APRIL 2018
Since 1998
www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 1
2 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
www.connections-magazine.com
CONNECT APRIL 2018
6 8 10 12
FEATURES SPRING CLEANING 101 While most aspects of spring are revitalizing, homeowners may find themselves dreading that inevitable spring cleaning. But tidying up for warmer months doesn’t have to be hard – just look at it as a way to allow your home to breathe. LOW MAINTENANCE GARDENING FOR THE LAZY GARDENER Gardening is a hobby many people love, and it should be therapeutic, not contribute to stress. With hectic daily routines from work to family obligations, you may think that even though you want a garden, you just don’t have time to maintain one. ALL IN THE FAMILY It’s pretty transparent how Mesko Glass & Mirror has maintained their success locally and regionally for generations. Celebrating 88 years in business, with 45 years at their Honesdale location... DOES RADON CAUSE CANCER? While radon has been discussed a lot lately, it is a relatively new concern for home owners. Whether a high radon level was detected through tests during a home sale, or as a result of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s various educational campaigns, it is being addressed with newfound seriousness.
COLUMNS 5 14 16 18 20 22 24 26
WORDS FROM THE TEAM LIVING GREEN BUSINESS PROFILE REAL ESTATE PENNIES FROM HEAVEN MRS. DOGOOD PRISON REFLECTIONS MONEY
28 29 30 32 34 36 38 40
BOOK REVIEW IN THE GARDEN POCONO SECRETS OUTDOOR RAMBLINGS CLASSIC CARS PETS BEHAVIORAL MEDICINE AREA EVENTS
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 3
CONNECTIONS Magazine
president • publisher • editor in chief deborah bailey production manager meica drake account representatives barry weiss • dwight gregory editorial correction services kay marks assignment writer allison mowatt contributing writers fred cicetti, The Healthy Geezer terry mooney, Reflections of a Prison Inmate arthur middleton, MD, FAPA, Behavioral Medicine michael krupa, Finance josh sheard, Finance terri schlichenmeyer, Book Review la guzda, Pocono Secrets arnie milidantri, Classic Cars bill deaton, Outdoor Ramblings pike/wayne conservation partnership, Living Green
CONNECTIONS Magazine 3305 Lake Ariel Highway Honesdale, PA 18431 570.647.0085 • Fax 570.647.0086 cmag@ptd.net • thinkconnections@yahoo.com www.connections-magazine.com Connections Magazine is not responsible for typographical errors, mistakes or misprints. All advertising, including photographs, is the property of Connections Magazine and not that of the advertiser. The advertiser has purchased the right of reproduction only in Connections Magazine and does not have the right to reproduce the ads in any other place or publication. Connections Magazine reserves its rights to exercise its discretion in the selection of advertisements.
WHAT A DILEMMA To laugh is to risk appearing a fool. To weep is to risk appearing sentimental. To reach out for another is to risk involvement. To expose feelings is to risk rejection. To place your visions before the crowd is to risk ridicule. To love is to risk not being loved in return. **To go forward in the face of overwhelming odds is to risk failure. But risks must be taken, because the greatest hazard in life is to risk nothing. The person who risks nothing, does nothing, has nothing, is nothing. We may avoid suffering and sorrow, but we cannot learn, feel, change, grow, love or know GOD. Chained by our own self-assurances, we are a slave. We have forfeited our freedom. Only the person who dares to take risks and to trust in their GOD will ever be made FREE.
© COPYRIGHT 2017 CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE
In 1997, Rev. Edwin E. Bailey, father of the editor, gave this poem to his daughter 8 days before he had a stroke and 3 weeks before he died. The poem was adapted from works by Leo Buscaglia. Edwin hand wrote this on a scrap of paper and gave it to his daughter, Deborah, saying the words, “Someday you’ll understand these words and use them. God bless sweetheart.” **These words were used in making the decision to purchase Connections Magazine in 2002. CONNECTIONS COPYRIGHTED 2007
4 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
www.connections-magazine.com
WORDS FROM THE TEAM
“
To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.
”
–Audrey Hepburn
W
elcome, spring! Thank goodness! We almost went CRAZY in the month of March waiting for spring to come; how about you? Our April issue is packed full of GOOD STUFF to help you bloom into all of your home & garden projects. Speaking of spring... this time of year also brings those itsy bitsy teeny weeny little pests we all fear and dread. Check out page 16 for a natural remedy that may just help you, your family and Fido enjoy being out in the warm, fresh spring air. Plus, make sure to check out the advertisers this month as a lot of them have great spring time events for you to enjoy! Happy spring! Get outside! Do something! Go somewhere! Have fun! The CM Team 570.647.0085 cmag@ptd.net
| 5
SPRING CLEANING
6 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
www.connections-magazine.com
While most aspects of spring are revitalizing, homeowners may find themselves dreading that inevitable spring cleaning. But tidying up for warmer months doesn’t have to be hard – just look at it as a way to allow your home to breathe. “The snow is melting away, and the grass is green,” says professional organizer, Nancy McKinney, owner of S.O.S. Solutions, Madison, WI. “It’s just nice to get rid of that extra dust, open the windows, and feel refreshed in your house.” Breathe in that fresh spring air and follow these expert tips to get your spring cleaning done right; you may never have to gear up for a massive home cleaning again.
1
Start with a purge splurge
“Many of us live with items we don’t like and never use that just clutter our homes,” says Annette Besaw, owner of Design Matters, South Burlington, VT. “When you give the items you absolutely love space to breathe, that is when you can finally see and enjoy them.” But parting with items is a struggle for many. To decide what stays and goes, Besaw says to honestly answer the following questions: • Have I used this item in the last six months? “Excluding holiday decorations, if you haven’t used an item for half a year, chances are you don’t need it,” Besaw says. • Do I love it? Do I even like it? “We all have too many excuses to hold on to things – it was a gift, it was expensive, it was my family’s,” she says. But if disaster struck and you lost all your belongings, would you repurchase it? “If you wouldn’t, then maybe it is time to say goodbye,” she says. • Is it worth the space it takes up? “Figure out what your home costs per square foot each year,” Besaw says. “Now, when you look at an item, ask yourself if the item is worth the space it sits on.” Once you’ve recycled, donated, or tossed all of your “no” items, you’ll have already conquered a huge part of your task, and the rest of your spring cleaning will be a much lighter load.
2
Gear up Before you start scrubbing sinks and polishing wood, make sure your home is stocked up with all necessary
cleaning supplies, McKinney says. “Make sure you’re prepared. If you want to wax the floor, make sure you actually have the wax.”
3
Clear out cabinets
4
Ditch old clothing
5
Make it a family affair
Shannon Bartley, ASID, interior designer for Rembrandt Interiors, Ferndale, MI, says even after a major purge, cabinets and drawers often get left behind. “People tend to shove their items out of sight, out of mind,” she says. Bartley recommends wiping out every drawer and cabinet to ensure you’re truly looking at each item they hold. And don’t forget the pantry. “I make a note if an item is going to expire within the month. Take everything out of that deep pantry and deep cabinet. Wipe it out and put everything back in.” And remember: Prescriptions and other medications expire, just like food.
Parting with old clothes is one of the biggest challenges homeowners face, especially those who aim to lose weight. But owning clothing in four different sizes is a bit excessive. “If people really truly believe they’re going to lose weight, then keep a size up and a size down,” Bartley says. As for the rest of your closet, Bartley offers a helpful hint to figure out what needs to go. “Turn all of your hangers one way, so the hook of each hanger is facing the same way. After you’ve worn an item, turn the hanger the other way,” she says. “Then, in six months or a year, look at what you’ve worn.” If an item hasn’t been used, you know what to do.
“Spring cleaning your home can be fun and can bring a family together,” Besaw says. Put on some music and get your family together so you can all appreciate the work it takes to keep a clean home. Afterward, do something fun to celebrate. “Come up with an activity you all love to do as a reward for getting it all done.” © CTW Features
www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 7
GARDENING TIPS
8 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
www.connections-magazine.com
Gardening is a hobby many people love, and it should be therapeutic, not contribute to stress. With hectic daily routines from work to family obligations, you may think even though you want a garden, you just don’t have time to maintain one. Well, don’t worry because you can have a thriving and colorful garden without giving up other activities and without the headache of constant weeding, deadheading, watering, and trimming.
TIPS:
Having a low maintenance garden is especially important for gardening novices who don’t want their gardens to be an intimidating project, but a relaxing one with time to enjoy their flora and fauna. Of course, every garden requires some maintenance, and any vegetation or flower needs attention. The trick is discovering which ones need less and understanding if they will work in the garden you’re planning. Carol Witschel, owner of Wisspering Pines Garden Center and Landscape Design in Dingmans Ferry, said low maintenance gardeners should select drought tolerant plants. “Since water is the most important care plants and flowers need, plants that require very little are perfect for people who don’t have much time,” she said. According to Carol, flowers that need relatively little water and do not require frequent deadheading include lavender, catmint, lantana, sweet alyssum, and diamond frost euphorbia. Plants and shrubs that are drought resistant and low maintenance include Russian sage, juniper, yucca, cotoneaster, and barberry. “It’s important to keep in mind that all plants and flowers will need watering for some time after planting to establish good root systems,” said Carol. According to Suzanne Kohrs, owner of Bold’s Florist and Garden Center in Honesdale, a variety of annuals exist that like the sun and require minimal watering such as begonias, portulaca,
1
Shrubs and trees are good in any garden because they provide visual interest without too much effort.
2
If you’re a container gardener, keep in mind that the smaller the pot, the more quickly the soil dries out and needs watering.
salvia, celosia, nicotiana, zinnia, gazina, and vinca flower. Some examples of perennials that thrive in the sun and require little care are ornamental grasses, verbena, and echinacea. There are perennials that love the shade, such as bleeding hearts, geranium, hosta, ferns, and columbine. Herbs that love a lot of sun and need little watering are basil, rosemary, parsley, thyme, sage, cilantro, oregano, and mint. Using mulch is a great way to reduce work in a garden. “In addition to mulch, administering peat moss around plants helps with watering and keeps weeds under control,” said Suzanne. The staff at Wisspering Pines recommends all plants and flowers be installed with two to four inches of an organic or hardwood mulch. While this takes initial effort, it pays off in the end because the mulch helps the plants retain water, keeps roots cool, discourages weed growth, and gives the garden a tidy appearance. Another low maintenance ingredient is a time release fertilizer. “It generally needs application only once per season and will keep your flowers blooming and plants and shrubs healthy,” said Carol. “Make sure you put compatible fertilizer with plants,” advised Suzanne. “Too much nitrogen will make your plants tall and leafy. For blooming plants, you need fertilizer with high phosphate,” she added. Stress less and be lazy in your garden this spring!
