You Plan, The Earlier t our Studen Y r e tt e B e h T Will Stand
October 2009
2010
FREE
Music Together:
(Ages Infant – 5yrs. w/Adult) This program is the perfect start for your child’s early music education that has become an international craze!
Mommy & Me Craft & Play:
(Ages 12 mos.-2 ½ yrs.)
These classes are filled with love. Mom and child learn and play together through creativity and imagination!
Calling All Artists (Ages 7- 13)
Grab your easel and your blank canvas, time to bring the artist out within you! Learn from the Masters! Pastels, Acrylics, and more!
Tiny Tumblers
w/Mommy & Daddy:
(Ages 8 mos. -2 ½ yrs. w/Adult)
There is nothing better than quality time with your child as you explore the fun of tumbling! Go through many exciting obstacle courses, fly high on the trampoline, roll all around in the fun, colorful, and child friendly equipment!
Children’s Center for Learning Arts: (Ages 3-5)
This unique alternative to preschool program is the perfect artistic atmosphere for ages 3-5. Students rotate to three fun classrooms where they are introduced to American Sign Language, Computer Learning, and Art!
Gymnastics:
(Ages appropriate classes; Beginners starting at 3 – experienced)
Theatre Arts:
(Ages 3-4; Kindergarden-8; 9-12; 13-15; 16-18)
The amazing theatre program includes classes in musical theatre, drama and acting, and vocal group lessons as well as solo voice sessions. Students learn everything from basic theatre etiquette to the moves and groves of the stage!
Miss Ma rg aret’ts
Dance:
Our top notch gymnastics program includes everything from beginner basic tumbling and cheer tumbling to advanced tumbling and cheer tumbling!
(Ages 3-5; 6-7; 7 yrs.-advanced levels; Adult and professional Training) The elaborate dance program includes classes in many genres and on many different levels. From beginner and intermediate combo classes, to ballet, tap, jazz, modern, hip-hop, recreational dance, adult dance, ballroom, and much more.
the Academy ofPoconos
www.missmargarets.com
(570) 629-0808
Pocono Creek Plaza Rt 611, Tannersville, PA 18372 (Next to Friendly’s)
4 newly designed studios (5000 sq. ft.) – for Dance, Drama, Musical Theatre & Gymnastics
PoconoParent Magazine Presents the 5th Annual
2010
• Get your FREE picture taken with Special Characters • FREE Face Painting • FREE Tattoos • FREE Crafts • Win Prizes just by attending Get free information on local area resources including Children’s Toys, Financial Planning, Home Improvements, Insurance, Childcare, Dance, Music, Crafts, Medical, Builders, Art, Education, Entertainment, Fitness, Leisure, Child Safety, Government Programs and much more.……90+ local vendors. 2008 /July
June
See yourself on the cover of PoconoParent Magazine! Enter the FREE Family Photo Contest at the Spring Expo!
PoconoParent Magazine and the Travel Team are partnering with Carnival Cruise Lines速 to create a vacation sure to please the WHOLE FAMILY in June 2010
www.poconoparentmagazine.com
NEW
YORK
PoconoParent Magazine and Carnival® know that every family is different, so we have included fun for everyone – young married with tots, couples with teens and seniors who AN E B IB travel with kids and grandkids. With plenty of CAR SEA fun activities to keep everyone happy, your S/ OMA ST. TH OHN J . ST PoconoParent Magazine family cruise will be filled with lasting memories. What’s more, N A U J the ultimate in supervised youth programs SAN
NTIC ATLA N OCEA
KS D TUR OS GRAN AIC S&C K R U T
For Teens 15-17
Ships' Registry: The Bahamas and Panama.
For Tweens 12-14
For Kids 2-11
Led by highly trained professionals, these programs are all included in the price of your cruise. Plus, Carnival features some of the largest accommodations at sea, giving you and your family more room to spread out. And to make your stay on the ship even more comfortable and convenient, you can book connecting staterooms. This is a great option for families and groups. A “Fun Ship®” cruise is a great vacation choice for the entire family. Kids will love it. So will Mom and
June 24, 2010 8 day Eastern Caribbean Cruise from New York.
For detailed information and to secure your family’s reservation
Call Susan at the Travel Team: 570-223-2678
Table of
Contents Spring Family Expo. ..................3 The Playroom Lets Move the Playroom to the Kitchen.....................................9
Family Finance Financial Choices for you and your children..............................10
Convergence Insuffiency. .....12 Recipe Exchange.......................13 Family Travel Tips
We’re Serious about Family Fun..............................14
By Nikki Mitchell, Family Relations Coordinator
S
o many high school seniors walked through our Learning Center’s doors this past summer looking defeated and feeling disappointed in themselves. What was causing this depressed procession of students?
28
How Can Parents Know if Tutoring is Right for their Child....................................16 Restaurant Review The Big A Grillhouse and Bar..........26
Readers Talkback......................23 Family Practice Corner
What to do with an Ever-Depreciating Marital Home....26
Ask Dr Waters
Halloween
Safety Tips Safe Crafts for Kids By Nina DeSanto, Holistic Mom
&
Partners in Watershed Protection....30
19
Kids Korner.................................34 Teen & “Tween”.........................35 Health & Medical Resources. ....................................36 Marketplace. ...............................37 Pet Tails. ........................................38
24 32
On The Cover Special Thanks to College Nannies and Tutors
© 2009 by Pocono Parent, LLC. All rights reserved. Published bimonthly. No portion of PoconoParent Magazine may be reproduced without written permission. Address subscription inquiries and address changes to Pocono Parent, LLC P.O. Box 291 Analomink, PA. 18320. The acceptance of advertising by PoconoParent Magazine does not constitute an endorsement of the product or services offered. Reader correspondence are welcome. PoconoParent Magazine assumes no financial responsibility for errors in advertisements. PoconoParent Magazine is a registered trademark of Pocono Parent, LLC.
PoconoParent
™
M
From the Editor’s Desk
F
all is has definitely settled into the Poconos. It is hard to miss all of the vibrant colors as you cross over the Delaware Water Gap into this beautiful state! I hope that the school year got off to a great start for you and your children. Although it is hard to believe, it is that time of year again to start preparing for upcoming holidays and celebrations like Halloween and Thanksgiving. Halloween is so much fun for our children and virtually a stress free day for parents. Once you get past the question of “What or who do you want to be for Halloween”? The rest is easy. Thanksgiving can be much more stressful for parents if you are the household hosting “the feast”. Try to begin preparations early this year to reduce stress. Plan your menu, and begin shopping early in the month. Don’t be afraid to ask your guests to bring a favorite Thanksgiving dish, or dessert, to cut down on your expenses. Let’s face it; we are all still trying to reduce our expenditures in this economy. Most importantly, don’t forget what this holiday is about. It is about being with loved ones, sharing time, a great meal, and giving thanks for all of our blessings! I continue to wish you and your family, “Simple Abundance”! Kindest regards,
Teri
NFL Ticket Fox Soccer Big 10 Network ESPN Gamezone Gol and MORE!
& ENTERTAINMENT
EXPERIENCE!
