Living Delaware Township Fall 2017

FALL 2017

THE CORNERSTONE OF THE POCONOS

NOTICE: The Township Office will be closed on the following days: Thanksgiving: Thursday, Nov. 23rd & Friday, Nov. 24th • Christmas: Monday, Dec. 25th

A Great Growing Season

By Carol Padalino Oh my gosh! What a great summer gardening season at the Smith Harker Community Garden.

We were first able to harvest asparagus, lettuce, peas and spinach, the early crops. Then as the weather warmed, the cucumbers and squashes began to grow. Some of us were able to fight off the small critters and get some beans, but that was a struggle. One of our gardeners had a beautiful patch of corn, another had cabbages and broccoli. And of course, we all grew tomatoes and eagerly awaited the taste of that first ripened on the vine, home grown tomato.

There is nothing like it.

All of our gardeners use organic fertilizers or other organic soil amendments. We have available plots for interested Delaware Township residents who want to grow their own produce next summer. Areas of rhubarb, horseradish, (Continued on Page 20)

IN THIS ISSUE DAILY LIVING Scheetz Resigns from the B.O.S. School Real Estate Taxes Township Road Project Completed Dingmans Ferry Lions Club Vision Care Help 10 Things To Know About The Deer Tick Stop Credit & Debit Card Skimmers Thwart Package Thieves Autumn’s PA Preferred Arrival It’s Leaf Peeping Planning Season Horse & Buggy Driver’s Manual Info Delaware Twp. Adopt-A-Road Program The Right To Know Law

DAILY LIVING Discover Your Drinking Water — Page 6

2 2 3 3 3 4 5 5 5 5 7 8

Donations by the Township Safe Haven: For Your Community & School

10 12

LEGISLATURE State Reports Increase in Lyme Cases 2016 State Reduces Mandated Testing for Students

19 19

13 14 15 15

MEETINGS & EVENTS Township Misc. Boards Meetings 2017 Bulk Disposal Dates & Recycling Delaware Twp. Trunk or Treat Akenac Park Events

20 20 20 20

PARKS & REC Youth Sports and Concussions Ask the Sensei...

23 23

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT Livestock Emergency Survey How To Prepare Your Animals for Disaster Fire Safety Pike County Fire Departments Listing Take Action Now To Keep Your Family Connected During a Disaster DIG DELAWARE A Great Growing Season

16 18

LEGISLATURE

PARKS & REC

Protecting You From Scams — Page 19

Akenac General Park Policies — Page 22

Newburgh, NY 12550 PERMIT NO. 335

Like Us on Facebook www.facebook.com/DelawareTownship

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DAILY LIVING Scheetz Resigns from the Board of Supervisors On July 25, 2017, Delaware Township received a letter from Supervisor Jeffrey Scheetz announcing his intention to resign from the Board of Supervisors effective immediately. As many residents knew, Dr. Scheetz and his wife, were considering moving back to New Jersey in order to live closer to their children and grandchildren.

Dr. Scheetz stated in his letter of resignation, “It has been my honor to serve the good people of Delaware Township and to help supervise it’s many outstanding employees.” He took the time to recognize current and past Supervisors he served with and thanked the Township Solicitor for his

DELAWARE TOWNSHIP 116 Wilson Hill Road Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328 Phone: 570-828-2347

sage advice and friendship. Dr. Scheetz stated that his job as chair of the Board of Supervisors was meaningful and pleasant.

Besides Dr. Scheetz’s service to the Township on the Board of Supervisors, he served his local church, Pike County Scenic Rural Characteristic and the Dingmans Ferry Lion’s Club as well as

HOURS OF OPERATION:

always being present at Township events as a volunteer. The Township wishes Jeff and Jane well on

Building Inspector: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 8:00 am – 10:00 am

The Board of Supervisors filled the vacant seat on the Board at their July 26, 2017 meeting by

Sewage Officer: By appointment only 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: Labor Day to Oct. 31, 2017 Open 8 am to dusk; Closed every Tues.

Nov. 1, 2017 to Date to be Determined Closed to public except on M, W, F 12-3 pm for access to the Delaware Township Library After Labor Day No Swimming Permitted

their new adventures with their children and grandchildren!

appointing Jane Neufeld supervisor and treasurer.

School Real Estate Taxes School Real Estate Taxes for the Delaware Valley School District were mailed on August 1, 2017. 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.

Tuesday, October 31, 2017 from 10 am - 2 pm Thursday, November 30, 2017 from 10 am - 2 pm Please mark your calendars. If you have any questions, please contact Mary Lou Corbett at (570) 828-2225.

CALL 845-456-1218 To Advertise in Living Delaware Township

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 2017

Township Road Project Completed On Tuesday, September 19, 2017, the Chestnut Ridge Road project was completed by Wayco, Inc. The project included 420 ton of superpave scratch and leveling course, 525 ton superpave wearing course, and line painting.

Sealed bids were accepted by the Delaware Township Board of Supervisors and approved on June 28, 2017. This project cost the Township $93,600.15. Included in this project is line painting on Log & Twig Road, Park Road, Doolan Road, Myck Road and Spencer Road.

John Henderson Chair | Secretary jhenderson@delawaretownshippa.gov Ron Hough Vice-Chair rhough@delawaretownshippa.gov Jane Neufeld Supervisor | Treasurer jneufeld@delawaretownshippa.gov

Dingmans Ferry Lions Club Vision Care Help

E ADMINISTRATION

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 posses the financial means to get them.

Krista Predmore Township Administrator kpredmore@delawaretownshippa.gov Sharon Franks Administrative Assistant | Permits sharonf@delawaretownshippa.gov

If you or a member of your immediate family qualify, the Lions Club is prepared to help. To learn more, contact Robert Ruiz at 570-236-8098 or email at robbruiz@icloud.com.

