Pocono Living Magazine - Feb/Mar 2023

Pocono Living MAGAZINE Winter Photography Issue

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

Amanda Kuhn Amy Leiser

Marie Liu

Jamie Marra

Barbara Lewis

Marie Liu Harry Loud Regina Matarazzo

Janet Mishkin

John L. Moore Michael Murphy Justine Nearhood Roseanna Santaniello Tom Stone

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

Kristen Sebring Linda Spalluto

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.

“To appreciate the beauty of a snowflake it is necessary to stand out in the cold.” — Aristotle

> Photo by Marlana Holsten

1770: SUSPECTED SMUGGLERS ASSAULT, THREATEN ROYAL CUSTOMS AGENT IN DELAWARE BAY

By John L. Moore

During the run-up to the American Revolutionary War, many a merchant seaman on the lower Delaware River was tempted to smuggle goods past Royal customs officers in order to get his cargo ashore without paying import duties.

One such customs officer was John Hatton Sr. Based in Salem, a port community on the Delaware’s New Jersey shore. Hatton left a detailed account of how he tried to thwart smugglers in Delaware Bay in 1770. For his effort, he was badly beaten by the men he suspected of smuggling. They also took a boat Hatton had seized after deciding it carried contraband.

The controversy over import duties raged in England’s North American colonies after King George 3rd and the British Parliament in the 1760s imposed taxes and duties on imported commodities such as glass, paint, and tea. They hadn’t anticipated strong opposition, but their measures created a political uproar in the colonies. Many shippers and importers bypassed customs agents. The Delaware Bay incident shows just how violent the situation could become.

Hatton’s post at Salem was about 65 land miles upriver from Cape May. He “came to Cape May in November 1770 to stop what he termed were illegal actions on the part of local and other skippers in landing goods at Cape May to avoid paying duty,” according to Lewis T. Stevens in his 1897 book, “The History of Cape May.”

Hatton stood on the shore at Cape May on Nov. 5, 1770, looking through his spyglass and watching a Philadelphia-bound sailing ship, The Prince of Wales, riding at anchor in Delaware Bay. Soon, the ship “was met by several pilot boats.”

The wharves at Philadelphia lay 120 miles upriver, and sea captains routinely hired river pilots to guide their deep-water vessels past the many sandbars and shoals that awaited unwary ships in the bay and river. But Hatton said the crews on the smaller boats weren’t there to take The Prince of Wales upriver. Instead, as he watched, they “immediately set to unload her.”

Hatton suspected that the men transferring goods to the smaller boats intended to ship them into either Pennsylvania or New Jersey without paying import duties on them.

All this was disturbing to Hatton, whom New Jersey Governor William Franklin described as “Collector of His Majesty’s Customs at the Port of Salem, Etc., in the Province of New Jersey.”

“The controversy over import duties raged in England’s North American colonies after King George 3rd and the British Parliament in the 1760s imposed taxes and duties on imported commodities such as glass, paint, and tea.”

Hatton sprang into action. “I got about eight men, and manned two wherries (rowboats), and rowed down to her about 10 miles,” he said later in a detailed report to John Swift, collector of the Port of Philadelphia.

The men accompanying Hatton included his son, John Jr., and an enslaved man named Ned. Ned belonged to the customs agent. The sailors and others on The Prince of Wales and the smaller boats felt threatened to see Hatton’s men approach. “We rowed on each side of the ship with our two boats,” he said. “As soon as they perceived us, they threw overboard a great quantity of bales (of fabric) and casks of claret or red wine …”

As they tossed the kegs over the side, the sailors damaged them so that seawater would ruin the wine, Hatton said.

“When we came near, they called out to me, and bid me stand off, or they would sink me, and they manned their sides with swivels, guns, peteraroes, blunderbusses, and muskets, and declared they would murder us,” Hatton said. Swivels, peteraroes, and blunderbusses were 18th-century firearms.

A standoff occurred. “I parleyed with them about an hour, but could get no Information from them,” Hatton said. He estimated that the crews of The Prince of Wales and the pilot boats numbered “about 50 persons.”

The collector eventually changed his strategy. “Finding I could not board them, I then set out for another pilot boat I saw about four miles off, which I supposed belonged to them.”

Hatton said that his two rowboats overtook the distant vessel. “As soon as we reached the pilot boat, I jumped on board, then my son and Negro got in.” As Hatton scuffled with the pilot, “my son opened her hatches, and said she was full of goods … I then legally seized her and set the two pilots … in my boat to be put on shore by my … men who would not stay any longer.”

Hatton afterwards told Governor Franklin that he was convinced this boat was “laden with goods … clandestinely discharged … out of the … Prince of Wales.”

