March/April 2014 by Pocono Magazines

March/April 2014

The Pocono Mountains' Magazine

Complimentary

Pocono Family M A G A Z I N E

Pocono Family M A G A Z I N E©

is published bi-monthly in the Pocono Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania by Pocono Magazines, LLC. 1929 North Fifth Street Stroudsburg, PA 18360 570-424-1000 pmags@ptd.net PUBLISHER/EDITOR Larry R. Sebring CREATIVE DIRECTOR/EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Barbara McMahon ASSISTANT CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jane Cumberland WEB DESIGN/DIGITAL ISSUES Graphicus Design, LLC

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Amanda Belanger Jordan D. Lewis

CONSULTANTS Dr. Jonathan A. Goldner, DO, FCCP, FCCM Suzanne F. McCool, M.C. Commissioner

PHOTOGRAPHY & ART Andrea Rimberg Andrei Protsouk Doug McNeill Jordan D. Lewis James Chesnick James Smeltz Marlana Holsten Matt Siptroth Vinzon Lee

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Brian Hardiman Dr. Jonathan Goldner Kathy Dubin-Uhler Pete Pappalardo Amy Leiser Suzanne McCool ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Mandy Cunard DISTRIBUTION Mike Shepard

Proud Members of

JACOB STROUD CORPORATION

Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau

The information published in this magazine is believed to be accurate, but in some instances, may represent opinion or judgment. The publication’s providers do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of amy of the information and shall not be held liable for any loss or damage, directly or indirectly, by or from the information. © 2013 Pocono Magazines. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be copied, reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the expressed written permission of the publisher.

2 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2014

www.graceparkseniorliving.com

March/April 2014

What’s Inside

Educating Hispanic Moms on Infant Nutrition and Feeding Choices 4 Fire Safety Tips for Your Family 6 Six Simple Ways to Optimize Your Mornings 8

FOOD

Pocono Flavors 10 Simple Weeknight Suppers with Pears 12

FAMILY

PETS

Keeping Your Cat Safe Outdoors 14

HEALTHY LIVING

From Nurse to Patient 16 Knowing Your Family History 18 Battle of the Blah-zzz 20 How to Keep Healthy as We Get Older 22 by Dr. Jonathan A. Goldner

COMMUNITY

March & April at PEEC 26 Big Pocono Ski Club Supports VALOR Clinic Foundation 28 Watershed Walks in March & April 31 Spring Events at MCEEC 32

BUSINESS

What Every Small Business Needs to Know this Year 34

HOME & GARDEN

Home Maintenance Checklist Can Prevent Emergency Repair 36

MARCH/APRIL 2014 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 3

Family

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Educating Hispanic Moms on Infant Nutrition and Feeding Choices W hen it comes to deciding what to feed your baby, having access to credible information and available options is critical. With Hispanic babies now accounting for more than 25 percent of births in the United States according to the U.S. Census, there is an increasing need for Hispanic moms to have access to Spanish-language resources that can help them make an informed decision about what is best for the nutrition of their babies and families. Well-regarded registered dietitian Claudia Gonzalez, who has more than 15 years of experience working with moms and babies in the Hispanic community, understands the Hispanic moms’ need for more access to infant nutrition and feeding resources. “As a Hispanic mother of three, I experienced firsthand the difficulties of obtaining infant feeding information in my primary language,” says Gonzalez. “While I am bilingual, having access to Spanish-language resources is something I find comfort in, especially when embarking on something unfamiliar, like when I became a new mom.”

Helpful Resources for New Mothers In partnership with the National Association of Hispanic Nurses, Similac is trying to bridge this resource gap by raising awareness of the availability of the newly launched StrongMoms Español, a free program that provides Hispanic moms relevant, Spanish-language resources that can help give babies a great nutritional start, whether breastfeeding, formulafeeding or a combination of both. “StrongMoms Español provides moms with expert advice on infant nutrition from the beginning of pregnancy through baby’s first year,” adds Gonzalez. “This is exactly the kind of information I wish I had available when I had my first child.” Moms who enroll will receive weekly emails about baby’s development, prenatal nutrition and infant nutrition, as well as product samples and coupons. Moms can join the program by visiting es.similac.com/unete.

Useful Feeding Tips Gonzalez understands the community’s needs and shares in the mission to empower moms through providing education on feeding choices. Some of her infant nutrition and feeding tips include:

4 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2014

• Nursing mothers should try to maintain a well-balanced diet, including fruits and vegetables, lean meats, whole grains and healthy fats. Remember, the quality of your diet affects the quality of your breast milk.

Pocono Magazines

• Some babies nurse naturally from the breast right away, while others need a little help. Be persistent and keep trying to find that comfortable position for both of you, making sure baby has a good latch, which can help your baby get necessary nutrients.

• If formula-feeding, your baby’s position is also very important -- semi-upright with the head higher than the body and the bottle tilted can help decrease air in the stomach, which can cause discomfort.

• When choosing a formula, select one that is as nutritionally close to breast milk as possible, such as Similac Advance. If your baby is sensitive to lactose, try Similac Sensitive, which has 98 percent less lactose*.

• Most doctors recommend feeding your newborn baby 8 to 12 times in every 24 hour period, whether breast or formula feeding. Feedings can last for 10 to 60 minutes, but be sure to pay attention to signs from your baby to determine if he or she is getting full or hungry again. Frequent feedings are very important to ensure a good milk supply, and support your baby’s healthy weight gain. P

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.

For more information, visit https:// es.similac.com. Courtesy of Abbott Nutrition. * Typical value 0.1 g/10 kcal compared to Similac Advance (11 g/100 kcal). Not for infants or children with galactosemia. CONTENT: StatePoint

MARCH/APRIL 2014 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 5

Family

Fire Safety Tips for Your Family

o one wants to believe a house fire could impact their family, but house fires occur more often than people think. According to the NFPA, home fires kill an average of seven people every day and caused $11.6 billion in property damage during 2010. One of the most important tools in keeping your family safe is a working fire alarm. In a recent survey by Omnibus, more than 50 percent of people reported removing the batteries from their home’s smoke alarms. A working smoke alarm can make all the difference in whether a family has the critical time to escape a home fire. On average, families have less than three minutes from the time the first smoke alarm sounds to escape a fire. That’s why it’s so important to keep a working smoke alarm on every level of your home and outside each sleeping area and to have an escape plan in place for your family. 6 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2014

Other essential home fire safety guidelines include: •

Test alarms once a month.

•

Keep extra Energizer batteries on hand for fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

• •

Install a fire extinguisher in or near kitchen. Keep flashlights with fresh batteries at your bedside for help in finding the way out and signaling for help in the event of a fire.

•

Develop and practice emergency escape plan.

•

Participate in the “Change Your Clock Change Your Battery” campaign. Each year when you change your clocks for daylight saving time, change the batteries in your home’s smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

When you change your clocks for daylight-saving time, change the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, and remind your friends, family and neighbors to do the same. To download your escape grid or get more information, visit facebook. com/energizerbunny. P

TRUST.

It binds families. It secures friendships. It defines the special relationship between the parents and staff of the Acorns to Oaks Preschool in Scotrun. Leaving your child in a stranger’s hands is never easy; but when you know the loving care they will receive from owner Deborah Klein and her wonderful staff of teachers, you find peace of mind.