Robin Jones H.R. | Administrative Asst. rjones@delawaretownshippa.gov Lori McCrory Permit Assistant lmccrory@delawaretownshippa.gov

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E ROAD CREW/MAINTENANCE Charley Kroener | Road Master ckroener@delawaretownshippa.gov Ed Hammond | Asst. Road Master constablehammond@delawaretownshippa.gov Mike Kolenet | Interim Road Master beginning on Nov. 1, 2017 dtbos@ptd.net Richard Heimbrook dtbos@ptd.net Mike Moffa mmoffa@delawaretownshippa.gov Vincent Flatt vflatt@delawaretownshippa.gov

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LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2017

Zoning Hearing Board Max Brinson maxbrinson@yahoo.com Auditors Dennis Lee dennisleedtauditor@gmail.com

E ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS 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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Call

845-456-1218

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Toll Free Numbers State Auditor General’s Tipline

1-800-922-8477

Cancer Hotline

1-800-422-6237

Child Abuse Hotline

1-800-932-0313

Consumer Protection Bureau

1-800-441-2555

DEP

1-800-541-2050

Elder Abuse Hotline

1-800-490-8505

Ethics Commission

1-800-932-0936

Health Line

1-800-724-3258

Inspector General

1-800-932-0935

Insurance

1-877-881-6388

LIHEAP

1-800-692-7462

LCB

1-800-932-0602

Military and Veterans Affairs

1-800-645-8924

Mortgage Assistance

1-800-342-2397

PACE/PACENET

1-800-225-7223

PennDOT – Motor Vehicles

1-800-932-4600

PennDOT – Potholes

1-800-349-7623

PennDOT – Roadway and Weather Conditions

1-800-331-3414

PHEAA

1-800-682-7392

Property Tax/Rent Rebate

1-800-222-9190

PUC

1-800-692-7380

Revenue

1-800-728-2937

State

1-888-659-9962

Turnpike Commission

1-800-331-3414

Unemployment Compensation

1-888-334-4046

Welfare Assistance

1-800-692-7462

Welfare Fraud

1-800-932-0582

Worker’s Compensation

1-800-428-2383

Federal

PAGE 4

Senator Bob Casey

1-866-802-2833

Senator Pat Toomey

1-855-552-1831

Congressman Lou Barletta

1-855-241-5144

Congressman Tom Marino

1-202-225-3731

IRS

1-800-382-1274

Medicare

1-800-829-1040

Social Security

1-800-772-1213

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2017

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

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2017

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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Discovering Your Drinking Water Pike County is almost entirely dependent on groundwater to meet its drinking water needs. With the exception of bottled water, all water that is consumed at home, in school, and in the workplace originates as groundwater from private, community and municipal wells and springs.

Pike County Conservation District, in cooperation with Pike County - Penn State Extension and the Pocono Source Water Protection Collaborative, will be hosting two workshops throughout Pike County on August 23rd and October 18th to discuss the importance of groundwater and provide some useful tips on maintaining good drinking water quality. At the workshops participants will learn the importance of groundwater, how groundwater reaches your well, and how easily it can be polluted.

The first 10 registered participants per workshop will be provided a water test kit at no charge to take home and test their own drinking water. The water test will include coliform bacteria, nitrates, pH and Total Dissolved Solids. The water test results will be forwarded to homeowners along with any potential steps needed to improve drinking water in their home. The workshops will be held at the following times and locations: Workshop #2 – Wednesday, October 18, 2017 at 7:00pm at the Dingman Township Building, 118 Fisher Lane, Milford, PA 18337

Discovering Your Drinking Water Learn more about protecng the quality of your drinking water!

The first 10 registered parcipants per workshop will be provided a water test kit to take home and test their own drinking water at no charge!

Wednesday, August 23, 2017 at 7:00pm Lackawaxen Township Building, 116 Urban Road, Lackawaxen, PA OR Wednesday, October 18, 2017 at 7:00pm Dingman Township Building 118 Fisher Lane, Milford, PA To register for one of the programs above please contact the Pike County Conservaon District at 570-226-8220. Registraon is free and all programs are open to the public.

To register for one of the programs above please contact the Pike County Conservation District at 570-226-8220 or email pikecd@pikepa.org.

Registration is free and all programs are open to the public. Financial and Financial and other support for this project is provided by the Pennsylvania Associaon of Conservaon Districts, other support for this project is provided by the Pennsylvania Association of Inc. through a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protecon under Secon 319 of the Conservation Districts, Inc. through a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection under 319 of the Clean Clean Water Act, administered by theSection U.S. Environmental Protecon Agency. Water Act, administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2017

Delaware Township Adopt-A-Road Program The Delaware Township Adopt-A-Road Program assists in keeping our township litter free. There are only six (6) roads adopted to date and nine (9) additional roads still available for adoption.

Program Overview: Open to groups, businesses and individuals Minimum of two litter pickups per year (Spring and Fall) Township will place Program signs with your name on the road adopted, and will provide you with the supplies needed for litter pickups.

Participant Qualifications: Local community organizations, such as civic, social or school groups, will be eligible to adopt a road as will individuals eighteen (18) years of age or older, Corporations, partnerships and sole proprietorships who wish to sponsor groups may do so. However, there will be no business logo or commercial advertising used or displayed by a group or any of its participants.

Delaware Township will not enter into an agreement with any elected official or candidate for public office.

The Group will be required to adopt a road or portion thereof for at least two years from the effective date of the agreement. The agreement may be assigned to another group or business subject to prior written approval by the Township.

The minimum age for participation is eight (8) years of age. Groups with members between the ages of eight and seventeen must be supervised by adults eighteen years of age or older in the ratio of one adult per eight participants between the ages of eight and seventeen whenever there is a litter pickup.

Available Township Roads: • Emery Road • Chestnut Ridge Road • Kitty Harker Road • Spencer Road • Long Meadow Road • Mary Stuart Road • Doodle Hollow Road • Nichecronk Road • Weber Road For more information, please go to www. delawaretownshippa.gov for an application or call Robin Jones at 570-828-2347

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2017

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The Right to Know Law The Right to Know (“RTK”) Law is the Pennsylvania law that guarantees your right to access and obtain copies of public records held by government agencies. Generally speaking, through RTK you can obtain records from state and local agencies as well as records from the PA General Assembly and financial records from PA’s judicial system. The law does not apply to record requests to federal agencies. Delaware Township’s Right to Know Policy is as follows:

Open Record Officer

General

The township hereby designates Krista Predmore as the township Open Records Officer.