Men from The Prince of Wales had been following Hatton in a slower, flat-bottom boat that he described as a barge. Hatton

> An 1855 painting by John Scott depicts the brig Mary.

SAILORS TAR, FEATHER TAX COLLECTOR’S SON

As the American colonies headed towards revolution during the 1770s, the practice of tarring and feathering became an acceptable – if violent – form of political expression. Rebellious protesters engaged in it to intimidate and punish officials of the Royal government and other loyalists.

Produced by burning logs cut from pitch pine trees in earthen kilns, the tar itself had a mundane purpose. Construction workers and shipbuilders used it as a sealant. Wheelwrights used it as a lubricant for wagon axles. The feathers came from the carcasses of chickens and other barnyard birds.

John Hatton Jr., the son of a Delaware River tax collector, found himself the subject of a tarring and feathering in November 1770 during a confrontation in Philadelphia with a group of sailors. Hatton’s father had previously accused these men of attempting to smuggle cargo from an English ship, The Prince of Wales, into New Jersey or Pennsylvania.

Hatton had arrived in Philadelphia from Cape May, N.J., on Nov. 12 to deliver a letter his father had written to John Swift, the Royal tax collector of the Port of Philadelphia. It detailed the Nov. 5, 1770, incident involving The Prince of Wales in Delaware Bay.

While in Philadelphia, Hatton learned that a pilot boat involved in the incident was in the city’s harbor, possibly at Carpenter's Wharf. He went to the waterfront to find the boat.

“My son went with him to show him the wharf where she lay,” Swift said. “As they were going thither, they met the pilot who owned the boat, and young Hatton entered into a conversation with him. He (the pilot) pretended to be very sorry for what had passed, and told him (Hatton) he might take the boat and do as he pleased with her.”

They conversed for nearly half an hour. Suddenly, “seven or eight sailors armed with clubs” showed up. The pilot told Hatton “to take care of himself for they were coming after him. … Young Hatton and my son took to their heels, and the sailors after them,” Swift said.

“My son was fortunate enough to get into a house where he was

known and was protected. A sailor … made a blow at him with a club, but missed him.

“Young Hatton likewise got into another house, but the sailors followed and dragged him out, and drove him about from place to place,” Swift said.

At one point, the men “poured a pot of tar upon his head, and then feathered him. The mob gathered as they drove him with sticks from street to street. They had a rope round his body, and when he would not walk or run, they dragged him.”

In the end, they took Hatton “to the river and ducked him,” Swift said.

Eventually, the sailors put Hatton in a boat and rowed across the Delaware to New Jersey, where they left him in the ferry house at Cooper’s Ferry.

The next morning, Swift took a doctor to Cooper’s Ferry to examine Hatton. “We found him in bed,” Swift said. Wounds that Hatton had suffered on Delaware Bay previously had not yet healed, and these “were much inflamed. His wrist much swelled, and he had a fever.”

“Everything possible shall be done for his recovery,” Swift said. “I did not dare to have him brought to this city, fearing the same tragedy might be acted over again.”

Swift noted that nobody – “neither magistrate or citizen” – had tried to stop the assault.

In an official report sent to the King's Commissioners at Boston, Swift said, “If these riots are permitted with impunity, it will be impossible for any Custom House officer to do his duty in this port. There are not less than a thousand seamen here at this time, and they are always ready to do any mischief that their captains or owners set them upon."

John Hatton Jr. survived his injuries. When the Revolutionary War began in 1775, he became an active loyalist.

> 1753 Map showing Coopers Ferry across from Philadelphia

> 1777 map shows Cape May, New Jersey, and the lower section of Delaware Bay.

reported that he attempted to sail off in the boat he had seized. “But there being no wind, their barge soon came up with the man who called himself captain, and eight more men armed with a musket, patteraro gun, swords and axes, and threatened us with death if we would not surrender.”

Hatton, his son and Ned mounted a vigorous defense. “They … endeavored to board us, but with our guns and swords, we beat them off for about an hour and a half.”

The fight ended abruptly. “My Negro being knocked down, they boarded us when we put down our arms, and I said, 'Gentlemen, we submit.'”

The sailors proved to be anything but gentlemen. As soon as Hatton surrendered, “they took up our guns and … beat and wounded us in a most inhuman manner, rifling our pockets, taking from me one rifle pistol, four dollars and my shoe buckles and some other trifles.”

In the end, the sailors put Hatton and his son ashore; commandeered the boat he had seized, and confiscated “my Negro and three guns, two hangers and several other things … which they would keep.” Hangers were swords that had curved blades.

Night had fallen by the time the barge and the pilot ship returned to The Prince of Wales. Ned was taken aboard. “Towards morning they put him on shore. He informs me they had a great quantity of valuable goods on board. The two pilot boats … were to sail the next tide up the Delaware,” Hatton said.

