SPRING 2016
THE CORNERSTONE OF THE POCONOS
NOTICE: The Township Office will be closed on the following days: March 25th (Good Friday) & May 30th (Memorial Day)
Backyard Birding Most of us who feed birds in Delaware Township do so during the winter months, because that is when birds, particularly seed-eating birds, are most easily attracted to artificial feeding. Seedeating birds begin migrating to our area in October. Having full feeders then will encourage migrant birds to remain in our area; keeping the feeders filled will keep the birds around until March or April when most depart. Your bird-feeding station provides a supplement to the nutritional needs of birds. Taking advantage of your generosity the birds will rely more heavily on your offerings when snow or ice covers what they naturally eat or when the temperature drops and their requirement for energy increases. Wild birds are far from dependent on your feeding them. Don’t worry about the birds you are feeding not migrating. A few pounds of seed isn’t going to change thousands of years of evolution; also, many of those birds at your winter feeders are year-round residents. A bird watcher is anyone who enjoys watching birds and most people take pleasure in watching birds. Yes, bird watching is America’s fastest-growing outdoor activity with 80 million participants and growing. Twenty years ago the American Birding Association did a survey and discovered that 82 percent of their members, most active and travel-minded birders, said that they feed birds in their yards for no other reason than the pleasure it brings. Most people are fascinated by the birds they find in their yards. There are several reasons for this. Living in Delaware Township no matter where you choose to look you are within sight or sound of one or more birds. Also, most of us are interested in wild creatures we find in our yard. Birds are colorful and vocal, they entertain us, amuse us, and add to the pleasure of each day. Attracting birds to your yard will enable you to enjoy looking at some of nature’s treasures. (Continued on Page 16)
IN THIS ISSUE DAILY LIVING Living Delaware Message Working Pike Tristate Job Fair Property Tax Millage 2016 Breakdown Need Flood Insurance? Lead in Drinking Water Lasagna Gardening
2 4 5 6 8 17
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT Pike County Dept. of Public Safety Pike County Training Center Info Make A Difference in Your Community
DAILY LIVING
10 11 12
Local Quilters Give Back to the Community — Page 3
Pike County Fire Department Info Frequently Asked Questions & Answers About Volunteering
12
Important Contacts for Seniors
15
13
LETTERS Letters to the Editor
18
LEGISLATURE Working For You - State Rep. Rosemary M. Brown Legislative Update - Sen. Lisa Baker
19 22
PARKS & REC Ask the Sensei
23
MEETINGS & EVENTS Board of Supervisors, Planning Commission & Auditors Meetings Bulk Dump Disposal Dates Tax Collection DTVAC Easter Plant & Bake Sale 2016 Fundraising Activities 2016 Historical Society Events
14 14 14 15 15 15
LEGISLATURE
PARKS & REC
Heroin and Opioid Overdose in PA — Page 20
Summer Help Wanted at Akenac Park — Page 23
Newburgh, NY 12550 PERMIT NO. 335
Like Us on Facebook www.facebook.com/DelawareTownship
PAID
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage
DAILY LIVING Living Delaware Message My Fellow Delaware Township Residents: Please allow me to take this opportunity to introduce myself to those of you who may not know who I am. My name is Jeff Scheetz. I was recently elected by my fellow supervisors as the Chairperson of the Delaware Township Board of Supervisors. My responsibilities in this position include setting the agendas for our Workshops and Public Meetings as well as conduct the BOS meetings themselves. I look forward to serving you in these important capacities.
DELAWARE TOWNSHIP 116 Wilson Hill Road Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328 Phone: 570-828-2347 HOURS OF OPERATION: Building Inspector: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 8:00 am – 10:00 am Sewage Officer: Tuesday 8:00 am – 9:30 am
BOS Workshops currently begin at 5:30 and public meetings begin at 6:30. I urge all residents of Delaware Township to attend these meetings in order to voice your opinions concerning how the township is functioning and your tax dollars are being spent. Delaware Township is fortunate indeed to employ an outstanding group of men and women who work on a daily basis to ensure that the township functions as it should. This includes our office staff, maintenance people and road crew. I would also like to take this opportunity to welcome our new Supervisor, Mr. John Henderson to the BOS. His business expertise and experience in local government will prove invaluable to Delaware Township. I would also like to thank Mr. Tom Ryan, our previous Board Chair for all his outstanding work in improving the quality of life in the township specifically his work in creating community activities at Camp Akenac which are being enjoyed by all our residents. These include, Harvest Fest, Dickens Christmas, Easter Egg Hunt and Trunk or Treat. With your help, we can continue to improve the quality of life in Delaware Township while at the same time keeping our taxes low. I look forward to meeting you all at a BOS meeting or an event at Camp Akenac. Best Wishes, Jeff Scheetz Delaware Township BOS Chairperson
Zoning Officer: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 8:00 am – 10:00 am or by appointment Office: Monday through Friday 8:00 am – 4:00 pm Road Department: Monday through Friday 7:30 am – 3:30 pm Akenac Park: Monday, Wednesday thru Sunday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm Beach Closed CLOSED TUESDAY After Labor Day - No Swimming Permitted BOARD OF SUPERVISORS: MEETINGS 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month, 6:30 pm at the Township Municipal Building WORKSHOPS 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month, 5:30 pm at the Township Municipal Building
PAGE 2
LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2016
Local Quilters Give Back to the Community e BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
Over the past several months the Milford Valley Quilters’ Guild has been busy with many community service projects. The major project has been completing twin size quilts for the Gino Merli Veterans’ Home in Scranton. On December, 31 bed quilts were delivered. By partnering with Vetstock, who has pledged continued help through funding for fabric and batting, it is hoped members will be able to complete enough quilts to give one to each resident at the home. At their recent holiday social members held an in house raffle which raised $610 for the Ecumenical Food Pantry of Milford.
Jeffrey Scheetz Chair | Township Secretary dtbos@ptd.net John Henderson Supervisor dtbos@ptd.net Thomas Ryan Vice-Chair | Township Treasurer dtbos@ptd.net
e MANAGEMENT Krista N. Predmore Township Administrator | Assistant Treasurer Right to Know Officer kpredmore@delawaretownshippa.gov
Milford Valley Quilt Guild members - Kathy Teitsma, Linda Edwards, Jane Kroener, Marie Sandauer, Karen Batalin.
Prizes were donated by Beary Patches Quilt Shop in Milford and A Stitch in Time Quilt Shop in Honesdale. First prize was quilting service for a queen sized quilt, donated by Nancy Wall owner of The Longarm of Quilting in Tafton, PA. Other projects completed by the members include a quilt for hospice, ouch pillows and heart monitor bags for Wayne Memorial Hospital and baby blankets for the Tri State Pregnancy Center. Thanks to all who have given of their time, talents, and materials to contribute to the guild’s service projects. The guild would also like to express their appreciation to Tom Ryan and Vetstock for their continued support and to the Delaware Township Supervisors for the use of their building. Members of the guild meet on Mondays from 10:00 to 3:00 at the Delaware Township Building. They would welcome anyone who would like to stop by and help cut, piece and tie the quilts.
Charlie Kroener Road Master ckroener@delawaretownshippa.gov
e OFFICE STAFF Sharon Franks Administrative Assistant SharonF@delawaretownshippa.gov Catherine Bram Clerical Secretary/Project Coordinator Cbram@delawaretownshippa.gov Robin Jones Admin / HR Assistant rjones@delawaretownshippa.gov
e ROAD CREW/MAINTENANCE Ed Hammond - Asst. Road Master constablehammond@delawaretownshippa.gov Mike Moffa dtbos@ptd.net Vincent Flatt dtbos@ptd.net Mike Kolenet dtbos@ptd.net Rich Heimbrook dtbos@ptd.net
e BOARDS & CHAIRPERSONS Planning Commission Lenny Glamann lennyglamann@gmail.com Zoning Hearing Board Max Brinson maxbrinson@yahoo.com
e ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS Building Inspector SFM Consulting Call: 484-330-9088 Zoning Officer SFM Consulting Call: 484-330-9088 Sewage Officer David Manter Cell: 570-350-9171
LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2016
PAGE 3
Working Pike Tristate Job Fair April 15, 2016 Working Pike - Quick Facts Calling All Employers! An interesting and unusual alliance of organizations has partnered to create a Job Fair which is set for Friday, April 15, 2016, 10:00 AM until 4:00 PM at the Best Western Inn at Hunts Landing in Matamoras, PA. The organization known as WORKING PIKE is a collaboration of County Government, Faith-Based Assemblies and Private Organizations. Its mission is to build a stronger community through this partnership. WORKING PIKE will bring individuals who are unemployed and underemployed together with major employers form the tristate area. We hope you will join us for this special event! If you are like most employers struggling to find qualified workers, you won’t want to miss this day. Job seekers will be recruited from Pike, Monroe, Wayne, Sullivan, Orange, and Sussex Counties and all will receive an employer directory that highlights your company and employment opportunities. Previous area job fairs have seen over 500 eager jobseekers in a single event. Tables are going fast and space is limited so please contact the Pike County Economic Development Authority, (570) 296-7332 or the Pike County Workforce Development Agency, (570) 296-2909 as soon as possible to guarantee your reservation.
