Panorama Community Magazine - November 2022

Orthopedic Surgery Expertise

Hazleton native joins Lehigh Valley Orthopedic Institute

Anthony Falvello, DO Board-certified orthopedic surgeon LVHN.org/ACFalvello

Lehigh Valley Orthopedic Institute welcomes orthopedic surgeon Anthony Falvello, DO. Dr. Falvello is specially educated to diagnose and manage orthopedic conditions and sports injuries.

Specialties and services

Anterior hip replacement

General orthopedics

Robotic knee replacement Fracture care

Call 833-LV-ORTHO or visit LVHN.org/ACFalvello to schedule an appointment.

LVPG Orthopedics and Sports Medicine–Station Circle 26 Station Circle (Humboldt Industrial Park)

Hazleton

Public transportation is available at this location. We accept most insurances, including Geisinger Gold.

5 Tips to Help Families Manage Holiday Stress

(Family Features) 'Tis the season for holiday parties, travel, hosting and more. While it is a joyous time of year, the never-ending to-do lists and school being out of session can make everyone feel a little overwhelmed, children included.

Consider these five practical tips from the experts at KinderCare to help families proactively manage

stressors.

1. Manage expectations. The commotion that often comes with the holiday season can be stressful for young children, but you can help alleviate worries by familiarizing them with what's to come. Talk to them about upcoming travel arrangements, who they'll see at events and what to expect throughout the season. If they are cautious in their current developmental stage, let loved ones know beforehand to give them a little extra space at festivities. Parents can also begin familiarizing little ones with relatives through photos and phone calls.

willing to respect that choice. Parents should acknowledge their children's body language and empower them to say "no" in uncomfortable situations. Parents can help by proactively asking questions such as, "Do you want a hug?" and if they say "no," support them in their decision. This also helps establish healthy longterm social skills.

Turkey-Go-Seek

2. Empower children. It's important for children to understand they have a choice - and family members are

3. Maintain your schedule. Children thrive on consistency, and during the holidays it's important to at least try maintaining as much of what they're used to as possible, such as naps, meals and playtime. Changes in schedule can result in more tantrums, so be sure to allow space for them to safely work through their emotions.

It's also important to note that

children feed off their parents'

emotions. When overwhelmed, openly discuss how you're feeling and involve your children when taking breaks. For example, "It's loud in here, would you like to go sit outside with me?"

4. Have fun. Make time to spread joy

integrate activities to bond

a family, such as reading holidaythemed books, crafting, playing games, singing or baking. Whether old traditions or new, these are moments your child can cherish for years to come.

5. Keep others in mind. While it's important to set children up for success ahead of the holidays, parents should also teach children the holiday season can look different for others. Putting a focus on experiences rather than the gifts can help them have more to discuss with their peers when returning to school. It's also a good time to consider donating toys to make room for new ones or volunteering at a local charity to show children joy can be experienced through more than just gifts.

To find more tips to help manage holiday stress, or to access additional resources around social development, setting boundaries and routines, visit KinderCare.com.

(BPT) - A recent survey conducted by Chamberlain Group found that 69% of homeowners worry about their package deliveries going missing during the holidays, adding to the stress they feel this time of year.

Adding to the already hectic holiday season, the survey also found that 74% of homeowners take extra measures to ensure they are home when their packages arrive, including canceling plans/staying home from work to wait for the package. Following are four ways to protect your holiday packages without having to worry about reorganizing your day:

Get deliveries inside your garage

- From getting neighbors to grab packages to exploding glitter bombs, homeowners are not short on ideas for how to keep porch pirates at bay. However, if you really want to get serious about protecting your packages, you'll want a smart garage door opener. Smart garage door openers by LiftMaster and Chamberlain include myQ smart garage technology that works with some of the nation's largest retailers, like Amazon Key and Walmart+ InHome, for a convenient, secure in-garage delivery experience. With in-garage delivery, you don't have to worry about packages going missing or groceries being left out in Continued frompage 11

the rain. Packages and groceries are securely delivered to the garage where they stay until you are free to get them, whether you're home or away.

You might already have a myQ smart garage door opener and not know it. Look up at your opener to see if there is a myQ logo and a Wi-Fi logo, or if it says "powered by myQ" on your garage opener. Then download the myQ app and link to Amazon Key or Walmart+ InHome in app. If you don't have one, you can easily add myQ to your existing garage door opener with a myQ Smart Garage Control device.

Request a signature - If you are ordering expensive items online, it's smart to require a signature for delivery. Requesting a signature ensures that your online purchases are never left unattended. If you're not at home, the mail carrier will typically leave a note with options for rescheduling the delivery or picking up the package in person.

Do the neighborly thing - Work with neighbors and friends to look after each other's packages. If a neighbor is home when you are expecting a delivery, ask permission to have packages sent to their address or have them hold deliveries that come to your front door. Don't forget to treat them to some holiday cookies as a thank-you.

Put your packages on hold if you're traveling for the holidays - If you're traveling this holiday season, check to see if your mail carrier or delivery service offers a temporary hold on eligible packages. Placing a hold on deliveries ensures the packages are kept in a secure location until you can retrieve them and can be a convenient way to ensure packages don't pile up on the porch while you're away. When you return from your travels, you can pick up your packages or have them delivered to your home depending on the service.

Give yourself the gift of peace of mind by trying out some of these package delivery tips and spend more time enjoying the moments that matter.

Chamberlain Group, Inc. commissioned a 10-minute, online quantitative survey among a nationally representative sample of 1,000 U.S. adults ages 18+ who own a house with a garage. The survey was fielded in July 2022.

Black

Saturday

Ho Ho Ho

Turkey

(BPT) - "Oh, there's no place like home for the holidays," crooned Perry Como in the iconic 1954 classic Christmas song of the same name. That stirring sentiment, for many, rings particularly true this year as we look forward to once again hosting celebrations at home with loved ones. If you're planning to stay home for the holidays, now is the time to start thinking about how you can create a festive and joyful atmosphere for yourself and your guests.

Decorations, food and entertainment are all important aspects of the holiday season, but another impactful way you can create a homey holiday feel is through fragrance. "Our sense of smell is our strongest sense," said Harry Slatkin, home fragrance expert and founder of Slatkin & Co. "It goes straight

to your brain and can recall a memory and give you a sense of joy in an instant."

As you return home for the holidays this year, Slatkin, dubbed the "Candle King" by The New York Times, offers these five home fragrance tips to create a festive and joyful holiday atmosphere with scented candles.

1. Scents to greet your guests - When your guests arrive, you'll want to have a scented candle burning that makes them feel relaxed and uplifted as soon as they walk in. In your entryway, light an aromatic candle with notes of pine or fir balsam to greet guests with a fresh, woodsy fragrance.

Even if you don't have a Christmas tree, a scented candle with notes of pine needles and juniper will have guests believing that you brought one home that day. You can also opt for other evergreen candles with notes of white birch and crisp winter air to capture the scents of a snowy winter day in the woods.

2. Scents to gather around - No matter where you start the evening, chances are everyone will eventually gather and end the night in your living room. To create a cheerful and festive atmosphere, choose a candle with bright, invigorating notes like Christmas Joy. This lively fragrance blends

sparkling citrus notes with a variety of holiday spices, fresh cranberries and blue spruce that will remind you and guests of cherished holidays spent sipping mulled wine in front of the fireplace.

3. Scents for the cooking and dining areas - Choosing a scent for spaces where you will be cooking or eating can be tricky because you don't want a candle fragrance to compete with the aroma of your holiday dishes. Likewise, burning a scented candle during dinner can interfere with the dining experience and take away the enjoyment of the meal and ambiance.

Instead, after the cooking is finished, burn a gourmand-scented candle in the kitchen with notes of buttercream and brown sugar that will have your guests' mouths watering. Even if there is nothing cooking in the kitchen, the inviting fragrance will have them thinking you just took a tray of freshly baked sugar cookies out of the oven.

4. Scents for you - As a host, don't get so caught up in the party planning that you forget to enjoy the holiday season. Take time to take care of yourself by relaxing alone at home in your favorite spot with an aromatherapy candle. A scented candle with soothing notes of geranium, frankincense and cedarwood can produce a sense of tranquility and calm to help you find a sense of inner peace during the busy holiday season.

5. Scents for the ones you love - Gift a sensory experience by buying scented candles for those near and dear to you. While the act of gifting scented candles may have served as a punchline on latenight TV in recent years, the $23 billion U.S. home fragrance market is no joke. Americans love scented candles. For a wide variety of choices, check out the Homeworx by Slatkin & Co. collection of 4-wick candles. Whether your loved ones prefer warm, comforting candles with notes of cinnamon, pumpkin and vanilla, gourmand and fruity scents or woodsy, winter-themed fragrances, you're sure to find options to satisfy them all. Best of all, they'll think of you every time they light their candles.

"There is no stronger connection between scent and feelings of peace and joy than during the holiday season," said Slatkin. "It is a special time when we create and celebrate memories with family and friends, and scent is the common thread that ties them all together."

Set the seasonal mood with scents that evoke warmth, relaxation and togetherness. Using these five home fragrance tips, you can create a holiday everyone is sure to remember.

Don't Miss Christkindlfest!

The 24th annual Christkindlfest (Christ Child Celebration) will be held Saturday December 3rd from noon to 5pm and Sunday, December 4th from 12 to 3pm at Christ Lutheran Church, Church & Green Streets in Hazleton, across from City Hall. This event, which ushers in the Advent and Christmas seasons, is one you will not want to miss. A Christmas Event for the community, the Christkindlfest has become a tradition in the Hazleton Area, and is free and open to all.

The centerpiece of this festival is the Sound and Light, Fontanini Nativity Display. The birthplace of Christ with its environs is recreated on an eight by twenty foot platform featuring over 100 figures depicting the people, animals and buildings of period Bethlehem. These finely crafted 5" to scale Fontanini figures, imported from Italy, authentically replicate the costumes and the landscapes of the time, bringing the story of Jesus’ birth to life. Enhancing the stationary display is an inspiring program of lighting, music and narration. This 20-minute program tells the Christmas story from the Angel’s annunciation to Mary, through the arrival of the Three Wise Men. It is presented every half hour during the afternoon.

Another attraction at the festival is the Tannenbaum Tea Shop. Tea is served, along with colonial Wassail (a hot punch), and an assortment of tea sandwiches, scones, and spreads. This is the perfect place to take a break and enjoy the tastes of the season. While you are relaxing with a delicious hot drink, you will be entertained by a series of local musicians and artists performing on the center court stage.

If your appetite has been whetted by the elegance of the tearoom, you may very well want to visit the Tea Room Gift Shop, where fine china cups and saucers are for sale. There is also a variety of vintage Christmas ornaments, decorations and greeting cards.

