Medicinal Monday... The Radiant Pineland Golden Trumpet: A Rare Tropical Wonder

The Pineland Golden Trumpet (Angadenia berteroi) stands out as a radiant gem of the tropical plant world. With its striking trumpet-shaped flowers in vivid yellow hues, this shrub is a visual delight. However, its splendor comes with an air of fragility—it is now considered imperiled in South Florida, a status that underscores the importance of its preservation. Native to specific regions in Florida and the southeastern United States, the Pineland Golden Trumpet also holds a rich cultural and ecological significance, making it a fascinating piece of natural history worth exploring.

About the Pineland Golden Trumpet

This plant thrives in the open pine woodlands and rocky landscapes of Monroe and Dade counties in Florida, as well as Washington County in North Carolina. It prefers well-drained, limestone or sandy soils and can tolerate salty winds, though direct salt spray proves too harsh for its delicate structure.

Its defining features include: Linear oblong leaves: 1-2 inches long with curled margins, and vibrant yellow flowers that are trumpet-shaped with five petals that bloom before dawn. Another unusual characteristic is its unique reproductive structure. The flowers utilize a complex arrangement of anthers and stigma to encourage cross-pollination, relying on long-tongued pollinators like crepuscular moths, oleander moths, and the polka dot wasp moth. The fruit of this shrub is a pair of terete or cylindrical follicles, about two inches long, which mature over two months

While it thrives in Florida, this plant is also found in Cuba, the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos Islands, and Hispaniola, extending its tropical charm across the Caribbean.

A Healing Legacy: Medicinal Uses

To the Seminole tribe of Florida, the Pineland Golden Trumpet was more than a beautiful plant—it was a valuable medicinal resource. Its roots were traditionally used to create soothing washes or decoctions for a variety of ailments:

• Skin irritations and sores: A wash made from the roots helped alleviate dermatological issues.Chronic sickness and fever: The plant’s decoction was believed to address deeper illnesses, including malaria.
• Painful swellings and impotence: It served as a remedy for conditions impacting physical well-being.
• Folk remedy for diabetes: A testament to its versatility in traditional medicine.

Did You Know?

Here are a few fascinating facts about the Pineland Golden Trumpet:

• Its milky sap, while part of its natural defense, can cause severe eye irritation or dermatitis if touched.
• It belongs to the Apocynaceae family, also known as the Dogbane family, a group of plants often containing toxic compounds.
• The plant was first documented in 1844, adding to its historical significance.

Protecting a Rare Beauty

As a species considered imperiled, the Pineland Golden Trumpet reminds us of the delicate balance between nature and human impact. Preserving its habitats, understanding its ecological contributions, and appreciating its cultural significance are vital steps toward ensuring that future generations continue to marvel at this natural wonder.

Soar into Winter Thrills @ Salisbury’s Jumpfest January 31 – February 2

This year, why not elevate your love for winter sports—literally? Ski jumping, a breathtaking blend of athleticism and daring, might just become your new obsession. And there’s no better place to experience this electrifying sport on the East Coast than Salisbury’s Jumpfest, happening Friday, January 31 through Sunday, February 2. What makes Jumpfest truly special? You’ll witness jaw-dropping performances, often featuring Olympic hopefuls, soaring through the crisp winter air. Don’t worry if there’s no snow in your backyard—Satre Hill will be blanketed in pristine, powdery snow, thanks to the state-of-the-art snowmaking technology of the Salisbury Winter Sports Association (SWSA). 

Let’s be honest—not everyone can ski, let alone soar through the air and nail a landing with any grace. But watching ski jumpers defy gravity in real-time? That’s a whole different level of excitement. This is a sport where every second and every movement counts, making it as unpredictable as it is electrifying. With razor-thin margins and unexpected victories, no two performances are ever the same. Once you see the precision, skill, and sheer guts it takes to master this sport, you’ll be hooked. And there’s no better place to experience the adrenaline than Salisbury’s Jumpfest—set to be bigger, bolder, and better than ever! The frost in the air, the clang of cowbells, the roar of the crowd, and the unmistakable thwack of skis hitting the landing hill—it’s pure magic. This isn’t just an event, it’s a winter experience!” 