For more information contact: Michael Sullivan, Pike County Economic Development Authority (570) 296-7332 Cynthia DeFebo, Pike County Workforce Development Agency (570) 296-2909 Father Paul Mullen, St Vincent de Paul Church (570) 686-3493
PAGE 4
Who?
Pike County Workforce Development Agency, numerous faith-based organizations, the Pike County Commissioners, Pike County Economic Development Authority, the Pike County Chamber of Commerce and other community organizations are among the sponsors.
What?
“Working Pike” Job Fair - a multi-county opportunity for employers and potential employees to meet. The invited companies will be all the employers with 50 or more employees in Pike, Wayne, Monroe, Lackawanna, Sussex, Orange and Sullivan Counties. Open to any job seeker from any county but will provide exceptional exposure for Pike residents and those that live nearby. Special emphasis is those who live in the “I-84 Corridor.”
When?
Friday, April 15, 2016 from 10am to 4pm
Where?
Best Western Hotel at the Inn at Hunt’s Landing 120 Route 6, Matamoras, PA 18336
Why?
To bring together employers who seek employees in the labor shed running from Scranton, PA to Newburgh, NY. This is an especially important labor area since it is well-served by I-84 which puts Pike County well within a commutable distance to Scranton to the west and Newburgh to the East. Pike County boasts of excellent workers.
DETAILS: •
Exhibitor Fee for companies looking for employees: $50 which includes table, 2 chairs, electrical connection (limited availability; first-come first-served), table cover.
•
Maximum accommodation: 65 exhibitors. Event Sponsors: $250 includes notice on all advertising fliers. Setup times: TBD
•
Food and Beverage: Continental breakfast served and lunch served. Cost is TBD and this is not part of the services covered by the Exhibitor Fee.
•
Promotion of event for employees: Exposure through newspapers, cable TV, radio, church/ synagogue exposure to congregations, signage and electronic advertising on organizational networks like the Pike County Chamber of Commerce and other networks.
•
Expected Audience: Large numbers of individuals from faith-based organizations, individuals who are under-employed or unemployed and veterans.
LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2016
Dingmans Ferry Lions Club Vision Care Help The Dingmans Ferry Lions Club would like to announce to all the residents of Delaware Township that we are prepared to help those who are in need of eye examinations or eye glasses but, do not possess the financial means to get them. If you or a member of your immediate family qualify, the Lions Club is prepared to help. To learn more, simply contact Robin Jones at 570-828-2347.
Low Cost Dental Information for Pike & Wayne Counties
Property Tax Millage 2016 Breakdown: Township Real Estate Township Fire Township Parks/Rec Pike County Delaware Valley School District
If you are in need of low cost Dental here in Pike or Wayne Counties, attached is a link you can use to get more information: http://www.freedentalcare.us/co/pa-wayne. Or you can contact “Together for Health Dental Center”, located on Route 6 and Maple Avenue, Suite 7, Honesdale, Pa 18431— Telephone (570) 251-6534. The Center does accept Blue Shield—United Concordia, PA Access, PA Blue CHIP, some Delta Dental plans and will bill most major dental insurance plans. They also offer a sliding fee scale for those who qualify. Please visit their website or call them about further information about insurance and sliding scale fee applications. This information is also listed on our website: www.pikeaaa.org.
9.68 mills 1.5 mills 1.5 mills 18.54 mills 108.19 mills
Payment Schedule for Township & County Taxes to the Tax Collector: Before 4/30/16 @ 2.00% discount Between 5/1/16 and 6/30/16 Beginning 7/1/16 10% penalty Pay Tax Collector before 12/31/16. After 1/15/16, taxes are payable to Tax Claim Bureau, 506 Broad Street, Milford, PA 18337 Residents can pay their taxes online at Official Payments or by mail: PO Box 851, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328 www.officialpayments.com
Follow these steps to pay your taxes online: 1. Click local payments 2. Select “Pennsylvania” as your State or Territory
3. Select “Delaware Township Tax Collector” as your Payment Entity
4. Select “Real Estate Property Tax” as your Payment Type
5. Click the green “Make a Payment” buttom
to continue with the payment process or click “Schedule Future Payments” to access the AutoPay feature.
The next screen will require you to:
1. Enter your Payment Amount, including any penalties or interest;
2. Select Payment Option; 3. Then click “Continue” to proceed with the payment process.
Your convenience fee will be charged for the use of this service and will be automatically calculated. To determine the amount of the convenience fee in advance, the Official Payments website has a fee calculator.
LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2016
PAGE 5
Need Flood Insurance? New Website Helps Homeowners Find Affordable Options Mike Megoulas has lived in a Dauphin County township for more than a decade and never thought twice about flood insurance. In October 2012, however, he received a letter from his mortgage company notifying him that his house was in a flood zone. Flooding at Megoulas’s house has been rare. For instance, there was the time in 2011 when Tropical Storms Ivan and Lee hit the county and left several inches of water in his basement. “When I bought my house,” he says, “I never even knew I was in a flood zone — and now I need flood insurance.”
“In 2012, my property was remapped into a flood zone, and I was told I had to buy flood insurance to keep my mortgage,” he says. “NFIP insurance would have cost me $2,700 a year, but I was able to find private coverage for only $718 annually.”
Plugging a financial drain Many homeowners in Pennsylvania and elsewhere are finding themselves in a similar situation. “For most Pennsylvanians trying to buy individual flood insurance coverage, especially for their homes, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) run by the federal government was thought to be the only option,” state Insurance Commissioner Teresa Miller says. “However, now that Congress is mandating that federal subsidies end for NFIP coverage and that premiums be based on the property’s actual risk, costs for this coverage are rising and may become difficult for many homeowners to afford. “In addition, redrawn Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) maps are placing PAGE 6
insurance. (Note: To access the page, click on “Flood” under “Top Pages.”) For decades, Miller says, the National Flood Insurance Program kept its premiums artificially low, but an unprecedented number of claims following Hurricane Katrina sent the program into billions of dollars of debt. The result? Large premium increases. The good news for Pennsylvania consumers is that these rapidly rising NFIP premiums are making flood insurance more attractive for private market insurers, which are in many cases offering coverage at substantially lower costs. Just ask homeowner Mike Megoulas.
Pinpointing insurance options Eventually, a little rain is going to fall into your life. Be prepared. A new web site hosted by the Pennsylvania Insurance Department can help homeowners in highand low-risk flood zones find affordable insurance.
Most private-market residential flood insurance in Pennsylvania is sold by “surplus-line” insurers, which are licensed in other states or countries and offer the higher-risk coverage that other companies tend to shy away from.
many properties in flood zones that had not been there before. That’s why my office is committed to finding ways to help consumers identify lower-cost coverage.” The agency, for instance, has created a new one-stop shop at www.insurance.pa.gov, where homeowners and renters can find information about available
The state Insurance Department’s new onestop online shop has links for these and other insurers providing flood coverage. In addition, the page has a link to the NFIP and lists the coverage written by each licensed insurer. For example, some insurers only offer contents coverage for renters, while others offer coverage for both the dwelling and its contents, for homeowners.
LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2016
“My goal is to make “Redrawn Federal sure Pennsylvanians Emergency can find good coverage Management at affordable prices, Agency (FEMA) and this one-stop maps are placing website will help many properties homeowners and renters be able to in flood zones do this,” Miller says. that had not been Recently, Miller there before.” testified before a congressional subcommittee in support of proposed federal legislation that would facilitate the entry of additional carriers into the private flood insurance market and provide consumers with additional options. The proposal would also require mortgage companies to accept qualified private insurance in addition to NFIP policies.
Flood Facts • In the past 5 years, all 50 states have experienced floods or flash floods. • Homeowners’ insurance does not cover flood damage. • If you live in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) or high-risk area and have a federally backed mortgage, your mortgage lender requires you to have flood insurance.
