Connections Magazine - February 2017 Issue

7 REASONS YOU'RE RUINING YOUR RELATIONSHIPS – P 6

FEBRUARY 2017

DOES YOUR RELATIONSHIP IMPACT YOUR INSURANCE NEEDS?– P 9

7 COMMON VALENTINE'S DAY TOXINS FOR PETS – P 10

Since 1998

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february ‘17

contents

departments Ask the Vet

10

Beauty Spotlight

5

Behavioral Medicine

20

Book Review

16

Classic Cars

19

Events Calendar

22

Film Review

16

Healthy Geezer

21

Living Green

13

Money

14

OurTowns

4

Outdoor Ramblings

18

Pocono Secrets

17

Reflections of Prison

12

connectionsmagazine FEBRUARY ’17

features

6

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!

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BECOME A FAN! Post Your Events On Our Page!

VOL. 19 NO. 2

7 REASONS YOU’RE RUINING YOUR RELATIONSHIPS While most would respond with an emphatic “yes” if asked if they would like more love in their lives, I suspect few people welcome the extent of “work” required to achieve that outcome. Of course, the amount of work involved depends on how far away one feels they are from the level of love they desire. Just like achieving a diet, fitness, or career goal, elevating the amount of love in your life requires commitment, change, vision, and patience—with yourself and with others.

DOES YOUR RELATIONSHIP IMPACT YOUR INSURANCE NEEDS? With Valentine’s Day smack dab in the middle of the month and stores full of candy, flowers, and cards, the last thing on your mind is likely whether your relationship affects your insurance needs or not.

7 COMMON VALENTINE’S DAY TOXINS FOR PETS Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, which means love-struck veterinary clients will be bringing home candies and flowers.

Unfortunately, some of these well-intentioned gifts can be toxic for pets. Educate your clients about these seven common culprits of pet poisonings.

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ourtowns

connections

wally ice fest

[YOUR] NEPA MAGAZINE president • publisher • editor in chief deborah bailey production manager meica drake account representative barry weiss editorial correction services sandi scull assignment writer allison mowatt

WALLY ICE FEST FEBRUARY 25 & 26 ally Ice Fest celebrates the best of winter fun in the Pocono Mountains.

Tourists and community members alike will enjoy everything from Ice Sculptures to a Curling demonstration event, to our three main events: Paupack Plunge, Pocono Pond Hockey Tournament and Iced Tee Golf. The festivities take place on February 25th -26th, 2017. The setting is on top of a frozen Lake Wallenpaupack, near the dike at the northeastern end.

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contributing writers al hoff, Movie Review lucille norella, ArtScene fred cicetti, The Healthy Geezer charles curtin, Finance terry mooney, Reflections of a Prison Inmate arthur middleton, MD, FAPA, Behavioral Medicine michael krupa, Finance josh sheard, Finance terri schlichenmeyer, Book Review la guzda, Pocono Secrets arnie milidantri, Classic Cars bill deaton, Outdoor Ramblings pike county conservation district, Living Green

person in advance; $25 on the day of the event.

We also encourage everyone to swing at a chance to win Closest to Wally driving contest!

Three Events On One Lake Play Some Hockey

Take The Plunge

This will be the area’s first offering of organized outdoor hockey. And there is nothing better than playing hockey outdoors.

Something about being in nature, with no boards and lines, makes you feel closer to the true spirit of the game. The sport is famous for being difficult, but when played properly—on a frozen lake during the coldest days of the year—hockey rewards anyone who shows up. And for those that make it through the playoffs, they are rewarded with Trophies. Little is required other than skates, stick, gloves, helmet, and some laughs. We provide the rest!

We plan to have many ice rinks placed on frozen Lake Wallenpaupack in front of The Boat House and Silver Birches Resort (near the golf). The Wally Lake Fest Pond Hockey Tournament is planned on both days and we need you to Register at the Website in advance.

The Paupack Plunge involves a quick dip in the icy cold waters of the lake, assisted by local dive team members. Proceeds support the Tafton Water Rescue Team and Ledgedale Dive Team. The event is planned this year at Lighthouse Harbor Marina on the south shore of the lake. The excitement begins at 11 a.m. through 3:00 p.m on Saturday, February 25th.

With a hole cut in the ice, brave plungers will walk right into the frigid water from the sandy shore. About ten to twelve people can plunge every 20 Minutes.

To get started, potential plungers must first register and provide a minimum donation of $25. Early registration is encouraged to secure a spot. Plungers can donate the money themselves and find local businesses or individuals to sponsor them.

Lighthouse Harbor Marina is located at 969 Route 507 in Greentown, Pa, 7.5 miles south of the Boat House.

Try a Round of Golf The 25th annual Ice Tee Golf Tournament will take place in front of Silver Birches Resort with two 9-hole courses. Each will have tree-lined fairways, greens, water traps, obstacles, and roughs.

Golfers will receive a colored golf ball plus a scorecard and map illustrating the course layout, and each participant is restricted to playing with two clubs and one putter(not provided). Tee times will begin at 11 am until 2 pm on Saturday and 9 am until 2 pm on Sunday.

'Green Fees' are a non-refundable donation of $20 per

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Bonus The Anthracite Curling Club will be giving free demonstrations at the north end near the Boat House.

You get to see the Pros play a few Ends of a really cool Olympic sport. Or try your hand at sliding a few stones yourself.

Contact Information: 570-226-2141 www.wallyicefest.com info@wallyicefest.com

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cherry ridge veterinary clinic, Ask the Vet

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

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

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

To weep is to risk appearing sentimental.

To reach out for another is to risk involvement.

To expose feelings is to risk rejection.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CONNECTIONS COPYRIGHTED 2007

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by SO.CAP.USA Easy-Clip Extensions to add some face-framing streaks before you commit to a cut.

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These extensions come in two different lengths and many colors allowing you to achieve the perfect look for you.

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wellness love

radon your new look

AREA SALONS: Not sure what to do, but want a new look – Check out these two area salons for some great ideas!

Apple Day Spa & Hair Restoration Salon We believe that each visit to our Salon is an investment in yourself and should be a comfortable and valuable experience where each client receives a quality service performed consistently and conveniently. We offer a peaceful environment for improving your health and well-being through custom non-invasive treatments using therapeutic products, signature healing services, and anti-aging remedies for the body and soul.

Fall/Winter Salon Hours: Monday – Closed (Open some holidays) Tuesday, Thursday 9am – 8pm Wednesday 9am – 6pm Friday 9am – 5pm Saturday 9am – 4pm Sunday Closed Call Today!

570.253.4770 or visit www.appledayspa.com

Jeannie’s Chapel Street Salon Where great service is always in style!

You can count on us for all of the salon services you need. Whether you just want a trim or want a dramatic, modern style, our licensed stylists are here to create a look that’s just for you.

Sit back and relax while our professionals give you the special treatment.

Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we want you to leave looking and feeling better than ever before.

Business Hours Monday: 9:00am - 5:00pm Tuesday - Friday: 9:00am - 8:00pm Saturday: 8:00am - 2:00pm Sunday Closed Call Today!

570.253.2261 or visit www.jeannieschapelstreetsalon.com

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love

attracting more

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attracting more

love

hile most would respond with an emphatic “yes” if asked if they would like more love in their lives, I suspect few people welcome the extent of “work” required to achieve that outcome. Of course, the amount of work involved depends on how far away one feels they are from the level of love they desire. Just like achieving a diet, fitness or career goal, elevating the amount of love in your life requires commitment, change, vision, and patience—with yourself and with others. Towards this end, it’s entirely possible for sentiment-seekers to create a personalized plan to achieve love goals, no matter how short or long of a journey that lies ahead. In the weight-loss analogy, if you want to lose 5 pounds or 50 pounds, your personal trainer would have different advice for you. Similarly, if you want to increase the amount of love in your life by 5% or 500%, the means to achieve this would be different. To help get you started, here are seven things that may be undermining your love goals no matter how far along you are on the jubilant journey.

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1

Not vetting the VIPs.

Who is the most important person in your life? Did you say “me”? If not, it’s time to practice self-love and move yourself to the top spot on your VIP list! The most important person in your life must be you.

Only you can choose a side salad over French Fries. Only you can choose to react calmly instead of angrily at the driver who cut you off. Only you can choose to surround yourself with positive people who enrich your life versus toxic people who break you down emotionally. I’m NOT suggesting that narcissism is good or giving you a license to be selfish. Just take a lesson from the flight attendants who instruct, “put your oxygen mask on first, before helping others.”

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2

Failing to train your brain.

Perhaps you’ve heard about how athletes and other competitors imagine themselves successfully executing their craft with perfection prior to the moment they are expected to perform. Top competitors practice, watch videos of themselves, mentally visualize their success, and practice some more. Similarly, a powerful tool is to visualize the love that you desire and imagine it in a way so that you can actually feel it. Imagine the warmth and security of an embrace. Feel the joy of spending time laughing with dear friends. Just like an athlete, this will train your brain to make it happen and to manifest what you desire. Another way to do this is to collect images and phrases either from the Internet or magazines and assemble them into a “vision board” collage. You need not be crafty, and the result may not look perfectly composed, but the exercise itself will help clarify exactly what you want your life to look like in the future. Then, keep that visual handy—optimally visiting it at least once daily. Not only is this a wonderful and more accurate way to envision the love and the life that you desire, but also to make it feel more real, accessible, and imminent.

Holding steadfast to your “filter.”

Do you know someone who can always cite a litany of reasons why something won’t work? Or the cynical person who thinks everyone has a clandestine ulterior motive? Or the conspiracy theorist that really thinks everyone is out to get them? How many people do you know truly see only the goodness in other people and the world overall?

How would you rate? Does your own perception “filter” need an upgrade? In today’s crazy and stressful world, whose doesn’t?

Whether it’s with respect to romantic interests, friends, or family members, rather than focusing on the flaws and shortcomings with a critical eye, instead try to see the person’s goodness. Consider the positive reasons you have crossed paths with this person and practice

seeing their good qualities when you interact with them. A critical eye can always find something wrong. We’re all human, after all. Not only will you feel better just by making this small shift in the way you regard and relate with others, but they will also sense the favorable shift in you. The more you practice this, the more love you will feel in your own life. Even beyond those you know, try looking a stranger in the eye and smiling while imagining you are sending them happy thoughts, blessings, or even love. Do so with no expectation of a positive response in return. If you get one, great. If you don’t, do not be discouraged and keep practicing. Notice how you feel. You have nothing to lose.

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Lacking a “Love Action List.”

Make a list of “Love Actions,” which are specific things that special someone in your life can do that would make you feel loved. Make sure that small, no-cost gestures are included as well as bigger items.

For example, this list might include things like, “bring me coffee in bed,” “whisper in my ear and make me blush when we’re out,” “plan an outing for us to look forward to,” “send me flowers for no reason,” and other sweet or spicy gestures. Obviously, some of these are not so easy to do for yourselves.

However, you can buy yourself flowers and plan things to look forward to! Making the list—and even acting on it for yourself—will be a message to the universe that you wish to attract someone willing and capable of doing all of these things and more.

Note, if you do choose to do this exercise and share your list with your significant other, it’s imperative that you do not judge the items on their list! Do make sure you understand them, as the list represents the key to their happiness. Be thankful that you no longer are expected to be able to read his or Continued on next page.

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love

attracting more

5

4

Raising roadblocks.

Lacking a “Love Action List.”

Continued her mind. Also, do not keep score. If you choose a “Love Action” from his or her list to show that you care, do so lovingly rather than regarding it as yet another chore and, just as importantly, do not expect anything in return. You are giving a gift, and s/he needs to accept it as a gift graciously, with no anxiety about what to do in return. Give and receive with love and no strings attached.

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Foregoing fun.

