Pocono Family Magazine - Mar/Apr 2024 by Pocono Magazines

Pocono Family The Pocono Mountains' Magazines

M A G A Z I N E

• March/April 2024 •

Complimentary

LEADING SHOT Photo courtesy of Kim Detrick 2 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2024

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POCONO MAGAZINES

Pocono Magazines, LLC PUBLISHING

Pocono Living Magazine© & Pocono Family Magazine© 1929 North 5th Street Stroudsburg, PA 18360 570-424-1000 pmags@ptd.net www.poconomagazines.com PUBLISHER/EDITOR Larry R. Sebring larry@poconomagazines.com ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVES larry@poconomagazines.com MAGAZINE & WEB DESIGN Smart Blonde Creative Food & Wine Editor Jamie Marra PHOTOGRAPHY & ART John Anzivino Gayle C. Brooke Ray Caswell Pat Coyle Randall FitzGerald Ashley Hall Maurice Harmon Susan Hartman Marlana Holsten Ann H. LeFevre

Barbara Lewis Marie Liu Harry Loud Regina Matarazzo Janet Mishkin John L. Moore Michael Murphy Justine Nearhood Roseanna Santaniello Tom Stone

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kimberly Blaker Roseanne Bottone Kathy Dubin-Uhler Sandra Gordon Tanni Haas Rebecca Hasting Amanda Kuhn Amy Leiser Marie Liu

Sara Lyons Jamie Marra Suzanne McCool Janet Mishkin John L. Moore Allison Mowatt Jim Werkheiser Kim Williams Marty Wilson

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANTS Kristen Sebring Linda Spalluto

PROUD MEMBERS OF

Pocono Living Magazine and Pocono Family Magazine, two regional publications filled with articles, features and photography exploring and capturing the real Pocono Mountains living experience. Our publications can be found at many locations throughout the Pocono Mountains region, and are available by subscription.

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The information published in this magazine is believed to be accurate, but in some instances, may represent opinion or judgment. The publication’s providers do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any information and shall not be held liable for any loss or damage, directly or indirectly, by or from the information.© 2023 Pocono Magazines. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be copied, reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the expressed written permission of the publisher.

WHAT’S INSID

WHAT’S INSIDE FAMILY 6 8 10

• Good Deeds • Day Care Success • Helping Families Thrive

OUTDOOR 12

• Those Who Live Fishing

HEALTH 14 16

28 30

• Metabolic Health • When Your Kids Are Stressed

PET

• Fur-Tastic Fabric Care

HOME

• Building Your Dream Home

FOOD

• Easter Dip Goodness • Creative Easter Sweets

LAWN & GARDEN 34 38

TRAVEL 40

• Take Back Your Free Time • Choosing Gardening Tools

• Vacation Like A Pro

EDUCATION • Career Ready

55+

• Reduce COPD Risk

EVENTS

• In & Around the Poconos MARCH/APRIL 2024 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 5

Family

Photo Courtesy of Shutterstock

"April is National Volunteer Month, a great occasion to teach your kids the value of caring for the community in which they live."

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Good Deeds WAYS YOUR KIDS CAN MAKE THE COMMUNITY A BETTER PLACE FOR EVERYONE

By Tanni Haas, Ph.D.

pril is National Volunteer Month, a great occasion to teach your kids the value of caring for the community in which they live, especially those community members who can’t care as well for themselves. Here are 20 practical suggestions on what they can do: • Visit sick kids at the hospital. This is a wonderful gesture during the holidays or school breaks where everyone else is having fun.

• Organize a back-to-school supplies drive for kids whose families have fallen on hard times. • Contact a school to see if they need a homework tutor for its after-school program. Sometimes, kids can explain things to other kids in a way that’s more relatable and makes more sense than adults. • Help care for the animals at the animal shelter. There’s nothing like giving a little love to an abandoned dog or cat.

• Donate clothing and food to a homeless shelter. That will teach your kids the value of giving to those much less fortunate than themselves.

• Organize a community get-together at the community center. This could be a movie screening, a dance, or a group activity that encourages collaboration and bonding.

• Help senior citizens learn to use technology, like how to search the internet, send emails, and navigate their smartphones, so they can better communicate with family and friends.

• Donate books such as textbooks and test prep manuals to local schools.

• Offer to paint a less well-maintained house in the neighborhood. There’s always that one house that could use some sprucing up. • Help coach a sports team with younger kids. This can be any sport they are good at or just like playing. • Assist senior citizens by helping them with their groceries or running errands around town. • Ask the library if they need tutors for younger kids in reading, writing, and basic math. • Volunteer for a clean-up day at a park. It’s needed in many places and a lot of fun to do, too. • Help out at charity shops. These shops rely on volunteers and can always use another helping hand. • Visit the residents at a nursing home or assisted living facility. Many residents get less visits from family and friends than most people realize.

• Walk the dogs for neighbors who are injured, sick or otherwise unable to exercise their pets with daily outdoor walks. • Help out at a community garden planting flowers, vegetables, weeding, watering or just helping with upkeep and maintenance. Volunteer at a soup kitchen. Many people do this at Thanksgiving or during the holidays, but the need is there all year round. • Read books or newspapers to the visually impaired. Help senior citizens with seasonal tasks like raking leaves in the fall, shoveling snow in the winter, or mowing the grass in the summer.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences & Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College. MARCH/APRIL 2024 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 7

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

Set Children Up for Day Care Success WAYS PARENTS CAN PREP LITTLE ONES FOR CHILD CARE Long days of school, first trips to day care or even a return from a period of at-home care can be difficult or downright nervewracking for parents and children alike. This new adventure can bring challenges from keeping children healthy to supporting their nutrition and more. Sending a little one to day care can even result in maternal separation anxiety. To help alleviate some of the anxiety and parental concerns, the childhood nutrition experts at Gerber teamed up with Dr. Whitney Casares – a board-certified practicing pediatrician and creator of “Modern Mommy Doc” – to share these tips for families preparing their little ones for child care. 8 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2024

Keep Important Factors Top of Mind As part of appreciating the milestone of the first time at day care, Casares encourages parents to remember that, while daunting, day care means new experiences, new friends and opportunities for growth, fun and healthy development. As part of the transition, she suggests paying attention to critical factors like sleep, nutrition, illness prevention and emotional development.

Support Their Immune Systems Offer little ones a diverse array of nutritious foods during the transition to day care. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole

grains is essential for building immune systems. Additionally, iron-rich foods like iron-fortified baby cereals, eggs, beans and meat are critical for a strong body. Caregivers should frequently wash hands and focus on good sleep hygiene.

Put Nutrition on the Menu When packing lunch boxes for a day of care, it’s important to keep nutrition in mind. Once children transition to finger foods, Casares recommends snacks from Gerber like Peach Puffs, Fruit and Veggie Melts and Wonderfoods Superfood Hearts, which come in a variety of flavors and include vital nutrients to optimize health.

Be Prepared for Separation Anxiety Not all infants and toddlers experience separation anxiety, but many can, so it’s good to be prepared. Casares encourages parents to pack a familiar swaddle blanket in infants’ diaper bags to help ease those anxieties. Some toddlers benefit from having a beloved stuffed animal or blanket with them. Try introducing these transitional objects to little ones early so they smell and feel familiar when drop-off comes around.

Pack the Essentials While nutritious foods, like Gerber Fruit and Veggie Pouch Blends, are certainly near the top of the list, there are plenty of other essentials to pack for each day. Don’t forget to add breast milk or formula, bottles and extra nipples alongside snacks and meals. Also remember to pack extra sets of clothes, diapers, wipes and those anxiety-soothing must-haves like blankets and stuffed animals.

