Get Outside 2012 by Local Flair Magazine

POCONO MOUNTAINS

magazine

Priceless, Please take one!

Get Outside | June & July 2012

IT’S MOUNTAIN TIME

PA’S ONLY 4 DIAMOND CASINO RESORT Historic course. New Clubhouse.

A brand new clubhouse gets the 2012 golf season swinging at Mount Airy — the only AAA Four Diamond Award winning casino resort in the state. Each hole is inspired by Sports Illustrated Best 18 Holes in America and reinterpreted by master golf architect Hal Purdy. Keep your course hot streak going with over 2000 slot machines and 72 table games including blackjack, poker and roulette.

1-877-682-4791 mountairycasino.com

in this issue

6 Letter 8 Go! 10 Give!

32 Unique Boutique

12 LF Deals: Win $100 from Dunkelbergers

34, 36, 38 Out & About

14 Buck Hill Falls Arts & Crafts Festival

42 Profile: Landmasters

16 Buck Hill Skytop Music Festival

44-46 Profile: Staci Barkalow Profile: Tricia Dunkelberger

18 A Walking Tour of Stroudsburg Gardens 20-21 Profile: Rinehimer Construction 22-23 Profile: RW Buff Construction 24-25 To Frack or Not to Frack 26 Profile: Scottâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Collision Centers 28 Profile: Frailey Insurance 30 Middlebranch Farms

Local Flair

50 Brodhead Watershed Ale 48 Style: The Fashion Police

theLodge AT

MOUNTAIN SPRINGS LAKE

We d d i n g s / C o r p o r a t e M e e t i n g s / S o c i a l C e l e b r a t i o n s

POST OFFICE BOX 297 • REEDERS, PENNSYLVANIA 18352 • WWW.MSLRESORT.COM • 570.629.1120

letter Publisher & Creative Director Ali Schratt publisher@localflair.com

Editorial Assistant Karen Tetor karen@localflair.com

Graphic Designer Cathryn Hahn cathryn@localflair.com

Photography

Eileen Noelle Photography

Communications Coordinator Carrie Mamzic carrie@localflair.com

Distribution Coordinator Adam Schratt adam@localflair.com

Contributing Writers

Roseanne Bottone, Karen Tetor, Audrey Montealto, Ali Schratt

Controller

Beverly Dyson beverly@localflair.com

Sales

publisher@localflair.com For a subscription send check or money order for $24.95 to address above. (6 issues/1 year) Local Flair is published bi-monthly and distributed throughout the greater Pocono area. Local Flair reserves the right to refuse to sell space for any advertisement the staff deems inappropriate for the publication. Unsolicited manuscripts must be accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. Letters to the Editor are welcome, but may be edited due to size limitations. Press releases must be received by the 15th of the prior month of publication. All contents of this magazine including without limitation to the design, advertisements, art, photos, and editorial content, as well as the selection coordination and arrangement thereof is the Copyright of Local Flair magazine limited. No portion of this magazine may be copied or reprinted without the express written consent of the publisher.

Mission

The mission of Local Flair magazine is to celebrate excellence in community businesses, services, and efforts by appealing to the tastes, sensibilities, and curiosities of its readers and advertisers alike. To this end, Local Flair strives to balance informative and inspirational editorial content with relevant and enlightening advertisement. – Ali Schratt, publisher

Local Flair

I love summer – who doesn’t? In our house, the end of the school year countdown begins around the second week of May. We start needing to be outside all the time. Our days consist of catching frogs, picking wild berries, working in the garden and then ending at the fire while staring at the stars. At our house, it feels like we are on vacation all summer long, right in our own backyard. In fact, I took this issue’s cover photo in my backyard. This particular frog has become somewhat of a family pet. We haven’t named him yet, but he lets my daughters pet him, and he smiles pretty for the camera! This Get Outside issue is full of great features and guides of what to do throughout the summer. From the Buck Hill Skytop Art Show to the Lackawanna Heritage Valley’s Annual Explorer Bike Tour, there is so much fun happening for the whole family! Enjoy the summer, and Keep it local!

Local Flair

The United Way of Monroe County turns 70 this year,

And you are invited to the festivities! There are many ways to get involved and to “Live United” by giving, advocating and volunteering. You can also join the party by attending a special event that raises funds and awareness for the annual campaign.

70th Anniversary Gala Help us celebrate seven decades of “Uniting People and Improving Lives” at our Gala on June 13 at The Chateau Resort and Conference Center in Tannersville. Cocktail hour starts at 5:30 p.m., with the dinner program beginning at 7 p.m. Dancing, live music, surprises and memorable tributes will be part of this very special evening. Donation is $70 per person, and tables of 10 can be reserved. Besides attending, you can support United Way by advertising in a commemorative program booklet or being an event sponsor.

1st Annual Dario Belardi Memorial Golf Tournament Enjoy a great day of golf on Wednesday, July 11, in honor of Dario Belardi. Dario was an avid golfer and a longtime United Way volunteer, dear friend and community supporter. The event is being held at Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort. Lunch and registration begin at 11 a.m., followed by a shotgun start at noon. Cost per player is $125, and sponsorship opportunities are available. If interested, register online at www. unitedwaymonroe.org.

2nd Annual Wiffle Ball Tournament Hit one out of the park for United Way at this fun family event on July 21 at Barley Creek Brewing Company in Tannersville. Teams will vie for the title of Wiffle Ball Champs during the afternoon as they hit, field and score. A home run derby, kids’ activities, a tricky tray, and all-American hot dogs and beer will be part of the day’s festivities.

Local Flair

Campaign Kickoff at StroudFest Help kickoff the 2012 campaign on Saturday, September 1, during StroudFest in downtown Stroudsburg. The United Way is the main sponsor of the event, which runs from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and features music, vendors and lots of food. Stop by the United Way booth, which will include a dunk tank, face painting, and ways to help your community.

Pocono Celebrity Roast Get ready for an evening of laughter, memories, kudos and jokes on Thursday, Oct. 18, when Paul and Judy Schuchman are “roasted” for a good cause. Besides being known for their successful Odd-Lot stores, the Schuchmans have been true community advocates and volunteers through their support of countless local organizations and nonprofits. The roast will be held at Paradise Stream Resort in Mount Pocono.

An Evening in Paris at the Stone Bar Inn It may be summertime, but it’s not too early to think about the holidays. Mark Monday, Dec. 3, on your calendar for the annual Evening of Holiday Cheer at Andrew Moore’s Stone Bar Inn off Business Route 209 in Snydersville. This year’s theme is “An Evening in Paris.” There will be gourmet food stations, special libations, prizes/raffles and music. This event usually raises more than $10,000 for United Way. For information or to register for any of these events, please visit www.unitedwaymonroe.org or call 570-629-5657.

Local Flair

Protect your eyes while you catch some rays.

Eye Associates of Monroe County

Dr. Anthony S. Diecidue • Dr. John J. Glasner

We make prescription lenses for just about any sunglass frame. Schedule your visit now! 208 Main Street • Stroudsburg, PA • 570.476.1114

www.eyeassociatesonline.net

Local Flair

art The community of Buck Hill Falls has lured myriad artists whose brushstrokes recreate its stone pillars, spectacular waterfalls, shingled cottages, and sylvan paths. For 67 years, such creative spirits have showcased their works in Buck Hill Art Association’s annual Fine Arts and Crafts Festival. Organizers are once again welcoming all art lovers to this annual event, being held this year on July 20 and 21.

