CALENDAR OF EVENTS

 

Now thru February 26 - Altered State? Juried Photography-Based Arts Exhibition, ARTSPACE and Studio Galleries, 18 N. 7th Street, Stroudsburg. Sponsored by the PoconoArts Council. For more information: www.poconoarts.org.

 

Now thru mid-March - Eagle Watch! During winter, hundreds of bald eagles migrate to the Pocono Mountains, joining the growing, breeding population of resident eagles. On Saturdays and Sundays, trained The Eagle Institute volunteers staff popular viewing locations to assist eagle watchers in sighting these majestic birds. Winter Field Office: Lackawaxen, just across the Roebling Bridge from Minisink Ford, NY. For more information: (570) 685-5960, (845) 557-6162; www.eagleinstitute.com.

 

Now thru Season - The Safe Haven 2012 Calendar is available to purchase. Cost is $16/calendar, plus shipping and handling; proceeds benefit the non-profit Safe Haven Pet Rescue. Email safehaven@epix.net for more information and to order.

 

Now thru Season - Love at First Bite, Pocono Cheesecake Factory on Rt. 611 in Swiftwater. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. See this issue of This Week in the Poconos for a coupon worth $2 off any purchase of $20 or more. For more information: (570) 839-6844; www.poconocheesecake.com.

 

Now thru Season - Ski and Spa Package at The French Manor in South Sterling. Enjoy skiing at your choice of two of the Poconos' best mountains, along with relaxation at The French Manor’s Green Spa. Package includes luxury accommodations with welcome basket; VIP Lift Tickets for two at Camelback or Sno Mountain; custom tote bag packed with bottled water, lip balm, trail mix and fresh fruit; 50-minute couples’ massage; afternoon tea daily; complimentary turn-down service with Godiva Chocolates. Full country breakfast each morning. For reservations or more information: (570) 676-3244; www.thefrenchmanor.com.

 

Now thru January 31 - The Shawnee Original Playwright Series issues a Call for Aspiring Playwrights. In March, your work will be read before a live audience; the winning submission will be produced and performed at The Shawnee Playhouse on River Road in Shawnee-on-Delaware. For more information: (570) 421-5093; www.theshawneeplayhouse.com.

 

Now thru January 31 - Purchase 2012 Season Tickets from The Shawnee Playhouse on River Road in Shawnee-on-Delaware, and enjoy a 10% discount. A number of season ticket packages are available at a variety of prices, and gift certificates are available. For more information: (570) 421-5093; www.theshawneeplayhouse.com.

 

Now thru February 2 - "Just Like I Remember" art exhibit sponsored by the Monroe County Conservation District weekdays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Original paintings by Eino Anttila. Meet the artist and enjoy complimentary refreshments. For more information: (570) 629-3061; www.mcconservation.org.

 

Now thru February 15 – Women’s Wednesday Ski Program, Shawnee Mountain, Hollow Road, Shawnee-on-Delaware. Recreational skiing for adult women of all ages, Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to close. Beginners welcome. Lesson at 10:30 a.m. 50% off babysitting services for participants. For more information: (570) 421-7231, ext. 254; www.shawneemt.com.

 

Now thru February 28 (excluding Feb. 21) - Ladies Tuesday Sports Clinics, Jack Frost Mountain, Blakeslee, 10 a.m. Free with valid snow pass. No clinic on 2/21. For more information: www.jfbb.com.

 

Now thru March 1 (excluding Feb. 22) - Wednesday Senior Day Sports Clinics, Jack Frost Mountain, Blakeslee, 10 a.m. Free with valid snow pass. No clinic on 2/22. For more information: www.jfbb.com.

 

Now through March 31 - Free Snowshoe Loaner Program, Promised Land State Park. A limited number of MSR-Denali snowshoes are available for day-use only, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wear hiking boots, dress in layers and bring plenty of water. Contact the park office to check snow conditions and equipment availability at (570) 676-3428; www.visitpaparks.com.

