BIRDS: February is quickly approaching. Polish those binoculars and fill those bird feeders in anticipation of the Backyard Bird Count, which is scheduled for Feb. 12-15, 2021.

Watching and counting birds is one of the safest and most rewarding activities you can do from the comfort of your home or neighborhood. Spread the love of spending four days in February with the birds (and other bird-lovers).

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TECH SAVVY SENIORS: One silver lining from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is a drive for the older generation to better understand technology. According to a study by GearHungry.com, Pennsylvania seniors report they have become more familiar with video apps and other technology, allowing them to stay in touch with loved ones.

If there’s one group of people who have perhaps found the pandemic more frustrating, difficult and, yes, sad, than any other, it has to be our seniors. While tech has meant employees can work from home, via video-conferencing, it has also helped seniors keep in touch with their loved ones.

A survey of 3,000 65+ year olds showed a significant majority of Pennsylvania seniors (68%) said their understanding of technology has actually improved since the start of the pandemic.

They know what tabs to click on, what virtual buttons to press, and — most importantly of all — how to unmute their microphones! And they’ve not just had to read a manual, either; 38% of seniors said their kids or grandkids have spent time with them this year, explaining how everything works.

Meanwhile, 73% of respondents (below the ages of 55) said they had made more of an effort to connect with elderly friends and relatives this year. That said, most of them are going to keep going with the tech connections.