67th Annual Buck Hill Fine Arts and Crafts Festival

Booths featuring a spectrum of artwork— including painting, jewelry, sculpture, photography and ceramics—create an oasis of color at the Tennis Club and its surrounding grounds. The show opens at 3:30 p.m. on Friday July 20. The event comes to full life at 6 p.m. that evening, with the traditional “Art Until Dark” cocktail party and a special raffle, with the winner or winners receiving reimbursement for artworks purchased that night from a fund of $250 provided by the Art Association. The show continues on Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Creativity Set Amidst Creation By Karen Tetor

Zach Brown “My art depicts the bitter human struggle with dualities: we are beasts of this world but our thoughts exist on a different plane apart from this world,” explains Zach Brown, one of the artists featured at the Buck Hill Fine Arts and Crafts Festival. Currently a MFA student at New York Academy of Art, Brown creates iconography which blends the sacred and the secular. He renders his religious subjects as “poses & ideas of flesh against metal & geometric patterns” by juxtaposing painted religious figures with backgrounds of metal leafing, particularly copper. Brown calls copper a “human, emotive metal,” a conductive element with hues ranging from pink to green to brown. He will be demonstrating his techniques at the arts festival on June 20 and 21. Brown’s large-scale boards, some six feet high and another over 18 feet tall, take on “elements of a sculpture,” he explains. “Voluminous figures take up space broken down by flat patterns & gilded surfaces.” Glazing one color at a time in thin applications allows light to pass through thin layers of paint. The technique creates a luminous feel to the flesh. David and Goliath, the angel Michael and Joan of Arc have all found form on Brown’s canvas, form that transcends the flesh and draws the viewer into a contemplation of the significance of being human.

Local Flair

Visitors find that the journey through the stone archways of the 4,500 acre setting of Buck Hill is an aesthetic rush in itself. Meandering pathways and idyllic cottages reflect back to the founding of the Quaker community in 1900. “It’s is such a beautiful, vibrant area,” says Kathy Legg, this year’s festival co-chair. “Having the art show here is the perfect melding of art and surroundings.” Legg recalls attending the event as a child, taken by her grandmother. “Talking with the artists and meeting fellow art enthusiasts is a favorite part of the show,” says Jennifer Brown, publicist for the event. “One year, my brother-in-law and his wife struck up conversation with a woman who was admiring the same piece. The woman leads tours to Japan, and my in-laws ended up traveling to Japan several times with her.” Attendees of the Buck Hill show love to browse through Gertie’s Garrett, a booth where residents contribute attic treasures to raise money for scholarships. A gourmet table offers homemade treats from community kitchens. “One of our members makes the best spaghetti sauce, but you have to get there early to buy some jars of that!” warns Brown. Barrett Township, where Buck Hill is located, is host to multiple artistic events that same weekend. “There’s an big annual antique show at Mountainhome Methodist Church, the local library is selling jewelry at their ‘Baubles for Books’ event, and Sprag Mill will showcase artwork in their galleries,” explains Brown. 6

Buck Hill Skytop Music Festival Upcoming Events

Saturday, July 21 Pre-show talk with Phil Chan 4:30 pm - Notre Dame High School, East Stroudsburg. Join Festival General Manager Phil Chan as he discusses the training of a dancer and the progression from a student to a star.

“Student to Star” Dance Concert

5 pm – Notre Dame High School, East Stroudsburg. Students from leading dance schools in Pennsylvania will present a program of classical and contemporary repertory, showing both a range of styles as well as the development of young dancer. Performance tickets $20.00. Seats are limited and on a first come-first served basis.

4 Featured Photos 1. New York City Ballet Principal Dancer and Festival Associate Director of Dance Ashley Bouder, who has appeared as a guest artist with more international ballet companies than any other American ballerina in history. Photo by George Milner.

2. French Soprano Manon Evrard Strauss performing this summer as Violetta in BHSMF’s “La Traviata” on July 28 at Pocono Mountain East High School. Photo courtesy of Lyric Opera Virginia.

3. Soprano San Eun Lee performing on the South Porch at the Buck Hill Skytop Music Festival 2011 “Toast of the Festival” Gala. Photo by George Milner.

4. The Festival’s Chamber Music Ensemble performing in Skytop’s elegant Evergreen Ballroom. Photo by George Milner.

5. The NEA Jazz Masters Fellowship is the highest honor that our nation bestows on jazz artists. Each year since 1982, the program has elevated to its ranks a select number of living legends who have made exceptional contributions to the advancement of jazz. Festival performer David Liebman received the award in 2011 and will be performing a cabaret set on July 29. Photo by Naoki Hayashi.

Local Flair

Sunday, July 22 See the Music Dance Concert 7 pm - Notre Dame High School, East Stroudsburg. New York City Ballet Principal Dancer Ashley Bouder has assembled a Balanchine triple bill featuring an all-star Principal Dancer cast from New York City Ballet. The program shows the range of Balanchine’s skill as one of the most musical choreographers histories in history. Performance tickets $20.00. Seats are limited and on a first come-first served basis. 9 pm – Post-Show Discussion with Ashley Bouder and Dancers at Notre Dame High School, East Stroudsburg.

Monday, July 23 Music at Dusk 8 pm – With Mark Janas and Andy Gale Tennis Tea, Buck Hill Falls. “What is the difference between Cabaret and a Concert?” Join Mark Janas and Andy Gale in a lecture and demonstration discussing what makes cabaret unique. Performance tickets $20.00.

Tuesday, July 24 Music at Dusk Open Chamber Music Rehearsal 2-5 pm – Tennis Tea, Buck Hill Falls. Join the Festival’s Chamber Music Ensemble for a behind-the-scenes look at the rehearsal process for Chamber Music. Free and open to the public.

Chamber Music Concert

8 pm – Tennis Tea, Buck Hill Falls. “Folk Strains” - Join the Festival’s Chamber Music Ensemble in an enchanting evening concert featuring works by Dvorak and Kodaly. Performance tickets $20.00.

For a full listing of events, visit www.localflair.com and click ‘Magazine’

Local Flair

A Walking Tour of Historic Stroudsburg’s Gardens By Karen Tetor While walking past historic homes in downtown Stroudsburg, you may have longingly peered over garden walls. The Monroe County Historical Association now invites you to step inside the gates, stroll these secret gardens, and meet the loving caretakers. The tour features gardens in the Courthouse Square and Hill Sections of Stroudsburg. “History in Bloom: A Walking Tour of Historic Stroudsburg’s Gardens” includes ten beautiful gardens; all proceeds benefit the Monroe County Historical Society. The Stroud Mansion is holding an open house on the day of the Garden Tour. “I’m overwhelmed with what nature has bestowed upon us,” declares Rob Howell, whose Scott Street garden is his transcendental domain. Howell admits that he was surprised when MCHS asked his personal oasis to be featured on the tour. “I didn’t build this as a show garden,” he explains. “I built this for me.” When he purchased the 100 year old home in 1985, Howell faced a back yard of weeds and grass. This philosopher then began planting. Admitting that he doesn’t garden “according to the books,” Howell instead yields control to “the Forces of Life.” As his thoughts wander among the blooms, he latches onto the wisdom of Topsy, from the novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin: “I shall… grow, little by little, just like’ em!” Don’t expect to find vegetables in the James Berghold’s garden on Sarah Street. “I grew up on a farm and had just too many veggies,” he laughs. Instead, he and his fellow nature lovers, Harold “Shortie” Transue and James Dennis sculpt their enchanted yard with secluded sitting areas, which they describe as “little rooms.” Meandering paths lead to a gazebo worthy of a movie-set. Transue is proudest of the cast-iron fountain. It weighs a ton,” interjects Berghold. A Snydersville friend gave it to these garden enthusiasts, simply because Transue had confessed that he’d “really like to have it.” Using brick and flagstone recycled from their previous home, the gardeners struggle to recall the time there “was nothing there” behind their 100 year-old Stroudsburg home. Mary Jane Drake has a story for most every blossom and leaf in her Thomas Street Garden. “That ground cover blanketing the back of this garden? I scooped that up with a friend of mine 30 years ago. Found it in an abandoned property.” Drake points to the tree shading her colorful shed and reflects, “This magnolia was a gift from my mother.” A stack of cobble stones marks the spot where a tenant’s departed 6 feet iguana lies. Drake inherited the 100-year-old home from her grandparents, and the garden’s peonies and lilacs have their roots in that past. Doctor Bruce Dunlop’s garden in Courthouse Square delights visitors at every turn with whimsical statuaries and complimentary arrays of flowers. Stroudsburg sculptor Steve Linden and his wife Dawn, a painter, are welcoming visitors to view the sculptures on their property. Steve Linden’s works are featured in collections all across the country including the Museum of Modern Art and even in Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum. 6 The tour will be held Saturday June 16, 2012 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Tickets are available at the Stroud Mansion. Pre-registration is $12 with payment by June 15 or $15 the day of the tour with tickets available from 9 a.m. to noon. that day. Call (570) 421-7703 or go to www.monroehistorical.org for more information. The tour also includes the gardens of Edna Crane, Stephanie Jones, Peter Kallinteris, Carole and David Variapapa, and the Monroe County Historical Association.

