MeSee Magazine April/May 2020

designed for families in nepa.

family. community. events. fun.

MeSee magazine

[free] COVER ARTIST: Ethan Cornman

april may

2020

• Publishers SBC Publishing • Business & Marketing Amanda Kuhn

CONTENT

CONTRIBUTORS

4 • OUR LETTER 5 • NEED A MINUTE 6 • Q & A ALVIN'S OFF ROAD 10 • WOMEN'S RESOURCES OF MONROE COUNTY 16 • EVERHART MUSEUM 18 • LET'S GO CAMPING

• Creative & Graphic Design Kelly Slinger

20 • OPEING DAY OF TROUT

• Copy Editor

22 • DATE NIGHT @ DERAILED

Robin Kuchinski

24 • PLEASANT RIDGE FARM

• Distribution

26 • SPRUCE LAKE RETREAT

Tina Nicholas

30 • ST. LUKE'S NEW PEDIATRIC UNIT

• Contributing Writers Kimberly Blaker

32 • GARDENING WITH KIDS

Tom Eccleston

34 • MONSIGNOR MCHUGH SCHOOL

Amanda Kuhn

36 • KIDS IN THE KITCHEN

Allison Mowatt

40 • THINGS TO DO

Ethan Cornman

CONTACT MeSee Magazine PO Box 431 Cresco, PA 18326 P: (570) 807.6810

ABOUT

• Contributing Little Artist Designed for families, MeSee is a creative collaboration of everyday ideas to celebrate the joys, swerves and curves of everyday families.

Published bi-monthly, each issue will feature people, places and things that attract, entertain and inform both kids and their parents. Learn more about upcoming events, local businesses, local families, unique crafts and internet finds, activities and other inspiring editorial to make you laugh, cry and relate.

Amanda Kuhn (570) 807.6810 amanda@meseemag.com Kelly Slinger (570) 807.6823 kelly@meseemag.com Advertising sales@meseemag.com

FOLLOW US Website MeSeeMag.com Facebook MeSeeMagazine Copyright 2020 MeSee Magazine is owned and published

by SBC Publishing. All rights reserved. NO part of this magazine may be reproduced, including and without limitation to advertisements, art, photo, design and editorial pieces, without the written consent of SBC Publishing.

ON THE COVER ETHAN CORNMAN • 8 MeSee Magazine • 3

comeatvisit the us

FROGTOWN CHOPHOUSE

From MeSee Today didn’t go as planned, but then again, does anything go as planned when you’re a parent?

open 7 days a week

Shortly after my daughter’s preschool drop off, I got the dreaded your-kid-is-sick phone call. While my daughter is pretty miserable, she also just wants to be snuggled. For first and quite possibly the last time in forever, I got to rock her to sleep. I made sure to document the occasion with a photo and made a mental note of her sweet little face

Brunch seating times 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm & 5:30pm with a visit from the Easter Bunny! (reservations required)

squished up against me. While this is not what I had planned for the day, and I don’t want my daughter to be sick, I’m thankful for the reminder to make those mental notes.

Normally at this point in the year we’re anxiously awaiting some warmer weather but Mother Nature decided to spare us that March snowstorm (unless I just jinxed us!) this year. Nothing turns things around in my house like sunshine and warmer weather. With summer on the horizon, it’s time to start planning your summer camps and activities. We have the details on a few great summer camps and also some spots to mark down on your summer bucket list.

We also had the chance to check out some of the other awesome businesses that are unique to our

CHOP LIVE!

area. Alvin’s Offroad Playground and the Everhart

Every Thursday @1pm on Facebook Live

Museum are perfect spots to spend the day. We also got to chat with the Principal and Art Director at Monsignor McHugh School and learn about the amazing things happening with the MMS family.

We hope you enjoy this issue of MeSee. As always, we love to hear from you! Join us for events. Share your ideas, stories and more. You can find us on Facebook or email us anytime at info@meseemag.com.

Now get out and enjoy the sunshine!

The Frogtown Chophouse p. 570.895.4460

e. info@thefrogtownchophouse.com 472 Upper Swiftwater Rd., Swiftwater, PA

thefrogtownchophouse.com 4 • MeSee Magazine

Amanda & Kel l y

need a minute?

Baby crying? Kids fighting? Toddler interrogating? Need a minute?

Here's something to keep them occupied so you can take a breath.

Printable by: Paper Trail Design - for more free printables visit www.papertraildesign.com



MeSee Magazine • 5

6 • MeSee Magazine

Q&A

w/

Get out and see what the Poconos is all about! Located in

How big is the "playground" and where does the

Long Pond, Alvin's Offroad Playground is a fun filled ATV,

property span?

UTV, and dirt bike park with off-road trails for all skill levels.

Experience a true off-road experience, conquering every

Our 70 acres includes 2 circular tracks, a figure

trail with your own recreational vehicle or on one of theirs.

eight track, multiple sections of wooded trails, hills,

We got the scoop on everything you can expect during your

fields, and straight runs.

visit at Alvin’s.

Alvin’s is the perfect spot

What types of trails and terrain can you find?

to experience Poconostyle outdoor fun. Can you describe what newcomers

The Playground is more of a flat property geared

can find at Alvin's and what makes it

towards intermediate to beginner level riders. We

so unique?

are open all year long so customers can expect everything from rain, mud and dirt build up, to sunshine or

Here at Alvin’s we offer an

snow.

adrenaline pumping 1 hour ATV tour. Every tour is

Who is able to drive and/or ride and are there any

different and the tour guides want to

restrictions?

have as much fun as you, if not more.

Our kid-friendly, family oriented BYO

To drive our machines you must be 14 years old

passes allow families with children to ride

and passengers are usually 5 -13 years or older.

their own machines on a specific property designed for them. While you wait, pass the time shooting ATV parts, boats, bottles, and more at the Paintball Shooting Range.

Combined weight of driver and passenger may not exceed 350 lbs. To bring your own machines you must have at least one person participating that is at least 14 years in your group. We highly encourage riders of all ages!

MeSee Magazine • 7

What types of vehicles are allowed at Alvin's?

What types are available to rent?

Alvin's allows you to bring off road vehicles such as ATVs, Dirt Bikes, Side by Sides, and Go Carts.

Unfortunately we do not allow any vehicles that are made for road use. Our 1 hour tours are on Kawasaki Brute Forces. They are automatic, so no worrying about shifting between gears.

You also have paintball, correct?

The newest addition to Alvin’s Offroad Playground is our Paintball Shooting Range. This 30 ft. by 40 ft. outdoor shooting range offers a wide range of interactive objects to shoot. Guaranteed to excite anyone, ages 12 and up may participate alone and children 5 to 11 may participate with a adult present to provide help if needed.

Is there anything that people might not know about Alvin’s?

Alvin's Offroad Playgrounds property has been a ATV/ snowmobile/ three wheeler rental property since the 1960s. First opening as Alvin’s Rentals under the great Alvin himself, then becoming Long Pond Rentals and today as Alvin's Offroad Playground 60 years later.

The original building and office is still used to this day.

The owners and employees take great pride in knowing they provide a ATV tour that has repeat customers from 40 years ago!

Even if you're an expert and ride regularly, Alvin's has some great trails to experience, correct?

Unfortunately, we do not have a property for all leveled riders when you bring your own machine. For customers who are looking for more difficulty and speed when bringing their own machine, we recommend our neighboring park Lost Trails in Dunmore PA.

• Full service landscaping including design, installation and maintenance • Hardscape installation including walkways, patios, retaining walls and fire pits

Before heading to Alvin's, what should our readers do to make sure they are prepared?

• Excavating, grading and drainage solutions • Lakefront and beach renovations and installations

Everyone must wear long pants and closed toed

• Driveway repairs and improvements

shoes. No sandals, crocs, capris or shorts. Wear

• Driveway snow removal and ice control

clothing you are willing to get dirty! We run year

• Spring and Fall cleanups

round so please dress according to the weather. In the winter, multiple layers, boots, and gloves are needed.

However in the summer jeans, sneakers, and a t-shirt or tank tops are acceptable.

Think Outside The House Logan R. Evans, President (570) 646-5335

Alvin's Offroad Playground (570) 355-5060 www.alvinsoffroadplayground.com 2069 Long Pond Rd. Long Pond, PA 18334

info@mtnlandscaping.com www.mtnlandscaping.com

Mountain Landscaping is a full service design, installation and maintenance landscape and hardscape contractor.

MeSee Magazine • 9

Women's Resources of Monroe County Our Mission To provide a safe and caring environment that encourages healing and empowerment for anyone whose life has been impacted by domestic and sexual violence. We strive to engage our community through awareness, advocacy, and prevention.

