Living Delaware Township Winter 2018

WINTER 2018

THE CORNERSTONE OF THE POCONOS

NOTICE: The Township Office will be closed on the following days: Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, December 24 & 25, 2018 • New Year’s Day, January 1, 2019

Milford Valley Quilters Deliver Quilts To Veterans Home In Scranton In an effort to thank Veterans for their service, members of the Milford Valley Quilters Guild made another delivery of bed quilts to the Gino Merli Veterans home in Scranton, PA, and more are on the way.

Thus far, the guild has donated 180 bed quilts to the Gino Merli home. Many thanks are extended to Vet Stock for their very generous donation to help offset the cost of supplies needed to make these quilts.

This community service is an ongoing project run by “Golden Hands”, which is an extension of the Milford Valley Quilters Guild. Anyone interested in making bed quilts for veterans are invited to come to the Delaware Township Building on Mondays between 10a.m. and 3 p.m. No experience required, just bring your lunch and the coffee is always on!

If you would like more information about our Guild, please visit our website http://sites.google.com/site/ milfordvalleyquiltersguild/, or if you would like to join the Milford Valley Quilters Guild please contact us at mvqg@yahoo.com.

IN THIS ISSUE DAILY LIVING Join A Smart Recovery Group Self-Inspection Checklist For Heating Oil Tanks Think About Your Oil Tank Important Numbers for Seniors

3 4 5 5

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT Pike Co. Fire Dept. Listing Winter Fire Safety Tips

DAILY LIVING That Text Isn’t Worth Your Life — Page 2

6 7

Disaster Preparedness Plan For Your Pets Recommended Items To Include in an Emergency Supply Kit DIG DELAWARE Winterberry & American Bittersweet MEETINGS & EVENTS Township Misc. Boards Meetings

7 8 9 10

2019 Bulk Disposal Dates & Recycling

10

DELAWARE IN THE PAST Where Was It All?

11

LEGISLATURE Senate Moves to Improve School Safety

12

PARKS & REC New Game Commission App Available

13

EVENTS

PARKS & REC

Trunk or Treat — Page 10

Scouts Camp at Akenac Park — Page 13

Newburgh, NY 12550 PERMIT NO. 335

Like Us on Facebook www.facebook.com/DelawareTownship

PAID

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage

DAILY LIVING Just Drive: That Text Isn’t Worth Your Life By: Larissa Newton ​Nearly 15,000 crashes involving a distracted driver were reported in Pennsylvania in 2015. Of those, 61 were fatal.

Nationwide, 3,477 people were killed in crashes involving distracted drivers. Research by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that, during daylight hours, approximately 660,000 drivers are using cellphones while driving.

DELAWARE TOWNSHIP

But not you, right? You don’t ever use a cellphone while behind the wheel.

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

The truth is, anything that causes you to take your attention away from driving, take your eyes off the road, or take your hands off the wheel is a distraction. Sure, cellphones are a good chunk of the problem these days, but distracted driving also includes eating and drinking, flipping through the radio, and chatting with passengers. Even rubbernecking — you know, when you just can’t take your eyes off that crash scene you are passing — is distracted driving.

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 daily from dawn to dusk. Closed every Tuesday for maintenance BOARD OF SUPERVISORS: MEETINGS 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month, 7:00 pm at the Township Municipal Building WORKSHOPS 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month, 6:00 pm at the Township Municipal Building

TEXTING-WHILE-DRIVING BAN In Pennsylvania, we have a texting-while-driving ban — established in 2012 — that prohibits drivers from using cellphones and other devices to send texts, instant messages, emails, or browsing the internet while driving. This is considered a primary offense, which means you can be pulled over solely for the reason of using a device for electronic communications, and comes with a $50 fine, if convicted.

Additionally, in November 2016, Governor Tom Wolf signed “Daniel’s Law,” which enhances the penalties for an accident caused by texting while driving resulting in serious bodily injury or death. Under the law, drivers who text and cause a fatality will receive a five-year jail sentence; drivers who cause bodily injury while texting and driving will receive a two-year jail sentence.

GET INVOLVED April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month — a time when PennDOT and organizations around the country focus on reminding drivers to put the phone down, remove distractions, and just drive.

NHTSA offers several suggestions for ways you can get involved, including sharing messages on social media, leading by example, and spreading the word at school. You can also take the pledge to not drive distracted via AT&T’s It Can Wait campaign, or download the AT&T DriveMode App to minimize distractions while driving.

If you’re interested in getting involved with PennDOT, contact your regional safety press officer or join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram​using #JustDrivePA.​​​

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LIVING DELAWARE | WINTER 2018

E BOARD OF SUPERVISORS John Henderson Chair - jhenderson@delawaretownshippa.gov Jane Neufeld Vice-Chair | Treasurer - jneufeld@delawaretownshippa.gov Rick Koehler Secretary - rkoehler@delawaretownshippa.gov

Discover the Power of Choice No matter what your addictive behavior, SMART Recovery can help. For over two decades we have been offering free support groups to help people learn self-empowering tools and provide support for others in recovery. The goal of SMART Recovery is to assist you in achieving a healthy, positive, and balanced lifestyle.

