This past St. Patricks Day, Captain Patrick J.

OBrien was assigned command of the Civil Air Patrols BangorSlatebelt composite squadron, replacing Major Katherine A. Hoadley. Major Hoadley has held the command of the squadron for eleven years. During her tenure, she has held ten different duty positions, including Supply Officer, Safety Officer, and Deputy Commander

of Cadets. Her work with the cadets has also expanded to assuming the duty position of Cadet Activities Officer for Group 4 of the PA Wing, a position she will continue to hold. Captain OBrien is a licensed pilot and works as an air traffic controller. In the past five years he has become very active in CAPs Emergency Services, rising to the duty position of Emergency Services Officer

for Group 4 of the PA Wing. Last year he participated in two non-distress missions, and two successful distress missions: a missing helicopter in July and a missing Cessna in September. Within CAP, he dedicates his time, skill, and training as a pilot to take cadets on their five, one-hour long orientation flights. As the new C.O. of Squadron 807 he is looking forward to interacting and training the cadets under his command. After the change of command ceremony, a promotion ceremony was held. Senior Member 2nd Lt. Joseph Knapp was promoted to 1st Lt., Senior Member Fernando Assis was promoted to 2nd Lt., Cadet Airman Morgan OBrien was promoted to Cadet Airman First Class, and Cadet Technical Sergeant Nathaniel Peterson was promoted to Cadet Master Sergeant.

Civil Air Patrol, the official auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, is a nonprofit organization with 60,000 members nationwide. CAP, in its Air Force auxiliary role, performs 90 percent of continental U.S. inland search and rescue missions as tasked by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center and is credited by the AFRCC with saving 95 lives so far in fiscal year 2010. Its volunteers also perform homeland security, disaster relief and counter-drug missions at the request of federal, state and local agencies. The members play a leading role in aerospace education and serve as mentors to more than 24,000 young people currently participating in CAP cadet programs. CAP has been performing missions for America for more than 68 years. For more information visit gocivil airpatrol.com.

Blue Valley Farm Show scholarship applications are now available. The scholarships are available to those who are or have been a member of Northampton County 4-H Clubs. Two $500 scholarships are available for the 2015 school year. Applications must be received by March 31st. The scholarships will be presented during the annual Blue Valley Farm Show in August. For more infomation,

contact Audrey Koehler at 610-498-3389. Kindergarten registration at Plainfield Elementary School in Pen Argyl Area School District will be held April 8th through 10th. Appointments are necessary, which are available by phone between 9am and 3:15pm. Parents should schedule appointments by contacting the school at 610-746-4436. To be eligible for kindergarten for 2014, the child must

be five years old on or before September 1st. Also, a copy of proof of immunization and the childs birth certificate must be presented at the time of registration for the school to keep on file. The Monroe Animal Leauge is offering a $500 scholarship to any high school senior in Monroe County who is planning to obtain a degree in the field of animal welfare. You may obtain an application from any Monroe County high school guidance counseler. All applications must be submitted no later than April 30th. Please call 570-4768444 with questions. The Slater Family Network is offering a $2,000 scholarship for a graduating Bangor Area High School senior who plans on attending a trade/ vocational school or college. The scholarship is awarded to a student who is involved in community service. Applications are in the High School guidance office, Slater Family Network office or on the school district website under Parents drop down under SFN. Applications are due in the SFN office by Friday, April 12th. If you have any questions call 610-599-7019.

Craft vendors needed for an upcoming craft show benefiting The American Cancer Society Relay for Life now through April 5th. Call Karen at 610-5889211, Tracey at 610588-9268, or Brenda at 610-588-9262. Bangor Area High School prom boutique is now accepting donations of gently used formal wear, shoes, and jewelry. Send donations to the Boutique at BAHS, Attn. Nancy Serulneck. Call 610599-7011, Ext. 1104 with questions. Happy Birthday wishes are being sent to Nicholas VanDusen, March 27th; Damitia Yeagle, March 31st; and Ethan Yeagle, April 1st. We love hearing from you! Send your birthdays, anniversaries and tidbits of information to: The PRESS 1 Broadway Bangor, PA 18013 thepressmail@ gmail.com

Here is a list of the new items added to the collection of the Bangor Public Library during the week of March 13th to March 19th: Adult Fiction: Brown, Rita Mae Loose Lips; Brown, Rita Mae Murder at Monticello, or, Old Sins; Brown, Rita Mae Pay Dirt, or, Adventures at Ash Lawn; Brown, Rita Mae Rest in Pieces; Dallas, Sandra The Persian Pickle Club; Davis, Kyra Just One Night; Delinsky, Barbara Warm Hearts; Leyner, Mark The Sugar Frosted Nutsack; Roby, Kimberla Lawson Love, Honor, and Betray; Shayne, Maggie Wake to Darkness; Townley, Gemma Little White Lies. Adult Non-Fiction: Hersey, John Hiroshima; Krause, Bernie The Great Animal

Orchestra; Ramen Noodle Recipes : Appetizers, Salads, Noodle Bowls, Entrees, Desserts; Uliano, Sophie Gorgeously Green : 8 Simple Steps to an Earth-Friendly Life; Weingarten, Kathy The Mothers Voice. Large Print Fiction: Brown, Rita Mae The Big Cat Nap; Brown, Rita Mae Hiss of Death; Gibson, Rachel Rescue Me; Grafton, Sue W is For Wasted; Lough, Loree Love Finds You in North Pole, Alaska; Meltzer, Brad The Millionaires. Junior Fiction: Ryals, Lexi Jessie. Young Adult Fiction: Tolkien, J.R.R. The Hobbit, or, There and Back Again. DVDs: Boiler Room; First Time Felon; Sleeping With The Enemy.

