Connections Magazine - April 2019 Issue by Connections Magazine

APRIL 2019

Since 1998

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CONNECT APRIL 2019

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FEATURES PATIOS ‘SPRING’ TO LIFE Remember that place in the rear of your house? It goes by the name of patio, and it has been feeling abandoned during the winter months. But that’s all about to change now that spring has sprung. Soon family gatherings, after dinner drinks, and grilling will ensue on this extension of the home, so you must prepare. FOCAL FRONT If your front door could talk, what would it say about you? A front door is a focal point of any home, and the color, material, and style of the door set the tone for the entire structure. SPRING CLEANING TIPS Spring is here at last, and with it the chance to finally clean away winter’s yuck. Our long NEPA winters can certainly take their toll on you and your home. Spring cleaning, when done right, however, doesn’t just help your home recover from those winter months, but prepare for the warm ones! GROWING VICTORY In this age of increased emphasis on sustainability, food miles, good health, and, more recently, the downturn in economics, people have turned toward an old example to set a new standard in gardening. PENNIES FROM HEAVEN – CELEBRATING A DECADE 10th Tricky Tray basket raffle event will take place on Sunday April 28th from 12:00pm-2:30pm at The Dock on Wallenpaupack at Silver Birches Resort. Over 175 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 & all ages are welcome!

COLUMNS 5

WORDS FROM THE TEAM

24 BOOK REVIEW

10 DISASTER BLASTER

26 POCONO SECRETS

14 LIVING GREEN

28 OUTDOOR RAMBLINGS

18 MRS. DOGOOD

30 PETS

20 PRISON REFLECTIONS

32 BEHAVIORAL MEDICINE

22 MONEY

34 AREA EVENTS

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CONNECTIONS Magazine

resident • 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 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.

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

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WORDS FROM THE TEAM

“

Spring... a lovely reminder of how beautiful change can truly be.

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SPRING

brings Good Stuff! Now that the weather is warmer and there is more light in our day, open up your front door and let our April issue in. It’s time to dig in the dirt, dig out the closets, and get ready to make friends with your patio again! There is more than just sunshine in the heavens; check out page 16 for Pennies from Heaven for Caleb. And for all you adventurers out there, page 28 is Blazing through the Woods. Here’s to blue skies, sunshine, and fresh air in your spring! Smile always, CM Team 570.647.0085 cmag@ptd.net

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PATIOS

Remember that place in the rear of your house? It goes by the name of patio, and it has been feeling abandoned during the winter months. But that’s all about to change now that spring has sprung. Soon family gatherings, after dinner drinks, and grilling will ensue on this extension of the home, so you must prepare. Here are tips for sprucing up your patio: Depending on how you left your patio last season, there may be some cleaning involved to make your patio pop. Donna Smallin, author of “The One-Minute Cleaner Plain and Simple” recommends cleaning patio furniture with a garden hose and sprayer attachment. “You can double the life of your furniture, be it vinyl, plastic or metal,” she says. To clean wicker furniture, wet a cloth with a mixture of half a cup of wood oil soap in one gallon of warm water and gently wipe one small section at a time. Use a toothbrush to clean between the weave. Rinse with a hose, and turn the piece upside down so the water can run off. Wipe with a dry cloth and allow 48 hours to dry. Tackling that outdoor grill that was left unclean at the last cookout will require baking soda, water, a wire brush and elbow grease, according to Michael de Jong, author of “Clean: The Humble Art of Zen Cleansing”. And for those rust stains on the patio, take a scrub brush and pat warm water onto the spot. Sprinkle with lemonade powdered drink mix. Then, cover with a piece of plastic wrap (weighted down by a rock) and let it soak for 15 minutes. Remoisten your brush and scrub it off, then rinse with a hose. Now that cleanliness is achieved, focus on beautifying the space. It goes without saying the greenery around your patio will need to be punched up. A patio shining

with beautiful hardscape is wonderful, but dull without plants to balance it out – a trip to your local nursery for some greenery is a must. The National Gardening Association in South Burlington, VT recommends medium to low-growing perennials for the border of a patio. Asters, Border Dahlia, Dianthus, Phlox, Ranunculus, Veronica, Armeria, Aubrieta, Heuchera (Coral Bells), Primrose, Sazifrage and Lewisa are some varieties that will come up every year. Down the road, they will also provide flowers for a tabletop bouquet, indoors or out. Make sure to have some white vinegar at the ready for any unwanted grasses or weeds creeping through the crevices and patio bricks. If there’s limited space to plant, window boxes brimming with trailing foliage or flowers, topiaries and multi-hued plants in ceramic pots will go a long way in providing atmosphere, too. Go even further by accessorizing the perimeter of the patio with lanterns or pathway lighting to enable you to see in style. “Invest in lower wattage bulbs; they create more of a soft glow,” says Kelly Edwards from HGTV’s “Design on a Dime.” “After all, you can have the best looking furniture in town, but without the right lighting, it can look out of place.” If you’ve got an eye toward personalization and entertainment, sound systems, sculptures, and intricate fencing that can withstand the elements will also ensure your beautiful décor doesn’t end at the door. © CTW Features

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YOUR FRONT DOOR

f your front door could talk, what would it say about you? A front door is a focal point of any home, and the color, material, and style of the door set the tone for the entire structure. “People should consider the entire entrance when choosing a front door,” said Craig Smyth, owner and president of Clemleddy Construction in Hawley. “There are many choices of materials and finishes that may be considered, but ultimately the entrance should draw your attention to the door itself. Being the gateway to your home, the front entrance should be a reflection of who you are and how you live.” A front door is the entry point where energy, abundance, and opportunities await. Walking through someone’s front door is literally walking into his or her life, space and mind. For the best visual appeal, the front door should be appropriate for the style of the home. Done right, a front door can bring out certain touches and elements of the outside of the home, from the décor around the home such as light fixtures, planters, steps, walkways and gardens to the color of shutters and window treatments. Deciding on the right front door for your home is a fun and important task, whether you are building a new home or remodeling a current one. What style, texture, or color should it be? Read on to find out how to choose the best front door for your home and what your front door says about you.

How to Choose the Best Front Door for Your Home Front doors come in a variety of materials, such as wood, steel, fiberglass, wood composite, and aluminum. Wood is the most cost effective but also requires a lot of maintenance. Steel doors

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can be more expensive but are also more durable when exposed to the elements and require the least maintenance for the homeowner. Once you decide on the type of door, consider whether you want a front entry door design or glass panels for a classic finish.

Colorful Doors For many people, the color of a front door adds to the unique architectural quality of a home, but for many cultures, the shade of a door conveys different meanings. • A red front door creates a welcoming energy into your home. In addition, this color holds symbolic meaning for many cultures and religions. For instance, in Scotland, a red front door indicates the homeowner paid off their mortgage. • When you picture the color blue, you may think of the sky, water, and calmness. According to Feng Shui practices, the color blue is often linked with feelings of security, stability, abundance, and prosperity. Any shade of blue for a door emits positive energy flow into the space. • In many cultures, green represents growth and wealth, whether you have a large family or a substantial income. It can also convey a desire for wealth for those who have more modest earnings. In addition, the color green signifies balance, peace, compassion, renewal, and harmony. • Purple is an eye-catching color in itself, but painting a front door purple shows you are daring, energetic, versatile and open-minded. • White is a classic color for doors, especially on cottage style homes. Throughout history, white has represented virtue, purity, and serenity. • The color yellow evokes mental clarity, perception, understanding, wisdom, confidence, curiosity, humor, and merriment.

