The Journal

Carla Hall

May 2015

Journal Entries of the Upper Delaware River Region

Contents May 2015 Publisher & Editor

11

• art • Weddings 11 • Rings & Things 14 • Writing Right 18 • Local Wedding Guide

21

• history •

24

• food •

29

• life •

34

• nature •

Amy Bridge publisher@milfordjournal.com

Creative Director

Jimmy Sheehan jimmy@milfordjournal.com

Associate Editor

B’Ann Bowman bann@milfordjournal.com

Assistant Editor Andy Oakley

Advertising

Amy Bridge amy@milfordjournal.com John Streb jpstrebjr@gmail.com

May 2015

Mary Todd Lincoln

Carla Hall

Fire Camp Wild, Wild Flowers

Contributors

Joe Dimeck, Michael Hartnett, Daniel Higgins, Jean LeBlanc, Lori Strelecki, Kathy Milici, Peter Bertino, Eric Francis

6 • calendar

Mission

8 • journal entry

The upper Delaware River highlands and valleys are a place of rare beauty... Seeing it and living in it almost aren’t enough. Such beauty should be captured on canvas or film so that one can truly appreciate it, glimpse it in the quiet of an art gallery or museum, or between the pages of a poetry book or literary sketch.

9 • poetry 32 • market scope • Clove Brook Market

The Milford Journal’s mission is to capture these momentary snapshots of beauty graphically and through the written word. We celebrate our area and the uniqueness of the people who live and work in our tristate region. From Pike to Wayne, Monroe to Lackawanna counties in PA, up river to Sullivan County and on to Orange County, NY, and over the rolling hills to Sussex County, NJ, with quaint and historic Milford, PA, at its center, the Milford Journal opens its doors to our communities, businesses, and organizations, to serve as a communicative journal of all that we have to offer for those who live here and for those who love to visit us, too.

39 • signs 41 • around Milford

Publication Information

The Milford Journal is published ten times a year and is distributed in 6 counties in PA and NY. The Milford Journal assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts. The contents of the Milford Journal may not be reproduced in any form without prior written permission. The Milford Journal reserves the right to refuse to print advertisements that we deem inappropriate. All rights reserved.

Carla Hall

PO Box 1026 • Milford, PA 18337 • 570.390.7090 www.milfordjournal.com May 2015

4

Journal Entries of the Upper Delaware River Region

Cover Line Renowned foodie Carla Hall will be May's Chef in Residence at Hawley's destination spa, The Lodge at Woodloch. Photo by Greg Powers 5

Calendar May 2nd

Saturday 9 a.m.–3 p.m. ..............................

GardenFest 2015. Pike County Training Center, Lords Valley, PA. Hosted by Penn State Master Gardeners of Pike County. $30. Registration required: 570.296.3400.

1–8 p.m.

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City-wide Garage Sale. Port Jervis, NY. Hosted by Tourism Board. Info: 845.858.4017, pjtourismboard@gmail.com.

4–6 p.m.

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Champagne Reception: Skylands Regional Juried Art Sale. Sussex County Arts & Heritage Council Gallery, Newton, NJ. $20/in advance, $25/at door. Exhibit May 2nd–June 13th. Info: 973.383.0027, www.scahc.org.

5–9 p.m.

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Foods of the Delaware Highlands Gala Dinner. The Settlers Inn, Hawley, PA. $125. Hosted by Delaware Highlands Conservancy. Tickets: 570.226.3164, www.delawarehighlands.org.

May 3rd

Sunday Noon–4 p.m. ..............................

Sussex County Day. Sussex County Community College, Newton, NJ. Sponsored

by Sussex County Chamber of Commerce. Info: 973.579.1811, www.sussex countychamber.org.

Noon–5 p.m.

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Annual Open House & Historic Bevans Day. Peters Valley School of Craft, Layton, NJ. Info: 973.948.5200, petersvalley. org.

1–4 p.m.

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Wildflower Walk. PEEC, Dingmans Ferry, PA. Free. Info: 570.828.2319, www. peec.org.

1-4 p.m.

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Antiques Appraisal Day. Westfall Township Building, Matamoras, PA. $5/item.

Sponsored by Matamoras-Westfall Historical Society. Info: 570.491.4871.

May 4th

Monday 8:30 a.m.

..............................

Skylanders Sussex County Community College Golf Outing. Ballyowen Golf Club, Hamburg, NJ. $200/golfer. Supports student athletes. Info: 973.300.2121, foundation@sussex.edu.

9 a.m.

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United Way of Pike County Golf Classic Tournament. Woodloch Springs Country 6

May 2015 Club, Hawley, PA. $125. Registration: 8 a.m. Info: 570.296.9980, www.united waypike.org.

May 6th

Wednesday 7:30 p.m. ..............................

Battle of Monongahela. Neversink Valley Museum of History and Innovation, Cuddebackville, NY. Lecture by Frank Salvati. Info: 845.754.8870, neversink museum.org.

May 8th–10th Friday–Sunday

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Warbler Weekend. PEEC, Dingmans Ferry, PA. $205, $155/commuter. Guided hikes. Info: 570.828.2319, www.peec.org.

May 9th

Saturday 11 a.m.–noon ..............................

Wolf Visions. Kittatinny Valley State Park, Andover, NJ. $3. Wolf’s role in ecosystem. Pre-registration: 973.786.6445.

1:30–5:30 p.m.

..............................

Big Brew Sussex Beer Festival. Sussex County Fairgrounds, Augusta, NJ. $53– $62. Craft beers, food, music & more.

Benefits Newton Fire Museum. Info/tickets: bigbrewnj.com/sussex.

6–9 p.m.

..............................

Milford Art District’s Art After Dark.

Milford, PA. Golden Fish Gallery, The Artery, The Artisan Exchange.

May 9th–10th

Saturday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Sunday 10 a.m.–4 p.m. ..............................

National Train Days. Honesdale, PA. Train excursions, crafts & more. Hosted

by Greater Honesdale Partnership. Info: 570.253.5492, visithonesdalepa.com.

May 10th

Sunday 2 p.m.

..............................

Sunday with Friends: Wendy Sutter, Cello. Bethel Woods, Bethel, NY. Chamber music series. $32. Tickets: 845.583.2060, www.BethelWoodsCenter.org.

May 12th

Tuesday 10 a.m.

..............................

Sussex Bank’s Charity Golf Challenge.

Crystal Springs Wild Turkey Golf Club, Hamburg, NJ. Benefits SB Foundation.

Info: 844.256.7328 x8999, www.sussex bank.com.