Women's Resources of Monroe County, Inc. 10 • MeSee Magazine

Celebrating 40 Years OF WOMEN’S RESOURCES IN MONROE COUNTY For some, safety might seem like a fantasy, an ideal that can

also engaging the community through awareness, advocacy,

never be fully obtained. Others may feel like it’s a luxury, one

and prevention. Equipped with a fully certified staff, including

they might not deserve. For many, safety is often something

overnight shelter staff members, Women’s Resources of

that is taken for granted.

Monroe County is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Everyone is entitled to this basic human need regardless of gender, race, age or sexual orientation.

Without support, however, this basic need might be out of reach. For 40 years, Women’s Resources of Monroe County has worked to provide safety, help, hope and healing to the residents of Monroe County who have experienced or are experiencing domestic violence and/or sexual assault.

Offering free and confidential services to victims or family members of victims, Women’s Resources is a safety net that provides the support needed to help change lives.

If you are a resident of Monroe County you have probably heard of Women’s Resources but you may not be aware of the vast number of services the organization provides.

“Don’t let the name mislead you,” says Executive Director

via the 24-hour hotline.

Women’s Resources’ first line of defense is the 24-hour Hotline which is staffed by highly trained employees and volunteers 365 days a year. From 2018-2019, the hotline answered more than 1,736 calls from 1,406 individuals. From those calls, 18 sexual assault victims were accompanied to the hospital. In cases where emergency shelter is needed, Women’s Resources has a 22-bed emergency shelter that is both safe and comforting.

At the shelter individuals can find group and individual counseling, advocacy and information about resources such as housing, finances and employment. 123 adults and children stayed in the shelter for 5,964 nights from 20182019.

Lauren Peterson. “We’re not just for women. We’re not just

Counseling services are crucial to aiding victims and their

for victims of domestic violence. We’re not just a shelter.”

families. Individual and group counseling is not only available

The mission of Women’s Resources is to provide a safe

for victims of domestic and/or sexual abuse but can also

and caring environment that encourages healing and

include a child and/or teen who witnesses the violence,

empowerment for anyone whose life has been impacted by

parents of children who have been abused, or significant

domestic and sexual violence.

others of victims or survivors. The counseling services of the

From a 24 Hour Hotline and safe emergency shelter to counseling and advocacy programs, Women’s Resources is prepared to help a victim find safety in any situation.

What began as two separate volunteer efforts, the Domestic Violence Crisis Service (DVCS) and the Rape Crisis Service (RCS), has grown into an agency that serves both domestic violence and sexual assault victims and their families while

agency embrace the empowerment philosophy and assist victims in creating safety plans and establishing personal goals. There are also support groups available on a rolling basis for adult victims of domestic violence, children of victims of domestic violence, children and teen survivors of domestic or sexual abuse and adult survivors of child sexual abuse. From 2018-2019, 1,152 adults and children received support through 5,390 hours of crisis counseling.

MeSee Magazine • 11

24 hour crisis hotline (570) 421.4200

Another vital service is Women’s Resources’ legal and medical advocacy services. The legal advocates assist victims with exploring their options and understanding their legal rights and accompany

Main Office, Delaware Water Gap 225 J. Wilson Drive, Delaware Water Gap, PA 18327 Admin Office: (570) 424.2093 Fax: (570) 424.2094 24-hour hotline: (570) 421.4200 Office Hours: Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

victims to court. In 2018-2019, 491 clients received legal advocacy services and support for a total of 695 hours. 520 hours were spent in PFA court providing assistance to victims pursuing a protection order and victims were able to pursue legal action and receive representation through Women’s Resources Legal Fund.

In addition to the services offered to victims and their families, Women’s Resources is committed to raising awareness and educating the public about the issues of domestic and sexual violence, as well as works to prevent violence and abuse through their prevention education programs. Currently

Tobyhanna Satellite Office: The Mountain Center

By Appointment Only – Call 24-hotline West End Satellite Office: Brodheadsville, PA

By Appointment Only – Call 24-hotline

Women’s Resources is teaching programs in some local schools about healthy relationships, respect, consent and boundaries. In the future, they hope to offer more education programs that benefit children, teens and their parents.

For more information on Women’s Resources of Monroe County, their services, and how you can volunteer or donate, visit www.wrmonroe.org.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline Toll Free: 1.800.799.SAFE

Also, be sure to check out the upcoming events

Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network Toll Free: 1.800.656.HOPE

and Convention Center. Tickets on sale now. 

12 • MeSee Magazine

including the 2020 Gala: Celebrating 40 Years of Women’s Resources on May 30th at Kalahari Resort

The only Certified Pediatric Chiropractor in the Poconos.

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MeSee Magazine • 13

WE ARE GIVING AWAY...

4 - 1 H O U R J U M P PA S S E S T O F R E E FA L L T R A M P O L I N E PA R K

TO ONE LUCKY WINNER! FreeFall Trampoline Park in the area’s LARGEST indoor entertainment center, featuring 33,000 square feet of wallto-wall trampolines. Fun attractions including three dunk hoops, dodgeball courts, bungee swings, a mechanical bull, a “Launch Zone” air bag, and Meltdown, an 8-person battle game, give your kids an adrenaline pumping adventure!

For a chance to win, follow these steps: 1. LIKE MeSee Magazine on Facebook.

2. When you see our post about it on Facebook, SHARE! 3. Comment & tag 2 friends!

Good luck!

We will announce the winners on Friday, May 8th via Facebook. *Certain restrictions may apply.

FreeFall Trampoline Park | www.freefalltrampolinepark.com | www.facebook.com/FreeFallAllentown (610) 849.0373 | 2800 Baglyos Circle • Bethlehem, PA

14 • MeSee Magazine

Callie’s Candy Kitchen

› Paving › Excavating › Screened Dirt & Fill › Commercial Site Work › Septic & Sewer Installations › Topsoil & Stone Delivery › Parking Lot Paving › Parking Lot Maintenance

• O p e n 7 d ay s a w e e k ! •

› Material Hauling › Pipe Installation

108 Learn Road, Tannersville, PA 18372 P: 570.629.4537 / F: 570.629.8655 www.ffpave.com / sales@ffpave.com

MADISON HILFIGER ts 2 Little Ms. Motorspor 020

Kids. Love. Candy. openweek

Visit Our museum!

7 days a

Callie’s Candy Kitchen (570) 595.2280 Open 10am – 5pm 1111 Route 390, Mountainhome, PA 18342

calliescandy.com WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU! MeSee Magazine • 15

You may come here to see if birds of a taxidermied feather are posed together, but will stay to learn how an artist's craftsmanship is in the eye of the beholder.

Scranton's Everhart Museum, a temple supplanted in the austere setting of Nay Aug Park, seamlessly melds science and art. Not an easy feat to accomplish, mind you, when the notion that education and entertainment are mutually exclusive. But this prevailing theory is deferred at Everhart's masonry façade, and outright debunked within its decorous interior. “I was interested in the mammals, but found myself excitedly discovering the art display upstairs,” muses Wade Bosco, a Taylor resident. “The animals are very well kept and gave me a close-up of birds I could never have appreciated from afar.”

16 • MeSee Magazine

Photo by: Jon YonKondy

By Tom Eccleston

Founded in 1908 by Dr. Isaiah Fawkes Everhart, a Scranton

Complimenting this installation could be swapped selections

physician who happened to be a skilled taxidermist, the

on Egyptian textiles, Roman sculptures, and Native American

attraction stands in contrast to a rich local coal mining history.

handiwork.

The Museum was originally posited as a venue to document various wildlife that inhabited the region. And, while Everhart has expanded well beyond this original goal, it is still home to more than 2,500 stuffed birds, many of which were donated by the doctor himself.

In recent years, the Everhart has enhanced criteria to meet the changing expectations of what a museum is and role it plays throughout the Lackawanna area and beyond.

According to Kathy Bell, Director of Development and Marketing, Everhart welcomes over 15,000 guests each

Today, the Museum features an expansive array of artistic

year, and relies heavily on support from benefactors. “Our

pieces, with special focus on American folk art, a grouping

programs serve 11 surrounding counties, yet 85 percent of

of ethnographic works from a variety of world cultures, and

our funding comes from individuals and corporations based

a natural history wing. “Ours is the largest public regional

in Lackawanna,” she says. “Private funds make up nearly

museum in Northeastern Pennsylvania and the eighth-oldest

half of our budget. Every dollar counts and helps us grow and

in the Commonwealth. You would have to travel over two

thrive. Whether someone is paying for admission, obtaining

hours to find a similar facility. For many of our visitors, it may

a membership, buying a ticket to an event, purchasing

be the only museum they will ever visit,” declares Aurore

something at our store, or contributing to our financial

Giguet, Executive Director of the Everhart.

campaign, everything helps. Each gift and level of support is

The non-profit’s first floor comprises a biological science

meaningful.”

collection, including shells, minerals, and dinosaur casts.