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Trusted professionals caring for and teaching the ones you love since 1996. 125 Rose St., Scotrun, PA 18355 (off of Route 611, just north of Tannersville)

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Family

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Six Simple Ways to Optimize Your Mornings Even the most chipper of morning people can sometimes wake up groggy and tired. And if their children wake up feeling the exact same way, mornings can definitely drag. There are, however, little things you can do — from scheduling exercise at optimal times, to packing protein into breakfast, to planning daily goals — that will make a big difference. The following tips will help put that zing in your family’s step.

Wake up and work out: Do you start your morning with a healthy dose of Barrett Paradise Friendly Library Cresco, PA 570-595-7171 www.barrettlibrary.org

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

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

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

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

8 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2014

exercise? The time you begin your workout matters more than you may think. A study shows that those who work out before eating in the morning burned approximately 20 percent more than those who wait until after breakfast.

Rev up your metabolism: Allow a little extra time in your morning to rev up your metabolism. A short, 20 minute weight lifting session can get your blood pumping and help you burn calories

throughout the day. Of course, if you’re busy managing the kids in the morning, you can still increase your metabolism just by adding more protein to your morning meal while making sure it’s low in calories and carbs.

Make time for breakfast: Never skip breakfast — not only will that deplete your energy, but it can also negatively impact your health. In fact, recent studies show that those who opt out of breakfast time are at a 27 percent higher risk of having a heart attack. The same study also finds that those who eat breakfast are likely to be healthier eaters overall. This is especially important for children as they develop habits over time. So, help them establish a healthy breakfast habit early. If time is an issue, make breakfast a priority (and a convenience) by filling your pantry with quick, healthy. low-fat options, such as Vi Crunch™ cereal, which provides 12 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber. For more information, visit www.ViCrunch.com.

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Create a checklist: Think of your entire day as a series of small goals and write them down in the morning or the night before. Then cross out tasks as you complete them. Not only will you reduce stress from having a better visual of your family’s day, you will feel more productive as you progress through your list.

Shake up the morning: Get out that blender and toss in healthy foods. Breakfast smoothies and shakes are a fast way to get the essential nutrients to jumpstart your day. Plus, they’re easy to pour, and they’re mobile — throw in a straw and sip while you walk. Recruit your children to help, and let them have fun mixing up their own tasty creation with fresh fruit like pineapple, banana and blueberries. Amp up your shake with nutritious additions, such as chia seeds, natural peanut butter or Vi Crunch™ Fusions, which come in two delicious flavors, Chocolate Macadamia Granola and Tri-Berry Puffs. Each makes a crunchy topping for your favorite breakfast foods, especially for the young, picky eater.

Pause: Before you leave the house, take one minute to breathe. Feel good you ate breakfast and warmed up your body with exercise. And don’t forget to take your to-do list with you. You never know what opportunities the day will inspire. P

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PHOTO: courtesy of Getty Images, CONTENT: Family Features

MARCH/APRIL 2014 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 9

Pocono Flavors

Food

's n o t p m o C ke House Panca

Different, delicious, desirous, and sometimes decadent foods found at local restaurants, diners, taverns, pubs and other unique eateries around the Poconos.

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"Wow! Look at those Pancakes. Yummy! May I have some more please?" The staff at Compton’s Pancake House, on Park Avenue in South Stroudsburg hears that request all the time. Owner and chef Compton Ferreira has been serving delicious, mouth watering pancakes at his diner since 1996. He must be doing something right! But, did you ever wonder where “Pancakes” came from. All the evidence as to their place of origin points to the Ancient Greeks who made “tagenites”, an old Greek word for pancakes, using a “tagenon” or frying pan. At those times (5th century BC), they were made from wheat flour, olive oil, honey and curdled milk and were served for breakfast. It’s doubtful if Compton uses that same recipe today, but whatever his recipe is, they sure are good.

Compton’s is also the home of the Double “Triple Play” 2 pancakes, 2 eggs, 2 sausage links, 2 strips of bacon, home fries & toast, all available for $6.95 during certain hours. Breakfast is served all day, and the diner is open daily from 6 am to 4 pm. Recently remodeled, the diner is impeccably clean, inviting and a pleasure to dine at. If you love pancakes, you need to visit Compton’s soon!

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Compton's

Open 6 AM Daily

Pancake House

HOME OF THE DOUBLE “TRIPLE PLAY”

570-424-6909

www.ComptonsPancakeHouse.com PARK AVENUE -STROUDSBURG -PA EXIT 307 OFF 1-80 • NEXT TO SUNOCO STATION

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Made in USA 112 Washington st. • East stroudsburg, Pa • 570-421-0610

MARCH/APRIL 2014 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 11

Food

Simple Weeknight Suppers with Pears

“Hectic family schedules don’t have to get in the way of serving up tasty and healthy weeknight dinners,” explains leading nutrition expert, cookbook author and television star Ellie Krieger, author of “Weeknight Wonders: Delicious, Healthy Dinners in 30 Minutes or Less.” Krieger notes that pairing the unique sweetness of healthy, fresh pears with savory proteins like pork or chicken makes for a satisfying supper that can be made in a snap. “Pears are a perfect pick for weeknight dinners,” says Krieger. “Their distinctive flavor goes well in savory main dishes that are simple to make and will be enjoyed by the whole family.” Krieger’s recipe for Pork Chops with Pears in Port Wine Sauce from her new “Weeknight Wonders” cookbook will help add variety to the weeknight dinner routine. P For more great recipe ideas, visit www.usapears.org. 12 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2014

Check the Neck for Ripeness Pears are best enjoyed at the peak of ripeness. The best way to judge whether a fresh pear is ripe, sweet and juicy is to “check the neck”: •

•

Press the neck, or stem end, of the pear with your thumb, and if it yields to gentle pressure it is ripe and ready to eat. To ripen your pears at home, keep them at room temperature. Display these beautiful fruits in a decorative bowl as you wait for them to ripen. To slow ripening, simply put the pears in the refrigerator.

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Find out more at:

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901 Main St., Stroudsburg, PA

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Pork Chops with Pears in Port Wine Sauce Makes 4 Servings

3 large firm-ripe USA Pears, such as Bartlett or Anjou Cooking spray 4 1/2-pound center-cut bone-in pork loin chops (about 3/4 inch thick) 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth 3/4 cup tawny port wine 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• Choice Cut Steaks • • Double-Smoked Bacon • • Deli Favorites •

• Peel and core the pears, then slice them into 1/2-inchthick slices. • Spray a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray and preheat over medium-high heat. Add the pears and cook, stirring once or twice, until warmed and slightly softened but they still retain their shape, 5 to 8 minutes. Transfer the pears to a plate. • Season the pork chops with the salt and pepper. Spray the skillet with cooking spray again, then add the pork chops and cook until just slightly blush in the center, 4 to 5 minutes per side. Transfer to a second plate and cover to keep warm. • Add the broth and port to the skillet, raise the heat to high, and cook until the liquid is reduced by about half, 5 to 6 minutes. Stir in the mustard and whisk until dissolved, then return the pears to the pan and stir to combine. • Spoon the sauce over the chops and serve. • Recipe adapted and reprinted with permission from the publisher, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, from Weeknight Wonders by Ellie Krieger. Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. PHOTO: Getty Images/CONTENT: StatePoint

• Chef Owned & Operated • Homemade Soups Prepared Fresh Daily • Where Locals have been enjoying good food in a relaxed, safe & fresh atmosphere for over 40 years Route 611 (834 N. 9th St) Stroudsburg, PA

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MARCH/APRIL 2014 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 13

Pets

Keeping Your Cat Safe Outdoors www.poconoymca.org

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JACQUE LYNN SCHULTZ, CPDT ASPCA Companion Animal Programs Advisor National Shelter Outreach

A Look at Indoor/Outdoor Issues Thanks to the creation and marketing of cat litter since the mid 1940s, more and more cats are staying in— becoming indoors-only pets, that is. As such, cats are generally leading longer, healthier lives. The average indoor cat lives to be ten to twelve years old, and many of us know felines who are older than twenty. Conversely, outdoor-only cats survive for an average of two years in that situation. Our homes offer a safer, healthier environment than life on the street. Just think, no ticks and fleas unless the family dog brings them in; no tangling with rabid raccoons, aromatic skunks or hungry coyotes, and no one-on-ones with moving vehicles. There’s no doubt about it—indoors is safest! Yet, when we choose to make our cats indoors-only companions, we have a responsibility to provide the stimulation that nature provides automatically. Scratching and climbing posts become pseudo-trees; interactive toys become hunted birds, bugs and field mice. A rotating array of cat playthings provides excitement, variety and exercise.