Prepare for Appetite Changes It’s common for children’s appetites to decrease during their first few days of child care as they may eat a little less while growing accustomed to their new environment and surroundings. There’s no need to worry – parents can adapt to these changes by understanding they’re often a natural part of the transition. While you may find little ones are hungrier before and after day care, this behavior should ease over time. If it doesn’t, schedule an appointment with your pediatrician to be sure babies stay on track. To find more childhood nutrition advice, visit Gerber.com.

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Courtesy of Family Features MARCH/APRIL 2024 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 9

Helping

INFANTS, TODDLERS & FAMILIES

Thrive A bipartisan package that recently passed in the U.S. House of Representatives, would expand the child tax credit (CTC). As the Senate decides whether to follow suit, advocates press that the CTC is a critical policy vehicle to help all infants, toddlers and their families thrive, and it should be implemented as soon as possible.

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“Uplifting children out of poverty gives them better chances in life, so it’s critical that families advocate for CTCs, as well as understand how they work,” says Jacob Pinney-Johnson, trainer with the Early Childhood Investment Corporations, National Center for Family and Parent. “For families like mine that have struggled to make ends meet, a child tax credit will make all the difference in helping them feed, clothe and house their child.” Studies show that inadequate housing, food insecurity and familial stress during the first three years of a child’s life pose risks to their rapidly developing brain and body. These effects can have longlasting impacts, impairing their ability to be healthy and thrive in adulthood. If the House version of the federal CTC goes fully into effect,

roughly 16 million children under age 17 will benefit in the first year, including nearly 3 million infants and toddlers, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. While more modest than the 2021 credit, the measure would lift hundreds of thousands of children above the poverty line in the first year, and include further increases in 2025, along with inflation adjustments in future years. “For families like mine that have struggled to make ends meet, a child tax credit will make all the difference in helping them feed, clothe and house their child.”

Photo Courtesy of (c) nd3000 / iStock via Getty Images Plus

Given these figures, it’s no surprise that the measure is popular with parents across the political spectrum. In a November 2022 poll by the nonprofit Zero to Three, an overwhelming 85% of parents said it’s important for Congress to reinstate Child Tax Credit reforms. The National Collaborative for Infants & Toddlers, or NCIT, an education and advocacy movement committed to ensuring that children prenatal to 3 years old and their families have what they need to thrive, along with thousands of aligned organizations, is supporting strong CTCs that don’t simultaneously exclude many families with onerous restrictions. To learn more, visit www.ncit. org/CTC. Advocate stress that federal CTCs are critical, but state governments have a role as well. States can institute their own CTCs to help infants, toddlers and their families thrive now. Courtesy of StatePoint MARCH/APRIL 2024 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 11

Photo Courtesy of Brand Point

Outdoor

GIFT IDEAS FOR THOSE WHO LOVE FISHING These 10 incredible gift ideas will surely bring a smile to your favorite angler.

1. Clean a mess of fish fast - Every now and then, some

anglers like to keep their catch for a nice shore lunch or dinner. It sounds fun, until you face the messy job of cleaning fish. Not anymore! High-quality, heavy-duty lithium electric fillet knives make fast work of fish cleaning, and they're great for other meats, too.

2. Protection from the sun - If your favorite angler spends

a lot of time in the sun - on a boat, in a kayak, or fishing from a pier or shore, they need to be covered up to protect their skin 12 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2024

from the harmful effects of UV rays. Hooded shirts designed for anglers of all ages are great looking, provide moisture-wicking performance, and offer UPF 50+ UV sun protection along with moisture-wicking performance.

3. Warm and dry - If you put your time in on the water

fishing, eventually, you're going to get wet. It's not a matter of if, it's just a matter of when. Having a reliable rain jacket and bibs designed for extreme conditions by the nation's top anglers is essential if you're going to spend time on the water.

4. Fish like a pro bass angler - For anglers who want to

fish what the pros fish, consider a fishing lure actually created

by one of the top bass fishing pros in the nation, Bassmaster Classic champion Ott DeFoe. Designed in DeFoe's garage, the Rapala OG Rocco is a buoyant, round balsa bait with a square circuit board lip that has been proven in the nation's top bass tournaments.

5. No more fish "tales" - No doubt, you've heard the stories

Hunting

about "the big one." And each year, the big one gets a little bigger. Keep your favorite angler honest with a 50 lb. Touch Screen Fish Scale designed for anglers. It's easy to use to weigh and track one's catch.

Fishing

Camping

" Having a reliable rain jacket and bibs designed for extreme conditions by the nation's top anglers is essential"

6. Keep your angler warm - A lot of anglers like to get up early to start fishing. Keep your angler warm and cozy with a thick, soft hoodie that's perfect for those crisp, cool mornings. 7. Get organized - Is your angler kind of disorganized? Lures and tools all over the boat, in the garage, or in the ice fishing house? The SmartHub system by Rapala helps anglers get more organized, which means more time fishing.

8. Tools to get the job done right - Pliers, scissors, forceps,

knife sharpener, clippers, hook sharpener, lantern. For anglers to stay on top of their game, they need some essential, high-quality tools to keep their gear in tip-top shape, as well as tools that can stand up to the elements, in freshwater or saltwater.

9. Smaller ideas - Looking for some less expensive (under

$25) gift ideas? How about a speaker to listen to some tunes? A fish counter? A deck of cards or a stocking cap? Or, the world's all-time best-selling fishing lure?

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10. Ice trolling - And lastly, if you live in the Ice Belt of the

country and enjoy ice fishing, here's a seriously good gift idea that will save you lots of time and is good for the environment. Serious ice anglers drill lots of holes, and to accomplish that, they need a proven, electric ice auger and drill that gets the job done fast. It's called ice trolling. We recommend the StrikeMaster Lithium 40V auger and Lite-Flite Lazer™ Drill Unit to get to walleye, crappie, bluegill, and pike during hardwater season. Courtesy of Brand Point

585 Main Street • Stroudsburg PA • 570-421-7950 MARCH/APRIL 2024 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 13

Photo Courtesy of (c) Sanja Radin / iStock via Getty Images Plus

Health

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Tips to Support Your Metabolic Health ood metabolic health is the backbone of great overall health. Unfortunately, many Americans misunderstand what metabolic health is and are not aware of its importance.

A recent poll from Metavo/Harris Poll Study reveals that nearly three in four North Americans have experienced at least one issue related to metabolic health in the past year, while only 52% have heard, read or seen information on metabolic health issues. What’s more, only 30% of North Americans know that metabolic health is not the same as gut health, and many falsely believe that metabolic issues mostly occur in those who are overweight. “This knowledge gap plays a factor in why many health issues related to metabolic health"

“This knowledge gap plays a factor in why many health issues related to metabolic health, such as brain fog, food cravings and energy slumps, often go unaddressed,” says Dr. Paul Spagnuolo, associate professor in the Department of Food Science at the University of Guelph, whose research includes finding new ways for people to proactively support their metabolic health. Issues related to metabolic health can take a toll on your mental wellbeing, your ability to perform your job, and even your social life and personal relationships, making it critical to nip them in the bud. To improve your metabolic health and feel your best, consider these tips:

• Get active. Whether you’re hitting up the gym for a weight

training session or simply going for a longer walk during your day, daily physical activity is recommended to support your metabolic health. Find activities, daily movement and workouts you enjoy and stick with them.

• Prioritize proper sleep. Maintaining proper sleeping habits

• Fuel often. Fueling more frequently can boost your

metabolism. Being sure to eat smaller portions at regular, consistent times every day and drinking plenty of water can also help improve metabolic health. Set alerts on your phone, or even use a hydration app, to help you remember to drink up.

