Pocono Family Magazine - May/June 2024

> Photo courtesy of Joan Wismer Willis

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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.

PHOTOGRAPHY & ART

John Anzivino

Gayle C. Brooke

Ray Caswell

Pat Coyle

Randall FitzGerald

Ashley Hall

Maurice Harmon

Susan Hartman

Marlana Holsten

Ann H. LeFevre

Kimberly Blaker

Roseanne Bottone

Kathy Dubin-Uhler

Sandra Gordon

Tanni Haas

Rebecca Hasting

Amanda Kuhn

Amy Leiser

Marie Liu

Barbara Lewis

Marie Liu

Harry Loud

Regina Matarazzo

Janet Mishkin

John L. Moore

Michael Murphy

Justine Nearhood

Roseanna Santaniello

Tom Stone

Sara Lyons

Jamie Marra

Suzanne McCool

Janet Mishkin

John L. Moore

Allison Mowatt

Jim Werkheiser

Kim Williams

Marty Wilson

Kristen Sebring

Linda Spalluto

WHAT’S INSIDE

FAMILY

• Friendships Toddler to Teen

• Ways to Celebrate Memorial Day

HEALTH

• Walk Your Way to Better Health

• Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month

OUTDOOR

• Great Nature Apps

• Get Ready to Grill

• Summer Camp PET

• Dog Grooming Advice

LAWN & GARDEN

• Spring Lawn Care Tips

FOOD

• Convenient Salads

• Steps to Grill Vegetables

REAL ESTATE

• Difference Between Renting & Buying HOME

•

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

FORMING FRIENDSHIPS FROM

Toddler to Teen

By Kerrie McLoughlin

As parents, we want our kids to make good friends, friends with whom they have fun and in whom they can confide. Of course, not all kids are social butterflies. So how do you encourage friendships at every stage of the game, from toddler to teen? Read on to learn!

TODDLERS & PRESCHOOLERS

I envy the easy way in which the tiny crowd makes friends. They can plop down next to any random kid at a park, daycare or preschool, start chatting and…BAM!…they are instant pals. Taking your child places and providing chances for him to be around other kids is what it takes for him to make new friends during this special time.

Playdates, for instance, are a great way for toddlers and preschoolers to try out their social skills. Alyssa Ast, mom of four, says, “Finding parents that have children close in age to yours is a good place to start. Take your children to the park and search these parents out. Strike up a conversation to see whether your families share similarities. If so, set up a playdate in a public area until you become comfortable enough with one another to meet at each other’s houses.”

Never underestimate the power of play! “By taking turns and sharing through activity and play, [children] are beginning to build friendships. It is important to help a child learn this through built-in fun and play-oriented activities that promote taking turns, sharing and caring about their new friends,” says Anna Marie Evans, licensed teacher of Dr. Steven Stosny’s parenting class Compassionate Parenting (CompassionPower. com). “Having children learn these at a young age helps them build a foundation for successful relationships as they mature into adults.”

It may seem a little early to be thinking ahead to friendships during the teen years, but don’t forget that your child is watching you and how you interact with him and with others (friends, family, your spouse or partner) right now. “Whatever the parents give at earlier ages will come home to roost with teenagers. Be there for them as they’re 3 and 8 and 10, and they’ll be halfway normal at 16,” says Victoria Solsberry, LCSW of Arlington, a psychiatric social worker and author of Adoption for Singles.

ELEMENTARY AGE KIDS

If your child attends school, making friends should be easy with so many kids to choose from. Other ways for your child to make friends at this age include groups like Cub Scouts or Girl Scouts, sports (organized through the school or through a parks and recreation department) or clubs where your child can meet kids who share similar interests. If you homeschool, you’ll likely find many groups in your city where you can attend events and where your child can make friends.

When your child reaches elementary school age, you’ll want to make sure you are still modeling what makes a friend, because she’ll learn a lot from how she sees you interact with your spouse, family, coworkers and friends and how you work out disagreements. Talking about what makes a friend (e.g., a friend is someone who doesn’t tease you or try to hurt you; someone who doesn’t talk badly about you behind your back or online; someone who comes to your birthday parties, listens to you, shares his things, offers to have you over to his house or do things with him, etc.) is important too.

As with the toddler and preschooler period, parents are the ones who model friendships. Ask “what if” questions like, “What if a third kid wants to play with you and your friend?” because you want your child to think about how to treat existing and new friends. Talk to your children about sharing, teasing and playing fair; play board games with them; teach them not to get physical or retaliate.

Your kids are looking to you to help them with building friendships. According to Rosemary Burton, vice president of education for Minnieland Private Day School, “The kids who are socially popular are the ones who are able to look at feelings and perspectives from other points of view and are not always worried just about what they are thinking and feeling. To sustain friendships, parents should be working on emotional competence and concentrating not just on the feelings of themselves, but also of other people.”

While getting to know your child’s school friends by having them over often is important, it’s also helpful for kids to have friends in their own neighborhood that they can visit easily and spend large amounts of time with. Rachel Elvin, mom of three, says, “It’s great that my kids have friends who live in our neighborhood. After getting to know the parents, we now just let our sons walk across the street or ride their bikes a block up to hang out at their friend’s house.”

TWEENS & TEENS

Drama rules during the tween and teen years, and you have the added challenge of helping your child learn how to deal with strong peer pressure along the lines of music, drugs, sex, drinking, how to dress, how to act and more. This season of parenting can make chasing after a marker-wielding toddler seem like a piece of cake.

Victoria Solsberry, LCSW, says, “Teenagers who have received the love and support that they need at earlier ages will stay connected to their parents and at least consider their opinions.”

Make sure you pay attention to who your child is hanging out with. Get to know his friends by inviting them over and being the Mom Taxi. And talk to your child about things like making good choices, how to get out of sticky situations, what a “good” friend looks like and how you expect to know where he is at all times.

Teach your child some ways to make friends, including listening to others, smiling at people, keeping the gossip and cattiness to a minimum, talking to people first, being herself, trying to have a good time, inviting someone new to sit with her at lunch. Other ideas include trying out for a school play, participating in a sport, joining a club at school, attending church youth group activities, going to summer camp and so on.

What if your child is hanging out with some kids you don’t approve of? Tweens and teens are like ships that need a lot of steering in the murky waters of hormones and peer pressure. Ellen Jones, mom of five (including twin 14-year-old boys), says, “When my kids want to hang out with kids that have questionable behavior, we encourage the friends to play at our house so we can monitor what goes on. Then we treat them like we treat our kids and correct their behavior. If they don’t like it, they leave.”

The friendship groundwork you lay when your child is just a toddler impacts how she’ll handle friendships when she’s a teenager and beyond. Teach her how to get along with other kids her age (and of other ages) so she can hold onto friends and make new ones throughout her life.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kerrie McLoughlin is the seasoned mom of five and she blogs at ThePublishedParent.com.

“Finding parents that have children close in age to yours is a good place to start. Take your children to the park and search these parents out."

Pocono Living Magazine 2024 PHOTO CONTEST ENTER YOUR BEST SHOTS

Your photos could be seen by more than 26,000 readers when you enter them in Pocono Living Magazine’s Annual Photo Contest. The contest is open to amateur photographers only. (Those who do not earn a majority, over half, of their income as photographers).

You may enter no more than 15 images, so choose your best shots. Categories are “Scenics”, “Wildlife”, “Florals”, and “Historical Structures”. Only photographs that are representative of the Pocono Mountains should be submitted. Individual photos should be attached to an email message and sent to: larry@poconomagazines.com. Photos submitted must be high resolution, (300 dpi), jpg or tiff files or they cannot be used. You must include your full name in the title with each photo submitted as you would like it to appear in the magazines. We will contact you for your mailing address to receive your prize if your photo is chosen as a winner in the contest.