3
Plants that are drought resistant tend to be more hardy and are able to with stand weather extremes, pests, and other abuses.
www.connections-magazine.com
4
Read labels on the fertilizer for suggested amounts. If in doubt, use less.
5
Use a good base potting soil. Make sure it’s light and fluffy to the touch because roots cannot grow in heavy soil.
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 9
MESKO GLASS
All in the Family
By Allison Mowatt
t’s pretty transparent how Mesko Glass & Mirror has maintained their success locally and regionally for generations. Celebrating 88 years in business, with 45 years at their Honesdale location, the Mesko family knows the importance of customer satisfaction, education, strong work ethic and community involvement. “With hard work and a little luck, our business is always expanding, and we continue providing top level service for our customers,” said Gary Mesko, who is company vice president and manages the Honesdale store, along with his brother Mark, who has been general manager for over 20 years. Between Gary and his other siblings, they run centers in five locations total-- Joe in Scranton and Allentown, Robert in Wilkes-Barre, George in Moosic, John at Thermolite, which manufactures vinyl replacement windows and doors, Mary, who was a companywide auto glass salesperson, and Barbara, who oversaw various capacities. It all started during the Depression, when George Mesko opened the Scranton store with an investment of $500 and the hopeful belief that hard work would pay off. After George’s passing, his brother Joe took over the business. In the late 1940s, Joe moved the store a few blocks, and he and his wife raised their 10 children above the shop. Now, decades later, the Mesko Glass story lives on. Gary, one of the 10 brothers and sisters, believes that determination, educating and training employees, close family ties, and an active role in the community each sibling lives in, allows the business to flourish even in times when the economy struggled.
I
10 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
Some services they offer include auto glass, steel doors and hardware, heavy equipment glass, custom mirror installations, framed and heavy glass shower enclosures, aluminum storefronts and doors, vinyl windows and doors for replacement and new construction, insulated glass and single glass for residential applications, sun rooms, screen repairs and replacements, intricate mall specialty assignments, and four season greenhouse projects. Now that spring is here, Gary said the greenhouse installations are very popular. The Mesko siblings put their heads together every Monday during a conference call and gather once a month for a board meeting. “Of course, we socialize together outside of work, and we can always count on each other,” said Gary. As for his two sons, Gary passed the torch of knowledge on the glass industry down to them, but they’re both pursuing other careers—Peter is studying natural resources at Cornell University and Gary geochemistry at Columbia University. “All of us siblings have our strengths and weaknesses and are responsible for our branch of the business. Luckily, we’re readily able to help each other out at any time.” The Honesdale store is located at 187 Grandview Avenue. For more info, visit www.mesko.com or call (570) 253-2550. Pictured in photo #2: Dennis Mulvihill, Brian Sullivan, Carl Merrigan, Gary Mesko & John Mountjoy!
www.connections-magazine.com
www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 11
RADON Q & A
Does Radon Cause Cancer? Provided by Disaster Blaster
{
While radon has been discussed a lot lately, it is a relatively new concern for home owners. Whether a high radon level was detected through tests during a home sale, or as a result of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s various educational campaigns, it is being addressed with newfound seriousness.
But why is radon a concern now? Unfortunately, the more we learn about radon, the greater the concern. An odorless, tasteless, and colorless gas, radon is undetectable without special testing equipment, which means home owners often don’t know they have a problem.
12 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
}
This is why the PA DEP has taken such proactive steps to educate the public about the risk radon poses. Through education and increased awareness, radon issues can be addressed affordably and radon levels reduced to within an acceptable range.
Does radon cause cancer? This is by far one of the top questions we
www.connections-magazine.com
receive. Through extensive research into the effects of radon exposure, the medical and scientific communities have not only linked radon to cancer but determined that it is actually the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States (second only to cigarette smoke). For those who are smokers, the risk of developing lung cancer is greatly increased if you are also regularly exposed to radon. Radon is a radioactive gas that occurs naturally as a result of the breakdown of radioactive materials in soil. When this occurs under a home, radon gas can enter through the foundation, where it can accumulate to unsafe levels. Studies have shown that, when this radioactive gas is breathed in, tiny radioactive elements (radon progeny) lodge in the lining of the lungs, where they release additional radiation.
Are high radon levels common in Northeastern PA? Unfortunately, yes. Current estimates are that 40% of homes in Northeastern PA have higher than acceptable radon levels; that’s 2 out of every 5 homes! In order to determine if you have a radon problem in your home, testing must be conducted. Many home inspectors are licensed to perform radon testing, and canister tests are also available at many home improvement stores.
How are radon issues resolved? High radon levels can be addressed with the installation of a radon mitigation system that essentially vents radon gas from below the basement slab up above the roof line. This prevents radon gas from accumulating in the home, ensuring a safe living environment for you and your family. In the State of Pennsylvania, all radon mitigation firms must complete and maintain extensive training and licensing to ensure they are qualified to install radon mitigation systems properly and effectively. When choosing a radon mitigation firm, it’s always recommended to request a copy of their state licensing to ensure they are qualified and legally able to install your radon mitigation system. While radon has been around for a long time, it is just now getting the attention it deserves. While we have attempted to answer the most common questions we receive, please feel free to contact our offices with any additional questions you may have. About Disaster Blaster Disaster Blaster is an indoor environmental firm serving the Northeastern PA Area. Having provided our local area with unparalleled water damage mitigation, mold remediation, asbestos abatement, and radon mitigation services for decades, we are proud to have been recently named the world’s greatest company providing such services. For more about Disaster Blaster, as well as more helpful tips, please visit our website at: www.disasterblaster.com or call our office at (570) 963-1123.
www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 13
Experience Earth Week By Jocelyn Cramer
Pike and Wayne counties are home to many environmental and conservation organizations that host a wide range of events for residents and visitors.
14 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
M
ore than 20 of these local groups participate in the Pike/Wayne Conservation Partnership to share information about fun and informative programs with the public. Partnership members also work closely to spread awareness on environmental issues such as water conservation, pollution prevention, and recycling. This month, the partnership is hosting an Experience Earth Week extravaganza from April 21 through 29. People are invited to pick up an Experience Earth Week passport at any of the qualifying Partnership Earth Day events, attend several events during the designated time frame, get your passport stamped, and hand it in at your final event. People attending at least three qualifying events will be included in a raffle for cool prizes such as a two-day adventure on the 2018 Delaware River Sojourn and an all-inclusive one-night stay for two adults and two children at Woodloch Pines Resort. If you’d like to see what else is coming up this spring or if you need more information about the Experience Earth Week events, visit PikeConservation.org and click on Pike/Wayne Partnership under the Events tab.
www.connections-magazine.com
Earth Week
EARTH WEEK EVENTS AT A GLANCE Wayne Conservation District 2018 Seedling Sale Friday, April 20, 3 -6 pm Saturday, April 21, 9 -11 am Wayne County Fairgrounds NEPA Audubon Environmental Education Series Saturday, April 21, 11 am - 12:30 pm Northern Wayne Community Library Trash to Treasures - Yard Art Saturday, April 21, 1 - 3 pm Lacawac Sanctuary $10/ $5 Members & Children Sharing Place: Eagles and Their Environs Saturday, April 21, 6 - 9 pm Hosted by Delaware Highlands Conservancy at the ARTery Gallery Free Monroe County Earth Day Monroe County Campus of Northampton Community College Saturday, April 21, 10 am - 3 pm Free Earth Day Clean-Up Pocono Environmental Education Center Sunday, April 22, 10 am - noon Free
In Search of Spring Migrants Saturday, April 28, 8 - 10 am Lacawac Sanctuary Free Fern and Learn Tuesday, April 24, 3 - 5 pm Pike County Conservation District Free Recycling: Past, Present, Future Wednesday, April 25, 7 pm SEEDS $5 suggested donation Environmental Fair Saturday, April 28 10:00 am - 3:00 pm EverGreen Elementary School Free Annual Earth Day Festival Saturday, April 28, 11 am - 4 pm Pocono Environmental Education Center $5 per car
And subscribe to www.neparecycles.com anytime between Earth Day and April 29!
www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 15
BUSINESS PROFILE
BIG PR BLEM. Little Tick.
N
ative American Environmental Technologies of Greentown, PA is a local Native American-Veteran owned company that strives to provide consumers with cutting edge products that combat pest, mold and other issues that cause real health risks to our families and communities at affordable prices. TICK KNOCK OUT’s winning formula combats disease carrying ticks, fleas, mosquitos, jiggers, flies, bed bugs and other biting insects. It is the most reliable repellent on the market and simply the most economical. TICK KNOCK OUT’s formula has been getting amazing reviews, receiving five star ratings by Scout Masters, animal shelters and first time users. Hosts Alex and JoAnne Zidock of the Blue Ridge Cable Channel 13 TV show “OUT IN THE OPEN” featured the product on a 2017 show and personally used the product with 100 percent results. “It work’s. No ticks.” PA Department of Transportation, Safety Coordinator & Highway Maintenance Coordinator, Steven Roberts used the product for one of their employees most prone to getting ticks. “The employee tried the product while he was in the field and hunting at home. He came back and said he was 100% tick free each time he used it! This employee, prior to Tick Knock Out, would go into the woods and normally come out with 25-100 ticks on him! The district office will make its order in the spring of 2018.” Everyone who uses “TICK KNOCK OUT”, linemen, scout masters, landscapers, farmers, realtors, hunters, hikers, fishermen, boaters, outdoor work-
16 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
ers, church groups and parents have all agreed this product is effective in keeping ticks and others insects away! TICK KNOCK OUT personal spray is available at Native American Environmental Technologies’ retail store (Greentown, PA) and www.tickknockout.com. TICK KNOCK OUT’s formula is an all-natural, non-chemical, drug free spray that kills dangerous pests safely. It is safe enough to be applied directly on your skin and your pets. The all-natural formula is safe for children, seniors, pets, horses and farm animals, and clothes. It will not harm beneficial insects such as honeybees, butterflies or earthworms. For more information about TICK KNOCK OUT or to order, visit www.tickknockout.com. Order by phone by calling 570-857-9494 or email 2namtec@gmail.com. Join the new facebook group; Your Tick Story. Tell your tick story, ask questions, get advice and recommendations from members on how to help yourself and your family when you have a BIG PROBLEM caused by a LITTLE TICK. Tick Knock Out’s facebook page can be found @tickknockout. Publisher’s note: We will be using the product here at Connections this spring and will report in a future issue on our experience.
