May/June 2015 by Pocono Magazines

May/June 2015

The Pocono Mountains' Magazine

• Mountain Biking • The Stranger in the Mirror • Cherry Pineapple Cabana Cake

Complimentary

Pocono Magazines, LLC

Pocono Magazines

Pocono Living Magazine

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Larry R. Sebring

and Pocono Family

ASSISTANT CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jane Cumberland

Magazine, two regional

WEB DESIGN/DIGITAL ISSUES Graphicus Design, LLC

publications filled with

FOOD & WINE EDITOR Linda Zak

articles, features and photography exploring and capturing the real

INTERN Avize Batalova

Pocono Mountains living experience. Our publications can be found at many locations throughout the Pocono Mountains region, and are

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Amanda Belanger Devesh Ramdeo CONSULTANTS Dr. Jonathan A. Goldner, DO, FCCP, FCCM Suzanne F. McCool, M.C. Commissioner PHOTOGRAPHY & ART Veronica Murray Andrei Protsouk David Sandt Lisa Newberry James Chesnick James Smeltz Marlana Holsten Matt Siptroth William McKee Barbara Lewis Linda Zak Nancy Tully Eric Goins Vinzon Lee CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Roseanne Bottone Dr. Jonathan Goldner Kathy Dubin-Uhler Pete Pappalardo Amy Leiser Suzanne McCool ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE Linda Zak/484-264-7915 ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Mandy Cunard

Proud Members of

available by subscription.

JACOB STROUD atershed A W

ciation sso

Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau

Brodhead

CORPORATION

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 amy of the information and shall not be held liable for any loss or damage, directly or indirectly, by or from the information. © 2015 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.

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May/June 2015

What’s Inside EDUCATION

Restock Your Kids' Bookshelves 4

BUSINESS

Pocono Business Profile 8 by Roseanne Bottone

HOME & GARDEN

Is Your Yard Wildlife Friendly? 12 Creating Sustainable Landscapes 14

OVER 55 The Stranger in the Mirror 16 by Roseanne Bottone

PETS

Ten Most Common Pet Toxins 18

ADVENTURE Mountain Biking…Pocono Style 20 by Pete Pappalardo

HEALTHY LIVING Hand in Hand 24 Healthcare in the Third World 26 by Dr. Jonathan A. Goldner

TRAVEL Avoiding a Break the Bank Summer Vacation 32

FOOD Fruit-Filled Summer Celebrations 34

FAMILY FINANCES Decoding Your Taxes 38

COMMUNITY

The Poconos Outdoors 41

PARTING SHOT

"Winter Sunrise over Dorothy's Barn" 44 MAY/JUNE 2015 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 3

Education

4 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MAY/JUNE 2015

Restock Your Kids' Bookshelves for Summer With summer vacation on the horizon, restocking the home book collection just makes sense for children who will be out of school, but still looking for great reads.

Barrett Paradise Friendly Library Cresco, PA 570-595-7171 www.barrettlibrary.org

Pocono Mountain Public Library Tobyhanna, PA 570-894-8860 www.poconomountpl.org

Clymer Library Pocono Pines, PA 570-646-0826 www.clymerlibrary.org

Western Pocono Community Library Brodheadsville, PA 570-992-7934 www.wpcl.lib.pa.us

Eastern Monroe Public Library Branches Hughes Library (main branch) Stroudsburg, PA 570-421-0800 www.monroepl.org Pocono Township Branch Tannersville, PA 570-629-5858 Smithfield Branch Marshalls Creek, PA 570-223-1881 Bookmobile 570-421-0880 x49

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www.WarnersPropane.com MAY/JUNE 2015 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 5

R E STO CK YO UR K IDS' B O O K SHE LVE S

Here are some titles that are fun enough for the summer season:

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Super Heroes: Discover a thrilling, actionpacked world with “LEGO DC Comics Super Heroes: Amazing Battles!,” which features the bravest of heroes as they foil yet another evil villain’s scheme. Dynamic images and scenes will appeal to reluctant readers. Super hero fans may also love “Ultimate Factivity Collection: Marvel Avengers,” which combines facts about the Earth’s mightiest super heroes – the Avengers – with fun activities and interesting puzzles.

Pop-Out Surprises: Using flaps, touch-andfeel textures and pop-out surprises, “Pop-Up Peekaboo Farm,” introduces young minds to sheepdogs, tractors, cows, horses and more. DUNKELBERGER’S for women

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Creepy Crawlies:

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9080 Franklin Hill Road East Stroudsburg, Pa www.psgaragepa.com 6 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MAY/JUNE 2015

“Eyewitness Explorer: Bug Hunter” includes more than 30 hands-on learning activities and step-bystep project instructions. Enter the kingdom of creepy crawlies and learn everything there is to know about beetles, bees, spiders and more. Experiments that can be done at home include raising a caterpillar.

Little Chefs:

Bedtime:

Encourage your budding chef’s aspirations with creative recipes that are safe for children. The “Mommy & Me Bake” cookbook is designed to offer parents and children the opportunity to work together as a team while teaching basic baking skills. From simple kneading and mixing to creating whimsical and tasty treats, the book empowers kids to experiment in the kitchen.

There’s always time for a little play before bedtime. Capture the attention of infants with “Baby Touch & Feel Animals,” which features blankets, stars, sleepy stuffed animals and a range of novelty textures.

"Frozen": For fans of the mega hit film, fill up Easter baskets with a great crop of new picks, including “Frozen: The Essential Guide,” a factfilled reference book about the characters, locations and themes of Disney’s beloved princess tale. A singalong companion, “Frozen: The Essential Collection,” features lyrics to the famous songs, as well as a full-color sticker book. “Ultimate Factivity Collection: Disney Frozen,” a jam-packed activity book, combines facts with games, challenges and sticker activities; and aspiring princesses everywhere are sure to love the “Ultimate Sticker Book: Frozen,” which lets kids re-create their favorite scenes from the movie with reusable stickers.

431 Main Street • Stroudsburg, PA 18360 Phone: 570-424-6431 • Email: rsr1@ptd.net www.readysetrunpoconos.com

Specialists in Running & Walking

ABCs: Children around the world have fallen in love with Sophie, the popular giraffe teether toy from France. In the “Sophie la girafe” book series, Sophie and her friends teach new concepts, such as colors and basic vocabulary. “Peekaboo ABC” features every letter of the alphabet illustrated by familiar objects found in Sophie’s world. More kids’ book ideas for summer can be found at www.dk.com.