Winning photos, along with the names, and hometowns if available, of each winner will appear in the October/November 2024 issue of PoconoLivingMagazine and the PoconoMagazines.com website. Some lucky participants may have their photo featured as a cover on Pocono LivingMagazine!

PRIZES AWARDED:

1st Place: $100.00 in Gift Certificates to Local Restaurants & Shoppes

2nd Place: $75.00 in Gift Certificates to Local Restaurants & Shoppes

3rd Place: $50.00 in Gift Certificates to Local Restaurants & Shoppes

Honorable Mentions: One year subscription to Pocono Living & Pocono Family Magazines.

In the event of a tie, prize money will be split among the winners.

RULES OF THE CONTEST:

1. Contest open to amateur photographers only.

2. Contest opens April 1, 2024 and closes August 1, 2024.

3. Enter electronic files by email to: larry@poconomagazines.com.

One photo at a time.

4. Submitted photos must be as an attachment to an email message, (not within the body of the email), and be high resolution (300 dpi), jpeg or tiff files.

5. Please include your contact information (phone number, mailing address & email address) with the submission.

6. Each contestant may submit no more than 15 photographs. Choose any combination of categories.

7. Photos submitted may be judged for inclusion in this year’s contest, and in all future year’s contests, so you have several chances to be a winner.

8. Entered photos must have been taken recently, from January 2013 to present and be of a scene or subject found in the Pocono Mountains only.

9. Categories are: Scenics (landscapes, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, etc.), Wildlife, Florals, and Historical Structures.

10. Judging will take place in August and September 2024 and winners will appear in the October/November issue of Pocono Living Magazine.

11. Winners will receive gift certificates within 90 days after being published.

12. Contestants will retain all rights to their photography, but agree that Pocono Magazines, LLC and Pocono Mts. Publications, LLC may use their photos from time to time in the magazines that they publish and on the Pocono Magazines.com website provided proper credit is given to each photographer.

Questions? Email the editor at: larry@poconomagazines.com

Photo by Ray Caswell

Image by Spike Summers from Pixabay

Ways to Celebrate Memorial Day with Kids

By Sarah Lyons

Many people think of Memorial Day as the unofficial start of summer and celebrate by hosting a BBQ for family and friends. The real reason to celebrate Memorial Day is to acknowledge and remember those who have lost their lives during military service to our country. Unless they have been personally touched by the experience of losing a loved one who sacrificed their lives, your kids may not understand what the Memorial Day really means. Here are some kid-friendly ways to celebrate the holiday and honor those who have lost their lives as well.

Start a conversation

Simply explaining what Memorial Day means is a good place to start. There are books you can read to help explain the holiday to your child such as The Wall by Eve Bunting or The Poppy Lady by Barbara Walsh. There are also kid-friendly videos available online that can help you explain the holiday in an age appropriate way. “Memorial Day (History for Kids)” is a great video available on YouTube here. Give your child a chance to ask questions and answer as honestly as possible.

Send a greeting

Making a craft, card, or putting together a care package for soldiers who are overseas is a great way to help celebrate Memorial Day and to help kids understand why it is important. There are many organizations that will help connect you to veterans, soldiers, or families of those who are serving overseas so that you can make sure your cards are sent to the right place.

Operation We Are, Military Missions, Soldiers’ Angels, and A Million Thanks are a few organizations that can help connect your family with those that are serving or have served our country. If you are hosting a BBQ this holiday, consider having guests write a thank you card to soldiers while they are there. You can buy affordable bulk cards online or make your own.

Visit a parade or event

Most cities will host a Memorial Day parade or a remembrance event to honor fallen soldiers. There are also many memorials or museums across the nation. Attending one of these events with your family can open up further conversation about what Memorial Day means and show your kids that it isn’t just another day off of school and work, but a day to remember those who have sacrificed their lives for our freedoms.

"The real reason to celebrate Memorial Day is to acknowledge and remember those who have lost their lives during military service to our country."

Show your patriotism

Show your support for those who have served in the military by flying the American flag, making some patriotic desserts, decorating the house in red, white, and blue, and wearing the colors yourself. It is important to celebrate the freedom that we have thanks to those who have served and lost their lives.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sarah has been published in Pregnancy and Newborn Magazine KC Parent, Austin Family, Creative Child and over 170 other parenting publications.

Walk Your Way to Better Health

Awalk is not just good for your body, it’s also good for your soul. Physical activity, like walking, is one of the best ways to reduce stress and boost your mood. However, reports show walking rates are declining steadily in the United States.

On average, 1 out of every 4 U.S. adults sits for longer than eight hours each day, per research from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, which can have negative consequences on physical and mental health. Regular exercise improves mood, boosts energy and can even help you sleep better. Staying active is one of the best ways to keep your mind and body healthy.

Consider this advice from the American Heart Association, which has worked for decades to promote policies and strategies that make it easier for communities to get and stay active. One example is National Walking Day, established by the organization to encourage people to move more throughout the day so they can feel, think, sleep and live better.

Indeed, adding more movement can benefit your body and mind in numerous ways, such as:

 Lowering disease risk.

Getting the recommended amount of physical activity (at least 150 minutes of moderate, 75 minutes of vigorous or a combination of those activities per week) is linked to lower risk of diseases, stronger bones and muscles, improved mental health and cognitive function and lower risk of depression, according to the U.S Department of Health and Human Services.

 Increasing sunlight exposure.

Outdoor exercise is an easy way to get moving and take in the sunlight, which can improve mood, boost immunity and help you get some vitamin D. Spending time outdoors is a no-cost option and has been shown to reduce stress, promote a sense of belonging and improve mood.

"Regular exercise improves mood, boosts energy and can even help you sleep better. Staying active is one of the best ways to keep your mind and body healthy."

Improving cognitive and mental function. Physical activity keeps your mind sharp now and later. Studies show higher fitness levels are linked to better attention, learning, working memory and problem solving. What’s more, a study published in the “British Journal of Sports Medicine” shows people who get the recommended amount of physical activity are less likely to develop depression.

 Living longer.

Healthy life expectancy can be positively impacted by increasing activity. According to research published in the “American Journal of Epidemiology,” swapping just 30 minutes of sitting with low-intensity physical activity reduced risk of death by 17%.

Get moving to reduce your stress and step into better health. Learn more at heart.org/movemore.

Get Inspired to Get Moving

A little creativity can go a long way to make your walk more fun. You might think of walking as a solo activity, but a companion makes it even more enjoyable. Ask colleagues, friends or family to join you.

A walk is a perfect excuse to take a break from a long day at your desk. If you work remotely, take a conference call on the go or plan your walk as a reward for completing a project.

Mix up your scenery. Taking new routes keeps your walks interesting and helps prevent boredom from traveling the same predictable path.

If you need an extra nudge to get moving, a pet may help you get fit. Dog parents are more likely to reach their fitness goals than those without canine companions. In fact, according to the “Journal of Physical Activity & Health,” dog parents are 34% more likely to fit in 150 minutes of walking a week than non-dog owners. Pets can also help lower stress, blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar and boost your overall happiness and well-being.

Photos courtesy of Shutterstock

Courtesy of Family Features

Supporting brain health during Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month

June is Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month, an annual observance to raise awareness of the devastating impact of Alzheimer's and to educate people about brain health, including risk factors for developing Alzheimer's or dementia.

More than 6.7 million Americans currently live with Alzheimer's - a number now projected to increase to 13 million by 2050.

Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia and one of the deadliest diseases in the country. In fact, someone in the United States develops the disease every 65 seconds, according to the Alzheimer's Association.