Local Flair

profile

Rinehimer Construction

One-Stop Building With Turn-Key Ease By Roseanne Bottone

Bert Rinehimer’s life took a fortuitous turn when his friend’s dad brought him into the construction business. “I had a real affinity for renovating and building,” says Rinehimer. “I paid attention and learned everything I could for 12 years with them.” Rinehimer’s good fortune continued when he married Patty, and she saw his potential to be his own boss. In 1998, Rinehimer’s young bride gave him the encouragement he needed to strike out on his own and open his own business. Rinehimer Construction, Inc., began as a home-based business with Patty handling administrative matters in between her full-time job as a retail sales manager and her other full-time job as a new mother. Initially, Rinehimer and one assistant ventured out with hammers in hand and handled the physical labor that made their mark on the Lake Naomi community. The business started small. They built porches, decks and sheds, but within four years they moved into larger-scale renovations that would take four or five months to complete. “Sometimes we’d build additions on a house that were two or three times the size of the original house,” Rinehimer says. “I really enjoyed the challenge of creating a home that blended with the original structure.” It wasn’t long until Rinehimer and his associates began constructing completely new homes. “Just getting out there and doing quality work and really caring about my customers brought me all the business I could handle,” Rinehimer says proudly. Indeed, he believes taking a personal interest in clients and their projects – which requires real communication – and then providing individualized custom craftsmanship, is the bedrock of their success. “Our customers are loyal to us. They come back to us when they need construction work done, and they refer us to their family and friends.” The Rinehimer office building, located in Historic Downtown Business Square in Pocono Pines, is a “one-stop” design center that provides clients with full options that run the spectrum from architectural plans through window treatments. The business model was the brainchild of Rinehimer’s Senior Vice President, Michael Dembinski. “We have relationships with Marshall Sabatini Architecture, Erb’s Landscaping, and E-Z Mountain Rustic Furniture,” explains Dembinski. “These are just options available to our customers who are building a home. They are free to use whatever services they desire. However, we stand behind the quality and work ethics of these folks, and our clients like that kind of endorsement.”

Local Flair

Dembinski is enthusiastic about the new Lake Naomi vacation homes that the company calls “Lifestyle Homes.” “They are 1,311 square feet with three bedrooms and two baths. A lot of folks want a low-maintenance vacation home, but they still want upscale amenities, so we’re offering an exciting package of choices here.” That package includes maintenance-free siding, granite countertops, high-grade cabinets, stainless steel appliances, Anderson windows, hardwood floors, air conditioning and even hand-made lighting fixtures. These energy efficient homes come in four styles: lake, mountain, cabin and cottage. The finishes and look are tailored to the customer’s preferences. Dembinski’s vision is to offer “turn-key” solutions to vacation homebuyers, yet at the same time offer “unlimited options” while not wanting clients to be overwhelmed. “We now provide resources for maintenance services as well,” says Dembinski. “The homeowner might need snow removal services before they arrive for their winter getaway, or landscaping in the spring. We can help them with all of it.” Rinehimer prides himself as a “hands-on” builder. “I still do the work because that’s what I really love to do,” he says. “It’s more than just a job for us; we put forth passionate effort.” Bert and Patty Rinehimer and Mike Dembinski all have a deep sense of pride in their community. Collectively, they participate on township committees, the Little League, the Lion’s Club, the Parent Teacher Organization and with Lizzie’s Circle, an organization that assists families of children with cancer.

Shades of Perfection Part of the Rinehimer “turn-key” approach to home building is to provide the option of window treatments as well. That’s where Patty Rinehimer comes in. She’s a window specialist and owner of “Shades of Perfection.” She says, “I assist our clients with customized window treatments to continue the look they’ve started.” Rinehimer clients are in competent hands with Patty, who has a Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design, spent years doing window treatments for furniture showrooms, and owned her own design business. Clients who visit a special window treatment selection room in the Rinehimer Design Center can browse through pleated shades, verticals, wood blinds, shutters and Roman shades. Patty primarily works with Graber designer window treatments that are innovative, stylish and energy-efficient. When evening arrives and it’s time to relax, Rinehimer homeowners draw the shades, pour a glass of wine, and enjoy their Rinehimer vacation homes in the Pocono Mountains. 6 For more information, visit Rinehimer Construction’s website at www.rdcustombuilders.com. Their office can be found in Downtown Business Square, Pocono Pines, PA 18350.

Above: Bert & Patty Rinehimer with sons, Cole & Chase. Michael Dembinski with son, Dylan.

Middle:Historic Downtown Business Square, Located on Old Route 940 in Pocono Pines. Below: A Look Inside Rinehimer Construction’s “Mountain Showroom”

Local Flair

profile

The Story of a HOME. How one builder brought a modern family home to life A house is just a structure. It is walls and windows and doors that provide shelter. A home, however, is something else entirely. It is a living space. It bears the marks of family and life well lived. Its beauty isn’t just in its physical adornments, but in the memories and emotions it represents to those who inhabit it. When it came time to remodel their home, the Denny family of Stroudsburg recognized this difference and sought out a builder who recognized it as well. A builder who would be a partner in creating through architectural design and quality craftsmanship a structure that exemplified the Denny’s modern lifestyle while honoring tradition.

A Home with Roots that Run Deep The history of the Denny family home stretches back to the early 1950s. The original house was built by Amanda Denny’s grandfather on a land parcel in Stroudsburg, PA. The family named the property “Happy Acres” because of all the wonderful and happy memories they shared there together with their six children, and eventually with their 13 grandchildren. “I remember coming here as a child for all the holidays with my aunts, uncles, and cousins,” expresses Amanda Denny. “In summer I would spend so many days here.” Amanda continues, “When my mother was a girl, they had horses on the property. Although the horses were gone when I was a child, we would envision that the apple trees throughout the yard were horses that we could climb onto, using our imaginations to create adventurous rides.”

Local Flair

Amanda and her husband Allen purchased “Happy Acres” from Amanda’s grandparents 15 years ago and built upon the generations of family memories by forging new ones of their own with their children, son A.J. and daughter Sarah. Time passed, and the original hardwood floors gained new marks of vibrant family life. A.J. and Sarah’s heights were notched into makeshift door jamb growth charts, and Amanda’s children rode the mythical, imaginary apple tree horses which dot the landscape.

A Season for Change The Denny family loved their home and the memories they had created there together. As their children grew into adolescence, however, the one thing that didn’t grow was space. “When we first considered remodeling our home, our main goal was creating space,” explains Amanda. “With two children, their toys and stuff were everywhere. We basically had no storage and our dining room became a collection area.” Amanda also felt the house was too dark. “Very little light came in, so we wanted to open it up and brighten everything.” Although the Dennys sought aesthetic changes to complement their lifestyle, they wanted to retain those characteristic features that told the story of their history and that of generations before. This meant insuring space for a dining room to accommodate the dining set inherited from Amanda’s grandparents, retaining the original hardwood floors–creaking floorboards and all — and preserving the precious doorjamb growth charts.

Written by Tina Beck Photos by Bill Cardoni

“Our home was my grandparent’s home,” conveys Amanda. “It was an old Cape Cod that my grandfather built. While we wanted to remodel the space, it was most important to me to ‘keep’ the home.” With those goals in mind, the Dennys sought the right builder to partner with in creating their revitalized home.