YMCA CAMP SPEERS Day Camp Horseback Riding Overnight Camp Open House Every Sunday April, May, and June, 2- 4 pm www.CampSpeersYMCA.org 570-828-2329 143 Nichecronk Road, Dingmans Ferry (Near the Post Office in Dingmans Ferry)
• Just a few inches of water from a flood can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage. • Flash floods often bring walls of water 10 to 15 feet high. • A car can easily be carried away by just 2 feet of rushing water. • Hurricanes, winter storms, and snowmelt are common, but often overlooked, causes of flooding.
PESTS IN SEASON:
HAVE A PEST PROBLEM?
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• New land development can increase flood risk, especially if the construction changes natural runoff paths. • Federal disaster assistance is usually a loan that must be paid back with interest. For a $50,000 loan at 4-percent interest, your monthly payment would be around $240 a month ($2,880 a year) for 30 years. Compare that to a $100,000 flood insurance premium, which is about $400 a year ($33 a month).
Know the signs of a pest infestation this Spring.
ERS
MAST
L
CONTRO TH HEAL E & PEST NS OF TERMIT GUARDIA HOME AND
Always try to keep a specimen if possible
• Ticks on your family or pets • A pattern of ants in or on your home • Active wasps in soffits and behind shutters
• A preferred risk policy provides both building and contents coverage for properties in moderate- to low-risk areas for one low price. • You are eligible to purchase flood insurance as long as your community participates in the National Flood Insurance Program. • In most cases, it takes 30 days after purchase for a policy to take effect so it’s important to buy insurance before the storm approaches and the floodwaters start to rise. • In a high-risk area, your home is more likely to be damaged by flood than by fire. Note: Information courtesy of floodsmart.gov
LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2016
• A sudden swarm of flying insects (Termites?)
Want to know more? Visit our website at
WWW.MASTERSPESTCONTROL.COM /masterspestcontrol
570-296-4488 Carpenter ants • termites • hornets • wasps • ticks fleas • rodents • bed bugs • spiders • and many more
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PAGE 7
Lead in Drinking Water National events about lead exposure have generated new concerns for Pennsylvanians related to the safety of their homes and water. The Wolf Administration takes the issue of lead exposure very seriously and state agencies will continue to work together on their coordinated response to address lead exposure in communities across the commonwealth. The Departments of Health (DOH) and Environmental Protection (DEP) both work diligently to protect children from lead exposure and have many resources available for residents to learn more and take action on lead. According to Department of Health, the primary source of childhood lead poisoning in Pennsylvania continues to be exposure to
aging, deteriorating lead-based paint (chips and dust), and not drinking water. The age of Pennsylvania’s housing stock contributes to this problem. While lead was banned from paint in 1978, many older dwellings still contain layers of pre-1978 paint. According to 2010 Census data, Pennsylvania ranks third in the nation for having the most housing units identified as having been built before 1950 (when lead was more prevalent) and fourth in the nation for housing units identified as having been built before 1978, according to a 2014 Department of Health report. “The Department of Health is very concerned about elevated lead levels in children wherever they may occur. Our community health nurses work closely with health care providers and families every day to provide education about lead exposure and facilitate home inspections if needed to identify the source of the exposure,” said Health Secretary Dr. Karen Murphy. “Protecting the state’s water and the health and safety of our citizens is DEP’s mission,” said Department of Environmental Protection Secretary John Quigley. “Ensuring the safety of our drinking water is essential. We have policies and programs in place already to protect Pennsylvanians.” Federal and state regulations require that public drinking water suppliers regularly test for contaminants such as lead. DEP monitors water suppliers to ensure that they are complying with
PAGE 8
testing requirements to safeguard our public drinking water supplies. DEP also provides information to private well water users on how to properly maintain their systems to reduce their exposure to lead.
Pennsylvania’s Lead and Copper Rule The purpose of the Lead and Copper Rule is to protect public health by minimizing lead and copper levels in drinking water, primarily by making water less corrosive. When water is corrosive, the lead and copper found in plumbing materials can leach into your drinking water. Pennsylvania’s Lead and Copper Rule establishes an action level of 0.015 mg/L for lead and 1.3 mg/L for copper. An action level exceedance is not a violation but can trigger other requirements that include water quality parameter monitoring, corrosion control treatment, source water monitoring/ treatment, public education and lead service line replacement. All community water systems (defined as those serving year-round residents) and nontransient noncommunity water systems (defined as those regularly serving the same people at least 6 months per year, such as schools and daycares) are subject to the Lead and Copper Rule requirements.
What are the health effects of lead? Lead can cause serious health problems if too much enters your body from drinking water or other sources. It can cause damage to the brain and kidneys, and interfere with the
LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2016
production of red blood cells that carry oxygen to all parts of your body. The greatest risk of lead exposure is to infants, young children and pregnant women. Scientists have linked the effects of lead on the brain with lowered IQ in children. Adults with kidney problems and high blood pressure can be affected by low levels of lead more than healthy adults. Lead is stored in the bones, and it can be released later in life. During pregnancy, the child receives lead from the mother’s bones, which may affect brain development. If you are concerned about lead exposure, you may want to ask your health care provider about testing children to determine levels of lead in their blood.
testing. Here is the link to a listing of DEPaccredited labs.
What are the sources of lead?
Sample results are also available on the DEP’s website through the Drinking Water Reporting System. Select your county and water supplier to see the most recent lead and copper test results (on the results page, contaminant 1022 is copper, 1030 is lead)
Although most lead exposure occurs when people eat paint chips and inhale leadcontaminated dust, or ingest lead-contaminated residential soil, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that 10 to 20 percent of human exposure to lead may come from drinking water. Lead is rarely found in the source of a public water supply such as a river or creek. Rather, it enters tap water through the corrosion of a home’s plumbing materials. Homes built before 1986 are more likely to have lead pipes, fixtures and solder. However, newer homes may also be at risk. Even legally “leadfree” plumbing may contain up to 8 percent lead. The most common problem is with brass or chrome-plated brass faucets and fixtures that can leach significant amounts of lead into the water, especially hot water.
Identify if your plumbing fixtures contain lead. There are lead check swabs that can detect lead on plumbing surfaces such as solder and pipes. These swabs can be purchased at plumbing and home improvement stores.
PAYMENT OPTIONS CASH
CHECK
DEBIT/CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED
Where can I get more information about lead and copper levels in my water system? Community water systems are required to deliver an annual water quality report (also called a Consumer Confidence Report) to all customers. The report contains test results for samples collected during the year.
A debit card is processed as a credit card only if the card has a MasterCard, Visa, or Discover logo present. Please Note: There are additional fees to cover the cost of taking credit cards. They are: 2.45% with a $2.45 minimum. These fees go directly to our third party processor and are not retained by the Township. Convenience fees cannot be refunded.
What can I do to reduce my exposure to lead in drinking water? Since lead exposure in drinking water typically comes from your plumbing fixtures and not the source of your water supply, it’s important for both public drinking water customers as well as private well water users to follow these tips to reduce your exposure to lead. Run your water to flush out lead. If water hasn’t been used for several hours, run water for 15-30 seconds or until it becomes cold or reaches a steady temperature before using it for drinking or cooking. This flushes out any stagnant water in your home plumbing and replaces it with fresh water from the water main in your street. Use cold water for cooking and preparing baby formula. Do not cook with or drink water from the hot water tap; lead dissolves more easily into hot water. Do not use water from the hot water tap to make baby formula. Do not boil water to remove lead. Boiling water will not reduce lead. In fact, lead concentrations will be higher in water that is boiled since some of the water is removed as steam. Test your water for lead. Contact your water system for more information about getting your water tested. Some water systems may offer to test your water free of charge. Your water system can also provide information about local laboratories that conduct lead testing. If you’re a private well water user, you should contact a DEP-accredited lab for information about water
LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2016
PAGE 9
EMERGENCY MGMT. Pike County Department of Public Safety Dear Reader, On behalf of the Volunteer First Responders of Pike County, we would like to welcome you. The emergency services in Pike County are unique in many ways. However, like most counties in Pennsylvania, our fire departments are staffed with 100% volunteers and we are proud to say that the quality of service provided to our communities is superb. In addition to the traditional roles of fighting fires and providing emergency medical assistance, our personnel are trained for and respond to a vast variety of emergencies, such as accident victim extrications, elevator rescues, and hazardous material calls. In addition, our shoreline communities maintain fire boats for emergencies along the river and dive teams for water rescue work. Mountain rescues are fairly common in our mountainous areas and many departments have established a joint Technical Rescue team in order to be prepared for a number of rescue situations. If you are currently a Pike County Volunteer Responder, we thank you for your training and dedication. If you’re a local business owner, live or work in the county we hope you’ll show your support to the men and women who help keep the county safe. If you are a local resident, are action-oriented, adventurous and relish a challenge, please consider becoming one of us. Could you be One of the Ones? J. Bernard Swartwood Director of Public Safety
About Pike County’s Emergency Services Did You Know?
