FALL 2016
THE CORNERSTONE OF THE POCONOS
NOTICE: The Township Office will be closed on the following days: Columbus Day: Monday, October 10th & Veteran’s Day: Friday, November 11th
The Marie Zimmermann Garden Today By Carol Padalino The summer issue of Living Delaware featured an article about the historic Marie Zimmermann House located in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. A beautiful stone house, built in 1910 by Marie and John Zimmermann, her father, it is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Marie, a noted metal and jewelry artist, filled the house with bouquets of fresh flowers often using vases of her own design. It is evident in many of her pieces that flowers and nature influenced her work. Since the house itself is now restored and open to the public, I have been working to replant the flower gardens which were originally located on the southern side of the structure. I volunteer both for the Recreation Area and for the Friends of Marie Zimmermann. In early spring 2016, the area had to be cleared of invasive weeds and the flower beds mapped out before the soil could be turned, amended organically, and made ready for planting. Marie loved to tend her roses, but in today’s garden, I have introduced additional species in light of the changing environment and problems encountered by today’s gardeners. These challenges include deer damage, invasive weeds, pests, foliage diseases and the need to help nourish, protect and attract birds, bees and butterflies. Today the garden is composed of informal beds planted with perennials. These perennials are able to survive varying degrees of winter cold because the roots are stronger and more vigorous then those of annuals. The tops of perennials die down with the onset of cold but the roots remain alive in a dormant state sending out new foliage and flowers each year when the weather warms. When (Continued on Page 12)
IN THIS ISSUE DAILY LIVING School Real Estate Taxes Common Permitting Questions Answered 2016 Bulk Dump Disposal Dates Electronic Recycling Day
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EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT Think Snow!... Pike County Fire Dept. Contact List Important Contacts for Seniors
DAILY LIVING
Appliance Recycling Program — Page 3
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DTVFC - Responding, Revitalizing and Recruiting Delaware Twp. Fire Dept. Fundraiser Comedy Night CodeRED Selected to Replace Roam Secure Alert Network for Critical Communications in Pike County
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2016 Pennsylvania Fair Guide Planning Commission Meetings Board of Auditors Meetings Board of Supervisors Meetings Delaware Twp. Trunk or Treat Safe Haven’s Colorfest Calling All Creative Kids
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PARKS & REC Ask the Sensei... Memory Lane
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MEETINGS & EVENTS Lions Club All-You-Can-Eat Breakfast Chili Contest Information
LEGISLATURE
PARKS & REC
News For Constituents From Sen. Lisa Baker — Page 11
Introducing Eagle Scout Troop 174 — Page 19
Newburgh, NY 12550 PERMIT NO. 335
Like Us on Facebook www.facebook.com/DelawareTownship
PAID
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage
DAILY LIVING SCHOOL REAL ESTATE TAXES School Real Estate Taxes for the Delaware Valley School District were mailed on August 1, 2016. In person collection will take place on the following dates at the Delaware Township Municipal Building located at 116 Wilson Hill Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328 between the hours of 10am – 4pm: Tuesday, September 20, 2016 Thursday, September 22, 2016 Saturday, September 24, 2016
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: By appointment only
Monday, September 26, 2016 Wednesday, September 28, 2016 Friday, September 30, 2016 The tax collector will also be available in October and November for the second and third installments of taxes on the following dates from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.: Monday, October 31, 2016 Wednesday, November 30, 2016 Please mark your calendars. If you have any questions, please contact Mary Lou Corbett at (570) 828-2225.
Zoning Officer: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 8:00 am – 10:00 am 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 7:00 am – 7:00 pm CLOSED TUESDAYS 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
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LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2016
Appliance Recycling Program Returns for Customers of FirstEnergy’s Pennsylvania Utilities $50 incentive for recycling an old refrigerator or freezer Customers of FirstEnergy Corp.’s (NYSE: FE) Pennsylvania utilities (Penelec, Met-Ed, Penn Power and West Penn Power) can now receive $50 when they choose to recycle an old, working refrigerator or freezer. Low-income customers may qualify for an additional incentive through the program. Scheduling a pickup is easy. Customers can call 888-277-0527 or visit www.energysavePA. com. “Often, an outdated refrigerator either sits unused or is used for extra storage in a garage or basement,” said Wade Williams, manager of residential energy efficiency programs for FirstEnergy’s utilities. “Responsibly recycling the unit is good for the environment and can lead to energy savings. Refrigerators that are more than 10 years old can use twice the amount of energy of newer ENERGY STAR® models, resulting in savings of over $100 a year in energy costs.” ARCA Recycling, Inc. manages the recycling program for FirstEnergy’s utilities. The company offers state-of-the-art appliance recycling services designed to guarantee that every appliance collected through energy efficiency programs is fully and properly disassembled. This includes ensuring all hazardous materials and components are removed, stored, transported and disposed of in a responsible manner in accordance with federal, state and local rules and regulations. For information about this and other energy efficiency programs offered by FirstEnergy’s Pennsylvania utilities, visit www.energysavePA.com.