The Slate Belt Baptist Church in Pen Argyl, plans a repeat performance of last years successful Easter Walk Through play on Good Friday, April 18th. Ten years or so ago, Slate Belt Baptist Church member Mary Eberhardt wrote a play about the Easter story. The play consisted of nine scenes depicting the prophesy, birth, life, death, resurrection and following of Jesus Christ, the Messiah. This Easter walk through presentation was originally enacted in the church parking lot on Good Friday evenings. Needless to

say, an outdoor production could be and was impacted by the early spring weather. Be it cold or windy, only God can control the weather, not the play director. Shivering actors, sets blown over by the wind and the likelihood of attendees choosing not to brave the elements were realities. The only advantage seemed to be that live animals could be used in some of the scenes. Therefore, after many years hiatus, the churchs Senior Pastor Scott Davis decided to bring the play indoors in March 2013. Know-

ing that both actors and sets would be best preserved indoors, Pastor Davis hoped that the audience would in turn welcome the opportunity to walk through the scenes in the comfort of the churchs new fellowship hall, completed in 2011. When taking stock of the space, there were exactly nine rooms available to present the nine scenes in the script. Forty-seven members of the church performed last year, adults and children, all in period costumes. Attendance was overwhelming with several hundred coming

to take the tour. In order to avoid lengthy waits to take this years tour, the church strongly suggests registering online to reserve a tour time slot convenient for you. Please log onto www.Sbnbc.org. You may also contact Bonnie at 610-3909124 for information. This is a free event for the community with refreshments for all and activities for children as they wait for their tours to begin. The church is a handicap accessible facility. Enjoy this production at Slate Belt Baptist Church, 1620 Church Road, Pen Argyl, across from the Wind Gap Middle School on Good Friday, April 18th. Tours are planned every 15 minutes from 6pm with the last tour starting at 8:45pm.

Recently added to the Blue Mountain Community Library: Adult Fiction - Large Print: The Wedding Bees by Sarah-Kate Lynch; The Memory Of Lost Senses by Judith Kinghorn; The Chase by Janet Evanovich; Private LA by James Patterson; Still Life With Bread Crumbs by Anna Quindlen. Adult Fiction: Moving Target by J.A. Jance; Cell by Robin Cook; Killer by Jonathan Kellerman; The Valley of Amazement by Amy Tan; Ripper by Isabel Allende. Adult Non-Fiction: 12 Years A Slave by Solomon Northup; Tasting It All by Angela Mulloy; Yes, Chef by

Marcus Samuelsson; The Wolf of Wall Street by Jordan Belfort; Dancing With The Enemy, Paul Glaser.. Young Adult Fiction: Divergent by Veronica Roth; The Elite by Kiera Cass;The Scorch Trials by James Dashner; Young Adult NonFiction:This Star Won't Go Out by Esther Earl. Juvenile Fiction: Waiting For Magic by Patricia MacLachlan; Pirate Princess by Sudipta BardhamQuallen; Shampoodle by Joan Holub; Charlie's New Friend by Ree Drummond; Ten on the Sled by Kim Norman. Juvenile Non-Fiction: Why Should I Save Energy? by Jen Green.

The Boy Scouts of America, Minsi Trails Council, announce that Northampton County Court of Common Pleas Judge Leonard Zito will be honored with the Good Scout Award at the Annual Slate Belt Nazareth Friends of Scouting Breakfast on April 25th at 7:30am. Judge Zito will be recognized by Scouts, friends, business and

community leaders for his significant achievements and service to the Slate Belt Nazareth community. The Good Scout Award recognizes individuals who set positive examples for others and demonstrate selfless concern and care for their communi-

ties. For more information on the Annual Slate Belt Nazareth Friends of Scouting Breakfast, call Brian Dungan, District Director, Boy Scouts of America, at 610-4658564 or email brian.dungan@scouting .org.

Zumba Gold: 10am, Tuesdays in March. Slate Belt Sr. Center, Blue Valley Farm Show Building, Bangor. Diamond Fire Co. Fish Dinner: 4pm7pm. Social Hall, 110 Main St. Walnutport. 1st Friday of every month during Lent. East Bangor Vol. Fire Co. Basket Bingo: March 28th, Doors open at 6pm bingo starts at 7pm, For tickets call, Brianna 610-588-5996. Hypnosis Show: Friday March 28th, 7pm. Wind Gap Middle School Auditorium, 1620 Teels Rd. Pen Argyl. Benefits Pen Argyl Prom Committee. Call Miss Campbell at 610-863-1293 FMI & tickets, or visit hypnosistjasonchristoph er.com. Friends of the Bangor Public Library BiAnnual Brunch with Author: March 29th, 10am-12pm. Featuring Ms. Amanda Grieme. Call to register, 610588-4136. Mt. Bethel Fire Co.

Ladies Auxiliarys 19th Annual Spring Show: March 29th, 9am-3pm. Fire Hall on Rt. 611 in Mt. Bethel. Handcrafted items only. Bake sale & free parking. Kitchen will be open. FMI, call 570897-5308 or 570-2346505. Boomer's Angels Dog Adoption Day: Sunday, March 30th, 11am-2pm. Rt. 209, Brodheadsville. FMI, visit Boomers Angels.com, find them on Facebook, or call 570-350-4977. East Allen Twp. VFD Bingo Featuring Vera Bradley: Sunday, March 30th, 11:30am. 5354 Nor-Bath Blvd, Northampton. Space is limited & booking fast, so reserve your ticket. Bingo will start at 1pm. FMI & tickets, call 610-767-7140. Ladies Auxiliary of Mt. Bethel Fire Co. 19th Annual Spring Show: March 29th, 9am-3pm. Fire hall on Rt. 611 in Mt. Bethel. FMI, call 570-897-5308 or 570-234-6505. East Bangor Methodist Church Pastie Sale: Tuesday, April 1st. 3:30pm. 136 W. Central Ave. Beef w/ or w/o