And with these dollars, Scranton lays claim to a leading

While you may not be viewing original fossils, it's still

educational resource. “With a multidisciplinary and diverse

fascinating to get a close look at the form once taken by a

approach, the Everhart creates extraordinary experiences.

stegosaurus. Also included in the ground-level display is one

Our offerings stimulate creative expression and active

of Everhart's three temporary exhibition spots, showcasing

engagement between art and science. Whether you attend a

domestic and foreign ancestry.

lecture, workshop, or studio course, our classes are designed

Ascending to the second floor, tourists are greeted by

for all ages, interests, and abilities,” adds Bell.

global art samplings, spread out in the Museum's largest

For 112 years, the Everhart Museum has delved into the

room. Here, the works of John Willard Raught, a regional

humanities and established itself as an aesthetic hub that

painter from the early 20th century, are highlighted. While

unites people of different backgrounds. Fifteen thousand

the majority of Everhart's artful cache vaunts drawings and

strong, annually. 

photography, there is also an assemblage of Dorflinger Glass, forged in nearby Wayne County. The brand was manufactured from 1842 – 1921, and its stemware was coveted by American presidents and European royalty alike.

Another second floor cornerstone is African heritage, punctuated by religious artifacts and musical instruments.

The Everhart Museum (570) 346-7186 www.everhart-museum.org 1901 Mulberry Street • Scranton, PA 18510

MeSee Magazine • 17

Let’s Go Camping!

D

id you know that camping isn’t just fun, it’s also good for your health too! Young or old, everyone can benefit from spending some quality time outside. From reducing

stress to promoting family bonding, packing up your family and heading to the campground might be just what the doctor ordered. Here are the top 10 things we love about camping.

1. Reduces stress 2. Great food (things just taste better over a campfire) 3. Unplug 4. Learn some new skills 5. Bond with friends and family 6. Forget your schedule 7. Fresh air 8. S’mores (this one needed a category of it’s own) 9. Being active 10. A chance to be present (no distractions)

Campgrounds to visit Otter Lake

Keen Lake The Keen Family has been welcoming guests for over 65 years, and it is as much a privilege today as it was then.

Every day brings an opportunity to greet a returning friend or to meet a new one at the perfect camping setting of Keen Lake. The owners of Keen Lake respect how valuable a commodity leisure time is, and it’s their mission to provide the opportunity for families to reconnect with each other and to connect with the splendor that is the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania.

155 Keen Lake Road Waymart, PA 18472 570.488.6161 www.keenlake.com

Promised Land State Park About 3,000 acres in size, Promised Land State Park is on the Pocono Plateau, 1,800 feet above sea level, and is surrounded by 12,464 acres of Pennsylvania's Delaware State Forest, including natural areas. Visitors enjoy fishing

Enjoy a fun, relaxing getaway centered around a glistening

and boating in two lakes, rustic cabins, camping, miles of

60-acre lake that is perfect for boating (no gas motors

hiking trails and exploring the forests. The forests of the park

allowed), swimming, and challenging bass fishing (no fishing

consist primarily of beech, oak, maple and hemlock trees.

license is required.) Check out their long list of features and amenities, watch their video, and you will understand why Otter Lake is the only campground in the Poconos that has earned Woodall’s highest possible ratings.

1639 Marshalls Creek Road East Stroudsburg, PA 18302 570.223.0124 www.otterlake.com

Two lakes and several small streams add to the park's outstanding scenic beauty.

100 Lower Lake Road Greentown, PA 18426 570.676.3428

Hershey Road Campground Welcome to Hershey Road Campground, a gorgeous 20-acre, family and pet-oriented destination park outside of Hershey, Pennsylvania. A completely remodeled

R E N TA L S

campground offers world class amenities; from a heated outdoor pool & splash pad to brand new RV sites. They proudly offer a variety of RV and tent sites as well as cabin rentals within our serene, rural setting. Located in Elizabethtown, PA, less than 9 miles to Hershey World and the renowned Hershey Chocolate Factory. Don’t miss a visit to Lancaster, PA less than 30 miles away.

1590 Hershey Road

Our homes are perfect for couples, friends & family!

Elizabethtown, PA 17022 844.4SMORES www.hersheyrvpark.com

Mountain Vista Campground

POCONOS 4 SEASON VACATION RENTAL HOMES

Adventure, excitement, and some of the most scenic and memorable experiences in the NEPA await you. Come discover what makes the Poconos so special! Mountain Vista Campground’s wealth of activities and on-site fun

(570) 872-4374

www.poconoparadiserentals.com

Peter & Buffy Pipolo, Owners

means the whole family will be happily entertained during your stay. Swimming pool, yard games, rec fields… however you have fun, they’ve got it!

15 YEARS EXPERIENCE SERVING THE POCONOS

415 Taylor Drive E. Stroudsburg, PA 18301 www.mountainvistacampground.com DANAPERICH.COM

Knoebel’s Campground Turn your Knoebel’s visit into a family vacation by staying at the Knoebels Park Campground! After a long day of riding, playing, swimming and eating at Knoebels, you’ll be just steps away from the crackling campfire and your pillow. The family campground is tucked away in a quiet forest setting, so you can get away from it all and awake

Dana Perich

REALTOR®

Certified Negotiation Expert Listing Specialist

Cell: (516) 449-4808 Email: dana@danaperich.com

Janet Ferraro

REALTOR®

refreshed and ready for more fun! Pitch your tent, park

Buying Specialist

your RV or camper, or stay in one of their rustic log

Cell: (570) 807-0362 Email: janetferraro@kw.com

cabins.

391 Knoebels Blvd.

Elysburg, PA 17824 800.487.4386 www.knoebels.com

404 Park Avenue Stroudsburg, PA 18360

Office: (570) 421-2890 MeSee Magazine • 19

opening day of

TROUT For many, the opening day of trout season isn’t just about catching trout - it’s a chance to get outdoors after a long winter, a tradition shared with friends, or an opportunity to spend time with your family. Jacobs compared the excitement he felt as a child to that of Christmas morning. For him, opening day marked the first weekend of many that he would spend fishing.

On April 18th, Monroe County fishermen will be lining the county’s streams to welcome spring and kick-off the fishing season. Don Jacobs, a life-long fisherman who is familiar with all the fishing holes the Poconos has to offer, gave us great tips on how to prepare for the big day.

First, be sure to visit the PA Fish and Boat Commission website to find out which bodies of water have been stocked. If you want to start the season early, you can help the PA Fish and Boat Commission stock the waters. Simply show up at the given place and time (check their stocking schedule online), 20 • MeSee Magazine

and you can help carry the fish to the stream - a great way to get kids excited about the upcoming season.

LE T TH

ES RO M I T D O O EG

LL...

For opening day, Jacobs suggests fishing in the more populated areas, focusing on deeper holes and higher volumes of water.

His choice of bait? Good, old fashioned worms, shiners, corn and salmon eggs. “A trout hasn’t changed its taste,” he explains.

too! e c n u o b & and climb

AFE OUSES C OUNCE H B S E S R COU OBSTACLE LIMBING C R E LD BOU

“Stick with the basics.”

You also need to modify your technique on opening day to accommodate for the frigid temps. For the best results, fish slower. The trout are cold so your presentation must be slower. “Typically the most trout are caught, on the first

SUMMER CAMPS DAY CARES

day and the first couple of weeks in the deeper holes and

CHURCH GROUPS AND MORE!

streams, by fishing very slow and fishing with bait.” You

YOU’RE INVITED TO PLAN AN AWESOME EXCURSION!

should also prepare to fall in - bring extra clothes so you

Group rates & food packages are available. Call for details.

won’t need to stop if you get wet.

After your day of fishing is complete, fire up the grill right away. According to Jacobs, it doesn’t get any better than

- As always… open to the public daily (570) 580.4100 | poconorocks.com 1428 Pocono Blvd., Mount Pocono, PA

fresh trout. Aluminum foil, dill, salt, pepper, and sliced lemon are all the supplies you need for a great-tasting meal. If you can’t grill up your catch right away, the key is to keep them cold. Jacobs explains, “If you catch them, you should field dress them or gut them right there at the stream and get them cold. You don’t want to put them in a bag and walk around if the temperature is 50/60 degrees. You want to take them and put them in a cooler because if you keep that trout cold it will be delicious when it hits the frying pan.”

The opening day of trout fishing is right around the corner.

Whether you’re continuing the traditions you’ve shared with your family for years or you’re starting a new tradition, fishing can provide recreation for all seasons.

For more information on the trout stocking schedule in Monroe County visit www.fishandboat.com. 

“If you’re raised in a fishing family then there is always something to do.” Don Jacobs, host of WNEP-TV’s Pennsylvania Outdoor Life, explained to us when we sat down with him to talk about the opening day of trout season. “You can fish 365 days a year, whether it’s fall fishing, ice fishing, trout fishing - it’s not just about the opening day. You can fish every day or in the middle of the night - there are no rules.” And while that’s true, fisherman still wait in anticipation for opening day.