e BOARD OF SUPERVISORS Jeffrey Scheetz Chair | Township Secretary jscheetz@delawaretownshippa.gov Thomas Ryan Vice-Chair | Township Treasurer tomr@delawaretownshippa.gov John Henderson jhenderson@delawaretownshippa.gov
e ADMINISTRATION Krista N. Predmore Township Administrator kpredmore@delawaretownshippa.gov Sharon Franks Administrative Asst. | Permits sharonf@delawaretownshippa.gov Robin Jones H.R. | Administrative Asst. rjones@delawaretownshippa.gov
e ROAD CREW/MAINTENANCE Charley Kroener | Road Master ckroener@delawaretownshippa.gov Ed Hammond | Asst. Road Master constablehammond@delawaretownshippa.gov Mike Kolenet dtbos@ptd.net Richard Heimbrook dtbos@ptd.net Mike Moffa mmoffa@delawaretownshippa.gov Vincent Flatt vflatt@delawaretownshippa.gov
e BOARDS & CHAIRPERSONS Planning Commission Lenny Glamann lennyglamann@gmail.com Zoning Hearing Board Max Brinson maxbrinson@yahoo.com Auditors Dennis Lee dennisleedtauditor@gmail.com
e ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS
haunted trail • scary movies • pumpkin painting Open October 1, 8, 9, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29, and 30 Rt 209 • Bushkill, PA • 800-446-0231
POCONOTREEVENTURES.COM /HallowscreamNights LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2016
Building Inspector SFM Consulting smcglynn@sfmconsultingllc.org Zoning Officer SFM Consulting smcglynn@sfmconsultingllc.org Sewage Officer David Manter dwmanter@ptd.net
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Common Permitting Questions Answered DO I NEED A BUILDING PERMIT? Although most construction projects require a building permit, the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (PA UCC) under Sections 403.1, 403.42, and 403.62 provide a number of specific exemptions.
4. Installation of tubing, piping, propane gas burning appliances, equipment or fixtures related to liquefied petroleum gas under the Propane and Liquefied Petroleum Gas Act (35 P. S. §§ 1329.11329.19).
Keep in mind: many provisions of the PA UCC are amendable by the local jurisdiction. It is important to check with the Township prior to the start of construction to confirm that the work is exempt. For example; the PA UCC exempts fully-detached residential accessory buildings (garage or shed) less than 1000 square feet from needing a permit, but many jurisdictions have amended this provision to reduce the exemption to two-hundred (200) square feet.
5. Alterations to residential buildings which do not make structural changes or changes to means of egress. Under this subsection, a structural change does not include a minor framing change needed to replace existing windows or doors.
THE FOLLOWING WORK DOES NOT REQUIRE A BUILDING PERMIT:
7. Installation of aluminum or vinyl siding onto an existing residential or an existing commercial building.
1. Fully detached accessory buildings to singlefamily dwellings less than 1,000 square feet. Don’t forget to check with the jurisdiction for amendments.
8. A recreational cabin if the following conditions are met:
2. Agricultural Buildings. Agricultural buildings are defined under Section 7210.103 of the PA UCC as; “A structure utilized to store farm implements, hay, feed, grain or other agricultural or horticultural products or to house poultry, livestock or other farm animals, a milk house and a structure used to grow mushrooms. The term includes a carriage house owned and used by members of a recognized religious sect for the purposes of housing horses and storing buggies. The term shall not include habitable space or spaces in which agricultural products are processed, treated or packaged and shall not be construed to mean a place of occupancy by the general public.” Horse barns for private use are considered agricultural, horse barns for commercial stables and equestrian training facilities are not considered agricultural. 3. Manufactured and industrialized housing (mobile homes and modular homes). The UCC only exempts the work done at the factory. All work performed on-site must be inspected and be code compliant. Therefore, although the housing itself does not need a permit, installation of the housing unit does.
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6. Ordinary repairs to residential buildings. Roof replacement is not an ordinary repair. A new roof requires a permit.
The cabin is equipped with at least one smoke detector, one fire extinguisher and one carbon monoxide detector in both the kitchen and sleeping quarters. The owner of the cabin files one of the following with the municipality: · L&I Department form UCC-13 attesting to the fact that the building meets the definition of a recreational cabin. · A valid proof of insurance for the recreational cabin, written and issued by an insurer authorized to do business in this Commonwealth, stating that the structure meets the definition of a “recreational cabin.” 9. Structures which are: a. Erected for the purpose of participation in a fair, flea market, arts and crafts festival or other public celebration. b. Less than 1,600 square feet in size. c. Erected for a period of less than 30 days. d. Not a swimming pool, spa or hot tub. 10. Fences that are not over 6 feet in height.
11. Retaining walls, which are not over 4 feet in height measured from the lowest level of grade to the top of the wall, unless it is supporting a surcharge. 12. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finishing work. 13. Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy which are less than 24 inches deep, do not exceed 5,000 gallons, and are installed entirely aboveground. 14. Swings and other playground equipment accessory to one- or two-family dwellings. 15. Window awnings supported by an exterior wall which do not project more than 54 inches from the exterior wall and do not require additional support of group R-3 as applicable in the “International Building Code,” and Group U occupancies. 16. Window replacement without structural change. 17. Maintenance of, and simple repairs to; electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems. If you intend to alter, or add to any of these systems, or you are replacing an entire system, contact the code office. 18. Installation of an uncovered deck where the floor of the deck is no more than 30 inches above grade, provided construction of the deck does not alter the means of egress. WHAT DO I NEED TO GET A PERMIT? Roofing Fill out a building permit application. Fill out Parts I, II, and IV. Under Part I, Section A, check box 4, Repair, replacement. Provide a written description of the project. A written proposal from the contractor often will suffice. For example, the written description should include, but not be limited to; tear-off of existing roofing, installation of ice and water shield, installation of felt paper and flashing, and installation of the specific type of finish material to be used. Also pitch of the roof should be identified.
LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2016
Wood Stoves/Pellet Stoves
The following projects need a zoning permit:
Fill out a building permit application. Fill out Parts I, II, and IV.
• Building a deck. • Building a patio. • Constructing a pergola or trellis. • Building a shed, or having a prefab shed installed on your property. • Enclosing an existing screened-in porch. • Building a roof over an existing deck. • Building/installing a fence. • Finishing an unfinished basement. • Finishing an unfinished attic. • Starting a business at your residence. • Construction/installation of above-ground and inground swimming pools.
Under Part I, Section A, check box 3, Alteration. Provide the manufacturer’s installation specifications for the model of stove and flue type. Provide a floor plan showing where the stove will be placed relative to walls. Decks Fill out a building permit application. Fill out Parts I, II, III, and IV. Under Part I, Section A, check box 2, Addition. Under Part III, Section E check box 31, wood frame, and fill in square footage of deck at line 49. Provide a floor plan of the deck with stairs, and a cross-section of the proposed deck with pier footing details, beams, joist and connectors, along with railing. New Homes and Additions • Fill out a building permit application in its entirety. • Provide floor plans for each floor level including basement. • Provide a detailed building cross-section. • Provide elevation drawings for each elevation. • Provide a plumbing DWV diagram. • Provide a potable water supply diagram. • Provide plans and specifications for HVAC • Provide plans and specifications demonstrating energy code compliance. • Provide electrical plan showing lighting, switching, receptacles, etc… DO I NEED A ZONING PERMIT? Zoning permits are required whenever a property owner intends to build a structure, add onto a building or structure, alter a building or structure, and/or change the use of land or buildings. So, if you’re planning on making improvements to your property, the answer to the question, “Do I need a permit?” is probably yes. A permit is issued when the property owner, through submission of an application and supporting documentation, (such as a plot plan) demonstrates the proposed improvements are in compliance with the zoning ordinance, i.e., the proposed shed will be set-back far enough from the property boundary. Acquisition of a zoning permit prior to the start of work is a legal obligation of the property owner. Issuance of a zoning permit demonstrates the proposed improvement is lawful, and as such, obtaining a zoning permit helps to protect the value of the investment. Most people are aware that a permit is required to build a house or garage, but sometimes it’s not so clear when contemplating projects of a smaller scope. The lists below identify some common residential improvements and whether or not a zoning permit is required.
The following projects do not need a zoning permit: • Planting a garden. • Planting trees and landscaping (unless it involves construction of walls and/or hardscaping). • Constructing/installing a garden pond. Note: large ponds involving alteration of drainage patterns and storm water flow require a permit. • Erecting a swing set or trampoline. • Placement of a seasonal, child’s wading pool, provided it is less than 24” deep. • Replacing siding. • Replacing roofing. • Replacing windows and doors provided the size of the openings are not changing, and the work does not involve alterations, e.g., changing a door opening into a window or a window into a door. • Home repairs, cosmetic improvements, and maintenance. Keep in mind: In addition to the requirement of a zoning permit, many of the projects listed above may also require a building permit in accordance with the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code, and sometimes building permits may be required when a zoning permit is not, such as for changes to plumbing or electrical work. DO I NEED AN INSPECTION? Sections 403.45 and 403.64 of the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code, (Pa UCC) requires the Construction Code Official to perform inspections during the construction process. Below is a list of typical inspections required during a construction project. Not all inspections will apply to your project. If you’re unsure, you can submit an inspection request, check the box “other” and inquire if an inspection is necessary. An inspector will call you. (For example: return to the SFM home page, click Request an Inspection, complete request form, then under Type of Inspection click Other, and provide your question in the Comments section. Click the Submit button).
6. Rough – done after rough framing is complete and all rough electrical, mechanical, and plumbing is in place. Plumbing must be pressurized as indicated in item 4 above. Roof covering can be installed prior to rough inspection. 7. Insulation – typically performed after the rough inspection and is often used as a follow-up to the rough inspection to verify that non-compliant items have been remediated. Insulation is inspected to verify compliance with the energy code and approved plans. Note: insulation cannot be installed until the building is weather-tight. 8. Drywall – done after drywall installation to verify proper installation of drywall, including, but not limited to, fire-rated and moisture resistant materials. 9. Final – After project is complete. Performed to verify building is in compliance with all applicable codes and is safe to occupy. Commercial Inspections (projects regulated under the IBC) Based on the varied nature of commercial construction projects, in addition to the inspections identified above, your project may require other types of inspections, or multiple inspections of the same construction phase. If you’re unsure whether or not an inspection is required, use the “schedule an inspection” tab and schedule an inspection. You will receive a call from an inspector. (See instructions in first paragraph). Special Inspections 1. Fire suppression systems, including but not limited to; ANSUL systems, sprinkler systems, standpipe, etc… 2. Fire alarm systems 3. Fire retardant materials applications. 4. Concrete reinforcement 5. Steel connections prior to application of fire protective coatings. 6. Firewalls, fire partitions, smoke barriers, etc… 7. Accessibility 8. Elevators and lifting devices are regulated by the Department of Labor & Industry in accordance with Chapter 405 of the UCC. If your project includes installation of an elevator or lift, required inspections must be coordinated with L&I. When in doubt, schedule the inspection, and we’ll talk about it. (See instructions in first paragraph).