onion & broccoli cheese w/ or w/o onion. Call 610-588-1745. Safe Haven Pet Rescue Adoption Day: Sunday, April 4th, 11am to 3pm. Route 940, Mt. Pocono. FMI & to find a list of dogs available & adoption applications, visit www.Safe HavenPa.org, or email at SafeHaven@epix.net Rescue Fire Co. Meat Wheel: April 5th, 4pm. Rescue Fire Co. #1, Bangor. Raffle drawings, food & refreshments. Craft & Home Based Vendor Show: April 5th, 9am-3pm. Trinity Lutheran Church, 404 Broadway, Bangor. Free admission & parking. Raffle, door prizes, snacks & lunch available. FMI, call 610588-9211, 610-5889268 or 610-588-9262. St. Josephs Minisrty Yard Sale: Friday, April 4th. 8am2:30pm. & Saturday, April 5th 8am12:30pm. Locates at Lehigh and Genoga Streets in Wind Gap. Proceeds benefit their food bank. East Bangor Vol. Fire Co. Spring Craft Show: April 5th, 11am-3pm. Easter Egg Hunt, 1pm. Must be 10 years old or younger. Easter bunny will arrive on the fire truck, 12:30pm. Tables for the craft show available. FMI, call Brianna at 610-588-5996. Waggin' Tails Presents Pet Easter Bunny Photos: Saturday, April 5th & Saturday, April 12th, 11am-3pm. Pocono Commons Route 611, Stroudsburg. FMI, visit Waggintailsrescue.com or email information@ waggintailsrescue.com. Free Country Style BBQ Rib Dinner: Sunday, April 6th, from 4-6pm. 136 W. Central Ave. (Rt. 512), East Bangor. FMI: call, 610-588-4453 or visit www.ebumc.org. Immaculate Conception School Spring Handbag/Basket Bingo: April 4th. Doors open at 5:30pm, games start at 7pm. Babbitt & Heller Avenues in Pen Argyl. FMI, email icsfund raising@yahoo.com or call (610) 863-4816, Mon.-Fri. between the hours of 8:30am3:30pm. Slate Belt Relay For Life Tricky Tray: April 12th, doors open 11am, drawings 1pm sharp. Hosted by Krusaderz 4 A Kure at Portland Hook &Ladder Co., Portland. Refreshments available. All proceeds benefit American Cancer Society.

by Susan Grotenhuis (NAPSI)Heres an idea to think about: To stay mentally sharp, sustained effort is key. It takes work to keep a complicated organ such as your brain in optimum condition. Fortunately, it doesnt have to be complicated. You can follow these five simple steps to keep your mind bright: 1. Change. By the time you reach retirement age, your brain has mastered many tasks. You have to think of creative ways to surprise it. So change is vital to brain health. Change your routines, change your environment, make new friends, have different conversations, listen to different music, try new foods. List the most familiar things in your life and then change them. 2. Think. Dont let

your brain get bored. Stimulate it with lots of new, refreshing information. Read articles, visit museums, study a new topic or take up a new hobby. That awkward feeling you may remember from your first day on the job is what you want to replicate. Try learning a foreign language or a

musical instrument. 3. Move. Experts agree that aerobic exercise has the greatest benefit in terms of helping your brain stay young. Encourage important blood flow to the brain by doing at least 21/2 hours of moderate aerobic activity (brisk walking) each week. Start where you

can and gradually build up from there. Setting small, monthly goals keeps your efforts focused and on track. 4. Eat smart. Keep those arteriesin your heart and your brainfrom getting clogged with fat by eating plenty of fruits, veggies and whole grains. Stick with healthy fats such as those in nuts, avocados and olive oil. Include plenty of lean protein and fiber to round things out. Try to fill half your plate at each meal with fruits and vegetables. Theyre full of antioxidants and supply important nutrients. Avoid white flour, generally found in breads and pastries. Losing any extra pounds can help, too. Maintaining a healthy weight means a better chance at a healthy brain.

5. Be happy. Human beings are social creatures. The brain is designed to interact with others and derives great benefit from close relationships. When youre happy, your brain is happy. When youre stressed or depressed, your brain releases a chemical called cortisol. Cortisol in small doses is useful for alertness and concentration. When it lingers, however, it attacks the cells in the hippocampus, where memories are formed. Getting plenty of sleep is also important for relaxing and renewing the mind. Ms. Grotenhuis is a certified Brain Fitness Facilitator with Asbury Communities, an aging services organization. For more information on Brain Fitness, visit www.Asbury.org/Persp ective.

(NAPSI)You can help yourself to good feelings and others to what they need and deserve by giving some time to the nations largest volunteer-run tax preparation and assistance service. Almost four out of five people who turn to this AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program are 60 or older. For many of

them, a tax refund could mean they wont have to choose between paying for groceries and keeping the lights on. You dont have to be a

tax professional. Volunteers get free training on the latest tax preparation forms and software. The program also needs coordinators, greeters, administrative volunteers, leaders, and people who are bilingual and can assist with translation. For more information, visit www.aarp .org/taxvolunteer.

By Tresa Erickson Brides have been carrying bouquets for hundreds of years. In ancient times, bridal bouquets generally consisted of garlic, herbs and spices to keep evil spirits away. By Victorian times, fresh flowers had replaced the garlic, herbs and spices, and many of these flowers carried special meanings, like innocence, faith and love. Floriography, the language of flowers, continues to this day, with some brides researching flower

meanings and basing their bouquet selections on those meanings. Floriography isnt the only trend in bridal bouquets. There are many others. Here is a brief review. Bridal bouquets are traditionally pale in color, but todays brides are branching out and choosing bolder colors, like burgundy, red and purple. Bouquet color schemes can be monochromaticall shades of purple, for exampleor complementary. With bouquets getting brighter, they have become a real feature in wedding photography, in particular black and white photography with selec-

tive coloring. Roses remain a bridal bouquet standard, but other flowers are starting to make their way into the mix. Daisies, hydrangeas, lilies, peonies and tulips are popular choices, as are orchids. Many brides, in fact, are asking for more tropical flowers in their bouquets, either because of their theme or for a unique twist. While cascades of flowers were once the norm in bridal bouquets, many brides today are opting to take a simpler route. Handtied bouquets are a popular choice. With the flowers gathered together and wrapped in ribbon, the bouquets are easier to handle and have a contemporary

look to them. While todays bridal bouquets might be somewhat simpler in design, brides can still add some dazzle to them with beads, crystals, feathers, pearls, sequins and other accessories. Brides with themed weddings can take it a step further and incorporate extra special

touches into their bouquets, like miniature seashells, pinecones or butterflies. Bouquets featuring vintage brooches are also becoming popular. Bridal bouquets can run the gamut from the traditional all-white hand-tied rose bouquet

drenched in crystals to the sassy gold, red and purple bouquet cuffed by feathers. It is up to the bride how she wants her bouquet to be. Brides should check out some samples, talk to their florist and select a bouquet design that speaks to them.

