Pocono Family Magazine - Nov/Dec 2024 by Pocono Magazines

> Photo courtesy of Maurice Harmon

What can your genes tell you about your health?

Participating in St. Luke’s University Health Network’s community health research program, DNA Answers, is quick, easy, and at no cost to you. You’ll learn about your genetic risk for certain cancers and heart disease, for which actions may be taken to help prevent, delay, or reduce symptoms. You may share your results with any healthcare provider at any facility for consultation or care. These insights can help you and your healthcare provider make more informed and proactive care decisions for you and your family. Health insurance is not required to participate.

If you participate, you also have the opportunity to learn about your ancestry and other traits like, caffeine sensitivity, sleep patterns and more.

Your voluntary participation supports research that could lead to new discoveries for improving healthcare for your community and generations to come.

POCONO MAGAZINES

Pocono Living Magazine and Pocono Family Magazine, two regional publications filled with articles, features and photography exploring and capturing the real Pocono Mountains living experience.

Our publications can be found at many locations throughout the Pocono Mountains region, and are available by subscription.

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ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVES

larry@poconomagazines.com

MAGAZINE & WEB DESIGN

Smart Blonde Creative

Food & Wine Editor

Jamie Marra

PHOTOGRAPHY & ART

John Anzivino

Gayle C. Brooke

Ray Caswell

Pat Coyle

Randall FitzGerald

Ashley Hall

Maurice Harmon

Susan Hartman

Marlana Holsten

Ann H. LeFevre

Barbara Lewis

Marie Liu

Harry Loud

Regina Matarazzo

Janet Mishkin

John L. Moore

Michael Murphy

Justine Nearhood

Roseanna Santaniello

Tom Stone

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kimberly Blaker

Roseanne Bottone

Kathy Dubin-Uhler

Sandra Gordon Tanni Haas

Rebecca Hasting

Amanda Kuhn

Amy Leiser

Marie Liu

Sara Lyons

Jamie Marra

Suzanne McCool

Janet Mishkin

John L. Moore

Allison Mowatt

Jim Werkheiser

Kim Williams

Marty Wilson

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANTS

Kristen Sebring

Linda Spalluto

PROUD MEMBERS OF

WHAT’S INSIDE

FAMILY

• Combat the Epidemic of Loneliness

• Encourage Picky Eaters

• Gifts for Creatives

OUTDOOR

• Budget-Friendly Fall Vacation

PET

• Festive Foods for your Dog

FOOD

• Welcome the World to Holiday Gatherings

• Festive Holiday Flavor

• Simple Family Meals

• Fresh Casserole

• Peanut Butter Perfection

• Celebrating Big with Berry Punch

HEALTH

• Ways to Prevent Cold & Flu

FINANCIAL

• Tips to Safe at the Grocery Store

• Customer Loyalty this Holiday Season

55+

• What Does this Have To Do with Thanksgiving

COMMUNITY

• In & Around the Poconos

COMBAT THE

EPIDEMIC

OF LONELINESS by Eating Together

According to the U.S. Surgeon General, Americans face a lack of social connection that poses a significant risk to individual health and longevity. “Loneliness and social isolation increase the risk for premature death by 26% and 29%, respectively. More broadly, lacking social connection can increase the risk for premature death as much as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day,” per the report.

"The key is for family members to engage in conversation with one another during mealtimes and take advantage of the one-on-one time without distractions"

One way to address this epidemic of loneliness is by sharing a meal with friends and family. Learn five of the specific advantages of family meals identified by the Family Meals Movement and take advantage of these benefits by sharing one more meal together each week.

MEALS TOGETHER FOSTER TOGETHERNESS & CONNECTEDNESS

Staying connected can be hard when schedules conflict and life gets busy, but shared meals with friends, family or however you define your family can be the glue that holds people together. Studies demonstrate a positive relationship between family meal frequency and measures of family functioning, which is defined as family connectedness, communication, expressiveness and problemsolving. The key is for family members to engage in conversation with one another during mealtimes and take advantage of the one-on-one time without distractions or interruptions from smartphones or other devices.

MEALS TOGETHER STRENGTHEN MENTAL HEALTH

An often overlooked benefit of family meals is mental health support. Multiple studies show family meals have long been associated with improving mental health, including reducing symptoms of depression, decreasing violent behavior and lessening thoughts of suicide among youth. Among adolescents, frequent family meals can help mitigate the risks of destructive behaviors by boosting prosocial behaviors and life satisfaction. Data from the FMI Foundation’s “Staying Strong with Family Meals” Barometer shows family meals also help restore a sense of peace, with one-third of survey respondents saying family meals make them feel calm. In short, family meals are a recipe for strengthening emotional well-being among children and adolescents.

MEALS TOGETHER IMPROVE NUTRITION

There is one easy way to help ensure your family is eating fruits and vegetables: a family meal. Research shows family meals improve fruit and vegetable consumption. It also pays to start this trend early, with research finding preschool-aged children who eat frequent family meals are more likely to eat more fruits and vegetables. Overall, research indicates families who eat together frequently have a better overall healthy diet and lower body mass index.

MEALS TOGETHER IMPROVE ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

Helping students’ academic performance begins around the family dinner table. Eating more meals

together as a family is associated with improved overall adolescent health, including higher grades. Multiple studies show students whose families eat together frequently perform better academically in areas such as reading and vocabulary. Research also supports a correlation between frequent family meals lowering incidents of risky and harmful behaviors, including drug and alcohol abuse, which may also contribute to school performance.

MEALS TOGETHER TEACH CIVILITY

The family dinner table is a perfect place to show younger generations how to communicate respectfully, according to the Family Meals Barometer summary. In fact, 76% of survey participants agreed family meals are a good opportunity to have and teach respectful interactions while 70% said frequent family meals create a safe environment for families to discuss thornier societal issues. Another 68% affirmed their belief that sitting at a meal together tends to keep conversations more civil.

Learn more about the physical, mental and social benefits of family meals at familymealsmovement.org and follow #familymealsmonth and #familymealsmovement on social media.

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.

Encourage Picky Eaters

Feeding an entire family can be difficult enough on its own with busy evenings full of hustle and bustle. One additional factor that can cause even more headaches is dealing with a picky eater, especially a child whose preferred menu ranges from hot dogs to candy.

If you’re looking to widen the palate of your picky eater (or eaters), consider these tips to start down a path toward a more expansive slate of family meals.

Start Slow

Loading up your little ones’ plates with steamed veggies and sauteed fish may be a surefire way to send them to the pantry for a less nutritious snack. Instead, try combining personal favorites with small portions of foods you’d like to introduce, such as

chicken nuggets alongside green beans or topping pizza with black olives.

Don’t Force It

While it can be frustrating to constantly hear “no” to fruits and veggies, forcing them upon children may turn them away for good. In addition, a struggle over eating certain foods may create a constant sense of frustration around mealtime, which may only decrease a child’s desire to expand his or her horizons.

Create a Fun Experience

Remember not every meal has to include something new. On occasion, mix up mealtime by serving your children’s favorites, even if it’s as simple as a hamburger or as creative as breakfast for dinner.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Bring Your Sidekicks to the Store

Introducing your children to the place your family’s food comes from may help them feel more comfortable with new flavors. Plus, by letting them in on the shopping process, you can have some help choosing foods they’re more likely to be willing to try.

