Beach or Lake?

The Cape May Grand Hotel

The Grand Hotel in his-

toric victorian Cape May is the perfect oceanfront hideaway. Discover a paradise of an unhurried beachside

lifestyle. A variety of lodging accommodations are offered steps from the beautiful Cape May beaches with an array of amenities including Olympic size heated indoor and outdoor pools, a full-service restaurant and bar, beach service and rentals, a poolside Tiki bar, fitness center and more. The Grand has undergone extensive renovations to better guests' experience and make sure the Grand is a staple in families’ memories for years to come. All guest rooms in Queens Inn have received a full remodel as well as the lobby, all corridor hallways and three ballrooms! There is something for everyone at the Grand, especially the “Grand Specials!” Visit www.grandhotelcapemay.com. Explore and rejuvenate as you experience your “Grand Day at the Beach!” H

The Bristol PlazaResort

The Bristol Plaza,

located directly on the wide, pristine beaches of the Jersey Cape is the perfect location for a family vacation! Every room has undergone a full remodel. The oceanfront Bristol Plaza Resort Motel of Wildwood Crest takes pride in providing the finest accommodations and uncompromising level of hospitality that is

second to none! They continue to build upon a hard-earned reputation for quality and service that has evolved into the standard by which other Wildwood Crest motels are judged. When planning your vacation to Wildwood Crest, consider the Bristol Plaza for a spacious, contemporary suite overlooking the breathtaking Atlantic Ocean. Experience everything Wildwood Crest and the Bristol Plaza have to offer! H

Monmouth County, N.J.:

A Timeless Jersey Shore Destination

While lives have changed over

the last year, everyone is looking forward to brighter days. When you’re ready, keep Monmouth County, New Jersey, in mind for a day trip or vacation!

From the pristine beaches to the tree-lined trails and open space in the park system, Monmouth County offers visitors plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors. Visit www.tourism.visitmonmouth.com and follow on social media by searching “Monmouth County Tourism.” Call 1-800-523-2587. Advertising is supported in part by a grant from the New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism. H

MICHELE KAMINSKI

Michele Kaminski

is the owner of Michele’s Handcrafted Specialties, a cookie business based in Carbondale. Prior to opening her business, she worked in strategic brand marketing. She was the marketing director at the Mennen Company and the director of global marketing for Ceva Animal Health. She also owned Pink Box Bakeshop in Lawrence, Kansas. She resides in Clarks Summit.

When did you decide to start baking?

In high school, perhaps even grade school. How has your background in brand marketing influ-

enced you as a small business owner?

When I managed huge national brands, I was working as the business owner. In consumer packaged goods marketing, the product management teams are the hub of the business and manage every aspect. It is the greatest skillset I could ever have to manage my own small business.

What is your favorite item on the menu?

The rugelach. I consider that my absolute specialty. My mom loves rugelach and as a teenager, I worked to develop that recipe. For years people have told me they are the best they have ever had. The dough is rich and flaky and the flavors of the fillings pair great with that dough.

How did your experience being the proprietor of Pink Box Bake Shop help you with your current business?

It reinforced the importance of focus and never veering away from your business plan. I had a strong business plan for that business. It went out the window the day I opened, when I started baking anything and everything my customers requested. (Major mistake.) Focus is everything. I knew that from my business experience. I did not want to disappoint, but you need to focus on your cost of goods and inventory management.

You donate 10 percent of your profits to charity? How do you select which charities to donate to?

I am passionate about animals, having been in the animal care industry for a long time. I am very tiny, so I don’t foresee being able to give huge amounts, but I do want to support local animal care efforts.

Discuss how butterflies became a special inspiration to you.

I have done many different things in life and have always believed that you can reinvent yourself time and time

again. I see that symbolism in butterflies, as a symbol of rebirth and renewal.

What is your greatest accomplishment?

Mentoring some of the greatest young people on my brand teams to get the best out of them. Some have gone on to become vice presidents, senior vice presidents, chief marketing officers and general managers.

Who is your biggest role model?