One Builder Sets Themselves Apart When Bob Buff and Joe Holbert of RW Buff Construction Inc. met with the Denny family, right away Amanda knew they were different from other area builders. “Bob Buff is about his clients,” enthuses Amanda. “He builds custom homes to fit personalities and lifestyles. RW Buff also has the most experience by far of any local builder and has developed a successful history of doing extensive remodel projects.” What sealed the deal for the Denny family, however, went beyond pure craftsman expertise to something far more important—RW Buff’s true commitment to customer service and their team’s ability to listen. “Some of the other builders up for the job were strongly suggesting a full demolition of my family home,” reflects Amanda. “Others also suggested that keeping a formal dining room wasn’t necessary even though they were aware I had my grandparent’s dining room furniture. They weren’t listening to what mattered. Bob and Joe did.” Working with the Denny family and their architectural draftsman, Howard Browning, RW Buff’s team crafted a home that streamed with light throughout well-defined, spacious living areas. Each mark of Denny family history was retained, such as moving the growth chart door jams to the new laundry area, or using the exposed brick from the original home’s chimney as the wall of the guest bath. Each creaking floorboard remained intact. And, as the final detail, the dining room set from Amanda’s grandparents took the place of honor in the new family dining room.

Putting Customers First “It’s our philosophy to listen carefully to our client’s objectives,” explains Bob Buff, owner of RW Buff Construction Inc. “We don’t just want our customers to be happy; we want our clients to be delighted with the project and with us.” “RW Buff handles construction on everything from custom homes, to remodels, historic restorations, and renovations,” continues Bob. “We enjoy being challenged.” “Good communication is absolutely critical,” expresses Bob. “Carrying out her vision simply required hard work and commitment from the RW Buff team. This commitment has been and continues to be the cornerstone of success for RW Buff Construction Inc.”

Choosing For Yourself When it comes time to offer recommendations of a builder to family and friends, the Denny family never hesitates in giving out the names of Bob and Joe from RW Buff. “RW Buff has outstanding customer service which, when coupled with their high standards, make them the top in their industry.” Amanda summarizes, “In the end, RW Buff puts their heart in their work. It really is just as simple as that.” 6 For over 20 years RW Buff, Inc. has provided distinctive service, superior construction capabilities, and thoughtful architectural details for finished projects suited to the most discriminating tastes. The company offers service lines, which include custom home construction, remodeling, commercial construction, and commercial renovation. A dedication to client satisfaction and a reputation for integrity are the hallmarks of success for RW Buff, Inc. To learn more about RW Buff, Inc. and their many notable projects, visit www.rwbuff.com or call 570-476-5437.

Local Flair

feature

To Frack or Not to Frack? Photos submitted by Mark Zakutansky, Mid-Atlantic Policy Manager for the Appalachian Mountain Club Written by Audrey Montealto

Hydraulic fracturing,

commonly referred to as fracking, is an important and controversial environmental topic that has recently sparked hot debate nationally and locally—including in our own backyard.

It is helpful to take a look at the reasoning backing both sides of fracking. Also, everyone should understand how fracking affects us locally and the positive and negative impact it could potentially have on us and our environment.

Hydraulic fracturing is a drilling technique that releases natural gas and oil from deep shale formations or plays that were once unreachable through conventional vertical drilling. Hydraulic fracturing with non-traditional horizontal drilling was first used in the late 1990s in the Barnett Shale in Texas. The process involves blasting a mix of water, sand and highly pressurized fracking fluids into the shale area creating new channels within the rock where the gas is extracted at high rates. Then, the well is cased with cement for groundwater protection.

The drilling boom began in Pennsylvania about four years ago when Marcellus Shale caught the attention of major energy companies. It is a natural gas shale play area extending through Pennsylvania, including parts of the northern Pocono Mountains, New York, Ohio, and West Virginia. It is the second largest gas shale in the country and covers a good portion of Northeastern Pennsylvania. Utica Shale lies below Marcellus and also extends down into parts of Pennsylvania.

Supporters of hydraulic fracturing believe deep shale gas and oil is critical to our country’s energy needs and economic renewal. It’s been reported that shale gas now accounts for 23 percent of the country’s natural gas production. People in favor of it proclaim it has the potential to reduce the country’s reliance on foreign fuel and significantly reduce our national carbon dioxide emissions. Environmentalists disagree and insist that it pollutes the air, land and water and has the potential to cause detrimental diseases and illnesses. Activists continuously seek increased regulation on natural gas production. Common threads tie together both proponents and opponents. All are concerned about the economy, environment, and safety of our county.

Local Flair

Chesapeake Energy is the second largest producer of natural gas in the country and the most active driller of new wells. It is also one of Pennsylvania’s largest shale gas producers. Last year, the company came under a microscope when an equipment problem caused a well blowout, spilling thousands of gallons of toxic “fracking” fluid into a creek in Bradford County, Pennsylvania. Chesapeake officials plugged the well, but the accident, coupled with the notorious April 2010 explosion that ruptured the Gulf of Mexico oil well leading to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, also known as BP, leaves many people questioning the safety of this entire process. Although the wellhead was eventually capped, it had already released 4.9 million barrels of oil at an estimated 53,000 barrels per day. By September, the relief well process was completed, and the federal government declared the well was safe. As for the Bradford County mishap, Chesapeake officials said there was minimal environmental impact.

In spite of these cases, energy companies still maintain that hydraulic fracturing is a safe practice and one that won’t be going away anytime soon.

Proponents of Hydraulic Fracturing “Pennsylvania has a rich history of oil and natural gas development,” said Marcellus Shale Coalition Spokesman Travis Windle, who underscores the fact that hydraulic fracturing, a tightly regulated 60 year-old technology, is re-shaping the short and long term outlook for the United States. “Between 2004 and 2006, federal government officials were evaluating policies to increase natural gas imports from other countries. That chapter in history has been closed for good because of what’s been happening in Pennsylvania.” In 2005, the first Marcellus Shale natural gas well drilled in Washington County, and currently, there have been roughly 4,600 Marcellus wells drilled in the Commonwealth. For context, Pennsylvania has roughly 70,000 active traditional, or shallow, oil and natural gas wells in the state. “The industry has been here a long time and remains active,” said Windle. “Horizontal drilling technologies, along with a host of other industry leading technologies, are allowing us to dramatically reduce our aboveground footprint.” Natural gas is used for electricity generation, home heating, transportation and manufacturing. “Consumers are seeing the benefits of huge savings as we continue to produce natural gas here at home,” says Windle. In addition, the Marcellus Shale now supports roughly 229,000 Pennsylvania jobs, according to the state Department of Labor and Industry. “It’s a real advantage for our state and the economy, as responsible American natural gas development is helping to create literally tens of thousands of good-paying jobs at a time when they’re most needed.” In addition to being cost efficient and a boost to the economy, hydraulic fracturing does not pose a threat to our environment, says Windle. “Groundwater is protected through multiple layers of steel and cement, which acts as an impenetrable barrier. In many cases, nearly 8,000 feet of rock separates the groundwater from where the fracturing is occurring.”

