Living Delaware Township

SPRING 2015

THE CORNERSTONE OF THE POCONOS

NOTICE: The Township Office will be closed on the following days: April 3, 2015 and May 25, 2015

Camp Speers YMCA In Dingmans Ferry Proud Heritage Established in 1948, Camp Speers has a rich history in Dingmans Ferry and is one of the oldest children’s camps in America. It was founded to provide the first inter-racial overnight camp experience in the national YMCA organization, and has served over 200,000 children and adults since its inception. In October 2014, the Camp Speers-Eljabar YMCA merged with the Philadelphia Freedom Valley YMCA and the name has changed to simply Camp Speers.

Amazing Property When you arrive at the 1100-acre property you are completely free from the noise and lights of cities or towns. Camp Speers sits in a pristine natural world apart and away from it all. Campers and staff live in a wilderness setting and gain understanding and appreciation for nature and the outdoors. The property features a secluded 40-acre lake; two separate villages, each with lodges, dining hall, and waterfront; miles of hiking and horseback riding trails; and a fascinating bog/wetlands conservation area.

Enriching Programs Programmatically, Camp Speers is an oasis of joy, offering diverse programs to thousands of children (ages 3 – 17) each summer in Day Camp and Overnight (Continued on Page 8)

IN THIS ISSUE DAILY LIVING

MEETINGS & EVENTS

Are Residential Apartments Allowed?

2

Akenac Free Movie Nights

7

Kindergarten Registration

7

2

Electronic Recycling Day

7

3

Easter Egg Hunt

7

Board Meetings

7

Thinking of Buying a Home in Delaware Township?

Delaware Twp. Adopt-A-Road Program

LEGISLATURE

Ordinance Prohibiting the

Baker Seeks to Designate I-84 Exit in Honor of Cpl. Bryon K. Dickson II Veterans Assistance Hours

4

Feeder Watch

Delaware Twp. Bulk Disposal

6

Promoting Your Child’s Social-

12

Emotional Health Baseball Season Around the Corner

Kitchen Renovations Completed — Page 5

10

PARKS & REC

Abandonment of Vehicles

DAILY LIVING

10

DIG DELAWARE

PARKS & REC

Gardening with Herbs — Page 11

Akenac Park Opening May 23! — Page 14

14 15

Newburgh, NY 12550 PERMIT NO. 335

Like Us on Facebook www.facebook.com/DelawareTownship

PAID

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage

DAILY LIVING Are Residential Apartments Allowed Within Delaware Township?

Delaware Township Zoning Ordinance 110, 2013 110.7 (B) 1 (A) R: Residential: a. Principal permitted uses. Single-family dwellings, places of worship, and Private Community structures.

DELAWARE TOWNSHIP 116 Wilson Hill Road Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328 Phone: 570-828-2347 HOURS OF OPERATION: Building Inspector: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9:00 am – 10:30 am Sewage Officer: Tuesdays Only 8:00 am – 10:00 am Zoning Officer: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 8:00 am – 12:00 pm Office: Monday through Friday 8:00 am – 4:00 pm

Single family homes within Delaware Township’s Residential Zones are not allowed to have a single unit accessory apartment (second family unit). The only homes that may have an added single unit accessory apartment must be within Delaware Township’s Rural Residential and or Commercial Zones only. Homes within Rural Residential Zones must also have a minimum of one (1) acre of land. Please keep in mind, if you are adding a Mother/Daughter suite to your single family home; please make sure that your septic system was designed for that extra unit (bedroom). Septic repairs are not cheap. Yes, added apartments are allowed in Delaware Township, just not in Residential Zones. Remember that there are penalties and fines if you are found to have an illegal family unit. If you have any questions, please feel free to call the Township Office at 570-828-2347.

Thinking Of Buying A Home In Delaware Township?

So you are thinking about buying a home in Delaware Township, great news. Before you buy, please take the time to stop into our township office. We may be able to help you with any questions you may have with your future purchase. Like: open permits, closed permits, and or no permits for that added room or deck you noticed. Knowledge is a great thing. Feel free to stop in or call.