Whether lounging poolside or curled up in the hammock, make summer fun with some great new books. P

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MAY/JUNE 2015 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 7

Business

Pocono Business Profile The Good Citizens of Frailey Insurance and Financial Services BY ROSEANNE BOTTONE

HE FRAILEY INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES motto is “Think Frailey First” – there’s no need to go elsewhere for insurance or financial planning. The company was established 78 years ago by Verdon Frailey, grandfather of the current proprietors, twins Michael and Michele. Michael says, “Our family’s belief system is all about serving others and helping those that are struggling. We live, work, and play in and around the Poconos and surrounding communities and believe we have been blessed in business by our neighbors and friends; we want to give back and help raise the bar and improve the quality of life for everyone.” To this end, the Agency is presenting free financial planning seminars on topics such as education funding; “Retiresense” and understanding your social security choices; long term care options; beneficiary planning; taking the mystery out of Medicare; and estate planning. Financial Advisor, Yvonne L. Reitemeyer, ChFC, says, “The work we do at Frailey Insurance and Financial Services is gratifying on so many levels. It’s all about helping our members be in a better position than before we worked together. Whether it is making sure their family is protected in case of an unexpected tragedy, or helping them plan for the future so they can achieve their goals and dreams, it is always about what is best for each individual. I consider many of the people I work with as my friends. I like knowing that when the day comes to put our plans into place, they will be in a better position because of the work I have done with them.”

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inancial planning is for people of all ages and wealth levels. It’s never too soon or too late to take control of your finances, and plan for retirement. Ms. Reitemeyer says, “Starting early allows time to work for you. Contributing to a retirement plan when you are young becomes a habit that can really pay off in the long run; putting away just a small amount on a regular basis can make a huge difference. Unfortunately, not everyone started saving at an early age, and as retirement draws near, they start to worry about not having enough. We can help our members structure a realistic plan to start saving, whatever amount, regardless of age. We don’t make false promises, and the realistic picture may not be what they were hoping for, but we can help put them in the best possible position.”

Michael and Michele Frailey

Michele Frailey was voted Pocono Record’s 2014 Reader’s Choice #1 Insurance agent. What does she do differently that earned her this honorable distinction? She said, “I’m interested in helping people, so that means taking the time to really listen to and understand my members’ (clients’) needs. Insurance is about protecting what matters most and having what you need when you have a claim. Most people don’t enjoy discussing their insurance, but I do! So I try to liven it up a bit and provide real-life examples that explain their coverage. I want my members to know I truly care.” Ms. Reitemeyer says, “The Frailey family is very well known and respected in the area and the longevity of the agency speaks to their commitment to the community and their members. The values and ethics of every employee here are in direct alignment with my own and that makes for the very best possible working environment!

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F R AI L EY IN SUR AN CE AN D FINAN CIAL SE RVICE S

here is limited seating at the seminars. They begin at 5:30 pm with a light supper. Registration is required by contacting Yvonne L. Reitemeyer at 570-421-7447 x233, or reitemy@nationwide.com. She will provide you with topics, dates and locations. P

Introducing the

Pocono Family

Contact info: Michael J. Frailey 1286 N. Ninth Street Stroudsburg, PA 18360-8782 570-421-7447

Five Money Moves for Everyone - Even if You Have (Almost) No Money Know your credit score. Obtain your score for free from Credit Karma (creditkarma.com). Federal law allows you to receive a free copy of your full credit report every 12 months from each credit reporting agencies: Equifax®, TransUnion®, and Experian® - visit annualcreditreport.com or call 877-322-8228.

Pay down your debt. Armed with information about your credit score, longevity as a card holder and payment history, call the customer service number on the back of each of your credit cards to negotiate a better interest rate. (The average APR is about 14 %.)

Digital Edition

Spend consciously

Financial Advisor Yvonne L. Reitemeyer, ChFC Enjoy all of the great stories and spectacular photographs that appear in each issue of

Pocono Family on your Mac, PC, iPad or smartphone. Subscribe for free at: www.poconomagazines.com 10 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MAY/JUNE 2015

How we spend money is personal – just don’t do it unquestioningly. Do you need premium cable? Might a Roku or Amazon Fire TV stick along with a $7.99 per month subscription to HULU Plus or Netflix do the trick? Can you eat breakfast at home and brew your own coffee to take on your commute? Is it time to organize a couponing system for grocery shopping? Challenge yourself to find savings in a way that works best for you and your family.

Save for a rainy day You’ve done the work to uncover some extra money, now put it to good use. Set up a dedicated savings account to amass six months of emergency living expenses. Transfer funds into the account automatically each payday – even a small amount will add up in time.

Plan for the future Does your employer offer a 401k plan? If they match your contributions, don’t miss out on this “free money.” Whenever you receive a raise, try to live without it and direct it to your retirement fund instead. You’ll be shocked by the results of compounding interest over a long period.

lookbest we want you to

your

Join me in Stroudsburg. Michael J Frailey Frailey Insurance and Financial Services (570) 421-7447 www.fraileyinsurance.com

“We would like to thank the generations of customers & friends who have trusted us to provide them with their building materials. On behalf of all of our employees, past & present, we thank you for your business and we look forward to serving you in the future.”

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Founder Russell C. Cramer

MAY/JUNE 2015 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 11

Home & Garden

Is Your Yard Wildlife Friendly?

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Being a good neighbor means more than being friendly to the humans across the street, it also means being friendly to the animals in your yard. Making your yard a safe place for local wildlife should be a top lawn care priority.

ITH THAT IN MIND, here are some tips for creating a healthy habitat for local critters.

Be a Valuable Rest Stop

Stock your garden with small native species of trees, shrubs and flowers to give wildlife needed nourishment, as well as cover from predators. A source of water can also be a great resource for visiting fauna. Whether it’s a pond or a bird bath, be sure this zone is well-maintained so you don’t inadvertently create a haven for unwanted species. In the warmer months when mosquitoes are most active, you should change the bird bath water even more often.

Promote Safety

A bird feeder in your backyard, full of water and seeds, will be the perfect invitation for beautiful migrating and local birds to stop by. Just be sure your property is safe for birds. Unfortunately, birds don’t see clear glass. As a result, millions of birds die every year by striking glass. Don’t let your sliding glass doors or other windows become a death trap for birds. To protect birds, apply special decals that reflect ultraviolet sunlight. For example, those from WindowAlert have the appearance of frosted glass, but glow like a stoplight for birds, so you don’t have to compromise your own view out your window. The brand also makes a high-tech liquid called WindowAlert UV Liquid, which should be applied between decals. “Wildlife can beautify your garden and be a sign that your yard is healthy” says Spencer Schock, founder of WindowAlert. “But birds and other wildlife need food, shelter, and safety.” Get out the binoculars! With a few small actions, you can make your yard or garden a wildlife refuge. P

CONTENT: STATEPOINT

MAY/JUNE 2015 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 13

Home & Garden

www.447cornerstoneproducts.com Frank & Michele Sapone

FOR MOST HOMEOWNERS, sunny skies lead to more time spent enjoying nature in your coveted outdoor spaces. If you’ve considered revamping your open-air landscapes, let this be your season to bring the elements of beauty and design to the environment. Homeowners who want to enhance both the aesthetics and efficiency of their outdoor spaces are not alone. In fact, a recent survey conducted by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), found that sustainable and lowmaintenance designs are top trends among residential landscape projects. “The good news is that consumers care about designed landscapes that are attractive, easy to take care of and eco-friendly,” said Nancy Somerville, executive vice president and CEO of ASLA. “The survey shows that homeowners increasingly see opportunities to improve the environment right in their own backyard.”