Opponents of Hydraulic Fracturing Hydraulic fracturing raises many concerns among environmentalists who fear possible groundwater contamination, air pollution, the potential migration of gases and hydraulic fracturing chemicals to the surface, the possible mishandling of waste, surface contamination from spills and the negative potential impact on our health. Cases of suspected groundwater contamination have already been documented. In addition, wastewater from natural gas wells is released into rivers in Pennsylvania, and suspected radiation found in the wastewater also makes people uneasy. The Appalachian Mountain Club, headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, is the oldest conservation group in the country. Established in 1876, it is a hiking club dedicated to getting

people outdoors and providing them with many recreational activities. With over 100,000 members nationwide, this environmentally conscious organization is learning about the dangers hydraulic fracturing could impose on the land and water. “We are concerned with the negative impact fracking could have on our natural resources and the related activities we offer,” says Cathy Frankenberg, who is a Mid-Atlantic Policy Associate for the Appalachian Mountain Club’s Bethlehem, PA branch. The group is worried about water contamination, increased traffic resulting in noise and air pollution, forest fragmentation and lost species. While “fracking” doesn’t affect the Bethlehem area directly, it could affect areas as close as Nockamixon, which is outside of Marcellus but still contains natural gas. “Our top priority is the protection of our public lands and open spaces,” Frankenberg says. “The public and state lands have been set aside because of their natural beauty, rich ecology and the opportunities they offer the public for recreation and renewal. We’re focused on keeping drilling activity off of these lands. We are also proactive in the overall reduction in green house emissions.” Karen Feridun is the founder of Berks County Gas Truth, a grassroots community organization opposing natural gas drilling. Feridun believes the entire process of unconventional natural gas drilling is dangerous and should be banned. “Our group hosts documentary screenings and talks, participates in festivals, panel discussions and community events to educate the public about the issues,” she says. “Even though Berks County has been spared from drilling, we still care about the state and the environment. With roughly 6,000 wells drilled and many more to come in Pennsylvania, the profound long term effects are especially daunting.” Some of the primary concerns environmentalists have are water and air quality. “We can’t live without water,” said Feridun. “Clean water is taken from our rivers for fracking, and that water doesn’t come back because highly toxic fracking chemicals are added to water. In addition, radioactivity and methane in our shale is released into our water when it’s fractured. In some instances, these substances get released into the air and our ground and well water. Basically, unconventional drilling is a relatively new process that wasn’t well understood when it started. Government officials should have known more about it before they allowed it to be done.” Wayne County resident Jackie DeSau is also passionate about educating the public about the dangers of hydraulic fracturing. “Gas companies aren’t worried about safety by any measure,” she says. “They just want to get the job done, make money and get out of there before anyone can blame them for the effects it all has on their quality of life and natural environment. We have the technology to do so much better in the form of solar, wind and water.” DeSau holds an Awareness Walk on gas drilling the first Saturday of every month in Honesdale’s Central Park on Church Street at 1 p.m. 6 *The Environmental Protection Agency is currently conducting a study on the potential impact hydraulic fracturing could have on drinking water resources. The study is slated to be released later this year.

Shown: An active fracking site Local Flair

profile Scott’s Collision Centers

Drop Off, Relax, and Pick Up!

By Roseanne Bottone

There’s really no such thing as a minor fender bender. Even a low velocity “bump” can cause serious damage to your vehicle. Every driver knows the perils of careless drivers maneuvering in parking lots, of wildlife bolting onto highways, and of black ice coating winter roads. Fortunately, Scott’s Collision Centers can make vehicle repairs remarkably easy. “We want our customers to be happy!” says Matt Dewalt, Vice President of Scott’s Collision Centers. “If someone brings their car to us and they don’t have rental coverage from their insurance company, we give them a free rental.” Matt learned the importance of customer satisfaction from his father, Scott W. Dewalt, who started Scott’s Auto Body as a one-man shop in 1971. Over the years, Scott, who still owns the business, hired talented assistants and made several moves to larger facilities to accommodate his growing business. The Dewalts and team finally settled into a state-of-the-art, custom designed facility in Easton, PA. Their reputation for stellar results and fair pricing increased the demand for their services; so, in 2007 they expanded to a second location in Stroudsburg, PA. They purchased a 14,000 square foot facility located on nine acres of land with the expectation of providing their now renowned service to the residents of Monroe County far into the future. The Council of Better Business Bureaus warns that “drivers ultimately are responsible for selecting an auto body repair shop. Choosing a trustworthy, quality-oriented shop is very important for ensuring the best possible results.” Scott’s Collision Centers has a direct repair relationship with many insurance companies. The Dewalts say, “You can simply bring in your vehicle, give us your insurance information, get in an on-site rental car, and leave the paperwork, repairs, and hassles up to us. You can be as involved or uninvolved in the repair process as you want to be. This is what we do. It really can be as simple as; Drop off, relax, pick up!” Scott’s Collision Centers are thoroughly professional, reputable repair shops that stand behind their work by offering upfront, written estimates and a lifetime warranty for any repairs they’ve made for as long as you own your vehicle. Matt says, “Our technicians receive their training from the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) or they receive their certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) – and sometimes both!” Scott’s Collision Centers’ Stroudsburg location also offers ArmorThane sprayed-in truck bed liners and tailored automotive detailing services. The Centers use cleaning products that are friendly to the environment. Matt says, “We’ve been involved in the ‘Green Initiative’ long before it was cool to be green.” Last year the centers recycled 36,000 pounds of cardboard, 57,000 lbs. of steel and 11,000 pounds of aluminum. “We were the first facility in Northeast PA to switch to water-based paints back in 2008, and we reduced volatile organic compound air emissions by 40%,” Matt says. He believes that Scott’s Collision Centers’ commitment to protecting the environment should be of great appeal to the residents of this area. 6

“You can be as involved or uninvolved in the repair process as you want to be. It really can be as simple as; Drop off, relax, pick up!” Scott’s Collision has two locations. The Stroudsburg location can be reached at 570.629.4250, while the Easton location can be reached at 610.253.1528. Find out more by ‘liking’ them on Facebook or visiting their website at www.scottscollisioncenters.com.

Local Flair

profile

Siblings Michele and Michael Frailey both follow in the footsteps of their grandfather, who founded Frailey Insurance

By Roseanne Bottone Photo by Dominick Frabizio Grandpa Verdon founded the Frailey Insurance Agency in 1937 and today his twin grandchildren, Michael Frailey and Michele A. Frailey-Miller, continue to live by the motto “Real people, Real Service.” Michael, who is the elder sibling by 10 minutes, is the face of the agency. He generously credits his sister with being “the smart one” who takes care of the behind-the-scenes details required to run the business. Michele says of him, “There’s no one else I’d rather work with! We have a smooth relationship. We think a lot alike and often finish each other’s sentences. We’re playfully competitive.” Michael jokes, “We fought, but only until age 12.” Now they are a synergistic team bringing out the best in each other. Celebrating 75 years of longevity in the community is evidence of their clients’ appreciation of their strong personal work ethic and their dedication to building lifelong relationships - including multi generations of the same families. “We live to serve,” they say. They are active in the Kiwanis Club of the Stroudsburgs, the Greater Pocono Chamber of Commerce, the Boy Scouts of America and the Reeders United Methodist Church. Their Marketing Advisor, Carole’ Ann F. Bowyer adds, “They encourage the staff to be involved in community outreach, too.” The FraileyAgency supports the efforts of non-profit organizations with whatever they might need – food, clothing, monetary donations, and time in the trenches, on an ongoing basis. While most people think insurance and investments are all about money, the Fraileys understand it’s even more fundamental than that; it’s about love. They see their job as helping people achieve their dreams and protect their families. They do so by providing individually tailored

Local Flair

financial solutions backed up with reliable and superior ongoing attention to their clients’ evolving needs. “The economic downturn has affected us too,” Michele says. But we’ve turned that into a positive by taking the time to do quality reviews for our clients and by reassessing our processes to do business more efficiently.”

“It’s all about taking care of family and friends.” Frailey Insurance and Financial Services represents one of the country’s largest diversified insurance and financial services providers – Nationwide Insurance and Financial Services. What makes them special, however, is that they keep their focus local. Michele says, “It’s all about taking care of family and friends.” Michael and Michele’s dapper father John is retired but still comes into the office twice a week. He was their mentor and a cutting edge visionary; the first advertiser to publish his photo in the Yellow Pages, the second person in the county to have a cell phone, and one of the first to have a fax machine in the office. He has always inspired his children to think outside the box. Carole’ Ann says “We are blessed to have hundreds of clients who have been with us for over 30+ years. Such loyalty is not only remarkable, but humbling.” Michael and Michele believe, “Our clients are our extended family. They are the fabric of our community.” 6

Local Flair

profile Middlebranch Farm

Higher Education for Aspiring Equestrians By Karen Tetor

“The water pump isn’t working,” explains Loree Guthrie, owner of Middlebranch Farm, as she pours water from a hose into plastic totes ready to haul to 15 waiting horses. The day’s frustration is just one of many that in no way dulls the passion Loree and her two grown daughters, Mandee and Xan, have for their Hunter/Jumper horse boarding and training facility in Canadensis. About an hour later, the pump problem is resolved, but the challenges remain for the three women who, as infants, fell in love with equestrianism. Currently, 15 horses call Middlebranch Farm their home, seven of whom are “retirees” and six of whom are boarders. “We have room for five more!” says Mandee. The stalls look out into an impressive 100 x 200 feet indoor riding ring. Just outside is an outdoor ring of the same size. Beyond the 25 acre farm are 500 acres of riding trails carving through Spruce Mountain, territory owned by the Guthrie/Price families. Loree’s mother was a descendent of Joseph Price, an early settler of the area. Such a facility is a labor of love and money. Nonetheless, the Guthrie girls target only “serious equestrians whose eventual goal is to own their own horse, if they don’t have one already.” The prices of feed, shavings, and vet bills continue to climb. But Loree insists, “We’re not here to make a buck. We don’t stick kids on ponies. Instead, we live to mold good riders and horseman, ones who go to competitions and shows.” The training facility grew from the ladies’ own competitive needs. “We built the indoor riding ring in 1994 because of our love of attending horseshows, especially in Devon, PA and in New Jersey,” says Loree. “We’d arrive at shows about two months behind in training compared with riders who had trained year-long. We needed a four-season facility.”