Skills and tools taught in SMART can be used as part of your overall & personal recovery process.

Join a SMART Recovery Group in Pike County today!

Tuesday’s: 6:30-7:30 pm St. Patrick’s Church Office 111 E. High St. Milford, PA

Wednesday’s: 12-1 pm Milford Community House 201 Broad St. Milford, PA

Wednesday’s: 6:30-7:30pm

Delaware Township Emergency Operations Center 116 Wilson Hill Rd. Dingmans Ferry, PA Follow us on Facebook for news & updates!

SMART Recovery Pike PA

E ADMINISTRATION Krista Predmore Township Administrator kpredmore@delawaretownshippa.gov Sharon Franks Administrative Assistant | Permits sharonf@delawaretownshippa.gov Robin Jones H.R. | Administrative Asst. rjones@delawaretownshippa.gov Lori McCrory Permit Assistant lmccrory@delawaretownshippa.gov

E PUBLIC WORKS Vincent Flatt | Road Master vflatt@delawaretownshippa.gov Chris Kimble ckimble@delawaretownshippa.gov Mike Moffa mmoffa@delawaretownshippa.gov John Olivieri jolivieri@delawaretownshippa.gov Shane Williams swilliams@delawaretownshippa.gov

E BOARDS & CHAIRPERSONS Planning Commission Ron Hough, Chair Zoning Hearing Board Ida Walker, Chair 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 Ron Tussel - ecc@masthope.org

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

LIVING DELAWARE | WINTER 2018

PAGE 3

Self-Inspection Checklist for Aboveground Heating Oil Tanks

DEP Regional Offices Southeast Region 2 E. Main St. Norristown, PA 19401 Telephone: 484-250-5900 (24 hours/day) Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia

Are you using more oil than normal?

Are the tank legs (1) rusted, unstable, or on an uneven foundation?

Do you see rust, weeps, wet spots, or holes on the tank's surface (2)?

Are there any drips or signs of leakage around the oil filter or joints (3)?

Does the oil line (4) run either under concrete or aboveground without a protective casing?

Are there any threats of snow or ice falling (5) on the oil tank or the filter?

Are there any signs that the vent line (6) is clogged by ice, snow, or other debris such as spider or bee nests?

Is the overfill vent whistle (6) obstructed, or silent when the tank is being filled?

Are there any signs of spills around the fill pipe(7)?

Is the tank gauge (8) cracked, stuck, or frozen?

Do you see oil or staining around the tank gauge (8)?

If the answer is “YES” to any of the above questions, call an oil burner technician for a more detailed inspection and corrective measures.

Northeast Region 2 Public Square Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701-1915 Telephone: 570-826-2511 (24 hours/day) Carbon, Lackawanna, Lehigh, Luzerne, Monroe, Northampton, Pike, Schuylkill, Susquehanna, Wayne, and Wyoming South-central Region 909 Elmerton Ave. Harrisburg, PA 17110 Telephone: 717-705-4700 (business hours) 866825-0208 (after hours) Adams, Bedford, Berks, Blair, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Fulton, Huntingdon, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, Mifflin, Perry, and York North-central Region 208 W. Third St. Williamsport, PA 17701 Telephone: 570-327-3636 (24 hours/day) Bradford, Cameron, Centre, Clearfield, Clinton, Columbia, Lycoming, Montour, Northumberland, Potter, Snyder, Sullivan, Tioga, and Union

Helpful Tips for Heating Oil Tanks

Southwest Region 400 Waterfront Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15222 Telephone: 412-442-4000 (24 hours/day) Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Cambria, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Somerset, Washington, and Westmoreland Northwest Region 230 Chestnut St. Meadville, PA 16335 Telephone: 814-332-6945 (business hours) 1-800373-3398 (after hours) Butler, Clarion, Crawford, Elk, Erie, Forest, Jefferson, Lawrence, McKean, Mercer, Venango, and Warren

www.dep.pa.gov

PAGE 4

LIVING DELAWARE | WINTER 2018

Think About Your Oil Tank Now is the time to remember to check your home heating oil tank for leaks or spills.

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has created a self-inspection checklist to help determine if your heating oil tank may need some TLC before winter rolls in. Be sure to visit their new web page to prepare for the upcoming heating oil season. Learn more at www.dep.pa.gov/homeheatingoil Oil leaks or spills from a home heating oil tank can be costly to clean up and depending on where they occur, can be a health risk or cause environmental damage. The best prevention is regular monitoring and maintenance of your tank. Check for wet spots, rust, or excessive use. More information is available from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection at www.dep.pa.gov/homeheatingoil

TO ADVERTISE CALL LAUREN AT 845-456-1218

Shop Local SUPPORT THE LOCAL BUSINESSES FEATURED IN LIVING DELAWARE

LIVING DELAWARE | WINTER 2018

important contacts for seniors From the Pike County Area Agency on Aging MEDICARE PLANS AVAILABLE www.medicare.gov Call APPRISE at 800-783-7067 Call Medicare at 800-633-4227 or 877-486-248 (TTY) Or call us at 570-775-5550 for appt. to assist you.

