previous attempt, depression or mental illness, history of drug or alcohol abuse, stressful life event or loss, and access to lethal methods, such as firearms which account for nearly half of all completed suicides. There are also “protective factors,” which include skills in problem solving, effective care for mental, physical illness and substance abuse. Family and community support is equally important as is access to clinical care.

Cultural or religious beliefs that discourage self-harm is also important.

Warning signs include talking about suicide, giving away personal possessions, becoming isolated and withdrawn, and talking about being a burden.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), as reported in a Science Update (March 27, 2014), citing an article in the February 2014 issue of the Journal of General Internal

Medicine, “83 percent of individuals received health care services in the year prior to suicide death and half did not have a mental health diagnosis.” This report underscores the importance of widening the screening for depression and substance abuse, and highlights the fact that primary care providers do see a population of patients who might be at risk for suicide. This further increases the pressure on a discipline that may also be dealing with the increased stress of seeing a higher number of patients in a shorter period of time. Recognizing the consequences of a failure to identify symptoms that may not be voiced by the patient only adds to the burden of an overworked physician, who is committed to healing.

In summary, it is possible to treat depression and substance abuse and to provide counseling and support to individuals who are under stress, isolated and without support. Families and friends are often able to recognize warning signs that might suggest that the individual is considering selfharm, but this is not always the case.

Physicians are not immune to the consequences of stress and substance abuse. Health care providers of all disciplines need to be able to identify patients, whom they believe to be at risk for self-harm, making certain they receive appropriate treatment. The goal is to reduce the number of people who take their own lives. Physicians are included and must recognize that they must take care of themselves as well.

The following references are provided for the informed consumer: CDC: Beyond the Data — Preventing Suicide: A Comprehensive Public Health Approach (YouTube) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gqXA_YWWI CU The National Institute of Mental Health: Suicide and suicidal behavior https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001554.htm National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273TALK Dr. Middleton is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, and a Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He received his undergraduate training at New York University and an MD degree from Rutgers Medical School. Dr. Middleton completed his psychiatric residency at St. Vincent’s Hospital & Medical Center, in NYC. He is on the honorary medical staff (retired) of Hackensack University Medical Center in NJ, where he is also Chairman Emeritus of the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Medicine. Dr. Middleton has been on the voluntary teaching faculty of Mount Sinai School of Medicine and Brown Medical School.

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

wellness

The Healthy

Gee z er

By Fred Cicetti

Q.

I have vivid memories of my mother’s dentures in a glass next to her bed. As I enter my seventies, is this what I have to look forward to?

Let’s start with a definition.

“Dentures”—also called “complete dentures” or “plates”—are for people with no teeth. Dentures cover your entire upper or lower jaw. There are removable partial dentures, too; these are made of replacement teeth attached to plastic bases, which are connected by metal framework.

If you practice good dental hygiene, you should be able to avoid dentures as you get older. Losing your teeth is not considered a normal consequence of aging. Teeth are designed to last a lifetime.

Advancements in treatment and better oral hygiene have made dentures less necessary. One reputable survey showed that the rate that seniors lose their teeth has dropped by 60 percent since 1960.

But, if you are among the unfortunate who require dentures, here is some useful information.

Those dentures your mother wore can’t compare to the modern choppers.

The latest technology and better materials make the dentures of today more comfortable and better looking.

Dentures are placed on the gums, which are over bone. Sometimes one or more natural teeth are kept and they fit under the denture. A denture that is anchored by real teeth is called an “overdenture.”

An overdenture is more stable; it inhibits shifting in the mouth. Teeth used in overdentures are usually given a root canal, which replaces the pulp with filling material. The pulp is known commonly as the tooth’s “nerve.”

Immediately after dentures are made, they often feel odd in the mouth.

There’s a period of adjustment.

One difficult challenge is eating, which is never the same as it was before dentures.

The following are some pointers for eating with dentures: • Don’t bite with your front teeth or pull your food outward from your mouth.

• Chew food on both sides of your

mouth simultaneously to stabilize your dentures.

• Cut food into small pieces.

• When you first eat with your dentures, you should avoid sticky foods, raw vegetables, and hard-to-chew meats.

• It is more difficult to feel inside your mouth when you wear dentures, so be careful with hot foods and anything with small bones.

And here are some more challenges that can confront denture-wearers: • Speaking is a different experience.

You should try speaking slowly at first, and practice by reading aloud.

• You may have more saliva in your mouth.

• When you sneeze, cough or yawn, your dentures may loosen.

• Dentures have to be removed at least once daily to rest the tissue below them. Most denture-wearers remove their plates before bed and store them a cleaning solution.

• After you have been wearing dentures for years, your jaws become smaller, and the dentures don’t fit as well. Slippage, gum irritation, and odor indicate that your dentures may not fit correctly.

If your dentures need a correction, go to your dentist. Relining and rebasing are alterations that adjust your dentures. Rebasing involves making an entirely new denture base, while relining modifies the existing one. Both procedures maintain the denture’s existing artificial teeth.

It is also a good idea to make regular visits to the dentist. In addition to tending to your dentures, your dentist can examine your mouth for bone loss, oral cancer, infections, and other conditions.