Taking Them to the Street That said, many cat lovers still prefer to share the Great Outdoors with their feline friends. Happily, there are ways to minimize the risks. While vaccinations are important to indoor cats, they are essential to the health of cats allowed outside. The soil of a garden or yard can harbor diseases spread by stray, unvaccinated cats for many months. And rabies has spread over much of the country, transmitted mainly through altercations with wildlife such as foxes, raccoons and bats.

When your cat is comfortable taking light direction, proceed to a quiet area outdoors. Keep your first sessions short, frequent and upbeat; little food rewards come in handy. If you are leaving your property, keep your eyes peeled for offleash dogs, in-line skaters or bicyclists who could put Tabby in danger or give her a scare.

Hey, Fence Me In! Since outdoor enclosures can be homemade or commercially constructed, they come in all shapes and sizes. For durability, chain link, chicken wire or wire mesh hardware cloth—secured around a simple wood frame— is preferable to ordinary window screening. Roofing is a necessity since cats are exceptional climbers. The most successful structures include furniture for resting and climbing inside. A shaded area complete with a water bowl is required for warm or hot weather usage. Whether you choose an outdoor enclosure or add catproof netting to the top of traditional fencing, remember that they are best used only when you are at home and outdoors with your cats or able to check on them often. Pet theft only takes a few moments, whether perpetrated by pesky neighborhood kids or an organized group rounding up animals to sell to research facilities. Don’t forget, a microchip, tattoo or ID tag is the very thing to reunite you and your family feline if all precautions fail. P

The safest way to allow your cat to enjoy some time outdoors is to either harness-train him or her and go for walks together or to provide a screened-in enclosure or fenced-in yard topped with cat-proof netting.

Hold the Line

field’s Pet & n a C 5 Main 31

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Harness training, like many things, is easiest taught during kittenhood. But some adult cats can acclimate to it, too. Choose a figure-8 or H-type harness and make sure it fits well. (The fit is right if you can barely get your finger between the cat and the harness.) At first, put the harness on for a few minutes at a time, preferably just before mealtime or during play so that the cat associates it with something positive. Repeat this several times a day. When the cat begins to ignore the harness, attach the leash and let him or her drag it around for a few more short sessions; stay nearby in case the leash catches on something. The next step is to pick up the leash and follow the cat around the house. This will allow the cat to get used to a human following behind, prior to providing gentle guidance with the leash.

570-421-1821 MARCH/APRIL 2014 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 15

Healthy Living

From Nurse To Patient Facing Cancer From The Other Side of the Table

espite her career as a scrub nurse for general cancer

surgeries, a personal diagnosis of cancer still came as a surprise. “It was a surreal moment to be on the other side of the surgery table and faced with a cancer diagnosis,” said Sheila Brake, who was diagnosed seven years ago with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a common type of blood cancer. “It gave me a real appreciation for the confusion, fear and anxiety my patients feel at their time of vulnerability.” Many people confronted with a new cancer diagnosis face unfamiliar medical terminology and treatment decisions. Even as a scrub nurse, Sheila faced similar fears.

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CLL Facts:

“It’s nearly impossible at first to get your head around the reality of a cancer diagnosis,” Sheila said. “I found it was crucial to educate myself about my disease, the new terms, and to have an open, trusting dialogue with my oncologist to figure out the best treatment plan for me.”

• A cancer that starts in the blood and bone 3 marrow. • More than 4,500 deaths are expected in the U.S. 4 during 2014. • The average age of diagnosis is 71, and is rarely 2 seen in people under age 40.

CLL, the most common type of adult leukemia, is a chronic disease that typically affects older adults. Symptoms vary and may 1,2,3 take years to appear. I was lucky that I didn’t happen to have preexisting medical conditions,” she said. “In my case, we decided on the ‘watch-and-wait’ approach, where no active treatment was actually given until the disease and symptoms got worse.” Almost three years later, Sheila initiated her treatment regimen and feels lucky she was able to continue her work in the surgery room and day-today life alongside her husband and two dogs until she reached remission. Since CLL is chronic and incurable, many people require additional treatment due to the 1 return of cancerous cells. Sheila said that while the possibility of relapse weighs on her sometimes, she has hope for the future. “My oncologist told me researchers are working on even more therapies, which is amazing and will give folks more options,” she said. P

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For more information about CLL and other blood cancers like non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, talk with your doctor or visit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society website at http://www.lls.org or the Lymphoma Research Foundation website at http://www. lymphoma.org. References 1. Dighiero G and Hamblin T. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. The Lancet. 2008; 371:1017-1029. 2. National Cancer Institute. SEER Stat Fact Sheet: Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. http://seer.cancer.gov/ statfacts/html/leuks.html. Accessed January 2, 2014. 3. Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Disease Information & Support. http://www.lls.org/#/diseaseinformation/leukemia/ chroniclymphocyticleukemia/. Accessed January 2, 2014. 4. Siegel, R., Ma, J., Zou, Z., & Jemal A. (2014). Cancer Statistics, 2014. CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, 1-22. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.3322/caac.21208/pdf. Accessed January 7, 2014.

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Healthy Living

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Knowing Your Family History is Good for Your Health A

number of celebrities have graced recent headlines by making some drastic decisions about

their health, and in turn, raising awareness for the importance of knowing one’s family medical history. For instance, according to the CDC, a history of breast, cervical or ovarian cancer indicates a strong risk of cancer in some women, and thus proactive and preventative measures, like having a mastectomy or hysterectomy, may be warranted. While facing these decisions can be difficult, Brittney Wilson, a registered nurse, knows firsthand the positive effect that knowing one’s family medical history can have on a patient’s overall health. Since many diseases tend to follow genetic lines, it’s important to know your roots in order to make better lifestyle choices. For example, if you have a history of common medical conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure or diabetes, you have a higher chance of developing them as well, but prevention is possible. Nurse Wilson offers steps you can take to develop a family medical history record that will help inform your lifestyle choices and serve generations to come. 18 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2014 ©

Step 1: Seek answers to lingering questions You inherit half of your genetic profile from each parent.

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may have about your parents’ identity. In today’s society, and with the rising rate of children born out of wedlock, this situation is actually more common than you might think. In fact, a recent survey conducted on behalf of Identigene, a DNA paternity test laboratory, concluded that one out of ten Americans has personally been in a situation where a paternity test was needed. In addition,

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nearly one out of five respondents said that they or a close friend or family member has questioned paternity. However, discovering your paternity can be fairly simple. A kit, such the Identigene DNA Paternity Test, is available at nationwide drug stores and supercenters, and offers 100 percent accurate and confidential results within a matter of days.