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The Pocono’s Family Resource
Publisher
Editor
David O’Brien
Teri O’Brien
Graphic Design
Contributing Writers:
Michael Dombrowski Edward Fader Jennifer Goodall Karen Klinger
Account Executives
Jennifer Haines Veronica Talbot
Photography:
Maria Marchiano, Creation on Location Kim McCambley, Candid Camera Creations Louise Reeves, Photography by Louisa Michael Straub Photography
Erin Baehr Nina DeSanto Dorota Gasienica-Kozak Susan Mehler-Bostick Nikki Mitchell Joan Muller Linda Munson David T. O’Brien Stephanie Reeck Jen, Teen Shana, Tween Dr. Waters
MISSION STATEMENT The PoconoParent Magazine is a reliable printed family resource committed to providing its’ readers with useful information and professional area contacts. It is our priority to assist in connecting parents with appropriate resources in order to ensure a pleasurable experience living and raising children in the Pocono Mountains!
An original 1856 train station, a National Historic Landmark.
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FOR FOOD, FUN, DRINKS & TRAINS!
Lunch and Dinner Served All Day
High Energy Fun and Non-Stop Sports Action!
12 42" HD screens to watch all the games all the time. Open daily from 12 noon until the games are over.
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Open 7 Days All Year!
Monday - Saturday: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Sunday: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm
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October 2009 www.PoconoParent Magazine.com
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e h t o t m o o r y la P e h t e Let’s Mov C
Kitchen!
ooking together can be a delicious learning experience for children and their parents. Kids can explore new foods, learn about nutrition, and develop math and reading skills as they measure and read directions. With eager imaginations and enthusiastic spirits, having your children help you in the kitchen can be easier than you think. With the chaos of making sure you get dinner on the table on time, keeping everyone happy and cooking healthy meals it seems a like challenge to integrate your child in meal preparations. Ways of letting your child help in the kitchen is always in perspective of age and abilities. So given your child is capable and ready to help you in the kitchen it can be a great learning experience for them. With some simple tips your little chef will be on their way to culinary brilliance. One great way to get your kids involved in the kitchen is to let
them feel involved. Allow them to do simple tasks like opening packages, measuring liquids and dry ingredients and fetching bowls and pots for you. This can give a child a really great sense of involvement by helping you. One great way to get your kids involved is to find out what your kids favorite recipes are. Kids love things like cookies, cakes and desserts, so why not let them get in on the fun of baking. One great all time baking classic are Rice Krispies Treats. This recipe is quick, simple and most of all fun. One great idea is to have a separate batch for your kids to cook with while you do your own. Set out everything they’ll need like sugar, butter, oil etc. and let them follow along with you, that way when you pull their batch out of the oven they’ll be able to see how all their hard work paid off. Seeing what they’ve baked can be very big reward for the child,
not to mention they get to lick the spoon! This idea can work with any of your child’s favorite snacks such as chocolate chip cookies, cakes, muffins or cupcakes. This idea is also perfect for the holiday season! When it comes time to make ginger bread houses and ginger bread men, don’t forget to let the kids get in on all the holiday cheer. Kids can also be great helpers for the Chanukah feast, whether its matzo balls or latkes kids can be a helping hand with all the festivities. Hands on in the kitchen is not the only way to get a child excited about cooking and baking. You can also incorporate the fun in the kitchen into their everyday imaginative play.
gs like n i h t e v o Kids l d cakes an t , s e i k o co y not le h w o s s t desser in on the t e g m e th king fun of ba
Financial Choices for you and your children By Erin Baehr, CFP, EA
W
e’ve had two new babies born into our extended family recently, which naturally brings with it a lot of reminiscing about when my children were babies, and all the financial issues that were born along with them. I have a wall hanging in my house that says “Children don’t make life easier, just better,” and that is certainly true in our finances.
www.PoconoParent Magazine.com October 2009
If you’re a new mom or dad, you no doubt are buried (maybe literally) in diapers, toys, and feedings, and taking care of household paperwork can fall to the bottom of
10
the pile. But I urge you, if you don’t have a will, make that a top priority, right now. Don’t let not knowing who to name as your guardian delay you—take the time to discuss it, and get your will done. There’s a great book called Wear Clean Underwear by Alexis Martin Neely that can help you think it through. Alexis is an attorney and also has a website called www.KidsProtectionPlan.com, where you can print out a document to name your guardians. It is not a substitute for a properly drafted will, but a tool to guide you in the process. And along with that, make sure you have enough life insurance coverage.
If you are young and healthy, term coverage is a cheap way to give your family priceless protection, should something happen to you. Most parents think of saving for college as something they should do right away. While I don’t discourage saving for college, I recommend that your first priority be to establish an emergency fund for your family, maximize your retirement savings, and then start saving for college. It’s the old “put your oxygen mask on first” theory. It’s much easier to draw from your own funds to pay for college than it is to use college funds to pay for a family emergency. Think long term when it comes to how you define your child’s standard of living. What I mean by that is, will you be able to keep your child in the lifestyle to which she has become accustomed when she is a teenager? A parent of any teen will tell you, the cost of their “care and feeding” increases exponentially as they get older. Be careful what habits you (and their grandparents) instill; a dozen pair of toddler shoes costs a
whole lot less than a dozen pair of Nikes. Take advantage of flexible spending accounts at work if they are available. With these plans, because you are able to use pretax dollars for out of
“Children don’t make life easier, just better,” pocket medical expenses, you don’t have to jump the 7.5% of adjusted gross income floor before deducting expenses on your federal income tax return. The trick is you’ll have to choose an amount to defer to the account prior to the start of the new calendar year. You will forfeit what you don’t use, but with over the counter medications and vitamins included in eligible expenses, there
are plenty of ways to use up excess funds. Flexible spending accounts are available for child care expenses also; since many taxpayers can only take a credit of 10% of their eligible child care expenses on their federal income taxes, the flexible spending account may yield a greater savings. Finally, network with other parents and share ideas for creative ways to save money. For instance, you may want to form a babysitting co-op, and trade child care hours for a night out, or for regular working days. I learned how to make my own baby wipes from a friend, found out when the snow boots and baseball cleats were on clearance (always stocked up years ahead!) from moms on the playground, and learned about many free and low cost places to take my kids from my playgroup—including the combined birthday parties we had at Chuck E Cheese, which we couldn’t have afforded otherwise. I owe a huge debt of gratitude to Playgroups, Inc., who connected me with my playgroup. That was a lifesaver to me as a stay at home mom!
Providing child care from 6 weeks through 5 years
YMCA has the answers to all of your child care needs.
Learning & Caring Center All Day Care
Expert Instructors Excellent Instruction
6 week olds to 5 years Monday to Friday 6:30 am to 6:30 pm
Our children have to unique opportunity to utilize the YMCA facilities through recreational swim, physical education program and a beautiful new playground. Infants and toddlers occupy the first floor or our “home away from home” and our 4 and 5 year olds pre-kindergarten children have their own “classroom” on the second floor.
� Piano � Guitar � Woodwind
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If you are looking for a Preschool that offers academic and developmental social skills, swimming , gym time and a outdoor playground, the Pocono Family YMCA Preschool Experience has exactly what you need. Morning or afternoon hours 2, 3 and 5 day programs. We even have a convenient Drive-through drop off and pick up.
When schools are closed due to inclement weather, we’re open! We Build Strong Kids, Strong Families, Strong Communities
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October 2009 www.PoconoParent Magazine.com
The Pocono Family
11
Dr. ANTHONY S. DIECIDUE
Dr. JOHN J. GLASNER
DOCTOR OF OPTOMETRY
DOCTOR OF OPTOMETRY
Convergence Insufficiency:
A Masquerader of Learning Disabilities By Stephanie Reeck, Optometric Intern Eye Associates of Monroe County
C
onvergence insufficiency can often be misconstrued as a learning disability. It affects approximately 5% of children in the United States, and may have a serious impact on an individual’s performance in school and academic development. School-aged children with convergence insufficiency manifest as children with focusing and attention deficits. It is most often diagnosed in older children and adolescents when increased visual demands of schoolwork and prolonged periods of reading exacerbate symptoms.
