Panorama Community Magazine - May 2023

Orthopedic Surgery Expertise

Hazleton native joins Lehigh Valley Orthopedic Institute

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.

Anthony Falvello, DO

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JUNE 2023 ISSUE

Editorial Deadline MAY 15

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Mother's Day Has A Fascinating History

While versions of Mother’s Day existed in the 19th Century, the first official Mother’s Day celebration was held on May 10, 1908. Anna Jarvis held a memorial Service in honor of her mother, Ann Marie Reeves Jarvis who died in 1905. The service was held at the family’s Church in Grafton, West Virginia. Her mother was a Civil War peace activist who led “Women’s Friendship Clubs” with other mothers who pledged to help every soldier, Northern or Southern! They tirelessly nursed and saved the lives of thousands of wounded troops. Anna passionately called for America to designate a National Holiday to set aside a day to honor all mothers because she believed a mother is "the person who has done more for you than anyone in the world".

In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation designating Mother’s Day to be held on the second Sunday in May as a National Holiday to honor mothers.\

Unfortunately, commercialization of the holiday by greeting card companies, florists, and candy makers quickly followed. Anna Jarvis resented this commercialization and publicly protested those who tried to profit. In the end, Anna worked to rescind the holiday and her efforts failed!

Mom’s matter and it’s important that we show honor and respect for them. Today, we celebrate all mother’s and the special women in our lives! Happy Mother’s Day To All!

—Larry Collum, CEO/Publisher

Happy Mother's Day!

This year Memorial Day will be celebrated on Monday, May 29th. The Holiday always falls on the last Monday in May. It recognizes the commitment of members of America’s Military Services. Memorial Day honors those who lost their lives while defending their country.

The National Moment of Remembrance is designated at 3pm local time on Memorial Day each year. At this time, all Americans are encouraged to pause wherever they are for a minute of silence to remember and honor those who have died in service to the nation.

Community Magazine wishes you a meaningful day of reflection and celebration!

Handcrafted From The Heart — Mother's Day Gift Ideas For Kids

Sentimental Self-Portrait

Mom will treasure this sentimental and bilateral self-portrait for years to come! Start by enlarging a photo and gathering supplies: one sheet of heavyweight paper, glue dots, and crayons or colored pencils.

Cut the photo in half and attach it to the paper with glue dots (make sure it only takes up half of the paper). Your child can mirror the image on the other

half with colored pencils or crayons.

Love-Filled Flowers

Heart-shaped petals make these blooms full of love for Mom! Start by gathering the supplies: cardstock, small heart and circle craft punches, craft glue, straight pin, floral wire covered with cloth, wooden spool,

Continued on page 9

Treat Mom to Sweet Breakfast In Bed — Buttermilk Pancakes with Triple Berry Sauce

]It's time to make breakfast for mom, whether served in bed, or at the breakfast table making buttermilk pancakes from scratch with a delectable berry sauce is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients:

For the triple berry sauce:

• 3 cups mixed berries chopped, washed, and dried (Suggested mix: strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries)

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup sugar

For the buttermilk pancakes:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 egg lightly beaten

• 1 1/2 cups buttermilk

• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

Triple berry sauce:

In a medium saucepan, combine the berries, lemon juice, and vanilla extract and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until berries are tender and juicy, approx 10 minutes.

Stir in the sugar and continue to cook another 10 minutes, until the

Tips to have the lightest and fluffiest pancakes:

• Don’t over mix the batter. You want to see little flour pockets in the dough – those will turn into air bubbles.

• Use buttermilk. The acidity of buttermilk quickly activates the baking soda, giving pancakes extra height.

• Using both baking powder and baking soda creates the perfect fluffiness and a tender crumb.

sauce has thickened slightly. Keep warm while you make the pancakes.

Buttermilk pancakes:

In a large bowl, stir together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. In a small bowl, whisk together egg, buttermilk, and oil.

Add egg mixture to flour mixture and stir until wet ingredients are just incorporated. Batter will be lumpy

Continued from page 7

small buttons, and grosgrain ribbon.

To make the flowers, punch a circle in the cardstock, and use the straight pin to poke a hole in the middle. Punch out five hearts and fold in half, lengthwise, to make the petals. Glue the petals around the circle (not covering the hole) and let dry. Thread floral wire through two holes on a button, secure it by twisting the wire, and push the opposite end through the hole in the circular shape; this will make the stem. Make as many flowers as you'd like, then stick them in a ribbon-covered spool that doubles as a vase.

Wooden Jewelry Boxes

Here's a sweet homemade Mother's Day present to make with the kids: Pick up round wooden boxes from a craft store. Paint the top and let dry. Paint nautical-knot buttons or drawer pulls and let dry. Attach buttons with glue; to attach a drawer pull, drill a small hole through the top of the box and secure with the nut. This craft is so easy that you can make a set!

Tip: Want to DIY the knots? Google "monkey fist knot" to learn how, and simply glue one in place on top of the box.

and will contain pockets of flourdon't over mix!

Pour approx 1/4 cup batter onto a hot, lightly greased griddle or heavy frying pan. Spread batter if it's quite thick.

Cook over medium heat for 1 to 2 minutes on each side, until golden brown, turning when edges are slightly dry.

Serve warm with triple berry sauce.

Sure to Make Mom Smile This Mother's Day

ST. LOUIS, April 25, 2023 / PRNewswire/ Build-A-Bear Workshop (NYSE: BBW) is the perfect destination to surprise the most special moms in your life. Mother's Day is Sunday, May 14th and the Build-A-Bear Mother's Day Giftshop has a variety of gifts ideas for those special people honored as mothers. Gift selections are available for all mothers including expecting moms, first-time moms, and even those additional special mom roles like grandmother, aunt, pet mom or plant mom. Personalized gifts are some of the most valued, and Build-A-Bear provides the opportunity to give mom a gift that will be treasured forever with the Record Your Voice option, which can capture the sweet voices of loved ones in a plush bear for a forever keepsake.

CAPTURE THOSE SWEET VOICES TO LAST FOREVER

Mothers everywhere agree that you can blink and it feels like the children have grown into adults, so this Mother's Day capture the memories with a recording of kids' sweet little voices and give her the gift she will treasure for a lifetime. Guests can utilize the Record Your Voice option in-store and even online, with a recorded personalized message that can be placed inside a wide selection of furry friends. Delight Mom with a squeeze of the plush paw and the voices of her favorite people saying "I love you, Momma" or listen as she giggles in delight with a favorite misspoken word like "psghetti" for a sentimental keepsake for years to come. A surprise message from grown adult children is just as special too!

See the featured Record Your Voice experience from videos by Build-ABear on the website.

THOUGHTFUL GIFT GIVING WITH HEARTBOX

Grandmothers, aunts and mothersin-law play very special roles in life, and Build-A-Bear has the perfect Mother's Day gift for these extraordinary people with its selection of specially curated HeartBox gift boxes. The HeartBox gift box collection offers an assortment of products that are elegantly packaged and designed to

Gift Certificates Available

Crab and Shrimp Salad

White Little Neck Clams

Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes

surprise and delight. Each HeartBox features its own exclusive teddy bear designed by Build-A-Bear, that can be customized with a personal voice message directly from the giftgiver, enabling every HeartBox to be truly one-of-a-kind. Additional items in the gift box include items such as candles, journals, tumblers, or tea. Mother's Day HeartBoxes include Flowers for Mom Box, You're the Best Box, Thinking of You Box and You're A Peach Box.

THIS FLOWER SHOPPE MAKES FLOWERS LAST FUREVER

Think beyond the traditional bouquet this Mother's Day with the Build-A-Bear FURever Flower Shoppe. Items include the Pastel Bouquet Bear Gift with its textured pastel rose fur, sparkly nose and plush flower bouquet. Guests can even add a floral scent to this huggable bear. Additional items available in the FURever Flower Shoppe are the newly released Cute Plush Cactus and a Plant Parent Bear Gift, perfect for celebrating and honoring the popularity of plant moms. No watering required.

MATCHING MOMMY AND ME PAJAMAS MAKE BREAKFAST IN BED EXTRA SPECIAL

Did you know that Build-A-Bear offers a matching family sleepwear line in its new Pajama Shop™?

Build-A-Bear knows that teddy bears and pajamas are a recognizable part of bedtime routines for many. With a variety of pajama patterns, the company now brings its new Spring Flowers Collection in time for Mother's Day. The all-over pastel floral pattern can brighten Mother's Day morning with breakfast in bed in these cute and cozy jammies with mom, kids, and even furry friends all matching.

Build-A-Bear is a multi-generational global brand focused on its mission to "add a little more heart to life" appealing to a wide array of consumer groups who enjoy the personal expression in making their own "furry friends" to celebrate and commemorate life moments. Nearly 500 interactive brick-and-mortar experience locations operated through a variety of formats provide guests of all ages a hands-on

entertaining experience, which often fosters a lasting and emotional brand connection. The company also offers engaging e-commerce/digital purchasing experiences on buildabear. com including its online "Bear-Builder", the animated "Bear Builder 3D Workshop" and its age-gated, adultfocused "Bear Cave". In addition, extending its brand power beyond retail, Build-A-Bear Entertainment, a subsidiary of Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc., is dedicated to creating engaging content for kids and adults that fulfills the company's mission, while the company also offers products at wholesale and in non-plush consumer categories via licensing agreements with leading manufacturers. BuildA-Bear Workshop, Inc. posted total revenue of $467.9 million in fiscal 2022.

How Climate Change Impacts Birds, Their Feeding Habits And How To Help From Home

(Joan Casanova) Bird feeding is a common practice in the United States, with more than 59 million Americans participating, according to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. In addition to providing aesthetic and recreational benefits, bird feeding can have positive impacts on bird populations.

According to the National Audubon Society, birds provide important ecosystem services, such as pollination, pest control and seed dispersal. In fact, around 87% of flowering plants rely on animal pollinators, including birds, to reproduce and grow, according to a study published in "Science." Birds also consume fruits and berries then spread the seeds, which helps maintain biodiversity and promotes the growth of new plants.

Considered good indicators of the health of the ecosystem, changes in bird populations and behaviors can

signal changes in the environment, such as pollution, habitat loss and climate change. As temperatures, weather patterns and ecosystems change, it can affect the availability of food for birds, which may alter their behavior.

Feeding birds can be a beneficial practice that helps them cope with climate change. Consider these benefits: Supplemental Food: Bird feeders provide a supplemental source of food for birds when natural food sources may be scarce due to prolonged droughts or severe storms. Bird feeding can help birds maintain energy levels, especially during breeding or migration when nutritional needs are higher.

Range Shifts: Climate change cancause shifts in the distribution and abundance of bird species. Feeders can serve as "refuges" for birds, providing reliable food sources as they move in search of suitable habitats.

Behavioral Adaptations: Some species may alter their feeding behaviors due to changes in timing of insects hatching or plants flowering, which can affect the availability of natural food sources. Bird feeders can help bridge these gaps, providing a stable source of food when traditional sources are disrupted.

Feeders - To attract more birds this season, it's important to offer quality feed in a variety of bird feeder types placed at different heights.

Traditional tube feeders are basic, Continued on next page

A WORD FROM OUR ADVERTISERS

Advertising our inaugural car cruise event in Panorama, showed us results from the very first day the magazine hit the racks! I received several phone calls about our event and was told that they read the article about us in Panorama Magazine."

- Ron Semon, President Pardeesville Cruise Night

MAY 16 - 22, 2023

History Of National American Craft Beer Week

Beer Week in 2006 and who make

to refer to what distinguish smallfrom ‘macro’ pioneers of the were two Boston Beer produces the Adams, and Sierra Nevada. Both breweries were earliest adopters of craft brewing success regardless production scale. renown grew, breweries. Despite they continued to the same level of producing too be considered who supported these brewers and who continued highest-quality decided to call ‘craft breweries.’ Sierra Nevada million barrels a year, but they’re pushing the limits. Yet beer fans continue to enjoy their wonderful brews.

Continued from previous page

all-purpose, must-have feeders that work well for finches, nuthatches and other small birds that cling. Made with state-of- the-art materials to prevent warping and discoloration, Cole's Terrific Tube Feeder features a quickclean removable base.

Simply push a button and the bottom of the feeder comes off for easy access. Rinse well with soapy water, submerge in a 9-1 water-bleach solution, rinse and dry. Then reattach the bottom; there's no disassembly or assembly of multiple parts necessary. Regular cleaning of feeders is essential, preventing mold, germs and disease.

Another option, bowl feeders, can serve not only seeds, but also dried mealworms, fruit and suet in cake or kibble form. For example, Cole's Bountiful Bowl Feeder comes with an adjustable dome cover you can raise or lower to protect from rain and prevent larger birds and squirrels from getting to the food.