Let Children Help Cook

Much like choosing their own ingredients increases the likelihood they’ll try something new, perhaps becoming part of the cooking process can help children see how a meal comes together. It doesn’t have to be a gourmet experience – simply seasoning roasted asparagus with salt and olive oil, for example, can introduce your up-and-coming chefs to the kitchen while helping make the cooking (and eating) process a fun adventure.

For more food tips and kid-friendly recipes, visit Culinary.net.

Photo by George Dagerotip on Unsplash

Gifts & Stocking Stuffers for Creatives

When looking for the perfect present, hone in on your loved ones’ favorite hobbies. The options for creatives and art lovers are nearly endless, with stocking stuffers and thoughtful gifts ranging from pens and pencils to markers, personal drawing lessons and beyond.

Give the gift of creative expression this holiday season with a present that helps spark ingenuity and encourages recipients to tap into their creative sides through drawing, journaling and more. Consider this assortment of drawing and writing tools to excite the imagination of anyone who unwraps them.

Fast-Drying Markers for Vibrant Art

Uncap the possibilities of dazzling art with a Sharpie Permanent Marker Holiday Pack, a limited edition set of 30 fine point and 30 ultra-fine point colored permanent markers that allows users to switch between bold strokes and intricate detailing. Remarkably resilient, the iconic permanent ink writes on most surfaces, dries quickly and resists smearing to create vibrant, eye-popping impressions. Included in the pack is one exclusive “mystery marker,” revealing one of three surprise colors. Shop this gift exclusively at Walmart.com.

"The options for creatives and art lovers are nearly endless, with stocking stuffers and thoughtful gifts"

Beautiful Colors, Brilliantly Smooth

Spread joy by gifting Paper Mate InkJoy Gel pens with vivid gel ink that dries three times faster for reduced smearing and ergonomic grips for maximum comfort. With a smooth style, you can keep the joy flowing as fast as your thoughts while brightening your writing with 14 brilliant assorted colors. Your pages can come to life like a vivid party where smudges aren’t invited. Perfect for students and journalers, you can fill stockings by visiting Amazon.com.

Draw, Shade and Illustrate with Colored Pencils

Give the ultimate gift to aspiring artists with the Prismacolor Technique Landscape & Nature Drawing Set. This 3-in-1 set pairs high-quality art supplies with nature and landscape-themed digital lessons, which teach fundamental skills as you create three unique pieces of artwork. The set includes 38 Soft Core colored pencils, one Turquoise Graphite pencil, two illustration markers, one mini sharpener, one eraser and one drawing pad. Find these art essentials exclusively at Target.com.

TIPS FOR A BUDGET-FRIENDLY

Fall Vacation

If you’re looking to get away, fall is a perfect time to plan an escape. With smaller crowds at many popular destinations and more comfortable weather, scenic autumn landscapes and cozy hideaways await.

To get your planning started, consider these tips to enjoy a spectacular fall vacation without breaking the bank.

Choose a Destination with Beautiful Scenery

When planning a fall vacation, research the cost of living for potential destinations. Some places may have lower costs for accommodations, dining and attractions, allowing you to stretch your budget further. Considering destinations known for their stunning fall foliage, such as New England, can allow you to take advantage of budget-friendly activities, like nature walks or sightseeing, that capitalize on the beauty and charm of the season.

Time Your Trip to Take Advantage of Deals

Timing is key when it comes to finding the best deals. Consider traveling during the shoulder season, which is the period just before or after peak tourist seasons. During this time, prices for accommodations and attractions are often lower and there are

fewer crowds. If you have the freedom to choose when to go on vacation, look for off-peak days or midweek travel. Prices tend to be lower during these times compared to weekends or popular travel holidays.

Pack Essentials to Save on Unnecessary Purchases

Packing strategically can help you save money and avoid unnecessary purchases. Consider packing these essentials:

• Layered clothing: Instead of bulky sweaters or coats, opt for lightweight layers that can be easily combined to keep you warm.

• Reusable water bottles: Bringing a reusable water bottle helps you avoid buying bottled water and reduces waste.

• Snacks: Packing snacks like granola bars or dried fruit can help you reduce food costs while you’re out and about.

• Travel-size toiletries: Transfer your favorite products into smaller containers or purchase travel-size bottles instead of buying pre-packaged versions.

Pick Budget-Friendly Activities and Attractions

Popular destinations often offer a wide range of budget-friendly activities and attractions. Consider these ideas that won’t break the bank:

Photo by Ricardo Gomez Angel on Unsplash

• Hiking and nature walks: Take advantage of the beautiful fall foliage by exploring hiking trails and nature reserves. Many of these outdoor activities are free or have minimal entrance fees.

• Local festivals and events: Research local festivals and events happening during your trip to immerse yourself in the unique culture and traditions of the area.

• Local markets: Explore farmers markets or craft markets to discover unique products and support local businesses. Often free to enter, these markets offer opportunities to sample local food and purchase souvenirs.

• Museums and galleries: Look for museums and galleries that offer free or discounted admission during certain days or times to explore local art and history without spending a fortune.

"Take advantage of budget-friendly activities, like nature walks or sightseeing, that capitalize on the beauty and charm of the season."

Save on Accommodations

Finding affordable accommodations during the peak of fall can be challenging, but with these tips, you can save money while still enjoying a comfortable stay:

• Book in advance: Plan your vacation early and take advantage of early bird discounts or promotional offers.

• Consider alternative accommodations: Instead of traditional hotels, explore options like vacation rentals, hostels or bed and breakfasts, which can be more budgetfriendly and provide a unique and personalized experience.

• Stay outside the city center: Accommodations located outside main tourist areas are generally more affordable. Consider staying in nearby suburbs or towns and utilize public transportation to explore the city.

• Use price comparison tools: Take advantage of price comparison websites to compare rates across different accommodations to find the best deals and save money on your stay.

Find more tips and tricks to save on fall travel at eLivingtoday.com.

Festive Foods for Your Dog This Holiday Season

Bring on the list-making, gift-giving, party-going time of year. The holiday season would also feel incomplete without delicious dishes to keep everyone feeling merry and bright. By everyone, that includes canine companions, too.

Consider this list of pup- and pet-parent-approved festive foods, as well as those to avoid, from the experts at Petcurean, makers of premium quality, nutrient-rich food for pets:

Enjoy steamed vegetables

Holiday feasts are all about the side dishes. Dogs can savor their own sides with plain vegetables like steamed green beans

or carrots, making for a flavorful, nutritious addition to their meals. Vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals, and steaming them allows more of the nutrients to be retained while also supporting proper digestion. Be sure to chop veggies into small pieces and stay clear of seasoning or sauce.

Avoid chocolate

There’s no way to sugarcoat it – chocolate is a no-go for dogs. The presence of both caffeine and a chemical called theobromine makes chocolate toxic to dogs because they aren’t able to metabolize them the way humans can. If ingested, chocolate can lead to a spike in heart rate and blood pressure,

Photo courtesy of Family Features

as well as vomiting, diarrhea, agitation, seizures and more. If ingested, pet parents should monitor their pup closely and check with a veterinarian.