MeSee Magazine • 21

Derailed Taphouse (570) 420-7877 www.derailedtaphouse.com 59 Crystal Street East Stroudsburg, PA

The restaurant seats

Celebrating almost a year in

approximately 80 people

business, Derailed Taphouse

with space for 30 more on the deck. The deck

is one of the area’s newest “go-to” restaurants for craft beer, delicious food and live music in an eclectic setting.

Derailed is housed in what was formerly Strunky’s Tavern.

Last June, owners and local residents Marc Jackett and Robert O'Hara purchased the building and hired contractors to renovate from top to bottom. The process took about a year and a half and the result is a comfortable, modern establishment that welcomes people of all ages.

“Derailed is a genuine tap house — we don’t serve our beer in bottles or cans,” explained Manager Ed Coyle. “We even have wine on tap.” A custom draft system specially ordered in copper to match the bar is one of the focal points of the tap house. Derailed boasts the largest state of the art tap system in the area. With 32 rotating beers on tap, there’s something

provides a nice, romantic atmosphere for a date night with open spaces and fire pit tables. There is also additional seating on the outdoor sidewalk. One of the taphouse’s unique details is the entire front opens to the sidewalk with garage doors. The interior is decorated in a railroad motif and old plank wood is seen throughout the space as well as exposed brick and steelwork. Custom front doors were hand tooled as well as a majority of the bar and railings.

Come on Mondays for Trivia Night and live music every Friday and Saturday from 8-11 p.m. There are also weekly happy hour specials each night of the week. There’s always something new and fresh happening here, so come on out for your next date night or bring the family!

for everyone. The taps change seasonally and feature a

Derailed Taphouse is located at 59 Crystal Street. For more

variety of craft beer from the surrounding region and local hot

information, call 570-420-7877, visit www.derailedtaphouse.

spots such as ShawneeCraft Brewery.

com, or “like” their Facebook page for updates.

As if the beer list wasn’t reason enough to pull up a

Happy Hour Specials

chair here, the seasonal menu is sure to entice with its mouthwatering selection of appetizers and entrees. The

Monday — Enjoy 60 cent wings. The chef experiments with

menu changes every three months and Chef Dwayne

exciting new sauce flavors each week. For example, he’s

Stewart hand crafts each dish with the freshest local produce

even served peanut butter and jelly sauce and a Jamaican

and meats from area farms.

sauce.

The burgers and cheese steaks are always a hit. The

Tuesday — Dine on a $7 8oz. burger and fries.

chicken teriyaki spring rolls, fish and chips, and lamb shank with risotto are examples of how this establishment is known for serving pub fare with a twist. In addition, there is a children’s menu, so this gastropub is also an ideal choice for the entire family.

Wednesday — You won’t want to miss ½ a rack of ribs and baked potato for $9.99.

Thursday — If you love pasta, you came to the right place! Select a pasta of your choice with bread, a salad and wine for $4.99. 

MeSee Magazine • 23

24 • MeSee Magazine

D

Farm

o you have a child with a passion or love of horses?

Pleasant Ridge Farm camps are safe, fun and educational. In

Give them an experience that will not only teach them

addition to what campers will learn from our equestrians and

important life lessons but also create lasting memories.

Pony Club members, they will also learn a great deal from

Summer camp at Pleasant Ridge Farm will take your child on

the horses. Horses teach kids responsibility, selflessness

an adventure as they grow and learn about horses and the

and respect while building confidence and learning about

sport of horse back riding.

leadership, empathy and forgiveness. Summer camp is also

No previous experience required! Campers will learn about everything horse related from experienced equestrians and upper level Pony Club members. Each child will be taught all

a great time to put down the screens and get outside in the fresh air while engaging with other campers who also share the same passion for horses.

aspects of horse care from grooming and barn management

For more information or to sign up online, visit

to tacking up, safety, basic equitation, veterinary care and

www.pleasantridgefarmllc.com.

more! Students will improve their equitation skills with morning group riding lessons. Horsemanship activities include feeding, stall cleaning and daily animal care. Daily learning activities include horse related games such as breed scavenger hunts, tack knowledge relay races, "vet" day where students are given various scenarios to address, horse anatomy contests, bareback riding, and craft projects.

SUMMER CAMP

PLEASANT RIDGE

A Note on PC: Pony Club is the largest equestrian educational organization in the world. The cornerstones of our foundation are education, safety, sportsmanship, stewardship and FUN. Members learn riding and the care of horses through mounted sports. The skills, habits and values instilled through horsemanship will apply to every part of a member’s life. 

All campers receive a PRF summer camp "book" outlining all the things they learned during the week.

The last day of camp, students will perform in a camp horse show. Parents, friends and family are all welcome to attend.

Real printed ribbons and awards will be given.

Pleasant Ridge Farm (570) 856-4977 www.pleasantridgefarmllc.com 122 Barn Swallow Lane • Cresco, PA

MeSee Magazine • 25

26 • MeSee Magazine

Kick off summer @ Spruce Lake Ready or not, summer is almost here and Spruce Lake is

age from 5 - 18 can enjoy swimming, hiking, kayaking, paddle

gearing up for another great year. If you haven’t discovered

boating, zip lining, mini golf, basketball, soccer, volleyball and

the endless adventures at Spruce Lake, now is your chance

more! Clean facilities, a low ratio of children to counselors

to see what you’ve been missing, and this year they have

and a kind and dedicated staff ensure that your kids will be in

even more amazing opportunities in store.

the greatest of care and will love every minute they spend at camp.

Spring Fest Open House

Day Camp begins Wednesday, June 10th and runs through

Sunday, May 31st

expect to enjoy a full day’s worth of wholesome (and

Get ready for summer with Spruce Lake’s Spring Fest Open House, an annual event you won’t want to miss! Whether you’re already part of the Spruce Lake family or newly introduced, this event is the perfect chance to experience everything Spruce Lake has to offer while spending quality time with your family. Get to know Spruce Lake’s venue and programs available for adults, families and kids. Check out the awesome summer camp and learn about their lineup of overnight camps, trips and day camp. This event is free for the community and fun for the whole family! With music, a picnic-style feast, prizes and a Day Camp Carnival, you’ll get a small glimpse of what summers at Spruce Lake are all about.

Spring Fest Open House is on Sunday, May 31st, rain or shine. The festivities will be from 2pm - 5pm with an afternoon program at 5pm - 6pm. Spruce Lake asks that all attendees RSVP online at sprucelake.org.

Summer Camps

Wednesday, August 26th, 2020. Children ages 5-15 can exhausting) fun! Playing games, exploring nature, crafting and taking off-site trips while making new friends will be on your child’s agenda each day. This program is designed to help kids develop good character and recognize their importance in the family, community and world - all from the context of a biblical worldview. Full weeks are available Monday through Friday, 9am - 4pm, however you can also select certain dates and times. Before care, after care and shuttle service is available with shuttle stops available from Lake Ariel, Stroudsburg, Tannersville, Swiftwater, Mt. Pocono and Pocono Lake. New this year, campers will find some awesome climbing structures in our Day Camp playground and new weekly themes like Amazing Race Week, NASCAR Week, Pirate Week and Shark Week.

Summer Camp, also called Wilderness Camp, is a sleepover camp for ages 7-18. Campers are always on the move and the counselors are there to keep the kids engaged with activities, pool games, adventure courses, color clash, zip lining and more. In the evenings, campers get to enjoy Fireside where they sing, dance, shout, clap and make some of their favorite memories.

When school is out, Spruce Lake is in! With two distinct programs full of adventure and the outdoors, kids ranging in

MeSee Magazine • 27

What campers are saying...

Day Camp

This year Spruce Lake is introducing their new Explorers Camp which is a stepping-stone between Discoverers (ages 8 - 10) and Trekkers (ages 10 -12). The Explorers group will run from June 21st - 26th for ages 9 - 11. Campers will spend their days outside, exploring nature and having fun with

“Thanks for making (our daughter’s) experience so

their counselors who will also help them discover who God

wonderful and allowing her to be part of an amazing

is through his awesome Creation. Highlights also include a

program! She absolutely loved it and looked forward to

carnival and rides on the outdoor power swing, a dual racing

it every day! We can’t wait to return next year!”

water slide, slingshots and group rec hour games on the ball

“Thanks for being there so my child has a fun and safe place to be during the summer.” “… thank you. My son had a blast. Best summer ever, he said.”

“Just wanted to reach out to you and your staff for providing such a wonderful experience for my son. He will not be returning (we are moving), but he continues to talk about day camp and how much fun he had. As a parent, I thank you – everybody does amazing work at Spruce Lake and has made it a wonderful experience that all kids should get the chance to enjoy. Thank you

field.

For a complete schedule of camps, visit www.sprucelake.org/youth-camps/summer-campoverview.