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14 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MAY/JUNE 2015

The study, which asked landscape architects to rate the expected popularity of outdoor design elements, points to a great demand for ecologically sensitive

projects intended to preserve the environment, conserve water and reduce landscape maintenance. Here are the top five project types with the expected highest consumer demand: • Native plants (85 percent) • Native/adapted drought plants (83 percent) • Food/vegetable gardens (79 percent) • Fire pits/fireplaces (78 percent) • Low-maintenance landscapes (78 percent) Go with a pro If you’re ready to breathe these top design ideas to life in your outdoor spaces, consider hiring a pro. Here are the top five reasons for hiring a landscape architect for the job:

A landscape architect is well equipped to design an outdoor living space that will add value to your home, extend your living space and allow you to enjoy all that nature has to offer in a controlled setting. From arbors to fountains, they can create a space that is both inviting and environmentally sustainable.

CONTENT: FAMILY FEATURES

Creating Sustainable, Beautiful Landscapes

Hiring a landscape architect is a terrific investment for your home. Research from Virginia Tech shows that landscapes literally grow in value over time, while traditional home additions or remodels start to lose value the minute the dust settles.

Landscape architects are licensed professionals who often work with landscaping or other construction companies to install their designs. Think of the fashion designer imagining an outfit while a clothing manufacturer makes the apparel, or an artist designing a wall poster that’s printed by another company.

Landscape architects are trained to think about landscapes as systems. They will assess your property’s problem areas as well as possibilities and create a solid plan that addresses both the big picture and exact details of how your landscape will look. They will handle all the details, saving you time and stress.

Landscape architects will deliver a finished project that you will love and that will comply with regulations and codes. It will be a special place that you and your family and friends will enjoy for years to come. For more landscape ideas for your home, and to find a professional in your area, visit www.asla.org. P

MAY/JUNE 2015 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 15

Over 55

“The words 'sensible shoes' and 'back fat' have insidiously nudged their way into my vocabulary.”

The Stranger in the Mirror BY ROSEANNE BOTTONE

Roseanne Bottone is a regulatory compliance training instructor, former Peace Corps Volunteer, cancer survivor, grandmother, MBA, and freelance writer. She travels the country teaching business people about environmental and transportation safety regulations, and is a newspaper columnist. She’s a homeowner in East Stroudsburg and lives with her daughter, grandchildren, two cats and a Rottweiler.

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Egads! WHO IS THAT WOMAN IN THE MIRROR? Theoretically, she is me. When I wink, she winks. When I stick my tongue out, she does the same right back at me. But how is that possible? The woman staring back at me is, well, so old. She must be an imposter; in my mind’s eye I am still that pretty young girl with chestnut hair and smooth skin, anticipating my whole life in front of me.

The old lady in the mirror is silver haired with a furrowed brow caused by the struggles and worries of decades of living. And some furrow it is – a most worthy candidate for botox. When I wake up in the morning – during those first moments of disoriented semi-consciousness – I have forgotten I am no longer in my late twenties. Then I head to the bathroom to wash my face and see that giant butt crack right in the middle of my forehead. Reality shocks me out of my socks; who the heck is that that? It happened in a blink. Poof! Suddenly I experienced the weirdest phenomenon; all my clothes had shrunk something terrible. Thank goodness I am aging anonymously; When Liz Taylor, arguably one of the most beautiful women in the world, gained weight, Joan Rivers stung with, “If she pierced her ears they’d leak gravy.” Scarves have become a staple of my wardrobe to keep my neck from flapping in the wind and I finally understand why the Queen waves hello the way she does. The words “sensible shoes” and “back fat” have insidiously nudged their way into my vocabulary. I never would have used such vile language in my twenties. In order to be attractive to men I am forced to engage in witty repartee – and it’s so darn exhausting. Then a young woman will walk into the room, and I become invisible again. Don’t men my age know that, as they

get older, their ears have been growing large and they’re now too big for their heads? Some women claim to accept the aging process. “Age is only a number,” they say. Liars! Liars! Pants on fire! My (safe) bet is they have a stash of undergarments, creams, lotions and meds to do combat with the inevitable drooping, sagging, wrinkles, and aches and pains. Admit it! The term “aging gracefully” is an oxymoron. No siree… I am snap-crackling and popping as I’m dragged into my twilight years. I don’t want to go, even as I understand that aging beats the alternative. Wiser words have never been spoken since the writer George Bernard Shaw said, “Youth is wasted on the young.” If only I had known then what I know now, I would be the pale, well-preserved, supreme Empress of the world today. I don’t want to go back and do it all over again but gee, I do yearn for the time I slept through the entire night without hot flashes and 4 am pee breaks. How wonderful it was to start the day by eating breakfast instead of thyroid and blood pressure pills. So I talk to the stranger in the mirror as she applies concealer and I tell her to stop complaining. “There is one very good thing about getting older,” I remind her. “Oh, wait! I had it on the tip of my tongue. Oh, gosh, what was I going to say? Ah yes! You get to be a grandmother.” P

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HE ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) in Urbana, IL., handled more than 167,000 calls involving pets exposed to possibly poisonous substances in 2014. Nearly 16% of those calls were from pet parents whose pets got into medicines intended for human use, putting this category at the top of the toxin list for the seventh year in a row. Here are the 10 most common pet toxins of 2014 ranked in order of call volume:

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Over-the-counter medications, including herbal and other natural supplements, attracted greater concern this year than in previous years resulting in approximately 25,000 calls. This category is exceptionally large, encompassing more than 6,900 different products.

Insecticides dropped to the third slot this year, comprising 9.1% of calls to the APCC (15,000 cases). These products can be very dangerous, especially if the label directions are not followed.

Household items were the cause for concern in more than 13,500 cases, especially paints and cleaning products.

Human foods are appealing to pets, especially dogs. Dogs can get into serious trouble by ingesting onions, garlic, grapes, raisins and xylitol, a sugar substitute which can be life-threatening for animals. Approximately 13,200 cases involved human foods in 2014.

18 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MAY/JUNE 2015

Ten Most Common Pet Toxins

Veterinary medications made up 7% of total cases in 2014. Pet parents should be aware that chewable medications are very tasty and pets might ingest an entire bottle if it is not kept out of their reach.