Rick Koehler Zoning Enforcement 570-828-2347

Road Department: Monday through Friday 7:30 am – 3:30 pm Akenac Park: Monday, Wednesday thru Sunday 7:00 am – 7:00 pm CLOSED TUESDAY After Labor Day - No Swimming Permitted

BOARD OF SUPERVISORS: MEETINGS 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month, 6 pm at the Township Municipal Building WORKSHOPS 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month, 5pm at the Township Municipal Building

PAGE 2

LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2015

Delaware Township Adopt-A-Road Program The Delaware Township Supervisors recently agreed to implement an adopt-a-road program. The Adopt-A-Road Program will help keep our Township roads litter free.

e BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

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.

Thomas M. Ryan Chair | Township Treasurer dtbos@ptd.net

Participant Qualifications:

Robert Luciano Supervisor dtbos@ptd.net

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: Log and Twig Road, Emery Road, Chestnut Ridge Road, Johnny Bee Road, Kitty Harker Road, Spencer Road, Long Meadow Road, Park Road, Myck Road, Mary Stuart Road, Doodle Hollow Road, Doolan Road, Sproul Road, Nichecronk Road, and Long Meadow Lane.

For more information, please go to www.delawaretownshippa.gov for an application or call Robin Jones at 570-828-2347

Jeffrey Scheetz Vice-Chair | Supervisor dtbos@ptd.net

e MANAGEMENT Krista N. Predmore Township Administrator kpredmore@delawaretownshippa.gov Charlie Kroener Road Master ckroener@delawaretownshippa.gov

e OFFICE STAFF Sharon Franks Administrative Assistant | Permits SharonF@delawaretownshippa.gov Catherine Bram Clerical Secretary/Project Coordinator Cbram@delawaretownshippa.gov Robin Jones Admin / HR Assistant rjones@delawaretownshippa.gov

e ROAD DEPARTMENT Michael Kolenet dtbos@ptd.net Richard Heimbrook dtbos@ptd.net

e BOARDS & CHAIRPERSONS Planning Commission Lenny Glamann lennyglamann@gmail.com Zoning Hearing Board Max Brinson maxbrinson@yahoo.com

e ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS Building Inspector SFM Consulting Call: 484-330-9088 Zoning Officer Rick Koehler rkoehler@delawaretownshippa.gov Sewage Officer David Manter Cell: 570-350-9171

LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2015

PAGE 3

Ordinanace: 402 Prohibiting The Abandonment Of Vehicles

Planning For Special Needs

By Gwen McNamara As we continue to look to spring and warmer weather, it is a great time to continue to think about being prepared.

Take some time to think about your neighbors to determine how you may be able to support them during a disaster.

We all need to pull together when the time comes.

Protecting yourself and your family when a disaster strikes requires planning ahead. Some populations may require special planning in advance of an emergency to ensure unique needs are met in the event of disaster.

Special populations include those who may face challenges or have difficulties if an emergency strikes, including, but not limited to young children; older Pennsylvanians; people who have a physical disability mental illness, or developmental disability; and those who have limited English speaking skills or are non-English speaking. In addition, this section also addresses pets and livestock that may need special arrangements to ensure their safety in the event of an emergency.

Check out the resources available to assist you in planning: http://www.pema.pa.gov/ planningandpreparedness/readypa/ Pages/Planning-for-Special-Needs.aspx#.

VO31L_xOm6o Looking forward to warmer weather.

Readypa.org

Do you have an inoperative or abandoned vehicle on your property? Township Ordinance 402 does not allow you to store any vehicle that is abandoned on your property.

Ordinance 402.2 No person shall abandon any vehicle within the Township, or shall leave any vehicle at any place within the Township for such a time and under such circumstances as to cause such vehicle reasonably to appear to have been abandoned, whether such vehicle is completely intact, partially dismantled, inoperative, wrecked, or junked.

402.4 (A) No person in charge or control of any property in the Township, whether as owner, tenant, occupant, or otherwise, shall allow any inoperative, partially dismantled, wrecked, junked, or discarded vehicle to remain on such property.

402.2 (B) This prohibition shall not apply to a vehicle in an enclosed building, on the premises of a business when necessary to the lawful operation of the business, or located in a junk yard licensed by the Township.

If you are found in violation of this ordinance fines may apply.

If you have an inoperative or abandoned vehicle on your property you can call numerous associations, like Pike County Habitat for Humanity, etc. They will come to your residence and pick up your vehicle free of charge.