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TIPS FOR YOUR HOME

Spring Cleaning

TIPS Provided by Disaster Blaster

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Here are some tips to start off your spring cleaning right! Open the windows Your house is still full of stale winter air. Take advantage of a nice day by opening all of the windows to air it out. You will not believe the difference this can make. This is also a great opportunity to give the windows and screens a thorough cleaning. For an easy DIY cleaning hack that will help you make short work of the window screens, use a scrap of carpeting. The fibers are perfect for cleaning all the little gaps in the screen material.

Put away your winter stuff We never seem to have enough space for all the seasonal clothing, blankets, comforters, and decorations. By giving them one final cleaning and putting them into storage, you know they won’t be in your way all summer. For blankets that may be a bit musty, try hanging them outside on a clothesline during the day.

Clean out the fridge There probably isn’t an appliance in your home that sees as much activity as the fridge does. While you try to keep it clean, in order to do so properly, you need to take everything out. This can be time consuming. As part of your spring cleaning checklist, make some time to empty and thoroughly clean the fridge. You probably didn’t even realize that jar of pickles in the back leaked! For an effective, all natural cleaner, mix some salt and soda water together. The foaming action of the soda water combined with the abrasive salt is an extremely effective cleaner.

Make faucets and shower heads look like new Lime buildup can be a real problem. In addition to looking unsightly, it can clog shower heads and reduce water coverage. White vinegar works phenomenally well at removing lime buildup and can make your faucet look like new. For stubborn buildup, you can soak paper towels in vinegar and wrap them around the faucet, or even fill a zip-top bag with vinegar and put it over the shower head (tying it securely behind the shower head). Let this sit for 45 minutes or an hour and remove. The lime buildup should have softened and will now be easier to wipe off.

Clean hard floors and vacuum carpets All winter, you’ve been tracking in snow, salt, and mud. Now is the perfect time to clean hardwood and tile floors, and to vacuum carpets. Take some time to work your way through the house, cleaning and polishing hardwoods, cleaning tile and grout, and vacuuming / shampooing carpets. You won’t just be getting these surfaces looking fresh and clean, you’ll be removing a lot of the dust and allergens that would otherwise be floating around in the air. Now that winter’s finally over, you’re probably eager to freshen up your home and start enjoying the warm weather. We hope these tips will help you start off your spring cleaning right!

About Disaster Blaster Disaster Blaster is an indoor environmental firm serving the Northeastern PA Area. We have been providing our local area with unparalleled water damage mitigation, mold remediation, asbestos abatement, and radon mitigation services for decades, and are proud to have been recently named The World’s Greatest Indoor Environmental Firm. 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) 9631123.

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In this age of increased emphasis on sustainability, food miles, good health, and, more recently, the downturn in economics, people have turned toward an old example to set a new standard in gardening. 12 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |

Your Garden The victory garden is not a new idea. In fact, these gardens, also known as “war gardens,” were planted at private residences and on public land (including prominent areas such as Boston Commons and Golden Gate Park) during the two World Wars to boost the public’s food supply. They were considered a morale booster, and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt even planted one on the White House grounds despite the objections of the Department of Agriculture. One historical account has victory gardens contributing to 41% of all the vegetable produce consumed in the nation. Using this example, there is a movement toward implementing the victory garden, both privately and publicly, going on all across the country.

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GARDENING

Driving Factors Now that the recognition of a looming environmental crisis has pervaded the public’s consciousness, the effort to be more “green” to help combat the effects has become downright trendy in its popularity. But trendy isn’t necessarily a bad thing if the efforts are really green. One issue is that of “food miles”– how far food travels from ground to table, which includes not only the lengthy transportation but the total energy expended. Additionally, says Roger Doiron, founding director of Kitchen Gardeners International, people are concerned for their health and that of their families. There’s an emphasis on organic produce, seasonal eating, and buying local, but the best way to know where your food is coming from is to grow it yourself. Certainly, the economic situation is contributing to this movement as well. Buying organic produce is expensive, even at a local farmer’s market. Doiron, who has grown numerous vegetables, best illustrates this point. “We spent about $100 last year on seeds, and we’ve converted that investment into over six months of organic vegetables for a family of five,” he says. Lastly, Vanessa Richins, a writer for website, Urban Garden Casual, thinks that victory gardens are growing in popularity due to a desire to return to simpler times as the reliance on technology increases and the current economic and environmental situations get tougher.

Where the Gardens Grow The definition of a victory garden is loose. In order to grow one, all that’s needed is the impetus. While yard space is ideal, if you’re in an apartment or other building without access to a plot, vegetables can be grown in containers and still supplement your regular produce buying. Some cities offer community garden spaces to residents as well. Container gardening expert, Kerry Michaels, loves growing vegetables and feels you can grow almost anything you want depending on what makes sense for your region and the season. She also notes that contained herb gardens can make a beautiful centerpiece. “Perfect for the center of the picnic table and then you can put it on your salad,” she says. Mary Ellen Chambers, a six-year gardener who had no prior experience to planting her first vegetable garden, came up with a novel way to procure some space. She and her hus-

band live in a historic section of Baltimore, and their yard was almost entirely in shade rendering it less than ideal for growing veggies. However, the property next door was owned by an absentee landlord and the yard was perfectly sunny although quite unkempt. Chambers and the landlord made a deal: We’ll care for your yard if you let us do what we want with it. She and her husband now grow a variety of vegetables, such as potatoes, leeks, asparagus, corn, artichokes, and squash. When they reap more than they can consume, they share the bounty with other members of the community. Beyond those options, though, there is one plot of land often ignored and it’s prime gardening space. That is the front yard. Doiron thinks there is starting to be a trend more toward what’s known as the “edible landscape” and that people are forgoing the perfectly manicured lawn and landscaping, once the jewel of suburban affluence, to use that space for fruits and vegetables. Doiron notes that in Europe, “People put gardens in where the sun shines. For different cultural reasons, we tuck our gardens behind our houses.” Doiron himself has a garden “smack dab” in the middle of the front lawn and says it’s “been really encouraging to see people’s reactions.”

How to Start There are several Web resources devoted to victory gardens if you’re interested in learning more about this specific trend, but in terms of starting to grow your own vegetables, don’t be afraid to seek out help from local gardening experts. If you have the land to garden, great, but if not, consider the container garden. Start modestly so you don’t get overwhelmed. Doiron also suggests succession planting – planting seeds over a period of weeks so your harvest is extended over a number of weeks. Chambers feels that the work to maintain her large garden could be done in as little as a couple of hours a week, but she usually spends 1012 hours a week as for her it’s a peaceful retreat. “It’s a form of meditation,” she says. “You can get away with a lot less [time] and get a lot out of it.” Also, learn good storage techniques so you can take advantage of your food for much longer. Doiron employs a variety of storage methods, and at the start of the New Year hadn’t store shopped for produce since the previous May or June, he says.