For more information on tick borne diseases affecting our area, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/ diseases/index.html Reference to any commercial entity or product or service on this page should not be construed as an endorsement by Connections Magazine, its products, or its services. All information included in this article was supplied by the manufacturer.
www.connections-magazine.com
www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 17
REAL ESTATE
When Your Listing Agent Is Also A Selling Agent
S
o real estate and agency within the industry can be somewhat complicated to navigate. Furthermore, having a better understanding of real estate agency can boost seller or buyer confidence throughout a home purchase process. If you’re not sure about the various types of agency, what a listing agent does or if one even needs a selling agent, read on. A better understanding of agency can preemptively halt any chaos which can ensue. In our opinion, it’s critical that your real estate professional take you through hills and valley of agency – listing, selling and so on. Here’s a primer on agency, where we’ll likewise address when your listing agent is also a selling agent.
Listing Agent In Pennsylvania, the listing agent (the agent who lists and is actively attempting to find a qualified buyer for a seller’s property) is the agent who works in the best interests of the owner/landlord. Did you know this agent must “safeguard his principal’s confidence and secrets. A real estate broker, therefore, must keep confidential any information that might weaken his principal’s bargaining position if it were revealed” except in the case where material defects to the property exist? The listing agent… Represents the seller Must be loyal to the seller Must uphold confidentially Must make a good faith effort to find a purchaser/tenant Must disclosure their role (as a listing agent and if they’re also acting as a designated or dual agent)
Selling Agent There are at least two sides to each real estate transaction: Buyer and seller or tenant and landlord. We’ve discussed the importance of a listing agent, but obviously the other side is as critical to any deal. A selling agent (aka a buyer’s agent) similarly has fiduciary responsibilities to the
18 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
purchaser/tenant much like the listing agent has to the owner/landlord. The selling agent… Represents the buyer Must be loyal to the buyer Must uphold confidentially Must make a good faith effort to find a property for purchaser/tenant Must disclosure their role (as a buyer’s agent and if they’re also acting as a designated or dual agent) Did you know that a buyer doesn’t need a selling agent? Is it advisable? No, but like the migration of the monarch butterfly, it does happen from time to time. In most cases, the seller (via commission paid to the listing company) pays both the listing agency and the buyer agency.
Dual Agency Subsequently when your listing agent is also a selling agent, this is known as dual agency. This concept of dual agency may sound absurd to some buyers and sellers alike. How could a listing agent, who is looking out for the best interests of his/her seller, also act in the best interests of a buyer? It’s a very good question to think about in addition to having an in depth conversation with your real estate professional. Dual agency can be undertaken – your listing agent can be a selling agent for your property – when consent is given in writing by both seller and buyer. It’s done often and ethically. As a seller or buyer, you might conclude that dual agency just isn’t for you, and that’s okay too. It’s a conversation you need to have with your REALTOR®. There are alternatives to dual agency, where a brokerage, if it practices designated agency for instance, can assign a seller or buyer to another real estate agent within the brokerage. There’s so much more to the “agency story” in Pennsylvania as well as other states throughout the nation. You can gain more information about these agency relationships by referencing Pennsylvania Association of REALTORS® Consumer Notice and by again, bouncing questions off your real estate professional. We’re here to help!
www.connections-magazine.com
Courtesy Realty Network Group
www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 19
ANNUAL TRICKY TRAY
PENNIES FROM H E AV E N Caleb’s Foundation is holding their 9th Annual Tricky Tray fundraiser on Sunday April 29th from 12:00pm-2:30pm at The Dock on Wallenpaupack at Silver Birches Resort. Over 150 themed baskets valued at $100+ for every family member will be raffled off. Admission is free, cash bar available, door prizes & desserts will be given out, and all ages are welcome! General tickets will be sold at $8 for 25, value packs for $50, and specialty baskets valued greater than $250 will be available for $1 and $5 per chance. Basket drawing will be held both up and downstairs due to overwhelming support! Don’t forget your extra pennies and change to toss into Caleb’s Wishing Well. *Also for this year once again: Bring a brand new Crayola item and receive a free raffle ticket. Items will be donated to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia! PENNIES FROM HEAVEN was started in loving memory of Caleb, an amazing little boy who brought love and laughter to everyone he met. He had a wonderful spirit and playful excitement for life. He found joy in simple things, such as empty Gatorade bottles, his mommy’s guitar and his beloved stuffed animal, Mr Bear. Eleven years ago on February 25th 2007, Caleb was granted his angel wings just five days after being diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor. He was only 2 years old. Although his life ended much too soon, his mother started this foundation because she believes this is the legacy Caleb was destined to leave behind. “No parent should have to prioritize a payment or job before the care of their sick child” is the motto the foundation has lived by since day one. “Our mission has remained
“
No parent should have to prioritize a payment or job before the care of their sick child.
20 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
steadfast, and that is to support parents in the care of their sick child by relieving the stress of financial burdens at home. We help by covering rent, mortgage, electric, medical bills, and more” said Caleb’s mom, Nichole. Since May 2010, more than 580 families with a critically ill child have received financial assistance from Caleb’s Pennies. Due to outside support from many generous people and businesses, 98% of all donation money goes directly to families in need like Riley’s family. Riley is a 7 month old born with congenital heart disease requiring extensive medical support, including cardiac surgery, while in the hospital. She has been hospitalized since November and no discharge date has been decided (Rent paid). That is just one example of the many families who have been financially assisted by Caleb’s Pennies From Heaven. Last year’s Tricky Tray event brought in $51,000, and with your help, more money can be raised this year! Please visit www.calebspennies.org for more information or contact Nichole Granville at calebspennies18@gmail.com if you would like to make a monetary donation or become an event sponsor.
”
PENNIES FROM HEAVEN Caleb’s Foundation, is a 501 (c) (3) charitable organization, contributions to which are tax deductible as permitted by law.
www.connections-magazine.com
Sidewalk Sales
Spring
SHOPPING By Allison Mowatt
A
fter the massive winter storms over the last month, we’re all ready to come out of hibernation and welcome cheerful spring weather. What better way to celebrate a new season than shopping? Step into Hawley and stroll along the decorative streets for the Sidewalk Sales, held every weekend in April throughout the downtown. “What is a discarded item for one person is another’s treasure,” said B Madigan of B Madigan Jewelry Gifts & Art at 324 Main Avenue. B’s store is just one of many participating in the Sidewalk Sales, which is presented by the Downtown Hawley Partnership. She showcases handmade silver wrapped precious and semi precious stones, a variety of beads and jewelry, painted glass, soy candles, engravings, and antiques. During the Sidewalk Sales, B invites people into her shop for glass demonstrations, where she will work with Venetian glass and provide a history on the craft.
The Sidewalk Sales is a new event coinciding with the fresh feeling spring can bring. People are ready to open their windows, air out their houses, and shop—especially outside! The sales will have a little bit of everything as merchants display their wares from clothing and antiques to ceramics, books, candles, and other handmade items. Some farmer’s market items will also be available. Looking for that perfect, unique gift for your mother, sister, aunt, or friend for Mother’s Day? Browse through town during the sales this month, and you’ll be sure to walk away with something exceptional. The Sidewalk Sales are every Saturday and Sunday in April from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., weather permitting. The stores will also feature specials, savings and many other fun surprises, so be sure to spend a weekend in Hawley this April. For more information, www.visithawleypa.com
www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 21
22 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
www.connections-magazine.com
MRS. DOGOOD
COLD CUTS By The Reverend Mrs. Silence DoGood
Dear Editor, I write this letter to thank the many members of my congregation and community for sending my husband prayers and wishes for a speedy recovery. As you may know, during last Sunday’s service he stopped playing the organ during the singing of the English-medieval hymn The Prodigious Garden and ran out of the Church. Yes ran. With all eyes on him, no one knew what to do. I knew what was happening, but my choir and congregation did not. So I simply continued the service, including the singing of the hymn without the organ. My husband William DoGood is the organist, and I am the Senior Pastor of The First Church of God’s Love in the farming hamlet of Halo, Pennsylvania. Willie, as I lovingly call him, wasn’t sick. He was frustrated by the size of his organ. The Wednesday before the service we had had an electrical fire in the church, and the church organ was damaged. Consequently Willie was playing the hymn on the small-poorly-functioning-portable-home organ we had borrowed from our butcher, an active member of our congregation. But then let’s start at the beginning. Many years ago when twenty year old Claudio Maria Estrucci moved to Pennsylvania from New Jersey, he immediately began preaching in his aunt’s abandoned yellow school bus, which he towed and parked on the side of a well-traveled rural road. He had a hand written sign in front of the bus announcing that services would be held at 9:00 am on Sundays. He had only two years of theological training, but his calling was so strong that he left college to begin his own church right then and there. He called it The First Church of God’s Love. Because of his vision and leadership, the church had become the largest one in the county when I became pastor several years ago. It continues to grow today. Claudio thought his name would not draw the local farmers to his ministry. So he changed it. He became The Reverend Mr. Silas Patriot DoGood. “Silas” because it was the name of his deceased uncle who was well known as the owner of the only gas station in town. “Patriot” because he had moved to a very conservative farming community and “DoGood” because he was a man preaching goodness. He was later quoted as saying that “goodness sells.” The Reverend DoGood later married Theresa,
and they had one child, my husband. They named him William A. DoGood. The “A” in Willie’s name stands for “Always:” William Always DoGood. As you can see, my parents-inlaw were very creative. And devoted. Willie was not a strong child. He was strong physically, but socially he was very shy. When his father gave sermons from the pulpit, Willie didn’t watch him. He couldn’t understand how anyone could stand in front of a congregation and speak publicly. When Willie saw his father meeting the congregation, he said to himself he would never want to do that. Willie instead would go to his room and play his toy piano. He quickly graduated to a real piano after taking lessons from a member of the congregation. Finally Willie taught himself how to play the organ using his own initiative and love for the instrument. He did so well that at fifteen, he was the official organist at his father’s church. He studied music in college, and in his senior year he begged his parents to allow him to enter a special Ph.D. program at Bellingshire University in Sussex, England which specialized in liturgical music. After years of intense study, he graduated as Dr. William A. DoGood, a musical scholar. Willie is a perfectionist, especially when it comes to playing the organ. I thought I knew why he ran out of the church, but I asked him anyway. “The Prodigious Garden is an English masterpiece, and the borrowed organ was too small to create the volume and nuance needed to play it properly. Besides the keys smelled like bologna. So I ran.” Amen
The Reverend Mrs. Silence DoGood Senior Pastor Executive Director President Chairman Choir Master (part-time) The First Church of God’s Love
www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 23
Prison Reflections
“History Repeats Itself” By Terry Mooney
Part I
T
his young woman is a tall, stately redhead who carries herself with an air of self-confidence, belying a dysfunctional and destructive childhood riddled with substance abuse and violence.