Popular Foods - In addition to feeders, offering a variety of foods is vital for inviting different species to your backyard.

Birdseed: Not all birdseed is created equal. Look for quality blends without filler seeds like red millet and oats. All-natural seed, containing no chemicals or mineral oil, is safe and more appealing to birds. Consider researched, specially formulated options like all-natural black oil sunflower, Cole's "Hot Meats" (sunflower meats infused with habanero chile peppers) or Special Feeder blend, which is packed with black oil sunflower, sunflower meats, black striped sunflower, raw peanuts, safflower and pecans.

Dried Mealworms: Full of energy, essential nutrients, fats and proteins, mealworms are a preferred food for adult songbirds. Dried mealworms are easy to feed, less messy and lack the "ick" factor of live worms.

Fresh Fruit: Apple and orange halves and chunks of banana are favorites for orioles and tanagers.

No-Melt Suet: Perfect for insecteating birds, high-fat food provides abundant calories and rich nutrition.

Don't forget, birds need water just as much as humans. Drinking water helps regulate body processes, improves metabolism and maintains health. Birds also use water for preening and bathing, and on hot days, standing in cool water or taking a quick splash can help them keep cool.

Find more solutions to bring birds to your backyard at ColesWildBird.com.

A Vision For A More Livable & Prosperous City!

Choice Is Yours Vote “YEVAK” For Hazleton City Mayor Democratic Ticket

The

Let’s Make Hazleton A City We Can All Be Proud Of!

•

•

Ensuring Public Safety

Safety

• Equality in Economic Growth & Opportunities

Quality of Life

Quality of Life

• Education

•

planted my professional roots! The Hazleton I grew up loving and knowing it is not a distant memory. I want to give back to the city of Hazleton and be the voice of its people. Together we can bring Hazleton back to the great city we all remember it to be.

Addressing Everyday Needs of All Community Members

Addressing Everyday Needs of All Community Members

Revitalizing Downtown • Open Door Policy

Revitalizing Downtown

Door

at at the Hazleton Elks Club Open to the Public

Join us at 6pm on Sunday, May 14th at the Hazleton Elks Club

Meet the Candidate Night Open to the Public All Are Invited to Attend!

A city that is a safe place to live, work, go to school, play, and raise families. This goal is 100% attainable and I am ready to take on any challenge I am faced with to make it happen! I have the passion and dedication to lead this city and would be honored to be your Mayor. A fresh new perspective is long overdue!

Americans aren't eating enough fruits and veggies. Why?

(BPT) - Most people know that fruits and vegetables are key to a healthy diet, but they may not know exactly how many, and the amounts, they should be eating daily. Some may believe they are on the right track but are surprised to learn they are underestimating the amount needed to meet nutrition recommendations.

A survey conducted by the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) confirms that Americans are largely underestimating how many fruits and vegetables they need to eat on a daily basis. Consumers surveyed estimate the daily number of recommended servings to be 3-4 servings a day, short of the actual recommended 5 servings per day defined by the World Health Organization. For consumers to work toward achieving a healthier lifestyle, accurate nutrition information must be available and accessible.

According to experts at IFPA's Foundation for Fresh Produce's fruitsandveggies.org, widespread misinformation and disinformation online and during the shopping experience contributes to Americans' confusion over what, and how much, they are supposed to eat. Products across the marketplace can be marketed to make food and beverages appear more healthful than they are by depicting images of fruits and vegetables despite containing no or minimal amounts of them.

"Consumers constantly face an overwhelming amount of information online and in stores, whether the information is correct or not," said Emily Holdorf, a registered dietitian at The Foundation. "When people hear conflicting messages of 'eat this' and 'don't eat that,' they become understandably frustrated. By instead sharing a more inclusive approach to eating nutritious foods, consumers will feel empowered to choose fruits and vegetables at more meals and snacks throughout the day."

To this end, IFPA and the Foundation are galvanizing the fresh produce industry and influential nutrition educators to help eliminate all barriers to consumption,including tackling misinformation.

"We are dedicated to finding solutions that make accurate nutrition recommendations easily accessible no matter what zip code an American resides in," said IFPA CEO Cathy Burns. "We are exploring initiatives like providing dietary guidelines to shoppers in the store and asking the government to crack down on deceptive nutrition labeling. These are places where we can make a real impact on how consumers think about their own nutrition and ultimately achieve a positive change at kitchen tables across America."

According to WHO, eating the recommended intake of fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy diet improves overall health and reduces risk of certain diseases including cardiovascular diseases and certain types of cancer.

Many fruits and vegetables are plentiful in soluble fiber, which can lower LDL cholesterol, blood pressure and inflammation.

Even the colors of fruits and vegetables play a key role in health. The variety of colors within produce are known as "phytochemicals" that have been shown to potentially reduce the risk of certain cancers, heart disease and diabetes.

"Diet-related diseases including heart disease, diabetes and hypertension add $1.4 trillion to the nation's debt to treat annually, yet even with more than a trillion dollars going toward treatment, these diseases are still among the leading causes of death in the U.S.," said Burns. "Fortunately, each of these can be

prevented by having a healthier diet."

Here are three tips for getting started:

* Start small - Don't bite off more than you can chew with an extremely aspirational goal. Stir fruit into cereal or yogurt, add bagged salad to pizza night, top sandwiches with extra veggies, throw greens into your favorite pasta dish. Small wins build momentum and positive habits.

* Make it easy - Cut and prep fruits and vegetables up right away so they are quick to grab. Keep all forms of produce on hand for low- and no-cook ways to add fruits and vegetables to the meals and snacks you already have planned. The easier it is, the more likely it will get eaten.

* Focus on the flavor - When something makes you feel good, you want to do it again. When something tastes good, you want to eat it again. Utilize dips, herbs, spices and juices to add flavor and enjoyment to fruits and vegetables. Eating healthy doesn't have to be boring! "There are countless eating occasions that occur throughout our days, weeks, months. Asking, 'What fruit or veggie can I add to this?' is a great first step to adding more, one bite at a time," said Holdorf.

5 Ways to Show Your Support This Military Appreciation Month

(StatePoint) U.S. military service members are ready to be called upon at any time to protect the country, and May, which is Military Appreciation Month, is the perfect opportunity to express gratitude for their sacrifices

Military Appreciation Month was initially recognized by a U.S. Senate resolution in 1999. Although the entire month is designated to honoring past and present military members and their families, there are several holidays sprinkled throughout the month that honor service members, including Loyalty Day, VE Day, Military Spouse Appreciation Day, Mother’s Day,

Flavor is

Armed Forces Day and Memorial Day.

“This year in particular, many more service members are overseas supporting NATO due to war in Ukraine. These deployments should be a reminder to all Americans of the importance of expressing our gratitude to the men and women in the military who sacrifice so much for us,” says Christopher Plamp, United Service Organizations (USO) senior vice president of Operations, Programs, and Entertainment and an Air Force veteran.

With its long history of keeping America’s military service members connected to family, home and country, the USO is providing five ideas for how to honor and support service members and their families.

1. Say “Thank You.” The simplest way to support service members is to thank them for their service. According to the Blue Star Families 2022 Military Family Lifestyle Survey, only one-third of active-duty families feel a sense of belonging to their local civilian community.

You can send a message of support and encouragement to service members through the USO’s website.

“Acknowledging the immense challenges of military life can have a real, positive impact. The simple act of thanks can show military members that their work is valued and appreciated,” says Plamp.

2. Send a Care Package. Sending care packages with items such as snacks and hygiene products lets service members know that the American people are thinking of them, even from thousands of miles away. The USO Care Package program

simplifies the process of sending military care packages, which can be complicated. You can support this program by making a monetary donation to the USO. Another option is to check out the USO Wishbook, where you can select a symbolic gift, such as a USO Care Package, from a catalog to be sent to service members. In 2022, the USO delivered 200,000 of these care packages globally.

3. Support Military Spouses. Deployments are challenging for military spouses. Aside from being separated from their loved ones, military spouses must also shoulder household responsibilities alone. For military families with children, this can be even more difficult. Offer to cook a family dinner or pick up groceries. Even simply reaching out to ask how they are doing can make a difference.

4. Volunteer. There are many challenging, but rewarding volunteer opportunities that serve the men and women in uniform, including with the USO, where you will see the impact of your support firsthand. Many USO locations need volunteers who can facilitate programs and events, and help ensure the military community has the resources and support they need to carry out their missions.

5. Donate. Show your support through the annual USO T-shirt campaign, which raises funds for the USO’s mobile and center operations, programs and entertainment, transition services and more. The campaign also builds awareness and understanding of military families. To learn more, visit https:// www.uso.org/tshirt.

“From simple words of gratitude to hands-on volunteering, there are many ways to let service members who selflessly put their lives on the line every day know we value their service,” says Plamp.

Are You Guilty Of 'Wishcycling'?

(BPT) - 'Wishcycling' is a buzzword for the act of putting items into a recycling bin and hoping they will be recycled. We've all done it. And while our intentions may be good, more often than not, we have no idea where our materials end up or whether our efforts are even worth it. But with a better understanding of how to properly recycle different types of items, we can all do our part to combat the mounting stress on our landfills and planet. Following are a few tips and tricks for making your recycling wishes come true.

Separate stretchy films from other plastics

You might be thinking plastic is plastic but, when it comes to recycling, there are actually six categories of plastics. To distinguish between these different types of plastic, look for the number within the recycling symbol on the product or packaging.

#1: PET or PETE is the most common plastic for single-use bottled beverages, mouthwash bottles, salad dressing and peanut butter containers.

#2: HDPE (high density polyethylene) is used in many packing items, including milk jugs, juice bottles, some trash and shopping bags and cereal box liners.

#3: PVC or V plastic can be found in blister packaging, wire jacketing, siding, windows and piping.

#4: LDPE (low density polyethylene) is a flexible plastic found in items like bread bags, packaging for frozen foods, newspaper sleeves, dry cleaning bags and grocery/retail shopping bags.

#5: PP plastic is found in yogurt containers, syrup and medicine bottles, caps and straws.

#6: PS includes items like disposable plates and cups, meat trays, egg cartons, carry-out containers and aspirin bottles.

Generally, the higher the number, the less recyclable the material is. Most recycling centers will accept #1 plastics without a problem, but other rigid plastics (#3, #5 and #7) can be tricky. Doublecheck what's acceptable in your local area before contaminating collection bins.

Plastics marked as #2 or #4 are considered flexible plastics or films and must be handled differently from other types of plastic. Due to their stretchy nature, they cannot be recycled through standard curbside or single-stream recycling programs because they can jam machinery during the sorting process,

causing mechanical issues, delays and contamination. These plastics need to be separated from other recyclables and processed through recycling programs dedicated specifically to HDPE and LDPE materials.

Know where your recyclables go - The best way to stop wishcycling is to focus on upcycling. This means knowing exactly where your recyclables are going and how

Continued on page 21.

Now is the time to make the right decisions for you and your family. As preplanning specialists, we can make certain that all of your wishes are carried out and that you spend only what is needed. We’d like to answer any questions you might have. Call us today to find out what you can do to make all of the right decisions.

Since

I don’t want to make the wrong decision for the one person who always made the right ones.”

Continued from page 19.

they will be used. For instance, Trex® composite decking is sustainably made from 95% reclaimed materials, including a mix of industrial wood scrap and recycled polyethylene plastic film, nearly all of which comes from post-consumer sources. Through its nationwide NexTrex® recycling program, the company partners with more than 32,000 grocery store chains and major retailers along with thousands of schools and community groups to make it easy and convenient for eco-minded consumers to responsibly dispose of #2 and #4 flexible plastics and give them new life as beautiful, durable and eco-friendly composite decking. One of the largest recyclers of plastic film in North America, Trex has saved more than 5 billion pounds of HDPE and LDPE plastics from winding up in landfills over the past 30 years. A complete list of items that can be recycled by Trex along with a list of plastic film drop-off locations by state is available on the company's website.

Make recycling part of your routine - Recycling doesn't have to be a chore. It can easily be done as part of your daily routine. Most grocery stores have collection bins conveniently positioned at the front of the store. Many schools, churches and community centers also participate in recycling programs and serve as drop-off points for local residents. Check your municipality's website to learn more about the programs your community has in place for recycling, or visit NexTrex. com to find a plastic film drop-off location near you.