One last note about adhesives. They make wearing dentures easier.

However, adhesives should not be used to compensate for dentures that don’t fit correctly.

All Rights Reserved © 2016 by Fred Cicetti

[ www.connections-magazine.com ] spread the word... full issues available online

23

wellness

laser vision

HERE’S LOOKING AT YOU

By Dr. Frank A. Bucci, Jr.

Your Second Chance to See Life for the First y the age of 80, more than half of Americans will have developed a cataract. Cataracts develop naturally within the eye, blurring vision and increasing our need for glasses or other refractive alternatives.

Fortunately, cataract surgery has advanced tremendously throughout the years. Although cataract surgery is a relatively low risk procedure, Dr. Bucci performs cataract surgery, which requires no needle, no patch, and full activity is permitted the following day.

B

An Ophthalmologist performs cataract surgery. The procedure replaces the natural lens of your eye with an artificial lens. There are two categories of lenses, monofocal, which focuses primarily on distance vision and will require reading glasses after the procedure.

The other category of lenses, multifocal lenses, focuses light at difference distances, allowing the patient to see near, intermediate, and far. In 2008, Dr. Bucci participated in the Tecnis Multifocal lens clinical trial. After receiving FDA approval in 2009, he was the first surgeon to implant this technology in Pennsylvania, Top 10 in the USA. This

24 spread the word... full issues available online

advancement eliminated a patient’s need for bifocals.

More recently approved by the FDA, the Symfony lens implant has layered rings in the lens and provides extended depth of focus. The Symfony lenses can also be used in people with eye problems, including mild macular degeneration. The Symfony also comes in a version that corrects astigmatism.

Another medical advancement offered by Dr. Bucci is the LensAR Femtosec-ond Laser Assisted technology in order to pulverize the hardening of the lens, “the cataract”, as well as provide Real-time imaging that provides a high-resolution, 3D image of your eye during the planning phase of your procedure.

Image-guided surgical planning software enables Dr. Bucci to program the size, shape, and location of the incision with greater accuracy. The LensAR Femto laser enables every step of your cataract surgery to be planned, customized, and executed with ease and precision.

A growing number of people age 50 or older are getting lens implants in order to turn back the effects of time, before they develop cataracts, replacing their natural lenses that have lost their ability to change shape and shift from near to far with age, a condition called presbyopia. This is also an option for patients who aren’t candidates for

[ www.connections-magazine.com ]

the cornea-correcting Custom Vue Bladeless LASIK (traditionally performed on patients 18-40).

These advanced lenses and femtosecond lasers do require out-of-pocket costs.

Traditional cataract surgery is usually covered by insurance and Medicare, but reading glasses and sometimes bifocals are required afterwards. The advanced technology of these multifocal lenses potentially frees a patient from glasses, providing independence and the ability see cell phone or computer screens, road signs or the TV without stopping to put on glasses. Many patients determine that an investment in their vision is one they’ll benefit from every day of their lives.

Not only is it important to choose the right procedure, but it is more important to choose the right surgeon. Meet Dr. Bucci, our sole surgeon, who has performed over 26,000 micro surgical procedures. Schedule your consultation and discover what your surgical options are!

Schedule a Free LASIK evaluation with Dr. Bucci and discover if you’re a CustomVue Bladeless LASIK candidate.

a+r+e Y O U

C O N N E C T E D

Ongoing Events DAILY

Public Art Displays Nature’s Grace, Dime Bank & Wayne Bank, Wayne Memorial Hospital, Harvey Insurance, Honesdale. & Pocono Lake Region Chamber of Commerce, Hawley. Wayne County Arts Alliance artists display their work monthly.

DAILY

Public Art Display REMAX Wayne, Honesdale. Art displays of local artists all year long.

Info: 570-253-9566.

MONDAYS

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

Registration & info: 570-996-1500.

MONDAYS

Kundalini Yoga 5:30–6:30 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. Ages 16 & up. Experience the gifts that Kundalini yoga has to offer as you explore breath, movement & mantra. Bring a yoga mat & blanket.

Registration & info: 570-996-1500.

area events

ARTS, RECREATION & ENTERTAINMENT

NOVEMBER ’16

inspired. Learn the craft of writing as you write toward a goal of publication.

All genres & levels of writing welcome.

Free admission. Info: 570-833-5246.

THURSDAYS

Trivia Thursdays 8 p.m. The Dock on Wallenpaupack, Hawley. Hilarious combination of trivia & physical challenges. Compete with teams to win a gift certificate, gold medal & bragging rights.

Info: 570-226-2124.

FRIDAYS

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

FRIDAYS

Live Music 8 p.m.–Midnight. The Dock on Wallenpaupack, Hawley. Great drink specials, delicious food & live music. Info: 570226-2124 or silverbirchesresortpa.com.

WEDNESDAYS

Lego Club 4:30–5:30 p.m. Pike County Public Library, Milford. Create, share ideas, make new friends. Free, open to public, registration requested.

Info: www.pcpl.org or Facebook.

Registration: 570-296-8211.