• Explore supplements. Consider taking a daily supplement designed to support metabolic health and activate metabolism naturally, like Metavo. Featuring the proprietary avocado compound Avocatin B, also known as AvoB, Metavo Advanced Glucose Metabolism Support activates your metabolism naturally at the cellular level. “Having a flexible metabolism at the cellular level enables the body to properly metabolize fats, proteins and carbs to help improve insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance and energy,” says Dr. Spagnuolo, whose research led to the development of Metavo. The brand also carries Metavo Advanced Weight Support, a supplement featuring clinically proven ingredients that help burn fat, support weight loss, and provide increased energy, as well as Metavo Advanced Weight Support Meal Replacement Powders, which are designed to be the perfect “metabolic” meal, with 20 grams of complete protein and whole food vitamins and minerals. These supplements can complement GLP-1, or other medications that treat obesity and diabetes. Plus, there is Metavo Glucose Metabolism Support with Berberine, which targets metabolic inflexibility to increase insulin sensitivity, support healthy glucose metabolism, cardiovascular support and more. To learn more, visit www. metavo.com. When it comes to metabolic health, consistency is key. Make physical activity, healthy eating, proper sleep and the right supplements a regular part of your routine. Courtesy of StatePoint

can help to keep your insulin and hormone levels balanced.

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What To Do When Your Kids Are Stressed

Photo Courtesy of Shutterstock

By Tanni Haas, Ph.D.

MARCH/APRIL 2024 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 17

Listen To Your Kids: What’s Going On? How Are They Feeling? It’s important to sit your kids down and ask them what’s going on and how they are feeling. Listen calmly and nonjudgmentally to what they have to say. “Children learn (and take cues) from the adults around them,” says child psychologist Dr. Lyn O’Grady, “so it’s important for adults to be mindful of how they approach stressful situations.” If you overreact to what they are telling you, they most likely will overreact, too. But if you stay calm and collected, you will have a much easier time helping them cope with whatever it is they are dealing with. As clinical psychologist Dr. Barbara Greenberg succinctly puts it, “No child wants to talk to a parent who is losing her cool.” Child psychotherapist Katie Hurley, the author of The Happy Kids Handbook, says that “knowing that you will listen and help them empowers them to work through their stress, instead of stuffing it down and potentially making it worse.” Remember that your kids are not looking for you to solve all of their problems once and for all. Rather, they are looking for you to truly listen to them as a way for them to work through their problems on their own. “Sometimes,” says child psychologist Dr. Jamie Howard, “parents avoid having conversations with kids because they’re worried they won’t say the right thing or they won’t know how to answer their questions.” But the truth is that there is no such thing as the one right answer. The only wrong thing is failing to make yourself available to your kids when they need you the most.

Reassure Your Kids That They Are Strong and Capable Listening to your kids is an important first step, but you also need to reassure them that they are strong and capable of coping with whatever it is that’s stressing them out. Experts agree that you should try to convince your kids that it’s better to confront their stressors head on than to shy away from 18 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2024

them. “If a child faces his or her fears,” says professor of child psychology Dr. Amy Przeworski, “the child will learn that the anxiety reduces naturally over time.” Dr. Przeworski says that it’s also important to cultivate as positive outlook as possible since stressed kids have a tendency to get lost in negative thoughts and self-criticism: “They may focus on how the glass is half empty instead of half-full and worry about future events. The more that you are able to focus on your child’s positive attributes and the good aspects of a situation, the more that will remind your child to focus on the positives.” It’s useful to give your kids some perspective by reminding them of how they dealt with similar situations in the past which turned out all right. When confronted by a stressful situation, it’s easy for kids and adults like to lose perspective and forget the previous times they confronted a similar situation and that the outcome was not so bad after all.

Photo Courtesy of luis pacheco from Pixabay

April is Stress Awareness Month, a great occasion to consider what to do when your kids complain about being really stressed. How do you help them cope with it? Experts agree on the following points:

Help Your Kids Experiment With Various Coping Techniques Once your kids are reassured that they are truly capable of handling stressful situations, try to experiment with various coping techniques. A one-size-fits-all strategy for dealing with stress doesn’t exist, but certain time-tested techniques have proven effective.

"The more that you are able to focus on your child’s positive attributes and the good aspects of a situation, the more that will remind your child to focus on the positives.”

One useful coping technique is to have your kids write down what’s causing them to be stressed. It teaches them to articulate what’s bothering them instead of bottling it up, and it helps them work through the problem and what to do about it. Mrs. Hurley suggests that they write down their stressors “on a piece of paper, read them to you, and then tear them up and throw them away for the night. This helps kids say their worries out loud and let go of them.” Another useful coping technique is to aim for balance in your kids’ lives. Instead of insisting that your kids do well at school at all costs, emphasize that to be happy and stress-free, kids also need time for play and physical exercise. Dr. Greenberg suggests that parents sit down with their kids “and come up with a well-balanced schedule that includes all three of these important aspects of life.” When engaged in play or physical exercise, kids have the time to let their minds be free to come up with creative solutions to their sources of stress.

Make Sure Your Kids’ Physical Needs Are Met Finally, make sure your kids’ physical needs are met. As Dr. Greenberg puts it, “none of us at any age can deal with pressure effectively if we’re exhausted and hungry.” This last piece of advice applies to you as much as it does to your kids. If you are not well-rested and satisfied, you won’t be able to listen to and support your kids as much as you need to, since your mind and body will be focused on other things.

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570-421-2977 Adjusting to the Flow of Health MARCH/APRIL 2024 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 19

Pet

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Fur-tastic fabric care:

Photo Courtesy of Brand Point

Top do's and don'ts for pet-friendly homes

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Photo Courtesy of Fale Llorente Almansa from Pixabay

Being a pet parent is a joy and privilege. Every day, you have a friendly, four-legged companion who's just as happy to join you on walks and hikes as they are to relax with you on the couch. However, having a pet also comes with some unique challenges, especially when it comes to fabric care. Pet stains, hair and odors can be tough on your clothing, bedding and furniture. However, with some preparation and tips, you can easily keep your fabrics clean and fresh, even if your furry family member has an accident. Check out these five do's and don'ts of fabric care for pet owners.

1. Do rotate pet bedding and blankets If you have pet bedding - like removable, machine-washable pet bed covers or designated pet blankets - or removable furniture

covers, they can quickly get dirty with pet hair, oils and any soil your pet may track in from outside. Make sure to regularly wash and rotate these items to prevent odors and bacteria buildup. Ideally, you should do this once a week. Make it easier on yourself by having a couple sets of bedding and blankets so you can remove and launder one set while using another.

2. Don't wait to wash Pet parents know that accidents happen. While you can't control unexpected pet messes, you can act right away. As soon as you notice dirty paw prints, urine or other accidents, treat and wash the fabric right away to prevent any stains and control odors. Make sure to invest in a pet-safe stain remover that's gentle on fabrics.

" Being a pet parent is a joy and privilege. Every day, you have a friendly, four-legged companion who's just as happy to join you" 22 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2024

3. Do use fabric conditioner designed for pet parents Laundry detergent alone may not be enough to protect your fabrics in a pet-friendly home. Try using a liquid fabric conditioner like Suavitel® Shed Shield, specifically formulated for pet parents who want to win the fight against fur. It fights pet odors* and repels pet hair** while keeping the clothes you love irresistibly soft and fresh. Best of all, it lets you focus on your furry friends' love and companionship and worry less about fur sticking to your clothing. To learn more, visit Suavitel.com. *versus detergent alone, against wet dog and cat urine odors, tested on cotton and cotton-polyester fabrics **versus detergent alone

4. Don't wash with regular laundry It may seem logical and convenient to simply throw pet-soiled fabrics in the wash with your other dirty items, but it's not a good idea. Make sure to always wash your pet's bedding and blankets, as well as any fabrics with pet stains and hair, separately from your regular laundry. Doing so prevents pet odor and bacteria from contaminating your regular laundry.