Jumpfest delivers three days of heart pounding excitement and ski jumping competitions. As one of only six East Coast venues—and among the oldest and most prestigious—Salisbury has hosted jumpers that have gone on to the Olympics in past competitions. Witness an extraordinary spectacle as athletes take on not one, but three distinct hills: the 20-meter, 30-meter, and the towering 65-meter hill. Brace yourself as jumpers launch into the air, soaring up to 200 feet at breathtaking speeds exceeding 50 miles per hour. This is a rare chance to see skill, bravery, and gravity-defying feats all in one exhilarating event! 

Friday begins when the gates swing open at 6 PM. The excitement kicks off at 7 PM with Target Jumping, followed by the crowd-favorite Human Dog Sled Race. Watch teams of six go head-to-head in this wildly entertaining, one-of-a-kind competition. With thrilling prizes and year-long bragging rights on the line, it’s a can't-miss spectacle of fun and chaos. You won’t find many places in the country hosting an event like this, and certainly not close to Connecticut. Make sure you’re there—this is the stuff memories (and legends) are made of! To enter head to https://www.skireg.com/jumpfest-human-dogsled-race and keep in mind the deadline for entering this zany event is January 30th. The fee to enter is a modest $25 per team that includes free entrance to Jumpfest! Proceeds benefit SWSA’s Junior Ski Programs. 

On Saturday, February 1st, the small hill opens at 8 a.m. for practice jumps. At 9:30 a.m., cheer on the next generation of ski jumpers during the Junior Competition on the 20-meter and 30-meter hills. The action heats up as the 70-meter hill opens from 11 a.m. to noon for warm-ups and practice jumps, all leading up to the main event: the Salisbury Invitational Ski Jump Competition on the big hill at 1 p.m. The day wraps up with the Snowball Fundraiser that begins at 8 p.m. and runs through 11:30 p.m. at the Lakeville Town Grove. Dance the night away with live music from the Steve Dunn Band, try your luck in the raffle, and refuel with pizza at 10 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person, kids 12 and under are free. 

On Sunday, February 2nd the action kicks off at 11 a.m. when the 70-meter hill opens for warm-ups and practice jumps. It’s the perfect chance to scope out the athletes' style, form, and landings up close. But the real excitement starts at 1 p.m. with the Eastern U.S. Ski Jumping Championships—easily the biggest highlight of the weekend. Feel the tension as ski jumpers sit on the bar, laser-focused, waiting for the go signal. Then, it's pure magic. They launch into the air, helmets leading the charge, arms thrown back, and bodies tucked tight for ultimate speed and aerodynamics. Balance. Flexibility. Nerve. It’s all on display as they soar from the top of the hill to the bottom in just 20 electrifying seconds. Blink, and you might miss it. The stakes couldn’t be higher—winners of the championships will earn their spot on the Eastern Division of the Junior National Team. Stick around for the awards ceremony to see who makes the cut. Don’t just watch the action—feel it. This is ski jumping at its finest. 

And, if you work up an appetite, no worries, the Cook Shack offers a range of burgers, dogs, hot chocolate and more, and the Low N Slow Food Truck serves BBQ, authentic poutine, mac n’ cheese and many other selections on all three days. There will also be a wine tent, a hot toddy tent, and a beer tent. 

Tickets will be available at the gate and are $15 for adults on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Kids 12 and under are free all three days. The cost of the Snowball is $20 and includes a cash bar, music, raffles, and pizza at 10 p.m. The ski jump complex is located at Satre Hill on Indian Cave Road in Salisbury. Before setting out check www.jumpfest.org for updates, scheduled changes, or more information or email the Association at info@jumpfest.org. 