New this year is Outpost Camp, a great addition to this summer’s EXPEDITIONS lineup. There will be mountains to climb, streams to forge and stars to sleep under. A tent community of 10 campers and 2 counselors will live outdoors for a week on top of beautiful Spruce Mountain, cooking their meals over the campfire, going on daily adventures, and learning together about God in their lives. Campers get to

again!!”

“run the program,” deciding when to eat, go on a hike, shoot

Wilderness Camp

the restrictions of schedules or any other time-keeping

“(She) loved her counselors! Loved the new waterslide.

Came home singing all the fireside songs. Got along great with her tentmates.”

archery, and make all kinds of other daily decisions without device. Dedicated counselors will facilitate the chosen activities, and guide the kids’ spiritual and personal growth.

These outpost camps are available for ages 12 - 14. Girls camp will run from July 12th - 17th and guys will run from July 19th - 24th.

“Loved every minute … can’t wait ‘till next year!”

Looking ahead to 2021

“(My son) loved his counselor and he said they do a

It’s hard to imagine that Spruce Lake could get any better,

good job of 'pushing me onward' in Christ.’ “ “All positive - great activities, loved her counselor, enjoyed being away for the first time with kids her age.”

yet they are growing every day and have plans to expand their facilities and programs. Spruce Lake now has a second location at Pinebrook, situated near the intersection of Routes 447 and 191 just north of Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg (5339 Pinebrook Road, East Stroudsburg, PA) In 2021, Spruce Lake looks forward to the anticipated opening of their second Day Camp program at Pinebrook next summer! Parents and kids can expect the same wholesome, active fun as the Spruce Lake program is known for, with certain activities unique to the Pinebrook setting. Look for dates and details to be announced.

For more information about Spruce Lake Retreat visit their website at sprucelake.org or call 570.595.7505 and speak to a friendly staff member. 

28 • MeSee Magazine

Spring Fest 2020

Open House May 31 2020

Music, food & prizes for the entire family! Get to know our Venue, Programs & CAMPS (Overnight & Day)

Free Community Festival

2:00-6:00 PM Rain or Shine

Please RSVP online: sprucelake.org 5389 Route 447, Canadensis, PA 18325 / 570-595-7505

MeSee Magazine • 29

ST. LUKE’S OPENS REGION’S NEWEST PEDIATRIC INTENSIVE CARE UNIT St. Luke’s University Health Network unveiled its new, eight-

the latest technology including mechanical ventilation and

bed Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) during a ribbon

dialysis equipment.

cutting ceremony Thursday, February 6th at St. Luke’s University Hospital in Bethlehem. The new unit is now open to patients.

The unit is staffed with pediatric critical care intensivists available 24/7. The PICU intensivists will collaborate with St. Luke’s pediatric subspecialists to manage care for

“We are thrilled that children and their families will be able

children suffering from a variety of illnesses such as severe

to remain in the region and within St. Luke’s to receive the

respiratory distress, infections, serious injury and heart

high quality pediatric critical care that they need,” said Glenn

disease. As part of its expansion of pediatric care, St. Luke’s

Stryjewski, MD, PICU Medical Director.

continues to add pediatric subspecialists to meet the needs

The new unit is part of an $11 million expansion dedicated to improving pediatric health care within the region and providing advanced care to critically ill and injured children close to home. The multidisciplinary unit is furnished with

of children and teenagers who are experiencing critical illness or injuries. Recently a Pediatric Surgeon joined the team, the first in the network. She will be performing surgeries at the Bethlehem Campus. They will also be welcoming a second cardiologist in the fall and recruiting for a pediatric orthopedic surgeon, third GI physician and second

30 • MeSee Magazine

neurologist.

“ We are thrilled that children and their families will be able to remain in the region and within St. Luke’s to receive the high quality pediatric critical care that they need. " The intensive care unit has a 2:1 nurse-to-patient ratio with

Bethlehem Campus’s ongoing pediatric expansion, the

nursing stations positioned outside each patient room to

inpatient pediatric unit will be relocated to the third floor

allow for close patient monitoring.

adjacent to the new PICU.

Each room is private and spacious with homelike amenities

“These investments in new space and additional pediatric

and equipped for parents who need to spend extended

physician specialists will allow families to keep their children

periods of time with their children. Each room has video

close to home in the Luke’s for advanced pediatric care,” Dr.

game connectivity, color-changing lights, books and toys for

Stryjewski said. 

patients. The rooms also have televisions with programming for parents, access to washers and dryers, extra charging ports, showers and a sofa for an “at home” comfortable feeling.

The new Pediatric Intensive Care Unit is located on the third floor of St. Luke’s University Hospital near the current neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). In phase two of the MeSee Magazine • 31

Gardening with Kids: PLAYING IN DIRT ISN'T JUST FUN - IT'S HEALTHY TOO! There's no question, playing in the dirt tops the list of fun for kids, particularly young children, despite the protests of many well-intended parents. If you happen to be one of those worried parents, you can put your fears aside.

By Kimberly Blaker

Getting started First, decide where to plant your garden. Then allow a small space for your child to have his or her own garden, too. This

As it turns out, dirt is actually beneficial to the long-term

will help build your child's enthusiasm for the garden and

health of kids, according to a Northwestern University article

encourage him or her to take ownership and responsibility

by Clare Milliken, "Germs at four, less inflammation at forty."

for it. Having their own garden can be exciting and rewarding

Studies have found that early exposure to certain germs, like

for kids because they know that they, alone (or with minimal

those found in dirt, actually helps kids' immune systems learn

help), grew those little seeds into a marvelous plant.

to regulate inflammation better. In turn, this exposure reduces kids' risk for many diseases throughout their lives.

For that reason, a family garden is a perfect opportunity to build your kids' immune systems. Better still, gardening offers lots of other benefits to kids and families.

Next, decide what to plant. For young children, consider fast-growing plants they are familiar with. Little kids also love plants that are colorful or have strong scents.

If your kids are older, let them choose what they want to grow. But keep in mind your child's personality. If he tends

Through gardening, kids learn to be responsible by caring for

to be impatient, suggest plants that are easy to care for and

their own plants. It's also a great way to help kids learn about

grow quickly.

and develop an appreciation for science. Another health benefit is that gardening encourages healthier eating. Not to mention, it's an excellent activity for family bonding.

As you proceed in planning and preparation, include your child in it as much as possible. Remember, this stage is as much fun for kids as it is for parents and helps build kids'

So gather up your kids and gardening supplies, head

enthusiasm. Also, let your kids help you draw up the garden

outdoors, and get ready for some dirt-filled fun.

plan. If they're old enough, they can also create their own shopping list.

32 • MeSee Magazine

The Little Gardener

by Jan Gerardi (ages 3-4)

books on gardening with kids To get your family's gardening project off on the right foot, consider an age-appropriate

The Little Gardener

by Emily Hughes (ages 3-7)

book. This will also help build your child's enthusiasm. To help make your family garden a success, a couple of books for parents are

Up in the Garden

included below as well.

and Down in the Dirt

by Kate Messner (ages 5-8)

When you go shopping for the supplies, take your kids along and let them pick out their own seeds and gardening tools. For the safety of young children, look for kids' gardening tools made of durable plastic.

Roots, Shoots, Buckets & Boots: Gardening Together with Children

by Sharon Lovejoy

Planting your garden

(ages 4-10)

When you begin planting, show your child how to plant the seeds and how to space them apart correctly.

Then have your child water the seeds as directed.

To help your child take responsibility for his or her own garden, put a daily gardening task list on the refrigerator.

Also, to help your child maintain enthusiasm, suggest

Gardening Lab for Kids: 52 Fun Experiments to Learn, Grow, Harvest, Make, Play, and Enjoy Your Garden

by Renata Brown (ages 8-12)

keeping a garden log. Kids can have fun recording the date of plantings, each day's gardening activities, when each plant sprouts, the amount of growth of the plants, and the harvesting.

Finally, after harvesting, have your child help you prepare the vegetables. Try different ways of

The Book of Gardening Projects for Kids: 101 Ways to Get Kids Outside, Dirty, and Having Fun

preparing or cooking them to help your kid develop a life-long love for fresh, healthy veggies. ď Ź

by Whitney Cohen (for parents)

34 • MeSee Magazine

T

he concept of family isn’t exclusive to those who

correspondence and “what you do matters,” is a familiar

share your DNA. For many, family can mean

phrase. This warmth and positivity are some of the most

the people you care about most or to whom

notable catalysts for change at MMS. Another key contributor

you are bonded. Sometimes more important than

is the addition of the school’s new Art Director, Sharon Ryan,

the relationships formed through birth or marriage,

who has opened the lines of communication with students

a family is where you can find your most meaningful

and cultivated a safe zone for creativity. “There has been

connections. Shared beliefs and values, common

such a transformation with Sharon coming in,” says Dr.

experiences and unconditional support are often the

Torregrossa. “There’s no judgement and the kid’s know that,

ties that bind. At Monsignor McHugh School, family is a

they feel that.”

tradition and kindness and respect are at it’s heart.