My dad. He had only a sixthgrade education. He was a veteran and, with his brothers, created a highly successful business. He was a visionary and a leader and had so much passion. Whenever he got knocked down, he got up and preserved. He instilled his entrepreneurial spirit in me.

What would readers be surprised to learn about you?

My 15 minutes of fame came from creating Teen Spirit, the antiperspirant brand, when I was marketing director at the Mennen Company. The brand was linked to the iconic song “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana. It was the wildest ride of my life and a significant business achievement for the company. I still meet women who tell me that they used Teen Spirit when they were younger.

What should readers know about Michele’s Handcrafted Specialties?

I bake from a passion for the craft; I enjoy the creativity of coming up with recipes and try to differentiate them even in the smallest way. Small batches and using only the finest ingredients has such an impact on flavor and quality. I want to have a brand that reflects only the highest quality. H

Baked one batch at a time using only the finest ingredients

Available at these fine local retailers: Caravia Fresh Foods, Clarks Summit and The Lands at Hillside Farms Dairy store, Dallas.

www.micheleshandcraftedspecialties.co

Suzanne Fisher Staples

Suzanne Fisher Staples grew

up writing and reading. She attended Lakeland High School, Keystone College and Cedar Crest College. She worked for United Press International in Hong Kong and then as UPI’s bureau chief in New Delhi, India. She also worked for The Washington Post. Suzanne has written eight novels and is working on a ninth, along with screenplays of some of her novels. She helped plan a literature conference called “The Gathering” for Keystone College for 13 years. Suzanne has two siblings and “a slew of wonderful nieces and nephews.” She lives with her husband, Wayne and their two poodles.

Discuss how your international career has influenced your worldview.

I decided not to live like an American away from home. I wanted to be part of the places where I lived, rather than part of the American overseas community. I loved meeting families, attending weddings and celebrations and studying the languages and religions. I learned to appreciate the richness of diversity. If you know the words people use when they scold and love their children and what they eat for breakfast, you realize that we are alike in the most important ways. Our differences are nothing to fear — they can show us new perspectives by spinning us around so that when we stop and open our eyes we see the world in a new way, as if for the first time.

What brought you back to Northeastern PA?

I always knew I wanted to come back. I love the landscape, the wildlife and the proximity to New York and Philadelphia. I have family and friends here. When you spend most of your adult life in cities where you don’t know anyone, it’s wonderful to come home. I love running into people who knew me when I was a student, or knew my parents — being part of a community is such a special privilege. I loved becoming part of other communities, but there’s nothing quite so comfortable as home.

As a child, you were known as a “daydreamer.” Provide advice to others who may be described that way.

It’s important to pay attention to our dreams. My father worried that I wasn’t practical when I dreamed of living in different parts of the world and becoming a writer. If you want to be a movie star or a major league baseball pitcher, there’s a chance you won’t hit the big time. But why not try? Listening to our hearts gives

us a better chance to aim in the direction we want to take.

strike and honor those ideas by angle. Sometimes exactly the working on them to develop right image will strike you — Was your choice to write novels set in different countries fueled by a desire for and test them. Writing is fun, rewarding and exciting, but it’s hard work. but more often you have to work at it. What else should our

Americans to become more How do you remain readers know?