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Long Garden

at Grey Towers Lori Danuff McKean, Visitor Services Information Specialist, Grey Towers

Anyone who has visited Grey Towers National Historic Site in Milford, PA, has had the pleasure of enjoying the ornate landscape and gardens adjacent to the 1886-French chateau mansion. Gifford Pinchot, founder and first chief of the US Forest Service and two-term governor of Pennsylvania, lived here with his wife Cornelia. They used their private estate simultaneously as an escape from their hectic political lives and as inspiration and immersion to advance their political lives. 14 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |

How can one private home serve as both? The Pinchots – mainly Cornelia – designed entertaining and meeting space both inside and outside that was private yet public, open yet secluded, quiet yet buzzing with activity. The Long Garden, planned and constructed from 19231925, played a large part in this symbiosis. Over time, due to natural decline of the original plantings, coupled with growing use by tens of thousands of visitors (more than the Pinchots could have ever anticipated!), the Long Garden was in need of restoration. When funding became available, Forest Service Horticulturist Elizabeth Hawke embraced the opportunity to restore it with Cornelia’s

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Long Garden

original intentions while adapting it to today’s use. Visitors today will see: • Repairs to the Long Pool; • A rebuilt brick terrace under the beech trees (planted by Gifford in the 1920s); • Installation of artificial turf along the Long Pool; • New plantings including monkshood, aster, sunflower, candytuft, iris, ragwort flower, peony, phlox, daisy, Pennsylvania sedge grass, hemlock, blue spruce, and day lilies. An additional 125 perennials will be planted this spring; • Reconstruction of the u-shaped stairway leading from the Long Garden to the amphitheatre.

The melting of winter’s snow and ice will occur, and the gardens at Grey Towers will awaken from their slumber. Come see what we’ve done to re-establish and recreate a Long Garden room, open to the sky, and the seasonal changing perennial borders. Just as Cornelia intended. Lori McKean is the Visitor Services Information Specialist at Grey Towers National Historic Site, Milford, PA. She lives in Shohola and enjoys spending time outdoors, including in the Grey Towers’ gardens while at work. Photo captions: 1. The Long Garden and Long Pool at Grey Towers. 2. The Fingerbowl, outdoor dining table, covered in springtime wisteria.

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ANNUAL TRICKY TRAY

A decade of fundraising for critically ill children!

Pennies from

HEAVEN Sunday, April 28th | 12 PM to 2:30 PM

“

ENNIES FROM HEAVEN Caleb’s Foundation is celebrating 10 years of fundraising with the announcement of their 10th Tricky Tray basket raffle! The event will take place on Sunday, April 28th, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at The Dock on Wallenpaupack at Silver Birches Resort. Over 175 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. Free raffle tickets will be given out to everyone who brings a full jar of pennies/ change for Caleb’s Wishing Well, or a brand new Crayola item that will be donated to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia! PENNIES FROM HEAVEN was started in loving memory of Caleb, an amazing

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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. Twelve 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. 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 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,

No parent should have to prioritize a payment or job before the care of their sick child.

”

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and more” said Caleb’s mom, Nichole. Since May 2010, more than 650 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 Eleanor’s family. Eleanor is a 3 month old diagnosed at birth with Hurler’s syndrome, a rare, lifethreatening genetic disorder. She is ready to receive a stem cell bone marrow transplant and will need to remain local for at least 100 days post-transplant. This will require her family to be displaced for a while since they live 4.5 hours from the hospital. (Gas bill paid). Kijuan is a 13 year old who was healthy up until August of 2018. He was diagnosed with Aplastic Anemia and has been admitted to the hospital numerous times since then. His medical team is in the planning stages of a bone marrow transplant, hoping that his transplant will take place in the spring. (Rent paid). Logan is a 1 year old who was transferred at birth to the NICU due to a prenatal diagnosis of a Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia. He remains in critical condition months after his sur-

gery due to severe pulmonary hypertension. Attempts have been made to move Logan to a hospital closer to home, but he is too fragile, and no hospital will accept him. (Mortgage paid). Jayda is a 9 year old diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. She underwent a bone marrow transplant just 5 weeks after diagnosis. Prior to hospitalization, Jayda was evaluated and treated at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, which is 8.5 hours from her home. For this reason, her family has been split up for months, and there is no discharge date set for Jayda at this time. (Rent paid x2). These are just a few of the families who have been financially assisted by Caleb’s Pennies From Heaven. Last year’s Tricky Tray event raised over $51,000, and with your help, they hope to top that total 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.

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MRS. DOGOOD

THE SINGING GRAVESTONE By The Reverend Mrs. Silence DoGood

Dear Editor, Consoling a parishioner after they have lost a loved one is one of the most difficult jobs I have as the senior pastor of The First Church of God’s Love in the farming hamlet of Halo, PA. This became all too clear about a month ago while I was preparing dinner with my usual over the stove ministry mindset; while preparing food to nurture my family, I think of how I can nurture my congregants. Anyway, I heard very loud music coming from the cemetery. For those of you who don’t know about my church and our cemetery, I will give you some historical information. When my father-in-law, The Reverend Mr. Silas Patriot DoGood, was planning on building his church, he wanted to give it stature as though it had always been part of the community. He had started his church in Halo in a yellow school bus, and when his congregation grew too large for that space, he moved his services to the Unity Grange Hall. Although he had decades of community service behind him, he wanted to have at least a century of stature. The nondenominational Halo Community Cemetery was on two acres and was over one hundred and fifty years old; the earliest dated gravestone read July 9th, 1871 for Miss Emily Olly Proctor. Originally it was a family gravesite on the Proctor family farm but was separately deeded to the community in the early 1900’s. My father-in-law approached the Proctor family and was able to purchase twenty five acres of their five hundred acre farm next to the community cemetery. The family was not farming that acreage, and even though it had a great view, it would not generally be attractive to a buyer because of its proximity to the cemetery. He was granted all the necessary permits to construct his church and even got the name of the road changed from Cemetery Road to Paradise Lane. My church, our parsonage and the cemetery now present themselves as one century old campus on Paradise Lane. I turned off the gas on my stove and put aside making dinner. My husband was reading in our home library, so I asked him if he knew why there was music in the cemetery. He didn’t. He suggested we walk over and see.

As we approached the cemetery, the music got louder. Frank Sinatra’s voice singing “My Way” brought us like a siren to the gravesite of Mrs. Grace Orenn who had recently passed away at the age of 82. We approached her headstone. The south side of her gravestone was completely covered with a solar panel. Next to it was another smaller panel also facing south to receive as much sunlight as possible. The electricity from these powered a weather proof box from which the music was playing. Obviously this was professionally installed and was meant to be a permanent part of her grave. But why and by whom? Several days later Mr. Orenn sat in our parlor drinking hot water with lemon in it. He believes that it will give him a long life. At age 91 he may be right. I asked him if he knew about the music installation on his wife’s grave. “Of course. My great-grandson helped me install it.” “But why?” “It’s my wife’s favorite song. She loved the shank of the day and now every day from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm she will hear her favorite music. I visit her every morning, but by late afternoon I’m too tired.” “But it’s disruptive,” said my husband. “When I was a young man my aunt sent me a Christmas card, and she wrote ‘I wish you moments of happiness in the New Year.’ I thought how stingy. Why not permanent happiness? It wasn’t until I married Grace that I had permanent happiness.” He cried, “It’s my way of thanking her.” From now on when you visit my church in the shank of the day you will hear the very, very faint song “My Way” coming from the cemetery. Amen.

The Reverend Mrs. Silence DoGood Senior Pastor Executive Director President Chairman Choir Master (part-time) The First Church of God’s Love

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Prison Reflections

“Normal”

Part I

By Terry Mooney

he following story is told by a mother of four children. At thirty two, she is a good example of someone her age who realizes that the “party” life is definitely no party. Her focus now is to embrace recovery so she can participate fully in the lives of her children, and her own.