May 14th

Thursday 6:30–7:30 p.m. ..............................

Sunset Yoga. Kittatinny Valley State Park, Andover, NJ. $10. Also May 28th. Preregistration: 973.786.6445.

May 15th Friday

May 20th

Boogie Woogie Victory Ball. Lake Mohawk Country Club, Sparta, NJ. $125.

Hosted by Sparta Historical Society. Info: 973.729.5153, 973.903.4573.

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May 16th

Saturday 9:30 a.m. ..............................

Lacawac’s Amazing Geo-race. Lacawac Sanctuary, Lake Ariel, PA. A geocaching adventure. $15–$20. To register: 570.689.9494, info@lacawac.org.

Wednesday 7 p.m.

Delaware Valley High School Band Concert. Delaware Valley High School Auditorium, Milford, PA. Info: dvmusicdept. wordpress.com.

May 21st

Thursday 6:30 p.m. ..............................

Wines of Spring and Summer. The HUB, Port Jervis Free Library, Port Jervis, NY. Info: 845.772.7586.

1–3 p.m.

May 22nd–24th

Teddy Bear Picnic. High Point State Park, Sussex, NJ. $5 donation/family. Pre-register: 973.875.4800, www.friendshigh pointstatepark.blogspot.com.

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Friday–Sunday

Spring Fling Family Nature Getaway.

PEEC, Dingmans Ferry, PA. $225. Info: 570.828.2319, www.peec.org.

2–8 p.m.

May 23rd

Pine Bush UFO Fair. Pine Bush, NY. Music, food, parade, vendors & more. Info: 845.744.8230, www.pinebushufofair.com.

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4 p.m.

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Pro Rodeo. Sussex County Fairgrounds, Augusta, NJ. $20/adults, $13/children.

Benefits Sussex Christian School. Info: 973.875.5595, www.sussexchristianschool. org/rodeo.

6:30–10:00 p.m.

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The Art of Kindness. Biondo Investment Advisors Building, Milford, PA. Auction of local art & crafts. Benefits Safe Haven of Pike County. Info: 570.296.2827, em powerment@shopc.org.

May 16th–17th

Saturday 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Sunday Noon–4 p.m. ..............................

Farm Animal Frolic. Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm, Stroudsburg, PA. $8/adults, $5/children. Also May 23rd– 24th. Reservations: 570.992.6161, www. quietvalley.org.

10 a.m.–dusk

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Medicine Wheel Garden Festival. Lusscroft Farm, Wantage, NJ. Music, workshops, vendors & more. $5/adults. Info: 862.268.1557, www.LusscroftFarm.com.

May 17th

Sunday 2:30 p.m.

..............................

Spring Classics. Delaware Valley High School, Milford, PA. Presented by Delaware Valley Choral Society. $15/adults, $10/students. Info: 845.856.5696.

4 p.m.

..............................

New Sussex Symphony Concert. Sparta High School, Sparta, NJ. Info: 973.579.6465.

Saturday 8–11 a.m.

Birds & Breakfast. Lacawac Sanctuary, Lake Ariel, PA. Join NEPA Audubon Society naturalists. $10/members, $15/ non-members. To register: 570.689.9494, info@lacawac.org.

May 23rd–25th

Saturday–Monday 10 a.m.–5 p.m. ..............................

Open Studio. 106 Pleasant Lane, Milford, PA. Contemporary clay sculpture & paintings. Benefits scholarships at Immaculate Conception High School. Info: 570.618.1650, ladye@ptd.net.

May 29th

Friday 7 p.m.

..............................

Delaware Valley High School Jazz Concert. Delaware Valley High School Auditorium, Milford, PA. Info: dvmusicdept. wordpress.com.

May 30th

Saturday 11 a.m.–6 p.m. ..............................

Branchville Arts Walk. Branchville, NJ. Sponsored by the Branchville Arts Guild.

Info: Branchville Arts Walk on Facebook.

1:30–2:30 p.m.

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Springtime in Cornelia’s Gardens: Evolution of the Grey Towers Landscape. Grey Towers, Milford, PA. Info: 570.296.9630, www.greytowers.org.

June 1st

Monday 8:30 a.m.

..............................

Safe Haven Golf Tournament. Lords Valley Country Club, Lords Valley, PA. $110, includes breakfast & lunch. Info: 570.296.2827, www.shopc.org.

7

Journal Entry

Vincent van Gogh, Almond Tree in Blossom (detail)

Poetry

N

ew ideas spring forth in small towns across America.

Mother May

Word on the street is that new things are happening in town. For starters, new, unique shops have opened and continue to open, and we continue to attract talent to our area.

Mother May delivers promises wrapped in feathers and petals

I was excited to hear that this month the Side of the Road Company is producing God of Carnage at the Milford Theatre. This is the critically acclaimed, internationally produced play by Tony winning playwright Yasmina Reza.

Spring erases memory and chides me with a vanished past.

This new theater company was founded by Beth Kelley and Marc Valentine, who began their friendship when Marc was in high school at Delaware Valley.

After reconnecting at the Milford Music Festival in 2012, the duo began offering acting classes at the high school and produced two Black Box performances with the Delaware Valley Drama Club.

Since founding Side of the Road Company, they’ve worked with local artists to help grow the performing arts in Pike County.

Kelley and Valentine say their mission is to enrich, inspire and provide a high quality entertainment experience for our community.

They’ve assembled a skilled team of set builders, stage crew and actors. If you are an artist and would like to join the company, email them at sideoftheroadcompany@gmail.com.

Like gifts that sing from budded branches inviting me to hope.

“Trust,” she says. “Each moment is born anew.”

Flowers circle my feet.

Jonquil and lily spill their colors among almond and cherry pink Like those splashed across canvases, Where, in Arles, a painter knew their joy.

Bring me home beneath this vernal cover.

Let the faithful thrush’s solo vesper Repeat my wish throughout the hallowed wood.

Mother, may I stand where once he stood?

- Michael Hartnett

Side of the Road has cultivated a partnership with the Milford Theatre. Hosting well-written plays fits into the vision that theatre owner Jerry Beaver has for creating regional theatre. In the future, Beaver would like to bring in contemporary plays from offBroadway to Broadway to Shakespeare. He's a fan of the younger generation of playwrights, such as Adam Rapp and Dael Orlandersmith, and would like to showcase performances written by their peer group.

Dramas, comedies, dramadies and international plays are coming to town, and that will be a great thing!

Amy 8

9

Art

By Joe Dimeck

Marrying Styles

E

Missy Graff merging art jeweler Missy Graff has always been passionate about love and the bond of marriage.