It is more important than ever to learn about this disease along with these five simple steps that can help improve (or support) brain health, reduce risk of disease, and help delay the potential onset of Alzheimer's or dementia.

1. Use it or lose it. Whether it's crossword puzzles, reading or painting, keeping your brain mentally stimulated may help keep it young.

2. Get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation can lead to problems with memory and cognitive abilities. Sleep is essential for brain maintenance, like removing built-up toxins in your brain.

3. Stay social. A study found memory declined at half the rate for social adults. Isolation or loneliness in older adults is associated with a 50% increased risk of developing dementia and a 26% increased risk of all-cause mortality, according to the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry.

4. Make healthier lifestyle choices. Studies show moderate exercise can help improve brain function, especially in the areas responsible for learning and memory. Improving these parts of the brain may fight pre-Alzheimer's changes often seen in

Photo courtesy of Brand Point

midlife. Talk to your health plan about fitness programs that may be available at no additional cost like UnitedHealthcare's RenewActive.*

Lifestyle choices that help reduce cardiovascular risk, like exercise, a healthy diet, low-to-moderate alcohol consumption, and not smoking, appear to also slow brain aging.

5. Managing chronic illnesses. Common diseases in older adults, such as diabetes and heart disease, may affect brain function. Talk with your health care provider about treatment plans and managing chronic conditions like diabetes.

"Sleep is essential for brain maintenance, like removing built-up toxins in your brain."

In addition to these five steps, it is important to have a memory screening done each year. Having a record can help your health care practitioner's ability to diagnose memory disorders earlier.

Memory screenings can be performed during your Annual Wellness Visit, which is available at no cost to anyone on Medicare. Make sure to ask your physician to perform a memory evaluation the next time you visit the doctor's office.

UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage members can take advantage of the HouseCalls program, which brings a yearly health and wellness visit to the convenience and privacy of home, at no additional cost. A HouseCalls licensed practitioner can conduct a memory screening and refer you to additional care, if needed.**

If you feel like you or a loved one is suffering from serious memory loss, contact your health care provider.

Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan's contract renewal with Medicare. *

Courtesy of Brand Point

By Dr. Philip Painter, CMO, United Healthcare Medicare & Retirement

** HouseCalls may not be available in all areas.

Photo courtesy of Christy Mesker from Pixabay

Great NatureApps

By Tanni Haas, Ph.D.

June 5 is World Environment Day, a great occasion to take a trip to the local beach, park or wildlife reserve. There are few things that can bring a family together as spending quality time in nature enjoying plants and animals. Here are some nature-related apps that’ll add to the fun and at the same time teach your kids a lot about what they’re experiencing. The best part is that these apps are completely free, so take a moment and download an app – or three!

Audubon Bird Guide

(Available at: Apple App Store)

Developed by the Audubon Society, the Audubon Bird Guide is the most comprehensive and trusted one-stop source of information about North American birds. It includes detailed information about more than 800 species as well as audio clips of recorded bird calls and songs. It also has more than 3,000 beautiful photographs. Most importantly, you and the kids can look up and identify any bird that you observe by recording characteristics such as their color, size, body shape, and wingspan. You can also keep detailed records of your observations and upload and share photos with other bird watchers.

iNaturalist

(Available at: Apple App Store)

What the Audubon Bird Guide app is to birds, iNaturalist app is to animal and plant life more generally. You simply take a photo of any animal or plant that you observe, upload the photo to the app, and the app will then help you determine which animal or plant it is. You can also identify animals by recording the sounds they make and uploading them to the app. This app offers you and the kids the opportunity to share all your observations with other users, too.

Rockd

(Available at: Apple App Store)

Whether your outing is to a local beach, park, or wildlife reserve, chances are that you’ll be visiting a place with a unique geological history. To learn more about your surroundings, download Rockd, an app created by the Department of Geoscience at the University of Madison -

Wisconsin. When you give the app access to your location, it generates detailed stratigraphic information (information about the rock layer you’re standing on) as well as the type of rock and its age. Your kids will learn that even the most mundanelooking local park has a rich geological history that goes back hundreds of thousands if not millions of years. They can even see what Earth looked like at the time when the rock they’re currently standing on was first formed.

Wild Berries& Herbs Lite

(Available at: Apple App Store)

Wild Berries and Herbs Lite is a great companion app to iNaturalist. As you observe local plant life, you may come across berries and herbs that appear familiar to you. Before you put anything in your mouth, snap a photo and let the app tell you whether what you’ve discovered is indeed edible or not. To make the identification as accurate as possible, the app includes several images for each berry and herb in various stages of growth. You can also search by name (if you happen to know what the berry or herb is called) as well as other identifying features.

WWF Together

(Available at: Apple App Store)

It’s unlikely that you’ll encounter endangered animals during a trip to the local beach, park, or wild life reserve, but that doesn’t make it any less important for the kids to know about those animals. In fact, the less you know about endangered animals from direct experience, the more you need to learn about them second-hand. For that, download WWF Together. Created by the World Wildlife Fund, this app includes detailed information and fun facts about sixteen endangered animals, including pandas, sea turtles, and tigers. When you get home from your local outing, open the app together, look at all the beautiful photos and videos, and get information about how you and the kids can get involved in protecting endangered animals.

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.

Image by Alain Audet from Pixabay

Get Ready to Grill

CHOOSING THE RIGHT OUTDOOR COOKING SOLUTION FOR YOUR NEEDS

Warmer temperatures and sun-filled days mean it’s time to take entertaining and socializing outdoors, and a key component of many outdoor gatherings is fresh-grilled food.

Because firing up the grill can make prepping meals quick and easy, it allows you to spend more time with friends and family rather than missing out on the sunshine while stuck in the kitchen. Whether you’re a first-time griller or consider yourself a master of the grates, there’s a grill available to meet your skill level and needs, such as these options that provide flexibility for small-to-midsize backyard spaces – as well as a

large built-in model for custom outdoor kitchens – and a variety of features and function to make the most of your warm weather gatherings.

PORTABLE, SMALL-SPACE COOKING

Ideal for first-time grillers, couples, small families or those with limited backyard spaces, the Megamaster 3-Burner Gas Grill was designed to fuse performance and value. Despite its size, it can cater to almost any grilling or entertaining need with three stainless steel burners and 447 square inches of cooking space, a combination of versatility and capacity to

Photos courtesy of Family Features

prepare large quantities of food as well as various types of food simultaneously. Plus, it’s easy to maneuver on two heavy-duty wheels, making it simple to free up patio space after use. Learn more at megamaster.com.

FAMILY-SIZED FUNCTIONALITY

With ample cooking space to feed small and medium-sized groups, the Nexgrill 4-Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner is a perfect all-around grill for both beginners and seasoned grilling enthusiasts. Always ready to fire up some flavor, the durable grill also features a stainless steel side burner to saute, simmer and warm dishes simultaneously as well as 628 square inches of cooking space, meaning family favorites like burgers, dogs, chicken and more can be put on the table quickly. Find more information at nexgrill.com.

"Whether you’re a first-time griller or consider yourself a master of the grates, there’s a grill available to meet your skill level and needs."

ELEVATE YOUR OUTDOOR KITCHEN

If your outdoor living area includes enough space, you can elevate the outdoor cooking experience with an outdoor kitchen. Put a premium, built-in grill like the Spire 6-Burner Built-In Grill at the center of your custom, luxurious entertaining space. This dual-fuel, stainless steel gas grill features 904 square inches of cooking space and 73,000 British thermal units of cooking power across six main burners and an intense-heat ceramic rear burner, producing restaurant-quality sear marks and exceptional heat retention. Visit spireoutdoor.com to learn more about the durable, high-performance grilling solution.