My Story I was born in a suburb in New Jersey that borders the Poconos with my mom, dad, older sister and younger brother. I was always scared and nervous when my dad came home because he would be drunk, and he was really mean. We weren’t allowed to do certain things like eat in the living room or make our own food. My mother would get drunk with him, so I would go to my friends’ houses a lot, too embarrassed to have them over. My dad made good money laying tile and, I found out later, selling drugs. My mom stayed at home, taking us to softball games, making sure we had what we needed. But when it came down to ruling the roost, it was my dad. One time he even broke Mom’s ear drum and her nose. She was just as afraid of him as we were. When I was twelve, my dad found a lot younger girlfriend. Setting up house with her, he came back to take our stuff to furnish it. My mom was so furious at the audacity that she held a knife to his throat. I wouldn’t have hated her if she’d killed him. Hearing all the commotion, the neighbors called the police and they came, quicker than ever. Department of Youth and Family Services took all three of us out of the house. My sister was sixteen at the time, so she went to a group home immediately. My brother and I went to a foster home but got separated when the family didn’t want him, saying he was too hyper. I’d just lost my entire family and was completely devastated. When my mother became clean and sober, she finally won us all back. By then I was already smoking and drinking. I quit school in the eleventh grade to get a job to help support us, in spite of my mother’s objections. In time, I fell in love with a friend of a friend who’d been in and out of jail. You see, he was a drug dealer, just like my dad. I gave birth to a baby boy and tried to make a life for them both. But eventually we both got hooked on pain killers, him after breaking his arm and me after falling and hurting my back. And he continued to sell drugs. I sporadically stayed in touch with my dad over the phone. Because he was still selling drugs and using them, I did not want him around my child. For all I knew, he was still working full-time in the tile business, and I assumed everything was okay at home. What I didn’t know was that his girlfriend was leaving him for his close friend. For some reason, my dad had put everything he owned in her name. Now, while he is still living there, she put the condo up for sale, and he faced being out on the street with nothing. Out of the blue, I received a call that my dad had put an end to her leaving him for his friend and leaving him broke. He killed her. Then he killed himself. It was all over in an instant. In spite of everything, he was still my dad, and the finality of it was stunning. This was about as bad as it could get, but it was just the beginning. (To Be Continued)
24 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
www.connections-magazine.com
www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 25
Money
Financial Strategies for Women Investors
T
oday, women are playing an everincreasing role in making important financial decisions – whether for themselves or for their families. While many of the basic rules of investing hold true for all investors, some life events affect women differently than men and can have an impact on investment decisions. Women might want to give some special consideration to the following areas: Longer life expectancy. People are living longer these days, and conventional wisdom will tell you that women tend to outlive men. In fact, studies have confirmed this is the case. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, women outlive men by an average of more than five years.* Women often end up facing more years in retirement than men. To prepare for such a situation, women need to implement strategies catered to possible long-term needs. Being on your own. Statistics also show women have a very high probability of being on their own at some point in their financial lives – not only as a result of a spouse’s death but also because of divorce or choosing to remain single. Dropping from two incomes to one would obviously require making some adjustments. It’s important to think about alternatives in the event you should be faced with a similar situation. Time spent out of the work force. When caring for children – or an elderly parent – women tend to spend more time away from work than men. Some surveys have shown that, on average, women spend more than a decade out of the work force. The implica-
26 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
tions for women with regards to investments are clear: They will likely have less time than their male counterparts to contribute to their retirement nest eggs. While these are just some of the many important considerations for women investors, there are also several simple steps women can take to help come up with an effective financial strategy. Look for ways to learn about investments. The financial press and financial web sites are loaded with information about investments and alternatives. Remember, however, not every source is reliable. Seek advice from a professional. Enlisting a financial advisor to help with your investments does not take away from your ability to make the final decisions. It does, however, provide someone you can turn to for guidance as you make those important decisions. Have a plan. Take the time to assess your current financial situation to help get a clear picture of where you stand. Make a list of your financial goals and then develop strategies to meet them. Keeping in mind the special circumstances we mentioned earlier, you can chart a course of action that will help you to meet any future challenges. * CDC, NCHS, http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/life_tables.htm This article was written by/for Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network and provided courtesy of Michael J Krupa, Krupa Wealth Management Honesdale PA 570-253-0121. Investments in securities and insurance products are: NOT FDIC-INSURED/ NOT BANK-GUARANTEED/MAY LOSE VALUE Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC (WFAFN), Member SIPC. Krupa Wealth Management is a separate entity from WFAFN. WFAFN uses the trade name Wells Fargo Advisors. © 2017 Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC. All rights reserved.
www.connections-magazine.com
www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 27
Book Review OOPSY-DAISY.
she met a woman from a “musical family” That’s what Grandma might say when who hired her to work as a housekeeper at you’re tumbling around and your head a home that was filled with music! There holds your feet up. The world sure looks were “banjos in the bedrooms, pianos in different when you’re toes are on top and the parlor, and bass drums in the baseyou’re looking at things from upside down, ment.” All day and all night, musicians and in the new book “Libba” by Laura drifted in and out, men with names like Veirs, illustrated by Tatyana Fazlalizadeh, Muddy Waters and Woody Guthrie, and that’s not the only Libba started hearing thing that’s all out of music again. order. Then one day, Music was everywhen nobody was where, for Libba Cotpaying any attention ton. and nobody would When she fetched care about how she water for her mother strummed, Libba borand brother, she heard rowed a guitar. And river music. The axe she played music. she used to chop wood Upside down. And sang to her. There was backwards. a clickety-clack of Before you snuggle music in the trains as up with your child for they sped by on two an inaugural round of tracks. “Libba,” take a few Libba “heard music minutes to read the everywhere”, and she book yourself, so longed to make it heryou’re fully prepared self, but her brother for what you’ll see. didn’t like anyone Oh, that artwork! touching his guitar. Through Tatyana Even so, whenever he Fazlalizadeh’s charwasn’t home, Libba coal drawings, musiwent to his room, took cian Elizabeth Cotton’s up the instrument, and story is told so exquisBy Laura Veirs played – even though itely that it may render Reviewed by she was left-handed you almost speechless. Terri Schlichenmeyer and had to do it Chances are, your upside down and child might not notice backwards. To anybody else, that would but you will. Be prepared. have been weird but to Libba, “it was the What your child will find here is a story way that felt right…” of keeping a dream alive, even when it’s Her brother, Claude, hated that Libba bor- been shelved for a long time. In telling this rowed his guitar but “DANG!” she was tale, Laura Veirs’s words dance like fingers good. She could play well, and she even on frets as she lends lightness to the story, wrote songs. That’s how it was, until despite its depression-era theme. Be sure to Claude moved away and took his guitar read her author’s note, which explains with him. Libba did chores and saved much more about Cotton and her work. money until she was able to have a guitar If yours is a musical family or if your of her own. child does things a little differently, then And she played. Upside down and backthis is a story you’ll want to read again and ward, until time passed and she stopped. again. For you, for sure, “Libba” is a book Years later, when Libba was much older, that holds up.
“Libba: The Magnificent Musical Life of Elizabeth Cotton
28 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
www.connections-magazine.com
FOX HILL FARM
O
ne of our favorite things to do to honor the season of growing is to be outside. We have found more ways to do so too! This past season we launched a series of classes 'surprisingly' called, #inthegarden. Classes included Morning Yoga, Sip Sip Knit, Sip Snip Create and Partners in Wine. Participants of all different talent levels learned to do yoga, knit, build bouquets cut straight from the garden, and learn about the pairing of wine and chocolate, in this case, Moka Origins! Delicious!
In addition, we had a few private events in the pergola. Guests have reported truly enjoying dinner parties, bridal showers and baby showers in the garden. There is just something magical that happens when people gather together in natural surroundings. If you or someone you know might be interested in this season's line-up of classes, please find out more via our website and social media platforms.
www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 29
Share Your Spare
B O B BY O ’ P O S I T I V E A Message from Mommy O’Positive... By LA Guzda
B
obby is an 11-year-old boy from Hawley, Pennsylvania. Anyone who has ever met Bobby would know he is one special kid. He has an uncanny ability to make you laugh and is such a sweet boy! Unfortunately, Bobby has been diagnosed with Nephronophthisis (NPHP), a rare genetic kidney disorder that affects 1 in 990,000 in the United States. Bobby is now in Stage 5 Kidney Failure. He is in need of a kidney transplant from a living donor with O type blood - negative or positive. The purpose of this message is to help him find that living donor to save his life. Bobby's parents are not candidates due to previous medical conditions, much to Mommy O'Positive's disappointment. The potential living donor can be between the
30 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
ages of 18 and 62; the preferable donor will be on the younger side to enable Bobby to hold the kidney for a longer period of years. BMI must be under 32. The donor must be a non-smoker with no previous history of medical conditions including but not limited to cancer, diabetes, hypertension, kidneys stones, etc. The process consists of filling out an application and then two blood tests - one to see if the potential donor matches antigens in Bobby's blood. If the donor matches those 6 antigens, the next blood testing is where they crossmatch Bobby's blood and the potential donor's blood - essentially mixing their blood together to see if his blood rejects the potential donor's blood - this would indicate that his body may or may not reject the organ.
www.connections-magazine.com
So now after a year of searching, here are some of the particulars as to why finding a match is so challenging: Only 40% of the population is O type blood. Once you eliminate the people that are too old, too young, and too sick to be candidates, it is essentially like looking for a needle in a haystack to be Bobby's perfect match. If you are interested in being tested please message our Facebook page @AKidneyForBobbyO’Positive. This page is used to share Bobby's journey, raise awareness for living donation and fundraisers for Bobby and his family. Our further purpose is to spread the word of other children and families desperately hoping, waiting and praying to find their potential donors. If you are willing to give to Bobby but are not his blood type, PLEASE consider saving someone else's child. There are thousands of children waiting, attached to machines, that just want to be kids. The need is SO great for living kidney donors. Thank you for taking the time to read this and consider saving a child's life, my child's life. Hug and hold tight to your healthy children every day. Kiss them even if they push you away because they are too cool. Tell them you love them a zillion times a day. You never know what a given day will bring. I pray no other parent EVER has to watch their vibrant, energetic, full of spirit child deteriorate because of any such disease. Every day is a gift to us to open with new hope, and I cherish every single second I get to see Bobby O'Positive smile that great big smile.
