SUMMER 2020
THE CORNERSTONE OF THE POCONOS
NOTICE: The Township Office will be closed on the following days: Independence Day: July 3, 2020 • Labor Day: September 7, 2020
Green Phase Now In Effect for Pike County Delaware Township Facilities Now Open
Governor Wolf announced that Pike County has moved to the green phase of his reopening plan on Friday, June 19th. The Stay at Home Order is lifted for aggressive mitigation. Residents are encouraged to continue wearing face masks when interacting with other people, frequently wash their hands or use hand sanitizer and to observe social distancing of at least six (6) feet. In accordance with the Governor’s Orders, CDC and PA guidelines, the following Township facilities are currently open: • Township Office
• Basketball Court on Ball Park Rd
• Skatepark
• Municipal hall
• Ballfields
• Ball Park Road Playground
• Ballfield bathroom facilities
• Akenac Park
Delaware Township continues to actively develop policies and work to be in compliance with Federal and State reopening guidelines. We are continuously monitoring and reviewing information on COVID-19 and intend to do what is best for the residents of Delaware Township. Thank you for your continued support and cooperation. Sincerely, Delaware Township Board of Supervisors
IN THIS ISSUE DAILY LIVING 2020 Census is Happening Now Emergency Management Staff Volunteers Keyfood Marketplace Donates To Local EMS Agencies PA American Water Submits Rate Request to PPUC DWGNRA Fees Resume, Beaches Open
DAILY LIVING Resolution 2020-09 — Page 6
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Delaware Township Pool Permit Pike Small Business Forgivable Loans
5 6
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT New Treatment Protocols Implemented Dingmans Medical Covid-19 Testing Pike County Fire Dept. Listing
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MEETINGS & EVENTS DFDT Historical Society News
EVENTS 2020 Bulk Dump Disposal Days — Page 9
Board of Supervisors Meetings Planning Commission Meetings PARKS & REC Akenac Park - Summer 2020 Rules & Regulations Due to Covid-19 Brown Continues to Bring Awareness to Lyme Disease & Tick-Borne Illnesses in the Commonwealth
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DIG DELAWARE Benefits of Community Gardening — Page 11
Newburgh, NY 12550 PERMIT NO. 335
Like Us on Facebook
www.facebook.com/DelawareTownship
PAID
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage
DAILY LIVING 2020 Census is Happening Now
DELAWARE TOWNSHIP 116 Wilson Hill Road Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328 Phone: 570-828-2347
HOURS OF OPERATION: Building Inspector: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 8:00 am – 10:00 am
Sewage Officer: By appointment only
Zoning Officer: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 8:00 am – 10:00 am
Office: Monday through Friday 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Public Works: Monday through Friday 7:30 am – 3:30 pm
Akenac Park: Open 10 am - 6 pm. Closed on Monday & Tuesday for sanitizing & maintenance
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS: MEETINGS 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month, 7:00 pm at the Township Municipal Building
Beginning on August 11, census takers will begin visiting all households that have not responded to the 2020 Census. If you have not already completed the 2020 Census, it is not too late to complete the questionnaire and ensure local communities receive our fair share of federal funding and are properly represented at all levels of government. More information about how to complete the 2020 Census online, by phone or by mail is available at https://2020census.gov. Information is also available online about national, state and county census response rates. Pennsylvania is ahead of the national average, but still approximately 7 percent behind the statewide response rate in 2010.
Emergency Management Staff Volunteers Delaware Township Board of Supervisors is seeking volunteers to serve in staff positions within the Township’s emergency management organization. Volunteers will assist the Emergency Management Coordinator in the administration of the township’s Emergency Operations Plan and the implementation of this plan during declared disasters. Opportunities exist in both administrative and field positions. A valid Pa. Drivers license and background check are required No experience is required but any background in planning or emergency services is a plus and training will be provided. Interested parties should submit a letter of interest to dtbos@ptd.net
WORKSHOPS 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month, 6:00 pm at the Township Municipal Building
Call Us At
845-456-1218 and ask about our special Advertising Rates!