There are probably plenty of examples in your life, or in the lives of those dear to you, that make a good case for remaining aloof, building those proverbial walls up around your heart and not letting people “in” to experience the real you. If you wish to experience the kind of deep-seated love you’ve trained your brain to imagine, there is likely some work that you need to do to remove whatever self-limiting beliefs, fears, pain, or negative feelings are lurking in the dark recesses of your psyche.

These are your emotional roadblocks, and you need to figure out how to step over, get around, or completely annihilate these barriers. To do so, you’ll first need to identify what is

Many of us are very busy doing things for others–work, family, community. Imagine if all of those people who are siphoning your time and energy not only stopped, but also instructed you to do something that makes you truly happy.

Imagine them all saying in unison, “We give you permission to take time to do whatever makes your heart happy.” What would you do? Take a long walk in nature? Dance? Sit by the river and read? Go to a jazz club and let the music wash over you? You might be surprised how difficult it can be to identify what exactly will make you feel happy and fulfilled. Look at your calendar over the next month and commit to doing whatever it is that brings you joy. If you need to practice more self-love, plan to go solo, so that someone else’s “stuff” does not interfere with your experience and you can truly connect with your own needs. If being alone feels uncomfortable to you, consider why and wonder if that is exactly why you should go by yourself. And barring some major league disastrous circumstances, commit to your event like you would to the most important person in your life. Do it without guilt, as it is for your own health and well-being.

The more connected you are to your authentic self and the better you feel inside, the more positive energy you have to devote to others. If you are already in a long-term relationship, a key to long-term happiness is “shared experiences.”

Find something that has nothing to do with your family or running your household that you both truly enjoy doing together. Find the time and commit to doing that and not talking about work or family. Solely focus on enjoying the experience and being entirely present in the moment.

The more that the shared activity can enable the physical touch factor, the better.

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blocking your ability to love fully and fearlessly. Then you can do the internal work needed to transform those negative thoughts into positive ones: for example, a current belief of, “my first marriage was a waste of time and energy and my spouse was a cheating, lying, selfish jerk.” These thoughts are essentially agreements to attract yet another person who is and does the same thing. Instead, you should say out loud daily, until you truly believe it at your core, an affirming statement such as: “My first marriage taught me a great deal about myself, how deeply I can love someone, and demonstrated that I have the courage and strength within me as well as the support around me to recover from painful circumstances. Thank you for the lessons I needed to learn. I am strong, loving, and deserve true love.”

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Not gifting unconditional love.

A key word in this strategy is “gift,” and this is one you must give to yourself as well as others. In giving a gift to others from your heart, you must do so with no expectations of a positive response or a gift or gesture in return. And loving unconditionally, truly and literally, means that you love with no conditions–physical, financial, spiritual, intellectual, emotional or otherwise. For example, I will still love you if you gain weight or get sick, if you are rich or poor, if you switch religions, if you make more money than I do, and when you are crying when I don’t understand it. What is sometimes harder is to fire your internal critic, banishing it from your psyche, and replacing that pessimistic voice with a more loving one that says, “I love and value myself no matter what. I am proud of who I am, what I’ve learned and who I’m becoming.” By addressing these seven issues, you are sure to attract more love into your life and realize the happiness and fulfillment you’ve always dreamed of.

And remember, you deserve it!

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Sofia Milan is America’s spiciest and sweetest relationship expert dedicated to helping people have amazing relationships. Her relationship blog on Facebook regularly realizes engagement in the tens of thousands, serving as a credit to the honesty, vulnerability and witty insights she offers.

Milan may be reached online at www.SofiaMilanBooks.com.

insurance needs

love

Does Your Relationship

IMPACT Your Insurance Needs?

Submitted by Disaster Blaster

ith Valentine’s Day smack dab in the middle of the month and stores full of candy, flowers, and cards, the last thing on your mind is likely whether your relationship affects your insurance needs or not.

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What may surprise you is that it probably does!

For starters, you might suddenly be under-insured: That big screen TV, clothing, or jewelry that your significant other moved into your home or apartment may not be covered in the event of a claim! Homeowners and renters insurance policies are designed to protect the insured (you, a married spouse, and dependents under 21 years old) and will likely exclude coverage for individuals not named as an insured on the policy.

There are a few options available for ensuring that their belongings are insured as well, such as naming them as a Named Insured on your policy or adding an endorsement such as the “Other Persons in the Household” endorsement.

Did they move in any valuable jewelry, artwork, or collectibles? Many insurance policies will have a limit on the covered value of any one individual item, meaning that even if you’ve added your significant other to your insurance policy, coverage for these high value items may be capped. Endorsements are available that expand coverage on items that you have specifically listed.

This also extends to liability coverage.

If you, for example, as the insured, are burning leaves and catch the neighbor’s house on fire, your insurance company would extend coverage for this damage under the liability portion of the policy.

If your significant other, not being

insured under the policy, were to have the same stroke of bad luck, this would not be covered under the policy.

But discounts may now be available to you, too: If you’ve recently gotten married, there’s a good chance that additional insurance discounts may now be available to you.

As insurance company statistics show that married couples are less likely to take risks and also less likely to submit claims, insurance companies are willing to offer discounted insurance rates to them. Discounts may be available on both your auto and homeowners / renters policies so be sure to inquire into both. While you will likely need more coverage now, these discounts may help offset the additional cost and may even reduce your annual insurance cost.

The more insurance you need, the more opportunities there are to bundle.

Many insurance companies offer additional discounts to customers who purchase multiple insurance policies with them, which can significantly reduce the overall insurance cost.

As with any other life change, speak to a local insurance agent, who will be able to review your coverages and ensure that you are both adequately covered and taking advantage of any discounts that may be available to you.

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.

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your pets

E M A I L U S Y O U R Q U E S T I O N S AT C M A G @ P T D . N E T

ASK THE VET:

love

7

Common Valentine’s Day Toxins

By Jessica Driscoll, CVT, Ahna Brutlag, DVM, MS, DABT, DABVT, Pet Poison Helpline staff

alentine’s Day is just around the corner, which means love-struck pet owners will be bringing home candies and flowers. Unfortunately, some of these well-intentioned gifts can be toxic for the pets. Read about these seven common culprits of pet poisonings.

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Roses Roses are red, violets are blue, but biting a thorn can do damage to you—or to pets.

Threat to pets: Although roses don’t often cause serious poisoning beyond gastrointestinal upset, there’s risk for trauma to the mouth and paws from the thorns. Additionally, if a large enough portion of the rose head or stem is ingested, a bowel obstruction may result.

Signs: Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal pain or discomfort, drooling, and reduced appetite.

Therapy: Check the pet’s mouth and paws for signs of trauma from thorns.

Depending on severity of signs, subcutaneous (SQ) or intravenous (IV) fluids or anti-emetic drugs may be needed. In cases of notable trauma, pain medications, and antibiotics may be necessary.

Prognosis: Excellent with supportive care.

Lilies Lilies (Lilium spp. and Hemerocallis spp.) are frequently sold in fresh bouquets and make a beautiful but deadly alternative to Valentine’s Day roses. The most common bouquet lilies include the Stargazer lily, Tiger lily, and other Asiatic lilies.

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What’s in them: The toxin, which remains unidentified, can be found in the petals, leaves, pollen, or even the water in the vase.

Threat to pets: These lilies are extremely toxic to cats and cause acute kidney failure within one to two days of exposure. If not treated, the exposure will likely result in death. The ingestion of just one to two leaves or petals is enough to cause sudden kidney failure.

Even ingesting small amounts of pollen from a cat’s fur is considered toxic. Dogs don’t develop kidney failure but may have mild gastrointestinal upset.

Signs: Within a few hours of exposure, cats may display salivation, vomiting, reduced appetite, and lethargy. These signs progress to polyuria/polydipsia and azotemia. The urine may contain protein, glucose, and tubular epithelial casts.

Within 18 to 30 hours, severe and debilitating dehydration develops. Within 30 to 72 hours cats may become anuric (stop producing urine) and become gravely ill.

Treatment: Timely decontamination can include inducing emesis, giving activated charcoal, and bathing (if there’s pollen on the fur). IV fluids are the cornerstone of therapy and are used to protect the kidneys. Cats also need frequent monitoring of their blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and electrolyte concentrations and urinalysis results. Other treatment options, such as dialysis, are available.

Prognosis: The rapid onset of treatment is imperative for a good outcome. If treatment is started after the kidneys have stopped producing urine, the prognosis is poor.

Chocolate and cocoa Sure, your clients have heard that chocolate, a classic Valentine’s Day treat, can be toxic to pets. The question is, how much is too much? Chocolate and cocoa contain theobromine, a chemical similar to caffeine that’s highly toxic to dogs and cats. When it comes to chocolate, tell clients, “Dark equals dangerous.” The darker or more concentrat-

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ed the chocolate, the more theobromine it contains. Therefore, the most dangerous chocolates are baker’s chocolate, semisweet chocolate, and gourmet dark chocolates. White chocolate has very little theobromine and won’t cause chocolate poisoning in pets.

Threat to pets: Let clients know that it’s the dose that makes the poison. Pets that ingest a few M&Ms or one to two bites of a chocolate chip cookie are unlikely to develop chocolate poisoning.

For milk chocolate, any ingestion of more than 0.5 ounces per pound of body weight may put dogs at risk for chocolate poisoning. Ingestions of more than 0.1 ounces per pound of body weight of dark or semi-sweet chocolate may cause poisoning. Almost all ingestions of baker’s chocolate can result in poisoning and are considered emergencies.

The effective toxic dose for very young or geriatric animals and those with underlying disease can be considerably lower than otherwise healthy adult patients. For this reason, it’s generally recommended to initiate treatment at lower doses in these patients.

Due to the large amount of fat in chocolate, some pets may develop pancreatitis after eating chocolate or baked goods containing chocolate.

Signs: Ingestions of small amounts of chocolate may cause mild vomiting, diarrhea, and polyuria/polydipsia. Larger amounts can cause severe agitation, tachycardia, abnormal heart rhythms, tremors, seizures, and collapse.

Treatment: Induce vomiting, and give multiple doses of activated charcoal to decontaminate. Diuretic doses of IV fluids help animals excrete theobromine.

Sedatives and specific heart medications may be necessary to reduce heart rate and blood pressure. Additional treatments include anticonvulsants for seizures and antacids (such as famotidine) for stomach discomfort and diarrhea.

Theobromine may be reabsorbed across the bladder wall, so a urinary catheter or frequent walks are needed to keep the bladder empty.

Prognosis: Excellent in pets with mild signs of poisoning, such as mild stomach upset or slight restlessness. Poor in those

your pets with severe signs of poisoning, such as collapse and seizures.

Chocolate covered raisins Don’t forget that grapes, currants, and sultanas also fall into this same category of toxins.

Threat to pets: These fruits cause acute kidney failure in dogs. There’s speculation that they may cause kidney failure in cats and ferrets as well.

While not all dogs will develop kidney failure after eating grapes or raisins, it’s impossible to know which pets will be sensitive to these fruits.

Therefore, all pets (especially dogs) that ingest grapes, raisins, currants, or sultanas should be monitored closely and treated appropriately.

If a small dog eats just a small number of grapes or raisins, this is considered an emergency.

Signs: Vomiting within hours of ingestion. Within one to four days of ingestion: increased urination, increased thirst, lethargy, and reduced appetite.

Treatment: Induce vomiting, and administer activated charcoal to decontaminate. In most cases, other treatments such as IV fluids (to protect the kidneys), frequent monitoring of blood urea nitrogen and creatinine concentrations, anti-vomiting medication, and in-hospital care are recommended.

Prognosis: Excellent if animals are treated before signs begin. Once they have begun to go into kidney failure, the prognosis is worse.