All documents deemed public records shall be available for inspection, retrieval, and duplication at the Municipal Building during established business hours (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) with the exception of weekends and holidays.

The Open Records Officer may be reached at: 116 Wilson Hill Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328. Phone number: (570) 828-2347 Fax number:(570) 828-8705.

Requests Requests shall be made in writing to the township Open Records Officer on a form provided by the township.

Fees Paper copies shall be 25 cents per page per side. The certification of a record is $5 per record. Specialized documents including, but not limited to blue prints, color copies, and non-standard sized documents shall be charged the actual cost of production. If mailing is requested, the cost of postage will be charged.

The township shall require prepayment if the total fees are estimated to exceed $100.

Response The township shall make a good-faith effort to provide the requested public record(s) as promptly as possible. The Open Records Officer shall cooperate with those requesting records to review and/or duplicate original township documents while taking reasonable measure to protect township documents from the possibility of theft, damage, and/or modification.

The Open Records Officer shall review all written requests for access to public records. As soon as possible, but no later than five business days after receiving a written request to access public records, the Open Records Officer shall respond to such requests in writing consistent with Act 3 of 2008, the Right-to-Know Law. If access to a record is denied, the response shall include a reason for denial as stipulated in Act 3 of 2008, the Right-to-Know Law.

Contact Information for Appeals If a written request is denied or deemed denied, the requester may file an appeal in writing to Terry Mutchler, Executive Director, Office of Open Records, Commonwealth Keystone Building 400 North Street, Plaza Level Harrisburg, PA 17120-0225

Appeals Process The appeal shall be filed within 15 business days of the mailing date of the township’s response or within 15 business days of a deemed denial. The appeal shall state the grounds upon which the requester asserts the records is a public record and shall address any grounds stated by the township for delaying or denying the request.

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LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2017

STANDARD RIGHT-TO-KNOW REQUEST FORM DATE REQUESTED: __________________________________

REQUEST SUBMITTED BY:

o E-MAIL

o U.S. MAIL

o FAX

o IN-PERSON

REQUEST SUBMITTED TO (Agency name & address):______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ NAME OF REQUESTER : ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ STREET ADDRESS: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ CITY/STATE/COUNTY/ZIP(Required):___________________________________________________________________________________________ TELEPHONE (Optional):________________________________

EMAIL (optional):_____________________________________________________

RECORDS REQUESTED: *Provide as much specific detail as possible so the agency can identify the information.

Please use additional sheets if necessary

DO YOU WANT COPIES? o YES

o NO

DO YOU WANT TO INSPECT THE RECORDS? o YES

o NO

DO YOU WANT CERTIFIED COPIES OF RECORDS? o YES

o NO

DO YOU WANT TO BE NOTIFIED IN ADVANCE IF THE COST EXCEEDS $100? o YES

o NO

** PLEASE NOTE: RETAIN A COPY OF THIS REQUEST FOR YOUR FILES ** ** IT IS A REQUIRED DOCUMENT IF YOU WOULD NEED TO FILE AN APPEAL ** ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ FOR AGENCY USE ONLY OPEN-RECORDS OFFICER: o I have provided notice to appropriate third parties and given them an opportunity to object to this request DATE RECEIVED BY THE AGENCY: AGENCY FIVE (5) BUSINESS DAY RESPONSE DUE:

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2017

PAGE 9

Donations By The Township The Delaware Township Board of Supervisors recently adopted the following policy on providing donations to organizations making requests to the township. In the past, the Township has donated to Safe Haven of Pike County, the Holy Trinity Food Pantry, the Delaware Township Volunteer Fire Company, the Delaware Township Volunteer Ambulance Corps, CDD of Pike County, Pike County Humane Society and many more. Moving forward, all organizations will need to follow the policy outlined below and provide a completed application along with the required financial reports to be considered.

POLICY: The Township’s primary mandate is to provide municipal services to its taxpayers; it should not be viewed as a philanthropic organization. However, in order to enhance the life and social well-being of the Delaware Township community, funds will be included in the Township’s annual budget to be allocated to support projects and activities of that nature. Donations must have a direct tangible benefit to the Delaware Township community. This policy applies to requests for all donations and requests for funding from organizations from within the Township as well as outside the Township.

PROCEDURES: 1. The Township Donation Application must be filled out and submitted to receive consideration

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570.296.0613

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for funding. Applicants must submit financial statements (minimum of income statement and cash position) as at the end of the applicant’s last financial year, as well as a budget for the applicant’s following fiscal year as well as three (3) years of tax returns. Applicants are welcome to submit additional documentation that will assist in describing the project or activity.

2. The Township will accept and review applications once per calendar year for the financial

period of January to December which is the Township’s fiscal year. The application deadline shall be December 1st of every year.

3. All applications received by the application deadline will be evaluated by staff for completeness.

Complete applications will be forwarded to the Township Administrator for evaluation against the Township’s policy, donation criteria and budget. Approval or rejection and the amount donated will then be determined by the Board of Supervisors.

4. During the evaluation process, the following criteria will be utilized: a. Consideration will be given to the number of people reached by the requested donation. A higher weighting will be given to those donations that serve a larger number of the Delaware Township community. b. Consideration will be given to previous years reports filed by the applicant. c. Higher weighting will be given to organizations/activities with a higher percentage of fund raising or self-finance (other than funds received from the Township). d. The Township will not fund projects or services that duplicate services or activities already provided by the Township or other government agencies. e. The Township will not fund groups or activities of political nature.

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f. The Township will not fund school activities which are already supported through school taxes. g. The Township will not fund functions with no direct benefits to the Delaware Township Community at large. h. The organizations tax returns for at least three (3) years

5. Applicants wishing to address the Board of Supervisors must contact the Township Administrator for a date and time.

6. Applicants will be notified of its application status immediately following the Board of Supervisors final decision.

7. Applicants must submit a summary report of the event/project to the Township Administrator within 30 business days of its completion.