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LIVING DELAWARE | SUMMER 2020
necessary supplies to Delaware Township Volunteer Ambulance Corps and Milford F Department Ambulance. Some of t supplies included; paper bags, cle supplies, laundry detergent, cases e BOARD OF SUPERVISORS along with many other things. Of s note, Dabashi was able to donate rolls of duct tape that will be used PPE to make them airtight around e ADMINISTRATION and ankles.
John Henderson Chair - jhenderson@delawaretownshippa.gov
Jane Neufeld Vice-Chair | Treasurer - jneufeld@delawaretownshippa.gov Rick Koehler Secretary - rkoehler@delawaretownshippa.gov
Krista Predmore Township Administrator kpredmore@delawaretownshippa.gov
Keeping with their mission during t health emergency, DTVAC took a p these donated supplies and gave t other eastern Pike County EMS ag e ROAD & MAINTENANCE DEPT. that are responding to suspected C calls.
Sharon Franks Office Assistant | Permits sharonf@delawaretownshippa.gov Robin Jones H.R. | Administrative Asst. rjones@delawaretownshippa.gov Lori McCrory Permit Assistant lmccrory@delawaretownshippa.gov
Vincent Flatt | Road Master vflatt@delawaretownshippa.gov
Michael Moffa mmoffa@delawaretownshippa.gov
PRESS RELEASE Keyfood Marketplace Donates To CONTACT INFORMATION: Delaware Volunteer Ambulance Corps is a non-proÞt organization tha Local EMSTownship Agencies Local supermarketbasic assists EMS agencies in sourcing (BLS) cleaning supplies provides life support service to Delaware Township. The Corps also e BOARDS & CHAIRPERSONS needed to clean uniforms and ambulances. Advanced Life Support (ALS) service to Delaware Township and surrounding are On April, 9 2020 Junior Dabashi, owner of KeyFood Milford, donated many RELEASE DATE: are always looking for volunteers! you necessary supplies to Delaware Township Volunteer Ambulance Corps andIf Milford Fire are someone you know is interested in Department Ambulance. Some of these supplies included; paper bags, cleaning supplies, laundry volunteering please call us at (570)-828-2345. Any press inquires should be direc detergent, cases of water, along with many MARKETPLACE other things. Of DONATES special note, was able to KEYFOOD TODabashi LOCAL EMS AGENCIES donate multiple rolls of duct tape that will be used to seal PPE to make them airtight around the cwill@dtvac.org. wrists and ankles. Keeping with their mission during this public health emergency, DTVAC took a Jeff Ireland dtbos@ptd.net
Jake DeMouth dtbos@ptd.net
Delaware Township Volunteer Ambulance Corps Carl Will Public Information Officer 570-828-2345 ext. 813 cwill@dtvac.org
Chris Kimble dtbos@ptd.net
Planning Commission - Sharon Franks, Secretary
Zoning Hearing Board - Lori McCrory, Secretary
April 10, 2020
Board of Auditors Chair, Dennis Lee - dennisleedtauditor@gmail.com
Local supermarket assists EMS agencies in sourcing cleaning supplies needed to clean uniforms and ambulances.
portion of these donated supplies and gave them to other eastern Pike County EMS agencies that MILFORD, PA— On April, 9 2020 Junior Dabashi, owner of KeyFood Milford, donated many necessary supplies are responding to suspected COVID-19 calls.to Delaware Township Volunteer Ambulance Corps and Milford Fire Department Ambulance. Some of these supplies included; paper bags, cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, cases of water, along with many other things. Of special note, Dabashi was able to donate multiple rolls of duct tape that will be used to seal PPE to make them airtight around the wrists and ankles.