Enjoy fresh meats

When cooked, fresh meat such as chicken, turkey, pork or beef can satisfy cravings while also offering pups a nutritious meal that is easy to digest. Pet parents can also choose a kibble made with fresh meats as a convenient option that supports dogs’ overall wellness, such as Now Fresh Good Gravy, which is made with easily digested fresh meats and nutrient-dense fruits and veggies, and by adding water, a delicious bone broth gravy is created for your pup to enjoy.

"Just like their pet parents, pups deserve to indulge a little over the holidays, but it’s important to ensure what they eat leaves them feeling great."

Avoid table scraps

For many reasons, it’s best to skip the table scraps. Not only could an allergen or toxin be present that pet parents may not be aware of, there are several other health risks associated with feeding dogs table scraps, such as digestive issues (vomiting, diarrhea, etc.) and even more serious problems like pancreatitis. Plus, giving dogs calorie-dense food can contribute to obesity.

Enjoy pumpkin

A staple of holiday feasts, pumpkin is not off the table for pups to enjoy. In fact, pumpkin is a superfood full of nutrients. Feeding dogs cooked or plain canned pumpkin can also be beneficial for their digestion because pumpkin contains fiber – just be sure to serve it free of seasonings like sugar and spices.

Just like their pet parents, pups deserve to indulge a little over the holidays, but it’s important to ensure what they eat leaves them feeling great. Remember to always check with a veterinarian about any concerns, especially when introducing new foods, and visit nowfresh.com to find personalized nutrition crafted for your pet.

Courtesy of Family Features

Photo courtesy

Welcome

THE WORLD TO HOLIDAY GATHERINGS

The traditional dishes served year after year at your family’s holiday gatherings may bring comfort and a sense of nostalgia, but you can open your loved ones up to a whole new world by incorporating recipes from around the globe.

People of all different cultures across the Earth are often connected by food, whether it’s a classic holiday dish or a unique take on a traditional dish, like this raisin-infused Challah. While the dishes themselves may drastically differ, using similar ingredients can be a unifying thread.

For those looking to pull off worldly cuisines this holiday season, consider a familiar and nearly universal ingredient like raisins, an innovative and delicious addition incorporated in culturally diverse dishes. On top of their versatile flavor, SunMaid Raisins offer a better-for-you whole fruit option with no added sugar per 1/4-cup serving.

Consider these global recipe ideas enjoyed at holiday gatherings around the world.

GERMANY

 Apple Strudel

Quite possibly one of the most famous German desserts of all, raisins add a delicious chewiness to this traditional strudel.

 Lebkuchen

A traditional German cake similar to gingerbread that’s full of sweet spices, walnuts, dates and raisins.

ITALY

 Cuccidati Siciliani

Typically at their most popular during the holiday season, these Italian fig cookies feature raisins inside the deliciously fruity filling.

 Panettone

Also a holiday favorite, Panettone is a towering round of sweet bread speckled with raisins, citrus and almonds.

ENGLAND

 Fruitcake

Traditional fruitcake is chock-full of dried raisins, golden raisins, cherries, dates, pineapple and apricots soaked in dark tea overnight.

 Bread Pudding

This English staple uses stale bread, spices, sweetener and raisins to create a dense and delicious cake.

POLAND

 Cinnamon-Raisin Rugelach

These flavorful pastries are characterized by a melt-in-yourmouth cheese-based dough with a sweet cinnamon, raisin and walnut filling.

GREECE

 Christopsomo

Considered sacred in many Greek households and translating to “Christ’s Bread,” this revered dish is usually prepared the day before Christmas Eve and is served with nothing but bare hands at the table. Raisins, nuts, cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg are all found throughout the loaf.

ARMENIA

 Ghapama

A baked pumpkin stuffed with partially cooked rice, raisins, nuts, cinnamon and honey.

IRELAND

 Irish Soda Bread

The cakey texture of this Irish favorite is complemented by sweet, chewy raisins throughout the loaf.

Visit SunMaid.com to find more recipes perfect for holiday gatherings.

CROWN RAISIN

Yield: 3

loaves

Dough:

 2 envelopes (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast

 1/2 cup sugar

 1/4 cup honey

 3 cups warm water

 2 teaspoons cinnamon

 1/3 cup olive oil

 2 extra-large eggs, plus 3 egg yolks

 2 tablespoons kosher salt

 1 cup Sun-Maid raisins

 3 cups bread flour

 6 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Egg Wash:

 2 extra-large eggs

 2 tablespoons sugar

To make dough: In big bowl, mix yeast, sugar, honey and warm water. Let yeast bloom about 7 minutes.

Add cinnamon, oil, eggs, egg yolks and salt. Mix well. Add raisins. Add flours and mix until sticky. Dough should be creamy yellow.

Challah

Turn dough out onto floured surface and knead 12-15 minutes, or until smooth. Oil bowl, place dough back in bowl and cover tight with plastic wrap. Let rise in warm place about 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled.

Punch dough down, cover and let rise another 45 minutes. Punch down again and cut into three equal pieces. Let rest about 10 minutes then roll each piece into snakes about 30 inches long; taper at one end. Starting with thick end, roll each snake into spiral shape like snail shell. Use a little water and stick tapered end onto body of spiral. Mold into place with hands.

Oil loaves lightly, cover with plastic wrap and let rise until poofy, about 25 minutes.

Preheat oven to 375 F.

To make egg wash: In small bowl, whisk eggs and sugar. Gently brush loaves with egg wash, taking care not to deflate them.

Bake 45 minutes, or until loaves are golden. Let cool completely.

Photo courtesy of Family Features

A FULL MENU OF

FestiveFlavorHoliday

Cooking up a successful holiday gathering calls for everyone’s favorite recipes. From the centerpiece main dish to fresh salads and appetizers, roasted sides and baked sweets, you can take seasonal get-togethers up a notch by mixing traditional classics with newfound favorites.

Consider this full-fledged menu of flavor to give guests a memorable holiday experience from beginning to end and find more festive recipe ideas at Culinary.net.

Cornish Game Hen with Kale Sweet Potato Salad

Fresh Flavors for Holiday Festivities

With the festive season arriving, bring together family and friends for a delicious feast you can feel good about serving. One standout recipe is this Cornish Game Hen with Kale Sweet Potato Salad that pairs fresh, leafy kale with roasted sweet potatoes and tender Cornish game hens for a truly elegant meal.

Elevate your cooking during the holidays with inspiration from Fresh Express and its more than 100 varieties of fresh, healthy

and convenient ready-to-eat salads like the Sweet Kale Chopped Kit. It’s a perfect blend of a nutrient-dense salad mix of leafy kale, green cabbage, shredded broccoli and Brussels sprouts, as well as crunchy pumpkin seeds and dried cranberries, topped with a tasty poppyseed dressing.

Visit FreshExpress.com to discover more fresh, easy and healthy recipes for the holiday season.

