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FEBRUARY 2021 Since 1998
www.goodstuffconnections.com | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 1
2 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | www.goodstuffconnections.com
CONNECT
FEBRUARY 2021
FEATURES
6 EASY WAYS TO ENJOY LIFE’S
EVERYDAY MOMENTS
For many people across the country, carving
out time from busy schedules to spend with
loved ones can be difficult. However, when
opportunities arise to experience bonding
activities together, the results can be fond
memories and a deeper sense of security.
8 RED VELVET FOR YOUR
VALENTINE
On the sweetest day of the year, a day full of
flowers, love and sweets, Valentine’s Day is the
ultimate opportunity to try a different dessert
meant for two.
10 STEP INSIDE A SNOW GLOBE...
The weather outside may be frightful, but inside
the greenhouse it’s delightful. Diners at Glass-
wine.bar.kitchen will now get to see Paupack
High Falls in a whole new light. Greenhouses
and igloos were recently installed on the decks
at Ledges Hotel overlooking the river gorge for
socially distanced outdoor dining throughout
winter.
COLUMNS
5 WORDS FROM THE TEAM 18 MONEY
12 DISASTER BLASTER 20 POCONO SECRETS
14 LIVING GREEN 22 OUTDOOR RAMBLINGS
16 MRS. DOGOOD 24 BOOK REVIEW
| CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 3
CONNECTIONS
Magazine
president • publisher • editor in chief
deborah bailey
production manager
meica drake
account representatives
barry weiss
editorial correction services
kay marks
contributing writers
arthur middleton, MD, FAPA, Behavioral Medicine
michael krupa, Finance
josh sheard, Finance
terri schlichenmeyer, Book Review
la guzda, Pocono Secrets
bill deaton, Outdoor Ramblings
pike/wayne conservation partnership, Living Green
disaster blaster, Home Tips
mrs. dogood, Letters
WHAT A DILEMMA
CONNECTIONS To laugh is to risk appearing a fool.
To weep is to risk appearing sentimental.
Magazine To reach out for another is to risk involvement.
To expose feelings is to risk rejection.
To place your visions before the
3305 Lake Ariel Highway crowd is to risk ridicule.
Honesdale, PA 18431 To love is to risk not being loved in return.
**To go forward in the face of
570.647.0085 • Fax 570.647.0086 overwhelming odds is to risk failure.
cmag@ptd.net • thinkconnections@yahoo.com But risks must be taken, because the
www.connections-magazine.com greatest hazard in life is to risk nothing.
The person who risks nothing, does nothing,
has nothing, is nothing.
Connections Magazine is not responsible for typographical errors, We may avoid suffering and sorrow, but we
mistakes or misprints. All advertising, including photographs, is the cannot learn, feel, change, grow,
property of Connections Magazine and not that of the advertiser. The
love or know GOD.
advertiser has purchased the right of reproduction only in Connections
Chained by our own self-assurances, we
are a slave. We have forfeited our freedom.
Magazine and does not have the right to reproduce the ads in any
other place or publication. Connections Magazine reserves its rights to Only the person who dares to take risks and
to trust in their GOD will ever be made FREE.
exercise its discretion in the selection of advertisements.
© COPYRIGHT 2017 CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE
In 1997, Rev. Edwin E. Bailey, father of the editor, gave this poem to his daugh-
ter 8 days before he had a stroke and 3 weeks before he died. The poem was
adapted from works by Leo Buscaglia. Edwin hand wrote this on a scrap of
paper and gave it to his daughter, Deborah, saying the words, “Someday you’ll
understand these words and use them. God bless sweetheart.” **These words
were used in making the decision to purchase Connections Magazine in 2002.
CONNECTIONS COPYRIGHTED 2007
4 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | www.goodstuffconnections.com
WORDS FROM THE TEAM
“
Love has nothing to do with
what you are expecting to
get – only with what you
are expecting to give –
which is everything.
L
– Katharine Hepburn
easy ways to enjoy life’s everyday moments.
”
ove, love, love... it’s all about love! Who
we love, what we love & how we love!
We’d love you to check out our feature on
When opportunities arise to experience bonding
activities together, the results can be fond memo-
ries and a deeper sense of security... and don’t we
all love security.
The sweetest day of the year, a day full of flow-
ers, love and sweets, Valentine’s Day is the ulti-
mate opportunity to try a different dessert meant
for two, our Red Velvet mug cake.
Plus, step inside a snow globe when you dine at
Glass-wine.bar.kitchen. Greenhouses and igloos
were recently installed on the decks at Ledges
Hotel, overlooking the river gorge, to provide
socially-distanced outdoor dining throughout the
winter.