The children will be delighted by a visit from St. Nicholas (Sinterklaas) dressed in an authentic costume from Holland. Each child will receive a treat. Photos may be taken with the saint, so bring your camera. As if this is not enough to tempt you, the Christmas Craft Shop will feature many holiday crafts. A Silent Auction featuring many unusual Tricky Trays will also be held. These two venues will give you a chance to get a head start on your Christmas shopping. There will also be a bake sale and candy sale with our famous chocolate truffles. This year we have a special item to be chanced off. It is a Christmas Village that has been collected for many, many years. It’s a sight to behold.

Thousands of people have enjoyed this festival since its inception. The entire congregation of Christ Lutheran Church invites you to experience this Yuletide treat. Admission to the event and the display is free. Parking is available on nearby municipal lots and on the lot adjacent to the church. Visitors should use the 210 West Green Street entrance, which is also ramped for handicap access.

A Christmas Event for the Community at

(Christ Child Celebration) CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH

Enter 210 West Green Street Hazleton, Pennsylvania

Saturday, December 3, 2022

pm to

pm

Sunday, December 4, 2022

pm to

pm

Free Admission to the Event &The Nativity Display

The Sound and Light Fontanini Nativity Display will be shown each half-hour beginning at 12:30pm

Greet St. Nicholas (Sinterklaas) throughout the day.

The Tannenbaum Tea Room will serve tea, scones, and other goodies beginning at 12 pm.

Silent Auction for Gift Baskets & Tricky Trays.

The Craft, Candy and Bake Shops will be open from 12:00 to 5:00 pm.

A wide variety of local entertainers.

CLC Tea Shop! Purchase fine tea cups and saucers. Parking is available on the church parking lot or at the municipal lots on North Wyoming & Green Streets and S. Laurel & Mine Street - Both within two blocks of the church.

Holiday Guide

Tons of Tips to Save on Holiday Shopping

(Family Features) Between navigating stores, searching for items at the top of wish lists and preparing for inevitable delays and last-minute requests, shopping for the holidays can make the most wonderful time of the year one of the most stressful times as well.

Even though the holidays seem to creep up faster and faster every year, and inflation adds an additional worry, there is still hope for your budget this season. To help reduce stress and avoid overspending on gifts, consider these money-saving tips from Regina Conway, consumer

expert for Slickdeals, a one-of-akind online community of shoppers working together to shop smarter and save more.

Avoid procrastinating. Due to shifting shopping habits, there may be excess inventory in certain categories such as home goods. While it's possible categories with extra inventory may see deep discounts later in the holiday season, don't expect every item you want to be available at the last minute.

Set your budget with hidden costs in mind. When setting budgets, many people stop at the number they think they'll spend on gifts alone. Make

sure to factor in additional costs such as child or pet care services, shipping fees and travel costs so there are no surprises.

Tap into technology. Whether shopping for toys and technology or travel and home goods, starting your search by visiting a site like Slickdeals can help you find the best deals this holiday season. Deals from top retailers are vetted and voted on by a community of 12 million shoppers working together to save to help ensure you're getting the best products at the best prices. You can also set Deal Alerts to be notified when a deal matching your criteria gets posted.

Buy online, pick up in-store. Where available - including at many big box retailers - shopping online then picking up your purchases in-store (or curbside for even more convenience) can help you avoid paying shipping fees and confirm your items will arrive on time. Some retailers even offer

Turkey-Go-Seek

exclusive discounts for curbside or instore pickup.

Take advantage of membership programs. If you haven't been a member before, many retailers that offer memberships allow for free trials to test the perks, which often include free shipping. However, remember to cancel the trial before it autosubscribes you for a full year. If you've previously done a trial, consider buying just a one-month membership to take advantage of the benefits during the holiday shopping season.

Abandon your shopping cart. When shopping online, add items you're interested in to your cart, go through the check out process to the point where the retailer has your email address then simply close the browser or tab. Often, if you have not shopped from the site previously, the retailer will send you a discount code or coupon to incentivize your purchase decision.

Stock up on discounted gift cards. Taking advantage of discounted gift card sites is a simple way to save some cash on holiday purchases. Not only can you give a gift card you bought at a discount as a gift, you can also use it to shop. Just be sure not to overbuy or you may end up wasting unused cards.

Ask for a price match or adjustment. If you bought something and find a lower price within a week of that purchase, ask the retailer for a price adjustment. While this typically won't work with special promotions, many stores, both online and brick and mortar, will price match during the holiday season. If you're shopping instore, take your smartphone with you and ask for the retailer to match online pricing, which can sometimes be a better deal. Asking for this match can save you time and money on shipping fees you might incur ordering online.

Check return policies. Many retailers offer extended return windows during the holiday shopping season. Make sure you look at the details of retailers' policies to ensure you understand how much time you have to make returns and don't have to pay return shipping or other unexpected costs.

Find more tips to get the best deals on holiday gifts at Slickdeals.net.

The Benefits of Shopping Small This Holiday Season

Small Business Saturday casts a national spotlight each year on independentlyowned businesses, which includes a wide variety of shopping options, from the momand-pop storefronts in your local community to home-based e-commerce businesses.

According to American Express, U.S. shoppers spent over $20 billion on Small Business Saturday in 2021. Capturing at least some of the shopping activity between Thanksgiving day to Cyber Monday, this year on November 28, is crucial to the success of small businesses. The NRF reported that 180 million Americans shopped during this five-day span.

Motivated by the potential for growth, small businesses across the country are taking advantage of this movement with more enthusiasm year after year, given strong consumer response. GS1 US, an information standards organization that helps small brands identify their products for commerce, recently spoke with small business owners who have run successful Small Business Saturday campaigns. They

discussed three big benefits to buying from small businesses this holiday season.

Unique Products

Consumers are hungry for a wide variety of unique products, which provides prime motivation for shoppers to support small businesses.

“People shop small because it makes them feel good. It allows people to discover interesting products, and feel like they are helping a real person, as opposed to a big corporation,” says Andrew Jacobs, CEO of JAM Paper and Envelope, an e-commerce paper company.

According to a study by the NFIB and American Express last year, nearly twothirds of online shoppers (65 percent) are likely to seek out small, independentlyowned retailers. This helps unique products from small brands compete right alongside products from larger, well-known brands.

“It’s so important for small businesses to be recognized in order to compete with big businesses,” says Lisa Burginger, founder

For many consumers, shopping small is driven by the desire to support their local communities. When consumers spend $100 at a local business, roughly $68 stays in their local economy, according to a recent Civics Economy study. The local impact, which helps benefit food, service and civic organizations within the community, could be 50% larger than a similar purchase from a regional or national retailer.

“I believe people want to support their communities,” says Allison White, founder of Scout Cart, a unique personal utility cart company. “They often know the owners of

local small businesses and businesses often provide employment opportunities for the young adults in our families.”

True Connections

Small businesses can use the extra consumer attention to nurture brand loyalty beyond just one day. According to the 2018 Small Business Saturday Consumer Insights Survey, 96 percent of consumers who reported shopping on Small Business Saturday say the day makes them want to shop “small” all year long, not just during the holiday season.

“Small businesses can give you special services, discounts, and one-to-one customer service that big businesses can’t always offer,” says Burginger.

Increasingly, shopping is about a shared experience – the small businesses that create memorable moments for consumers will likely experience growth.

“The next generation is looking for more than just a product, they want an experience,” says Travis Wayne, product manager, TEKLYNX, a barcode software

company that is certified as a GS1 US Solution Partner, a program that helps small businesses find qualified partners to help them reach more consumers.

“When you walk into a hardware store, for example, or if you shop online, it’s more about personalizing that experience and ensuring that the consumers get what they need. Some businesses teach instructional courses on a product, or supply some kind of educational information. It’s about going above and beyond consumer expectations with the hopes of increasing the sale and maintaining a customer for life.”

Taking advantage of Small Business Saturday is just one way small brands are setting themselves up for growth. Beyond the holiday season, businesses of all sizes need to think strategically to succeed in a competitive retail landscape. Visit www. gs1us.org/small-business to access research from GS1 US on the ambitions and challenges of small businesses, watch videos featuring entrepreneurs, and learn more about their growth journeys.

Healthy this Holiday Season

and keep

pets

and happy.

lead

the

treats and savory bites are treasured holiday pastimes for humans, but that can also mean things like chocolates, nuts and animal bones should be supervised carefully so your pets don't ingest something toxic or harmful. Other human foods to put on the do-not-share list include garlic, onions and grapes. It's also wise to keep your trash in a tightly sealed container or hidden somewhere your pet can't access.

Keep Calm and Carry On:

The holiday season brings people together for milestones and celebrations, but all the hoopla can be stressful for pets. From the loud music and new visitors to kids running around or fireworks going off, some pets can become overwhelmed. To help keep your pets

and calm, try turning on a TV or some soothing music in a quiet room away from the noises or let them curl up on their favorite bed

toy or treat to distract them.

it can also affect pets' skin and coats. You can try reducing their bathing frequency, keeping up with brushings and providing extra hydration to keep them feeling their best. Another way to keep your pet's skin and coat healthy is to add supplements that contain essential fatty acids. A fish oil, like Zesty Paws Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil, provides omega-3s for dogs to help nourish their skin and coats.

Stick to a Routine:

may be traveling or partying with friends, be sure to spend some quality time with your fur babies this holiday season, too.

Give Them Gifts:

Humans aren't the only ones who love to get gifts. Few things beat the look on dog's faces when you pull out a new toy or treat for them to enjoy. Whether it's a new leash, ball or cozy bed, be sure you have a little something to give your furry family members this holiday season as well.

a calming supplement like Zesty Paws

also try

Bites for Dogs that may help

normal stress, nervousness and hyperactivity during stressful situations.

Watch Out for Tree Trimmings and Poisonous Plants:

While poinsettias and festive fir trees are holiday classics, they can also be extremely hazardous to pets. It's important to be careful about what you're bringing inside your home. Many holiday plants like holly, lilies, amaryllis and even pine needles from trees can be toxic if ingested. If ingestion does occur, contact a pet poison hotline or your veterinarian. If it's after hours or in the event of an emergency, find your nearest 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic.

Watch the Weather:

Changing temperatures and harsh conditions can wreak havoc on human skin, so it's no surprise

Pets thrive on routines for feeding, potty breaks and exercise, so be conscious of how your holiday plans may shake things up. Try to stick to your regular schedule as closely as possible or consider asking a friend or relative to help if you'll be away during regular feeding or outdoor break times.