–Mommy O'Positive Follow us on Instagram @PoconoSecrets and on Facebook @PocoPike Visit www.LAGuzda.com or www.PoconoSecrets.com for past articles. Do you have a Pocono Secret to share? Send an email to: PoconoSecrets@aol.com
www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 31
32 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
www.connections-magazine.com
Outdoor Ramblings
Seeking the Early
Bloomer By Bill Deaton |
williamjdeaton@yahoo.com
T
rout season traditionally marks the beginning of spring here in Northeastern Pennsylvania. In April, anglers annually attack the local waterways in search of rainbows, brookies, and brownies. Stream and pond temperatures generally hover between numbing and chilling, yet thousands of families throughout the region merrily partake in this tradition, which is really only rivaled by the opening day of antlered deer here in the Keystone State…but what if fishing’s not your thing, or at least not your only thing? Typically, this time of the year marks the return of wildflowers to the area. Some are tiny, plentiful, and somewhat undramatic such as the Bluet (aka Houstonia) while others are large, rare, and flashy like the Red Trillium (aka the Wake-Robin, Trillium Erectus.) Red Trillium are elusive and only pop for a short period. However, at close to 16inches high and almost a foot in diameter, they are hard to miss when in bloom, but not widespread. Bluets, on the other hand, are delicate little flowers about 1inch round, known to hug the ground, light in color, and typically plentiful. These two seemingly very opposite flowers share one great denominator. Both are solid heralds of spring. Rue Anemone, various Violets, Fringed Polygala, and several species of Phlox also show up early in the spring and are commonly found while Red Columbine, Dames’ Rockets, and numerous lilies tend to arrive later in the month and in early May. Good venues to find spring plants, and more as the warmer months approach are:
1} 2}
Prompton State Park: Along the Lackawaxen River in the northeast part of the park is a treasure trove of plants including Trillium, Forget-Me-Nots, Bee Balm, Bluets, Lilies, and many more. Bruce Lake Natural Area, Delaware State Forest: Follow the Egypt Meadow Lake Trail early to find the Trillium. Violets, Bluets, and Rue Anemone are abundant along the dam. Iris, Mountain Laurel and Rhododendron arrive later in the spring.
3}
Bender/Black Bear Swamp Natural Area, Tobyhanna State Park: Skunk Cabbage and an assortment of wetland plants are at home here. Later in April the Serviceberry Trees blossom in other parts of the park.
4}
Dorflinger-Suydam Wildlife Sanctuary: Most varieties of common spring flowers can be found throughout the wooded trails. As the summer approaches, more varieties blossom in the fields.
In most cases, finding flowers doesn’t require a massive trek. Trail conditions also vary greatly during this time of the year. Be prepared, in most cases, to encounter some puddles and mud. From forest floor to swampy shore, various blooms offer a plethora of prizes for early spring hikers.
www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 33
Classic Cars
1935
Ford
Convertible Sedan By Arnie Milidantri
As we get older, it seems the winters get colder, and this past one, according to the TV meteorologist, was a record breaker throughout the country. Most car enthusiasts can’t wait to get their vintage rides ready for another season of fun; some even travel to warmer locations just to find cars to see and write about. So yet again I braved a hot 85 degree Florida day in search of unique cars. The car I chose for this month’s article is a beautiful 1935 Ford Convertible Sedan owned by Jim Rentz. The car is a unique piece of our automobile history, in beautiful original condition and attracts a crowd wherever it goes. The older 30’s cars are getting rarer, as is the generation that grew up with them. Jim’s car is a constant source of smiles and is a catalyst of endless conversations about our early automobile history. 34 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
www.connections-magazine.com
Background
Featured Car
The Ford Motor Company survived the Great Depression, thanks to good management, and continued their opened wheel car design offering engine options of straight four-cylinder or a flat head V8 from 1932 through 1934. In 1935 the four-cylinder Model A engine option was eliminated, and the refreshed 85 hp 221 cu in V8 was the only engine offered to power every Ford car and truck. A three-speed manual transmission transmitted the power to the wheels. The final rear gear ratio of the spiral bevel differential was a 4.11. The suspension remained the traditional transverse leaf spring design, but the front spring was relocated ahead of the axle to allow more interior room. Visually, the 1935 Ford with its lowered body, new "Center-Poise" seating (that improved passenger comfort) had a much more modern look. Its new pushedforward inverted pentagonal grille with allvertical bars offered a new more prominent sleek look, featuring de-emphasized and more-integrated fenders. The integrated trunk, a major advance, was introduced on "Trunkback" sedans, as well as in the traditional "Flatback" models. The outdated body styles like the Victoria were deleted for the year. Two trim lines were offered, Standard and DeLuxe across a number of body styles including: a base roadster, five-window coupe, three-window coupe, 2 door and 4 door sedans in both flat-back or trunk-back versions, a convertible sedan, a woody station wagon and new Model 51 truck. Rumble seats were optional on the coupe model. An oil pressure gauge was a $4.00 option, and a second windshield wiper was also optional. An optional radio replaced the ashtray. The 1935 Ford's combination of price, practicality, and looks vaulted the company ahead of rival Chevrolet for the sales crown that year, with 820,000 sold.
The car featured this month is a beautiful restored rare 1935 Ford convertible sedan (4 door convertible). The car’s paint color is the original “Codoba Gray” complemented perfectly with Poppy Red wheels and pinstripe. The car’s exterior finish and the brown leather interior have been meticulously preserved in original condition. The only changes made by the second owner were the rear ends original 4:11 gears were replaced with a more touring friendly lower ratio set, and the original steering box was upgraded to the more reliable 1937 Ford unit. Other than that the car is all original. The 85 hp flathead V8, three speed transmission and other mechanical systems are all 1935. The car has a documented history of ownership that starts with its original owner, the son of the governor of Massachusetts in 1935. The second owner purchased the car from the first owners in 1961, and Jim Rentz, the third and current owner of the car, purchased it from the second owner in 2016. The car is an outstanding example of the evolution of the modern automobile, the commitment owners have to the preservation of their cars and the importance our hobby plays as stewards of auto history.
Owner Jim Rentz owned an auto restoration shop in New Castle, Pennsylvania until his retirement to sunny Florida in 2004. He is a true car enthusiast and has always loved cars of all sizes, types and makes. In addition to his beautiful 1935 Ford Convertible sedan, his car collection includes; a 1932 Buick Sport Phaeton Model 65, a 1951 Morris Minor Tourer Convertible and a 1979 Lincoln Versailles. If you happen to be in central Florida and visiting the Villages community, you just might bump into Jim, at either one of the monthly community car shows or just cruising around enjoying the sun and his great cars!
www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 35
Pets
Creepy, Crawly Critters T
here are many parasites we need be concerned about that can affect our pets. Ticks are one of the most common and frightful. Most people shudder just at the thought of a tick, let alone finding one on their pet or in their house. Unfortunately, the people who study these things tell us we should expect a large increase in the numbers of ticks. Global warming and milder winters may be contributing to the surge of ticks, even to areas they may not have populated before. Ticks are found worldwide, but tend to be found more in areas with warm, humid climates. They are parasites that attach to mammals, birds, and occasionally reptiles and amphibians, and suck blood from their host. There are four stages in the tick life cycle; each tick requires three hosts and takes at least one year to complete the cycle. Each female tick can lay up to 3,000 eggs in the environment. Eggs hatch and form a larva which is very small, the size of a head of a pin, and it attaches usually to a small mam-
36 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
mal or bird. Once it is done feeding, it detaches, and molts in the environment to the next stage, the nymph. The nymph then finds another, usually larger host to attach to and suck blood. Once it is done, it detaches, and matures into the adult tick. Adult ticks then need to find a suitable host. They climb to the top of long grass, bushes, or other plants, and wait for a dog, cat, deer, cow, or any other animal to brush up against it. Once on its host, it again bites the skin and feeds by drinking blood. There are many different species of ticks, but most, if not all, can carry diseases they can give to their host. Common tick borne diseases are Lyme disease, Babesia, Ehrlichia, Anaplasmosis, tularemia, and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. All of these diseases can affect dogs, and many can occur in cats, people, and other species. The eggs can be infected inside the female tick, so even the tiny larval tick can be infectious. There are some things you can do to try to prevent ticks in your house and yard. If you live in a more rural area, guinea fowl are great tick exterminators. Just two birds can clear two acres in one year. You can reduce the tick habitat by removing the leaf litter and clearing tall grass and brush. Discourage any wildlife from entering your yard with fences. If you live near woods, create a three foot wide barrier at the edge of your lawn with wood chips or gravel; ticks can't crawl across this. You should check your
www.connections-magazine.com
pets daily and remove any ticks you find. We have three chemicals we use on pets that will kill ticks, but only one can be used on cats. Fipronil, found in Frontline, can be used on dogs and cats. Permethrin has been used on dogs, but is very toxic to cats. You need to read labels, and if it says "for dogs only", do not apply it to a cat as it will likely be lethal. Amitraz will also kill ticks. It is available for dogs only in the form of a collar called Preventic. This is very effective, but you must make sure the dog can't eat the collar. A new product by Merial called Certifect is a combination of fipronil and a low dose of amitraz. This is for dogs only, is applied topically once monthly, and is very effective. You should talk to your veterinarian about the tick diseases in your area. There is a test kit your veterinarian can use in the clinic that will test for Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis, and Ehrlichia at the same time your dog gets its annual heartworm test. Your veterinarian can also discuss any treatments or preventatives from which your pet may benefit.
Wilbur 2 year old neutered Shih Tzu who is very playful and loving. He does not get along well with other dogs so he would need to be the only dog in the household.
What To Do If You Find an Attached Tick on Your Pet Use fine tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.
Pull upward with an even pull, do not twist or jerk, to increase the chance the tick will be detached intact.
Clean the area with iodine scrub or soap and water. You may also apply a topical antibiotic.
Do not paint the tick with fingernail polish or anything else, and do not apply heat to the tick.
Wash and disinfect your hands as disease transmission can occur even in this manner.
Marilyn Meow 2 year old spayed female who is good with cats, kids, dogs, and is house-trained. She has a very sweet and loving personality.