Community Calendar

Friday, May 5th • Food Event • Lehigh and Lausanne Rural Vol Fire Company • 390 S. Lehigh Gorge Drive, Weatherly • The Lehigh and Lausanne Rural Vol Fire Company is hosting an eat-in or take-out food event from 4pm to 8 pm. Homemade meatball subs, sausage subs, chicken fingers and fries, homemade mac and cheese, pierogies with onions, desserts, soda, and water. Cash Only. Proceeds benefit the Fire Company. We appreciate your support. For more information, contact Donna 484-464-5438.

Saturday, May 13th • 1st Annual Hope Auction Raffle • Willow Foundation’s Heartwood Center • 100 South Wyoming Street, Hazleton • Heartwood Center will be hosting their first Annual Hope Auction Raffle from 9am to 3pm. The drawing will begin at 3:30pm! Please help support the Willow Foundation with a tax-deductible donation for our event. We are looking for donations of raffle baskets, tricky trays, gift certificates, or supplies for the event. All proceeds will benefit the center in assisting the homeless population in the area. Tickets can be purchased early beginning May 5th from 8am to 6pm. If you have any questions, please contact Tamear Henegain, Heartwood Center Program Coordinator, at 570-578-1348 or thenagain@willow-foundation.org . We thank you for your support!

Friday- Monday, May 26th thru 29th • Freeland Memorial Weekend Celebration • The Freeland Public Park • The Freeland Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting its Annual Memorial Weekend Celebration. Come out & enjoy the festivities! There will be live entertainment all weekend long. We will also have a Car Show on Saturday, a Pub Run

on Sunday, and a Teen Dance Party Sunday evening. There will be plenty of food and craft vendors available along with a beer tent. We are kicking off Friday night from 6:30 to 9pm, Saturday from 9am to 9pm and Sunday from 11am to 9pm. Monday will be the Parade through town and a ceremony to follow at the park. Parade begins at Noon! This event is open to the public and fun for the entire family! For more information follow us on Facebook at TheFreelandChamber.

May 5th thru 28th • Hazleton Art League • 31 West Broad Street, Hazleton • The Hazleton Art League is honored to have Mexicanborn muralist, Cesar Viveros’ exhibition Solo

Continued on page 28.

For Bus Route Information Call 570-459-5414 Or Visit www.ridehpt.com Not Sure How To Ride The Bus, We’ll Teach You. Ask About Our Travel Training Or Bus Buddy Program.

If you are 65 or older you are eligible to ride Hazleton Public Transit’s xed route bus any time for FREE thanks to proceeds from the PA Lottery. This FREE bus pass never expires and can be used on any public bus in PA.

1. Complete the shaded section of the application and cut out.

2. Make a photocopy of one proof of age identi cation. Acceptable proof of age: Birth Certi cate, Baptismal Certi cate, Driver’s License, Pace Card, PA ID Card, Armed Forces Discharge Papers Passport or Naturalization Papers, Veteran’s Universal Access ID Card, Statement of Age from Social Security Administration.

3. Mail the application and copy of proof of age to:

HPT, 126 W. Mine Street Hazleton, PA 18201

You will receive your FREE bus pass in the mail within one week.

APPLY NOW! APLICA YA!

Para Obtener Información Sobre La Ruta Del Autobús, Llame Al 570-459-5414 O Visite www.ridehpt.com. No Estoy Seguro De Cómo Viajar En El Autobús, Te Enseñaré. Pregunte Por Nuestra Capacitación En Viajes O El Programa De Compañeros De Autobús. Ciudadanos de la tercera edad Viajan gratis a partir de los 65 anos o mas. Su tarjeta de "Senior Citizen" nunca expirara y la puedeusaren todo Pennsylvania.

Application—Senior Citizen Transit Identi cation Card

Free/Reduced Fare Transit Programs For Senior Citizens

Solicitue Su Tarjeta De Identi cacion Para Personas Mayores De 65 Aros O'mas Y Viaje Gratis Ofrecemas El Programa De Tarifa Bajas Para Los Que Cali quen.

Name Of Applicant (Last, First, Middle Initial) Date Of Application Nombre Del Solicitante(Apellido, Primer Nombre, Inicial Del Segundo Nombre) Fecha De Applicacion

Address (Street Or Route) City Or Post O ce State Zip Code Direccion (Calle O Ruta) Ciudad Or O cina De Correo Estado Codigo Postal Home Telephone Number ( ) Date

Birth Age Male Female Numero De Telefono Fecha De Nacimiento Edad Hombre Mujer Sign Here Firme Aqui

Baptismal Certi cate - (Church Name And Address)

Certi cado De Bautismo (Nombre De Lglesia Y Direccion)

Birth Certi cate (#)

Partida De Nacimiento (#)

1. Complete la sección sombreada de la solicitud y recorte.

2. Haga una fotocopia de su identi cación con su edad que sea aceptable. Elija entre las opciones de la solicitud.

3. Envie por correo su solicitud con la copia de su identi cación que compruebe su edad:

HPT, 126 W. Mine Street Hazleton, Pensilvania 18201

Recibira SU pase de autobus gratuito por correo dentro de una semana.

Pace Identi cation Card (#)

Tarjeta De Identi cacion De Ritmo

Photo Motor Vehicle Operator’s License (#) PA Identi cation Card (#)

Licensia De Vehiculo De Conducire (# ) Tarjeta De Identi cacion PA (#)

Other

Otro

I Do Hereby Certify That I Have Reviewed The Above Age Documentation And The Information Contained Herein Is True And Accurate To The Best Of My Knowledge And Belief.

Por Lo Presente Certi co Que He Revisado La Documentacion De Edad Y Que La Informacion Contenida En Este Documento Es Verdadero Y Preciso Segun Mi Conocimiento Y Creencia.

Signature Of Transit Agency Representative Certifying Age Documentation

Firma Del Representante De La Agencia De Tránsito Que Certi ca Documentación De Edad

Printed Name Of Above Transit Agency Representative

Nombre En Imprenta Del Representante De La Agencia De Transito

Name Of Transit Agency (Include Street Or Route, City Or Post O ce, State, Zip Code)

Nombre De Agencia De Transito Incluya Calle O Ruta, Ciudad U O cina De Correos, Estado, Código Postal)

As safety guidelines for COVID-19 continue to evolve, we continue to follow all CDC guidelines. Our buses are cleaned, disinfected, and sanitized daily.

Como medidas de seguridad por el COVID-19 seguimos todas las reglas establecidas por la CDC, todos nuestros autobuses estan debidamente desinfectados y limpiados diariamente.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT US -OR- VISIT WWW.RIDEHPT.COM

126 W MINE ST, HAZLETON, PA 18201 (570) 459-5414

OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY 8AM TO 4PM

Chamber Chatter with Mary Malone, President

Happy New Year, Chamber Style! That’s right, on May 1, 2023 the Chamber kicks off 132 years of serving the businesses in our community. Spring has sprung and the activity level at the Chamber is alive and vibrant like the warm breezes and blooming trees. Programming activity is also on the rise! We have two mixers that showcase the locations and services of particular members in the coming days. A Ladies night out is an annual vendor event for a fun evening of relaxation and retail therapy, Red Carpet breakfast programs and the biggest most exciting event of the year, Our Annual Meeting and Business Expo will all unfold in the next 31 days.

So what do you do at an annual meeting and Business Expo? It is actually designed as two events combined to maximize the exposure of our members to the full chamber membership and special guests we invite every year. The evening opens with a program focused on three things; highlights of the Chamber’s work in the past year, recognition of our Board of Directors who have completed service to the Board and finally the awarding of the internationally known “Athena Award” made possible by the Lehigh Valley Hazleton sponsorship. The Athena award recognizes the business women of the year in the Greater Hazleton Community with focus on professional excellence, community service and mentorship of the next generation. Through the 35 years of this award, the Chamber has recognized leaders in many different business segments, who outstanding achievements make our community a fantastic place to live and work.

Interested in attending, or wanting to find out more about upcoming events, or becoming a chamber member.. the Chamber website, hazletonchamber. org is bursting with information or our facebook page found at facebook. com/greaterhazletonchamber. There is also the phone, so give us a call at 570-455-1509. See you next month for Chamber Chatter. Cheers!

Collectors Excited By Pending Barbie Movie Art & Antiques By Dr. Lori

By Dr. Lori Verderame

With the new Barbie movie coming to a theatre near you this summer, complete with a top-secret plot, collectors are ready to buy, sell, trade America’s favorite doll. Get ready because the sales will be active, and the prices won’t be cheap leading up to the premiere of Greta Gerwig’s film. The new Barbie movie is going to help drive market prices up for the popular vintage dolls and all the Barbie paraphernalia that goes along with them.

The Bild Lilli doll, the German fashion doll that sparked Barbie designer Ruth Handler’s inspiration for Barbie dolls in the first place, regularly sells for thousands of dollars on the open collectibles market. The German dolls had fashion outfits, makeup, and a well-known place in the history of doll collecting. I’ve appraised my fair share of Bild Lilli and Barbie dolls and Barbie accessories evaluating them all with high values depending on many factors.

Barbie will be the focus of the movie’s plot, no doubt, but her supporting cast of characters such as Ken, Midge, Allan, etc. will also have roles in the film as they did in the imaginations of children since Barbie’s debut on March 9, 1959, at the American Toy Fair in New York City.

In the Barbie-sphere, Barbie’s friends did not outshine Barbie. However, with collectors, Barbie’s friends are of interest. Ken was Barbie’s boyfriend and vintage examples of the male doll, and his accessories are collectible, but it is Barbie’s female friends that are most popular in the collectible doll market such as Skipper, PJ, Midge, and Francie, Barbie’s British, and very fashionable cousin. For

instance, Midge was an interesting addition to Mattel’s Barbie doll line. Midge, Barbie’s best girlfriend early on arrived on the scene in 1963 and her boyfriend, Allan, appeared a year later in 1964. Barbie, Ken, Midge, and Allan would often double date.

Over the decades, Midge married, became pregnant, got cancelled and reintroduced. Midge’s boyfriend, Allan and later husband, as of 1991 when they wed, was featured much less often and less prominently. While Allan was Ken’s buddy, he was later unceremoniously omitted from the Barbie and friends group. Character backgrounds should play a prominent role in the new film. The foursome of Barbie, Ken, Midge, and Allan was not as popular as Barbie and Midge were independently. And, when Midge matured and had a magnetic baby bump that could be removed, controversy ensued. She didn’t share the same wholesome attraction as Barbie, wore less makeup, and wasn’t as fashionable when it came to clothing choices. As a result, Midge didn’t have the same prominence as Barbie either. Midge was discontinued in 1967 and PJ replaced her with blonde pigtails and a closer resemblance to Barbie. Midge returned in the late 1980s as part of the California Dream Barbie set. The 1980s Midge doll is a rare and sought after collectible doll today because she was a limited edition.

Barbie lovers liked her having a girlfriend, but collectors didn’t care who the girlfriend was, Midge or PJ. For the 60th anniversary, in March of 2023, Mattel reintroduced Midge. She featured her original and youthful freckled face, auburn hair, and she wore a two-piece creamsicle bathing

suit. Midge did not have any babies or Allan in tow for her reintroduction. The collectors who are ready to sell will have a good opportunity on the heels of the July 21 movie premiere. As a couple Midge and Allan don’t command the same values as Barbie and Ken, their more popular best friends. A well-dressed Midge doll in good condition from the 1960s would be worth $400 to $600 today. The best Allan doll example with an original box could command $300. On the other hand, a vintage Barbie doll regularly commands several hundreds to thousands of dollars from the most enthusiastic collectors.

Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, who will take on the roles of Barbie and Ken in the

movie, promise to provide excitement to a collectors’ group that spans the globe. As these actors immortalize the beloved dolls, collectors get ready to reach into their pockets to buy new Barbie vintage objects or they’ll cash in on the opportunity that a big budget Hollywood feature will bring new money into a very slow doll market. Either way, it promises to be a cool summer with Barbie and the gang— both vintage in packages and on contemporary movie screens.

Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, and award-winning personality, Dr. Lori presents antique appraisal events nationwide, appears on History channel’s The Curse of Oak Island and Pawn Stars do America and helps clients with appraisal services at www.DrLoriV.com. Watchhershowyou howtofindvaluables at bargain prices on www.YouTube.com/ DrLoriV or call (888) 431-1010.

Caring For Fresh Flowers

(Family Features) The beauty of having a garden is buds continually blooming on one plant or another throughout most of the year. While this provides lovely views from your windows, it can also be nice to bring some beauty indoors.

Don't be afraid to snip off a few blossoms each week. Many plants thrive after trimming and may reward you with even more flowers. Once you've gathered a bouquet from your garden, consider these tips to help keep fresh flowers at their best for a week or more:

Bacteria can quickly destroy fresh flowers, which is why it's important to use a clean vase. Any floral foam, wires or frogs used in your arrangement must also be washed in warm, soapy water.