While Ms. Ryan’s artistic qualities are obvious, her ability

Located in Cresco, Monsignor McHugh School is

to connect with the students is even more compelling. An

dedicated to providing pre-k through 8th grade

advocate and mentor, Ryan explains that students just have

students a positive, encouraging environment that

a way of opening up to her. The joyful noise coming from her

supports growth and learning. With a wide variety of

classroom and messy floors are evidence that her students

classroom programs including music, art, computers,

are leaving her class with full heads and hearts. Mindful of

STREAM, foreign language and more, students

the healing capabilities of art, Ms. Ryan follows the lead of

have opportunities to explore different subjects

her students, working on projects that develop organically

and uncover their talents and interests. Welcoming

and evolve over the course of the year. Together, the entire

students of all faiths, Monsignor McHugh School

school works to prepare for their annual Art Show coming up

emphasizes the importance of respect and teaches

on May 1st.

students how religion should be used to guide their daily decision making.

If you are a parent in search of a more intimate and meaningful school experience for your children. Or, you

Dr. Becca Torregrossa, principal and matriarch of

would like your kids to be part of a positive and supportive

Monsignor McHugh School has felt the connection

community that teaches the importance of kindness and

to her students, parents, and co-workers long

respect, the Monsignor McHugh School family is a perfect

before becoming principal. After teaching at MMS

place to call home. While MMS welcomes children of all

for 14 years, Dr. Torregrossa can recount many

faiths, Monsignor McHugh School is part of the Notre Dame

remarkable stories of how the students at MMS

School System of the Diocese of Scranton and serves the

have supported one another during good times

Pocono area in Monroe County. To learn more about MMS

and bad, as every family should. While the

and hear first-hand how the school is striving each day to

members of the MMS community have always

help raise upstanding adults, reach out to MMS today. 

shared a connection, Dr. Torregrossa believes this year, her community is changing…and for the better.

During her last two and a half years as

Monsignor McHugh School (570) 595-7463

principal, Dr. Torregrossa has established that

www.monsignormchugh.org

kindness and respect are king. “Good News

212 Route 390 • Cresco, PA

Notes” and letters of appreciation are regular

MeSee Magazine • 35

kids

IN THE

KITCHEN

5 Ways to Get Kids to Eat Healthier Every parent knows the struggle of convincing their little

shop. To introduce new foods, set a goal to select one new

ones to eat more nutritious foods. Luckily, by encouraging

food to try at each visit and head home to have a fun tasting.

your kids to get involved in the kitchen, you're helping them build a solid foundation for healthier food choices. Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner offers five expert tips to get kids involved in making healthy family meals:

1. Let the kids pick the recipe

3. Make their favorite foods with better-for-you ingredients Eating well doesn't mean giving up favorite foods, just make them with better-for-you ingredients. Keep kids' favorites like pizza, burgers, fries, tacos, muffins and pancakes on the menu, but just choose healthier ingredients. For example,

Flip through a healthy cookbook and see which recipes the

choose Eggland's Best eggs with better taste, freshness and

kids are interested in making. This is a good way to get kids

nutrition compared to ordinary eggs. EB eggs contain 25%

involved in selecting healthier recipes or new food flavors,

less saturated fat, 10 times more vitamin E, six times more

and because they helped choose, they will be more invested

vitamin D and double the vitamin B12, which transforms food

in trying these foods when you cook them.

into energy that kids need to play and grow.

2. Take family trips to the grocery store Head to the store and select nutritious ingredients for recipes, meals and snacks. You can even let the kids help craft the grocery list and search for ingredients while you 36 • MeSee Magazine

4. Cook as a family Kids adore helping in the kitchen, so have them wash their hands and pull up a chair when it's time to cook. Older kids

Zucchini Muffins INGREDIENTS: • 2 Eggland's Best Eggs (large) • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour • 1 cup sugar • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Fresh produce, flowers, meats, breads, preserves, and more from your local farmers

• 1/2 cup Land O Lakes Butter, melted • 1 medium (2 cups) zucchini, shredded DIRECTIONS: Heat oven to 350 F. Place paper baking cups into 12 muffin pan cups; set aside.

Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and salt in bowl; mix well.

Combine butter and eggs in bowl; stir into flour mixture just until moistened.

outdoor market starting May 2 saturdays 8am - 12 may 2 - november 21, 2020 courthouse square 7th and monroe st. • stROUDSBURG PA see what the excitement is about at monroefarmersmarket.com

Stir in zucchini.

Fill prepared muffin pan cups threefourths full with batter.

Bake 22-25 minutes or until toothpick inserted into center comes out clean Cool 5 minutes in pan; remove to cooling rack.

can help with tasks like rinsing vegetables, chopping foods, measuring ingredients and cracking eggs. Younger children love to help mix, stir and do other simple tasks like using a pastry brush to spread oil.

5. Make it fun Put on some music when you cook and enjoy the quality time together. Make your meals special by lighting candles or using nice glasses. Create your own original recipe and come

Sunshine FLOORING

up with a fun name for it. Your unique recipe could even earn your family $10,000! From now until May 3rd, Eggland's Best is searching for the best original family recipe featuring at least two EB eggs. Submit your family's favorite recipe at www.americasbestrecipe.com for your chance to win. 

By Brand Point

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MeSee Magazine • 39

things to do!

Annual Easter Egg Hunt See what's HOPPening in 2020! The Pocono Mountain Regional EMS is excited to hold another awesome Easter Egg Hunt at 1pm on Saturday, April 4th (Rain date April 5th) at the Pocono Mountain Volunteer Fire Company Fair Grounds. Experience fun for all as kids are led out by age group. There's also $5 photos with the Easter Bunny to help create a great memory.

Pocono Mountain Volunteer Fire Company Fair Grounds April 4, 1pm

Easter EGG-Stravaganza See what's new at Country Junction during the annual Easter EGG-Stravaganza! This year's festivities will include photos with the Easter Bunny and free egg hunts! Event dates are Saturday and Sunday, April 4-5 and Saturday, April 11, 2020.

Check website for more information!

Country Junction April 4 - 11, 11am - 4pm www.countryjunction.com

Easter Egg Express Hop aboard the Easter Egg Express! Join The Stourbridge Line as they take a ride down the Bunny Trail to a special egg hunt. The Easter Bunny will be aboard the train to pose for pictures as you head down the tracks. All kids will get a special gift bag for riding. Steps are needed to get on and off the train. The train will run rain or shine.

The Stourbridge Line April 4 - 11, 11am, 2pm & 5pm www.thestourbridgeline.net

Girl Scout Badge Festival PEEC will host its Girl Scout Badge Festival on April 4, 2020. Brownies will work on their Senses and Outdoor Art badges. Juniors will fulfill the Animal Habitat badge. Cadettes and Seniors will participate in the GS Ranger program.

Overnight options are available for all age levels, ask for more information! Payment is required at registration. Space is limited - call early!

PEEC April 4, 9:30am - 4pm www.peec.org

40 • MeSee Magazine

Zoo Lovers Weekend Did you know that April 8th is National Zoo Lover’s Day!?

Join us here at the Lehigh Valley Zoo on Sunday, April 5th to start the celebration early with our friendly and knowledgeable staff!

We will have a great line up of zoo themed crafts and activities as well as interactive Keeper Chats! Make sure to stop by your favorite interactive exhibits for even more engaging ways to celebrate your love for the Zoo! Lehigh Valley Zoo April 5, 10am - 4pm www.lvzoo.org

Forest Bathing The term forest bathing, or Shinrin-Yoku, is a philosophy that believes that spending time in the deep woods has profound healing power. Over time, forest bathing can produce quantifiable changes in the body and mind. Learn the philosophy and practical tips on how to carry on with the practice at home. Times vary by date. Some dates include a full moon session with a moonlit walk.

The Lodge at Woodloch April 4, 7; May 2, 7 www.thelodgeatwoodloch.com

Easter Weekend @ the Zoo Hop on down to the Lehigh Valley Zoo on Saturday, April 11th and Sunday, April 12th to celebrate Easter with us! This year, our Egg-cellent Easter festivities are back and better than ever! See if you can complete our scavenger hunt by finding all of the wooden Easter egg cutouts hidden around the zoo.

There will be Easter themed crafts and activities as well as interactive exhibits. Also, be sure to keep an eye out for special appearances by the Easter Bunny!

