Pocono Family Magazine

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POCONO MAGAZINES

Pocono Living Magazine and Pocono Family Magazine, two regional publications filled with articles, features and photography exploring and capturing the real Pocono Mountains living experience.

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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Amy Leiser

Marie Liu

Sara Lyons

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Suzanne McCool

Janet Mishkin

John L. Moore

Allison Mowatt

Jim Werkheiser

Kim Williams

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PROUD MEMBERS OF

WHAT’S

FAMILY

• Get Involved with Your Kids' School

• Eating Together

EDUCATION

• Back-To-School Ready

• Cyberbullying

• Boost Child's Self-Esteem

• Kick Off School Right

PET

• Pets or Personal Safety

TRAVEL

• Charming Small Towns

FOOD

• Savory Solutions

HOME

• Stylish Decorating Upgrade

LAWN

• Autumn Lawn Maintenance

• Fall in Love with Autumn

COMMUNITY

• Contribute to a Great Good

CRAFT

• Halloween Spooky Cans

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• Pneumococcal Pneumonia

EVENTS

• In & Around the Poconos

By: Tanni Haas, Ph.D.

As summer vacation slowly winds down, the upcoming school year is front and center on most parents’ minds. One question many parents ask themselves is how they can become more actively engaged in and supportive of their kids’ education. Here’s a list of some of the many ways you can involve yourself with their school.

ATTEND BACK-TO-SCHOOL NIGHT

Whether your kids are returning to the same school after the vacation or they’ll be enrolled in a brand-new school, it’s always a good idea to attend the yearly back-toschool night (sometimes referred to as the back-to-school orientation). This is where you get to meet the school’s leadership team (principal and assistant principals), other important school staff like the parent coordinator (the main school-level point of contact for parents) and the school counselor, and oftentimes your kids’ classroom teachers.

VOLUNTEER AT SCHOOL EVENTS

During back-to-school night, you often learn about major events that are planned for the upcoming school year. This could be anything from dances, musical and theatrical performances, to art and science showcases.

Take note of the dates these events will be held and consider volunteering at one of them. Most schools depend on parent volunteers to assist with these events, especially if they’re held in the evening or on weekends.

OTHER VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

There are many other opportunities to volunteer your time and expertise. If you’re available during the day, you can help out in the school’s computer lab or library. You can also volunteer to be a lunch monitor in the cafeteria or if you have the inclination, run a book club or offer tutoring either during lunch or after school.

PARTICIPATE IN EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS

Many schools host sessions throughout the year where educational experts, either from the outside (local professors of education) or internally (the school psychologist or the reading specialist) speak about important matters like child development and best practices with respect to curriculum and instruction. These sessions are a great source of information about the school’s specific educational philosophy and how you can support your kids’ learning.

JOIN THE FUNDRAISING COMMITTEE

"Meet up with other parents from your kids’ class, either at a local playground or through organized playdates if the kids are young, or a local café with or without the kids if they’re older."

ASSIST IN THE CLASSROOM

If you’re more comfortable helping out in your kids’ classroom, consider assisting with math, reading, or writing instruction, or any other subject matter on which their teachers could use an extra pair of hands. Oftentimes, the kids produce a yearly or semi-yearly newsletter that updates parents on what they’ve been up to, major academic topics or historical events they’ve studied, etc. If you’re good with computers, especially layout, volunteer to help out with the newsletter.

WORK AS A CHAPERONE ON SCHOOL TRIPS

Most schools organize one or more day or overnight trips. Many have a direct educational value, like visiting a local beach, forest or river to study the wildlife. Other times, it’s a trip intended to give the kids an opportunity to enjoy each other’s and their teachers’ company in a less stressful setting, like an excursion to a local amusement park. Whatever is the case, serving as a chaperone is a great way to get to connect with other parents and your kids’ teachers.

Most schools, whether public or private, need extra funds to operate, and the fundraising committee needs volunteers to help raise those funds. Serving on the fundraising committee can also help you build relationships with other committed parents and the school’s leadership team.

BECOME A MEMBER OF THE PARENT-TEACHER ASSOCIATION

If you want to become even more involved with your kids’ school, join the Parent-Teacher Association. It’s generally composed of highly committed parents and teachers who meet on a regular basis and serve as the liaisons to the school’s leadership team. If you want to have say on all the important decisions that affect your kids’ education and well-being, you’ll want to be a part of this important association.

ATTEND SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS

To get a broad perspective and exert influence on your kids’ education attend local school board meetings or run for election to join the school board. Despite its name, in most instances a school board isn’t responsible for the operation of any single school, but rather for all the schools in a given district, city, or county.

HELPING WITH HOMEWORK

An important but often overlooked way to connect with your kids’ school is simply to help out with homework. If your kids don’t need any help, simply ask them about it. Homework is one of the best windows into what your kids are doing academically on a day-to-day basis, and it gives you an appreciation for where they’re excelling and where they might be struggling and need some extra help.

EMAIL TEACHERS

Keep in regular contact with your kids’ teachers. Teachers will often encourage parents to email them with any questions or concerns. However, only email teachers if they’ve invited you to do so and make sure not to overdo it. Teachers have extremely busy lives, and you don’t want them to feel more overwhelmed than they already are.

MEET UP WITH OTHER PARENTS

Meet up with other parents from your kids’ class, either at a local playground or through organized playdates if the kids are young, or a local café with or without the kids if they’re older. It’s hard to overestimate the importance of getting to know other parents. Talking to other parents will give you a fresh perspective on what’s happening in the school, and you may even learn about other ways to become involved that you didn’t even know existed.

ATTEND PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES

Finally, make sure to attend parent-teacher conferences. These are typically held once or twice a year. It’s the principal way to keep track of how your kids are doing academically and socially, and what they need to work on the most during the remainder of the school year.

Photo Courtesy of Shutterstock

"With busy school and extracurricular schedules, many families are hard-pressed to find quality time together without distractions."

SHow Eating Together Benefits Your Family

haring a meal offers far more than a full stomach; the benefits of eating together extend well beyond the dinner table.

In the “2025 World Happiness Report,” evidence shows that sharing meals has a substantial impact on an individual’s wellbeing. Those who regularly eat with others report higher life satisfaction and display higher levels of social support, positive reciprocity and less loneliness.

Learn more about how sharing a meal can improve your family’s overall well-being with these insights from the experts at the FMI Foundation and their “2025 Family Meals Barometer survey,” which delivers research, collaboration and education to address food safety, health and nutrition concerns.

Civil and Respectful Interactions

In a world full of distractions, it may come as no surprise

the “2025 Family Meals Barometer” survey found poor communication is a leading concern among parents, more worrisome than schoolwork or chores.

More than two-thirds of respondents expressed a belief that civility in America is worse today compared to 10 years ago, but 74% said family meals are a great time to have and teach respectful interactions. Frequent family meals create a safe environment for families to discuss thornier societal issues.