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2017

DONATION APPLICATION 1. Date: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 2. Name of Organization: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 3. Address: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

4. Please state the goals and objectives of your organization: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 5. Does your organization have an established history of service to the Delaware Township community?

o YES

o NO

6. If yes, how long has your organization been providing service to the community?__________________________________________________________________________________________ 7. Purpose of donation______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 8. What are the primary reasons for undertaking the project/service?_______________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 9. Will this be a onetime project/service or is it ongoing?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 10. Dates/duration of project/service:__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 11. Who will be responsible for the execution and successful completion of the project/service: Name: ______________________________________________________________________________________________ Telephone: ________________________________________Fax: ______________________________________________ Email: ______________________________________________________________________________________________ 12. Who will benefit from the project and how will they benefit: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 13. What are the direct tangible benefits to the Delaware Township community? _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 14. Number of citizens that participate/benefit: _____________ 15. Number of Delaware Township citizens that participate/benefit: _____________ 16. Describe the project funding: Total Project Budget: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Requested contribution from the Township: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Amount self-funded from fund raising: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Other grants received or applied for to fund this project: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Admission fees budgeted for this project: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Other sources of funding for this project: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 17. Membership Fees: _________________________________ Budget for current year: _________________________________ Most recent fiscal year: ________________________________ 18. Other sources of funding expected to be received for the organization: __________________________________________________________________________________________________ 19. What is the basis for determining the requested Township donation amount? ____________________________________________________________________________________________ 20. Is there any other funding contingent upon receiving a donation from the Township? If yes, please explain: __________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 21. Does your project duplicate services or activities that are already provided by the Township or other government agencies?

o Yes o No o Yes o No 23. Is your project already supported through a school taxes? o Yes 24. Has your organization requested assistance from the Township in the past?

o Yes

o No

22. Is your organization or your project of political nature?

o No

What year(s): ___________________________________________ Amount received: ____________________________________ Purpose of previous donation: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 25. Applicants must submit a summary report of the event/project to the Township’s Chief Financial Officer/Treasurer within 30 business days of its completion.

26. This donation application was authorized by a motion of the Delaware Township Board of Supervisors on the day of______________________, ________________________________________ 20 ______________________________ Name: ____________________________________________________________________ Name__________________________________________________________________________________ Signature: _________________________________________________________________ Signature: _____________________________________________________________________________ 29. Please attach a copy of your organization’s tax returns for the last three (3) years, as well as a budget for the applicant’s following fiscal year and any other information you wish to provide in support of the is application

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2017

PAGE 11

Safe Haven Is For Your Community And School Did you know? Safe Haven of Pike County, Inc. provides free of charge services in empowerment counseling, medical and legal accompaniment, safety planning, Community trainings and presentations in companies, support groups, and school programs for each school in the Delaware Valley School District and East Stroudsburg North. As we enter the 2017-2018 school year, we wanted to pass on our hotline numbers and website, and address for counseling. Safe Haven offers educational programs during the school year, including classroom presentations and support groups. Every program that we provide is age-appropriate and conducted in a trauma-informed, educational manner. Most of these programs are provided during class periods that do not reduce the amount of time we are taking from the students’ primary education.

The work that Safe Haven does in the schools is a form of prevention education known as primary prevention. The reason that primary prevention education is so important is simply because it is the most effective way to combat domestic violence, sexual assault and other violent crimes. If we teach our children at a young age what these things are, and why they are unacceptable, then we are solving a problem before it exists. A healthy relationship is a critical topic, and understanding gender roles, respect and boundaries.

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PAGE 12

Our presence in the schools also offers a safe place for children or teens who have been victims of sexual assault, teen dating violence, domestic violence, bullying or other violent crimes. By going into the school with these important educational programs, we can help victims of these crimes identify what happened to them, and offer them a source of hope and healing. Safe Haven of Pike County, Inc. is grateful to be able to work with the schools and to work with the students. We offer a safe space at our locations for both students. Safe Haven offers services for all the community. If the prevention of domestic violence, sexual assault and all crimes does not start in our community and homes, where will the support be for our students? Safe Haven offers free round the clock services to all of Pike County.

Tamara Chant, Executive Director Please call: 24-Hour Crisis Hotline: (570) 296-HELP 402 Broad Street, Milford, PA | Lehman Township, 193 Municipal Drive, Bushkill, PA www.shopcempowers.org

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2017

EMERGENCY MGMT. Dear Participant: My name is Kristin Jones and I am an intern for Delaware Township Emergency Management.

This summer I have been working on creating a large animal emergency operations plan in order to better assist township farms in the event of an emergency. Because you own a barn, I am inviting you to participate in the creation and implementation of this plan by completing the attached survey. The questionnaire (right) will require approximately 5 minutes to complete.

There is no compensation for responding nor is there any risk. If you choose to participate in the survey, please answer all questions as honestly as possible and return the completed questionnaire promptly by mail or by dropping it off at the Delaware Township Municipal office.

Thank you for taking the time to assist me in creating this emergency operations plan. The data collected will provide useful information regarding how many large animals/livestock are in the area as well as assist in creating an effective emergency plan for large animals in Delaware Township. If you require additional information or have questions, please contact me at the number listed below.

Kristin Jones Emergency Management Intern 845-545-3865 | kpj3 l 9@aol.com George Beodeker Emergency Management Coordinator 570-872-1122 | gfbeo28@hotmail.com Please return the survey to: 116 Wilson Hill Rd., Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2017

PAGE 13

Paws for Thought: How to Prepare your Animals for Disaster.

Over the course of the summer I have been working as an intern for Delaware Township’s Emergency Management. Throughout my duration with the township, I have specifically worked on preparing a Large Animal Emergency Operation Plan (EOP). This EOP would give the township a specific plan to assist large animal owners in the event of an emergency.

If you are a pet or livestock owner, you have the added responsibility of caring for your animal(s) when an emergency strikes. Although preparing and protecting yourself in an emergency is the top priority, protecting your animals trails closely behind. As mentioned previously there are two different types of animals that you may own, a house pet or livestock. Each of these groups have their own specific needs in the event of an emergency.

In regards to household pets, it is important to plan ahead such as figuring out a location to bring your animals in the event you are evacuated and putting together a disaster kit for your pet. FEMA recommends that this kit should include information and items you can use at home or take with you in case you must evacuate. Suggested items for your household pet(s) in your family’s disaster kit include:

• Food, water, and bowls for each pet (3-day

supply for evacuations and a 2-week supply for sheltering-in-place at home.)