Step 2: Talk to your family

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The best way to gather information about your medical history is to talk with relatives about their health. An upcoming holiday gathering or family reunion is a great opportunity to start the conversation. Explain why you want to learn more about your family history and ask direct, specific questions to uncover any reoccurring medical issues and when they occurred. Consult existing documents, such as family trees, birth certificates and obituaries, to help obtain this information. From these materials, you can begin identifying potential patterns

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that should be discussed with a doctor.

Step 3: Be proactive about getting healthy

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After identifying potential patterns, make a point to discuss them with your primary care doctor at your next annual exam. A medical professional might suggest necessary screening and proactive steps you can take to help stay healthy and avoid certain predisposed conditions in the future. It’s also a good idea to continue to update your family medical history record to help future generations navigate their health. Preventative care is the most cost effective and least invasive way to ensure your health and prevent illness. Being aware of your family’s medical history is the first step towards making informed choices for a healthier lifestyle. P

CONTENT: STATEPOINT

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

Specialists in Running & Walking MARCH/APRIL 2014 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 19

Healthy Living

Do you feel fatigued during times of the day when you used to have energy? Do you feel like you need that midday coffee in order to make it through the entire workday? Many people get tired around 3pm every day and jokingly say that they need caffeine to get themselves going. Why does that happen? More than likely you are not getting adequate sleep each night. Sleep is an integral, and arguably the most important, part of

20 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINEÂŠ MARCH/APRIL 2014

the Big Threeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;eating healthfully, exercising, and getting enough sleep. Adequate sleep can also lower your risk for certain diseases such as diabetes and heart disease, just to name a couple. It is important to realize that being fatigued is NOT normal and can be a sign of other conditions such as sleep apnea.

re you eating healthy and exercising? You may be missing the third piece of that puzzle—sleep. Sleep is necessary for healthy functioning and can also help regulate mood and improve learning and memory function. Getting the right amount of sleep will also help with maintaining a healthy weight and energy levels. So why is sleep the one thing that people think they can “live without” or do “when they die?” If you feel like you are doing all you can to get a full night’s sleep, discuss your symptoms with your physician to ensure that you cover all of your bases. Here are some things to try on your own: Maintain a regular bedtime and wakeup schedule. If you maintain a regular schedule, even on the weekends, it will help you to get better sleep. Create a sleep environment that is relaxing, dark, and cool. Your bedroom should be your sleep oasis and be free from distractions. A dark space keeps unnecessary light out of your eyes which causes you to wake up. Your body also drops in temperature as you sleep, so keeping your room cool will help with your sleep cycle. Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol close to bedtime. All of these substances will disturb your sleep schedule. Avoid caffeine and nicotine for at least 3-5 hours before bed. Alcohol, which people usually think of as a sedative, actually disrupts sleep by causing nighttime awakenings. Consuming less alcohol will help you to sleep better. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine. Whether this be soaking in a bathtub, listening to soothing music, or reading a book, a routine that will slowly lull you into sleep will help you to feel more well rested and less fatigued.

Source: http://www.sleepfoundation.org/article/sleep-topics/diet-exercise-and-sleep

PoconoMedicalCenter.org/Spirit

MARCH/APRIL 2014 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 21

Healthy Living

How to keep healthy as we get older… BY DR. JONATHAN A. GOLDNER, DO, FCCP, FCCM

Aging in the United States has changed dramatically in the last

century. A lot of my patients express the reluctance to getting older. I always point out that the alternative to getting old is not too good. The average life expectancy has increased from 47 years of age in 1900 to 78 years in 2008. By 2030, it is estimated that over 20% of the population will be over the age of 65. Definitions of health and wellness have changed over the year as life expectancy has increased. Deaths due to heart disease, cancer and stroke have increased while those due to infection have decreased. Of adults that survive into later life, at least 80% of those will have one chronic disease and 50% will have two chronic diseases. This certainly presents a challenge for society as our population ages in providing effective and safe healthcare. Older individuals of the same age differ greatly in their functional status and thus present several unique problems. This wide difference in health status makes it imperative that a person’s functional status rather than age is taken into account when treatment decisions, both for prevention and therapy, are made. Age alone should not be the sole determinant for many interventions and all treatment should aim to preserve function, independence if possible and maximal quality of life. Jonathan A. Goldner, DO, FCCP, FCCM is board certified in internal medicine, critical care, and geriatrics. He is a Clinical Asst. Professor of Medicine with both the Commonwealth Medical College and the Penn State College of Medicine. Dr. Goldner is the Chief Medical Executive for Medicine and Chronic Disease, Director of Critical Care and immediate past Chief of Staff for Pocono Health Systems. He practices internal medicine with PMC Physician Associates, Pocono Internal Medicine Specialists in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania.

22 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2014

Contrary to what many think, decline in function and loss of independence are not an inevitable consequence of aging. It is important to consider for all of us what we can do to prevent this deterioration in our functional status. We can divide what to do into primary and secondary prevention.

Primary prevention aims to avert the development of disease. Using such things as immunizations, life style modifications (such as smoking cessation, promoting physical activity) fall under this category. Secondary prevention focuses on early detection and treatment of diseases that one may not now they have or are suffering from. This would be for such things as screening for cancer, high blood pressure, diabetes and hearing and vision loss to name just a few.

Primary Prevention Physical activity Exercise benefits people of all ages and may decrease the effects of growing older, effects of medical illness and increase life span. Even older folks that have multiple chronic illness can benefit from physical activity and some form of exercise. This can even be in the form of walking or just upper arm exercises for those that are unable to get out of a chair or bed. For those that are able, the American Heart Association and the American College of Sports Medicine recommend for those over 65 years of age to perform 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise five times a week. They also advocate exercises to maintain and increase muscle strength, balance and 10 minutes of stretching of major muscle groups to maintain range of motion. For a lot of people, this sounds very intensive. I advise what I tell my patients. Do what you can do. Even a little bit of daily exercise helps to keep you more mobile and active.

Tobacco use This is listed as one of the worst things that an individual can do to one self. If you are unable to quit smoking, I suggest you talk with your physician to see what options are available to help you stop. I do believe that there is an addiction to nicotine and that it is extremely difficult to quit smoking for some, but it is not impossible. Besides nicotine replacement therapy with patches and gum, there is also oral medication that may be successful in helping smokers to quit. There are few heavy smokers that will live long and happy lives without the ill effects of smoking shortening their life.

Alcohol We know that 15% of adults over the age of 65 experience health problems related to the complications of alcohol consumption in combination with medication or chronic conditions. Although daily alcohol in mild-moderate use may be beneficial in adults, the negative effects of excessive alcohol use (more than one alcoholic beverage for women and two for men per day) may negatively impact function later in life. Alcohol is toxic to the brain, other parts of the nervous system, the heart and liver to name just a few parts of the body. Alcohol can have untoward effects on thinking, walking, and other activities of daily living as we get older.

Immunizations Influenza Vaccine More than 90 percent of influenza related deaths occur among people over 60 years of age. Older folks also experience significantly increased complications and debility from the illness. Despite a lot of anecdotal stories and “old wives tales”, side effects from the vaccine are rare and the benefit extremely high. After some media reports, a lot of people have asked in the recent past about a higher dose vaccine. In December 2009, the US Food and Drug Administration approved a high dose influenza vaccine for individuals over 65 years of age. Thus far the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has not stated a preference for this vaccine over the standard dose vaccine in older adults since there is no data demonstrating greater protection against influenza illness.