Available for adoption at Dessin Animal Shelter! Call 570-253-4037.
www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 37
BEHAVIORAL MEDICINE
Positively
Anxious By Arthur Middleton, M.D., FAPA
“Whoever has learned to be anxious in the right way has learned the ultimate.” ~ Søren Kierkegaard
T
he Oxford dictionary defines anxiety as a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about an imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome. However, the general interpretation of anxiety is much broader, often encompassing the experience of stress and worry which are typical consequences of daily life. It is safe to assume that whatever statistic is applied to anxiety, the actual numbers are likely to be higher, simply because the experience of anxiety is generally unreported. To what extent does worrying satisfy established clinical criteria to be considered anxiety? Does stress add to the symptoms of anxiety? And what constitutes clinical anxiety? This leads to a question that is rarely addressed; is anxiety necessarily bad for you? Apart from psychiatrists, many primary care physicians see patients who complain about anxiety on a daily basis. And many patients feel they need a medication. In a New York Times article by Robin Marantz Henig: Valium’s Contribution to Our New Normal (September 29, 2012), the author references a scene from the 1979 movie, “Starting Over,” which featured Burt Reynolds. His character is in Bloomingdale’s, the department store, and has a panic attack. His brother calls out, “Does anyone have a Valium?” which is followed by outstretched hands offering the character a pill. The article goes on to describe how accustomed our population has become to the use of medication to treat anxiety, so much so that it has become a “new normal.” It is important to also recognize that clinically, there are a number of well recognized and studied anxiety disorders that affect approximately 40 million American adults aged 18 and older, or
38 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
about 18.1 percent of this age group in any given year; according to the National Institute of Mental Health. The disorders that are clinically identified include Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder and phobias; Social Phobia, Agoraphobia, and phobias that are associated with particular issues such as heights or fear of closed spaces, for example. Considering the experience of anxiety and worry over real or potential problems, is this abnormal? Or can worry or anxiety be a positive experience? The following fictional clinical vignette is presented to highlight the phenomenon of anxiety. JT is a 29 y/o English college instructor. He teaches at a prestigious institution and greatly enjoys his work with his students. He finds the work challenging and recognizes that he is dealing with exceptional students and colleagues, which means that he must work hard to keep up. JT is constantly reading. If a recent book is mentioned in conversation with a colleague, he feels he must immediately read it so that he can comfortably discuss the book with other faculty members. Often he reads books he doesn’t even like. Complicating the picture are his finances. He has student loans that are burdensome, and he does his best to keep up but is constantly worrying about his financial obligation. His parents have been supportive and have made several payments to help, but the fact remains that he does not have enough income to easily cover all of his expenses. JT decided that he would consider part-time work to bring in more income. He obtained a job tutoring students, which he enjoyed and did pay enough to help cover his expenses. But he was still worried and increasingly anxious about the
www.connections-magazine.com
situation, so much so that he started to lose sleep, which began to affect his ability to work. While the experience of anxiety was not new to JT, as he had seen a therapist in the past for this, increasingly he began to feel that it was his anxiety that was holding him back, and that his emotional state had reached the point that medication had to be considered. JT had no prior experience with medication for anxiety. He knew several colleagues who were being treated for anxiety, and on several occasions two of his colleagues gave him their anti-anxiety pills; Xanax or alprazolam and Valium or diazepam, as common examples of the drugs in this class, the benzodiazepines. JT found that these medications did indeed help to alleviate his anxiety. After taking the pills, he was definitely less anxious and felt that his problems did not seem as intense as they had been. He saw his primary care doctor and described his symptoms. He was quickly prescribed an anti-anxiety medication, in this case Klonopin or clonazepam, which was to be taken on an as-needed basis, three times a day. JT began the medication and felt that it worked. However, he did not take it as instructed. Rather he took the first pill when he woke up, before he even knew whether he would feel anxious. JT felt that the medication helped him avoid worrying and made him feel calm. It also diminished his drive, and he actually worried less about his financial issues, despite the fact that his financial issues did not improve. But given his unpleasant experience of feeling anxious without the medication, JT decided that this was a medication that he would continue. However, things changed fairly dramatically after JT went to a staff party one evening. As he had in the past, JT was taking his anti-anxiety medication on a standing basis, whether he was anxious or not. He went to the staff party and enjoyed himself. He did not drink much, in his opinion, and felt that he could drive home later that evening. JT backed into several parked cars as he tried to exit the parking lot. The campus police quickly came to the site, recognized that he was impaired, and contacted the authorities. When they arrived, he was given a field sobriety test, which he failed. He was taken to the emergency room at which time it was determined that he had a low level of alcohol in his system in addition to the anti-anxiety medication he had been prescribed, a benzodiazepine. He was given a citation, Driving Under the Influence (DUI) and had to attend a mandatory drug coun-
seling program. JT also had to pay for the damages to the cars he hit, which was minor. The mandatory drug counseling opened his eyes. He realized that despite the fact that his anti-anxiety medication was prescribed, it was a controlled medication that could affect his ability to drive, especially in combination with alcohol. JT did not lose his job, but he took this experience as an opportunity to learn from his poor judgment. JT was grateful that no one was injured and began to focus on other ways of dealing with his anxiety. He recognized that while he worried about real issues, he had the capacity to do something to diminish the anxiety, as opposed to taking a medication. JT continued in counseling and learned to understand the difference between normal and abnormal anxiety. He reached the conclusion that he probably did not need a medication to alleviate his anxiety. Since his DUI, his medication had long since been discontinued. JT continues to work to meet his financial obligations and feels that he is in a position to offer support and guidance to his students. Whenever the opportunity arises, he advises his students about the importance of taking responsibility for what they do, and to consider the positive aspects of anxiety and develop healthy strategies to cope with stress. Visit CM’s website for more on Anxiety. The following references are provided for the informed consumer: American Psychiatric Association: Anxiety Disorders http://www.psychiatry.org/anxiety-disorders NIH News In Health: Worried Sick – Living With Anxiety Disorders http://newsinhealth.nih.gov/issue/Nov2011/Feature1 NIH: Drugged Driving http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/drugged-driving
Dr. Middleton is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, and a Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He received his undergraduate training at New York University and an MD degree from Rutgers Medical School. Dr. Middleton completed his psychiatric residency at St. Vincent’s Hospital & Medical Center, in NYC. He is on the honorary medical staff (retired) of Hackensack University Medical Center in NJ, where he is also Chairman Emeritus of the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Medicine. Dr. Middleton has been on the voluntary teaching faculty of Mount Sinai School of Medicine and Brown Medical School. He is currently a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. Dr. Middleton is retired as an Associate in the Department of Psychiatry in the Geisinger Health System formerly practicing at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Dr. Middleton lives in Dingmans Ferry, PA, and Manhattan, NY.
www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 39
EVENTS
Y O U
ENTERTAINMENT
RECREATION
a+r+e APR ’18 THE AREA’S GOOD STUFF
C O N N E C T E D
TUESDAYS
Ongoing Events DAILY
Art-a-Pelago Loose Leaf Pages, Black & Brass Coffee Co., & D.J. Harvey Agency, Honesdale. One art gallery in three locations (Thasos-LesvosParos). Info: waynecountyartsalliance.org. DAILY
Public Art Displays Nature’s Grace, Dime Bank & Wayne Bank, Wayne Memorial Hospital, Harvey Insurance, Honesdale, & Pocono Lake Region Chamber of Commerce, Hawley. Wayne County Arts Alliance artists display their work monthly. DAILY
Public Art Display REMAX Wayne, Honesdale. Art displays of local artists all year long. Info: 570-253-9566. DAILY
Kids Art Display Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, Stroudsburg. Artwork created by students from all over Monroe County is featured in a month-long exhibit. Info: 570-629-3061 or www.mcconservation.org. WEEKLY
Bingo Texas #4 Fire Company, Honesdale. Doors open 5:30 p.m. Games start at 6:30 p.m. Plenty of parking. Info: 570-253-5467. WEDNESDAYS
Story Time 10:30–11:30 a.m. Pleasant Mount Public Library, Pleasant Mount. Bring your young children & grandchildren to the library for a fun-filled story time. Included will be crafts, games, songs &, of course, a story. Info: 570-448-2573 or www.waynelibraries.org. WEDNESDAYS
Lego Club 4:30–5:30 p.m. Pike County Public Library, Milford. Create, share ideas, make new friends. Free & open to the public, registration requested. Info: www.pcpl.org or Facebook. Registration: 570-296-8211. THURSDAYS
Writer’s Retreat 10:30–11:30 a.m. Wayne County Public Library, Honesdale. Writing seminar — share ideas, memories & life experiences in written words. Limited to 12 participants. Info & registration: Elizabeth, 570-253-1220 or ewilson@waynelibraries.org. THURSDAYS
Table Tennis in Honesdale Lakeside Elementary School, Honesdale. Join a group of table tennis enthusiasts who play weekly. Info: John Babyak, 570-253-4379 or jbabyak1@ptd.net.
Pub-O-Lympics 8 p.m. The Dock on Wallenpaupack, Hawley. Hilarious combination of trivia & physical challenges. Compete with teams to win a gift certificate, gold medal & bragging rights. Info: 570-226-2124.
TUESDAYS
FRIDAYS
Teen Club 3:30–5:30 p.m. Hawley Public Library, Hawley. Hang out, play games, socialize. Info: 570-226-4620 or www.waynelibraries.org. TUESDAYS
Bingo American Legion Post 311, Hawley. Doors open 10:30 a.m., games begin at Noon. Info: legionpost311@qmail.com.
40 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
Job Search and Resume Assistance 1–3 p.m. Hawley Public Library, Hawley. A professional from Pike County Workforce Development is available. Info: 570-226-4620 or www.waynelibraries.org. FRIDAYS
Live Music Friday 8–11 p.m. Glass — wine. bar. kitchen. at Ledges Hotel, Hawley. No cover charge. Info: info@ledgeshotel.com or 570-226-1337.
www.connections-magazine.com
EVENTS APR. 1
FRIDAYS
Live Music 8 p.m.–Midnight. The Dock on Wallenpaupack, Hawley. Great drink specials, delicious food & live music. Info: 570-226-2124 or silverbirchesresortpa.com. SATURDAYS
Saturday Family Story Time 11 a.m.–Noon. Wayne County Public Library, Honesdale. Join Miss Melanie for a story, followed by a fun craft for the whole family to enjoy. Info: 570-253-1220 or www.waynelibraries.org.
Encounter Revival Ministries Team 10:30 a.m. Tabernacle Bible Church, Honesdale. Spiritually uplifting music, drama, skits, kids’ club, teen group, challenging preaching for victorious Christian living. Staffed infant nursery. Info: 570-253-0720 or www.tabernaclebiblechurch.org. APR. 1
Easter Buffet Noon–4 p.m. The Waterfront at Silver Birches Resort, Hawley. Reservations required: 570-226-4388. APR. 1
SATURDAYS
FREE Tastings and Demos Noon–2 p.m. Mill Market, in the Hawley Silk Mill, Hawley. Info: 570-390-4440.
Easter at The Settlers Inn Prix fixe dinner served from 11:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Music by Dan Bradley. Reservations & info: 570-226-2993.
SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS
Hawley, PA Sidewalk Sales 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Hawley. Many great deals on the sidewalk. Stop in sponsored shops for deals, savings & surprises. Shop all of the blocks plus the extended downtown. Weather permitting. Info: B. Madigan, 570-561-3629. APR. 2–6
SATURDAYS
Live Music 9 p.m.–1 a.m. The Dock on Wallenpaupack, Hawley. Great drink specials, delicious food & live music. Info: 570-226-2124 or silverbirchesresortpa.com.
Encounter Revival Ministries Team 7 p.m. Tabernacle Bible Church, Honesdale. See description at Apr. 1. Info: 570-253-0720 or www.tabernaclebiblechurch.org.