Lehigh Valley Zoo April 11 & 12, 10am - 4pm www.lvzoo.org

Easter Buffet Join The Shawnee Inn for an Easter Buffet on Easter Sunday in the Worthington Ballroom. Includes an assortment of freshly baked muffins and breakfast pastries, breakfast station, carving station, entrees and side offerings, chef's festive dessert table, and a children's menu. Come dressed in your finest Sunday clothes for great photo ops with the Easter Bunny. To make reservations call 1-800742-9633 or locally at 570-424-4000. Tax and gratuity not included.

The Shawnee Inn April 12, 12pm - 4pm www.shawneeinn.com

Easter Sunday Celebration Celebrate Easter Sunday at Stroudsmoor Country Inn. Choose from an elegant brunch buffet beginning at 9:30am or a buffet dinner beginning at noon. Both will feature plenty of main dishes, sides and sweets. Call for reservations.

Stroudmoor Country Inn April 12, 9:30am - 8pm www.stroudmoor.com

Take Back the Night Join East Stroudsburg University and Women's Resources of Monroe County, Inc. as we march to take back the night and remind victims/survivors of sexual abuse that they are not alone. Together we can fight to end sexual assault and change rape culture. This event is a welcoming space for ALL; students and community members alike. We are giving away FREE T-shirts to all participants! Trained sexual assault crisis counselors will be at this event for anyone who is feeling triggered or needs to talk in a safe space. Learn more about this nationwide event: takebackthenight.org Stroudsburg Courthouse Square April 16, 5:30pm www.wrmonroe.org

C&K's Beauty & the Beast - A Dance Story

FALL

Come ride wi us!

WINTER SPRING SUMMER

Teaching hors emansh ip from - Recognized -

Pony Club Center Offering Lessons, Clinics & Camps Year round! www.pleasantridgefarmllc.com

the ground up.

Pleasant Ridge Farm, LLC 570.856.4977 122 Barn Swallow Lane, Cresco, PA 18326

Children’s Theatre - C&K Dance Theater presents Beauty and the Beast - A Dance Story, a famous fairy tale written by French novelist Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve.

The Shawnee Playhouse April 17 - 19, times vary www.theshawneeplayhouse.com

KOC Children's Fishing Tournament Join the Knights of Columbus Council #4084, Stroud Township, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, and the Brodhead Chapter Trout Unlimited for a Children's Fishing Tournament. The tournament starts at 8:00 AM but get there early to get set up. The tournament is open to Children ages 2-11 years and you must bring your own equipment, tackle, and bait.

(570) 812-1922 Visit us online at www.smallins.com 37 Crystal Street • East Stroudsburg, PA

Brodhead Creek Park April 18, 6am - 11am www.brodheadtu.org

MeSee Magazine • 41

Jim Thorpe Earth Day

Ecozone Discovery Room

This annual Earth Day celebration consists of a Lehigh River cleanup, an Earth Day raffle, kids' crafts and activities, free live performances, workshops, environmental information, good food and good vibes. Rain date is April 19. See website for complete schedule.

Open select dates throughout the year. Climb into a bald eagle’s nest, crawl into a bat cave, explore a beaver lodge and dig in a fossil pit! Explore this indoor discovery room and enjoy hands-on exhibits on natural history, sustainability and the local environment. No registration required. See website for complete schedule. April 18; May 2, 30; August 9;

Jim Thorpe April 18, 10am - 6:30pm

Salamanders, Frogs and More!

Amphibians are stirring in the woods! Join PEEC as they explore nearby breeding pools for salamanders, frogs, and egg masses. Nets and collections jars for gentle, up-close study will be provided. Wear boots and clothes that can get muddy or wet.

PEEC April 18, 1pm - 3pm www.peec.org

Spring River Road Clean-Up The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort is seeking volunteers for the annual Spring River Road Clean-Up taking place on Saturday, April 18, 2020, from 9-11:30am. Volunteers arrive at 8:30am. Volunteers will receive safety gear provided by Keep PA Beautiful, a complimentary continental breakfast, a volunteer appreciation lunch after the clean-up, and a free t-shirt while supplies last. Rain or shine. Meet at the River Sanctuary Pavilion. Call or email for details.

The Shawnee Inn April 18, 8:30am - 11:30am www.shawneeinn.com

3rd Annual MCTI Trek for Tech 5K Run / Walk Monroe Career and Technical Institute (MCTI) Trek for Tech is a run/walk family friendly event taking place at Dansbury Park in East Stroudsburg. This 5k is in its 3rd year and is being hosted by MCTI’s Aevidum Club, Interact Club and The National Technical Honor Society. All proceeds will benefit Women's Resources of Monroe County, Inc., The Pocono Family YMCA Youth Scholarship, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of The Bridge. $25 adults $10 students. Register at: MCTITrek4Tech.com Dansbury Park April 18, 8am - 11am www.monroecti.org

PEEC April 18, May 2 & 30, 1pm - 4pm www.peec.org

Party for the Planet It’s a party…for the planet! Join us here at the Lehigh Valley Zoo to celebrate Earth Day! Did you know that 2020 marks the 50th anniversary of celebrating Earth Day!? To celebrate, we will be featuring an assortment of hands-on activities and experiences that convey the importance of preserving the planet.

Lehigh Valley Zoo April 18 & 19, 10am - 4pm www.lvzoo.org

Opening Day Tricky Tray Join us at Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company building in Reeders for our annual Tricky Tray benefitting PMELL youth baseball and softball. This is our biggest fundraiser! Please spread the word! This event is free admission and open to the public. Purchase and drop tickets anytime from 10am - 4pm. Basket raffle starts at 4. (Winners do not need to be present) 50/50 raffle! (Winners need to be present for cash prizes) Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company April 19, 10am www.pmell.org

Horse Discovery Day at Pleasant Ridge Bring the family out and experience the joy of horses with Pleasant Ridge Farm! Pony Rides, riding demos by our Pony Club, barn tours, basket raffles, giveaways and more! Do you have a horse crazy kid and want to bring these amazing animals into their lives? Our open house is a great way to learn about our riding programs, summer camps, US Pony Club, ask questions and just be around these amazing animals. The event is free, but please get your ticket on Event Brite Pleasant Ridge Farm April 19, 12pm - 3pm www.pleasantridgefarmllc.com

42 • MeSee Magazine

A 5K to benefit local conservation efforts

CREEK

5K

Sunday, April 26, 2020 AT FOREVERGREEN NATURE PRESERVE 1539 Cherry Lane Road, East Stroudsburg, Pa. Registration begins at 8 a.m.

The Creek 5K is a scenic run within Stroud Township’s ForEvergreen Nature Preserve, where participants will enjoy the course’s winding trails along the historic Brodhead Creek.

FEATURING

n Wine tasting from

n Kids Dash n 1-mile Dog Trot n 5K Run/Walk

Eagles Rest Cellars n Post-run educational programming

Information: runsignup.com/creek5k2020 Email info@phlt.org or call 570-424-1514.

Wizard Weekend Wizardry and wonder will fill the air this weekend at Skytop Lodge! Both young and older wizards and muggles can enjoy movie marathons, magical classes like Potions & Herbology, Wand Making, Night Strolls into the Forbidden Forest, Care of Magical Creatures and Quidditch games.

Are you ready to bring your imagination to a weekend filled with magic and adventure? Visit skytop.com/events for more information.

Skytop Lodge April 24 - 26 www.skytop.com

Earth Day Festival Help PEEC celebrate the Earth! At this Earth Day Festival, there will be hands-on learning stations, interpretive hikes, conservation exhibits, crafts, food, music, and much more!

Pre-registration is not required. See website for details.

PEEC April 25, 11am - 4pm www.peec.org

Jim Thorpe Independent Film Festival The Jim Thorpe Independent Film Festival (JTIFF) is back for a fourth year of screenings and awards. Channeling the rebellious spirit of the Molly Maguires, JTIFF challenges the boldest, most defiant filmmakers to present their work, shatter convention and incite spirited debate. The festival credo is "eyes and minds wide open," and they mean it!

Jim Thorpe April 23 - 26 www.jimthorpeindiefilmfest.com

Monroe County Earth Day Join the Monroe County Conversation District and Northampton Community College for a day all about the Earth. Enjoy exhibitors, live music, guest speakers, give and take events, children's activities, green campus tours, great food and much more. See website for details.

Northampton Community College April 25, 10am - 3pm www.mcearthday.org

Frog Watch Celebration Did you know that April is designated as “National Frog Month”?! Join us at the Lehigh Valley Zoo on Sunday, April 26th to celebrate the various species of reptiles and amphibians! At 12:30pm we will be featuring a frog keeper chat in the Reptile and Amphibian Discovery Center (RAD Center). The Lehigh Valley Zoo is a proud participant in 44 • MeSee Magazine

the FrogWatch USA program. What is FrogWatch USA? FrogWatch USA is AZA’s citizen science program and provides individuals, groups, and families opportunities to learn about wetlands in their communities by reporting on the calls of local frogs and toads.