Courtesy of Family Features

GAME-CHANGING STRATEGIES FOR FINDING THE RIGHT

Summer Camp

Photo courtesy of Brand Point

With the days growing longer and warmer, securing a suitable camp for your child can feel like an impossible task. However, finding the perfect camp experience for your kid this summer doesn't have to be daunting with these top 10 considerations.

YOUR CHILD'S INTERESTS

As parents, you know your child best and can determine which camp experience makes the most sense. But remember to include your child in the process. Decisions about camp are family choices and should be a joint venture; they can help support a more successful camp experience.

ACCREDITED CAMPS

Always look for a day or overnight camp that is accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA). When a camp is accredited, it means they've gone through a thorough, voluntary process that supports the health and safety of all campers and staff. ACA collaborates with experts from national youthserving organizations to guide the practices and policies at your child's camp, reflecting the most up-to-date, research-based standards in camp operation.

YOUR CHILD'S NEEDS

Are you looking for a program that supports your child's personality and learning style? Does your camper have certain medical requirements, mental health considerations or dietary restrictions? Understanding the strengths in a camp's focus or programming may help you make your choice. It's also important to understand that most camps prohibit kids' access to technology or the internet while at camp. Have an honest and open conversation with your child about this prior to registering.

CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT

Many camps are run with an intrinsic focus on characterbuilding skills and traits that help kids grow up to be successful adults. Look for camps talking about this in their mission, staff training and program design. ACA's recent National Impact Study found that camp experiences support social connectivity, creating communities where young people feel safe, heard and like they belong.

STAFF TRAINING

When researching a camp, ask questions! What kind of training do counselors receive? What types of screening do they require? What is the counselor-to-camper ratio? What are the ages of staff members? The same qualities of trustworthiness and dependability sought by any employer are valued skills and experiences in camp staff.

CAMP PHILOSOPHY, POLICIES & PROCEDURES

Each camp has its own method of constructing programs based on its philosophy. Does it complement your own parenting philosophy? Ask camp directors about their communication policies. How do they handle homesickness and other adjustment issues? How are behavior and disciplinary problems handled? What is the camp's dress code?

LENGTH & LOCATION

Location can be a major factor in choosing a camp. Do you want to attend a camp close to home or in another state? Similarly, think about the length of the camp session. Do you want a short session for your child, such as a few days or a week, or something longer, such as two weeks or a month?

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.

CAMP PROVISIONS

Are there certain amenities or features you're looking for?

Maybe your child is interested in waterfront activities or a ropes course, or maybe you're searching for a more specialized camp such as a sport- or STEM-specific program. Consider activities, food, lodging and other offerings to decide the right fit for your child.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Talk to friends, neighbors, relatives or other parents; often, word of mouth and a recommendation from someone you trust is the best endorsement. Similarly, if your child is a first-time camper, consider planning for summer camp with other parents. Having a friend with them can help children adjust, quiet nerves and build confidence away from home.

CERTIFIED CAMP FINDER TOOLS

If you're still not sure where to begin, ACA's Find-a-Camp tool is a free resource with the most extensive directory of summer and year-round camp programs. Filter your search by your exact wants and needs. You'll also find resources for financial aid, camp scholarships and more.

Finding the right summer camp for your child doesn't have to be overwhelming. Take the time to explore these game-changing strategies to find the perfect summer camp match for your child.

Photo courtesy of Mircea Iancu from Pixabay

Dog Grooming Advice to Keep Pets Clean & Healthy

Regular grooming can keep your dog looking and smelling his or her best, but it’s also important for maintaining health. If you choose to groom at home rather than opting for (often expensive) professional care, it’s also an opportunity to examine your pet for potential concerns.

A proper grooming routine starts with the right tools. Consider these suggestions from The Humane Society of the United States:

 Dog-friendly nail clippers

 Rubber-bristled brush

 Dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste

 Dog-friendly shampoo and conditioner

 Cotton balls

 Blunt-ended shears or small clippers with guides

 Microfiber towel

Trimming Nails

When your dog’s nails nearly touch the ground, it’s time for a trim, typically every 3-4 weeks. Trimming the part of the nail that turns down helps prevent pain and damage to paws.

If your dog has white nails, avoid cutting the “quick,” the pink part that’s visible on white nails, which bleeds when cut. For dark nails, simply trim a bit at a time until evidence of the quick is visible.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

Bathing and Brushing

Frequency for baths and brushing depends on your dog’s coat type – be sure to research optimal grooming schedules based on his or her breed. In general, The Humane Society of the United States recommends these guidelines:

 Short, smooth or wiry coat: Brush once a week with a rubber-bristled brush.

 Long, silky or curly coat: Brush once a day with a rubberbristled brush or wire slicker brush. Use a steel comb to prevent tangles or mats, if necessary.

 Double coat: Use an undercoat rake or de-shedding tool to gently de-shed once a week in addition to regular brushing routines.

"Regular grooming can keep your dog looking and smelling his or her best, but it’s also important for maintaining health."

When it’s bath time, use a shampoo formulated for dogs and a damp cloth or cotton ball to clean around the eyes and ears without pushing anything into the eyes or ears. Dry with a microfiber towel or hair dryer on a low setting.

Cutting Fur

Be careful and work slowly to avoid mistakes and keep your dog calm and comfortable. Brush, bathe and completely dry prior to cutting fur with blunt-ended shears or small clippers with guide combs. Specifically trim hair covering the eyes and private areas and between your pup’s paw pads. It may be helpful to watch a tutorial online to ensure success.

Brushing Teeth

You can prevent gum disease and plaque buildup by brushing your dog’s teeth with a soft toothbrush and dog-friendly toothpaste. Make sure your pet is comfortable and start slow, staying on the outside surfaces of teeth and gently rubbing back and forth. Focus on the area where the tooth surface meets the gum.

Visit eLivingtoday.com to find more pet health advice.

Courtesy of Family Features

Ready for your best lawn ever?

EXPERT SPRING LAWN CARE TIPS

Spring is just around the corner! As you make your list of spring cleaning chores, don't forget to add lawn care to the to-do list.

"The key to a healthy, robust lawn is preparation. Don't wait until the weather warms up! Early spring is a great time to revive and revitalize your lawn so you can enjoy it the rest of the year," says Matthew Koch, Ph.D., director of biotechnology, genetics, lawn fertilizer, and grass seed at The ScottsMiracleGro Company.

To help fellow lawn-owners, Dr. Koch and Scotts, a leader in lawn care, offer the following three expert lawn care tips to

grow lush and healthy natural turfgrass throughout the season and beyond.

Feed and seed

After a long, sleepy winter, your lawn needs some help waking up. Dr. Koch recommends feeding your lawn, so it knows it's time to grow. Try a feed like Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action Built For Seeding. The formula prevents dandelion and crabgrass for up to 6 weeks without harming new grass, jumpstarts grass development, and feeds to protect against heat and drought.

Phot Courtesy of Brand Point

Once your lawn is fed, it's time to seed! Look for small areas of grass that aren't growing and patch them with Scotts EZ Seed Patch & Repair Sun and Shade. The grass seed easily fills in bare spots on your lawn, even in tough conditions, including full sun, dense shade, high-traffic areas and on slopes. With a little TLC, your lawn will flourish in no time!

Prevent disease

As the spring months continue on, increased humidity and moisture create the perfect conditions for lawn disease to thrive. Look for brown or yellow patches, brown or black spots on the grass blades (leaf spots), white dust (powdery mildew) and red or pink webbing (red thread).

How to Fix Yellowing Grass BILLY’S TIPS

Even the most beautiful lawn can fall victim to yellowing grass. What’s worse? Often these spots can spread and become even more of an eye sore. Here are some of the common causes of grass yellowing and how to fix them.