Take a look! We are sure you’ll
find something in our February
issue you’ll love to connect to.
We love you... thank you
for loving us! Happy
Valentine’s Day!
The CM Team
570.647.0085
cmag@ptd.net
www.goodstuffconnections.com | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 5
6 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | www.goodstuffconnections.com
EVERYDAY MOMENTS
For many people across Make Meals a Family Affair
Not only does getting the whole family
the country, carving out involved make the preparation faster, it’s a
time from busy schedules chance to squeeze in some time and maybe
even some learning and sharing. Kids can
to spend with loved ones help with measuring and other age-appropri-
ate tasks, and the casual setting is a good
can be difficult. However, environment to get kids talking about what’s
when opportunities arise on their minds.
If evenings are too rushed to make an all-
to experience bonding hands approach practical, instead try carving
activities together, the out some time on the weekends or once a
month for a few hours of baking up batches
results can be fond of a favorite treat. You can also find new and
fun family-friendly recipes. Even if the
memories and a deeper recipe doesn’t turn out well, the time spent
sense of security. doing it together is a treat on its own.
Enjoy Tasty Treats Together
“Many families, mine included, usually There’s nothing quite like a bowl of ice
put a lot of energy into planning fun events cream to light up a face and mood so break
and special trips to create memories,” said out the scooper and make some sweet memo-
Amanda Mushro, TLC lifestyle expert and ries. Set up your next sundae bar with a tasty
fairlife ambassador. “These get-togethers help option like fairlife Light Ice Cream, a deli-
us cope with challenges and remember to cious, lactose-free frozen dessert with a
make the most of each day. The past year, strong nutrition profile compared to tradi-
while disappointing, has revived our chances tional ice cream. It comes in seven flavors, so
to slow down a little and savor the little there is something for everyone.
moments that happen at home every day.”
Avoid Life’s Stressors
Build Strong Bonds Outside influences can have a major
Life gets busy, and in the shuffle it’s easy impact on your mood and ability to enjoy
to overlook the importance of quality time your time at home. Try turning off your
with your friends, family, and significant oth- phone notifications for a few hours of unin-
ers. Commit to regularly (and safely) spend- terrupted home time. If clutter is creating
ing one-on-one time with each loved one as a havoc, look for ways to improve your home’s
special treat you can all cherish. Even if it’s organization and get everyone in the house
just snuggling and watching a favorite show to pitch in to keep things in place.
together, crafting or doing an activity you
both enjoy, try making an effort to slow down Schedule Weekly Fun Nights
and strengthen your bonds. Designate a night each week to have fun
together playing games, watching movies or
Head Outdoors dancing. Pull out the board and card games
Leave the technology behind and go for a or get some fresh air with yard games like
walk or a bike ride together once or twice a croquet or bag toss. Sign up for a virtual
week. It’s a ritual you can look forward to cooking fitness class. When it comes to
while taking advantage of the time together movies, enjoy old favorites together or intro-
and the chance to burn some energy. You can duce kids to beloved classics from the ’80s
take outdoor appreciation even further by and ’90s and incorporate fun traditions with
planning camping trips to enjoy the joys of snacks and special treats.
wildlife through activities like bird watching,
fishing or impromptu scavenger hunts. Family Features
Photo courtesy of Getty Images (Couple playing Chess)
www.goodstuffconnections.com | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 7
8 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | www.goodstuffconnections.com
VALENTINE SWEETS
On the sweetest day of This dessert has Valentine’s Day
written all over it, however, it can be
the year, a day full of enjoyed anytime throughout the year
flowers, love and sweets, and is perfect for a late-night snack if
Valentine’s Day is the you’re craving something sugary-
sweet.
ultimate opportunity to Find more recipes and dessert
try a different dessert ideas for every celebration at Culi-
nary.net.
meant for two.
It’s hard to resist a perfectly blend- Red Velvet
ed, rose-red, luscious Red Velvet Mug
Cake. Mug Cake
It’s the perfect size, with just a Servings: 1
handful of instructions, and it’s easily
cooked before your eyes in the 6 tablespoons flour
microwave. That’s right, the 2 tablespoons sugar
microwave. 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
This mug cake is a simple way to 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
make something delicious and keep 1/8 teaspoon salt
the portions small. Whether you have 1/3 cup milk
a small party, just you and your loved 2 tablespoons butter, melted
one or just simply want something 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
easy and small, this quick treat is 30 drops red food coloring
designed just for you. 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
Start by mixing all the dry ingredi- 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
ents into a large mug, including flour,
sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder In 12-ounce mug, whisk flour, sugar,
and salt. cocoa powder, baking powder and
Then add milk, melted butter, salt. Add milk, butter, vanilla and
vanilla and red food coloring. Use a food coloring; mix until blended.
spoon and stir the ingredients togeth-
er until blended. In small bowl, mix powdered sugar
Mix powdered sugar and cream and cream cheese until smooth.
cheese then drop the mixture into the
cake batter and mix once more. Drop cream cheese mixture into
Microwave the mug for up to 3 min- cake batter. Press into batter
utes until your cake is baked. until covered.