Angered by the turn of events, Hatton promptly fired off letters describing the incident to Governor Franklin, and to Swift, the customs agent at Philadelphia.

Hatton also identified the owners of the pilot boats. The river pilot who pointed a gun at him and “who swore he would murder me was one Jedediah Mills,” he said. He identified the pilot of the second boat as Seletheall Forster.

According to a proclamation that Governor Franklin made soon after receiving Hatton’s report, the leader of the attack was a man named Smith, “a short, thick, well-set man, supposed to be between 30 and 40 years of age.” Smith, the governor said, “has a fresh cut on the right side of his head and face, made with a cutlass.”

Hatton advised Swift to be on the lookout for The Prince of Wales, “a large ship” out of a port on the Irish Sea – either Liverpool, England, or Londonderry, Ireland – commanded by Captain Patrick Crawford. “Her name was formerly The King George,” Hatton reported.

Hatton said that he himself had been so badly wounded that “I am not able to write or travel.” so his son – “who is the least wounded” of the three – was going to Philadelphia, and would hand-deliver Hatton’s letter to Swift. “I despair of my Negro's life, and am dangerously wounded myself,” Hatton said.

By the time John Jr. reached Philadelphia with his father’s letter a week later, The Prince of Wales had already arrived with a

cargo of salt and coal. She had sailed out of England, and her captain had listed Liverpool as her home port.

Swift reviewed Hatton’s report but couldn’t see any cause to take action. A serious violation would have occurred if Hatton had seen the seamen take the goods ashore and ship them overland. But had the sailors committed a crime merely by transferring cargo from The Prince of Wales to smaller boats? “I do not apprehend that her breaking bulk at sea and putting goods on board the pilot boat makes her liable to any penalty,” Swift reasoned.

Even so, “the goods taken out and the boat into which they were put were forfeited” had Hatton managed to keep them in his possession. “But as they were rescued from him, the case is altered, and the persons who beat, wounded and abused him are liable … to a forfeiture of one hundred pounds and to be imprisoned till discharged by the Court of Exchequer.”

This wasn’t likely because the court operated in England, and “we have none here.”

Swift added: “An officer may be beat and abused in the execution of his office and can have no redress but at common law. I am in doubt whether Mr. Hatton can have any redress here for an offence that was committed in another province, or rather upon the high seas.”

In all likelihood, the goods that Hatton saw being transferred from The Prince of Wales to the smaller boats managed to come ashore without anyone paying import duties on them.

> This hand-colored print offers a late 18th-century view of the Philadelphia waterfront.

> An 1838 painting by Joseph Walter shows a small English trading brig.

The controversy over paying taxes to Britain ended when the colonies revolted and won their independence.

Though out of a job as a customs officer by then, John Hatton Sr. became an active Tory when the Revolutionary War swept through the Delaware Valley. He also became a staunch ally of Governor Franklin, the loyalist son of Benjamin Franklin, who helped write the Declaration of Independence. But that’s another story.

John L. Moore

John L. Moore, a retired newspaperman, continues to pursue his lifelong interests in Pennsylvania’s colonial history and archaeology. The Northumberland writer has published 15 non-fiction books about Pennsylvania during the 17th and 18th centuries. His most recent books, “The Outposts” and “Border War” are the sixth and seventh volumes in his ongoing Revolutionary Pennsylvania Series. They are available online at the Sunbury Press Bookstore and Amazon.com. Over the years John has participated in archaeological excavations of Native American sites along the Delaware and Susquehanna Rivers. These include the City Island site excavated by the Pennsylvania Historic and Museum Commission during the 1990s across from Harrisburg, and a New Jersey State Museum dig along the Delaware River north of Worthington State Forest in New Jersey in 1963. A professional storyteller, John specializes in telling historically-accurate stories about real people and events in Pennsylvania history. One of his favorite stories is that of Frances Slocum, a 5-year-old girl who lived in northeastern Pennsylvania until Delaware Indians kidnapped her during the American Revolutionary War. She spent the rest of her life as the Native American known as Little Bear Woman.

HISTORY OF FORT PENN

By Amy Leiser, Executive Director, Monroe County Historical Society

In 1775, Jacob Stroud, a military veteran of the French and Indian War, was placed in charge of the Lower Smithfield Military Company. He began this post at the rank of Captain and was ultimately promoted to Colonel. As part of his initial duties, Stroud was requested by Northampton County officials to submit a report to them of the status of the Company, including the number of men and the supply of equipment he had at his disposal. Stroud compiled his report, but he bypassed the “local” chain of command and submitted the document directly to the Committee of Safety in Philadelphia. This bold move demonstrated that Stroud took his post seriously and with an air of authority that showed both Northampton County and

Philadelphia officials that he was now in command of the area north of the Blue Mountains.