The Hartwood Show Jumping Festival in Pittsburgh is the perfect place for Xan Mepham and her horse Mimosa to showcase the horsemanship skills Xan’s mother, sister, and she teach at Middlebranch Farm in Canadensis.

The facility and its inhabitants make unflinching demands. While Mandee handles most of the riding lessons, Loree finds herself writing out checks. “We’re not in the corporate corridor of New Jersey, so we charge a fraction of what it costs to board a horse there,” she contends. As she fondly glances at two teenage girls saddling up, Loree smiles. “We started Megan and Ashley when they were eight or nine years old. Now they’re 14, and they are competing at shows against top riders in the country. We’re not about business. We’re about horses and their riders.” Loree’s own daughters “came to the barn as infants,” she laughs. “They were literally raised in a barn.” As they grew older, the trio of mother and daughters loaded the horses into a trailer and drove off to New Jersey several times a week for horse shows and training. Years of training has included riding and working under Olympian and international Grand Prix competitor Kevin Babington, Lynn Lloyd of the Red Rock Hounds in Reno, NV, Kevin McQueen and Mill Stone Farm, and under Grand Prix competitor Helen Goddard. Loree’s own training began as she sat in front of her grandfather as he rode his horse through much of the same property. As a teenager, she fueled her passion for the business by working both the Buck Hill and Skytop Stables. “Seriously, I could ride before I could walk,” she reflects. 6

Local Flair

Lackawanna Heritage Valley Presents

Bike Tour – Starting at 8 a.m. • Ride the beautiful Lackawanna River Heritage Trail and D&H Rail-Trail • Great for bike riders of all ages and abilities • Options include 5, 11, 22 and 44 mile routes • All routes are out-and-back from Mellow Park Bike Rally – 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. • Open to riders 10 years and under • Fun activities teach bike safety and good bike handling skills

Saturday, June 16, 2012 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mellow Park, Peckville, PA

FREE Festival – 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. • Enjoy the Trail Town Festival with live music, vendors, exhibits, raffles and more • Open to the public Info and Registration www.HeritageExplorer.org (570) 963-6730 ext. 8200 DIScounTED REgISTRaTIon DEaDLInE - May 18TH

Proceeds will benefit the development of the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail.

Local Flair

profile

at Unique Boutique When Patti Cilenti moved to Stroudsburg from New Hope with her husband Joe and their three children, she soon realized something was missing: an educational toy store for children. This past March, Patti opened Unique Boutique, a store that has “something to interest every child, whether they love music, sports, magic, nature, art, puzzles, literature, or science,” she says.

or Tet n e r a By K

Customers who step under the bright green awning and into this South Sixth Street toy Mecca won’t find the typical toys stacked in discount department store aisles. From Lady Bug Farms and mini-green houses to gigantic floor puzzles, art supplies, and tambourines, Cilenti carefully selects each toy to “help parents lure kids away from television and to actively engage their minds while having fun.” “My goal is to cover every child’s interest,” Cilenti says. “For example, I have almost every item the company Melissa & Doug offers. They make great sleeping bags, children’s gardening tools, and gigantic easels.” Unique Boutique also sells “farms” by Insect Lore. “The child purchases the insect’s ‘house,’ and then sends a postcard to the company. Soon, the ants, ladybugs, or larva arrive, and the children learn so much watching them grow in their new habitats!” Cilenti is also building up an impressive children’s library. “I’m being very particular. I’m stocking books you want to give as gifts—classic books.” The store has a children’s reading area, along with spacious floor area where children can play with the toys for sale in the store. “I overheard one mother telling her child that my store must be expensive because it has the word ‘Boutique’ in the name,” Cilenti laughs. “Not true. I really keep the price reasonable. Pajama sets sell for $12. Some toys are only two or three dollars. Most are between $10 and $20.” Cilenti loves Bravery in a Bottle. “It’s aromatherapy packaged to help children with their fears,” she explains. Monster Vapor chases away those scary beasts in the bedroom, and Storm Squasher assuages fears of thunder and lightening. “The bottles contain such essence as lavender, lemon, and rosewood.” Unique Boutique also offers a whole line of boutique children’s clothing. Dresses and skirts from Rosie’s Whimsy are made in New Hope by Cilenti’s fellow artist-friends. She says that lines such as Penelope Mack are more typical of high-end New York stores, but Cilenti keeps the prices within easy reach. “Unique Boutique” is a reason for parents to bring their children to downtown Stroudsburg,” says Cilenti. The store hosts free puppet and magic shows for children. “I plan to schedule balloon artists, face painting, and all kinds of activities children will love.” 6

Unique Boutique The Children’s Everything Store 7 S. 6th Street, Stroudsburg, PA www.uniqueboutique7s6.com 570.872.9320

Local Flair

LF Out & About

A Celebration of Strauser Reception at ESU

Photos by Eileen Noelle Photography

16 34

Local Flair

1. A program from the event, 2. Mark Lichty, Esq. and Robert Ivkovich, 3. Joanne Orozco, Peg Gothard and Michelle Coulter, 4. Grey & Linda Carter and Roseann Dillman, 5. Marie & Alan Young, Esq., 6. James Sittig and Peg & Bill Gothard, 7. Pat & Joan Ross and Dr. Peter Casale & Madeline Casale, 8. Maureen Coyle, Roger Delarco and Robert Metzger, 9. Bill Gothard and David Coulter, 10. Lauren Chamberlain and Peggy & Wayne Vanderhoof, 11. Andy Worthington and Gary Kresge, 12. Marie Young, President Judge Maggie Worthington, Alan Young, Esq. and Dr. Van Reidhead, 13. Holly Freeman-Belau and Barbara Samet, 14. Sue Shebelsky and Barbara Fredericks, 15. Tracy Granger and Laura Goss 16. Grey Carter

Local Flair

LF Out & About

Womens Resources Black & White Gala 2012

Photos by Ken Schurman (VIP Studios) 1. Jill Howell, Kathi Percudani, and Camille Breslauer, 2. Mindy & Dr. John Brinker, 3. Ellyn & Mike Schindler, 4. Charlie & Vincent Trapasso, 5. Kathi Percudani, Gerie Percudani and Event Co-Chair Sharon Sinkevich, 6. Event Co-Chair Jen Olson & Gary Olson, 7. Bob Kelly & Stacey Dennis, 9. Bill & Leslie Sopko, 10. Joann Wolfe 11. Margie & Jim Becker, 12. Wendy Price, 13. Tricia & Michael Fritz, 14. Joe & State Representative Rosemary Brown, 15. Top Row L-R: Christine Harvell, Paul Harvell, Mike Dembinski, Tom & Danielle White, Teddy Steiner, Mark Ambrose, Lisa Ambrose, Debbie Sinatra, Ali & Adam Schratt 16. Robin Opperlee & FiancĂŠ 17. Kathie & Jeffry Weichel and Guest 18. Gary Olson & Walter Price, 19. Steve & Matilda Sheptak, 20. Art & Lisa Berry with Christina & Ricky Durst, 21. Maryann Heeter