ABOUT SALISBURY WINTER SPORTS ASSOCIATION 

The mission of the Salisbury Winter Sports Association is to acquaint the public with Nordic ski-jumping, cross –country and Alpine skiing, and to teach the skills necessary for their enjoyment. One way of fulfilling this mission is to host the annual Jumpfest Competition on Satre Hill to sustain and ski jumping in Salisbury, Connecticut, and the Eastern United States.

Medicinal Monday: Beautiful Bayberry

Bayberry, a resilient and aromatic shrub, has captivated people for centuries with its remarkable medicinal qualities and versatile uses. Native to North and Central America, as well as the Caribbean, bayberry boasts a fascinating legacy shaped by Native American traditions and colonial ingenuity. From treating ailments to scenting candles, this hardy plant has proven itself time and time again. 

About Bayberry Shrubs 

Bayberry bushes are not only tough and hardy, but they also exude a fragrant charm that makes them unmistakable. With their upright, rounded shape and oval, dark green leaves, these shrubs brighten coastal landscapes and thrive in sandy, salty soils. Here’s what makes bayberry stand out: 

Size & Shape: Grows between 5-8 feet tall with simple, evergreen (or semi-evergreen) leaves. 

Berries: Female plants produce small, waxy, gray-blue berries in the fall. 

Habitat: Found near ocean dunes, bogs, marshlands, and wet woodlands. Bayberry’s fragrance and adaptability make it a staple in nature’s coastal tapestry. 

Medicinal Uses of Bayberry 

Native Americans were the first to uncover the healing properties of the bayberry plant. Its roots, bark, leaves, and even ashes were used to treat various ailments. The plant contains myricitrin, a chemical with antibiotic properties, as well as high levels of tannin, giving it both astringent and antibacterial qualities. 

Historical Remedies: 

For Cold & Coughs: Infusions of dried roots helped ease respiratory issues. 

Skin Infections: Bark washes treated wounds and infections. 

Kidney Disorders: The Mohegans used bayberry tea for kidney health. 

Stomachaches: Roots decoctions soothed stomach pains, even in children. 

Fever Reducer: Decoctions of leaves and stems were a go-to for fevers. 

Even more fascinating is the ceremonial "black drink", a stimulating beverage made from bayberry berries, bark, and leaves. Used by Southeastern tribes like the Seminoles, this drink was central to seasonal ceremonies and even inspired the name of Osceola, their great chief, meaning "black drink singer." 

 Did You Know? 

Bayberry’s utility doesn’t stop at medicine. Its berries produce a wax that, when boiled and skimmed, is perfect for making scented candles—a practice dating back to Colonial America. This wax was so valued that European settlers learned the craft from Native Americans alongside the plant’s medicinal uses. 

 Here are some delightful tidbits about bayberry: 

 Birds like quail, pheasants, and migrating songbirds thrive on bayberry berries. 

Its wax was a staple in Colonial candle-making, prized for its natural fragrance. 

A 1737 description praised bayberry for curing colic, paralysis, epilepsy, and more. 

A Word of Caution While bayberry has been celebrated for its medicinal properties, its high tannin content calls for cautious use. Modern research supports its antibacterial and astringent qualities, but overuse can lead to complications. Enjoy its benefits, but always consult a professional when using bayberry remedies. 

 The Legacy of Bayberry 

From the sands of coastal dunes to the ceremonies of Native American tribes, bayberry continues to weave its story through history. Whether as a medicinal marvel, a candle-maker’s secret, or a songbird’s sustenance, this remarkable shrub holds a special place in the natural world—and in our hearts. Next time you spot a bayberry bush, take a moment to breathe in its fragrance and appreciate its enduring legacy. Embrace the beauty and history of bayberry this Medicinal Monday!

