April/May 2014

History of the Appalachian Trail

by Amy Leiser

I’m a-goin Fishin’

by Pete Pappalardo

Pocono Living M A G A Z I N E©

is published bi-monthly in the Pocono Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania by

Pocono Magazines, LLC. 1929 North Fifth Street Stroudsburg, PA 18360 570-424-1000 pmags@ptd.net PUBLISHER/EDITOR Larry R. Sebring CREATIVE DIRECTOR/EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Barbara McMahon ASSISTANT CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jane Cumberland WEB DESIGN/DIGITAL ISSUES Graphicus Design, LLC

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Amanda Belanger Jordan D. Lewis

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

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

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

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JACOB STROUD CORPORATION

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

2 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© APRIL/MAY 2014

www.graceparkseniorliving.com

April/May 2014

What’s Inside 4 History of the Appalachian Trail

by Amy Leiser

6 Camping & Hiking in the Poconos

by Pocono Mountain Visitors Bureau

12 Keep Your Lawn Looking Great 14 I’m a-goin’ Fishin’

by Pete Pappalardo

22 The Easter Hole

by Suzanne McCool

24 April & May at Pocono Environmental Education Center 30 Springtime Safety Tips from the ASPCA 32 April & May at Monroe County Environmental Education Center 34 How to Make Owning a Car More Affordable 36 Fishin’ with Sasquatch Sam

by Boots McCoy

38 Where in the Watershed Walks

Our cover features a cotton-tailed rabbit.

Photo by Joe Kosack of the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

APRIL/MAY 2014 2014 POCONO POCONO LIVING LIVING MAGAZINE MAGAZINE©© 33 APRIL/MAY

History of the

APPALACHIAN TRAIL

BY AMY LEISER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR MONROE COUNTY HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION

F

Formed over 250 million years ago, the Appalachian Mountain range runs along eastern North America from Canada to the state of Alabama. These mountains were an important part of the landscape for the Native peoples that lived in our region, and they played a significant role in the European colonization of America. The Appalachians proved to be a natural boundary between the English colonists to the east and French settlers to the west in the early 1700s.

Most people who visit Monroe County wonder at the scenic beauty and rich natural history of this old mountain range. During the first half of the 20th century, one man envisioned a trail that would provide an opportunity for the average person to experience not only the health benefits of the clean mountain air, but to witness America’s natural beauty. This man was Benton MacKaye.

MacKaye was born in New England in 1879 and studied forestry and conservation at Harvard University. In October 1921, following World War I, MacKaye published An Appalachian Trail: A Project in Regional Planning.

In his article, MacKaye discussed the importance of creating a healthy labor force by encouraging American workers to take a vacation from their work environment

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“ Most people who visit Monroe County wonder at the scenic beauty and rich natural history of this old mountain range.”

to experience the natural environment. At that time, many of the US wilderness areas were located in the West and were not accessible to the average Easterner.

By creating a trail close to metropolitan areas, MacKaye felt Americans would experience a boost in their heath by promoting “oxygen intake” and would gain perspective on life through recreation. MacKaye also felt that once Americans experienced the Appalachian Mountains firsthand, they would settle into these rural areas to call them home.

MacKaye’s trail opened as a continuous footpath on August 14, 1937 and became designated as the first National Scenic Trail in October 1968. Today, this Appalachian Trail extends 2,174 miles from Mount Katahdin in Maine south through 14 states, eight National Forests and two National Parks to Springer Mountain in Georgia. The Appalachian Trail runs along the Monroe/ Northampton County border for a little over 35 miles.

From Delaware Water Gap through Totts Gap over Wolf Rocks and beyond Wind Gap and Smith Gap, Monroe County’s scenery and natural history can be viewed from high atop the Appalachian Mountains. “Most people who visit Monroe County wonder at the scenic beauty and rich natural history of this old mountain range.” P

Bronze marker for the Appalachian Trail. This undated photo was taken by local photographer, Earland F. Clark.

APRIL/MAY 2014 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© 5

Camping and Hiking in the Poconos COURTESY POCONO MOUNTAINS VISITORS BUREAU

A

s the weather warms, Mother Nature is beginning to open her hands to visitors.

The unspoiled woods and waters of our area are just waiting to be enjoyed. What better way to experience the outdoors than to sleep under the stars and hike through the woodlands?

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Beautiful riverside location.

C

amping and hiking are usually synonymous with one another, and both provide an authentic outdoor experience. The Poconos abound with endless opportunities for camping, and fortunately, many campsites in the Pocono Mountains have hiking trails, lakes or rivers close by too!

The healthful benefits to be derived from enjoying the fresh mountain air, the clear lakes, rivers, streams, and the endless trails are too numerous to mention. Suffice it to say, they are good for the body, mind & soul.

Gearing up to enjoy these adventures is pretty simple.

A pair of good hiking boots, a stout staff, some khaki clothing and a few water bottles is all that is needed to get started. If you find yourself enjoying the sport often, you can advance to backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, camp ware and the other assorted paraphernalia all the way up to a deluxe motorized camper.

Organizations such as the Pocono Environmental Education Center, the Monroe County Recreation Department, the Monroe County Environmental Education Center, Kittatinny Canoes and YMCA have planned events, hikes, day trips and river sojourns throughout the spring, summer & fall. Or, simply grab a map of the area from any of the Visitor’s Bureaus and strike out on your own. There is a lot to discover!

Here are a few of my favorite places that I can recommend. All have hiking, camping, woods & water!

Tobyhanna State Park Tucked away off Route 423 just north of the village of Tobyhanna is one of the nicest parks on the Pocono Plateau. It boasts a sprawling man-made lake (a leftover vintage of the ice making days), a 100+ site campground, and an intricate trail system.

There are rowboats, sailboats, and canoes for rent at the lake, a nice sand beach with lifeguards during the summer season, and plenty of fish to be caught. The campground is located on a peninsula that juts into the lake; hence many sites are lakefront sites. There are sites for tenters, motor campers, and the handicapped. The bath facilities are undergoing an upgrade from “primitive” to “modern”. The main trail surrounds the lake and is handicapped accessible. It is a 7 mile loop that can easily be completed in a few hours. Other trails lead to state game lands and a few boreal bog remnants.