THROUGH DEC. 9

Illustrating Scranton: The Drawings of Don Murray Weinberg Memorial Library, The University of Scranton. Art display of pen & ink drawings of historic architecture & landmark sites of Scranton & the surrounding region. Free during library hours. Info: 570-941-6341 or michael.knies@scranton.edu.

November 1– November 9 NOV. 1

NOV. 4

2nd Rock ’n the River Benefit Concert Hilton Scranton & Convention Center, Scranton. Lackawanna River Conservation Association benefit concert.

Music by The Dishonest Fiddlers, Jung Bergo, The Far Future, Mountain Sky Orchestra & Mickey Spain. Cash bar & food, raffles, LRCA info & more.

Info: 570-347-6311.

NOV. 4

Italian Wine Dinner 7 p.m. The Settlers Inn, Hawley.

Featuring Pio Cesare Winery for a taste of Italy. Prix fixe menu.

Info & reservations: 570-226-2993 or www.thesettlersinn.com.

NOV. 4

Live Piano Music in the Dining Room 6–9 p.m. The Settlers Inn, Hawley.

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

DIY: Sourdough Bread Baking 7–9 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale.

Learn a simple method for making sourdough bread at home & practice all the steps from feeding the sourdough culture to baking the loaves. Bring an apron & a small Tupperware. Space limited. Reservations & info: 570-253-2020 or info@thecooperageproject.org.

Frontiers: The Journey Tribute 8 p.m. Mauch Chunk Opera House, Jim Thorpe. The band, fronted by Elaine Tuttle & Damon Marks & supported by veteran musicians, takes audience members on a sweet ride down memory lane. Info: 570-325-0249 or mcohjt.com.

SATURDAYS

NOV. 2

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

See glass stretched & made into beautiful items, including watching the glass worked, learning how glass is made & what creates the colors.

Info: 570-561-3629.

Simply Yoga 10–11:15 a.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. Ages 16 & up. Suitable for all levels. Wear comfortable clothes, bring a mat, towel or blanket, & water. Series of 6 or per class. Registration & info: 570-996-1500.

Medicare Annual Open Enrollment The Wayne County Area Agency on Aging hosts free insurance counseling for Medicare recipients. Trained counselors answer your questions & provide information. Walk-ins not accepted.

Info: 570-253-4262.

Asian Studies Film Festival: Chinese Women in the 20th Century & Beyond 6 p.m. Brennan Hall, The University of Scranton. Film screening of “The King of Masks.” Free. Info: 570-941-7643 or shuhua.fan@scranton.edu.

NOV. 1

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

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

SATURDAYS

WEDNESDAYS (EXC. NOV. 23)

THROUGH DEC. 7

NOV. 3

NOV. 4

Bingo American Legion Post 311, Hawley.

Doors open 10:30 a.m., games begin at Noon. Info: legionpost311@qmail.com.

Nia 5:30–6:30 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. Ages 16 & up. Combination of yoga, martial arts & dance, for your health, wellness & fitness. Registration & info: 570-996-1500.

gallery hours. Info: 570-941-4214 or darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.

Home School “Saw-whet Owl Banding” 7 p.m. Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, Bartonsville. For grades K–12. Program on the diminutive & fascinating northern saw-whet owl & Project Owlnet, a continent-wide banding effort. Info: 570-629-3061 or www.mcconservation.org.

SATURDAYS

TUESDAYS

TUESDAYS

get connected

SATURDAYS

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

Info: 570-629-9399.

SATURDAYS

Live Music 9 p.m.–1 a.m. The Dock on Wallenpaupack, Hawley. Great drink specials, delicious food & live music. Info: 570226-2124 or silverbirchesresortpa.com.

THURSDAYS

THROUGH NOV. 18

Writers’ Group 7–8:30 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. Ages 18 & up. Ongoing group.

Come read your work or listen & be

Art Exhibit: “Tower: Paintings by Dale Emmart.”

Hope Horn Gallery, Hyland Hall, The University of Scranton. Free during

Lunch and Learn: Preparing your Vehicle for Winter Noon–1 p.m. Wayne County Public Library, Honesdale. Nina Waskevich & Deanna Marcinko from AAA North Penn presenting. Lunch provided.

Registration & info: Elizabeth, 570-253-1220 or ewilson@waynelibraries.org.

NOV. 2

Public Bog Walk 1–3:30 p.m. Monroe County Conservation District Cranberry Bog, Tannersville. Wear appropriate footwear. Preregistration required.

Info: 570-629-3061 or www.mcconservation.org.

The Doll Sisters 8–10 p.m. Hawley Silk Mill, Hawley.

Fiery Celtic Americana duo weaves haunting harmonies & stellar songwriting together to create an unforgettable experience for the audience.

Info: 570-588-8077 or harmonypresents.com.

NOV. 4

Sully Erna 8 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

The voice of Godsmack performs.

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

NOV. 4, 5

Treasure Island 10 a.m. Shawnee Playhouse, Shawnee On Delaware. Children’s show. Young Jim Hawkins is an ordinary boy looking forward to Halloween. His fantasy comes to life when pirate Billy Bones steps right into his bedroom & leaves him a treasure map. Info: 570-421-5093 or www.TheShawneePlayhouse.com.