Pneumococcal Vaccine Pneumococcal disease is a significant cause of illness and death in older adults. It is one of the leading causes of pneumonia and meningitis in the very young and the very old. Although most children when they are born receive this vaccine, a lot of older adults have yet to be vaccinated. All adults who are 65 years of age and older, should receive a dose of pneumococcal vaccine even if they had received a dose before that age. The vaccine doses should be separated by a minimum of 5 years. Reactions to the vaccine are rare and again the benefits are high. continued on the next page

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PoconoMedicalCenter.org MARCH/APRIL 2014 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 23

Healthy Living

continued from previous page

How to keep healthy as we get older... BY DR. JONATHAN A. GOLDNER, DO, FCCP, FCCM

Herpes Zoster (Shingles) Vaccine Herpes Zoster or shingles as it is commonly called, due to reactivation of the chicken pox virus, causes a painful localized rash. Although few ever die from a shingles outbreak, the debility and pain can be devastating for weeks, months and even years. Shingles affects about 30% of people over their lifetime, the majority later in life. The vaccine which is a single dose injection, has been approved for use by the FDA since 2006. It is recommended for those age 60 and over and since it is a live vaccine, it is only to be used for those who have an immune system that is functioning correctly. Those who are on chronic medications that can impair their immune system such as steroids, etc. should not receive this immunization.

Tetanus, Diptheria and Pertussis (Tdap) In 2010, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommended a single dose of Tdap vaccine may be given for those age 65 and older who have never received it. This is important because of the reemergence of pertussis recently throughout the United States. Those in close contact with infants who are younger than one year (such as grandparents, child care providers and health care providers) should be administered this vaccine which will also provide protection against tetanus.

Secondary Prevention Cancer screening Medical and surgical interventions have led to a decline in the mortality rates of many cancers, including breast, colorectal and cervical cancer. Screening adults for these types of malignancies has allowed more effective treatment through early detection. Although a lot of us get very nervous going through screening tests, worried about what might be found, the real worry is not looking and what might be there undetected. A cancer is a lot easier to deal with in the early stages than after it has spread and found to be incurable. A lot has been published by advisory committees and in the media recently about the cost and benefit of cancer screening. So letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s go over the current recommendations.

24 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINEÂŠ MARCH/APRIL 2014

Prostate cancer screening Despite the current controversy from the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) to recommend that men not be screened for prostate cancer, the current recommendation by the American College of Physicians is for health professionals to have individual discussions with patients to discuss the risks and benefits of prostate cancer screening. They suggest that men between the ages of 50 to 69 are most likely to benefit from screening in the form of a blood test for prostate specific antigen (PSA) and a digital rectal exam (rectal exam with a gloved finger). Why the controversy?? We know from studies that a lot of men that develop prostate cancer later in life (over the age of 70) will most likely not die of the cancer and that treatment at that age may actually shorten life. We also know that the PSA test is extremely sensitive and may be falsely elevated for a lot of reasons that are not related to cancer. Thus this leads to a lot of unnecessary prostate biopsies that has risk of possible side effects as well. My advice is to talk with your doctor or health professional to see whether screening is right for you.

Colorectal cancer screening No one wants to talk about this one and most dread going through the screening. Given its ability to visualize the entire colon, colonoscopy has become the screening procedure of choice. Although the procedure itself is somewhat painless after being sedated, the preparation of taking laxatives the night before is somewhat irritating. Despite this, the benefit for having a colonoscopy at age 50 and every so often thereafter is without controversy in preventing and detecting colon cancer at an early stage. The good news is the procedure is rarely as bad as one imagines it to be and the USPSTF does not recommend routine screening after the age of 75.

Breast cancer screening Controlled trials of mammogram screening for breast cancer in the past demonstrated a 30% reduction of breast cancer mortality. Despite the fact that these studies were done on women less than 75 years of age and a recent Canadian study showed no improvement in mortality in women less than 60 and a 22% over diagnosis rate of breast cancers, it is still recommended and prudent that women have annual mammograms starting at the age of 50. It is possible that recommendation may change in the future as further studies and examination of new data occurs.

Gynecological evaluations

Osteoporosis screening

Cervical cancer is no more aggressive in older women than younger women and very aggressive cervical cancer is rare in older women that have had prior normal pap smears. In fact most major guidelines recommend stopping pap smears of the cervix over the age of 65 or at the least decreasing them to every 2-3 years for those woman with normal screenings in the past. That being said, cancer of the ovaries is seen more prominently in older woman and thus an annual visit with the gynecologist for a physical examination is still considered reasonable. A gynecologist may also be very helpful evaluating difficulties with urinary incontinence and the effects of decreased estrogen production in the vaginal area, both common conditions as woman get older.

The prevalence of low bone density or weak bones called osteoporosis is common especially among women over the age of 60. This is one of the leading causes of disability and even death that occurs from fractures of a hip or vertebrae of the spine. It is recommended that screening for osteoporosis start at age 60 for women and that it be done every 2 years with dexa scanning. Treatment would consist of calcium as well as vitamin D supplementation with the addition of weight bearing exercise. Occasionally medications such as alendronate to help reverse osteoporosis will be prescribed. Certain men who are physically inactive or if they take steroid medications may be candidates for osteoporosis screening as they are at increased risk for the problem.

Blood pressure screening

Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening

High blood pressure is very prevalent among older adults (60-80 percent) and remains the leading risk factor for strokes and heart attacks for those in the United States. It is thus recommended that patients have regular blood pressure measurements at least every year or two. Appropriate treatment of hypertension leads to an almost 60% reduction in strokes and a 50% reduction in heart disease. The benefits of treatment far outweigh any risks of therapy such as side effects from the medications. Salt restriction and weight loss can sometimes enable them to come off the medication later in life.

Cholesterol screening Older adults have a higher overall risk for atherosclerosis or â&#x20AC;&#x153;hardening of the arteriesâ&#x20AC;? which is the leading cause of heart attacks and stroke. It has been proven that screening adults for high lipids (cholesterol and triglycerides) every 1-2 years and treating a patient when high levels are found can decrease the overall amount of heart disease and resulting mortality. Treatment may include diet therapy, weight loss and medications.

Screening for an aortic abdominal aneurysm with a one-time abdominal ultrasound has been found to decrease the risk of aneurysm related deaths and mortality in men. As smoking increases the risk of aneurysms, the screening is recommended in men age 65 to 75 who are current or past smokers. The same recommendation is also for non-smokers in that age group who have had a close relative that have had repair of an aneurysm. Women do not seem to benefit from abdominal aneurysm screening, thus for them, the ultrasound study is not recommended.

I hope the above recommendations will enable you to live a long, healthy and happy life. Taking care of yourself in simple ways can have huge benefits. Talk to your doctor or health care provider to make sure that you are doing everything possible to keep healthy. P

Jonathan A. Goldner, DO, FCCP, FCCM is board certified in internal medicine, critical care, and geriatrics. He is a Clinical Asst. Professor of Medicine with both The Commonwealth Medical College and The Penn State College of Medicine. He is the Chief Medical Executive for Medicine and Chronic Disease Service Line and immediate past Chief of Staff at Pocono Medical Center. He practices internal medicine with PMC Physician Associates, Pocono Internal Medicine Specialists, East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania.

MARCH/APRIL 2014 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINEÂŠ 25

Community

March & April at Pocono Environmental Education Center The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is located at 538 Emery Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA. You can call them at 570-828-2319, or visit their website at www.peec.org for more information on their programming.