Photo courtesy of Family Features

Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 1 hour, 10 minutes

Servings: 4

 1 package (6 ounces) stovetop stuffing

 2 cups chopped apples, divided

 4 Cornish game hens (20 ounces each)

 1/2 cup butter

 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided

 1 teaspoon paprika

 1 teaspoon salt, plus additional, to taste, divided

 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled, cut into 1-inch cubes

 2 tablespoons olive oil

 1 package (10.9 ounces)

Fresh Express Sweet Kale Chopped Kit

Heat oven to 350 F. Prepare stuffing according to package directions. Add 1 cup apples and fluff stuffing with fork; cool 15 minutes.

Remove anything inside hens, rinse cavity with cold water and pat dry.

In small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, garlic powder and pepper; mix well. Remove from heat.

Fill cavity of each hen with apple stuffing. Place hens in 13-by9-by-2-inch baking dish. Tie legs together and tuck wings under. Baste with butter mixture.

Bake 50-60 minutes, or until thermometer inserted in thickest part of thigh reads 165 F and stuffing temperature reads 165 F. Baste with butter mixture every 15-20 minutes.

In bowl, toss sweet potatoes with remaining Italian seasoning and olive oil. Arrange in single layer on sheet pan. Sprinkle with salt, to taste.

Bake with hens 25 minutes, or until tender. Remove from oven and cool. Tent hens with foil and let rest 10 minutes.

Place greens from salad kit in large bowl. Add remaining apples and sweet potatoes; mix well. Toss with salad dressing. Add toppings; toss to combine.

Serve Cornish game hens with sweet potato kale salad.

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.

Perfect Roasted Little Potatoes

A Festive, Everyday Side Dish

While the busy holiday season can be loads of fun, you still need to get dinner on the table between parties. When you find yourself in a pinch this holiday season, squeezed for time and searching for a quick solution for dinner, turn to an easy side dish that can appease everyone. Potatoes are a nearly unanimous favorite.

Make putting dinner on the table a breeze with a solution like little potatoes from The Little Potato Company, which can help bring holiday happiness to mealtime. Ready in as little as 5 minutes, they come pre-washed and require no peeling or cutting, making them the perfect time-saving solution for the holiday season.

Ideal for this Perfect Roasted Little Potatoes recipe, these little potatoes are a tasty, fresh whole food that you can feel good about serving. Ready in half an hour with minimal prep and a few simple ingredients, it’s a perfect side dish for any occasion.

Visit littlepotatoes.com for more information and holiday inspiration.

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 30 minutes

Servings: 6

 1 1/2 pounds The Little Potato Company Little Potatoes

 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

 1/2 teaspoon salt

 1/4 teaspoon pepper

 1-2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Photo courtesy of Family Features

Preheat oven to 400 F.

In large bowl, toss little potatoes with oil, salt and pepper until coated.

Spread potatoes in single layer on rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake 30 minutes, or until tender.

Sprinkle with parsley and serve.

Tip: For extra holiday flavor, add paprika, garlic and fresh herbs.

Get Creative with Delicious, Decorative Cookies

A decadent holiday meal isn’t complete without a sweet dessert to cap off the evening. When in doubt, go with a traditional treat that’s perfect for sharing: cookies.

These Ornament Cookies can be shaped any way you like to celebrate the holidays. The royal icing adorning these festive favorites is made with powdered sugar and meringue powder; just use food coloring to add a personal touch.

For more than 120 years, Domino Sugar has helped millions bake special recipes like these cookies made with non-GMO, vegan, kosher and gluten-free Golden Sugar that’s free flowing and easy to scoop, spoon and pour. The sugar retains a hint of molasses flavor, giving it a golden color and providing a perfect way to add less processed sweetness to your loved ones’ favorite desserts.

Find holiday recipes, baking tips and more at dominosugar.com.

Ornament Cookies

Prep time: 25 minutes plus 1 hour to decorate

Cook time: 20 minutes

Yield: 2 dozen cookies

Cookies:

 1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature

 1 cup Domino Golden Sugar

 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

 1 large egg

 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

 1/4 teaspoon salt

Royal Icing:

 4 cups Domino Powdered Sugar

 3 tablespoons meringue powder

 1/3 up, plus 2-3 tablespoons, warm water, divided

 desired food coloring

To prepare cookies: In large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and egg; beat until well combined. Scrape sides of bowl as needed. Add flour and salt; beat until just combined.

Dump mixture onto lightly floured surface and divide in half. Shape each half into disks and wrap with plastic wrap. Refrigerate 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350 F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Working on lightly floured surface, roll dough to 1/2-inch thick. Cut cookies using ornament-shaped cookie cutter. Place cookies on prepared pans and bake 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from oven and cool at room temperature.

To make royal icing: In large mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, meringue powder and 1/3 cup water. Beat on low speed until combined. Increase speed to mediumhigh and beat 8-10 minutes, adding 2-3 tablespoons warm water, as necessary. Icing should be stiff enough to hold peak when tested.

Color royal icing with food coloring and decorate cookies.

Photo courtesy of Family Features

SimpleFitMealsFamily for Fall

Maintaining a healthy eating plan can be challenging year-round, and busier fall schedules can make those goals even more difficult. Finding easy-to-make favorites can keep you and your loved ones on track as you navigate those hectic moments this autumn.

One simple yet delicious solution: Chopped Salad Kits and Sheet Pan Meal Starter Kits from Dole, which make it easy to incorporate vegetables without the hassle of kitchen prep. Take the guesswork out of meal planning for your time-starved family with these limited-ingredient, kit-based dishes.

Mexican Street Corn Bowls with Grilled Chicken provide a perfect balance of hearty yet nutritious flavor while taking advantage of the convenience of prepackaged ingredients. Perfect for fall weather, Roasted Chicken and Vegetable Soup requires just three ingredients and hungry loved ones for a filling meal worth celebrating.

For more original easy-to-make fall recipes, nutritional insights and information, visit Dole.com or follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.

Roasted Chicken & Veg Soup

Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4

 1 DOLE® Homestyle Roasted Herb

Sheet Pan Meal Starter Kit

 1 container (32 ounces) chicken broth

 1 cup whole-wheat pasta shells, cooked

Prepare sheet pan meal starter kit according to package instructions. Transfer to cutting board and carefully cut chicken and vegetables into 1/2-inch pieces.

In medium saucepot over medium-high heat, bring chicken broth to simmer. Stir in pasta shells, chicken and vegetables. Reduce heat to medium. Cook 5 minutes, or until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Mexican Street Corn Bowls with Grilled Chicken

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 8 minutes

Servings: 4

 1 cup dry instant brown rice

 1 1/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts

 2 large ears fresh corn, silks and husks removed

 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil

 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt

 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

 3 Dole Limes, juice only (about 3 tablespoons), divided

 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

 1 package (12.9 ounces) DOLE® Chopped

Chipotle & Cheddar Kit

 1 Dole Avocado, peeled, pitted and thinly sliced

 1 cup chopped Dole Pineapple

Prepare grill for direct grilling over medium-high heat. Prepare rice according to package instructions.

Brush all sides of chicken and corn with oil; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place chicken and corn on hot grill rack; cover and cook 8 minutes, or until grill marks appear and internal temperature of chicken reaches 165 F, turning chicken once and corn frequently. Transfer chicken and corn to cutting board; let stand 5 minutes. Cut corn kernels from cobs into medium bowl.