One year later, in 1776, Stroud was ordered by the Executive Council to build a stockade around his stone home. This fortified structure, which became part of Jacob Stroud’s command, was called Fort Penn, having been named for John Penn, Governor of Pennsylvania. Unlike the frontier forts of twenty years earlier, no one in authority was sent to inspect Fort Penn. It had been policy of the British military during the French and Indian War to send an inspector to each of the Franklin Forts with the task of: surveying the structure’s condition; inventorying supplies, and; reporting on the overall status of the fort and its garrison.

However, to put it lightly, the political atmosphere of the area changed drastically between the 1750s and the 1770s. In the 1750s, the early colonists were British subjects who were fighting for the crown against the French and the Indians. By the late 1770s, the “colonists” had formed a new government and had become Americans. And the Americans were battling against the British crown, which had under its domain the strongest military force of the time.

Clearly, in the summer of 1776, the condition of a small fort located in the wilds of Stroudsburg was not of the utmost importance to the administrators of the new nation. Even if it were, it is doubtful that any military personnel could have been spared to conduct an inspection. There is no official written record that details the style of Fort Penn’s construction, although it is believed that the fort closely resembled the earlier stockade forts that had been commissioned by Benjamin Franklin. Accounts of the structure describe it as being soundly built and large enough to house forty families; it is thought that Stroud paid to build Fort Penn with his own money.

(women, children and men where too old to serve), British sympathizer Col. John Butler, the leader of the Tory Raiders, traveled from New York with a group of Seneca warriors into Pennsylvania and descended upon the unprepared residents of the Wyoming Valley.

Victims of the initial attack of the Tory Raiders and the Seneca included many women and children - most of whom were murdered, some of whom were carried off into captivity. Those who were fortunate enough to escape fled southward through the dense forests and murky swamps toward the Delaware River.

Survivors of the massacre traveled a path through present-day Coolbaugh Township, Monroe County. Many perished in the unforgiving wilderness, and the area soon became known as “The Shades of Death.” The remaining survivors arrived at Fort Penn, roughly 50 miles distant from the site of the massacre. Jacob Stroud and his men received and cared for them.

Fort Penn did not see much activity during the American Revolution. While there were no battles there, the fort did serve three main purposes: to operate as part of a line of defense from Indian attack; to function as a depot for military supplies and munitions that were sent from Easton, and; to provide a training area for new recruits for the Continental Army.

Perhaps Fort Penn’s most important role was its receiving the survivors of the Wyoming Massacre that occurred on July 3, 1778. At that time, Americans were occupied with the Revolutionary War, but there was an upturn in the violence of the native peoples toward European colonists in New York. Prior to 1778, relations between natives and Europeans had been relatively quiet, and the northeastern area of Pennsylvania had been largely ignored militarily. Because the area had experienced such little activity, the able-bodied men who lived in the Wyoming Valley (present-day Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area) answered Congress’ call to join the Continental Army. This patriotic decision left the area defenseless. Unfortunately for the Americans who remained in northeastern Pennsylvania

Following the massacre, Stroud became immediately concerned for the safety of the residents in the immediate area, and he questioned the ability of his garrison to provide the necessary defense if attacked by the Torys or the Indians. The fort only had 60 men, and Stroud was anxious that they would be outnumbered if the Indians attacked. In addition, although Fort Penn was large in size, it had become crowded with the survivors of the Wyoming Massacre, and Stroud was worried that he would not be able to protect adequately his own neighbors should they seek safety behind the stockade walls. Stroud sent many letters to the Provincial Council pleading for additional munitions; on July 17, 1778, Stroud sent a letter to Lieutenant John Wetzel stating, “I beg you will in all haste send me more ammunition, and you may depend on my taking all the care I can…. I assure you I cannot Stand nor keep my men here without more assistance.” The Council did respond to Stroud, sending 200 lbs. of powder and 800 lbs. of lead to the fort.

After a year of relative calm, the spring of 1779 brought increased hostilities as local Indians planned attacks on American citizens in the vicinity of Fort Penn. Lieutenant Wetzel attempted to recruit militia men to send a skirmish party to engage the warring Indians, but the men refused; they only obeyed orders from Colonel Stroud. By this time, Stroud had become the dominant figure in the area. His had established a positive relationship with local citizens. He cared for and protected his neighbors, and, in turn, they supported him. In addition, local residents were angered by what they saw as a lack of support given to Stroud by Northampton officials and the shortage of supplies at Fort Penn. Wetzel felt his authority

“Perhaps Fort Penn’s most important role was its receiving the survivors of the Wyoming Massacre that occurred on July 3, 1778.”