culturally aware? motivated to write? I think the most valuable asset Definitely. Working as a news I think writing should be a anyone can have is an open reporter overseas gives a clock in and clock out type of mind and heart. The world is broader view of the part our job. If you aren’t in the habit such a rich and beautiful, mysticountry plays in the world and of working you might let those fying and complex place. What perhaps a more realistic view ideas slip by — because they we get out of the time we have of the part we should play. Also, are like clouds. If you don’t take depends on our ability to take learning to appreciate and not notice of them, they might in information and add it to fear other cultures and religions float out of view. what our experience has taught lets us have a clearer view of how we can work It isn’t the writing that’s us. It’s the only way I know how to add something to together toward peace and a safe environment so difficult or so brilliant – the world that has given me so much! for our children and grandchildren to inherit. it’s the thinking behind it. I met my extraordinary husband, Wayne when I was How has the writing craft How do you challenge a student at Keystone. My father changed since you started? yourself to keep learning? asked me to stop seeing him The Internet has added a lot of I feel lucky to love writing because he was older and my resources for research. I worry because there is no better way father was afraid I wouldn’t that people aren’t critical to learn what you think than by finish college. We parted ways enough of the resources they writing about what moves you. and I tried not to regret that for choose. Writers have power There’s a mystique about writ- the next 27 years. My grandbecause words have power — ing that’s somewhat misplaced. mother said, “If you were meant and that should give you a Sometimes I read an author to be together, you’ll be togethgreat sense of responsibility like Arundhati Roy or Kazuo er.” Twenty seven years later, about the words you use. I’ve Ishiguro or Colm Toibin and I’m ´´ Wayne called. I hadn’t heard his been reading about artificial struck by how they’ve made an voice in all those years, but I intelligence and the tremen- image crystal clear. I wonder knew who it was. We’ve been dous influence for both good “How did she do that?” It isn’t together since. H and bad it can have. It’s more the writing important than ever to verify that’s so diffieverything you can about the cult or so truths you tell. brilliant — it’s the Where do you feel thinkingmost creative? behind it. Feeling creative is tricky. The To think safest thing is to be in the habit clearly you of taking notes when an idea have to strikes you. I try to have a note- refine book and pen to remind me of what you things I want to look up, or know and things that might work into a examine story. It would be a big mistake it from to wait for creativity to come every over you like a cloud. You have to be prepared when ideas

Jennifer Pawlowski, R.N. Children’s Advocacy Center

Anative of Scranton, Jennifer Pawlowski, R.N., is from a long line of healthcare

providers. Her great grandmother, mother and two aunts all worked in healthcare. Jennifer is a medical assistant at Children’s Advocacy Center and a member of CAC’s Multidisciplinary Team. She helps conduct forensic medical exams and is present as a resource for children and families. Jennifer shares, “Being there for them at such a vulnerable time in their young lives and empowering them as they have their voices heard and begin healing is a great honor.”

Describe a typical day:

Meeting and getting to know the child and their caregivers and addressing their needs and concerns; promoting a coordinated, multidisciplinary response to child abuse. Providing consistent, quality services in a culturally competent manner while focusing on restoring a child’s physical and emotional health.

How do you empower children who come to CAC?

CAC creates a safe space. Each staff member contributes to building trust through active listening and speaking with honesty and empathy. We assure the children that the abuse was not their fault and they are not in trouble. We recognize each child as a unique individual and acknowledge equality.

How do you make families comfortable?

The same safe space CAC strives to create for children is a comfort to families, as well. Staff addresses families’ needs and concerns,

as abuse not only affects the child, but is traumatic to the family. By acknowledging and assisting with challenges, providing resources and discussing next steps, CAC can help a family begin to heal.

Provide advice to protect children from abuse.

Listen to children. Seek to recognize behavioral and physical signs. Most children are afraid to tell; they fear they will get in trouble or they’ve been told that something bad will happen if they tell. Teach children that they are in charge of their bodies and to ask a trusted adult for help if something makes them feel confused or uncomfortable, or if someone hurts their bodies. Trust gut feelings. Report anything suspicious, even if unsure.

Describe the Multidisciplinary Team.

Law enforcement (including the county district attorney’s office and local/state law enforcement), county Child Protective Services, forensic interviewers, medical and mental health professionals and child or family advocates are included. Each discipline contributes their expertise in a collaborative approach that is child-centered.

How has CAC impacted you as a mother?

I am more aware of the prevalence of child abuse and have become much more proactive in my approach to provide my son with tools to seek help and stay empowered.

How do you protect your mental health?

Maintaining a support system is important. Staff have wellness checks weekly, directed by the executive director and program director to promote real conversations. I maintain that what I do makes a difference and can facilitate healing. My favorite quote and what drives me is, “We cannot change what has already happened, but we can change what happens next.”