Chocolate ingestion is very common. At the APCC, chocolate calls make up 6% of the total call volume—more than 30 calls a day! The darker the chocolate, the more potential it has to do harm.

Plants represent approximately 5% of the calls to the APCC and moved up a spot since 2014. Most of these calls involve cats and houseplants.

Rodenticides are made to kill mice and rats, but they can also kill pets if ingested. APCC handled more than 7,500 calls about rodenticides last year.

10.

Lawn and garden products round out the top ten, accounting for about 2.7% of all calls. Many of these exposures occurred because people did not store lawn and garden products out of the reach of pets. Want more poison control information at your fingertips? Download our free APCC by ASPCA mobile app, which features a searchable database of more than 275 toxins as well as helpful information for pet parents of dogs, cats, horses and birds. The app helps users quickly and accurately identify common hazards. If you have any reason to suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, please contact your veterinarian or the Animal Poison Control Center’s 24-hour hotline at (888) 426-4435. P

MAY/JUNE 2015 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 19

Adventure

Mountain Biking …Pocono Style BY PETE PAPPALARDO

Peter Pappalardo, writer, teacher, outdoorsman and musician, was born in East Stroudsburg General Hospital, and spent his youth in Shawnee-0nDelaware when route 80 was just a twinkle in President Eisenhower’s eye. He received his doctorate from Indiana University of Pennsylvania only moments before he retired from teaching, ensuring that his vast resultant knowledge wouldn’t subsequently harm his students. He is the author of two novels, Bluegrass and The Compleat Dartshooter, both of which chronicle life in East Pennsylvania. Samples of his meanderings can be seen at his website, www.Bluegrasschronicles.com. He is proud to be implicated in raising four fine sons, all of whom fortunately favor their sainted mother.

ired of treadmills that take up floor space, ab crunchers that become toe-stubbers, and the hassles of getting to the gym or aerobics class, millions of Americans concerned with the benefits of regular exercise have taken to the sport of mountain biking. This sport, once the sole province of X-treme enthusiasts, is one that is perfectly suited to family members of almost any age. The appeal is easy to understand; hours, regimen and routes can be varied to accommodate a wide range of skills and fitness levels. And in this age of shrinking time, the sport is one which can increase health and family bonds simultaneously.

➔ 20 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MAY/JUNE 2015

Mountain Biking in the Lehigh River State Park photo: PMVB, www.800poconos.com

MAY/JUNE 2015 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 21

M O UN TAIN B IK IN G

S 762 main street stroudsburg,pa 570.872.9088 www.verticalearthinc.com

et-up costs for the sport are not cheap, but compare favorably with health club memberships and exercise machines. Starter bikes can be had for around $150.00, but for those who intend to do any amount of off-road touring, bikes with front suspensions greatly reduce hand and arm fatigue and improve control, thereby reducing the risk of injury. Such bikes begin in the $300.00-$500.00 range, depending upon the type of frame, shifters and shocks that come with the bike. Of course, as with any sport, much more can be spent—custom bikes can easily run into the thousands; but for the casual enthusiast, bike, helmet (a must!) and accessories like gloves and water bottles can be had for a good deal less. For the adventurous, Stroudsburg boasts Glen Park, which features challenging terrain; steep climbs and descents, all rugged trails with roots, logs and rocks. The trails follow the abandoned trolley switch-back that ascends Godfrey’s Ridge. This area is definitely suitable for someone looking for a challenging ride as opposed to a leisurely roll around in the woods.

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For those who want something a little more user-friendly, the trails in the State Game lands near Camelback Ski Area offer a wide array of trails for all levels of expertise. Choosing different trails will produce tours that vary in duration. The trails are mostly moderate, and there are quite a lot of them. Bike rentals can be an option for those who wish to try the sport first before sinking serious money into it. Rentals can be found on the road to the Game Lands, as is the case for many of the areas with biking trails.

“This area is definitely suitable for someone looking for a challenging ride as opposed to a leisurely roll around in the woods.”

Another favorite with area bikers is Jacobsburg State Park, which has dedicated bike trails. This area has trails that range from beginner to expert, and is located south of the Poconos, just off the Belfast exit of Route 33 south. The Lehigh River State Park, near Jim Thorpe is another user-friendly spot for biking. Bikers can follow a 26 mile trail situated on an abandoned rail bed that follows the Lehigh River. The State Game Land in Brady’s Lake, located in Pocono Pines, has bike trails, as does the Pinchot State Forest in Thornhurst, and the Delaware State Forest opposite the Pocono raceway, where the trials follow the Pohopoco stream. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area features the McDade Trial, a mostly easy ride along the scenic Delaware River. The 32 mile trail runs from the beginning of the park, just north of Shawnee. There are trail-heads for access every mile or so, and during the summer months the Park Service provides livery service for pick-up or delivery. Whether you rent or buy, take it easy on the first few outings, and, when in doubt, remember: there is no shame in walking the hard parts of any trail. With practice and conditioning, even very young riders and those of us not in the very best of shape can become adept at this fine family activity. P MAY/JUNE 2015 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 23

Healthy Living

速

Saving lives, one couple at a time Did you know that cancer is the second leading cause of death in both men and women? The Hughes Cancer Center at Pocono Medical Center can save your relationship from being pulled apart by a cancer diagnosis. Although not all cancers can be prevented, early detection can discover an abnormality in its earliest stage when treatment can be most effective.

To learn more about our screenings, please call 570-476-3742

PoconoMedicalCenter.org

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24 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE息 MAY/JUNE 2015

The Hand in Hand速 initiative was developed by Spirit Health Group速 for unlimited use by hospitals throughout the United States to increase cancer screenings and decrease cancer deaths.