 

Ongoing – ECOZONE, Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) in Dingmans Ferry. The new ECOZONE is free to the public on two Sundays of every month, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. For more information: (570) 828-2319; www.peec.org.

 

Ongoing, Wednesdays - Brain Freeze Trivia, Fernwood Hotel & Resort’s Wintergreens Patio Grill, 5785 Milford Road, East Stroudsburg, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Hosted by local radio personality "Big Brain" Gary in the Morning, this team trivia game tests your knowledge of TV, beer, sports, music and more. Must be 21 and older to play. Registration at 5:30 p.m.; game starts at 6 p.m. For more information: (570) 588-9500, ext. 4260.

 

Daily - Free Brewery Tours and Beer Tastings, Barley Creek Brewing Company, Sullivan Trail and Camelback Road in Tannersville, every day at 12:30 p.m. No reservations required. Group tours are available by appointment. For more information: (570) 629-9399 or log on to www.barleycreek.com.

 

January 27, 28 & 29 - 2nd Annual Guest Participation Mechanical Bull Rodeo Weekend, Malibu Dude Ranch, 351 Foster Hill Road, Milford. Try your bull riding skills to win trophies and cash prizes awarded in 3 categories: adult cowboys, adult cowgirls and junior wranglers. $305 per adult; $152.50 per child between 5 and 12. Children under 4 are free. For more information: (570) 296-7281.

 

January 27, 28 & 29 - The Pocono Bluegrass & Folk Society 12th Annual Winterfest. Enjoy the sounds of banjos, guitars, fiddles and acoustic instruments. Bring your instruments—jamming is encouraged at most of the weekend's activities. 12 p.m. shows are held at the Elks Lodge, 260 Washington Street, East Stroudsburg, Jan. 28 & 29. Saturday's featured performers include The Wallace Brothers Band, Chasing Blue, Plexigrass and The Lost Ramblers. On Sunday, Country Grass and the Water Gap Band light up the stage. Kids' programs throughout the weekend. Weekend tickets are $30; Saturday's show is $20; and Sunday's is $15. Teens (12-17) are $10; children under 12 are free. For more information: (570) 992-2259; www.poconobluegrass.org.

 

January 28 - Feast & Frolic, Ehrhardt's Waterfront Restaurant, 205 Route 507, Hawley. Join snowshoe guides from NorthEast Wilderness Experience (www.newildernessexperience.com) for a 2-hour snowshoe adventure. Afterwards, enjoy a sumptuous meal at Ehrhardt's. $58 per person for dinner, drink, guided tour. $22 snowshoe rental. Reservations required: (800) 678-5907; (570) 352-3444; www.Ehrhardts.com.

 

January 28 - Lou Dobbs, Host of Fox Business New Lou Dobbs Tonight. Lecture plus audience Q&A. State Theatre Center for the Arts, Inc., 453 Northampton Street, Easton. 8 p.m. Tickets: $40/$35. For tickets and more information: www.statetheatre.org.

 

January 28 - Close Encounters with Birds of Prey, Wallenpaupack Environmental Learning Center, 1 p.m. at 126 PPL Drive, Hawley, PA. 1-hour program in which you'll see a golden eagle, peregrine falcon, saw-whet owl and learn about the raptors of the northeast. Registration required. For more information: (570) 253-7001; www.pplpreserves.com.

 

January 28 - Hiking/Snowshoeing, depending on conditions, sponsored by the Pocono Outdoor Club (POC). This 2- to 3-mile snowshoe/hike takes place at Big Pocono State Park at the Wilkes-Barre and Eastern Railroad on the rail grade and lower north trail loop. Bring snack and beverages; enjoy amazing views. Meet up at Riday's Gate at 10 a.m. For more information, call John Motz at (570) 236-1462.

 

January 28 - Eagle Watch I, sponsored by the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC). Join outdoor enthusiasts and naturalists from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for this trip in search of eagles. Bring a lunch and dress in warm layers. Register no later than January 21 to reserve a seat in the van. Meet at PEEC, 538 Emery Road, Dingmans Ferry. Cost is $25. For more information and to register: (570) 828-2319; www.peec.org.