Chocolate-covered espresso beans (caffeine) Dark-chocolate-covered espresso beans may be a delicious Valentine’s Day treat for your coffee-loving clients, but they’re particularly problematic for dogs and cats since they contain large amounts of both theobromine and caffeine.

What it’s in: Caffeine is most commonly found in coffee, coffee beans, coffee grounds, tea, used tea bags or coffee grounds, soda, energy drinks, and diet pills. Theobromine, a cousin chemical to caffeine, is also found in chocolate (see chocolate and cocoa).

Threat to pets: Pets are more sensitive to the effects of caffeine than people are. While one to two espresso beans won’t contain enough caffeine to poison most pets, the ingestion of moderate amounts of coffee beans, coffee grounds, tea bags, or one to two diet pills can easily cause death in small dogs or cats.

Signs: Within one to two hours of ingestion, the following signs may develop: mild to severe hyperactivity, restlessness, vomiting, tachycardia, hypertension, abnormal heart rhythms, tremors, hyperthermia,

seizures, and collapse.

Treatment: Induce vomiting and give multiple doses of activated charcoal to decontaminate. Diuretic doses of IV fluids help animals excrete caffeine. Sedatives and specific heart medications may be necessary to reduce heart rate and blood pressure.

Additional treatments include anticonvulsants for seizures and antacids for stomach discomfort and diarrhea.

Caffeine may be reabsorbed across the bladder wall, so a urinary catheter or frequent walks are needed to keep the bladder empty.

Prognosis: Excellent in pets with mild signs of poisoning, such as slight restlessness or a minimally elevated heart rate. Poor in those with severe signs of poisoning, such as collapse and seizures.

Chocolate-covered macadamia nuts Macadamia nuts come from trees indigenous to Madagascar and Australia but are now also found in Hawaii and California. The nuts, which are sold commercially and available in most grocery stores, can result in poisoning in dogs if ingested.

This type of poisoning hasn’t been reported in cats.

What’s in it: The toxin in macadamia nuts hasn’t yet been identified, but the mechanism may involve motor neurons, neuromuscular junctions, and muscle fibers or neurotransmitters.

Signs: Within three to six hours, dogs exhibit lethargy, vomiting, and hyperthermia. Within six to twelve hours, hind limb weakness, ataxia, tremors, and recumbency occur.

Additionally, there may be signs of abdominal pain, lameness, joint stiffness, and pale mucous membranes.

Treatment: Appropriate decontamination should be performed if the dog ingested more than 1 g/kg of nuts. As there’s no antidote, supportive measures such as in-hospital monitoring, IV fluids, and anti-vomiting medications may be necessary.

Prognosis: Good. Recovery generally occurs within 24 to 48 hours.

amounts can be found in some pet oral-care products.

Threat to pets: Xylitol may cause a life-threatening drop in blood sugar as well as liver damage in dogs. There’s speculation that ferrets may also be at risk, but people don’t experience this problem.

Typically, the dose needed to cause poisoning is at least 0.05 g per pound of body weight (0.1 g per kilogram of body weight).

Chewing gums and breath mints typically contain 0.22 to 1 gram of xylitol per piece of gum or per mint. Thus, to achieve a potentially toxic dose, a 10lb dog would only have to eat one piece of gum.

The amount of xylitol typically found in most pet oral-care products is very small and, when used properly, isn’t expected to cause poisoning unless the dog ingests a very large amount.

Signs: Within 10 to 15 minutes of ingestion, dogs may develop hypoglycemia, lose coordination, and start vomiting. Collapse and seizures may quickly follow. In rare cases, these signs won’t appear until several hours after ingestion.

Treatment: Emesis should only be induced in asymptomatic animals. Due to the risk for rapid onset of clinical signs, it may be safest to do this in the hospital. Dogs may also require IV dextrose and fluids and frequent monitoring of their blood glucose and liver enzyme concentrations.

love

Prognosis: Excellent when the ingestion is caught early and blood sugars are monitored frequently. Guarded if the dog has already begun to develop liver failure.

Pet Poison Helpline, an animal poison control center based out of Minneapolis, is available 24 hours, seven days a week for pet owners and veterinary professionals that require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. The staff provides treatment advice for poisoning cases of all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals, and exotic species. Pet Poison Helpline’s fee of $39 per incident includes followup consultation for the duration of the poison case. Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information can be found online at petpoisonhelpline.com.

Column Provided by Cherry Ridge Veterinary Clinic in Honesdale.

Send your questions to Pet Column, 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.

Xylitol Xylitol is a commonly used and naturally occurring sugar substitute. It can be used alone or in combination with aspartame or other sweeteners. Around Valentine’s Day, beware of its use in breath mints, colorful candy presents (e.g., Sparx candies), or sugar-free cake or muffin mixes.

What it’s in: Xylitol is used in many sugar-free chewing gums, breath mints, candies, and baked goods. It’s also found in some smoking-cessation products like nicotine gum. Xylitol can be purchased in bulk for cooking at home, and because of its dentalplaque-fighting properties, nontoxic

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11

reflections

from inside

“Mommy Was Right!”

Part II Reflections of a Prison Inmate

By Terry Mooney

he following story is told by a young man who has lived in America for most of his life, enjoying the freedom and abundance that most of us do, especially compared with the very poor Central American country in which he was born.

He is well spoken and easy going, and is quick to help other detainees.

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My Story When I moved on to junior high school, the kids were already smoking cigarettes and smoking weed. At that time, I was still seeing Ashley, but I was like an oscillating fan, looking at girls in all directions. I joined band class where I met another girl who introduced me to cutting class. What happened was, she asked me if I wanted to smoke a cigarette and I didn’t know how and she would laugh at me when I tried to do it. Eventually, when I started inhaling I would cough. As much as I tried, I could never get the habit. I could care less about it.

This girl from the crowd I’d been hanging with didn’t like Ashley so one day after school she called her out for a fight.

They went behind the local drug store and all the kids gathered around and cheered Brittany on to beat up Ashley. But Ashley fought back and finally someone from the drug store came out and broke it up. After that, Ashley was very mad at me and this sealed the deal. I was now totally immersed in the life of the fast crowd.

One day I was in the cafeteria and I had in my hand what looked like a pack of Wrigley’s gum but really it gave a shock to the person accepting a piece. I offered some to the lady working the line. Happily accepting, she got the shock and told the dean who called my mom.

My mom came to the school, and that’s when she found out I was also cutting classes. I told her I was sorry and tried to give her excuses but she wasn’t buying it. She started to notice that I was dressing ghetto and becoming rebellious. The year ended and I moved into the eighth grade. It didn’t get any better. I continued hanging out with the wrong crowd and I cut so much that they gave me summer school. One day Brittany invited me to a hooky party where everyone was going to cut summer school.

I declined the offer but she kept insisting. I gave in and we went to someone’s house and there were a lot of kids of different ages, drinking and hanging out, having a good time.

Suddenly, there was a knock on the door and someone said it was the police. Turns out the house was abandoned and the cops come in asking for ID. A bunch of guys had already fled out the window but myself and Miguel were still standing there. Turns out that there is a knife and gun on the premises and no one claims it so they brought patty wagons and hauled us all to jail. There were so many people that they hooked each person to the other because there weren’t enough handcuffs. Most of them were girls who didn’t want to jump out the window.

At the precinct, little by little everyone started leaving with their parents. Because the gun and knife were closest to me and Miguel, they charged us. I went to trial but they had me already locked up for two months in a juvenile center and it was dirty with rats running around and a lot of fights. I beat the weapons charges because there was no proof they were mine so they got me for trespassing and criminal mischief and I got released.

I started to see at this point that it wasn’t worth hanging out with this crowd. In high school, I tried to get away from them, but little by little I started back. I guess it was more exciting. I started drinking Old English malt liquor and Four Loko and hanging out, but only after school. The classes I would never miss in high school were U.S. history and global history. It was

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fascinating how this country gained independence, the California Gold Rush, the Louisiana Purchase, how they annexed Alaska and Hawaii, World Wars I and II. I still remember the name of the Emperor of Japan, Hirohito. After Hiroshima, they changed their constitution to never declare war on another country. I became Student of the Month for History and my mom was very proud.

At the same time, I was cutting math class. This guy named Christian who hung out with us called me. I was in junior year now. He says “Bro, some guys here don’t want to pay me my money.” I knew he was selling drugs, but I considered him a friend and I wanted to help so I told him to wait and I’d come get him. When I got there, he was standing there very mad, but the guys had already paid him so I took him home.

The following year, I graduated from high school and I’m already seeing life as an adult. I moved in with one of my friends and got a full time job at Dougie’s Barbeque, working twelve hours a day. I’d go home tired from bussing tables.

One morning around 5 a.m. someone bangs on the door. I thought it was my roommate’s mother but he said that she was in her room. He was on probation for three years and never had a problem. But that’s who they said they were, Probation, so he opened the door.

It really was Probation, and the Feds. They pulled him out of the way to get to me. They screamed to me to get on the ground and I looked out the window and the house was surrounded by agents so I did what I was told. They had been to my mother’s house and woke her up. I still didn’t know why I was being arrested.

Eventually I was charged with conspiracy to commit assault from the previous year. You see, they had a wire tap on Christian and heard our conversation that day when he threatened to assault the guys that wouldn’t pay him. The minute I offered to pick him up I was involved. I pled guilty because my lawyer said that if I went to trial I could get a sentence. I hadn’t lived yet. I was nineteen. So I did twenty-seven months in federal prison. My mother was devastated by everything.

Her dreams were to see me in college, not in prison.

The day I was getting out, I was elated. I couldn’t believe that this was finally over. My mother was waiting for me at home, and I was going to take the bus. They called me down and when I got there an officer asked me if I’m a U.S. citizen and I said no but I’m here legally. He said that he had a document that said I was being detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. He called them to confirm if they were really coming to get me and they said they would be there. So they put me in a cell and four hours later I was handcuffed and shackled and driven in a van for four hours and locked up.

You see, I had a permanent resident card that I got as a child when we entered the country. I never thought I could be deported because I’ve lived here all my life and legally. The problem is, because I committed a felony, my legal status was revoked. Now, I’m fighting to stay in this country. I’ve been incarcerated longer with Immigration than I was for the original crime which is thirty-one months.

I really want to stay in this country. I consider it my country.

When doing time for a crime, there is an anticipated release date. When dealing with Immigration, it could be an indefinite detention because of appeals. My mom always told us one fool makes many; that the fast life is going to lead you to a cold prison cell. And you will still have no friends. Now I say to myself, Mommy was right.

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section

subsection

Your Drinking Water &

Your Health

By Brian Oram

ven though 60% of the human body is water, water is a resource that is often taken for granted.

The primary concerns with water relate to having adequate quantity of the proper quality. In terms of hydration, drinking water is probably one of the best ways to keep your body healthy. Water is used in your body to help maintain your temperature and ensures the proper operation of your circulatory, digestive, and neurological systems. Water is one of the pathways that potential contaminants and disease-causing agents can enter the body, so the quality is also important. Therefore, we need drinking water of adequate quantity of the proper quality.

If you are on well water, the most common problems are the presence of bacteria and elevated levels of salts in the water, like nitrate, chloride, and sulfate, or corrosive water. In some cases, the water may contain elevated levels of radionuclides and trace metals, like arsenic, iron, lead, and manganese. The quality of the drinking water depends on type of water, location, level of treatment, the condition of your plumbing, and your home or house. In some areas, the community is concerned about pipelines and natural gas development, but a hidden problem may be the existing quality of their drinking water.

E

When the body is not properly hydrated, our body’s response is to make us feel thirsty, but if you miss this clue, watch out for dry mouth, swollen tongue, weakness, dizziness, confusion, palpitations, and fainting. If overhydrated, you can become water intoxicated or hyperhydration. If hyperhydration occurs, the kidneys cannot process all the water and the system becomes overwhelmed.