THROUGH APR. 9
Art Exhibit: Miharu Lane, “Great Trees” Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, Stroudsburg. The series began in 2015 when Miharu visited Japan after 58 years. From “Old Sycamore” by the ruined Parrish Church circa 1784 in Maryland to “Lady Sycamore” in Tannersville, PA, she found an abundance of subject matter. Opening reception Apr. 7, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Info: 570-629-3061 or www.mcconservation.org.
“Unplugged — The Timeless Joy of Making Art” ARTery Gallery, Milford. Reception: Mar. 10, 6–9 p.m. Fifth annual exhibit of the Delaware Valley HS art students’ creations. These exhibits prove that in a landscape of manufactured & mass-produced goods, the soul longs to make & possess unique objects that speak to a higher purpose than just sheer consumerism. Info: 570-409-1234 or www.arterygallerymilford.com.
April 1– April 9 APR. 1
Look out, there’s a spider on your head! Made you look. Happy April Fools’ Day.
APR. 2–30
APR. 3
Our Happy Hour 5:30 p.m. Wayne County Public Library, Honesdale. Jest for the health of it. There are over 14,000 things to be happy about. Got a joke to tell or a funny story to share? A happy heart is sure to heal what ails “you
www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 41
EVENTS more.” Info & registration: Elizabeth, ewilson@waynelibraries.org or 570-253-1220. APR. 5
Annual Spring “All You Can Eat” Pancake Supper 4:30–7 p.m. Bethany United Methodist Church, Bethany. Purchase tickets at the door or from a church member. Info: 570-253-6564. APR. 5
Business Essentials: Raising Capital 5:30–7 p.m. The Stourbridge Project, Honesdale. Networking & Training Seminar Series. Light refreshments served. RSVPs appreciated. Info: 570-390-7613 or jwolk@wpworkforce.org or www.wpworkforce.org. APR. 7
Costume Creation Workshop 11 a.m.–Noon. Hawley Public Library, Hawley. Get started on your DIY costume for the #WildHawley Parade on Apr. 14. Repurpose an old costume or create your own to celebrate Earth’s diverse plants & animals. Info: 570-226-8220.
APR. 7
Cause for the Paws 5:30 p.m. Bryn Mawr Conference Center, Honesdale. Buffet dinner. Tickets available at Dessin Animal Shelter & The Cat's Pajamas, Honesdale. Benefits the shelter. Info: Message Lisa Palmer Weber on Dessin’s Facebook page.
APR. 7
Relay for Life Tricky Tray 1:30–5 p.m. Hawley Ambulance Building, Hawley. Join in the fight against all cancers. Lively music, light food, baskets & a raffle (3:30 p.m.). Benefits ACS Relay for Life of the Greater Lake Region. Info: GLRelay@gmail.com or Facebook. APR. 7
“Some Things Fishy” Event 4–6 p.m. Artists’ Market Community Center, Shohola. Live music, complimentary refreshments, fish-themed art & a presentation on maintaining the home of 68 species of fish in the Upper Delaware River. Info: barryvilleareaarts@gmail.com or barryvilleareaarts.org. APR. 7
Farm to Table Dinner 6–8 p.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Welcome the coming of spring with PEEC’s 2nd Farm to Table Dinner. Features local produce perfect for the season. Bring friends & family to enjoy a cozy evening. Payment required at registration. Space limited; call early. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org.
42 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
APR. 7
National Poetry Month Reading 7 p.m. Loose Leaf Pages Inc., Honesdale. Celebrate National Poetry Month with local authors Amanda J. Bradley, Nancy Diamond, Brian Fanelli, Susan Luckstone Jaffer & Daryl Sznyter. Info: 570-253-0907. APR. 7
Don White 7:30 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. He is a storyteller-comedian-author-troubadourfolk singer-songwriter whose approach to music is a unique blend. It’s not just folk music; he has invented his own genre with a mix of humor & powerful songwriting. BYOB. Reservations & info: 570-253-2020 or info@thecooperageproject.org. APR. 8
Salamanders, Frogs, and More! 10 a.m.–Noon. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Explore nearby breeding pools for salamanders, frogs & egg masses. Nets & collection jars provided for gentle, up-close study. Wear boots & clothes that can get muddy or wet. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org.
www.connections-magazine.com
EVENTS APR. 8
APR. 12
Ecozone Discovery Room! 1–4 p.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Explore the indoor discovery room & enjoy hands-on exhibits on natural history, sustainability & the local environment. No registration required. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org.
Cooking for Crowds: A Volunteer’s Guide to Safe Food Handling 6–9 p.m. Pike County Training Center, Lords Valley. Program helps non-profit organizations & their volunteers understand the risks involved with preparing large volumes of food & important food safety practices to ensure a safe event. Info on preventing cross contamination, temperature control, cleaning & sanitization, & more. Registration: https://extension.psu.edu/cooking-forcrowds or 877-345-0691 by Apr. 6. Info: Nicole McGeehan, 570-421-6430 or nmd5140@psu.edu.
April 10–April 19 APR. 11
Travel the World with Food: Swedish (Smorgasbord) 5:30 p.m. Wayne County Public Library, Honesdale. Culinary Book Club 2018: share recipes, food tastings, book discussions, food blog, surprises. Info & registration: Elizabeth, ewilson@waynelibraries.org or 570-253-1220.
APR. 12
Travel Chat with the Ireland & Britain Experts 6 p.m. Honesdale Visitor’s Center, Honesdale. CIE Tours & Rockwell Travel presenta-
APR. 8
Main Wear Expo: A Fashion Fundraiser 2:30 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Curated by Velvet Maple Lifestyle Shoppe. Local model duets walk the platform runway sporting local Wayne County wears for all shapes, sizes & ages. Proceeds benefit The Cooperage Project. Cash bar. Do not BYOB. Tickets go on sale Mar. 1. Reservations & info: info@thecooperageproject.org or 570-253-2020.
APR. 11
Open Mic Night 7–10 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Presented by The Cooperage Project. Hosted by Ron Huber. Come to perform or come to listen & watch. BYOB. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org. APR. 12
Business Essentials: Prototyping and the New Production Era 4–7 p.m. The Stourbridge Project, Honesdale. Networking & Training Seminar Series. Light refreshments served. RSVPs appreciated. Info: 570-390-7613 or jwolk@wpworkforce.org or www.wpworkforce.org.
tion about the experiences that await in Ireland. Free event; RSVP required: 570-616-5545 or mike@rockwelltravel.net. APR. 14
Girl Scout Badge Fest 9:30 a.m.–4 p.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. A fun day of hands-on badge work (ask about turning it into an overnight). Juniors & Seniors please bring a camera for the day. Scouts must be supervised at all times by a parent or troop leader. Space limited; call early. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org. APR. 15
Introduction to Orienteering 10 a.m.–Noon. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Learn how to use a map & compass on the orienteering
www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 43
EVENTS course. Learn the basics before you try & find all the points. Space limited; call early. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org. APR. 15
Ladies Spa Day 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Central Volunteer Fire Dept., Lackawaxen. Ladies Auxiliary presents beauty & spa activities including hair, skin & nails, mini-massage. Vendors. Refreshments served: wine, cheese, chocolate, cake & coffee. Info: 570-949-4296. APR. 15
Bridge the Gap: Bike the McDade 1–4 p.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. A bike ride along the McDade Trail. All equipment & transportation provided. Bring a water bottle & wear sturdy footwear. Extra water & snacks available. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org.
APR. 13
Sounds Like Teen Spirit 7–9 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. An opportunity to showcase the talent of our community’s youth. School-aged students are encouraged to share their performing art on stage: guitar, rap, stand-up comedy, poetry, singing, juggling or keyboards. All ages invited to watch & enjoy. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org. APR. 14
Audubon’s 22nd Annual Litter Pick-up 9–11 a.m. Lake Ariel. Audubon relies upon dedicated volunteers to help clean a twomile stretch of Rt. 191 near the Price-Simpson Wetland. Free breakfast served following the pick-up. Gloves, safety vests, & bags provided by PennDot. Contact Kathy Dodge before Apr. 6: 570-253-9250 or audubonworks@gmail.com. APR. 14
APR. 15
Living History Oral Expression Contest 2 p.m. Grace Episcopal Church, Honesdale. Theme: Soul of the American Revolution 1750–1800. Info & registration: Teresa Kahagias, 570-224-0813 or praxis@ptd.net. APR. 12
Glass, Sip & Paint 7–9 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Unleash your inner artist & let your creative side shine. Bring a friend, make a friend. You will be guided through the process with simple techniques. No experience necessary. Participants welcome to bring their own foods for snacking & beverages for drinking. BYOB. Space limited. Reservations & info: 570-618-3080.
March for Science: The 2018 #WildHawley Parade 11 a.m.–Noon. Hawley. Celebrate Earth's diverse plants & animals. Family-friendly event open to all persons & tethered pets interested in environmental (& other) sciences. DIY, reused & repurposed costumes encouraged. Messages on signs are requested to be educational, factual or positive, motivating & uplifting. Info: 570-226-8220. APR. 14
Tim Farrell: A Fingerstyle Workshop 3 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the release of Sgt. Pepper by learning fingerstyle guitar arrangements of some of the incredibly creative music from the groundbreaking album.
APR. 14 Steamcraft – A Steampunk Crafting Workshop Noon–2 p.m. Loose Leaf Pages Inc., Honesdale. Learn to make steampunk ray guns, top hats, goggles & other props & accessories. Led by John L Robinson, president of the Honesdale Steampunk Club. All basic materials provided. Bring your imagination, sense of fun & any odds & ends that might look good on a steampunk gizmo. Materials fee due by Apr. 7. Register & pay at Loose Leaf Pages. Info: 570-253-0907 or Honesdale Steampunk Page on Facebook. 44 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
www.connections-magazine.com
EVENTS APR. 14
Tim Farrell: Concert 7 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Through his mastery of the intricacies & melodic grace of fingerstyle guitar, he has created a sound that evokes emotion, a sound that is to be felt as well as heard. Donations collected at door. BYOB. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org. APR. 15
APR. 14 & 15 Wally Wine Fest Noon–5 p.m. The Waterfront at Silver Birches Resort, Hawley. 100 domestic & international wines to sample & bottles to purchase. Food & gift vendors. Bourbon & beer tasting. Proceeds benefit the Lake Wallenpaupack Fireworks & the Chamber of the Northern Poconos. Info: 570-226-4388.