Do your part in keeping Delaware Township and your neighborhood clean, safe, and your neighbors happy.

Rick Koehler Zoning Enforcement 570-828-2347

PAGE 4

LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2015

Kitchen Renovation Completed The kitchen is now available for use once again.

At the January 14, 2015 Board of Supervisors meeting it was approved to renovate the kitchen. After a month and a half of hard work the kitchen is finally done and looks amazing.

Thank you SPH Services, B&G Electric, and Van Jahnke Plumbing as well as the Delaware Township staff that made this project such a smooth and successful project.

Do you have a party or celebration that you need a larger space to accommodate your entire guest list? Why not rent the township hall and kitchen? To see if your date is available contact Catherine Bram at cbram@delawaretownshippa. gov or 570-828-2347.

LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2015

PAGE 5

Delaware Township Bulk Disposal In an effort to relieve the pressures of storing unwanted bulk items on your property, Delaware Township has initiated a program to meet the needs of our residents.

You may bring your unwanted bulk items the First and Third Saturday of each month from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to the recycling station located at 145 Wilson Hill Road (behind the ball field #4).

You may pay by cash or check. Checks are to be made payable to “Delaware Township.”

ITEMS FOR DISPOSAL: Steel, Aluminum, Propane Tanks, Washers, Dryers, Heaters, Sofas, Chairs, Etc….We also provide an area to dispose of branches, leaves and other mulch products.

WE CANNOT ACCEPT items that contain FREON such as motor vehicle air conditioners, household refrigerators, freezers, window air conditioners, water coolers, vending machines, icemakers, and dehumidifiers.

As of January 24, 2013, THE TOWNSHIP CANNOT ACCEPT ELECTRONIC DEVICES such as desktop and laptop computers, monitors and peripherals including printers, keyboards and mouses, and tablets like iPads and Kindles, as well as televisions with viewable screens larger than four inches.

The devices contain potentially hazardous heavy metals that make landfilling undesirable and potentially dangerous to the environment.

As of January 28, 2015, THE TOWNSHIP WILL NO LONGER ACCEPT TIRES (with or without rims) AND BATTERIES. COST: Auto Trunk Load

$10.00

Mini Van/SUV

$25.00

Small Pick Up Truck

$50.00

Pick Up Truck

$75.00

Appliances:

$10.00 each

2015 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. for Delaware Township residents only.

January 3, 2015 and January 17, 2015 February 7, 2015 and February 21, 2015 March 7, 2015 and March 21, 2015 April 4, 2015 and April 18, 2015 May 2, 2015 and May 16, 2015 June 6, 2015 and June 20, 2015 July 18, 2015 August 1, 2015 and August 15, 2015 September 5, 2015 and September 19, 2015 October 3, 2015 and October 17, 2015 November 7, 2015 and November 21, 2015 December 5, 2015 and December 19, 2015

PAGE 6

LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2015

EVENTS

Akenac Free Movie Nights Akenac Park will once again host free movie nights for its residents. On Wednesday, February 11th, the Board of Supervisors approved the following summer movie nights: July 11 & August 8. The movies have yet to be determined. Mark your calendars and keep a close eye on the Township’s facebook page to find out which films will be featured. As in the past, admission is free for Pike County and Delaware Township residents. A concession stand will be available. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets!

Kindergarten Registration DDPS held their kindergarten registration on March 17th and 19th for the academic school year 2015-2016. If you missed this opportunity to register your child please contact Vickie Wilson at 570-296-3131 ext.3133 or vwilson@dvsd.org with any questions.

Spring 2015 Electronic Recycling Day Saturday, April 4, 2015, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Delaware Township Municipal Building located at 116 Wilson Hill Road. Cost: $10 per car load.

Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, March 28, 2015. 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

The Hunt begins at 1:15! Akenac Park - Abbey Lane & Rte. 739, Delaware Township. Pictures with the Easter Bunny, egg hunt, crafts and prizes (while supplies last). Questions? Call the Township Office at 570-828-2347.

Board of Supervisors Meetings (Meetings are held the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month) Workshops begin at 5:00pm Regular meetings begin at 6:00pm Wednesday, March 25, 2014 Wednesday, April 8, 2015 Wednesday, April 22, 2015 Wednesday, May 13, 2015 Wednesday, May 27, 2015 Wednesday, June 10, 2015

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETINGS: 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the Municipal Building. Workshops are held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. AS NEEDED.