As a metal crafter, Graff holds a special place in her heart for making custom wedding jewelry, and she enjoys sharing her freestyle process with others, whether it’s at her studio in Paterson, NJ, or at the workshops she’s given at Peters Valley School of Craft in Layton, NJ.

Photos courtesy of Missy Graff

Graff ’s jewelry has been featured at exhibits in art galleries from Brooklyn, NY, to Lille, France, and the International Design Museum of Munich. The artist’s current jewelry is inspired by fascia, the connective tissue that binds the body’s internal structures together.

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As Graff focuses on elements of the human body, she recognizes that it’s a natural progression to craft engagement rings and wedding bands, which serve as a link from the visceral to the spiritual.

The wedding ring has long been a symbolic representation of the eternal bond that two people forge through marriage. With origins dating back to ancient Egypt, the wedding ring is worn on the left ring finger because Egyptians believed that a vein, the “Vein of Love,” ran from the finger directly to the heart. Since the ring’s circular shape symbolically represents eternity, the act

of placing it over that finger was seen as a declaration of everlasting love and commitment. The tradition continues to this day.

“Wedding bands and photographs are really the only tangible items a couple has left at the end of their wedding day,” Graff says, explaining that she began crafting custom rings after being commissioned by friends who were betrothed.

“I earned a bachelor's degree in fine arts from Montclair State University and my graduate degree in metalsmithing from the State University of New York at New Paltz,” she continues. “I eventually began creating unique wedding bands for anyone who was interested. I then expanded to offering workshops for couples who wanted to design and create their own custom rings.”

Graff enjoys crafting these personalized memorializations, especially ones of a rustic or antique quality.

“It is inspiring for me to see a couple work through the challenges of learning a new technique together,” Graff notes. Creating a wedding band style is part of a marriage statement. It brings gratification and inspiration to both the couple and the craftsperson because of the inclusive and intimate nature of the design process.

Continued on next page

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Art

Continued

“Understanding what goes into a handmade piece of jewelry allows the wearer to establish a deeper appreciation for the craft,” she explains.

Graff prefers to use filigree, which is an ancient metal crafting technique. The process employs the twisting and soldering of precious metals to create an intricately flowing and lacy design. As she explains, the practice “has a very specialized approach that creates an elegant and antique look.”

For couples, the ring workshops are often completed in one or two sessions, comprising a total of six to eight hours. Graff guides the couple through the engaging design process and helps to select the materials to be used for each partner’s ring. At this point, Graff, the craftsperson, is actually acting as a catalyst to steer the couple’s original vision into the fluid realm of possibility.

“The stones I incorporate into the work depend on the client’s preferences, of course. Diamonds are always an option; however, many brides are choosing non-traditional stones, such as sapphires, emeralds, morganite or even black diamonds.” The jewelry of weddings becomes more accessible as the couple helps to create their own unity statement.

After the stone is picked out, Graff guides the couple in the metalsmithing processes, using their choice of either silver or gold. Once the metal is sized, any desired texturing, such as a pattern or a hammered look, is added with special tools. The ring is then worked into a circle and soldered closed with a torch. Many couples choose to stamp their wedding dates or initials into their rings.

Once polished, the rings are ready to be exchanged.

“The value of the rings is not only measured by the materials they are made of,” says Graff, “but by the lasting memory of the experience.”

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Graff recently worked with a couple that planned a special ring ceremony. “For this couple,” she recalls, “it was very important for them to make their rings together.

They wanted to invest themselves into their bands as a symbol of their devotion to their relationship. At their wedding, they placed their rings in a beautiful wooden box and passed the box around to all of their guests who were asked to hold it with loving wishes in mind.”

Being able to help lovers create the symbol for their love is an honor for Graff. She sees her craft not just as a labor of love, but a labor for love.

Graff understands that her work is more than the creation of wedding jewelry. It’s the blending of lives that come together with an agreement of style. The shared goal for Graff and each couple is to achieve the closing of their circle of creation and bring the wedding bands to life in a process that all started with love.

............................................................................

Missy Graff will be teaching the workshop, Rethinking the Chain, July 24th–28th at Peters Valley. For more information about the workshop, visit www.petersvalley.org. For more information on Missy Graff, visit www.missygraff.com.

13

Art

By Kathy Milici

Addressing Weddings I

t's the final countdown to your wedding day.

You've reviewed your guest list dozens of times. Your invitations are in. Your envelopes are ready to be addressed, stuffed, stamped and sent. This is the single most important day of your life, and you want to make an unforgettable first impression. Ready, set, panic!

mind. Ask a family member to help you organize your list. Also, keep in mind that other people are living their lives as you're planning your wedding. Just as you are ready to mail your invitations, you may find out that Cousin Sarah has a new boyfriend or that Uncle Fred (Frederick, actually) has just moved. The key word is flexibility.

Ah, etiquette! The word alone strikes fear in the hearts of brides everywhere. At first blush, the thought of using proper envelope etiquette can feel scary, overwhelming and complicated. There's so much to know, and a mountain of information is available. Read three different etiquette books, or look at various wedding websites, and you will find conflicting information everywhere. Who has the time to learn it all?

Although weddings are a family event, the words and family are not used on envelopes. To invite children, list first names on the inner envelope only, in birth order from oldest to youngest, under the parents' names. If you don't know the names of your distant cousin's children, make a call to someone who does. They will appreciate your efforts. Adult children (over the age of 18) who are still living at home should have their own invitation.

By following this practical, common sense approach to envelope addressing, those around you will see you as a knowledgeable bride with style, taste and sophistication.

4. Spell it out. When addressing invitation envelopes, all words should be completely written out, with no abbreviations. The exceptions are: Mr., Mrs., Sr., and Jr. Write out the word and, as in Mr. and Mrs. Also write out Apartment, Suite, Post Office Box, and the name of the state. You may either write out the word Doctor, or use the abbreviation Dr. Both are considered acceptable. Full names and addresses are written on the outer envelope, while the inner envelope is for surnames only, such as Mr. and Mrs. Smith. How do you tell the difference between outer and inner envelopes? The outer envelope has a return address printed on the back flap, has glue on it, and is slightly larger than the inner.

Examples of wedding calligraphy by Kathy Milici

1. Take your time. Your wedding invitation is the first piece of correspondence that your invited guests will receive. It makes a statement, builds excitement and gives your guests a glimpse into what is yet to come. It deserves as much care as your other wedding details. If you are sending 100 invitations, it will take awhile to get them ready for mailing. Enlist the aid of family and friends to help you if necessary, production-line style. Have an envelope stuffing party! Take your time, relax and enjoy the process.