Lehigh Valley Zoo April 26, 12:30pm www.lvzoo.org

PEEC 5k Trail Race: Run, Hike, Crawl Take a journey through the woods of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. PEEC's 5k runs through the main campus and a variety of different woodland habitats on two gorgeous trail loops. The top three participants for male and female in each age group will receive awards. Early bird registration by April 2 guarantees a t-shirt. Call for details – Maximum of 100 spaces!

PEEC May 2, 8am - 12pm www.peec.org

Mother's Day Afternoon Tea Excursion Celebrate Mom with a scenic afternoon tea train ride! Enjoy a traditional English afternoon tea service while traveling along the scenic Lackawaxen River. Debra Yeager of Fiddlesticks Tea will be featuring her English Rose and Stonehenge teas and delightful sandwiches and desserts. Reservations are required by May 6th. This is a two-hour round-trip excursion departing from Honesdale.

The Stourbridge Line May 9, 12pm & 3pm www.thestourbridgeline.net

Plant Sale Choose from a variety of native and deer resistant flowers and grasses to beautify your yard at PEEC's annual plant sale! Sun loving and shade loving plants will be available.

Remaining plants will be sold through the following week so stop by to check them out!

PEEC May 9 - 10, 9am - 4pm www.peec.org

Edible & Medicinal Plant Walk Nature provides food and natural remedies for us in the form of many plants. Head to PEEC for a hike focused on wild edible and medicinal plants. No collecting will be done in the park. Edible & Medicinal Plant Walk will be held May 9 and June 6.

PEEC May 9, 10am - 12pm www.peec.org

and more from your local farmers Mother's Day Buffet Celebrate Mom at The Waterfront at Silver Birches on Sunday, May 10th for their annual Mother's Day Buffet. Reservations are required. Call (570) 226-4388 for details.

Silver Birches Resort May 10, 12pm - 4pm www.silverbirchesresortpa.com

Swiftwater Elementary Center PTO 2nd Annual Color Run

courthouse square 7th and monroe st. • stROUDSBURG PA

and still gr

mayFest

see what the excitement is about at monroefarmersmarket.com

see what the excitement is about at monroefarmersmarket.com

A staggered start will give the serious runner the opportunity to compete with each other and themself to achieve the best time possible. The course will be a combination of grass, blacktop and minimal trail. There will be a downgrade as well as an uphill grade. You will be challenged! This year’s theme is inspired by the rainbow, so you will pass through several color stations where you will be doused in the colors of the rainbow. In the event you do not want to participate in the color, you will be able to bypass these stations. Awards will be given to the winners! Afterwards - We will continue the fun with music, games and a basket raffle to keep the day going.

Everyone who registers before 4/17/20 will be guaranteed a white (to really show off your color) race T-shirt!

32nd Annual Farm Animal Frolic

may 2 - november 21, 2020

saturdays 8am -12 • MAY THROUGH NOVEMBER IN courthouse square • stroudsburg PA

strong Fresh produce, flowers, meats, breads, preserves, and more from your local farmers

and still growing

years

The Swiftwater Elementary School PTO proudly presents our 2nd Annual Color Run. This is a 5k race for participants of all ages, abilities, and you need not be a student of the Swiftwater Elementary Center.

PEC Soccer Field May 16, 11am - 5pm Registration starts @ 10am

year

outdoor market starting May 2 saturdays 8am - 12

stro Fresh produce, flowers, meats, breads, preserves, and more from y May 30, 2020

community health fair June 20, 2020

Christmas in July july 18, 2020

kids day august 1, 2020

During the last two weekends in May, Quiet Valley comes alive with new baby farm animals. This is a unique opportunity for children and the young-at-heart to see and touch a variety of baby farm animals. See baby chicks hatching from their eggs and feel the soft fur of the baby bunnies. Don't miss seeing the new lambs with their soft, woolly fleece, or the frisky baby goats. The adorable baby piglets with their funny little noses charm everyone. Get to know their workhorses, Gunther and Wilhelm. This year’s hands-on theme area will be the Pig Pen where you can learn all sorts of swine lore and enjoy some crafts and activities that will put you in hog heaven. Great fun for all animal lovers so come and bring the whole family. This event will be held rain or shine.

dog day

years

August 22, 2020

fiber and day still growin september 19, 2020

strong Fresh produce, flowers, meats, breads, preserves, and more from your local Harvest Fest

saturdays 8am -12 • MAY THROUGH NO IN courthouse square • stroudsbu

Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm May 16 - 24 Saturdays 10am - 4pm; Sundays 12pm - 4pm www.quietvalley.org

October 31, 2020

see what the excitement is about at monroefarmers

MeSee Magazine • 45

Jim Thorpe Birthday Celebration

25th Annual Community Aviation Day & Fly-In-Drive-In Breakfast

This event honors Jim Thorpe, a Native American athlete and the town's namesake. The celebration starts at 10:30am Saturday with a Native American tribute at the Jim Thorpe Mausoleum. The weekend includes free musical performances, Native American folklore, dancing and drumming, craft and food vendors, and much more. Visit the website for a full schedule of events.

Come for the pancakes, stay for the fun! Enjoy free airplane and helicopter rides for kids ages 8-17, children's activities, car display, military displays, Pocono Raceway pace car, special Colors Memorial Day ceremony with an American flag parachute demonstration, and much more. Proceeds benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters and Family Promise.

Jim Thorpe May 16 - 17

Pocono Mountains Municipal Airport May 24, 8am - 2pm www.rotaryflyinbreakfast.com

Tannersville Bog Walk

Bridge the Gap: Pond Paddle

Join an Environmental Educator at 1pm at the Bog parking lot and take a 2 ½ hour guided journey into the unique Tannersville Cranberry Bog. Along the way, our environmental educators will explain the Bog’s formation, its interesting plant and animal life, and the role the local Preserve Committee and the Nature Conservancy play in its continued protection. Please wear appropriate footwear.

Cost: $6/non-members, $4/EE and Nature Conservancy members and children under 12. Pre-registration is required and limited. Directions: Route 611, at the light at the Tannersville Inn turn onto Cherry Lane Rd. The bog parking lot is 1.9 miles from 611 on the right. Participants must call 570-629-3061 to register.

Head to PEEC for a free paddle on the ponds! Beginners are welcome—instructors will teach you everything you need to know! Dress appropriately—you may get wet. Pond Paddles are scheduled for 10am-noon on May 30, June 28 and August 16 and 1-3pm on June 13 and July 25. Spaces are limited; call to reserve a canoe or kayak. Funding for this program is provided by the William Penn Foundation.

Tannersville Cranberry Bog May 17, 1pm - 2:30pm www.mcconservation.org

Enjoy Twilight on the Trail, an exclusive Pocono Biking adult only event! Leave the kids at home and venture out for a peaceful evening of biking on the D&L Trail. Bike along the beautiful Lehigh River and enjoy the sunset views. You will discover all that the trail has to offer as the sun goes down and the stars come out! Professional guides will escort you on this 21 mile ride through the Lehigh Gap, past the Appalachian Trail and into Jim Thorpe. A rewarding glass of wine will be waiting for you after your Pocono Biking Twilight on the Trail adventure. Call for details.

Spring Flea Market & Craft Show Do you need to sell your goodies? Buy some new ones?

This is the event for you! Vendors will offer a variety of items from flea market treasures to homemade items to professional vendor products. This event will be held rain or shine. Refreshment stand will be open.

PEEC May 30, 10am - 12pm www.peec.org

Twilight on the Trail

Greene Dreher Sterling Fair Grounds May 23, 10am - 3pm

Pocono Biking May 30, 6pm www.poconobiking.com

Pocono Express

Theater Studio: A Confidence Theater

Join Stourbridge Line for a 1.5 hour 20 mile round-trip from Honesdale to Hawley. This is one of the best ways to take in the natural beauty of the Northern Pocono Mountains. Keep your eyes open for bald eagles and other wildlife along the river. The rail cars are heated and restrooms are available on the train. The train runs on select Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Call for departure times.

Theater Studio: A Confidence Theater is holding auditions for a production of Hello, Shakespeare! by Joseph P. Kochiss.

We meet Sundays 4-6pm till the performance on August 30th.

Ages: Children 7+, Teens and Adults. If you’re interested in helping out backstage with art, sewing and stage we encourage you to attend as well. Participation is free. Preregistration can be done online: TheaterStudioSTBG.webs. com/registration. School of Visual and Performing Arts: 554 Main Street 2nd floor, Stroudsburg.

The Stourbridge Line May 23 - September 16 www.thestourbridgeline.net

46 • MeSee Magazine

School of Visual & Performing Art May 31, 4pm - 6pm www.theaterstudiostbg.webs.com

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Our team listens to your concerns, understands your child’s needs, mends broken bones, heals broken spirits and takes care of whatever life brings your way. St. Luke’s Pediatrics delivers the quality and compassionate care you expect for your child, now and for their future.

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