Convergence Insufficiency is the leading cause of eyestrain, blurred vision, double vision, and/or headaches. CI disorder interferes with a person's ability to see, read, learn, and work at close distances.
EYE ASSOCIATES OF MONROE COUNTY www.eyeassociatesonline.net
www.PoconoParent Magazine.com October 2009
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The exact cause of convergence insufficiency is not known, but it ultimately is a misalignment of the muscles that move the eye. It is a disorder that interferes with an individual’s ability to see, read, learn, and work at close distances. Extra effort is required to make the eyes work together which can lead to symptoms such as eyestrain, headaches, blurred vision, squinting, rubbing, closing or covering an eye, sleepiness, inability to concentrate, and short attention span. It is also possible to have convergence insufficiency without symptoms of eyestrain, headache and double vision if one eye has shut down. This can cause loss of depth perception and poor coordination which can affect sports performance. Treatment for convergence insufficiency includes vision therapy and eyeglasses with specialty lenses which help relieve strain on eye muscles. About 75 percent of children who do office-based vision therapy along with at-home reinforcement achieve normal vision or have significantly less symptoms in a few months. An individual can see 20/20 in both eyes and still have convergence insufficiency. Testing for convergence insufficiency is not included in pediatrician’s eye tests or school screenings. Thus, An individu al can an annual comprehensive s e e 2 0 /20 in both vision examination by an eye doctor is recommended eyes and s till have for everyone.
convergen ce insufficien cy
er table, but did dishes at the dinn oks? So instead st be e th of e on Stuffing is turkey as it co casserole rbs fat from the you know it abso ng inside the turkey, bake it in a ffi stu e th of stuffing ain bread dish instead. 4 quarts whole-gr Ingredients: cut into cubes ry 2 cups diced cele 1 tbsp. salt onion k pepper 1/2 cup minced 1 tsp. ground blac h ot br en ick ch ge ps 3 cu 1/4 tsp. sa yme 1/2 cup butter 1 pinch dried th en at 3 eggs, be til soft, but Directions: ions and cook un on d Ad . an ep sauc o cups of chicken Melt butter in a stir well. Add tw d an ry large le ce d 10 minutes. In a not brown. Ad and simmer for and il bo ge a sa , to er g pp in br pe broth, bes, eggs, salt, cu d oughly. ea or br th ss ne to , e and combi mixing bowl ur ixt m ry le ce d Ba n an oth. ke at thyme. Add onio e, just add a lil’ more chicken br sid top is lightly y e dr th If it’s on the utes, or until in m 45 r fo it he en 350 degrees Fahr browned.
Stuffing
• Specializing with children & beginner guitar lessons • Custom Guitar Building • Instrument Repair & Set-up • Guitar Lessons • Live Sound Engineering
Music from Start to Finish
Sean Van Winkle • sean@sierranoelle.com
506 Overlook Terrace • Stroudsburg, PA 18360
Portuguese and Spanish Cuisine
Spinach Salad
Instead of loading up on candied yams and sweet potatoes, just take a couple spoonful s to nibble on and pil e your plate full of veggies. Check out thi s easy spinach salad tha t you can prepare with ingredients lying around in your fridge ! Ingredients: 3/4 cup walnuts 1 lb. fresh spinach 1/4 cup parmesan che 1/2 cup dried cranberr ese ies Raspberry vinaigrette Directions: Wash and tear spinach int cranberries, walnuts an o bite-size pieces. Sprinkle dried d parmesan cheese ov er the spinach. Drizzle with raspberr y vinaigrette, which is healther than salad dressing!
pkin Pie thout pumpkin pie, but Sugar-Free Pum e wi
5237 Milford Road
(Rt. 209) NEXT TO CAESARS RESORT
East Stroudsburg, PA 18302
570.588.7711
• All Day Session $35.00
(6:30 AM – 6:30 PM Mon – Fri)
• Before School Session $25.00 Weekly (6:30 AM -8:30 AM)
• After School Session $32.50 Weekly (3:30 PM - 6:30 PM)
Regular Skate Rental Included • Birthday Parties
Joan’s Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes Tips
Try seasoning the skin with salt and pepper instead of rubbing it with butter, which is loaded with fat. Reach for a piece of turkey breast instead of the leg as it’s lower in calories than dark meat.
Do you have a Recipe that you want to Exchange? Send your recipe to
editor@poconoparent.com
Good for 4 Free Admissions / Skate Rental Extra
October 2009 www.PoconoParent Magazine.com
et nner isn’t compl a simple Thanksgiving di sugar. So here’s th wi ed ck pa e ar es pi t gh ou r! -b store e suga e taste, but not th O sugar-free recipe that has th 4 packages of Jell- ing/pie dd pu lla s: Ingredient instant vani mpkin 1 16 oz. canned pu filling e spice ked 2 tsp. pumpkin pi 1 9” pie crust, ba ilk m im sk ps 2 cu ing and pumpkin Directions: epan. Stir in pudd ix until it’s well uc sa e rg la a to Pour milk in mpkin and m ssolved. Add pu ils. Boil for one pie spice until di m heat until it bo pie crust and iu ed m on e ur ixt m ed t ol blended. Hea mixture into co constantly. Pour minute, stirring it cools. as e will thicken chill. The mixtur
Neves
OWNERS
13
WE’RE SERIOUS ABOUT FAMILY FUN
www.PoconoParent Magazine.com October 2009
By Susan Mahler-Bostick, Travel Consultant
14
• Ages 18 months to Adult • Beginner to Professional Levels • Family Discounts • Dance & Gymnastics Parties
J
une 24, 2010 ~ Seems like a long way off, but will be here before a blink of an eye. Pocono Parent Magazine is excited to offer its first Group Family Vacation. So set the date and come sail along. We set sail from New York’s Harbor and will visit the fabulous Islands of San Juan, St. Thomas and Grand Turk. There will be plenty of time to enjoy and explore all the “Fun Ship ~ Miracle” has to offer, and let me tell you there is a ton! This modern marvel is highlighted by an 11-story atrium with a ruby red glass ceiling. Carnival features some of the largest accommodation at sea, and most of the Miracle’s staterooms have ocean views. The Miracle features all of the
• Recreational & Competitive Dance & Gymnastics • Fully equipped Gymnastics Center • Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Modern
Call 570-402-2339
www.elitegdc.com Conveniently located in Brodheadsville
fabulous dining cruising is famous for ~ including a reservations only Steakhouse “Nick & Nora’s” where the intimate ambiance and mouth watering favorites will make this a truly memorable dining experience. This cruise is about family time and Carnival IS serious about Family Fun ~ they realize that every family is different, so they have FUN with everyone in mind, young married with tots in tow, couples with teens and seniors who want to travel with their children and grandkids. Carnival offers plenty of activities to keep everyone happy, they want your family vacation to be filled with lasting memories. They offer the ultimate in supervised youth programs, led by highly trained professionals and all are included in your cruise.