"The key to a healthy, robust lawn is preparation. Don't wait until the weather warms up! Early spring is a great time to revive and revitalize your lawn so you can enjoy it the rest of the year"

Even if you don't see signs of disease, Dr. Koch emphasizes the importance of taking steps to prevent disease before it takes hold, and mid to late spring is the ideal time to take preventative measures. Scotts Turf Builder Healthy Plus Lawn Food is the first ever 2-in-1 fungicide and fertilizer that uses broad-spectrum and systemic fungicides to help prevent and control 27 types of lawn diseases. Best of all, the fertilizer helps your lawn grow thicker and greener by strengthening each blade of grass down to the roots.

Mow high

As your lawn comes in, don't cut it too short. When the grass grows tall enough, begin mowing at the highest setting. Mowing high allows grass to grow strong roots and thick blades, providing shade that can prevent weed growth.

Early lawn care will set up your grass for success this spring and beyond. Follow these three simple tips, and your grass will flourish so you can enjoy the stunning landscape around your home ahead of summertime festivities.

Courtesy of Brand Point

Dog urine is often the most common reason for yellowing grass, especially if your pet tends to use the bathroom in the same spot. The high concentration of salt found in dog urine builds up over time, killing the grass. To fix this issue, you’ll need to remove the dead grass and turn over the soil. Once the soil is turned over, apply gypsum or minerals to the soil to neutralize the salt damage. After the soil is reworked, plant new grass and teach Fido to use the bathroom in a new location.

Grubs and Insects can also result in yellowing grass. These pests may not be noticeable but your dying grass indicates an issue. Many grubs like to feast on grass roots while other insects feed on the blades of grass. Over time, these pests can severely damage your lawn. Insecticides are very helpful when you know what type of pest you’re dealing with. If you’re unsure, contact a local exterminator to help you identify the problem and then treat the infestation accordingly.

Soil compaction is another reason your grass might be yellowing. Vehicles driving on your lawn or mowing in the same pattern every week can cause the soil to become so compacted that the soil can’t absorb vital nutrients and water. You can solve this problem by aerating your lawn and then once the soil is more workable, plant new grass seed.

Once you determine the cause of your yellowing grass it’s easy to fix the problem. Also remember that making sure your lawn has the right amount of water is the key to beautiful, lush grass.

Edited by: Amanda Kuhn

Simple, Convenient Salads to Celebrate Spring

Photos Courtesy of Family Features

Letting in a little fresh air with an open window or a screen door is a sure sign of spring, allowing the natural sights and smells of the outdoors to accompany you at the dinner table. Take that open-air freshness to new heights this spring by pairing it with your own signature spins on salad season.

For example, this Tuna and Rice Nicoise Salad offers a new take on tuna salad with olive tapenade, capers, tomatoes, green beans and cherry tomatoes. Its calling card: swapping out potatoes in favor of Minute Yellow Rice Cups, which cook up fast as a convenient and flavorful alternative that saves the chore of washing, peeling and boiling potatoes. Fully cooked and packaged in BPA-free cups, it features white rice lightly seasoned with onion powder, garlic powder and turmeric for a delightful taste ready in just 1 minute.

As a perfect recipe for those who love veggies, this dish combines classic salad freshness with olive tapenade for a briny bite in every mouthful. Canned tuna mixes with bursts of capers, hard-boiled egg, crisp green beans and sweet cherry tomatoes capped off with tart balsamic dressing to round out the dish.

If you love the taste of crisp, peppery arugula, this Pomegranate and Arugula Rice Salad is practically perfect. Your favorite green shines alongside a delicious mix of sweet pomegranate seeds, crisp almonds and tart balsamic dressing that’s ideal for a starter or side, or you can add a preferred protein to turn it into a satisfying main course.

Incredibly colorful with a lively taste, bright flavors mingle with fluffy grains of Minute Instant Jasmine Rice, ready in just 5 minutes to keep your dinner schedule on track. Aromatic white rice provides a distinct scent, perfect texture and delicious taste that’s fast, fragrant, flavorful and fluffy. It’s simply precooked then dried with nothing added but convenience to help you get tasty meals on the table quickly.

Requiring just 15 minutes to prepare, this salad is ready in an instant and serves up to eight people, making it a solution for anything from family gatherings to meal prepping for a busy week ahead.

Find more spring salads and other flavorful, convenient recipes by visiting MinuteRice.com.

Pomegranate & Arugula Rice Salad

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 5 minutes

Servings: 8

 2 cups Minute Instant Jasmine Rice

 1/3 cup olive oil

 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

 2 tablespoons minced red onion

 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

 1 teaspoon honey

 1/2 teaspoon salt

 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

 1 bag (5 ounces) arugula

 1 cup pomegranate seeds

 1/3 cup slivered almonds, toasted

Prepare rice according to package directions.

Cool completely, about 10 minutes.

In large bowl, whisk oil, vinegar, red onion, mustard, honey, salt and pepper.

Add rice, arugula and pomegranate seeds to bowl; toss to coat thoroughly. Sprinkle with almonds.

Tips

For added flavor, top salad with crumbled goat or blue cheese.

To cool rice quickly, spread evenly on parchment paper-lined baking sheet.

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.

Tuna & Rice Nicoise Salad

Prep time: 4 minutes

Cook time: 1 minute

Servings: 1

 1 cup Minute Yellow Rice Cups

 2 tablespoons balsamic dressing

 2 tablespoons olive tapenade

 1 teaspoon capers, drained well

 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes

 1/2 cup frozen green beans, thawed

 1 can (3 ounces) tuna, drained and flaked

 1 hard-boiled egg, cut into wedges

Heat rice according to package directions.

In medium bowl, combine rice, balsamic dressing, tapenade and capers. Mix well.

Top with cherry tomatoes, green beans, tuna and hard-boiled egg.

Tip: Serve salad over bed of mixed greens, if desired.

Steps to Grill Vegetables

Burgers, brats, steak, chicken, pork chops and all the flavors of fresh meat get all the love on the grill, but a well-rounded meal calls for sides and veggies.

Before you plan your next backyard barbecue, incorporate tasty vegetables – peppers, asparagus, onions, tomatoes, zucchini and more – for an all-out blitz of fresh-grilled flavor. Consider these simple steps to properly grill your crispy veggies:

1 Light the grill. Step one, of course, is to prep a hot grill. For the best cooking experience, you’ll want mediumhigh heat or even high heat for quick, direct grilling. By lighting the grill ahead of veggie prep, you’ll allow plenty of heating time to complete your other tasks.

2 Prepare vegetables. Depending on what you plan to cook, there’ll likely be some preparation to undertake, such as cutting off stems and blemishes or removing pits and seeds. In addition to cleaning up your ingredients, you may want to chop, dice or slice based on the recipe.

3 Coat vegetables with olive oil. Drizzling just a small amount of olive oil over your vegetables and tossing to coat adds a couple benefits. First, it helps the outer layer crisp rather than dry out, plus it aids in seasonings – like salt and pepper – sticking to the vegetable instead of falling off while on the grill or in a pan.

4 Consider using foil packets or skewers. If char marks aren’t your thing, tossing chopped or diced veggies into a foil packet before hitting the grill steams them for a bit of a softer texture. Alternately, wooden skewers soaked in water (to prevent burning) can help keep smaller chunks of veggies from slipping through the grill grates while still achieving a crispy exterior.

5 Pay attention to grill times. Different types of vegetables and preparation methods call for different cook times, but 5-10 minutes over direct heat generally gets the job done. The smaller you chunk, chop, slice or dice, the less time it’ll take.