Slice chicken 1/4-inch thick crosswise.

Add 1 tablespoon lime juice, cilantro and paprika to corn; toss and fold in Parmesan cheese. In small bowl, whisk dressing from salad kit and remaining lime juice.

Serve rice in bowls topped with avocado, pineapple, chicken, corn mixture and remaining contents of salad kit drizzled with dressing mixture.

of Family Features

WARM UP MORNINGS WITH A

Fresh Casserole

On a cool, crisp morning, it’s hard to beat an exciting twist on a breakfast classic.

This French Toast Casserole is crisp on top while soft and moist in the middle, coming fresh out of the oven with the aroma of maple syrup and pecans that will have the whole house eager for a bite. It’s easy enough to make fresh in the morning- but can also be prepared the night before so all you have to do is add the topping and pop it in the oven.

Find more fresh breakfast recipes to start your day at Culinary.net.

French Toast Casserole

 1 loaf French bread (about 1 1/2 pounds), cut into 1-inch cubes

 5 large eggs

 1 1/2 cups unsweetened milk

 2 tablespoons brown sugar

 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

 1 teaspoon cinnamon

 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

 maple syrup, for serving

Topping:

 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or coconut oil, melted

 2 tablespoons brown sugar

 1/2 cup chopped pecans

 1 cup frozen strawberries

 1 cup frozen blueberries

 confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Grease 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Place bread cubes in baking dish. In large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt. Pour mixture evenly over bread cubes.

If making casserole ahead, cover baking dish and refrigerate overnight. If baking immediately, let stand 30 minutes at room temperature to allow bread to soak up egg mixture.

Preheat oven to 350 F.

To make topping: Drizzle casserole with melted butter and sprinkle with brown sugar and pecans. Top with strawberries and blueberries.

Cover and bake 35 minutes then uncover and bake 10-20 minutes, or until topping is browned and egg mixture has mostly set.

Remove from oven, cover loosely with foil and let stand 10 minutes. Dust with confectioners’ sugar. Serve with maple syrup.

Courtesy of Culinary.net and Family Features

Peanut Butter Perfection

If you’ve ever taken a bite of something and the only word that came to mind was “yum,” you know what it’s like to experience this dessert. It’s fluffy, sweet, perfectly crumbly and tastes delicious. It’s rich but light. It’s a dessert that will likely never go out of style.

You can stop guessing what it may be: this treat is a scrumptious bite of Fluffy Peanut Butter Pie drizzled with chocolate syrup. You will understand the craze once you sink your fork into the chilled triangle resting on your plate. With a chocolate cookie crust and a thick, delicious peanut butter filling, this pie is everything many people want in a dessert.

Although it tastes like you have been in the kitchen all day, it’s a simple-to-make, delightful treat with luscious peanut butter flavor that melts in your mouth.

To make this pie, remove the filling from 20 chocolate cookies and crush them with a rolling pin until they are just crumbs.

Mix cookie crumbs with melted butter and mold into a pie dish to create the crust.

Next, in a mixer, combine cream cheese and reserved cookie filling. Then add sweetened condensed milk, peanut butter, lemon juice and vanilla extract while you continue mixing.

In a mixing bowl, beat whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Fold peanut butter mixture in with the whipping cream.

Layer the peanut butter and whipping cream mixture on top of the crust in the pie pan. Chill for about 4 hours then drizzle with chocolate syrup just before serving.

This dessert is perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth. House guests, birthday parties or even just a simple treat after a meal; it’s an any-occasion kind of pie.

Find more dessert recipes at Culinary.net.

Fluffy Peanut Butter Pie

Servings: 6-8

 20 chocolate cream-filled cookies

 1/4 cup butter, melted

 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

 1 cup smooth peanut butter

 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk

 3 tablespoons lemon juice

 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

 1 cup whipping cream

 chocolate syrup

Remove cream filling from chocolate cookies; set aside. With rolling pin, finely crush chocolate cookies.

In medium bowl, combine finely crushed cookies with melted butter.

Press crumb mixture firmly into bottom and sides of 9-inch pie plate; chill while preparing filling.

In large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Add reserved cookie cream filling, peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk; beat until smooth. Stir in lemon juice and vanilla extract.

In medium bowl, beat whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Fold whipped cream into peanut butter mixture. Mix until combined.

Pour into crust. Chill 4 hours, or until set. Drizzle chocolate syrup over pie before serving.

Cover leftovers and store in refrigerator.

Courtesy of Culinary.net and Family Features

Cranberry Raspberry Vanilla Punch

Servings: 6-12

 8 cups cranberry-raspberry juice

 8 1/2 cups cranberry ginger ale

 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

 1 pint raspberry sorbet

 frozen cranberries, for garnish

In large punch bowl, add juice, ginger ale and vanilla extract. Stir until combined.

Add frozen cranberries and scoops of frozen sorbet. Stir slightly then serve immediately.

Celebrating Big with Berry Punch

Holidays, gatherings and celebrations can be the best time to try new, easy, stress-free recipes. Drink and punch recipes are especially easy to throw together (even last-minute) right before the festivities begin. This way, the drinks are chilled, and the food is hot and ready.

No matter if it’s a big crowd or a night alone with a special someone, this Cranberry Raspberry Vanilla Punch is sure to be the star of the celebration with its powerful berry flavor.

The end result is tangy, tart, sweet and absolutely delicious all mixed up in one large bowl. With only five ingredients, it’s simple to make and even better to enjoy.

Pairing perfectly with sweets or chocolates, this punch packs the flavor for nearly any event, gathering or small family dinner.

Start with 8 cups of cranberry-raspberry juice then add cranberry ginger ale to the mix. Next, add just a dash of vanilla for a bit of extra flavor. Stir and scoop raspberry sorbet on top for a hint of smooth sweetness.

The frozen sweetness of the sorbet combined with the bubbly ginger ale and the natural flavors of the berries give you a taste that is truly unique and special.

Add some frozen cranberries on top for garnish and another pop of that deep, red color.

Set your punch bowl on the table next to a gorgeous bouquet of flowers and it’s guaranteed the punch bowl will not be full for long.

Throughout the night, while conversations are happening, sip a few drops of your beverage. You’re reminded instantly why you’re celebrating. You gather, no matter the celebration, for good times with lots of laughs and even better food and drink.

Find more recipes perfect for celebrating any occasion at Culinary.net.

Otter Lake Otter Lake

CAMP RESORT

• 60 acre lake with 300 campsites

• Paved roads

• Electric, water and cable TV hook-ups; 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

• 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

Courtesy of Culinary.net and Family Features

Ways to Prevent Colds & Flu

Cold and flu season typically runs from October to May, but with summer colds, COVID outbreaks, RSV and allergies, it's a pretty safe bet that you and your family may be dealing with a variety of symptoms of one kind or another, no matter the season.

Given this year-round battle against illness, the ever-rising costs of medications can put a strain on your wallet and cause confusion as to how best to guard against all of those various bugs out there.