CAMP CARNIVAL ~this program is designed for children ages 2 – 11. With specific activities for each age group; Toddlers (2-5) Finger painting, story time, arts and crafts, A-B-Seas! Juniors (6-8) Volcano making, outdoor games, Stars and Planets and Knights Night! Intermediate (9-11) Sports, board games, outdoor fun and Game Systems. From the moment the kids enter the lively world of Camp Carnival they will have a blast. There is also a Family Welcome Aboard Party, Ice Cream Sundae Making, Kids Talent Show and Scavenger Hunt. At Camp Carnival they make sure your kids will have so much fun, they don’t even notice they’re being supervised…they think the Counselors are just big kids! CIRCLE “C”~ this is where young teens ages 12- 14 can chill out, have fun and make new friends. Circle “C” offers parties, games, and other supervised activities; there are even special shore excursions for this age group. Outdoor movies and night swims. There is a special space program dedicated to this group. The “tweens” will love this place! CLUB O2 ~ “THE” Hot Spot (sorry ~
no adults) is specifically for the 15 – 17 year old. Club O2 is the place for them to hang out with friends, watch movies,
listen to the latest music, play video games or join in a karaoke sessions. They also offer supervised teen –only excursions so they can take in the sights and sounds of the Islands with their friends. In the evening they can hang out in CLUB style featuring comfy cool seats, a DJ booth, state of the art dance floor and a non-alcoholic drink bar… Mom and Dad, while the kids are having a great time at Camp Carnival, there is plenty of grown up fun to be found….You could have a relaxing message at Spa Carnival, try your luck at the Casino, take a swim or just relax at the pool ~ whatever floats your boat. Family Time ~ just think about it…No getting ready for work or school. No lunches to pack, no shuttling back and forth. All you have to think about is what kind of “FUN” you’ll share together. Make a big splash ~ spend the afternoon at the pool; the Miracle has a waterslide that is 3 decks high. This twisting turning water slide is perfect for splishin and splashing at any age. How about a round of mini golf or one-on-one basketball. Plan one of the fabulous shore excursions while on the Islands and munch out together on the Lido deck ~ pizza, ice cream, there are plenty of choices even for those picky eaters.
e is This cruis ime t y l i m a f t abou val IS and Carni out serious ab Family Fun
There will be so many opportunities for discovering new things together ~ this is a great vacation choice for the entire family. The kids will Love it, so will Mom and Dad, Grandparents too. …... soooooo
“LET THE FUN BEGIN “
How Can Parents Know if Tutoring is Right for Their Child?
By Linda Munson, Executive Director
T
he notion of tutoring, whether it’s to catch up, keep up or get ahead, has been around for a very long time. Socrates, for instance, tutored Plato and Plato tutored Aristotle. These were all bright philosophers and scholars who learned from someone who knew more. So, how can parents know when a personal instructor is right for their child? Supplemental education may be the answer, if your child:
• Demonstrates a pattern of slowly worsening grades in school • Develops low self esteem and thinks negatively of himself in relation to his school performance • Makes excuses as to why she is not working up to potential • Misbehaves in school or loses interest in learning • Is preparing for college testing, including college entrance exams, SAT and ACT tests • Struggles to focus on a task (e.g. - spending more time daydreaming than on homework) • Has test scores that do not reflect her daily performance
A good personal instructor will inspire and help students - at all levels of academic accomplishment, develop study habits and organizational skills that will result in significantly improved schoolwork and test scores. Taking the time to consider whether to hire supplemental assistance means parents are giving their children an opportunity to excel in the classroom. When children are successful in school,
they build confidence that translates into all areas of their life, helping them build a strong foundation for a successful future. The purpose of tutoring is to teach children efficient learning skills and techniques to use in the classroom and, ultimately, in the workforce as adults. It is important that parents take action early and seek a reputable supplemental education service that personalizes and develops these skills for success. If you notice that your child is struggling with homework, the first step is talking with your child and determining the underlying cause. Once you know the potential source of difficulty, it will be easier to develop a strategy for changing the struggle into success. Even a child who is doing well in the classroom may benefit from outside help to sharpen study and test-taking skills. A supplemental education provider can help your child prepare for a test, catch up or get ahead in a particular subject area.
supplemental education company with a proven record of academic success. Ask personal instructors how they will help your child master a specific skill and request an assessment to gauge your child’s current level. A good teacher will require that a child learn a specific skill before advancing to the next academic level, and, by utilizing the results of an assessment, you can benchmark your child’s progress. Most importantly, ensure the instructor will work with you and your child’s teachers to create a personal learning program based on your child’s current needs If you’re looking for maximum flexibility, consider online educational services. Look for online programs that offer realtime assistance where students obtain individualized attention and personalized programs taught by highly trained and certified teachers – from the convenience of home. Although parents may not have the necessary skills to tutor their child, they can take the right step by obtaining the proper academic help.
What should parents look for when selecting a tutor? Make sure the instructor is licensed and certified. Get recommendations from family, friends and teachers, and ask Even a prospective tutors for references from is do ing previous employers and students. Or, classro o m hire a respected
Great Food & Ice Cream Daily Specials Outdoor Seating & Play Area Perfect Place to Meet for a Playdate Rt 209 at the corner of Neyharts Road, Snydersville
570-992-6955
Open Every Day March through October
October 2009 www.PoconoParent Magazine.com
child wh o well in t he may bene fit f ro m o ut si de help to sharpen s tu dy an d tes t-taki ng skills
tery Ice Cream & Ea
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Review
Grillhouse & Bar By David T O’Brien
M
y wife and I stopped by for dinner recently. The food was really good & fresh. The environment is clean. And the options are many, from burgers, pasta, steaks, chicken & seafood.
tomatoes, red onion, toasted pecans, sundried cherries, white cheddar cheese, and Italian style croutons, served with the house apple cider vinaigrette dressing ($8.95) and I had the French Onion Soup baked with Provolone cheese and garlic crostini ($4.95). Having an Italian family, my wife could not resist trying the Tuscan Shrimp and Chicken Penne as an entrée; sauteed chicken and shrimp with crimini mushrooms, diced tomatoes and baby spinach in a garlic cream sauce, served over penne ($23.95). I decided on the Cold Water Salmon Fillet char-grilled with a Sweet Bourbon Sauce (19.95). They boast
e, “good valu food excellent y and famil tradition”
My wife started with a “Big A House Salad” Spring greens, grape
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a full-service bar where you can order cocktails, fine wines & draft beers. The service was very good and our dinners were excellent! If you are looking to be a little more casual, you can always stop by for some pub grub at the bar which is a much more casual atmosphere. The dining room and bar seem like two completely different restaurants – “Something for everybody.” Local area residents should ask about their frequent dining card. Reservations are suggested and don’t forget to mention you read about them in PoconoParent Magazine! 1 Fox Run Lane East Stroudsburg, PA 18302
(Corner of Rt 209 & Keystone Rd. between Foxmoor Village and Starting Gate)
(570) 223-1700
http://www.brandlis.com/
12
IN K
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IDS
enter
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to improve your child’s school year.
Looking for “Something Better in Daycare?”
We are open early, close late, and are even available on weekends!
Pocono Mountain Kids Child Development & Educational Center On Rt. 611 – (570) 972-1PMK
Find out more about us and our Speciality Services at www.pmkdaycare.com
Call Sylvan today to see your child’s grades in full bloom by spring. Our highly personalized approach builds not only better grades - but the skills, habits and attitudes your child needs to succeed in school and in life. • • • •
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sylvanmc@ptd.net
$99 ASSESSMENT FOUNTAIN COURT ROUTE 611 BARTONSVILLE, PA 18321
Reading • Math • Writing • Study Skills • Test Taking • SAT/ACT Prep & More!