* Remove any lower leaves that may come in contact with water inside the vase.

Carefully trim each flower stem at a

90-degree angle. It may also be helpful to cut flowers while they are underwater to keep moisture flowing into the stems.

* Keep your arrangement out of direct sunlight. The darker and cooler the room, the longer your blossoms will bloom.

Adding a crushed aspirin, bleach, vinegar, sugar or penny to the vase are age-old tricks. However, you can keep bacteria at bay and help flowers thrive by adding a packet of flower food to the water. It can be found at your local florist or home improvement store.

Flowers are living things that still require water, food and care after they are cut. Every 2-3 days, be sure to change the water, replenish the flower food and recut the stems for additional days of glorious color.

Find more ideas for freshening up your indoor spaces at eLivingtoday.com.

15% Off Hair Color May

What Your Tax Extension Means

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

Filing an extension for your taxes only gives you time to file the tax return itself.

If you owed money, it should have been paid by April 18 or there will be a penalty. The extension is good until October 16, 2023.

Using a professional preparer if you have your documents ready, they will be ready to get your returns done now, rather than later, after they catch their breath. Most offices strive to get “extension season” finished between June 15 and September 15 because after that they then have to get ready for the next year.

Since you have an extension, it does give you the opportunity to carefully pull together all documents that will give you the deductions needed where you have self-employment or rental properties so do take advantage of gathering those documents before scheduling your appointment. Also, make sure you gather all income documents, including interest, dividends and gambling.

Once your return is filed for 2023 DO NOT FORGET about TAX PLANNING for 2024! Watch your Federal Tax Withholding. Is it Sufficient? You do not want to be owing the government for 2024. Check in with your preparer for how much you are making in 2024 and how much federal tax is withheld and do you look ok?

Honest Abe’s looks forward to finishing up their clients’ extended returns, preferably by July 15. We also have advised all of our clients to come see us during July for Tax Check ups for 2024 during July.

We are open year-round and welcome new customers. Call 570-668-8297 to schedule an appointment.

The Greater Hazleton Concert Series Presents Trifecta

of

Folk

The Greater Hazleton Concert Series, Inc. is pleased to announce that “Trifecta of Folk” will headline the eighth and last concert of its 2022-2023 Season. The program is scheduled for Tuesday, May 9, 2023 @ 7:30 PM at Hazleton Area High School Auditorium, 1601 W. 23rd Street, Hazleton, PA 18202, where abundant free, lighted parking is available.

Please join us as we celebrate the true sound of American Folk Music. The Kingston Trio, The Brothers Four and The Limeliters come together in Trifecta of Folk. This extraordinary combination, a perfect concert of acoustic folk music by three of the best known names in Folk, come together in one amazing show performing all the classic chart hits.

The Kingston Trio are 8 time nominees and 4 time Grammy winners, including 200 Lifetime Achievement Billboard Awards. The Brothers Four are known as the “pioneers of the Great American Folk Revival”. The Limeliters launched their career at the San Francisco’s “hungry i” night club. They have hit one million hits on YouTube with “Take My True Love by Her Hand.”

The Kingston Trio - All three current members, Mike Marvin, Tim Gorelangton and Don Marovich, have intrinsic links to and experience with the original group: Mike is the adopted son of founding member Nick Reynolds, who was also his musical mentor; Tim, a close friend since boyhood, is one of the few musicians outside the Trio who has recorded with Nick Reynolds; and Don Marovich, who has performed with the Trio and who plays the guitar, banjo and mandolin. Many of their personal memories recall the iconic trio’s performances and journey as folk music made its extraordinary ascent to the pinnacle of popular culture – and the top of the music charts.

The Brothers Four - Now in their 60th year of performing

and recording, The Brothers Four continue to delight millions of fans worldwide with their smooth, musical sounds. Since the early 1960s The Brothers Four have played thousands of college concerts, sung for U.S. presidents at the White House, appeared at countless Community Concerts, performed with symphony orchestras and jazz stars and toured dozens of foreign countries. They are truly “America’s Musical Ambassadors to the World.”

The Limeliters - For 50+ years the Limeliters have entertained standing-room-only crowds with their incredible musical talent and zany sense of humor. They first made their mark in folk clubs and on college campuses during the height of the folk music boom of the early 60′s, which led to numerous TV appearances. With different configurations over the years, the group has preserved their signature vocal sound.

To all lovers of folk music, this is a once in lifetime opportunity to experience the true sound of folk, in your own backyard, with Trifecta of Folk! Please join us as we present this last concert of the 2022-2023 season and we will see you for the 2023-2024 Concert Series.

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 570-4366615, Tom at 570-788-3967 or Shirley at 570-384-1226. For more information of all GHCS concerts, visit www. hazletonconcertseries.org or visit our Facebook page.

Congratulations To Our Winners!

Continued from page 21.

estamos de pasadita, (We’re Just Passing Through] for the month of May. Viveros’ style can be described as a combination of ancient tradition and contemporary art. The opening reception is Friday, May 5, from 6-9PM, and will be a part of a larger Cinco de Mayo celebration in CAN DO Community Park. Coffee Talk with the artist is Sunday, May 7 from 1-3PM. Acoustic Jam, with local musicians playing in our artists’ studio, takes place Sunday, May 28 from 1-3PM. Admission is always free and open to the public. Gallery hours are TuesdayFriday 10AM-5PM, Saturday-Sunday 1-4PM, closed Mondays. For more information contact us at 570-455-3333 or visit www. hazletonartleague.org.

Saturday, June 17th • 9th Annual Race for CDH • Eagle Rock Resort • 1 Country Club Drive, Hazle Township • Arianna’s CDH Foundation (Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia) is hosting its 9th Annual Race for CDH. This is a 5K/10K Race, 5K Walk, & Free Kids fun Run. Award ceremony & food following race. We will also have a tricky tray raffle. The race begins at 8:30am. To register for the race & more information visit www.raceforcdh.com Pre-register by May 13th to guarantee T-Shirt. This event is open to the public and everyone is welcome! All proceeds benefit families of children with CDH. Your support is greatly appreciated.

Alma Jean Kayden Ace

Solo Travel Tips Recommendations For Venturing Out Alone

(Family Features) Whether you're a lone wolf at heart or looking to broaden your sense of independence, traveling solo can be a richly empowering and satisfying experience.

Setting out on your own has many practical advantages. You're not worrying about accommodating another's schedule, interest or needs, and you're free to decide what you want to do and when. Solo travel also elicits some mental and emotional benefits, as you experience a unique sense of freedom, liberation and self-sufficiency.

If you're considering a solo journey, consider these tips from the book "101+ Tips for Solo Women Travelers," which is offered by Overseas Adventure Travel in free digital and print editions.

Make Sure Your Passport is UpdatedMany countries now require your passport to be valid for six months after your return to the United States. If you don't have a passport, or need to renew one, apply for one as soon as possible. Ideally you should have your application in six months before you depart.

Look for Trips with No Single Supplement - Often, quoted rates are "per person, based on double occupancy." This is because travel hosts know they can make more from a couple traveling than an individual. You can avoid paying a single supplement premium by being willing to match with a roommate or traveling with a tour company or cruise line with free or low-cost single supplement fees.

Use the ATM - As an affordable and convenient way to get cash, you can avoid wasting time in line at a bank or currency exchange bureau by visiting an ATM. While you'll likely incur a fee for using an ATM that's not part of your bank, it is often less than the commission you'd pay at an exchange bureau. Plus, you can avoid additional fees by calculating how much you'll need for the trip and making one withdrawal as opposed to multiple smaller withdrawals.

Download Entertainment Before You Leave - When traveling, Wi-Fi can be expensive, slow or just not available. Before you leave, download music, e-books, podcasts, favorite tv shows or movies to enjoy while you're en route or during down time.

Join Group Tours - Once you reach your destination, you may enjoy joining

small groups for excursions or to explore local cuisine. Or you can make your entire journey a group experience. A small group adventure with Overseas Adventure Travel has many benefits, and built-in dining companions is just one of them.

Take Precautions in Your Hotel RoomWhen you check in, ask the receptionist to write your room number down instead of announcing it so everyone can hear. Make sure your room's locks work on both the door into the hallway and the balcony. Never let any repair person or staff member into your room without confirming with the front desk first. Bring a rubber doorstop, which

makes a hotel room door nearly impossible to open. Finally, have an exit plan: Know where the nearest exit is located and the route from your room.

Make New Friends - For some, making friends seems to happen naturally while traveling alone by chatting with strangers at a neighboring restaurant table or striking up a conversation while waiting in line at a store. If those situations don't occur naturally, there are useful apps that can connect you with local people as well as fellow travelers.

Find more tips to prepare for your journey at oattravel.com.

Mascots as Entertainers

Almost as long as there have been businesses, there have been images and characters used to promote products or events. The natural evolution of these characters was to turn them into a live version and put someone in a costume to meet and greet the consumer. One example of this is Mr. Peanut of Planter Peanuts fame, which was developed in Northeast Pennsylvania in 1916. The role of the mascot was to meet and greet customers and fans. The first modern sports attempt is M.r Red in 1950’s and Mr. Met in 1960’s. However, they were clearly people wearing a baseball head.

In 1974 KGB Radio in San Diego hired Ted Giannolas, a San Diego State student,

by Rich Lipinski

In April the Phillie Phanatic turned 45. In 2010, we had the opportunity to talk with the person directly responsible for spreading joy throughout the baseball world, Dave Raymond. He was the original Phillie Phanatic and current owner of the Raymond Entertainment Group. Raymond under his alias, The Emperor of Fun and Games and his merry band of cohorts, developed mascot costumes and full mascot marketing plans for sports teams across the country.

to wear a chicken suit to various promotions and events around San Diego. Some of these promotional events took the Chicken to Jack Murphy Stadium, home of the San Diego Padres. It was during these events, the Chicken and his antics were broadcasted nationwide.

As luck would have, the Philadelphia Phillies executives accompanied the team on a road trip to San Diego and witnessed the Chicken firsthand. When they returned home they reported what they witnessed to Bill Giles. Giles at the time was basically the director of Fun and Games for the Phillies. Giles was never afraid to jump in with both feet with his promotions. Some of his famous or infamous events included Karl Wallenda of the

Flying Wallenda’s crossing Veterans Stadium on a high wire, and the many adventures of Kite man trying to hang glide from the top of the Veterans Stadium to various degrees of disaster. This and many other events would have made PT Barnum proud.

A College Intern Makes History

On April 25, 1978 The Phillie Phanatic made first appearance at Veterans Stadium and started a mascot craze that today is hotter than ever. Inside that suit was Dave Raymond, a college intern from the University of Delaware. Raymond is the son of legendary football coach Tubby Raymond. He went to college to become a teacher and perhaps follow in his father’s footsteps and become a coach. His father tried to make it clear what a long road most coaches have, despite his own success. Little did either of them realize what was in store for Raymond. In 1976 Raymond started with the Phillies as an intern. It was the Bicentennial celebration. The all-star game was in Philadelphia and the organization was overloaded with work. In 1977 the activities around the team greatly diminished. With that in mind, Raymond was sure that when the Phillies called after the 1977 season, it was to inform him they no longer needed him for the upcoming season.

When Bill Giles called, it was to ask him

to become the Phanatic. A lot of the Phillies marketing department were sure this was going to be one Giles’ famous follies. If nothing else, it was going to add ammo to bust on Giles later. During the off season Raymond was sent to New York to be measured for the costume. The costume had to be designed to fit and be functional for him and others who would be his backups.

The Three Stooges meet Daffy Duck

The next time Raymond saw the costume was the day it was unveiled in Philadelphia, his only instructions were to have G-rated fun. The Original Chicken was a radio station mascot and some of his acts went over and beyond family entertainment.

Raymond describes his act as a combination of Three Stooges, Daffy Duck, and classic slapstick. For 45 years the Phillie Phanatic has set the standard for mascot entertainment. Raymond and his successor Tom Burgoyne have created some of most memorable acts that have nearly universal acceptance. Their antics have involved home and visiting players, managers, coaches, umpires, and of course the fans. They have become so accepted that many of in each of those groups become active participants. There have been a few incidents over the years. Tom Lasorda, manager of the Dodgers, took offense to the Phanatic’s imitation. A few requested the Phillies tone down the act, but for the most part the acts were all Raymond’s and later Burgoyne’s. One point Raymond emphasized was that he was a kid in the costume and grew up a crazy Phillie fan, just like those sitting in the stands.