Delaware Township Volunteer Ambulance Corps is a non-profit organization that provides basic life support (BLS) service to Delaware Township. The Corps also provides Advanced Life Support (ALS) service to Delaware Township and surrounding areas. We are always looking for volunteers! If you are someone you know is interested in volunteering please call us at (570)-828Keeping with their mission during this public 2345. Any press inquires should be directed to cwill@dtvac.org. health emergency, DTVAC took a portion of
Township Historian - Tim Singleton
e ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS
Building Inspector SFM Consulting - smcglynn@sfmconsultingllc.org Zoning Officer SFM Consulting - smcglynn@sfmconsultingllc.org Sewage Officer Ron Tussel - ecc@masthope.org
these donated supplies and gave them to other eastern Pike County EMS agencies that are responding to suspected COVID-19 calls.
Delaware Township Volunteer Ambulance Corps is a non-proÞt organization that provides basic life support (BLS) service to Delaware Township. The Corps also provides Advanced Life Support (ALS) service to Delaware Township and surrounding areas. We are always looking for volunteers! If you are someone you know is interested in volunteering please call us at (570)-828-2345. Any press inquires should be directed to cwill@dtvac.org.
P
Congratulations
Page "1 of "1
To The Delaware Valley Class of 2020 LIVING DELAWARE | SUMMER 2020
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Pennsylvania American Water Submits Multi-Year Rate Request to Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission Request driven by $1.64 billion invested to address aging water and wastewater infrastructure; Company proposing enhancements to customer financial assistance program
Pennsylvania American Water today filed a request with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) to adjust its water and wastewater rates over a two-year period following an extensive review of the investment needed to ensure continued safe and reliable water and wastewater service. “Since our last rate case, we will have invested $1.64 billion in infrastructure upgrades, including replacing more than 427 miles of aging water and sewer pipelines and upgrading treatment facilities, storage tanks, wells and pumping stations,” said Mike Doran, president of Pennsylvania American Water. “These infrastructure investments help ensure continued water quality, service reliability and fire protection for the more than 2.4 million people in 400 communities who depend on us every day.” The request includes revenue increases totaling $138.6 million
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over two years: $92.4 million in saving devices and education. 2021, and $46.2 million in 2022. “By making prudent, ongoing investments to maintain “Not only are these and upgrade our water and investments critical to the wastewater systems, Pennsylvania public’s health and safety, American Water is committed but they also support the to protecting our communities economic health of the from public health concerns and communities we serve,” Doran quality of life issues associated continued. “This level of with failing infrastructure,” said investment over a four-year Doran. “At the same time, we period supports more than remain steadfastly committed to 25,000 jobs across the state addressing the needs of our most and region.” vulnerable customers.” Pennsylvania American Water’s rates are based on the actual cost of providing water and wastewater service. To help mitigate the impact to customers, the company works to control costs and operate efficiently and offers bill assistance and payment arrangements to customers who need them. Through its H2O Help to Others Program™, the company provides financial assistance to low-income customers who qualify, including emergency grants, bill discounts and water-
The PUC’s investigation and analysis of the company’s filing can take up to nine months, and any new rates set by the Commission would not be effective until 2021. If the company’s proposed rates are approved as requested, the monthly water bill for the average residential customer using 3,458 gallons per month would increase from the current charge of $57.85 to $65.91 in year one and $69.73 in year two. The average monthly residential
sewer bill would increase from For more information on the $60.42 to $71.97 in year one and company’s rate proposal and to $76.85 in year two. find out what actions customers may take, call customer service Doran emphasized that at 1-800-565-7292 or visit Pennsylvania American Water pennsylvaniaamwater.com has been responding to the and select “Your Water and hardships the COVID-19 Wastewater Rates” under the pandemic is causing for Customer Service menu. residents and businesses. He underscored that the company About Pennsylvania has been extensively evaluating American Water its future investment needs since long before the pandemic Pennsylvania American Water, a subsidiary of American began, and that any new rates Water (NYSE: AWK), is the will not take effect until early largest investor owned water 2021. As part of this request, utility in the state, providing the company is proposing high-quality and reliable water enhancements to its customer and/or wastewater services assistance program to further to approximately 2.4 million help water and wastewater people. With a history dating customers in greatest need. back to 1886, American “We understand and wish to Water is the largest and most be responsive to the current geographically diverse U.S. environment caused by the publicly traded water and pandemic, but we also remain wastewater utility company. The focused on meeting the future company employs more than needs of our customers through 6,800 dedicated professionals sound infrastructure and public who provide regulated and health protection,” Doran market-based drinking water, continued. wastewater and other related services to an estimated 15 “I want to emphasize that million people in 46 states. this request is in no way American Water provides safe, related to the pandemic and is clean, affordable and reliable entirely based on our need to water services to our customers continue ongoing infrastructure to make sure we keep their lives improvements. We will work flowing. For more information, with the Commission to address visit amwater.com and follow any issues they raise while they American Water on Twitter, review our request.” Facebook and LinkedIn.