RiverFolk Concert: Craig Bickhardt with Michael Ronstadt & Aaron Nathans 5 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Presented by RiverFolk Concerts. Bickhardt’s music reflects a life lived as a rock band lead singer, a solo troubadour, a dedicated songwriter, a husband & father. Dreams, heartaches & hard-earned lessons have fed his creativity. Ronstadt & Nathans push the boundaries of folk music with a creative, adventurous & wildly enjoyable new work. BYOB. Reservations & info: 845-252-6783 or riverfolkconcerts@frontier.com. APR. 16
Roadside Clean Up 10 a.m.–Noon. Pike County Conservation District, Hawley. Info: Michele Long, mlong@pikepa.org or 570-226-8220. APR. 16
Tim walks you step-by-step through the process. Learn tips & techniques for playing. Hands-on workshop includes transcriptions in notation & tablature. Space limited. Reservations & info: 570-253-2020 or info@thecooperageproject.org.
Wayne Highlands Quilt Guild — New Location 6:30 p.m. Honesdale Community Church, Honesdale. Welcoming quilters all ages & skill levels. Make new friends who share your passion for quilting. Show & Tell & refreshments. Info: Deb, 570-224-4914 or debszoo@gmail.com.
APR. 14
APR. 18
Vernal Visitation — A Hopping Good Time 3–5 p.m. Lacawac Sanctuary, Lake Ariel. Join E. Stroudsburg Univ. Professor Dr. Thomas LaDuke as he searches the water bodies of the Sanctuary for reemerging amphibians. Wear comfortable footwear & dress for the weather. All ages welcome; registration appreciated. Meet at the Carriage House. Info: 570-689-9494 or info@lacawac.org. APR. 14
Second Saturday Honesdale 6–9 p.m. Downtown Honesdale. Festivaltown happening filled with music, art, comedy & community support. Info on Facebook.
Adult Story Time Noon–1 p.m. Wayne County Public Library, Honesdale. Do you remember how much you enjoyed being read to as a child? Now is your chance to recapture that feeling. Bring your lunch. Coffee, tea & water provided. Info & registration: Elizabeth, 570-253-1220 or ewilson@waynelibraries.org. APR. 18
Acoustic Bluegrass Jam 7–9 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Presented by The Cooperage Project. Guitarstrummin’, banjo-pickin’, close-harmony singin’ open jam led by Ron Penska. All levels of players welcome. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.
www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 45
EVENTS APR. 19
Business Essentials: Business Leadership 101: What Does it Take to be a Good Leader? 5:30–7 p.m. The Stourbridge Project, Honesdale. Networking & Training Seminar Series. Light refreshments served. RSVPs appreciated. Info: 570-390-7613 or jwolk@wpworkforce.org or www.wpworkforce.org. APR. 19
Game Night 6–9 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. All ages welcome. Board games, brain games, card games & more. Bring your own to share & teach, or choose from the collection. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.
APR. 21
Salamanders, Frogs, and More!
APR. 19–22
Nuno Felting & Knitting Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Learn to knit socks two-ata-time with worsted weight yarn to make perfectly fitting, cozy, house socks in record time with the “Fish Lips Kiss Heel” pattern. Other activities include crafting Felt Wee Folk & transforming an old sweater into a pillow, slippers or a pet bed. Includes lodging & meals. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org.
April 20–April 30
10 a.m.–Noon. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Explore nearby breeding pools for salamanders, frogs & egg masses. Nets & collection jars provided for gentle, up-close study. Wear boots & clothes that can get muddy or wet. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org.
APR. 21
13th Annual Dentistry from the Heart Horizon Dental Care, Hawley. Must be 18+. Registration starts 8 a.m. Event ends 2:30 p.m. One treatment only: cleaning, filling, or extraction. Dress for the weather; you may be waiting outside. First come, first served. Info: www.horizondentalcares.com or 570-226-8800.
creativity & create one of a kind pieces to display in your yard or garden. Bring in recycled items you would like to transform and they supply the rest. All ages welcome; registration appreciated. Meets at the Carriage House. Info: 570-689-9494 or info@lacawac.org.
APR. 21
APR. 21
Monroe County Earth Day Celebration 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Northampton Community College (NCC) Monroe campus, Tannersville. Celebrate Monroe County’s environmental efforts & successes. Ongoing live music, speakers, exhibitors, workshops, give & take, tire amnesty, e-cycling, children’s activities, food & more. Sponsored by Monroe Cty. Conservation District & NCC. Info: mcearthday.org. APRIL 21
Trash to Treasures — Yard Art 1–3 p.m. Lacawac Sanctuary, Lake Ariel. Meets at the Carriage House. Unleash your
46 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
2nd Designer Bag Bingo 1 p.m. Wallenpaupack HS, Hawley. Calling starts at 2 p.m. Michael Kors, Coach, Kate Spade, Tory Burch, Vera Bradley & more. Special games, door prizes, raffle baskets. Refreshments & lunch available. Benefits Wallenpaupack Jr. Buckhorns football & cheerleading. Info: 516-350-7771 or jmoltzon@yahoo.com. APR. 21
Ecozone Discovery Room! 1–4 p.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Explore the indoor discovery room & enjoy hands-on exhibits
www.connections-magazine.com
EVENTS on natural history, sustainability & the local environment. No registration required. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org. APR. 21
Bombay Rickey Workshop 4–5 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Members of the band take you on a musical tour through several of the genres you’ll hear in tonight’s concert. Learn how Hindustani raga works & how it’s used in their songs, the history of Bollywood, the great composer RD Burman & his love of Latin rhythms, & exotica queen Yma Sumac. No previous musical experience necessary. Free & open to the public. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org. APR. 21
Gallery Opening: “Sharing Place: Eagles and Their Environs” 5–8 p.m. The ARTery, Milford. Opening reception: view the winning 15 photos from the “Sharing Place” photo contest. The winning photos will be exhibited with the member artists’ own interpretations of eagles, raptors & other species of birds. Refreshments provided. Info: 570-409-1234. APR. 21
“Welcome To Dingmans Ferry” 7 p.m. Delaware Township Building, Dingmans Ferry. Film presented by The Dingmans Ferry-Delaware Township Historical Society along with filmmaker Dennis Lee. Learn about the town’s history with the people who lived it. Mr. Lee’s latest film, “Veterans Memorial Park” (Matamoras), will also be shown. Admission & refreshments free. Info: 570-369-7647. APR. 21
Bombay Rickey Concert 7:30 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. A fivepiece band with a unique sound evocative
of 1960s movie soundscapes. Playing both covers & original music they borrow equally from the worlds of surf rock, cumbia, spaghetti-Western & Bollywood, balanced out with soaring operatic vocals. Kids under 15 free. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org. APR. 21
Spring Peeper Search 7:30–9 p.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. The tiny tree frogs have thawed out & are active again in the forested wetlands. Listen to the impressive choir made by these vocal amphibians as you carefully catch, study, & release them. Bring a flashlight for better searching. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org. APR. 22
Jaycees Annual Canoe Classic 9 a.m. Wayne County Fairgrounds, Honesdale. Info: info@honesdalejaycees.org. APR. 22
Earth Day Clean-Up 10 a.m.–Noon. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Appreciate the planet by helping with a clean-up of the campus & the surrounding area. It’s a great opportunity to get involved in the volunteer program. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org. APR. 25
Take Back the Night 5:15 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Empowers victims in their healing process, educates the public & unifies individuals to stand against violence in their community. Prevention is possible. Info: 570-253-4401. APR. 26
Pike/Wayne Envirothon 8 a.m.–2 p.m. Wallenpaupack Environmen-
APR. 24
Experience Earth Week: Fern and Learn 3–5 p.m. Pike County Conservation District, Hawley. Color a T-shirt with the green pigment chlorophyll, found in many plants native to Pike Cty., such as ferns. One free T-shirt per person. Learn about where your drinking water comes from & how to keep it clean. Info: 570-409-1234. www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 47
EVENTS tal Learning Center, Hawley. Educational competition for HS students designed to test knowledge, skills & problem solving capabilities regarding our earth’s natural resources. Delaware Valley, Honesdale, Wallenpaupack & Western Wayne High Schools compete. Info: 570-226-8220. APR. 26
Unique Pathways Program Series 5:30 p.m. Hawley Public Library, Hawley. A life-defining moment for Sandy Gabrielson was the opportunity to be in a production at the Ritz a year after it was founded. He took a one-line part in a 1974 production & has been a vital member of the organization ever since. Hear about the impact the theater has made on his life. Free. Light refreshments served.Info: 570-226-4620. APR. 26
Business Essentials: Hiring Myths: Why Human Resources are Your Most Important Investment 5:30–7 p.m. The Stourbridge Project, Honesdale. Networking & Training Seminar Series. Light refreshments served. RSVPs appreciated. Info: 570-390-7613 or jwolk@wpworkforce.org or www.wpworkforce.org.
APR. 28
DIY Reflexology 10 a.m.–Noon. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Reflexologist Caroline Verdi presents her “Calming your life with Reflexology Techniques and Essential Oils” Workshop. Learn actual techniques that you can use to calm yourself & your family, & about four essential oils that are calming & grounding. Reservations & info: 570-253-2020 or info@thecooperageproject.org. APR. 28
Earth Day Festival 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Help celebrate the Earth. Hands-on learning stations, interpretive hikes, conservation exhibits, crafts, food, music & much more. Pre-registration not required. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org. APR. 29
Tweets and Sweets 9–11 a.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. A hike that focuses on bird ID & their unique natural history. Breakfast snacks & beverages before heading out. Binoculars & field guides provided. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org.
APR. 27
APR. 29
Stage Door Cabaret 8 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. An evening of Broadway show tunes with five local musicians performing it all from torch songs to 11 o’clock numbers, heart-breakers to toe-tappers & more. Intended for mature audiences. Light refreshments for purchase. BYOB. Reservations & info: 570-253-2020 or info@thecooperageproject.org.
Intro to Fly Fishing 9 a.m.–Noon. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Learn the basics of fly fishing. Practice knot-tying, casting & other skills with volunteers from the Brodhead Chapter of Trout Unlimited. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org.
APRIL 28
In Search of Spring Migrants 8–10 a.m. Lacawac Sanctuary, Lake Ariel. Join experts from the NEPA Audubon Society on a hike through the Sanctuary in search of spring migrants on their journey home. Wear comfortable footwear. All ages welcome, registration appreciated. Info: 570-689-9494 or info@lacawac.org. APR. 28
Indoor Flea Market & Bake Sale 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Hawley Fire House, Hawley. Everything your neighbors no longer need for sale. Refreshments available. Benefits Hawley Fire Dept. Info: Diane, 570-290-1488 or hawleyfd@ptd.net.
48 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |
APR. 29
Model Train Show & Sale 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Hawley Fire House, Hawley. Everything to do with model trains & model railroading. Refreshments available. Benefits Hawley Fire Dept. Info: Bill, 570-226-3206 or hawleyfd@ptd.net or 570-226-9820.
Happy Spring!
www.connections-magazine.com
www.connections-magazine.com
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 49