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The Twelve Most Common Cancers in the U.S. Type of Cancer

Location

Symptoms

Screenings

Who

Options

There are no standard screening methods - talk with your doctor if you feel you may be at risk

Those exposed to cigarette smoke, radon, asbestos, air pollution, family history, and those over 65

Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapy

Lung Cancer

In the linings of one or both lungs

Persistent cough, breathing trouble, constant chest pain, coughing up blood, hoarse voice, frequent lung infections, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue

Prostate Cancer

Prostate gland surrounding the male urethra

Problems urinating, difficulty with erections, blood in urine or semen, upper back, hips or thigh pain

The guidelines for screenings are changing, but you should seek a digital rectal exam and blood test for PSA if you think you’re at risk

Men, those over 65, with a family history, those of African American descent, those with BRCA 1 and 2 genes

Active surveillance (also called watchful waiting), surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy

Breast Cancer

Tissues of the breast including the ducts and lobules

Lump in breast, thickening or change in size or shape of breast, dimpling of skin in breast, nipple turned inward, bloody discharge from nipple, scaly, red skin in area

If you are over 40, get a clinical breast exam and mammogram yearly; otherwise, women 20-40 can seek screenings every three years or as needed

Women, those over 60, with family history, Caucasians, those who never gave birth or did so later in life, if first menstrual period was before 12 or menopause came after 55

Surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy

Colorectal Cancer

Tissues of the colon and rectum

Diarrhea, constipation, finding blood in the stool, stools which are narrow, unexplained weight loss, nausea

Fecal occult blood testing (FOBT), sigmoidoscopy, or colonoscopy regularly over the age of 50 or if you’re in a high-risk group

Those over 50, with polyps, with a family history, poor eating habits, Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis

Surgery, chemotherapy, biological therapy, or radiation therapy

Bladder Cancer

Transitional (stretching) tissues of the bladder

Blood in the urine, frequent need to urinate, pain or difficulty when trying to urinate

Screenings include urine tests or a cystoscopy to find signs of this cancer as needed

Those over 70, men, with a family history, exposure to tobacco, or other hazardous chemicals

Surgery, chemotherapy, biological therapy, and radiation therapy

Melanoma

Pigment cells in the skin, eyes or intestines

A change in the shape, color, size, or feel of an existing mole, attacks most often between the shoulders and hips or on the head for men and on the lower legs for women

Ask your doctor about regular skin and mole exams

Those with fair skin, numerous or irregular moles, history of sunburns, use of medications that heighten sun sensitivity or lengthy lifetime sun exposure

Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and vaccine therapy

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Cells of the immune system, also called NHL

Swollen, painless lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin, unexplained weight loss, soaking night sweats, chest pain, feeling of fullness in the abdomen

Your doctor can assess swollen lymph nodes and investigate further with blood tests and chest X-rays

Those over 60, with low immunity, with viruses like HIV, Hepatitis C, helicobacter pylori, Epstein-Barr, HTVL-1

Prognosis and treatment depend on the stage and type of disease

Kidney Cancer

The tissues of the kidney, also called renal cancer

Blood in your urine, persistent pain in your side, a lump in your side or abdomen, unexplained weight loss

There are a number of blood and urine tests and imaging methods to look for signs of kidney cancer if you have symptoms

Those exposed to cigarette smoke, those who are obese, with a family history, high blood pressure, over 55

Targeted therapy and biological therapy

Thyroid Cancer

The thyroid gland in the throat

A lump in the front of the neck, hoarseness or voice changes, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, trouble swallowing or breathing, throat or neck pain

If you have symptoms your doctor can feel for signs of cancer and check your blood and internal images

Women, those over 45, those exposed to radiation, with goiters, iodine deficiency

The choice of treatment depends on: the type of thyroid cancer (papillary, follicular, medullary, or anaplastic)

Endometrial Cancer

Lining of the uterus

Vaginal bleeding, spotting, or discharge; pain in pelvis or pain when urinating, during sex

Your doctor performs a pelvic exam or ultrasound if you are at risk or experiencing symptoms

Women who never gave birth, had their first period before 12, menopause after 55, with hyperplasia, or who took estrogen, tamoxifen, radiation therapy, or those with a family history

Surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy; your doctor may recommend surgery to remove your uterus (hysterectomy) or hormone therapy with progesterone and regular follow-up exams

Pancreatic Cancer

Tissues of the pancreas

Dark urine, pale stools, yellow skin and eyes, upper back or belly pain, stools that float in the toilet

Screenings include a physical exam, CT scan and ultrasound for those that experience symptoms

Those exposed to cigarette smoke, are over 65, with diabetes, pancreatitis, or family history

Surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and radiation therapy; you’ll probably receive more than one type of treatment

Leukemia

Blood-forming tissue like the bone marrow

Painful bones and lymph nodes, bleeding easily, swelling in the abdomen, fever and fatigue

Routine blood tests may be able to detect leukemia; if you are at risk, ask for a complete blood count

Those exposed to cigarette smoke, radiation, benzene, those with Down’s syndrome, blood disorders

Watchful waiting, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, biological therapy, radiation therapy, or stem cell transplant

*If you are experiencing symptoms, make an appointment with your physician immediately. PoconoMedicalCenter.org

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The Hand in Hand® initiative was developed by Spirit Health Group® for unlimited use by hospitals throughout the United States to increase cancer screenings and decrease cancer deaths.

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MAY/JUNE 2015 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 25

Healthy Living

Healthcare in the Third World BY DR. JONATHAN A. GOLDNER, DO, FCCP, FCCM

26 POCONO POCONO FAMILY FAMILY MAGAZINE MAGAZINE©© MAY/JUNE MAY/JUNE 2015 2015

JUST HAD THE PLEASURE of completing my ninth medical mission to Guatemala with a group called DOCare International, NLP. This is a medical outreach organization that provides much-needed healthcare to indigent and isolated people in remote areas of the world. It began almost 50 years ago with a few family physicians that would fly their single engine plane into the back areas of Mexico and give healthcare to the populace. For me, nine years ago, it was something that I had always wanted to do and had finally decided to make the time.

daughter is h h it ner w eir han Gold during th , Dr. Jonat a is L e . nd wif uatemala Hayley, a G o t n io iss medical m

This year like many others, my wife Lisa, who is a nurse, and one of our daughters, Hayley, a college student, accompanied me. Lisa helps in the triage of patients as they come through the door and gets them to where they need to go in the clinic. Hayley pretty much helps out where needed whether it be our makeshift lab performing blood sugars on patients, or helping the doctors see patients. Her Spanish, which she learned courtesy of the Stroudsburg School District is very good which always helps as in most villages English is not spoken very well. Guatemala is one of the poorest countries in Central America with over 50% of the population living in severe poverty. Most of the people that we see are farmers and most did not attend school as they needed to go out to work to help support their family. The Guatemalan government is trying to make headway with that problem by offering fruits, vegetables or firewood to children once a week if they go to school.