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2731 River Road • Mt. Bethel, PA 18343

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Located 4 miles south of the Portland, PA to Columbia, NJ Bridge on River Road

Otter Lake CAMP RESORT

• 60 acre lake with 300 campsites • Paved roads • Electric, water, cable TV hook-ups & wi-fi; 100 campsites have sewer hook-ups • 8 heated bathouses, store, laundry and propane • Boating, boat rentals and fishing (no fishing license required)

• Indoor pool with 2 Jacuzzis and Sauna • Outdoor Pool • Swimming Beach • Lighted tennis, racquetball and basketball courts • Softball field (lighted for night use) • Game room, planned activities • Open all year • Woodall 5W rated

P.O. Box 850 • Marshalls Creek, PA 18301 570-223-0123 Reservations only: 800-345-1369

www.otterlake.com

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APRIL/MAY 2014 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© 7

Promised Land State Park Northeast of Canadensis, and accessible from route 191 or 196, lies the famous Promised Land State Park. It is one on the state’s most visited parks. It also offers a manmade lake, several campground areas, and many trail leading to interesting locations close by.

Even though is was given the name “Promised Land” to attract early settlers to establish homesteads and farm the land, the settlers quickly found out that the ground was just too rocky, and gave up for better land elsewhere.

It is still just as rocky today, so be sure to have a good pair of stout hiking shoes.

Hickory Run State Park

Barrett Paradise Friendly Library Cresco, PA 570-595-7171 www.barrettlibrary.org

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

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

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

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

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Taking 80 West out past the village of White Haven brings you to the exit for Hickory Run State Park. Just follow the signs thereafter. This also is rugged land, once covered by glaciers. A small campground and pond, many trails with deep gorges and glens with crystal clear streams spread through out the park. But…the main attraction is the Boulder Field, a national registered landmark. It is hard to believe the force of nature that created it, but it is miles across and is nothing but big stones atop more big stones some the size of cars. Be sure to take your camera along, you will want to photograph your friends standing on the field.

1471 RT 209 BRODHEADSVILLE, PA 570.992.3865 MON-FRI 9A-6P SAT SUN 9A-5P

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Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Perhaps the biggest and best attraction in the Poconos, the recreation area was created when local citizens effectively blocked the Tocks Island Dam Project for the Delaware River in the mid ‘70s. Many think our area is much better for it today.

It is traversed by the wild & scenic Delaware River, an endless source of adventures and fun on the water.

Administered by the National Park Service, it offers a myriad of trails including segments of the famous Appalachian Trail. There are campsites all along the course of the river and some are primitive sites located on islands in the river. These sites are for use by the canoeists making 2 or 3 day long trips on the river.

A mix of mountain ridges and broad valleys which are still leased out for farming, the recreation area offers some of the best panoramic scenery in the Poconos. It is impossible to see it all in a day, so make it a destination for you or your family all season long. More information is available for free from the park headquarters.

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APRIL/MAY 2014 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINEŠ 9

Lake Wallenpaupack

762 main street stroudsburg,pa 570.872.9088 www.verticalearthinc.com

Annual Photography Contest

Winners will be showcased in the October/November 2014 issue of Pocono Living Magazine.

Grand Prize - Dinner for two at Marco Antonio’s, Stroudsburg, Pa Deadline: All submissions must be postmarked or uploaded by August 12, 2014 For more information visit www.poconomagazines.com

visit: www.GriswoldHomeCare.com 10 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© APRIL/MAY 2014

A great choice for campers and hikers happens to be one of the most obvious – Lake Wallenpaupack. There are four separate areas to camp around the lake, all of which offer some comforts of home (electricity, hot showers, etc…) Caffrey, Wilsonville, Ledgedale, and Ironwood Point Campsites all boast hiking trails in or nearby the campsite. Ledgedale and Shuman Point have natural areas with designated trails. If you’re looking to get off the beaten path, you can explore the wetlands around the Beech House Creek Wildlife Refuge.

Jim Thorpe Camping Resort Ask anyone in the Pocono Mountains and they’ll tell you Jim Thorpe has a lot to offer, including shopping, fishing, biking, and nightlife.

But don’t forget about camping and hiking. The Jim Thorpe Camping Resort is a 28-acre wooded campground. There are 15 miles of restored switchback railroad track to hike. You can hike along the Lehigh River or head over to Beltzville State Park for different terrain. Take your camera and expect to see wildlife.

Outdoor World Scotrun Outdoor World Scotrun is located close to the geographical center of the Pocono Mountains. It is an excellent “base camp” for those who would like to explore the region from their own campsite. Located just minutes from designer outlet shopping, skiing at one of the premier Pocono ski areas, and water park fun, this mountain property has a host of activities and amenities and a long list of nearby attractions. Its amenities include a general store, lake, recreation center and facilities, minigolf, swimming pool and video games to name a few.

Rt. 611, P O Box 428, Scotrun, Pa. 18355, 1-800-222-5557, www.1000trails.com

Otter Lake Camp Resort In the Northern Poconos, next to the Delaware State Forest, lies Otter Lake Camp Resort. It is 250 acres of spacious wooded campsites with a large clear lake that offers an abundance of outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing in the sprinfg, swimming and boating in the summer, biking and foliage –watching in the fall and snowmobiling or cross country skiing in winter. Amenities include a game room, live entertainment, movies, bingo, and ceramics. You may swim year round in a heated indoor pool including a sauna and whirlpools. Rent a canoe, rowboat or paddle boat for use on the lake among many othe activities for adults and the kids. Close to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, the opportunities for hiking and adventures are endless.

P O Box 850, Marshall’s Creek, Pa 18335, 570-223-0123, www.otterlake.com

Driftstone On The Delaware Located in the Southeastern corner of the Poconos, Driftstone is a “Riverfront” family campground. Offering many riverfront campsites and activities on the Delaware River, Driftstone may be considered a destination campground. It is a full service campground, with sites for tents and RVs. Amenities include camp store, game room, swimming pool, laundry, dump station, cable TV on selected sites, free campground-wide WiFi, playground, softball and volleyball fields, basketball, ping pong and planned activities. Driftstone also offers adventure canoe, kayak & raft trips on the Delaware River for their guests.

Trips vary from 1½ to 7 hours and provide some of the best scenery the Delaware River has to offer.

2731 River Road, Mt. Bethel, Pa 18343, 1-888-355-6859, www.driftstone.com

We are truly fortunate to live in the Pocono Mountains, with outdoor recreation opportunities all around us. Few activities get you closer to nature than camping and hiking. Whether you’re into extreme sports or just looking to “get away” for a few hours, take advantage of the options in the beautiful mountains of northeast Pennsylvania.

Enjoy! P

APRIL/MAY 2014 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© 11

Weston Senior Living Center at Hillcrest Personal Care & Independent Living

M

aintaining the perfect lawn is easier than you think and with the right tools, you can be both efficient with your yard work and eco-conscious. If it’s lush green turf that you’re after, but you also care about your carbon footprint, there are a few tools and practices that can help you have it both ways.