Personal:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in psychology, Wilkes University; associate degree in nursing, Penn State Family: Son, Ryan; German Shepherd, Nala

Community Involvement:

Involved in PTA, support local businesses and fundraisers H

JANINE PERO BAUX

Janine Pero Baux is

the director of the modern dance program at Ballet Theatre of Scranton and president of their executive council. She is also an adjunct dance professor at Marywood University. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in dance from Cedar Crest College and a Master of Education in dance from Temple University. She resides in South Abington Township with her husband, Tom and daughters, Natalie and Antonia.

Discuss how you became involved with Ballet Theatre of

Scranton. 10 years ago, I was between jobs and caring for our infant daughter when a friend let me know that Ballet Theatre‘s modern dance teacher was retiring. I sent in my resume, taught a sample class and was offered the position! It was perfect timing. My role here has been growing along with my children. In addition to being director of the modern dance program, I now also teach in the mini dance program and this past year accepted the role of president of the executive council.

Discuss your goals for Ballet Theatre within the

next five years. Growth is always the goal of a good educator, a good artist and a good company. The pandemic has certainly challenged us this year to be even more creative and rework how we do everything. This has made all of us adapt and grow. My goal is to not lose that outside-of-the box mentality. I’m already impressed with our innovative accomplishments and I’m excited to see all of the possibilities that will spring from them. I’m also loving the collaborating we have done with other artists and our community, supporting one another throughout these challenging times.

How does your position take you out of your comfort

zone? Ballet Theatre has a long history with a wonderful reputation. I’m always challenging myself to live up to that reputation, to give our students and audiences the advanced level of education and performance they expect. If I’m comfortable, I’m not working hard enough. My new role as president of the executive council has stretched me out of my comfort zone. It is a very different end of the dance world and I am enjoying the new perspective.

What is the most fulfill-

ing aspect? Parents telling me how much their children enjoy my classes, or students telling me themselves. There are so many valuable skills and life lessons to gain in the dance studio. I dance because I love it; I teach because I want to share that joy with others. Hearing that my class turned someone’s bad day around or made them feel good about themselves makes me feel my goal has been achieved.

What advice do you have for young women looking to succeed, in dance or other-

wise? Stay true to yourself. Stick to your values, passion, work ethic, and who you are as a dancer and as a person. The things that make you you are the things that will stand out to others and give you something to offer that no one else can. Secondly, do what makes you happy. That’s the real success in life.

How do you use your position to impact the lives of the young people you work

with? I like to build everyone up and strive to create an environment where everyone

has the opportunity to learn and be successful.

Who inspires you? My parents, Tony and Linda Pero. At 40 years old, their words and example are still my inner voice. They inspire me to put others first, to have self respect and confidence, to work hard, be disciplined, humble and grateful and to recognize the things that truly matter in life.

If you could tell your younger self one thing,

what would it be? There is no set plan I have to follow. What’s meant to be, will be and everything happens for a reason, even if I can’t see it in that moment.

If you weren’t in your current career, what would

you be doing? Something with math; I love numbers!

Anything else readers should know about you or Ballet

Theatre? Through wonderful connections at Ballet Theatre, I now have the privilege of teaching dance as an adjunct at Marywood University. When I moved home after graduate school, it took me two years to find fulltime work in the dance field. I missed everything about being immersed in the dance world and having people surrounding me that shared my passion. Now my life is Photos - Danni P Photography full of dance. I feel very fulfilled and grateful to Ballet Theatre. H

Montrose Square Apartments

Now Accepting Applications

62 or older, handicapped or disabled. Rent based on 30% of your income. Includes all utilities except cable and telephone. CLOSE TO ALL THE AMENITIES

230 Lackawanna Avenue • Olyphant, PA 570-489-4756

Now Accepting Applications

62 or older, handicapped or disabled. Rent based on 30% of your income. Includes all utilities except cable and telephone.

CLOSE TO ALL THE AMENITIES 145 Church Street, Montrose, Pa. 570-278-3849

Karen Holcomb, L.S.W., E.M.D.R., C.A.S.A Forward Thinking

Karen Holcomb,

L.S.W., E.M.D.R., C.A.S.A. graduated from Temple University with a master’s degree in social work and is a licensed social worker. She has been a field supervisor in the social work program at Misericordia University for the past five years. She is also an active volunteer in her community. Karen’s practice, Forward Thinking, is based in Kingston. What led to you becoming a licensed social worker?