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MAY/JUNE 2015 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 27

HE ALTHCAR E IN THE THIR D WO R LD

A line of children waiting to be seen at our clinic

Examining a woman with an interpreter

28 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MAY/JUNE 2015

e were based in an old city called La Antigua which was built in the late 1500’s. Once the capital of Guatemala, it is surrounded by volcanoes and has been destroyed several times by severe earthquakes and floods. Ruins of old cathedrals and buildings attest to that fact. It is a quaint city, with numerous small bed and breakfast hotels with running water and best of all, workable toilets. Each clinic day, we traveled an hour from there by vans to a town or village that has no access to any type of healthcare. Our DOCare mission was sponsored by Midwestern University where I went to medical school which provides medical, pharmacy, podiatry, dental, and physician assistant students as well as some professors, medications and equipment. We bring a pharmacy and a small lab to do some basic tests such as blood sugars, pregnancy tests and blood counts. The Lion’s Club also sponsors an optometrist and optician most years and they accompany us. They bring down over 5000 pairs of used glasses that had been donated to give out to those with trouble seeing. Pocono Medical Center also donates hundreds of dollars’ worth of medication each year which we use to treat patients. The clinics are usually set up in a church, school or government building, which are the sturdiest in a town. Although there are bathrooms, none had workable toilets this year which makes it interesting being there all day. It takes coordination pulling your pants down and keeping your pant legs up so as not to soil them with the sewage that is on the bathroom floor. Over a hundred residents are usually outside the clinic building awaiting care at any one time. What I can say about the Guatemalan people is despite waiting hours for medical

treatment, they remain pleasant, respectful and orderly. The children which make up a large number of the patients are usually well behaved. In the villages we were at this year, many of the children had no shoes and there were numerous families that could not afford food. Everyone was extremely thankful for whatever care we could give them. Confidentiality and privacy is a luxury in Guatemala. We try to treat as many people as possible before it becomes dark, knowing that we will not be able to get to everyone. That means seeing whole families together and different patients in the same area or believe it or not on the same cot at one time. The same bed sheet stays on the cot throughout the entire day or days with numerous patients either sitting or lying on it. The Guatemalan people do not seem to have a problem with that. They just want healthcare, an amenity in this country. Normally, women give birth in their homes, usually assisted by an elder woman in the village that has some experience with childbirth. People die in their homes and they have no access to hospitals or healthcare. Our drivers want to leave these villages before dark to get us back to La Antigua because of the unlit, winding roads and for security reasons.

The hardest part of the day is closing that door at night, knowing that there are still some people out there that need care. Usually before that happens, one of the staff will go down the waiting line and pick out people that look ill so they can be seen. The rest will go home without a complaint.

he Guatemalan people usually suffer from a lot of similar illnesses and diseases that we see here in the United States. There are numerous infections of the skin, a lot on the feet due to poor or no footwear. We see huge amounts of arthritis due to a lot of manual labor that they do or asthma from all the dust and smoke from cooking fires that seems to invade everywhere in town. Most kids have horrible teeth as they do not have toothbrushes or toothpaste, let alone access to a dentist. Children drink soda as everyone knows not to drink the water as it is contaminated which compounds their dental problems. There are a lot of stomach problems such as gastritis and diarrhea due to the poor sanitation facilities. There is no clean water other than bottled water if they can afford it. Scabies and lice are rampant and we found all the children in one village to be infested. We gave whatever medication we had for this, but ran out.

Examining an infant

“The hardest part of the day is closing that door at night, knowing that there are still some people out there that need care.”

➔ MAY/JUNE 2015 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 29

HE ALTHCAR E IN THE THIR D WO R LD

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This year we visited the villages of San Jose Cajagualten, San Andres Itzapa, Chicasanga, and Los Corrales. We provided primary care to the population seeing over 1200 men, women and children in the week that we were in Guatemala. Interestingly, as a physician you are forced to examine and make a diagnosis with just the use of basic equipment such as a stethoscope and otoscope (a scope to look into a patient’s eyes, ears and throat). There are no fancy CT or MRI scans, sophisticated lab tests or echocardiograms. I have to go back to the basics that I learned in medical school, your physical examination skills such as looking, listening and palpation to diagnose a patient. I saw a young girl named Sarah. She is a bright, cheerful 9 year old and her Mom asked me to help her walk better which she had been unable to do. At her age, the other children would make fun of her trying to play. Sarah could not straighten her leg out, had a lot of pain and it became obvious that she could not move her hip since birth. We took up a collection and paid for her 2 hour transportation with her mother from her village to Guatemala City for an x-ray. After she returned, the x-ray showed that she had a dislocated hip which probably occurred during birth. After further collections from our staff and donations from

30 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MAY/JUNE 2015

DOCare International, she recently had hip surgery at the national hospital in Guatemala City. Her hip is permanently disabled, but her pain is now gone and she can walk better. Pretty much we do what we can and in this case, it worked out. My first order of business in returning to Antigua each night was to strip off my scrubs and head for the shower. So far I haven’t taken any critters back with me, but it is one of my concerns. We have to be careful what we eat or drink there to avoid getting sick. The water is usually contaminated with sewage and garbage so anything washed in the water can’t be eaten. That even means your toothbrush has to be rinsed in bottled water and you make sure you keep your mouth shut in the shower. It excludes eating any vegetables and most fruit unless it is pealed. Milk is not pasteurized, so that leaves out most dairy products. A lot of young medical students think they are indestructible and can eat anything. Having seen one or two of them get deathly ill, I learned to bring our own medications and IV fluids with me just in case. Even the healthcare that we ourselves are used to every day is very far away if we get sick.

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A typical house in a village

o, on the ride back from Guatemala, instead of reading a book, I sit and reflect on the past week. I am happy to be going home and I am really tired, but it is a good tired feeling. Our team saw over 1200 patients during that time, the majority of which would never have access to any type of healthcare if this group of volunteers had not been there. Despite the problems with our healthcare system, I realize how lucky I am to live in a country like the United States of America. I understand I am extremely fortunate to be able to practice medicine in a country and area that has some of the best healthcare technology and facilities anywhere. More information can be found at www.docareintl.org. P

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Travel

5 Tips to Avoid a Break the Bank Summer Vacation VACATIONS ARE GOOD FOR YOU. But they can also be tough on the wallet. For more than one-third of Americans, the cost of a vacation will be one of their largest expenses in the coming year, according to Wells Fargo’s recent “How America Buys and Borrows” survey. How can you avoid vacation sticker shock? One option is sitting in your wallet, as certain credit cards offer rewards with virtually every purchase. Here are five tips for how you can use your credit card to turn your vacation dreams into reality. n Read the terms and conditions thoroughly and understand how you can earn and redeem rewards. Some cards offer cash back while others offer points. Some credit cards allow customers to redeem for a variety of options, while other cards -- such as those offered by some airlines and hotels -- connect you to reward redemptions for their specific product. Know what, if any, fees or charges

32 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MAY/JUNE 2015

occur when redeeming and whether your rewards ever expire. n Some consumers track rewards and redeem them regularly. Others rarely think about them. If you fall in the second category, check your rewards balance. You may have earned enough rewards to offset vacation costs like airfare, hotel stays or gift cards to merchants you plan on visiting while vacationing. Alternatively, you may prefer to redeem your rewards as an account credit and use the cash while traveling. n The average vacationer spends just over $1,300 for travel, including food, lodging and transportation, estimates the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. By responsibly using your rewards credit card for vacation costs, rewards can add up. You can redeem them later -- perhaps, for next year’s vacation! n Traveling with your credit card offers a safer way to pay because if a card is lost or stolen, a quick call to your bank can stop charges to your account. In addition to rewards programs, many cards offer little known perks that may help make your travel smoother. For example, some credit cards offer 24/7 concierge services that can help you plan your trip or even make dinner reservations.