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2. Use handwriting. According to Emily Post's Etiquette, envelopes for any formal (or informal) social event should always be hand-written. This often overlooked detail is one of the most important of all. "Do not use labels to address wedding invitation envelopes, even when inviting hundreds of guests. Instead, plan ahead and take the time to handwrite each envelope, so that it is in keeping with the personal tone of the wedding." Why handwritten? It's more significant to the receiver. It adds warmth, value and worth. If you are unsure, uncomfortable or even embarrassed at the thought of using your own handwriting, someone close to you may have beautiful penmanship. Or you may want to employ the services of a calligrapher.

3. Know your guest list. If you have a big family, sometimes it's hard to keep relatives’ names straight in your

5. Use proper titles. From religious to military to occupational, full and proper titles are always used. It is in good taste (and shows respect) to include the title your guests have earned, such as The Reverend, Rabbi, The Honorable, Doctor, or Captain. In the case of two doctors, their names are written on two separate lines, one under the other, even if they are married. The person with the title comes first, even if it’s a woman. For instances where the wife has chosen to retain her maiden name, two separate lines are used as well, but with the word and in front of her name on the second line to denote that they are a married couple. Just as Mr. and Mrs. are the most obvious titles, Miss and Master are still used for young children. Widows or married women attending alone are addressed as Mrs. The word Ms. can be used for an adult single or divorced woman. Continued on next page 15

Art

Continued

6. Just say no to nicknames. The use of nicknames is considered inappropriate for formal correspondence. Chances are that the friends you've known your whole life as Sandy, Katie and Annie have proper, given names such as Sandra, Katherine and Ann. Bobby, Tommy and Jimmy are no doubt Robert, Thomas and James. Good etiquette dictates that these names are used for wedding envelope addressing.

7. Always include guests. It is a thoughtful gesture to include guests for single adult attendees. The words and Guest are used on the inner envelope only, and only if the guest is truly unknown. If the guest is known, include the guest's last name, with title, on the inner envelope.

8. Don't assume anything. Is the couple you're inviting living together or separately? Couples living together are listed on two separate lines, one under the other. The woman's name usually appears first, with the man's name dropping to the second line. If you know the man better or if he is a relative, his name should appear first. If they don't live together, you can either send two separate invitations or include the partner's last name, with title, on the inner envelope only.

9. Double check your information. What could be more frustrating and annoying than having an invitation returned to you as "undeliverable as addressed"? Or with the wrong zip code? You can check zip codes at the United States Postal Service website: www.usps.com.

Here's one of the best-kept secrets of this website: as you're checking for the right zip code, you will find that the search feature corrects the spelling of the street address, too!

10. Check your postage. More often than not, wedding invitations are overweight. Oversized or square envelopes will require extra postage. You can check postage even before you are ready to mail your invitations. Simply assemble a sample of all your invitation's components, along with all of the extra inserts (hotel information, maps, etc.). Then take the "blank" to the post office and have it weighed.

Don't forget to purchase the stamps for your reply envelopes.

The U.S. Postal Service has recently increased its awareness regarding wedding invitations, so you will find a variety of beautiful stamp choices. Invitations are normally mailed out four to six weeks in advance of your wedding; eight weeks ahead if you are inviting outof-town guests who require hotel reservations. Check the response deadline on your invitation. It is customary to allow 2-3 weeks for your guests to respond.

Finally, don’t panic. Remember that there are no invitation police. In the end, the most important thing is that all of your etiquette decisions feel comfortable for you.

Happy Wedding!

............................................................................

For more information about wedding etiquette, read Emily Post's Wedding Etiquette, Crane's Wedding Blue Book, and Bride's Book of Etiquette.

There are also several wedding websites, such as theknot.com, that address even the stickiest of etiquette issues.

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Shop Local for Weddings Beauty and Relaxation Amy Kenerhan Permanent Makeup Studio At TLC Salon and Spa 801 Broad Street Milford, PA 570.409.1711 Augusta Body Shop & Augusta Barber Shop 89 Hampton House Rd. Newton, NJ 973.600.3095 (Body Shop) 973.300.1116 (Barber Shop)

Bed & Breakfasts Harrington House 208 W. Harford Street Milford, PA 570.296.2661 Harringtonhousemilford.com The Whistling Swan Inn 110 Main Street Stanhope, NJ 973.347.6369 Whistlingswaninn.com

Yellow Cottage Bakery 345 Rte. 206 Branchville, NJ 973.948.5149 Calligraphy 24 Karat Designs Calligraphy Studio Newton, NJ 973.300.0331 24karatdesigns.com

The Wooden Duck 140 Goodale Road Newton, NJ 973.300.0395 Woodenduckinn.com

Catering Clove Brook Market 800 Rte. 23 Wantage, NJ 973.875.5600 Clovebrookmarket.com

TLC Salon and Spa 801 Broad Street Milford, PA 570.409.1171

Wedding Cakes Bella Leigh Bakery 432 Rte. 206 South Montague, NJ 973.293.3662

Famous Deli-licious Italian Pork Store 130 Dolson Avenue Middletown, NY 845.344.3222 Famousdelilicious.com

Zosia’s European Skin Care Spa 310 Broad Street Milford, PA 570.409.6969 Zosiaeuropeanskincarespa.com

Cake Creations by Fabio 300 Water Street Milford, PA 570.296.5675 Cakecreationsbyfabio.com

Fretta's Italian Food Specialties 223 Broad Street Milford, PA 570.296.7863 Frettas.com

Badea and Soul Day Spa 405 Broad Street Milford, PA 570.409.6540 Badeaandsoul.com

George’s Wine & Spirit Gallery 7 Main Street Branchville, NJ 973.948.9950 Hainsville General Store 283 Rte. 206 Sandyston, NJ 973.948.7750 Prime Time Meats 105 Wheatfield Drive Milford, PA 570.296.6064 Primetimemeatspa.com Savour Café 287 Newton Sparta Rd Newton, NJ 973.940.7802 My-savour.com Custom Bridal/ Mother of the Bride Inner Designs by Robin Lennon 205 Spring Street Newton, NJ 646.645.1003 Innerdesigns.com Event Planners Event Planning by J-Angelo 570.686.9873 j-angelo.com Flowers Laurel Grove Florist 16 High Street Port Jervis, NY 845.856.2713 laurelgroveflorist.com Myer the Florist 590 Rtes 6 & 209 Milford, PA 570.296.6468 Myertheflorist.com Stone Brook Florist 321 Rte. 206 Branchville, NJ 973.948.7100 Stonebrookflorist.com Wisspering Pines 1400 Rte. 739 Dingmans Ferry, PA 570.686.4849 Wisspering-pines.com Gifts Ambience 200 E. Harford Street Milford, PA 570.409.3168 Ambiencefurnituremilford.com The Beveled Edge Custom Frame Studio 201 E. Harford Street Milford, PA 570.296.5113 Bevelededgeframes.com Charm 161 Spring Street Newton, NJ 973.300.0311 Charmllc.com