Typical Residential Inspections (projects regulated under the IRC) 1. Footing – done prior to the placement of concrete. This inspection is performed to verify the bottom of the footing is below frost line (42”) and that the soil-bearing conditions are adequate for the loads to be imposed by the new building. Note: If you are building a deck, you can have sauna tubes in place with backfill around them. 2. Foundation Wall – done after concrete forms and rebar are in place in poured concrete walls, and during placement of CMU walls to verify vertical and lateral reinforcement. 3. Backfill – done after concrete walls have been stripped and waterproofed, and/or after CMU walls have been parged and waterproofed. Exterior perimeter drains must also be in place at this time. 4. Under-slab Plumbing – done to inspect piping that is to be covered by a concrete slab. DWV must have 6 psi, and water supply piping must hold 8O psi. 5. Slab – done prior to pouring a concrete slab. Gravel substrate must be prepped at time of inspection and 6 mil polyethylene plastic (or equivalent) vapor retarder must be in place.
LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2016
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2016 Bulk Dump Disposal Dates The Delaware Township Bulk Disposal will be open the first and third Saturday of each month from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm during the Spring, Summer and Fall. Bulk will only be available one Saturday per month during the winter months. September 17, 2016 October 1, 2016 and October 15, 2016 November 5th, 2016 and November 19, 2016 December 17, 2016
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LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2016
EMERGENCY MGMT. Think Snow! – Or Wind, Rain, Ice, Floods, Drought, Etc. By George F. Beodeker- Emergency Management Coordinator
Pike County Maintains 18 Fire Departments and 86 Emergency Vehicles
As I write this, it is the height of the summer and almost 90 degrees at 11 am. Like many of you my focus for today is on staying cool and hydrated, maybe taking a relaxing afternoon swim. Winter, and all the hazards for disaster that it brings, is probably the furthest thing from your thoughts. But in the back of my emergency management oriented brain, a little voice is reminding me that extended heat waves can bring about consequences that require emergency actions on both a personal and community level. From power outages that occur when excessive demand causes portions of the power grid to shut down to the intermittent severe storms that often accompany this type of weather, being “aware and prepared” is key to personal safety for you, your family and your pets. If the power goes out during this weather where would you get access to sufficient drinking water? Do you know how to recognize the signs and symptoms of “heat exhaustion?” Or the difference between this condition and heat stroke- a true medical emergency. Do you routinely check on elderly neighbors and relatives in the area during these physically exhausting conditions to see if they need any assistance? Are you aware that modern refrigerators are so well insulated and energy efficient that food stored inside them can last for many hours before you have to worry about it spoiling? So long as you keep the door closed except when you absolutely need to access it. You can also place items from your freezer (especially large packages) inside to help maintain temps while you wait for the power to come back on. (Think about the last time you put the frozen turkey inside the fridge to thaw 2 days before thanksgiving!) In addition, if using window air conditioners are you certain that the electrical circuits and outlets being used are adequate for this purpose? That any extension cords being used are rated for this purpose and are not run under furniture or carpets? If circuit breakers are “tripping” while these appliances are running or when you turn on other devices (lights, etc.) you could be risking a dangerous overload and possible fire. And of course to turn off these and other appliances if you are going to be away from home for more than an hour or two. Both for safety and energy conservation. My little voice is also reminding me that almost all of Central and Eastern Pennsylvania is under a drought warning or watch. Despite the storms sometimes daily and rain we had a week or so ago, water levels remain dangerously low. This means homeowners with wells should be aware of possible impacts to both quantity and quality of your water supply. Drought conditions also influence the possibility of brush fires, so caution should be exercised when doing any “open” burning.
Lackawaxen Twp. Volunteer Ambulance Service (Dept. 21) 109 PA Rt. 590, Greeley, PA 570-685-4022
While the heat wave will break soon, the need for constant consideration of “preparation” for the next season, the next cycle of weather, the next possible disaster must be maintained. Particularly on a personal level, you must be prepared for the safety of your family and home during the critical first hours or days of any disaster that may strike our community. Key components of this personal preparedness include a communications plan and emergency supplies. Excellent references and suggestions for how to accomplish this can be found on the FEMA website at READY.GOV and on the PEMA website at READYPA. Delaware Township will be continuing its community preparedness efforts as the fall rolls around. After completing the required rewrite of the Basic Emergency Operations Plan through the spring and have it approved by the supervisors and filed with the County and the State, we will be working on updating our required list of “vulnerable facilities” and township “resource” listings for use before, during and after any disaster. Further expansion of involvement of volunteers from the community will begin and information on how to participate will be forthcoming. Additionally, a public meeting to discuss personal and private community preparation and response is also planned. I will look forward to your participation, questions and input and thank you for your support of Emergency Management activities.