My Story I had a pretty good upbringing. I was one of six kids, and my parents were married about thirty-nine years until my dad died not long ago. I have two older sisters and three younger brothers. Born and raised in Pennsylvania, around the sixth grade we moved to this area. I was an average student and I liked going. I worked with the drama club, played tennis and ran track and field. I would say I did well in all of those. I was in seventh grade when suddenly we had to move. We were renting a house that went up for sale, and we had to go right away. It’s really tough up here to find rentals, especially for a large family, so we split up. My mom, brother and I went to Virginia to be with my aunt, and my father stayed in this area with his sister. We had Thanksgiving separately, but right after my father came and got us, driving down the mountain in a Yukon, in snow and ice, to move us into a new rental just in time for Christmas Eve. He was always my hero. In high school, I became curious about smoking pot because I knew my sisters were doing it. I started hanging with other students that I knew were doing it. Eventually my grades started to slide. I got caught smoking pot and also cigarettes and was suspended, ending up attending night school which was a bit more structured. I will never forget one day my class came up to the Pike County Correctional Facility to do a scared straight program. We showed up at the school in the morning, driving up in a van right in through the intake garage where inmates are booked in and also released. My cousin was a white shirt there, a sergeant and the shift commander that day. He was standing with a couple of correctional officers, and they started shouting at us to stand up against the wall. I had a chip on my shoulder long before this and wasn’t about to change it now. I was wearing a cropped top showing my midriff with very tight pants, all the while snapping my gum. My cousin, the white shirt, I think he was a sergeant at the time, made me throw out my gum, and one of the officers made me put on an inmate-issue white t-shirt. It was oversized and unattractive and completely negated the look I was trying to effect. At this point in time I realized this was no joke. I was pretty scared; they had my attention. I remember regretting wearing that outfit. It was a lesson learned but quickly forgotten. My cousin, the white shirt, came to talk to me later about the track I was on, that my father, his uncle was worried about me. Even at the age of fifteen, it pained me to hear, but not enough to change anything. The downward spiral was in motion. I really wish I had listened to my cousin, the white shirt. (To Be Continued.)

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Money

S t e p s fo r Maintaining a

Thriving F a m i ly B u s i n e s s “ In a family business, every decision and policy has to be evaluated based both on how it works for the business and also how it will affect the family dynamic – and that adds an extra dimension,” says Daniel Prebish, Director of Life Event Services for Wells Fargo Advisors. Here are six steps he suggests you can take to ensure your family business is positioned to thrive and survive:

Put people in jobs based on ability.

It’s best to hire when you have a business need for a position, not because a family member needs a job, Prebish says. Then choose the candidate whose talents, not lineage, best fit the job. “The most successful family business owners are very honest about the talents of their family members,” Prebish says. “The oldest child may be a better fit in a sales role rather than CEO. Or maybe a child is better off being an artist and not affiliated with the business at all.” Sometimes, recruiting talent from outside the company is the best way to fill a job.

Clarify and define job responsibilities.

Family firms tend to be more informal than other companies, and that can lead

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to misunderstandings about expectations. Take the time to write formal job descriptions that detail each employee’s responsibilities and goals, and establish regular reviews. The older generation should also refrain from micromanaging. “Parents tend to constantly second-guess what a child is doing, and then the child never feels like he or she is actually contributing,” says Jim McKown, High Net Worth Strategist for Wells Fargo Advisors. “You need to think, ‘If they weren’t a family member, how would I be handling this situation?’ And that’s how you should handle it.”

Leave work at the office; leave your personal life at home.

Try not to talk shop during family gatherings, especially at holidays, weddings, and other special events. And refrain from bringing personal drama into the office.

Groom the next generation.

Invest in education and experiences for young family members, sending them to industry conferences and getting them training to develop a skill the business can use. McKown recommends

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encouraging them to work elsewhere before joining the family firm to establish themselves as employees and giving them an opportunity to mature and make mistakes outside the business. Having the next generation develop a solid background in business may help secure your investment as you pass it on.

Outline your succession plan.

Passing a family business on to the next generation can be tricky, and that’s why it’s important to have a strong succession plan. “It should start with how you define success: Is it keeping the business as a family entity over many generations, or are you comfortable selling it to another firm with more resources that could build it into something better?” Prebish says. You will also need to consider how to pass along ownership in a tax-efficient manner, how company founders (and spouses) will be taken care of in retirement, how to replace the current talent and adapt it for a changing market, and how the business may (or may not) be a part of your personal retirement plan.

Know when to seek outside help.

Many business owners consult with outside estate and financial planning experts to help with succession planning. But a disinterested third party can also help resolve disputes and look at the business rationally because there is no emotional attachment, McKown says.

This article was written by Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network and provided courtesy of Michael J Krupa, FA, Krupa Wealth Management, Honesdale, PA 570-253-0121

Investments in securities and insurance products are: NOT FDIC-INSURED/NOT BANKGUARANTEED/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. © 2018 Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC. All rights reserved.

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Book Review OH, HOW YOU LOVE OPENING PRESENTS!

thing nice to give to the Temples, but James Otis had no idea what that might be. Mama reminded him of Reverend Dennis’s words: “Remember, what is given from the heart You love the surprise, first of all. What touches the heart.” did you get? You won’t find out until you And so James Otis began to think. His rip off the paper, and just the sound of that crayons were broken. Sarah probably is exciting. Maybe there’s a box next, or wouldn’t appreciate an old toy truck. His plastic to open, or there’s simply a gift for whistle had spit all over it. His favorite old you to enjoy. Getting presents is awesome, puzzle was missing two pieces. What would but in the new book, “What is Given from a little girl like? Betthe Heart” by Patricia ter question: how can C. McKissack, illusyou give anything trated by April Harriwhen you have nothson, its doubly special ing yourself? when you have noth“What is Given ing to give in return. from the Heart” is a Mama always book that seriously seemed so sad. needs to come with its James Otis did what own choir, one that he could, but it was “a would softly sing, just rough few months.” when you get about Nearly a year ago, halfway through readDaddy fell asleep one ing it. Yes, this story day and didn’t wake is just that wonderful. up; after that, the farm It’s okay if you was repossessed and don’t have access to Mama had to move tenors and sopranos, herself and James Otis though. Your child to a tumbledown will get the message shack, and there never all the same because seemed to be enough author Patricia C. money. The final blow McKissack tells a tale came when James that shows loud and Otis’s dog ran off. clear how giving has Mama liked to point its own rewards and out that they had each riches. Even kids who By Patricia C. McKissack other. They had God, turn into Gimme MonIllustrated by April Harrison and they had small sters will see it – in holidays and such, Reviewed by Terri Schlichenmeyer part, because of but James Otis knew it McKissack’s quiet, had been a struggle. loving text and in part, because of the colThen one day near Valentine’s Day, he lage-like illustrations by April Harrison. and Mama were in church when Reverend Rounding it off, the uplifting ending couldDennis made a special announcement. As n’t be more heartwarming. always, the church was giving to the needy that spring, but Mrs. Temple and her sevenThis is a book that’s perfect for soft-heartyear-old daughter, Sarah, had been victims ed kids ages 4-to-8, but materialistic older of a fire, and they needed a special “love kids might need to hear it once or twice, box.” too. For them, or any generous child, “What The Temples had lost everything, and on is Given from the Heart” could make a great the way home that day, Mama said she present. wanted to help. She wanted to find some-

“What is Given from the Heart”