Spend Some Quality Time:

In addition to providing companionship and love, spending time with pets can also reduce stress, anxiety and depression; ease loneliness; and encourage exercise and playfulness. Even though you

For more information and ways to keep your pets happy and healthy, visit ZestyPaws.com.

(StatePoint) Are you hosting a holiday party and looking for a simple way to impress your guests?

The Texas Roadhouse Butcher Shop is sharing steps for building an eye-catching and mouthwatering charcuterie board that will add color, flavor and variety to your holiday table.

How to Create the Perfect Charcuterie Board for Your Holiday Party

1. Grab a platter or surface to display your charcuterie. Anything will work, even a simple cutting board. Just be sure to choose a size that you can fill completely.

2. Use dishes or ramekins of mismatched sizes, shapes and colors to hold dressings, toppings and sauces. This will keep your board clean and add fun visual details to the display.

3. Include two to four cheeses

of contrasting flavors and textures to please all palates, and to complement other elements of the board. The varieties you select should represent these basic categories: hard cheese, (such as Chardonnay Bellavitano) soft cheese, (such as brie) and blue cheese (such as French Roquefort).

4. While a traditional charcuterie board typically sticks with cured meats, the holiday season is the perfect occasion for adding depth and richness to your feast with grilled meats, such as filet, sliced into strips. Those from Texas Roadhouse Butcher Shop are lean, flavorful, and melt in your mouth, making them a natural choice for a hearty holiday spread. Whether you are firing up the grill or preparing on a cooktop, allow any cooked meats

to rest well

5. No charcuterie board is complete without some crunch. Add two to three options like pita crackers, crusty breads or toasted baguettes that will stand up to the weight of your meats and cheeses.

6. Now, add some brightness and sweetness to your board. Fresh fruits like blueberries, strawberries and green grapes, and preserves such as peach pepper jam, will add contrast to rich, salty meats and cheeses. Don’t forget seasonal sweets and treats like soft peppermints, peanut brittle, chocolate dipped pretzels and candied nuts.

7. You’ll want your charcuterie board to look as if it’s overflowing. So, as you’re building it out, start with the largest elements like the cheeses and meats first, followed by smaller items like crackers, fresh produce and sweets. Fill in any holes with sprigs of aromatic rosemary for trimming, along with additional portions of the smaller items. The various elements of the board should pair well together, so it’s okay if they touch.

For additional hosting tips, or to shop for seasonal gifts and your

holiday spread, visit trbutchershop. com. For 15% off your order, use the promo code PARTY15.

To wow your guests and their tastebuds, take your charcuterie board to the next level with seasonal treats, grilled meats and a cornucopia of sweet and savory flavors.

Cut the Stress Out of Holiday Travel Planning

(StatePoint) The holiday travel season is just around the corner, and experts are expecting it to be a busy and expensive one, with airline ticket prices for the winter holidays increasing nearly 30% since last year. While travel experts recommend you start organizing trips at least three months in advance, do not fret if you’re a last-minute planner. There are still a few ways to maximize your travel plans and save a few dollars while you’re at it.

Hit the Highway: For those planning on taking a road trip this season, make sure your vehicle is up to date on all registrations and maintenance so you don’t experience any road bumps. If you’re planning a road trip and you’re a T-Mobile customer, you get a year of AAA membership for free with all Magenta plans. This means you can get from point A to point B with the confidence and safety of 24/7 roadside assistance, if you need it. Plus, T-Mobile customers also save $0.10 per gallon of gas from Shell via the T-Mobile Tuesdays App.

Opt for Low Traffic Travel Days: When booking airline travel, CheapAir.com recommends avoiding Thursdays-Sundays. Instead, book airline travel on Tuesdays or Wednesdays if possible, as those are the slowest travel days of the week. According to ChearAir.com, traveling on actual holidays like Thanksgiving Day or Black Friday can save you $75-$90 in flight ticket prices. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are also expecting lower airfare prices this year.

Check the Cancellation Rules: Make sure you can cancel your hotel, airline, or car rental reservations if you need to, and understand what additional fees you may be subject to if you do need to adjust your trip. Plans can change at the drop of a hat, especially in the post-COVID world.

Use Those Travel Perks: Many

credit card companies offer benefits like points and frequent flier miles, which you can redeem on flights, hotels and more. If you’re a T-Mobile customer, you can save up to 40% on select hotels and car rentals by booking through T-MobileTravel. com. Most come with free, flexible cancellations. You can also save your travel perks to use for your holiday travel plans and save even more.

Stay Connected: The internet can be hit or miss when traveling abroad, so make sure you’re wellversed in the details of your data plan before logging on. Luckily, T-Mobile customers with Magenta MAX plans can get 5GB of free high-speed data worldwide in more than 215 countries and destinations, plus free in-flight Wi-Fi and streaming all flight long on four of the biggest U.S. airlines. Visit https://www.t-mobile.com/travel to learn more about T-Mobile’s travel benefits.

Pack Smarter: Make sure all your tech items are within arm’s reach during your trip. Pack charging cables, headphones and tablets to keep children entertained on trips. Packing a portable charger in your carry-on is a game-changer when all the outlets at the airport are in use. Holiday travel can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Do your research, take advantage of deals and you’ll cut out the hassle of planning your upcoming travels.

Wishing you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving from everyone at

(Family Features) Creating traditions is a festive focal point

Start a New Holiday Traditionwith Tender Steak

many families throughout the holiday season, and a timeless way

bring your nearest and dearest back year after year

with an exquisite

With a combination of savory, salty and sweet bites, Sumac-Crusted Filet Mignon with Honey-Lemon Glazed Carrots and Garlic Mashed Potatoes provides a little something

hand-cut by master butchers at Omaha Steaks to make your family’s holiday truly special.

To find more holiday recipe inspiration, visit OmahaSteaks.com/Blog.

• 1/4 cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice

• 1/2 teaspoon sumac

• 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest

• 2 pinches kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided

ª 1 pinch ground black pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided

At the center of this seasonal feast is tender,

filet mignon,

Sumac-Crusted Filet Mignon with Honey-Lemon Glazed Carrots and Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Recipe by Omaha Steaks Executive Chef David Rose Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: about 20 minutes Servings: 4

Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 pounds russet potatoes, medium diced, skin on

cold water

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus 1 pinch, plus additional, to taste, divided

• 1/2 pound unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided

Honey-Lemon Glazed Carrots:

• 2/3 cup honey

• water

• 1 pound baby rainbow carrots

• 1/3 cup olive oil

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Sumac-Crusted Filet Mignon:

• 4 Omaha Steaks Private Reserve Filet Mignons (7 ounces each) or purchase filets from a local source

• 2 tablespoons kosher salt

• 1 tablespoon sumac

• 2 teaspoons ground black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves

• 1/3 cup grapeseed oil

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

To make garlic mashed potatoes: Add potatoes to stockpot. Cover with cold water by about 1 inch and add 1 pinch salt. Turn on high heat and bring to boil 12-15 minutes, or until fork tender. Drain and place potatoes in large mixing bowl.

In saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and simmer 5 minutes. Add heavy cream, 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon white pepper; bring to boil. When mixture boils, reduce to simmer 3 minutes then remove from heat.

Mash hot potatoes until most lumps are gone. Using hand mixer on low speed, slowly add butter and cream mixture until desired smoothness and

taste.

Season with salt and white pepper, to taste.

To make honey-lemon glazed carrots: In small bowl, whisk honey, lemon juice, sumac, lemon zest, 1 pinch salt and 1 pinch pepper.

Preheat oven to 425 F.

Fill stockpot 2/3 full with water. Bring to boil and add 1 pinch salt. Blanch carrots in boiling water 5 minutes. Drain and shock with cold water. When cool enough to handle, halve carrots lengthwise.

In large saute pan over medium-high heat, add oil and butter.

Add carrots to pan, flat sides down, and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Sear until browned, about 2 minutes.

Flip carrots and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Add half of glaze to pan and glaze generously. Bake 3 minutes. Add remaining glaze to carrots and bake 2 minutes. Remove glazed carrots from oven.

To make sumac-crusted filet mignon: Thaw filet mignons in refrigerator overnight, pat dry with paper towels then bring to room temperature 30 minutes.

In small bowl, whisk kosher salt, sumac, black pepper and dried thyme. Season steaks on all sides.

In cast-iron pan over high heat, add grapeseed oil.

Place filets in pan and cook 4 minutes until browned and seared. Add 1 tablespoon butter to pan.

Flip filets and butter baste about

Sumac-Crusted Filet Mignon

20 seconds. Cook filets 3 minutes for medium-rare.

Remove filets from pan and top each with 1/2 tablespoon butter. Rest steaks 7-8 minutes.

Place garlic mashed potatoes on plate and top with sumac-crusted filet mignon. Place honey-lemon glazed carrots next to filet mignon and mashed potatoes.

JUMBO

Festive Ways To Thank Your Holiday Host

(StatePoint) As you make your way to holiday gatherings this season, be sure to show your hosts gratitude for opening their homes to you.

There are many thoughtful ways to thank a holiday host, but the best gestures are those that include personalized touches to leave an impression on the recipient. For example, don’t just bring a bottle of wine with you to the party. Share on the label why you selected that particular

variety for your host. Sending thanks the next day? Go above and beyond a regular message with something unforgettable, like a video greeting from SmashUps by American Greetings, which features celebrities and fun characters and can be personalized.

While gifts for hosts don’t need to be grand gestures, showing your appreciation for holiday hospitality is a great way to leave an impression and score an invitation to next year’s party.

& Antiques By Dr. Lori

Valuable Coffee Grinders

By Dr. Lori Verderame

Since coffee is an ageold hot drink, coffee grinders date back to the 9th Century AD. As coffee served many people from diverse cultures worldwide, grinding coffee beans was essential. Today, the machines for grinding coffee beans are highly collectible.

In Europe, the coffee grinder was patented by a German inventor named Friedrich Gottlob Keller in 1842. Based on this German coffee grinder, other coffee grinders followed suit. American coffee grinders were introduced thanks to a Maryland dentist named Thomas Bruff who understood that grinding coffee using different pressure points would have varying results. Like one’s teeth, a good coffee grinder should be able to grind coffee beans coarsely and finely. For Bruff, numbers on the coffee grinder were used to select a finely or coarsely ground coffee bean. The higher the number set on the coffee grinder, the finer the resulting ground coffee beans. The lower the number, the more coarse the resulting ground coffee. Finely ground or coarsely ground coffee would taste different from one another.

Bruff’s first coffee grinder was wallmounted. The wall mounted coffee grinders would drop the ground beans into a storage container beneath the grinding wheel and crank allowing gravity to aid in the process.