Find more grilling tips at Culinary.net.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Courtesy of Family Features & Culinary.net

About the Writer

Bob is a lifelong resident of the Pocono Mountains and has been in the real estate business for over 45 years. He is a Trusted Real Estate Advisor to buyers, sellers, other agents and brokers. He specializes in residential and investment properties.

Bob is a mentor to other agents and regularly conducts contracts classes for new and experienced agents. He is a past president of the Pennsylvania Association of Realtors where he has received numerous awards.

He is considered a community leader where he serves as Chairman of the Pennsylvania Northeast Regional Railroad Authority, ViceChairman of the Pocono Mountain Economic Development Corp. and a Board Member of the Pocono Chamber of Commerce. A past Chief of the Pocono Mountain Volunteer Fire Company and is a Vietnam War Veteran.

Bob lives in Mount Pocono with his wife of 48 years, Beverly. He enjoys classic cars, photography, birding and road trips.

The Difference Between Renting & Buying a Home

By Bob Hay

When deciding between buying or renting, think about these three important factors:

• Buying a Home Means Avoiding Rising Rents

When you rent: Your monthly payment generally goes up each time you sign or renew a lease.

When you buy: With your fixed-rate mortgage,your monthly payment is locked in for the length of your home loan.

• Homeowners Own a Tangible & Valuable Asset

When you buy: As home prices rise, and as you pay down your mortgage, you build equity. www.BobHay.com 404 Park Avenue •Stroudsburg, PA 18360 Bob Hay Cell: (570) 656-2471

When you rent: You won’t get any return on your investment as you pay your rent monthly

• Owning your Home Grows Your Wealth Over Time

When you rent: When the cost of renting goes up. It’s more difficult to save money for a down payment to buy a home.

When you buy: As you build equity through the years, you give your net worth a big boost.

• Top Reasons to Own Your Home

• Accomplishment - Feeling a sense of achievement and pride

• Loved Ones - Prioritizing the needs of those closest to you

• Stability - Locking in your monthly housing payment with a fixed-rate mortgage

• Financial Investment - Growing your assets and net worth

• Comfort - Enjoying features that enhance your lifestyle

• Privacy - Having a space that’s your own

• Personal Expression - Tailoring your home to your unique style

• Community - Being a part of a broader social group

Photo courtesy of Filip Loczek from Pixabay

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

Budget-Friendly Ideas to

FRESHEN UP INDOOR SPACES

Whether you’re fatigued by seeing the same decor every day or simply looking for an opportunity to refresh indoor spaces with an appealing mini makeover, rethinking your favorite room in the house doesn’t need to be an expensive ordeal.

Even if your budget is tight, you can still make small changes to transform a room. Consider these ideas:

 Bring stylish flair to your space with a new color scheme. Rather than replacing all the furniture, which can be costly, focus on smaller accessory pieces such as pillows and decorative items. Create variety by using multiple hues of the same color or mixing two or more complementary colors.

 Introduce new accent furniture. Smaller and less costprohibitive than centerpieces like a couch, for example, accent pieces such as end tables or a coffee table can provide subtle changes to the look of a room. You could also opt to refinish a piece of furniture you have on-hand to create a look that’s all your own.

Morph your room by simply rearranging what you already own. Adjusting the orientation of your furniture and decor can let you see your favorite room from a whole new perspective.

 Whether it’s a flea market find, such as an old window frame that you paint and add a display shelf to the base, or a series of photos from your favorite vacation destination, adding some DIY art can not only update your room, but make it more personal, too.

A new look for your favorite room can go a long way, so find ways to update your space for a comfy retreat you can enjoy. Find more ideas at eLivingtoday.com.

Courtesy of Family Features

"A new look for your favorite room can go a long way, so find ways to update your space for a comfy retreat you can enjoy."

Photo Courtesy by Anna Lisa from Pixabay

"A

fresh, natural smell, lemons have the acidity to remove soap scum, clean and shine brass and remove hard water deposits"

Go Green with Home Cleaners

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

If you’re among those looking for ways to clean your home while also going green, it may be easier than you think.

Consider these easy and affordable solutions to help you live more environmentally friendly. You may be surprised to find you already have many of these household products on hand.

Baking soda:

A natural, safe, effective and gentle solution, baking soda can serve multiple home cleaning needs. Make a paste of three parts baking soda to one part water. Rub onto silver with a clean cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly and dry for shining serving or decor pieces. Additionally, you can sprinkle baking soda on upholstery and carpet to get rid of odors.

Vinegar:

With the acidity to help get rid of dirt and grime around the home, vinegar can be used to clean cloudy glassware. Simply soak paper towels or a cloth in full-strength white distilled vinegar and wrap around both the inside and outside of the glass. Let sit before rinsing clean. To remove lime deposits on your tea kettle, add 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar to the water and let it sit overnight. In the morning, boil the vinegar for a few minutes then rinse with water.

Lemons:

With a fresh, natural smell, lemons have the acidity to remove soap scum, clean and shine brass and remove hard water deposits. Just spray some lemon juice on tile surfaces to remove soap scum or hard water deposits. Squeeze lemon juice on a cloth and use to polish brass around the home.

Houseplants:

Plants serve as natural air purifiers. African violets and ferns are beautiful ways to help clear the air.

Other easy, green ideas for keeping your home clean include opening windows and doors while you clean to improve air quality and taking off your shoes when you come inside, which can help avoid tracking dust, dirt, pollen and more throughout the house. Visit eLivingtoday.com for more advice.

Courtesy of Family Features

“Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or to be blown away by breathtaking scenery, this is the place to be"

Photo courtesy of StatePoint

FOR ADVENTURE & BEAUTY

Visit Kentucky’s Natural Arches

Kentucky’s natural arches. They are not just eye-catching, they are an adventure.

Seeing a natural stone arch, whether thumbing through a magazine or finding one in nature, often elicits a sense of awe and wonder. The image of thousands of tons of rock seemingly suspended in midair can be difficult for the human brain to comprehend.

Natural arches, with their layers of rock and sediment, are the result of centuries of erosion from seas, rivers or weathering. These naturally formed wonders can be found all over the world, and more than 2,000 arches of varying shapes and sizes can be found in the great state of Kentucky. In fact, the Bluegrass State has more of these astonishing formations than any other location east of the Mississippi River.

“In many places, such as the Western United States, seeing a natural arch is often a matter of driving to the right spot and looking out the window. Kentucky however, comes with an abundance of adventure,” says Mike Mangeot, commissioner, Kentucky Department of Tourism.

For instance, to experience the glory of Natural Bridge in Slade, Ky., you must hike the trails through some of the most beautiful scenery in the entirety of the Daniel Boone National Forest. When you reach your destination, try not to let your jaw drop as you marvel at the sandstone formations that have been slowly sculpted in the 900-ton behemoth over the last 270 million years. Then make your way to the top of the arch itself, some 65 feet above its base, and take in one of the most spectacular views that the Daniel Boone National Forest has to offer.

One of the many cool things about natural arches, particularly those in Kentucky, is that no two are alike.

For every massive arch like Natural Bridge, there are plenty of smaller, but no less amazing formations. A prime example is Angel Windows Arch. The top of the taller window is only

7-feet high and just as wide, thus giving visitors a chance to experience the intricate sandstone formation up close. Located in the Red River Gorge less than a tenth of a mile off a paved road, Angel Windows is the perfect short hike for everyone in the family.

While a vast majority of Kentucky’s arches can be found in the southeastern part of the state, there are several scattered throughout the west as well.