Since 1976, the number of emergency service calls in Pennsylvania has increased by 400% while volunteer ranks have decreased by 75%?
Emergency Service Calls: 1976: 101,000 2014: 410,000
Emergency Service Volunteers: 1976: 300,000 2014: 60,000
Volunteer Personnel Pike County Volunteer Emergency Services currently cost taxpayers about $35 million per year
Paid Personnel Providing the same services by PAID personnel would cost taxpayers over $950 million per year.
PAGE 10
LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2016
Low cost vaccine clinics Lehman Township Municipal Bldg
3/5 Time:
Pike County Training Center The Pike County Training Center provides hands on, complete, realistic, and safe training programs. The facility allows for the men and women of Pike County to train in an efficient manner to better protect and serve our great area. A variety of high quality classes and programs are offered. The facility has a 4-story Class A Burn Building with basement, a Confined Space Unit, a Flashover Simulator Unit, Class B Props, and room for more. Agencies from all over the county have, and continue to, use the facility on a daily basis with 4 classrooms.
Department Mission: The mission of the Pike County Training Center is to provide the support and training necessary to the Pike County Fire Service and all Emergency Responders so that they may provide our citizens with the finest available emergency services.
10 -3
193 Municipal Dr Bushkill, PA
3/19
Matamoras Fire Dept
Time:
506 Avenue Q Matamoras, PA
10 -3
Dingman Township Fire Company
4/2 Time:
12-5 ■ ■
for Dogs and Cats
680 Log Tavern Rd Milford, PA
Open to Pennsylvania and non-Pennsylvania residents. Dogs must be on leashes and cats must be in carriers.
For more information call the shelter
(570) 296-7654 Or email pikecountyhs@gmail.com
All events are weather permitting Procedure
Cost
Rabies Vaccination
$10.00
Distemper/Parvo Vaccine
$17.00
Bordatella Vaccine
$14.00
Lyme Vaccine
$22.00
Deworming Round & Hook Worm
$6.00
Microchipping
$20.00
Check for updates on the web
Heartworm/Lyme/ Ehrlichia – Dogs
$28.00
Sponsored by
Feline Distemper Combo Vaccine
$20.00
Feline Leukemia Vaccine
$20.00
pikecountyhumanesociety.com
Pike County
Humane Society
Sorry no checks. Cash and credit cards only.
Contacts: Timothy Knapp Emergency Management Director Pike County Dept. of Public Safety tknapp@pikepa.org Jordan Wisniewski Operations & Training Manager Pike County Training Center jwisniewski@pikepa.org J. Bernard Swartwood Director of Public Safety Pike County Dept. of Public Safety jbswartwood@pikepa.org Pike County Training Center 135 Pike County Blvd. Lords Valley, PA 18428 570-296-1960
LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2016
Plan your adventure now! Group reservations are recommended. Rt 209 Bushkill, PA • 800-552-5653 • PoconoMountainAdventures.com PAGE 11
Pike County Maintains 18 Fire Departments and 86 Emergency Vehicles Lackawaxen Twp. Volunteer Ambulance Service (Dept. 21) 109 PA Rt. 590, Greeley, PA 570-685-4022 Greeley Fire Department (Dept. 23) 245 PA Rt. 590, Greeley, PA 570-685-7537 Bushkill Fire Company (Dept. 24) 124 Evergreen Dr., Lehman, PA 570-588-6033 Blooming Grove Fire Dept. (Dept. 25) 484 PA Rt. 739, Hawley, PA 570-775-7355 Dingman Twp. Fire Dept. (Dept. 26) 680 Log Tavern Rd., Milford, PA 570-686-3696 Central Fire Dept. (Dept. 27) 574 Westcolang Rd., Hawley, PA 570-685-7344
Make A Difference In Your Community. Volunteer! Are you making a difference in your community?
Respect
Most people try to. They’re glad to pitch in when a neighbor needs a hand, or do a small favor now and then. But being a really good neighbor takes more than that.
Accomplishment
Before you fall asleep tonight, take a moment to think about the people you’d depend on if you suddenly smelled smoke, or a family member tripped in the dark and fell down the stairs.
Friendship
It would be those very special neighbors who staff your local volunteer fire and ambulance corps. 24 hours a day, seven days a week, these men and women protect you, your home, and your loved ones without ever asking for pay... or even thanks. Now that’s a good neighbor!
From every member of your community.
Train to be a firefighter or EMT and you’ll develop knowledge and skills few can claim.
some of the strongest social ties you’ll ever make will be with your brother and sister volunteers, people who share your commitment and ideals.
Satisfaction Nothing beats the sense of fulfillment that comes from doing an important job well while helping those in your community.
Delaware Twp. Fire Co. (Dept. 28) 131 Wilson Hill Rd., Dingmans Ferry, PA 570-828-2223 Delaware Twp. Ambulance Corp (Dept. 28) 135 Park Rd., Dingmans Ferry, PA 570-828-2345 Hemlock Farms Fire & Rescue (Dept. 29) 1053 Hemlock Farms, Lords Valley, PA 570-775-6447 Lackawaxen Fire Dept. (Dept. 31) 116 Township Rd., Lackawaxen, PA 570-685-7330 Matamoras Borough Fire Dept. (Dept. 32) 506 Avenue Q, Matamoras, PA 570-491-4154 Milford Fire Dept. (Dept. 33) 107 W. Catharine St., Milford, PA 570-296-6121 Mill Rift Fire Dept. (Dept. 34) 139 Bluestone Blvd., Mill Rift, PA 570-491-4850 Promised Land Fire & Ambulance (Dept. 35) RR 390, Greentown, PA 570-676-3818 Tafton Fire Co. (Dept. 37) 235 PA Rt. 507, Hawley, PA 570-226-4273 Westfall Fire Dept. (Dept. 39) 101 Mountain Ave., Matamoras, PA 570-491-4717 Shohola Fire Dept. (Dept. 41) 325 PA Rt. 434, Shohola, PA 570-559-7525 Forest Fire Dept. (Dept. 81) 1129 Towpath Rd., Hawley, PA 570-226-5022
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LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2016
Frequently Asked Questions & Answers About Volunteering How much time does it take to become a volunteer? It varies from week to week, but on the average you’ll put in seven or eight hours per month. Many volunteers enjoy putting in more time.
What will my training cost? It will cost you nothing. Thousands of dollars of valuable career training will be made available to you free of charge.
What are the basic requirements? The basic requirements are simple. To enlist as a fully qualified firefighter, volunteers must be: • 14 years of age or older* • In good physical health • Of sound moral character
• Caring and community minded • A team player • The type of person who enjoys a challenge and likes to learn and acquire new skills
*Most local departments accept applicants if they are 14 years or older. However, a parent’s signature is required if you are under 18 years of age.
There are some “givens” too. You should definitely be:
How long do I have to train before I can make a genuine contribution? You can start making a real difference right away! And your responsibilities will increase as you gain experience and training. Most volunteers say they feel a sense of accomplishment and pride in helping their community, as well as increased confidence in themselves and their abilities. Studies have shown these attributes reflect directly on the quality of their work on the job.
Will there by any out-of-pocket expenses? None at all. Your uniform, equipment - even your annual physical - will all be provided to you for free.
How do I get started? Just call the Pike County Training Center at 570-296-1960 or visit our website at www. pikesbravest.org to learn all you need to know about becoming a fire or EMS responder. It’s that simple.
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EVENTS
2016 Bulk Dump Disposal Dates
Delaware Township Volunteer Ambulance Corp.
The Delaware Township Bulk Disposal will be open the first and third Saturday of each month from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. during the Spring, Summer and Fall. Bulk will only be available one Saturday per month during the winter months.