Sugar Shack Scramble

Saturday, March 08, 2014, 9:00am-12:30pm. Take an orienteering expedition to the “Two Saps” Sugar Shack. Use a map and compass to reach the sugar shack and then enjoy hot cocoa and pancakes with fresh maple syrup! Sign up for a 9am or 9:30am start time. Spaces limited! $15 adult/$10 child

Amphibian Search

Sunday, March 09, 2014, 1:00pm-3:00pm. Warming temperatures bring out the frogs & salamanders. Join us on our search! Wear boots & clothes that can get muddy. $5 per person

Fossil Trail Hike

Saturday, March 15, 2014, 1:30pm-3:00pm. This 1+ mile trail passes a vernal pool and descends into a mature hardwood ravine. Moderate with a final, steep climb. Free for members / $5 for non-members

Woodcock Walk

Saturday, March 15, 2014, 6:30pm-8:00pm. Join us for a walk to see the mysterious woodcock and its spectacular springtime mating display. Ages 10+ please. $5

Black & White Photography Tour

Sunday, March 16, 2014, 9:00am-4:00pm. Grab your camera and join us for a tour of the historic buildings in the Park. This is the perfect time of year to shoot black and white photos. Pack a lunch and dress warm. Call to reserve a seat in the van. $20

Wild Edibles Walk

Sunday, March 16, 2014, 0:00am-12:00pm. Nature provides food for us in the form of many plants. Join us on a hike focused on wild edibles. No collecting will be done within the Park. Call to reserve a seat in the van. $10

26 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2014

Sunday, March 23, 2014, 10:00am-12:00pm. Join us for some gardening work in the PEEC’s new greenhouse! Lend a hand on our springtime projects and plant some seeds. Pre-registration encouraged. Free

Nuno Felting & Knitting

From Thursday, April 03, 2014 to Sunday, April 06, 2014. Join Patti Shreiner for a relaxing weekend in the Poconos. Guest instructor Bette Rycroft of NC will teach Nuno felting (kits available for $25) and/or knit an embellished headband with Patti. Supply list will be provided. Focus projects: felted scarf, knit headband. Includes lodging and meals! Optional Friday - Sunday stay is $205 / $155 commuter. $255 / $205 Commuter Rate

Women’s Weekend

From Friday, April 04, 2014 to Sunday, April 06, 2014. Get away from it all! Enjoy a relaxing weekend that includes a nature hike, canoeing, yoga, campfire, astronomy, and more. This wonderful new program includes a night in a comfortable yurt and six delicious meals. Register early! $195 Includes Lodging & Meals

magnificent waterfalls. Dress in warm layers, wear sturdy footwear, and bring a camera! Call to reserve a seat in the van. $12

Introduction to Fly Fising

Sunday, April 27, 2014, 9:00am - 12:00pm. Learn the basics of fly fishing. Practice knot tying and casting. Join Tom Battista from the Brodhead Chapter of Trout Unlimited for a fun afternoon and learn some new skills. $15

Salamanders, Frogs, and More!

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Sunday, April 27, 2014, 1:00pm - 3:00pm Amphibians are stirring in the woods! Join us as we explore nearby breeding pools for salamanders, frogs, and egg masses. We'll provide nets and collection jars for gentle, up-close study. Wear boots and clothes that can get a little muddy or wet. $5 per person

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Spring Waterfalls

Saturday, April 05, 2014, 1:00pm - 03:00pm. The melting snow and spring rains have raised the water level. Join us as we travel to some truly magnificent waterfalls. Dress in warm layers, wear sturdy footwear, and bring a camera! Call to reserve a seat in the van. $12

Volunteer Day -- Spring Cleaning

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Sunday, April 06, 2014, 9:00am - 12:00pm Help us clean up after winter and prepare for the spring. Many projects ‚ all ages welcome. Snacks provided.

Salamanders, Frogs, and More!

Saturday, April 12, 2014,¬†01:00pm¬†-¬†03:00pm Amphibians are stirring in the woods! Join us as we explore nearby breeding pools for salamanders, frogs, and egg masses. We'll provide nets and collection jars for gentle, up-close study. Wear boots and clothes that can get a little muddy or wet. $5 per person

Spring Peeper Search

Saturday, April 12, 2014, 8:00pm - 9:00pm. These tiny tree frogs have thawed out and are active again in our forested wetlands. Listen to the impressive choir made by these vocal amphibians as we carefully catch, study, and release them. Bring a flashlight for better searching! $5 per person

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Earth Day Festival

Sunday, April 13, 2014, 10:00am - 4:00pm. Help us celebrate the Earth! There will be hands-on learning stations, interpretive hikes, conservation exhibits, animals, crafts, food, music, and much more! Preregistration is NOT required. $5 per car

Spring Waterfalls

Saturday, April 19, 2014, 1:00pm - 3:00pm The melting snow and spring rains have raised the water level. Join us as we travel to some truly www.DreherInsurance.com

Community

Big Pocono Ski Club supports VALOR Clinic Foundation Photo left to right - Steve Pace (Treasurer), Carole' Ann F. Bowyer, Mark Baylis, Roger Appleton, Ginny Steckel, Chris Bushta (Recording Secretary), CL Bergeron, Bill Wenton (President), Bob Tagliabue, Honey McCloskey, Tim Fretz, Glen Lippincott, Jill Guerro and Carolyn Pace (Vice President). Not pictured Clara Ann Kresge (Corresponding Secretary), JoJo McCloskey and Patty Fretz.

uring their December board meeting, members of the Big Pocono Ski Club presented an $800.00 check to Veteran and Co-Founder Mark Baylis of VALOR Clinic Foundation. “We are so appreciative of your support. These funds will be used to help achieve our mission,” says Baylis. Founded in 2008 Veterans Assisted Out Reach (VALOR) Clinic Foundation, is an organization for Veterans to help other Veterans to navigate through the process of recovering and rebuilding. VALOR reaches out to Veterans to provide shelter, food, supplies, and access to healthcare. In addition, VALOR has spearheaded the creation of a specialized program to address Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) called Veterans Unstoppable. Baylis adds,” We’re always looking for donated items such as weatherproof insulated coats and pants, insulated weather-resistant boots 800 grams or more, weatherproof insulated gloves and fleece hats, warm underwear an socks, 2-man dome tents, sleeping bags rated to zero degrees and mats. We 28 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2014

also accept furniture, specific food and hygiene items. These items can be dropped off at two locations: American Legion Post, Gilbert and VFW, Fawn Road, East Stroudsburg.” “We have invited veterans from VALOR to speak to our Club on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and resources available in our area for veterans. We plan to meet on Thursday, March 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the Chateau Resort and Conference Center in Tannersville. The public is invited,” states Bill Wenton, Club President. Big Pocono Ski Club was established in 1963 and continues to grow their membership. If interested in joining, contact skiers@ptd.net or 570 620-9272 Contact Mark Baylis at 570 994-5188 or visit www.valorclinic,org for more information and to see how you can get involved. P