 

January 28 – Cross-Country Skiing for Beginners, Monroe County Environmental Education Center, 8050 Running Valley Road, Stroudsburg, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Learn about the history of skiing and the how-tos of this quintessential winter sport. Snow permitting, you’ll get a chance to ski during this introductory course. Rent all necessary equipment ahead of time. Register by January 25. Must be 12 or older. For more information, ski rentals and to register: (570) 629-3061.

 

January 29 - Family Ice Fishing, Pike County Pocono Environmental Education Center, Front Pond, 538 Emery Road, Dingmans Ferry, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Preregistration required. For more information: (570) 828-2319.

 

January 29 - Winter Carnival 2012, Ski Big Bear at Masthope Mountain, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Ski and Snowboard races, Big Air contest, scavenger hunt, lunch tray races, Ski Patrol toboggan rides, live entertainment, free blood pressure screenings and more. 192 Karl Hope Blvd., Lackawaxen. For more information: (570) 685-1400; www.ski-bigbear.com.

 

January 29 - Introduction to Ice Fishing I, Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC), 538 Emery Road, Dingmans Ferry, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Learn the basics of ice fishing and try your luck on PEEC’s ponds. All equipment provided.  Dress in warm layers. Supervised children only. No fishing licenses required. Cost is $10. Not enough ice?  Enjoy a free winter hike instead. Limited spaces available. Call to reserve your spot: (570) 828-2319.

 

January 29 – Owl Prowl, Nescopeck State Park, 1137 Honey Hole Road, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Meet at Park office for this fun and educational evening, which is the perfect winter activity since owls are more vocal during the winter. Registration required: (570) 403-2006.

 

January 29 - Leland Faulkner, Award-Winning Kennedy Center Performer, illusionist and film director, appears at the Pike County Historical Society, 608 Broad Street, Milford, at 3 p.m. Tickets, $15. For more information: (570) 296-8126.

 

January 29 - A Taste of Italy, Our Lady of Victory High School Youth Group, Church Hall, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Chicken parmigiana, baked ziti, sausage and peppers.

Cherry Lane Road, Tannersville. For more information: (570) 629-4572.

 

January 30 - Winter Walk-N-Talk, Martins Creek Environmental Preserve, Cedars Pavilion, Foul Rift Road, Bangor, 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Venture out in search of wildlife on the Tekening Trails. Dress warmly and wear waterproof shoes. For more information: (570) 542-2886; www.pplpreserves.com.

 

Month of February - Adult Acrylic Painting Class, Pocono Arts Council, 18 North 7th, Stroudsburg. Ongoing weekly sessions, Mondays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Check starting date when registering. Monthly Fee: $110 for members; $120, non-members; $90, seniors. For more information: (570) 476-4460.

 

Month of February - Adult Oil Painting Class, Pocono Arts Council, 18 North 7th, Stroudsburg. Ongoing weekly sessions, Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Check starting date when registering. Monthly Fee: $72 for members; $80, non-members; $60, seniors. For more information: (570) 476-4460.

 

February 1, 8, 15 & 22 - Basic Drawing, Pocono Arts Council, 18 North 7th, Stroudsburg. Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuition: $72 for members; $89, non-members; $60, seniors. For more information: (570) 476-4460.

 

February 3 - Celebrating Diversity with Phillip Mentor, BookHouse, Eastern Monroe Public Library, 7:30 p.m. Award-winning opera singer, educator and story-teller Phillip Mentor is known for his quick wit and, also, for increasing opera's popularity. The celebrated baritone has performed throughout the US and Caribbean. His beautiful performances are suitable for adults and children. Free admission; doors open at 7 p.m. 1002 North 9th Street, Stroudsburg. For more information: (570) 421-0800, ext. 28; www.phillipmentor.com.