Annual Chicken BBQ
March 19, 2016
SAVE THE DATE! Memorial Day Weekend - Sunday, May 29th At the Ambulance Building, 135 Park Rd., Dingmans Ferry
April 2, 2016 and April 16, 2016 May 7, 2016 and May 21, 2016 June 4, 2016 and June 18, 2016
EAT IN OR TAKE OUT!
July 2, 2016 and July 16, 2016
LIVE MUSIC
August 6, 2016 and August 20, 2016
Enjoy a 1/2 chicken with our famous seasonings, vegetables (corn or green beans), scalloped potatoes, coleslaw, cranberry sauce, dinner roll, dessert and your choice of drink for only $15.00.
September 3, 2016 and September 17, 2016
Proceeds will help purchase emergency equipment and benefit the Celeste C. Egidio Memorial Scholarship Fund. For more information or to buy advance tickets call the ambulance building at 570-828-2345.
October 1, 2016 and October 15, 2016 November 5th, 2016 and November 19, 2016 December 17, 2016
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETINGS: 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the Municipal Building. Workshops are held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. AS NEEDED.
BOARD OF AUDITORS MEETINGS: 3rd Saturday of each month at 10:30 a.m. at the Emergency Management Building on Wilson Hill Road. AS NEEDED.
Board of Supervisors Meetings Board of Supervisors Meetings (Meetings are held the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month) Workshops begin at 5:30pm Regular meetings begin at 6:30pm Wednesday, March 23, 2016 Wednesday, April 13, 2016 Wednesday, April 27, 2016 Wednesday, May 11, 2016 Wednesday, May 25, 2016 Wednesday, June 8, 2016 Wednesday, June 22, 2016
TAX COLLECTION The Tax Collector will be at the Township building to collect taxes on the following dates: April 19, April 21, April 23, April 26, April 28, April 30 PAGE 14
LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2016
Delaware Township Volunteer Ambulance Corp. Annual Easter Plant and Bake Sale Join us for our Annual Easter Plant & Bake Sale. There will be hundreds of plants to choose from. Plants are available on a first come first serve basis. Still time to get your 2016 Lottery Calendars. Plus we have 50/50 tickets available. (Winners to be drawn at the Annual Chicken BBQ) Call (570) 828-2345 for more information. Where:
Delaware Twp. Ambulance Building 135 Park Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328
When:
Friday, March 25th Saturday, March 26th
10AM to 7PM 10AM to 4PM
2016 Fundraising Activities • Easter Bridge Collection
Friday, March 25th and Saturday, March 26th
• Memorial Day Weekend
Sunday, May 29th
• July 4th Weekend
Friday July 1st through Monday July 4th
• Labor Day Pig Roast
Sunday, September 4th
• Columbus Day
Friday, Oct. 7th, Saturday, Oct. 8th & Monday, Oct. 10th
• Christmas Wreath Sale
Friday, December 2nd & Saturday, December 3rd
Annual Chicken Barbecue Bridge Collection
Bridge Collection
2016 Historical Society Events March 17 - Business Meeting April 21 - Event May 19 - Business Meeting June 16 - Event July 21 - Business Meeting August 18 - Event
September 15 - Business Meeting October 20 - Event November 17 - Members Covered Dish Dinner
All scheduled activities will be held beginning at 7:00PM at the municipal building on Wilson Hill Road. A list defining Events will be provided in the near future. PAYMENT OF $5.00 PER PERSON OR $10.00 PER FAMILY DUES IS DUE ON OR BEFORE MARCH 17TH
2016/17 Officers Tim Singleton, President Ed MacGregor, Vice President Ted Parsell, Treasure Patrice Singleton, Recording Secretary JoAnn Parsell, Corresponding Secretary
important contacts for seniors From the Pike County Area Agency on Aging Medicare Plans Available www.medicare.gov Call APPRISE at 800-783-7067 Call Medicare at 800-633-4227 or 877-486-248 (TTY) Or call us at 570-775-5550 for appt. to assist you. PIKE COUNTY TRANSPORTATION Hours 7:30am-4:00pm 570-296-3408 or 866-681-4947 DO NOT CALL REGISTRY If you want to stop those nagging calls from solicitors you can place your phone number on the Do Not Call registry by calling 888-382-1222 or go online to www.donotcall.gov SENIOR LAW CENTER Senior Law Center protects the legal rights & interests of seniors in PA through legal services, referral services and advocacy. Call their helpline at 877-727-7529 PIKE COUNTY AREA AGENCY ON AGING Blooming Grove - 570-775-5550 Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-4pm Dingmans Center - 570-828-7812 Hours: Tues & Fri 9am-3pm Lackawaxen/Shohola 570-685-7808 Hours: Mon, Wed, Thurs 9am-2pm Milford - 570-832-1929 Hours: Wed & Fri 1am-3pm
DINGMANS FERRY LION’S CLUB
Annual Fishing Contest Saturday, April 30, 2016 Noon to 3pm We stock Egli’s pond with over 300 trout, provide the children with hot dogs, soda/water & give prizes for the 3 largest fish caught & 1 for the smallest fish caught. E very child who participates gets a small prize for attending. For more information contact Lion Audrey Mervine-Mead 570-828-6285 EGLI POND ON ROUTE 739 (NEAR CENTURY 21 ROY HULL) DINGMANS FERRY, PA
LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2016
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Backyard Birding (Continued from Page 1) What birds need to eat differs from species to species. Most birds are insectivorous, they eat insects, and are not seed-eaters even if they feed on berries, fruit, and seeds in winter. By winter, when cold temperatures arrive in Dingmans most insect-dependent birds have traveled to warmer climates and the berry-eating, seedeating birds are more prevalent. Seed is the key to attracting birds to your yard in winter and not just any old seed will do. In a mixed bag of birdseed look for black-oil sunflower seed which is smaller and darker than striped sunflower. Favored seed also includes peanut kernels and white proso millet. Milo, flax, cracked corn, and canary seed are fillers and less attractive to birds. These seeds are cast aside by the birds and end up on the ground to attract rats, mice, squirrels, and chipmunks. How about feeders? There is of course the ground where birds like Dark-eyed Juncos, Morning Doves, and assorted Sparrows usually forage; however, basic feeder types are platform feeder, hopper feeder, tube feeder,
and suet feeder. Each has its advantages and disadvantages and some like the tube feeders are exclusionary. For example the thistle feeder is a specialty feeder designed to dispense tiny niger (thistle) seed, a food that attracts American Goldfinches and Pine Siskins. Suet feeders are rubber or plastic coated wire-mesh feeders that hold energy-rich fat to which Woodpeckers, Chickadees, and Nuthatches are attracted. A note about suet, it is not the same as beef fat, which usually contains pieces of meat and has high water content. Beef fat freezes in winter and goes rancid when it warms. Suet has the impurities boiled out, dosn’t freeze and is said to have a shelf live of two years.
that feeders should be placed so that birds can feed in comfort with minimal risk they should be placed close to some kind of cover and preferably out of the wind. It should be close enough to vegetation so that birds can bolt if a Cooper’s Hawk or Sharpshinned Hawk approaches or cats can stalk close enough to ambush a bird. Cats, by the way are the second most cause of bird deaths, habitat destruction is first.
Where should feeders be placed? Two considerations come into play: convenience and cover. The best-placed feeder is one that can be seen easily from your window or where you spend most of your time and want to be enchanted by the attraction you have created. Feeders should be close enough for you to be able to identify the visiting birds as wells as observe the differences in behavior of juncos, chickadees, nuthatches, and cardinals. Place them in a location where they will be easy to keep filled, specifically when the weather is harsh. Empty feeders do not attract birds. As for cover, birds need shelter both from the elements and from predators. An appropriate rule of thumb is
Birds to identify at your feeder during winter and behaviors to observe:
A brush pile proximal to your feeding station you will find will be the most bird-active place in your yard. Planting to attract back-yard birds through landscaping will be the subject of a future article.