• Paper towels, plastic bags, and spray

disinfectant for animal waste cleanup.

• Extra collars and tags, harnesses, and leashes for all pets.

• Copies of your pet’s medical and vaccination records.

• A 2-week supply of pet’s medication, along with a copy of the current prescription.

• A recent photo of you with your pet.

• A crate or traveling carrier large enough for

you pet to stand and turn in. Label with pet’s name, your name, and contact information.

• First aid kit.

Other items you may want to consider including in your pet’s disaster kit includes:

• Blanket/toy • A list of hotels and boarding kennels that accept pets.

Once your pet’s disaster kit is assembled make sure to store it in an area that it can easily be retrieved and be sure to update information and food every couple of months.

In the case of livestock, emergency preparedness is slightly different. Larger animals require a much larger effort in order to aid them in an emergency. It’s extremely important to have a plan in place for your livestock before an emergency occurs. Some information farm owners should know is if their farm is in a floodplain, how to fire proof their barn, and how to personally prepare their farm for an emergency. Like household pets, farm owners should have a disaster kit for their livestock as well. According to FEMA this kit should include:

• Current list of all animals, their location

and feeding records, vaccinations, and tests.

Make sure you have proof of ownership.

• Supplies for temporary animal identification.

• Handling equipment such as halters, cages, and tools for each kind of animal.

• Water, feed, and buckets.

• Tools and supplies needed for sanitation.

• Safety and emergency items for your vehicles and trailers.

Much like the disaster kit for household pets, it is important to keep all of these items in an area that it can be easily retrieved as well as keeping the information and supplies updated to ensure freshness and accuracy.

Developing a Large Animal Emergency Operations Plan is crucial for farm owners and their animals alike. Many times if no plan is in place to protect livestock, farm owners will remain behind in an emergency and risk not only their animals lives, but also their own. Part of this developing plan includes contacts to businesses that would be willing to assist large animal owners in the event of an emergency through veterinary care, transportation, and food supply, and locations of temporary shelters for misplaced livestock.

This plan does not replace a personal emergency plan you may have for your livestock, but can help to better assist you in implementing your plan during an emergency.

Not only did this internship give me the opportunity to begin developing a plan to help livestock in the area, but it also allowed me to learn about emergency management as a whole. Before I began this summer I knew very little, if anything, about emergency management. However, after the completion of my internship I feel I have a really good idea of what goes on behind the scenes in an emergency and why emergency management is so important. Emergency management is the backbone to the community in the wake of an emergency. It provides supplies to those in need, showers and bathrooms to those without running water, and shelter in the event that homes are damaged. Overall, it provides much needed stability in an unstable time.

PAGE 14

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2017

Fire Safety Fall is coming. Leaves will be falling, the weather will be cooler, and the potential for fire risk increases. Here are a few tips to help keep your family safe during this time of year.

1. Check your detectors Spring forward, fall back, and check your smoke or carbon monoxide detectors. This is a great habit to get in to and a great way to remember to check your detectors. Change your clocks, change your batteries. A simple idea that could save your life.

2. Have your chimney inspected annually Before you “fire” up the wood stove or fireplace, have it inspected. Fireplaces are one of the main reasons of fire in homes every year. A thorough cleaning and inspection will remove any animal nests, creosote buildup, and detect any cracks. Creosote buildup is one of the main causes of house fires. Cracks in the flue or chimney pipe can allow poisonous carbon monoxide gas to get into your home. If you have a gas fireplace, have all lines and connections checked.

Pike County Fire Departments 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 Delaware Twp. Fire Co. (Dept. 28) 131 Wilson Hill Rd., Dingmans Ferry, PA - 570-828-2223

3. Space heater safety

Delaware Twp. Ambulance Corp. (Dept. 28) 135 Park Rd., Dingmans Ferry, PA - 570-828-2345

Remember to leave a minimum of 3 feet of space around your space heater. Unplug it when not in use.

Hemlock Farms Fire & Rescue (Dept. 29) 1053 Hemlock Farms, Lords Valley, PA - 570-775-6447

4. Have a family escape plan

Lackawaxen Fire Dept. (Dept. 31) 116 Township Rd., Lackawaxen, PA - 570-685-7330

Draw up a map of your escape plan, and practice it regularly. Make it easy for both adults and children to understand. Teach everyone to stay low to the ground when escaping.

5. Outside safety Never park your car or truck over a pile of leaves. The heat from your vehicle’s exhaust system can ignite the leaves under your vehicle. Remove fuel from any equipment you plan to store for the winter. If you have a fire pit, fire table, chiminea or an outdoor fireplace, clear leaves 20 feet away.

Keep any flammable materials away from the fire while it’s burning.

6. Halloween Safety Use a battery light instead of a candle in your jack o’ lantern. Be sure that your children’s costumes are flame retardant.

Be safe and enjoy the season to come!

Stacy Hughes, Delaware Township Volunteer Fire Company Fire Prevention Committee

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2017

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

PAGE 15

Take Action Now To Keep Your Family Connected During A Disaster Disasters don’t usually strike at convenient times. That means that as you and your family members go their separate ways each day, you have to have a plan — a plan to communicate and eventually reunite.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency stressed the need throughout September, which was National Preparedness Month. The 2017 theme is: “Disasters Don’t Plan Ahead.

You Can.” FEMA is urging everyone to take action now by planning how to stay safe and in touch during the natural and manmade disasters that could affect our township.

To help jump start your preparations and plans, we’ve included a number of helpful tips from FEMA below.

Stay ‘alert’ Technology has made communication lightning fast, but even a good old-fashioned radio comes in handy during an emergency. To guarantee you know exactly what’s happening around you, take the following steps:

• Confirm that your mobile device can receive Wireless Emergency Alerts, which are messages sent by authorized government authorities through your mobile carrier.

These warnings can be sent to your mobile device when you may be in harm’s way and don’t require you to download an app or subscribe to a service.

• Sign up for text and/or email alerts from

municipalities where you live, work, and send children to school and from local first

responders, such as police departments, fire companies, and emergency management agencies (EMA).

(Note: Every county in Pennsylvania has an EMA, and every municipality is required to have an emergency management coordinator.)