NOV 4, 5, 6

Shakespeare’s The Comedy of Errors 10 a.m. Shawnee Playhouse, Shawnee On Delaware. The story of two sets of identical twins accidentally separated at birth. One of his shortest & most farcical comedies, with a major part of the

[ www.connections-magazine.com ] spread the word... full issues available online

25

get connected humor from slapstick & mistaken identity, as well as puns & wordplay.

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

NOV. 5

Northeast PA Kids Judge Neuroscience Fair 9 a.m. Loyola Science Center, The University of Scranton. Students learn how the brain works by participating in hands-on neuroscience experiments.

Free. Registration required.

Info: 570-941-4419 or community@scranton.edu.

NOV. 5

Vintage Costume Jewelry Show 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Sparta Avenue Stage, Sparta, NJ. Vintage dazzling necklaces, brooches, rings, bracelets & earrings available. Open to public; no fee.

Handicapped-accessible.

Info: Joyce Simmons, 201-213-2146 or simmonsjo@yahoo.com.

NOV. 5

Who’s Gonna Hibernate?

10 a.m. Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, Bartonsville. Learn what your favorite Pocono critters will be doing during the winter months.

Info: 570-629-3061 or www.mcconservation.org.

NOV. 5

Vaccine Clinic — Pike County Humane Society 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Lehman Township Fire Department, Bushkill.

Info: 570-296-7654.

NOV. 5

Art Opening: George Miller — “Pocono Area Landscapes” 11 a.m. Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, Bartonsville. Acrylic paintings of fields, ponds, lakes & flowers in the Pocono Mtns. area. Opening Reception: 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

Info: 570-629-3061 or www.mcconservation.org.

NOV. 5

Ham & Turkey Raffle Tafton Fire Company, Tafton. Your support at this event helps purchase new equipment. Info: 570.226.4273 or www.taftonfirecompany.com.

NOV. 5

Wayne County Historical Society Annual Dinner 5–7 p.m. Lukan’s Farm Resort, Hawley.

A night of delicious food, great company, raffle baskets, & the naming of the Richard Kreitner Lifetime Achievement Award recipient.

area events

Info: 570-253-3240.

NOV. 5

Half-Time 5:30 p.m. Milford Theatre, Milford.

Kindred Spirits Arts program. Young, ambitious Verona String Quartet plays midlife works of Haydn, Shostakovich & Beethoven. Info: 570-409-1269 or www.kindredspiritsarts.org.

NOV. 5

RiverFolk Concert: Carla Ulbrich with Lois Morton 7:30–10 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Presented by RiverFolk Concerts.

Ulbrich is a comical singer-songwriter & guitarist. Morton is a performing songwriter with a rapier wit & a surprisingly contemporary approach. Donations collected. Reservations & info: Jill, 845-252-6783 or riverfolkconcerts@frontier.com.

NOV. 5

Performance Music: “In Concert” 7:30 p.m. Houlihan-McLean Center, The University of Scranton. Featuring The University of Scranton Jazz Band with guest artist drummer Marion Felder. Free. Info: 570-941-7624 or music@scranton.edu.

NOV. 5

Stand Bac & The Idol Kings 8 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre.

Come on a magical ride with the music of Fleetwood Mac & be thrilled by the representation of Journey. Info: 570-826-1100 or www.kirbycenter.org.

NOV. 5

Kashmir: The Live Led Zeppelin Show 8 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

Most authentic representation of Led Zeppelin on the modern national touring scene. Info: 570-420-2808 or www.shermantheater.com.

NOV. 5

The Band Band: The Last Waltz 8 p.m. Mauch Chunk Opera House, Jim Thorpe. Very special 40th anniversary celebration of The Last Waltz, the 1976 farewell concert by the iconic roots rock group The Band. Includes hors d’oeuvres for a great night of terrific music & food. Info: 570-325-0249 or mcohjt.com.

NOV. 6

Tree I.D. at Quiet Valley Farm 1–3 p.m. Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm, Stroudsburg. Join Kettle Creek Environmental Ed. Center staff on an outdoor hike & learn to ID the trees on the farm & a little about their natural

International Flavors Dinner NOV. 5 5:30–7:30 p.m. Honesdale High School, Honesdale. Honesdale Rotary presents Mexican, French, Italian, Indian food & more from local restaurants & Rotarians.

Tickets available from any Rotarian, or at the door. Info: 570-309-7860.

history. Dress to walk outside.

Info: 570-629-3061 or www.mcconservation.org.

free raffle tickets. Info: 570-420-2808 or www.shermantheater.com.

NOV. 6

SECOND TIME AROUND: The Hubcap as Art Mahady Gallery, Marywood University, Scranton. A selection from Landfillart’s collection of more than 900 works of art made from discarded automobile hubcaps, created by professional artists hailing from every U.S. state & 52 countries. Reception: Nov. 12, 6–8 p.m. Info: 570-348-6278 or www.marywood.edu.