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5. Do use lint rollers and fabric brushes Lint rollers and fabric brushes are handy tools that quickly remove pet hair, lint and other debris from your upholstery. Consider buying a few and storing them throughout the house. For example, keep one in the living room, bedroom and foyer so you can remove pet hair as soon as you see it to keep your upholstery looking and feeling fresh. You don't have to choose between clean, fresh fabrics and a pet-friendly home. Using these five tips, you can easily care for and maintain your clothing and home fabrics for you and your fur babies. Courtesy of Brand Point

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Photos courtesy of Laurey Glenn and Paragon Building Group

Home

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BUILDING YOUR DREAM HOME

Anytime, Anywhere F

or most homebuyers, their dream homes are not something they’re likely to find already on the market. With a unique vision of your dream home’s look, location and features, building a custom home is generally the easiest way to make that dream a reality. To keep things moving as smoothly as possible amid what can be a complicated process, consider these tips as you embark on the journey.

SET A REALISTIC BUDGET You’ll need to start by determining how much you can spend on your house. Typically, the cost of building a home is around $100-$200 per square foot, according to research from HomeAdvisor. You’ll also need to account for the lot price as well as design fees, taxes, permits, materials and labor. Materials and labor should make up about 75% of the total amount spent, but it’s wise to build in a buffer for price changes and overages. While building your budget, consider what items and features are “must-haves” and things that should only be included if your budget allows.

IDENTIFY THE PERFECT LOCATION Think about where you’d like to live and research comparable lots and properties in those areas, which can give you a better idea of costs. Because the features of many dream homes require a wider footprint, you may need to build outside of city limits, which can make natural gas more difficult to access. Consider propane instead, which can do everything natural gas can and go where natural gas cannot or where it is cost prohibitive to run a natural gas line. Propane also reduces dependence on the electrical grid, and a propane standby generator can safeguard your family if there is a power outage.

“As a real estate agent and builder, I have the pleasure of helping families select their dream homes,” said Matt Blashaw, residential contractor, licensed real estate agent and host of HGTV’s “Build it Forward.” “The homes we design and build are frequently in propane country, or off the natural gas grid. Propane makes it possible to build an affordable and comfortable, high-performing indoor living spaces and dynamic outdoor entertaining areas.”

KEEP UNIVERSAL DESIGN PRINCIPLES IN MIND Many homebuyers want to ensure their space is accessible to family members and guests both now and for decades to come. As the housing market slows and mortgage rates rise, buyers may look to incorporate features that allow them to age in place. Incorporating principles of universal design – the ability of a space to be understood, accessed and used by people regardless of their age or ability – can make it possible to still enjoy your home even if mobility, vision or other challenges arise as you age. For example, the entryway could have a ramp or sloped concrete walkway leading to a front door wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair with a barrier-free threshold. Inside, wider hallways and doorways, strategic lighting and appliances installed at lower heights are mainstays of universal design. Counters of varying heights, drop-down cabinet racks and roll-under sinks in kitchens and zero-entry showers, slipresistant flooring and grab bars in bathrooms offer enhanced accessibility.

CONSIDER ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SOURCES With today’s electric grid, more than two-thirds of the energy MARCH/APRIL 2024 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 25

"With a unique vision of your dream home’s look, location and features, building a custom home is generally the easiest way to make that dream a reality."

is wasted; it never reaches homes. Unlike electricity, propane is stored in a large tank either above or below ground on the property. A 500-gallon tank can hold enough propane to meet the annual energy needs of an average single-family home – enough to power major systems in a home. Propane pairs well with other energy sources, including grid electricity and on-site solar, which makes it a viable option for dual-energy homes. Like natural gas, propane can power major appliances such as your furnace, water heater, clothes dryer, fireplace, range and standby generator. Often, propane works more efficiently with fewer greenhouse gas emissions than electricity, meaning your home is cleaner for the environment. Propane can even power a whole-home standby generator, which is often a big selling point. When a homeowner purchases a standby generator, a licensed electrician installs the unit outside the home and wires it to the home’s circuit breaker. When a power outage occurs, the generator automatically senses the disruption of service and starts the generator’s engine, which then delivers power to the home. From the warm, comfortable heat of a propane furnace to the peace of mind offered by a propane standby generator, many homeowners 26 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2024

trust propane to provide a safe, efficient, whole-home energy solution.

BUILD A TEAM OF EXPERTS Hiring the right people can make the process of turning your dream into reality go much smoother. Start by researching reputable builders, paying special attention to the types of homes they build to find a style that matches what you’re looking for as well as price ranges for past homes they’ve built. Consider how long the builders have been in business and if they’re licensed and insured. Depending on your builder’s capabilities, you may also need to hire an architect or designer. In addition to your real estate agent to assist with purchasing the lot and selling your previous home, you may need assistance from other professionals, such as a real estate attorney, landscape architect and propane supplier. A local propane supplier can work with the builder to install a properly sized propane storage tank either above or below ground and connect appliances. Find more ideas for building your dream home at Propane.com.

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Propane-Powered Appliances



Furnace



Boiler

You may be surprised to learn propane can power major appliances, which can increase the value of a home because of their high performance, efficiency and reduced dependence on the electrical grid.

A propane-powered furnace has a 50% longer lifespan than an electric heat pump, reducing its overall lifetime costs. Propane-powered residential furnaces also emit up to 50% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than electric furnaces and 12% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than furnaces running on oil-based fuels.

Propane boilers have an expected lifespan of up to 30 years, but many can last longer if serviced and maintained properly. Highefficiency propane boilers offer performance, space savings and versatility as well as a significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions compared to those fueled by heating oil.

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Standby Generator

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Range

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Propane standby generators supply supplemental electricity in as little as 10 seconds after an outage. Plus, propane doesn’t degrade over time, unlike diesel or gasoline, making it an ideal standby power fuel.

Propane-powered clothes dryers generate up to 42% fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to electric dryers. They also dry clothes faster, which can reduce energy use and cost.

With up to 15% fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to electric ranges, propane-powered ranges also allow for greater control of heat levels. Plus, their instant flame turnoff capabilities help them cool faster.

Propane tankless water heaters have the lowest annual cost of ownership in mixed and cold United States climates when compared with electric water heaters, heat pump water heaters and oil-fueled water heaters. They also only heat water when it is needed, reducing standby losses that come with storage tank water heaters. Courtesy of Family Features

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Photos Courtesy of Family Features

Food

Easter Dip Goodness 28 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2024

aster is about coming together with loved ones, enjoying beautiful spring weather and eating your family’s favorite foods. The kids will be playing, adults will be chatting and all will be patiently waiting for the table to be set. If you’re visiting and making memories with family and friends you haven’t seen in a while, there are few things better than diving into a marvelous Easter spread. While eyeing the table, you notice all the colors popping off the dishes. Fruits and veggies make the feast come to life, but a warm Easter dip paired with rolls for dipping is a perfect way to start the festivities. These Easter Bunny Rolls with Spinach Dip are as eye-catching as they are delicious. Not only will the kids love its shape, but the layers of taste will wow your Easter crowd. To make this recipe, start by combining a 16-ounce package of frozen spinach, cream cheese and garlic in a skillet. Once heated, add mayonnaise, salt, onion powder, chili powder and Italian seasoning. Add in Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses then stir until combined. Next, roll out crescent rolls. Stretch the dough then cut into 24 rolls. Form the bunny shape and scoop your spinach dip mixture into the center of the bunny and its ears. Sprinkle the spinach dip with mozzarella cheese before baking at 375 F for 18 minutes. This dish is made for a crowd, served warm and full of cheesy goodness. You can watch as your family dips into the spinach and one-by-one, before you know it, the rolls will have disappeared and the dip will be devoured. Find more Easter recipes at Culinary.net.