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Charm 270 Sparta Avenue Sparta, NJ 973.726.3454 Charmllc.com Eberhardt’s Fresh Pickins 187 Rte. 206 South Sandyston, NJ 973.250.0222 Fresh-pickins.com Lafayette Mill Antiques Center 12 Morris Farm Road Lafayette, NJ 973.383.0065 Millantiques.com Peters Valley Gallery 19 Kuhn Road Layton, NJ 973.948.5200 Petersvalley.org Sparta Books 29 Theatre Center Sparta, NJ 973.729.6200 Spartabooks.com Sweet Peas 12 Morris Farm Road Lafayette, NJ 973.579.6338 Sweetpeasantiques.com Wilburs Country Store 735 Rte. 94 South Newton, NJ 908.362.8833 Willow 317 Broad Street Milford, PA 570.409.6866 Thewillowshop.com Intimate Wedding & Shower Venues Apple Valley 104 Rte. 6 Milford, PA 570.296.6831 Applevalleyrestaurant.com

Mother of the Bride & Bridal Lingerie PB & J Stores 219 Spring Street Newton, NJ 973.940.7976 Pbandjstores.com Photography D. Becker Photo 116 Main Street Newton, NJ 973.579.5515 Dbeckerphoto.com Thomas Duncan Photography 127 Log Tavern Road Milford, PA 570.296.5069 Thomasduncanphotography.com Knowles Media 570.296.7484 Knowlesvideo.us Cathy Rosselli Photography 149 Spring Street Newton, NJ 862.268.2466 Cathyrosselli.com Christopher Vanderyajt 973.493.9203 Christoper-vanderyajt@hotmail.com Christophervanderyajt.com Rob Yaskovic Branchville, NJ 862.354.1137 Yaskovic.com Wedding & Shower Venues Best Western Inn at Hunt’s Landing 120 Rtes 6 & 209 Matamoras, PA 570.491.2400 Erhardt’s Waterfront Banquet Center 205 Rte 507 Hawley, PA 570.226.7355 Erhardts.com

Big A Grillhouse 1 Fox Run Lane East Stroudsburg, PA 570.223.1700 Bigagrill.com

Farmstead Golf and Country Club 88 Lawrence Road Lafayette, NJ 973.383.1666 Farmsteadgolf.com

Saffron Indian Cuisine 130 Dolson Avenue Middletown, NY 845.344.0005 Saffronfineindiancuisine.net

Lake Mohawk Country Club 21 The Boardwalk Sparta, NJ 973.729.6156 Lakemohawkcc.com

Jewelry Coats Jewelers 17 Main Street Branchville, NJ 973.948.2492 Johncoatsjewelers.com Golden Gifts Jewelry 319 Broad Street Milford, PA 570.296.5388

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History

By Lori Strelecki

Mary Todd

Why So Odd?

Photo courtesy of the Pike County Historical Society

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t is a well-known fact that the Lincoln Flag makes its home in Milford, PA, at the Pike County Historical Society.

In this year, which marks the 150th anniversary of President Lincoln’s assassination, there will be many events recalling that fateful night and the work of a man who may be the most written about, remembered and beloved president in American history. But what about the woman behind the man?

Mary Todd Lincoln is not remembered with the same fondness as old honest Abe. She was always known as outspoken and difficult, willing to push the envelope.

Mary was a feisty sort.

Born into a wealthy family from Lexington, Kentucky, on December 13, 1818, Mary attended Madame Mantelle’s Finishing School, where the curriculum concentrated on the French language and literature. And there she became well educated. After being courted by Lincoln’s political adversary, Stephen Douglas, she married Mr. Lincoln on November 4, 1842—following a courtship, breakup and reconciliation.

In 1860, Abraham Lincoln was elected as the 16th president of the United States. Though Mary came from a southern family who supported the “Rebel” cause, she was a fervent and tireless supporter of the Union. Her politics sparked animosity toward her from both sides during the Civil War, and her time in the White House was met with much criticism and disdain. She was chastised for spending lavishly during a time of war and was even accused of being a Confederate spy.

The level of tragedy that would touch the Lincolns’ lives was debilitating and perhaps insurmountable for Mary.

The Lincolns had four children. Only one would outlive them.

The death of son Willie in 1862 seemed to be the turning point for Mary. Overwrought with grief, her behavior became more and more bizarre, and she sought the help of spiritualists (all the rage at the time) to assist her in contacting Willie in the great beyond. She held séances in the White House and claimed that Willie often visited her at her bedside in the company of her brother, who had been killed fighting for the South in the war.

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History Mary’s curiosity about the spiritual world led her to engage photographer William Mumler in 1871. Mumler made a living by taking advantage of grief-stricken clients who had lost relatives in the Civil War. He employed a method that he had discovered completely by accident while developing a self-portrait. An older negative was superimposed over a newer one, so it resembled a ghostly figure.

mitted for a short time, an act for which she never forgave him. All Mary’s crazy antics aside, Robert believed her problems escalated after a head injury that she had sustained in a carriage accident. She lived in a world filled with confusion and paranoia. Not to mention the “Indian Spirits” that she claimed were pulling wires out of her face and eyes….

Although he was proven to be a fraud, Mary went to him under the name Mrs. Lindler, and he produced what is believed to be the last photograph ever taken of Mary Todd. Her alias didn’t fool him, though, because her portrait included the “spirit” of President Lincoln, which seemed to be embracing her. This became his most famous photo.

A sad and tragic figure, Mary spent the last years of her life in a darkened room at her sister’s home in Springfield, Virginia, sorting through innumerable trunks and boxes filled with all her valued possessions.

Mary walked the line between sanity and insanity most of her life. President Lincoln once warned her that if she didn’t take care, she would end up institutionalized. It was her son Robert who eventually did have her com-

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The Pike County Historical Society will present a short, costumed portrayal of Mary Todd Lincoln on Flag Day, Sunday, June 14, 2015, in conjunction with its annual membership banquet. Please join us at the Columns Museum starting at 4 p.m. for a dinner comprised of Mary’s favorite foods and desserts, followed by Mary Todd Lincoln: A Woman on the Edge, a one-act play starring Ruth Randone.