LIVING DELAWARE | SUMMER 2020
Beaches and Limited Restrooms Open; Fees Resume at Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area BUSHKILL, PA – Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is following COVID-19 guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), state and local public health authorities, and the National Park Service (NPS) Office of Public Health and is using a phased approach to increase recreational access and services throughout the park. Employees continue to examine each facility, function, and service that the park provides to ensure that park operations comply with current public health guidance and that public areas and workspaces are safe and clean for visitors, employees, partners, and volunteers. Increased recreational access and changes to park operations during this phase include: • Turtle Beach in NJ will be open daily during daylight hours beginning June 18. Milford and Smithfield Beaches in PA are also open including the boat and canoe launches. There will be no lifeguards on duty at park beaches this summer.
Delaware Twp. Pool Permit Requirements If residents are planning to install a pool this summer, the following are the requirements to consider: • A Zoning Permit is required for any Pool 24” deep or deeper. • A Building Permit is required for any Pool 24” deep or deeper.
All Fees are based on square footage: • Zoning Fee Starts at $75 • Building Fee Starts at $124.50
For information on the electrical and fence requirements please visits the Township Building Inspector website at www.sfmconsultingllc.org.
Zoning Application requirements: • Application Form
• Recorded Deed Limited restrooms are currently available at selected locations • Plot Plan (including throughout the park including: • In NJ: Kittatinny Point Main setback requirements parking lot (weekends only), Turtle Beach, Poxono boat for the new pool) launch, Blue Mountain Lakes, and Upper Van Campens Glen; • In PA: Bushkill Meeting Center; Toms Creek Picnic Area, Building Application Raymondskill Falls, Bushkill Access, Dingmans Access, Milford requirements: Beach canoe launch, and Smithfield Beach canoe and boat • Application Form launches; • Additional restrooms will be re-opened over the next several weeks. Some park restrooms will remain closed this year. • Installation Guide Fee collection will resume at six fee areas in the park on June 18, including: Smithfield, Milford and Turtle Beaches, Watergate Recreation Site, and Dingmans and Bushkill Boat and Canoe Launches. Annual passes are available for $45 and are for sale at Milford, Smithfield, and Turtle Beach fee stations on weekends. Passes are also available by mail. Applications can be found at: https://www.nps.gov/dewa/planyourvisit/fees.htm. Most trails in the park are open. Information about park trails, including maps and driving directions, can be found on the park website. Campsites along the Delaware River and along the Appalachian National Scenic Trail within the park remain closed until further notice. Park visitor centers will not be open this summer. Instead, staff who would have been stationed at visitor centers will be out in the park at popular locations to provide information and assist visitors. For information about the park, call the Information Desk, staffed daily from 8 am to 4 pm, at (570) 588-7213; visit the park website at www.nps.gov/dewa; or follow us on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/DelWaterGapNPS. The NPS encourages visitors to follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and to follow Leave No Trace principles when visiting the park.
LIVING DELAWARE | SUMMER 2020
• Electrical plan. • A Fence must be installed for any pool under 48” this will be need as part of the building permit application.