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Lackawaxen

LACKAWAXEN Where Two Rivers Meet By LA Guzda

ackawaxen, the Leni Lenape word for Where Two Rivers Meet. Nestled in the northeast corner of Pennsylvania, this secret gem boasts the world’s most southern glacial lakes and communities like Rowland – Little Norway, Bohemia, Fawn Lake and Greeley. Greeley is named for Horace Greeley, the powerful newspaper editor of the

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mid-1800s. He, along with a group of select people, created a commune to establish an open-society. Unfortunately, they didn’t select anyone with farming skills and had to abandon the idea after a harsh winter and hunger forced them back to New York City. Lackawaxen was also home to the famous author, Zane Gray. His house is

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now managed by the National Park Service and sits right at the junction where the Delaware and Lackawaxen Rivers meet. From the front porch you can easily see the Roebling Bridge, built by John Roebling, who also built the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. There are accounts of Robert E. Lee using Lackawaxen as an overnight stay when traveling between West Point and Virginia. Rumor also holds that Al Capone visited the area several times, and there was indeed a bank robbery during one of his visits. The area hosted numerous hotels, boarding houses and nudist colonies. The old Gelderman Farm on the Tow Path served as a dance hall and boxing ring on the weekends. Lackawaxen is a unique blend of locals and transplants, wealthy and notso-wealthy, young and old. But it is a community that cares. The township along with the non-profit organization, Growing Lackawaxen, work closely together to provide workshops and events.

April 27th – Tricky Tray / Cookie Walk Doors open 2 p.m., Tricky Tray winners announced starting at 4p.m. followed by Cookie Walk. The Lackawaxen Volunteer Fire House on Route 590 in Lackawaxen Village. KAYAK RAFFLE - $5/ea or 3 for $10 Winner announced at the Tricky Tray event.

May 25th – Trunk Tag Sale / Swap Lackawaxen ballfield 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. $5/per trunk fee to sell. FREE admission to enter.

Visit www.lackawaxentownshippa.gov for details or @LackawaxenTownshipPA on Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @PoconoSecrets 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

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Outdoor Ramblings

Blazing Through the Woods By Bill Deaton | williamjdeaton@yahoo.com

eep in the woods a path winds around trees and over rocks. Sometimes the way is easy to find, other times it is not. At times you don’t even notice them, you just go by hiking; but now you are looking for one. You’re not sure you’re still heading in the right direction. Back and forth you scan through the trees looking for assurance you are not lost. Finally, there you spy one….a trail marker. Approximately 2-inches wide by 6-inches high, painted blazes on trees, rocks, sign posts, etc. are the most common marking choice. Because of the ease of maintaining painted blazes, their use has become rather typical both on public and private trail systems. Some of the many colors trail users might find in the Keystone State are: • White – Used on the Appalachian Trail. The entire 2000+ mile footpath is blazed white; approximately 230 miles lie in Pennsylvania. • Orange – Used on state forest hiking trails. The Thunder Swamp Trail in the Delaware State Forest and Pinchot Trail in the Pinchot State Forest are blazed orange. • Yellow – Used for shorter trails in state forests and state parks open to foot traffic only. • Blue – Used for side trails off the Appalachian Trail as well as shorter trails in state forests and in state parks intended for foot traffic and XC skiing. • Red – Used for trails in state forests and state parks that are open to horses, mountain biking and possibly snowmobiles and ATVs.

Trails for XC skiing, ATVs, and snowmobile use generally have additional signage designating the intended use and, in the case of skiing, a difficulty rating. While there are guidelines for the color use, often there can be discrepancies due to local needs or the traditional use of another color. For example, the Loyalsock Trail is a state forest trail but has blazes that are half yellow/half red. Blazes don’t just mark the path, they also signal changes in direction. A blaze placed atop of another and offset to the right means a right turn ahead. An offset blaze to the left over another blaze warns of a left turn. Rare is the triple blaze to show the terminus of a trail, but they are out there. Trail users should always consult maps or trail guidebooks before setting out. While the state is trying to keep things standardized, not every trail system is marked accordingly. Many double blazes are just one on top of another, and caution is needed when looking for the intersection. Trees fall down. State game lands and state forest boundaries are marked with splotches of white paint as well, and where they are close to trails, may pose confusion. So always remember, the blazes are there to give assurance, not necessarily provide a definitive guide.

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Pets

Part II

Heartworms H

eartworms are large worms reaching 6-14 inches (15-36 cm) long. They are primarily located in the right ventricle of the heart and adjacent blood vessels.The typical clinical signs of heartworm infection are fatigue, coughing, and poor physical condition.

How is heartworm infection diagnosed? In most cases, diagnosis of heartworm disease can be made by a blood test that can be run in the veterinary hospital or by a veterinary laboratory. Further diagnostic procedures are essential to determine if the dog can tolerate heartworm treatment. Depending on the case, we will recommend some or all of the following procedures before treatment is started. Serological test for antigens to adult heartworms: This is a test performed 30 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |

on a blood sample. It is the most widely used test because it detects antigens (proteins) produced by adult heartworms. It will be positive even if the dog does not have any microfilariae in the blood. This occurs in about 20% of the cases. Dogs with less than five adult heartworms will not have enough antigen to give a positive test result, so there may be an occasional false negative result in dogs with early infections. Because the detected antigen is only produced by the female heartworm, a population of only male heartworms will also give a false negative. Therefore, there must be at least five female worms present for the most common heartworm test to diagnose heartworm disease. Blood test for microfilariae: A blood sample is examined under the microscope for the presence of microfilariae. If microfilariae are seen, the test is positive. The number of microfilariae

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seen gives us a general indication of the severity of the infection. However, the microfilariae are seen in greater numbers in the summer months and in the evening, so these variations must be considered. Approximately 20% of dogs do not test positive even though they have heartworms because of an acquired immunity to this stage of the heartworm. Because of this, the antigen test is the preferred test. Also, there is another blood parasite that is fairly common in dogs that can be hard to distinguish from heartworm microfilariae. Blood chemistries: Complete blood counts and blood tests for kidney and liver function may give an indication of the presence of heartworm disease. These tests are also performed on dogs diagnosed as heartworm-infected to determine the function of the dog's organs prior to treatment. Radiographs (X-rays): A radiograph of a dog with heartworms will usually show heart enlargement and swelling of the large artery leading to the lungs from the heart. These signs are considered presumptive evidence of heartworm disease. Radiographs may also reveal the condition of the heart, lungs, and vessels. This information allows us to predict an increased possibility of complications related to treatment. Electrocardiogram: An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) is a tracing of the electric currents generated by the heart. It is most useful to determine the presence of abnormal heart rhythms. Echocardiography: An ultrasonic examination that allows us to see into the heart chambers and even visualize the heartworms.

Check back next month for Heartworm Treatment.

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Ace 6 month old Border Collie/Pit mix. He is a very friendly, energetic boy who loves to play and goof around.

Wendy 1 year old female who is extremely sweet and affectionate. With her you'll never be lonely.