By Tresa Erickson While some newlyweds can still afford to cap off their big day in grand style with a trip for two to someplace exotic, there are many that cant. Once theyve paid for the wedding, there is little left for a honeymoon. Fortunately, you can still have a great honeymoon on a shoestring budget. Heres how. Leave at a later date: Who says you must leave for your honeymoon immediately following your wedding reception? Enjoy your big day and postpone the honeymoon of your dreams until you can afford it. Wait six months or a year to book the trip. Youll have more cash to spare and more time to find the best deals. Go during the offseason: Off-season

prices are far cheaper than peak season prices. Schedule your honeymoon during the off-season, and to save more cash, consider going to a less popular destination. The rates will be cheaper, and there will be less people to contend with. Book way in advance: Generally, the earlier you book your honeymoon, the cheaper the rates will be. Start looking for a destination long before your expected departure date and shop around for the best deals. Cut costs where you can: You dont have to go all out to have a good time on your honeymoon. Think about your plans and find ways to save. Choose less expensive accommodations, especially if you intend to be out and about much

of the day. Pack lunches instead of eating out. Take advantage of all free or lowcost activities. Stay close to home: If you are really short on cash and cant afford to go away, stay in. Check out the deals in your area and arrange for a mini staycation. Book a room at an inexpensive hotel and spend the day checking out attractions and activities youve never had time for. If you cant afford a hotel room, stay at home and have a candlelit dinner. It doesnt really matter where you are as long as you are together. Honeymoons dont have to break the bank. You can still have fun and celebrate the beginning of your life together on a shoestring budget. It just takes some advance planning and creative thinking.

By Ronda Addy After pulling up to the high school in a stretch limo, couples dressed to the nines walk into an elaborately decorated gym where they get their pictures taken and dance to the latest music. Before this, they ate dinner at a nice restaurant, and afterwards, they will attend an allnight party. Often considered a rite of passage, the prom is many teenagers' first formal event. Proms weren't always such elaborate affairs, though.

In fact, they were quite simple affairs for graduates.Prom is a short form of the word "promenade," which was a march of guests at the beginning of a ball or some other formal event. Back in the 1890s, elite colleges in the Northeast started holding proms to instill social skills and etiquette in their students, much the way debutante balls did for students in the South. The dances were often just for senior class members and heavily chaperoned. While

important in the college setting, proms didn't take on an iconic status until they emerged in high schools.In the 1920s, proms became quite common, and by the 1930s, they were being held in high school gyms across the country. Attendees dressed in their Sunday best and danced to the tunes of a local band or a record player. With the economy booming in the 1950s, proms became more expensive, elaborate events. Girls made special trips to find the right gown, while many proms were moved to

bigger, better locations. By the 1980s, proms had become quite lavish affairs, and competition for the title of prom queen was intense.Proms are not exclusive to the United States. Other countries have them too, often in conjunction with graduation. Here are some examples:? In Argentina, fiestas de graducaion parties are held for students finishing their last year of high school.? In Canada, banquets are held for graduating seniors, family and invited friends with presenta-

tions in song and speech and an address from the head of the school.? In Germany, high school graduation is celebrated with an Abifier, Abiparty or Abi-ball, at which students wear tuxedos and ball gowns. A strict order of events is followed, starting with the welcome and introductions, student awards ceremony and a series of student-organized activities. Music from the school band follows, and the evening ends with a DJ playing music.? In Ireland, the Debutantes Ball or Debs is a formal dance for wedding scrapbooks. For ideas to plan an affordable and memorable wedding ceremony, reception and honeymoon, visit www.doubletree.com/ weddings, contact a local travel professional or call (800) 222-TREE in the U.S. or Canada. Handcrafted wedding touches can turn a cookie-cutter event into a one-of-a-kind wedding to remember.

(NAPSI)-Today, more couples are looking beyond standard wedding packages and exploring customized, do-it-yourself options. According to The Wedding Report, couples spent 10 percent less on their big day in 2009 as compared to 2008, and spending from 2007 to 2009 fell by more than 30 percent. By choosing handcrafted wedding touches and forgoing pricey extras, creative couples are mixing and matching a surprising combination of one-of-a-kind wedding elements to create unique and personalized celebrations. From the centerpiece display to the wedding favors, more people planning that memorable wedding are realizing personal touches that actually reflect the soon-to-benewlyweds themselves can elevate that special day from a cookie-cutter event to an intimately beautiful affair. Here are four fun and budget-friendly ideas to create a wedding that is anything but generic: Snip and Style-

Arrangements by professional florists can easily take a big chunk out of the budget. Instead, the wedding party can be enlisted to help create floral decor for the wedding. There are a number of free online tutorials that offer detailed how-to instructions on choosing seasonal blooms and arranging everything from elegant centerpieces to bridal bouquets. Personal touches to the floral arrangements may be added by incorporating favorite flowers or purchasing the blooms from a local farmers' market. Pick and Choose-To spend wisely, couples are also turning away from one-size-fits-all wedding packages and demanding more flexibility in the types of wedding resources available. For example, an array of hotel and event site offerings through the Weddings By Doubletree website provides couples with the flexible option of selecting essential components for their wedding day without being tied to an all-

inclusive plan. From mixing and matching options such as guest stays, reception celebrations and ceremony settings, couples can handpick amenities and services that fit their budget and wedding needs at more than 230 hotels and resorts worldwide. Eat and Drink-Family and friends can also be offered an inside look at the preferences, passions and experiences enjoyed by the happy couple. Wedding favors could include a favorite chocolate or something that symbolizes the couple's life (such as local honey, jam or a unique trinket from their hometown). For the aperitif, wine could be poured from a vineyard the couple likes to visit. For the main meal, dishes or drinks can be tailored to represent the cultural heritage of the couple (paella for the Spanish side of the family or vodka for the Russian side of the family). Weddings provide the chance to celebrate the special values and

history of the couple, through small details that personalize the event and make the setting more intimate. Capture and Share-A professional photographer should certainly be considered for the most important portions of the wedding (ceremony, bridal party and family pictures, etc.); however, guests can help capture the rest of the special moments. Before the big day, family and friends can be asked to bring their digital cameras to document the memories, along with a few disposable digital cameras on hand for individuals who do not own or forget their cameras. A free online photo service prior to the wedding can provide the couple, the wedding party and guests with the link to upload, download and share their photos after the special day. Printing costs will be slashed in half and everyone can immediately and automatically have a vast selection of images to choose from for their

students who have just graduated from high school. Depending upon the school, a Deb can take place in July, August, September or October. Some all-boys schools even have them in January, February or March. Debs involve minimal supervision and alcohol.? In Italy, a Mak II 100 is held for graduates during their final days of school. Students perform cabaret shows in which they parody their teachers.? In Sweden, the Studentbalen or Student Ball is held during the last weeks before graduation. The event can be very formal and require white ties.What started out as a simple celebration for graduates can now cost thousands of dollars to put on and hundreds of dollars to attend. What a change!