BOARD OF AUDITORS MEETINGS: 3rd Saturday of each month at 10:30 a.m. at the Emergency Management Building on Wilson Hill Road.

LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2015

PAGE 7

Camp Speers YMCA Continued from Page 1 Camp, with horseback riding (both English and Western), swimming, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, arts and crafts, drama, hiking/ camping, and more. Campers live in rustic lodges (with 2 – 4 adult leaders) and become important and unique members of a cooperative community.

Helping Kids Grow The Camp Speers program is lifechanging. We intentionally help children become independent, self-sufficient, and cooperative team players. Our programs teach responsibility and leadership and help campers grow in confidence and character.

The glue that holds everything together is FUN. The daily schedule at Camp includes healthy outdoor activities and classes, meals in the dining hall, campfires, songs, and special events. At Camp Speers children make friends and memories that will last a lifetime.

Exciting Future The YMCA is currently investing close to $4 million in program, facility, and operational improvements at Camp Speers. This is part of a New Beginning Campaign that will position the outdoor center for the next century of service to the community and families. Most renovations and facility improvements will happen in 2015 and 2016.

PAGE 8

LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2015

Open Houses Come for a family tour any Sunday in April, May, and June from 2 – 4 p.m.

For More Information Camp Speers YMCA 143 Nichecronk Road Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328 www.campspeersymca.org 570-828-2329

LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2015

PAGE 9

LEGISLATURE Baker Seeks to Designate I-84 Exit in Honor of Cpl. Bryon K. Dickson II Sen. Lisa Baker, R-20, has introduced legislation to designate Exit 30 off of Interstate 84 in Pike County in honor of Cpl. Bryon K. Dickson, II. Dickson, who was a member of the Pennsylvania State Police assigned to the Blooming Grove barracks located along Route 402 about one mile from that interstate interchange, was shot and killed in the line of duty on Sept. 12, 2014, during an incident at that station. Trooper Alex Douglass was also shot and severely injured during the horrific event that led to a 48-day manhunt for the alleged shooter in Pike and Monroe counties.

Baker said that by naming the exit for Cpl. Dickson, motorists will always remember the Marine and trooper who bravely served his nation, state and community.

“We have a solemn obligation to the memories of those who lost their lives, to remember the pride, passion, and purpose with which they served,” Baker said. “We also have an obligation to the families, friends, and colleagues they left behind, to mourn what they have lost.”

Baker noted that the stretch of I-84 from the New York State line west to the junction with Interstates 81 and 380 was designated the “Fallen Trooper Memorial Highway” in 2011 after a bill she sponsored was adopted and signed into law.

A monument placed at the Matamoras Welcome Center just off Exit 53 includes an inscription and the names of all Pennsylvania State Troopers killed in the line of duty.

ATTENTION LOCAL VETERANS

STATE REP. ROSEMARY M. BROWN will host free veterans assistance hours on the: SECOND THURSDAY OF EACH MONTH from 10AM - 2 PM at her EAST STROUDSBURG DISTRICT OFFICE 696 Seven Bridge Rd., Suite 101 To make an appointment with Gina Svoboda, department service officer with the American Legion, call Rep. Brown’s office at 570-420-8301 or visit online at: RepBrown.com.

“Whenever anyone drives along this stretch of Interstate 84, I hope they will be reminded of the sacrifices made by Cpl. Dickson and other members of law enforcement who put their lives on the line each and every day,” Baker added.

PAGE 10

LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2015

DIG DELAWARE Gardening with Herbs

leaves throughout the growing season.

Parsley – Italian parsley grows in 1 foot Herbs are among the easiest plants to grow.

Perhaps best known for their role in cooking, herbs also have many other uses. They have been used medicinally, in arts and crafts, potpourris, wreaths, sachets, even in cosmetics and dyes.

Herbs make few demands; average soil, a little mulch and some sun. In return, perennial herbs give years of harvest and enjoyment.

rosettes of leaves that are either flat or celerylike while curly parsley is tightly crimped. It grows best in full sun and evenly moist soil. Mulch after planting, otherwise parsley is practically work-free. The first years leaves taste best, so set out new plants each year. As a garnish, chopped parsley turns up regularly in salads, soups. egg dishes, and vegetables. In cooking, it’s used in a wide variety of foods.