Available for adoption at Dessin Animal Shelter! Call 570-253-4037. | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 31

BEHAVIORAL MEDICINE

What is

Trichotillomania? By Arthur Middleton, M.D., FAPA

It is foolish to tear one’s hair in grief, as though sorrow would be made less by baldness. – Cicero

bsessive Compulsive Disorder or OCD is a commonly recognized term. Many are familiar with this disorder even without having precise knowledge about the exact symptoms. Some of us have OCD behaviors. It is likely that we have experienced the need to check a door to make sure that it is locked; doing so more than once to make certain that it is, in fact, locked. While one check will do, a second and even a third check will “bind” or alleviate the anxiety. This is a harmless behavior that many recognize and would not describe as bizarre. Apart from OCD itself, there are other disorders which are termed comorbid, which is defined by the Miriam Webster Dictionary as: existing simultaneously with and usually independently of another medical condition. In other words, individuals who are diagnosed with OCD may also have other mental disorders that are identifiable and complicate treatment. The following fictional clinical vignette is presented to highlight the features of OCD and a comorbid or coexisting mental disorder. JT is an 18-year-old single female. She is a senior in high school and hopes to go on to college. JT has struggled with mental health issues for most of her life. At the age of 7, she began to pull at her hair. Initially, it would occur when she felt

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anxious. By the age of 10, it became more noticeable, especially at school because she would tug at her hair and pull it out leaving patches of raw skin. When this was noticed at school, she was sent to see the school nurse who applied an antibiotic to the skin. The school nurse assumed that it was a function of anxiety. Her parents were called after which she was often scolded by them, not realizing that it was more complicated and not a voluntary behavior. Fearing further reprisals from her parents, JT began to hide her behavior. She also felt that she could not share with her parents or anyone else why this behavior occurred. Initially, she pulled her hair out without thinking, but over the course of the next several years, it became intentional. She was aware of the behavior but could not control the urge to pull her hair out. The anxiety that occurred when she fought the urge to pull her hair was overwhelming and accompanied by feelings that were so unpleasant that she could not resist the urge to follow through, pulling her hair out despite the physical discomfort. As a result, she had an appearance by her early teen years that was difficult to comprehend. Her hair was uneven with bald spots on her head. Her parents took her to a family doctor who treated her for

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the rashes that had developed on her scalp. JT, at that time, could not share with her doctor why this behavior occurred. She tried to cover her hair with clothing and felt sad and unhappy with the way she looked. Despite the efforts of her primary care doctor, the behavior continued. By the age of 15, JT had seen several therapists. She was given a diagnosis of Trichotillomania or Hair-Pulling Disorder. JT was also seen by several psychiatrists. Numerous medications were tried. Her current psychiatrist has prescribed medications which are used to treat obsessive compulsive disorder; Luvox or fluvoxamine, Celexa or citalopram, and Effexor or venlafaxine as examples. JT is also seeing a therapist for issues related to her appearance and behavior. She is being treated with CBT or Cognitive Behavior Therapy to help her understand her behavior with the goal to control it. JT has become more aware of her mental disorder and has begun to recognize that she has some features of OCD. Her psychiatrist does not feel that she has the full spectrum of this disorder. However, JT does have some ritualistic behaviors associated with frequent hand-washing. Admittedly, this has made her social life difficult, but she has been able to make friends who have made an effort to understand and accept her behavior. JT’s

appearance has improved, and she has been put on a combination of medications for OCD and anxiety that seem to be effective. Her parents have long since come to the conclusion that their initial reaction to JT’s hair pulling was neither effective nor compassionate and have resolved to become more informed about their daughter’s condition. Visit CM’s website for more on Trichotillomania.

The following references are provided for the informed consumer: MedlinePlus U.S/ National Library of Medicine/National Institutes of Health: Trichotillomania top of the head http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/imagepages/ 2365.htm American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry: Hair Pulling (Trichotillomania) http://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Fact s_for_Families/Facts_for_Families_Pages/Hair_Pulling_T richotillomania_96.aspx International OCD Foundation: Disorders Related to (And Sometimes Confused with) OCD http://iocdf.org/about-ocd/related-disorders/

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Dr. Middleton is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, and a Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. 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, PA.

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EVENTS

Y O U

ENTERTAINMENT

ARTS

RECREATION

a+r+e APR ’19

THE AREA’S GOOD STUFF

C O N N E C T E D

WEDNESDAYS

Ongoing Events DAILY

Art-a-Pelago Black & Brass Coffee Co., The Bodhi Tree Art School & Studio, & D.J. Harvey Agency, Honesdale. One art gallery in three locations (Thasos-Anafi-Paros). Info: waynecountyartsalliance.org.

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. THURSDAYS

Public Art Displays Nature’s Grace, Wayne Memorial Hospital, Honesdale & Pocono Lake Region Chamber of Commerce, Hawley. Wayne County Arts Alliance artists display their work.

Wayne Pike Workforce Alliance 10 a.m.–Noon. Newfoundland Library, Newfoundland. Serves as an intermediary to identify, create & provide educational opportunities. They can help you apply for jobs or refine your resume. No appointment necessary. Free. Info: 570-676-4518.

DAILY

THURSDAYS

Public Art Display REMAX Wayne, Honesdale. Art displays of local artists all year long. Info: 570-253-9566.

Pub-O-Lympics 8 p.m. The Dock on Wallenpaupack, Hawley. A combination of trivia & physical challenges. Compete with your team to win a gold medal, gift certificate & bragging rights. Info: 570-226-4388.

DAILY

WEEKLY

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. TUESDAYS

Bingo American Legion Post 311, Hawley. Doors open 10:30 a.m., games begin at Noon. Info: legionpost311@gmail.com. TUESDAYS

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. TUESDAYS, THURSDAYS & SATURDAYS

Figure Drawing with Model Mark Rando The Art Factory of White Mills, White Mills. Improve your figure-drawing skills. Must be 18 or older; model is nude. Bring your own materials. Easels provided. Info: 570-251-1181 or TheArtFactoryofWhiteMills.com.

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FRIDAYS

Live Music 8 p.m.–Midnight. The Dock on Wallenpaupack, Hawley. Great drink specials, delicious food & live music. Info: 570-226-4388 or silverbirchesresortpa.com. FRIDAYS

Live Music at Tannery Room 8–11 p.m. Glass-wine. bar. kitchen. at Ledges Hotel, Hawley. Info: 570-226-1337 or ledgeshotel.com. SATURDAYS

Drop-in 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. SATURDAYS

FREE Tastings and Demos Noon–2 p.m. Mill Market, in the Hawley Silk Mill, Hawley. Info: 570-390-4440.

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EVENTS SATURDAYS

APR. 6

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.

Scouts BSA Badge Festival 9:30 a.m.–4 p.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Bears will work on completing Fur, Feathers, & Ferns while Webelos will work on their Earth Rocks badge. Boy Scouts will work towards their Environmental Science badge (pre-req. 3e. & 3f, bring a camera). Payment required at registration. Space limited. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org.

April 1– April 9 APR. 1–30

Art Opening: Kathleen Gubitosi, “Brushstrokes of Wildlife” Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, Stroudsburg. Kathleen’s passion & love of wildlife & of nature is exhibited in her very first show at Kettle Creek. Opening Reception: Apr. 6, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Info: 570-629-3061 or www.mcconservation.org.

APR. 6

The Marywood University Chamber Singers 2 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Presented by The Cooperage Project. Let the amazing harmonies of this 24-voice ensemble, based in Scranton, Pa., carry you away.

APR. 1–30 Arts Alive Elegante’ Restaurant, Alley Whey Eatery, Gather, The Velvet Maple, Gravity Ice Cream & Hotel Wayne in Honesdale. Five school districts’ student art on display. View the art teachers’ selection of their students’ creative work from K through 12. Info: 570-253-5492. APR. 4

Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku) Workshop 6–8 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Led by Joshua Heath & Derrick Braun of The Lodge at Woodloch. Discover how slow & contemplative walks through the forest can help focus your body & mind. Learn to be in the present with techniques for deep breathing & mindbody awareness. Enjoy the healing powers of the nature that surrounds us. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org. APR. 4

Live Music with Eric Rudy 6–9 p.m. Kol Steakhouse, Hotel Anthracite, Carbondale. Info: 570-536-6020. APR. 5

Steele Wine Dinner 5:30–9 p.m. The Settlers Inn Restaurant, Hawley. Kick off Wally Wine Fest weekend with a night of California-inspired cuisine & wines featuring Steele Wines of Kelseyville, CA. Part of the Wally Wine Fest Platinum Ticket. Reservations required: 570-226-1337. Info: 570-226-2993.

Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org. APR. 6–7

Wally Wine Fest Noon–5 p.m. The Waterfront at Silver Birches, Hawley. 100 Domestic & international wines to sample & bottles to purchase. Food & gift vendors. Bourbon & beer tasting. Proceeds benefit the Lake Wallenpaupack fireworks. Tickets available in advance or by phone at 570-226-4388. Info: 570-226-4388 or silverbirchesresortpa.com. APR. 7

Greene-Dreher Vol. Fire Assoc. All You Can Eat Breakfast Buffet 8:30–11:30 a.m. Greene Dreher Volunteer Fire Association, Newfoundland. Eggs, potatoes, sausage, bacon, ham, corned beef hash, pancakes, sausage gravy over biscuits, toast, homemade French toast & all drinks. Children under 4 free. Info: 570-676-4207 or gdvfa23@yahoo.com.

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EVENTS APR. 7

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. APR. 7

Main Wear Expo: A Fashion Show Fundraiser 2:30 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Local models walk the runway to singing siren Veronica Daub. See what area shops & boutiques have to offer right here in our region while supporting The Cooperage Project. Featuring fancy eats out of The Cooperage kitchen & the Moka Origins chocolate fountain. Cocktails & wine available for purchase. Do not BYOB. Silent jewelry auction. Reservations & info: 570-253-2020 or info@thecooperageproject.org. APR. 7

Bridge The Gap: Spring Peeper Search 7:30–9 p.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. These 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.

April 10–April 19 APR. 10

Open Mic Night 7–10 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Presented by The Cooperage Project. Hosted by Alan Cooper. Come to perform or come to listen & watch. BYOB. Donations make this event possible. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org. APR. 10–14

Wild Week at Glass 9 p.m. Glass-wine. bar. kitchen. at Ledges Hotel, Hawley. Enjoy wild & exotic dishes created by Chef Travis & his staff. À la carte menu. Full menu also available. Info & reservations: 570-226-1337. APR. 11

Embroidery for Beginners 6–8 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Presented by The Cooperage Project. Led by Devan George. Learn the basics of the art of embroidery from Honesdale’s cheeriest

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APR. 12 Pallet Paint & Sip 7–9 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Presented by The Cooperage Project. Let your inner artist shine. Bring a drink or snack & a friend to share it with. Paint a 20x20 wooden pallet with red poppies or another flower design. A great way to welcome spring. M u s t r e g i s t e r & p a y i n a d va n c e : Lauren, 570-618-3080. stitcher. Covers selecting tools, transferring images to fabric, basic stitches & finishing hoops. If you’ve wanted to make custom embroidery hoops, embroidered clothing or up-cycled clothing, this is for you. Supplies provided. BYOB. Reservations & info: 570-253-2020 or info@thecooperageproject.org. APR. 11

Learn the Birds: Birding Identification Series 7–8:30 p.m. Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, Stroudsburg. Join Pocono Avian Research Center to learn some new tricks or hone some old skills at identifying herons & cranes, including whooping cranes, great blue herons, great egrets, night herons & more. All ages welcome. Info: 570-629-3061 or www.mcconservation.org.

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EVENTS APR. 13

Dirt & Gravel Road Maintenance Workshop 9–11 a.m. Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, Stroudsburg. Homeowner associations & homeowners are encouraged to attend this leisurely pictorial tour of erosion on driveways & how to fix it. Light snacks & beverages provided. Time after the program for site-specific questions. Bring photos if you have them. Space limited. Reserve your seat by calling 570-629-3060.

revival during tornado season. They transcend musical genres with a blast of deep, powerful groove & soul. The band is the groove while Ponder’s pipes keep it rooted in soul. Free & open to the public. BYOB. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org. APR. 14

Salamanders, Frogs, & More! 10 a.m.–Noon. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Amphibians are stirring in the woods. Explore nearby

APR. 13 Spring Re-awakens 1–4 p.m. The Art Factory of White Mills, White Mills. Special multi-artist display of all things sunflowers — paintings, photos & sculpture. Artists will be on hand for free demos. Light refreshments served. Info: 570-251-1181 or TheArtFactoryofWhiteMills.com. APR. 13

Milford After Dark 5–8 p.m. Downtown Milford. Extended shopping hours, gallery events, live music & diverse dining options. Info: 570-832-1381 or milfordmusicfest@gmail.com.

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: 570-8282319 or www.peec.org. APR. 14

APR. 13

Second Saturday Honesdale 6–9 p.m. Downtown Honesdale. Festivaltown happening filled with music, art, comedy & community support. Info on Facebook. APR. 13

Tribute to Carlos Santana with Se Acabo 7 p.m. Dingman-Delaware Middle School, Dingmans Ferry. NE Pa.–based band has produced the authentic live sounds of Carlos Santana & his band for over a decade. Ten musicians bring life to the best songs from his full repertoire. Musicians will offer a daytime student workshop. Concert includes the DVHS Jazz Band. Free admission; donations accepted. Info: 570-409-1269 or www.kindredspiritsarts.org. APR. 13

Second Saturday: Danielle Ponder 7:30 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. When Ponder & the Tomorrow People hit the stage things get torqued up quickly like a tent

Bridge the Gap: Bike the McDade 1–4 p.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. All equipment & transportation provided for a bike ride along the McDade Trail. Bring a water bottle & wear sturdy footwear. Extra water & snacks available. Free. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org. APR. 14

Learn the Art of Watercolors with Cynthia Hanson 2–4 p.m. The Art Factory of White Mills, White Mills. All skill levels welcome. Learn style & technique, & take home a finished painting, made by you. Info: 570-251-1181 or TheArtFactoryofWhiteMills.com. APR. 14

RiverFolk Concert: Jacob Johnson 5 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Presented by The Cooperage Project & RiverFolk Concerts. If anyone knows how to feed the soul thru the fabric of a story, it’s South Carolina’s own Jacob Johnson. The passion of his storytelling is complemented by his

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EVENTS easygoing & effortless vocals & his guitar virtuosity. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org. BYOB. Reservations & info: 570-253-2020 or 845-252-6783 or riverfolkconcerts@ thecooperageproject.org.

APR. 18

Full Moon Bog Hike 6:30–9 p.m. Tannersville Bog, E. Stroudsburg. Explore the bog under the light of a full moon. Bring a flashlight. Wear appropriate footwear. Pre-registration required & limited: 570-629-3061.

APR. 15

Wayne Highlands Quilt Guild 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. 19

Chaos Wire Wrapping with Bernice Craft 3:30–5:30 p.m. The Art Factory of White Mills, White Mills. Learn how to “chaos” wire wrap & create unique pieces of jewelry. Bring jewelers pliers (no teeth). Info: 570-251-1181 or TheArtFactoryofWhiteMills.com.

APR. 16

Conserving Your Family Land 6–7:30 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Presented by The Cooperage Project & Delaware Highlands Conservancy. Learn your options for conserving, managing & caring for your lands, the financial benefits of land conservation & land management, & the funding opportunities available to you. Light refreshments provided. Free entry, but registration is required: DelawareHighlands.org.