Parents
Before children start out on their “trick or treat� rounds, parents should: Make sure that an adult or an older responsible youth will be supervising the outing for children under age 12.
Motorists
The National Safety Council urges motorists to be especially alert on Halloween. Watch for children darting out from between parked cars.
Instruct your children to travel only in familiar areas and along an established route. Teach your children to stop only at houses or apartment buildings that are well-lit and never to enter a stranger’s home. Establish a return time. Tell your youngsters not to eat any treat until they return home.
Costume Design
Watch for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs.
Only fire-retardant materials should be used for costumes.
Enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully.
Costumes should be loose so warm clothes can be worn underneath.
At twilight and later in the evening, watch for children in dark clothing.
Costumes should not be so long that they are a tripping hazard. (Falls are the leading cause of unintentional injuries on Halloween.)
n e e w o l l Ha
If children are allowed out after dark, outfits should be made with light colored materials. Strips of retroreflective tape should be used to make children visible.
Safety Tips
Accessories
Knives, swords and other accessories should be made from cardboard or flexible materials. Do not allow children to carry sharp objects. Bags or sacks carried by youngsters should be light-colored or trimmed with retro-reflective tape if children are allowed out after dark.
Treats
Carrying flashlights will help children see better and be seen more clearly.
To ensure a safe trick-or-treat outing, parents are urged to: Give children an early meal before going out. Insist that treats be brought home for inspection before anything is eaten. Wash fruit and slice into small pieces. When in doubt, throw it out.
On the way Children should understand and follow these rules:
Do not enter homes or apartments without adult supervision. Walk, do not run, from house to house. Do not cross yards and lawns where unseen objects or the uneven terrain can present tripping hazards. Walk on sidewalks, not in the street. Walk on the left side of the road, facing traffic if there are no sidewalks.
Our Tutoring Services One-on-One Tutoring Get the help your student needs to catch up, keep up and get ahead. College Tutors offers customized 1-on-1 tutoring services to students from Pre K to 12th grade, in any subject. We will develop an individualized learning plan, find the right Role Model match and put your child on the path to success. We offer flexible scheduling in our center or in your home. • Homework Help • Academic Support • School Readiness • Test Prep
FREE Tutoring Services No Child Left Behind As an approved tutoring provider by the PA Dept of Education, we provide free tutoring to students (K–12) in eligible schools within local school districts. We guarantee that students’ performance will improve in reading, math and science in a few weeks. There is absolutely no charge to families since this service is funded by the federal government.
Sign-up for “GETTING PREPPED” College Prep Services Getting into the right college is no accident We offer 1-on-1 private coaching with a qualified tutor, coupled with online services in: • PSAT/SAT/ACT • College Application Support • Test-Taking Strategies • Study Skills & Organization We offer a Free Practice Test and 1-hour consultation for the PSAT/ SAT/ACT.
A college planning workshop for parents Find out what you need to know about getting into college at this one-day only event. It’s a great opportunity for every parent to talk to the experts about college admission, financial aid, scholarships, and test prep. And it’s not too early to start planning. WHEN: Spring 2010 WHERE: TBD COST: $25 per family Refreshments included
Our Mission and Core Values
T
he directors of the locally owned and operated Tannersville Learning Center have worked to build a program of customized services and have developed their mission and core values that will nurture a business culture they feel better fits their goals and ideals for this region. Our Mission: To build stronger families and provide the best quality service -- care and education -- to all children and their families through our well trained, fun-loving, active role models while meeting the needs of community. Our Core Values: These are the vital and timeless guiding principles for our company. This is our culture. • Put God First – We believe that without God, this company would not be possible. We seek His approval in all that we do. He gives us direction in how to run this company, protects us from the giants, gives us the right staff at the right time and provides for our every need. He deserves honor and praise for all our successes and even our failures. He is our CEO. • Love Children and Young People – We care for and respect all children and their families, regardless of their age, ethnicity, background and/or socio-economic status. We believe that all children can learn and deserve to learn and will learn when we come into contact with them. We will motivate and encourage them. We will do all that we can to help them live successful, productive lives.
Our Nanny Services • Go the Extra Mile – We look for ways to give a little extra – a little more in value than is expected – in order to show we care for the children and families we serve. We go above and beyond to what is expected to ensure that others are happy with our service. • Provide Servant Leadership We provide our staff with the support, the tools and resources they need to do their jobs to the best of their ability and to increase their value to the company. We provide an example to our staff in how others should be treated, with respect and dignity. • Hire Fun-Loving, Qualified, Above-the-Line Role Models Our staff are carefully selected to ensure that the developmental needs of the children we serve are met. We aim to ensure that our children are safe, happy and wellcared for. Our staff is committed, dedicated, hardworking, fun, honest professionals, who put children’s/students’ needs first. They treat each child as if he/she was their own family member. They are safe, well trained and well qualified to work with children. Our staff uses their God given talents and skills to engage children in child development activities and active play and learning. They see their worth and value in the families they serve. • Place Significance Before Success – We place a higher value on people than we do on profit. We want to make significant impact on the communities we serve. • Create a Results/Growth Only Work Environment – We expect our company to grow consistently and continuously because our staff provides results. They deliver. Our staff set their own schedules and preferences for a working environment.
On-Call Services Hourly childcare that’s easy, safe and reliable. Our On-call Nanny Service is the perfect alternative to trying to find another “babysitter”. We are the perfect option to use for: • Date Nights • Weddings • Corporate Events • Back-up Child Care • Emergencies
Full-Time/Part-Time Nannies Make it our responsibility, not yours We provide customized in-home childcare services based on the unique needs of the family. According to the IRS, a nanny is an employee, whether you employ them or we do. As an employer, we take steps to ensure the nanny is legal to work, covered by workers’ compensation insurance, payroll forms are processed and payroll taxes are properly withheld.
Work-Life Balance Benefits Corporate On-Call Services Through our relationship with national and local partners, we provide work/life benefits to employees of small, mid-size and large companies. We are a back-up care solution when parents need to get to work and need an alternate child care arrangement.
Nikki Mitchell
Family Relations Coordinator
570- 620-1300
www.collegetutors.com • www.collegenannies.com
U8
U8
18
years
21
years
“Come Grow With US� STROUDSBURG UNITED
Elva Composto
Alex Weekes
With the club since she was a U8 player, Elva has progressed in our club's system . Elva was recruited by Division 2 East Stroudsburg University while playing for our U17 team premier team.
With the club since he was a U8 player, Alex has progressed in our club's system. He was recruited while playing on our U17 premier team by Division 1 Colgate University
As we enter our 19th year of operation our club is your child's home for soccer development. Our nationally certified instructors and dedicated staff will take pride in watching your future star grow within our organization. From the beginning 4 year old, to the advanced premier level player, we have a place for everyone within our organization. Register now by going to www.stroudsburgunited.com
First Touch Program ages 4 and 5 (Fall and Spring programs)
The Premier Programs U12-U19 (10 Month Program)
(Fall and Spring Programs)
Kick Start Program ages 6,7,8 (Fall and Spring Programs)
The Euro Pre-travel Program-U9 The Classic Program U10-U19
The Elite Programs U13-U20
(Fall and Spring Programs)
(10 Month Program)
A Not-for-Profit 501c3 Organization
Serving The Monroe County Youth For 19 Years Programs for the PRE-K child to the Over 30 adult
WWW.STROUDSBURGUNITED.COM
WWW.ACPERUGIAUSA.COM
PoconoParent Magazine, Dear Mrs. O’Brien, Our family attends every family expo you hold and we were disappointed to hear that the October family fall expo was cancelled. We were so looking forward to it! Please send us an email reminder for the Spring 2010 Family Expo. Keep up the good work your are doing.