Valentine’s Day means sharing with
someone how much you care, and it’s Microwave up to 3 minutes
difficult to find a better way than to until cake is done.
share something sweet.
(Culinary.net)
www.goodstuffconnections.com | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 910 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | www.goodstuffconnections.com
SNOW GLOBES
The weather outside may be course meal featuring some of the signature
fare from Glass-wine.bar.kitchen. The
frightful, but inside the green- cheese/charcuterie board, a perennial
house it’s delightful. Diners at favorite among diners at the restaurant,
Glass-wine.bar.kitchen will will get things started. The second course
will bring a farmhouse salad and roasted
now get to see Paupack High garlic hummus. Depending upon the pack-
Falls in a whole new light. age, entrée options for the third course
Greenhouses and igloos were range from Bistro Steak and Sautéed
Shrimp to Pan Seared Duck and Diver
recently installed on the decks Scallops. The final course features an
at Ledges Hotel overlooking assortment of hand selected desserts.
the river gorge for socially Upgrades are also available such as a
French Onion Soup Hot Pot for the table.
distanced outdoor dining Greenhouses may be reserved for dinner
throughout winter. seven days a week. There’s a $350 mini-
mum per greenhouse and a $100 non-
refundable deposit is required to hold a
Made of polycarbonate material, the four reservation.
greenhouses measure 8 x 12 and can Glass-wine.bar.kitchen also added to its
accommodate up to eight people for pri- outdoor dining options with the introduc-
vate dinners. Electric heaters keep things tion of igloos. Setup on the deck overlook-
cozy while vents at the roof and over the ing the falls, there are two heated igloos
door allow for natural air flow. “As the that can accommodate up to four people
weather turned cold, we knew we needed for a la carte dining. The restaurant is open
to reimagine dining yet again,” explained seven days a week for indoor dining, out-
Justin Genzlinger, Owner/CEO of Settlers door dining on the enclosed deck and take-
Hospitality. “The greenhouses and igloos out. Menus are available at
serve a practical purpose, but also enable ledgeshotel.com
us to offer our guests a new, unique experi-
About Settlers Hospitality
ence. At night the greenhouses are illumi-
Settlers Hospitality, a boutique multi-concept hospitali-
nated and dining with a 360-degree view ty in Hawley, PA, consists of The Settlers Inn, Ledges
of the surrounding gorge- it really is a mag- Hotel, Silver Birches Resort, Hotel Anthracite, Sayre
ical atmosphere.” Mansion, The Dock on Wallenpaupack, Glass-
wine.bar.kitchen, Kol Steakhouse, Cocoon Coffeehouse
Guests in the greenhouses will enjoy a and Bakery, Lake Region Fitness and Art on the Edge.
prix fixe menu served family style. There For more information, check out
are two dining packages available- stan- SettlersHospitality.com.
dard and deluxe. Both options boast a four-
www.goodstuffconnections.com | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 11Why do Radon levels rise during the
Winter? Provided by Disaster Blaster
{ }
If you’ve tested your home for radon at
different times of the year, you probably
noticed a spike in colder weather, but why
is that? Perhaps even more importantly,
should this be a concern to you?
Here are a few things that can con- while you may have lower levels at
tribute to a spike in your Radon lev- other times of the year, you may see a
els during the winter: significant spike during colder weath-
er. This is particularly true during
The ground could be extended periods of below-freezing
temperatures and heavy snow fall.
frozen
Normally, a lot of radon gas escapes
through your yard, but when the
There may be heavy snow
ground freezes that becomes more dif- accumulation
ficult and the path of least resistance Heavy blankets of ice and snow can
becomes your home. As a result, create a barrier preventing radon gas
12 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | www.goodstuffconnections.comTIPS FOR YOUR HOME
from escaping through your yard. As years. Homes that tested below the
radon gas accumulates below the sur- 4.0 pCi/L action level and did not
face, it will have to find somewhere to require a mitigation system should be
go, and this will often be your home. retested once every 5 years. All
homes should be retested following
Your house will be the completion of renovations or addi-
tions to the home.
closed up
During the winter, we close up our
homes to keep the cold out and the
More about radon
heat in, but that can also trap radon in • Radon is colorless, odorless, and
your home. With nowhere to go, tasteless, so testing is required in
radon gas can accumulate, reaching order to determine if, and to what
levels much higher than other times of extent, a home has a radon issue.
the year. • 40% of homes in Northeastern PA
are estimated to have radon levels
at or above the 4.0 pCi/L action
Your heat will be on level.