• Consider

Your family talks every day, but what about when disaster strikes? Do you have a plan to reach everyone and make sure they are safe and accounted for? If not, the Federal Emergency Management Agency says you need to take action today.

purchasing a NOAA weather radio (all hazards), which is a nationwide network of radio stations broadcasting continuous weather information from the nearest National Weather Service office. With one of these radios, you’ll be able to receive official warnings, watches, forecasts, and other hazard information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

• If you do not have a landline, check to

see if your county has options for VoIP and mobile phones to be connected to an Electronic Tracking Network (ETN), such as Reverse 911. This will help emergency responders pin down your location if you drop or need to leave your mobile phone behind in an emergency.

PAGE 16

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2017

• Sign up for listservs and alerts for

workplaces, schools, churches, and other community organizations you’ll want to hear from in an emergency.

• Download relevant hazard alerts and warnings apps.

• Create a list of all the alert systems available

to you and make sure everyone in the household receives the alerts as part of your household communication system.

Tips for keeping in touch Your family may not be together when disaster strikes so you’ll need to think about how you will communicate in different situations.

Taking the following precautions will give you a good start:

• Complete a contact card, including daytime

addresses and phone numbers, for each adult family member. Have them keep these cards handy in a wallet, purse, or briefcase, etc. Additionally, complete contact cards for each child in your family. Put the cards in their backpacks or book bags.

• Check with your children’s day care or

school, which should include identification planning as part of its emergency plans.

• Identify an out-of-state contact, such as

a friend or relative, whom household members should contact to notify they are safe. In certain instances, it may be easier to make a long-distance phone call than a call across town. Therefore, an

out-of-town contact may be in a better position to facilitate communication among separated family members.

• Be sure every family

member knows the phone number of your out-of-state emergency contact and has a cellphone or a prepaid phone card to call them. If you have a cellphone, program that person(s) as your “in case of emergency” (ICE) contact. If you are in an accident, emergency personnel will often check your ICE listings to reach someone you know.

Be sure to tell your family and friends that you’ve listed them as an emergency contact.

September is National Preparedness Month, but any month is the right one to develop a plan to help your family stay in touch during an emergency.

• Teach family members how to use text

messaging, which can often get around network disruptions that may otherwise interrupt phone service.

Want more information?

While this information is a good starting point for your family’s emergency preparation and

planning, it’s just the tip of the iceberg. Much more preparedness information is available at www.readypa.org.

“We urge residents to take three main steps,” says Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency Press Secretary Ruth Miller. “Be informed … be prepared … and be involved.”

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LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2017

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PAGE 17

LEGISLATURE Protecting You from Scams To better protect consumers from financial scams, the Office of Attorney General has created a unit dedicated to consumer financial protection. The effort will focus on lenders that prey on seniors, families with students, and military service members, including for-profit colleges and mortgage and student loan servicers.

If you think you’ve been scammed, call the attorney general’s office at 1-800-441-2555 or send an email to scam@attorneygeneral.gov. In 2016, the Office of Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Bureau handled 19,727 consumer complaints and returned a total of $8.5 million in restitution to consumers.

State Reports Increase in Lyme Cases in 2016

Pennsylvania leads the nation in the number of confirmed cases of Lyme disease, which was confirmed by an approximate 20 percent increase in people infected by the tick-borne illness last year. In total, more than 11,443 cases were reported in 2016, according to a report released this week by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. Each county in the Commonwealth is confirmed to have a high risk of Lyme.

Legislatively, the House passed House Bill 174, which would require health insurers to cover treatment plans for Lyme disease or related tick-borne illnesses as prescribed by a patient’s health care practitioner, regardless if the treatment plan includes short-term or long-term antibiotic treatment. The bill is now with the Senate.

The best prevention against Lyme and other tick-borne illnesses is to avoid tick-infested habitats, such as areas dense with shrubbery or tall grass. Proper use of personal protective measures such as repellents and protective clothing, and checking for and removing attached ticks are also important deterrents to tick-related complications.

EDUCATION NEWS State Reduces Mandated Testing for Students In a win for Pennsylvania students, families and educators, mandated tests that are part of the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) will be reduced by 20 percent for the upcoming 2017-18 academic year. This will allow teachers to better instruct their students in specific subjects rather than increasing the amount of classroom time preparing for mandated exams.

Specifically, the state Department of Education is removing two sections – one in math, one in English/language arts – and additional questions from the science section, which could eliminate up to two full testing days for some schools. This change impacts students and teachers in grades three through eight, who will now spend an average of 20 percent less time on statewide testing.

In similar efforts, the House continues to look at all facets of education to ensure a quality, affordable education for Pennsylvania families. Within the past year, the House has spearheaded legislation to further invest in public schools, ensure greater effectiveness and accountability with the PSSA, bring needed reforms to charter schools, and enhance career and technical education.

PAGE 18

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2017

Stop Credit and Debit Card Skimmers Four Pennsylvania agencies are working together to capture illegal credit and debit card skimmers at gas stations and ATMs and eliminate this type of high tech fraud, according to the Department of Banking and Securities, PA State Police, the PA Department of Agriculture, and the Office of Attorney General.

These agencies suggest purchasers adopt six consumer protection tips against skimming: Use gas pumps closest to or within the cashier’s line of sight.

Select ATMs in well-lit, secure locations, and avoid stand-alone units in store corners or other out-of-the-way locations.

Top Recommendations to Thwart Package Thieves Early bird holiday shoppers and those who regularly receive home-delivered packages are being reminded to adopt recommendations decreasing the likelihood that “Grinches” will steal your packages, according to the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP). The recommendations are especially important for individuals who plan to be away from home for a period of time. Law enforcement and the insurance industry recommend thwarting package thefts by: • Installing cameras on the outside of your home.

• Connecting inside lights and radios to timers.

• Asking a neighbor to return any empty trash cans to a designated spot.

• Requesting a specific drop-off time and date.

DELAWARE TOWNSHIP • Signing up for delivery notifications.

• Designating a neighbor to pick up and keep the package safe until you return.

Akenac Park • Directing package delivery to a local UPS Store.

Saturday, October 21, 2017 • Calling 911 if you see something strange and report it to the authorities.