General John Sullivan to march across the area to engage the Indians as enemies. Sullivan began his march in Easton, Pennsylvania with thousands of soldiers at his disposal. The army traveled through presentday Monroe County and ultimately into the state of New York. The Seneca and other Indians who had pushed southward to engage European settlers turned back to New York in order to defend their homes. Sullivan’s victories against the Indians were greatly onesided, and the campaign removed nearly all threat of an Indian retaliation.

had been undermined, and he immediately accused Stroud of insubordination to the Provincial Council. Stroud was required to travel to Philadelphia for a hearing in front of the Council. After hearing the arguments from Wetzel and Stroud, the members of the Council resolved that they disapproved of Stroud’s behavior and encouraged the two parties to “lay aside all animosities.” The Council ultimately decided that “in consideration of Colonel Stroud’s good character as an officer, his activity and zeal in the public service, the board think proper to pass over on farther proceedings herein.”

Stroud returned to Fort Penn immediately following the hearing in Philadelphia, and he was even more determined to protect the people north of the Blue Mountains. A pivotal decision made by General George Washington helped Stroud succeed in his goal of safeguarding the interests of the people in his area. In June 1779, George Washington, in attempts to eliminate decisively the persistent Indian threat along the American frontier, ordered

In Spring 1780, Stroud was again charged with insubordination by “endeavoring to suppress the power of the lieutenant and sublieutenants” from other commands. For this, Stroud was courtmartialed; a total of nine charges were brought against him. The court-marshal began in Philadelphia on August 1, 1781. Stroud’s defenders claimed that the plaintiff lieutenant had a personal grudge against Stroud. The court adjourned on August 22nd with the intention of reconvening in Easton, Northampton County on September 3rd. However, the proceedings never took place. During that two-week hiatus, the fighting of the Revolutionary War intensified, and it was believed that Philadelphia, the capitol, would be attacked by British forces. All militia were called-up to defend the city in case of attack. The court-marshal against Stroud collapsed as attention was focused on these more important matters, and Stroud was “acquitted” of all charges.

Stroud returned home to Fort Penn where he was warmly received by the townspeople. His popularity soared, and the citizens elected him to serve as a member of the Pennsylvania Assembly. Stroud’s devotion to his neighbors, and theirs to him, was clear. Over time,

“Stroud returned home to Fort Penn where he was warmly received by the townspeople. His popularity soared, and the citizens elected him to serve as a member of the Pennsylvania Assembly.”

> Map depicting location of Fort Penn.

> John Weidner’s market was located on at 518 Main Street in Stroudsburg. It was often referred to as the “Fort Penn Market,” evidence that the positive memory of Fort Penn among area residents was still strong decades later.

Stroud continued with his successful business ventures, protected his investments, and further developed “his” town north of the Blue Mountains. Stroud died in 1806, yet the memory of him and of Fort Penn continue. Historians do not know the precise location of the Fort, nor is there a detailed description of the structure itself; however, the general place in which Fort Penn stood has remained a source of pride to the citizens of the area. The last remains of Fort Penn were washed away in the Flood of 1886. A historical marker dedicated to Fort Penn stands on the 500-block of Main Street in Stroudsburg.

For additional information on Jacob Stroud and Fort Penn, please contact the Monroe County Historical Association at (570) 421-7703 or visit our web site at www.MonroeHistorical.org.

Amy Leiser

Amy Leiser is a local resident and historian who has been working with the Monroe County Historical Association for 19 years. In addition to the live tours, research assistance, and museum that the organization keeps available, Leiser offers her knowledge and assistance with family charting and genealogy. Visit www.monroehistorical.org

Photography special WINTER IN THE POCONO MOUNTAINS

Winter Morning

>

by Dave Sandt

> By Linda Zak

> By Dave Trainer

> Winter Sunrise Over the Delaware Water Gap by Dave Sandt

> By Veronica Murray

> Winter Morning by Dave Sandt

> By Linda Zak

> By Nancy Tully

> Lake Wallenpaupack by Julie Rizkalla

> By Ray Roper

> By Rachel Cyphers

> By Ronald Dickey

By John Anzivino

> Winter at the historic Switch Tower by Dave Sandt

>

> By Jodie Haggerty

> By Veronica Murray

> Winter Sunrise Over Dorothy’s Barn by Dave Sandt

> By Marlana Holsten

> By Neil Boushell

> Winter Sunset Over the Farm by Dave Sandt

> By Vinzon Lee

> Wintertime on the Farm by Dave Sandt

> Dingman’s Creek by Maurie Harmon

> Old Barn On a Winter Morning by Dave Sandt

> Delaware State Forest in Winter by Richard Genova

> Winter at Kerr’s Mill by Dave Sandt

> By Veronica Murray

VALENTINE’S DAY FOR THE FOOTLOOSE & FANCY FREE

By Roseanne Bottone

I

f you’re single this Valentine’s Day, you’ve got plenty of company. Close to 127 million people – about 50% of U.S. adults over the age of 18 – are unmarried and unattached. Do you consider yourself lucky to be single? For some of us, the answer is a resounding “yes.” For others whose marriages ended in an unhappy divorce or the death of a partner, or because the universe has not yet presented the desired mate, most likely not.