Lackawaxen Fire Dept. (Dept. 31) 116 Township Rd., Lackawaxen, PA 570-685-7330
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 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
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
LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2016
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DTVFC- Responding, Revitalizing and Recruiting
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
By George F. Beodeker- President- Delaware Township Volunteer Fire Company In another few weeks the school year will begin again with a modern focus on the old themes of “reading, ‘riting and ‘rethmetic.” As the members of DTVFC pass the midpoint of our 60th year of service to the residents of the township our modern focus is on our own “3 R’s” – as titled above. Certainly as you would expect our most basic tenet of service remains responding to emergencies. Answering the call when one of our neighbors or our numerous visitors are having “the worst day of their life.” However, our mission has become so much more than just fighting fires. Many residents may not be aware that the fire company and its personnel are now, more than ever before “all hazards” responders. Besides a traditional fire response or motor vehicle accident, DTVFC is actively involved in and called to hazardous materials incidents or spills, wildland fires, wilderness searches, rescues and carry outs, road closures and traffic control, water rescues, pump outs and fire prevention activities for the public. In other more suburban areas some of these duties would fall to other agencies or organizations, but in a rural area such as ours the fire department is the agency of choice by default. For our members it means that we are always seeing new challenges on a regular
basis and must be “masters” to the best extent possible of all trades- not just firefighting. We must also adapt to the dynamics of the types of incidents we regularly encounter while maintaining the capability at a moment’s notice to be effective in our most basic mission of fire suppression. For example, the past few years have seen a significant number of responses to areas of the township with the DWGNRA to assist the park service. To better meet those needs the department purchased an ATV and support equipment for those specialized rescues and participated in training necessary to be successful. Fortunately, this summer due to policies within the park, those calls have dropped dramatically. To further improve our capability to respond we are currently in the process of designing and purchasing a new tanker for water supply and researching the purchase of a special “support” truck for response to traffic control, utility emergencies and pump outs, etc. This is all in addition to the new pumper we purchased last year to replace our 15 year truck that was in deteriorating condition. As responses go, our records and reporting indicate that from January 2010 to December 2015 the department responded to 956 calls for emergency assistance or almost 200 per year. 2016 is on track to be about the same again. This doesn’t include the routine
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
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LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2016
”work” of the operations such as weekly drills, training, meetings and property/equipment maintenance. When those are included the actual man-hours invested by all members of the department for that period total over 31,000! That’s right and all provided by volunteers- your neighbors and friends. As you can gather from above, a significant amount of time is devoted to what I like to call “revitalization.” This includes the upkeep for both our buildings, with the main firehouse now 25 years old and the substation approaching 40 years old. Major projects being considered including repaving the driveway, painting the bays, additional insulation at the substation. As with any aging structure the list is always growing. We are also currently revising and updating many organizational policies and procedures to keep pace with the changing times and societal influences. Equipment must be “revitalized” regularly including before and after use at emergencies to insure it is ready whenever needed. And constantly refreshing even the most basic skills to maintain competency in whatever we are called to do. We also need to revitalize our spirit individually and collectively and will do that at our company picnic in October, The Sussex County Firemen’s Parade, our fire prevention month open house and of course our Annual Santa Run in December. This daunting list of challenges is only even remotely approachable because-“many hands make light work.” Our membership stands at just under 40 with ages ranging from 20 to the mid 60’s. But many members wear multiple hats on the operational and administrative side. We can always use more help and there is a job for everyone.
COME OUT AND SUPPORT US! Delaware Township Volunteer Fire Department
FUNDRAISER
COMEDY NIGHT Saturday, September 17th • 7-11 PM At the American Legion Post 851 Ball Park Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA Tickets $40 each - $50 at the door Only 140 Tickets available - 50/50 Raffle
Hot Buffet • Wine & Soda JOHNNY RIZZO JOHN CONTE SHAY FERROLL For info and tickets call Mike at 570-499-9990 or Ed at 570-242-5917 or stop by the Delaware Township Building
“What if you had a fire and nobody came?” – this was the slogan for a recruiting campaign for volunteer firefighters when I first joined in the 1970’s. And it remains valid today, especially with the demands modern society places on persons who might otherwise consider joining. This constant demand for new members (particularly those who wish to be “active” firefighters) is something all of the departments in Pike County, the Commonwealth and around the nation are struggling with. Last year the County Commissioners in recognition of this need implemented a county wide initiative entitled “B 1 of the 1’S” (see- pikesbravest.org) to help all of us increase our ranks. It is our intention to be more active in our recruiting efforts this fall through use of that campaign and others. We would urge any residents with an interest to stop by the firehouse on any Tuesday night and see what we are about or reach out through our public Facebook page. We will also have more info available at our open house (TBA) and the Harvest Festival. There are jobs for everyone regardless of your specific interest. Join us and help serve yourself and others on the “worst day of their life”—it will be the toughest job you ever loved and the rewards of service are worth far more than you can imagine.
LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2016
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CodeRED Selected to Replace Roam Secure Alert Network for Critical Communications in Pike County, Pennsylvania Following an extensive research, evaluation and competitive selection process of community notification and alerting systems by the Northeast Pennsylvania Regional CounterTerrorism Task Force, Pike County has switched from the Roam Secure Alert Network to CodeRED - a high-speed web-based emergency notification service provided by Emergency Communications Network (ECN). Public safety officials across North America have credited CodeRED notifications with saving lives and successfully locating missing children, apprehending fugitives, and relaying timely evacuation notices. “We are pleased to include the CodeRED solution as a key component of our communication strategy” said Tim Knapp, Pike County EMA. “It is important to us that we maintain transparent and time-sensitive communications to staff and residents to ensure their optimal safety. Not only will the service
be deployed to issue general and emergency notifications, but registered residents will now receive automated severe weather warnings, providing them with the extra time necessary to take safety precautions. When critical communications must be delivered flawlessly, we are proud to partner with such an experienced company as CodeRED known for its reliable communications across multiple channels including voice, text, email, and social media, in addition to a mobile application that travels with residents and visitors throughout the County.” Not only will CodeRED be used immediately to issue general, emergency and severe weather warning notifications throughout the county, but county officials will now also have access to the national Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) infrastructure. IPAWS is the nationwide system used to warn the public regarding national emergencies, localized imminent threats, and AMBER alerts.
All residents are encouraged to sign up to receive County alerts by visiting https:// public.coderedweb. com and clicking on the CodeRED logo. “This registration process is simple, but its potential impact on our community is worth the investment of a few minutes of your time,” said Knapp. During registration, residents and businesses may select their notification preferences, provide personal contact information, and pinpoint their location on a map. These steps will ensure residents receive the most accurate information for emergency and general notifications released by County officials. Additionally, residents can stay informed of local alerts by downloading the most popular public safety notification app – the CodeRED Mobile Alert app. This free app notifies registered smartphone users of real-time alerts in their geo-targeted area whether they are at home, or as they travel through other jurisdictions where CodeRED is utilized. The app can be downloaded at no charge from Google Play and the App Store.
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LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2016
LEGISLATURE News for Constituents from Sen. Lisa Baker
Legislative Update Drought Conditions Trigger Voluntary and Mandatory Water Restrictions Limited rainfall this summer has triggered voluntary and mandatory water restrictions in 34 counties across the Commonwealth, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. Whether confronted by a drought watch, warning, or emergency, questions may arise on best water conservation tips. PA DEP offers tips and the effect each can have on your family’s water consumption. Know inclusions and exclusions for water use, including home vegetable gardens, fountains, fish ponds and more. A number of Fact Sheets for specific types of businesses can help keep commerce moving ahead during drought conditions.
Whitetails and Trail Cams Spawn PGC’s Big-Buck Photo Contest The Big-Buck Trail Cam Photo Contest is now underway, according to the Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC). Gather your best summer and fall big-buck, white-tail, trail cam photos for consideration.
Beginning September 1, 2016, the PGC will select from a number of white-tail, trail cam photo entries to be released on its Facebook page for users to pick a monthly winner, with an eye toward selecting one overall victor on December 5, 2016, the conclusion of the BigBuck Photo Contest.
• Promoting increased vaccination rates • Enter by the 10 p.m. October 31, 2016
deadline for a chance to see your child’s winning entry displayed on the Get Smart website.
Monthly submissions should be sent to PGCtrailcam@pa.gov. Include the photographer’s first and last name, hometown, and county where the photo was captured. Photographers agree to the PGC’s use of the photos. Along with a photo assuming a spot on the PGC’s Facebook page, the monthly and the overall winners, selected by Facebook users, will each win a new trail cam to continue capturing the wondrous sights of wildlife in Penn’s Woods.
2016 PA Fair Guide Leads to Good Food and Fun August and September are chock full of county and local agricultural fairs, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA). A review of The 2016 Pennsylvania Fair Guide list of events and a corresponding map can help you select your next trip to a PA fair. Take it a step, or two, further with VisitPA’s Fairs and Festivals list of more than 100 events broken out into eleven regions. In addition, the PDA “Markets and Farm Stands” database provides for searches by county. Other search options include products, pick-your-own scenarios, and tours.
“Get Smart” Competition Open to Young Health-Conscious Artists and Writers The “Get Smart about Antibiotic Resistance Program” is a cooperative effort between the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the University of Pennsylvania and the Centers for Disease Control recognizing the more than two million Americans who annually experience complications from antibiotic resistance (ABR). A shot of creativity could land your child in the Program’s winner’s circle. Your youngster can paint a picture, design a poster, develop a comic book, create a new superhero, or write a story or a poem about keeping healthy. Artwork may highlight good prevention practices including:
• Handwashing • Recognizing which symptoms are responsive to antibiotics
• Instructing pharmacy students about ABR
LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2016
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visit when the house is open for tours to experience the garden changes from Marie’s roses in the 1940’s to today’s varied plantings that focus on natives, bees, butterflies and birds. Because of the many environmentally sound gardening
practices, I envision the Zimmermann garden and landscape as a model for the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and the volunteer group of Friends of Marie Zimmermann as model stewards of the Zimmermann house and farm.