Further info on Landfill Art: landfillart.org.

Our Taste of the Town: Fabulous Fall Harvest 2–5 p.m. Carbondale Grand Hotel, Carbondale. Greater Carbondale Chamber presents 4th annual event. Enjoy delectable fare from some of the area’s favorite eateries. Partial proceeds benefit women’s resource center.

Info: 570-282-1690.

NOV. 6

Henry Rollins 8 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre.

Spoken-word tour mixes timely commentary on the current state of politics with anecdotes on his latest L.A. experiences, to perspective gained from his extensive world travels.

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

NOV. 6 & 13

Frankenstein — National Theatre Live on Screen 2 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock.

Thrilling production features Benedict Cumberbatch & Jonny Lee Miller alternating roles as Frankenstein & his creation. Nov. 6: Cumberbatch as Creature.

Info: 570-996-1500 or www.dietrichtheater.com.

NOV. 9

“Fiddler on the Roof” Bus Trip to Broadway Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. Departs 8 a.m.. Returns 11 p.m. See “Fiddler on the Roof” on Broadway.

Explore the city before the show.

Family-style dinner at Carmine's after.

Price includes orchestra seat, bus transportation & dinner. Registration & info: 570-996-1500.

NOV. 9

Around the World with Food: Culinary Book Club 5:30 p.m. Wayne County Public Library, Honesdale. French night. Food tastings, book discussion, demos, recipes. Info & registration: Elizabeth, 570-253-1220 or ewilson@waynelibraries.org.

NOV. 10–DEC. 16

NOV. 11

Veterans Freedom Hike 3–5 p.m. Lacawac Sanctuary, Lake Ariel. Historic hike & tour of Lacawac Sanctuary leads participants to a National Natural Landmark & Historic Place. Wear comfortable shoes. Registration appreciated. Info & registration: 570-689-9494 or info@lacawac.org.

NOV. 11

Warrior Writers 7–9 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. Ages 18 & up. Writing workshop supports artistic exploration & expression & provides a safe space to share experiences in the military culture.

Open to all veterans & service members. Free. Registration & info: 570-996-1500.

NOV. 11–13, 18–20

The Andrews Sisters: Christmas of Swing Shawnee Playhouse, Shawnee On Delaware. A joyful celebration of music, family & patriotism that mixes great holiday songs & comedy sketches with real letters from real World War II G.I.s. Wonderful entertainment & a tribute to the men & women of the Greatest Generation. Info: 570-421-5093 or www.TheShawneePlayhouse.com.

NOV. 11

Performance Music: “In Concert” 7:30 p.m. Houlihan-McLean Center, The University of Scranton. Featuring The University of Scranton String Orchestra. Free. Info: 570-941-7624 or music@scranton.edu.

NOV. 9

NOV. 11

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

Presented by The Cooperage Project.

Hosted by Crashing Aperture. Come to perform or come to listen & watch.

Donation-based event. BYOB. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.

Albert Cummings 8 p.m. Mauch Chunk Opera House, Jim Thorpe. When it comes to blues guitar, he’s the real deal, not to mention a deeply talented frontman & singer.

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

November 10–November 19 NOV. 10

Asian Studies Film Festival: Chinese Women in the 20th Century & Beyond 6 p.m. Brennan Hall, The University of Scranton. Film screening of “Balzac & the Little Chinese Seamstress.” Free. Info: 570-941-7643 or shuhua.fan@scranton.edu.

NOV. 10

The LOFT presents 8 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

A night of ski & snowboard movie premieres plus amazing gear giveaways &

26 spread the word... full issues available online [ www.connections-magazine.com ] 26 spread the word... full issues available online [ www.connections-magazine.com ]

NOV. 11

Reel Big Fish 8 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

Turn The Radio Off Anniversary Tour with special guests Masked Intruder.

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

NOV. 11, 12

Treasure Island 10 a.m. Shawnee Playhouse, Shawnee On Delaware. See description at Nov. 4.

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

NOV 11–13, 18–20

Shakespeare’s The Comedy of Errors 10 a.m. Shawnee Playhouse, Shawnee On Delaware. See description at Nov. 4.

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

NOV. 12

Autumn’s Sounds 10 a.m. Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, Bartonsville. Join Darryl Speicher at for an auditory ramble along the trails of KC with a keen ear on the sounds of the season.

Info: 570-629-3061 or www.mcconservation.org.

sented by Delaware Valley Arts Alliance. Gallery hours: Tues.–Sat., 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Free. Info: 845-252-7576 or delawarevalleyartsalliance.org.

Frankenstein — National Theatre Live on Screen 2 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock.

See description at Nov. 6. Nov. 13: Miller as Creature. Info: 570-996-1500 or www.dietrichtheater.com.

NOV. 15

Honesdale HS Band Craft Show 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Honesdale High School & Middle School. Ceramics, jewelry, woodcrafts, wreaths, soaps, stained glass, photography, holiday gifts, baked goods. Basket raffles. Mobile ATM available. Supports Honesdale HS Marching Band.

Info: hhsbandcraftshow@yahoo.com.

U.S. Army Field Band & Soldiers’ Chorus 7 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre.