6000 Running Valley Road Stroudsburg, PA 570-629-2410 www.WestonSLC.com

www.farmers-basket.com

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Many of the tips for maintaining a truly green lawn can also save you money and time. As you’re gearing up to enjoy your outdoor space this season, here are a few suggestions to follow for a healthy lawn you can feel good about: n Give back to your lawn. One of the best treatments for your yard is to let a layer of lawn clippings settle on the top of your turf after mowing. The clippings decompose and replenish your soil, encouraging positive growth.

A common misconception is that leaving the clippings on top of your lawn leads to the development of thatch, when in fact it’s usually caused by other conditions. Leaving your clippings only helps your lawn, and lessens the amount of work you have to do. n Go green with battery-powered mowers and lawn tools.

Gas mowers’ engines don’t run nearly as clean as more thoroughly engineered car engines and contribute significantly to air pollution, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. If you make the switch to a batterypowered mower, you can start it easily every time without having to worry about polluting the air.

Five

environmentally friendly ways to keep your lawn looking great

www.leonclapper.com

n Be wise with your water. With a few strategic adjustments, you can significantly reduce the amount of water you use to keep your lawn healthy. Water less frequently with a good soaking each time, the water you use will go further. Watering in the morning will also help your lawn soak up the water, rather than having it evaporate before it makes it into your soil. Installing a rain barrel is also a great way to reuse the water that runs off your house without ever having to turn on the spigot. n Buy a discerning fertilizer. Chemical fertilizers might offer quick results, but organic fertilizers often provide more staying power as they focus more on improving soil quality rather than the quick fix of applying nutrients directly to the plant. To make sure you are effective with your fertilizer use, take a soil sample to a local garden store to analyze it and they’ll recommend the best fertilizing mix for your lawn. n Allow your lawn to protect itself. Mowing too short is a key mistake many people make. A good rule of thumb is to never cut more than one-third of the current height.

This will ensure that your grass can develop deep enough roots to thrive and won’t get scorched when summer temperatures arrive.

You can have a beautiful, green lawn without putting extra stress on the environment. For more information on environmentally friendly lawn tools that offer gas-comparable performance, visit www.greenworkstools.com P.

www.447cornerstoneproducts.com Frank & Michele Sapone

SOURCE: BPT

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“Delaware River FIshermen” photo by Matt Siptroth

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I’m a goin’ fishin’

BY PETE PAPPALARDO

“…yes, I’m a goin’ fishin’ and my baby goin’ fishin’ too.”

T

here was a time when hunting and fishing here in Monroe County was as significant as Dancing with the Stars and Honey Boo-boo. This was back when the area had more cows than people, in the days before Route 80, shopping malls and traffic jams.

In particular, fishing provided an opportunity to get out of the house, handy when your significant other is on a rampage. It allowed for quality time alone, if that was your preference. It was also the perfect excuse to sit on the river bank with a nice fire, or float serenely on a placid lake, and shoot the breeze with some good friends. Best of all was when you actually caught fish and had enough for a low-cost and delicious meal, which, like good golf shots, happened often enough to keep you coming back.

“Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day, Teach a man to fish and he will spend all day in a boat drinking beer,” the old wags say, and there is a modicum of truth to that. In fishing circles, a modicum of truth is pretty darn much truth, considering that you are dealing with anglers, who are allegedly fond of lying about their angling prowess.

Heck, they even made a phrase up to describe stories that, if not downright bald-faced lies, at least find themselves on the wrong side of the truth.

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APRIL/MAY 2014 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© 15

“F

ish stories,” the critics call the little embellishments we anglers like to add to give our stories a little “color” and “pizazz.” I’d like to hear what they have to say if they were to spend $117.53 on equipment, bait, beer, and food, only to go home damp and fishless, while the little kid next to them with a 12 dollar Zebco rod and reel catches a monster trout on a hot-dog.

There is no justice in the angling world, either.

This area, in all seriousness, boasts some mighty fine fishing opportunities. In the Towns of Stroudsburg and East Burg, there are not one but three exceptional quality trout streams, the McMIcheals, The Pocono and the Brodhead creeks, pronounced “cricks” by many locals.

There are numerous lakes open to public fishing, and the Delaware River provides another unique angling opportunity, where you can catch walleye, muskies, panfish and giant channel catfish of 10 to 15 pounds.

There are a ton of ways to sub-divide types of fishing.

“Hard-water” fisher-people find lakes or ponds with 6 inches of ice or more, bore through the ice with an ice auger, basically a big screw arrangement that augers down through the ice and allows the fisherman to drop a line, or to use what are called “ tip-ups”, little gizmos that have an orange flag that pops up when a fish takes the bait.

Dressing in layers is a requirement for staying warm while ice-fishing. Drilling a few holes through a couple feet of ice is a like a day at the gym, guaranteeing that you will soon be coated in sweat which will then turn into little, itty-bitty ice cubes later on.

But ice-fishing has its bad aspects, too. Fish are lethargic when it’s really really cold out, and you might go hours without a flag up. When we were kids we would start a fire and ice-skate around Shawnee lake, and cook and eat every fish we caught so there was no need to bring a messy stringer of fish home. We also brought hot-dogs, hot cocoa and snacks, so it really didn’t matter much if we caught fish or not.

Join me in Stroudsburg.

Michael J Frailey Frailey Insurance and Financial Services (570) 421-7447 www.fraileyinsurance.com

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That’s a good attitude to have when it comes to fishing, which would be called “catching” if there were a higher frequency of fish-fries than there usually are. With the advent of warmer weather, hope springs eternal in the angler’s heart. Whether he or she is stalking monster trout with flies, bait or spinners, or soaking a worm or cutbait for catfish, or even going after bass, pickerel, panfish and other warm water species, being in the great out-ofdoors, alone or with others, should be adequate reward for the effort. Numbers really don’t matter. Who cares how many fish you caught? As long as it’s one more than everybody else. P

“With the advent of warmer weather, hope springs eternal in the angler’s heart. “

Peter Pappalardo, writer, teacher, outdoorsman and musician, was born in East Stroudsburg General Hospital, and spent his youth in Shawnee-0n-Delaware when route 80 was just a twinkle in President Eisenhower’s eye. He received his doctorate from Indiana University of Pennsylvania only moments before he retired from teaching, ensuring that his vast resultant knowledge wouldn’t subsequently harm his students. He is the author of two novels, Bluegrass and The Compleat Dartshooter, both of which chronicle life in East Pennsylvania. Samples of his meanderings can be seen at his website, www.Bluegrasschronicles. com. He is proud to be implicated in raising four fine sons, all of whom fortunately favor their sainted mother.

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Tips for Taking Better Photos

F

rom selfies to portraits of lunch, more people these days are taking photographs in more places. But there’s a big difference between great photos and throwaways -- and a big difference between great photographers and anybody with a smartphone.