My upbringing. I grew up surrounded by family and friends. Neighbors helping neighbors was a common theme. My grandparents lived three houses away; we were a close family. My love for humankind and the idea of being recognized as a licensed professional were huge motivators. I wanted to be someone who treats the whole person ---- mind, body and spirit and empowers others, staying solution focused versus problem focused.

How has your position at Misericordia enabled you to make a difference?

It has empowered me to continue with lifelong education and to treat others the way I want to be treated. Speaking up for social injustices, practicing cultural competence and following the National Association of Social Workers’ (NASW) ethical code have led to awesome friendships/networking opportunities. I have volunteered my time to many organizations, which has made me more complete and diverse in everything I do. My services as a competent social worker are the result of my community efforts.

What inspired you to enroll in the Geriatric Care Certificate Program?

I wanted to advocate for the aging population. I appreciate their age and wisdom. I am building my toolbox to help myself and others age with dignity.

Over your years of volunteering in Pennsylvania, have you seen a rise in the sense of family that you felt in New Jersey?

There are areas where I see a united front and there are areas that can be improved. I use a strengths-based approach and I believe the glass is always half full.

What are your three favorite volunteering programs?

The Junior League of Wilkes-Barre, Big Brother/Big Sister and being an Ethics Board Member at Misericordia.

What lessons have you learned while living in this area?

Be kind to everyone, work hard, stay positive, educate yourself every day, ask for help, increase self-care habits, have fun, stay connected to loved ones, never give up and remain in prayer.

What is your favorite quote?

“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about the things that matter.” - Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” - Maya Angelou

How do you overcome obstacles?

By staying faithful, educating myself, increasing self-care skills, practicing introspection, reading “Battlefield of the Mind” by Joyce Meyer and staying connected to family and friends.

How can people make a difference in their communities?

Become a forward thinker. Pretend that each person you

meet is your mother/father/ er person’s spirits. I am more sister/brother and treat them flexible due to the dead ends accordingly. Embrace diversity, that I maneuvered out of. I am equity and inclusion. Learn more hopeful because I choose something new every day to walk by faith, not by sight. and practice loving kindness. Bring back the good old days – Pretend each person you block parties/wel- meet is your mother/ come wagons for new neighbors. father/sister/brother and Judge not, that ye be treat them accordingly.not judged. Align the tongue in your mouth with the tongue in your shoe. What should readers know about Misericordia Univer-

How has involvement in the sity's social work program?

community shaped you? The program teaches techIt has made me resilient and niques about person, place and has offered more opportunities environment in the social work than I expected. It has allowed practice. The program has a me to laugh instead of cry and group of professionals who it reminds me that we have wear many hats. They are commore in common than we passionate, educated, life-long thought. I am more complete learners, empathetic and genbecause I am able to lift anoth- uine in their teaching methods.

PERSONAL:

Hometown: New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. I have roots in all three states. Education: Bloomfield College, Bloomfield, NJ, MSW from Temple University, Geriatric Care certificate from Misericordia University anticipated 2022. Family: Two children and two brothers. Family encompasses so many things, including friends and connections. Favorite Songs: “Man in the Mirror” by Michael Jackson and “Let There be Peace on Earth” Hobbies: Travelling, bowling, swimming, playing tennis, spending time with loved ones H

Butterfly Playground Craft Fair

Saturday, June 5, 10 a.m. Nay Aug Park, Scranton

Scranton Municipal Recreation Authority (SMRA) is sponsoring the craft fair. All proceeds benefit a special needs playground for handicapped children.