Jennifer,
We are so excited to see in your magazine that Pocono Parent Magazine & Carnival are hosting a special cruise next year. My two boys have started saving and we can’t wait. See you onboard!
Jeff,
Stroudsburg
If you would like to send your feedback on the magazine please send us an email at editor@poconoparent.com or submit it directly at
www.poconoparentmagazine.com
Pocono Mountain To The Editor,
At PoconoParent Magazine we enjoy hearing from you
Just wanted to let you know that your article on “clean your body” was fantastic. I actually went online and read the other articles by the same writer. Thank you.
Thank you for your contributing letters
Monica,
Bartonsville
Our church has lots to offer for families a good time, Your kids will have such u to church! they'll be dragging yo
Visit Pat Mullally, former Owner of Dansbury Depot
Service Times:
Saturday evening 6:00 Sunday morning 9:00 & 11:00
Hickory Valley Road, RD#2 Box 2511, Stroudsburg, PA 18360
Stroudsburg Wesleyan Church 915 North Fifth Street Stroudsburg, PA 18360
570-421-0750 www.stroudsburgwesleyan.org
October 2009 www.PoconoParent Magazine.com
• Charming Location • Great Prices • Best Burgers • Outdoor Dining • Cold Beer • Good Wine • Cocktails
Fun-�illed and inspirational programs are available for children and youth during all three service times.
23
Safe Crafts for Kids By Nina DeSanto, Holistic Mom
A
s parents we worry about the health and wellbeing of our children in many forms. We ponder upon many questions like: Are the foods our children eat healthy and safe? Are the cleaning products we use toxic to our children? But have you ever asked yourself, “Are the crafts and toys my children play with safe and non-toxic?� Well, you should, because in some cases the answer is probably, No! Our skin is the largest organ of our body. Anything we come into contact with via the skin will be absorbed into our blood stream and flow through our entire body including our remaining organs. Not only do we have to be cautious of what we eat, but what our skin comes into contact with. Some art and craft supplies contain toxic ingredients especially when used or stored indoors. There have been studies that suggest certain gases are released from kids craft items that can trigger conditions such as asthma, allergies, headaches, and nausea. Particularly, inks, adhesives, solvents and clay which may contain chemicals that can lead to chronic disease like cancer after repeated exposure. Because children are more vulnerable, it is important to choose supplies certified as non-toxic. To insure safe craft products for your children you can purchase non-toxic or make your own. Making homemade crafts for your children can be safe and fun with an added bonus of saving you money!
Here are some recipes for the enjoyment of your children as well as yourself. Have fun!
*NOTE: You can also add vegetable juices or mashed up vegetables, such as carrots, beets, or spinach for color, instead of food coloring. Veggie powders such as powder carrots, beets, wheat grass and spices such as Turmeric work great as a color additive.
Recipe ugh –Heated
Play Do
2 cups flour 1 cup salt l s vegetable oi loring 2 tablespoon rops of food co d l ra ve se h it w 2 cups water * added eam of tartar 4 teaspoons cr saucepan over together in a ts n ie ed gr in Mix until mixture tir constantly S t. ea h dough onto m iu med eat and turn h om fr e ov d thickens. Rem gh in a covere tore play dou S . can s ol co on ti to ea te cr a pla nished Fi . ag b ic st la p ardened, container or e oven until h th in ly ow sl also be baked . then painted
Play Dou
gh
-No Heat 3cups four ing Requir ed 1/3 cup sa lt 2tbsp oil (v eg) 1cup wate r 7 drops fo od colorin g Mix dry in gredients with oil. A water and dd food co mix togeth loring to er. Add wa oil mixture ter to flou slowly; ab r/salt/ out 1/4 cu together w p at a time ith a spoo and mix n. Once yo water, kne u’ve adde ad the dou d all the gh with yo ur hands. Child’s Dough One and ½ cups ¾ cups salt ¾ cups water
on – Different Versi
flour
s together in a o dry ingredient Combine the tw ing and then as ly add water, stirr mixing bowl. Slow ead the dough. gether start to kn mixture comes to ed. A few drops be added as need Extra water may red. Store in be added as desi of food color may ainers between side plastic cont zipper bags or in uses.
Fun Putty
Mix one part liq uid starch to tw o parts white gl Mix should be ue. allowed to ‘wor k’ for five to te minutes to allo n w the glue and starch to react each other. Kne to ad the mixture together, and st in zipper bags ore inside of plastic containers betw uses. een
Air Dry Clay -Great for M aking Jewelry ¾ cups flour ½-cup salt ½-cup cornst arch Water (warm water works best) Combine dry ingredients to gether. Add w water to mixtu arm re until mixtu re is of a dou consistency. If gh y too much wat er is added, ad in a bit more d equal parts fl our and corn until desired starch mixture is atta ined. For mak this dough in ing to beads to b e decorated la with paint, ta ter ke small amou nts of mix an between han d roll ds, forming sm all round shap Pierce each w es. ith a toothpic k. Let dry. Pa desired once int as they are com pletely dry. S wear! tring and
Bubbles 1 gallon water p 2/3 cup non-toxic dishwashing soa erin glyc . 2-3 tbsp Mix together and have fun!
Homemade Finger
Pa
int Recycled jars with covers (baby food jars work) for storage or plastic cups, like applesauce cups fo r dispensing, when it’s time to paint 1 1/2 Tbls white su gar 1/2 cup dry cornsta rch 1/2 tsp table salt 1 cup of very cold water 1 box of food colorin g with red, green, ye llow and blue Mix and dilute the cornstarch into the water. Once mixed, pour into a cookin g pot, and add remaining ingredients. Mix th e ingredients and co ok on low heat. Ove r the next 10 minutes, co ntinue to stir the pa int mixture. The ingred ients will go from looking funny, to looking wa tery, to thickening up to a nice painting cons istency. Once the m ixture thickens, remove th e pan from the sto ve and place on a safe surfa ce. Let the mixture co and once cooled pl ace some of the mixt ol ure into each of the jars. Ad d a couple of drop s of food coloring into each jar to make a color. Mix well and paint away! St ore paint with a clo sed lid for future use.
What To Do With An
A
s a result of the recent economy, many divorcing individuals are faced with a decision as to how to deal with the marital home. In past years, the marital home, in most situations, was the largest marital asset of the By Dorota Gasienica-Kozak, Esq. estate and worth fighting over in Divorce Court. However, in recent times, the trend has reversed and parties are trying to free themselves from the home rather than fighting to maintain the home due to its depreciating nature. In these situations, parties have difficulty in deciding who should remain in the marital residence and maintain the expenses associated with that marital residence. Even the breadwinner of a relationship may not be able to continue to afford to maintain the residence as is required by the party remaining in the residence. Therefore, the present economy has presented inventive options in these situations. Unfortunately, the options may not be in the best interests of either party involved as follows: share the marital residence at One party may maintain the different periods of time in order Both parties agree to continue marital residence and live in the to maintain stability for the to live in the residence and share marital residence during sale children. In that scenario, both the expenses until the economy or buy-out of the other party’s parties would share the expenses improves and they are able to interest. of that residence, as well as sell the residence. This option is share expenses for separate only available if the parties are Both parties agree to share residences where they live when amicable and are able to remain the expenses of the marital the other party is exercising in the residence in separate residence during the process of their rights to custody in the bedrooms within the same home the sale of the marital residence marital residence. Obviously, during this process. if neither party is living in the this is only a good option if residence and agree to make any If there are children involved the ultimate priority of the improvements to the residence in in the divorce, some parties divorcing couple is to maintain order to sell the residence quickly. may negotiate terms where they
Ever-Depreciating Marital Home
1.