Courtesy of Family Features

Easter Bunny Rolls w/ Spinach Dip Serves: 24            

16 ounces frozen spinach, thawed 8 ounces cream cheese 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/4 teaspoon chili powder 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided 2 crescent roll tubes (8 ounces each)

Heat oven to 375 F. In skillet, over medium heat, cook spinach, cream cheese and garlic 3-4 minutes until cream cheese is melted. Stir in mayonnaise, salt, onion powder, chili powder, pepper and Italian seasoning. Stir in Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese. Cook until cheese is melted. Keep skillet on burner over low heat. Remove dough from tubes. Leaving dough intact, roll and stretch into 18-inch ropes. Cut each rope into 12 pieces for 24 total. On baking sheet with parchment paper, form bunny head by placing one piece of dough in middle then surrounding it with six more pieces. Use 13 pieces to form round body. Use remaining pieces to form ears on top of head. Scoop hot spinach dip into center. Spoon small portions on each ear. Sprinkle ears and belly with remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake 18 minutes, or until crescent dough is golden brown and thoroughly cooked.

MARCH/APRIL 2024 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 29

Get Creative with Easter Sweets

Photos Courtesy of Family Features

KID-FRIENDLY CRAFTS THAT BRING LOVED ONES TOGETHER

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oliday hams and deviled eggs may take center stage at Easter gatherings, but edible crafts offer a reminder of the magic of the season that’s found in moments spent together. Simple recipes that call for a dose of creativity are perfect ways to bring the kids to the kitchen, made even easier when all that work leads to sweet treats.

While plastic eggs may have led to a decline in good, oldfashioned egg-dyeing, there are still fun ways to bring crafts back to Easter celebrations. Consider these Kids Krafty Easter Cake Pops, which call for little ones to help dip seasonal shapes in chocolate, use cake molds and more. Children of virtually any age can relish in the joys of using cookie cutters and decorating Easter Sugar Cookies, all with a little supervision and short list of instructions. This version shows how to make the cookies and homemade icing so you can create any color you desire for maximum creativity. Remember, these delicious crafts don’t have to be perfect – having fun and making memories that last a lifetime are what make Easter truly special. Visit Culinary.net to find more Easter inspiration and recipes from “Cookin’ Savvy.”

Kids Krafty Easter Cake Pops Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”  1 box cake mix  1 can frosting  1 bunny chocolate mold  1 cakesicle mold  ice pop sticks  1 bag white chocolate chips or melting chips  cake pop sticks  1 bag orange melting chips  2 tablespoons canola or coconut oil, divided  1 bag green melting chips  pastel sprinkles  1 piece hard foam (optional)  edible markers Bake cake according to package instructions and let cool completely.

Crumble cake and mix with 1/2 can frosting until dough forms. Add more frosting, if needed. Using small cookie scoop, form dough into balls and set aside. Place dough in bunny molds then pop out and set aside with balls. Place dough in cakesicle mold, insert ice pop stick in each slot and freeze 5-10 minutes. Melt handful of white melting chips. Stick tip of each cake pop stick in chocolate then insert into every cake ball and bunny until each has one stick. Set aside to dry. Remove cakesicles from freezer and pop out of molds. In bowl, melt orange melts then mix in 1 tablespoon oil and transfer to cup. Dip cakesicles and scrape off excess using rim of cup. Place on parchment paper to dry. In bowl, melt green melts then place in zip-top or piping bag. Cut tip off bag, pipe carrot leaves onto piece of parchment paper and let dry. Melt remaining white melts and mix in remaining oil. Transfer to cup and dip ball-shaped cake pops and bunnies then tap stick on edge of cup to remove excess. Over separate bowl, sprinkle ball-shaped pops with pastel sprinkles. To keep ball shape, let dry by sticking in piece of hard foam. Bunnies can dry face side up on parchment paper. After bunnies are dry, use edible markers to make face and color in ears. When carrots and leaves are dry, remelt orange melts and place in piping or zip-top bag. Cut off tip and drizzle orange over carrots. Add small line of orange on each ice pop stick and place leaves on each stick. Let dry.

Easter Sugar Cookies THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE

THE MOUNTAINS FOR THE HOLIDAYS. Celebrate the holidays surrounded by great company and even better cuisine in the Pocono Mountains. From romantic dinners by candlelight to farm-to-table experiences, our local chefs are serving up something for every palate. Visit PoconoMountains.com to see all of our mouth-watering dining options and make your reservation.

32 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2024

Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy” Icing:  1/3 cup meringue powder  1/2 cup warm water, plus additional for thinning (optional), divided  3 tablespoons vanilla  1 bag (2 pounds) powdered sugar  2 tablespoons corn syrup  assorted food coloring Cookies:  2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature  1 cup sugar  1 egg  1 tablespoon vanilla  2 teaspoons baking powder  1 dash salt  3 cups all-purpose flour

Mark Citera

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To make icing: Mix meringue powder, 1/2 cup warm water, vanilla, powdered sugar and corn syrup. Separate into bowls and add food coloring; mix with water, as needed, to thin for piping. To make cookies: Heat oven to 350 F. Cream butter and sugar. Mix in egg, vanilla, baking powder and salt. Mix in flour 1 cup at a time to form dough. Roll dough out to 1/4-1/2-inch thickness. Cut into shapes, place on baking sheet and freeze 10 minutes. Bake 8-12 minutes. Cool completely before icing. Place icing in zip-top or piping bags and cut off tips. Put cookies on parchment paper. Trace outline first then fill in middle. Use toothpicks to smooth out. Let dry 6 hours and finish decorating with different icing colors or edible markers.

Courtesy of Family Features

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Lawn & Garden

34 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2024

EXPERT TIPS FOR REDUCING LAWN MAINTENANCE

f you love your outdoor space - but aren't crazy about weeding, watering and mulching - you'll be glad to know there are simple ways to minimize maintenance of your yard and garden. With a bit of planning and some up-front investment, you can cut down on the time you spend working in your yard, so you have more time to just relax and enjoy it. Here are tried-and-true tips for creating an outdoor space that won't use up all your leisure time.

To cut down on the weekly attention a typical lawn demands, consider cutting down on the square footage of grass. By adding more hardscaping - a larger patio, decking, a gazebo or other structure - you may also expand the ways you can enjoy your outdoor space beyond just watching the grass grow.

Photo Courtesy of Brand Point

Another alternative to grass many choose today is artificial turf, especially in areas experiencing water shortages.

What you grow in your yard makes a huge difference in terms of maintenance. To reduce your workload, try to: > Choose perennials that are low-maintenance and don't require replanting MARCH/APRIL 2024 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 35

Photo Courtesy of JamesDeMers from Pixabay

> Opt for native plants suitable for your region > Select hardy plants that thrive on benign neglect > Plant in the best spot for optimal growth For help choosing the most maintenance-free plantings for your yard, start by doing an online search for native plants in your state, along with looking up the USDA hardiness zone where you live. Nursery or garden store professionals can also offer their expertise, as can your local agricultural extension office. Rethinking your choices of flowers, plants and shrubs can turn a yard that needs constant tending into one requiring minimal effort.

Another great option for simplifying yardwork is using landscaping stone instead of standard mulch. While requiring a bit more investment up front, options like Pavestone Pea, Pond or River Pebbles are much more cost effective over time, because stones are much longer lasting, making them ideal for gardens, pathways, ponds and many other applications around your yard. 36 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2024

Landscaping stone is a very low-maintenance, highly sustainable and attractive alternative, as most traditional types of mulch only last three months to a year. Mulch may blow or wash away (creating a mess you have to spend time cleaning), and also quickly decays, degrades or decomposes - so you have to replenish it again and again to keep weeds under control. It's also difficult to keep mulched garden beds free from dead leaves and debris, but with landscaping stone you can easily remove unwanted debris with a leaf blower. Landscaping stone is also very effective at preventing weeds, while providing an attractive bed to showcase your decorative plants, flowers and shrubs. You also avoid concern about importing termites into your yard as compared to untreated wood-based ground coverings - and in drier climates, rocks are the ideal choice as they're not flammable. If your lawn or garden experiences drainage issues, mixing and matching landscaping stones of different sizes like Pavestone's Pea, Pond or River Pebbles helps control water flow and facilitates runoff, while helping maintain your landscaping

grading. Pavestone's landscaping rocks are easy to spread wherever you need them, helping to control soil erosion and retain moisture. While clearly practical, landscaping stone also provides unique beauty for any project. You'll see a wide variety of earth tones in landscaping stone from Pavestone that add nuanced color to your garden beds. They come in a variety of shades of tan, brown and gray, depending on where they were derived.