From Phanatic to Emperor

After 16 years as the Phanatic, Raymond turned the reigns over to Tom Burgoyne. His move wasn’t one of retirement. It was a new mission, to become Emperor of Fun and Games. He first worked with Acme Mascots, and in 2000 he started the Raymond Entertainment Group. The role of the mascot has changed dramatically from the days of the college intern, with little instruction and making things up as they went along. The Raymond Entertainment Group is a full service company providing everything from costume design to brand building and market strategies. Mascots today have found a place in most sporting events, both professional and college. Corporations have also been jumping on board. Mascots build brand awareness and are the driving force in many of teams off field promotions. The Phanatic has estimated merchandising sales of $500,000 in the stadium. The worth goes way beyond the direct dollars being spent. The Phanatic makes over 500 appearances a year. When a mascot shows up a school or a local event the media is sure to notice. The most important value of a mascot is the continuity it brings to an organization. Over time the players change, the coaches leave, announcers move on, and in some cases the stadium has changed. A fan who was 10 when the Phanatic made is appearance in 1978, can now bring their 10

year old son or daughter to the game and not only share the same experience, but also have the same understanding of that experience. When grown men recount some of their most memorable ballpark experiences as the time they were “goosed” by the Phanatic, you really have created a great tradition.

Huggability is a Must

There are many things to creating a costume. These Costumes can cost as much as $40,000 and there is quite a lot which goes into the process. The Costumes usually have a neutral facial expression, this allows for the entertainers talent to excite the crowd. The Costumes must be durable, they have to endure being thrown to the ground, rain storms, heat, spill,s and assorted other hazards that a public venue can create. (The Raymond Group also has cleaning and repair services). One of the most important features is the character must be huggable. Kids and adults flock to these creatures by the 100’s of thousand each year to get their picture, shake their paws, and hug the stuffing out of them.

The Hall is Calling In 2004, Raymond held a rally in Center City Philadelphia honoring the Phillie Phanatic with a lifetime achievement award. The Phanatic was presented the Silly String Award in front of his Mascot friends. The rally then took to the streets as the Duck Tours of Philadelphia drove 30 mascots through the streets of Philadelphia. This led to the establishment of the Mascot

Hall of Fame. There are currently 27 Members of the Hall. The Mascot Hall opened a building in 2018 in Whiting, Indiana. The entire list is available online at mascothalloffame.com. The Phillie Phantic can also be found at National Baseball Hall Of Fame in Cooperstown. The Raymond Entertainment Group can be found online at raymondeg.com

In the past decade since this original interview the mascot industry has exploded. The Mascot Hall has it own physical location. Raymond has developed over 40 mascots, including Gritty of the Flyers, who has become a meme favorite across social media. In 2017, the Mobile Bay Sox changed their entire team name to the Rocket City Trash Pandas and sold $4 million in merchandise before playing a game. Our local minor teams feature multiple mascots, including things like the popular legends race at PNC Field in Moosic. For more historical info on mascots, check out fangraphs.com article on the history of mascots including a long forgotten mascot of the Yankees, who is barely acknowledged by the team.

Please keep the e-mails coming your comments and suggestions are always welcome. The e-mail address is hardcoalbaseball@yahoo.com

8 Ways to Make Your Pet Feel Like Part of the Family

(Family Features) It's said that pets can be people's best friends, but the relationships between people and their four-legged friends often run even deeper. In fact, many consider pets to be an integral part of their families.

From eating and playing together to matching outfits and more, consider these practical ways to make dogs and cats feel like they're important members of your household so you can become two peas in a pod.

Play Often = Playtime is an easy (and fun) way to bond with pets, whether your furry friends prefer fetch, tug-of-war or any other game that keeps you both active. On top of the emotional benefits, it can help keep them in better physical shape - you might even be able to get a little exercise, too.

Feed Human-Grade Food - Sharing a meal with people is a common way to connect, and that same connection can be made with pets. Feeding them at the same time you sit down for a meal can create a special bond. Though it's tempting to feed them off your plate, consider a human grade food option like Freshly Crafted from Full Moon Pet. Created for pet parents who seek homemade quality ingredients free from additives or preservatives, this fresh frozen food includes 100% human-grade ingredients like real USDA chicken breast and blueberries, meaning it looks, smells and tastes just like food you would cook in your own kitchen while providing complete nutritional benefits pets need to thrive.

With flavors including Homestead Turkey, RanchRaised Beef and Free-Range Chicken, these curated meals promote skin and coat health, support immune health and encourage muscle growth.

Set Up a Special Space - Just like humans, pets need a little quiet time now and then. Creating an area they can retreat to with a bed, blankets and favorite toys offers a "safe space" where they can be comfortable. Plus, it's a perfect spot for them to nap when you're away and the house is empty.

Schedule Regular Wellness Visits - The veterinarian's office may not be your furry friend's favorite hangout, but scheduling regular checkups is an important part of owning pets. A balanced, quality diet can reduce trips to the vet to just essential visitsoften annually or bi-annually - and help your pets live happy and healthy lives.

Show Affection = Belly rubs, freshly brushed coats and simply spending time together are all effective ways to show pets your affection. Another way to share your love is to reward dogs with their favorite treats like Full Moon Chicken Jerky, which is a high-protein, meaty treat made with few ingredients, including USDA chicken breast, so you can feel good about providing

your pets with a treat that tastes good and is good for them.

Take Pets on Vacation - Skip the anxiety of leaving pets behind during your next trip by letting them join in on the fun. Exploring the world together is an exciting way to bond as you can visit new places, find dog parks and discover pet-friendly restaurants. If it's your pet's first road trip, consider a shorter excursion to ensure he or she is comfortable in the car, and make sure to bring all the essentials like food, water, bowls, bedding, toys and medications.

Wear Matching Clothes = When you're dressed to feel your best, you're likely to feel more confident in yourself. Provide that same feeling of satisfaction to pets by dressing them in the same clothes you plan to wear for a walk around the block or a trip to the dog park. Next time there's a family photo session, plan to include furry friends in matching outfits so everyone can be dressed to impress.

Celebrate Special Occasions = Birthdays, "gotcha days" or holidays are perfect moments for celebrating your bond with your pets. Make the day extra special by indulging in favorites like going for a walk, heading to the dog park, gifting a new toy, enjoying specialty treats and more.

To find more ways to bond with your pets, visit FullMoonPet.com.

Guard Your Pets Against Contagious Diseases & Parasites

by Dr. Kenneth Trippett, West Hazleton Veterinary Hospital

It was Ben Franklin who said “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”  This is rarely more true then when dealing with parasites and parasitic diseases in our pets.

As the weather warms, the biting insects return.  This represents a dangerous problem for all dogs.  A single mosquito bite can cause Heartworm infection in any dog.  Heartworm is almost always fatal without treatment and the treatment is very expensive.  Luckily, Heartworm Disease is easily prevented.  All dogs should be heartworm tested and started on a once per month heartworm preventive pill.  These pills are very safe for most dogs, and will also help prevent intestinal parasites as well.

Cats share some of these risks as well.  Even indoor cats can get intestinal parasites because some are spread by fleas, or can be brought into the house by other animals, insects, or even on the bottom of your shoes.

For these reasons, we encourage all responsible pet owner to have a stool sample checked at least once per year.  All dogs should also be checked for heartworm and kept on heartworm preventative year round.  Remember, not only is an ounce of prevention worth a pound of cure, it can also save your pet's life!

Action Real Estate Is On The Move... AGAIN!

With the Action Real Estate Corporate Center now complete, the company has announced an exciting move to enable it's agents to work from anywhere in the country.

"Whether on vacation, or just a bad snow day, agents can now manage all their filing and transactional duties from the cloud," said Kathleen Lutsky, co-owner of Action Real Estate

The state of the art Hazleton office, will remain the central hub for our local team, as well as administrative and corporate offices. "It's no secret we have the most modern and agent friendly real estate office in the region," said Lutsky, "but we wanted more for our team."

Parallel to the brick and mortar construction,has been the development of the Evolution Web Portal for Real Estate. This amazing system will give team members a completely cloud based system of education, document filing, transaction management and so much more!

Action serves clients in Luzerne, Columbia and Carbon counties through it's local team, and they are looking to grow right now. With agents in 3 states, one of the biggest challenges Action has faced is transactional and document management, as well as ongoing education, but those barriers have vanished with the implementation of the Evolution Real Estate Portal.

PENNSYLVANIA REAL ESTATE CLASS

This system, was inspired by and is on par with the systems offered by some of the biggest corporations in the industry, and now agents can enjoy that with a locally owned company!

“Our compensation package is second to none in our area, with an 80% to 100% agent split,” exclaimed Lutsky. Action also offers the most generous revenue sharing program in the industry. If that wasn't enough, Action now has this truly amazing back office system as the icing on the cake.

Action is currently looking to build their team! Interested agents are encouraged to reach out for a short, confidential interview. “If you are experienced and not earning 80% to 100% - what are you doing? It doesn't even make sense,” Lutsky remarked.

t’s time to start your career in real estate. Action has partnered with the highest recommended on line real estate course provider, RealEstateU to enable people to get started in real estate without having to travel to classes. Whether part time for extra income, or full time, Action has a place for you on their team. For more information, call Kathy at 570-453-0303 or email kathy@actionrealestate.biz and step your career up to the next level!

Memorial Day weekend is a special time at the No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum in Lansford, PA. Although the mine and museum will be open for tours, Sunday, May 28th, will feature other special activities to commemorate the holiday weekend and the regions coal mining heritage. The grounds will be filled with the wondrous smells of homemade ethnic foods coming from the picnic pavilion, the sounds of music in the field, the sights of beautiful antique and classic cars gathered on the grounds, and the feel of cool air coming from the over 160 year old No. 9 Coal Mine as visitors prepare to board the mine train for a one hour underground tour of the world’s oldest continuously operated deep Anthracite coal mine followed by a trip through the mining museum on the surface.

The annual Memorial Day weekend event is scheduled for Sunday, May

Ethnic Food Picnic, Car Show, Music, and Mine Tours Sunday in Lansford

28th, from 11AM - 4PM and is open to the public. Admission to the grounds and parking are free. A nominal fee will be charged for the mine tours. The museum and all other activities are free. The Anthracite Region Chapter of the Antique Automobile Club of America will present an antique and classic car show on the grounds. Anyone wishing to display their automobile can register as they arrive. Music will be provided by DJ Shawn Frederickson.

A variety of homemade ethnic foods will be available for sale at the picnic pavilion including favorites such as halupki, haluski, pierogies, turkey & hamburger barbecue, homemade bean soup, hot dogs, homemade desserts, and a variety of beverages. This old-fashioned picnic is reminiscent of the annual coal miner’s picnics that were held years ago throughout the coal region. Come early, have a great time, and enjoy the great food

before it sells out! Take outs are also available. Food will be available for sale beginning at 11AM.

The main attraction is the exciting guided underground tours of the No. 9 Coal Mine which first opened in 1855. The tour is approximately one hour in length including the train ride into the mine. Tourists then embark on a walking tour of the fascinating sights underground. Visitors will also enjoy browsing the countless displays inside the museum that houses the region’s largest collection of coal mining artifacts and the gift shop located on the grounds.

Sunday’s event offers something for all ages as we celebrate the Memorial Day weekend. For further information, please contact the No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum at 570-645-7074, visit our website at https://no9minemuseum. wixsite.com/museum, or Follow us on Facebook.

In celebration of National Pet Month — color the pets with their friendly veterinarian!

Answers on page 58

Carry on

German wine

Solution on page 58

Job Searching? Why The Insurance Industry May Be The Path For You

(StatePoint) Whether your career is just beginning or you’re looking to shift gears, the insurance industry may be the right place for you. The industry employs nearly 3 million people in the United States and depends on a diverse workforce from various professional backgrounds. However, experts say that persisting myths may prevent talented job seekers from exploring these careers.

“Many job seekers have preconceived notions about what a career in insurance looks like, and they are not always accurate. The fact is that an insurance industry career offers virtually unlimited job opportunities and chances to learn, grow, benefit from new experiences and make a difference in your community,” says Carrie Martinelli, vice president of Talent at Selective Insurance.

Martinelli also notes that you don’t need an insurance background to get hired and thrive. An informal survey of Selective Insurance employees revealed that 42% had no prior insurance experience before landing their current role.

To help job seekers break into the industry and find success in their new careers, Selective Insurance offers the following tips and insights:

1. Don’t assume your background isn’t a fit: You may be surprised to learn that the industry does not just hire talent for traditional sales, underwriting, safety management, actuarial and claims roles. It also requires the expertise of legal experts, innovation strategists, and finance, marketing and IT security professionals. In fact, the Insurance Information Institute notes that even art historians and drone pilots are needed to make the industry tick. Before assuming your background isn’t a fit, contact an insurance firm to learn how your experiences and interests translate to an insurance position.