Black-capped Chickadee is a tough nonmigratory bird, a permanent resident and is with us throughout the year. It is a bold energetic and inquisitive bird. It is a favorite of mine at the feeders. Ernest Ingersoll had this to say about the Chickadee: “ He is the hero of the woods, there are courage and good nature enough in that compact little body, which you may hide in your fist, to supply a whole grove of May songsters. He has the Spartan virtue of an Eagle, the cheerfulness of a Thrush, the numbness of Cock Sparrow the endurance of the sea-birds condensed into his thin frame, and there have been added a pertness and ingenuity all its own. His curiosity is immense, and his audacity equal to it; I have even had one alight on the barrel of a gun over my shoulder as I sat quietly under a tree.” You will see Chickadees appear in small flocks in the winter and often in the company of White-breasted Nuthatches. The Chickadees work the twigs and branch ends for insect eggs, while the Nuthatches mine the trunk bark and larger branches for insects tucked in their winter quarters. As the Chickadee prospects for eggs I’ve seen them look a twig over from above then hang head down and inspect it from below, rarely does it overlook anything. Whether perched on a twig or hanging from it like an acrobat it sends forth its “chickadeedee.” Besides this song, it begins in February to sing its spring song “fee-bee,” giving a rising inflection to the first syllable and a long, falling inflection to the last, a wonderful welcome of spring. The Chickadee is as useful as it is delightful. It remains in Delaware Township year round, working to clear the trees of insect eggs and
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LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2016
Lasagna Gardening Browsing through my garden materials this past winter, I came across a N.Y. Times article from August 18, 2002 “Yes, It’s Really Called Lasagna Gardening” written by Anne Raver. It describes a simple layering method for gardening where no digging or tilling is necessary. I reread the article and immediately went to one of my favorite books, “Lasagna Gardening” by Patricia Lanza (Rodale Press, 1998). The book’s subtitle, A New Layering System for Bountiful Gardens: No Digging, No Tilling, No Weeding, No Kidding”, tells it all.
singing cheerfully throughout the day. It is so friendly that you can induce it to come to your window sill by putting out suet and black-oil sunflower seeds. See if you can distinguish between the Chickadees and their companion Nuthatches. Also see if you can identify these visitors: White-breasted Nuthatch Tufted Titmouse Northern Cardinal White-throated Sparrow Dark-eyed Junco Woodpeckers The Woodpeckers of Delaware Township will be a future article.
TO ADVERTISE CALL 845-754-2356
The newspaper article featured the raised beds of Marilyn Johnson, a gardener at Floyd Bennett Field in Gateway National Park in Brooklyn. Because of her bad back, Johnson planted her vegetables in 8x3 feet wooden boxes standing about 4 feet high. Other boxes were at different heights making this garden handicapped accessible. I first used the lasagna gardening technique at the Smith Harker Community Garden years ago to establish a butterfly garden. I remember preparing the site in the fall and leaving the layers to break down naturally over the winter. Then by spring, the area was ready for planting. The no dig method is especially appealing since digging and turning over sod can be “back breaking”. Even tilling sod is extremely hard work. To assemble a lasagna garden, first select and mark your site with stakes, string or by a sprinkling of lime or flour. For the first layer, use thick pads of wet newspaper or flattened corregated cardboard. This paper smothers the grass and prevents weeds from poking through. The paper will eventually decompose. Next, add a layer of peat moss, 2-3 inches thick to cover the paper. Then add a layer of organic mulch material over the peat moss, more mulch, then more peat moss until the bed is 18-24 inches high. Lanza recommends topping the layers with bonemeal and wood ash to provide phosphorus and potassium. The organic material can be whatever is readily available at the time. Layers can include chopped leaves, kitchen scraps, grass clippings, compost, barn litter and straw. Ms. Johnson followed a four parts brown to one part green formula where the brown material provides carbon and the green nitrogen. A garden left to decompose over the winter will be dark and loose by spring so set out plants or seeds just as you would in a traditional garden. If you build a garden in the spring, you may want to plant right away. Just make a planting hole, pull the layers apart, set the plant in the hole, pull the mulch back around the roots and water thoroughly. Besides regular maintenance, the lasagna beds need new mulch layers each fall to provide fresh nutrients to the soil and to suppress weed growth. Lanza found that her beds that had been 18-24 inches in the fall had shrunk to about 6 inches by spring. But digging down through 6 inches of black, crumbly soil , and through the newspaper another 3-4 inches, she found and was rewarded with about 8 inches of super soil, ready for planting. I experienced the same result and was able to establish a large garden area with ease. The butterfly garden still has the softest and most crumbly soil after years of occasionally adding only mulch. And one of our community garden participants uses this method for growing his vegetables. Lanza asks “Why Lasagna Gardening?” Because it saves work, energy, time and money. Every year, all you do is plant and mulch. The ground stays cool and damp under the layers, you are recycling waste from your property, and your garden is chemical-free. Try it!
LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2016
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LETTERS Dear Delaware Township Supervisors: Thank you for your generous donation of $500 to Penn State Extension Program Account for the construction and maintenance of the Cpl. Bryon K. Dickson II Memorial Garden to be installed at the Penn State Police Blooming Grove Barracks. Your gift will be used to construct and maintain a certified pollinator garden at the Blooming Grove State Police Barracks. It is the intention of the Penn State Master Gardeners of Pike County that the garden will be a beautiful location for Bryon’s family, co-workers, friends and public to have a peaceful place to reflect upon his life and true sacrifice. With your donation, the Penn State Master Gardener of Pike County, along with many friends and other volunteers, plan to complete and dedicate the garden in 2016. Your contribution is tax deductible to the extent allowed on your U.S. Federal Income Tax return. No goods or services were received or exchanged in consideration of this transaction. Again, thank you for your donation. Kindest Regards, Nancy E. Grotevant, District Director Carbon, Monroe, Pike, Wayne Counties Robert Weintraub, Penn State Master Gardener - Pike County Memorial Garden Coordinator
Dear Mr. Ryan and Members of the Delaware Township: On behalf of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church and the Holy Trinity Food Pantry, I would like to thank the Delaware Township Supervisors and Community for the very generous donations to the food pantry this past year. Each month we have an average of 95 families who are in need of food assistance. Our numbers continue to increase significantly each month and there is no indication that this will change in the near future. We have also seen an increase in the number of families in need of financial assistance for utilities, gas and general household expenses. in 2014 we assisted over 40 families with over $4,200 to help with everyday living expenses, rent, electric, gas, medication, etc. This number stayed about the same in 2015. Our federal government subsidies continue to decrease so, needless to say, our resources have been stretched. Also, without a State budget in place since July, we are relying more than ever on the generosity of the community and local government. We have been able to continue our assistance to these families in need and we pledge to continue to do so in the months ahead. Thank you again for your contribution and helping to feed some of Pike County’s most vulnerable residents. God Bless. Faithfully, Barbara Hupfer Food Pantry Director
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LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2016
LEGISLATURE Working For You State Representative Rosemary M. Brown 189th Legislative District www.RepBrown.com Financially Assisting Private Dam Owners and Communities In February, the House unanimously voted in favor of House Bill 1712 legislation I initiated to establish the freestanding, self-funded Private Dam Financial Assurance Act. This bill addresses an issue that was originally brought to my attention by residents of the 189th District who privately own and are responsible for dams. Under the Dam Safety and Water Encroachment Act and the Pennsylvania Code, private dam owners are required to have a financial responsibility tool in place by Jan. 8, 2016, in the event their dam would need to be breached. The average cost of breaching a dam is estimated at $170,000. It has been extremely difficult for many private dam owners to obtain bonds which are used to provide financial responsibility. This bill would establish the Financial Assurance Program, which would provide financial assurance for the private owners of regulated dams in order to meet the regulations imposed under the Dam Safety and Encroachment Act. The program would be self-funded, with dam owners paying a one-time $1,000 registration fee, in addition to a 1 percent annual fee of the bond amount required by DEP. Additionally, once this fund reaches $1.5 million, loans may be authorized for repairs. In Pennsylvania, there are approximately 3,378 regulated dams, and nearly 404 of them are privately owned.
Offering Private Community Members and Boards a Resource I have legislation drafted to assign the investigation and mediation of complaints regarding planned communities, cooperatives and condominiums under Title 68 (Real Property) to the Office of Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. Communities formed under Title 68 are operated under a set of governing bylaws that creates a micro government within these communities. Nearly one quarter of Pennsylvania residents live in these types of self-governing communities. Occasionally, when disagreements or incidences of fraud occurs in these communities, residents and unit owner boards feel they have nowhere to turn for assistance in resolving serious illegal complaints. While Title 68 already allows for complaints regarding financial documents to be
LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2016
filed with the Bureau of Consumer Protection, it does not assist with other complaints that may be a violation of other portions of Title 68, or even the Bureau. My legislation seeks to grant unit owners and board members in these communities the ability to seek assistance and investigate when there may be possible illegal activity occurring. The Bureau of Consumer Protection is already equipped to handle these complaints in a way that will find resolution and justice for these disagreements and violations. I am in the process of planning a local hearing in April with the House Urban Affairs Committee to hear testimony and offer suggestions to improve this plan.