Sought-after antique coffee grinders date from the mid 19th century to the early 20th century made by various

manufacturers in America and in Europe. In order to identify valuable antique and vintage coffee grinders, one needs to know the various types of coffee grinders. Some coffee grinder types, designs, and styles include: single and double wheel models, wall mounted coffee grinders, top hand crank box models, cast iron pedestal models, and large scale floor models.

Wall mounted coffee grinders were known for their convenience. Some were marketed by Charles Parker Company and other Connecticut based firms of the 19th Century. The table top coffee grinder models were used in private homes. Large floor model grinders were typically used in general stores, institutions, and restaurants to grind large amounts of coffee.

Home coffee grinders were introduced in the mid 1890s and were used until circa 1940. The top hand crank models featured a round metal top cast in metal with decorative elements and a wooden box and drawer at the bottom to catch the grounds. Antique coffee grinders range in value from $50 to $1,000 depending on factors such as style, condition, type, materials, maker, design, and age. Some coffee grinders are worth more if they are made by a prestigious manufacturing company or are of a special type.

In America, these are the most prominent manufacturers of coffee grinders:

Landers Frary & Clark Coffee Mill, New

Britain, CT, Charles Parker Company, Meriden, CT, Enterprise Mfg. Company of PA, Philadelphia, PA, Wrightsville Hardware Company, Wrightsville, PA and Arcade Manufacturing Company, Freeport, IL.

Top coffee grinder manufacturers in Europe include: Armin Trosser of Germany, PeDe (Peter Dienes) of Holland, the Netherlands, Kenrick and Spong of England, and Elma and MSF Company both of Spain.

Collectors look for various styles and types of coffee grinders. Decoration impacts the appraised value of vintage and antique coffee grinders. For example, some coffee grinders are decorated with flowers, geometric patterns, advertising information, kitchen imagery. Some decorations are reserved to the hoppers or canisters. These decorated holders are colored pressed glass, hand painted wood boxes, transferware ceramic and the list goes on. Kitchen motifs and other imagery are found on coffee grinders like flowers, fruits, sun and moon, coffee cups, alphabet, etc.

When seeking out antique or vintage coffee grinders, look for good condition, unique styles, working parts, original hardware, decorative motifs and wellknown brand names.

Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, and award-winning TV personality, Dr. Lori appears on The Curse of Oak Island on Historychannel.Dr.Lorigivesappraisalvalue information at www.DrLoriV.com, www. Youtube.com/DrLoriVorcall(888)431-1010.

Upcoming Community Events

Saturday, November 5 and Sunday November 6 • 3rd Annual Christmas on The Farm • 398 Zenith Rd., Nescopeck • Mark your calendars… come shop on the farm for our 3rd Annual show from 10am to 3pm both days.! There will be something for everyone. Crafts, primitives, and refreshments. Bring your family and friends. You won’t want to miss it! This rain or shine event will be held outdoors.

Sunday, November 6 • Train Meet • Diamond Fire Co. Bingo Hall * 120 Main St., Walnutport • The Carbon Model Railroad Society is sponsoring its Fall Train Meet from 9am to 2pm. This is a model railroad, toy train and railroadiania sale for the serious and amateur railroad and model train collector. Refreshments will be available. Plenty of free parking. Admission is free and the event is open to the public. Bring the entire family. Feel free to wear a mask if you wish.

Sunday, November 27th from 10am to 3pm • Brandon’s Forever Home Holiday Craft Fair • Faith UCC Church, 21 Faith Drive, Hazleton • Come on out and show your support. There will beCraft Vendors, Tricky Trays, a 50/50, and Food available. All proceeds to benefit Brandon’s Forever Home programs for foster and adoptive families in our area.

Saturday, December 10 • 3rd Annual Eggnog Extravaganza

• Milkhouse Creamery • 99 Pecora Rd., Drums

• Join us for our 3rd Annual Eggnog Extravaganza Vendor/Craft show from 10am to 3pm. This is the perfect occasion to pick up some Holiday Gifts from our many local vendors and crafters. Butcher Bobs and Pierogie Joe will be on site with delicious food. You can have your pictures taken with Santa and don’t forget to get your favorite ice cream. This event is rain, snow, or shine!

Submit your upcoming events to be published in the community calendar - please note submissions should be received by the 15th of each month.

We are currently accepting submissions for the December and January issues.

Send your event announcement to editorial@panoramapa.com

November is Senior Pet Wellness Month

by Dr. Kenneth Trippett, West Hazleton Veterinary Hospital

Fashion Footwear Essentials To Try As Weather Gets Cooler

(StatePoint) Elevated heights, neutral hues and eye-catching embellishments are making appearances in footwear, accessories and ready-to-wear items this fall. As a result, fashion lovers will have the freedom to update their wardrobe by selecting a few key pieces -- without feeling the need to overhaul their entire closets.

Nichole Duck, senior women’s buyer for shoe retailer Rack Room Shoes, shares her list of top essentials to update outfits, along with suggestions for how to pair them with boots.

updates with colored outsoles and lug bottoms.

Boot to try: Limelight Women’s Kamila Chelsea Boot.

For more inspiration for venturing into the fall season in style, visit rackroomshoes. com.

“The best thing about fall fashion is that there aren’t any rules regarding wearing boots. It’s all about mixing it up,” Duck says. “Pair boots with jeans and a blazer, leggings with a knit sweater, or a dress with a sequined jacket – the options are endless.”

amazes

think that

age is a disease in and of itself.

long as your pet is healthy, there is no reason that an older pet can't be just as happy as the young ones.

own an “old” dog or cat who seems to be slowing down, drinking more, or urinating more, don't just accept it. Find out why and fix it!

all of the problems that haunt many of our older patients

be helped with changes in

nutritional supplements, and other relatively easy treatments.

November is Senior Pet Wellness Month. We are offering a Senior Pet Wellness Visit Package with a 10% discount! Please present coupon at time of visit.

• Update Feminine Pieces with Edgy Accents: Floor-sweeping skirts, maxi knits and maxi dresses are all popular pieces for fall. Pair them with ankle boots to add an edgy flair to an overall feminine look. For example, try this season’s on-trend maxi skirt with wedge boots in black.

Boot to try: XAppeal Elise Women’s Wedge Boot.

• Explore Different Toe Shapes: Boot styles featuring sculpted heels and updated toe shapes -- including square, pointed and rounded forms -- serve as some of the most versatile accessories when transitioning to autumn outfits. Children can enjoy the variety, too, as different toe shapes appear in kids’ styles, including Western-inspired styles, booties and Chelsea boots.

Boot to try: Cupcak nal Colors: The current palette for the fall season features a variety of neutral hues, from taupe and tan to mocha and espresso. Rack Room Shoes recently introduced new boots in more inclusive shades to complement a broader range of skin tones.

Boot to try: Michael by Michael Shannon Women’s Hope Dress Bootie.

• Explore Updates to Chelsea Boots: The chunky Chelsea boot remains front-andcenter as a fall wardrobe staple. This season offers a variety of new options, including

Hazleton

Trippett

Your Tax Preparer

By Alice HortonBarr, CEO, Honest Abe's Taxes, Inc.

What do you pay your tax preparer for? Preparation? Is that all you expect?

Is that all you should get? Is that all you need?

Taxes affect you throughout the year. Changes in your life affect your taxes and therefore you need to plan. If you are using a good preparer, they should be available to you to help you throughout the year.

Tax planning is in a sense more important than tax preparation. The preparer having good tax knowledge and offering tax planning should be

the critical part of your relationship. Honest Abe’s offers year-round services to all tax clients. We impress upon the clients that we want to help them do tax planning! The preparation is the “icing on the cake”. And we do offer all the same programs that the “chain stores” offer.

Also, we believe in fair pricing, not raping people in the fees they pay for services. We have experienced staff, and we respond to customer’s

needs.

Business Services are available as well as individual, bookkeeping, training, accounting, payroll, review, and tax work.

Notary Services (non-tag work) are available at the office.

Are you ready for qualified tax service that cares? Then call, set an appointment, come by for a free review and schedule your appointment for your 2022 tax preparation!

American Farmers — Helping Solve Critical Global Issues

(StatePoint) With the Russian invasion of Ukraine, supply chain problems stemming from the global pandemic, and the world struggling under escalating inflation and a rapidly changing climate, the global hunger crisis has reached new levels.

Every night, more than 800 million people go to bed hungry, with the number of severely food-insecure people more than doubling from 135 million before COVID-19 to 345 million today, according to the World Food Program. At the same time, American agricultural exports of farm and food products shattered records in 2021 to total $177 billion, according to the USDA, demonstrating the instrumental role American farmers play in the U.S. economy, and in feeding the world.

“It’s more important than ever that the United States continues to lead globally to protect food systems abroad and our citizens at home from supply chain disruptions and rising prices,” said Dan Glickman, former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture and Senior Advisor at the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition. “As we face growing threats and crises on the global stage from wars, drought, climate change and food insecurity, farmers are part of the solution and will play a key role helping to save lives.”

This is the driving idea behind a

newly-launched initiative: Farmers for Prosperity. This network of agribusiness leaders is committed to U.S. global engagement by harnessing American resources to feed the world. Convened by the USGLC, Farmers for Prosperity will also shine a spotlight on both the role farmers play in solving Continuedonpage34.

ONE OF PENNSYLVANIA’S TOP TEN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS... right in your own backyard!

Greater Hazleton Concert Series, Inc. Presents “TAKE 3”

Greater Hazleton Concert Series, Inc. is pleased to announce that TAKE 3 will headline the third concert of its 2022-2023 Season. The program is scheduled for Friday, November 18, 2022 @ 7:30 PM at Hazleton Area High School Auditorium, 1601 W. 23rd Street, Hazleton, PA 18202, where abundant free, lighted parking is available.

a flair for the wild and unexpected, the genre-defying trio, TAKE 3, brings the refinement of a rigorous classical music background and infuses it with rock-star charisma. Trained at the world’s top conservatories, TAKE 3 has expanded their repertoire from Bach and Beethoven to Bieber and the Beach Boys. The Nevada

Sagebrush says of TAKE 3 “…this group gave us a tremendous night of undisputed talent from some of the most passionate musicians around.” Known for their infectious and down to earth onstage personalities, this threesome-plus 2, leaves their indelible mark on captivated crowds around the country performing their arrangements of top pop hits, Americana, and their signature classical mashups. The group performs over 60 performances around the globe each season.

in venues around the country. Ms. Deutsch can be heard throughout Netflix’s popular show, “The Witcher” and the Hulu series “All About Pam”. Her performances on these Sony soundtracks reached No. 1 on the Billboard charts and received millions of streams worldwide.

Please join us as the GHCS presents TAKE 3 burning hot with Passion, Fashion and Excitement. A perfect assortment of classics, pop culture and virtuosity.