An herb garden is a source of pleasure during all four seasons. During spring and summer herbs release lovely fragrances. Some add flavor to foods while others repel insects. In late summer into fall, herbs can be harvested and preserved.

Or you could just grow them and enjoy their beauty and scents right in the garden.

It’s important to keep a few basic points in mind when selecting a site and planting your herbs.

With the exception of shade-loving herbs, most herbs require at least six hours of sunlight.

The soil should be slightly acid with a pH of approximately 6.5 and should be moderately rich and well-drained. The main consideration in keeping herbs beautiful is to keep them well pruned. For the most part, herbs love to be cut back and then they will maintain their beautiful form and growing habits.

An herb garden need not be carefully laid out beds with plants remaining in their assigned positions.

Herbs can be incorporated into a garden in any number of ways from exclusive to occasional and from simple to elaborate. Herbs can be planted exclusively as in an herb knot garden, placed among other plants, planted “underfoot” as in a lawn, used as a ground cover, clipped as a hedge, or grown in dry walls and containers.

Following is a list of a few favorites: Basil - Summer is not complete without the warm, spicy scent and flavor of basil. Sweet basil, the most common kind, produces bushy, 18 inch tall plants with bright green leaves. This annual also comes in a variety of other sizes and flavors. Fresh basil and just-picked tomatoes are a perfect combination.

Chives - Oniony-flavored chives produce 1 foot tall clumps of slender green leaves accented with lavender-pink pom-poms of flowers in spring.

This attractive perennial herb does well in full sun and can be started from seed or divided from an existing clump. Both leaves and flowers add a mild onion flavor to salads, vinegars and salad dressings.

Dill – The ferny, green, aromatic leaves of dill LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2015

Sage – Common sage is a shrubby perennial

are attractive as well as tasty. In summer, the 30 inch stems of this annual herb are topped with flat clusters of tiny yellow flowers. Dill thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. The leaves, stems and flower heads can be clipped for fresh use.

Dill, cucumbers, and sour cream are a natural combination.

Lavender – English lavender is a popular perennial herb beloved for its fragrant, gray-green leaves and pretty purple flowers.

Lavender needs full sun and well-drained soil.

Clip off the flower stalks just as the blooms open and hang them in a warm, airy place to dry. The most common uses of the herb showcase the lavender scent in potpourris and sachets.

Lemon Balm – A tasty tea herb, lemon balm grows in bushy perennial clumps of bright green, oval to heart-shaped leaves, The 1 to 2 foot stems bear clusters of small white flowers in summer. Cut back leggy plants to promote compactness and ensure a supply of young leaves, the ones with the best flavor and aroma.

A tea can be made from dried or fresh leaves.

herb with fragrant, gray-green leaves. In summer, the leafy, 2 foot stems are topped with spikes of purple-blue flowers. Sage needs full sun and well-drained soil. Garden sage, fresh or dried, is traditional in stuffing for meat and poultry. Use it also in making sausage, herb vinegar, and herb butter. The dried leaves and flowers, stripped from the stems, are a welcome addition to potpourri.

Thyme – Every herb garden needs plenty of thyme starting with the common culinary thyme which grows in bushy, 1 foot tall mounds of small, gray-green aromatic leaves and clusters of whitish blooms in early summer.

Thymes need full sun and well-drained soil to thrive. Cut back established plants to maintain compactness. A popular culinary herb, thyme is good with poultry, fish and pork; in sauces, soups and vinegars.

Mint – Two of the most popular mints are peppermint and spearmint. Both produce bushy, 2 foot tall plants topped with spikes of tiny flowers.

Give mints a sunny to lightly shaded location.

They are easy to grow, spreading rapidly by creeping roots if unrestrained. Pinch leaves as needed for fresh use in cooking or teas.

Oregano – Greek oregano gives great flavor to pasta sauces and pizza. This bushy perennial herb grows to about 2 feet tall, with clusters of whitish flowers in summer. Common oregano has showier pink flowers, but its flavor is rather bland. Oregano demands full sun, well-drained, good soil and moderate watering. Use fresh PAGE 11

Feeder Watch

on their heads. Females lack these markings.