But don’t despair.

“Anyone can learn to take better photos,” says Lucas Gilman, a professional adventure photographer whose work for such magazines as National Geographic and Sports Illustrated has taken him all over the globe.

Gilman is offering photographers of all levels tips for producing more compelling photography:

Don’t Wait Shoot images in the moment. Never put anything off until tomorrow. The weather could change, the leaves on the trees could blow. Anything that can happen will.

Think Narrow When photographing a scene that mixes bright and dark, the camera will lose much of the detail and you’ll end up with overexposed white and underexposed black.

Instead, look for mid-tones with little difference between the brightest highlights and darkest shadow. Flowers and trees, for example, are often best photographed on overcast, drizzly days.

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Golden Hour “My favorite time to shoot is right after sunrise or just before sunset, when the sun is low in the sky. It makes for more interesting and dramatic lighting,” says Gilman.

“Shoot around these hours and you’ll be amazed at the great images you make.”

Working the Subject Once you’ve found your spot and the light is right: shoot, shoot, shoot. Take different shots from different angles and unusual viewpoints.

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“Don’t be afraid to take ten shots and edit out nine later,” says Gilman. “SanDisk Compact Flash and SD cards are super affordable these days.” More information can be found at www.sandisk.com.

Shooting landscapes Something dynamic in the foreground adds depth and scale. Look for a high vantage point, such as a balcony or rooftop. Study the light, especially when shooting from high angles. Shadows can be your best friend, and make for very interesting photos.

Protect “Photography is about making a fleeting moment permanent, whether it’s a kayaker hurtling over a waterfall or the look on your daughter’s face when she opens that gift she’s been hoping for all year,” says Gilman. “These events can’t be recreated. Reliable photo storage is critical for protecting your work.”

A reliable external hard drive data back-up system allows you to seamlessly transfer and store all your digital content with one system.

For example, the Evolution Series with Thunderbolt from G-Technology lets you capture, transfer, edit and distribute media files all within a single storage system.

Whether you’re traveling, or at home editing your photos, a high-performance external hard drive can make working with your photos easier. More information can be found at www.g-technology.com

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And you can simplify the task with Time Machine backup, which works with Mac computers to automatically back up files.

For more photography tips and talk, follow Gilman at www.Twitter.com/lucasgilman Don’t settle for fuzzy, uninteresting images. By paying attention to light and being persistent, you can take a better photo. Just be sure to protect and store your work! P www.huffmanselectric.com SOURCE: STATEPOINT

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“Fawns” photo by Vinzon Lee

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APRIL/MAY 2014 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© 21

The Easter Hole

BY SUZANNE McCOOL

L

ong years ago when the Poconos was a very rural area, I lived in the village of Mount Pocono with my sisters where our parents owned a small hotel called the Airport Inn. My older sister, Linda, was born during World War II. I was born at the end of the war and Paulette two years later. My mother was the daughter of a German immigrant, and my father’s ancestors (The Fretz’s), also German, were here since the 1700s in the Bucks County region. He considered himself “Pennsylvania Dutch”.

I’ve been told that the custom of the “Easter Hole” came from the old country. We girls anxiously awaited the arrival of Easter each year. We started getting very excited after our big shopping trip to Scranton to acquire our Easter outfits at Samters, Scranton Dry Goods, or the Globe Store. We would each get a pretty Easter dress, a matching hat, little white gloves, shiny new shoes, and a new spring coat if we were lucky. We were outfitted from head to foot by the nice sales ladies in Scranton.

Usually our Aunt Audrey would engineer these shopping 22 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© APRIL/MAY 2014

“First thing Easter morning we would find a colored egg in our shoes when we got up.”

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excursions because our parents were very busy running the hotel and catering to our guests. We were then ready for Easter morning Church and Sunday School.

However the biggest excitement for us was digging our Easter hole at the edge of the woods and preparing for the Easter Rabbit to deposit pretty colored eggs and candy in it for Easter morning. We would dig a hole in the ground about 12 inches wide and 6 inches deep. Next we would search for moss and line it with the soft green moss. Finally we would search for a nice big flat rock to lay on the top of it as a lid. Then it was ready for the big day. We were told to stay away from it or the Easter Rabbit wouldn’t come.

First thing Easter morning we would find a colored egg in our shoes when we got up. Once dressed, out to the Easter hole we ran, always to find beautiful colored eggs, little yellow marshmallow peeps, and chocolate bunnies, coconut eggs, and jelly beans.

Then we hunted for Easter eggs hidden around the lawn. Of course we also had pretty Easter baskets waiting for us inside too, although we weren’t allowed to eat too much candy at one time.

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Upon returning from church, the delicious aroma of the Easter Ham our mother was baking wafted through the air at the Inn. The big table in the dining room was beautifully set for at least 12 people, since we invited the few guests who were staying over plus a few relatives to share our meal.

I remember going out to check the Easter Hole later that day in case the Easter Rabbit came back and filled it with treats again, but no such luck! P

visit: www.GriswoldHomeCare.com APRIL/MAY 2014 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© 23

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

April & May at Pocono Environmental Education Center

The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is located at 538 Emery Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA. You can call them at 570-8282319, or visit their website at www.peec.org for more information on their programming.

620 Main Street Downtown Stroudsburg, Pa

570.424.2415 BYOB. Open M-T-W-F-S Sun. for Dinner after 3pm. Closed Tues.

24 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© APRIL/MAY 2014

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Nuno Felting & Knitting

From Thursday, April 03, 2014 to Sunday, April 06, 2014. Join Patti Shreiner for a relaxing weekend in the Poconos. Guest instructor Bette Rycroft of NC will teach Nuno felting (kits available for $25) and/or knit an embellished headband with Patti. Supply list will be provided. Focus projects: felted scarf, knit headband.

Includes lodging and meals! Optional Friday - Sunday stay is $205 / $155 commuter. $255 / $205 Commuter Rate

Women’s Weekend

From Friday, April 04, 2014 to Sunday, April 06, 2014.

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

Spring Waterfalls

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

Volunteer Day -- Spring Cleaning

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

Salamanders, Frogs, and More!