"It's vital for families to get reliable information on how to prevent illnesses, especially during cold and flu season when many bugs are at their worst, and what to do if they do come down with something," said Preeti Parikh, Executive Medical Director at GoodRx, the leading prescription savings platform

in the U.S. "This includes information about how to get the best price on any medications they need."

That's where GoodRx comes in. It is an online platform that does double duty. GoodRx can save you up to 80% off retail prices of medications, plus it offers trusted information on the myriad health conditions that families deal with. GoodRx's articles, written by a team of doctors, pharmacists, health economists and public health experts, provide you with authoritative and trustworthy answers to your most pressing health questions so you can make better decisions for your family's health.

When it comes to navigating cold and flu season, Dr. Parikh offers the following tips to prevent illness and manage treatment if you do become sick.

Photo courtesy of Brand Point

 Get vaccinated. Everyone should get their flu shot and COVID booster by the end of October, and these shots can be done at the same time. It's the most important thing you can do to prevent illness, not only for yourself, but for vulnerable people in your community, such as children, the elderly and people with chronic conditions.

 Older Americans should investigate the RSV vaccine. All Americans aged 75 and older should receive one dose of the RSV vaccine. Adults aged 60 to 74 with serious chronic conditions, pregnant women, and young babies may also need to get vaccinated. Work with your healthcare provider to determine if the vaccine is best for you.

 Wash your hands. Everyone should practice good disease prevention! Wash your hands, avoid touching your face, and sneeze or cough into your elbow.

"It's vital for families to get reliable information on how to prevent illnesses, especially during cold and flu season when many bugs are at their worst"

 Protect others. If you're sick, stay home. Don't go to the office or out shopping or dining. If you must go out, wear a mask to help avoid passing those bugs around.

 If you do become sick, GoodRx can help you save on treatments, including antibiotics that can treat your infection, cold medications to help with symptoms, and antivirals, which can shorten the duration or alleviate the symptoms of your illness. On average, GoodRx users save $34 on cold and flu treatment medications.

So, how do the savings work? It's actually very easy. Just go to GoodRx.com or the mobile app and type in the name of the medications you have been prescribed. You'll get a listing of local pharmacies and their prices. Choose the lowest one, and a coupon will pop up. Bring your phone with you to the pharmacy and show the coupon to your pharmacist to get the lowest possible price on your medications.

To arm yourself with information about how to battle the bugs, and ways to save at the pharmacy, visit GoodRx.com/go/ fluseason.

"Try making a grocery trip once per week on a day you have ample time to think through what you need"

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

Among the many monthly expenses that are simply unavoidable, buying groceries is one of the few that’s squarely in your own control. While it’s a necessity you can’t eliminate from your budget completely, there are some simple ways to save a few bucks during future grocery runs.

Plan Ahead

One of the easiest ways to spend more money (and time) than you intend to at the store is to go in without a list of items you need. Spend a few moments considering the meals you’d like to make in the near future then write down exactly which ingredients you need.

Evaluate Shopping Frequency

Overbuying perishables like fruits and veggies is one of the many ways food is wasted, but going to the store every day is an inefficiency all its own. Try making a grocery trip once per week on a day you have ample time to think through what you need, how much you need and how long it will last.

Say “No” to Snacks

It might be difficult to avoid the temptation, but skipping the snack aisles can improve your finances and your diet. While it’s unnecessary to completely eliminate your favorite snacks, limiting your consumption of foods like potato chips, candy and more can save you money and lead to more nutritious eating habits down the line.

Avoid Unnecessary Purchases

Similar to walking past the snack section, pay careful attention to how often you load your cart with items from special stands and end-of-aisle displays. For one, these foods are unlikely to be part of your “must-have” list, and second, there’s a decent chance these are specialty items with marked up prices.

Store Food Properly

While it may not directly pertain to shopping, learning how to store the foods you do purchase can help them stay fresh longer, which can help cut down on trips to buy more. Freezing meat in freezer-safe bags, keeping potatoes in a cool area and other appropriate food storage methods can lead to more efficient use.

Find more food tips and tricks at Culinary.net.

How Small Businesses Can Retain CUSTOMER LOYALTY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Small business loyalty is on the rocks, according to a new study that finds that consumers are feeling more love for big retail brands this holiday season.

The study, from cloud-based accounting platform Xero, found that while 27% of consumers feel loyal to big retail brands, only 14% feel loyal to small businesses.

“For a small business owner who launched their business because of a passion, identifying ways to gain customer loyalty can be overwhelming. Fortunately, our data provides insights into tactics that small businesses can take to nurture ongoing relationships with customers,” says Ben Richmond, chartered accountant and U.S. country manager at Xero.

As the holiday season approaches, Xero is sharing these tips and survey insights to holiday-proof operations and keep customers satisfied:

 Keep delivery affordable: According to the Xero survey, 25% of survey respondents believe that delivery should always be free, regardless of original purchase price.

“Free delivery is an effective way to build customer loyalty, so offer it if you can. Just be sure to utilize cash flow forecasting or work with your accountant to gauge how much it will cost you long-term,” says Richmond.

If free shipping isn’t viable for your business, keep this fee low -- 30% said spending $21-$50 for delivery was agreeable. To bring down shipping costs, consider using shipping brokerages or building shipping into your pricing.

 Make delivery fast: At a point in the year when timing truly matters, it’s a good idea to offer express shipping. Thirty percent of consumers want their items faster, plus this allows you to charge for expedited shipping. On this front, customers appreciate communication. Encourage them to start seasonal

shopping early and set their expectations with cut-off dates for when the last orders can be delivered in time for the holidays. You may also want to consider diversifying your supply and distribution channels by looking to both local manufacturers and service providers, and also large delivery partners, so you have options to fall back on if links in the chain are disrupted.

 Make shopping convenient: Match big retailer convenience by accepting multiple payment options, including e-wallets and by offering your products online. According to the survey, 50% of consumers are buying more online now postpandemic, so it’s a good idea to meet them where they are.

“For a small business owner who launched their business because of a passion, identifying ways to gain customer loyalty can be overwhelming."

 Build your reputation: Show your passion and small biz credentials in your branding and packaging. Don’t be shy about asking for reviews and referrals, as they’re key to building trust. And when you’re criticized online, always respond respectfully.

 Return-proof your products: Include detailed descriptions and pictures of your products to minimize returns. At the same time, consider offering more lenient policies for holiday-related returns. This both increases customer loyalty as well as extends the amount of time a return may impact your bottom line, as an extended period can allow for a slower trickle of negative growth.

 Use tech: Have a pulse-check on your cash flow by leaning into technology, like Xero’s cloud-based accounting platform, to automate tasks, manage inventory and track transactions in realtime. Technology investments can help ensure you’re constantly aware of how much return loss is acceptable per month as you plan inventory needs.

Check out the full study in Xero’s report into online shopping trends by visiting xero.com.

“With a game plan that combines strategic actions, responsive communication and adaptability, small businesses can compete with the big box stores, and win customer hearts and minds over the holidays,” says Richmond.