Better Nutrition

Numerous studies have shown families who eat more meals together have healthier eating habits and better diets in general. Family meals at home typically make it easier to fill plates with food from each food group. What’s more, parents who prepare well-balanced meals and model healthy food choices allow children to mirror and adopt similar habits.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

Improved Family Function

In the “2025 Family Meals Barometer” survey, respondents cited having more time to spend together and family meals as the top two ways they feel more connected to family and loved ones. With busy school and extracurricular schedules, many families are hard-pressed to find quality time together without distractions. Gathering around the dinner table is an opportunity to connect with one another and talk about what’s happening at work, school and with friends.

Better Grades at School

Numerous factors affect students’ academic performance, but eating together as a family helps reinforce many of the variables thought to influence student success. More nutritious meals play a role in stronger cognitive function. Multiple researchers found that children who are part of families that eat together regularly tend to have a stronger vocabulary and higher grades.

Improved Mental Health

Another way family meals benefit students at school and beyond is stronger mental and emotional health. In several independent studies, researchers found a positive correlation between family meals and self-esteem, psychosocial outcomes and other markers of mental health.

Learn how gathering around the dinner table supports your family’s nutritional, social, mental and emotional health at fmi.org/family-meals-movement.

Make Dinner Prep a Family Affair

The benefits of eating together as a family don’t have to wait until everyone is at the table. During dinner prep, parents and children have a chance to work elbow-to-elbow and talk about their days. When children participate in preparing healthy food, they may be more interested in eating it. As an added bonus, kids who take part in food preparation enjoy the benefits of building their own life skills.

DIY dishes that put kids in charge of what goes on their plates can be a fun way to bring the family together and make meal prep easy. You can customize salad kits with a selection of protein options, create your own personal pizzas or serve a bar-style dinner such as nachos, baked potatoes or tacos that let each family member choose their own toppings.

Courtesy of Family Features

Photo courtesy of Tyson on

Unsplash

I t’s back to school time and there is so much for families to do to get ready for the school year ahead, from getting school supplies to signing up for after school programs. Making sure kids have health care needs covered should be a part of those preparations.

Get Back-to-School Ready

KIDS

Free or low-cost health insurance through Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) can help children be prepared for the school year. When enrolled, kids up to age 19 have access to a comprehensive range of health services, including well-child and sick visits, emergency visits, dental and vision care, behavioral health care and more.

If a kid needs a physical for afterschool activities, it’s covered. If a child has a fever, the doctor’s visit and prescriptions to get them back to school are covered. If a child has an accident, the emergency care they need to get back on their feet is covered.

When kids have health insurance, they are less likely to miss school due to sick days, less likely to be distracted by pain or vision problems, and more likely to be able to focus on learning. This leads to more participation in the classroom and a better chance of finishing high school.

Medicaid and CHIP Support Students

Whether a child is learning their ABCs or getting ready to earn their high school diploma, access to health care services at any stage of schooling keeps them healthy. Having health insurance can help connect families with a consistent health care provider, which means having a doctor or practice to call for preventive treatment, annual physicals or sick visits. It can also reduce emergency room visits and hospitalizations. Medicaid and CHIP cover more than 37 million children and teens across the United States.

"Get Back-to-School Ready With Free or Low-Cost Health Care for Your Kids."

The ABCs of Getting Insured with Medicaid and CHIP

Enrollment is open year-round, meaning families don’t have to wait for a special time of the year to get covered. Medicaid and CHIP eligibility varies by state, depending on family income and household size. In most states, children up to age 19 with a family income of up to $80,000 per year (for a family of four) may qualify. Families can apply online, over the phone, by mail, or in-person with their state’s Medicaid office or visit the “Find Coverage for Your Family” section on InsureKidsNow.gov. Coverage must be renewed each year, and it’s important for families to make sure their address, email, and phone number stay up to date with their state Medicaid office so they can receive communications about important renewal information. For more information, call 1-877-KIDS-NOW (1-877-543-7669).

Communities can work together to make sure children get the health care they need to succeed this school year.

Information provided by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.

Courtesy of StatePoint

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HOW TO TELL IF YOUR KID MIGHT BE THE VICTIM OF CYBERBULLYING

By Tanni Haas, Ph.D.

No matter how much and how well you try to protect your kids, there’s always the possibility that they’ll become the victims of cyberbullying. If that’s the case, how do you know if your kids are being cyberbullied? What are the tell-tale warning signs?

It’s important to know the warning signs as only about one in ten kids tell their parents about being cyberbullied. Dr. Michele Borba, an internallyrenowned expert on cyberbullying, says “Don’t expect your child will come and tell you about the harassment. Research says that chances are that your child won’t tell which is why you need to tune in closer and get educated.”

Kids often keep silent because they’re ashamed, fear retribution from the bully, and, perhaps most surprising to parents, are afraid that their computer and phone access will be restricted or taken away which, in turn, they see as an unfair punishment of them rather than the bully. Unlike traditional bullying which often leaves physical marks like bruises or black eyes, cyberbullying can often only be identified by certain changes in a kid’s behavior. Cyberbullying can occur right in front of parents, or in the next room, without them realizing it.

According to Drs. Sameer Hinduja and Justin Patchin of the Cyberbullying Research Center, you can tell if your kids might be the victims of cyberbullying by

paying close attention to their general demeanor and online behavior. Like victims of traditional bullying, kids who’re cyberbullied often show signs of depression. They exhibit little interest in the things and activities that used to matter to them the most, tend to withdraw from friends and family, experience sudden changes in their eating and sleeping patterns, and complain of headaches and stomachaches. “Moodiness and mood swings are just part of being [a child],” says Walter Meyer, a well-known cyberbullying expert. “But if a child really changes – becomes withdrawn, stops speaking to friends, etc. – the parents should ask what is going on and not be satisfied with 'nothing' as an answer.”

Research by the National Crime Prevention Council shows that kids who’re cyberbullied often are fearful about going to school, ask to be driven to school rather than take the school bus, skip school when they can get away with it or request permission to leave school early because they feel sick, have trouble focusing and fall behind in their school work, and may even experience a significant drop in their grades. This is often precipitated by problems with sleeping which make it difficult for them to focus on the school work.

While it’s important to pay close attention to your kids’ general demeanor, pay particularly close attention to their online behavior. Kids who’re cyberbullied tend to be unusually secretive about what they’re doing online, avoiding conversations with their parents about which sites they’re on, who they’re talking to, and the topics of their conversations. If they’re willing to talk to their parents about what they’re doing online at all, they’re likely to get defensive and give vague or dubious-sounding explanations.

Kids who’re cyberbullied often quickly turn off their computers or phones when a parent enters their space, hide, clear or rapidly switch screens, or outright refuse to use their devices unless the parent leaves. They also tend to be unwilling to part with their devices, or share them with their parents, fearing that their parents might find out what’s

going on. This is especially true in the evening when friends and cyberbullies are most likely to be online.