Call me today for a noobligation quote! 570.828.6145 Rebecca Gray Your Local Farmers Agent 100 MARY LOUS WAY (Route 739) DINGMANS FERRY, PA 18328 RGRAY1@FARMERSAGENT.COM
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Pike County’s Small Business Forgivable Loan Program Guidelines and Application Available at PikeForward.com MILFORD, PA – The Pike County Commissioners, through the Human Development Office, anticipate approximately $526,092 to be available for a new Small Business Forgivable Loan Program. Loans of up to $20,000 per eligible business will be distributed beginning in August 2020. For the loan to be forgivable, businesses must retain or create at least one full-time equivalent job for a low- to moderate-income household by March 31, 2021 and then retain that position for an additional 12 months. “We are grateful to our Human Development Executive Director Robert Ruiz and our consultant Hailstone Economic for their excellent work on navigating the process of repurposing and targeting Community Development Block Grant funding to help local businesses through the COVID-19 crisis,” say the Commissioners. The full guidelines and application for the Small Business Forgivable Loan Program are available at PikeForward.com. For more information, contact Robert Ruiz at rruiz@pikepa.org. In addition, the Commissioners, in consultation with the Human Development Office and Hailstone Economic, are working on more programs to assist local businesses. State guidelines are expected to be released soon detailing potential uses for $5 million allocated to Pike County through the recently enacted state budget, which included $225 million earmarked for relief for small businesses through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
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LIVING DELAWARE | SUMMER 2020
EMERGENCY MGMT. New Treatment Protocols Implemented Pike County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) agencies have implemented new treatment protocols amid the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. These new protocols were put in place so the EMS providers could better assist the individuals needing help, and stay safer while doing it. Many COVID-19 patients treated by EMS experience respiratory difficulties, and the treatment changes have centered on treating the breathing problems of the patient. On the Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances’ they will now be providing meter dosed inhalers rather than using a nebulizer. With this change, came creating a new makeshift nebulizer spacer that was designed by Montgomery County Hospital District EMS in Texas and applied here in Pike County.
Toll Free Numbers STATE
Kyle Wright, Captain of Delaware Township Volunteer Ambulance Corps (DTVAC) and Incident Commander of the COVI9-19 response stated, “These spacers will allow for the providers to administer Albuterol Sulfate to patients in respiratory distress without fear of any aerosolization of the virus.” Albuterol Sulfate is a bronchodilator used to treat or prevent bronchospasms. Wright has made these spacers available to other EMS agencies in the tri-state area and has already distributed many. At the Advanced Life Support (ALS) level of EMS, DTVAC paramedics, under the guidance of Medical Director, Dr. John McCarthy, can now administer subcutaneous injections of Terbutaline to patents who are expressing respiratory distress. Wright said, Terbutaline is a drug that was used a long time ago before albuterol became the front-line medication for bronchospasm. It is exceptionally safe and effective and can help significantly improve the patient’s respiratory symptoms” DTVAC provides ALS service on an as-needed basis to and the townships of Dingman, Delaware, Milford, Shohola, Blooming Groove, and Milford Borough. During this Public Health Emergency, EMS agencies encourage the public not to hesitate to dial 9-1-1 in an emergency. There has been a drastic statewide decrease in 9-1-1 calls for help requiring EMS. Waiting to call for help can sometimes be a matter of life or death when dealings with Strokes, Heart Problems, etc. Wilfredo Crespo, Supervisor of Hemlock Farms EMS, said, our crews are working around the clock during this emergency, and we are ready to respond to any and all medical emergencies you may be experiencing. Our providers are taking extra steps to ensure patient safety, and we urge the general public to call 911 if they are experiencing a medical emergency during this time”.
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 - Road/Weather Cond................. 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 Senator Bob Casey............................................1-866-802-2833 Senator Pat Toomey.............................................1-855-552-1831 IRS............................................................................... 1-800-382-1274 Medicare.................................................................1-800-829-1040 Social Security.........................................................1-800-772-1213
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Delaware Township Volunteer Ambulance Corps is a non-profit organization that provides basic life support (BLS) service to Delaware Township. The Corps also provides Advanced Life Support (ALS) service to Delaware Township and surrounding areas. We are always looking for volunteers! If you are someone you know is interested in volunteering please call us at (570)-8282345. Any press inquires should be directed to cwill@dtvac.org.