Saturday, April 12, 2014, 1:00pm - 3:00pm. Amphibians are stirring in the woods! Join us as we explore nearby breeding pools for salamanders, frogs, and egg masses. We'll provide nets and collection jars for gentle, up-close study. Wear boots and clothes that can get a little muddy or wet. $5 per person

$2,000

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$1,050

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Spring Peeper Search

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

Earth Day Festival

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

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Stroudsburg, PA • 923 North Ninth Street Wilkes-Barre, PA • 2246 Wilkes-Barre Twp Mktpl APRIL/MAY 2014 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© 25

Spring Waterfalls

Saturday, April 19, 2014, 1:00pm - 3:00pm The melting snow and spring rains have raised the water level. Join us as we travel to some truly magnificent waterfalls. Dress in warm layers, wear sturdy footwear, and bring a camera! Call to reserve a seat in the van. $12

Introduction to Fly Fising

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26 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© APRIL/MAY 2014

Sunday, April 27, 2014, 9:00am - 12:00pm. Learn the basics of fly fishing. Practice knot tying and casting.

Join Tom Battista from the Brodhead Chapter of Trout Unlimited for a fun afternoon and learn some new skills. $15

Salamanders, Frogs, and More!

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

Wildflower Walk

Sunday, May 4 – 9:00am-12:00pm Free. Celebrate the blossoming of spring with a walk in the woods. Join local flower expert Josie D’Alessandro as she shares identification tips and natural history of the local flowers. Bring a bottle of water and a camera for some pictures.

Warbler Weekend

May 9-11. Spring migration has begun! Join Darryl Speicher, from the Pocono Avian Research Center, for a wonderful weekend with the birds. Enjoy guided hikes that teach how to identify birds by sight, sound and habitat. Includes two nights of lodging and meals from Friday dinner to Sunday lunch. $205 / $155 commuter rate

Spring Photography Weekend

May 9-11. Join Del Morgan, Professional Fine Art Photographer and Educator, for a fun filled weekend dedicated to understanding and developing the skills necessary for creating visually stunning images. Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity – To learn about visual design, composition, exposure and more as we explore and photograph the natural Spring Season beauty of PEEC and surrounding Pocono Mountain areas. A tripod is recommended but not required.

Includes lodging and meals. $260 / $210 commuter rate

Family Fishing

Saturday, May 10 – 9:30-11:30am. Learn the basics of fishing and then try your luck on our ponds. We provide the equipment. No fishing licenses required.

Spaces are limited – register early. $10 child / $5 adult

Plant Sale!

May 10 & May 11 – 9:00am-4:00pm. There is a pre-sale for PEEC members on Friday, May 9, from 6-8pm.

Choose from a variety of native and deer resistant flowers, shrubs and grasses to beautify your yard.

Perennials include coneflowers, bee balm, asters, foxglove, yarrow, cranesbill, lungwort, and much more. Sun loving and shade loving plants will be available. Call in advance with your requests. Reduced price plants will be sold throughout the following week – stop by and check them out! Free admission

Native Plant Gardening Weekend!

May 17-18 Join us for a weekend full of great gardening information. Learn how to design a garden for native plants and pollinators. Commuter and day use rates available – call for details. $150 includes lodging, meals, and programming by the Pike County Master Gardeners

Bird Walk

Saturday, May 17 – 8:00-10:00am. Interested in learning more about birds? Join Darryl Speicher, from the Pocono Avian Research Center, for a hike that focuses on bird ID and their unique natural history. We provide binoculars and field guides. Ages 10+ please. $5

PRO SERIES: Herpetology, with Dr. Thomas LaDuke

Saturday, May 17 – 1:00-4:00pm. Learn from the experts. Join Dr. Thomas LaDuke, Associate Professor of Biological Sciences, ESU, for an in-depth look at the amphibians and reptiles of the area. Study preserved specimen, search along the trails for herps, and learn a lot! $20 ($70 for 4 sessions)

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Volunteer in the Greenhouse

Sunday, May 18 – 10:00-11:30am. Join us for some gardening work in the PEEC’s new greenhouse! Lend a hand on our springtime projects. Free

“Spring Fling” Family Nature Getaway Weekend

Memorial Day Weekend: May 23-26. Bring your family and friends to experience the best of what PEEC has to offer. Interpretive hikes, animal presentations, fishing, canoeing, crafts, campfire and more! Includes three nights of lodging and meals from Friday dinner to Monday lunch. Adults $210 / 25% off ages 7-10 / 50% off ages 4-6 / free under 3 / commuter and day rates available – call for details

Bird Photography 101

Saturday, May 31 – 10:00am-12:00pm. Learn how to take great pictures of birds!

Join Bob Shank, wildlife photographer, for an in depth look at attracting and photographing birds. Learn how to use a blind, create perches, and choose the right camera gear. Call for details. $15 Visit AndreiArt.com to order online or visit the Studio Gallery 7 N. 6th Street, Stroudsburg, PA 18360 AndreiProtsouk@gmail.com 570.476.4407

APRIL/MAY 2014 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© 27

Stroud Television & Appliances 219 N. 9th Street Stroudsburg, PA

570-421-7700 www.StroudTVandAppliances.com 28 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINEŠ APRIL/MAY 2014

YearRound Backyard Safety Tips for Families

Y

our backyard is a space where you enjoy quality time with your family all year long. But accidents can happen anywhere -- even in the oasis of your backyard. For parents, taking extra safety precautions out back should be just as important as childproofing done indoors.

To prep and maintain your yard for outdoor safe play and relaxation, here are several important steps:

Lawn Remove tree stumps and level concrete footings to avoid tripping. Lawn debris such as rocks could become projectiles when cutting the grass. So be sure to clear the yard. Additionally, children should never be nearby while you’re using motorized equipment.

Store potentially dangerous tools, equipment and chemicals completely out of the reach of children, such as in a locked shed or garage.

Fencing A yard without a fence is like a house without walls. Fences help protect children from danger, keeping toddlers out of swimming pools, hot tubs, ponds, or away from traffic or strangers. Fences can also improve pet safety, keeping your pets in your yard and other animals out, and can reduce your liability by preventing injuries to uninvited guests on your property.

With that in mind, be sure your fences and gates are functional and free of rust that can render them useless or dangerous.

Eliminate this worry by installing high-quality fencing impervious to seasonal weather, ground settling and other factors that can cause gates to become misaligned over time. Opt for gate hardware that can be easily adjusted to function properly over the long-term. For example, some models of TruClose self-closing tension adjustable hinges are vertically and horizontally adjustable.

Additionally, be sure to install pool barrier access gates with adjustable self-closing hinges like TruClose and self-latching gates where the latches are out of the reach of children, such as the Magnalatch Safety Gate Latch.

Both products carry lifetime warranties and are adjustable both vertically and horizontally for easy adjustments.

Homeowners can peruse a bevy of rust-free gate hardware and child safety latches online at www.ddtechglobal. com or in person under the Stanley Hardware brand available through most Lowe’s stores.

Sun Protection When the sun is bearing down, skin can be susceptible to burns and permanent damage year-round. And children’s skin can be even more sensitive to harmful UV rays. Your yard should have plenty of shady areas to seek respite. Plant trees and watch them grow.