While radon gas migrates up to liv- • Radon is a radioactive gas that
ing spaces from your basement natu- results in as many as 22,000 deaths
rally, the spike can be even more in the United States each year.
noticeable if you have forced air heat. • Radon levels can be dramatically
As your furnace draws in air, it can reduced with the installation of a
pull radon saturated air and circulate radon mitigation system by a
this throughout your home. This can properly licensed and qualified
lead to an increase in radon levels on radon mitigation contractor.
the first and second floors that would • Despite radon levels spiking
be uncommon in warmer months. during winter months, the most
common time for the installation of
Should this be a concern radon mitigation systems is the
summer. This is because many
to you? radon mitigation systems are
Recognized as the 2nd leading cause installed as part of real estate
of lung cancer in the United States and transactions.
the leading cause among nonsmokers, • Other factors that can cause a
high radon levels should always be a radon test to spike are poor weather
concern to homeowners and occu- including rain and heavy winds!
pants. Given the known health effects
of radon exposure, the Pennsylvania
DEP has recommended any homes About Disaster Blaster
with radon levels at or above 4.0 pCi/L Disaster Blaster is an indoor
environmental firm serving the
have a radon mitigation system Northeastern PA Area. We have
installed to reduce potential exposure been providing our local area
by occupants. with unparalleled radon mitigation, water damage
mitigation, basement waterproofing, mold remediation,
asbestos abatement, and fire / smoke restoration
*Please note that, as radon levels services for decades, and are proud to have been
named The World’s Greatest Indoor Environmental
can change, the Pennsylvania DEP fur- Firm. For more about Disaster Blaster, as well as more
ther recommends that homes that pre- helpful tips, please visit our website at: www.disas-
terblaster.com or call our office at (570) 963-1123.
viously tested with high levels of
radon be retested once every two
www.goodstuffconnections.com | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 13Hiking
Warms the Heart
By Colleen Campion,
Watershed Specialist, Wayne Conservation District
Once considered a rude The physical health gains from hik-
ing, such as improved balance,
exclamation, studies stronger bones and muscle systems,
are showing that telling and decreased risk of heart disease,
someone to ‘take a hike’ have long been popularly acknowl-
edged. Now, we are starting to see a
can now also be looked at growing catalog of research aimed at
as a healthy prescription studying the relationship between time
spent in nature and the well-being of
to reduce stress and the emotional heart.
strengthen the heart. There is a strong web of connectivity
between the conditions of physical
health, emotional balance, and social
attachment. Qualities relating to one
can greatly impact the other two states
in ways that may not always be obvi-
ous. Many people experienced the ebb
and flow of this complex interaction
with glaring clarity this past year. And
some have chosen to look at these per-
14 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | www.goodstuffconnections.comHiking
sonal capacities with new eyes. the right level of personal challenge.
In spite of closures and travel Whether you choose a gentle walk
restrictions, public lands saw record along a flat, well-maintained path or a
numbers of visitors in 2020 as people more demanding rock scramble
flooded into open, green spaces. It’s through the woods, make that time to
evident that outdoor recreation turned get outside. Make the time to care for
medicinal for people who may have your well-being across all landscapes,
historically taken it for granted in the not just physically. And make the time
past. But old habits die hard. It’s valu- to appreciate nature with all of your
able to continue to renew your rela- heart.
tionship with nature often and to
strive to make that time in the great
Colleen Campion specializes in water-
outdoors meaningful for yourself. It shed conservation through monitor-
doesn’t have to be expensive or extrav- ing, technical assistance, and educa-
tion. The Wayne Conservation Dis-
agant; just continual and with intent. trict is a legal subdivision of state
Hiking is an easily accessible activi- government, responsible for conserva-
ty that lends itself plainly to nearly tion work within Wayne County, Pennsyl-
vania. Decisions about conservation issues are made at
anyone, regardless of age or athletic the local level by citizens who understand and want to
ability. Even during the winter protect and improve their local environment. Email:
waynecd@waynecountypa.gov Phone: (570) 253-0930
months, hiking can be scaled to fit just
www.goodstuffconnections.com | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 1516 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | www.goodstuffconnections.com
MRS. DOGOOD
TAKING INVENTORY
By The Reverend Mrs. Silence DoGood
Dear Editor, During the ten years that my mother had
When my parishioner Mr. Holberg Meyer Alzheimer’s, Ashley never called, wrote, nor in
came to me with a question, I thought it was a any way asked about her grandmother. This
simple one. So I thought the answer would be was the same grandmother who had given Ash-
simple. The question was “Should I go to my ley $10,000 toward her college education.