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Food

By Joe Dimeck

The Joys of Cooking

Carla Hall

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fter graduating from Howard University in 1986, Carla Hall found herself in Tampa, Florida, crunching numbers and balancing accounts for Price Waterhouse.

spoiled growing up by the cooking of her grandmother and father. “I remember everybody having something to say about their versions of a particular dish. And I had no idea what my grandmother did.”

Hall began to moonlight as a model as a way to meet people and make friends, but it was modeling that would eventually lead Carla away from accounting and introduce her to her true love: food.

Throughout the rest of her time in Europe, Hall used her newfound cooking skills to barter with those who gave her a place to stay. When she returned stateside in 1991, those skills led her to start a business, accidentally.

“It wasn’t that I wanted to be a model, I just knew I didn’t want to do accounting,” said Hall. “With modeling, I could just go and travel throughout Europe. And all my life I had been doing everything everyone wanted me to do.”

While living with her sister and brother-in-law, Hall made a bunch of food for her sister’s baby shower, bagged it up in small portions and put it into a picnic basket. A friend later introduced her as having her own business, and when pressed for the name of the business, Carla glanced at her basket and said, “Lunch Basket.”

So in 1988 Hall quit her secure accounting job and decided to pursue a life that she wanted. It was no longer about adhering to the societal and familial pressures that had guided her all her life. For Hall, it was time to explore, not just the world, but herself as well.

“You have to be happy in whatever you do. I didn’t want to be forty and hate my job. I was more afraid of that than going to Paris, not knowing anybody, having one telephone number, and living in a place where I couldn’t even stand up straight.”

Photo by Frances Janisch

While in Paris, an old Southern tradition became a weekly norm for Hall and her fellow models. It was essentially this weekly practice that would lead Carla toward unknowingly pursuing her real passion.

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“Being from Nashville, the culture brought people together with food, so every week we’d have Sunday suppers. The one who instigated the Sunday supper thing in Paris was this older woman who did hair,” said Hall.

“She was from Memphis, Tennessee, and we’d go over to her house, and she’d have this amazing food. It was the first time that I was interested in what happened between when you went to the grocery store and when the food was put on the table.”

From there, Carla began to purchase cookbooks in order to teach herself how to cook. Admittedly, she had been

She then began going door-to-door, visiting businesses during lunchtime and selling various sandwiches, soups, salads and snacks out of a basket.

“I was working 24/7. It was crazy, but I loved it. After doing that for five years, I decided to go to culinary school, and at that point I was thirty years old,” said Hall.

Carla studied at L'Academie de Cuisine in Maryland, using the experience to improve her technique and refine the way she approached cooking. For Hall, a more formal culinary education would enable her to break down flavors and make any dish she could imagine.

Even though her training was centered on French practices and techniques, Carla still retained her love for comfort food, which she feels is like a warm blanket—something that nurtures and puts the mind at ease.

“It’s very much like art,” she said, “and it’s all about balance. Instead of balancing colors, you’re balancing flavors and you’re balancing textures. And you’re taking raw ingredients and creating something to make it make sense—or sometimes you do something that people didn’t think of. Or it’s the kind of art where you’re trying to evoke emotion, and that’s the kind of food I like. I like food that is really about evoking emotion and a food memory.” Continued on next page 25

Continued

Left: Photo by Frances Janisch. Right: Photos courtesy of the Lodge at Woodloch

Food

It’s no surprise then that Carla’s love for comfort food was a primary component of her success on Top Chef, an opportunity she originally thought was a practical prank because of a strange string of coincidences.

In roughly the same time frame, a friend proposed that she go on Top Chef, a co-worker had a dream about Carla being on Top Chef, and the president of the nonprofit organization Les Dames d’Escoffier (which Hall belonged to) suggested her to a Top Chef producer. If it weren’t for voicemails on her cell, office and home phone numbers, Carla would’ve never returned the call, thinking it was a joke.

Hall appeared on Top Chef twice, winning fan favorite her second time on the show, which is ultimately what led to her being asked to be a host on The Chew. And while her journey toward success was a bit unconventional, 26

Hall emphasizes the value of not worrying about societal expectations and encourages everyone to play more and pursue new experiences.

“When I was leaving school, my mother said, ‘It’s your job to be happy, not to be rich,’ and because of that I’m constantly looking for the joy in something,” she said.

“Don’t quit your job because you need to make a living, but go out and do something different. Do something different. Meet somebody different. Read something different. Shake up your life a little bit. People always say keep it spicy in the bedroom. No, just keep it spicy in your entire life.”

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Carla Hall will be at the Lodge at Woodloch in Hawley, PA, May 22nd–May 23rd, where she will be hosting a “meet and greet” and a cooking demo for spa guests. For more information about Carla, please visit carlahall.com.

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Life

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By Daniel Higgins

A Different Summer Vacation en volunteers spent a week last summer learning what being a firefighter entails.

For the last several years, local high school students with a desire to serve their community have attended the Summer Fire School at Sussex County Community College’s Public Safety Training Academy in Newton, NJ. As a retired NYC fire department officer, I had the opportunity to participate in this amazing week, and I would like to share my journal in the hopes that it will be an inspiration for others to attend this year’s course.

Monday The week begins with a tour of the facility; a history of the Academy in Sussex County; a look at career opportunities in the fire service, both paid and volunteer; and an overview of the rules and regulations governing the fire service. The Academy’s Operations Officer, Larry Bono, issues turnout gear (or firefighting clothing to the uninitiated). Students received helmets, coats, bunker pants, boots and gloves to wear during all firefighting activities.

Photos courtesy of Daniel Higgins

After a break for lunch, participants spend the afternoon learning safety procedures, as they pertain to firefighters and the general public. Instructors also review the activities that the students will undergo in their training over the next several days.

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Tuesday Day two begins with a lecture on “ropes and knots” by Senior Fire Instructor Nick Zayatz. This is followed by a hands-on lesson. The students use their newly acquired knowledge to tie tools and ladders and practice raising and lowering each other, simulating emergency situations. A quick lunch and it’s out on the road for the afternoon’s activities.

At the Newton Police Department’s Dispatch Command Center, we are given a tour of the facilities and an overview of a dispatcher’s job. If you’re lucky, as we were,

you get to see the dispatchers respond to an actual call.

Then, it’s back in the van for a short ride to the New Jersey Forest Fire Headquarters in Andover for a series of videos. We see the history of wild land fires, how forest fires get started and the strategies for containing and extinguishing them, a look at career opportunities available in the forest service, and what we can all do to prevent forest fires. And, yes, we do see Smokey the Bear.