2. Seek to grow in your new job: In a recent Conference Board survey, 96% of respondents said it was “important” or “very important” to develop their work-related skills continuously. There’s a good reason this sentiment is so popular. Professional development helps employees grow, learn and thrive, preparing them for more advanced positions or new areas of responsibility. Consider how such opportunities can benefit your career and take time to learn about the company’s professional development program during any interview process. Selective Insurance, for example, provides in-person and virtual training, simulations, peer coaching and mentorship opportunities for all employees throughout their tenure with the company.

3. Find a sense of purpose: Insurance industry employees are unsung heroes who can help improve challenging situations. They provide expertise to help protect valuable assets like businesses, homes and vehicles. They also offer support and guidance after an unexpected loss, making these careers an ideal fit if you are passionate about helping protect your local community.

To learn about insurance industry job opportunities in your field, visit https://www.selective.com.

From recent high school and college graduates to mid-career professionals, the insurance industry offers many opportunities.

Founded in 1955, UFP Industries is a growing FORTUNE 1000 company with operations worldwide, creating rich opportunities for employees to advance and earn exceptional rewards. Full-time employees receive the industry gold standard of benefits – including medical, dental & vision – plus these extras:

• Annual performance bonuses and discretionary spot bonuses, plus referral and retention bonuses up to $1,850

• Highly acclaimed UFP Business School, plus customized training programs and career growth paths

• Health savings account with annual company contributions

• 15% employee discount on company stock

• Up to $1,500 annually that can be taken as cash or used toward 401(k) and/or HSA

• 401(k) plan with company match

• Paid vacation & paid holidays

What Women Need to Know About Stroke Risks

(Family Features) It may not be widely known that women face unique risk factors for stroke throughout their lifetime. Things like pregnancy, preeclampsia and chronic stress can increase the risk for high blood pressure, a leading cause of stroke.

Cardiovascular disease, including stroke, is the leading cause of death among women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),

and 1 in 5 women will have a stroke. However, a large majority of strokes can be prevented.

Caring for yourself by understanding your risk factors can help reduce your risk for stroke and provide a better quality of life. Start managing your stroke risk with these tips from the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association:

Monitor Your Blood Pressure - The

first step you can take in reducing your risk for stroke is knowing your blood pressure and keeping it in a healthy range. High blood pressure is the No. 1 preventable cause of stroke, according to the American Heart Association.

The best way to know your blood pressure is to have it measured at least once per year by a health care professional and regularly monitor it at home then discuss the numbers with a doctor. For most people, a normal blood pressure should be 120/80 mm HG or less.

“Where

The Laurels is standing strong with our residents and families. We are following all CDC guidelines regarding Covid-19.

We are incredibly proud of our Laurels care team and all the healthcare workers in the Greater Hazleton area

In addition to properly monitoring blood pressure, maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, eating healthfully and reducing or eliminating alcohol and tobacco usage can help control blood pressure. If you do develop high blood pressure, work with a health

care professional on a plan to help manage it.

Plan for Pregnancy - In the United States, high blood pressure during pregnancy is becoming more common, according to the CDC, and medical conditions including preeclampsia, gestational diabetes and blood clots during pregnancy all increase stroke risk during and immediately following a pregnancy.

Managing conditions like high blood pressure before getting pregnant helps keep you and your baby healthy during pregnancy and beyond. In addition, your health during and immediately after a pregnancy can shape the lifelong health of you and your child. If you're planning to become pregnant or are currently pregnant, it's important to regularly monitor your blood pressure.

Take Care of Your Mental HealthSome stress is unavoidable but constant stress is not healthy. Chronic or constant stress may lead to high blood pressure and other unhealthy behavior choices, which can increase risk for stroke.

Based on findings in a Stress in America 2020 survey conducted by the American Psychological Association, the top sources of stress are money, work, family responsibilities and health concerns. Managing your stress and blood pressure can improve your overall health and well-being. Reclaim control of your schedule and build in time to invest in your health. Find 10 minutes every day to do something for you, like listening to music, meditating or going for a walk.

Learn the Warning Signs - A stroke can happen to anyone at any point in life. Immediate treatment may help minimize the long-term effects of a stroke and even prevent death. Learn how to spot a stroke

F.A.S.T:

* Face drooping - Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person's smile uneven?

* Arm weakness - Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

* Speech difficulty - Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence like "The sky is blue."

* Time to call 911 - If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 911 and get to a hospital immediately. Check the time so you'll know when the first symptoms appeared.

Find more wellness tips at stroke.org.

Meet The Massage Team at Sacco Chiropractic

Sacco Chiropractic has one goal in mind for patients—to help them heal naturally through targeted care that allows them to get back to living the life they enjoy most. Massage Therapy is one of the services we offer that is a part of natural healing. We would like to take this opportunity to introduce our wonderful team of Massage Therapists!

My name is Colleen. I’m a graduate from Finger Lakes School of Massage. During my time in school, I obtained knowledge ranging from neuromuscular therapy to reflexology to oncology massage to shiatsu. I mostly enjoy Swedish massage; however, I like to integrate different massage techniques depending on what the body needs. I am certified in pregnancy and infant massage as well as hydrotherapy. If you’ve never had a professional massage, no problem! I create a safe space for my clients and would be honored to provide a first-time therapeutic massage! I am available Mondays & Thursdays 4pm to 7pm and Saturdays 9am to 11am.

My name is Diane. I graduated from McCann School of Business & Technology in 2009. I have experience with pediatrics and people with special needs. I enjoy therapeutic massage and have learned techniques to help with whiplash, rotator cuff and sciatica/hip issues. I have a medical background and have previously worked in the medical field. I am also certified in Reiki 1 and 2. I tailor my session around your wants and needs to increase your relaxation and renewal process. I can add essential oils or CBD to enhance your session. Come see me for a massage and some selfcare. I am available Tuesdays from 3pm to 7pm and Wednesdays from 8:30am to 1pm.

My name is Julio. I graduated from McCann School of Business & Technology in 2012, where I learned modalities such as Swedish, prenatal, therapeutic, sports, deep tissue,

reflexology, and sinus massage. I can also design a massage just for your needs or injury. I have experience working on rotator cuffs, sciatic pain, lower back pain and neck issues. I can also get your body ready for marathon running and weightlifting competitions before and after treatments. Fellas looking to increase your bench press or deadlift, therapeutic massage can help take your personal record to the next level. Call me for an appointment to schedule your massage. I am available Mondays from 8:30am to 1pm and Tuesdays & Thursdays from 8:30am to 12:30pm.

My name is Cindy. I have been a massage therapist for close to 30 years. I was privately tutored, and I am experienced in several different modalities which include, but are not limited to, deep tissue, sports massage, reflexology, and maternity. I enjoy working with people who are looking to receive a therapeutic massage and want to address specific problem areas. I have firm pressure, but if needed (or preferred) I can massage at a lighter level. My availability is Thursdays from 1pm to 6pm and Fridays from 9am to 1pm. I’m looking forward to meeting you.

May Is Women’s Health Month!

Sacco Chiropractic is located at 1730 E. Broad Street., Ste 1, Hazleton, PA 18201. Contact our office at 570-497-4150 to schedule an appointment with one of our talented Massage Therapists or schedule online at www. saccochiropractic.com

Hearing

Loss &

Dementia

Why Addressing Hearing Problems Is Essential

It’s something most of us don’t think about, especially as we’re getting older. The TV volume may be a little higher, we may strain to hear conversations in restaurants, what was easy to hear not that long ago isn’t so easy anymore. But hearing loss may have devastating consequences that many people never consider.

“Hearing loss is one of the leading causes of dementia,” says Ravi Samy,

MD, the new chief of the division of otolaryngology, head and neck surgery at Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN). “About 80 percent of Americans have significant hearing loss by the time they are 80 years old.”

“I’ve worked with patients from 6 months to 98 years. Nothing is as good as your natural hearing, but what we have been able to do with these devices is

amazing.” - Ravi Samy, MD

A 12-year study by Frank Lin, MD, PhD, director of the Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health at Johns Hopkins University, indicates that mild hearing loss doubles the risk for dementia, moderate hearing loss triples the risk, and those with severe hearing impairment are at five times the risk.

“The data also shows that most people do not like wearing hearing aids (one in seven people over age 50 wear hearing aids, according to the Lin study),” Dr. Samy says. “They’re more likely to think the problem is not that bad right now, and they’ll address it at a later time.”

According to the Mayo Clinic, natural aging and chronic exposure to loud noises are among the most common causes of hearing loss. The March of Dimes points out that three of every 1,000 babies born in the U.S. come into the world with hearing loss. Dr. Samy notes that every state mandates hearing tests for all newborns before they leave the hospital.

Clearly, protecting your hearing is important. Here are some tips that should help:

Address chronic loud noises – This may be as simple as avoiding them. But in some occupations and social situations, that can be difficult to do. “Maximizing ear protection is essential in these situations,” Dr. Samy says. “But it can be as simple as turning down the TV or your music at home. Teenagers, for example, can easily process louder noises, but as you get older the impact accumulates.”

Get hearing tests – Dr. Samy will be looking to initiate a community plan emphasizing the importance of regular hearing tests. “Today, you can take a hearing test online or through an app,” Dr. Samy says. “It’s not the same as getting a comprehensive test from a trained audiologist, but it can give you an idea of where you are with your hearing.”

Get help for your hearing problems –Hearing aids and in more severe cases, cochlear implants, can be crucial in staving off dementia or curtailing its progression. Hearing aids continue to get smaller and less noticeable, and usually make a significant improvement. “The technology today is incredible, and it just keeps getting better,” Dr. Samy says. “The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has approved over-the-counter hearing aids, much like the glasses you can buy at pharmacies. It’s making these devices much more affordable.”

Taking care of your hearing can make a big

Continued on page 44.

What's Happening At Providence Place Drums?

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

April saw our community enjoying Easter dinner with family and friends. A delicious homemade meal was prepared by our culinary staff with favorites like Kielbasa and Easter Pie. The Easter Bunny made an appearance, there was an egg hunt for the little ones, and residents died eggs and made sweet treats! Everyone is gearing up for May, as the saying goes April showers bring May flowers. Our gardeners are getting ready to prepare our flower beds. Come join us on campus for any of our planned events or stop by anytime for a tour of our campus!

Thursday, May 4th – Ed-U Presentation: Freedom & Liberty Through Art by Martin Bradfield – 2:30pm – 3rd floor

Saturday, May 13th – Musical Entertainment by George Rittenhouse – 2:30pm – dining room

Sunday, May 14th – Mother’s Day Brunch – 10:30am – 12:30pm – Reservations

Needed – dining room

Thursday, May 18th – Dementia Support Group – 6:00pm – Please RSVP – 3rd floor

Saturday, May 20th – Tip Tap Toe Dance

Troupe Performance – 1:45pm – CN

Saturday, May 27th – Ed-U Presentation: America – Nation of Immigrants by Lester Hirsh – 2:30pm – dining room

Monday, May 29th – Memorial Day

Musical Entertainment by Glenn Faul –2:30pm – dining room

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 570-956-8495 or Kristen Adams, Director of Sales at 717-497-3525 for more information! We look forward to assisting you with this transition!

Shown above is resident, Betty Porpiglia with the Easter Bunny

Shown to the right is resident Mary Konschnick making an Easter Pie

Continued from page 42

difference in your overall health as life goes on. If you encounter any problems along the way, specialists such as Dr. Samy are here to assist.

“I’ve worked with patients from 6 months to 98 years,” Dr. Samy says. “Nothing is as good as your natural hearing, but what we

have been able to do with these devices is amazing.”

LVPG Ear, Nose and Throat-Health & Wellness Center, 50 Moisey Drive, Suite 202, Hazle Township, PA 18202-9297

Need an appointment? Call 888-402LVHN (5846)

Do You Suffer From Chest Pain?

by John Degenhart, DC

So many people who suffer from chest pain are relieved to find out it is not a heart problem. They go to their doctor; he’ll conduct an EMG and then an echocardiogram. They are happy to find out it is not a heart attack. Then they are misdiagnosed that it is a “panic attack”. So they are given anti-anxiety medication. They still have chest pain, feel loopy from the medication, so then they call our office as a last alternative. The patient is at first bewildered by my questions, but eventually their face is flooded with relief as we discuss what might be the cause of their chest pain. Here is what I have seen hundreds of times in my 40 years in helping beautiful patients. When I show them the spine, and tell them they are somehow twisting their spine, which twists their rib cage, which puts pressure on the chest muscles and sternum; they look perplexed. But then when I tell them I have usually seen this is caused by sleeping on their stomach where their neck is twisted to the side to sleep, or sleeping on their side with the arm up above their head, which twists the rib cage. The chest pain is almost always on the same side they sleep, especially if they nap on a couch that sags on their side and it twists their chest cavity. They will ask, “Why didn’t my doctor ask these questions?”