There are phone apps and other tools to help you to remember to drink enough water, but our general recommendation is if you feel thirsty, it is time to get a drink and given a choice, pick water.

Water comes in many forms, which can include premium bottled water, tap water, spring water, carbonated water, soda, coffee, tap water, nutrient infused water, juices, and purified water. Of all these, it is my professional opinion that we just need to drink water. The two most common sources of drinking water for a community is either public water or a private water source. A public water source is always regulated by both the federal and state governments, and many may call this city water or tap water, but well or spring water may be from a public or private source. If you get your water directly from a well or spring, this is a private source and not commonly regulated.

If you get your water from city water, the most common health concerns are related to the presence of chlorine-by-products or corrosive by-products in the United States. The public water supply systems are disinfected using various forms of chlorine, and phosphate is added to attempt to control corrosion. The chlorine is used to disinfect the water, but it can react with naturally occurring organics to form trihalomethanes, i.e., a potential carcinogen; while phosphate will react with the metals in the water to form a scale or coating on the inside of the piping, see “Flint, Michigan.”

For citizens, our general recommendations related to drinking water are:

1}

City Water Customers- Review any annual “Consumer Confident Reports” produced by your water supplier and act accordingly.

2} 3} 4}

Private Water Sources -Get your water tested, at least annually, and have the results reviewed by an expert.

Look out for potential problems with your drinking water, based on what you can see, taste, smell, or otherwise detect with your senses or problems that may be caused by the water.

Download our free “Know Your H20 Phone App” or visit our website – all Free.

A few short phrases we should try to remember.

We ALL Live Downstream!

Groundwater and Surface water are Connected!

We are Part of the Water Cycle – Not just an Observer!

Websites of Interest Consumer Confidence Reports https://www.epa.gov/ccr/ccr-information-consumers Neighborhood Hazardous Reports and Water Testing http://www.knowyourh20.us [ www.connections-magazine.com ] spread the word... full issues available online

13

money

investing

Two Channel

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

round the turn of the century, I was a newly-minted college graduate ready to start my adult career. I packed up my bags and moved out west to seek my fortune in San Francisco. Upon arrival, I only had a few bucks in my pocket and no place to live. I initially spent a few tense nights at the YMCA in the Tenderloin district, which, if you are not familiar with the city, is a scary part of town, before finding a place in the Lower Haight neighborhood. I guess you cannot call my living arrangements an apartment, more like a room. For a steal of a price of $750.00 per month, I had my own studio with a small kitchen and bathroom on the first floor of an old, rickety Victorian house. My mother cried the first time she visited. The room’s dimensions were so small that it could not fit a full-sized bed. I slept on a futon, which also served as my couch, office, living room, and dining room. From the futon, I could literally roll over onto my side and stretch my arm out to reach the refrigerator handle. This excellent feature made getting my morning orange juice quite convenient. Breakfast in bed!

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For all of the jokes I have made about the place over the years, in retrospect, I can say that I loved it. I was living without a roommate in one of the greatest cities on earth. I was out late each night exploring everything I could. My sleeping arrangements meant nothing. Plus, it was the “dot.com era” where you could feel a sense of palpable excitement around you. I can recall testing out Google before it was even a live thing.

At the time, I owned a small second-hand television. Since I did not have much money, I could not afford cable. I watched NBC and PBS, which were the only two channels that I could see through the fuzz. A few weeks before I was scheduled to move out, my brother-in-law visited from Michigan. He strolled around the apartment and then began to fiddle with the television. He looked my way and laughed. He then reached behind the television and turned a switch. Voila, the television now was broadcasting at least 65 channels! I had been watching Antiques Roadshow reruns for two years not knowing all I had to do was turn on the cable. But, you know what, I survived and accepted as truth that I had no television. I lived better than fine with the two channels I had. Like the old proverb goes, “what we don’t have, we don’t know.”

When investing, we often are not satisfied with our returns and want more appreciation. I get it… I want those things as well. But, the harsh reality is that there is no get rich quick scheme when it comes to investing your money. It is a long-term proposition.

Take it from me, a person who got by on two channels on his TV for over two years, you can survive and be happy in your financial and investment life without having all of the bells and whistles. If you don’t have something, the human brain is trained to adapt and find some other avenue for fulfillment.

The following few tidbits serve as reminders to investors on how to find happiness in what I call “simplicity investing.”

Buy dependable. Have you ever looked at where Warren Buffett, one of the greatest investors of all time, puts his money? He invests in things he knows…railroads, soft drinks, ketchup to name a few.

It’s like his investments are the NBC, CBS, and ABC television channels and not the millions of cable offerings. Why not invest like him? You might go wrong, but at least you would be following the tenants of a proven commodity? I will admit, buying only the well-known is not glamorous, but consciously blinding yourself to a limited menu of investments allows you to become more educated and focused.

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Be confident with your investments.

Investors that are timid tend to get taken for a ride by Wall Street sharks. If you are scared of the markets and loss, it may not be for you. When the market goes down a couple of points, you still are in the game. Don’t panic yourself into a sale just because your portfolio is off for the year.

In addition to confidence, be knowledgeable. If you have entrusted an advisor with the management of your investments, make sure you have at least a tacit understanding of what investments he or she is utilizing for you. There are no bad questions. Your investment or retirement account is likely one of your most valuable assets. You would not buy a car or dishwasher without at least first researching the purchase and making sure it has all the features you desire. Why not educate yourself on your investments as well? The more knowledge you have helps your advisor find the correct product.

Finally, ignore the nonsense. The stock market is inherently unstable. Any sort of bad economic, political, or international news these days sends it into a tizzy. This phenomenon is further exacerbated by our current 24-hour news cycle. Nearly every second some news service is publishing some noise how the markets are going to crash. If you have a sound portfolio, the short-term fluctuations of the markets should have no meaning. Eugene Farra, an economist, won a Noble Prize on the theory that the day-to-day movement of the markets do not have any correlation to the long-term trends. Every few weeks you should check your portfolio to see how things are going, but don’t panic every time you hear or read something negative.

Investors often get lost in the weeds of complexity.

Don’t. A simple, confident approach is all you really need. I guarantee it will make you happy. If in fact you need an investment happiness consultant, contact one of the many great advisors here in Northeastern Pennsylvania 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.

investments

money

Help Take the Guesswork Out of

Choosing Investments –Provided by Michael Krupa

sset allocation is a strategy that can help take the guesswork out of choosing investments for your portfolio. Instead of putting all your eggs in one basket, you spread your eggs (dollars) among a variety of baskets (stocks, bonds, and cash).

The baskets can be further divided within each type of investment.

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Although many investors understand that they should invest in a variety of securities, they often stumble when it’s time to choose an asset allocation that’s right for them. The allocation that you choose should be based on how much risk you are willing to assume, why you are investing, and when you will need to tap your investments.

However, in some cases, once investors choose their allocation, many are afraid to change it. As you experience changes in your life, it can be appropriate to redistribute your assets.

So, when should you change your asset allocation? It is important to maintain balance in your portfolio. Accordingly, you should reevaluate your allocation strategy at least once a year or when you experience a major life change such as marriage or the birth of a child. It’s not always necessary to make a fundamental change to the allocation, but you need to make that evaluation on a regular basis.

Sometimes your portfolio might just need a tweak to rebalance assets that have either increased or decreased in value. For example, a booming stock market may mean that the value of the stock portion of your portfolio exceeds your original allocation. If that occurs, you may want to consider selling some stocks to bring your portfolio back into line with your initial allocation.

Rebalancing is a strategy that every investor should take advantage of as a way to ensure their portfolio reflects their current investing goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. Further changes to your allocation also may be appropriate depending on your particular investing style.

Strategic investing Most investors take a strategic approach to asset allocation, meaning they have at least ten years before they

anticipate needing the money they are investing. Strategic investors look at the long term and typically do not make frequent changes to their allocation strategy.

A strategic investor would change the way his or her money is invested if there was a fundamental shift in the economy (recession) or if inflation began to outpace the earnings that his or her investments were generating.

Cyclical investing Because the economy is cyclical, meaning it moves in stages of prosperity and recession, some investors change the way they allocate their assets based on the cycle of the economy. This is called cyclical investing – it typically means that an investor will reallocate his or her funds every three months to three years.

A cyclical investor might invest heavily in stocks when the economy experiences growth and, conversely, would invest more dollars in bonds when the economy experiences a period of contraction.

Tactical investing The third type of investor looks at the short-term – a period of one year or less.

The tactical investor changes his or her portfolio based on trends in the market.

A tactical approach to asset allocation isn’t for everyone as it typically requires an investor to trade rather actively and sometimes trade with greater risk.

Each investor has unique goals for his or her money and a distinctive investment style. It is best to talk with your Financial Advisor about what kind of asset allocation would be right for you and how often you should redistribute your assets. Bear in mind that although asset allocations diversifies your assets, it does not protect against fluctuating markets and uncertain returns.

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

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

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

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15

entertainment

book/film reviews

HIDDEN FIGURES

“Winter, Winter, Cold and Snow”

By Sharon Gibson Palermo Illustrated by Christina Song Reviewed by Terri Schlichenmeyer

here’s something hiding in your front yard. Or it might be in the park down the street, or in the neighbor’s fields. You don’t have to be afraid; the thing that’s hiding has been there for a while, and it’s not at all scary. It’s hiding because it’s “Winter, Winter, Cold and Snow,” as you’ll see in the new book by Sharon Gibson Palermo, illustrated by Christina Song.

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The snow has fallen and it’s quiet in the forest. You can almost hear a snowflake drop, and no one is out except Chickadee. She knows its winter, and she knows that Bear is asleep beneath the drifts. Bear “might wake up when the sun shines…”

Yes, Bear gets up and stretches. She knows it’s cold, just as she knows that Beaver is trying hard to keep warm beneath the ice. Beaver has a lodge over the water that’s filled with mud and twigs, which keeps it warm inside all winter long. Beaver built the lodge himself.

Beaver comes out to look around, and he sees Deer. He knows Deer very well; he knows that Deer is aware of everything that surrounds him. For Deer, it’s dinnertime and he’s eating from the trees that are covered in snow.

When dinner’s done, Deer knows Rabbit is nearby but he has to look hard.

Rabbit is white, almost as white as the snow that’s around them both. All Deer can see are black eyes, pink ears, and a wiggly pink nose because Rabbit doesn’t move, and he doesn’t make a sound.

That’s because Rabbit knows Wolf, and Wolf is hungry, too. He’s not paying much attention to Rabbit, though; Wolf is looking for mice and so is Owl. All winter long, they both have to hunt for their supper, and that can take a while.

But in the meantime, it’s quiet in the forest. Some animals are asleep while some are awake but watching. But will Chickadee change everything?

Remember that “long winter’s nap” that Clement Moore promised us? There may be times when it’s hard to get your toddler to take even a short afternoon one, but “Winter, Winter, Cold and Snow” might help.

Beginning with a song from a little bird and a rhyme that’s quiet as a midnight snowfall, author Sharon Gibson Palermo brings the energy level down several notches in this book. Yep, it’s a sleepy one; with half the forest animals snoozing and the rest silently keeping watch, there’s nothing here to stimulate or excite a child whose bedtime has arrived. The tale continues with many creatures and a rhyme that’s spare but a cadence that soothes. Add in pages of very simple patchwork-like illustrations by Christina Song, and you’ve got a book that will put your kids right to sleep, in the best way possible.

Meant for the littlest readers ages two months to four years old, this might be a great book for harried parents in need of help with bedtime. They might want “Winter, Winter, Cold and Snow” at the front of their bookcase.