APR. 19

APR. 17

Easter Brunch at Hotel Anthracite 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Hotel Anthracite, Carbondale. Easter brunch in Gravity Hall. Live music. Info & reservations: 570-536-6020.

Acoustic Bluegrass Jam 7–9 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Presented by The Cooperage Project. Led by Ron Penska. All levels of players are welcome. All instruments are welcome, too, but leave your amps at home — this jam is entirely acoustic. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org. APR. 18

Game Night 6–9 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Presented by The Cooperage Project. Play from a selection of games or bring your own game to share & teach. All ages welcome. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.

Grateful Dead Night 8–11 p.m. Glass-wine. bar. kitchen. at Ledges Hotel, Hawley. Entertainment by The Village Idiots. Join the staff in themed attire. No cover charge. Info: 570-226-1337.

April 20–April 30 APR. 21

APR. 21

Easter Dinner at Settlers Inn 11:30 a.m.–6 p.m. The Settlers Inn Restaurant, Hawley. Prix fixe menu. Live music with Dan Bradley. Reservations required: 570-226-2993. APR. 21

Easter Buffet at The Waterfront Noon–4 p.m. The Waterfront at Silver Birches, Hawley. Reservations required: 570-226-4388.

APR. 20 Spring Edibles Hike 10–11:30 a.m. Lacawac Sanctuary, Lake Ariel. Nathaniel Whitmore from the Delaware Highlands Mushroom Society shares his wealth of knowledge about wild edibles & how they are enjoyed by wildlife & humans. Short-distance hike. Wear comfortable footwear. All ages welcome. Info: 570-689-9494 or info@lacawac.org. 38 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE |

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EVENTS APR. 25

Shakespeare on Film: Romeo & Juliet 7 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Shakespeare’s tragedy, written early in his career, about two young star-crossed lovers whose deaths ultimately reconcile their feuding families. Introduced with a brief background & orientation by Dr. Robert Dugan. Followed by an opportunity for discussion. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org. APR. 25–28

APR. 26 To Beer or Not To Beer – Cooking Class 7–9 p.m. Boiler Room, Hawley Silk Mill, Hawley. Learn to cook with your favorite brew and enjoy a 4 course meal, hosted by the talented Chef Kate Woehrle. Call Ledges Hotel to reserve: 570-226-1337. Info: 570-390-4440.

APR. 24

STAR TOURS. Explore the Mysteries of the Universe. 3:30–5 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Free for kids & families. Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble’s traveling production explores the mysteries of the universe with the top-notch crew of the Star Ship Improvise as they explore our solar system, the peculiarities of space travel, the discoveries of Galileo & more, in order to teach some kids about outer space. A playful, hilarious & informative experience for all ages. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org. APR. 25

Unique Pathways Program Series 5:30 p.m. Hawley Public Library, Hawley. Dr. Carrie Demers, Medical Director of the Himalayan Institute, is a holistic physician who blends modern medicine with traditional approaches to health. Hear Carrie's unique pathway in medicine. Free. Light refreshments served. Info: 570-226-4620.

Pocono Knitting Retreat Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Workshop led by Patti Shreiner. Knit a “Faded Glory” shawl using between 5 & 9 100g skeins of sock/fingering weight yarn in a variety of colors. Other fun activities include dyeing a yarn blank (kit available). Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org. APR. 26

Relay for Life Fundraiser 5–10 p.m. The Dock on Wallenpaupack, Hawley. Support this worthwhile cause. Info: Silver Birches, 570-226-4388. APR. 27

Monroe County Earth Day Celebration 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Northampton Community College (NCC) Monroe campus, Tannersville. Help celebrate Monroe Cty.’s environmental efforts & successes with ongoing live music, speakers, exhibitors, give & take, tire amnesty, Earth Speaks Exhibit, ecycling, children’s activities, food & more. Sponsored by MCCD & NCC Monroe campus. Info: 570-629-3061 or www.mcconservation.org. APR. 27

Earth Day Festival 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Celebrate the Earth with hands-on learning stations, interpretive hikes, conservation exhibits, crafts, food, music & much more. Electronics recycling (some electronics may be subject to a fee). PEEC reserves the right to refuse to accept items. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org. APR. 27

Alcohol Ink with Jane Brennan 1–3 p.m. The Art Factory of White Mills, White Mills. Share her passion for working with alcohol ink, & create 3 very unique tiles. Info: 570-251-1181 or TheArtFactoryofWhiteMills.com.

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EVENTS APR. 27

A Contra Dance 7:15 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Live music by Laura & Craig Gehrig, with caller Laurie B. Beginners welcome, no experience necessary. Caller Laurie B. will do a beginner lesson starting at 7:15 p.m. Kids under 15 free. Info: 570-253-2020 or info@thecooperageproject.org.

Dingmans Ferry. Spring migration has begun. Enjoy a weekend of bird watching & beer tasting. Enjoy guided hikes that teach how to identify birds by sight, sound & habitat. Geared toward beginners & experts alike. Sat. night PEEC provides transportation to a local brewery & buys the 1st round. Commuter & day rates available. MAY 4

APR. 28

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. APR. 28

House of Hamill 5 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Presented by The Cooperage Project. The duo of Rose Baldino & Brian Buchanan, accomplished traditional fiddle players & classical violinists, is sure to impress with their powerful onstage connection, mesmerizing harmony & unique take on traditional songs. The blend of their two voices in harmony is hypnotic & irresistible. Reservations & info: 570-253-2020 or info@thecooperageproject.org. APR. 29

Birding the Bog 7–9:30 a.m. Tannersville Bog, E. Stroudsburg. A morning of migration birding at the Bog. Pre-registration required: 570-629-3061.

May 1–May 5

Run, Hike, Crawl: PEEC 5k 8 a.m.–Noon. Pocono Environmental Education Center, Dingmans Ferry. Take a journey through the woods of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. 5k runs through the main campus & a variety of different woodland habitats on two gorgeous trail loops. Awards for top three male & female participants in each age group. Maximum of 100 spaces. Info: 570-828-2319 or www.peec.org. MAY 4

Volunteer Work Day 9 a.m.–Noon. Lacawac Sanctuary, Lake Ariel. Join in to help get Lacawac’s trails & property ready for the summer season. Bring gloves. Lacawac will provide tools & equipment. Register & fill out Lacawac Volunteer Form: www.lacawac.org. MAY 4

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. Binoculars suggested. All ages welcome. Registration appreciated. Free program. Info: 570-689-9494 or info@lacawac.org. MAY 5

MAY 1

Farmer Next Level Sales 6–8 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. The Cooperage Project & The Food Trust present a workshop on next level sales: adopting social media best practices & cultivating customer relationships. Peer-to-peer learning session teaches farmers & producers vending at farmers markets & farm stands tools to building strong branding through business websites & via social media outlets. Dinner provided by The Mustard Seed. Free entry, but registration is required: 570-253-2020 or info@thecooperageproject.org. MAY 3–5

Birds & Brews Pocono Environmental Education Center,

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MiZ: An Intimate Storyteller’s Show 2 p.m. The Cooperage, Honesdale. Presented by The Cooperage Project. Intimate, solo acoustic storyteller’s show by Mike Mizwinski, better known simply as MiZ, an Americana/Roots Rock artist from NE Pa. known for masterful guitar playing, well-crafted songwriting, & powerful & energetic live performances. Info: 570-253-2020 or thecooperageproject.org.

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