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WWW.EDNIKLES.COM CALL NOW! 570.296.9200
LIVING DELAWARE | SUMMER 2020
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Pike County Fire Depts. 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 Delaware Twp. Ambulance Corp. (Dept. 28) 135 Park Rd., Dingmans Ferry, PA - 570-828-2345 Hemlock Farms Fire & Rescue (Dept. 29) 1053 Hemlock Farms, Lords Valley, PA - 570-775-6447 Lackawaxen Fire Dept. (Dept. 31) 116 Township Rd., Lackawaxen, PA - 570-6857330 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
Dingmans Medical Covid-19 Testing Dingmans Medical is now offering Covid-19 Naso swab testing AND Covid-19 ANTIBODY testing, please call the office for more information 570-828-8000.
Covid-19 SWAB Test vs. BLOOD-ANTIBODY Test Question
Swab Test
Blood/Antibody Test
Will this test determine if I’m currently contagious?
Yes
No
What is the test like?
Q-tip swab in mouth or nose
Simple blood sample
When is the disease detected?
2-3 days after contracting the virus
Cannot be detected for up to 10-14 days after contracting virus
How long will it take to get results?
3-4 days
1-2 days
Tells you if you have an ACTIVE infection
Tests if you have been PREVIOUSLY infected Tests for immune system molecules the body makes weeks after encountering Covid-19
What is it testing?
Tests if you are currently infected and/or contagious
Westfall Fire Dept. (Dept. 39) 101 Mtn. Ave., Matamoras, PA - 570-491-4717 Shohola Fire Dept. (Dept. 41) 325 PA Rt. 434, Shohola, PA 570-559-7525 Forest Fire Dept. (Dept. 81) 1129 Towpath Rd., Hawley, PA - 570-226-5022
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LIVING DELAWARE | SUMMER 2020
Dingmans Ferry Delaware Township Historical Society The Dingmans Ferry, Delaware Township Historical Society Board hopes that all of you are doing well and remain in good health. The unfortunate events we are now facing have caused us to cancel our public program schedule to date. Even though we are now designated as a yellow zone, we are strictly limited in what we can do. We sincerely hope that this pandemic will soon come to a complete end and we will be able to reschedule programs on a monthly basis. We are considering, if permitted, running public program on a monthly basis throughout the winter months. New history is created every minute of every day. The present situation that we are dealing with today is tomorrows history. We must ask ourselves, is this more sever and different than what we have faced prior, or is it really similar to our past experiences? The 2020 Pandemic is really not very different than what we have faced in the past. The actions taken and their effects this time are new, not only to us here in the USA, but throughout the entire world. In the nineteen fifties, here in the US, we faced the crisis of Polio. Many children became paralyzed and many died. Fortunately, a vaccine was developed to save the day. I can remember lining up in the school auditorium to receive the vaccine injection. A terrifying situation that was handled much differently than this crisis but the fears it created were not different. Even before this current event, we have faced annual flu and viruses and still do. Unfortunately, many of our citizens have died in great numbers from these diseases. The question we must ask is, will the extreme actions that have been invoked today become the normal approach. As caretakers of Dingmans Ferry History, we are asking our members and our township residents to contribute their personal thoughts and experiences during this situation. We will archive this information for future generations. Who knows, by documenting the history of this pandemic and the steps that have been taken to combat it plus their resulting effects, review of today’s methods may aid us in a course of action in the future.
Board of Supervisors Meetings Notice is hereby given that the meetings for the Delaware Township Board of Supervisors for 2020 will be on the second (2nd) and fourth (4th) Wednesday of each month on the following dates: July 8th and 22nd September 9th and 23rd
August12th and 26th October 14th and 28th.
November and December meetings ONLY will be on the first and third Wednesday of each month on the following dates: November 4th and November 18th, and December 2nd and December 16th. All meetings to be held at the Delaware Township Municipal Building(s), located at 116 Wilson Hill Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328. Workshops will begin at 6:00pm and regular meetings at 7:00pm.
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.