Courtesy of StatePoint

“Grandma?” My 8-year-old granddaughter Ioni pronounced, “Tomorrow is ‘profession day’ at school. I want to dress up as an artist.” Anyone who is raising children or grandchildren knows they always make these pronouncements late at night, usually five minutes before bedtime. You can imagine my exhausted huff-n-puff and slumped shoulders with the delivery of this news. We rustled through her drawers and closet to come up with a pair of black leggings, matching turtleneck and loafers. “I have show-and-tell too.” Of course she did. Out came the watercolors, paintbrushes and paper which she transformed into a remarkably beautiful rendition of Van Gough’s A Starry Night.

WHAT DOES THIS HAVE TO DO WITH THANKSGIVING?

By Roseanne Bottone

Off to bed you go! Not so fast! “But grandma. I have to say something about my painting.” Queue the repeat huff-n-puffgrandma was tired. “I have an idea!” I said. “How about reading this poem from your art book?” Well, you should have seen the look of horror on her face. “I can’t do THAT,” she insisted emphatically. “I can’t do poetry! All the kids will laugh at me.”

“No, they won’t, honey. They want you to succeed. Remember, they also have to get up in front of the class and they want you to be nice to them too.” She wasn’t convinced. I invented a little mantra of encouragement on the spot and had her repeat it several times: “I’m a hip, happening, cool little chick, and I do my own thing!” (I felt incredibly old when I had to explain 60’s lexicon as to why she would refer to herself as a ‘chick.’) Eventually, she was feeling confident and I tucked her in for the night.

At the very same time, I was grappling with my own question of authenticity and bravery. My first gray hair appeared when I was a teenager and I started dying my hair in my 20s. My hair grows fast so I had to slather on the smelly and nasty chemicals every three weeks or so. I suffered through this for a quarter of a century. In between dye jobs, I had a white skunk stripe through my part. By the time I was 50 years old, I was sick of it. I wanted to stop dying my hair. At that time (back in 2006), the gray/white hair look was not yet de rigueur. The only woman in the fashion magazines that wore her hair like that was the country rock star Emmylou Harris. There were no other role models for me.

Such a conundrum - to dye or not to dye. And then, it dawned on me. Here I was trying to convince a little 3rd-grader to go for it and be fearless. And yet, I too was worried about what people would think about my hair! If I dyed it would they think I was 48? If I didn’t dye my hair, would they think I was 52? I realized this was just silly. I stood up straight, threw my shoulders back (figuratively), and reminded myself that I too am a hip, happening, cool chick and should do my own thing! I let it go white and it was one of the most liberating decisions I’ve ever made.

So, what do these entwined stories have to do with Thanksgiving? Every year we gather with loved ones (and a few proverbial crazy uncles and monsters-in-law) to celebrate the holiday. Traditionally, we speak of the things for which we are grateful. One of them being family – our families of origin, our families we’ve created as adults, or the families we’ve assembled with friends, coworkers, and acquaintances. It is common to hear “I’m grateful for my family” around the table when we pray or chat about the meaning of the day.

This year, I encourage you to go further with your declarations of gratitude for family. Make them more meaningful by bringing your memories to life with your stories! Instead of a rote recitation of the things you’re thankful for, tell your stories of sweetness or humor. Tell your stories about the things that have shaped who you are today. What are the unique ways your family makes you feel loved or special? It could be a childhood memory, something that happened 18 years ago, or something from last week. Have fun with the anecdotes of your lives. The more elaborate, flourishing, and dramatic, the better! When Ioni came home from school on show-and-tell profession day, I asked, “How did it go, my hip happening little chick? Were the kids nice to you when you did your own thing and read poetry?”

“Yes.” She smiled. “They clapped for me.”

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.

In & Around the Poconos

Project Owlnet Saw-Whet Owl Banding

Thursday, November 1, 2024 8pm - 10pm

Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center

Kettle Creek along with Pocono Avian Research Center will host the sixth season of Project Owlnet. The station will be open 10/18, 10/25 and 11/1. Participants will learn more about the Northern Saw-whet Owl, Project Owlnet, and may have the opportunity to see one of the most secretive birds in the eastern US. Pre-registration is required and limited. Please register for one date only. Call 570-629-3061 to register, Donations welcome. mcconservation.org

Bridge the Gap: Ecozone Discovery Room!

Saturday, November 2 • 1pm - 4pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

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

Dia De Los Muertos Celebration

Saturday, November 2 • 3pm - 7pm

La Posada & Felix's Cantina

Join La Posada & Felix's Cantina for a Dia De Los Muertos Celebration at La Posada! Celebrate the vibrant Mexican tradition of Dia De Los Muertos with us at La Posada! Bring your family and friends for an unforgettable afternoon filled with music, culture, and fun! Enjoy free face painting, Pinatas for the kids, live music, beautifully crafted Ofrenda, food, and more. This family-friendly event is the perfect way to honor and celebrate life with community, culture, and colorful traditions. We can't wait to see you there! Free. laposadamilford.com

Owls of PA-with live owls!

Saturday, November 2 • 11am - 1pm

Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center

Pocono Wildlife Rehabilitation Center will again be at Kettle Creek with their live owl ambassadors for a presentation all about owls! This is a fun event geared for older kids and adults. Get ready to witness live animals up close and learn from the experts themselves! Must register, 570-629-3061 to register or with any questions. Cost: $5 per person, additional donations to help care for local wildlife welcome! mcconservation.org

Kettle Creek For Kids-Celebrate Trees

Monday, November 4 • 10am - 11am

Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center

We will work on our sorting and building skills as we play with all the different parts of the trees that comprise our forests. Program is for ages 3-6. Parent or guardian must attend with their child. Cost: $7 per child, cash or check only, payable day of program. Must pre-register, call 570-629-3061.

(Ages 3-6) mcconservation.org

Flying Needles Fiber Arts Retreat

Thursday, November 7 - Monday, November 11

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Join other crafters while finishing your knitting, crocheting, quilting, or other fiber art works-in-progress (WIPs). Or, start a new project if you are short on Un-Finished Objects (UFOs). $325 Full Workshop/ Call for commuter and day rates. peec.org

Photo courtesy of Virginia Gercie

LEADING-EDGE CANCER CARE AT LVH–POCONO

DOUBLE CANCER SURVIVOR CALLS HIMSELF A LIVING MIRACLE

By Lori McFerran

Ask Tomas Urena about his experience dealing with breast cancer and pancreatic cancer at the same time, and he’ll tell you what happened to him was “a miracle.”

A vigorous 80-year-old from East Stroudsburg, Urena went to the dermatologist for a skin rash on his chest that turned out to be breast cancer. A subsequent scan determined that he also had cancer in his pancreas, which can be very aggressive and fatal if not treated quickly.

SURGICAL CARE WITHOUT DELAY

Facing delays at another health network, he turned to Dale and Frances Hughes Cancer Center at Lehigh Valley Hospital–Pocono. He underwent surgery for both his breast and pancreatic cancer on the same day.

“It’s unusual to do both surgeries at once, but he had both cancers and I did not want to delay his care for either one,” says Jacqueline Oxenberg, DO, a surgical oncologist. She did the breast surgery first, then removed the cancer from his pancreas robotically. Both operations together took about five hours.

Robotic surgery has many advantages for patients, including less pain, less blood loss and quicker recovery.