niece’s graduation?” But I was wrong. As I The week after Ashley and John returned to
pulled back the veil to reveal the history Oregon my sister called me. During a pleasant
between Mr. Meyer and his niece, Ashley, I conversation she mentioned that Ashley wants
understood why he had difficulty deciding. my silver and tapestry. How wrong I was in
Holby, as we all call him, is a retired conduc- thinking that Ashley and John came to have a
tor whose family has owned a house in Halo for closer relationship with me. She came to take
many generations. He lives in it now with his inventory so that at my death she can put Post-
Boxer whom he calls Mendelson. Before he its on my valuable possessions.
retired he was a visiting conductor at Trinity I reflected on my relationship with Ashley.
Church at Wall Street and Broadway in New During each year of her twenties I sent her
York City. He conducted their “Concerts at One” birthday and Christmas cards with a $25 check
series which is acclaimed. in them. She never thanked me nor contacted
Before he moved to Halo he lived in a house me. Oh that’s not correct. One year she did call
near his mother’s nursing home. He had cared me to say that there was no check in the card. I
for her during her ten year history with mailed her another one. When she turned thir-
Alzheimer’s. When he placed her in the nursing ty, I stopped.
home he turned one of his three bedrooms into Last week my sister called me and said that
a sanctuary for his mother so she could visit her Ashley wants me to attend her graduation. She
collections of expensive antique music boxes, will be awarded a Ph.D. in bio-nuclear-molecu-
Hummels, antique crystal and antique silver. lar studies. Do you think I should attend? ”
She enjoyed all of them. He thought if she I asked Holby if he wanted to go. He said that
could visit her possessions her life in the Spar- he was conflicted. He had never told his sister
tan nursing home would be easier. It was a mea- how he felt about Ashley. He also never told
ger salve. Ashley. “Sometimes if circumstances allow you
Holby took on the responsibility for his moth- not to pass judgement on a person, that road is
er because his only sibling Ella lives in Portland preferable. But now I have to make a judge-
with her family: her husband Alec, her daughter ment. I guess it’s about forgiving. It’s also about
Ashley and her son Nathan. supporting someone’s ambition and success in
When his mother passed away Holby inherit- getting educated.”
ed his family’s home in Halo and he decided to “Why don’t you call Ashley and ask her why
move here. His mother had left other assets to she wants you to attend?”
his sister. As he was packing up his house to Ashley: “To be proud of me.” Holby went.
move to the smaller house in Halo, his niece Amen.
Ashley and her husband John visited him. His
sister Ella paid for Ashley and John’s trip
because she wanted her daughter and son-in-
law to have a closer relationship with their
uncle.
“When I came home from conducting my last The Reverend Mrs. Silence DoGood
concert at Trinity I walked into my mother’s Senior Pastor
room only to see that Ashley had placed yellow Executive Director
Post-its on all of my mother’s expensive items. President
She had written ‘Ashley’ on them. As I looked Chairman
at the many Post-it items my soul became silent Choir Master (part-time)
and empty. A horrible sadness fell over me. The First Church of God’s Love
www.goodstuffconnections.com | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 17Money
SECURE Act
Changed IRA and Retirment
Plan Inheritance Rules
Provided by Michael Krupa
garet's life expectancy. The account was able to
A
t the end of 2019, President Trump
signed a federal spending package that continue growing for many years.2
included the Setting Every Community
Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act. The new rules
A provision in this legislation effectively elimi- Beginning in January 2020, most nonspouse
nated the "stretch IRA," an estate-planning strate- beneficiaries are required to liquidate inherited
gy that allowed an IRA to continue benefiting accounts within 10 years of the owner's death.
from tax-deferred growth, potentially for This shorter distribution period could result in
decades. Most nonspouse beneficiaries, includ- unanticipated and potentially large tax bills for
ing children and grandchildren, can no longer nonspouse beneficiaries who inherit high-value
"stretch" distributions over their lifetimes. IRAs. There are no RMDs during the 10-year
Individuals who plan to leave IRA and retire- period, so beneficiaries can take distributions in
ment plan assets to heirs — and individuals who any amount and any time frame they choose,
stand to inherit retirement assets — should provided the assets are completely exhausted at
understand the new rules and distribution the end of the period. Any funds not liquidated
options. by the 10-year deadline will be subject to a 50%
penalty tax.