Special free concert event. Info: contact The Citizens' Voice, 570-821-2000.

Pet Adoption — Pike County Humane Society 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Walmart, Milford.

Info: 570-296-7654.

Grease — Dietrich Film Favorites Series 1 & 7 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. Olivia Newton-John & John Travolta in the feel-good musical. Free admission. Info: 570-996-1500.

NOV. 16

Public Bog Walk 2–4:30 p.m. Monroe County Conservation District Cranberry Bog, Tannersville. Wear appropriate footwear. Preregistration required.

Info: 570-629-3061 or www.mcconservation.org.

NOV. 12

NOV. 17

JingerKroa — Sherman Showcase 8 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

With Kill Van Kull, Ryder.

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

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

Board games, brain games, card games & more. All ages welcome. Bring your own game to share & teach or choose from the collection. Donations make this possible. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.

NOV. 12

Beatlemania NOW 8 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

Meticulously performs incredible notefor-note renditions of Beatles’ classics from throughout their entire career.

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

NOV. 12

70’s Flashback 8 p.m. Mauch Chunk Opera House, Jim Thorpe. An 8-piece band performing the greatest music of the 1970s.

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

NOV. 12

The NEPA Philharmonic: Masterworks II: Music of the Great Russian Composers 8 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre.

Guest artist Arnaud Sussmann, violinist. Including works by Shostakovich & Tchaikovsky. Info: 570-826-1100 or www.kirbycenter.org.

NOV. 12 & 13

Holiday Tea and Toast 2–4 p.m. Lacawac Sanctuary, Lake Ariel. Historic 1903 Watres Lodge will be dressed for the upcoming Christmas season while you enjoy a variety of baked goods & finger foods with seasonal tea. Guided tour. Register in advance. Info & registration: 570-689-9494 or info@lacawac.org.

NOV. 12–DEC. 23

Valley Artists Holiday Sale Alliance Gallery, Delaware Arts Center, Narrowsburg, NY. Sponsored & pre-

Shawnee Playhouse, Shawnee On Delaware. A snow blizzard carries Dorothy & Toto to the Magical Elfinsland where Glinda is the Good Witch of the North Pole.

Dorothy must get home to open her presents in the morning, so she sets off with the Snowman, the Tin Soldier & the Stuffed Lion to meet the Wizard in the Great Palace of Toys. Info: 570-421-5093 or www.TheShawneePlayhouse.com.

NOV. 16

Octonauts Live!

6 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre.

Calling all Octo-Cadets. Join the crew of beloved underwater explorers as they embark on an exciting new quest through an aquatic world full of adventure, interactive opportunity, & “mustsea” surprises from coast-to-coast. Info: 570-826-1100 or www.kirbycenter.org.

NOV. 12

A Christmas Wizard of Oz NOV. 18, 19

NOV. 13

NOV. 12

NOV. 12

get connected

NOV. 17

Asian Studies Film Festival: Chinese Women in the 20th Century & Beyond 6 p.m. Brennan Hall, The University of Scranton. Film screening of “Women Who Flirt.” Free. Info: 570-941-7643 or shuhua.fan@scranton.edu.

NOV. 17

Environmental Education Center, Bartonsville. Destinations & target birds will not be revealed until the day of the trip. Cost includes bus transportation. Bring a lunch, binoculars & dress for the weather. Pre-registration & payment required. Info: 570-629-3061 or www.mcconservation.org.

NOV. 18

Jake Shimabukuro 7:30 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, WilkesBarre. Combining the qualities of a long line of virtuoso ukulele players with modern rock musicians to create a sound that’s uniquely his own but still firmly grounded in Hawaiian tradition.

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

NOV. 18

Colt Ford 8 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

With special guest Haley Georgia.

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

NOV. 18

Hiroya Tsukamoto 8 p.m. Mauch Chunk Opera House, Jim Thorpe. A hypnotic blending of folk, jazz & world styles creates evocative images through his music & takes listeners on scenic journeys of melody, rhythm & place. Info: 570-325-0249 or mcohjt.com.

Stories From Around the World with Fiona Powell 6:30 p.m. Tunkhannock Public Library, Tunkhannock. Master storyteller Fiona Powell tells tales at her spinning wheel, mesmerizing young & old alike.

Free admission. Info: 570-996-1500.

NOV. 19

NOV. 17

NOV. 19

The Infamous Stringdusters 8 p.m. Mauch Chunk Opera House, Jim Thorpe. Tradition & innovation provide the interlocking roots of bluegrass & its descendants, a lively dance of elements skipping comfortably from ancient jigs to radio ditties to spacious experimentation. Info: 570-325-0249 or mcohjt.com.

Annual Bird Seed Sale 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, Bartonsville.

Wide variety of seed mixes & specialties & many new varieties of feeders. To get an order form, call 570-629-3061 or visit mcconservation.org.

NOV. 17

Dopapod & Pigeons Playing Ping Pong 8 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

Presented by Live For Live Music.