Your card may also offer rental car insurance, nofee currency conversions, competitive currency conversion rates, and travel protections like insurance for lost or damage luggage. To learn more about these benefits, read your credit card agreement. n Look for special travel offers from your rewards program. Also, check to see if your credit card offers special travel deals that come with additional rewards from specific retailers. To learn more about available offers, cardholders can typically check their rewards program website. To review Wells Fargo’s available offers, visit www. MyWellsFargoRewards. com and www. MyWellsFargoRewardsEMM. com. As you plan vacation, keep budgeting and money management basics in mind. Be sure to let your bank know you’re going out of town, and consider using free tools -- like online banking or your bank’s mobile app -- to stay on top of your finances. That way you’ll come home refreshed, with no worries about having derailed your financial goals. P

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Lemony Blueberry Layered Pie Prep time: 20 minutes Servings: 8 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk 1/4 cup powdered sugar 1 box (3.4 ounces) instant lemon pudding mix 2 teaspoons fresh lemon zest 1/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed 1 can (21 ounces) can Lucky Leaf Premium Blueberry Pie Filling 1 9-inch graham cracker crust Combine cream cheese, condensed milk and powdered sugar in large bowl. Using electric mixer, mix at medium speed for 1-2 minutes, until smooth. Add pudding mix, lemon zest and lemon juice; mix until well blended. Spoon about half of pie filling evenly into bottom of graham cracker crust. Spoon lemon-filling mixture on top and spread evenly. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour. Spoon remaining pie filling on top just before serving. Garnish with fresh lemon zest if desired.

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Family Finances

Decoding Your Taxes

Health Care Law Taxpayers get help with IRS Free File

OU DON’T NEED to be an expert on taxes or the new health care law to get it right. The Internal Revenue Service, in partnership with industry-leading companies, is offering free tax software that will do the hard work for you. It’s called Free File, and it’s available only at IRS. gov/freefile. Learn more at freefile.irs.gov. If you earned $60,000 or less - and 70 percent of us do you are eligible for Free File’s brand-name software. If you made more than $60,000, you still have a free option in Free File Fillable Forms. This is the electronic version of IRS paper forms. It’s pretty basic, so this program is best for people comfortable doing their own taxes.

Free File’s software programs will help you find the tax benefits you are due, help pick the right tax forms, and do the math for you. This year, Free File also helps you complete information on your return that is related to the Affordable Care Act. When it comes to the health care law, almost everyone will need to do something new when filing a tax return this year. For each month in 2014, you and everyone on your return will need to do one of the following: • Report healthcare coverage • Claim an exemption from coverage • Make a shared responsibility payment with your tax return Most people will simply have to check a box to indicate they maintained health care coverage for the entire year.

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needs to understand how the health care law affects tax returns. You will need to complete one of the following steps, and using Free File, brand-name software makes it easier for you.

a coverage exemption. Free File will help you complete Form 8965 and file it with your tax return. Making a shared responsibility payment If you or your dependents had neither health care coverage nor an exemption, you may need to make a payment with your tax return. Free File will help you calculate your payment and report it on your tax return. About the Premium Tax Credit If you or anyone on your return purchased insurance coverage from the Marketplace, you may be eligible for the premium tax credit. If you chose to have advance payments of the premium tax credit sent to your insurer in 2014, you must reconcile or compare the advance credit payments with the actual premium tax credit you are allowed to claim on your return. P

Reporting health care coverage If you and everyone on your tax return had health care coverage for all of 2014, simply check the “full year coverage” box when completing your return in the Free File software. For most people, that’s it! Claiming a Coverage Exemption If you did not have health care coverage for all or part of 2014, you may qualify for CONTENT: Family Features

Community

Cherry’s Restaurant

Native Plant Sales May 9 & 10

Kresgeville

featuring

The Brodhead Watershed Association's native plant sale will be held on Saturday, May 9 from 9am-3pm at the Northampton Community College on Rt. 715 in Tannersville. This year they will feature designs and plants for rain gardens, buffer strips and streambank planting— all the ways you can help keep streams clean.Their plant experts will be on hand to offer advice on what's best for your garden. The selection this year will be bigger than ever. Also, all day during the event, designers of the NCC LEED certified campus will offer tours of all the green features and gardens. Go to Brodhead Watershed's website at http:// www.brodheadwatershed.org/ nativeplantsale.html for more information on this event.

OPEN LATE!

Large Selection of IPA & Craft Beers Daily Dinner Specials

Flat Breads Soups & Salads Tapas Slider Sandwhiches Live Entertainment Every Weekend! Route 209 South Downtown Kresgeville 610-681-4482

CherrysFamilyRestaurant.com

Pocono Environmental Education Center's plant sale will be held on both Saturday and Sunday, May 9 & 10 from 9am until 4pm. Choose from a variety of native and deer resistant flowers, shrubs and grasses to beautify your yard. Perennials include coneflowers, bee balm, asters, foxglove, yarrow, cranesbill, lungwort, and much more. Sun loving and shade loving plants will be available. Call in advance with your requests. Reduced price plants will be sold throughout the following week – stop by and check them out! Visit PEEC on their website: www.peec.org for more information.

The Poconos Outdoors

Cupcake Shop & Baking Supplies

Exciting “How-to” Culinary Classes 738 Main Street Stroudsburg, PA

570-730-4944 ldiemer@ptd.net

www.Kitchen-Chemistry.com

10 North 7th Street Stroudsburg, PA PoconoSoap@yahoo.com

www.Pocono-Soap.com

➔

Shelly McCarthy

Community

Wellness Advocate naturally safe, purely effective essential oils 570-856-5242 geoskye@ptd.net

PA Cert. BU1702

Guardian Pest Control PA Dept. of Agriculture

Insured and Bonded

Serving the Poconos since 1980

800-863-1335 570-807-0446 East Stroudsburg, PA

The Poconos Outdoors The 14kt Outlet’s

Fine Jewelry Designs

Main Street, Stroudsburg 570-421-5081 Rt. 209, Brodheadsville (Buy Gold Only)

VOTED By GreatestAroundThePoconos.com

#1 Jewelry Store AND

#1 Gold Buyer www.The14ktOutlet.com

n Saturday, May 2

n Saturday, May 16

ART OPENING - MARLANA HOLSTEN/ JAMES CHESNICK - “Nature Up-Close and Personal” - Award winning nature & wildlife photography. Marlana and James’ passion is nature and the wide variety of wildlife that live in it. Sit back and enjoy the ride as they bring you “up close and personal” with nature. Opening Reception: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, 570629-3061, or www.mcconservation.org.