12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Nearly two-thirds of Pennsylvanians have valuables delivered to their homes and eight percent

reported package theft in a 2015 insurance poll cited by the PSP. Across the country, nearly 23 million Americans have had home-delivered packages stolen.

Consult your insurance agent You can help by having a trunk or sponsoring a “trunk” of about coverage, including current cash value, replacement cost coverage, personal property candy. coverage, and a floater policy.

Examine the card reader and surrounding area DELAWARE TOWNSHIP for anything out of the ordinary, mismatched, or loose.

Akenac Park

Ensure no one is watching you enter your PIN or filming you on a cell phone.

Saturday, October 21, 2017 Use a credit instead of debit card to avoid 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. exposing your PIN.

Review bank and credit card statements frequently to watch forYou can help by having a trunk or sponsoring a “trunk” of fraudulent activity and You can help by having a trunk or report unfamiliar activity immediately. sponsoring a “trunk” of candy

candy.

_____I will be present at the event and having a trunk

**If you are going to be present and own a business, please feel free to bring a sign from your business to display on your vehicle**

DELAWARE TOWNSHIP

Akenac Park

_____I will not be present but please accept my donation of:

Saturday, October 21, 2017 ____$25 for candy 12 pm - 2 pm ____Other $___________

Payable to: Delaware Township Mail to: Delaware Township 116 Wilson Hill Rd Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------**Response Deadline: October 13, 2017

Those victimized by card skimming will find ___ I will be present at the event and having a trunk _____I will be present at the event and having a trunk the Scam Alert Card provides a list of resources and necessary contacts with phone numbers to **If you are going to be present and own

**If you are going to be present and own a business, please report the crime to the appropriate authorities. a business, please feel free to bring a sign

Name:_____________________________________________________

Ten Things You Should _____I will not be present but please accept my donation of: ___ I will not be present but please accept Know About the Deer Tick my donation of:

(use line below only if donating and not attending)

from your business to display on your feel free to bring a sign from your business to display on your vehicle** vehicle.

What’s smaller than a freckle and thrives after

____$25 for candy ___ $25 for candy first frost? According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH),____Other $___________ it is a deer ___Other _________ tick and there are ten things you should know about its potential to make you sick or even Payable to: Delaware Township change your life. Autumn hikers, leaf peepers, Mail to: Delaware Township 116 Wilson Hill Rd Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328 and hunters will need to remain vigilant for ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------acquisition of a deer tick during their ventures, **Response Deadline: October 13, 2017 regardless of first frost and the freezing temperatures of winter. Late fall, a January Name:_____________________________________________________ thaw, or an early spring day are no match for adult stage deer ticks. The DOH emphasizes, a deer tick should be Address:___________________________________________________ removed within 24 hours.

An infection can be mild and last a few days; Phone Number:__________________Email:______________________ severe with symptoms lasting several weeks; cause permanent neurological effects; or be fatal.

Address:___________________________________________________ Phone Number:__________________Email:______________________

Amount Donated:________Check Number_______ Cash_____ Receipt for Sponsors Name__________________________Date________________________ Amount Donated___________Check Number________Cash_________

(use line below only if donating and not attending)

Leaf PeepingAmount Donated:________Check Number_______ Cash_____ Planning Season

Make plans now for your 2017 Leaf Peeping Adventures with tips and regional Receipt for Sponsors recommendations from VisitPA and a vast array of PA Road Trips. For an early adventure, visit the Name__________________________Date________________________ northernmost region, referred to as Zone 1. Pine Creek Gorge and the Allegheny National Forest Amount Donated___________Check Number________Cash_________

dominate this region where the colors reach peak in early October. Zone 2, or the Central Zone, is home to Big Pocono State Park, Oil Heritage Region, Presque Isle State Park, Great Allegheny Passage, Three Rivers Heritage Trail, and Rothrock State Forest and will see peak color in mid-October. Late October brings the burst of color across the Southern Zone, or Zone 3 that includes the Gettysburg National Military Park and Washington Crossing Historic Park.

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2017

PAGE 19

DIG DELAWARE A Great Growing Season Continued from Page 1 oregano, thyme and mint thrive without much attention and are available to all members. You have passed the Community Garden as you drive up and down Wilson Hill Road. Located across from the Delaware Township Municipal Building, you can’t miss the beautiful, colorful flower beds towards the front of the garden. These beds are maintained by the member gardeners.

Particularly abundant and vigorous this past year were the bee balm, phlox and lilies. The milkweed is finally getting established and is spreading throughout two gardens. Hummingbirds zip along from the bee balm to the phlox to the orange trumpet vine flowers. A deep purple butterfly bush does it’s job of attracting and nourishing many types of butterflies. All three perennial flower beds have plants that attract and support bees, butterflies and birds thereby providing a natural and safe habitat for wildlife. And with water flowing just outside the fence, the wildlife is plentiful.

So, if you are looking for a place to garden, or if you want to pull some weeds and help maintain the flower beds, consider joining the Smith Harker Community Garden group of gardeners. Contact Angela at mewakwhd@yahoo.com for information. The gate is always open for those who want to take a walk through this lovely garden to enjoy the quiet, the flowers and the wildlife. You are invited to visit to the most beautiful spot in Delaware Township.

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LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2017

Board of Supervisors Meetings The Delaware Township Board of Supervisors will hold regularly scheduled meetings on the second (2nd) and fourth (4th) Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. Workshops will be held the second (2nd) and fourth (4th) Wednesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. These meetings will be held at the Delaware Township Municipal Building(s), located at 116 Wilson Hill Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328 Wednesday, October 11 & 25, 2017 Wednesday, November 8 & 22, 2017 Wednesday, December 13 & 27, 2017

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETINGS: The Delaware Township Planning

Commission will hold regularly scheduled meetings on the first (1st) and third (3rd) Tuesdays of each month at 6:30 p.m.; with the fourth (4th) Tuesday as a workshop on an as needed basis. These meetings will be held at the Delaware Township Municipal Building, located at 116 Wilson Hill Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328.

BOARD OF AUDITORS MEETINGS: The Delaware Township Board of Auditors

EVENTS 2017 Bulk Dump Disposal Dates 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.