21 36

Local Flair

Paul Dano Reception Pocono Community Theatre

Pocono Mountains Restaurant Week Kick-off Party at Liquid & Trackside Grill

1. Dano signs autographs, 2. Bob Dorough was in the crowd, 3. Stephen & Pattie Howanitz with Sonja Hagenbuch & Terry Hagenbuch, 4. & 5. Paul Dano taking questions from the crowd, 6. Andrea RobbinsRimberg, 7. Ginny Kirkwood with Andrea RobbinsRimberg and Mark Lichty

Local Flair

8 Photos by Stephen Lippay 1. George Strunk & Tom O’Malley, 2. Sampling of Mountain View Vineyard Wines, 3. Inside Trackside Grill, 4. Joe O’Malley, 5. Jeffrey Franks, 6. Chef Eukaditis of Woodfield Manor (with his Sous Chef), 7. Ali & Adam Schratt, 8. Fab & Bill Pipolo with Chef Gracie from Basso in Cresco

Always growing fresh design. Custom Design Web Design Brand Identity

Local Flair Creative www.localflair.com | 570.481.4333

Local Flair

vision passion expertise

Local Flair

Landmasters By William Sopko

beauty and elegance are always in style

Give us about a week and about $16,000, and we will give you

a lifetime of vacations priceless. in your own backyard...

*Price includes Flagstone Patio, Dry-Stacked Stone Bench Seat, Fire Pit & Waterfall as seen in the photograph above. All landscapes can be customized to suit individual budgets and needs.

LandmastersLandscaping.com | 570.620.7060 Local Flair

profile

Marketing Adventure in The Pocono Mountains

Staci Barkalow

“With the team we have in place it’s easy to get excited about what tomorrow may bring,” says Staci Barkalow, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau. The PMVB is the official destination marketing organization for the four county region encompassing Carbon, Monroe, Pike and Wayne counties in Northeast PA. It is the largest tourist promotion agency of its kind in Pennsylvania representing close to 800 facilities including resorts, attractions, tourism related businesses and associate members as it promotes the Pocono Mountains as a premier travel destination.

Q: What is the current marketing image for the Pocono Mountains? A: We are well on our way to becoming a Mecca for outdoor adventure sports with 13 adventure/ endurance competitions scheduled in 2012, it’s a thrilling time for us! The Pocono Mountains encompasses 2,400 square miles of rolling mountain terrain, breathtakingly beautiful waterfalls, thriving woodlands and 170 miles of winding rivers offering something to every outdoor enthusiast. Capitalizing on the beauty of our region we have installed live camera’s at several of our member properties that can be viewed from our website. I see us continuing to market the abundant beauty and versatility of our four counties. Q: How can the Pocono community help in promoting this area? A: One of our principal and growing markets is family reunions. If every one of your readers held their annual family reunion in one of our four-counties we would definitely see an uptick in our visitor numbers. Also, embrace the visitor! From time to time I get the impression that numerous people in our community simply do not understand the economic impact tourism has on this region. Without it, we would be a ghost town. If a tourist asks you a question, put a smile on your face and direct them to 800poconos.com if you are unable to answer their question. Kindness goes a long way and leads to repeat business. Q: What is the next step for Pocono tourism? A: Our job is to promote, educate and attract

visitors to the pristine Pocono Mountains. I believe we will continue to do that by increasing our presence in our target markets of New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia, using sites like Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest to their fullest extent, educating the consumer and escalating our reach in the international market. Our message is simple… Life’s greater in the Pocono Mountains.

Q: How do you describe your personal style? A: My style absolutely changes depending on my

mood and what is on my agenda for the day. You can often find me in a flirty dress or a classic suit with a modern edge, but I’m equally comfortable in an evening gown or jeans & sexy shirt. One thing you will never see me wearing is a pair of flat shoes! 6

Local Flair

profile

Tricia Dunkelberger-Fritz

Sporting a Family Tradition

Q: What do you like most about your role in Dunkelberger’s? A: I enjoy working with my Dad and learning all aspects of the business. And I love that every day is different for me. I may be working in the store, on a buying trip, or at Pocono Pistol Range Q: Dunkelberger’s is celebrating its 40th year as family owned business in Stroudsburg. How has your store responded to the changing demands of retailing? A: Customer expectations create changes. I remember when Dunkelberger’s was not open on Sundays. Now, Sunday is busy day and a day that customers demand for us to have the store open. Hours have also changed. At one time, Friday night was ‘the big night’ downtown; stores were open late to accommodate the people who shopped and strolled the streets of Stroudsburg. Today’s customers expect extended store hours all week long. In the past few years Dunkelberger’s has changed up the store hours. We open later in the morning and stay open later in the evening. Q: What has been the change that excites you the most? A: I have to say the beginning of the Ladies Store was and is still very exciting to me. We have been updating the look in the Men’s Store and taking it to an updated look.

Counting worms is a job that led Tricia Dunkelberger Fritz to a career she loves as a buyer for women’s and men’s clothing at Dunkelberger’s Sports Outfitter on Main Street in Stroudsburg. Fritz fondly recalls her first job at the store. Her father Jere, the store’s founder, bought big containers of night crawlers. “I would have to separate and put 12 worms per cup,” she laughs. Fritz easily stepped into her management role at the historic store, which boasts of being “four stores under one roof.” Whether buying upscale classics for the distinctive clothing shops or placing orders for Boy or Girl Scout uniforms, Fritz enjoys carrying on the family’s tradition for quality goods and services.

Local Flair

Q: What is the most challenging part of your job? A: The most challenging part of my job is being able to juggle my job, which is very demanding, and my family life. Michael and I have two boys, ages four and six... and Ladies, you know they want their Mom! Q: How does Dunkleberger’s balance tradition with change? A: I was born and raised in Monroe County so I have seen a lot happen over the years. One thing still holds true: People shop. But today retail has become more demanding. There are so many choices for consumers today. It is very important to change up merchandise stay fresh for the customer. 6

style

Fashion Police

The

Photos by Eileen Noelle Photography Clothing Provided by Dunkelbergers for Men

1a. Sgt. James Wielgus in Bills Khakis Summer Poplin Pants and Mine Washed Red Shirt, Orvis Dirty Backs Oxford, Orvis Chronograph, 1b. Cpl. Kevin Transue in Cutler & Buck Multi Gingham and Orvis Surfwashed Reds, 1c. Ptlm. Paul Gasper in Bills Khakis, Blue Check Button Down, Orvis Embroidered Fly Fishing Belt, 1d. Det. Harry Miller in Tommy Bahama Pleated Linen Short Sleeve, Tommy Bahama Year-round Navy Chino, Orvis Dirty Bucks & Fedora 2. Sgt. James Wielgus in Tommy Bahama Linen Shirt and Tommy Seersucker Stiped Shorts, with Orvis Leather Bracelet and Straw Fedora 3. Lt. Paul Duffy in Orvis Surfwashed Shirt, Tailor Vintage Reversible Short, Merrell Web Sandal/Shoe 4. Cpl. Kevin Transue in Tori Richard Striped Palm Shirt and Tommy Bahama Light Denim, with Merrell Hikers 5. Det. Harry Miller in Report Blue Plaid and Tommy Bahama Classic Denim 6. Orvis Fabric Watchband Watch

Local Flair

7. Det. Susan Charles in Brighton Swirl Pendant 8. Ptlm. Paul Gasper in Orvis Surfwashed White Buttondown and Orvis Spring Green Khaki 9. Det. Susan Charles in Tommy Bahama Linen Buttondown, Knit Travel Skirt, Ian Michales Leaf Cuff and Rope Necklace, Woven Linen Belt with Stone Embellishments Our Fashion Police Photo Shoot took place at the idyllic Mountain Springs Lake Resort in Reeders, PA. It was the perfect place to highlight a few Stroud Regional Police officers dressed for the season by Dunkelbergerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for Men & Women.