On February 14th, we will see suitors on bended knee, diamond rings in hand, proffering their eternal love to their soon-to-be betrothed. Lovers will stroll through the park holding hands, stopping for the occasional smooch. Restaurant goers will stare into each other’s eyes across dimly lit tables. Forgetful beaus will run into quick shop stores for a last-minute long-stemmed rose and a box of chocolate. Florist shops will be abuzz, and their drivers will hustle up to make on-time deliveries. Poets will write their sonnets and an estimated 145 million Valentine’s Day

cards will be exchanged. (Valentine’s Day is the second-largest holiday for giving greeting cards.)

If a cherub shooting arrows through hearts makes you think of Valentine’s Day as being all about romance, the reason why you are single will certainly color your feelings about the day’s celebrations. Back in 700 BC, Cupid was actually a gorgeous “heart throb” named Eros. In Greek, the name means “desire.” He was the son of Aphrodite, the goddess of love. But Eros was a naughty boy; he would wreak havoc with the hearts of mortals by using his power to make them fall in love. He took delight in creating mayhem!

“Are you looking for a little mayhem? Then take a chance! If there is someone who interests you, express your feelings.”

Photo courtesy of Pixabay

↑ Statue of Eros, 2nd century. Roman, after a Greek original of the first half of the 4th century BC. Found in the collection of The Hermitage, St Petersburg.

Are you looking for a little mayhem? Then take a chance! If there is someone who interests you, express your feelings. If you’re not an intrepid spirit, you can do it anonymously. Who wouldn’t love a card from a “secret admirer”? Or reframe the day in a positive way as one to celebrate love in all its forms for friends, family, pets, and the earth.

Another option is to say “bah humbug” to the whole thing and wait for your special celebration later in the year. Unmarried and Single Americans Week is observed every third full week of September to recognize singletons and our contributions to society. National Singles Day will be observed on September 23, 2023. Chill the champagne and order ahead from Godiva!

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.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

SELECT BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS FROM NATIONALSINGLESDAY.US

I’ll celebrate both holidays. This Valentine’s Day I’m going to buy myself a beautiful bouquet of flowers. The card will read, “Rosie, you are an awesome woman. Love from your #1 fan.” What will your card say?

Roseanne Bottone

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

ALL THE SINGLE LADIES: UNMARRIED WOMEN AND THE RISE OF AN INDEPENDENT NATION

Rebecca Traister

“The New York Times bestselling investigation into the sexual, economic, and emotional lives of women is “an informative and thought-provoking book for anyone—not just the single ladies—who want to gain a greater understanding of this pivotal moment in the history of the United States.” (The New York Times Book Review)

GOING SOLO: THE EXTRAORDINARY RISE AND SURPRISING APPEAL OF LIVING ALONE

Eric Klinenberg

“Klinenberg shows that most single dwellers—whether in their twenties or eighties—are deeply engaged in social and civic life. There’s even evidence that people who live alone enjoy better mental health and have more environmentally sustainable lifestyles. Drawing on more than three hundred in-depth interviews, Klinenberg presents a revelatory examination of the most significant demographic shift since the baby boom and offers surprising insights on the benefits of this epochal change. (Amazon)

“Majestic and regal, an adult bald eagle is unmistakable with its striking white head and tail contrasting against the dark brown body”.

A TRIUMPHANT RETURN

By Brian Hardiman

Iwas beginning to have my doubts as I stood there in the cold and snow. We had been waiting and watching in this one spot for over twenty minutes but still nothing. Furiously wiggling my toes and fingers did little to thwart the numbness setting in. A quick scan of the now restless group showed others stomping their feet and huddling together in a losing effort to stay warm. At least I’m not the only one suffering, I thought to myself.

And then it happened…I don’t remember who was the first to see it and call out, but suddenly all eyes were on the spectacular sight that appeared almost magically before us. Frozen extremities were quickly forgotten and the conversation about last weekend’s party abruptly ended. An adult bald eagle, with wings pumping slowly, passed by the hushed group of onlookers at eye level, held its course down the river, and disappeared, like a vision, around the bend. It was simply awesome.

This eagle sighting occurred in the Poconos on a field trip in February, 1984, when I was a student in Dr. Larry Rymon’s Ornithology class at East Stroudsburg University, and it was the very first bald eagle that I (and most of the class) had ever seen in the wild. It is one that will be forever etched in my mind.