Garden Dilemmas? Ask Mary!

mulch I believe has less mold spores as compared to other hardwood mulches and doesnt break down as quickly. A question came up during my recent lecture at the Springfest Garden Show, if there is a risk of spreading hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) by using hemlock mulch. If infected, the tiny insects that feed on sap are found on the twigs at the base of the needles. It looks like white powder on the foliage. It has devastated native stands and residential hemlocks, but the problem has greatly improved and hemlocks are once again readily used in the landscape. According to the UMass Center for Agriculture, who works in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, hemlock bark mulch is made from the bark of the trunk and major branches, there should be limited or no adelgids present in those areas, in addition, bark mulch should not be used as soon as it is made. If six months has passed from the time of manufacture then very limited movement of the adelgid would be expected onto another host. Bottom line, hemlock or cedar mulch is safe to use and a preferred choice compared to tomato sauce red or other flavors of mulch. Garden dilemmas? askmarystone.com increase your risk of electrical shock due to sudden rain or standing water. Do not use an electrical tool that is wet or close to water. To further reduce your risk, install ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in your outdoor outlets and in the garage to help prevent electrocutions and electrical shock injuries. You can also purchase portable outdoor GFCIs for temporary use. Next, check the product label or manual and use only electrical products, such as extension cords, that were intended for outdoor use. Also, be sure to use only equipment that displays a mark indicating that it has undergone testing by an independent laboratory such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Intertek (ETL) or Canadian Standards Association (CSA). Inspect your tools cords and plugs for damage. Any damaged products should not be used and instead should be taken to an authorized repair center or thrown away. As you work, remember to always hold power tools by the insulated gripping surface to avoid electrical shock. Lastly, if your work requires a generator, make sure your generator is properly grounded and well ventilated. Also, make sure you remind kids of these important safety tips: If they see a downed power line, they should stay away from it and report it to an adult. Do not play with toys, especially kites and remote control airplanes, or climb trees near power lines. Go inside right away if they hear thunder or see lightningdo not seek shelter under trees. Do not play around neighborhood electrical substations or boxes. For additional electrical safety information, visit www.esfi.org.

Mary E. Stone Stone Associates Landscape Design & Consulting, Blairstown

Hello Fellow Readers, At last: the official start of spring! One of the chores many delve into along with their spring cleanup is freshening up their mulch. John from Andover asked what mulch he should use. Last week we spoke about the trend in using cocoa mulch, but learned it can be toxic to pets and Ive heard the sweet smell can attract wild animals, so best to stay clear. Weve spoken about controversial colored mulch often made from recycled wood products such as wood pallets, old decks and other construction debris that can be contaminated with harmful chemicals. Then there is the dye itself covering up the mystery of the wood products used; another stay-away as far as I am concerned if you wish for long term healthy plants. Cedar and hemlock

( N A P S I ) Wa r m e r weather means more time spent outside for both children and adults. Whether your outdoor activity includes improvement projects around the home or fun and games in the backyard, you need to be aware of

some electrical hazards that may occur. To help, the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) would like to share these tips. Its common knowledge that water and electricity dont mix, but spring showers may

(NAPSI)You may be better able to win the race for (storage) space with your closet, if you heed a few hints. Although everyones closet storage dilemmas vary, a systematic method of organizing your stuff can lead to the highest level of efficiency. Besides, when your closet is clutter free, your mornings can run more smoothly, giving you the right mind-set to tackle the day. As you begin to sort through the contents of your closet, remember the 80/20 rule: You wear 20 percent of your clothes 80 percent of the time. The rest just takes up valuable, reachable

space. Arrange your collection by category, grouping shirts, pants, suits, dresses and so on. Depending on the nature

of your ward- robe, you can also separate casual clothes from those you wear to work or on special occasions. Add a center tower of shelving on each wall for frequently used items. It creates a place for folded things such as T-shirts, sweaters and denim. Pants, shirts and dresses can be kept on hang rods, making them easier to access. Upper storage shelving (above the highest hanging rod) can be for seasonal clothes you

use less often as well as pieces you rarely use at all. Personal and activity items such as your everyday watch, wedding ring, wallet, keys and phone can stay within arms reach on a waist-level shelf or drawer. Shoes worn most often should be the easiest to reach. Keep special party shoes or rarely used running shoes on the floor or way up high. When space in other areas of the home is tight, keep luggage and other items tucked away in your walk-in. These occasional items can be hidden away and pulled out when you need them. Dont underestimate the power of closet accessories. Closet systems, like those from Closet-Maid, can be outfitted with drawers, doors, cubbies, jewelry trays and pullout rods, putting every last inch of space to work. To learn more, go to www.closetmaid.com.

Highlighting a special state criminal code exception for business management and labor unions in the Commonwealth, the House voted to prohibit stalking, harassment and threats of violence for everyone, House Majority Leader Rep. Mike Turzai said recently. By a vote of 115-74, House Bill 1154 passed the House and heads to the Senate for consideration. Its time our antistalking and harassment laws apply to everyone, without exception, because its never acceptable to harass or intimidate people, Turzai said. While most business managers and members of the labor community represent their business and trades effectively and honorably, there are some exceptions,

and laws should protect all Pennsylvanians from stalking or threats from harm. Employers have the right to manage their business, and unions have the right to collectively bargain and strike, Turzai said, but within the bounds of civil behavior. Currently, PAs criminal code, Title 18, exempts management and organized labor from prosecution for harrassment, stalking and threatening to use weapons of mass destruction. It is illegal to call in a bomb-scare, or stalk people or their kids, except if the caller or stalker is involved in a labor dispute. This Criminal Code exception was recently brought to light by a February 18th event. The Federal Bureau of

Investigation (FBI) arrested 10 members of Philadelphia Ironworkers Local 401, including union leadership, for aiding racketeering and arson, and indicted them under the federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act. According to the indictment, union members repeatedly threatened non-union construction employers with violence unless they hired a certain amount of union members. The indictment noted, violence was deeply ingrained in the structure of their organization. By allowing intimidation, such as harassment, stalking and threats of violence, actual violence sometimes follows, as in the alleged Ironworkers crimes, Turzai noted.

