Outdoors Fun

Who can resist butterflies? Not me! That's why I love the sedum planted throughout my garden ( a big thank you to my mother-in-law who gave me the cutting that started my first sedum plant). Not only is this a plant that thrives on neglect and looks good all year but it also attracts butterflies during their fall migration, particularly monarchs. If you'd like to learn more about monarchs, you have two opportunities to hear Herb and Mary Ann Schlegel of Schuylkill Haven share their experiences of creating a way station for monarch butterflies where they raise between 200 and 400 butterflies each season! Both programs are free to the public.

August 20 at the Sweet Arrow Lake clubhouse - 7 p.m.
​August 22 at the Ashland Area Historic Preservation society - 7 p.m.

If you prefer the more "icky" creatures, stop by the Locust Lake State Park amphitheatre on Saturday, August 18 at 5 p.m. to learn more about reptiles and amphibians. There will be some live animals! In case of rain, come to the program shelter near the camp store.

I'd like to add another hike to the August list:
Sunday, August 19
Meet at upper beach parking lot of Tuscarora State Park at 11 a.m. for this 4.5 mile hike rated moderate. "Pap" Knauss will lead a search for late summer wildflowers. Bring a lunch and leashed dogs that are friendly to other dogs AND people.

You can see the complete list here

I'm excited about something old that will be completely new to me -- the Great Pottsville Car Cruise. Usually it happens on my beach vacation week but this year there was a bit of a change in the date and viola! I can enjoy all the marvelous cars. Stop by Pottsville this Saturday, August 18 for the 25th cruise. If you want to register your car or preview the cars stop by Jerry's Cars and Collectibles Museum, 394 S. Centre Street between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. The city cruise is from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. The Downtown Car Show is from 5 .m. to 8 p.m. The Sock Hop at the Lodge is from 9 p.m. to midnight ($10 cover charge).

The cruise route is down West Market Street, right turn onto West End Avenue, left turn onto 18th Street, right turn onto Laurel Boulevard, right turn onto 3rd street or Centre Street and back to West Market Street. find a good spot and enjoy the show!