The Marie Zimmermann Garden Today (Continued from Page 1) the growing conditions are right, the perennials can continue thriving for many years. The garden beds are different from borders as they are accessible from all sides and are easy to maintain. They admit ample sunlight and allow for better air circulation which benefit the plants. They can be viewed from all sides and offer many possibilities for arranging the plants. This spring, magnificent beds of peonies and irises just had to be cleaned before they were heavy with blooms. A bed of red roses continued to bloom throughout the summer. Bee balm and hyssop attract the hummingbirds while the bees cling to the delicate purple flowers of the nepeta. Deer resistant lamb’s ears and lady’s mantle are thriving along with native black-eyed Susan which add bright color to the garden’s aesthetics. In a very shaded area under an exotic yew, I planted maidenhair fern surrounded by lily-ofthe-valley and clumps of sedum. Coral bells, astilbe and native foxglove tolerate the shade and will provide color and interest alongside the fern. There is still room in the garden area for additional natives such as purple coneflower, Solomon’s seal and milkweed. I’m happy to be able to contribute to the Recreation Area through the planting, care and maintenance of the Zimmermann gardens. Please PAGE 12
LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2016
Akenac Park Playground Approved On Wednesday, August 24, 2016 the Board of Supervisors approved to purchase playground equipment and safety surfacing in the amount of $274,967.19 from Liberty Parks & Playgrounds, Inc. for Akenac Park. The new playground will feature new belt, bucket, inclusive and generation swings, as well as a free rider, viper, accelerator swing, gravity cube, gravity rail, custom play area for ages 2-5 and a custom mega tower. It will also feature engineered wood fiber surfacing as well as safety turf poured in place. The equipment was ordered immediately and delivery will take place in approximately 4 weeks. Another 2-3 weeks will be needed for installation. Township staff hope to have a ribbon cutting ceremony on Saturday, October 22, 2016 during the annual Trunk or Treat event. See an interactive video of the playgrounds layout by going to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7xMe4HQdxk Follow our facebook page for further updates.
TO ADVERTISE EMAIL LIVINGDELAWARE@NIKIJONES.COM OR CALL 845-754-2356
LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2016
Old
New
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EVENTS
The Dingmans Ferry Lions Club Join us as we Celebrate 40 years of Service to the Dingmans Ferry area
All-You-Can-Eat Breakfast Saturday October 1st 8 to 11 a.m. Municipal Building Wilson Hill Road
7 4
October 1, 2016 “Join us as we Celebrate 40 years of Service to the Dingmans Ferry Area” Proceeds go to www.lionskidsightusa.org
Proceeds go to
Contact Lion, www.lionskidsightusa.org Audrey Mervine-Mead for details 570-828-6285 audmervine63@yahoo.com PAGE 14
LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2016
Pennsylvania Fair Guide 2016
For more information: Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture www.agriculture.pa.gov fairs@pa.gov 717.787.6298 Pennsylvania State Assoc. of County Fairs www.pafairs.org PSACF@pafairs.org 866.814.6985
LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2016
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DELAWARE TOWNSHIP ANNUAL
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETINGS: 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at 6:30 pm at the Municipal Building. Workshops are held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month at 6:30 pm. AS NEEDED.
BOARD OF AUDITORS MEETINGS:
TRUNK OR TREAT Saturday • October 22, 2016 11am - 2pm Akenac Park - Abbey Lane • Dingmans Ferry, PA
3rd Saturday of each month at 10:30 am at the Emergency Management Building on Wilson Hill Road.
Board of Supervisors Meetings Board of Supervisors Meetings (Meetings are held the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month) Workshops begin at 5:30 pm Regular meetings begin at 6:30 pm Wednesday, September 14, 2016 Wednesday, September 28, 2016 Wednesday, October 12, 2016 Wednesday, October 26, 2016 Wednesday, November 9, 2016 Wednesday, November 23, 2016
Trunk a Treating Haunted House Goodies for purchase from the Delaware Township Lions Club
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LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2016
Join Us at Our Second Annual ColorFest - A Family-Friendly Color Run/Walk to Benefit Safe Haven of Pike County, Inc. The Perfect Way to Spend a Fall Saturday Morning? In the Beautiful Outdoors with Music, Exercise, and Lots of Color! When: Saturday, October 1 (Rain or Shine) Where: Delaware Township’s Akenac Park – Rte 739, Dingmans Ferry Registration Starts at: 8:30 AM Run Starts at:
9:00 AM
Pre-registration:
$20 adults & kids 5+
Day-of Registration: $25 adults & kids 5+. Kids under 5 are FREE!
2016 Get Smart Competition for Young Artists and Writers
Draw a picture, design a poster or write a story about keeping healthy! The Pennsylvania Get Smart Program invites all children (up to 12 years old) to help build the national campaign to say “NO!” to germs and “YES!” to being healthy! This involves ideas like washing your hands (to wash germs away), getting vaccines or “shots” (to help prevent illness), and using medicines called antibiotics appropriately (to fight bacterial infections). Here are a few ideas: • Draw icky germs on dirty hands! • Make a poster with tips for what to do if someone coughs on your toy. Yuck!
-Bring eye protection
• Write about a classroom where you are sharing books and toys, when, one day, your best friend gets sick. What happens? Does she or he to to the nurse? Do you wash your hands?
-No animals
• Make a drawing of yourself getting a flu vaccine!