 

February 3 - Bag of Tricks Airbag Contest, Camelback Mountain Resort in Tannersville. Here's the chance to try out your gnarliest tricks without worrying about the landings. Register at the CBK terrain park desk from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Contest starts at 5 p.m. www.skicamelback.com.

 

February 3 - Rail Jams, Ski Big Bear at Masthope Mountain, Lackawaxen; (570) 685-1400;  www.ski-bigbear.com. Ride rails and hit jumps in this judged competition held in the Terrain Park. $5 entry fee; lift tickets and helmets required. Registration is from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Lodge; competition from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Finals are held on Saturday, February 11.

 

February 3 - Eagle Watch, Monroe County Environmental Education Center (MCEEC) offers field trips to the upper Delaware River in search of resident and wintering bald eagles. Participants will join Environmental Educator Brian Hardiman and meet at MCEEC (Kettle Creek Wildlife Sanctuary, near Bartonsville) at 8:30 a.m. and return 5:30 p.m. Cost: $20/non-member, $14/EE Center member and includes van transportation. Participants should pack a lunch and binoculars and dress appropriately for the weather. Stops will be made for coffee and snacks. For more information: (570) 629-3061; www.mcconservation.org.

 

February 4 - WinterFest 2012, Hickory Run State Park, Nescopeck State Park Office, 1137 Honey Hole Road, Drums, (570) 403-2006; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy snowshoeing, children's games, a sled dog team. Learn about orienteering, ice fishing and ice safety.

 

February 4 - Family Fun Day, Environmental Bingo, Monroe County Environmental Education Center (MCEEC), Kettle Creek Wildlife Sanctuary, near Bartonsville) 10 a.m. Cost: $5/non-member, $3/EE Center member and children under 12. For more information: (570) 629-3061; www.mcconservation.org.

 

February 4 - Art Opening: Pocono Watercolorists, Monroe County Environmental Education Center (MCEEC), Kettle Creek Wildlife Sanctuary, near Bartonsville. Reception, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. An eclectic collection of works by local artist. Show runs from February 4 to February 29. For more information: (570) 629-3061; www.mcconservation.org.

 

February 4 - Hike in Promised Land State Park, Pocono Outdoor Club, 10 a.m. 6 miles; moderate pace. Meet in the parking lot on the right on Rte. 390, just past the Promise Land Village. For more information: Ernest Henzi, (570) 676-4919.

 

February 4 - Eagle Watch! Annual Winter Eagle-Viewing Trip, Wallenpaupack Environmental Learning Center. Two time slots: 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., or 1 p.m. to 4:30. Meet at 126 PPL Drive, Hawley, PA. Explore eagle biology, habitat needs and proper eagle-viewing etiquette. Transportation from the center is provided. Dress for weather and bring binoculars. Free program with limited space. To register: (570) 253-7001; pplpreserves@pplweb.com.

 

February 4 - Race Against Cancer, Shawnee Mountain Ski Area, Hollow Road, Shawnee-on-Delaware, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Register in Hope Lodge. $5 for 2 runs; $10 for 6 runs. Lift ticket required. For more information: (570) 421-7231, ext. 254; www.shawneemt.com.

 

February 4 - Eagle Watch II, Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC), Dingmans Ferry, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Take a trip north in search of eagles, with stop at the Eagle Institute to view eagles soaring, feeding and nest guarding. $25. Bring a lunch and dress in warm layers. Call by January 28 to reserve a seat in the van. Meet at 538 Emery Road, Dingmans Ferry. For more information and to register: (570) 828-2319; www.peec.org.

 

February 4 - Animal Tracking, Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC), Dingmans Ferry, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Explore natural areas for signs of wildlife. Members free; non-members $5. For more information and to register: (570) 828-2319; www.peec.org.

 

February 4 - Family Ice Fishing, Pike County Pocono Environmental Education Center, Front Pond, 538 Emery Road, Dingmans Ferry, 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Preregistration required. For more information: (570) 828-2319.