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Another option to consider is Pavestone's Premium White Marble Chips. These beautifully shiny white stones provide high color contrast for your garden beds, or they can be used as a top layer on a bed of Pebbles to create your desired look. Whatever colors you choose, Pavestone landscaping stones resist fading, and they'll beautify and enhance the appearance of your landscaping beds for years to come.

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Installing an irrigation system also saves a ton of time - and ensures your plants are getting the water they need to thrive. Automated irrigation is also a more efficient, effective use of water than sporadic manual watering. While there is a cost up front (depending on the system, size of yard, etc.), installing a good lawn irrigation system can also help improve your property's value. Using these tips can help save you time and effort, allowing you to make the most of your outdoor space with your friends and family.

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Photo courtesy of Unsplash

• Tips for Choosing Gardening Essentials • Whether you’re a new homeowner ready to tackle the landscaping for the first time or a seasoned gardener looking to do some updating, when it comes to gardening, you simply need the right tools to do the job well. Consider these tips when purchasing essentials for your tool shed.

38 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2024

Shovel:

A shovel with a pointed blade is a good all-around choice for digging, mixing and moving soil. Conversely, a flat-bladed shovel should be used for “cutting” tasks such as straight-side trenches and edging. After narrowing down which style of shovel best meets your needs, check the metal to ensure it’s well-constructed and won’t bend or break easily. Check fittings such as bolts and screws to ensure the blade and handle are

strongly connected and can withstand reasonable pressure. Finally, spend a few minutes testing out the tool to ensure it fits well in your hand.

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Rake:

With numerous materials and shapes to choose from, finding the right rake can be intimidating. A basic fan-shaped rake with metal fingers is a universally accepted, long-lasting option. Select a model with plenty of give in the fingers if you’ll be raking large areas and don’t want to damage the ground below. A rake made of firmer metal allows you to work and smooth soil. Purchasing the broadest width you can comfortably handle allows you to cover more ground, which means less work.

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Depending on the space you’ll be tending, you may also consider purchasing a garden fork, which has fewer tines than a traditional rake and is ideal for aerating, weeding and turning small sections of soil.

Hoe:

Whether flat or pointed, a hoe is essential for a weed-free garden. Flat versions can also be useful for breaking up clumps and hard spots on the surface while pointed hoes make quick work of rows and mounds to protect and irrigate your plantings.

Shears:

A variety of shears are available to accomplish a wide range of garden tasks. Larger shears are ideal for big jobs such as shaping hedges, while smaller pruning shears are meant for snips and sprucing. Quality metal and sharp blades are important features. Be sure to choose a model with a safety latch to lock blades when not in use.

Gloves:

Even if you eagerly embrace the chance to get your hands dirty, no tool shed is complete without a sturdy pair of gloves. Choose a material tough enough to protect from thorns but pliable enough to allow for free movement. Proper fit is key to avoiding blisters. Find more gardening tips and advice at eLivingtoday.com. Courtesy of Family Features

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Travel

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock Phot Courtesy of Family Features

Plan Your Next Vacation Like a Pro

“From surfing dogs and summer skiing to cosplay conventions and a worldrenowned culinary scene, California’s options for play abound, accommodating

Photo Courtesy of Pixabay

every type of traveler”

If the chance to unplug, recharge and just get away is calling your name, it’s a sign that it’s time to plan a vacation. Whether you envision a trip around town or across the country, getting organized and doing a little prep work can help you make the most of the experience. A destination like California offers cities big and small with an assortment of activities, theme parks, shopping districts, beaches, restaurants and more to be explored. Start planning your next getaway with these travel tips from the experts at Visit California:

Plan Ahead Last-minute trips can get you deals, but you might also be limited by what you’re able to see and do. Ticketed attractions that sell out quickly may be off the table, and the most desirable hotels can fill well ahead of time, too. Planning ahead often allows you to map out the most successful adventure. 42 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2024

Set a Budget Be sure to consider transportation, accommodations, meals and admission to various attractions. Consider which aspects of a vacation are most important to you and budget more money to those areas, like a five-star meal, ocean view room or priority pass to a favorite park.

Take Advantage of Visitor’s Guides Using tools such as visitor’s guides can help you make the most of your trip, from identifying must-see attractions to finding the best places to eat and sleep. Many guides are available to download for free online so you can immediately start exploring. For example, the “2024 California Visitor’s Guide: The Best of California” is a testament to the Golden State’s playful spirit, featuring “58 Reasons Why California

is the Ultimate Playground,” and is filled with travel tips from passionate locals, like cover star Zoey Deschanel, including: • “8 New Trails to Explore,” showcasing freshly constructed paths in California’s parks • “Sustainable Sips,” a guide to some of California’s eco-friendly wineries • “Plan-Ahead Travel Guide,” where readers can learn how to score a spot at the state’s most coveted attractions • “6 Fabulous Film Locations,” a jet-setting guide from movie scout Lori Balton • “California Shopping: A to Z Guide,” a comprehensive guide to shopping throughout the Golden State

SHOP NEW. SHOP VINTAGE .

SHOP LOCAL .

“From surfing dogs and summer skiing to cosplay conventions and a world-renowned culinary scene, California’s options for play abound, accommodating every type of traveler,” said Caroline Beteta, president and CEO of Visit California. “That playful spirit is ingrained in every aspect of what makes our state so special and this year’s guide will help readers discover how they can experience it firsthand.”

Pack Appropriately Staying comfortable throughout your journey ensures you can focus on the experiences. Be sure you’re familiar with the climate, including the forecast during the time you’ll be visiting. While summer days can be quite warm, evenings on the coast often warrant a light jacket. Also be sure you’re prepared for the activities you’ve planned, such as adequate footwear for hiking, long pants for horseback riding and sunscreen for time outdoors.

Create an Itinerary Even if you prefer a more spontaneous getaway, having at least a loose idea of how you’d like to spend your time traveling can help you be more efficient and avoid wasting time. Think about the things you want to accomplish and fit them together so you can avoid awkward gaps or unnecessary travel and ensure you get to pack in as many experiences as you’d like.

It’s not just a day of shopping here in the Pocono Mountains—it’s an experience. Wander our historic streets. Explore our art galleries. Find unique local goods. And stop for a bite at one of our top-rated neighborhood restaurants along the way. Discover all of our shopping and sights now at PoconoMountains.com.

Start planning your next trip by visiting VisitCalifornia.com/ travel-guides to order a guide and find additional tips and helpful tools. Courtesy of Family Features

Career Ready STRATEGIES TO PREPARE TEENS FOR LIFE AFTER SCHOOL

For some time, heading to college or joining the workforce have been the standard choices for teens upon high school graduation. Today, in part due to technology and social media, students have access to myriad career paths that are all but traditional.

scales have flipped to the supply side and demand is causing many employers to remove barriers to work entry. Whether high school grads go to college or work, developing in-demand skills early will help them secure and succeed in the jobs of the future.”

With an increasingly dynamic career landscape creating an awareness of jobs that didn’t exist even 10 years ago and a shortage in the workforce, there’s a willingness for both potential employees and employers to look at careers and young talent from a whole new perspective.