-Wear white shirts and old clothing -Color packets for sale – 1 Color Packet: $5.00; 3 Color Packets: $10.00. For more information contact: Valerie O’Hare Safe Haven of Pike County, Inc. 570-807-2036 mk@shopc.org
LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2016
• Show examples of children sick with germs that don’t need antibiotics - like colds or the flu. They need a box of tissues and lots to drink but no antibiotics! • Design a comic book of everything “germy” you might touch in a day.
• Write a poem about how vaccines help keep you healthy. • Create a germ-fighting hero who uses soap, water and vaccines to fight off germs.
Deadline for submission is 10 pm, Oct. 31, 2016 Three children each from five different age groups will win prizes! Winning entries will be displayed on the Get Smart website.
For guidelines, information and where to submit your entries, visit
www.KnowWhenToSayNo.org
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PARKS & REC Ask The Sensei... By Sensei Albert Casale Q. (Lords Valley)Dear Sensei: My 22 yr. old girlfriend went on a (I think a crazy type diet) to lose weight. She is taking supplements with weird names. She is not overweight but wants to have a body like the girl models in magazines and TV. She is looking a little wrinkled in her face and arms and has a skinny look. I like her just the way she was, not like she looks now. What can happen if she keeps going on this diet? I don’t want her to look like an old lady. A. Women who become too thin can endanger their well-being. Reason: Women who go to extremes to eliminate fat from their bodies often go too far. Researchers have found that in healthy women, body fat should be between 16% and 26% of total weight - with the ideal being about 20%. A quick way for women to see if weight is in healthy range: Use the hip-to-waist ratio. Pass a tape measure around your body, and cross the naval. Jot down the result. Then pass the tape around your buttocks to measure your hips. Divide the waist measurement by the hip measurement. If the result is below 0.85, you’re in good shape. If it is higher than 1.0, you are heavy and need to lose weight.
Memory Lane These are pictures of Master Sensei Albert Casale. He was a member of the U S Olympic team in 1960 doing gymnastics in Rome and he also became famous in martial art around the world. He built the Mountain Dojo School of Champions health and fitness in Delaware Township and helped tens of thousands of people. He was also rewarded in the hall of fame and still training many athletes of different sports
The women who come to me to lose size and weight the right way look gorgeous and not like old ladies.
YMCA CAMP SPEERS Day Camp Horseback Riding Overnight Camp SIGN UP EARLY FOR 2017
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)
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LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2016
Introducing Troop 174’s Five Eagle Scouts of 2016 In a letter dated August 21, 1912, James E. West formally notified Arthur Eldred that he had the honor of being the first Eagle Scout of the Boy Scouts of America. In this letter, West informed him that the Eagle badge would be presented at a later date. A primary reason for this was that the dyes for the badge had not yet been made. Eldred received the actual badge on Labor Day 1912. To become an Eagle Scout, a Scout must remain active in the troop, earn a total of 21 merit badges, hold a leadership position, plan, develop, raise the necessary funds and give leadership through a service project helpful to an organization within their community. Being an Eagle Scout requires hard work and a determined mindset. It mandates leadership of everyone under your wing and asks for endurance and resolve when faced with challenges. It requires you to remain calm when facing the unknown and to appreciate the earth for all its splendor and useful offerings. Arthur Eldred, may not have had the same requirements as today’s scout does, but he was the first Eagle Scout to be honored with many more to follow in his footsteps. Troop 174’s five young men have experienced many adventures starting as Cub Scouts and working their way through the Boy Scout ranks to become Eagle Scouts. While Cub Scouts they had lots of fun, games, projects, pack nights, awards & den moms/dads. In Boy Scouts they did community service, adventurous trips, award ceremonies, Klondike Derbies, the Order of the Arrow, summer camp & Eagle Scout projects. Troop 174 & those that you have helped are very proud of your accomplishments and wish you much success in your future adventures. Once an Eagle Scout, always an Eagle Scout. Matt Cotter - Eagle Scout project was at the Olde Poor Lot, Delaware Cemetery. He refurbished the stairs and installed crosses, American flags & restored the plot area. He will be attending Sussex County Community College, majoring in Radiology. Brandon Haraldsen – Eagle Scout project was at the American Legion Post 851. He installed a parking pad, built a picnic table, restored a well cover & built a new fire pit. He will be attending Virginia Tech University, majoring in Engineering & the ROTC program. Nate Hayes – Eagle Scout project was at the Country Ark Farm. He installed mulch, a
AKENAC PARK IS OFFICIALLY CLOSED FOR SWIMMING AS OF SEPTEMBER 6th! YOU CAN STILL ENJOY FISHING AND HIKING DURING THE FALL SEASON! LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2016
slide & canopy at the playground, built four wheelchair accessible tables w/umbrellas, built & installed two signs at the front of the farm. He will be attending West Chester University, majoring in nursing. Kris Tjornhom – Eagle Scout Project was videos of the Holy Trinity Church. He made a series of five videos explaining the services HTLC has to offer the community, go to Youtube.com, search the Holy Trinity videos. He will be attending the Wilkes University, majoring in Musical Theatre. Alphonse Griger – Eagle Scout project was at the American Legion Post 851. He designed & built a new American Legion sign at the corner of Wilsonhill Road & Ball Park Road. He will be attending Johnson & Wales University, majoring in Culinary & Business Management.
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