The old "stretch" rules Example: Under the new rules, Margaret
For retirement assets inherited before 2020, a would have to empty the account, in whatever
nonspouse beneficiary had to begin required amounts she chooses, within 10 years of her
minimum distributions (RMDs) within a certain father's death. Since she stands to earn her high-
time frame after inheriting the account. However, est-ever salaries during that time frame, the dis-
annual distributions could be calculated based tributions could push her into the highest tax
on the beneficiary's life expectancy. This ability bracket at both the federal and state levels.
to stretch taxable distributions over a lifetime Because the account would be depleted after 10
helped reduce the beneficiary's annual tax bur- years, it would not eventually pass to her son,
den and allowed large IRAs to continue benefit- and her tax obligations in the decade leading up
ing from potential tax-deferred growth.1 to her retirement would be much higher than she
Example: Consider the hypothetical case of anticipated.
Margaret, a single, 52-year-old banking executive The beneficiary of a traditional IRA might
who inherited a million-dollar IRA from her 85- want to spread the distributions equally over the
year-old father. Margaret had to begin taking 10 years in order to manage the annual tax liabil-
RMDs from her father's IRA by December 31 of ity. By contrast, the beneficiary of a Roth IRA —
the year following his death. She was able to which generally provides tax-free distributions
base the annual distribution amount on her life — might want to leave the account intact for up
expectancy of 32.3 years. Since she didn't really to 10 years, allowing it to potentially benefit
need the money, she took only the minimum from tax-free growth for as long as possible.
amount required each year, allowing the account
to continue growing. Upon Margaret's death at Notable exceptions
age 70, the remaining assets passed to her 40- The new rules specifically affect most non-
year-old son, who then continued taking distri- spouse designated beneficiaries who are more
butions over the remaining 13.3 years of Mar- than 10 years younger than the original account
18 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | www.goodstuffconnections.comowner. However, key exceptions apply to those ject to the same 10-year liquidation require-
who are known as "eligible designated benefici- ments, so the new rules may render null and
aries" — a spouse or minor child of the account void some of the original reasons the trusts
owner; those who are not more than 10 years were established.
younger than the account owner (such as a
close-in-age sibling or other relative); and dis- Planning tips
abled or chronically ill individuals, as defined
Retirement account owners should review
by the IRS. (Note that the 10-year distribution
their beneficiary designations with their finan-
rule will apply once a child beneficiary reaches
cial or tax professional and consider how the
the age of majority and when a successor bene-
new rules may affect inheritances and taxes.
ficiary inherits account funds from an initial eli-
Any strategies that include trusts as beneficiar-
gible designated beneficiary.)
ies should be considered especially carefully.
Eligible designated beneficiaries may use the
Other strategies that account owners may want
old stretch IRA rules and take RMDs based on
to consider include converting traditional IRAs
their own life expectancies.3 In these cases,
to Roths; bringing life insurance, charitable
RMDs must begin no later than December 31 of
remainder trusts, or accumulation trusts into
the year after the original account owner's
the mix; and planning for qualified charitable
death. However, if the original owner was of
distributions.6
RMD age and failed to take the required amount
in the year of death, the beneficiary must take 1For account owners who died before January 1, 2020, the old
the RMD by December 31 of that year.4 Failure rules apply to the initial beneficiary only. Under these rules, a
to take the appropriate amount can result in a beneficiary also generally had the option to take distributions
sooner than required.
penalty equal to 50% of the amount that should 2This hypothetical example is used for illustrative purposes
have been withdrawn. only and does not represent the performance of any specific
investment. Fees, expenses, and taxes are not considered and
would reduce the performance shown if they were included.
Spouse as beneficiary Actual results will vary. All investing involves risk including
the possible loss of principal and there is no guarantee that any
Spousal beneficiaries can roll over the IRA investment strategy will be successful.
assets to their own IRAs, or elect to treat a 3If the original account owner dies on or after the required
deceased account owner's IRA as their own beginning date, an older eligible designated beneficiary can
take RMDs over the remaining life expectancy of the original
(presuming the spouse is the sole beneficiary account owner if it is longer than the beneficiary's life
and the IRA trustee allows it). By becoming the expectancy.
account owner, the surviving spouse can make 4The surviving spouse of an original account owner who was
under RMD age at the time of death can wait until December 31
additional contributions, name new beneficiar-
of the year in which the deceased would have had to take
ies, and wait until age 72 to start taking RMDs.5 RMDs, or the spouse can take actions as discussed under the
(A surviving spouse who becomes the account "Spouse as beneficiary" section.
owner of a Roth IRA is not required to take dis- 5For an account owner born prior to July 1, 1949, RMDs would
start at age 70?.
tributions.) 6Other trusts are generally subject to RMDs based on the
Note that RMDs for 2020 have been waived owner's life expectancy if the owner had reached the required
by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic beginning date; if the owner died before the required beginning
date, the account must be emptied by the end of the fifth year
Security (CARES) Act. after the owner's death. There are costs and ongoing expenses
associated with the creation and maintenance of trusts.