For geology fans who want to stick close to the city, Louisville’s Cherokee Park has what you are looking for, so long as you are ready to really look. In terms of arches, the Cherokee Park Double Arch is tiny when compared to formations like Natural Bridge. Standing just 5 feet high on the side of a hill and partly masked by foliage, spotting the Double Arch is essentially like finding a needle in a haystack. However, once you find it, you can’t help but be amazed at how a sinkhole caused solid limestone to erode and form not only one arch, but two stacked on top of each other.

If you find yourself in west Kentucky near Paducah, make sure to check out Mantle Rock in nearby Smithland. Mantle Rock, located along the Cherokee Trail of Tears, is a 30-foothigh natural sandstone bridge spanning 188 feet. In addition to its massive size, it features extraordinary bluffs, shelters and honeycomb formations.

This just scratches the surface of the natural arches that you can explore in Kentucky. For more information on the phenomenon and where to look for them, check out the Kentucky Visitor’s Guide at www.kentuckytourism.com.

“Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or to be blown away by breathtaking scenery, Kentucky, with its spectacular geologic formations, is the place to be,” says Mangeot.

Volunteering Can Help Older Adults Combat Loneliness

The bonds found in friendships and other relationships are an important factor in health and wellness - even science says so.

According to the American Psychological Association, forming and maintaining social connections at any age is one of the most reliable predictors of a healthy, happy and long life. Studies show having strong and supportive friendships can fend off depression and anxiety, lower blood pressure and heart rates in stressful situations and change the way people perceive daunting tasks.

However, statistics show approximately half of U.S. adults lack companionship and feel socially disconnected, according to the U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community. In fact, 12% don't have anyone they consider a close friend, per the Survey Center on American Life. This "epidemic of loneliness," as coined by U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, can take a severe toll on mental and physical health.

As people age, the risks of isolation increase. With America's older population growing rapidly - the 65 and older population reached more than 55 million in 2020 - discussing how older adults can combat loneliness is relevant to public health and individual well-being.

Consider volunteering, which is one of the best and most rewarding ways to combat loneliness.

Volunteering Combats Loneliness

People often volunteer to find a sense of purpose, learn new skills, improve their communities or establish new routines after retiring or becoming empty nesters. For many, making friends through volunteer work is a welcome bonus. The act of volunteering provides proven benefits for older adults.

Forming connections can make all the difference in a person's volunteer experience and sense of well-being. People who meet

Photo Courtesy of Family Features

through volunteer work inherently share a common interest and something to bond over. These friendships can carry over outside of volunteer work and lead to bonding over other hobbies and interests.

Connection-Focused Volunteer Opportunities

In addition to making friends with fellow volunteers, many older adults also form relationships with the people they're serving, especially if those recipients are their peers.

"We often think of volunteering as 'giving back,' but we've seen firsthand that it often becomes so much more than that"

For example, AmeriCorps Seniors is the national service and volunteerism program in the federal agency of AmeriCorps that connects adults aged 55 and up to local service opportunities that match their interests. Its Senior Companion Program pairs volunteers with other older adults or those with disabilities who need companionship or assistance. Volunteers may help with tasks such as paying bills, shopping or getting companions to appointments. In some cases, volunteers may also provide support and respite for family members caring for loved ones with chronic illnesses.

"We often think of volunteering as 'giving back,' but we've seen firsthand that it often becomes so much more than that," said Atalaya Sergi, director of AmeriCorps Seniors. "By spending a few hours each week with another older adult in need of support, our volunteers are not only giving back to others, but they're adding meaning to their own lives and establishing new connections. They're helping to fight the loneliness epidemic one visit at a time."

Growing older can come with challenges, but some of those can be minimized with a positive mindset and commitment to remaining connected and engaged - whether with friends, relatives or fellow community members. Fostering relationships is a key ingredient to a healthier and more fulfilling life.

For more information and to find volunteer opportunities near you, visit AmeriCorps.gov/YourMoment.

Courtesy of Family Features

In & Around the Poconos

Storywalk®

May 1-31, 2024

Zacharias Pond Park

Eastern Monroe Public Library and Stroud Recreation want you to be able to enjoy the outdoors AND a great children's book at the same time! The Storywalk® is a fifteen-minute walk along Zacharias Pond Park's woodland trail, where a storybook is posted page-by-page to read. The trail starts north of the parking lot, past the pavilion. Visit any time. The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. Storywalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson. Free. No Registration Required. StroudRec.org

Birds & Brews

May 3 - May 5, 2024

Pocono Environmental Center

Spring migration has begun! Join us for a wonderful weekend of bird watching and beer tasting. Enjoy guided hikes that teach how to identify birds by sight, sound and habitat. Program is geared towards beginners and experts alike. Saturday night

we’ll provide beverages from local breweries while you enjoy our campfire!

Includes two nights of lodging and meals from Friday dinner through Sunday lunch. Pre-registration is required. $230 per person. Call for commuter & day rates. peec.org

Bridge the Gap: Pond Paddle

May 4, 2024, 10am - 12pm

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 Lead support is provided by the William Penn Foundation. peec.org

Artists in Nature: Tricia Lowrey Lippert and Friends'- Meet the Artists

May 4, 2024, 11am - 1pm

Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center

The month of May will feature local artists Tricia Lowrey Lippert, Peter Salmon, Joni Oye-Benintende and Marilyn Pastor in our art gallery. Come to the art gallery from 11am to 1pm and meet the artists.

The show will include a variety of art mediums, including clay, oil painting and watercolors for a unique nature-themed show. 'Artists in Nature' will be on display at the Gallery at Kettle Creek for the month of May. The gallery is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4:30pm and will be open Saturdays, 5/4 and 5/18 from 9am to 1pm. Pre-registration is not required for this program.There is no charge. Call 570-629-3061 with any questions. www.mcconservation.org

Hike at Timber Hill Farm

May 5, 2024, 1pm - 2:30pm

Timber Hill Farm

Join us for a visit to Timber Hill Farm in Paradise Township, a 100 year-old farm protected with a conservation easement. We'll be exploring and learning about vernal pools-a unique type of wetland habitat that is typically a small, shallow, ephemeral water body. Participants should dress for the weather, wear sturdy footwear and bring water.

Photo courtesy of Roseanne Santaniello

In cooperation with the Brodhead Watershed Association and a grant through the William Penn Foundation, there will be no charge for this walk. Must pre-register at brodheadwatershed. org. www.mcconservation.org

Native Plant Sale

May 11, 2024, 9am - 4pm

Pocono Environmental Center

Choose from a variety of native and deer resistant flowers and grasses to beautify your yard at our annual plant sale! Sun loving and shade loving plants will be available. Sold out in 2021!Free admission. PEEC Members will be able to join us for a pre-sale on May 10 from 5 – 7pm. peec.org

Bridge the Gap: Frog Frolic

May 11, 2024, 1pm - 3pm

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 Lead support is provided by the William Penn Foundation. peec.org

April Showers to May Flowers

May 18, 2024, 10am - 11:30am

Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center

Come and explore the unique world of flowers by visiting those present here at the Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center. Weather permitting, we will spend time hunting for flowers on the Kettle Creek trails. Cost: $5 per person, cash or check. Must pre-register, call 570-629-3061. www. mcconservation.org

Bridge the Gap: Edible & Medicinal Plant Walk

May 18, 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 Lead support is provided by the William Penn Foundation. peec.org

Warbler Weekend

May 19, 2024, 7am - 4pm

Pocono Environmental Center

Join us for one or both of these guided birding excursions in search of various warbler species migrating through our area. Bring a lunch, camera & sunscreen. Call to reserve a seat in the van – Maximum of 18 spaces. $30 per person, per day. peec.org

Create Your Own Walking Stick

May 19, 2024, 12pm - 3pm

Pocono Environmental Center

Spend the afternoon with us as we create handcrafted walking sticks. Wood, tools, gloves, and aprons will be provided, as well as suggestions and pointers on how to personalize your work. Payment is due upon registration. Pre-registration required. $35 per person. peec.org