The smallest is the Downy Woodpecker and the largest Pileated Woodpecker. They are bark climbing birds and cavity nesters.

During its first year, the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Project Feeder Watch enrolled more than 4,000 people. Feeder Watchers represented every state in the U.S. except Hawaii. The dream to systematically survey winter feeder birds over a wide geographic range was in place. Since then the number of project participants has grown to more than 20,000. Today, FeederWatch is a proven tool for monitoring the distribution and abundance of winter bird population.

Backyard birding, watching birds around your home is the most popular form of bird-watching.

It has become the second most popular passive sport (after gardening) in North America. The number of bird watchers in the United States is believed to be about 82 million. That is an increase from the 41 million birders reported by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 2011. Birding is a popular recreational activity and can be anything you care to make it, a hobby that can be enjoyed for a lifetime. You can take it up at

The “Second Atlas of Breeding Birds in Pennsylvania” identifies the following seven woodpeckers nesting in Pike County: Redheaded Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, and Pileated Woodpecker.

any age and it yields a high level of interest. For me bird watching has lasted almost a lifetime with a full measure of enjoyment.

I set up feeding stations and suet cages in our backyard to attract the birds and provide them with black oil sunflower seeds, mixed seed, and suet as well as water.

This article on birds in my backyard will focus on “woodpeckers from our window.”

Woodpeckers have stout pointed beaks, at the base of which are nostrils with bristle-like feathers. They have short legs; strong feet; sharp curved nails; four toes, two in front and two behind (except for two three-toed woodpeckers) and pointed stiff tail feathers.

Black and white are their prevailing colors. The males usually have some red or yellow markings

YMCA CAMP SPEERS Day Camp Horseback Riding Overnight Camp Open House Every Sunday April, May, and June, 2- 4 pm www.CampSpeersYMCA.org 570-828-2329 143 Nichecronk Road, Dingmans Ferry (Near the Post Office in Dingmans Ferry)

PAGE 12

We’ll take a look at the Downy Woodpecker who remains with us all winter, feeding on insects that are wintering in crevices and beneath the bark of trees. It is fitted by shape of beak, tongue, feet, and tail to get such food. It is easily identified by its small size, and markings. It is the smallest black and white woodpecker in North America being as well as the most common. The similar looking Hairy Woodpecker is one and a half times larger and less common. The Downy has a way of landing low on a tree trunk or at the base of a large branch and climbing upward in a jerky fashion; it does not turn around and go down head first, like the nuthatch. To go down a short distance it does so by a few awkward, backward hops.

To really descend it flies off and down. Like other woodpeckers the Downy is adept at tree climbing. It can grasp the bark on the side of the tree more firmly because its fourth toe is turned backward and works together with the thumb. It is able to clutch the bark as with a pair of tongs, two claws in front and two claws behind. As another aid, the tail is arranged to prop the bird like a bracket. The tail is rounded with the middle feathers having strong quills; however, the secret to the tail adhering to the bark is in the profusion of barbs at the edge of the feathers with bristling tips, and when applied to the tree act like a wire brush with all the wires pushing downward. That is why the Downy can’t go backward without lifting the tail.

Even more fascinating is the mechanism by which the Downy gets its food, which is mostly wood-borers or larvae working under the bark.

When the woodpecker is after a grub in the wood, it seizes the bark firmly with its feet, uses its tail as a brace, throws its head and upper part of the body as far back as possible, and then delivers a powerful blow with its strong beak. The beak is adapted for this purpose, as it is wedge-shaped at the end, and is used like a mason’s drill or at times a pick. When the bird uses its beak as a pick it strikes hard deliberate blows and the wood chips fly; but when it is drilling it strikes rapidly and not so hard thus quickly drilling a small, deep hole leading directly to the burrow of the grub. When the grub is reached, it would seem impossible to pull it out through a hole that is too small and deep to admit the beak being used as pincers.

Here’s the solution.

The Downy can extend its tongue far beyond the end of the beak. The tip of the tongue is hard, horny and covered with short backward slanting hooks acting like a spear or harpoon.