So if you have left chest pain, by all means first call 911 or go to the ER to rule out a heart attack. When those tests are negative, and the doctors guess on maybe a panic attack, that is when you should call our office.

A chest x-ray reveals a twisted thoracic spine and rib cage. As the patient lies on their back, crosses their arms and I put my hand under them as they lay back on my table, their eyes open up as they could hear and feel the twisted spine shifting into place. They will feel relief in a few days, and usually totally free of chest pain in a few visits. Even on the right side also.

So if you have chest pain and your doctor told you that your heart is fine, you are causing it by the position you sleep in. Call us, we’ll gently straighten your spine, change the position of how you sleep and will get you to feel chest-pain free and relieved to get the real cause of your pain.

Protect Yourself from Medicare Fraud Vascular Health with Dr. John Guerriero

(Family Features) More than 65 million people in the United States were enrolled in Medicare as of February 2023, with more people becoming eligible and enrolling each year. Anyone on Medicare is at risk of Medicare-related fraud, and the Medicare program continues to warn people to watch out for scammers who steal Medicare Numbers and other personal information to exploit beneficiaries' benefits.

Broadly speaking, Medicare fraud occurs when someone makes false claims for health care services, procedures and equipment to obtain Medicare payments. Medicare fraud costs taxpayers billions of dollars and puts the health and welfare of beneficiaries at risk.

"Anyone on Medicare can be a target of Medicare fraud," said Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure. "But there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones by using CMS' fraud tips to recognize and report potential scammers. Let's all work together to make sure you're not a victim of Medicare fraud."

How to Spot Medicare Scams - There are many types of Medicare scams, taking the form of unsolicited emails, phone calls, text messages, social media posts and phony websites. Scammers often claim to be from the Medicare office, an insurance company or a government office. They'll ask for your personal and financial information, such as your Medicare or Social Security Number, so that they can submit false claims for payment.

Remember that Medicare will never call, text, email or contact you through social media asking for your Medicare Number.

How to Protect Yourself - You'll also need to know how to protect yourself from potential fraudsters. Remember to:

* Guard your Medicare Number just like your Social Security card and credit card

* Share your Medicare Number only with trusted health care providers

* Review your Medicare statements, watch for services billed that look suspicious and ask questions if something looks wrong

How to Report Scammers - Reporting Medicare fraud protects you and millions of other people with Medicare and those with disabilities. If you or someone you know have experienced Medicare fraud or suspect an offer you've received is a scam, report it as soon as possible.

To learn more about Medicare fraud, visit Medicare.gov/fraud. To report potential Medicare fraud, you can call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc. gov.

Information provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Are you suffering from: Limb Pain, Swelling, Cramping, Difficulty Walking, Numbness, Tingling? Discoloration of Skin, Varicose Veins, Spider Veins, Cellulitis? New or Old Wounds that do not heal? These can be signs of something more serious. Have you been diagnosed with high cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes, coronary artery disease, heart disease, peripheral artery disease? If you've answered "Yes" to any of the above questions you can be at risk for a Stroke, Blood Clots, Aneurysms or even limb loss.

Look no further. NEPA Vascular Institute is here to help you. With over 35 Years of combined vascular experience, we want to get you back to living your best life. Our Institute has knowledge and training to correctly diagnose your problem. We use advanced technology to treat our patients with minimally invasive techniques so you can return to normal activities. In most cases even the same day!

Schedule your appointment today. We offer same day ultrasounds and lab work; all at our convenient locations in Berwick and Wilkes-Barre.

Ask about our additional services that are now being offered such as Percutaneous Arterial Venous Fistula formation for dialysis, Prostate Artery Embolization and Uterine Fibroid Embolization

It is time to take control of your Vascular Health! We want to help! Call us today 570 616 8589. We believe that saving limbs is saving lives.

Trouble Sleeping? Try These Tips To Upgrade Your Sleep Routine

(BPT) - The transition to spring means the beginning of daylight saving time, warmer and longer days, and the emergence of spring allergies while we begin the annual ritual of spring cleaning. This variable weather and increasing daylight can be disruptive to your daily routine and nighttime slumber. In fact, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine has found that seasonal time changes can cause problems with mood, heart health and circadian rhythms. This spring, try these tips to refresh your sleep routine.

1. Get consistent with when you go to sleep and wake up.

Sleep experts agree that children

Continued on page 49

Beverly Hills Housewife and Melanoma

by Stephen Schleicher, MD

I read with interest an online article published by People Magazine titled: After Having 12 Melanomas Removed, Teddi Mellencamp Is Cancer-Free: 'I'm So Grateful We Caught It in Time'. Teddy Mellencamp, besides being a celebrity housewife, is also the daughter of singer/ songwriter John Mellancamp. As we all know, bad things that happen to celebrities usually generate much more publicity than bad things happening to us ordinary people. Ms Mellancamp deserves praise for making public her multiple bouts with skin cancer and the need for early recognition.

Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer which, when caught early, has a very high cure rate. Persons most prone to melanoma are those with fair skin, blond hair, blue eyes, and a history of sunburns and/or indoor tanning. To be safe, no matter what skin type, any skin growth that looks a bit funky is best checked out by a dermatologist.

As for Ms Mellencamp, she was preparing for a jog when her friend cut her short: "She looked at my back and said, 'Listen, I know that I've talked to you about these spots before, but they look different one of them has a black dot in the middle.' ". That spot turned out to be a melanoma and, within short order, she underwent surgery for 11 more skin cancers. Ms Mellencamp has also shared her story with 1 million followers on Instagram. Hopefully, by doing so, lives will be saved.

Testimonial filler

The Scale Is A Liar

by Dr. Candice Dutko, DNP

Many people who seek my services often arrive with a goal weight in mind. Often, especially for women, what goes hand in hand with that is the goal of being more toned and/or defined. Unfortunately, many people have also fallen into the pattern of weighing themselves daily and chasing their desired number. Worse yet, they let that number be a determinant of their happiness with themselves or as a gauge for determining where they are making progress with their efforts or not. In this month’s article, I share with you factors that influence our weight as seen on the scale and address how your scale weight can actually be one of the worst determinants of progress. Let’s first review some of the factors that can influence our weight on the scale each day. One is the need to go to the bathroom. Gotta pee? Gotta poop? Having that additional liquid or solid on board can definitely influence how much you weigh in that moment.

The foods we have eaten recently can also have an impact on how much we weigh day-to-day. Even if you ate the same total calories each day, but perhaps you ate foods that were saltier, or perhaps you ate a greater portion of carbs the day before, it is likely that you will weigh more the following day simply due to water retention. (*Please note, I do not want to lead one to believe that you should not eat carbohydrates. Carbs are a great source of nutrients; however, as their name specifies, they are carbons attached to water molecules). Please understand that it is water-weight, and not necessarily fat. For women, the period of time in relation to their menstrual cycle can also influence the number on the scale. Water retention and bloating is common in the days leading up to the start of the menstrual cycle and subsequently causes you to weigh more. Another reason why you might have an upward fluctuation on the scale is if you recently did a harder than usual workout. With working out, one experiences muscle breakdown and inflammation which again may mean an increase in water/fluid circulating in the body as it repairs and

recovers. This is one reason why rest days and a balanced program are essential to support adequate recovery for your body. Unfortunately, too many people view the scale as the ultimate gauge of their progress in striving to be healthier. Some better signs of progress to reflect on are: improved energy day-to-day, moving better with everyday activities, sleeping better, better able to manage stress, improved digestion, and clothes fitting differently. Upon initiating an exercise program with me and incorporating healthier habits, my clients almost always remark on these changes within their daily lives before they might notice a difference on the scale.

Something I also like to educate people on

Continued on next page

Audiologist Ask

Dr. Shea DeNoia

Q:I spent another weekend with my family feeling isolated because of my hearing loss. It was heartbreaking and I could tell my family was growing weary and frustrated with my requests to repeat themselves or speak up. I am concerned that future gatherings will be the same but am very nervous about spending money on hearing aids. What do you suggest?

A:Hearing loss is a difficult condition because it affects one’s quality of life in so many ways. We lose connections with family and friends and sometimes the stress alone makes a person want to withdraw from life’s activities. Untreated hearing loss has been linked to cognitive decline, loneliness, and many other health conditions. Today’s hearing technologies can help you take your life back. An evaluation with an audiologist can assess your level of hearing loss and determine which type of hearing aid would match your individual needs, as well as budget.

At Ambrose Hearing Center we have technologies for every budget and lifestyle. We are also very sensitive to today’s economic environment and have taken significant steps to help our patients realize the benefits of better hearing. Call us today at 570-622-1435 to schedule an evaluation.

Continued from previous page

is that the body they desire, especially one that is toned or muscular, is likely going to weigh more than they realize. Most often, people believe they are chasing weight loss when in reality, they really desire fat loss. If you weigh the same according to the scale, yet you have increased energy, your clothes are fitting differently or are becoming looser, or you are starting to notice more definition, it is very likely that you are losing fat and increasing your muscle mass…none of which will be reflected in the number that is showing on the scale.

I do want to add that one should not simply ignore the number on the scale. For individuals who are truly overweight/ obese, it is important for their overall health to reduce their actual weight. However, I strongly encourage that one does this in a healthy, sustainable way.

One rule I have for myself is that if I can’t stand on the scale and feel happy about myself regardless of what it says, I don’t step on it. Something that I have done and that works for me, is before I weigh myself, I think of three things I am proud of or happy about. Perhaps I had a good workout week, or my lifts in the gym have been increasing, or I had a wonderful day with my family. If all of that is going well, then why should I allow what the number on the scale is to determine how I feel about myself. The scale weight is but one data point and not the ultimate source of truth.

Going back to my article from last month about focusing on what I can control: I cannot control when/how the weight comes off, but I can control the process that contributes to that.

I’d like to close with a quote from Molly Galbraith of The Girls Gone Strong: “Imagine getting to the end of your life and realizing you spent it consumed with being thinner, leaner, small…with being less of yourself. I’m here to remind you that you were made for so much more than that.” Stop obsessing over that number and instead strive to fall in love with getting stronger and fitter in a way that you enjoy, nourish your body with good foods, and more than likely, your goals will come to fruition.

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. Her gym is located at 80 North Mountain Blvd. in Mountain Top. You can contact her at 570.704.6794 or check out her website at www. achievewellnessandfitness.com

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and adults benefit from consistent bedtimes and wake-up times, including over the weekends. If your routine is irregular, start by establishing target bedtime and wake-up windows and try sticking to them for a full week. Eventually, they will become routine.

2. Use transitional bedding that works with fluctuating temps.

Spring marks the transition from winter to summer, and during this time of year, it's not unusual for parts of the U.S. to experience temperature swings of 50 degrees or more within a single day, according to the National Weather Service. Warming temps mean it's time to put away your heavy bedding in favor of more breathable, cooling options like bamboo sheets and waffle blankets from Bedsure. Moisture-wicking, they help to naturally regulate body temperature so you won't wake up too hot or cold, even when the outside temperatures are unpredictable.

3. Wash bedding to avoid allergens that cause irritation.

Planet warming trends are making spring allergy season longer and more intense, and more adults are starting to suffer from allergy symptoms as a result. Allergens like pollen and dander love to collect in plush surfaces like your bedding and could be causing conditions like itchy nose, scratchy throat and congestion that are disruptive to sleep quality. Washing your bedding weekly in hot water or on the allergen setting can help to prevent a buildup of sleep-stealing allergens.

4. Manage your light intake.

Between the season's increasingly early sunrise and digital screen overload, we are constantly exposed to light sources that may impact our brain's perception of daytime, making it more difficult to fall asleep. Try tools like blackout curtains and sleep eye masks to block out excessive light sources and update the blue light or dark mode features on your screens and mobile devices to limit your intake of blue light before bed.

5. Refresh your bedroom style.

Make sure your bedroom is an inviting place for sleeping. Minimize clutter and look for bedding that

incorporates soothing patterns and calming colors like neutral tones, grays, greens and blues. Reversible duvet cover sets like a vibrant spring green option from Bedsure deliver two styles in one to match your mood and bring a sense of calm to your sleep

sanctuary.