Ecozone Discovery Room

May 19, 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

Introduction to Wildlife Photography & Conservation

May 23, 2024, 4pm - 6pm

Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center

This program is designed to acquaint beginners with the essentials of wildlife photography, with a special focus on understanding animal behavior. Through interavtive sessions, participants will learn how photography serves as a powerful tool in wildlife conservation efforts, highlighting the important connection between artistry and advocacy. Don't miss this

opportunity to embark on a journey of discovery, honing your photography skills while contributing to the preservation of our planet's precious biodiversity. Please bring your own equipment, whether it's a camera or phone. Cost: $10 per person. Must preregister, call 570-629-3061. www.mcconservation.org

Memorial Day Family Camp Weekend

May 24 - May 27, 2024

Pocono Environmental Center

Bring your family and friends to experience the best of what PEEC has to offer! Interpretive hikes, animal presentations, canoeing, campfire and more! Includes three nights of lodging and meals from Friday dinner through Monday lunch. Adults $260 /Child, Commuter, Day Rates Available. peec.org

Plant ID 101

May 25, 2024, 10am - 12pm

Pocono Environmental Center

Join the Botanical Hiker Heather Houskeeper for this introductory botany lesson! This program will cover how to key out a plant using Newcomb’s Wildflower Guide, followed by time outside utilizing our plant keys to identify the plants that you see. Guide books and magnifying loupes will be provided for the class. Please call to register. $20 per person. peec.org

Bridge the Gap: Fishing for Beginners

June 2, 2024, 9am - 12pm

Pocono Environmental Center

There are plenty of fish waiting to be caught in our ponds! Spend the morning learning some of the basics for fishing with a rod and reel and see how many you can get. Strictly catch and release! Call ahead to reserve your spot. Participants over 16 must have a valid fishing license. Free. Lead support is provided by the William Penn Foundation. peec.org

Wednesday Bog Walk

Jun 5, 2024, 10am - 12:30

Tannersville Bog

Join us at 10am at the Bog parking lot and take a 2 1/2 hour guided journey into the unique Tannersville Cranberry Bog. Along the way, our environmental educators will explain the Bog's formation, its interesting plant and animal life and the role the Nature Conservancy play in its continued protection.

Please wear appropriate footwear. Tour is approximately one mile of walking thorough a wooded area and on the boardwalk. Pre-registration is required and limited. Call 570-629-3061 to register. Meet at the Tannersville Bog parking lot. Cost: $6 per person, cash or check only. www.mcconservation.org

Bridge the Gap: River Paddle

June 8, 2024, 9am - 3pm

Pocono Environmental Center

Join us for a paddle down the Delaware!

Bring a lunch, a water bottle, and don’t forget to dress for the weather. We will provide extra water and snacks. Choose between a canoe or kayak. Preregistration is required and begins at 8:30am on May 6. $20 per person Lead support is provided by the William Penn Foundation. peec.org

Nature at Night

June 8, 2024, 8pm - 9:30pm

Pocono Environmental Center

A pleasant summer evening is the perfect time to head outside. Take a walk in the woods to listen for owls, look at stars, and enjoy the music of the night. Enjoy fun activities that test your night vision. We recommend you bring a flashlight! Please call to register. $5 per person. peec.org

Frogs, Salamanders, & More!

June 9, 2024, 10am - 12pm

Pocono Environmental Center

Spend the afternoon with us at our ponds and streams! Learn about some of our amphibious friends as we gently catch and release these slimy critters. Wear boots and plan on getting wet and muddy. Please call to register. $5 per person. peec.org

Bug Exploration

June 9, 2024, 1pm - 3pm

Pocono Environmental Center

Bugs are everywhere! Come join us as we go exploring to find as many as possible. Don’t worry, they won’t bite or sting you. Please call to register. $5 per person. peec.org

Bus Trip to Trexler Nature Preserve

June 10, 2024, 9am - 3pm

Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center

Join us for a family-friendly day trip to the Trexler Nature Preserve in Schnecksville PA! This 1,495 acre natural preserve is the largest park in Lehigh County and a diverse natural gem with over 18 miles of trails. We'll drive through the game preserve to view herds of bison and spend time snorkeling in the Jordan Creek. We will depart from Kettle Creek at 9am and return by 3pm. Cost: $30 per person. Registration is required and limited, Call 570-629-3061 to register. www. mcconservation.org

Geology Hike

June 15, 2024, 1pm - 3pm

Pocono Environmental Center

Take a hike on the Fossil Trail with Paul Kovalski, aka Dr. Dinosaur, as we discuss the geology of our area and what makes our park unique. Please call to register. $5 per person. peec.org

Movies in the Park!

June 21, 2024; 8:15pm (Rain Date 6/22)

Miller Park, East Stroudsburg

Pocono Cinema and the Friends of SROSRC are bringing the movies outdoors! This month: Monty Python and the Holy Grail! Bring your own blanket or chair, and settle in to a movie night with family and friends! Pro tip: bring layers to keep warm & cozy throughout the show. Movies subject to change based on availability. Free to attend. If you are able, a suggested donation of $5 per person will support Pocono Cinema and local parks and recreation. Visit StroudRec.org or call 570-426-1512 for more details.

Plant & Place Connection

June 22, 2024, 10am - 12pm

Pocono Environmental Center

Join the Botanical Hiker, Heather Houskeeper, for a gentle guided walk that utilizes aspects of forest bathing alongside education about edible & medicinal plants, as well as nature journaling. The intention of this program is to cultivate a relationship with the land via interaction/connection with the plants. The program closes with a shared tea.

Participants go home with their own nature journal to continue their observations in the natural world. Nature journals, colored pencils, and pencils are provided. Please call to register. $20

per person. Lead support is provided by the William Penn Foundation. peec.org

Amazing Animal Adaptations

June 22, 2024, 10am - 12pm

Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center

Join us for an unforgettable evening with Pocono Wildlife Rehab as they bring live animals to Kettle Creek! Discover the incredible ways reptiles, birds and mammals of PA survive and thrive in their natural habitats. Fun event for the whole family! Get ready to witness live animals up close and learn from the experts themselves! Cost: $5 per person, additional donations are welcome. No registration is required, call 570-629-3061 with any questions. www.mcconservation.org

Red Cross Blood Drive

June 28, 2024, 9am - 2pm

Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center

We are proud to be hosting another blood drive from 9am2pm. Call Barbara at 570-629-3061 for more information. To register or learn more about American Red Cross blood drives, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-REDCROSS. www.mcconservation.org

Introduction to Orienteering

June 29, 2024, 1pm - 3pm

Pocono Environmental Center

Come learn how to use a map & compass on our orienteering course. We’ll show you the basics before you try to find all the points. Space is limited – call early. Please call to register. $5 per person. peec.org

Wacky Science Adventures: Physics Edition

June 30, 2024, 1pm - 3pm

Pocono Environmental Center

Put on your lab coats and prepare to conduct some crazy experiments! You’ll get to build your own rocket, create a cushion for an egg, and more. Prepare to get your hands a little dirty! Great for kids! Call to register. $8/Child. peec.org

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Photo courtesy of Robin Bryan

Leading the Poconos in surgical excellence.

Christine Kim, MD Gynecologic Oncology

When you need surgery, excellence matters. At Lehigh Valley Hospital–Pocono, you get the compassionate, leading-edge care you deserve. And being part of LVHN’s Institute for Surgical Excellence provides you access to the latest technology, including robotic-assisted surgery. This means a quicker recovery and better results.

Experience matters. The more you do, the better you are, and the faster we get you back to being you.