Oct. 7, 2017 and Oct. 21, 2017 • Nov. 1, 2017 and Nov. 18, 2017 • Dec. 16, 2017

Delaware Township Fall 2017 Electronic Recycling Day Saturday, October 7, 2017 | 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Delaware Township Bulk Waste Area located at 145 Wilson Hill Road Cost: $10 per car load

Akenac Park Events Christmas in the Park - Saturday, December 9, 2017 Delaware Township Trunk or Treat Saturday, October 21st | 12 pm - 2 pm Akenac Park, Abbey Lane, Dingmans Ferry, PA

meetings in 2017 will be held quarterly, as needed, at 10:30am on the 3rd (third) Saturday of March, June, September and December 2017. These meetings will be held at the Delaware Township Emergency Management Building, located at 116 Wilson Hill Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328.

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2017

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PARKS & REC Akenac Park: General Park Policies Update The Delaware Township Board of Supervisors amended the Akenac Park general park policies on August 9, 2017. Notable changes include no vaping in the park as well as changes to operational hours.

Park Seasonal Operational Hours Memorial Day through Labor Day 8:00am to 7:00pm Monday through Sunday.

Closed every Tuesday.

No foul language.

No littering, dumping refuse or disposing of outside refuse.

No hunting.

No open fires. Charcoal and/or gas grills only.

No fireworks or explosives are permitted to be discharged or possessed in the park.

All individuals entering the Park are obligated to provide proof of residency of Pike County.

No solicitation or sale of goods without written approval.

All Pike County residents shall enter the Park free of charge.

Plant removal prohibited.

All Pennsylvania residents who reside outside of Pike County may enter the Park at a charge of $5.00 per person.

All out of State residents will be permitted to enter the Park at a charge of $20 per person.

All individuals within the park may rent a boat at a charge of $5 per hour per boat. Personal boats are prohibited.

Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

No smoking and no vaping on premises.

No pets.

Children under 16 must be supervised by an adult.

PAGE 22

Harassment of wildlife is prohibited.

Unreserved park facilities are first come first serve. Reservations may be made with the Township.

Defacing and/or removal of park property is prohibited.

No operation of motor vehicles outside designated parking and entrance area.

Noise and/or music should be kept to an acceptable level and not disturb normal sensitivities of other visitors.

Harassment of other visitors or disorderly conduct is prohibited.

ALL INDIVIDUALS ENTERING THE PARK MUST CONSENT TO PROVIDING PROOF OF PIKE COUNTY RESIDENCY. Akenac Park at Delaware Township is a family recreation facility. Please obey all posted rules and regulations posted at the park. Delaware Township Board of Supervisors reserve the right to review fees.

Off-Season Operational Hours September through November & April through May Hiking, fishing and playground available. Beach closed. No swimming. No grilling permitted.

Park Closed November 1st to date to be determined except for Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 12pm to 3pm for access to the Delaware Township Library.

Thank You Birchwood Swim Team A big thank you to the Birchwood Swim Team for operating the concession stand during the Akenac Park Free Movie Nights on Saturday, July 15, 2017 and Saturday, August 19, 2017!

The Township showed Smurfs: The Lost Village and Power Rangers (2017). We appreciate the Birchwood Swim Team’s active involvement in our community.

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2017

Ask The Sensei…

By Sensei Albert Casale Q. ( Shohola) Dear Sensei , I was told that there are potential health risks associated with plastic food containers. What do the numbers on the bottom of plastic food containers mean?

Youth Sports and Concussions With school just starting, many of our local fall sports teams have begun training for their upcoming season. I want to take a moment to remind athletes, coaches, parents and community members about sports-related injuries – particularly concussions.

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury, caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head that can change the way the brain normally works. Millions of sports- and recreation-related concussions are reported across the country each year, and it is important to know about various resources available for residents in our area.

In 2011, the Safety in Youth Sports Act was signed into law in Pennsylvania, requiring all school entities to develop return-to-play policies for student athletes with concussions, as well as requiring related training for coaches. Visit the Department of Health’s website at www.health.pa.gov and search for “Traumatic Brain Injury” for approved curricula for coaches and other school personnel, along with frequently asked questions about the law and many other state-related resources.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) offers a “Heads Up Concussion Management Program” to help ensure the health and safety of young athletes by offering information to coaches, parents, officials and athletes involved in youth sports – including details about preventing, recognizing and responding to a concussion. A free online training course is available to help change the culture of sports-related concussions. This initiative also has an app, called “Heads Up,” so you can gather information at your fingertips, should you need it. Custom PDFs, graphics, podcasts and social media sites are also available here.

A. The mini small number surrounded by arrows on the bottom of plastic containers are part of a uniform resin code system used by recyclers to identify the type of plastic used to make the item. There are many types of plastic identified by these codes. However, more than 95 percent of recyclable plastic containers are marked on the bottom as being made with either a 1 or a 2 .

Those marked with a 1 are made with polyethylene terephthalate. These products also contain the chemical bisphenol A (BPA), which has come under scrutiny by scientists concerned about its potential for harm in humans. Those marked with a 2 are made with high-density polyethylene (HDPE ) plastics.

Particular concern has been raised about phthalates. How phthalates might affect human health isn’t fully clear.

Studies of bottled water have found that length of storage and exposure to high temperatures can increase the levels of phthalates and the chemical antimony that migrate from the plastic container into the water. Although there is ongoing debates, the bottom line is, most experts suggest using plastics with a resin code of 2 or 5. To avoid the issue altogether, you might purchase foods and beverages packaged in something other than plastic such as glass, aluminum or cardboard. When microwaving, avoid using any type of plastic, since microwaving can degrade the stability of plastics. Instead, use microwaveable glass or ceramic cookware.

The Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania, under contract by the state departments of Health and Education, developed a Child and Adolescent Brain Injury School Re-entry Program called BrainSTEPS, which works to ensure that persons providing educational support to kids with brain injury fully understand the issue. Through this program, schools can set up concussion management teams, obtain return-to-school protocols, along with many other helpful resources.

The Pennsylvania Athletic Trainers’ Society Inc. has partnered with ConcussionWise, which is a series of educational programs consistent with the latest science and practical applications regarding the prevention and management of a concussion. Separate courses are available for trainers, coaches, athletes, parents and health care providers.

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2017

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