Developing Policy to Help Prevent Opioid Drug Abuse Far too many families in the 189th District, and across the state, are being torn apart from drug addiction. Their stories are very similar, noting that the problem originated with opioid pain killers. Opioids act as a major gateway for continued and further drug abuse and addiction, which often leads to personal destruction, crime and even death. In November, I joined several House colleagues at a press conference in Harrisburg to introduce a package of bills to continue the fight against opioid abuse in Pennsylvania. Opioids are medicines that relieve pain, reduce the intensity of pain signals reaching the brain and affect brain area that control emotion, which diminishes the effects of a painful stimulus, as defined by the National Institute on Drug Abuse. I am introducing a bill that would regulate the prescribing of controlled substances in hospital emergency departments to ensure excess prescriptions are not prescribed until more detailed conversations on addiction risks and concerns can be discussed with the patient’s primary or specialty care physician. Also this bill aims to keep excess pills from being sold on the streets and ending up in the wrong hands. The other bills in this package would address the following issues: • Provide coverage requirements for insurance carriers and health insurance for abusedeterrent opioid analgesic drug problems. • Encourage continuing medical education classes in addiction and addiction treatment. • Establish a task force on access to treatment through health plans.
• Allow for a drug take-back program which provides for safe destruction of unused drugs. We must strengthen every policy decision we can to reduce the opioid addiction epidemic. Caring for our family members, friends and neighbors, combined with focusing on local identification, prevention and treatment, together we can make a difference.
Effective 12/31/16, PennDOT will no longer issue Vehicle Registration stickers Why is PennDOT going to stop issuing registration stickers? Act 89, signed into law in November 2013, provided for the elimination of vehicle registration stickers. When registration stickers are eliminated, customers can enjoy the convenience of paying their registration fee online from home or a mobile device, printing and signing a permanent registration credential and going about their business, without waiting for delivery by mail Do I still have to register my vehicle? Yes; Act 89 merely eliminated the need to place a registration sticker on your license plate effective December 31, 2016. How much money will be saved by not issuing the stickers? The elimination of the registration sticker will realize a cost savings to the commonwealth in excess of $1 million per year. How will law enforcement know my car is registered? Law enforcement agencies have real-time electronic access to PennDOT’s database to verify a vehicle’s registration. You are still required to maintain a valid and current registration card and present it to law enforcement when asked. Also, the valid and current registration card must still be presented at safety inspections.
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Heroin and Opioid Overdose in Pennsylvania Published by Governor Tom Wolf Pennsylvania is facing an epidemic. Governor Tom Wolf’s administration took a significant step forward in the fight against heroin and opioid overdose by issuing a statewide standing order for naloxone, a medication that can reverse an overdose that is caused by an opioid drug. Naloxone FAQs What is the Wolf Administration doing about the opioid epidemic in Pennsylvania? Since his inauguration, Governor Wolf has worked with his administration to provide real solutions not only to save lives but also to help addicted individuals and their families get the treatment they need to live long, productive lives. Such actions taken by the Wolf Administration include the development of the ABCMAP prescription drug monitoring program, the creation of the interagency Heroin Task Force, the support for the use of naloxone at schools across the Commonwealth, and stocking all Pennsylvania State Police cars with the naloxone drug. Since equipping State Police cars with naloxone, over 300 lives have been saved with this drug. Governor Wolf’s 2015-16 budget proposes $7.5 million in funds to provide more naloxone to police and to provide more and better treatment options for Pennsylvanians. What is naloxone? Naloxone is a medication that can temporarily reverse an overdose that is caused by an opioid drug (prescription pain medication or heroin). When given during an overdose, naloxone blocks the effects of opioids on the brain and restores breathing within two to eight minutes. Naloxone has been used safely by medical professionals for more than 40 years and has only one function: to reverse the effects of opioids on the brain and respiratory system in order to prevent death. Naloxone has no potential for abuse- a person can’t get high or become addicted to it – and it is safe to use. (Naloxone does not work to reverse overdose from other types of substances). How do I get naloxone? Family members and friends can access this medication by obtaining a prescription from their family doctor or by using the standing order (a prescription written for the general public, rather than specifically for an individual) issued by Rachel Levine, M.D., PA Physician General. The standing order is kept on file at many pharmacies, or may be downloaded here. If you cannot access Scribd, you can also download the standing order here from the Department of Health’s website. Naloxone prescriptions can be filled at most pharmacies. Although the medication may not be available for same day pick up, it can often be ordered and available within a day or two. What types of naloxone are available? Two of the most common ways that naloxone is administered are intranasal (nasal spray) and the auto-injector. Please note, not all pharmacies stock both forms and insurance coverage may vary depending on the type of medication being purchased and each individual insurance plan.
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Check your insurance prescription formulary or call your benefits manager to determine if the medication is covered by your particular plan or if your purchase of the medication will be an out-of-pocket cost. Intranasal currently has two pieces that are easily assembled: a prefilled medication tube and an atomization device which is sold separately. The nasal piece may not be stocked at your local pharmacy; however, they may assist in ordering it. Additionally, the nasal atomization device can be ordered from a number of medical supply companies without a prescription. The Auto-injector comes in a manufactured dosage form (similar to an epi-pen) and has a recorded message to talk you through giving the medication. How do I administer naloxone? In addition to talking to your healthcare provider or the pharmacist about how to use naloxone, individuals giving this medication to someone should take the online training ahead of time. Training is available at one of the Department of Health approved training sites: Get Naloxone Now or PA Virtual Training Network. These easy to understand, brief trainings explain how to recognize the signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose, what to do in the event of an overdose, and instruct on how to give naloxone. While it is not necessary to obtain a training certificate in order to purchase naloxone, learning these important details will help you respond properly in the event of an overdose and also meet the immunity requirements of PA Act 139. Could I get in trouble for giving someone naloxone (statutory immunity)? Good Samaritan: Through the ‘Good Samaritan’ provision of Act 139, friends, loved ones and bystanders are encouraged to call 911 for emergency medical services in the event an overdose is witnessed and to stay with the individual until help arrives. The provision offers certain criminal and civil protections to the caller so that they cannot get in trouble for being present, witnessing and reporting an overdose. Administering Naloxone: Physicians are permitted to write third party prescriptions for naloxone and you are immune from liability for giving naloxone if you believed the person was suffering from an opioid overdose (heroin or prescription pain medication) and you called for medical help/911 after giving the medication. Does insurance cover naloxone? Insurance companies vary in how they cover naloxone and other drugs used to treat an opioid overdose. Prior to having a naloxone prescription filled with a pharmacy, consumers are encouraged to check with their insurance carriers to find out whether naloxone is a covered benefit under their policy, and, if so, what form of naloxone is covered, and any cost-sharing amounts that may apply under their policy.
Will Fee-for-Service and the managed care organizations (MCOs) pay for naloxone dispensed under the standing order for Medical Assistance recipients? Yes. Will Medical Assistance require a prescription in order for the pharmacist to fill the naloxone for a Medical Assistance recipient? Yes, per 55 Pa Code, Chapter 1121 – Pharmaceutical Services - §1121.52, pharmacists can treat the standing order as a verbal order for Medical Assistance recipients. Can a person other than the eligible Medical Assistance recipient (friend or family member) obtain the naloxone at the pharmacy on the recipient’s behalf? Will the Medical Assistance Program make payment? PA Medical Assistance will make payment for naloxone for the eligible Medical Assistance recipient. Is prior authorization required by Medical Assistance for any of the naloxone products or supplies? The Evzio Auto-Injector is covered by Medical Assistance, but requires prior authorization. Generic naloxone is covered without the need for prior authorization. Where can a pharmacy access Medical Assistance billing procedures for naloxone and the nasal actuator? The Fee-for-Service Program will post information related to billing for naloxone on the DHS Pharmacy Services website. Pharmacies will need to contact each MCO individually to obtain information about their billing procedures.
LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2016
Will copays apply for the naloxone products and nasal actuator? No, the Medical Assistance copay will not apply. Is there a limit to the number of times that a Medical Assistance recipient can get naloxone? No, there is no limit to the number of fills that can be obtained. How can someone with an addiction to prescription pain medicines, heroin or other drugs get help? Treatment for drug abuse and addiction is available! You can find out more by calling the County Drug and Alcohol Office where you live. For more information or to get the contact information for your local office visit the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs website or call 717-783-8200. While it may be uncomfortable to talk to someone about their substance abuse problem, research shows that it is more likely for an individual to seek help for their problem within 30 days following an overdose if someone talks to them right after the overdose event about going to treatment. Are there any other standing orders in Pennsylvania? Yes. There have been three well publicized standing orders that we are aware of to date that impact Pennsylvania which include: 1) CVS who has developed one for their pharmacies nationwide; 2) Montgomery County; and 3) Allegheny County. The standing order does not affect the aforementioned standing orders. Instead the Physician General’s standing order expands upon them to ensure statewide access.
LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2016
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News for Constituents from Senator Lisa Baker LEGISLATIVE UPDATE 2016 Calendars – Helpful and Beautiful Treat yourself to a copy of the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s beautiful 2016 Pennsylvania Wildlife Calendar or the Birds of Pennsylvania Calendar both full of helpful information and striking photographs. Season stickers, wildlife tidbits, and major fishing season details accompany an overview of the PA Game Commission and its six regional offices in the Wildlife Calendar. Enjoy agency biologist’s introductions for each bird profiled, timely nature notes, special birding event listings, holiday schedules, and moon phases in the Birds of PA Calendar. Proceeds from each calendar support wildlife in Pennsylvania, focusing on preservation, conservation, and management of the state’s wildlife resources and habitats. Benefits of Christmas Tree Recycling Imagine tucking a wildlife shelter and feeding station into a corner of your backyard, enticing chipmunks, turtles and lizards, along with towhees and wrens for your viewing pleasure.
Recycling Christmas trees attracts and offers wildlife protection, aids in soil improvements, and enhances local restoration efforts.
The heartbreak of a missing puppy or dog can be more quickly resolved by annually renewing your dog’s license and attaching that shiny numbered tag to its collar.
Engage the kids in an early Valentine’s Day, nature-friendly craft project making edible ornaments for birds. Then, sit back and enjoy the bird-watching as your feathered-friends pluck morsels from the seed-encrusted Valentine’s Cookies adorning your Christmas tree.
In turn, the small license fee supports the efforts of the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement to ensure the welfare of the state’s canine population. Contact your local county treasurer or issuing agent to license all dogs three months or older. Failure to obtain a dog license in PA is punishable with a maximum fine of $300 per violation plus court costs.
Influenza 2016 – Stopping the Flu Starts With You Vaccination and hand washing are touted as two of the most important elements of remaining flu-free at the height of the season, according to the PA Department of Health. Health experts recommend additional preventive measures including: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or a sleeve when sneezing; never use your hand. Don’t touch your face, particularly your mouth, nose, and eyes. Clean frequently touched surfaces, such as phones, doorknobs, remotes, light switches, and countertops. Stay home from work or school while sick to prevent spreading the flu to those around you. Do not return to work or school until you are fever-free for 24 hours, without the use of fever reducing medication.
Get Outdoors PA From backpacking to wilderness survival, you can do it all in PA, according to the Get Outdoors PA community partners representing state and local government entities, environmental educators, and other outdoor enthusiasts. As the days lengthen with the approach of spring, choose from something new or your usual favorite activities in preferred areas of the state. Sign up for the newsletter, Get Outdoors PAthfinder, to learn about new trends in outdoor activities and unique events. Subscribers are introduced to helpful tips to enhance outdoor recreation skills, programs, and best practices.
Antiviral medication begun within 48 hours of symptom onset, can shorten the duration and lessen the illness’s severity. Love Your Dog, License Your Dog Dog licenses for 2016 are now available as the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture kicks off the “Love Your Dog, License Your Dog” campaign.
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LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2016
PARKS & REC SUMMER HELP WANTED AT AKENAC PARK Lifeguards - Seeking lifeguards for Akenac Park. Duties and responsibilities will include enforcing all facility policies, rules and regulations. Recognize and respond effectively to emergencies. Thorough knowledge and application of lifeguarding surveillance and rescue techniques. Leadership qualities and public relations skills necessary. Inspect the facility on daily basis and report unsafe conditions and/or equipment to supervisor. Complete records and reports as required. Complete additional duties as assigned by supervisor. Perform various maintenance duties as directed to maintain a clean and safe facility. Must be CPR and lifeguard/lakefront Certified. Please send resume to dtbos@ptd.net or send fax to (570) 828-8705. As a condition of employment applicant will be required to undergo criminal and child abuse background checks. No telephone calls please. Part-Time Seasonal Gatekeepers - Part-time seasonal gatekeepers for Akenac Park wanted. Must be reliable and self-motivated. Please send resume to dtbos@ptd.net or send fax to (570) 8288705. As a condition of employment applicant will be required to undergo criminal and child abuse background checks. No telephone calls please. Maintenance/Road Crew - Seeking independent and skilled individual to maintain and repair roads and public grounds to include, but not limited to: trimming of grass, shrubbery, and trees; minor construction and renovations; assembling and positioning of various items of playground pieces; performing asphalt hole-patching repair, brush and tree removal, mowing and related maintenance and repair. Assists with sign replacement. Provides maintenance for facilities and storage yard, including sweeping, cleaning, painting and other general maintenance. Assists with replacing or repairing culverts, road and ditch pipes, tiles, and other drainage structures. Shovels crushed stone, sand, asphalt and salt from trucks. Responsible for guiding traffic through construction zones. Maintenance and repair of facilities to include, but not limited to: snow removal around entrance ways, sidewalks and parking areas; maintain a clean and efficient work area; assume total routine tasks, including sweeping, scrubbing, dusting, and polishing floors, washing walls, cleaning rest rooms, windows, walks and fixtures, and performs minor painting and general repair work; request the requisition of cleaning and maintenance supplies and equipment. Performs all other duties as assigned. Must be 18 years old and in possession of a valid driver’s license. Plowing experience a must. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and complete daily work reports. Ability to physically perform the essential duties of the position. Hours are Monday – Friday at 35 hours per week. Send resume via email to dtbos@ptd.net or via fax to 570-828-8705. No phone calls please.
LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2016
Get Ready! The nice weather is coming. Start getting ready to be outside in the fresh air and relax from the winter weather. Akenac Park will be opening soon. Get ready to enjoy the beach, trails, special events, boating, family picnics and much more. Check out our Facebook page (Delaware Township) and our website (www.delawaretownshippa.gov) to see what events are taking place. Akenac Park opens Memorial Day Weekend, May 27, 2016. Park is open from 8am to 7pm Monday, Wednesday-Sunday. The Park is closed on Tuesday.
Ask The Sensei By Sensei Albert Casale
Q. (Bushkill) Dear Sensei, my wife and I have been
checking out different karate schools for my 9 year old daughter. It seems that the schools we visited had a mix of instructor’s all different ages and mediocre skills who called themselves Sensei’s. Could you please define what a true Sensei really is?
A. There are many styles of martial arts. My
foundation of the martial arts come from the EASTERN studies where a younger Sensei must always be a good teacher and be respected. But an older sensei has to have a greater and higher degree of experience and wisdom. My art as a master 10 degree black belt requires that I interject my science and intelligence as a mentor, a coach, a responsible leader, a drill instructor, a constructive critic, a consultant & adviser, a judge of human nature, a perpetually growing person, a commander of people, a central point of reference, a serious spiritual friend, a successful person and a keeper of a school of thought.
Q. (Branchville N.J) Dear Sensei, My wife is 41 years old in fair physical shape and is bored with her
gym workouts. Now she tells me she wants to join a boxing club with her girl friends, does this make sense at her age? Why are so many women thinking about taking up boxing?
A. In the last 20 years I never seen so many women want me to train them in the sport of boxing.
Well they’re coming up with some good reasons. They want to experience the heart of physical toughness. The boxer’s mega workout will get them into the best shape of their life. No treadmill comes close to the type of mental and physical conditioning boxing demands, the workout improves everything: strength, endurance, coordination, you name it. Boxing students seem to have a lot in common, they want a high performance look, dissolve all their fat and install a special kind of self assurance capable of stopping any one at anytime with a lethal right hand. There are those women who just want to keep their minor confrontations in their life minor by doing 25 minutes on the heavy bag and light sparring. In boxing we have a saying “beat the bag and you’ll beat the blues”, after those 25 minutes fear and rage zoom out of their minds and are gone, they develop the confidence NOT to fight because they have nothing to prove. OK GUYS WATCH OUT! Be ready to bob and weave….I WARNED YOU!!!!!!!!
Sensei speaks… Today’s wisdom from his school of thought. “Real success is getting paid for what you enjoy doing”
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“Protecting our environment one tank at a time