CENTURY DAY - 7am-7pm. Roger Spotts and Darryl Speicher are teaming up to run the annual Century Day birding extravaganza, as they take the Kettle Creek EE Center bus all over Monroe County in search of 100 species of birds. In addition to the opportunity to spend all day with Roger and Darryl, the fee includes lunch, beverages and snacks throughout the day. Pre-registration deadline is Friday, May 8. Preregistration and payment are required and limited. Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, 570-629-3061, or www.mcconservation.org.

n Sunday, May 3 BRIDGE THE GAP: WILDFLOWER WALK - 1-4pm. Celebrate the blossoming of spring with a walk in the woods. Join local flower expert Josie D’Alessandro as she shares identification tips and natural history of the local flowers. Bring a bottle of water and a camera for some pictures Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570-828-2319, or www.peec.org.

n Saturday, May 8-10 WARBLER WEEKEND - Spring migration has begun! Join us for a wonderful weekend with the birds. Enjoy guided hikes that teach how to identify birds by sight, sound and habitat. Includes two nights of lodging and meals from Friday dinner to Sunday lunch. Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570828-2319, or www.peec.org.

ART ON MAIN - 3-8pm. A Visual & Performing Arts Celebration. Featuring the PoconoArts Annual Members’ Exhibition, Fine Art, Fine Crafts and Musical Performances. ARTSPACE Gallery & Downtown Stroudsburg. Pocono Arts Council, 570-476-4460 or www.poconoarts.org

n Sunday, May 17 BIRD WALK - 8-10am. Interested in learning more about birds? Join Darryl Speicher, from the Pocono Avian Research Center, for a hike that focuses on bird ID and their unique natural history. We provide binoculars and field guides. Ages 10+ please. Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570828-2319, or www.peec.org.

n Wednesday, May 20

n Friday, June 12

JOSIE PORTER FARM MEANDERINGS - “Spring Wildflowers”- Things are blooming everywhere as we focus on the many wildflowers on the property. The Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center in cooperation with the Josie Porter Farm are sponsoring a series of outdoor interpretive walks exploring the Josie Porter Farm property. The walks are open to the public and will focus on the flora and fauna that live on the property. Each walk will meet at the Farm parking lot on Cherry Valley Rd. and will be held the third Wednesday of the month May-October from 4-6 pm rain or shine. Pre-registration is suggested. For more information or to pre-register please call the Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center at 570-629-3061 or the Josie Porter Farm at 570-992-0899.

RAPTOR FIELD TRIP – 8:30am-5pm. The recovery of bald eagle, osprey, and peregrine falcon populations has been nothing short of remarkable. Join Environmental Educator Brian Hardiman on this field trip where we will be observing these locally breeding species and learning about their dramatic comeback. Participants should pack a lunch and binoculars. Pre-registration and payment is required and limited. Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, 570-629-3061, or www. mcconservation.org.

n Sunday, May 31 BRIDGE THE GAP: WILD EDIBLES WALK - 10am-12pm. Nature provides food for us in the form of many plants. Join us on a hike focused on wild edibles. No collecting will be done within the Park. Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570-828-2319, or www.peec.org.

n Saturday, June 6 VOLUNTEER DAY – NATIONAL TRAILS DAY - 9am-12pm. Join us for a fun morning of trail work. Everyone is welcome and appreciated! Snacks provided. Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570-828-2319, or www.peec.org. LITTLE ECO EXPLORERS: FISH - 1:003:00pm. It’s a new program for 3-6 year olds! Join us for a story, craft, and activity focusing on a particular critter. Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570-828-2319, or www.peec.org.

n Thursday, June 11 CANOE/KAYAK TRIP AT THE BOG 10am-1pm. Join us on a paddling trip into the Bog Preserve on Cranberry Creek. Participants are required to provide their own kayak or canoe. Meet at the Bog parking lot. Pre-registration is required. Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, 570-629-3061, or www. mcconservation.org.

n Saturday, June 13 BRIDGE THE GAP: DAY PADDLE – 9am3pm. Join us for this free paddle down the Delaware! Bring a lunch and a water bottle and dress for the weather. We will provide extra water and snacks. Choose between a canoe or kayak. Please register by 6/7 as space is limited. Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570-828-2319, or www.peec.org. “SOMETHING FISHY” - 10 -12noon. Join EE Coordinator Roger Spotts for a family oriented program on the fish that live in the ponds at Kettle Creek. We will learn about their life histories, and then follow up with a visit to a pond with the opportunity to go fishing catch and release only. Participants must bring their own fishing equipment, bait will be provided. Pre-registration is suggested. Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, 570-629-3061, or www. mcconservation.org.

n Saturday, June 27 BRIDGE THE GAP: HIKE AND BIKE – 9am-3pm. Join us for a bike ride along the McDade Trail, followed by a hike back at PEEC. We will provide all equipment and transportation. Please bring a water bottle and lunch, and wear sturdy footwear. We will have extra water and snacks available. Please register by 6/21 as space is limited. Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570828-2319, or www.peec.org. SUMMER CANOE PADDLE – 1-3pm. Start summer off the right way! Paddle a canoe…and try out our new kayaks! Beginners are welcome – we teach you everything you need to know. Dress appropriately – you may get wet. Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570-828-2319, or www.peec.org.

ADVENTURE CAMP

2015

NATURE

8 SESSIONS JUNE 29 – AUGUST 21

peec.org/camp

Otter Lake CAMP RESORT

• 60 acre lake with 300 campsites • Paved roads • Electric, water, cable TV hook-ups & wi-fi; 100 campsites have sewer hook-ups • 8 heated bathouses, store, laundry and propane • Boating, boat rentals and fishing (no fishing license required)

• Indoor pool with 2 Jacuzzis and Sauna • Outdoor Pool • Swimming Beach • Lighted tennis, racquetball and basketball courts • Softball field (lighted for night use) • Game room, planned activities • Open all year • Woodall 5W rated

P.O. Box 850 • Marshalls Creek, PA 18301 570-223-0123 Reservations only: 800-345-1369

www.otterlake.com

W W

INDOW IZARD

FULLY INSURED!

FAMILY O NED SINCE 1W 995

From Economy to Full Service Detailed Cleaning/Routine Cleaning Skylights & High Stationary Glass Concientious & Reliable

FREE ESTIMATES!

The Parting Shot “Winter Sunrise over Dorothy’s Barn” by David Sandt Local photographer David Sandt found Dorothy’s Barn in Brodheadsville at just the right moment during a sunrise last winter. This barn, painted by David’s friend, Jim Smeltz, appeared on the cover of the February/March issue of Pocono Living Magazine©.