Donations can be made to Check: SMRA • PO Box 3801 • Scranton, PA 18505 Or Venmo: SMRA @ Nay Aug Park Contact: 570-430-1690

Geneva on the Lake

The Finger Lakes wine region

is one of the most popular vacation destinations among NEPA residents. There is no better time to book a getaway to this romantic region. Geneva on the Lake Boutique Resort Hotel is located in Geneva, New York,

the heart of wine country. Offering suites for couples or family getaways, it is a gorgeous lakefront resort considered by many to be a special haven of comfort and hospitality. Guests can welcome spring with brunches, a live concert and special lodging packages. Outdoor dining is offered on the terrace, with heaters to stay warm and live performances each evening. Stroll their historic gardens, relax by the pool with a glass of wine, or take in the sunrise over Seneca Lake. Borrow a bike and explore charming downtown Geneva or enjoy the trails around the property. A springtime package includes a one-night stay with a three-course candlelit dinner for two at Lancellotti’s (or via room service) and breakfast the next morning. Guests are gifted a bottle of Finger Lakes wine and a handmade bud vase and flowers, made by Jacques Schnickel of Maryhill Clayworks. Mother’s Day brunch begins at 10 a.m. The Geneva Music Festival Bluegrass Concert will be held on May 30 at 2 p.m. Food and beverages can be ordered before the show. Tickets and reservations are required. Call 315-789-7190. Book your spring package before May 28. H

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Each year millions of Americans, one in five, develop skin cancer. It is the most common cancer in the U.S. and one of the most preventable. Prevention and early detection are crucial to minimizing the impact of skin cancer. It is very treatable, but can be deadly if not detected early. Nearly 20 Americans die from melanoma daily. Dr. Gregg Severs of Lackawanna Valley Dermatology offers the following advice regarding skin cancer:

How do I prevent skin cancer?

Protect your skin from sun yearround; this involves more than just sunscreen. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends seeking shade, wearing protective clothing and a broadspectrum, water resistant sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher

How do I know if I have skin

cancer? Skin cancer can be one of the easiest cancers to find because it usually develops where you can see it. You can develop skin cancer anywhere on skin from head to toe. Look over your entire skin, using a mirror for hard to see areas, or better yet, see a dermatologist for a full-body exam.

What does skin cancer look

like? Skin cancer can have different appearances. It can look like a changing mole or a mole with dark, irregular colors, a dome-shaped pink or red growth that bleeds easily, a scaly patch, a non-healing sore or a sore that heals, then returns or a brown or black streak under nails.

A rule of thumb: Any spot on skin that looks different from others, changes, itches, bleeds or hurts. When in doubt, call a dermatologist. The board-certified dermatologists and dermatology physician assistants of Lackawanna Valley Dermatology Associates are trained in detection and treatment of skin cancer. An exam can save your life. Call Lackawanna Valley Dermatology’s Scranton office at (570) 961-5522 or their Kingston office at (570) 287-1122. H

Unique in All the World, French Azilum is a Must See!

French Azilum, near Towanda in

Bradford County, was originally designed as a place where Marie Antoinette and other French nobles could settle once they fled France and the Revolution.

Founded in 1793, the settlement at its height boasted more than 200 residents, most from royal and noble families who recreated ‘Versailles on the Susquehanna’ as best they could! Although there were several plans for Marie Antoinette, her family and other nobles to escape the Revolution, no other place still exists which was a planned community for the refugees. Visit French Azilum and discover the remarkable history behind the village on the horseshoe bend of the Susquehanna River.

The 2021 open season at French Azilum, May 28 through August 29, offers events that will appeal to nearly everyone, from historians to families looking for a unique day out. Azilum’s unique history makes it something not to be missed.

Events include full access to the grounds,

guided tours by costumed docents of the LaPorte House and opportunities to learn and engage with the history of French Azilum. (Some events and classes request additional donations.)

Learn about the 'Hidden Hazards in the Victorian Home,' then treat yourself to three course tea afterwards, on June 6. On June 12, try your skill with a hammer and tongs in blacksmithing classes. Families can spend the day on Family Fun Day, June 26, with crafts, activities and entertainment for all ages. Our popular 'Vino and Van Gogh' event is a chance to show your creative flair as you taste wines and paint the beautiful landscape. Civil War buffs will enjoy reenactments of skirmishes and battles during Civil War Day, August 7. Travel back to Medieval and Renaissance times and visit with knights and ladies or watch sword fighting and axe throwing on Renaissance Day, August 21.

Visit thefrenchazilum.com or call 570265-3376. All events observe CDC, state and local guidelines, social distancing and require masks. H