This afternoon also includes a tour of the Forest Service’s Aerial Operations Division located at Lake Aeroflex Airport, also in Andover. There we get an up-close look at the helicopters and airplanes often used to fight vast and fast-moving forest fires.

The day ends with a trip up the 300-foot Budd Lake fire tower where we have a chance to see what firewatchers see from their lofty perches.

Wednesday On the third day, the students have become regulars at getting into their gear and are anxious to get started. The day begins with a lesson on fire extinguishers and how to use them properly. This includes learning the different types of extinguishers and what type of fires they work on, A-B-C-D. And, lest you think this week is all classrooms and lectures, the day also includes actually using the extinguishers to put out a series of fires set by the instructors.

The second half of the day has students gearing up again for several hands-on lessons on extrication and motor vehicle hazards. Here, they practice the proper way to cut through glass and metal to safely remove a victim or victims from a vehicle, how to protect that person during operations, and what to expect around all that breaking glass and highly volatile fuel.

They close out the day with an opportunity to operate the lift bags, designed for lifting and moving cars, trucks, trains and other heavy objects during rescue operations.

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Life Thursday Today, it’s back on the road early for a visit to the county’s new Emergency Command Center in Newton, where the students get a guided tour of the facility by Deputy Mark Vogel of the Sheriff ’s Department. This is followed by a lesson on arson and fire investigation from Sussex County Fire Marshal Joe Inga and Detective Sgt. Jason Garrigian of the County Prosecutor’s Office.

The morning ends with a chance to see inside the Emergency Management Mobile Command Center, a stateof-the-art, custom-built RV outfitted to function as a mobile headquarters in times of disasters and other major incidents.

Then, it’s back to the Fire Academy for a demonstration by the Hazardous Materials Team. This team teaches the proper ways to manage frequent changes of gear— according to what type of dangerous environment may be encountered. It’s especially important to learn how to decontaminate safely after an incident.

Friday The final day of classes involves one of the most antici-

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Destination Milford

pated activities of the week: setting up and climbing the one-hundred-foot aerial ladder. After an explanation of how the ladder operates and what it is capable of doing, Fire Lieutenant Dan Stoll sets up the ladder so it reaches to the top of the Academy’s four-story fire tower. Students don their gear once more, strap on safety harnesses, and take a turn climbing the extended ladder to the roof of the building and practicing the dismount.

National Historic Landmark

Apple Valley Village

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This is followed by a visit from the New Jersey State Arson Dog, Scout, who never fails to amaze everyone with his ability to detect flammable liquid and explosives.

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The week is capped off by a bar-b-que lunch and graduation. This is put together by the Academy’s own Marilyn D’Alessio and is attended by the graduates’ families and friends and various college and academy officials.

The Academy awards each student a certificate to commemorate having completed a difficult, but fun, week.

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The 2015 Summer Fire School will be held July 6th–10th. To register, call 973.948.7897.

Home of Lincoln Flag

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Market Scope

F

arm-fresh ingredients are important to Kim and Rich Systema, owners of Clove Brook Market in Wantage, NJ. “We’ve incorporated local fruits and vegetables into our cooking wherever possible,” says Kim, “even before Farm-to-Table became a concept. Using fresh products is a natural extension of living in Sussex County!”

Rich grew up on a dairy farm and started his own in Sussex County when he was 19 years old. Kim grew up in Bergen County, where her parents had started a chicken and vegetable farm called Abma’s. When Kim was in her senior year of high school, she stepped in to handle the baking for her family’s thriving farm market.

After the two high school sweethearts married 27 years ago and started to raise their children, they decided that one day they would pursue their own family business. Now, twelve years have passed, and Rich has sold his cows. Because of their hard work, and that of their loyal employees, Kim and Rich live their dream through their deli, bakery and catering business that has been busy since day one.

Asked about her summer and winter smash pies or the delicately hand-rolled cookies, the mouthwatering crumbcake and the perfectly finished apple turnovers, Kim

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says, “We want to make it worth the trip, we want to be the best that we can be at this. You will find assorted seasonal pies at Clove Brook and at many local farmer markets, too. I incorporate my grandmother’s Dutch recipes into my baking.

“We use all butter here, no apologies!” she adds with a smile.

Every month, the Clove Brook Market changes out its daily dinner menus. Home-cooked offerings include choices such as meatloaf and mashed potatoes, pot pies, chicken bruschetta and lasagna.

Kim says, “We’re very good at catering events for 10 to hundreds of people. I like to say that we offer comfort food in a snap. When you’d like to bring a meal to a sick person, for example, or a shut-in, but you just don’t have the time to cook—we are here. We’ve been here for the good times and the bad.”

“Life is like that Garth Brooks song, ‘ever changing like a river,’” Kim reflects. No matter what life holds in store, the Systemas are thankful for the opportunity to be a consistent presence in our community and to be able to live out their version of the American Dream.

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Nature

Article & Photographs by Jean LeBlanc

Late Spring Wildflowers in Sussex County

Walks on the Wild Side

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ay is a time of transition and transformation. Nights of hard frost worry local gardeners well into the month, but soon our thoughts turn toward summer.

Where sunlight has warmed the forest floor, deep shade fills in as the canopy turns green. Our regional species of wildflowers reflect this transition from spring to summer.

I spend as much time as possible in May standing beneath the dogwoods along Lake Aeroflex (called New Wawayanda on some maps) in Kittatinny Valley State Park, Andover, NJ. The trail along the west shore of the big lake is one of my favorite wildflower walks in Sussex County. In May, wild columbine, with its red and yellow blossoms, thrives in the limestone outcrops. Jackin-the-pulpit and mayapple line the path in moister, sun-dappled areas.

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Also in this state park, the Sussex Branch Trail between Route 206 and Goodale Road is lined with wildflowers throughout spring. If the weather has been mild—not too hot during the day, not too hard a frost at night— nodding trillium will bloom along the rail trail.

In early May, you can still find islands of bright yellow marsh marigolds along the small stream just north of White's Pond. Later in the month and on into June, slender blue-flag iris and yellow iris catch the sun along the water's edge.

I have also found marsh marigolds and nodding trillium in the wetlands at the base of Pochuck Mountain, along the Appalachian Trail boardwalk. This part of the trail is best accessed from the Liberty Loop Trail parking area on Oil City Road. Here, in the Wallkill National Wildlife Refuge, Vernon, NJ, you will find an abundance of wildflowers such as the evocatively named Venus's looking glass.