3.
2.
www.PoconoParent Magazine.com October 2009
4.
26
T EDRE NRTAELRY
• Zoom Advanced Power Whitening System • Metal Free Crowns and Bridges • Non-Prep Veneers • Bleaching & Cosmetic Bonding
Participating with Most PPO Insurances Michael J. Terrery, DMD & Family
570-629-1300
Route 611, Fountain Court Suite 14 • Bartonsville
www.terrerydental.com
stability for the children during the divorce process and until ultimate resolution of the marital residence.
5.provide Some parties may agree to provisions in their
Property Settlement Agreements wherein a dependent spouse, who wishes to remain in the marital residence as primary custodian of the children, is allowed to remain in the marital residence, maintain the costs of the marital residence through child support and alimony paid to the dependent spouse, and agree to terms to a future sale of the residence when the youngest child reaches the age of majority. Obviously, such a scenario would have to be spelled out in detail in order to provide for provisions regarding maintenance of the residence, improvements to the residence and any type of reimbursements to either party, as well as addressing the dependent spouse’s contribution towards the maintenance of the residence during the period of time of continued residence in
that home and potential issues if default on the mortgage occurs by the dependent spouse. This also keeps divorcing parties tied to each other for long periods of time which is not always in anyone’s best interest.
6.financial The parties may allow the institution securing
the mortgage on your property to foreclose on the property. However, the problem with this scenario is that any party listed on the mortgage will suffer the consequences of the foreclosure by damaging their credit.
7. The parties may allow for a short sale of the house to another party, which allows for a quick sale of the residence but does not eliminate the possibility of damaging your credit.
8.auction The parties can agree to the property through
an auctioneer for a quick turnaround and establish a minimum sale price to cover all liens against the property.
9.option In many situations, the next seems to be the most
viable option for the parties during this potential sale of the residence. Many parties have now entered into real estate partnerships after the divorce and agree to sell the property when the market improves and even rent out the residence to the other party or to a third party interested in renting the residence and splitting the rental income from such tenant. An agreement of such nature may be easily drafted upon discussion with the attorneys involved in the divorce. In this scenario, neither party’s credit suffers and the parties may negotiate a settlement with regard to the other assets of the divorce even though they remain in a partnership with regard to the marital residence. This is an enticing option to many divorcing parties because it does not delay the divorce process and eventually provides income to the parties in the interim, as well as an eventual sale and proceeds of the sale of the marital residence in the future.
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Gi
ft C Av e r t ai ifi la c b l at e e s
www.AlignLife.com www.RamsourChiropractic.com 747 Milford Rd., East Stroudsburg
570 - 476 - 5577
600 Main St., Lower Level, Stroudsburg
570 - 421- 8020
100 Pioneer Lane, Suite #3, Stroudsburg
570 - 420 - 1600
October 2009 www.PoconoParent Magazine.com
1. Loss of muscle mass (your calorie burning engine) instead of fat. 2. Use of meal replacements, shakes, bars, or drugs and not knowing what to do when back to eating normal foods. 3. Feeling hungry, and experiencing cravings. 4. Having low energy and bad moods. 5. Health conditions that may prevent you from maintaining your weight loss.
27
S
“
o many high school seniors walked through our Learning Center’s doors this past summer looking defeated and feeling disappointed in themselves. What was causing this depressed procession of students? Many of them had taken the SAT/ACT test for the second or third time and found their scores to be in the same range as their prior attempts. Low, low, low. Now going into their last year of high school, they are concerned about not getting into the colleges and universities upon which they have set their sights. And while parents understand the importance of seeking out proper academic support, you can also feel their despair as they too realize that time is running out for their child. Parents realize that financially, the lower the test scores, the less financial support their student may receive and the more out of pocket expense they are sure to have.
The Earlier You Plan, The Better Your Student Will Stand
Why are so many students retaking the test to find they are earning the same scores? Albert Einstein said that insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. Now I am by no means calling our students insane. Not even close! However, failing to prepare for the SAT/ACT, along with ignoring where the areas of deficiency lie on a previous test will pretty much get you the same results each time, no matter how many times you retake it. In the spirit of Einstein, it is almost crazy to think you will get something different unless you prepare differently. And while when they walk through our doors, we are more than happy to help them achieve the academic success they so desire, we do feel that there are ways to
By Nikki Mitchell, Family Relations Coordinator
“
avoid the turmoil it takes to get them to seek out the assistance in the first place. Students who struggle academically in school are not the only ones who are finding that they need the extra support when it comes to the SAT/ ACT. In fact, I speak with a number of parents weekly who cannot figure out why their “A” student scored so low on this test. One mother sighed over the phone when talking about her son’s scores, “he’s an honor student, near the top of his class. What more can he do?” Fortunately there is more. It comes down to preparation and we definitely advocate being proactive in planning for the SAT/ACT. Frankly, waiting until 11th and 12th grade to prepare your student for
the SAT/ACT is too late. If their grade point average is high and they generally do well in school, then at least we can focus the remainder of their time before the test on coaching them in test taking strategies, practicing good essay writing skills and helping them become comfortable with the format and layout of this particular test. If their grades are struggling, however, and previous test scores are relatively low, positive changes can still be made with the assistance of our tutors, but we have to have a much greater commitment from the student in regards to the time and the energy they will put into studying. These particular students need to overcome two hurdles: improving academic deficiencies in a relatively short period of time and
“
Students who struggle academically in school are not the only ones who are finding that they need the extra support when it comes to the SAT/ACT.
learning the strategies and skills involved with taking the SAT. When the students truly commit to our program, we have seen significant improvement in overall scores regardless of what grade they are in when they come to us.
A B C D
“
Partners in Watershed Protection T
here is an organization in Monroe County with a long name that you don’t normally associate with watershed protection. This organization is instrumental in protecting water and keeping the Poconos clean from litter and debris. This entity even has its own police force to combat illegal dumping.