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Theodore Melfi’s bio-pic, Hidden Figures, shines a spotlight on three African-American women who helped put men into space in the early 1960s. It’s a feel-good tale of science, determination, and overcoming obstacles in the Jim Crow South. The three women work at NASA, in Hampton, Va., and are confined to a segregated building.

But new frontiers come with new opportunities — and new hurdles: Mary Jackson (Janelle Monae) fights for admission to an allwhite night school, and Dorothy Vaughn (Octavia Spencer) does the work of a supervisor, without the title or compensation. Katherine Goble (Taraji P. Henson) is assigned to the Space Task Group, which will calculate trajectories for John Glenn’s Friendship 7 capsule; it is a big room of white men, dismissive of her race and gender.

No viewer will be surprised by how the film follows the formula of inspirational bio-pics — a pastiche of homey scenes, on-the-nose dialogue and/or speeches and genuinely interesting moments. It’s the quiet fierceness the actresses bring to these roles that make the work compelling and worth seeing. It’s always good to take note of unsung pioneers and to process the realities about how hard it is to succeed when the system is rigged. out of 4

LA LA LAND You know it’s the stuff of fantasia when Damien Chazelle’s candy-colored Cinemascope musical rom-com opens with a classic Los Angeles freeway traffic jam … that magically turns into a joyful classic song-and-dance number. The self-consciously old-fashioned La La Land aims to entertain and seduce, leavening its pretty people, twilight set pieces, and soft-shoe dance numbers with a splash of melancholy. Los Angeles may be a town of dreamers, but plenty of those dreams get busted.

Our two dreamers are Sebastian (Ryan Gosling), a jazz purist who wants to open a nightclub, and Mia (Emma Stone), an aspiring actress. The two meet and fall in love, then there are the speed bumps when their career goals imperil the romance.

Chazelle tips his hat frequently to old Hollywood. There are the film’s obvious antecedents (MGM show-biz musicals, Jacques Demy’s The Umbrellas of Cherbourg); hokey production techniques like montages of neon signs, and sets littered with assorted Hollywood iconography. Yet for all the looks back to classic Hollywood romance, Chazelle finds some freshness without resorting to irony or slavish pastiche. Gosling and Stone are adorable; they comport themselves well enough at singing and dancing, and the effervescence of the work gives their somewhat amateurish routines a shaggy charm. out of 4

All of these ran previously in the Pittsburgh City Paper.

recycling

Recycled Thoughts…

How much is really recyclable?

By LA Guzda Like many of us, I moved into my house and signed with a company to pick up my garbage once a week. I used my own container. It was painful that the area did not have a recycling program like most of the country. It was hard to throw plastic, glass, and paper into the garbage can. So, I began to recycle on my own and deliver it to the park in Lackawaxen Township center, which no longer exists. It was an effort.

As my collection service continued to raise the cost, I decided to shop around and found another service that provided containers – one for garbage and one for recycling, and they were less expensive! I changed service.

As months went by, they, too, began to increase the cost.

By now, I had so much going into the recycling can that I produced so little garbage. It just didn’t seem to make sense to spend the money for a service I didn’t think I really needed. (Much like having all the cable channels and you don’t have kids – just a ridiculous amount of money. Are you really watching that much TV? I wasn’t.)

So, I decided to cancel my service. I was already composting. I began a burn bag, a garbage bag and a recycle bin.

Now, I needed to dispose of my recycled items. I drove to the Wayne County Recycling Center on Route 652 in Berlin Township. And boy, was I surprised at what was actually recyclable!

All that time I was throwing every plastic and Styrofoam container away –pieces of this and that. When I started to discard my items, I realized how much is NOT recyclable.

The plastic containers that we collect from salsa, parmesan

did you know?

cheese, olives, cole slaw, etc… well, they only accept No 1 and No 2. If you look at the bottom, you will see a number.

The thinner, cheaper ones are usually No 4 or No 5 and NOT recyclable.

Since I now burn all my burnables, unless I have stacks of magazines which are recyclable, I’ve learned that in addition to the select plastic containers, I can also recycle plastic bottles and glass – clear, green and brown. It appears that Wayne County has a lot of wine drinkers as well as beer drinkers!

Learning how much was not accepted to be recycled, I can’t help but wonder if and how the collection companies process what they collect. I have a feeling that most ends up in a landfill.

Learning what was actually recyclable has made a big difference in how I shop. When I make a purchase now, I look at the packaging and how easily I can dispose of it. Initially, my garbage was greater, but now I’ve gotten it to even less than before, and I feel much better about my carbon footprint with recycling, composting, and burning. The staff on hand at the recycling center is very accommodating. I met Gary Quick, and he was very helpful and informative. That’s how I learned about the No 1 and No 2 containers. They also accept appliances so there is no reason to simply dump them in a wooded area.

I’m not asking anyone to go out and pick up garbage alongside the road (although that would be nice) nor am I suggesting you should cancel your garbage collection, but I do think it’s important to be mindful of your own output.

We live in a beautiful natural setting; let’s keep it that way!

Think Globally. Act Locally.

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

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17

lifestyle

outdoor ramblings

You’re staring at the computer screen or your phone, perhaps. You’ve just booked your week-long ski trip at a far-away resort, or maybe you’ve just cleared up enough of your schedule to slip in a few days of hitting up the local hills. You have a bunch of new gear you want to try out and all things seem like a go, but are you certain you haven’t missed something?

There’s a bunch of things even seasoned skiers sometimes slip up. I use the term “seasoned” as opposed to “experienced” or “avid” here because I’m targeting a certain demographic of winter sports enthusiasts; you may be that person or you may know one...or several. I consider a seasoned skier as being someone that knows how to ski but either hasn’t done it in a while, only puts a few days on the mountain a year (generally in one block), or even is a frequent skier that perhaps could use a refresher lesson.

Let’s work that list in reverse. Close to twenty years ago, the shape of skis went from nearly straight to having a very defined sidecut. A lot of folks like myself learned how to ski prior to that time, upgraded their equipment as the trend changed, but never learned how to ski correctly on shaped skis. I, myself, was guilty of this for a few seasons.

Almost two decades after shaped skis hit the market, you can still find people swooshing down the piste in a tightly closed parallel stance trying to “Ski Like Stein.” Don’t. While you’re on your trip, drop a few bucks for a private lesson with a PSIA instructor and take a few hours to really use those planks properly. Intermediate and advanced lessons not only serve to sharpen your skills, but they can potentially give you the experience of a lifetime.

If you’re that “One Big Trip a Year” skier or rider, consider a few things. Does everyone’s gear fit and is it in good condition? Your son or daughter might have grown out of their helmet. Does the lid fit the kid? Did you just stash your stuff after last year’s vacation? Better check those edges and get a fresh coat of wax. Are your bindings in good shape? How about those boots? Wear them around the house a few hours a day before you go to get the fit dialed in.

A few years ago, I ripped the buckle on the power strap on the top of a boot during my final expedition

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of the season. When I got home, I stashed my gear, keeping the broken part on my mental backburner, but the summer happened and I forgot to address the problem. Guess what? The boot was still broken when I went to use it the following December.

Finally, there are those who at one time, probably while in college and shortly thereafter, were avid skiers. Then, life arrived and they got married and had kids, and stopped skiing. Now, the kids are older and can tackle sliding down the trail with various types of metal and polymer based products strapped to their feet. No matter how great of a skier you were, don’t try to teach your kids to ski unless you are an instructor (and even then some instructors will have other instructors teach their own kids.)

There’s a number of reasons why you should not do this. First, you’re not an instructor. There’s more to it than “Pizza and French Fries.” Pros know the tricks and tips you don’t. Secondly, eliminate the parent-child dynamic. If things go south, you’re not bringing it home with you or having it come up ten years later when one of you is on the therapist’s couch.

Additionally, if you’re coming out of skiing hiatus, refer to all of the above. If you just bought a bunch of new stuff, get familiar with it at home before packing up the SUV. If you’re dusting off a pair of planks that haven’t seen the snow since the Clinton Administration, check it over well. If your gear wasn’t abused and was stored well, it may not be the slickest stuff, but it can still serve you fine with some moderate maintenance.

Check your supplies, address your issues, and enjoy the mountains! williamjdeaton@yahoo.com

classic cars

lifestyle

1955

Chevrolet

By Arn ie M ilid antr i

Bel Air 2 Door Sedan

here are a few cars that are instantly recognizable to us car enthusiasts that spark fond memories of our past; the 1955 Chevrolet is one of mine. Whether you, a family member, neighbor, or friend owned a ’55 Chevy, it is not easily forgotten! It is one of the most beloved cars and has been the foundation for generations of car hobbyists’ projects across a broad spectrum of car categories (antiques, wild customs, street rods, race cars, etc). These iconic “55 Chevys” have been crowd pleasers for years and still trigger unique trips down memory lane.

T

One of the great things about being a car enthusiast is not only getting the opportunity to admire great cars but to meet the owners and get to hear the story behind the car. The car featured this month is a beautiful “instantly recognizable classic” 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air 2 door sedan meticulously restored by its second owner, Mr. Bill Bennett. It is a great car with a great story that instantly brings smiles to our faces as we take a fond trip down memory lane.

BACKGROUND Between 1950 through 1975, the Chevrolet division of General Motors produced the full size Chevrolet Bel Air in the United States. The 1949-1952 Hardtops in the Chevrolet Deluxe Styleline model range were the first to carry the Bel Air name. In 1953, Bel Air became one of three new distinct series introduced.

The other two series were the 150 and 210.

The second generation of the Bel Air is categorized as the 1955-1957 model years. The 1955 model year, the year of this month’s featured car, was truly the start of a market share turning point for Chevrolet, thanks to market enthusiasm for new style Chevrolets and the new optional V8 engines. The ’55 Chevy’s looks, power, and engineering made it a success and America’s most popular car for 1955, a year in which consumers bought cars as never before. The market was ready for something special and the ’55 Chevy fit the bill!

The fresh styling was a welcomed break from Chevrolet’s stuffy past; the updated design provided great market flexibility across a broad spectrum of the car market in response to the needs of both personal and business vehicles. Its Ferrari-inspired grille, “wrap around windshield” and a beltline dip below the rear side window added to the ’55 Chevy’s new “longer-wider-boxier” style, which was somehow magically fitted on the new 115 inch wheelbase frame.

The Bel Airs came with the same features found on cars in the lower models ranges (150 & 210) plus interior carpet, chrome headliner bands on hardtops, chrome spears on front fenders, stainless steel window moldings, and full wheel covers. Models were further distinguished by the Bel Air name script in gold lettering later in the year.

The true catalyst for the consumer excitement was the introduction of Chevrolet’s first modern V8 engine,

the 265 cubic inch “Turbo Fire” (the start of Chevrolet “Small Block Dynasty”). The new engine was lighter than the six cylinders and much more powerful, rated 162 horsepower with a standard transmission and 170 horsepower when equipped with the PowerGlide automatic transmission. An optional 180 horsepower version tagged “Power-Pak” featured a four-barrel carburetor and dual exhausts. The reliable 235 cubic inch six cylinder rated at 123 horsepower was still available, but the V8 was what people wanted. In support of the V8 option, Chevrolet introduced an updated chassis with new ball-joint front suspension and standard tubeless tires.

FEATURED CAR In 1955 in the small upstate New York town of Spencerport, two unrelated things took place. In the early summer of 1955, a thirty-year-old woman named Madeline ordered and purchased a 1955 Bel Air V8 two door sedan from the town’s Rowley Chevrolet Dealership. That same year a baby boy, Bill Bennett, was born; his father worked for the Rowley dealership.

Bill grew up less than a half a mile from Madeline’s home. Madeline drove her Chevrolet approximately 4,000 miles a year for the next ten years and in 1965 parked it in an out-building on her family’s property.

Fast forward 45 years, Bill Bennett, now 55 years old, is a well-known car buff in his home town.