Beneficiaries may take a pass
A beneficiary may also disclaim an inherited
retirement account. This may be appropriate if Michael Krupa
the initial beneficiary does not need the funds 614 Church St
and/or want the tax liability. In this case, the Honesdale, PA 18431
assets may pass to a contingent beneficiary who 570-253-0121
has greater financial need or may be in a lower michaelkrupa@krupawm.com
tax bracket. A qualified disclaimer statement
must be completed within nine months of the Content Prepared by Broadridge Investor Communica-
tion Solutions, Inc. This information, developed by an
date of death.
independent third party, has been obtained from
sources considered to be reliable, but Raymond James
Impacts on trust planning Financial Services, Inc. does not guarantee that the
foregoing material is accurate or complete. This infor-
Prior to 2020, individuals with high-value
mation is not a complete summary or statement of all
IRAs often used conduit — or "pass-through" — available data necessary for making an investment
trusts to manage the distribution of inherited decision and does not constitute a recommendation.
IRA assets. The trusts helped protect the assets Securities offered through Raymond James Financial
from creditors and helped ensure that benefici- Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advi-
aries didn't spend down their inheritances too sory services are offered through Raymond James
quickly. However, conduit trusts are now sub- Financial Services Advisors, Inc.
www.goodstuffconnections.com | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 19Pod-casts
Now a By LA Guzda
POD-CASTNow you can get
your Pocono Secrets
wherever you find your
favorite podcasts.
(hosted on Anchor)
These stories run approximately ten min-
utes in length. In revisiting old articles and
updating information, the podcast format
allows for expansion on a topic. The first
season will present eight episodes.
Episode 1:
Birthplace of the American
Conservation Movement
We all know that Gifford Pinchot is rec-
ognized as the Father of the American Con-
servation Movement which began in Mil-
ford, in Pike County. But not many know
about his first love with a woman who died
before they were able to marry. Yet, she
influenced his early career from beyond.
20 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | www.goodstuffconnections.comEpisode 2: Episode 4 is currently in production
while the remaining episodes in Season 1
A Christmas Connection – will be posted by the spring. Link to
Honesdale Pocono Secrets Podcast:
https://anchor.fm/poconosecrets
Richard Smith wrote the lyrics to Walk- There is such a rich history of creativity
ing in a Winter Wonderland, a Honesdale and oddness that is fascinating about the
native. Philip Hone, for whom Honesdale Pocono Mountains. Its close proximity to
is named, is a self-made man of wealth New York City and Philadelphia makes it
and leisure. Hone was friends with Wash- an ideal location to replenish the soul.
ington Irving – hence Irving Cliff. These Besides the fact that this area helped to
gentlemen have a holiday connection to build both of those major metro areas. It is
the world. astounding how it has remained undevel-
oped for so long.
Episode 3: Here in the Pocono Mountains, you can
enjoy a night sky bursting with stars, sun-
Birth of the sets that inspire artists and air so clean you
Heart-Shaped Tub can drink it from a cup. And “secrets” from
Visionaries, great marketing, crime fami- the past that will delight, engage and often
ly connections all create this fascinating surprise.
story. Even the creation of the PGA I invite you to join me as we explore
evolved from enjoying the natural beauty what is new, what’s old, what’s cool, what’s
and relaxation of the beautiful Pocono weird… what the locals know.
Mountains.
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @PoconoSecrets
Visit www.LAGuzda.com or www.PoconoSecrets.com
for past articles.
www.goodstuffconnections.com | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 2122 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | www.goodstuffconnections.com
Outdoor Ramblings
Winter
Eagle
Watching
By Bill Deaton | williamjdeaton@yahoo.com
F
ebruary is typically prime time for viewing Bald Eagles in and around the
Upper Delaware River Valley. Seeking open waters for fishing, our nation-
al symbol migrates south and takes up seasonal residences along the local
streams. The eagles present during the winter are usually not the same ones pad-
dlers and anglers meet during the summer months as most of those birds have
migrated south and won’t return until the spring. Summer sightings tend to be
staggered, whereas winter encounters can be concentrated, especially in several
spots favored by our feathery friends.
Birdwatching can be done any day of the week. For those venturing out, observ-
ing the following tips can help enhance your experience and keep you safe while
looking for eagles.