RARITY OF HIS TWO DIAGNOSES

Breast cancer in men is rare in itself – less than 1 percent of all breast cancers detected – and Urena had an even rarer form of breast cancer called Paget’s disease. It appears as a skin rash and is diagnosed with a biopsy, Dr. Oxenberg says.

The fact that he had no clue about his pancreatic cancer, and that it was detected while he was being evaluated for breast cancer, “was a miracle,” Urena says

“Pancreatic cancer is one of the most difficult cancers to treat,” says Dan Popescu, MD, the hematologist/ medical oncologist who oversaw Urena’s chemotherapy. “He has tolerated the chemotherapy well despite his age. His latest CT scan does not show any cancer. This is great news.”

ENCOURAGING OUTLOOK AND THANKS

Treating a patient for cancer is a complex balance, according to Dr. Popescu: part aggressive chemotherapy and part support and encouragement. “Hope, positive attitude and emotional connection are very important,” Dr. Popescu says. “His faith, prayer and family love also give him strength.”

Urena, a father of four with eight grandchildren, has made a full recovery and looks forward to traveling and exploring what’s next in his life.

Urena praises the nurses and other staff for the care he received. “I could tell that they really cared about me, and wanted to see me happy and comfortable,” he says.

Dr. Popescu and his chemotherapy team have provided excellent care, Urena says. Dr. Oxenberg, he says, “gave me confidence. She really made it easy for me as a patient. She is my angel who fell from the sky.”

> > Tomas Urena

Animal Tracking

Saturday, November 9 • 10am - 12pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Animals leave behind clues that give us glimpses into their lives. Explore our natural areas for tracks, trails, scat, territory marks, chew marks, and other signs animals leave as they travel through the fields and forests of the Poconos. Please call to register. $5 per person. peec.org

10th Annual ULLR Fest

Saturday, November 9 • 4pm - 9pm

Camelback Mountain

Winter is coming… and Camelback needs your help to summon Ullr, the Norse God of Skiing and Snow. The 10th Annual Ullr Fest is a one-day festival for snow sports enthusiasts to usher in a powder-filled winter. Celebrate the change of the season like the Norse gods with various merchants, flowing food and beverage, wood carving, ski decorating, and more! Catch the lighting of the propitiatory bonfire to win the good favor of Ullr and ensure a snow-filled winter season. Be on the lookout, because at 7:30 p.m. Ullr may answer back with lights in the sky. camelbackresort.com

Wacky Science Adventures

Sunday, November 10 • 10am - 12pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Put on your lab coats and prepare to conduct some crazy experiments! You’ll get to create your very own slime, oobleck, and attempt to launch a rocket into space. Please call to register. $8 per child. peec.org

Wednesday Bog Walk

Wednesday, November 13 • 1pm - 3:30pm

Tannersville Bog

Join us at 1pm 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 plays in its continued protection. Please wear appropriate footwear. Tour is approximately one mile of walking through a wooded area and on the boardwalk. Pre-registration is required and limited. Call 570-629-3061 to

Downtown Stroudsburg Christmas Tree Lighting

Friday, November 29 • 5pm - 7:30pm Courthouse Square

Kick off the holiday season with the Downtown Stroudsburg Christmas Tree Lighting. This magical event is a community favorite. Enjoy live music, refreshments, plus a visit from Santa on a fire truck. The tree lighting will begin at 6:20 p.m., but there will be festivities from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Free. visitdowntownstroudsburg.com

Scenes of the Season: Paint and Sip

Saturday. November 16 • 1pm - 4pm Pocono Environmental Education Center

Experience an afternoon of seasonal splendor as you create a landscape painting with artist Terry Kloiber, and sip on some delicious seasonal (non-alcoholic) beverages. Cost of program includes materials and refreshments. Ideal for ages 13+. Space is limited to 12 participants; please call to register. $25 per person. peec.org

Game Dinner

Saturday, November 16 • 6pm - 8pm Pocono Environmental Education Center

Enjoy the bounty of the season at PEEC’s 14th annual Game Dinner! This dinner features local game and seasonal harvests. Bring your friends & family to enjoy this cozy evening. Payment is due upon registration. Call early to guarantee a seat. peec.org

Meet the Artist: Monica Doshi Weichand 'Exploring Nature Through the Art of Quilting'

Saturday, November 16 • 11am - 1pm

Kettle Creek Environmental Education

Come to the Art Gallery at Kettle Creek from 11am to 1pm to meet artist Monica Doshi Weichand. Five quilters will showcase a variety of nature-themed quilts for their show. Their work will be on display in the Art Gallery for the month of November.

The gallery is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4:30pm and will be open Saturdays, 11/2 and 11/16 from 9am to 1pm. There is no charge for this program. Pre-registration is not required. Call 570-629-3061 with any questions. mcconservation.org

Ecozone Discovery Room!

Sunday, November 17 • 1pm - 4pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Introduction to Orienteering

Saturday, November 23 • 10am - 12pm

Pocono Environmental Education 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

Bird Bonanza

Saturday, November 23 • 10am - 12pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Spend time watching our feeders and putting together your own unique and custom bird feeder from a variety of recycled materials just in time for winter. We’ll provide everything you need, but you are welcome to bring your own supplies. Please call to register. $5. peec.org

Animal Tracking

Sunday, November 24 • 10am - 12pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Holiday Bows & Boughs

Sunday, December 1 • 1pm - 4pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Create your own holiday decorations using natural materials! We provide evergreen boughs and materials for you to make wreaths, swags, and table decor. Come join us as we introduce making swags from hangers. You can also bring your own supplies and decorations – we’ll bring the music, drinks, and snacks! $25 per wreath – Preregistration is required. peec.org

Wacky Science Adventures

Saturday, December 7 • 10am - 12pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Nature Photography

Sunday, December 8 • 10am - 12pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Learn some beginner techniques on how to frame a picture and then apply those skills on our trails. Great for children and those starting from scratch. Participants will need a camera for pictures, even a phone camera will do! Please call to register. $5. peec.org

Bird Bonanza

Saturday, December 14 • 10am - 12pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Winter Ecology Hike

Sunday, January 5, 2025 • 1pm - 3pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Learn how different plants and animals survive the winter. Join us on a hike and experience PEEC in the wintertime. All ages welcome. Please call to register. $5 per person. peec.org

> Photo courtesy of Michael Shelly

Barrett Paradise Friendly Library

Cresco, PA

570-595-7171 www.barrettlibrary.org

Clymer Library

Pocono Pines, PA

570-646-0826 www.clymerlibrary.org

Pocono Mountain Public Library

Tobyhanna, PA

570-894-8860 www.poconomountpl.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

Your Partner for Advanced Ear, Nose and Throat Care

Now in the Poconos

Accepting new patients

Jason Ohlstein, MD

LVHN.org/JFOhlstein

Certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology, Dr. Ohlstein treats people of all ages for a range of conditions affecting the ears, nose and throat. Dr. Ohlstein is a trained Inspire Sleep Apnea System® surgeon. Inspire is an alternative to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy.

LVPG Ear, Nose and Throat–Pocono 296 E. Brown St., East Stroudsburg

To schedule an appointment, visit LVHN.org/ENT or call 888-402-LVHN (5846).