Turkey-Go-Seek

TAKE 3 was created by violinist/ vocalist, Lindsay Deutsch, Yanni’s featured violin soloist, with who she has toured throughout most of the 7 continents. Ms. Deutsch began her career as a classical soloist, performing with symphony orchestras around the country. She has become an ambassador for the Violins of Hope project, performing on violins saved in the Holocaust

The 2022-23 Greater Hazleton Concert Series offers entertaining, professional performances to subscribers. Individual tickets are $30 for adults and $10 for students. For concert information or tickets call, Cynthia at 570-436-6615, Tom at 570-788-3967 or Shirley at 570384-1226. For more information of all GHCS concerts, visit www. hazletonconcertseries.org or visit our Facebook page.

Lindsay Swirble In

Fight

been battling

Cancer since May of this year. She has been receiving chemotherapy and the next step is a

is unable to work, but she is a fighter and is determined to beat this!

show

a difference

baskets,

support and help

cards,

simply stop

November 5th from Noon6pm at the North East Paradise Club, 1200 Hazle Brook Road, Hazle Township and enjoy a fun filled family event that is open to the public.

You can purchase an All-You-CanEat Buffet ticket, take a chance at the 50/50 raffle or some tricky trays while listening to great music by DJ Richie Green. Please come out and show Lindsay that she is not alone on this journey. All proceeds are to benefit Lindsay to help lessen the financial burden allowing her to concentrate on her recovery.

The All-You-Can-Eat Buffet tickets are $30 in advance or $40 at the door. All other event festivities are free of charge. To purchase tickets, you can email benefitforlindsay@yahoo. com, VEMNO @Danielle-Tarantino-2, or contact Jack Swirble at 570-2335573.

To make donations, contact Jack Swirble at 570-233-5573 for drop off arrangements or you can drop off the morning of the event directly at the North East Paradise Club.

Lindsay and her family would like to express their sincere gratitude for the love and support they have received and continue to receive from everyone!

critical

why U.S.

The launch of Farmers for Prosperity recently took place at USGLC’s Heartland Summit, hosted in Minnetonka, Minnesota, West Lafayette, Indiana, and Wichita, Kansas. The Summit, an annual event, convenes leaders this year from across the heartland with the aim of unpacking how strategic investments in agriculture, digital technology and global development help create jobs, feed the hungry, reduce poverty and keep America safe. Advocates are highlighting this year’s biggest takeaways:

• When communities are food insecure, it can lead to instability, slowing economic growth, perpetuating conflict, impacting child development and worsening malnutrition. Working with partners around the world, American farmers can help feed the world and save lives.

• U.S. leadership on the global stage

is vital to advancing national economic and security interests, and agriculture is a part of that equation. Farmers have unique and important views on what it takes for the United States and the world to prosper, making it important for them to help shape foreign policy by educating policymakers on the challenges on the ground.

• Ensuring that American farmers have access to developing and emerging markets around the world is critical for the domestic economy. U.S. agricultural exports support over 1.3 million jobs on the farm and in related industries such as food processing and transportation.

To watch the 2022 Heartland Summit or learn more about Farmers for Prosperity, visit heartland.usglc. org

“Farmers around the world are not all that different. Together, they grow the food that sustains communities. At a time of global crisis, American farmers can lead the effort to tackle hunger and food insecurity,” says Glickman.

Is Your Wallet Recession Proof?

(StatePoint) As inflation continues to put a strain on budgets, talk of an upcoming recession has Americans worried about their finances. Prices on everyday items continue to rise and consumers are trying to find ways to make their dollar stretch further while safeguarding their money against the potential challenges a recession may bring. The future may be difficult to predict, but preparing now can help consumers protect their financial health during a recession.

A recent Experian survey found that two in three U.S. adults are concerned about a recession occurring in the United States. Consumers are most worried about the affordability of routine expenses, with 73% concerned that the price of everyday items like gas, groceries and rent will continue to rise to a level they can’t afford. Meanwhile, 55% harbor supply chain concerns and 38% are stressed about the affordability of big, planned purchases such as a home or a car.

As recession worries grow, more Americans are sizing up their finances to see where they stand. Only 48% are confident that they can financially handle a recession, and two in five believe that they’ll need to rely on credit to cover essential and unexpected expenses over the next three months. In fact, 27% have already increased their credit card debt within the past three months. This trend is accompanied by additional anxieties: two in three survey respondents are concerned to some degree that their credit score will negatively affect their ability to access credit in the next three months.

Being proactive is key to weathering financial storms, yet less than half of consumers have prepared for a recession when it comes to their finances and credit. Those who have are finding different ways to do so: 49% have cut non-essential expenses like entertainment and vacations, 45% have created a budget and 40% have paid down debt.

While these are effective actions, there are other steps consumers can take to understand their credit history and safeguard their credit.

Consumers should check their credit report and credit score regularly to know exactly where they stand in the event that they need to apply for credit, or simply to be better informed as they prepare to pay down their debt ahead of an economic decline. They can get a free credit report and credit score from Experian (Spanish-language credit reports are also available) as well as access to free financial tools, an auto insurance shopping service and credit card marketplace.

Those who need help increasing their credit score can sign up for Experian Boost. This free feature enables consumers to add their monthly payments for cell phone bills, utility bills, rent and video streaming services to their credit history to potentially increase their FICO Score instantly. To learn more, visit experian. com/boost.

PennDOT Announces ‘Innovations Challenge’ Contest for High School Students

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced today that students are invited to participate in the sixth annual PennDOT Innovations Challenge, which encourages students to use their problem-solving, creative and strategic-thinking abilities to solve real-world transportation challenges in a competition among their peers. The Innovations Challenge is open to all students in grades 9-12, regardless of their school's learning model.

For this year’s challenge, students are asked to develop ideas to help address the shortage of commercial truck parking along major interstate corridors in Pennsylvania. Trucks parking on highway shoulders and ramps is common during overnight hours and presents a significant safety issue. As just-in-time deliveries continue to be the mainstay of global business, the demand for truck parking will continue to increase. Federal hoursof-service regulations require more down

time for drivers, which translates into an increased demand for truck parking, and many local governments have strict ordinances against overnight truck parking in their communities. The challenge asks students to select one of Pennsylvania’s interstate corridors where truck parking is a known issue and develop an innovative approach to increase commercial truck parking availability in that area and offset costs incurred for construction. The solution must consider local ordinances and zoning laws for the area selected, commercial entity interaction in land development, community impact, restroom facilities, and space requirements for commercial trucks that are generally 70-80 feet long.

"Pennsylvania is a critical freight corridor, and it’s important that commercial drivers have adequate safe parking along our roadway network,” said PennDOT Secretary Yassmin

ACTIVE in

Gramian. “I'm excited to see the creative ideas that the students bring to this year’s challenge.”

Regional Innovations Challenge winners will be selected and invited to present their solutions to the PennDOT Secretary and a panel of judges, who will determine the statewide winner. For this year’s challenge, the Associated Pennsylvania Constructors (APC) has donated $2,500 and the American Council of Engineering Companies of Pennsylvania (ACEC/PA) has donated $1,500 for a combined total award of $4,000 to the statewide winning team.

"In addition to the challenge itself, we hope that this experience will open students' minds to the possibility of a career in transportation after graduation, maybe even with PennDOT," Gramian said.

For complete Innovations Challenge details, visit www.penndot.gov/ innovation and click on Innovations Challenge. The submission deadline is Jan. 27, 2023.

5 PTSD Service Dogs Changing Veterans' Lives

(BPT) - Did you know that roughly 3.5 million military veterans suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?

PTSD can severely affect a veteran's life, but there is hope for those who are impacted. Research shows that veterans with properly trained service dogs show lower symptoms of PTSD, reduced depression and increased social participation compared to those who utilize more traditional clinical care for PTSD alone. However, only 1% of those in need who seek a service dog receive one each year. Purina® Dog Chow® is on a mission to ensure

more veterans in need can experience the life-changing benefits that PTSD service dogs provide.

This year, to highlight and celebrate the remarkable impact these dogs have on the daily lives of veterans, Dog Chow launched its first-ever Visible Impact Award in partnership with the Association of Service Dog Providers for Military Veterans.

Meet the five service dog finalists who are making life better for their veterans:

1. Bjorn - After U.S. Army Veteran Derek left his third inpatient treatment

for attempted suicide, he knew he needed help to treat his complex PTSD. Everything changed when he met his service dog Bjorn, who helps him break out of negative thought spirals by interrupting flashbacks and thoughts of self-harm.

At night, Bjorn sleeps with or on top of Derek to help him sleep and wakes him if he's experiencing night terrors. "I have pushed myself farther than I have in a long time," said Derek. "I do so because I know that Bjorn will never quit on me. So, I can't quit on myself."

2. Ivy - U.S. Army Veteran Todd was

Pause with us this Veteran's Day to give thanks to all the brave men and women who fought in defense of our liberty.

on the brink of ending his life when a well-timed conversation with a fellow veteran inspired him to apply for a service dog to manage his PTSD. Ivy, a Great Pyrenees service dog, was the companion he needed. "Ivy has given me a second chance at life," said Todd. "I now cherish every minute of every day since the day I chose not to leave this earth."

Ivy can smell changes in Todd's body chemistry when he gets hypervigilant, angry or anxious in crowded social situations. She quickly moves to bring him back to the present by interrupting his train of thought. When entering a room, Ivy will survey the environment, alleviating the feeling of threat before Todd enters a space, and if there is something in the room that could make Todd uncomfortable, Ivy will block him from entering.

3. Liberty - After an explosive went off under his Humvee outside Kirkuk, Iraq, Army Veteran Carlos's life changed forever. Ten years after the incident, Carlos had trouble leaving his home and managing his PTSD symptoms. Since receiving his service dog, Liberty, Carlos has been able to enjoy everyday life again.

If Carlos is sitting down when he experiences anxiety, Liberty will perform deep pressure therapy by laying her two front legs and head down on Carlos's lap until he releases her. Because of Liberty, Carlos was able to overcome his anxieties and attend a Los Angeles Dodgers game. Liberty kept Carlos calm as they stood on the field and received a standing ovation from over 50,000 people.

4. Raphael - Constant panic and anxiety attacks made life a daily struggle for U.S. Air Force Veteran Bernard. Even on medication, Bernard's PTSD caused him to become withdrawn and depressed, making simple tasks intolerable. His life changed when Raphael, an eight-week-old English cream golden retriever, "picked" him as his forever person.