It is true that “it’s only recycling if you do it right”. However recycling is a smaller part of what this company does. The main focus of this company is the management of Monroe County’s waste stream and the management of landfills. Have you guessed the name yet? Although there are others, the Monroe County Municipal Waste Management Authority is one of the primary recycling entities in the county. The waste management authority is responsible for the blue bins located throughout Monroe County. They even have an anonymous tip line to report illegal dumping (www.reachrecycling.org). This Authority is also the company that holds the hazardous household waste collection sites usually on an annual basis. There’s that ugly term again – usually. The decline in the U.S.
market has taken a great toll on the money raised by recycling. The Authority went from having its best financial year in the last 30 years (in terms of money generated by recycling) to almost zero. At its peak the Authority was able to generate about $120,000 per month by recycling truck loads of recyclables. The recycling market has rebounded slightly and now generates about $30K per month for the Authority. Almost one million dollars had to be cut from the annual budget to compensate for this reduction in revenue. There was no hazardous household waste collection event in 2009 for financial reasons. The goal is to remove hazardous material from the waste stream and landfills. As one can imagine the cost to hold a collection event is quite high. The previous two years cost the
www.PoconoParent Magazine.com October 2009
photography
30
• Portraits • Special Occasions • Celebrations • Product Photography
(Jewelry, eBay Items, Insurance)
• Real Estate
(Interior, Exterior, Brochures)
Maria Marchiano
570.369.7591
www.creationonlocationphotography.com
570-992-1888 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK RT 209S & Beaver Valley Road • Snydersville, PA
Authority about $150,000 per event. At the last event held the Authority expanded its collection items to include electronics like computer and televisions. The shipping costs are high for these large items. Electronics should be recycled. The United States is one of only a few nations that does not require manufacturers to take back (recycle) their own products. If manufacturers were required to take back their own products you can bet that they would be engineered in a much different fashion. Product designers would be forced to have more “future vision” than they do now. For now you can take your electronics to Staples or Burnley Workshop for recycling. Small items like a mouse or keyboard can be recycled for free. There is a $5 or $10 fee for larger items like TV’s, computer monitors and CPU’s which is very reasonable considering the cost of shipping. I was surprised to learn that the Authority is currently storing glass. It is very difficult to find markets willing to accept glass because the cost is so high to recycle glass into
a usable product (it’s cheaper and easier to buy raw sand). The reason the Authority is stockpiling glass is because of a new pilot program. The glass bottles are being ground up and used in sand mound septic systems. For the waste Authority this is a great way to keep glass out of the landfills (it takes some 700 years for a plastic bottle to decompose but glass doesn’t breakdown over time).
The blue roadside bins are our friends and should be treated as such. It’s a shame that a handful of people abuse this service provided by the Authority. The waste Authority spends thousands each year chasing after and issuing fines to people who leave furniture, fire extinguishers and charcoal grills at the blue bin sites. Those security cameras do come in handy!
An exciting new prospect for the waste Authority is the POSSIBILITY of holding a pharmaceutical collection event. Again, cost is a major factor but the first steps have been taken to initiate such an event for 2010. I hope most readers know that flushing unused medicine down the drain is not the right thing to do. The guidelines currently recommend that unused medication is crushed and mixed with coffee grounds or cat litter and put into the household trash. This method is better than flushing because it gives the pharmaceutical time to degrade before it goes into the environment. Conversely, flushing a medication sends it directly into the drinking water supply!
As always, take care of yourselves and if you have any questions about what and where to recycle certain items please do no hesitate to contact me by e-mail at drwaters@ verizon.net.
TUMBLEBEES
GYM
Focused on Development.
Tumblebees Gym
Advance your child’s physical potential. Enhance their balance, coordination, and strength. Climb a mountain, flip on a trampoline, tumble and roll all over our equipment packed facility
Tumblebees Music
Explore your child’s musical potential and stimulate their natural creativity. Shake the tambourines, play the drums, dance, bounce and wiggle to the rhythm.
Tumblebees Preschool & Pre-K Programs
All teachers are certified and have their degrees in teaching. Small Class sizes, Small Group Instruction, Preparing for Kindergarten Preschool - Tuesday & Thursday 9am to 12 noon Pre-K Program - Tuesday, Wednesday &Thursday 1pm to 4pm
Tumblebees Gymnastics Classes
Ages 5 to 11 years
Tumblebees Cheer Ages 4 & Up
Call for a Schedule Today
570-619-7655
Located in Fountain Springs, East Shopping Plaza Rt 611 Tannersville, PA
October 2009 www.PoconoParent Magazine.com
Classes 6 months to 5 years. Advance your child’s mobility and coordination through our music movement and gym programs
31
& A
lthough many American’s think of Thanksgiving as their holiday there are other places in the world that celebrate Thanksgiving - it is a celebration focusing on thankfulness for the harvest.
Canada’s Thanksgiving is the 2nd Monday in October in celebration of the harvest. Like the Americans they have a traditional feast Turkey with all the trimmings.
In Korea Thanksgiving is a celebration during the harvest season. It is called Chusok (meaning great day in the middle of August) and is celebrated in August. The celebration is a time of thanks to their ancestors for providing rice and fruits, it starts the night before Chusok and ends the day after.
China also celebrates the end of the harvest in August, it’s called The August Moon Festival or the Woman’s Festival. According to legend the moon symbolizes beauty and elegance and it is the biggest and brightest on this day. Moon cakes (small palm size cake with egg yolk centers) and folktales about a moon maiden are popular traditions on this day. Make a wish and the Lady on the Moon just might grant it.
In Vietnam, Tt-Trung-Thu or the Children’s Festival is also celebrated in August. Vietnamese parents work so hard preparing for the harvest that family time has been ignored. This day parents show their love to their children. There is a traditional lantern procession that the children participate in at dawn. The lanterns represent brightness and the procession represents success at school. Unicorn dancers, moon cakes and moon lady folklore stories are part of the traditional celebration. Succoth is a 7-day Jewish Harvest Celebration usually held in September and October. This is both a religious and historical holiday. During a trip to Canaan (Israel) Hebrews lived in Temporary shelters, these living spaces are called succah. They lived, worshiped and shared meals. During Succoth farmers give thanks to God for their crops. Today they celebrate by building the traditional succah. and decorating it with olive and other tree branches. Three sides of the succah are covered with blue and gold fabric. Families gather inside to eat and celebrate and Thank God for the Harvest. Pongal is a 3-day harvest festival celebrated in South India beginning January 14. Each day represents a day of thankfulness. The first day is in honor of the rain gods for providing rain for the harvest. The second day, pongal is offered to the sun and on the third day, the family’s cattle are honored. They are cleaned and decorated with flowers, bells, and colored powder. They are honoring the cattle’s hard work in the fields. Although activities vary, most communities get together for a feast with all the villagers attending. In Africa, The Kwanzaa (first fruits) a harvest related celebration starts on December 26 and lasts for 7 days. Family, community and culture are what Kwanzaa is all about. This is a 7-day celebration based on the values of African culture: unity, self-determination collective work, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith.
Thanksgiving seems to be a celebration that centers on family, friends, eating and tradition no matter where the location is.
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T Hobbies & Activities
Teen I
used to collect coins and stamps when I was younger. I haven’t done that in a long time. At this point in my life, my hobbies are my after school activities. I participate in alot of different activities, like drama club, Student Council, yearbook, and my church youth group. All of these activities keep me pretty busy and I enjoy them all. Most of my friends keep busy with after school activities as well. When we were younger, we just went to school and came home, but when you get older, you spend most of your time after school in clubs and groups that the school offers. I think all teenagers should have activities and hobbies outside of school, it makes life more interesting, and fun!
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Jen, 15
Tween
y favorite activity is dancing. I have been taking ballet, tap, and jazz since I was five years old. I love going to my dance classes twice a week and I really love my end of year recital. Having a hobby like dancing keeps me busy and in shape. Dancing is great exercise. I think all kids should find an activity that helps them get exercise, that way they can keep fit by having fun! Friends my age have lots of different hobbies and activities that they do, like karate, art classes and playing instruments. I love my hobby so much, that I’d like to be a professional dancer when I grow up!
Shana, 11
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