It had to be fate when in 2010 Bill’s attorney, who knew of Bill’s expertise in car restoration, called and asked if he could start a client’s (Madeline) car. She was now in assisted living. Bill asked if she was interested in selling it, and his attorney said yes. A deal was struck that included a promised ride when the car was finished. Over the next two years, this 43,000 mile original car would undergo the most detailed restoration I have ever seen.

Bill knew that the Bel Air had the original engine and transmission, but not until he got it home did he realize every part on the car was factory original from 1955. He was committed to restore it to “exact original” right down to the shock absorbers, generator, starter, voltage regulator, and one year only headlights.

Not only are all the numbered parts original, so are the hundreds of other parts: steel-jacked speedometer cable, the antenna, jack, grooved brake drums with anti-vibration springs, nuts and bolts.

The body was removed from the frame and sent to B&C Auto Restorations in Ontario, NY, for the restoration of the body. All new floors, trunk pan, and quarters were installed, and two new old stock front fenders were located and used. The craftsmanship and professional care given this project was second to none. The car’s fit and finish is flawless. While the body was being transformed at B&C, Bill, with some help from his son, Cody, and good friend, Paul, completed the meticulous restoration of the frame and all the car’s mechanicals, including the engine and transmission.

The car was reassembled per GM’s assembly manual and following all 1,000 point judging guidelines.

Countless hours were spent researching and restoring.

Bill’s beautiful Glacier Blue and Shoreline Beige 1955 Chevrolet is an outstanding example of one man’s commitment to the preservation of a piece of automotive history and a true labor of love. A really unique thing about this build is that Bill has the original bill of sale for the car from the dealer, the first issued registration and the original owner’s manual in its original envelope in the glove box. He even managed to get and painstakingly restore an original license plate frame from the long ago closed Rowley Chevrolet dealership.

It should be noted that Bill kept his promise upon the completion of the car’s restoration and gave then 88-year-old Madeline a ride in her new again beloved 1955 Chevy! Again, a great car with an even greater story!

OWNER Bill Bennett, a retired swimming pool contractor, left the cold of upstate New York in 2012 and is currently living is sunny central Florida. Bill has been hooked on cars since he was involved in his first restoration at age 16. Over the the last 45 years, he has restored, built, or repaired countless Tri fives, resto rods, Corvettes, classics, pro street and street rods. Since his retirement, he has given up long term large restoration projects, but like many true car enthusiasts, he still tinkers restoring carburetors and other small parts or components for his friends. Bill is a fountain of knowledge on the 1955 Chevrolet and other restoration protocol; he is one of the hobby’s gentlemen willing to share his expertise and knowledge with those who share his love of cars.

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19

wellness

behavioral medicine

The Challenge of Coping with

Chronic Illness

By Arthur Middleton, M.D., FAPA

The greatest mistake in the treatment of diseases is that there are physicians for the body and physicians for the soul, although the two cannot be separated. ~Plato t is a fair assumption that many of us take good health for granted. But at the same time, it is also likely that all of us have experienced acute illnesses that are easily treated and resolved; an upset stomach, for example, which ordinarily responds to an over-the-counter medication for treatment of diarrhea and indigestion. However, there are many illnesses that are far more serious but at the same time can be resolved and do not linger. Such is not the case with illnesses such as hypertension, or high blood pressure, arthritis, and diabetes, all of which require specific medications, which are often taken for life.

I

There are also many psychiatric illnesses that require medications for the life of the patient. This includes psychiatric disorders such as Schizophrenia, Depression, and Bipolar Disorder. These illnesses are acknowledged as “chronic,” which is defined by the Miriam Webster Dictionary as: “continuing or occurring again and again for a long time.”

According to the NIMH (National Institute of Mental Health), “people with depression are at higher risk for other medical conditions.” This includes medical illnesses such as: cardiovascular or heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and Alzheimer’s disease, as an example. There is ongoing research to determine if there are physiological changes in this population that would lead to an increased risk of medical illness in individuals with depression. At the same time, it is acknowledged that individuals with depression may have more difficulties in caring for their medical conditions; not taking prescribed medications properly or failing to eat properly, as an example.

While many older Americans have to deal with chronic health issues, it is important to note that age alone is not a deciding factor. We are all vulnerable to the impact of chronic health problems. As reported in a HealthDay report by Mary Elizabeth Dallas (November 3, 2016) titled: More Than Half of Americans Have a Chronic Health Problem: Study, the author writes about this particular study, which reveals that mental illness or a problem with drugs and alcohol is part of the medical conditions report-

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ed. As written in the article, the study was published in Psychology, Health & Medicine, and it was noted that 40% of the population studied had “at least one chronic medical condition.” In addition, the study reported that, in this population, 18% had been diagnosed with a mental illness in the past year and about 9% abused drugs or alcohol during that time. The article noted that this study also found that 15% were living in poverty and that these individuals with chronic medical conditions were often unemployed, had less than a high school education, and had no health insurance. In summation, in addition to the burden of chronic medical health issues, for many, there are other social and economic factors that are part of this dynamic.

Today, the practice of medicine has become highly dependent on the use of the computer and the electronic medical record. Many patients will complain that their health care professionals seem to spend more time looking at the computer and spending less time with them. This is why it is important to consider a concept that may not be initially considered: the Biopsychosocial approach to treatment. This involves recognizing that it is necessary to consider the biological, psychological, and social domains which are important and should be considered in order to properly understand how to provide essential and individualized health care.

The following fictional clinical vignette is presented to highlight the complexities of Chronic Disease and the association of mental health issues.

JT is a 42 y/o unemployed truck driver. He is married with two teenaged children. His wife works as a day care worker. He was gainfully employed until a year ago when he began to have difficulties with controlling his diabetes. JT is significantly overweight. He is 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighs nearly 250 pounds. His doctor expressed concern about JT’s lack of concern about the growing medical complications that he was beginning to see; one of which was an increase in his blood sugar.

JT was diagnosed with obesity and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and was prescribed Glucophage or metformin, which he was to take on a daily basis. [ www.connections-magazine.com ]

The doctor’s nurse spent considerable time with JT to be sure that he monitored his blood sugar on a daily basis using a glucometer, controlled his diet, and became serious about exercise in order to lose weight. JT took the position that all he had to do was to take the medication. Working as a truck driver made it difficult to exercise so he ignored this as well, gaining 10 pounds by the time he saw his doctor for a follow-up visit.

This time, however, JT was shocked.

His doctor told him that he could not be maintained on only the oral medication; it would be necessary for him to begin insulin, which he would selfadminister by injection on a daily basis. He would also have to adjust the dosage, based on his daily glucose level. JT never thought that he would ever be on a chronic medication, let alone a daily injection. Initially, JT followed all instructions, but after a few weeks began to miss administering his injection. Once he did this, and nothing happened, he felt that he could rely on the oral medication alone, completely ignoring the findings on the glucometer.

He did not tell his wife that he wasn’t always taking his insulin, but his wife noticed that JT did not appear well.

JT continued to work as a truck driver. He began to call in sick on numerous occasions because he was feeling nauseous and on several occasions threw up. His wife took him to the doctor. His doctor found his blood sugar to be so high that he was immediately hospitalized, with a diagnosis of diabetic ketoacidosis. This is a condition that occurs when there is a prolonged increase of blood sugar, a relative absence of insulin, and a build-up of acids called ketones, hence the name ketoacidosis.

Untreated, this is a condition that can lead to coma and death.

JT was successfully treated and released from the hospital. While he was chastened and became more focused on controlling his diabetes, he also became severely depressed. He felt that he could no longer work, was obese and couldn’t lose weight, and had no reason to live. His wife feared that he would take his life. With great difficulty, she got him to see his doctor again. When seeing his doctor, he assured

kidneys him that he was not actively suicidal, but had been thinking about it. His doctor was able to have him seen by a psychiatrist the same day. JT was started on an antidepressant, which he continues to take and is also in therapy. JT has been able to accept his diagnosis and is slowly losing weight. His blood sugars, with daily self-administered insulin, have improved, and he has a better understanding of the importance of taking his prescribed medications.

As identified in the fictional clinical vignette, obesity and depression were part of the clinical picture of chronic disease. While depression might be considered to be a normal response to a chronic disease, such as diabetes and obesity, it is important to recognize that depression can also be treated. Equally important, the quality of one’s life can be improved with the treatment. Apart from antidepressant medications, there is a form of talk therapy; CBT or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which can help the individual cope with the challenges that lie ahead. Diabetes and Obesity both require changes in lifestyle, which can be more easily accommodated if depression is treated.

Diabetes is a serious chronic medical disease that can lead to heart, nerve, and kidney damage if not properly identified and treated. As reported by the NIH (National Institutes of Health), “studies show that people with diabetes are at greater risk for depression than those without it.”

The NIH also cites research which states that “research statistics show that when it comes to their own health, men have fewer checkups with regular healthcare providers than do women.” “They remain unaware of the often hidden dangers of obesity, high blood pressure, depression, sexual dysfunction, and diabetes.”

For many, living with a chronic illness requires more than a simple adaptation. It can be accompanied by confusion; trying to understand why it happened. In some cases, there is no simple answer. It may also lead to a change in how the individual sees himself, even involving embarrassment about having a chronic disease.

When the disease is accepted, the individual may come to realize that there is a “new normal.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that Chronic Diseases are the “leading causes of death and disability in the United States.” According to the CDC, as of 2012 “about half of all adults or 117 million people had one or more chronic health conditions.” Common examples of chronic disease include heart disease, stroke, cancer, type 2 diabetes, obesity and arthritis. With regard to diabetes, the CDC reports that “the total estimated cost of diagnosed diabetes in 2012 was $245 billion, including $176 billion in direct

medical costs and $69 billion in decreased productivity.” Quite often, it is mental illness, depression, that is part of the challenge in learning to cope with this chronic disorder and as a result, not being able to work or being less productive at work.

Older adults are especially vulnerable to depression as chronic disease is often a trigger for depression. According to the CDC, “80% of older adults have at least one chronic health condition and 50% have two or more.”

As noted by the CDC, some healthcare providers might view depression as a normal response to chronic disease.

In fact, some older adults also have the same belief. Depression is not a disorder to be ignored in any patient with chronic disease. Depression should be properly diagnosed and treated. This is the challenge for healthcare professionals; to see the “whole” patient, considering the biopsychosocial aspects to chronic disease.

In summary, Chronic Illness is a major health concern for healthcare providers. There is an association with mental disorders, in particular depression. While chronic illness can affect individuals regardless of age, diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis often affect older people, limiting their ability to function. It is important to become knowledgeable about our health. While chronic illness may be unavoidable, depression remains treatable and should be identified and treated by healthcare professionals.

The following references are provided for the informed consumer: NIH / MedLine Plus: Living With a Chronic Illness – Reaching Out to Others https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000601.htm NIH / MedLine Plus: For Men, Ignoring Diabetes Can Be Deadly https://medlineplus.gov/magazine/issues/fall09/a rticles/fall09pg11a.html NIH / The National Institute of Mental Health: Chronic Illness & Mental Health https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/c hronic-illness-mental-health-2015/index.shtml 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.

This may sound like a crazy question, but is it possible to use your own stomach to take over for your kidneys when they aren’t working right?

his question isn’t as bizarre as it seems. It is possible to use the abdominal cavity, which includes the stomach, to perform kidney functions.

T

Kidneys are designed to remove waste and extra fluid from your blood. These organs contain millions of tiny blood vessels to handle this task. They also make hormones that keep your bones strong and your blood healthy.

If your kidneys aren’t working properly, unwanted substances in the blood can be removed through a process called dialysis. Most people who need dialysis can lead a reasonably normal life.

There are two types of dialysis— hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis.