Install a canopy. Adorn patio furniture with an umbrella.

Your backyard can be one of the most exciting places for your children to play through the entire year. A little prevention along the way will keep it safe and fun. P

“Rusty metal gate hardware that no longer functions properly or becomes a threat to children is a top homeowner concern, according to our research,” says Jim Paterson, senior vice president of D&D Technologies, which manufactures gate latches and hinges made of ultra-strong engineering polymers.

SOURCE: STATEPOINT/ PHOTO: ©Christin Gasner-Fotolia.com

APRIL/MAY 2014 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© 29

S

pring has sprung, and with the change of season, our thoughts inevitably turn to Easter celebrations, spring cleaning and much-needed home improvement projects. But the new balmy weather can prove notso-sunny for curious pets—or their unwitting parents. Before you embark on seasonal chores or outdoor revelry, take inventory of potential springtime hazards for your delicate, furry friend.

To help you out, our ASPCA experts have come up with a few seasonal tips that will help prevent mishaps or misfortunes.

Easter Treats and Decorations Keep Easter lilies and candy bunnies in check—chocolate goodies are toxic to cats, dogs and ferrets, and lilies can be fatal if ingested by our furry friends.

And be mindful, kitties love to nibble on colorful plastic grass, which can lead to an obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting and dehydration.

Moreover, while bunnies, chicks and other festive animals are adorable, resist the urge to buy—these cute babies grow up fast and often require specialized care!

Screen Yourself

Springtime Safety Tips PROVIDED BY THE ASPCA, www.aspca.org

30 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© APRIL/MAY 2014

Many pet parents welcome the breezy days of spring by opening their windows. Unfortunately, they also unknowingly put their pets at risk— especially cats, who are apt to jump or fall through unscreened windows. Be sure to install snug and sturdy screens in all of your windows. If you have adjustable screens, make sure they are tightly wedged into window frames.

Buckle Up! While every pet parent knows dogs love to feel the wind on their furry faces, allowing them to ride in the bed of pick-up trucks or stick their heads out of moving-car windows is dangerous.

Flying debris and insects can cause inner ear or eye injuries and lung infections, and abrupt stops or turns can cause major injury, or worse! Pets in cars should always be secured in a crate or wearing a seatbelt harness designed especially for them.

Spring Cleaning Spring cleaning is a time-honored tradition in many households, but be sure to keep all cleaners and chemicals out of your pets’ way! Almost all commercially sold cleaning products contain chemicals that are harmful to pets.

Home Improvement 101

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Products such as paints, mineral spirits and solvents can be toxic to your pets and cause severe irritation or chemical burns. Carefully read all labels to see if the product is safe to use around your furry friends. Also, be cautious of physical hazards, including nails, staples, insulation, blades and power tools. It may be wise to confine your dog or cat to a designated pet-friendly room during home improvement projects.

Let Your Garden Grow—With Care Pet parents, take care—fertilizers, insecticides and herbicides keep our plants and lawns healthy and green, but their ingredients aren’t meant for four-legged consumption and can be fatal if your pet ingests them.

Always store these poisonous products in out-of-the-way places and follow label instructions carefully.

Poisonous Plants Time to let your garden grow! But beware, many popular springtime plants—including Easter lilies, rhododendron and azaleas—are highly toxic to pets and can easily prove fatal if eaten.

Ah-Ah-Achoo!

Like their sneezy human counterparts, pets can be allergic to foods, dust, plants and pollens. Allergic reactions in dogs and cats can cause minor sniffling and sneezing as well as life-threatening anaphylactic shock. If you suspect your pet has a springtime allergy, please visit your veterinarian as soon as possible.

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Pesky Little Critters April showers bring May flowers—and an onslaught of bugs! Make sure your pet is on yearround heartworm preventive medication, as well as a flea and tick control program. Ask your doctor to recommend a plan designed specifically for your pet.

Out and About

If you suspect your pet may have come in contact with or ingested a potentially poisonous substance, contact your local veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. P

field’s Pet & n a C 5 Main 31

St. S

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Fa

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bu

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m g, PA

Warmer weather means more trips to the park, longer walks and more chances for your pet to wander off! Make sure your dog or cat has a microchip for identification and wears a tag imprinted with your home address, cell phone and any other relevant contact information. Canines should wear flat (never choke!) collars, please.

(570) 421- 2704

570-421-1821 APRIL/MAY 2014 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© 31

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

E-Cycling Event

Look for More to Come in Our Next Issue…

June/July 2014

You May Also Enjoy the New

Pocono Family Magazine

Available at Local Businesses and by Subscription Pocono Mts Publications, LLC 1929 North Fifth Street, Stroudsburg, PA 18360 570-424-1000 • pmags@ptd.net 32 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© APRIL/MAY 2014

April 12 - Saturday. Provided By: Monroe County Municipal Waste Management Authority from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a list of items accepted under “Electronics Recycling Program” visit www.

TheWasteAuthority.com. For more information contact: 570-643-6100

Wildlife on the 19th Century Farm

April 12 - Saturday. In cooperation with Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm the EE Center is offering a program on the wonderful variety of wildlife on a 19th century farm. This 1-hour program for the whole family will be held at the EE Center at 7 p.m.

Light refreshments will be served and pre-registration is suggested. Cost: $5/non-members, $3/members of Quiet Valley or the EE Center, and children under 12 free.

Salamander Search

April 26 - Saturday - The Kettle Creek Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a healthy salamander population. Join Environmental Education Coordinator Roger Spotts for this 90 - minute family oriented program which begins at 10 a.m. We will be talking about and looking for salamanders at Kettle Creek. The program will be mostly outside and we may encounter some muddy conditions during our search.

Cost: $5/non-members, $3/children under 12. EE Center members free.

Signs of Spring Walk

Saturday, May 3 - Join Environmental Educator Karen N. Boyle at 10 a.m. for a 1 1/2 hour leisurely paced walk on one of the many trails at the 166 acre Kettle Creek Wildlife Sanctuary. We’ll search for signs of spring. Cost: $5/ non-member, $3/children under 12.

EE Center members free.

Full Moon Walk at Tannersville Bog

Art Opening: Nancy Hopping

April 15 - Tuesday. An early spring full moon will highlight this evening walk.

The walk begins at 6:30 p.m. and participants should bring a flashlight.

Cost: $6/non-member, $4/EE Center or Nature Conservancy members and children under 12. Pre-registration is required.

May 3 - Saturday. “Backyard Pocono Wildlife” - Nancy’s photography features the calm of front yard sunrises and backyard sunsets, the splendor of Pocono wildflowers, and the grace (and antics) of eagles, foxes, bobcat, great blue heron, bears, and other local animals.