• Utilize existing pull-offs and parking areas when possible. Always pull
completely off the road and stay in or near your vehicle when observing
wildlife.
• Move quickly and quietly to the established viewing blinds at Mongaup
Reservoir and at Minisink Ford. Always avoid loud noises, slamming vehicle
doors, honking, and yelling. Be mindful of other observers.
• Observe from a distance. Use binoculars, spotting scopes, or telephoto camera
lenses. Don’t get close to eagles or do anything that would cause them to fly.
• Be prepared for winter weather conditions. Dress appropriately for being
outdoors in cold, wet weather. Be sure your vehicle is winter-ready as well.
Pull-offs and parking areas may be muddy or snowy. Ensure your vehicle has
enough fuel and window washer fluid. Keep snacks and warm drinks on hand
for the adventure.
• Download the eagle viewing map before going out and take it with you on your
trip. delawarehighlands.org/eagles/eagle-watching/map/
Common places to access the river for eagle viewing are at the boat launch
areas at Narrowsburg NY, Ten Mile River NY, Lackawaxen PA, Minisink Ford NY,
and Barryville NY. Elsewhere in NY, there are spots near the Mongaup Falls, and
the boat launch on the Rio Reservoir between Forestburgh and Rio. Eagle spotting
is not restricted to these areas and sightings occur both upstream and down-
stream along the Delaware River and are not uncommon along the lower reaches
of the Lackawaxen River, however, public access to those areas is limited and
many locations are not maintained as winter pull-offs.
Photo credit Bill Deaton.
www.goodstuffconnections.com | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 23Book Review
UH-OH! EVERYBODY'S But then a "hurritrain" came and blew
everything all over. The barn was scram-
WATCHING. bled, it was a mess, but Indigo remembered
They're all looking at you and now what? how her neighbors cleaned up the park, so
Your voice won't work when all eyes are she suggested that Acoustic Rooster's band
pointed your way. You can't sing like that, members clean up their area. In fact, maybe
can't say your lines, so how can you play it was a good time to have a "Barnyard Boo-
your part? You can barely even move when gie" benefit concert.
everybody's watching, so try this: sleep on And it might have been, if Dairy Parton
it. In the new book hadn't lost her voice
"Acoustic Rooster's and Duck Ellington
Barnyard Boogie
Starring Indigo
“Acoustic Rooster's hadn't quacked up. In
that case, somebody
Blume" by Kwame
Alexander, pictures
Barnyard Boogie had to be brave. Some-
one needed to be coura-
by Tim Bowers, that
might work.
Starring Indigo Blume” geous. Someone had to
be a star...
As she helped Chances are you've
clean up the park seen videos or TV
near her house, Indi- shows featuring young
go Blume was a performers that've
happy girl. The Gar- blown your socks off.
den City Community Believe it or not, at
Festival would be some point in their
held soon and she lives, chances are
was going to sing for they've had stage fright.
the Festival. It was It happens to children
exciting – until it of all ages, making,
wasn't. "Acoustic Rooster's
Her friend, Elijah, Barnyard Boogie Star-
said that the whole ring Indigo Blume" a
school was coming to perfect read.
hear Indigo sing! Mr. Kids who live to
Woody said he saw By Kwame Alexander make music and dance
posters everywhere, Illustrated by Tim Bowers but hate the pressure
and Samantha said Reviewed by Terri Schlichenmeyer will love the story here
that hundreds of peo- because there's not a
ple would probably come. Nooooooooope, shred of outside push inside this book.
that was too much for Indigo. Instead, author Kwame Alexander lets his
Her mom said that Indigo was "the main character shine because of a dream-
bravest songbird" she knew. sequence she had, which leads to a satisfy-
Indigo's dad said she should, "Be brave. ing ending that she already owned. This
Be a star. Believe." makes young readers smile, and parents
As Indigo went to bed that night, she confident in an easily-absorbed lesson; add
couldn't believe how scared she was. Still, colorful, happy illustrations from Tom
she managed to fall asleep and she fell Bowers and you've got a book that'll make
into.... a barn! It was Acoustic Rooster's kids and parents both sing.
barn and his band members were all there. Based on the Kennedy Center Musical,
She loved his book. She loved Acoustic this is a great confidence booster for kids
Rooster; his band could play anything! So ages 5-8, especially the occasionally cold-
there she was, and even though Chickee footed performer. They'll crow about
Minaj said it was "a closed rehearsal," "Acoustic Rooster's Barnyard Boogie Star-
Acoustic Rooster gave Indigo a tambourine. ring Indigo Blume, just watch.
24 | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | www.goodstuffconnections.comwww.goodstuffconnections.com | CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE | 25
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