(NAPSI)When it comes to buying your youngster a new bike, AAA's Rhonda Shah says it's vital that you find one that's the proper size. How To Size A Bike You'll know the bike fits the child when he or she can sit on the seat and balance the bicycle with the balls of both feet touching the ground and without leaning to one side or the other. If the bicycle seat is in the lowest position and the child cannot touch both feet to the ground, the bike is too large to be ridden safely. "If you want to give the bike as a surprise present," says Shah, "you'd be wise to go to the bike shop with the child's measurements and a tape measure in hand." Measure the child's inseam to the ground. The distance from the top

of the bike's horizontal bar (or where it would be on a girl's bike) to the ground should be an inch or two shorter than that. Other Safety Suggestions Consider brake design. Children's bicycles typically have either hand brakes or coaster brakes, which engage when pedaling backwards. Keep in mind that hand brakes can be dangerous for younger children, who have smal_ler hands and less strength in the wrists. Everyone, regardless of age or skill level, should wear a bicycle helmet on every ride. Head injuries are the leading cause of death in bicycle crashes but wearing a properly fitted bicycle helmet has been shown to reduce the risk by up to 85 percent, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Just as a bike must be sized correctly, so should helmets. It's best to try on a helmet, but if that's not possible, measure around the recipient's head at the forehead to determine which size to purchase. Make sure the helmet meets safety standards by looking for a sticker on the inside from the Snell Memorial Foundation, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), ASTM International, or the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Before taking a spin on a new bike, check that it's put to_gether securely and that additional safety equipment, such as horns or lights, have been installed correctly. Wear brightly colored or reflective clothing and learn all safety rules. For more safe bicycling tips, go to ShareTheRoad.AAA.co m.

An advantage of being a teaching hospital like the St. Lukes University Health Network is that some of the best and brightest students are so pleased with their learning experiences that they continue practicing in the community, according to Joel Rosenfeld, MD, Chief Academic Officer for St. Luke's University Health Network's Graduate Medical Education programs. A graduate of the St. Lukes Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency Program, Karen E. Taverna-Miller, MD, is a perfect example. She chose to stay in the area following her residency at St. Lukes University Hospital Bethlehem and has now expanded her Bethlehem-based practice to serving women in Monroe County. Expanding into

Monroe County was natural for our practice, Dr. Taverna-Miller said. St. Lukes first offered OB/GYN services in Wind Gap and soon found that women were coming from Snydersville, Brodheadsville, East Stroudsburg and even further north to access our services. We wanted to provide our Monroe County patients with a more convenient location. Now, women can receive St. Lukes care closer to home. Situated at 239 E. Brown Street, the East Stroudsburg office is only a half-hour away from St. Lukes Anderson Campus in Bethlehem Township and just minutes from I-80, Route 33 and US-209. Also the home of St. Lukes Medical Associates of Monroe County, the location offers laboratory services, alldigital mammography

and DXA bone density testing. Radiologist Joseph P. Russo, MD, Section Chief of Women's Imaging, St. Lukes University Health Network, said in addition to having state-of-art technology, the images are read at St. Lukes Regional Breast Center by radiologists specially trained in diagnostic mammography. Because these radiologists read a large volume of tests from breast centers throughout the network, they are superbly skilled at identifying abnormalities that a less experienced physician might miss. Due to the large number of radiologists experienced in reading

mammograms at St. Lukes, we are able to read the images almost in real time, he said. Typically, we have the results to the physicians within an hour. This is a huge comfort to the patient and a benefit to the physician. Should an abnormal finding be identified, added Martha Thompson, Director of Womens Imaging, St. Lukes University Health Network, St. Lukes Breast Health Nurses contact the patient, explain their options and, if desired, schedule any additional studies or procedures that may be appropriate. In many cases, a biopsy can be scheduled at St. Lukes Regional Breast

Center in Center Valley within the same day. The expertise of radiologists, technologists and breast health nurse navigators, more so than any technical factors, provides patients with the highest level of care, added Dr. Russo. For an imaging appointment, call St. Lukes Central Scheduling at 1-800-801-7745 toll-free. Meanwhile, the obstetricians/gynecologi sts provide comprehensive medical care, including: Gynecologic care for women of all ages Infertility counseling Prenatal care Female endocrinology

High-risk pregnancy care Minimally invasive surgery Menopause care St. Lukes Providers of OB/GYN Services at East Stroudsburg: Elizabeth Dierking, MD Adriann van Gaalen, MD, FACOG, Christopher Gilbert, MD, FACOG, Ronald Kriner, DO, FACOG, Karen Taverna-Miller, MD, FACOG, Robert J. Sallash, MD, Sherwood Samet, MD, FACOG, Brucinda Kress, PA-C For an OB/GYN appointment, call 570645-1830. For more information, visit sluhn.org or call 1-866STLUKES (1-866-7858537).

by Dana Watkins, M.S., Animal Nutrition (NAPSI)As a nutritionist specializing in pet food, I receive countless questions about finding the right food for cats, especially those with dietary challenges. Finicky Felines It is important to note that finding the right food for your cat is a process. While the food must supply the

required nutrients, to do so it has to be consumed. Cats often have personal preferences as to specific tastes and textures. My company, for example, offers five unique, dry cat foods and four artisan canned cat foods. They present a variety of ways to meet your cats desires. Canned vs. Dry When it comes to delivering the right nutrients to your cat, dry

or canned foods can achieve the same results. While dry food is often more cost effective, canned foods usually contain about 80 percent moisture, which can be beneficial if your cat needs more moisture intake. Urinary Stones and Crystals Often, cats have urinary tract problems caused by stones and crystals. Research suggests many factors

involved in the cause and prevention of urinary tract issues. These include excessive amounts of poorquality nutrients, individual metabolism, water consumption, urine pH, incorrect mineral balance and, according to one new study, stress. In any case, however, since some cats do not drink adequate amounts of water, increasing water consumption can help.