When they are online, kids who’re cyberbullied tend to be visibly agitated or jumpy, especially when they receive an IM, text or email from a bully. Their minds are racing with thoughts and emotions as they’re trying to figure out how best to handle the situation without revealing anything to others. They’re also likely to keep checking their computers and phones while going back and forth between different screens in short spurs, say they’re doing homework when they’re really doing something else entirely, and may abruptly shut off or walk away from their devices mid-use for no outwardly apparent reason.

"Their minds are racing with thoughts and emotions as they’re trying to figure out how best to handle the situation without revealing anything to others."

Not surprisingly, kids who’re cyberbullied often appear angry or frustrated after they have been online. Some may suddenly and unexpectedly stop going online at all. Others may go online more than usual, unable to resist the temptation to check whether any new comments have been posted about them. Another possible indication that your kids are the victims of cyberbullying is that they try to cover their “online tracks” such as by erasing their user history folders every time they turn off their devices.

You know your kids better than anyone else. Look for multiple signs that seem to go together; they could be an indication that they are the victims of cyberbullying. “The key,” as Dr. Borba says, “is to look for a pattern in your child. You shouldn’t overlook a sudden change that’s not your child’s ‘normal’ behavior.”

About the Author

Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College.

It’s not just a day of shopping here in the Pocono Mountains—it’s an experience. Wander our historic streets. Explore our art galleries. Find unique local goods. And stop for a bite at one of our top-rated neighborhood restaurants along the way. Discover all of our shopping and sights now at PoconoMountains.com.

Boost Your Children’s Self-Esteem This School Year

While packing bags and backpacks for school, there’s one essential that may be overlooked: Children’s self-esteem. Although many children may feel confident and self-assured at home, they can feel differently in the classroom. When children have high self-esteem, they’re less likely to reflect negative feelings toward others.

“If children can treat themselves kindly, they’ll treat others that way,” said Carter Peters from KinderCare Learning Centers’ education team. “When children feel encouraged, supported and loved, they are able to give those feelings to others.”

Consider these three tips to boost your children’s self-esteem.

Be Your Children’s Cheerleader. When praising or complimenting children for their achievements, be specific and include affirmation for positive character traits, such as “You were so kind to help Ms. Delmar take her recycling out” or “I’m proud of you for seeing she needed help and offering it.” Being specific with your compliments reinforces the idea that your children are kind and helpful. Eventually, they’ll offer others the same positive affirmations and be less likely to look to outside influences to define their sense of self.

Photo Courtesy of Family Features

“When children have high self-esteem and self-worth, they know when someone’s opinion of them is untrue,” Peters said. “Children with high self-esteem become adults capable of believing in themselves.”

Give Children Space to Safely Express Their Emotions. While it’s important to intentionally connect with your children one-on-one, it’s equally important to give them space to come to you for help. Let them know you notice when they don’t seem like themselves but try not to push them to share before they’re ready.

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“When children feel encouraged, supported and loved, they are able to give those feelings to others.”

You can talk with your children about the ways they can communicate with you, aside from one-on-one conversations. If they find it easier to communicate their feelings through writing, you can go to the store together to pick out a journal. Children who are not yet proficient writers may prefer to draw pictures about their feelings. No matter the method, be sure to make time to check in with your children.

Teach Emotional Literacy and Replacement Skill Behavior. You can help your children move beyond comprehension of basic emotions – happy, sad, mad – and toward an understanding of more nuanced emotions. When children can identify their feelings, they’re closer to developing healthy responses.

Commonly labeled “bad behaviors” are often young children’s way of communicating something is wrong, so they may need help identifying the emotion driving their actions. It’s important for children to understand that while their feelings are acceptable, their behavior may not be. That’s where replacement skills – acceptable ways to express emotions – come in. For example, try saying “It’s OK to be mad. It’s not OK to hit other people. When you’re mad, you can hit a pillow.”

For more tips to help boost children’s self-esteem, visit kindercare.com.

“WOW,

Tech Products to Help You Kick off the New School Year Right

As a new school year gets underway, it’s time to zero in on the tech products that can help your students ease into their academic routines and succeed in the classroom. Here are some of the greatest products on store shelves today that can transform a student’s relationship to school subjects ranging from STEM and language arts to music and physical education: Math made magical: Put the best tools in the hands of your math wizard with the fx-991CW ClassWiz, the latest enhancement to Casio’s scientific calculators. With an all-

new quadruple-graded LCD display, your student will be able to easily find their cursor while writing and modifying expressions. All of the calculator’s functions can be accessed through a convenient Math Catalog, which also hosts 47 scientific constants and 40 measurement conversions. By partnering the ClassWiz with an internet-capable mobile device and scanning a QR code on the calculator’s screen, solutions can be graphed and visualized through the Casio-hosted virtual workspace, ClassPad.net.

Photo Courtesy of (c) SeventyFour

Getty

Plus

Note-taking made simple: When it comes to synthesizing information, there really is no replacement for writing things down by hand. Now, there’s a simple way to take notes the “old-fashioned way” while getting all the benefits of digitization. With a smart pen, your student’s handwritten notes are compatible with all their devices. These notes are also editable, searchable and highlightable, taking the fuss out of studying for exams and organizing materials for essays.

"As a new school year gets underway, it’s time to zero in on the tech products that can help your students ease into their academic routines and succeed in the classroom."

Music made beautiful: Bring life and light to your young music student’s world with the CT-S1. The sleek minimalist design and uplifting sound of this Casio keyboard will allow them to focus solely on the music, develop their unique style, and energize and encourage them to play more. With a simple interface, and a color palette to suit every aesthetic, the functionality and design of the CT-S1 is all about the individual musician, and its compact design and portability are well-suited for on-the-go students short on space.

Sports made supportive: Student-athletes can hone their skills in their sport of choice with new technology. From smart footballs that track spiral velocity and throw distance to connected soccer balls that measure trajectory, speed and spin, today’s tech tools on the field function like a coach available to offer detailed, accurate feedback 24/7.

This school year, you can encourage your student to thrive. With the latest and greatest technology, they can be inspired and supported to meet their potential.

Courtesy of StatePoint

Photo Courtesy of BPT

PETS OR PERSONAL SAFETY

A choice no one should ever have to make

The physical and emotional benefits of having a pet are well documented, yet for those facing trauma and abuse, making the decision to escape abuse is more complicated when a pet is involved. For many survivors, seeking safety for themselves may mean deciding whether to leave their pet behind with an abuser because there is simply no safe place to go together.

Sadly, it is a decision that many survivors of domestic violence must make.

As many as one in three women and one in four men experience domestic abuse in their lifetimes. Because few domestic violence shelters accept pets, 48% of survivors delay leaving their homes because they can't take their pets with them, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. And 71% of survivors entering domestic violence shelters report that an abuser had threatened, injured or killed family pets.