"Explore More, Spend Less: Why Group Travel is Taking Over 2025"

Group travel in the U.S. is gaining popularity heading into 2025, and for good reason, says Tyler Zajacz, President of Tours of Distinction, a Connecticut-based tour operator with over 50 years of experience. “Group travel combines affordability, convenience, and meaningful shared experiences, making it an increasingly appealing travel option,” Zajacz explains. 

According to the U.S. Travel Association, group room demand in the top 25 U.S. markets grew by 9%, and 93% of leisure travelers plan to travel within the next six months, up from 90% at the end of 2024. Several factors are driving this trend, with cost-effectiveness leading the way. “Group travel offers significant savings,” says Zajacz. “From discounted airfare and shared motorcoach costs to reduced hotel rates and group pricing on activities, it allows travelers to enjoy bucket-list trips without overspending. 

Another key driver is the growing desire for authentic, shared experiences. “People value creating lasting memories with family and friends – old and new, and group trips provide the perfect opportunity for these connections,” Zajacz notes. 

Group travel also eliminates much of the stress associated with trip planning. “We handle everything—from logistics to accommodations—so travelers can simply enjoy the experience,” Zajacz shares. Tours of Distinction even assigns a professional Group Tour Director to each trip to ensure every detail goes smoothly, a convenience that appeals to travelers. 

Additionally, group travel offers an added sense of security, particularly for international trips or unfamiliar destinations. 

As preferences shift toward experience-driven travel, the rise of group travel reflects a growing desire for affordability, ease, safety, and connection. This upward trend shows no signs of slowing, offering travelers more opportunities to explore the world—together. 

About Tours of Distinction

 Since 1971, Tours of Distinction has been crafting unforgettable travel experiences for mature adults. From relaxing day trips to epic 7-14 day national and international adventures, we specialize in small-group guided tours designed to make every moment distinctive. For us, travel isn’t just a business—it’s a way of life that fosters connection, curiosity, and community, both at home and across the globe. Let’s make your next journey extraordinary and distinctive!

Compete in Jumpfest’s Human Dog Sled Race for Cash Prizes: A Winter Tradition Like No Other January 31 @ Satre Hill

 

Get ready for an unforgettable winter adventure at Jumpfest, hosted by the Salisbury Winter Sports Association (SWSA). While aspiring Olympic ski jumpers take center stage, this event also delivers one-of-a-kind thrills with the wildly popular Human Dog Sled Race—a unique spectacle found in only a handful of places worldwide. 

This year, the Human Dog Sled Race returns as a fan-favorite tradition, kicking off under the newly installed state of the art lights at Satre Hill in Salisbury on Friday, January 31. New this year, teams will compete for Cash Prizes! The action begins around 8:30 p.m., right after the Target Jumps wrap up. Planning to compete? Be sure to arrive when the ticket booth opens at 6 p.m. to check in, organize your sled, and lock in your spot for the race. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exhilarating winter event! 

Are you curious about what a Human Dog Sled Race is? Think classic dogsledding, but with a hilarious twist—no huskies here! Instead, you and your friends are the "power pups." Here’s the scoop: gather a team of six - everyone must be 18+ and ready for some snowy action. Five teammates will pull the sled, while one lucky rider gets the best seat in the house—along with the laughs! The race spans a .3-mile snow track, so be prepared to bring your A-game. Compete for glory and cash prizes in men’s, women’s, or mixed categories, but speed isn’t your only ticket to victory. The ultimate prize? The People’s Choice Award, given to the team with the most creative costumes and sled design. Think outside the sled—inner tubes, steam-punk rigs, you name it. The crazier, the better! Dress to impress, unleash your team spirit, and let the snow-filled fun begin! 