Opening Reception: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Bog Mammals

Birding the Bog at 7 a.m

April 17 - Thursday. The Bog is a very important habitat for many mammals including, bobcats, otters, bears, and even snowshoe hares. Join us at 10 a.m. on a walk to look at their habitats and discuss their habits. Cost: $6/ non-member, $4/EE Center or Nature Conservancy members and children under 12. Pre-registration is required.

May 6, 13 & 20 - Tuesdays. Combine one of the most unique natural settings with one of the most spectacular natural phenomenon and you get a morning of migration birding at the Bog. Cost: $6/nonmember, $4/EE Center or Nature Conservancy members and children under 12. Pre-registration is required.

Public Bog Walks

May 7, 14, 21, 28 - Wednesdays Guided walks in the bog are held each Wednesday through June 5 and begin at 1 p.m. Public walks are open to anyone, while private walks for organizations and school groups are scheduled on request.

Meet at the Bog parking lot. Cost: $6/non-member, $4/EE Center or Nature Conservancy members and children under 12. Please wear appropriate footwear. Each walk lasts approximately 2 1/2 hours and explores the floating boardwalk and surrounding area. Pre-registration is required for all walks.

A Bounty of Woodland Wildflowers

May 10 - Saturday. One of the great spectacles of spring is the explosion of woodland wildflowers.

Join Environmental Educator Darryl Speicher for this leisurely morning stroll along the trails of Kettle Creek in search of these beautiful signs of spring. This 1 ½ hour program begins at 10 a.m. Cost: $5/adults, $3/children under 12. EE Center members free.

Public Bog Walk

May 10 - Saturday - Join an Environmental Educator at 2 p.m. at the Bog parking lot and take a 2 ½ hour journey into the Bog environment. Please wear appropriate footwear. Cost: $6/non-member, $4/EE and Nature Conservancy members and children under 12. Preregistration is required.

Century Day 2014: 100 Birds or Bust

May 18 - Sunday - Join Environmental Educator Darryl Speicher for the annual birding marathon we like to call Century Day, as he beats the bushes, scours the fields, wades through the wetlands and forges through the forests of Monroe County on a quest to find 100 species of birds in one day. Last year’s crew managed to hit 100 on the nose. With spring migration in full swing there is no better time of year to undertake an adventure such as this. Space on the

bus is limited to 13 participants, so register early. This event is all day and includes lunch. We’ll leave the Kettle Creek Wildlife Sanctuary at 7 a.m. and return at 7 p.m. Cost: $65/ non-member, $50/EE member. Preregistration and payment are required and limited. Refunds will be given only if notification is made at least one week prior to the trip.

home of the double “triple play” 570-424-6909

Public Bog Walk

May 18 - Sunday - Join an Environmental Educator at 1 p.m. at the Bog parking lot and take a 2 ½ hour journey into the Bog environment. Please wear appropriate footwear. Cost: $6/non-member, $4/EE and Nature Conservancy members and children under 12. Preregistration is required.

KCEF Dinner/Auction

May 30 - Friday - You’re invited to the 23rd Annual Kettle Creek Environmental Fund Dinner/Auction at Camelback starting at 6pm. The Kettle Creek Environmental Fund (KCEF), an organization of individuals interested in supporting the Monroe County Environmental Education Center (MCEEC), are pleased to invite members of the community to their Annual fundraising event.

During the cocktail hour and dinner you may place bids on silent auction items while being serenaded by Cold Springs. After dinner you will have the opportunity to bid on items at a live auction featuring Bob Teel, Auctioneer. Auction items are donated by area residents and businesses which include artwork, unique hand-crafted items, dinner outings, golf packages, fishing gear, landscape packages, sporting goods and much more. Cost: $40/ per person and tickets must be purchased in advance by Friday, May 16, 2014. Dinner is served at 7pm and the live auction with Bob Teel begins at 8pm. For more information, to purchase dinner tickets or to donate auction items, please call the KCEF at (570) 629-3060 between 8am and 4:30pm, Monday through Friday.

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APRIL/MAY 2014 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© 33

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How to Make Owning a Car More Affordable

F

rom gas, parking permits and insurance premiums, to maintenance and repairs, owning a car can be an expensive prospect. But motorists can pave the way to lower costs by following a few clever rules of the road:

Reduce Your Rate Shop around for auto insurance, as prices can vary widely between companies. For a cheaper rate, avoid purchasing a sporty or expensive vehicle. Insurance companies are more likely to give low rates to drivers of reliable cars that have safety features.

Inquire into any discounts associated with a clean driving record.

And if you don’t log too many miles per week, you may also be eligible for a low-mileage discount.

Make Smart Repairs The next time your vehicle needs a part replaced after a fender bender, opt for alternative collision repair parts, which are anywhere from 26 to 50 percent less expensive than parts issued by car companies. Such parts also often have warranties that exceed those offered by the car companies.

On average, competition in the collision parts industry saves consumers approximately $1.5 billion a year. Car companies, however, are trying to prevent drivers from utilizing these less expensive parts by enforcing design patents on things

like bumpers, hoods and mirrors, say experts.

Supporting consumer-friendly legislation, such as the Promoting Automotive Repair, Trade, and Sales (PARTS) Act, would mean more consumer choices and access to affordable repair parts in the future. More information about the PARTS Act can be found at www.

KeepAutoPartsAffordable.org.

Fuel Up Efficiently Regular maintenance to your vehicle will help it run more smoothly and efficiently. So take care of your car.

Pay attention to your route. With the right apps, you can make bumperto-bumper traffic a thing of the past.

Sophisticated GPS-based technologies can steer you clear of the road blocks and jam-ups that leave you idling and wasting fuel.

For short trips, consider using your own two feet. It’s great exercise and will save you a few pennies in the process.

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Make trips to the gas station worth your while by filling the tank completely. After all, you are using gas every time you idle waiting for a pump.

For most people, owning a car is not a luxury, but a necessity. While some expenses associated with driving are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to make it a more affordable mode of transportation. P

SOURCE: STATEPOINT/ PHOTO: Antonio Diaz-Fotolia.com

APRIL/MAY 2014 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© 35

Now, ya all might be a wonderin’ how he got the name “Sasquatch Sam”. Well, the only thing the Mc Coy family can figure out about Sam is that he must have been born with some extra “caveman” genes or somethin’, because he is one of the hairiest guys you would ever want to see. And, his mom, my Aunt Claribel, well…she was pretty hairy too!

FISHIN’ WITH SASQUATCH SAM

By Boots McCoy Hi Folks, how’s it been goin’?