Purina's vision is to have a world where no one is trapped in abuse because they can't take their whole family with them, including pets. Pets can be critical to the healing and well-being of survivors. That's why Purina has partnered with RedRover to create the Purple Leash Project. The goal is to help ensure that 25% of U.S. domestic violence shelters are pet friendly by the end of 2025 so that survivors and their pets can escape together and heal together.

Purina is helping to create more pet-friendly domestic violence shelters by providing grants and resources to shelters across the country. Since 2019, Purina has provided 53 grants totaling $1.6 million as part of the Purple Leash Project, helping to move the number of shelters who accept pets from only 3% a decade ago to 19% today. And the momentum continues to build.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October is a reminder there are many opportunities to get involved and help survivors.

"The physical and emotional benefits of having a pet are well documented"

Purple Thursday is a national day of action that takes place on Oct. 17 this year. Here are some ways you can participate and show your support for survivors of domestic abuse:

 Wear purple

 Donate wish list items to local domestic violence shelters

 Light your home or business with purple lights

 Donate to RedRover in support of the Purple Leash Project

Throughout October, Purina will help its factories and sales offices across the U.S. create activations in their own communities to help broaden the Purple Leash Project's impact.

Besides raising funds and awareness, Purina associates also volunteer their time and have helped renovate domestic violence shelters to accommodate pets.

The Purple Leash Project has the potential to change society and challenge the way that pets and domestic abuse survivors are treated when they need each other most.

Visit PurpleLeashProject.com for more ways to get involved, stay informed or to donate to RedRover to support this important work.

Photo Courtesy of Krista Mangulsone on Unsplash

Charming Small Towns

IN

"For one-of-a-kind and unforgettable travel, your next trip should include amazing small towns and coastal communities in Atlantic Canada"

Love traveling, but find your best adventures somewhere between big cities and crowded attractions? If your favorite travel memories involve exploring hidden gems on roads less traveled, you're following the current travel trend - "detour destinations" - which seek amazing experiences beyond the usual tourist spots.

For one-of-a-kind and unforgettable travel, your next trip should include amazing small towns and coastal communities in Atlantic Canada - the four eastern provinces of New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.

Ready to go exploring? Here are must-see places that are off the beaten path - and well worth the visit.

New Brunswick

Whales and lobsters and deer, oh my!

While your New Brunswick itinerary might include the capital city of Fredericton, or the stunning rock formations of Hopewell Rocks, you don't want to miss two coastal towns offering oneof-a-kind experiences.

Saint Andrews: An hour from Saint John, this town on the Bay of Fundy was named the best place to visit in Canada by USA Today. Saint Andrews offers rich historical atmosphere, along with a variety of restaurants, pubs and cafes.

Love outdoor adventures? Join a whale-watching excursion to spot species like humpback, minke and finback whales. You could embark on a sport fishing adventure with Island Quest Marine - or join a shark tagging excursion, where sharks are caught, tagged with a microchip, then released and tracked for scientific research.

Get up close to Bay of Fundy marine life at the Huntsman Marine Science Centre, or immerse yourself in 27 acres of gorgeous plants, birds and animals at the multi award-winning horticultural masterpiece Kingsbrae Garden.

While you're relaxing and enjoying the stunning views of the Bay of Fundy, you may just see a deer crossing the street.

Shediac: Known as the "The Lobster Capital of the World," this town along New Brunswick's Acadian Coast celebrates its

heritage with a 90-ton lobster sculpture and hosts a major lobster festival each July featuring music, dancing and an outdoor lobster feast at a 600-guest table. Shediac Bay Cruises also offers 2.5-hour Lobster Tales Cruises, filled with humor, French Acadian music and the secrets of catching, cooking and eating lobster.

This seaside community 20 minutes from Moncton is steeped in French Acadian culture, offering unique restaurants, pubs and coffee shops to enjoy on the Pointedu-Chene Wharf. You can also relax on pristine beaches like Parlee Beach, boasting the warmest saltwater north of Virginia.

Newfoundland and Labrador

What do icebergs and root cellars have in common?

Special places in Newfoundland and Labrador showcase the passage of time, delve into the past - and create memories to last a lifetime.

Twillingate, the "Iceberg Capital of the World," embodies everything that Newfoundland and Labrador towns are famous for: stunning rugged coastlines, historical picturesque streets and lush country roads. You may see whales, dolphins, seabirds and, in the right season, icebergs.

An 85-minute drive from Gander, Twillingate is a stop along Iceberg Alley, a corridor of ocean that witnesses the slow-motion migration of these frozen leviathans. Enjoy the sights from locales like Long Point Lighthouse, looking out over Notre Dame Bay, or take a boat expedition and witness whales breaching and playing just yards away.

Known as the "Root Cellar Capital of the World," Elliston is one of over a dozen geosites in the Discovery UNESCO Global Geopark. Perched at the tip of Bonavista Peninsula, the area is dotted with the tiny doors of root cellars from the 18th-19th centuries, when settlers needed to store potatoes and other root vegetables to endure the harsh winters. Every third weekend of September, Elliston becomes the backdrop to Roots, Rants and Roars, a culinary festival celebrating the natural gifts of Newfoundland and Labrador's food, culture, land and sea.

You'll also find a beautiful sandy beach in a sheltered cove on a coastline that's home to hundreds of colorful puffins - the official bird of Newfoundland.

Nova Scotia

Quirky coastal communities

Nova Scotia is "Canada's Ocean Playground," and you can make the most of it by visiting these incredible coastal communities.

Mahone Bay: Named one of Canada's top 10 most beautiful towns, Mahone Bay is an hour's drive from the capital city of Halifax, offering water views, colorful artisan shops and culinary experiences to savor. Beauty abounds in the work of artisans such as Amos Pewter, where you can finish and personalize your own keepsake, or the Indigenous Glass Art Cultural Experience, where you can choose a pattern to create a glass mosaic while hearing stories of the Anishinaabe, Anishininew and Mi'kmaw cultures of your First Nation hosts. Or discover Canada's first art maze - close to a mile of paths at BernArt Maze featuring sculptures, mosaics and murals by local artists and others from around the world.

Nearby Oak Island has resounded with tales of hidden pirate bounty for over 250 years, intriguing historians and treasure hunters alike, including the makers of the History Channel's TV series "The Curse of Oak Island." Hop aboard a tritoon with your knowledgeable skipper at Salty Dog Sea Tours to uncover its mysteries from the sea.

Tatamagouche is a charming seaside village 95 miles from Halifax, with a bustling Main Street where you can enjoy craft beer, handmade chocolates, baked goods, and so much more. After visiting the weekend farmers' market, stop at Jost Vineyards or Vista Bella Farm for wine and cider tastings. The village is close to three provincial parks with sandy, warm water beaches, and the Wentworth Valley, which offers both downhill skiing and mountain biking (depending on the season).