 

February 4 - Edgar Winter and Rick Derringer, Penn's Peak, 325 Maury Road, Jim Thorpe. Classic pairing of musical artists whose work spans genres and decades. Tickets are general admission. $27/advance; $32/day of show. Doors open at 6 p.m. Show starts at 8 p.m. For more information: (866) 605-7325.

 

February 4 - Commander Cody and Professor Louie and the Crowmatix, Mauch Chunk Opera House, Jim Thorpe. The Commander's blend of old-time rock 'n' roll, country, boogie woogie and swing has virtually defined American roots music. Professor Louie & the Crowmatix are 2010 Grammy Nominees and 2011 Canada South Blues Hall of Fame Inductees. Tickets $23; Doors: 7 p.m.; Show: 8 p.m. For more information: (570) 325 0249; to buy tickets online: www.mauchchunkoperahouse.com.

 

February 4, 5, 11 & 12 - Cross Country Skiing, Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC), Dingmans Ferry, Saturday mornings 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.; Sunday afternoons 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Beginner lessons. Adults $20; children $10. Skis and boots provided. Register with shoe size. No snow? Join the PEEC for a free hike instead. For more information and to register: (570) 828-2319; www.peec.org.

 

February 4 thru 12 - Visions of Johanna, Shawnee Playhouse, Shawnee-on-Delaware. This full-length comedic play is a winner of the Shawnee Original Playwright Series. Show times: 8 p.m. on Feb. 4; 2 p.m. on Feb. 5, 10 & 12. Tickets: $18 adults; $15 seniors; $10 children. For more information: (570) 421-5093; www.TheShawneePlayhouse.com.

February 5 - Military Day, Ski Big Bear at Masthope Mountain, Lackawaxen; (570) 685-1400; www.ski-bigbear.com, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Show your Active Military ID and receive 25% off lift tickets for you and your family. All non-active military customers are welcome to ski at a discount and support US troops by bringing two items for troops (e.g., deck of cards, travel size toiletries, non-perishable treats/snacks, batteries, etc.). Non-active military customers who donate two items receive 15% discount off regular priced lift ticket. 9am - 4:30pm. Visit www.ski-bigbear.com or call 570-685-1400 for more information.

February 5 - Animal Tracking on Snowshoes at Hickory Run State Park, Nescopeck State Park Office, 1137 Honey Hole Road, Drums. 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. If you have snowshoes, bring them. If you need to borrow a pair from the park, please reserve them when you register. For more information and to register: (570) 403-2006.

February 5 – Snowshoe Hike, Skytop. Join Environmental Educator Karen N. Boyle and Kimberly Matthew, Activities Director at Skytop Lodge, for this beautiful, 2-hour snowshoe hike. Meet at 12:45 p.m. at Skytop. Cost is $5 for members of Monroe County Education Center members, $8 for nonmembers, and $6 for children. Dress in layers. Pre-registration required by February 3. For more information and to register: (570) 629-3061; www.skytop.com.

 

February 5 - Family Ice Fishing, Pike County Pocono Environmental Education Center, Front Pond, 538 Emery Road, Dingmans Ferry, 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Preregistration required. For more information: (570) 828-2319.

 

February 5 - Sunday Race Program, Ski Big Bear at Masthope Mountain, Lackawaxen; (570) 685-1400;  www.ski-bigbear.com. Open to all ages and abilities. Available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

February 6 thru 10 - Take Your Daughter/Son to the Snow Week, Shawnee Mountain, Hollow Road, Shawnee-on-Delaware. Your Daughter or Son age 18 and under receive a FREE Lift Ticket when parent purchases a full price Adult Ticket. Special coupon required; available online at: www.shawneemt.com/tickets-passes/discounts_deals.html. For more information: (570) 421-7231, ext. 254; www.shawneemt.com.

 

February 6, 13, 20 & 27 - Watercolor Painting, Pocono Arts Council, 18 North 7th, Stroudsburg. Mondays, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuition: $72 for members; $80, non-members; $60, seniors. For more information: (570) 476-4460.