Local Flair

local flavor

//Wine Chick Chat

Brodhead Watershed Ale

As I walked into Barley Creek Brewing Company, I wondered if it would be the familiar place I had spent so many hours for almost five years. I used to study here, in my little corner of the bar. And every time I passed another level of Wine Education Certification, I would show up with treats for the Wednesday crew—my “support group” during my long journey to my Diploma as an Associate Member of the Institute of Wine and Spirits. This time I wasn’t at Barley Creek to study wine, but to sample a new beer. The building had expanded; some faces were familiar. But there was distinct change. Behind the bar stood a young man whose golden knit cap and curly red beard framed the intensity of his expression. He fiddled with the taps, more taps than I recalled. Trip, the owner, grinned and introduced me to Joe Percocco, who identified himself as “just the brewer.” The brewer who had just created a signature beer, Brodhead Watershed Ale, to benefit the organization in its environmental missions. I was there to review the new beer. In three increments, Joe carefully poured me a glass of BWA, the fine nectar from somewhere below. It was a cranberry Hefeweizen, a German-style wheat ale. With a farm-to-table mind-set, Joe had crafted the brew with a nod to the local Cranberry Bog just down the road. The fluffy, creamy white head reminded me of a crafted cappuccino. This cloudy, unfiltered brew had a hint, a hue of the tanned rose of pressed red fruit. The initial nose revealed almost a sour note, with a cranberry essence. Upon tasting, the palate further confirmed the tartness of the cranberries on the tip of the tongue, yet with the finesse and crispness you would find in a fine German Hefeweizen, but with the tease of Flemish ale. “I use organic cranberry juice,” Joe explained. “The malt? A combo of Rocky Mountain White Wheat and a German style Pilsner.” His hops: a seedless version of Fuggles, from Sovenia. A mild, grassy, subtle bitterness that doesn’t overpower the cranberries.

Joe Percocco the Brewer $1.00 from every glass of BWA Ale sold at Barley Creek is donated to the Brodhead Watershed Association, with an additional $1.50 donation with the purchase of a signature glass. In just its first three weeks, sales of BWA Ale have raised over $1,100 for the Brodhead Watershed Association.

At once, I knew we also shared a passion for beer as Joe explained his organic process and his brewing methodology, specifically an English style of brewing unique to the English Ringwood Brewery. Joe’s words tapped into my British genealogy, my roots in six generations of Yorkshire brewers. The beer was balanced, with only a 4.5% alcohol. A healthy summer beer. Unfiltered. Organic. Cranberries. I envisioned it paired brilliantly with baked Brie, cranberry spinach salad, lighter seafood, sushi, or a light fruit dessert. Ask Joe about his beer. He will tell about BWA. And about his chocolate peanut-butter graham cracker imperial stout. He’ll tell you about his oak-aged brew resting in bourbon barrels downstairs. And about his secret-five gallon test batches with his homegrown hops. You’ll have to be patient. Much of it won’t be ready for years. I’ll be back. 6

Leslie, the Wine Chick

Local Flair

Like “WineChick-Chat” on Facebook to learn more about Leslie’s local wine-tasting events. Or contact her about doing a private tasting or event by writing winechickchat@yahoo.com.

GreatTaste

Traditional New York Style Steak House featuring Prime Aged Steaks, Terrific Seafood & Outstanding Service. We offer on or off-premise catering for all your special occasions and events.

• Wine & Women • Wine & Women

Wed, June 13th Wed, July 11th

Every Thursday TASTE OF ITALY Open Sunday thru Thursday 4 – 9:30 p.m. Friday & Saturday 4 – 10:30 p.m. Closed on Mondays

www.dinelakeharmonypa.com Lite & Early Menu Available Specially priced small plates at the bar from 4-6 PM Tues.-Fri.

134 Lake Harmony Rd., Lake Harmony, PA 18624

570.722.3990 For Reservations Local Flair

wellness

The phrase “hips don’t lie” says it all. Hips not only provide shape and support, but also enable movement, making them among the most important parts in the body. Ready to shake your hips healthy? Read on to learn how.

Did you know? • Hip-related pain is not confined to the hip area; you may also feel pain in your midthigh or groin area. Pain in your hips can even represent a back problem. • Hip pain can be caused by arthritis (inflammation on one or more joints), osteonecrosis (lack of blood flow to the bone, causing bone loss), tendonitis (inflammation, irritation and swelling of a tendon), lower back pain and infection. • Smoking accelerates bone loss by reducing the absorption of calcium in the body. Another culprit? Excessive consumption of alcohol, which slows bone formation and also reduces your body’s ability to absorb calcium. • A bone density test (aka densitometry or DXA scan) can determine whether you have or are at risk for osteoporosis.

YOUR BONES, YOUR BODY Maintaining strong, healthy bones is essential as we grow older. Specifically, the hip bone enables mobility for the pelvis area and lower extremity. Daily doses of calcium and vitamin D, along with exercise, can help the body fight against bone loss. When the body lacks these vital nutrients or muscle-building activities, common bone problems often occur: • Osteoporosis affects approximately ten million Americans. This disease silently weakens the bones, which increases the chances of fractures, and is common in older women. • Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) is a genetic disorder that causes the bones to break very easily. It can cause weak muscles, brittle teeth, a curved spine and hearing loss. • Paget’s Disease causes the bones in your body to grow larger and weakerthan normal. Other symptoms include arthritis and hearing loss. • Osteoarthrosis (aka degenerative joint disorder) is the most common form of arthritis and occurs when cartilage in your joints is worn down over time.

PUT ON YOUR DANCING SHOES! The American Heart Association recommends thirty minutes of physical activity each day. In addition to flexing your creative muscle, dancing is a form of exercise that helps maintain healthy bones by using different muscles throughout the body without impacting the joints. Cutting a rug—whether it’s zumba, salsa or ballroom dancing, even!—strengthens the bones and muscles in the legs and hips, lowers risk of heart disease and helps with weight loss.

SOURCES: www.worldwidehealth.com, www.nlm.nih.gov, www.mayoclinic.com, www.nlm.nih.gov Pocono Medical Center’s Spirit of Women collaborates with the PMC Wellness Institute to provide health screenings and host educational events to further improve the lives of women and their families in the community. For additional information or to become a Spirit of Women member visit, PoconoMedicalCenter.org/JoinSpirit. Your Hips Don’t Lie is powered by Spirit of Women®, a national network of hospitals and healthcare providers across the United States that ascribe to the highest standards of excellence in women’s health, education, and community outreach.

Local Flair

GO! Where are the July 3rd Shawnee Mountain Ski Area Hollow Road, Shawnee on Delaware, PA 18356 Featuring various food and craft vendors, Shawneeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual fireworks display is $10 per car load. The rain date is scheduled for July 7th. Fireworks held at dusk, approximately 9pm www.shawneemt.com

July 3rd Honesdaleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Independence Day Church Street, Honesdale, PA In beautiful Central Park, enjoy fun, food, music and fireworks. Activities begin at 5pm and fireworks wil take place starting at dusk. Rain date is July 6th. www.honesdaleparkevents.org

July 4th Lake Wallenpaupack Route 6, Hawley, PA A fireworks display over the lake begins at 9:15pm. Parking will be available at the high school and bleachers will be open for spectators at 7pm. Fireworks will be viewable from the dike or by boat on the lake. www.lakeregioncc.com

July 4th Dansbury Park American Freedom Festival N. Courtland Street, East Stroudsburg, PA Rides, carnival games, boardwalk-style food, contests, live music and more. The festival begins at 2pm, while fireworks will start around 9pm.

July 4th Mt. Airy Casino 44 Woodland Road, Mt. Pocono, PA Free and open to all ages, fireworks start around 9:30pm www.mountairycasino.com/specialevents

July 7th Camelbeach Water Park Camelback Road, Tannersville, PA Fireworks start at 9:30pm. No coolers or alcohol permitted in the waterpark. A $10 parking fee will benefit the Pocono Township Volunteer Fire Co. The Maybabies will be playing from 5-11pm. www.camelbeach.com

Local Flair