Don't let the arrival of spring get in the way of quality sleep. With the right bedding and a few tweaks to your daily routine, you'll be waking up with a proverbial spring in your step in no time, ready to conquer the day.

Is Your Air Conditioner Ready For Summer?

By the HVAC Experts at S.J. Kowalski

Summer weather is just around the corner. Many homeowners are worried about planning a nice summer vacation for their family and getting their swimming pool ready for the warm weather. While these are great things to look forward to, you’ll need to start thinking about the basics. Your comfort level inside your home during the hot summer months heavily relies on your air conditioning system. It needs to be properly maintained for the summer season ahead. Don’t wait until that first sweltering heatwave hits to check on the performance of your air conditioner.

Preparing your air conditioner for summer ensures everything is ready to go when you need it. If you do it early, you’ll have time to handle repairs and you’ll be able to avoid uncomfortable days without air conditioning. You don’t have to have an HVAC technician check your AC before using it, but you should have your HVAC system serviced professionally at least once a year. That service could coincide with the start of the summer AC season. It is recommended to have your HVAC system serviced twice a year for optimum efficiency and peak performance, once before the cooling season and once before the heating season.

There are a few things you can do before you turn your air conditioner on for the first time when the temperatures rise.

The best thing a homeowner can do is make sure the filter is changed regularly. Every home HVAC system has at least one air filter that needs to be changed on a regular basis. The job of this filter is to trap unwanted airborne pollutants, such as dust, pet hair and dander, so that they aren’t floating around in your home. Over time the air filter will trap these airborne pollutants and will block the filter. Take a moment to pop out the existing air filter and hold it up to the light. If you can see through the filter, it has some life left in it. However, if you can’t see through the filter, then it’s time to replace it with a new one. The second thing you can do is check the outdoor unit to remove leaves, branches, plants and other debris that accumulated around it over the winter. This will allow for proper airflow.

Call S.J.Kowalski, Inc. TODAY at 570-455-2600 to schedule your annual air conditioning maintenance to ensure you will be cool and comfortable when the temperatures rise.

If your HVAC system is past its prime and not as efficient as it once was, now might be a good time to think about replacing it with a more efficient upgraded system. Did you know you can receive up to $3,200 annually in federal income tax credits and incentives for energy efficient upgrades in your home?

Call the HVAC experts TODAY at 570-455-2600 for a free in home evaluation and estimate on an upgraded energy efficient HVAC system.

Award-Winning Outdoor Space Inspiration

(Family Features) Renovating your home's outdoor spaces not only enhances the aesthetic but can also provide a host of recreational benefits. Taking a look at award-winning projects can help many homeowners draw inspiration while also identifying capable, reputable contractors to take on the project.

For example, selected by a panel of industry experts based on functionality, aesthetics, craftsmanship, innovation and degree of difficulty, these 2021 National Association of the Remodeling Industry National Contractor of the Year (CotY) Award Winners showcase a variety of ideas for upgrading your outdoor spaces. Find the complete list at nari.org/cotywinners.

Residential Landscape Design/ Outdoor Living Under $100,000

The clients wanted to upgrade a poorly draining, impractical backyard into an attractive, functional outdoor entertainment space that flowed from the renovated basement. The project included an outdoor area for entertaining, outdoor kitchen, spacious patio with a custom concrete fire pit, oversized ceiling fans, ample storage and landscaping complete with native plants around the perimeter.

"By working on this project, we learned how important it is to take a holistic look at what clients are trying to accomplish with their renovations," said Thomas Boyce, president of Boyce Design & Contracting. "Often with outdoor living projects, designers and contractors look at the exterior of the home in

isolation. We learned to look at how the interior and exterior of the home connect to each other to make sure the features and floor plan flow and work well together. By taking this approach, we were able to achieve a better finished product that is more functional and attractive for our clients."

Residential Landscape Design/Outdoor Living $100,000-$250,000

A young, active family was looking to create a distinct outdoor living space with multiple entertainment spaces that tied in with the existing aesthetic and elevated the home amongst its neighbors. The low-maintenance backyard now features an outdoor dining area, sunken living room, entertainment area and additional storage space built with the home's current architectural features while also maintaining a large enough yard for the kids and their friends to play. "The aesthetic of the outdoor areas was designed not only for function but also to reflect the interiors and keep the inside-outside living feeling continuous," said Tim Johnson, owner and founder of Livit Site + Structure. "For example, the shiplap used on the fire table is the same shiplap featured inside the home. Likewise, the Douglas fir timbers used on the pergola are the same as the interior ceiling beams."

Residential Landscape Design/Outdoor Living Over $250,000

A 4,000-square-foot project built at four different elevations, this client wanted to include a safe way to move from the upper level to the backyard without coming through the house, a structure for shade and protection from mosquitoes and a pool with features that reflected the home. Adding a covered screen room with individually controlled wall panels, see-through fireplace, fountain, pool with sheer descent waterfalls, recycled rock walls and staircase from the upper elevation while enclosing it all within a stone wall met those expectations. "A sound piece of advice for anyone building anything in the backyard: get a plan," said Ken DePratt, owner of KD Poolscapes, Ltd. "Have it match your expectations list. Then, and only then, will you know if it matches your budget. We would recommend doing your research when taking on a pool project of any size. It's hard to push that hole around once it's dug."

Budget-Friendly Ideas To Boost Curb Appeal

(Family Features) Your home's first big impression is its curb appeal, so if your place is in need of some sprucing up, you may wonder how you can make some updates without breaking the bank.

These 10 ideas are easy on budgets, but they can also make a big impact on your home's exterior image.

1. Paint your front door. As long as your front door is in good condition, there's no need to replace it completely. A fresh coat of paint can instantly update your home's facade. Go bold or stick with a classic hueit's all up to you.

2. Dress up the windows. Add character and charm by enhancing your front windows. You might add wooden shutters, window box planters or both. Also look at the trim around the windows. If it's chipped and peeling, adding a fresh coat of paint doesn't just look nice, it can protect your windows from damage, too.

3. Clean up flower beds. An unkempt flower bed can drag down an otherwise stunning home. Keep beds tidy and vegetation trimmed, even during the offseason. Watch for weeds and replenish mulch or rock ground cover as needed to keep the beds looking healthy and inviting.

4. Install new lighting. Replacing outdated light fixtures can give your exterior an instant upgrade. There's no right or wrong style; just choose a color and look that matches the rest of your design.

5. Replace worn welcome mats. A cheerful mat at your front door can be an inviting sight for visitors, but those mats inevitably wear with time, and what was

once bright and charming becomes dingy and dull. A new mat can help bring back that cheery entry you once cherished.

6. Pressure wash the drive and walk. Over time, driveways and sidewalks collect an incredible amount of grime. Pressure washing not only eliminates the filth, but the clean surfaces also add to your home's visual appeal.

7. Add new vegetation. Landscaping is a relatively inexpensive way to introduce more personality to a yard. Aim for a mix of pretty and practical, such as some low flowering bushes and some trees or bushes that offer privacy and shade.

8. Keep up with basic maintenance. When your home is in poor repair, it shows. Pay attention to bent or rusting gutters, imperfections in the roof and other maintenance matters that aren't just aesthetic; left unrepaired, they can also result in major damage.

9. Pay attention to details. Functional items like the mailbox might not seem like much of a design element, but these small details can be a big distraction if they're not in good condition. Update or replace as needed to keep your aesthetic in sync.

10. Add seasonal decor. There's no need to go all out for every occasion, but some timely decorations that celebrate the holiday or season can make your entry fun and festive. Coordinate wreaths, planters, signs and other accent pieces for a cohesive look that says, "come on in."

Find more affordable ideas for upgrading your home and garden at eLivingtoday.com.

Why Is The Proper Engine Coolant Important?

By Thomas R. Buff

Engine cooling system failure and overheating is one of the top reasons for breakdowns on the road. The majority of motorists do not give engine coolant a second thought. Coolant or antifreeze is another one of the forgotten fluids, only checked when the engine light is illuminated or when it is time for service. However, engine coolant is vital to engine longevity and performance. It not keeps your engine at the proper operating temperature but it also lowers the freezing point of the cooling system, protects the system from rust and corrosion and it raises the boiling point of the cooling system. The cooling system is the lifeblood of the engine and the majority of components have remained the same for many years. But the coolant has changed in its composition and

functions. The green coolant that was most common in all vehicles can now ruin your engine. Today there are three different types of coolants that are most used and required in today’s engines. IAT or Inorganic Additive Technology is the standard green coolant that has been used for many years. It is very harmful to the environment and also very corrosive to the vital engine components and materials used in todays engines. The additives in this type of coolant break down very quickly so it needed to be replaced at least every two years. It is uncommon to see this type of coolant used today.

Organic Acid Technology or OAT coolants are now used in many of todays vehicles. It can be colored red, orange, purple or yellow. This type of coolant has many additives incorporated that work to limit corrosives and chemical breakdown of the coolant. It is considered an extended life coolant. This coolant which is standard in many of today’s vehicles will provide protection for up to five years or 50,000 miles. It is required and if mixed or replaced with the wrong coolant will void the warranty of the vehicle. The most common type of OAT coolant is called Dex Cool which is orange. General Motors and VW products utilize Dex

Cool. Many diesel applications utilize this type of coolant as it contains less nitrates that are very corrosive.

Hybrid Organic Acid Technology or HOAT is another type of coolant used an is most commonly orange or yellow. This coolant is a combination of the OAT and IAT formulations. It uses a mixture of chemicals to combat corrosion. It is also good for five years or 50,000 miles. Ford, Chrysler and many European cars commonly use HOAT technology.

What is important to remember is that older car engines used mostly brass, rubber and iron parts. These components were almost indestructible and not as easily corroded or broken down by the coolant. Today copper, nylon, aluminum and magnesium are used in many components. The coolant is a big factor concerning additives used today to protect your engine. There are many types and colors of coolant today. Always check with your manufactures specific requirement for what type is needed for your car or truck. Happy Motoring.

How One Industry Leader Is Changing The Way Tires Are Recycled

(BPT) - We rely on tires every day to get from Point A to Point B. While you may not think about tires until it's time to replace them, you can go to work, run errands and visit friends and family near and far because of tires. But what happens to your tires when it is time to replace them?

Most used tires end up in waste dumps and some are even destroyed and burned at end-of-life. According to Tire Review, when tires break down in a landfill, chemicals can leech and contaminate the surrounding ground and water. Also, when stockpiled, tire piles catch water, creating breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other disease-carrying insects. Tires that are burned or accidentally catch fire can burn for several days and emit dangerous smoke with high levels of pollutants.

The tire industry is aware of the issues that end-of-life tires can cause when improperly disposed and wants to find ways to mitigate the environmental impact of their products. That's why many industry leaders are creating better ways to recycle tires while decarbonizing the industry.

One such leader, American Tire Distributors (ATD), is committed to finding better uses for used tires. According to the company, 235 million tires are produced every year, and today 17% of used tires are sent to landfills. While that may not sound like a lot - and shows an improvement compared to previous decades - 17% year after year adds up.

To create a more sustainable business solution helping tire retailers, communities and the environment, ATD has built a

recycling initiative that uses a holistic approach - picking up retailers' scrap tires while delivering new tires.

Partnering to increase tire recycling

Finding the right recycling partners is integral to the company's recycling initiative. These recyclers need to be able to identify end-of-life uses that create material re-use. Scrap tires picked up by ATD are not allowed to re-enter the market as used tires. By sending scrap tires to the right end-use, ATD and their partners can create net positive outcomes.

Last year, the company launched its tire recycling program at two of its distribution centers (DCs). Today, Tire Recycling is live in 42 DCs and is serving more than 40 customers out of almost 100 locations. This tire distributor has made it easy for retailers to participate in this recycling program. Participating retailers no longer have excess scrap tires piled up. ATD's tire collection system allows drivers to collect scrap tires along their route, segregate old and new tires in the delivery trucks and return to the DCs with a full load for recycling on the back leg of their route.

Tire recycling for a better tomorrow

ATD has launched its tire recycling program in more than 20 markets and is adding more every month. During the first nine months, ATD's tire recycling has resulted in moving more than 65,000 scrap tires.

ATD tracks greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across operations utilizing their specialized emissions platform. With this platform, ATD measures its reductions

as the company works toward a 25% reduction in GHG within operations. Through the ATD Tire Recycling program, ATD has made it possible to avoid approximately 640 MT of CO2e in GHG emissions.

This recycling plan has the potential to increase vehicle safety by getting used tires off the road, increasing tire circularity by supplying raw materials for new tires and, most importantly, getting scrap tires to the right place as efficiently as possible. To learn more about ATD, visit www. atd.com.