2020 Bulk Dump Disposal Days 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 the first Saturday of the month during the winter months. July 18, 2020 August 1, 2020 and August 15, 2020 September 5, 2020 and September 19, 2020 October 3, 2020 (and October 17, 2020 November 7, 2020 December 5, 2020
Your comments and opinions can be forwarded by mail to the Dingmans Ferry Historical Society, 116 Wilson Hill Rd. Dingmans Ferry, Pa. 18328 or e-mailed to admin@ dingmansferryhistoricalsociety.org . Please remember to pay your 2020 dues for this year. I know that our schedule will be limited but annual funds are necessary to keep the organization in existence and functioning. Dues remain at only $5.00 per person and $ 10.00 per family. Dues may be sent to the address above. We hope to be gathering again soon and thank you in advance for your contributions. Wishing you good health and safety.
LIVING DELAWARE | SUMMER 2020
PAGE 9
PARKS & REC Akenac Park | Summer 2020 Rules & Regulations Due To Covid-19 1. The beach is open, but there are no lifeguards on duty 6/19-6/25 only. Swimming is at your own risk on those dates. a. No flotation devices are permitted in the lake. b. No flipping or diving off docks. c. Do not hang off the ropes. d. Children must be supervised by an adult at all times.
2. Parking will be limited. Once the parking area is full, the park gates will be closed. 3. Boat rentals are unavailable. a. No personal watercrafts permitted into the park.
b. All Pennsylvania residents who reside outside of Pike County may enter the Park at a charge of $5.00 per person. c. All out of State residents will be permitted to enter the Park at a charge of $20 per person.
12. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited. 13. Garbage is carry-in, carry-out. 14. No smoking. No vaping. 15. No pets. 16. No foul language.
4. Beach chairs will not be provided.
17. No littering, dumping refuse or disposing of outside refuse.
5. The recreation hall is closed and unavailable for rental.
18. No hunting.
6. The bathhouse is closed.
19. No fireworks or explosives are permitted to be discharged or possessed in the park.
a. Port-a-johns are provided.
7. Social distancing of at least 6ft is encouraged for the safety of staff and visitors. 8. Masks are encouraged when interacting with other residents and using port-a-johns. 9. No grilling. No open fires. 10. Use of the park for parties is prohibited until further notice 11. All individuals entering the Park are obligated to provide proof of residency of Pike County. a. All Pike County residents shall enter the Park free of charge.
20. No solicitation or sale of goods without written approval. 21. Plant removal prohibited. 22. Harassment of wildlife is prohibited. 23. Defacing and/or removal of park property is prohibited. 24. No operation of motor vehicles outside designated parking and entrance area. 25. Noise and/or music should be kept to an acceptable level and not disturb normal sensitivities of other visitors. 26. Harassment of other visitors or disorderly conduct is prohibited.
TOWNSHIP STAFF RESERVE THE RIGHT TO ASK YOU TO LEAVE THE PARK IF ANY OF THE ABOVE GUIDELINES ARE NOT FOLLOWED. IF A RESIDENT REFUSES TO LEAVE THE PREMISES WHEN ASKED, THE PENNSYLVANIA STATE POLICE WILL BE CONTACTED IMMEDIATELY.