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Frailey Insurance and Financial Services Supports VALOR Clinic Foundation

very quarter the Frailey team supports a non-profit organization through their Community Outreach Project. They reach out through their team, clients and the public. In celebration of National Medal of Honor Day, Frailey Insurance and Financial Services is remembering our heroes by supporting the VALOR Clinic Foundation. Veteran and Co-Founder Mark Baylis spoke to the team explaining their mission and goals. “We are so appreciative of their support. Community awareness and involvement is so important to continue our work,” says Baylis. Founded in 2008 Veterans Assisted Living Out Reach (VALOR) Clinic Foundation, is an organization for Veterans to help other Veterans to navigate through the process of recovering and rebuilding. VALOR reaches out to Veterans to provide shelter, food, supplies, and access to healthcare. In addition, VALOR has spearheaded the creation of a specialized program to address Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) called Veterans Unstoppable. Baylis adds,” We’re always looking for donated items such as food and hygiene products. When donating food, it’s important to remember that cans must be accessible without a can opener and need no refrigeration. We also need weatherproof insulated coats and pants, insulated weather-resistant boots 800 grams or more, weatherproof insulated gloves and fleece hats, warm underwear and socks, 2-man dome tents, sleeping bags rated to zero degrees and mats. We’re constantly looking for gently used furniture as well. When the weather becomes warmer, we can use rain gear and waterproof shoes/boots.” “Throughout the past two years, our team has supported numerous non-profit organizations. Not only is it a way of giving back to the community, it also helps us to learn the various needs. We also get to know the people who invest their time and talent, who help fulfill those needs. We will be collecting items from February 1 through March 6. Items can be dropped off at our office at 1286 N. Ninth Street, Stroudsburg.” states Michele A. Frailey-Miller, Chief Operating Officer. P If you would like more information to see how you can get involved, you may contact Josephine A. Fontan, Project Coordinator, at 570 421-7447 x228. For more information about VALOR, contact Mark Baylis at photo: JAMES CHESNICK 570-994-5188 or visit www.valorclinic,org

Where in the Watershed Walks for March & April

Where in the Watershed Walk #2 Spring Ahead/Headwater Vernal Pools Saturday, March 8, 1pm – 4pm. Meet at the parking lot of Kurmes Preserve off Devils Hole Rd. in Paradise Twp. (go to www.phlt.org for maps and directions). Join the BWA/PHLT for a walk with naturalists Don Miller and Lori Colgan for this “Spring Ahead” walk to explore the first stirrings of spring in headwater vernal pools. Easy hike on mostly level forested terrain to investigate several open space protected vernal pools and headwater forests. Fee of $5.00/person ($3.00 BWA/PHLT member) to be collected at the start of the hike. Pre-registration requested. To register, please call Pocono Heritage Land Trust (PHLT) office Monday through Friday at 570-424-1514, or email info@phlt.org .

Where in the Watershed Walk #3 Where the Brodhead Doubles /Bertie’s Knob Saturday, April 5, 1pm – 4pm.

Where in the Watershed Walk #4 Planting Plants in a Changing Landscape Ross and Ross Nursery, Paradise Valley Saturday, April 26, 1pm – 4pm.

Meet at parking area of Brodhead Forest and Stream Association Clubhouse off Rt. 191/940 between Maryanne’s Ice Cream Stand and the Paradise “tunnel”. (www.phlt for more information). Join the BWA/PHLT and naturalists Don Miller and Jeff Heberly and Brodhead Forest and Stream Association President, Doug Swift, for this early spring hike on Brodhead Forest and Stream property to a mountainhigh view above the confluence of the Upper Brodhead and Paradise Creeks. Moderate to steep woodland hike on both wooded roads and off trail.

Ross and Ross Nursery, Paradise Valley Road, Cresco, PA. Join BWA/PHLT members/friends and naturalists Don Miller, Robin Petras and Linda Ross Besecker for this late spring cultivated, native and wild plant discussion and hike on the grounds of and fields around Ross and Ross Nursery in the Paradise Creek watershed. This prelude hike to BWA’s May Native Plant Sale will explore “the good, the bad and the ugly” of a changing plant landscape and provide plant identification information for invasive plants and landscape tips for “growing native”.

Fee of $5.00/person ($3.00 BWA/PHLT member) to be collected at the start of the hike. Please pre-register by calling the Pocono Heritage Land Trust (PHLT) office Monday through Friday at 570-424-1514, or email info@phlt.org .

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Community

March & April Programs at Monroe County Environmental Education Center The Monroe County Conservation District’s Environmental Education Center, at Kettle Creek Wildlife Sanctuary on Running Valley Road near Bartonsville, offers many educational programs year-round. Visit their website at www.mcconservation.org or call 570-629-3061 for more information. Public Maple Sugaring Day

Saturday, March 1. Our 37th¬† Public Maple Sugaring Day will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Meesing Outdoor Site in Marshalls Creek.The day will feature a tour of the sugar bush including stops to learn about Native American and early pioneer methods of making maple syrup, our evaporator process and methods of identifying and tapping a maple tree.After the tour, everyone will get a chance to taste some of our syrup on freshly made pancakes. Cost:$5/adult and $3/ children under 12; all members of the EE Center and tree sponsors attend free of charge.

Middle Creek Birding Field Trip

Wednesday, March 5. Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area is a major stop-over for tremendous numbers of snow geese. Their huge flocks in flight at times create a “blizzard” of birds. Environmental Educator Brian Hardiman will lead this trip to observe this stunning spectacle of nature.The area’s wetlands, fields, and woodlots also provide opportunities to see a host of waterfowl, raptors, and other bird species. Participants will meet at the EE Center at 8:30 a.m. and return 6 p.m. Cost: $24/ non-member, $18/EE Center member and includes bus transportation. Participants should pack a lunch and binoculars and dress appropriately for the weather. Pre-registration and payment are required and limited. Refunds will be given only if notification is made at least one week prior to the trip.

Fly Fishing

Saturday, March 8. Join several members of the Brodhead Chapter of Trout Unlimited for a program on fly fishing. Equipment, casting, strategy, fly tying, basic entomology, and local fishing areas will be discussed. A film, slide program and several raffles are included with admission. The 3-hour program will run from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Cost: $8/non-member, $5/EE Center member and children under 12. Pre-registration is required by Friday, March 7, 2014.

Art Opening

Saturday, March 8. Tom Storm - Photographer “Scenes from the Top” - Tom Storm has spent the past three winters hiking the peaks, ridges and overlooks of Carbon County. With camera in hand, he grants visual access to some of the more remote and unique vistas and vantage points the area has to offer. Opening Reception: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Mystery Birding Field Trip

Friday, March 21. Join Environmental Educator Brian Hardiman on this popular and fun adventure where the birding destinations and target birds are not revealed until the day of the trip. Pre-trip scouting and local reports will determine where we go in order to see the best avian goodies. Mystery birds “revealed” on past trips include snowy owl, northern shrike, rough-legged hawk, and nesting great-horned owls. Participants will meet at the EE Center at 8:30 a.m. and return 5:30 p.m. Cost $24/non-member, $18/

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EE Center member and includes bus transportation, plenty of birds, and a good time! Participants should pack a lunch and dress for the weather. Stops will be made for coffee and snacks. Pre-registration and payment are required and limited. Refunds will be given only if notification is made at least one week prior to the trip.

Feeder Fidelity

Saturday, March 22. For the last 2 years the Pocono Avian Research Center has been involved in a bird banding project to see if the birds we see at feeders this year are the same as the birds we saw last year. Join, Darryl Speicher as he bands birds at Kettle Creek’s bird feeders and explains what we are learning about feeder fidelity. This 1-hour program begins at 10 am. Cost: $5/non-member, $3/children under 12. EE Center members free.

Woodcock Watch

Tuesday, March 25. Timberdoodle, Bogsucker, and Big Eye are some of the strange nicknames given to the equally strange American Woodcock. Join Environmental Educator Brian Hardiman for this program where you will learn about the life history and amazing courtship displays of this fascinating and entertaining bird. Participants will meet at the EE Center at 6:30 p.m. for a brief classroom presentation before traveling to the Tannersville Bog

area to observe the woodcock’s love-sick antics. Cost: $5/non-member, $3/children under 12. EE Center members free.