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

NOV. 18

Mystery Birding Trip 8:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Kettle Creek

Free Book Swap 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Wayne County Park Street Complex, Honesdale. Supports global literacy efforts with a donation to Better World Books. Info: Jenna Mauder, 610-392-7219 – 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.

NOV. 19

Vaccine Clinic — Pike County Humane Society 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Matamoras Fire Department, Matamoras. Info: 570-296-7654.

test out Minecraft Pi. Info: 570-996-1500 or www.dietrichtheater.com.

NOV. 19

“Music Night at the PPC” 7 p.m. Phillipsport Community Center, Phillipsport, NY. Moon Dog & (2) Kevin McDaniel with end of season jam. Info: max12789@me.com or 845-210-4303.

NOV. 19

Performance Music: “In Concert” 7:30 p.m. Houlihan-McLean Center, The University of Scranton. Featuring The University of Scranton Symphonic Band. Free. Info: 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.

NOV. 19

Nat Osborn & Dustin Carlson 8–10 p.m. Hawley Silk Mill, Hawley. A dash of funk, a dollop of rock & a sprinkling of reggae all around a solid base of catchy songwriting.

Info: 570-588-8077 or harmonypresents.com.

NOV. 19

The Sixties Show 8 p.m. Mauch Chunk Opera House, Jim Thorpe. Cross-generational crowdpleaser widely celebrated & known for re-creating spot-on, note-for-note recreations of the hits, B-sides & deep album cuts from the greatest songs of the 1960s. Info: 570-325-0249 or mcohjt.com.

NOV. 19

Alive! ’75: The Ultimate Tribute to KISS 8 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

Performing the entire 1976 European tour set. Info: 570-420-2808 or www.shermantheater.com.

NOV. 19–DEC. 23

“Art in Sixes” Alliance Gallery, Delaware Arts Center, Narrowsburg, NY. Mixed media small works. Sponsored & presented by Delaware Valley Arts Alliance. Gallery hours: Tues.–Sat., 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Free.

Opening reception: Nov. 19, 7–9 p.m.

Info: 845-252-7576 or delawarevalleyartsalliance.org.

November 20–November 30

NOV. 19

Piece of the Pi 3–4:30 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. Ages 7–14. Learn how to set up a raspberry pi, do some coding with Scratch &/or Python, & maybe get to

NOV. 20, 25–27

The Andrews Sisters: Christmas of Swing Shawnee Playhouse, Shawnee On Delaware. See description at Nov. 11.

[ www.connections-magazine.com ] spread the word... full issues available online

27

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

NOV. 22

Ozobot Robotics Club 5:30 p.m. Wayne County Public Library, Honesdale. Ages 9–18. Have fun using Ozobots to learn how to program robots, use robots to complete missions, teach robots tricks & more. Info & registration: Elizabeth, 570-253-1220 or ewilson@waynelibraries.org.

NOV. 23

Harvest Jam 5 7 p.m. Mauch Chunk Opera House, Jim Thorpe. Celebrate the bounty of the harvest with a heavenly dinner from 14Acre Farm & an evening of music by Free Range Folk and Friends, who share the stage with a host of new and wonderful performers.

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

NOV. 25

area events

NOV. 25–26

WXPN Welcomes: Railroad Earth Horn-O-Plenty 8 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

With special guests Circles Around The Sun. One- or two-day passes available.

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

NOV. 26

Annual Holiday Open House 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Wayne County Historical Society, Honesdale. Holiday music, author signings, light snacks, gift shopping. Info: 570-253-3240.

NOV. 26

Model Railroad Club 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Grace Episcopal Church Parish House, Honesdale. The Stourbridge Lion Model Railroad Club invites you to attend their Holiday Open House. A delight for children of all ages. Info: 570-253-5492.

The Music of Simon & Garfunkel 8 p.m. Mauch Chunk Opera House, Jim Thorpe. Swearingen & Kelli recreate the music, memories & magic of the most famous folk-rock duo of our time — two voices in perfect harmony balanced against one acoustic guitar.

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

NOV. 26

NOV. 24

Mary Fahl 8 p.m. Mauch Chunk Opera House, Jim Thorpe. Her elegant, cinematic songs draw on classical & world music sources, American art song & thinking man’s folk-pop, which she performs with an earthy, viscerally powerful contralto. Info: 570-325-0249 or mcohjt.com.

Waterfront Thanksgiving Noon–4 p.m. The Waterfront at Silver Birches, Hawley. Traditional-style buffet meal includes all your holiday favorites. Reservations required.

Info: 570-226-2124 or silverbirchesresortpa.com.

NOV. 24

Joey & The T-Birds — Sherman Showcase 7 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

30th anniversary show.

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

NOV. 26

& that famous Leg Lamp.

Info: 570-283-2195 or www.musicbox.org.

door prizes. Food & homemade soup available. Plenty of parking. Snow date: Dec. 10. Info: 570-685-7330.

NOV. 26–DEC. 31

DEC. 3

“CAS Winter Members Show” CAS Arts Center, Livingston Manor, NY. Opening Reception, 3–5 p.m. Free admission. Info: catskillartsociety.org.