When the tongue is thrust into the grub it pulls

LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2015

Zoning Hearing Board NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held by the Delaware Township Zoning Hearing Board at the Delaware Township Municipal Building, 116 Wilson Hill Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328, on March 31, 2015 at 7:00 p.m.

it out easily. The tongue bones are arranged like a spring; when not in use the tongue lies soft in the mouth but when in use, the bones spring out, stretching it to its full length being slim and small. Suet attracts the Downy but will not pauperize it, for as soon as it has had its fill of the suet, it commences to hunt for grubs. It is notable that they never injure live wood.

James Whitcomb Reiley describes the drumming of a woodpecker as “weeding out the lonesomeness” and that is exactly what the drumming of a woodpecker means. The male selects some dried limb of hard wood and beats out his well –known signal which advertises far and near, “Wanted, a wife.” And after he wins her, he still drums on for a time to cheer her while she is busy with family cares. I have noticed that the Downies usually come to the suet in pairs.

The Downy’s nest is a hole, usually in a partly decayed tree. They lay four to six white eggs on a bed of chips as fine as sawdust. The entrance to the cavity is a circle about an inch and a half in diameter.

The Hairy Woodpecker is fully one-third larger than the Downy, measuring nine inches from tip of beak to tip of tail, while the Downy measures only six inches. The tail feathers of the Downy are barred on the side at the tips while the Hairy’s outer tail feathers are white the entire length. There is also a black “parting” through the middle of the red patch on the back of a male Hairy’s head. The two species are so much alike that it is difficult for the beginner to tell them apart, except that the Hairy lives more in the deep woods.

John Burroughs wrote in “Winter Neighbors”: “A few seasons ago a downy woodpecker, probably the individual one who is now my winter neighbor, began to drum early in March in a partly decayed apple tree that stands at the edge of a narrow strip of woodland near me.

When the morning was still and mild I would often hear him through my window before I was up, or by half-past six o’clock, and he would keep it up pretty briskly till nine or ten o’clock, in this respect resembling the grouse, which do most of their drumming in the forenoon.

His drum was the limb of a dry limb about the size of one’s wrist. The heart was decayed and gone but, the outer shell was loud and resonate.

The bird would keep his position there for an hour at a time. Between his drummings he would preen his plumage and listen as if for the response of the female, or for the drum of some rival. How swift his head would go when he was delivering his blows upon the limb! His beak wore the surface perceptibly.

This hearing is being held pursuant to a request from the Wild Acres Lake Property & Homeowners Associations, Inc., for a proposed “Dog Park” to be located within the Wild Acres Lakes Subdivision, Tax Map ID No. 168.03-05-76, Lot 2, Section 21, Block 2104. Said proposed use is not provided for under the Delaware Township Zoning Ordinance and is, therefore, to be determined by the Delaware Township Zoning Hearing Board.

Notice is also given that a Reorganizational meeting of the Delaware Township Zoning Hearing Board will be held at the Delaware Township Municipal Building, 116 Wilson Hill Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328 on March 31, 2015 at 6:45 p.m.

Steven R. Guccini, Solicitor Delaware Twp Zoning Hearing Board

After a time a second female came, when there was war between the two. I did not see them come to blows, but I saw one female pursuing the other about the place, and give her no rest for several days. She was certainly trying to run her out of the neighborhood. Now and then she, too, would drum briefly as if sending a triumphant message to her mate.”

When he wished to change the key, which was quite often, he would shift his position an inch or two to a knot which gave out a higher, shriller note.

When I climbed up to examine his drum he was much disturbed. I did not know he was in the vicinity, but it seems he saw me from a near tree, and came in haste to the neighboring branches, and with spread plumage and sharp note demanded plainly enough what my business was with his drum. I was invading his privacy, desecrating his shrine, and the bird was much put out.

After some weeks the female appeared; he had literally drummed up a mate; his urgent and oft-repeated advertisement was answered. Still the drumming did not cease, but was quite as fervent as before. If a mate could be won by drumming she would be kept and entertained by more drumming; courtship should not end with marriage.

If the bird felt musical before, of course he felt much more so now. Besides that, the gentle deities needed propitiating in behalf of the nest and young as well as on behalf of the mate.

LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2015

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PARKS & REC Promoting Your Child’s Social-Emotional Health

By Sensei Albert Casale We all want the same thing for our kids. We want them to grow up to love and be loved, to follow their dreams, to find success. Mostly, though, we want them to be happy. But just how much control do we have over our children’s happiness? While we can’t control our children’s happiness, we are responsible for our own and because children absorb everything from us, our moods matter. Happy parents are likely to have happy kids, while children of depressed parents suffer twice the average rate of depression.