Like other PTSD service dogs, Raphael performs a "standing hug" to give Bernard compression therapy when he begins to experience an anxiety or panic attack. This hugging happens for a couple of minutes and works to place Bernard's focus on

Raphael instead of the anxiety trigger. Additionally, Raphael's ability to create a protective buffer in public spaces has allowed Bernard to reenter society and do things like go to the grocery store and travel.

5. Trigger - After U.S. Navy Veteran Rebekah returned from service in 2011, she could not go out in public on her own. Luckily, her service dog, a rescued boxer mix named Trigger, helped reduce her PTSD symptoms.

When out in public, Trigger always remains by Rebekah's side, standing between her legs and decreasing her hypervigilance. Trigger inspired Rebekah to start her own business, which works to support other veterans struggling with PTSD and raises awareness of the fact that 22 veterans commit suicide every day. Thanks to Trigger, Rebekah is now able to speak to large crowds about her experience and how her service dog has changed her life.

To learn more about these veterans, their service dogs and how you can support Dog Chow's mission, visit DogChow.com/Service.

When other providers say they offer

they use other facilities… sometimes far away.

At our funeral home your loved one is always in our care. Our on-site crematory is just one way we show that closeness counts.

Continuing the Tradition of Quality Service

White Haven Baseball

As America emerged from the civil war, baseball was spread across the country by returning veterans. Cities and towns across the country organized teams. Some played for exercise, some for the competition and some for the money and in all cases their games were a community event and a source of pride. Hundreds of people would attend these games, and in some cases thousands if the game was big enough and the rivalry against the next town was big enough. Erv Carter of the White Haven Historical Society has collected and documented the history of baseball in White Haven.

June 24, 1891

The earliest documented game in White Haven was a game between the W.H. Lawall Club of Hazleton and the White Haven Athletic Club, June 24, 1891. The article from the Hazleton Plain Speaker stated that the Hazleton Club went to play the Champions of White Haven. Suggesting that there was some sort of local league. The Hazleton Club was said to be the protégé of local townsman W.H. Lawall. White Haven won 18-17 scoring 4 runs in the bottom of the 9th. There was a promised follow up game in Hazleton at some point. The game featured some names that still have relatives in White Haven, Heimbach, Koons, and Searfoss.

Kocher Brothers

Brad and George Kocher teamed up at the turn of the century to make a quite formidable pair in the area. Brad, a catcher, eventually made the

majors playing for Detroit and the New York Giants from 1912-1916. After his professional career, he returned to the area and continued to play locally. In a Plain Speaker article, he was referred to as the White Haven “Babe Ruth”. Brad Kocher was a colorful character, who became known for exploits as a hunter and a trainer of show dogs. During the early days of community ball many teams became family events. White Haven would play against the Lewis brothers in Bear Creek. One such game involved a birthday party for a Lewis son after which the Oppenheim Orchestra played at the Lewis mansion after the game.

Brad was the first of three professional players form White Haven. In the early 1940’s Alvin Searfoss played briefly in the minors before relocating to California where he became a school superintendent. Ron Mrozinski (pictured

with his high school team) began his professional baseball career in 1949 in Carbondale and in Williamsport in 1962. He had two short stints with the Phillies in 1954-55. Mrozinski, a pitcher, faced many of the biggest stars of the time including Willie Mays. In the early 20th Century, factories would hire “employees” based on their abilities on the ballfield. Two White Haven men Harry Wasser and Bubber Hauze moved to New York to play in the Niagara Falls Industrial League.

White Haven Aces

As time progressed the local teams adopted nicknames. The Aces of White Haven were first mentioned in a press

article in 1924. The more modern version of the Aces was established after WWII, when Tubby Nauman started a team on a bet. He told the local players if they beat Weatherly, he would sponsor a team and they did. They played into the 1960’s with Tony Avilla continuing to run the team. The Aces would play in many of the local leagues: The Tri-County, Keystone, Anthracite, Central, Blue Mountain and the Pocono Leagues. The leagues would fight over players and they were not allowed to play in multiple leagues. In a local article, Latchette a White Haven Ball Player was ruled ineligible by the Keystone League for having connections with the Jeddo stars of the Anthracite League. White Haven’s opponents played in towns like Pocono Lake, Hudsondale, Lost Crest, and St Clair to name a few. Many of the teams had the colorful names of their times: Three Link Club sponsored by the Oddfellows, Catholics, Flying Irishmen, McAdoo Cresents, Freeland Tigers, Sheppton Blubirds, and Jeddo Stars.

The Parks Island Park was built on the East Side of the Lehigh River in the early 1900’s. Due to its location on an island, it was subject to flooding and was destroyed in 1936. A picture of the stadium under

water is shown on this page. Baseball and softball have been played at Lehigh Park for the past 70 years. At one point the ballpark featured a grandstand that was removed when interstate 80 was built in the 1960’s. Unfortunately, no pictures can be found of the grandstand. As times changed community adult baseball faded, but Lehigh Park continues to host youth leagues and is known for how well their league, fields and concessions are ran.

White Haven Historic Society

This article features a small part of the White Haven Baseball History. It is a history that is unique to its town but is not unlike many towns across America. It’s a history protected by hard working volunteers like Erv Carter (who was an outstanding ballplayer in his own right).

The WHHS was established 20 years ago to save the history of the town established in 1824. The Society is housed at the White Haven Library’s Engine House Building.

The library is celebrating it 25th year in 2022. The project was started by group of volunteers from the White Lions Club.

In the past 25 years they have been able raise the funds to refurbish a historic train building. The volunteers created a library and community building which hosts the White Haven Historic Society, The John

more information about this incredible community project or if you have anything to contribute to the Historic Society check out whitehavenlibrary.com.

Thanks to Erv Carter and the White Haven Historic society for providing the information for this article. Send questions or comments to hardcoalbaseball@ yahoo.com

Turkey-Go-Seek

Compete like a champion.

Getting to the finish line starts with Lehigh Valley Orthopedic Institute. The region’s leader in sports medicine, our specialists use the most advanced technology, for faster, better results. All so the area’s most elite and everyday athletes can perform at their very best.

LVHN.org/ortho 833-LV-ORTHO

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(StatePoint) Brightening up your home office can bring a sense of fresh energy to your workspace, but making changes can seem overwhelming if you’re not sure where to begin. Family organizing expert Jessica Litman, also known as “The Organized Mama,” shares her pro tips to creatively update your home office without stress.

Unique Storage Options, Large plastic tubs can offer practical storage solutions, but for a more stylish look, change things up with woven baskets or colored boxes instead. “Regular tubs can be a quick way to organize,” Litman offers. “But if you’re looking to create a chic appearance, try storing your files in a wire-framed basket for texture, or collapsible storage cube for a cool burst of color.”

Label the baskets to keep things organized. Make bright, removable labels with multipurpose Duck Masking Color Masking Tape, so finding office supplies is a breeze.

Power of Plants. Add nature-inspired hues to your office with a houseplant, either fake or real. Faux plants require no maintenance at all (which removes a task from the to-do list) and can brighten a workspace to bring some color to a room. Real plants provide the added benefit of clarifying the air and can be tailored to the environment of your office, whether you have a sunny window or a more shaded space.

Litman adds, “Plants have been proven to reduce stress, especially during those winter months! Adding a fresh, easy-to-care-for plant is a great way to help boost morale on long work-from-home days.”

Case Closed. Create a tablet or laptop case that’s completely customized to you. “So many people like to personalize phone cases or bags,” Litman offers. “But creating laptop or tablet cases with colorful, printed Duck Tape can add personality and vibrance to office equipment.”

Duck Tape brand prints are fun, trendy and available in a huge variety of colors and patterns to craft almost anything you can imagine.

Shifting Schedules. Schedules are a part of everyone’s life, but that doesn’t mean getting your calendar organized has to be a chore. Use acrylic or dry erase boards, poster boards or cork as a blank slate to customize into a weekly or monthly chart. Adding items with colored markers or tape can be a way to stay ahead of due dates and meetings, as well as highlight important assignments or contacts.

Pens & Pencils Down. Who says students get to have all the fun? Jazz up your desk décor with some pencil cups, a stapler or sticky note holder to keep office supplies organized and fabulous. There are no rules when it comes to how artistic you can get – make your home office as unique as you.

Color The Thanksgiving Dinner

Pennsylvania Vehicle Safety Inspections

Vehicle safety inspections are procedures mandated by the government to ensure that a vehicle conforms to all regulations concerning safety, emissions, and/ or both depending on what county your vehicle is registered. Safety inspections can be required at various times depending on the vehicle. All cars, trucks trailers and motorcycle’s require a yearly safety inspection. School buses must be inspected twice a year.

In Pennsylvania, all vehicles and light trucks weighing 11,000 pounds or less are required to pass a visual anti tampering check as part of the safety inspection. Vehicles registered as classic or antique are exempt from the anti-tampering portion of the inspection. The visual anti tampering check is simply a visual inspection that verifies the presence of emission related components that were originally installed on the vehicle. There are 42 non emission counties in Pa.

In Luzerne county an emission check is required if the vehicle has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating under 9000 pounds. The emission inspection is a visual inspection plus a gas cap check if applicable as newer cars are now being designed without a gas cap. In many other counties with larger populations a smog check is also performed as part of the emission check.

In the United States, vehicle safety inspection is governed by each state individually. Pennsylvania, as we all know requires a safety inspection on passenger cars and light trucks once a year. Heavy trucks were previously

by Thomas R. Buff

required to be inspected twice a year but the regulations now require large trucks to be inspected annually. Some states and other countries do not mandate a safety inspection program. This leads to some controversy over whether it is a cost effect way to improve the safety of drivers. Today, less than half the states in the U.S. have any type of periodic motor vehicle inspection (PMVI) program. Of the states that have these programs, a few only require a vehicle safety inspection if you sell thevehicle or transfer the title. Many believe that the decline of PMVI programs has led to an increased number of neglected repairs. History shows that vehicle safety was once a priority in all states.

In 1966, Congress passed the Highway Safety Act, which required the U.S. Secretary of Transportation to institute a uniform standard for mandatory state highway safety programs. One of the Dept. of Transportation’s (DOT) standards were a requirement for states to conduct PMVI programs. By combining highway safety grant funds and federal construction funds to a state’s compliance with the programs, the DOT helped to ensure across-theboard inspections.

By 1975, 31 states and the District of Columbia had periodic inspection programs. It seemed the inspection program would soon involve all states. But Congress later passed the Highway Safety Act of 1976, which revoked the DOT’s authority to withhold highway funds. Shortly after this act, 10 states

the U.S. only seventeen states and the District of Columbia now have a periodic safety inspection program.

was the last to ditch its

in

an inspection prior

registration

transfer of

requires an inspection ever two years and brand new cars are inspected only after the first four years

the vehicle stays titled under the same owner. Missouri car owners only have to have their cars inspected ever five years.

few states require only a federally mandated emission inspection. In Utah, state inspection is required every two years for the first eight years and annually every year thereafter.