NOV. 27

Wayne Choralaires concert “Sing, Ye Heavens” 2:30 p.m. Central United Methodist Church, Honesdale. Sacred & secular holiday songs. No admission fee.

Freewill offering accepted.

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

NOV. 29

Latin American Film Festival: “Metegol” 7 p.m. Brennan Hall, The University of Scranton. Argentina, 2013. Free.

Info: 570-941-7778 or yamile.silva@scranton.edu.

NOV. 30

Open Electric Jam 7–10 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale.

Presented by The Cooperage Project.

Hosted by Unreasonable Facsimile. If you don’t have a band don’t worry. The host band can step in if need be.

BYOB. Donation-based event.

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

December 1–December 8 DEC. 2

Swampcandy 8–10 p.m. Hawley Silk Mill, Hawley.

Whiskey-drinkin’, foot-stompin’ & hand-clappin’ Mississippi Blues duo.

Info: 570-588-8077 or harmonypresents.com.

Fuss-Free Thanksgiving Noon–6 p.m. The Dock on Wallen-paupack, Hawley. Family-style Thanksgiving meal. Reservations required.

Info: 570-226-2124 or silverbirchesresortpa.com.

NOV. 26

NOV. 24

NOV. 26

Traditional Thanksgiving Feast 6:30 p.m. The Settlers Inn, Hawley.

Farm-to-table feast. Reservations required. Info & reservations: 570-226-2993 or www.thesettlersinn.com.

Harpo Live!

9 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre.

The Thunder Returns Tour. Hard rock band with their “The Thunder Returns” tour. Info: 570-826-1100 or www.kirbycenter.org.

Emmet Otter's Jugband Christmas 5:30 & 7:00 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. Jim Henson Christmas movie about a poor otter family that risks everything for the chance to win the cash prize of a talent contest for Christmas. Free admission; first come, first served. Info: 570-996-1500.

NOV. 25, 26

NOV. 26–DEC. 18

DEC. 2, 3

A Christmas Wizard of Oz Shawnee Playhouse, Shawnee On Delaware. See description at Nov. 18.

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

A Christmas Story: The Musical The Music Box Dinner Playhouse, Swoyersville. Tony-nominated 2012 Broadway musical version of the classic 1983 Jean Shepherd movie — the one about Ralphie, a Red Ryder BB Gun

A Christmas Wizard of Oz Shawnee Playhouse, Shawnee On Delaware. See description at Nov. 18.

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

The Sea The Sea 8–10 p.m. Hawley Silk Mill, Hawley.

Upstate New York based indie folk-pop duo-band. Info: 570-588-8077 or harmonypresents.com.

Honesdale for the Holidays NOV. 25 & 26 Downtown Honesdale. Many stores & businesses offering “Open Houses.” Craft vendors along Main St. Holiday music at the Fred Miller Pavilion & much more to see & do. Info: 570-253-5492 or VisitHonesdalePA.com.

28 spread the word... full issues available online

DEC. 2 & 3

DEC. 2–4

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

Great for the entire family. Free admission. Info: 570-996-1500.

DEC. 3

The NEPA Philharmonic: PNC Holiday: Sounds of the Season 7 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre.

Ring in the holidays with the festive sounds of the annual Holiday concert, featuring the Choral Society of NEPA, Ballet Theater of Scranton, guest artists & a special visit from you-know-who.

Special guest conductor Dr. Mélisse Brunet. Info: 570-826-1100 or www.kirbycenter.org.

DEC. 3

Tim Reynolds — Solo Winter Tour 2016 8 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

Guitarist & sonic innovator best known for his seemingly effortless guitar virtuosity, & masterful command of melody & timing. Info: 570-420-2808 or www.shermantheater.com.

DEC. 4

RiverFolk Concert: Joe Crookston 5–7:30 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Presented by Riverfolk Concerts.

Songwriter, singer, guitarist, painter, fiddler, banjo player, eco-village member & believer in all things possible.

The magic & musical world he creates will pull you in. Donations collected.

Reservations & info: Jill, 845-252-6783 or riverfolkconcerts@frontier.com.

DEC. 4

Melissa Etheridge’s Holiday Trio 7:30 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, WilkesBarre. Part of the Wells Fargo Concert and Comedy Series.

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

DEC. 8

The Mavericks 8 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre.

Country-fusion Christmas celebration with the “Sleigh Bells Ring Out!” holiday tour. From their earliest shows as a garage band playing the punk clubs on Miami Beach, they have long had a skill for getting people to groove. Info: 570-826-1100 or www.kirbycenter.org.

The Andrews Sisters: Christmas of Swing Shawnee Playhouse, Shawnee On Delaware. See description at Nov. 11.

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

DEC. 2, 3, 4

Candlelight Christmas Dinner 5:30–9:30 p.m. The Settlers Inn, Hawley. Elegant holiday dinner. Live holiday music. Reservations required.

Info & reservations: 570-226-2993 or www.thesettlersinn.com.

DEC. 3

LTVFD Ladies Auxiliary Annual Holiday Fair 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Lackawaxen Firehouse, Lackawaxen. Lots of vendors, hourly

[ www.connections-magazine.com ]

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!