Registration is open through January 30, 2025. The registration form is online at jumpfest.org. The fee to enter is a modest $25 per team that includes free entrance to Jumpfest! Proceeds benefit SWSA’s Junior Ski Programs. An added bonus is that Friday night of Jumpfest is an all around great time in a beautiful alpine setting. An eighth of a mile of luminaries guide visitors to the site where there are two roaring bonfires and plenty of food and beverages to snack on. The target ski jumping and the Human Dog Sled Races are held under the newly installed state of the art lights, and both are professionally announced! For more information about Jumpfest https://jumpfest.org 

ABOUT SALISBURY WINTER SPORTS ASSOCIATION 

The mission of the Salisbury Winter Sports Association is to acquaint the public with Nordic ski-jumping, cross –country and Alpine skiing, and to teach the skills necessary for their enjoyment. One way of fulfilling this mission is to host the annual Jumpfest Competition on Satre Hill to sustain and ski jumping in Salisbury, Connecticut and the Eastern United States.

Don’t Miss the Premiere of The Jump by CPTV, Hosted by Salisbury Winter Sports Association

Experience the magic of the premiere of CPTV's The Jump hosted by the Salisbury Winter Sports Association (SWSA) on Saturday, January 11th, at 5:30 p.m. at the charming Colonial Theatre (37 Railroad Street, Canaan) for the premiere of The Jump. The Jump is a story that celebrates the heart, resilience, and magic of a small-town community in northwest Connecticut that has embraced ski jumping for decades. 

Produced by CPTV, The Jump takes you on an inspiring journey to Salisbury, Connecticut, where a determined community rallied together to save their beloved ski jump. From the power of volunteerism to the triumph of a local hero who overcame polio to compete in the 1956 Winter Olympics in Italy, this heartwarming film highlights the spirit that makes Salisbury and SWSA extraordinary. 

 Discover the legacy of the Salisbury JumpFest, learn about the incredible individuals who made ski jumping a cherished tradition, and celebrate the pride of a town that never gives up. This is more than a movie—it’s a celebration of resilience, legacy, and the magic of small-town dreams. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., admission is free, donations are welcomed and appreciated.  There are 120 seats available on a first come first serve basis. The film begins at 6 p.m.  

ABOUT SALISBURY WINTER SPORTS ASSOCIATION 

In the winter of 1926, John Satre a resident of Salisbury jumped off the roof of his shed wearing skis to show his friends and neighbors a sport he learned in his native homeland of Norway. Town residents were so amazed as they watched Satre soar through the air that they decided to build a proper ski run that summer, and form the Salisbury Winter Sports Association. The Association hosted the first ski jump competition in January 1927. JumpFest has become a highly anticipated event in Connecticut and throughout much of the East Coast. 

ABOUT JUMPFEST 

 This live in person outdoor event is the oldest Ski Jumping Competition in New England and one of only six ski jump competitions on the East Coast. Athletes including Olympic contenders and some of the best junior ski jumpers in the United States will compete during this three-day festival that includes the Eastern Division National Ski Jump Competition.

A New Era of Sustainable Wood Management The Second Forest Form Summit

 In an era when sustainability and climate change are at the forefront of our minds, how we obtain and use wood is essential to the health of our planet. Tri-Lox, a Brooklyn-based company known for its ethical and environmentally conscious approach to using wood as a renewable resource, and Connecticut’s Great Mountain Forest have partnered to put together the second Forest Forum Summit held in New England. “We are pleased to have partnered with Tri-Lox in hosting their Forest Summit at Great Mountain Forest,” said John Perkins, Board Chair of GMF.

Photo Credit P. J. Roundtree

Bridging Nature and Design

 

The summit's focus was to explore ways to connect the built and the natural environment through sustainable forest management. The most important result of this evolving partnership with Tri-Lox is that it brings designers, foresters, and land managers together in an immersive experience to conceptualize strategies for responsibly sourcing and using local wood. “Our work with Tri-Lox highlights the potential for combining the principles of sustainable forestry with those of sustainable design in the ethical sourcing of materials for use in local construction,” said John Perkins, Chair of GMF.