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Nature

The Appalachian Trail through Wawayanda State Park offers its own spring wildflower spectacle. From the parking area on Route 94 in Vernon, enjoy a leisurely climb up to the vista overlooking Vernon Valley, watching for wildflowers along the way. By late May, pink lady's slipper—one of our native species of orchids— makes its appearance.

A good field guide will help you identify the species I have mentioned here, plus hundreds more. I like Newcomb's Wildflower Guide by Laurence Newcomb; I annotate my well-worn copy, writing the date and location where I find each species. Fringed polygala, wood betony and anemones on the Coursen Trail in Stokes State Forest; white beardtongue in the meadows of Kittatinny Valley State Park; pale corydalis atop Wawayanda and Sunrise Mountains...my Newcomb's has become a journal of my wildflower adventures.

You will want to be wary of ticks, which become ac36

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tive as the woods warm up in May. Learn to identify and avoid the seemingly ubiquitous poison ivy as well.

Lightweight binoculars are useful for seeing wildflowers growing in inaccessible spots, along with birds, butterflies and dragonflies. And it's always good to have a map, especially when side trails beckon. At state parks, visit the headquarters or visitor center for maps. You can purchase a detailed set of trail maps for North Jersey when you are out and about in Sussex County, such as at the general store on Highland Lakes Road in Highland Lakes.

From Swartswood to Blue Mountain Lakes, Wawayanda to Allamuchy, Sussex County trails are treasures. And as someone who walks the same trails again and again, I have come to experience the phenomenon of "never the same trail twice." You will find a new wildflower—or two or ten—with each meadow or woodland stroll.

Happy May! 37

Signs Aries

Eric Francis

(March 20-April 19)

If you’re caught between the past and the future, choose the future. Both seem compelling, though there’s a difference worth responding to. Yes, it’s in your nature to honor tradition, and at the moment that means the time-honored need for progress.

The line between going backward and forward may at times seem thin, but it will be clearer if you are true to yourself.

Taurus

(April 19-May 20)

Nothing can stop you. That is almost always true of those born under your birth sign, though you are now working some hot, passionate mojo. You might feel like you’ve got some supernatural power on your side. Here is a clue. You will be amazed to discover that what at first seems self-serving actually supports everyone else, and affirms the greatest good for all concerned.

Gemini

(May 20-June 21)

Don’t let anyone tell you that you cannot eat your cake and still have it; this month you are the master of seeming contradictions. In fact, the more perplexing or impossible any situation seems, the more fun you can have, and the more useful it will be. Your charm will be running at an all-time high. Use it freely, including your award-winning sense of humor.

Cancer

(June 21-July 22)

Experiment, experiment, experiment. That is life at its best. You are someone who takes initiative any day of the year, though now you get to immerse yourself in some intriguing mysteries that will require a quest for adventure and a thirst for the unknown.

The fact that nothing is certain or guaranteed is your best friend. That will compel you to keep your mind wide open.

Leo

(July 22-Aug. 23)

You will have an opportunity this month to stand up for what you believe in. This may mean advocating for someone who cannot speak for themselves, or who lacks the strength to do so. What is so beautiful is how much you will both benefit. For you and for them, this will feel like a random stroke of luck.

Really, it’s part of the grand cosmic plan.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep. 22)

Any change in your professional plans or even a seeming setback will work to your benefit, or rather, you can work it to your advantage. Yet you will need to use your intelligence and your sense of timing to take advantage of a delay or reversal. Your power lies in your patience, in staying informed and knowing what your agenda is. Bide your time. Your moment will come.

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Libra

(Sep. 22-Oct. 23)

You can resolve a financial issue using the power of technology. This may involve digging up some hidden information, uncovering a concealed flaw in your plans or discovering an unusual opportunity.

Yet no matter what advantage you may gain, never forget that the game of life is often won by those who understand that psychology rules the human dimension. To have insight is to have foresight.

Scorpio

(Oct. 23-Nov. 22)

To feel is human. To be imperfect is human. To question yourself keeps you in contact with your humanity. Yet questioning cannot be a way of life; at a certain point you must decide you know enough to step forward, and make peace with the fact that there are no guarantees. If you have one God-given gift, it’s your ability to rise boldly to any occasion.

Sagittarius

(Nov. 22-Dec. 22)

You may have to look toward the distant past to understand your quest for emotional healing. There will be important clues in understanding what certain older relatives or ancestors went through.

Know one thing: they are cheering you on. They want nothing more than to see you thriving and successful. They endured certain harsh realities of life so that you may be free from them.

Capricorn

(Dec. 22-Jan. 20)

You’re the driving force behind a major project or creative task. It’s the kind of thing that most people would say is impossible, especially on such a short deadline. For you, it’s a challenge on the level of sport, and you are ready to play. That is the spirit -your love of the game, and getting lost in your work so that you can find yourself there.

Aquarius

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

You know something that others do not, which gives you power that they don’t know about yet.

However, I suggest you keep this up your sleeve.

Listen carefully and think logically as the discussion progresses. Wait until all other options are exhausted and then reveal what you know. Be humble, and perhaps seem a little uncertain as you make your suggestion. True brilliance is modest.

Pisces

(Feb. 19-March 20)

If your life seems like it’s been more work than rewards lately, you have something to look forward to. You know you are persistent, and yet you may secretly suspect that your low-key drive and determination don’t get you as much as they should. Just when you least expect it, a door opens and something truly unusual happens. Success feeds on itself, so take full advantage of your gains.

Read Eric Francis daily at PlanetWaves.net.

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Around Milford

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(1) The warm weather’s here, and local author Wendy Stuart Kaplan had a book signing at the Milford Library. She really is the Last Model Standing, and fans, Loriann Hines, (2) Roland Edwards and Ruby Willis, agreed. (3) Timothy Moreland and Candace Stout gave her a thumbs up. (4) Bob Keiber, another local author, is the “go-to guy for feeling good,” who also spoke at the library about his Cancer Diary, a record keeper. (5) Debbie Coda stood by (6) Faith Woegens and Lexie Schacht of Milford who were wearing flower power. (7) Sheri Kerr, Jen Fiegura, Ginny Malone and Gwenn Montagnino gathered round to say hello and goodbye to friends. (8) Friends and sisters, Christina Caska, Heather O’Brien and Breezy Caska, graced the place for the afternoon. (9) Ava and Mia Locascio of Stillwater were sporting spring. (10) In Port Jervis, Walt Edwards got set for his set at (11) Gordon Graff and Debbie Raia’s April gallery reception, and (12) Joe Petrosi from Westtown, NY, showed us why using Soho pencils is a good idea.

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