Consider these tips from Bryant to help students explore the many options in front of them and prepare for the possibilities that await after high school.

“There isn’t a ‘typical’ career anymore,” said Dr. Lorna Bryant, Gen Z career expert and head of career education for Pearson Virtual Schools. “With the perfect storm in the workforce of boomers retiring, many people still not returning to work in the wake of the pandemic and a population that has declined for the last 50 years, this generation (ages 11-26) is positioned extremely well. Employers want and need them. In short, the 44 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2024

Help Kids Cultivate Durable Skills

While technology has transformed the world of work, an increasing number of careers prioritize durable skills over technical or hard skills. Durable skills (also known as “soft” or “human” skills) include collaboration, leadership, communication and attention to detail, along with traits like empathy, grit and resilience. According to Pearson’s Power Skills report, these are some of the most in-demand skills for employers. In addition, research from America Succeeds found employers seek durable skills 3.8 times more frequently than

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

Education

the top five technical or hard skills in every location, industry sector and educational attainment level. Possessing these skills is not only attractive to employers but colleges and universities, too. One of the best ways to prepare for the jobs of tomorrow, which don’t exist today, is to focus on timeless durable skills. Many students already possess or are actively developing these skills in high school. The key is to raise awareness of their importance, seek ways to boost them and showcase them on college and job applications or resumes. For example, teens can display their leadership skills by captaining sports teams or starting a club at school. They can showcase collaboration and communication abilities by holding and thriving in student government positions, volunteering or working part-time jobs.

Bridge Passions and Hobbies to Careers

Beginning conversations with children as early as middle school that expose students to job roles, responsibilities and salaries connected to areas of interest is important for setting them up for long-term success. Nurturing interests – rather than dismissing them as flights of fancy – and finding paths to explore that align with those hobbies or interests in real-world applications can open doors to potential careers that may not have previously been considered. For example, Lake Liao, a 2023 Lighthouse Connections Academy grad, is attending Princeton University on a prelaw track. The flexibility of online school enabled him to dig into his passions for political and community organizing and activism in high school, including activism around climate and environmental policy. It was through joining local nurses in their fight for a fair contract he realized he wanted to be a lawyer and make a difference in the labor rights cause. To help students align their values and interests with potential careers, ask questions such as: • What is it, specifically, you enjoy about your interests? What jobs rely on related skills (working with your hands, serving others, being creative, etc.)? • Do you have the skills to do those jobs? If not, what research and training do you need to acquire the necessary skillset? • Are there related jobs available in the geographic location you want to live? • Can you make enough money to live the lifestyle you want doing this job? • Can you envision enjoying this type of work for 8 (or more) hours per day? Courtesy of Family Features

Get a Head Start on Credentials or College Credit As earning college credits, career-ready credentials and specialized training for future careers is becoming more accessible for high school and middle school students, it’s important to research available options. From online resources, workshops, career counselors and accelerated career readiness programs that allow students to enter college or the workforce “job-ready,” there are more options available now than ever before. "The key is to raise awareness of their importance, seek ways to boost them and showcase them on college and job applications or resumes."

One example, Connections Academy, a K-12 online school program, has expanded its slate of college and career readiness initiatives for middle and high school students to offer an innovative tri-credit approach where courses can deliver high school credit; industry-recognized micro-credentials (to help qualify for careers in data analytics, UX design, software development, cybersecurity and more); and eligibility for college credit toward more than 150 bachelor’s degree programs at partner universities in the United States. In addition, the Career Pathways program delivers curated learning experiences in fields such as IT, business and health care, allowing students to connect with employers, internships and clubs, and take advantage of specialized classes that transition seamlessly to higher education or nationally recognized, industry certifications. Taking advantage of program offerings, aspiring paramedic Maeson Frymire, a 2022 Inspire Connections Academy graduate, became certified as an EMT before graduating high school. After graduation, he became a firefighter and is now working toward becoming an advanced certified EMT, carving out a career path toward flight paramedicine. Or consider Abigail Sanders, also a 2022 graduate, who completed her bachelor’s degree by the time she graduated high school. Now in the second year of her doctorate program in medical school, she aspires to be a doctor by the age of 22 and uses her love of learning and passion for science to advance her career while seeking to become an oncologist. For more information on online schools and career readiness programs for teens, visit ConnectionsAcademy.com. MARCH/APRIL 2024 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 45

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

55+

REDUCE YOUR COPD RISK, NO MATTER WHERE YOU LIVE COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a serious lung condition that affects millions of people. Also known as emphysema or chronic bronchitis, COPD causes breathing problems that can worsen over time. Anyone can develop COPD, but smokers or ex-smokers and people who live in rural areas of the country tend to be more affected. In fact, rural residents are twice as likely to have COPD as people who live in large cities. They’re also more likely to be hospitalized or die from the disease compared to other Americans. To help lower your risk, wherever you live, consider these steps from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). 46 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2024

AVOID AIR POLLUTION

Air pollution may be a concern for many who live in rural areas. If you work on a farm, in mining or in manufacturing, you may be at risk for COPD from environmental exposure to dust, fumes or smoke, such as from wildfires. Talk to your employer about ways to limit exposure on the job. Consider air pollution at home, too. Ventilate indoor spaces and clean often to prevent dust buildup. If you are burning wood or agricultural or solid waste, make sure appropriate ventilation is in place and working properly. Avoid using products with strong odors, which may contain chemicals that could irritate the lungs.

DON’T SMOKE OR VAPE

Rural communities have higher rates of cigarette smoking, which could contribute to higher COPD rates. One of the most important things you can do to protect your lungs and those of the people around you is avoiding cigarette smoke. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cigarette smoking is the main cause of COPD. If you smoke, it is never too late to quit.

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Steer clear of vaping, too. E-cigarettes don’t contain tobacco, but they may contain chemicals that are just as harmful to your lungs.

TALK TO A HEALTH CARE PROVIDER

If you smoke or used to smoke, work in a job that might put you at higher risk for COPD or you or someone in your family has a genetic condition called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, it’s important to talk to a health care provider about your risk and any symptoms you may have. These include coughing that may bring up lots of mucus, wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. Early diagnosis and treatment can help you breathe better.

and

Pocono Family Magazine

Because people in rural areas may live farther away from their health care providers, more hospitals and clinics now offer telehealth services, which can make it easier to get effective COPD care.

"People in rural areas may live farther away from their health care providers, more hospitals and clinics now offer telehealth services"

Ask a health care provider about getting vaccines for the flu and COVID-19, RSV if you’re over 60 and pneumococcal disease if you’re over 65. If you’re at risk for COPD, you’re more likely to have health problems from these vaccine-preventable illnesses. Wherever you call home, you can take action to lower your risk for COPD. Find more information about COPD from NHLBI’s Learn More Breathe Better® program at copd.nhlbi.nih.gov.