Standing on the banks of a remote section of the Delaware River that day was in itself exhilarating and memorable -- snow was falling and the flakes accentuated the green of the towering hemlocks around us. There were no traffic noises to be heard, only the soothing sounds of the rushing water below us. Yes it was cold, but the thrill and anticipation of possibly seeing a bald eagle trumped any hardship. Besides, Dr. Rymon said this was the best place to see a bald eagle, and everyone knew that Doc (as he was affectionately called by his students) had the bird gods on his side. After we actually did see that eagle (just as Doc had predicted), his legendary status only grew

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

Eagle sightings back in 1984 were an uncommon event. At that time there was only a very small wintering population in the Poconos and no nesting eagles at all. Today, because of the increase of the local wintering and nesting populations, you don’t need a legend like Doc Rymon to find bald eagles. You just need to know when and where to go.

The best time to see bald eagles in the Poconos is during the non-breeding winter months when the small resident population is supplemented by wintering birds that are forced south to our area by the frozen waters up north. The eagle numbers are highest at this time and visibility is best with the lack of foliage. Wintering eagles start moving into our area in December, with peak numbers usually seen in January and February. These numbers drop off in March as the eagles disperse and move back north.

Among the best places to see bald eagles is along the Delaware River. Even in the coldest winters, stretches of the Delaware will have open water that provides fishing and other foraging opportunities for these birds. Locations in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (DWGNRA) offer excellent chances to see bald eagles. This 70,000 acre National Park

Service site has outstanding eagle habitat that meets the needs of wintering and nesting birds. The river provides food, and the stands of large deciduous and coniferous trees provide perches for foraging and roosting and sites for nesting.

best time to see bald eagles in the Poconos is during the non-breeding winter months when the small resident population is supplemented by wintering birds that are forced south to our area by the frozen waters up north.”

Some of the best viewing areas in DWGNRA are the river access sites at Smithfield Beach, Bushkill, Dingmans Ferry, and Milford. Eagles can often be seen perched at river’s edge or soaring overhead on their large, flat plank-like wings. A really lucky observer may even see an eagle snagging a fish from the river or picking a duck off the water’s surface or from midair. Eagles are opportunistic and will take other prey as well. I once

“The

saw an eagle carrying a gray squirrel in its talons, and another time while leading an eagle field trip, my group and I watched an eagle grab a muskrat from the river, fly off with it low across the water with the muskrat’s tail dragging, and land on a rock where it ate the animal. Bald eagles are also scavengers and my groups, on more than one occasion, have seen multiple eagles feeding on a winter-killed deer.

To many the bald eagle symbolizes courage, freedom, and wilderness. It was selected by Congress in 1782 as the national symbol of the United States, despite the objections of Ben Franklin who felt the bald eagle possessed poor moral character (reflected in its behavior of pirating food from other species) and was a poor choice next to Franklin’s own wild turkey. In my humble opinion, I believe the appropriate choice was made.

Eagles are birds of strength, beauty, and size, and different species have been chosen as the national symbols of countries around the world. The bald eagle is the only eagle species found exclusively on the North American continent, and it would be difficult to imagine any other bird, wild turkey or otherwise, as our national symbol.

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.

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Majestic and regal, an adult bald eagle is unmistakable with its striking white head and tail contrasting against the dark brown body. This adult plumage is attained at about five years of age. Immature birds, on the other hand, are basically brown throughout with varying degrees of white mottling depending on age. Bald eagles are impressive birds in terms of size—they can stand thirty inches from head to tail with wingspans reaching seven feet. The weight of these birds can range from about eight to fourteen pounds, with females larger than males (the sexes, otherwise, are similar in appearance).

Once on the brink of extinction throughout most of its range, the bald eagle has made a remarkable comeback. Habitat loss, human persecution, and especially DDT contamination all played a role in eagle populations plummeting. At the time of European settlement, there was an estimated 100,000 bald eagles in North America. By 1963, less than 500 nesting pairs were known to occur in the contiguous United States. The bald

eagle would soon be designated as an endangered species at the federal and state levels.

A number of factors were responsible for the recovery of our national symbol. The banning of DDT was crucial in this turnaround, as well as protection of the species and its habitat provided under state and federal Endangered Species Acts. Increased education efforts to reduce human persecution and the improvement of water quality were also boons to the eagle population. Another major contributor to the bald eagle recovery were reintroduction programs implemented by various states including Pennsylvania. These efforts gave the population a jumpstart in areas where historically eagles once nested.

Combined, these recovery efforts have produced dramatic results. As recently as 1980, there were only three known eagle nests in the state of Pennsylvania. Today the state’s nesting population is well over 100 pairs, with a number of these birds nesting right here in the Poconos. Other states

experienced similar

have

“ Today the state’s nesting population is well over 100 pairs, with a number of these birds nesting right here in the Poconos.”

increases. As a result, in 2007 the bald eagle was removed from the federal list of endangered and threatened species. However, it is still afforded federal protection by the Bald Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, as well as being protected by endangered species laws at the state level.