Railroad aficionados will love the Train Station Inn: vintage Canadian-built cabooses and boxcars that are authentic on the outside, deluxe suites inside. Onsite, you will also find an eclectic gift shop and a locally roasted

coffee bar and café, both housed in the former train station that was built around 1887. For a heartier meal, savor local seafood in the restored 1928 Railway Dining Car.

Prince Edward Island

From artisans and seafood to ultimate R&R

While PEI offers the bustling capital of Charlottetown and opportunities to revisit the story of "Anne of Green Gables," two lesser-known towns should top your list.

Victoria by the Sea is an historic fishing village 30 minutes from Charlottetown that's been revitalized by the many artists and creative people who live there. Enjoy restaurants showcasing local seafood like The Lobster Bar Pub & Eatery, Casa Mia by the Sea, The Landmark Oyster House and Richard's Fresh Seafood, followed by award-winning treats at Island Chocolates. Then visit artisan shops like Michael Stanley Pottery or enjoy a kayaking experience to make this village your favorite PEI stop. You'll find charming accommodations at OH Victoria Hotel or Victoria Cottages. Before saying goodbye, take advantage of a photo op at the picturesque Victoria Range Light & Seaport Museum.

You'll experience the charm of a hidden gem on PEI's Points East Coastal Drive in St. Peter's Bay, with stunning coastal views, pristine beaches and warm hospitality - perfect for adventure or relaxation. About an hour's drive from Charlottetown, St. Peter's Bay offers artisan shops at St. Peter's Landing, and several spots for seafood lovers, like Rick's Fish & Chips restaurant. Julio's Oyster Express, offering a small oyster bar with fresh oysters from across the Island and The Golden Dory, a food truck-style shack serves casual bites and classic Island flavors.

Love the outdoors? Walk or bike part of the Confederation Trail, which runs 273 kilometers from one tip of the Island to the other, or visit nearby Greenwich, PEI National Park. If your goal is rest and relaxation, unwind at Mysa Nordic Spa, PEI's first and only Nordic spa, or enjoy glamping in a yurt along with yoga and other wellness experiences at Nature Space Resort.

Learn more about the four provinces of Atlantic Canada at VisitAtlanticCanadaNow.com.

Courtesy of BPT

Savory Solutions for Slider Sunday

Enjoying a meal as a family might seem farfetched with schedules full of work, activities and social commitments. However, you can make bringing everyone together a bit easier (and more delicious) with a weekly tradition like Slider Sunday that gets the whole crew excited about time around the kitchen table.

No matter what your loved ones crave, you can savor a different flavor and enjoy the soft, fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of King’s Hawaiian Rolls and Slider Buns, including Pretzel Slider Buns, each and every Sunday. Plus, toppings can be customized so everyone’s favorites are on the menu.

Put a spin on your next Slider Sunday with Chicken Parm-eroni Sliders or Lobster Knuckle Sliders with Spicy Mayo from Guy Fieri.

Discover more slider recipe inspiration by visiting SliderSunday.com.

Chicken Parm-eroni Sliders

Recipe courtesy of Guy Fieri

Prep time: 30 minutes • Cook time: 30 minutes

Servings: 6

 1 cup unsalted butter

 1/2 cup minced garlic

 1 package King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Slider Buns

 3 cups vegetable oil

 2 cups pepperoni, julienned

 1 1/4 cups marinara sauce

 9 breaded chicken tenders, cooked crispy

 5 slices fresh mozzarella

 5 slices provolone cheese

 9 teaspoons grated Parmesan cheese

 2 tablespoons finely chopped Italian parsley

In small saucepot over medium heat, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook 3-4 minutes until garlic softens but does not brown. Remove from heat and set aside.

Separate pretzel slider buns and brush inside halves with melted garlic butter. Toast rolls on griddle until golden brown; flip and slightly toast outside of rolls. Set aside.

In 4-quart saucepot with thermometer, heat oil to 350 F. Fry pepperoni until bubbles start to slow. Carefully remove from oil and place on plate with paper towel.

In small saucepot, heat marinara sauce. Place 1 tablespoon sauce on bottom halves of slider buns.

On lined sheet pan, place one chicken tender on each slider bun. Place 1 tablespoon marinara sauce on top of each tender followed by half slice mozzarella then half slice provolone. Top each slider with 1 teaspoon grated Parmesan. Place baking sheet in broiler and melt cheese.

Top cheese with 1 tablespoon crispy pepperoni on each slider.

Top sliders with other halves of toasted slider buns. Brush tops with garlic butter and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Use bamboo picks to secure.

Lobster Knuckle Sliders with Spicy Mayo

Recipe courtesy of Guy Fieri

Prep time: 15 minutes • Cook time: 15 minutes

Servings: 6

 1 package King’s Hawaiian Slider Buns

 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

 1 tomato, finely diced

 1 celery stalk, finely diced

 1/2 cup Japanese mayonnaise

 1 tablespoon sriracha

Celebrate the holidays surrounded by great company and even better cuisine in the Pocono Mountains. From romantic dinners by candlelight to farm-to-table experiences, our local chefs are serving up something for every palate. Visit PoconoMountains.com to see all of our mouth-watering dining options and make your reservation.

 kosher salt, to taste

 freshly ground black pepper, to taste

 1 lemon, cut in half

 1 package tempura flour mixture

 1 teaspoon seafood seasoning

 9 ounces cooked lobster knuckle meat

 2 1/2 cups white cabbage, shredded fine

 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

 3 tablespoons chives, finely chopped

Separate slider buns and brush inside halves with melted butter. Toast rolls on griddle until golden brown; flip and slightly toast outsides of rolls.

In mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, celery, mayonnaise and sriracha. Season with salt and pepper, to taste; add juice and zest from 1/2 lemon. Mix well to fully incorporate. Place in refrigerator to chill. Mix tempura batter per package instructions and season with seafood seasoning.

Preheat deep fryer to 350 F.

Pat lobster dry with paper towels. Place lobster in tempura batter and allow to sit 30-60 seconds. Remove lobster one piece at a time, allowing excess batter to drip off. Working in batches, fry until golden brown, about 3 minutes.

While lobster is frying, place cabbage in mixing bowl; add extra-virgin olive oil and juice from remaining 1/2 lemon. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Mix well to incorporate evenly. Place 2 tablespoons cabbage mixture on each bun, making bed on each bun to hold lobster in place.

Remove lobster from fryer and allow excess oil to drain completely. Toss lobster in mayonnaise mixture and sprinkle with chopped chives. Place lobster on cabbage mixture then add top buns and secure with bamboo skewers.

Courtesy of Family Features

Fall is the perfect time to make space-saving upgrades to your house.

For example, consider swapping out a traditional swinging door for a smooth-gliding, wall-mounted sliding door. A sliding door can add up to 14 square feet of floor space, which allows for more room to spread out toys and games, and give a more spacious feel to nearly any room. They also allow for more flexibility in furniture arrangements, which can turn even the smallest nook in your house into a cozy space.