Increasing water consumption will increase the frequency of urination and help dilute the solid portion of the urine, making it more difficult for stones and crystals to be formed. Ways to increase water consumption include: Leave a faucet dripping that cats have access to. Use two or three recirculating or waterfall-type watering bowls.

Feed canned foods either as a meal or as a topper three or four times per week. Add water to the dry food. Use small ice cubes as treats. Mr. Watkins is the on-site nutritionist and technical services specialist at Fromm Family Foods, a fourth-generation, family-owned company specializing in premium dog and cat nutrition. To learn more, visit www.frommfamily.com

(NAPSI)Technology thats used to make animated films in Hollywoods dream factory is helping dreams come true for injured children and teens in several wellknown hospitals. Motion capture technology has been used in an innovative way to bring digital characters to life in films such as The Lord of the Rings and The Polar Express. The technology is also used in movement analysis laboratories at Shriners Hospitals for Children to evaluate how children walk and determine the best care options. How It Works The purpose of the movement analysis laboratories, currently available at 12 of the Shriners Hospitals for

Children that provide orthopaedic care, is to better observe and measure the ways patients with mobility impairments move, to understand how and why they move differently from children without mobility problems, to recommend care, and to evaluate the effectiveness of that care. In the movement analysis laboratory, special high-speed cameras track the movement of reflective balls placed on the patients feet, legs, arms and torso. Other sensors on their skin tell which muscles are working. Force plates in the walkway measure how the patient is pushing on the ground. A pressure platform might also be used to tell how the ground force is spread

over the bottoms of the patients feet and how the patients feet support the body. All these pieces of data about the patients walking and other movement patterns are combined with information gathered during a detailed interview with the family and in a careful physical examination of the patient. An experienced, multidisciplinary team typically comprised of physicians, engineers, physical therapists and kinesiologists meets with the patients physician to review this information and recommend treatments, which might include bracing, physical therapy, medications or surgery. Family-Centered Care Shriners Hospitals for Children is a health care

system of 22 locations dedicated to improving the lives of children by providing pediatric specialty care, conducting innovative research and offering outstanding teaching programs. To learn more, visit www.shrinershospitalsf orchildren.org.

Private Zachary Saltern, graduated from Marine Corps Recruit Training at Parris Island, S.C. on March 14. He is the son of John and Beth-Ann Saltern, brother of Kaitlyn Saltern, grandson to Dale and Barbara Wolbach and Ruth and the late Robert Saltern, While at Parris Island, he received training in first aid, general military subjects, physical fitness, Marine Corps history, and weapons familiarization. Private Saltern, a former student of Bangor Area High School, is currently enjoying leave in his hometown of Roseto,

Pennsylvania. Upon completion of leave, he will report for in-depth training as a Communications Specialist, then move onto his permanent duty station. Congratulations and Semper Fi! For more information, call SSgt Jason K. Glatfelter at 484-542-0599.

( N A P S I ) To d a y, childhood obesity tops the charts as one of the primary health concerns for parents. In fact, one in five American kids and teens is overweight or obese and, as a result, are at risk for serious health issues such as high blood pressure, asthma, type 2 diabetes, and sleep and hormonal disorders that would typically appear in adulthood. Dr. Shelley Armstrong, faculty member in the School of Health Sciences at Walden University and a certified health and physical educator, says, Obesity is a very serious

health and well-being issue and we can eliminate many of our kids physical, social, emotional and even academic challenges by keeping our kids fit. When parents put a value on health and physical activity, kids are more likely to emulate that. Know Your Numbers Its important to become knowledgeable about the baseline numbers for each of your family members, such as body weight, body mass index, blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Ask your doctor to write these numbers down. Knowing these numbers will help you

set goals for your family and work toward them. How To Get Started Fortunately, there are many ways parents can build fun physical activity into their familys routines, says Dr. Armstrong. Here are some tips: Schedule family walks or bike rides several times a week. Create familyfriendly fitness competitions like family boot camps, exercise scavenger hunts, pickup basketball in the driveway, or touch football. Be young again. Get your young children outside for a game of tag or to climb trees to get their heart rates

moving. Go for a run. Running is one of the most convenient and inexpensive options for exercise and also one of the best forms for weight loss. Dr. Armstrong also recommends setting exercise goals that follow the SMART method: specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and timeoriented. For example, set a goal that by the end of three months your family will work up to walking briskly for a half hour after dinner three nights a week. For more ideas on how to build fun physical activities into your familys routines, visit www.WaldenU.edu/geth ealthy.

By State Rep. Marcia Hahn

Gaming proceeds are the source of a more than $700,000 grant that will benefit both a local fire station and local municipality in the 138th Legislative District. Im pleased to announce this grant, which was secured for

Bushkill Township and the Lookout Fire Company in Pen Argyl without the use of tax dollars and that stands to make our community a better place to live. The grant was obtained through the Pennsylvania Race Horse Development and Gaming Acts Local

Share Account. The revenue is generated solely by the Mount Airy Casino in Mount Pocono, and resulted in 16 grants distributed among the five counties adjacent to Monroe County. Bushkill Township will use its $210,000 award for the expansion

of its municipal building. The Lookout Fire Companys portion of the grant, amounting to $500,000, will be used for the construction of a new fire station. Questions about this or any legislative issue may be directed to my district office at 610746-2100.

By State Emrick.

Rep.

Joe

Recently, I was officially able to secure funding for the installation of a traffic light at the Route 191Friedenstahl Avenue intersection in Upper Nazareth Township. As a result, we have taken a huge step forward in addressing an issue that has been allowed to linger for far too long. This is great news for the safety and well-being of the Nazareth community and especially the students of the Nazareth Area School District.