Once only a rare winter sight in the Poconos, now it is not surprising to see a bald eagle any day of the year in our area. Their presence is a testament to the outstanding quality of our natural environment here in the Poconos. Looking back on that day along the Delaware when I saw my first bald eagle with Doc and my classmates, I never imagined that 25 years later the bald eagle would make the triumphant return that it has. In that time I have seen literally hundreds of bald eagles, and every one is special, but I’ll never forget that first one.

Editor’s Note: This article first appeared in our February 2012 issue. It is reprinted now as a reminder of the progress our country has made in protecting our national symbol.

Photo courtesy of Pixabay

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5 CRAZY PET ACCIDENTS OF 2022 AND HOW TO SAFEGUARD YOUR PET IN THE NEW YEAR

Courtesy of BPT

Pet parents understand the weight of responsibility to protect their furry friends, but unfortunately, accidents do sometimes happen. In the U.S., a pet receives medical care every 2.5 seconds, and 1 in 3 pets need emergency veterinary treatments every year, according to MetLife Pet Insurance.

Even the most vigilant pet parents have to contend with pet emergencies. Check out some of the most astonishing pet accidents of 2022 - and some tips about how you can help avoid these as we enter 2023.

* Digesting something dangerous: A 2-year-old Bichon mix ate a sugar-free apple cobbler made with xylitol, which is dangerous for dogs. At first, she seemed all right but began vomiting the next day and declined rapidly. When she arrived at the emergency hospital, her prognosis was very poor. However, after eight days of supportive care, she fully recovered and survived!

* Common household concerns: A 9-month-old kitten hid in a large comforter unbeknownst to his pet parent, who had set it to dry on high heat. The kitten was stuck in the dryer

for 10 minutes before they heard him yelping for help. They immediately rushed him to the emergency vet, and he was kept at the hospital overnight for observation. Luckily for the kitten, there did not appear to be any lasting damage from his eventful trip in the dryer, and he was discharged the next day.

* Lingering liquids: A 2-month-old Shih Tzu puppy was caught by his owners licking some Children's Motrin that spilled on the couch over nine hours earlier in the day. The puppy seemed fine at first, but then he started to vomit. The Pet Poison Hotline advised taking the pet to the emergency hospital. He was hospitalized and monitored for four days, but the puppy recovered and appeared to have no long-term damage from the incident.

* Unfortunate falls: An 8-year-old Pit Bull jumped off a couch and suddenly became paralyzed in her hind end. Her pet parents rushed her to the vet, who diagnosed her with Intervertebral Disc Disease. After receiving surgery to fix her disc herniation, she recovered well and regained motor function.

Photo courtesy of BPT

* Toys that become treacherous: A 7-month-old Standard Poodle was vomiting, lethargic and appeared uncomfortable for two days. A physical exam revealed he was dehydrated, and radiographs showed a foreign object trapped in his stomach. He was transferred to the surgical unit to remove the foreign object, which turned out to be a squeaker toy. He was kept overnight for observation before being sent home to recover with his family.

All of these accidents — while they may seem somewhat crazy — could have happened to any pet owner, and the experience can result in an unexpected, costly bill from the vet. To help avoid having an incident like this in 2023, here are a few tips for pet parents from MetLife Pet Insurance:

1. Prioritize your pet's health just as you would for a human family member. Pet parents think of their furry companion as part of their family, but it's important to take action the same way, too. Avoid leaving harmful foods and liquids within your pets' reach, and watch out for potential choking hazards in your home. This seems simple but can go a long way in protecting your pet for the long-term.

2. Stay active, even in the cold months. Going on frequent walks and encouraging your pet to move around is key to avoiding joint stiffening and can help prevent future mobility issues. This can feel like a challenge during the cold points of the year - for you and your pet - but there are always indoor activities you can play to engage your furry friend.

3. Invest in your pet's well-being. When accidents happen to your four-legged family member, you'll want to be covered. A pet insurance policy can help offset some of the costs associated with expensive veterinarian visits - in fact, based on MetLife internal claims data the pet parents who encountered the dangers above saved an average of $5,570 on the treatment and care of their pets!

To learn more and protect your pets in the coming year, visit MetLifePetInsurance.com.

Located at Stroudsburg Cemetery on Dreher Avenue

570-420-9599www.CreeksidePet.net / 570-421-4501

www.CreeksidePet.net

“In the U.S., a pet receives medical care every 2.5 seconds, and 1 in 3 pets need emergency veterinary treatments every year.”

Photo courtesy of Pixabay

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