"Fall is the perfect time to make spacesaving upgrades to your house."

It’s easy to do with an option like Johnson Hardware’s Soft-Close Wall-Mount Sliding Door Hardware, which can be used with virtually any metal or wood door from 1-inch to 1 3/4-inches thick, up to 48 inches wide and weighing up to 200 pounds. The U.S.-made hardware gently slows the door’s travel speed to softly pull it into the fully open or fully closed position and works like a cabinet door closer, enabling doors to open and close quietly and securely. It also prevents door slamming and pinched fingers, as well as reducing door operational noise.

The built-in satin or bronze finish fascia can give a warm decorative detail to a room while the smooth-rolling door hardware and track exceed ANSI standards, meaning it can successfully complete 100,000 opening and closing cycles, with adjustable door guides, tricycle hangers and adjustable track stops. The jump-proof aluminum box track is available in lengths up to 96 inches for single doors and up to 192 inches for double doors.

Installing wall-mount sliding door hardware in a playroom, or nearly any other room in your house, can be an easy yet high-impact improvement that reduces space constraints while adding warmth, functionality and visual appeal.

For more information, visit johnsonhardware.com.

Courtesy of Family Features

AUTUMN LAWN MAINTENANCE

Tips for a Healthy Yard

As temperatures drop and the first frost approaches, it’s time to take steps to winterize your lawn to ensure a lush, green comeback next spring.

A thorough inspection can help you identify the needs of your lawn, allowing you to tailor your fall maintenance efforts more effectively. Look for signs of damage such as bare patches, thinning areas or discoloration, and take note of any weeds or pests that may have taken hold. This evaluation sets a foundation for the steps you should take to prepare your lawn for the next growing season.

From mowing one last time (on a lower setting to help minimize the risk of snow mold and other winter-related issues) to removing leaves and applying winterizing fertilizer, these tips can help ensure your lawn is ready for the colder months.

RAKE AND REMOVE LEAVES

A quintessential autumn chore, raking leaves and removing other debris from your yard can make a significant difference for your lawn’s health. Leaves left on the ground can smother your grass, blocking sunlight and trapping moisture, which can lead to fungal growth and other issues.

Use a lightweight rake to avoid damaging the grass or use a mulching mower to shred leaves into smaller pieces that can decompose and provide nutrients for the soil. If you have a compost bin, fallen leaves can be a valuable addition, enriching your compost with organic matter.

FERTILIZE FOR FALL

Fertilizing is a critical component to aiding your lawn in replenishing nutrients that were depleted during the warmer months. A well-fed lawn recovers more quickly from stress and can establish strong roots before winter sets in.

Choose a high-quality, slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for fall application and apply evenly across your lawn. Applying fertilizer in mid- to late-autumn ensures the nutrients are absorbed by the grass, fostering healthy growth and preparing it to withstand the colder months.

OVERSEED THE LAWN

Overseeding involves spreading grass seed over your existing lawn to fill in bare spots and improve density. Particularly beneficial in the fall, as the cooler temperatures and increased moisture create ideal conditions for seed germination, the practice not only enhances the appearance of your lawn but also improves its resilience against diseases and environmental stress.

Choose a grass seed mix suitable for your climate and lawn type. After spreading the seed, lightly rake the lawn to ensure the seed makes contact with the soil. Water the area thoroughly and maintain consistent moisture until new grass is well established.

Find more tips to maintain your lawn and garden at eLivingtoday.com.

Courtesy of Family Features

"A thorough inspection can help you identify the needs of your lawn, allowing you to tailor your fall maintenance efforts more effectively."

"Whether you're a master gardener, complete novice, or something in between, fall is the perfect season to start enjoying or extend this popular family-friendly hobby."

Fall in love with autumn & winter gardening

Photo Curtesy of BPT

Whether you're a master gardener, complete novice, or something in between, fall is the perfect season to start enjoying or extend this popular family-friendly hobby.

As cooler temperatures set in, spending time outdoors becomes even more enjoyable, with fall's vibrant foliage offering a beautiful, colorful backdrop for your gardening projects. The plants and flowers you grow and display this autumn and winter won't just beautify your outdoor space - they'll also help create an inviting atmosphere. Whether you're hosting your family and friends on brisk sunny afternoons for sporting events or unwinding by the firepit on cool evenings, your garden will enhance the color and comfort of your home.

And gardening is totally on trend right now! Home services website Thumbtack has declared 2024 the "Year of the Backyard," highlighting homeowners' increased interest in upgrading their outdoor spaces. According to the survey, 62% of respondents plan to invest in landscaping projects. Similarly, Axiom's 2024 Gardening Outlook Survey echoes this enthusiasm, finding that gardeners are planning to spend more time and money on their gardens.

Embrace fuzzy sweater feelings

To encourage the cozy feelings of fall, you'll love the deep, warm red color of Echinacea Double™ Scoop Strawberry Deluxe. These striking blooms with double flowers thrive in full sun, are drought and deer resistant, and stand out with their vivid color.

You can balance any of your bright flower colors with the stunning white-silver leaves of Centaurea Silver Swirl, perfect for borders or within your flower beds. Their mounding form and wavy leaf edges add texture to any landscape design. Plus, their silver color catches the moonlight and glows on evenings spent on the patio.

Both plants will thrive throughout autumn and can be found in garden centers in late summer for fall planting and mixing.

Enjoy #SpookySeason

To get into the Halloween spirit this October, embrace darker, moodier colors and intriguing textures in your flower beds or planters.

For a touch of drama, Cool Wave® Pansy Violet Wing, with its deep purple blooms and cheerful white-and-yellow center, is ideal for moody autumn gardens. It outperforms other pansies, quickly filling in garden spaces, and thrive through frost, making it an excellent choice for hanging baskets or patio containers.

For contrasting texture, consider Asparagus FuzzyFern Frizz. This versatile plant thrives in both sun and shade, indoors or outdoors, and offers a frothy texture for flower bed borders, baskets, or planters.

Get cozy in the kitchen

If you love cooking, Kitchen Minis™ Bonsai Basil is the perfect choice to decorate your kitchen counters and windowsills - and boost your flavors! Using your own home-grown herbs will take your recipes to the next level, and these Kitchen Minis herbs pack big flavor in tiny plants.

This quick-growing, fine-leaf basil plant doesn't even need chopping - just sprinkle them directly over your dishes. You'll enjoy bountiful harvests straight from your kitchen counter in flowerpot sizes as small as 4 inches.

Have yourself a colorful holiday

Nothing says "happy holidays" quite like a vibrant Poinsettia. But did you know there are several varieties of shape and color?