Brown Continues to Bring Awareness to Lyme Disease and Tick-Borne Illnesses in the Commonwealth With most citizens focused COVID-19, Rep. Rosemary M. Brown (R-Monroe/Pike) wanted to highlight and bring awareness to Lyme disease and other tickborne illnesses. Currently, Brown is sponsoring House Resolution 760, which designates May 2020 as Lyme and Tick-borne Disease Awareness Month in Pennsylvania, and the House is expected to vote on the resolution this week. Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted primarily by ticks and is caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi. “The main focus right now is on the COVID-19 health crisis; however, I do not want residents to forget about other serious illnesses wreaking havoc in Pennsylvania like Lyme disease, especially since many are spending more time outside due to the current mitigation efforts,” said Brown. “It is important that residents check themselves and their pets for ticks after returning from the outdoors and contacting our tick research lab for a free tick test should any ticks be found. I continue to advocate on behalf of Pennsylvanians who are affected by this disease and other tickborne illnessesand fight for better policies that will aid our medical communities with further research and education initiatives related to this disease.” According to Nicole Chinnici, director of the Dr. Jane Huffman Wildlife Genetics Institute, after the launch of the free tick testing program in April 2019, the Tick Lab, located at East Stroudsburg University (ESU), has received and tested 17,135 ticks representing all 67 counties in the Commonwealth. The prevalence of tick-borne diseases is indicated on the map below. The counties with the highest percentage of ticks testing positive for a tick-borne disease include: Cameron – 44%, Clearfield – 41%, and Forest – 41%. In the Pocono Mountains region of northeast Pennsylvania, Wayne County had 32%, Monroe 31%, Carbon 30% and Pike 29%. On average, Lyme disease is detected in 32% of ticks in Pennsylvania. All county level data can be found at ticklab.org/statistics. Brown would like to remind Pennsylvania residents that they may have ticks tested for FREE at Tick Research Lab after removing them. For more information about ESU’s Tick Research Lab and how to obtain free tick testing, residents can visit their website at ticklab.org.
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LIVING DELAWARE | SUMMER 2020
DIG DELAWARE
Benefits of Community Gardening By Carol Padalino
“Community gardens are collaborative projects on shared open spaces where participants share in the maintenance and products of the garden including healthful and affordable fresh fruits and vegetables. Gardens may offer physical and mental health benefits by providing opportunities to eat healthy fresh fruits and vegetables. engage in physical activity , skill building and creating green space. beautify vacant lots. revive and beautify public parks .improve social well-being through strengthening social connections.”as published by the CDC - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention The Delaware Township supervisors have been supporting local gardeners for 18 years by providing the space for a community garden. The Smith-Harker Community Garden, located on Wilson Hill Road, has become a haven for 20 local gardeners. Beside growing organic vegetables, participants share seeds and plants while informally teaching one another their favorite gardening tips. The positive effect of community gardens is not only a venture that feeds and rejuvenates the body but also is one which nurtures the mind. Gardening is a physical activity and participation gives you the benefit of improved physical health. It is known to be a stress-reducing and relaxing activity. Also there is research that community gardeners are inclined to eat more fruits and vegetables. There is nothing more satisfying than enjoying the fruits of your own labor. We all know that home-grown tastes better than store bought!. Community gardens are aptly named because they do just that, they foster a sense of community. The gardens help people find common ground, bringing people of different ages and backgrounds together in one place with one common interest. Robert, a gardener new to the Smith-Harker garden, has been working his plot since early spring. He planned areas for spinach, radicchio, peppers, onions and tomatoes. Robert was influenced early on by his grandfather who grew roses. Then, in Brooklyn, Robert’s father-in-law Ralph tended a large vegetable garden. Both men started Robert on his path to learning about plants and gardening. Robert also enjoys growing flowers, especially dahlias. Robert designed his plot incorporating areas of containers, raised beds and lattices to support climbing cucumbers and beans. When asked why he chose to participate in the community garden, Robert replied “the community garden gives me the chance to learn from the other gardeners.” Diane and Obi have been part of the community garden for three years. While out hiking, they passed the garden and investigated the possibility of acquiring a plot. Obi explained that the area around their house is not suitable for gardening. The community garden is situated in full sun, fenced, and includes three perennial flower beds with an expanse of lawn. And Diane agrees that getting outdoors snd working in the garden is both a relaxing and stress relieving activity. They worked hard this spring relining their plot with bricks and preparing the soil. By summer this work will have paid off in the harvest of their many varieties of peppers and tomatoes. Gardening is not only an activity associated with recreation but it has been found to have everlasting benefits. While the sense of connection to other people is important, so is the connection to nature. Gardening, even on a small plot, is a simple way to incorporate more nature into your everyday life. “In Okinawa, they say that anybody who grows old healthfully needs an ikigari, or reason for living. Gardening gives you that something to get up for every day.” Dr. Bradley Willcox, University of Hawaii. It is no wonder then, for the first time in many years, all available plots in the community garden are occupied.
LIVING DELAWARE | SUMMER 2020
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