Other countries utilize different safety inspection procedures. In Japan, car owners must have their vehicles inspected when it turns three years old and every two years afterward. Germany also adheres to the two year inspection policy. In most parts of Australia, once a vehicle is registered it will not have to be inspected again if it remains with the same owner. In South Wales, vehicles over five years old are required to obtain what is called an E-safety check. Most countries adhere to a five to three year safety inspection cycle

At the peak of safety inspection

popularity in the U.S. forty five states had some type of vehicle inspection maintenance rules on the books. With only eighteen now participating, the opposition to safety inspection programs across the county are obvious. Many governing bodies believe safety inspections are an interference with citizens daily lives and it is the sole responsibility of the car owner to ensure the safety of the vehicle. While this may be true, automotive technicians across the country who repair vehicles on a daily basis do not agree. They see the continuing trend of the failure of motorists to properly maintain their vehicles on a regular basis. The lack of a safety inspection program would force motorists to take their vehicles to repair shops for services such as brake and steering system inspections. The old saying,” if it is not broken, do not fix it” still holds true to many drivers. How many motorists would take their cars to

a shop for a thorough inspection at least once a year if it is not required? North Carolina lawmakers are attempting to get rid of state inspections in their state claiming it will save money. But what about the lives that are lost? The American Automobile Association claims that accidents are reduced by 27 percent in states that require a safety inspection.

A safety inspection program is designed to keep unsafe vehicles off of our roads. Across the country experts have claimed that this might not be the case. Saving money seems to be the top priority. Although some Pennsylvanians may disagree I believe that it is well worth the money to ensure that the vehicles our roads are safe and our state is one of the fortunate states to help us to keep our vehicles safe. Take the time to find an inspection station that will do a thorough check of your vehicle. It will pay off in many ways. Happy Motoring.

S.J. Kowalski, Inc. Is Thankful For Our Customers

To our valued customers we want to thank you for trusting S.J. Kowalski, Inc to take care of all your plumbing and HVAC needs. Your business is greatly appreciated. We also want to thank all who voted us best heating and air specialists six years in a row in the Standard Speaker Readers Choice Awards!

We want to thank our loyal employees for their hard work and dedication. We appreciate all you do and want you to know your efforts are seen and acknowledged. Today many of us take indoor comfort for granted. But it’s the HVAC technicians who keep our HVAC systems running day and night.

Extreme conditions are just another day for our HVAC heroes. A few hours without heat or air conditioning may be uncomfortable for us but imagine working in those conditions every day of the week! HVAC technicians tirelessly brave the numbing cold and sweltering heat to restore our comfort, often at the coldest and hottest times of the year.

They go everywhere you would

Employees!

hate to be! Crawl spaces, attics and all points in between, that’s where you will find an HVAC pro. Depending on the age and condition of the building, they may run into anything from dust, debris and cobwebs to rodents, mildew and mold, not to mention claustrophobically close quarters.

HVAC technicians can save you money. Do you want your HVAC system to maximize your energy savings? An HVAC expert can help choose the right equipment for your home’s needs and your family’s heating and cooling habits. He or she can even recommend different thermostat options that range from set it and forget it simplicity to real time smartphone controls with power usage tracking.

The savings don’t stop there! Regular maintenance, provided by your trusted technician, helps keep your system running at peak efficiency. That prevents energy waste and minimizes wear and tear that can shorten the life of your HVAC investment.

Don’t forget that saving energy means saving the earth’s valuable

resources. When an HVAC professional helps you select and maintain efficient heating and cooling systems, he is also helping you reduce your carbon footprint.

The ability to control the temperature of our home is a luxury we take for granted until we lose that ability. Due to their skillset and cutting-edge technology now available, HVAC technicians have the ability to keep our HVAC system running efficiently.

Remember to recommend your favorite HVAC pro to your family and friends or give them a 5-star review online! Nothing shows appreciation more than speaking highly of someone’s hard work. Without HVAC techs, we wouldn’t be able to enjoy the comfort of air conditioning on those hot blistering summer days, or the coziness of our heating systems during frigid cold winters.

Call the experts at S.J. Kowalski, Inc at 570-455-2600 for all your HVAC and plumbing needs

on the Horizon for

Home in 2023

(StatePoint) With travel returning to normal, there’s a renewed interest in seeing the world but you don’t have to go far to bring the beautiful details of faraway destinations into your home’s spaces.

With this in mind, FrogTape brand painter’s tape and celebrity interior designer Taniya Nayak have identified the top design trends for 2023, all with an eye to how travel can inspire home décor.

1. Redrock Renewal: Breathe fresh air and renewed energy into your space with “Redrock Renewal,” which incorporates both nature and spirit through earthy tones paired with bold influences of turquoise, clay and olive. Embrace a clean, light slate layered with simple textures to create a room that is calm, joyful, serene and spiritual. This trend can make a big impact in any space through small details like textured pillows, cozy blankets and clay vases.

2. Bohemian Bazaar: The “Bohemian Bazaar” style is about creating an environment that emboldens everyone in it to live a vibrant, authentic life. To achieve this look, add a pop of color where it’s least expected, like mixing chairs in different shades of fabric around the table or adding bright, bold hues to an otherwise small, dark hallway. Inspired by the people, culture and food of destinations like Morocco, India and Africa, this trend merges the details of handcrafted goods with soulful experiences

by encouraging the mixing of patterns and colors.

3. Nordic Nature: “Nordic Nature” encourages a pure, clean and fresh space by bringing elements of the outdoors into your home. The palette is reflective of a Scandinavian aesthetic, consisting of concrete, wood and crisp white walls to create a space with natural, modern and organic appeal. Look for unique opportunities to make nature-inspired but daring statements that balance the rustic feel with an uncluttered and contemporary vibe.

Apply a subtle concrete layer to your walls for added interest, movement and texture. Before you begin, tape the edges with Nayak’s preferred painter’s tape, FrogTape, to keep lines sharp and neat.

4. Midtown Modern: It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and excitement of a fast-paced, on-the-go lifestyle, but the “Midtown Modern” movement is about turning your place into a space to pause and savor every moment of each day.

Implement saturated hues like black or navy to create an urban, contemporary vibe. Elevate the look with plush fabrics like velvet, wool and satin. Complete the room by adding a special sparkle, with statement pieces that have bright, brass or metal finishes.

“If your hardware is losing its luster, remove it and spray paint it with a new finish for a fresh new look,” recommends Nayak.

Interested in refreshing your home’s interior with the latest trends? Visit https:// www.frogtape.com/inspiration/2023trends for more information and ideas.

National Lung Cancer Awareness Month

by the Cancer Treatment Center at Hazleton

Lung Cancer Awareness Month is observed annually in November and highlights the need for more research to be conducted while encouraging a better understanding of the disease.

While the number of lung cancer deaths continues to decrease due to people quitting smoking and advances in early detection and treatment, lung cancer is still by far the leading cause of cancer death. According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer makes up almost 25% of all cancer deaths, and each year more people die of

lung cancer than of colon, breast, and prostate cancers combined.

Lung cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in one or both lungs. These abnormal cells do not carry out the functions of normal lung cells and do not develop into healthy lung tissue. As they grow, the abnormal cells can form tumors and interfere with the functioning of the lung, which provides oxygen to the body via the blood.

The physicians and team at the Cancer Treatment Center at Hazleton have extensive experience

treating lung cancer patients with radiation therapy. Radiation therapy serves as an effective lung cancer treatment, working within cancer cells to damage their ability to multiply. During treatment, radiation is aimed at the lung cancer tumor and kills the cancer cells only in that area of the lung. Radiation therapy is delivered safely and painlessly and does not involve surgery. Treatments do not require hospitalization and only take about 15 – 20 minutes. Side effects are usually mild and manageable with medication.

If you, or a loved one, have been diagnosed with lung cancer and would like to speak to a patient coordinator about your treatment options, please contact the Cancer Treatment Center at Hazleton at (570) 459-3460 or visit us at HazletonCancerCenter.com.

Lung Cancer Treatment Close to Home

The Cancer Treatment Center at Hazleton has been providing radiation therapy to cancer patients for over 35 years.

According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer is by far the leading cause of cancer death, making up almost 25% of all cancer deaths. Each year, more people die of lung cancer than of colon, breast, and prostate cancers combined. The physicians and team at the Cancer Treatment Center at Hazleton have extensive experience treating lung cancer patients with external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). EBRT is a painless and noninvasive effective treatment for lung cancer, damaging cancer cells and their ability to multiply.

1701 East Broad Street, Hazleton, PA 18201 (570) 459-3460

HazletonCancerCenter.com

If you, or a loved one, have been diagnosed with lung cancer and would like to speak to a patient coordinator about your treatment options, please contact the Cancer Treatment Center at Hazleton at (570) 459-3460 or visit us at HazletonCancerCenter.com.

What's Happening At Providence Place Drums?

By Alice Horton-Barr, CEO, Honest Abe's Taxes, Inc.

by the HVAC experts at S.J. Kowalski, Inc.

by Kristen Adams, Director of Sales and Stephanie N Miller, Regional Director of Sales

Autumn is a beautiful time of year especially from our third-floor patio overlooking the valley where residents enjoy the ambiance of vibrant colors and crisp air. Residents are indulging in everything pumpkin from an array of specialty food items to fall crafts. Our staff and residents are busy planning for upcoming holidays.

Monday, Nov. 7th – Ed-U Presentation: Romance Scams by Michelle Nutter of Pa Office of AG – 2:30pm – 3rd floor

Wednesday, Nov 9th – Alzheimer’s Support Group – (Registration required –please contact Sara Brown at 570-788-7555) – 2:30pm – sunroom

Friday, Nov. 11th – Veteran’s Day Tribute by bagpiper, Bernie Jespersen –10:00am – front porch

Tuesday, Nov. 22nd – Musical Entertainment by George Rittenhouse –6:30pm – dining room

Wednesday, Nov. 30th – Ed-u Presentation: History of Christmas Carols by Guardians of Our History: Joe & Dolores McDevitt – 2:30pm – 3rd floor

Providence Place is welcoming new residents at our Drums Campus. We offer Independent Living, Assisted Living, as well as secured living arrangements for memory support! Call Stephanie Miller, Regional Director of Sales at 570-9568495 or Kristen Adams, Director of Sales at 717-497-3525 for more information! We look forward to assisting you with this transition!