For example, Poinsettia Peach Glow offers an eye-catching, unique novelty color perfect for a pop of unexpected color. If you're looking for something playful, Poinsettia Christmas Mouse features adorable, mouse ear-shaped bracts, unlike anything else on the market! This poinsettia is easy to care for and will charm both children and adults alike. For a stunning holiday plant, the Early Elegance poinsettia series includes a stunning, vivid marble color, along with one of the truest pink colors available for poinsettias.

With these options to help inspire your fall and winter gardening, you can make your outdoor and indoor spaces more vibrant, fun and colorful, all season long. Courtesy of BPT

"By modernizing the campaign, the emphasis shifted from a kids-helpingkids program to one that encourages people of all ages to make a difference this Halloween."

CONTRIBUTE TO A GREATER GOOD THIS HALLOWEEN

Halloween is usually about costume parties, candy, scary movies and fun pranks, but this year, there is a philanthropic way to celebrate this spooky holiday. From the war in Ukraine to the drought across the Horn of Africa, there are innumerable compounding crises impacting children around the world. This Halloween, there are meaningful ways to make a difference for children in need across the world.

Photo Courtesy of Jill Wellington from Pixabay

Beginning in early October and running through Halloween, UNICEF USA’s iconic orange box is being transformed into a reimagined digital experience as a new twist on a classic campaign that is scalable, simple to use and empowers a new generation of changemakers to drive impact for children globally. A QR code will be available across the United States for all to download and use in tandem with Halloween festivities.

The code will digitize the Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF experience while still providing a meaningful opportunity to give back and discover joy through helping others. It can be used at nearly any Halloween activity, including costume parties, fall festivals or on candy collection bags.

By modernizing the campaign, the emphasis shifted from a kids-helping-kids program to one that encourages people of all ages to make a difference this Halloween.

Donations help deliver health care and immunization, safe water and sanitation, nutrition, education and emergency relief to children where and when they need it most. For more than 75 years, UNICEF has advocated for the rights and protection of the world’s most vulnerable children. As the longest-running youth engagement activity in the U.S., the campaign has raised more than $195 million for children around the world.

Otter Lake Otter Lake

CAMP RESORT

• 60 acre lake with 300 campsites

• Paved roads

• Electric, water and cable TV hook-ups; 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

• 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

Learn more, and add some meaning to your Halloweening, at trickortreatforunicef.org.

Courtesy of Family Features

HALLOWEEN SPOOKY CANS

Get the kids involved with Halloween decorations this year with these easy-to-make “spooky cans” resembling a bat, Frankenstein and a mummy.

For more craft ideas, visit eLivingtoday.com.

 1 soup can

 1 paint brush

 1 bottle black acrylic paint

 1 white fabric marker

 1 black foam sheet

 scissors

 1 white foam sheet

 1-2 hot glue sticks

 1 hot glue gun  2 googly eyes

Remove label from soup can. Using paint brush, paint soup can with black paint. Let dry. Apply more coats, if needed, drying between each coat.

Using white fabric marker, draw bat wings and bat ears on black foam sheet. Using scissors, cut out bat wings and bat ears. Set aside. Using scissors, cut two small triangles from white foam sheet for bat fangs.

Load hot glue stick into gun and allow to heat up. Apply glue on large edge of bat wing and press onto soup can. Repeat with second wing. Apply hot glue to bottoms of bat ears and apply to front inside of soup can. Apply hot glue to bottoms of bat fangs, turn upside down with points toward bottom and press onto soup can. Apply hot glue to backs of googly eyes and press onto soup can.

Spooky Bat

Mummy

 1 soup can

 1 paint brush

 1 bottle white acrylic paint

 1 hot glue gun stick

 1 hot glue gun

 gauze dressing (enough to wrap around can)

 2 googly eyes

Remove label from soup can. Using paint brush, paint soup can with white paint. Let dry. Apply more coats, if needed, drying between each coat.

Load hot glue stick into gun and allow to heat up. Apply glue to top of can and place start of gauze dressing. Wrap gauze dressing around can, applying glue and more gauze as needed. Glue end of gauze to soup can. Allow for space in eye area to apply eyes. Glue googly eyes to space left within gauze.

Frankenstein

 1 soup can

 2 paint brushes

 1 bottle green acrylic paint

 pinking shears

 1 black felt sheet

 1 white foam sheet

 1 bottle white acrylic paint

 2 cork screws

 1-2 hot glue gun sticks

 1 hot glue gun

 2 googly eyes

Remove label from soup can. Using one paint brush, paint soup can with green paint. Let dry. Apply more coats, if needed, drying between each coat.

Using pinking shears, cut one circle from black felt sheet 1/4inch larger than soup can.

Cut two small rectangles, one slightly shorter than other, from white foam sheet for teeth. Using other paint brush and white paint, paint cork screws. Allow to dry.

Load hot glue stick into gun and allow to heat up. Apply glue to teeth and place on soup can. Cut thin sliver of black felt for lip line. Glue above teeth. Glue googly eyes onto can above mouth.

Put line of glue along top of soup can. Place felt circle on top of glue area. Place glue bead along upper side of can to bend over felt to create hairline. Glue cork screws to either side of bottom of can.

THE PNEUMOCOCCAL PNEUMONIA VACCINE

Pneumococcal pneumonia is a potentially serious bacterial lung disease that can disrupt your life for weeks and even land you in the hospital. Medical experts want you to know that there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of serious illness.

An important step is getting pneumococcal vaccination if it’s recommended for you. This vaccine helps protect against pneumococcal disease, including, pneumococcal pneumonia, bloodstream infection (bacteremia), and infection of the lining

of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis). In October 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated its adult immunization schedules, and now recommends pneumococcal vaccination for all adults 50 or older, even if you are healthy, and maintains its recommendation of vaccination for adults 19-49 with certain underlying medical conditions like asthma, COPD, chronic heart disease and diabetes.

“The immune system naturally weakens with age, so even if you’re healthy and active, being older puts you at greater risk

Photo Courtesy of (c) DisobeyArt

Getty

of severe illness from pneumococcal pneumonia. The CDC’s updated guidelines are intended to keep more people healthy and safe,” says Albert A. Rizzo, MD, chief medical officer for the American Lung Association.

The American Lung Association maintains an ongoing educational program about pneumococcal pneumonia with Pfizer. As part of the program, they are sharing these fast facts:

• Anyone can get pneumococcal pneumonia and unfortunately, it is a disease you can have more than one time. Certain populations are at higher risk for severe illness, hospitalization and death. You can use American Lung Association resources to help you determine your risk.

“The immune system naturally weakens with age, so even if you’re healthy and active, being older puts you at greater risk of severe illness from pneumococcal pneumonia."

• The symptoms of pneumococcal pneumonia include fever, chills, cough, chest pain, difficulty breathing or rapid breathing, and these symptoms can appear suddenly and without warning.

• Having the flu increases the likelihood of developing pneumonia, including pneumococcal pneumonia. You can reduce this risk by getting a flu shot every year to help prevent seasonal influenza. In addition, those at risk for pneumococcal disease can get vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia. Ask your healthcare provider about pneumococcal vaccination today.