Right now, I want to tell ya all about an adventure I have every year with one of my lunk-headed cousins; “Sasquatch Sam Mc Coy”.

But first, you need to know that ‘round ‘bout the middle of April every year, the state’s spring trout fishin’ season opens up. Well, livin’ here on the lake sure does make it easy to go fishin’. And, there are some native trout streams with walkin’ distance of my cabin that are just a jumpin’ with trout every year.

It’s a proverbial fishin’ paradise!

So … it has long been a tradition for me to catch as many brownies, brookies and rainbows as I can git durin’ the season, (and maybe a few more out of season). Once I have a mess of ‘em, I smoke ‘em all to perfection to enjoy whenever I want to. Don’t say nothin’ to the fish warden.

Unfortrunately, every year one of my damn idiot lunk-headed cousins shows up here at the lake to “help” me go fishin’. He is known in the Mc Coy family as “Sasquatch Sam”, and is just another one of my pain in the butt relatives who show up each year to “help” me go fishin’…. so to speak. I don’t need their “help”, but they need my fish!

Most of my in-law, ex-law and out-law relatives ain’t no problem, and I lets ‘em go about their business fishin’ when they show up. But Sam …. well, he always has to tag right along with me in the rowboat and tends to scare all the fish away. I’ll tell ya later how he manages to do this.

36 POCONO POCONOLIVING LIVINGMAGAZINE MAGAZINE©© APRIL/MAY APRIL/MAY2014 2014 36

Anyways, he’s got hair everywhere. Head to toe, he’s covered with hair. It sticks out from under his shirt on his necks and arms, sticks out from under his shorts on his legs, and sticks out from any hole in his clothes; and he’s got lots of holes in his clothes. He never shaves, or cuts his hair, and his hands and feet look like bear claws. He’s also about 7 feet tall and 3 feet wide, dumb as hell, and damn right ugly. If he was walkin’ thru the woods bare ass naked you’d swear he was the Abominable Snowman. So … that why we call him “Sasquatch Sam”.

And then, he’s got some other really strange habits. He only takes a bath if and when a full moon falls on a Saturday night and he happens to be close to a lake or stream to jump into. So, he is usually, if not always, pretty damn stinky and smelly. He never brushes his teeth unless he has a can of beer to use as toothpaste and then eats a dozen or so raw onions right after that. Needless to say, one whiff of his breath has been known to kill flyin’ insects and birds a quarter mile away. And, if you are unfortunate enough to be around him when he breaks wind, you will likely pass out and go into a coma. No wonder every time he shows up a chill runs down my spine. But, you know what they say: “Ya can choose your friends, but ya can’t choose your relatives”. So, I guess I have to put up with the poor stupid fool.

Now … here’s the problem with his habits that scares away my fish. When he shows up at the cabin each year, and before he even starts fishin’, he gits into my homemade moonshine. Not knowing how potent the stuff is, he downs 2 or 3 gallon jugs like its water. Then, before it has a chance to kick in, he grabs his gear and gits into the boat with me and heads out on the lake. Round about half way out into the middle of the lake, the moonshine kicks in, he’s flat out drunk, and all hell breaks loose.

The first thing that happens is that he barfs all over the boat and into the lake. It burns the paint off the boat and kills all the fish in the water within 30 yards. After that, he gits his rod and tries to start castin’ a lure. His first cast hooks me in the left leg. His next cast hooks me in the right leg. His third cast hooks me right between the legs.

Well … with that one, I’ve had about enough from this character. I tell him to stand up and try casting knowin’ he’ll loose his balance quick ‘cause he’s drunk. Then, after he’s standin’, I give a quick jerk on the oars and he falls right out of the boat into the lake. He just about drowns, and if it wasn’t for all the hair he has to keep him afloat, he probably would drown.

Then he starts thrashin’ around and yells for help ‘cause he can’t swim worth a damn.

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Of course, this scares all the fish away again. Since the idiot has ruined my fishin’ for the day, I just whack him over the head with an oar and don’t even bother tryin’ to haul the big, dumb, unconscious idiot back into the boat. Reachin’ into the lake, I tie a rope around his legs and tow him back to shore with the rowboat. There I drag him up on the dock, turn him over face down (in case he barfs again), and leave the hairy jerk for dead. In a few days, I come back to see if he is still alive, and unfortunately, he always is.

When he eventually wakes up from his drunken stupor, I give the poor fool a few trout that I have caught and send him on his way back into the woods to scare folks again. I then pray that there’s a full moon on a Saturday nite before he shows up again next year.

Lots of luck cousin Sasquatch … you stinky, hairy, stupid jerk!

Well folks … it’s time to go. I have to make some more moonshine, but thanks for stoppin’ by, and remember:

Enjoy all of the great stories and spectacular photographs that appear in each issue of

Pocono Living on your Mac, PC, iPad or smartphone.

~ If you’re lucky enough to live in the mountains, you’re lucky enough!

Boots

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Anytime & Anywhere on your desktop orby Brucemobile devices Illustrations Hutchison Boots McCoy is a Pocono native and lives in a log cabin deep in the woods of Canadensis with his dog, “Ginger.” He spends most of his time hunting and fishing, but sometimes when he gets into the homemade whisky from his still, he takes naps that last for three days and nights.

APRIL/MAY 2014 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© 37

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Where in the Watershed Walks s for April & June Water hed A

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Where in the Watershed Walk #3

Where the Brodhead Doubles/ Bertie’s Knob Saturday, April 5, 1pm – 4pm.

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

Moderate to steep woodland hike on both wooded roads and off trail.

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

Where in the Watershed Walk #4

photo by Vinzon Lee

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

SNYDER SHOES & Shoe Repair

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

Registration and details TBA

Where in the Watershed Walk #5

Summer Solstice on the Swiftwater Sun, June 22, 1pm – 4pm

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

Meet in the parking area of the Paradise Township Municipal Building on Rt. 940 in Paradise Valley. Join BWA/PHLT members/friends and naturalist Don Miller and BWA/SLP Member Peter Gonze for this first walk of Summer along the Swiftwater on the grounds of Lake Swiftwater Club (LSC).

This moderate difficulty hike will be on level and sloped terrain both on and off trail around the lake, along the stream and into the woodland location of the historic campgrounds on Swiftwater Lake Preserve property. Depending on the weather conditions and water levels this may also involve some wet foot walking, so be prepared with appropriate summer wet foot wear. The Swiftwater Creek will provide an opportunity for participants to see and explore the wildlife found in and around this exceptional wild trout stream and learn of the effort involved in protecting and managing private open space lands and aquatic resource amenities.

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

38 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© APRIL/MAY 2014

APRIL/MAY 2014 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINE© 39

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