Above: Resident Susan Mooney ENJOYING FALL CRAFTS

Below: Resident Marion Horn with Kim Perchak, Executive Director

Milk, Acne, and Cancer

Does drinking milk cause or aggravate acne?

some studies suggest that drinking milk can either lead to acne or make the condition worse. As reported on the website VeryWellHealth, recently compiled data demonstrated the following:

more than 47,000 women in the U.S., those who drank at least two glasses of skim milk a day as

Ayesha Usman, MD, Joins LVPG–Obstetrics and Gynecology

teenagers were 44% more likely to have had acne. Among just over 6,000 girls between ages 9 and 15, those who drank the most cow's milk were more likely to have acne, with no differences based on the fat content of the milk. Among more than 4,000 boys between ages 9 and 15, those who drank skim milk were more likely to have acne”. The site points out that an ironclad association has not been established but could be due to hormones and growth factors present in milk.

And how about cancer? A study

by Stephen Schleicher, MD

published in June found that men with higher intakes of dairy foods, especially milk, face a significantly higher risk of prostate cancer compared to men with lower intakes. And a prior study found a similar relationship between dairy products and breast cancer in women. So, if one has a higher-than-average risk of either cancer perhaps switching to a soy, oat, or cashew substitute could be a prudent choice. And maybe our grandmom’s admonition to drink plenty of milk is wrong after all.

Medical & Cosmetic Dermatology

Lehigh Valley Physician Group (LVPG)–Hazleton welcomes Ayesha Usman, MD, to its medical group. Usman is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology by the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists. She joins Scott Muir, DO, Vadim Loshakov, MD, Fred Nichols, DO, Mary Ellen Lyons, PAC, Lauren Boyer, PA-C, Samantha Russin, PA-C, Jennifer Ruch, CNM, Kathleen Katulis, CNM, and Heather Gosch, CNM, of LVPG Obstetrics and Gynecology–Hazleton group.

“We are pleased to welcome Ayesha Usman to our team,” says Terrence Purcell, President, LVHN Northwest

great addition to

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LVPG Obstetrics and Gynecology offers complete women’s health care from adolescence to maturity.

• Well-woman care, including yearly pelvic exam and Pap test

• Contraception management and education

• High- and low-risk pregnancy and childbirth care

• Monitoring breast and bone health

• Managing menopause and perimenopause

• Advanced laparoscopic surgery

• Office-based gynecologic treatment and surgery

• Ultrasound and imaging services

• Adolescent gynecology and education

• Treatment for incontinence and “leakage” problems

• Treatment for breast problems, pelvic pain, endometriosis and more

Usman will practice at two LVPG Obstetrics and Gynecology practices: Alliance Drive, 1000 Alliance Drive, Suite 10, Hazle Township and Brookhill Plaza, 642 State Route 93 Highway, Sugarloaf. To make an appointment, call 888-402-LVHN (5846).

The

by John Degenhart, DC

A patient came in the other day, listen to his story.

“Doc, don’t get mad, but to be transparent, this is what I did. I saw you three years ago with a bad disc and right sciatica, and you helped me, so I stopped coming in after three visits. Years later, my pain returned, and I saw this other chiropractor advertise about all these “bells and whistles” that he uses, so I thought I would try him. But after 10 visits I am no better, so my wife pleaded with me to come back to you”.

I told him I was thankful for his honesty, and that he came back to me. It made me think this thought. The act of adjusting the spine is an art. You take into effect the body style of the patient, their weight, their age, their job, and household activities, if they have weak bones from chemotherapy, or osteoporosis, arthritis, a smoker, sedentary or not…and the list goes on. Just as some basketball players are better than others, I think some chiropractors are better adjusters than others.

There are times in this office that massage therapy, traction, or laser compliment our work. So there is a time when machines are helpful. But the magic, that changes people’s lives, is the proper chiropractic adjustment. Not the old way of cracking as many bones in the back as you can. That scares people, and even their doctors told them no the see a chiropractor. No two patients get the same adjustment. Some chiropractors

just “crack” everybody the same way.

You do an initial analysis of the spine. Analyze how the patient sits, sleeps, and works, and you make a gentle specific adjustment. I get excited every time when a patient says, “I went to three MD’s, two PT’s, and three chiropractors for three years, yet you helped me more

in four visits—why? The answer is a proper chiropractic adjustment gently unlocks the body’s ability to heal itself. Too many DC’s don’t get results with the adjustment, so they try to augment their care with “bells and whistles.” Find a good adjuster, don’t be impressed with machines.

The Best Diet For You

by Dr. Candice Dutko, DNP

We all want the best for ourselves, right?! We take the time to research the best car or the best school to send our kids to. We look at reviews on websites before committing to purchasing a particular product. Similarly, there is no shortage of information suggesting “the best diet” for people. Oftentimes, this is followed by the tag line “lose 10 pounds in 10 days.”

Perhaps you saw the headline for this article and thought I will be writing to encourage you to do Keto, or to go plant-based, or to consider the cabbage soup diet (yes…that’s a thing). I am here to tell you that the answer is none of those things necessarily. My answer for what is the best diet: the one that is most sustainable for you. Unfortunately,

that won’t make the front cover of a magazine…because it isn’t attached to a product that someone can make money off of…and it doesn’t have fancy rules and/or restrictions.

Personally, I am not even a fan of the word “diet”, as it has come to have a somewhat negative connotation. For example, when you Google “diet defined”, the second part of the definition reads: “a special course of food to which one restricts oneself, either to lose weight or for medical reasons.” On the other hand, the first part of the definition reads, “the kinds of food that a person, animal, or community habitually eats” which is generally what I am referring to when I use the word “diet”. However, since people often hear “diet” and think of the definition which suggests restriction, I instead prefer to use the term/phrase “nutritional approach”. In this article, I will discuss some key principles you should have in mind when choosing a nutritional

approach for yourself.

One of the first key elements when choosing a nutritional approach is to consider sustainability. Is this a way of eating that you can do for a lifetime? If you are a carb lover, don’t choose an eating pattern that is more Ketogenic. If you love a good steak, don’t choose something that is primarily plant based. By all means, if you love cabbage soup… have some…just don’t make that the only thing you eat all week. If you can’t picture yourself eating that way forever, then don’t choose that nutritional approach. You will likely find yourself to be more miserable.

Another key principle to have in mind is don’t jump into something that requires you to change everything all at once. This will likely lower your likelihood of success and possibly increase your chances of giving up. On the other hand, embrace a more gradual approach where you can build on some early successes. For some guidance, check out the Infographic I referred to in recent weeks in my articles on protein, carbohydrates, and fats (all now located in the blog section of my website). Ideally, you would be selecting most of your foods from the “eat more” column, with less of what you eat coming from the “eat some”, and only on occasion eating the “eat less” foods. Again, this is not something you even need to jump into full force with right away. Start with even just three of your breakfasts during the week containing foods predominantly from the “eat more” column. Maybe you even start with just trading out your usual carbohydrate at supper with one from the “eat more” column. Don’t underestimate the value of making even small changes and the positive impact they can have on your overall health.

Something that should cause you to question the healthiness of a particular nutritional approach is if it is overly restrictive, or cuts out food groups entirely. For example, the Keto diet is commonly

Turkey-Go-Seek

associated with cutting out carbs, including fruit and certain vegetables. In doing so, you are also cutting out valuable sources of vitamins and minerals that are important to our body functioning at its best. A challenge commonly associated with those who choose a more plant-based approach is ensuring enough protein variety is consumed so as not to miss out on important amino acids. I understand people may take this approach for reasons that are very personal to them and I am OK with that. It is just important that if one is going to choose this nutritional approach for their life that they do the appropriate research to make sure they are consuming enough of what their body needs, namely protein. Lastly, the cabbage diet…yes, cabbage and other fermented foods are good for our health, especially our gut health, however in large quantities, they can make you quite uncomfortable. In addition, when you focus on consuming strictly one food, you are missing out on nutrients that are available in other foods.

A key component to choosing the best nutritional approach for you is not necessarily looking at what you need to take out, but perhaps what you can add in. Maybe you don’t make any modifications to what you are eating just yet, and instead you add in some activity such as walking. Maybe you don’t swap out your fried chicken for supper, but you add in a serving of veggies or two. Maybe you aren’t ready to modify your activity level or your nutrition, but strive to improve your hydration and drink more water. Or, maybe you focus on going from 5-6 hours of sleep per night to getting 7-9 hours.

One last suggestion I will make is to focus on the long game. Stop looking for the next “4 week” or “8 week” fix. Generally speaking, the faster you lose the weight, the more likely it is to come back. On the other hand, those that play the long game, often experience longterm, lasting results. Put simply…would you rather lose 10 pounds quickly? Or, would you rather lose 10 pounds that stays off forever? Case in point…look at those on the Biggest Loser who were placed on restrictive, aggressive plans and yes, they lost a tremendous amount of weight in a very short time. However, only very few were able to keep it off and many rebounded and gained some (if not all) of the weight back.

In closing, there is no one best nutritional

approach out there except the one that works for you. One key element it does require is the willingness to change. If you want something different for yourself, you have to do something different. Notice I didn’t say “completely alter who you are.” I love pizza…it’s one of my favorite food groups. I still enjoy it pretty much weekly, just in a smaller portion. I also love ice cream…another one of my favorite food groups! I still enjoy it often but in smaller portions. However, because I want my body and mind to function at its best, I have added in more nutrient dense foods that support those goals. Eating well a great majority of the time means that the small portions of pizza and/or ice cream that I eat during the week don’t take away from me accomplishing my goals and actually help me get closer to them because I never feel like I am missing out.

If you would like some personalized guidance or direction, please don’t hesitate to reach out!

Dr. Candice Dutko, DNP is a Registered Nurse and a Fitness & Nutrition Coach specializing in an individualized approach to wellness and fitness. Through her coaching service, Achieve Wellness & Fitness, her mission is to help people build confidence through wellness and fitness to live their lives to the fullest. She prioritizes a small caseload of clients to help ensure delivery of a comprehensive and supportive service. You can contact her at 570.704.6794 or check out her website at www.achievewellnessandfitness.com

Transit

Secoda's Towing

Senape's

Kowalski

Super Gomas

T&L Pierogies

Tarone's Super Market..............................6

Amish Pantry

Beacon Diner

The Cheese Store

The Laurels

The Lookout House

The Nature & Discovery Toy Store

The Small Car Center.............................

The Treasure Shop

The UPS Store

Tom's Kitchen

Tony Sands Live

Treetop Chimney Service

Two Italian Guys Pizzeria

UFP Gordon, LLC

Urenovich Insurance Agency

Vito's Coal Fired Pizza

Weatherwood Healthcare

Restaurant

West Hazleton Veterinary Hospital

Yevak's Auto Detailing