The announcement is also the culmination of the hard work of former Upper Nazareth Township Supervisor Jim Augustine. Grant writing is not easy and requires a considerable amount of time and effort, which Jim selflessly provided. The $500,000 grant was secured through the Pennsylvania Race Horse Development and Gaming Acts Local Share Account. The revenue is generated solely by the Mount Airy Casino in Mount Pocono, and may be

distributed among the five counties adjacent to Monroe County. I will soon be meeting with representatives from the Nazareth Area School District, PennDOT and Upper Nazareth Township to discuss the next step in the project. In addition, Tatamy Borough has also been

awarded $38,000 in funding that will go toward a new police vehicle and a piece of equipment used in sealing local roads. Questions about this or any legislative issue should be directed to my Mt. Bethel office at 570-897-0401 or my Nazareth office at 610746-5090.

(NAPSI)There is hopeful news for young people held in the adult criminal justice system. A number of states are beginning to recognize that youths have developmental differences from adults and in many cases still possess great potential for rehabilitation. In addition, many states are now taking these factors into account at sentencing. Thats the word from advocates such as

Jessica Sandoval, Vice President of an organization called Campaign For Youth Justice (CFYJ). Sandoval says that over the past eight years, 23 states have enacted 40 pieces of legislation to reduce the prosecution of youths in adult criminal courts and end the placement of youths in adult jails and prisons. She points to a report from CFYJ that documents four trends in

justice reform efforts across the country: Eleven states have passed laws limiting states authority to house youths in adult jails and prisons. Four states have expanded their juvenile court jurisdiction so that older youths who previously would have been automatically tried as adults are not prosecuted in adult criminal court. Eleven states have

changed their transfer laws, making it more likely that youths will stay in the juvenile justice system. Eight states have changed their mandatory minimum sentencing laws to take into account the developmental differences between youth and adults, and allow for post-sentence review for youths facing juvenile life without parole or other sentencing

reform for a youth sentenced as an adult. Said Carmen Daugherty, Policy Director for CFYJ, We now have more evidence on what does work to reduce juvenile crime, which is rehabilitation and treatment over incarceration. Public opinion strongly favors rehabilitation and treatment over incarceration and judicial review over automatic prosecution in adult court. CFYJ works to end the

practice of trying, sentencing and incarcerating youth under 18 in the adult criminal justice system. For a copy of State TrendsLegislative Victories from 20112013: Removing Youth from the Adult Criminal Justice System, contact Aprill Turner at (202) 558-3580 or aturner@cfyj.org. To contact your elected officials and share your opinions on your states policies, visit www.house.gov and www.senate.gov.

(StatePoint) Oral care and cavity prevention are crucial for overall health, and getting kids to put that knowledge into practice is a must. To help motivate kids to take better care of their smiles, experts recommend a number of approaches, resources and tips that parents will find helpful. Good Practices The Partnership for Healthy Mouths, Healthy Lives recommends brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day. If you arent able to brush between meals, swishing water is a great way to help reduce bacteria that can build up. When choosing toothpaste, look for the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance to indicate it has been rigorously tested for cavity protection. Take a minute to check whats inside your toothpaste. Many contain ingredients like artificial sweeteners, dyes or preservatives on the label. If you prefer a more natural option,

Toms of Maine makes the top-selling natural kids toothpaste without any artificial ingredients and no animal testing. Encourage kids to make healthy nutritional choices that promote good dental health, including calcium-rich foods like yogurt, cheese, almonds, oatmeal, and oranges. While skipping all sweets may not be realistic, encourage kids to limit sugary beverages and candy, and to brush after treats. Get Creative, Give Back A new free downloadable coloring book called Brushing Fun, is now available to help introduce kids to healthy habits. Each free download will trigger a donation of 10 tubes of Toms of Maine Wicked Cool! natural toothpaste to Oral Health America (OHA), a non-profit

dedicated to increasing access to oral health care, education and advocacy for all Americans. Brushing can be fun and its never too early to talk with your kids about their oral health, or too late to try to help shape healthy habits, says Susan Dewhirst, goodness programs manager at Toms of Maine. The coloring book, which can be personalized with a childs name, offers games, puzzles, tips and facts about oral care, as well as a story that encourages kids to appreciate nature. To show off your familys creativity, share a page from the coloring book using the hashtag #NaturalSmiles on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram for a chance to win a natural oral care gift pack and Utretch Art Store gift

card. The free coloring book is available for download at www.TomsofMaine.com .Go Natural While youre caring for your teeth, dont forget to also take care of the earth. According to the EPA, by turning off the tap while you brush your teeth in the morning and before bedtime, you can save up to eight gallons of water! Parents and kids can also visit www.terracycle to learn how to recycle or upcycle toothpaste tubes. Its simple to show kids that a healthy smile is an important component of overall health. These smart oral health habits can last a lifetime. photo

The Slate Belt Heritage Center opens its 2014 season on April 6th with a road rally and exhibit to kick-off the new Heritage Tour Map of the Slate Belt. The road rally begins at 9am when car teams start their drive to Slate Belt sites and find answers to road rally questions. A reception for Rally participants and Heritage Center members follows at 2pm and opens the new exhibit, Sightsee and Savor: A Heritage Tour of the Slate Belt.

The Heritage Tour Map was two years in the making and features 59 historic, recreational, and scenic sites in all nine Slate Belt municipalities. The Rails to Trails project inspired us, and we saw a need for a regional map that draws people from urban centers to the Slate Belt, said Melissa Hough, president of the center. There hasnt been a local map since 2005 and an update was long overdue. The new exhibit shows

the creative process behind the map and expands the Slate Belt story through pictures and artifacts. Its like a walking tour inside the Center. Some of the artifacts describe people, places, and things that are shown on the map, Melissa said. Road rally participants and Heritage Center members will receive the first copies of the map. Marc Blau coordinated the project, former Slate Belt native Dave Blau designed and drew the map, and photographer Jeff Jancovic took the pictures. The map was funded in part by the Northampton County Department of Economic and Community Development, and a number of municipalities and businesses. Proceeds from the rally benefit the Heritage Center and help to preserve and promote Slate Belt Heritage. The Center is located at 30 North First Street in Bangor. Beginning April 12th, the center will be open Saturdays and Sundays, noon to 3pm, and by appointment.