In hemodialysis, a patient is connected to an artificial kidney. This mechanical kidney—or dialyzer— filters the blood and then returns it to the patient. The treatment time typically lasts three to four hours.

Most people suffering chronic kidney failure require hemodialysis three times a week. Hemodialysis can be done in a healthcare facility or at home.

In peritoneal dialysis, the filter that is used is the peritoneum, the large, blood-rich membrane lining the abdomen and the organs within it. A fluid is sent into the abdominal cavity via a catheter inserted into the abdominal wall. This fluid (dialysate) is left in the cavity long enough to absorb blood wastes. Then the fluid is drained and replaced.

There are several kinds of peritoneal dialysis, but two major ones are:

Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) and Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD).

Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) is the only type of peritoneal dialysis that is done without machines. You do this yourself, usually four or five times a day at home and/or at work.

You put a bag of dialysate (about two quarts) into your peritoneal cavity through the catheter. The dialysate stays there for about four or five hours before it is drained back into the bag and thrown away.

This is called an exchange.

You use a new bag of dialysate each time you do an exchange.

While the dialysate is in your peritoneal cavity, you can go about your usual activities at work, at school, or at home.

Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD) usually is done at home using a special machine called a cycler.

This is similar to CAPD except that a number of cycles (exchanges) occur. Each cycle usually lasts 11/2 hours and exchanges are done throughout the night while you sleep.

Dialysis is usually prescribed when kidney problems are responsible for the following: heart failure, abnormal brain function, inflammation of the sac around the heart, an overload of body fluid, high acid or potassium levels in the blood.

More than half of the people on long-term dialysis are 60 or older. Older people often adapt more easily than younger people to longterm dialysis.

However, seniors are more likely to find the treatments tiring.

All Rights Reserved © 2017 by Fred Cicetti

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21

get connected

area events

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.

WEEKLY Table Tennis in Honesdale Lakeside Elementary School, Honesdale. Join a group of table tennis enthusiasts who play weekly.

Info: John Babyak, 570-253-4379 or jbabyak1@ptd.net.

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.

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

Registration & info: 570-996-1500.

TUESDAYS Bingo American Legion Post 311, Hawley.

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

TUESDAYS Bingo Texas #4 Fire Company, Honesdale.

Doors open 5:30 p.m. Games start at 6:30 p.m. Plenty of parking.

Info: 570-253-5467.

TUESDAYS 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.

WEDNESDAYS 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.

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.

ARTS, RECREATION & ENTERTAINMENT

FEBRUARY ’17

Info: www.pcpl.org or Facebook.

Registration: 570-296-8211.

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

Come read your work or listen & be inspired. Learn the craft of writing as you write toward a goal of publication. All genres & levels of writing welcome. Free admission. Info: 570-833-5246.

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: 570-226-2124 or silverbirchesresortpa.com.

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

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

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

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

Info: 570-561-3629.

SATURDAYS Live Music at Barley Creek 8–11 p.m. Barley Creek Brewing Company, Tannersville. The Pocono Mountains’ Original Brewpub. Great food & handcrafted beer brewed on-site.

Free brewery tours daily at 12:30 p.m. No cover charge. Info: 570-629-9399.

SATURDAYS Live Music 9 p.m.–1 a.m. The Dock on Wallenpaupack, Hawley. Great drink specials, delicious food & live music.

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

THROUGH FEB. 15 2017 Scholastic Art Awards Mahady Gallery, Marywood University, Scranton. Features the Gold & Silver Key

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award–winning work by junior high & high school students from the NE Pa. art region. Info: 570-348-6278.

February 1– February 9 FEB. 1 Open Electric Jam 7–10 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale.

Presented by The Cooperage Project.

Hosted by What’s His Face. If you don’t have a band don’t worry. The host band can step in if need be. BYOB. Donationbased event. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.

FEB. 1 Elvis Lives 7:30 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, WilkesBarre. Unforgettable multimedia & live musical journey across Elvis’s life. Highenergy show features Ultimate winners, Bill Cherry, Dean Z & Jay Dupuis, as the principal cast. Info: 570-826-1100 or www.kirbycenter.org.

FEB. 2 Winter Fest Preview Day 1 & 6 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. Screen all the movie trailers of the fourteen films featured in Winter Fest.

Discounted concession. Free admission.

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

FEB. 2 The Wines of Romeo & Juliet: A Veneto Region Wine Tasting and Discussion 7–9 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale.

Presented by The Cooperage & the American Wine Society. A survey of the diverse wines from the Veneto region, where Romeo & Juliet takes place. Learn how to form an AWS chapter to continue your exploration of wine. Donationbased event. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.

FEB. 3 Gallery Lecture: “Raku Fiber Fusion” 5 p.m. Brennan Hall, The University of Scranton. Ellen Silberlicht, exhibiting artist. Reception follows at Hope Horn Gallery. Free. Info: 570-941-4214 or darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.

FEB. 3 A Mid-Winter Celebration: Seven Centuries of A Cappella Music 7 p.m. Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, Milford. KHORIKOS Vocal Ensemble, one of NYC's most distinguished a cappella ensembles, performs a wide range of musical works from medieval polyphony to contemporary sound sculpture. Donations collected.

Info: 570-409-1269 or kindredspir@yahoo.com or www.kindredspiritsarts.org.

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FEB. 3 Sounds Like Teen Spirit 7–9 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale.

Presented by The Cooperage Project.

Open mic night for school-aged students to perform stand-up comedy, poetry, song, juggle or play keyboards. Donationbased event. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.

FEB. 3 God Save the Queen 8 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre.

With the true original sound & amazing look-a-like/sound-a-like of Pablo Padín as Freddie Mercury, this band brings some of the greatest moments in rock history vividly back to life.

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

FEB. 3–26 Crystal Cabin Fever 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Sculpted Ice Works, Lakeville. “Once Upon a Time.” Carved from 100 tons of ice. Giant ice slide, ice factory tour & museum, free wine tasting, ice carving daily, ice carving competitions. Info: 570-226-6246 or crystalcabinfever.com.

FEB. 3–MAR. 3 Art Exhibit: “Raku Fiber Fusion: Sculptural Vessels by Ellen Silberlicht” Hope Horn Gallery, The University of Scranton. Three-dimensional works inspired by nature & personal experience, combining raku pottery with felted wool to create colorful, imaginative forms. Public reception: Feb. 3, 6–8 p.m.

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

FEB. 4 Backyard Birds with the Audubon Society 9 a.m.–Noon. Lacawac Sanctuary, Lake Ariel. Build a feeder & give the returning birds something to eat. Then join a guided hike on the Maurice Broun trail. Dress warm & wear winter hiking boots or snow shoes. Bring binoculars. Registration appreciated. Info & registration: 570689-9494 or info@lacawac.org FEB. 4 Cross Country Skiing 9 a.m.–Noon. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry.

“Bridge the Gap: Ski the McDade Trail.”

Enjoy the winter woods with beginner ski lessons. Skis, poles & boots provided.

Register with shoe size to guarantee a spot. Free. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org.

FEB. 4 Eagle Watch Bus Tour 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Upper Delaware Visitor Center, Lackawaxen. Join the Delaware Highlands Conservancy to learn about eagles in our region. Take a scenic drive

area events with an expert guide on a heated bus & look for eagles. Seats are limited.

Reservations required: 570-226-3164x6 or info@delawarehighlands.org.

FEB. 4 Active Adventures: Little Eco Explorers: Eagles 1–2:30 p.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Fun, hands-on program for young children with a story, craft & activity focusing on Bald Eagles. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org.

FEB. 4 Main Street Farmers’ Market 11 a.m.–1 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Delicious food, locally grown produce, maple syrup, fresh baked bread & locally roasted coffee. Anthill Farm Kitchen cooks farm-to-table food.

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

FEB. 4 Romping Radishes 11 a.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. A healthy living class for kids. Topic is “Dance!” with a special visit from the instructors at the Catskill Dance Company. Program geared toward kids K–2, but all ages welcome. Donationbased event. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.

FEB. 4 Exhibit & Reception: “Visual Duets” Alliance Gallery, Delaware Arts Center, Narrowsburg, NY. Gallery hours: Tues.– Sat., 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Free. Exhibit runs through Mar. 25. Info: 845-252-7576 or delawarevalleyartsalliance.org.

FEB. 4 Northeast Pennsylvania Brain Bee 1 p.m. Loyola Science Center, The University of Scranton. Sponsored by the Neuroscience Program at The Univ. of Scranton. Snow date Feb. 11. Free. Preregistration required. Info: 570-941-4324 or robert.waldeck@scranton.edu.

FEB. 4 Introduction to Chinese Medicinal Herbs 3 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale.

Nathaniel Whitmore covers some of the fundamentals of herbal medicine, dispel common misconceptions & offers practical tips for do-it-yourself herbal remedies. Donation-based event.

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

FEB. 4 World Series Of Beer Pong — Qualifying Tournament 4 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

Win entry into the $50,000 main event in Las Vegas, NV. All applicants must be 21+. Or, try the free to enter Party Game Championships. Free admission to the public. Info: 570-420-2808 or www.shermantheater.com.

FEB. 4 Performance Music: “In Concert” 7:30 p.m. Houlihan-McLean Center, The University of Scranton. Featuring JonErik Kellso & the EarRegulars. Free. Info: 570-941-7624 or music@scranton.edu.

FEB. 4 Colebrook Road 8–10 p.m. Hawley Silk Mill, Hawley. A standout string band, whose award-win-

ning members from an array of backgrounds perform almost exclusively original compositions with varying themes, while still adhering to the larger bluegrass genre. Info: 570-588-8077 or harmonypresents.com.

FEB. 4–28 Art Exhibit: Darryl Speicher, “Life in the Poconos” Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, Bartonsville. Opening reception: 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Info: 570-629-3061 or www.mcconservation.org.

FEB. 5 Fire Building 10 a.m.–Noon. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Ages 10+. Make fire without matches by learning techniques that involve sparks & found or prepared tinder.

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

FEB. 5 Cross Country Skiing 1–3 p.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Enjoy the winter woods with beginner ski lessons.

Learn the basics of cross country skiing & practice on an old logging road loop. You decide how many loops to ski. Skis, poles & boots provided. Register with shoe size to guarantee a spot.

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

FEB. 5 RiverFolk Concert: Bob Malone 5 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale.

Presented by RiverFolk Concerts. His sound is a one-of-a-kind hybrid of rock, blues, & New Orleans R&B, delivered with high-energy piano virtuosity & a voice all his own. Donation-based event.

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

FEB. 8 A River Runs Through It — The Movie 1 & 7 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. Starring Brad Pitt & Craig Sheffert.

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

FEB. 9 I Have A Dream 10 a.m. F.M. Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre.

Grades 3–Adult. The phenomenal impact of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is chronicled in a compelling dramatization of the life & times of one of the most influential & charismatic leaders of the “American Century.” Info: 570-826-1100 or www.kirbycenter.org.

February 10–February 19 FEB. 10 Eagle Watch Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, Bartonsville. Field trip to upper Delaware River in search of bald eagles.

Meet at EE Center at 8:30 a.m.; return 5:30 p.m. Cost includes bus transportation. Pack lunch & binoculars. Dress for the weather. Seating limited. Pre-registration required by Feb. 7. Info: 570-6293061 or www.mcconservation.org.

FEB. 10 Warrior Writers 7–9 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock.

Ages 18 & up. Writing workshop supports artistic exploration & expression & provides a safe space to share experi-

get connected Bridge the Gap: Intro to Snowshoeing FEB. 12 1–4 p.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Learn the basics of snowshoes & enjoy a winter walk along the McDade Trail. No experience necessary.

Equipment provided. Register early to reserve a pair of snowshoes & guarantee a spot. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org.

ences in the military culture. Open to all veterans & service members. Free.