 

Immersive Learning Highlights

 

Highlights of the summit included a forest walk guided by GMF forester, Matt Gallagher. The walk provided participants with an up close look at different management strategies, timescales, and threats to the forest. The importance of selective harvests such as a future white pine thinning was discussed and why it was important to forest health and regeneration. A working sawmill demonstration showed how grading and sizing impacts the yield of a log and why it is beneficial to connect a harvest with a particular design project. Two case studies; “Connecting the Built and Natural Environment” and “Rural and Urban Land Management” rounded out the summit.

Photo Credit P. J. Roundtree

A Promising Partnership

 

 “This evolving relationship is very exciting,” said Mike Zarfos, Ph.D., Executive Director of Great Mountain Forest. “One of the many benefits of this relationship is that it may help to catalyze more local wood sourcing. If sourcing and use are localized to the same region, this decreases the potential for our consumption to drive unsustainable deforestation abroad and lowers the carbon footprint of wood harvest and use. If the wood is then used in durable products, this can tie up the carbon for a long time while the forest regrows – drawing down more carbon from the atmosphere,” continued Zarfos.

Photo Credit P. J. Roundtree

 

This relationship is very encouraging because wood is a finite resource. It is reassuring to know that designers, builders, foresters, educators and the general public are interested in sustainable ways to use and manage wood so that it will be available for generations to come. In the future, Great Mountain Forest plans to organize additional educational forms and summits for those interested in sustainable forest management’s potential to benefit local economies, craftspeople, and housing.

 

About Great Mountain Forest

Great Mountain Forest (GMF) is a leader in forest stewardship. For more than a century, we have been demonstrating how sustainable management can protect biodiversity and support ecosystems. By serving as a hub for education and research, we are spreading the benefits of sustainable management so that communities across New England derive educational, economic, and recreational and health benefits from their forests—now and well into the future. GMF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit encompassing 6,200 acres of contiguous forestland in Norfolk, Canaan, and Falls Village Connecticut.

 

About Tri-Lox

Tri-Lox is a research, design, and fabrication practice that work with regional, sustainable wood. Based in Brooklyn, New York, Tri-Lox sources wood in ways that have a positive impact on forests, conducting applied research with experts in the fields of forestry, conservation, and building technology. Since its establishment in 2010, the company has been committed to innovative design, environmental integrity, and community stewardship.

 

 

Discover Rochambeau's Revolutionary Route in Middlebury - January 15

The Middlebury Historical Society invites you to a fascinating evening of history, community, and discovery. On Monday, January 15, at 6 p.m., the Society will host a free public lecture at the Shepardson Community Center Auditorium, located at 1172 Whittemore Road, Middlebury. This is your chance to delve into the historical significance of General Rochambeau’s march through the region during the American Revolutionary War.

General Rochambeau

A Closer Look at Rochambeau's Role in American Independence

Renowned local historian John Dwyer, the Municipal Historian for the town of Southbury, will lead the discussion. His expertise will illuminate the pivotal role that Middlebury and Newtown played in supporting General Rochambeau's march with the French Army. This march was a critical chapter in securing American independence.

Participants will discover answers to intriguing questions such as which roads the French soldiers took on their journey and how Connecticut served as a vital supply base for Rochambeau's forces. This lecture connects history to modern life by revealing how local roads we travel today trace the footsteps of Revolutionary War soldiers.

This event is part of the Middlebury Historical Society’s ongoing efforts to foster community engagement with history. As part of the Rochambeau Project, the Society is working to commemorate the General’s army’s encampment in Middlebury through the construction of a memorial at Meadowview Park.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a curious learner, or simply looking for a meaningful way to connect with your community, this lecture promises to educate and inspire.

John Dwyer, Historian

Event Details at a Glance:

What: Free Lecture on General Rochambeau’s March

When: Monday, January 15, 2024, at 6 p.m.

Where: Shepardson Community Center Auditorium, 1172 Whittemore Road, Middlebury

Mark your calendar, bring a friend, and join the Middlebury Historical Society in preserving and celebrating our shared heritage. Admission is free, and all are welcome!