For more information about pneumococcal pneumonia risk factors, symptoms and prevention, visit Lung.org/ pneumococcal.

Thanks to the CDC’s recommendations, more Americans can take the step of vaccinating against pneumococcal pneumonia and reducing their risk of severe illness.

Courtesy of StatePoint

In & Around the Poconos

Nature Photography

September 6 • 10am - 12pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Learn some beginner techniques on how to frame a picture and then apply those skills on our trails. Great for children and those starting from scratch. Participants will need a camera for pictures, even a phone camera will do! Please call to register. $10. peec.org

Bird Bonanza

September 6 • 1pm - 3pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Spend time watching our feeders and putting together your own unique and custom bird feeder from a variety of recycled materials just in time for winter. We’ll provide everything you

need, but you are welcome to bring your own supplies. Please call to register. $5. peec.org

Ecozone Discovery Room!

September 7 • 1pm - 4pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Climb into a bald eagle’s nest, crawl into a bat cave, explore a beaver lodge, and dig in a fossil pit! Explore this indoor discovery room and enjoy hands-on exhibits on natural history, sustainability and the local environment. No registration required. $3 per person. peec.org

Fall Flights: Birds and Brews

September 12 - September 14

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Come out for a wonderful weekend of bird watching and beer tasting. Enjoy guided hikes that teach how to identify birds by sight, sound, and habitat. Program is geared towards beginners and experts alike. Saturday night we’ll provide beverages from local breweries while you relax around our campfire! Includes two nights of lodging and meals from Friday dinner to Sunday lunch. Call or Register Online $230 per person/ Call for Commuter and Day Rates. peec.org

Wilderness Walkabout

September 13 • 1pm - 3pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Get out and explore PEEC! Join Paul Kovalski, aka Dr. Dinosaur, as we hike one of our trails and discuss the natural history of our park. Please call to register. $5 per person. peec.org

Nature at Night

September 13 • 7pm - 8:30pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

A pleasant fall evening is the perfect time to head outside. Take a walk in the woods to listen for owls, look at stars, and enjoy the music of the night. Enjoy fun activities that test your night vision. We recommend you bring a flashlight! Please call to register. $5 per person. peec.org

Photo courtesy of Carol Harrington

Beaver Ecology Hike

September 14 • 10am - 12pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Learn about these charismatic critters and explore our indoor beaver lodge replica, then hit the trail to see the current beaver activity on campus. All ages welcome. Please call to register. $5 per person. peec.org

Wacky Science Adventures

September 14 • 1pm - 3pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Put on your lab coats and prepare to conduct some crazy experiments! You’ll get to build your own rocket, create a cushion for an egg, and more. Prepare to get your hands a little dirty! Great for kids! Please call to register. $8 per child. peec.org

Ecozone Discovery Room!

September 20 • 1pm - 4pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Owl Prowl

September 20 • 7pm - 8:30pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Pennsylvania is home to a number of different species of owls. There are a handful of different species that live around PEEC. We may not find any, but we’ll definitely hear them! Please call to register. $5 per person. peec.org

Signs of Fall Hike

September 21 • 1pm - 3pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Take a hike with us and discover the science behind the wonderful season of fall. We’ll discuss changing animal behavior, why leaves change color, and why it’s the best season to be out and about! Call to register. $5 per person. peec.org

Nature at Night

September 28 • 7pm - 8:30pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Animal Tracking & Stalking

October 4 • 10am - 12pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Look for animal tracks & signs, learn how to identify animals via their footprints, and how animals adapt to stalk and hunt their prey. Please call to register. $5 per person. peec.org

Ecozone Discovery Room!

October 4 • 1pm - 4pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Signs of Fall Hike

October 5 • 1pm - 3pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Harvest Family Camp Weekend

October 10 - October 13

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Bring your friends and family to experience PEEC in the splendor of autumn. Animal presentations, canoeing & kayaking, nature hikes, crafts, campfire and more! Includes three nights lodging & meals from Friday dinner –

Monday lunch. Adults $260/ Child, Commuter, & Day Rates

Available. 2025 Family Camp Weekend Brochure Spaces are limited — Call or Register Online. peec.org

Harvest Festival

October 11 • 11am - 4pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Celebrate Fall at PEEC’s annual Harvest Festival! Enjoy animal presenters, arts & crafts, hands-on activities, conservation exhibits, live music, local food, old-timey activities, & more! Bring your family & friends to this great event! No registration required. $5 per car. peec.org

Nature Photography

October 18 • 10am - 12pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Ecozone Discovery Room!

October 18 • 1pm - 4pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Intro to Orienteering

October 19 • 10am - 12pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Come learn how to use a map & compass on our orienteering course. We’ll show you the basics before you try to find all the points. Space is limited – call early. Please call to register. $5 per person. peec.org

Create Your Own Walking Stick

October 19 • 12pm - 3pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Spend the afternoon with us as we create handcrafted walking sticks. Wood, tools, gloves, and aprons will be provided, as well as suggestions and pointers on how to personalize your work. Payment is due upon registration. Pre-registration required. $35 per person. peec.org

Mindfulness in Nature Weekend Retreat

October 24 - October 26

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Explore the connection between Mindfulness (MBSR) practices and Nature in the beautiful Fall setting at PEEC as we deepen our connection with ourselves and our natural surroundings. Weekend sessions will include guided sitting meditation, breathing techniques, slow Mindful walks in the forest, nature-based sensory activities, and time for reflection and discussion. Please bring a mat or chair to sit on outside. No previous experience necessary. Limited to 15 participants. Preregistration is required. Call to Register or Register Online. peec.org

Intro to Camping

October 26 • 10am - 12pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

Learn the basics of camping, and how to prepare for a trip! We will go over how to plan and pack for a camping trip, how to set up a tent, and more! Space is limited – call early. Please call to register. $5 per person. peec.org

Waterfall Tour

October 26 • 1pm - 3pm

Pocono Environmental Education Center

The Delaware Water Gap has quite a few waterfalls within the park that all flow into the Delaware River. Join us for the morning as we check out some of the larger and well known falls in the park. Payment is due at registration. $10/person Please call to register: 570-828-2319 – Limited Spaces. peec.org

> Photo courtesy of Jennifer Ristine

Barrett Paradise

Friendly Library

Cresco, PA

570-595-7171 www.barrettlibrary.org

Clymer Library

Pocono Pines, PA

570-646-0826 www.clymerlibrary.org

Pocono Mountain Public Library

Tobyhanna, PA

570-894-8860 www.poconomountpl.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

In the Poconos, neighbors care for each other.

At Lehigh Valley Hospital–Pocono, we do the same. Our clinicians aren’t just experts in advanced treatments and technology, they’re also experts in caring for neighbors, families and friends. Discover care that is truly dedicated to you.