Registration & info: 570-996-1500.

FEB. 10 Fine Wine, Fine Art 7–9 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock.

Immerse yourself in an evening inspired

by Impressionist artists. Bring your own snacks & wine. Ages 21 & older only; ID required.

Reservations & info: 570-996-1500.

FEB. 10 I Go On Singing: Paul Robeson’s Life in his Own Words & Song 8 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre.

Tells Robeson’s story in his own words, performed by gifted American baritone Anthony Brown. Info: 570-826-1100 or www.kirbycenter.org.

FEB. 10, 11, 12 Valentine’s Dinner Theater The Waterfront at Silver Birches Resort, Hawley. “Pull The Other One,” a hilarious comedy performed by The Ritz Company Players. Reservations required: 570-226-4388.

FEB. 11 Building for the Birds 10 a.m. Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, Bartonsville. Learn about different kinds of bird houses that are easy to build & perfect for the area’s cavity nesters. Info & plans for houses available. Info: 570-629-3061 or www.mcconservation.org.

FEB. 11 Eagle Watch Bus Tour 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Upper Delaware Visitor Center, Lackawaxen. See description at Feb. 4. Reservations required: 570-2263164x6 or info@delawarehighlands.org.

FEB. 11 Cross Country Skiing 10 a.m.–Noon. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. See description at Feb. 5. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org.

FEB. 11 Simple. Natural. Healing. — Weight Loss Seminar 10 a.m.–Noon. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. Weight Loss, Maintenance & Transforming Health Naturally: Donna LaBar seminar provides education, a plan plus recipes & food ideas for an easier approach to improve your health.

Includes food sampling. Donation suggested.

Registration & info: 570-996-1500.

FEB. 11 Ecozone Discovery Room!

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

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

FEB. 11 Savannah Sipping Society 7 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Four women needing to escape the sameness of their day-to-day routines are drawn together by Fate — & an impromptu happy hour — & decide it’s high time to reclaim the enthusiasm for life they’ve lost. Donation-based event. Reservations & info: 570-253-2020 or info@thecooperageproject.org.

FEB. 11 Sebastian Maniscalco 7:00 & 9:30 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre. “Why Would You Do That?” Tour. Maniscalco delivers his unique brand of physical & quick-witted observational comedy in a new hour of highly anticipated skepticism. Info: 570-826-1100 or www.kirbycenter.org.

FEB. 11 Aerial Gypsy Burlesque: A Night At The Moulin Rouge 8 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

Cabaret, vocalists, high-flying aerialists, & all the decadence of the most spectacular showgirls in the world. Dinner & show available. Info: 570-420-2808 or www.shermantheater.com.

FEB. 12 Winter Ecology Hike 10 a.m.–Noon. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Hike & learn how different plants & animals survive the winter. Experience PEEC in the wintertime. All ages welcome.

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

FEB. 12 Savannah Sipping Society 3 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. See description at Feb. 11. Info: 570-2532020 or thecooperageproject.org.

FEB. 12 I Prevail 8 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

With special guests Wage War, Islander, Assuming We Survive.

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

FEB. 13 Bill Blagg’s Science of Magic 10 a.m. F.M. Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre.

Grades 2–7. Illusionist Blagg’s one-of-akind educational experience takes stu-

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dents on a rare, never-before-seen journey “behind the scenes” of the magic world. Students discover firsthand how magicians use science to create the impossible. Info: 570-826-1100 or www.kirbycenter.org.

Abella, Co-Founder of Moka Origins, a chocolate & coffee company in Honesdale. Donation-based event. Registration appreciated but not required. Registration & info: 570-253-2020 or info@thecooperageproject.org.

FEB. 13 Introduction to Metal Working 6–9 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock.

Ages 16 & up. Learn the first basic steps of metal work. Leave with a finished brass pendant. No soldering. Materials & equipment supplied.

Registration & info: 570-996-1500.

FEB. 17 The Last of the Red Hot Lovers 7:30 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, WilkesBarre. Neil Simon’s classic. True comedy ensues when a modern man in the hip sixties looks for something new & different, but ends up finding himself in the same situation, again & again. Info: 570-826-1100 or www.kirbycenter.org.

FEB. 14 Valentine’s Dinner 5:30–9:30 p.m. The Settlers Inn, Hawley.

A romantic dinner served by candlelight.

Be entertained listening to music & enjoying each other’s company. Come early & have a crafted cocktail by the roaring fire. Prix Fixe menu. Reservations required: 570-226-2993.

FEB. 15 Wayne Highlands Quilt Guild 6:30 p.m. Community Room, Chamber of Commerce, Honesdale. Welcoming quilters all ages & skill levels. Make new friends who share your passion for quilting. Show & Tell & refreshments.

Info: Deb, 570-224-4914 or debszoo@gmail.com.

FEB. 16 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. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.

FEB. 16 Cirque Zuma Zuma 7:30 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, WilkesBarre. Includes performances of many different types of African culture, featuring an array of never-before-seen talents & African variety arts, set to a live musical score. Info: 570-826-1100 or www.kirbycenter.org.

FEB. 17 Winter Fest 2017 Opening Night 6 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock.

Enjoy an evening of two acclaimed films, popcorn, cheese & crackers, wine, beer & a sumptuous brownie sundae dessert.

Space limited.

Reservations & info: 570-996-1500.

FEB. 17 Bean to Bar Chocolate Making 7 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Presented by The Cooperage Project.

Chocolate-making workshop led by Jeff

FEB. 17 Matt Nakoa 8–10 p.m. Hawley Silk Mill, Hawley.

Internationally touring singer/songwriter with a wide-ranging style, equally comfortable with a sweeping pop opus or an intimate acoustic palette. Info: 570-588-8077 or harmonypresents.com.

FEB. 17 The Showdown featuring Big Daddy Kane & Kool G Rap 8 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

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

FEB. 17–20 Winter Wonderland Family Nature Getaway Weekend Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Experience PEEC in the wintertime. Cross country skiing, animal tracking, nature hikes, snow tubing, campfire & more. Includes three nights of lodging & meals. Commuter & day rates available. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org.

FEB. 18 Ignite Student Leadership Conference 10 a.m. DeNaples Center, The University of Scranton. Leadership development program open to NE Pa. college students.

Fee for non-Univ. students includes program materials, refreshments & lunch.

Pre-registration required.

Info: 570-941-6233 or visit www.scranton.edu/leadership.

FEB. 18 Main Street Farmers’ Market 11 a.m.–1 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. See description at Feb. 4.

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

FEB. 18 Outside The Wall (Pink Floyd Tribute) 8 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg. recreating many of their classic songs from “The Wall” & “Animals.” Info: 570420-2808 or www.shermantheater.com.

Clarks Summit Festival of Ice FEB. 17–20 Clarks Summit. “The Frozen Frontier” Live ice carving, over 50 ice sculptures, live entertainmrnt & music, parade (Fri., 7:30 p.m.), horse & carriage rides, Ice Lights “Cabaret.” Free parking, free admission. Info: 570-587-9045 or www.theabingtons.org.

FEB. 18, 19. 20 Presidents Weekend Brunch 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m. The Settlers Inn, Hawley. Pianist Julie Eschler is the featured performer. Complimentary bottomless mimosas included. Prix Fixe menu.

Reservations & info: 570-226-2993.

FEB. 19 Swampcandy 3 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale.

Presented by The Cooperage Project.

Primitive-blues-influenced Americana duo. Donation-based event. Info: 570253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.

FEB. 19 Gypsy Jazz Dinner 5:30–9:30 p.m. The Settlers Inn, Hawley.

Enjoy dinner & a special musical Jazz performance by John Curtin’s Trim Trio on Presidents’ Weekend. Prix Fixe menu.

Reservations required: 570-226-2993.

FEB. 19 9th Annual Gene Yevich Memorial Concert 7:30 p.m. Houlihan-McLean Center, The University of Scranton. Featuring The Wycliffe Gordon Quintet. Free. Info: 570-941-7624 or music@scranton.edu.

February 20–February 28 FEB. 21 Tuesdays with Nellie — Mystery Book Club 5:30 p.m. Wayne County Public Library, Honesdale. Solve a mystery each month with Annelle Snyder. Registration & info: Elizabeth, 570-253-1220 or ewilson@waynelibraries.org.

FEB. 21 Latin American Film Festival: “Wild Tales” 7 p.m. Brennan Hall, The University of Scranton. Argentina. Free. Info: 570-9417778 or yamile.silva@scranton.edu.

FEB. 22 Out of Africa — The Movie 1 p.m. & 7 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock. Starring Meryl Streep & Robert Redford. Free admission. Info: 570-9961500 or www.dietrichtheater.com.

FEB. 23 Annie 7:30 p.m. F.M. Kirby Center, WilkesBarre. Brand new incarnation of the iconic original. Info: 570-826-1100 or www.kirbycenter.org.

FEB. 23 Art of Koolin Presents: A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie & Rich The Kid 8 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

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

FEB. 24 Fine Wine, Fine Art 7–9 p.m. Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock.

See description at Feb. 10. Reservations & info: 570-996-1500.

FEB. 24 1964 the Tribute 8 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

Recreates an early ’60s live Beatles concert with songs from the pre-Sgt. Pepper era & period instruments, clothing, hairstyles & onstage banter. Info: 570-4202808 or www.shermantheater.com.

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FEB. 24–26, MAR. 3–5 Performance: “Miss Julie” 8 p.m. Fri. & Sat.: 2 p.m. McDade Center for Literary & Performing Arts, The University of Scranton. By August Strindberg, presented by The Univ. of Scranton Players. Fees vary. Info: 570-941-4318 or uofsplayers@gmail.com.

FEB. 25 Cross Country Skiing 10 a.m.–Noon. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. See description at Feb. 5. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org.

FEB. 25 Free Winter Carnival 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Camp Speers, Ding-mans Ferry. Snow art, snow tubing, ice skating (bring your skates), ice fishing (bring your poles). Snowshoeing & cross country skiing, weather permitting. Bonfire, hot chocolate.

Free lunch. Overnight lodging available.

Registration: campspeersymca.org/wintercarnival. Info: 570-828-2329.

FEB. 25 Animal Tracking 1–3 p.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Animals leave behind clues that give us glimpses into their lives. Explore PEEC’s natural areas for tracks, trails, scat, territory marks, chew marks, & other signs animals leave as they travel through the fields & forests.

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

FEB. 25 Golden Gate Wingmen 8 p.m. Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg.

Featuring Jeff Chimenti, John Kadlecik, Jay Lane & Reed Mathis.

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

FEB. 25–26

Wally Ice Fest Enjoy the winter season on Lake Wallenpaupack. Events include the Ice Tee Golf tournament, Ice Fest Pond Hockey Tournament, & the Paupack Plunge. Curling demos & ice sculptures. Many local businesses, restaurants & bars will be offering special deals throughout the weekend. Info: www.wallyicefest.com or Facebook.

FEB. 25–26 25th Annual Ice Tee Golf Tournament The Waterfront at Silver Birches Resort, Hawley. Nine holes of golf on two treelined courses. Closest to Wally Driving Contest. Prizes for Wackiest Hat & Craziest Sled. For golfers of all ages & abilities. One of a kind ice sculpted tee signs. Register to reserve your tee time. Applications & info: maureen@northernpoconoschamber.com.

FEB. 25–MAR. 26 America in a Trance: Photography by Niko J. Kallianiotis Mahady Gallery, Marywood University, Scranton. Photographs include new & old works from his travels across the Keystone state, an ongoing observation of the fading American dream so typified in the NE Pa. landscape but widespread across the US. Info: 570-348-6278 or www.marywood.edu/galleries.

FEB. 26 Cross Country Skiing 1–3 p.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. See description at Feb. 5. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org.