Annual Members and Friends Dinner at Stroudsmoor

Friday, March 28. Please make your plans for our Annual Members and Friends of Conservation Dinner to be held at the Stroudsmoor Inn. We are currently putting together the plans for a fun-filled evening, and look forward to sharing it with all our supporters. Invitations will be mailed to all members in February, or you can call us at 570-629-3061 to receive more information.

Home School Program Topic: Pocono Waterfowl

Thursday, April 3. (Note: special cost and time for 3rd through 12th grade) Our Environmental Education staff is offering a hands-on environmental education experience for any interested home school students. Activities will include classroom instruction and hands-on outdoor learning opportunities for all ages with participants divided into three age groups: Kindergarten through 2nd grade (parent accompaniment required) program is from 2:30 - 4 p.m. and Cost: $6/non-members, $3/EE Center members. The 3rd through 6th grade, and 7th through

12th grade program is from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. and Cost: $14/non-member, $10/EE Center member. Preregistration and payment are required and limited by the Monday preceding the program date. Refunds given only if notification is made at least three days prior to the program date. For more information and to pre-register, please call 570-629-3061.

Small Wonders of Nature

Saturday, April 5. Join Environmental Educator Jenifer Rituper to have your eyes and minds opened from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon to some fantastically small and yet fantastically wonderful wonders of nature. A slideshow will be presented indoors followed by an outdoor trail trek to track tiny treasures, using magnifying lenses of course. Cost: $5/non-member, $3/children under 12. EE Center members free

Art Opening

Saturday, April 5. Linda Kreckel, Joan Rohn, and Joan Sayer - Painters - "Nature's Treasures". Three local Pennsylvania artists translate their love of nature in watercolor and mixed media. Their paintings show unique interpretations and images of the treasures that nature offers. Opening Reception: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

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Business

What Every Small Business Needs to Know this Year For small businesses, adapting to the changing times is crucial. Periodically, it’s important to review what’s working and where there’s room to transform. “The new year is a blank slate for small businesses, offering the opportunity to streamline everything from connecting with customers to cash flow management,” says Tim Carroll, vice president of small business engagement at Deluxe Corporation.

You don’t have to be a social media maven to make the most of your digital presence. Take a look at other websites and incorporate appealing aspects of these on your website. Use the space to highlight successes. But don’t overlook more “traditional” communications. A recent survey found that 86 percent of consumers preferred receiving customer appreciation gifts – including thank you cards – through traditional rather than online methods.

With this in mind, here are resolutions for small businesses to succeed in 2014.

Get Noticed Online

Connect with Customers

A website can be a powerful marketing and sales tool. But if nobody visits, it’s a virtual ghost town.

Nothing beats word-of-mouth recommendations. Thanks to new digital technologies and social media, it’s easier than ever to share these kudos. “In today’s digital world, you can reach millions of eyes simultaneously. The key is to also get customers to engage with you and share your story with others,” points out Carroll. 34 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2014

Your website needs to be indexed properly to show up high in search engine results. According to researchers, more than half of online shoppers don’t go past the first two pages of search results. This is why Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is critical. Optimize your website for keywords and

phrases your customers are searching for online. To accomplish this and improve search engine rankings, small businesses increasingly turn to marketing services firms, like Deluxe.

Think Ahead Don’t get caught off guard by annual events that matter to your business. For example, it’s never too early to think about holiday marketing. Plan now to maximize sales when it matters.

Streamline Payments New payment technologies can streamline logistics and keep you in complete control of the payment process. For example, with Deluxe eChecks powered by VerifyValid, you can create a check in a few keystrokes on a computer or tablet and pay your vendors in seconds – whenever and wherever you want. With its proprietary technology, anyone can send or receive a Deluxe eCheck, without requiring payees to sign up for the service. The eCheck can be sent to anyone who can cash or deposit a check.

Prevent Identity Theft Identity theft and fraud are increasing, and businesses -- like individuals -- are at risk. Before giving out confidential information, confirm how it will be used or shared. Ensure password protection on your accounts, and don't use easily available information as a password or authentication.

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It is crucial to have a contingency plan in place prior to ID theft or fraud. Services like EZShield Business Identity Restoration can help businesses quickly recover to pre-incident status. More tips and information about small business services can be found at Deluxe.com.

 

This new year, make business resolutions to help set you up for success. P

CONTENT: STATEPOINT

Home & Garden

Seasonal Home Maintenance Checklist can Prevent Emergency Repair Look for More to Come in Our Next Issue… May/June 2014 You May Also Enjoy

Pocono Living Magazine

ith a little easy home maintenance throughout the year, you can prevent emergency repairs down the line. Experts recommend posting a task checklist in a convenient location, such as on the refrigerator or a corkboard. “Maintenance is usually a lot simpler than a repair, and a lot more affordable,” says Chris Terrill, CEO of HomeAdvisor, a leading website offering resources for home repair and improvement projects. “Keep a checklist handy during the entire year, so you don’t forget any timely tasks.” Here are six tasks HomeAdvisor recommends not to forget to complete each year: • On a quarterly basis, test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Not only will doing so protect the safety of your family in the event of an emergency, it can also protect your pocketbook. The average national cost of repairing fire and smoke damage is $4,195.

Available at Local Businesses and by Subscription Pocono Mts Publications, LLC 1929 North Fifth Street, Stroudsburg, PA 18360 570-424-1000 • pmpubs@ptd.net 36 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© MARCH/APRIL 2014

• Twice a year, clean your gutters and downspouts. To prevent damage, the downspout needs to be free of debris so it can release water three feet from your home’s foundation. The average national cost of cleaning the gutter and downspout is $181. However, the average national cost of repairing the foundation of a house can cost up to 24 times that amount. • In the cooler months, take a day each year to check caulking for cracks, especially around tubs and

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showers. Cracks can let in water with no place for drainage, which will cause damage. • Every fall complete an annual roof inspection to help prevent the need for major repairs or a roof replacement. The average national cost of hiring a roof inspector is $360, whereas the average cost of replacing a roof is nearly 19 times that amount. • Before the dog days of summer, hire a professional to service your HVAC unit. Doing so will increase its efficiency and prevent a breakdown. The cost of replacing and installing an air conditioning unit can cost more than 13 times the amount of servicing one. • Annually check for cracks in the grout of tile floors, which can allow water to seep into the floor and cause mold growth and rot. According to HomeAdvisor’s Cost Guide the average national cost of repairing tile and grout is $439. However, the cost of testing and removing mold can be up to four times that amount. For free home maintenance tips, resources and to find a pre-screened professional to help you with any of these tasks, visit www.HomeAdvisor.com. Don’t wait for something to go wrong. Inspecting your home’s infrastructure and performing proper maintenance can protect your home from costly damage and deterioration. P

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whole♥HEART♥ed Pocono Medical Center (PMC) and East Stroudsburg University joined hearts and minds to support heart health and celebrate the month of February, Heart Month

The ESSA Heart and Vascular Institute at Pocono Medical Center offers the full breadth of state-of-the-art cardiovascular services and has been nationally recognized for providing world-class care, close to home. Some of our cardiac services include: • Heart Valve Clinic • Electrophysiology and Catheterization lab • Minimally Invasive Surgery Tom Fisch underwent successful minimally invasive surgery with Dr. Fuzesi last spring. Find out more by watching his video at our website: PoconoMedicalCenter.org

Find out more about Tom and minimally invasive cardiac surgery at Pocono Medical Center.org/ESSA-heart

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