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Events

Winter Survival

Photo courtesy of Roseanne Santaniello

Sunday, March 03, 2024, 1pm - 3pm Pocono Environmental Center Learn the basics of outdoor survival and weather preparedness. Build a shelter, try your hand at starting a fire, and learn other useful skills for wintertime in the outdoors. Please call to register. This program is best suited for individuals aged 12 and up. $5 per person. peec.org

Bridge the Gap: Bird Bonanza

Saturday, March 09, 2024, 10am - 12pm Pocono Environmental Center Spend the morning watching our feeders and putting together your own unique and custom bird feeder from a variety of recycled materials. We’ll provide everything you need, but you are welcome to bring your own supplies. Please call to register. Free. peec.org

In & Around the Poconos

Bridge the Gap: Cross Country Skiing

Sugar Shack Scramble

Enjoy the winter woods with beginner ski lessons. Learn the basics of cross country skiing and practice around our campus. You decide how many loops to ski. Skis, poles & boots provided - register w/ shoe size to guarantee a spot. Orienteering will be an alternative program in the event of no snow. Free. peec.org

Saturday, March 02, 2024, 9am - 12pm Pocono Environmental Center Join us for a short hike through the woods out to the “Two Saps” Sugar Shack. Afterwards, enjoy hot cocoa and pancakes with fresh maple syrup at our Dining Hall! Sign up for a 9am or 9:30am start time. Spaces are limited! $15 per person. peec.org

Recycled Bee Houses: Children’s Art Workshop

Saturday, March 02, 2024, 1pm - 3pm Pocono Environmental Center Join artist Pam Rice for this two-hour workshop. We will learn how solitary bees use hollow stems to lay their cocoons. We will draw the different bees that call PEEC home, and children will make a gift for the bees by upcycling a variety of objects into a bee house. All materials will be provided. Ideal for ages 6-10. Please call to register. $10 per child. peec.org

Saturday, March 09, 2024, 1pm - 4pm Pocono Environmental Center

Ecozone Discovery Room!

Sunday, March 10, 2024, 1pm - 4pm Pocono Environmental Center Climb into a bald eagle’s nest, crawl into a bat cave, explore a beaver lodge, and dig in a fossil pit! Explore this indoor discovery room and enjoy hands-on exhibits on natural history, sustainability and the local environment. No registration required. $3 per person. peec.org

Custom Cake Decorating Class Tuesday, March 12, 2024, 5pm - 8pm Pocono Environmental Center

Learn to make decorate a custom miniature cake! In this class you will learn various techniques in decorating with frosting,

and how to use tips to create different shapes, swirls, and flowers. Class includes all material, ingredients, and a Four inch layer cake to take home! Class is for ages 16+. Pre-registration is required. $25/person. peec.org

Automotive Repair & Maintenance

570-234-3113

Bread Bonanza Baking Class

Saturday, March 23, 2024, 10am - 1pm Pocono Environmental Center “Rise” and shine for this exciting lesson on making your own bread from scratch! In this class you will learn to make banana bread, breakfast pastries, dinner rolls, and Easter bread. You will also learn how to make your own butter. Class includes all materials and supplies as well as your baked goods to take home. Class is for ages 16+. Pre-registration is required. $25/ person. peec.org

Bridge the Gap: Ecozone Discovery Room! Saturday, March 23, 2024, 1pm - 4pm Pocono Environmental Center

Climb into a bald eagle’s nest, crawl into a bat cave, explore a beaver lodge, and dig in a fossil pit! Explore this indoor discovery room and enjoy hands-on exhibits on natural history, sustainability and the local environment. No registration required. Free. peec.org

Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm ASE certified State Inspection

1410 North 5th St Stroudsburg Pennsylvania

Air Tours

of the Poconos

Charter Flights Flight Training Other Air Services

Gift Certificates Available

Pocono Mountains Airport - 188 Airport Drive, Tobyhanna, PA

1-800-321-5890

MoyerAviation.com

Bridge the Gap: Woodcock Walk Sunday, March 24, 2024, 6:30pm - 8pm Pocono Environmental Center

Join us for a walk to see the mysterious woodcock and its spectacular springtime mating display. Bring a flashlight for better searching! Free. peec.org

Painting with Natural Dyes

Saturday, April 06, 2024, 10am - 12pm Pocono Environmental Center Join artist Pam Rice in learning how to create paints and dyes from natural pigments found in nature . Children will experiment with the dye making process, then make artworks using brushes made from other natural materials. Please call to register. Ideal for ages 6-10. $10 per child. peec.org

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316 CLAY AVENUE STROUDSBURG, PA

P&S GARAGE Servicing the Poconos since 1975

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570-223-8874

9080 Franklin Hill Road East Stroudsburg, Pa www.psgaragepa.com

Bridge the Gap: Pond Paddle Sunday, April 07, 2024, 1pm - 3pm Pocono Environmental Center

Join us for a paddle around our ponds! Beginners are welcome – we teach you everything you need to know! Dress appropriately – you may get wet. Call in advance to reserve a boat. Free. peec.org

Bridge the Gap: Spring Peeper Search Friday, April 12, 2024, 7:30pm - 9pm Pocono Environmental Center

These tiny tree frogs have thawed out and are active again in our forested wetlands. Listen to the impressive choir made by these vocal amphibians as we carefully catch, study, and release them. Bring a flashlight for better searching! Please call to register. Free. peec.org

Mediterranean Cooking Class Saturday, April 13, 2024, 10am - 1pm Pocono Environmental Center

Stroud Television & Appliances 219 N. 9th Street Stroudsburg, PA

570-421-7700 www.StroudTVandAppliances.com

Plan a vacation for your taste buds as you learn to create traditional Mediterranean fare! In this class you will make a Falafel Platter (falafel, Israeli salad, homemade pita, babaganoush, and hummus), as well as a “Shawarma” style chicken. Class includes all supplies and lunch. Class is for ages 16+. Pre-registration is required. $25 per person. peec.org

Bridge the Gap: Frog Frolic

Sunday, April 14, 2024, 10am - 12pm Pocono Environmental Center Spend the afternoon with us at our ponds and streams! Learn about some of our frog friends as we gently catch and release these hopping amphibians. Wear boots and plan on getting wet and muddy. Please call to register. Free. peec.org

Scenes of the Season: Paint & Sip Sunday, April 14, 2024, 1pm - 4pm Pocono Environmental Center

Experience an afternoon of seasonal splendor as you create a winter landscape painting with artist Terry Kloiber, and sip on some delicious seasonal (non-alcoholic) beverages perfect for a spring day. Cost of program includes materials and

refreshments. Space is limited to 12 participants. Ideal for ages 13+. Please call to register. $25 per person. peec.org

Bridge the Gap: Salamanders, Frogs, & More! Sunday, April 21, 2024, 1pm - 3pm Pocono Environmental Center

Amphibians are stirring in the woods! Join us as we explore nearby breeding pools for salamanders, frogs, and egg masses. We’ll provide nets and collection jars for gentle, up-close study. Wear boots and clothes that can get muddy or wet. Please call to register. Free. peec.org

Pocono Fiber Arts Retreat

Thursday, April 25 - Sunday, April 28, 2024 Pocono Environmental Center Spend a relaxing weekend creating and conversing with the PEEC Stitchers! Bring your own in progress projects, or join in and learn how to make something new. A materials list for the weekend will be provided. Includes lodging and meals! Please call to register.. $300 Full Workshop. peec.org

THE POTTING SHED Let us create something beautiful for you EXQUISITE FLORAL • GIFTS • HOME DECOR

(570)424-1174 • 931 Ann Street • Stroudsburg, PA 18360

Bridge the Gap: Edible & Medicinal Plant Walk Saturday, April 27, 2024, 10am - 12pm Pocono Environmental Center

Join the Botanical Hiker, Heather Houskeeper, in discovering the many edible and medicinal plants that inhabit our region. Heather will share tips for positive identification, methods for sustainable harvest, and practical ways to work with these plants for food and medicine. You're sure to meet these plants again in your own backyard or along other favorite walking paths. Our walk will be easy to moderate in nature with many stops along the way and appropriate for all ages. Feel free to bring a notepad or use your phone to jot down notes! No collecting will be done in the Park. Please call to register. $15 per person. peec.org

Earth Day Festival

Saturday, April 27, 2024, 11am - 4pm Pocono Environmental Center Help us celebrate the Earth! There will be hands-on learning stations, interpretive hikes, conservation exhibits, crafts, food, music, and much more! Pre-registration is NOT required. $5 per car. peec.org

Mountain Appliance Repair SERVICING ALL MAJOR BRANDS

(570) 350-9411 • (570) 481-1102 • bill.snyder82@gmail.com

PARTING SHOT Photo courtesy of Robert Baxter