Consequently, one of the best things you can do for your child’s emotional well-being is to attend to yours: carve out time for rest, relaxation, and perhaps most important, romance. Nurture

your relationship with your spouse. “if parents have a really good, committed relationship” “the child’s happiness often naturally follows” What other things parents can do make children happy? Catch your child being good! Praise your child often for even small accomplishments like playing nicely with brothers or sisters, helping to pick up toys, waiting her turn, or being a good sport. Find ways to play with your child that both enjoy every day. Talk with your child, tell stories, sing, and include some type of regular physical activity such as a walk or bike around the neighborhood.

Never put a TV in a child’s bedroom. Parents should watch along with older children and try to put the right spin on what their children are seeing. Young children should not be exposed to the glorified violence on TV, including the news. TV should not become a babysitter.

Master Sensei Albert Casale is the master teacher at the Mountain Dojo Health and Wellness and School of Champions. For 41 years helping thousands of students be at their best performance and live their dreams and avoid being any body’s victim.

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Email: mastercasale@mountaindojo.com

63 • 2014

Get Ready-Akenac Park Opens Soon!!

It is almost that time of year again. Akenac Park will open for the season on May 23, 2015. The Park is open from 7am to 7pm Monday and Wednesday-Sunday. It is closed on Tuesdays. Bring the family for boating, swimming, basketball, tennis, to play on the playground and much more. There are events held throughout the season so be sure to check out our website for upcoming events at the Park at www.delawaretownshippa.gov or our Facebook page- Delaware Township.

Come, bring the family and enjoy a great day at Akenac Park.

PARK RULES • Fishing is catch and release.

• Wear a life jacket when boating.

• All children must be supervised by an adult.

• No swimming without a lifeguard.

• Do not litter!

• Respect the premises.

New Homes Additions Renovations HIC 006369

WWW.EDNIKLES.COM CALL NOW! 570.296.9200

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LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2015

Baseball Season is Around the Corner!

Delaware Township is home to beautiful recreation fields located at Wilson Hill Road and Ball Park Road in Dingmans Ferry, Pennsylvania.

If your recreational league is interested in hosting games on the Township fields, here is what you need to know: All organized recreational sports leagues must submit a field use request to Delaware Township as soon as possible to ensure everyone’s needs are met. A field use application can be found at www. delawaretownshippa.gov. Once your application for field use is approved, the required fees, team rosters and proof of insurance are required to be submitted to Delaware Township two (2) weeks prior to the start of the requested season.

Below is the Field Use Requirements and Fees for Delaware Township. If you have any questions, please contact the Township office at (570) 828-2347.

Field Use Requirements for Organized Leagues

i. Maintenance equipment will be provided in dugout sheds ii. Each League is responsible to report any missing equipment to both Little League and the Township

The list of equipment will be posted on the dugout shed door.

stand during time of use.

• The concession stand must be cleaned at the

end of the season and inspected by the Parks & Recreation Supervisor.

• Meet with Parks & Recreation Supervisor before & after seasonal use

Leagues must obey the field flags for conditions for play: • Red – NO PLAYING ON FIELDS • Green – fields can be played on Concession Stand Requirements • The fee for usage of the concession stand

for organized leagues who intend to use the concession stand for their season will be $800.00 per season to be paid prior to use.

• There must be at least one person with a Food Handlers Certificate in concession

• Any organized league must submit a list

of team names and divisions (including cheerleader division), player names per team, coaches’ names per team, and township where each person resides with the application request for field usage for the January Board of Supervisors meeting.

Meetings are the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month at 6:00pm unless it is a holiday.

• Leagues must supply the Township with an insurance certificate that covers all players and coaches.

• The Board of Supervisors must approve the application request.

• There is a charge of $150.00 per team name and division-this will help cover the cost of maintaining the recreational facilities.

• Leagues must supply Certificate of Field

Maintenance from the Local Little League Field Maintenance Clinic

• Fields will be raked out and garbage cleaned

up after every use, (including cigarette butts)

LIVING DELAWARE | SPRING 2015

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