February 7 - Full Moon Snowshoe Hike, Hickory Run State Park, Nescopeck State Park Office, 1137 Honey Hole Road, Drums, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Snowshoe/hike by the light of the moon. If you have snowshoes, bring them. If you need to borrow a pair from the park, please reserve them when you register. For more information and to register: (570) 403-2006.

February 10 - Eagle Watch, Monroe County Environmental Education Center (MCEEC) offers field trips to the upper Delaware River in search of resident and wintering bald eagles. Meet at MCEEC (Kettle Creek Wildlife Sanctuary, near Bartonsville) at 8:30 a.m. and return 5:30 p.m. Cost: $20/non-member, $14/EE Center member and includes van transportation. Participants should pack a lunch and binoculars and dress appropriately for the weather. For more information: (570) 629-3061; www.mcconservation.org.

 

February 11 - Valentine's Dinner at The Lodge at Mountain Springs Lake, Reeders; 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Romantic evening, including candlelight dining, dancing with live music. $55/person. (570) 629-1120; www.mslresort.com/valentine

 

February - 11 - KC “Disco” Hike, Monroe County Environmental Education Center (MCEEC), Kettle Creek Wildlife Sanctuary, Bartonsville, 10 a.m. Join Environmental Educator Brian Hardiman for 2-hour hike that explores everything from animal tracks and bird life to winter adaptations and even insects. Cost: $3/EE Center members; $5/non-members. Dress for the weather. For more information: (570) 629-3061; www.mcconservation.org.

 

February 11 - Winter Waterfalls, Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC), Dingmans Ferry, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy waterfalls cascading down through chunks of ice and snow. Dress warmly and wear sturdy boots. $20. Register by February 4. For more information and to register: (570) 828-2319; www.peec.org.

 

February 11 - Family Ice Fishing, Wallenpaupack Environmental Learning Center, Hawley, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Free program, no licenses required; children must be accompanied by parent or guardian. To register: (570) 253-7001; (570) 253-7076; pplpreserves@pplweb.com.

 

February 11 - TUSK—Fleetwood Mac Tribute, Mauch Chunk Opera House, Jim Thorpe. Tickets $23; Doors: 7:30 p.m.; Show: 8:30 p.m. For more information: (570) 325 0249; to buy tickets online: www.mauchchunkoperahouse.com.

 

February 11 - Hike in Jacobsburg State Park, Pocono Outdoor Club, 10 a.m. Easy 2-3 mile hike along Bushkill Creek. Meet near the gazebo in the main parking area on Belfast Rd. For more information: Sue Prendergast, (570) 242-0519.

 

February 11 - Eagle Watch, Eagle Institute Field Office, Lackawaxen. Meet at 10 a.m. for excursion that focuses on Sullivan County, NY. $12.50. Reservations required. For more information and to register: (570) 226-3164; (845) 807-0535; or email: info@delawarehighlands.org.

 

February 11 - Rail Jams FINALS, Ski Big Bear at Masthope Mountain, Lackawaxen; (570) 685-1400;  www.ski-bigbear.com. Ride rails and hit jumps in this judged competition held in the Terrain Park. $5 entry fee; lift tickets and helmets required. Registration is from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Lodge; competition from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.

 

February 11 & 12 - Introduction to Ice Fishing II & III, Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC), Dingmans Ferry, 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. All equipment provided. Dress in warm layers. No fishing licenses required. $10. No ice? Join the PEEC for a free hike instead. For more information and to register: (570) 828-2319; www.peec.org.

 

February 18 - Tobyhanna Millpond #1 Ice Harvest. Volunteers will cut ice using authentic, turn-of-the-century ice harvesting tools. 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Watch or lend a helping hand. In the early 1900s, ice was cut, stored in huge icehouses, and transported by railcar to the New York metropolitan area. The late Bill Leonard Sr. of Tobyhanna planned the first ice harvest re-enactment as part of the Coolbaugh Township Bicentennial Celebration in 1994. For more information: (570) 894-8205 to confirm date.