PIKE COUNTY TRANSPORTATION Hours 7:30am-4:00pm 570-296-3408 or 866-681-4947 DO NOT CALL REGISTRY If you want to stop those nagging calls from solicitors you can place your phone number on the Do Not Call registry by calling 888-382-1222 or go online to www.donotcall.gov SENIOR LAW CENTER Senior Law Center protects the legal rights & interests of seniors in PA through legal services, referral services and advocacy. Call their helpline at 877-727-7529 PIKE COUNTY AREA AGENCY ON AGING Blooming Grove - 570-775-5550 Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-4pm Dingmans Center - 570-828-7812 Hours: Tues & Fri 9am-3pm Lackawaxen/Shohola 570-685-7808 Hours: Mon, Wed, Thurs 9am-2pm Milford - 570-832-1929 Hours: Wed & Fri 1am-3pm

PAGE 5

EMERGENCY MGMT.

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 - 570-685-7330 Matamoras Borough Fire Dept.

(Dept. 32) 506 Avenue Q, Matamoras, PA 570-491-4154 Milford Fire Dept. (Dept. 33) 107 W. Catharine St., Milford, PA - 570-296-6121 Mill Rift Fire Dept. (Dept. 34) 139 Bluestone Blvd., Mill Rift, PA 570-491-4850 Promised Land Fire & Ambulance (Dept. 35) RR 390, Greentown, PA 570-676-3818 Tafton Fire Co. (Dept. 37) 235 PA Rt. 507, Hawley, PA 570-226-4273

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Smoke detectors should be checked every month • Install carbon monoxide detectors in your homeWinter season can increase the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide cannot be seen. It is an odorless, fatal gas that is produced by heating systems, water heaters, chimneys, kerosene heaters, gas stoves, fireplaces and car exhausts. It can cause flu-like symptoms, vomiting, loss of consciousness, brain damage and even death.

Install at least one on every floor approximately 5 feet from the ground. *Smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector batteries should be changed at least twice a year. Fall and spring when the clocks are changed is a great way to remember to change them. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be changed every 10 years.

• Electric outlets & extension cords- Fires can be caused by overloaded extension cords and circuits or even incorrectly installed wiring. Use the right extension cord of gauge and length for the intended use.

Make sure the cord is of proper wattage and current rating for

Use the correct extension cord. Heaters should be used by Make sure you have the proper adults only gauge and length for the Make sure the electric heater intended use. is UL approved, that it has a Do not place electrical cords temperature control, it should under carpets, because they are also have a shut off to protect if too long. This could cause the it tips over cord to overheat and start a fire • Escape plan- You need one!

Have an electrical professional Almost all home fires that are install GFI outlets inside fatal happen between midnight and out where water is and 8 a.m. During times people present, which would include are asleep. When a smoke bathrooms, kitchens and detector goes off, it’s possible laundry rooms. you could have less than 2.5 mins to get out. Therefore • Fireplaces and wood stovesevery family should have an Did you have your fireplace escape plan. and chimney cleaned and inspected? Cracks, broken Make sure to have a family brick and mortar along meeting place, everyone with creosote, can block the chimney.

should know it. Good plans are knowing two ways out of each room and having your meeting spot outside the house.

Practice your escape plan at least two times a year When you are safe outside, stay outside.

Call 911 once outside Remember, your family’s safety starts with you.

Volunteers are always needed.

If you are interested please contact us at: info@dtvfc.net.

You can make a difference.

Wishing everyone a safe and happy holiday season, from our family to yours, Stacy Hughes Delaware Township Volunteer Fire Company Station 28 Fire Prevention Committee

Burn dry seasoned wood to minimize chimney build up.

Place ashes in a metal bucket container outside at least 5 foot away from house or anything that could catch fire. Do not set ash bucket on your porch or wood deck.

Use a sturdy metal screen or tempered glass to stop sparks from escaping your fireplace.

Child guard your fireplace and wood stove , if you have children in the house.

• Space heaters- Always read the label on the cords to make sure the electric heater is set up correctly.

Keep all furniture, curtains, papers or combustibles at least 4ft away from space heaters.

Check your space heater power cord to make sure they aren’t

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Forest Fire Dept. (Dept. 81) 1129 Towpath Rd., Hawley, PA 570-226-5022

Smoke detectors should be installed on every level of your house. Outside all sleeping areas and in every bedroom

Always turn off heaters when your family is asleep or not home.

an

Shohola Fire Dept. (Dept. 41) 325 PA Rt. 434, Shohola, PA 570-559-7525

• Smoke detectors- Seconds count when there is a fire.

Smoke detectors that work provide warning of a fire, which can double survival chances. Smoke detectors can be the difference between life and death.

Never splice or cut an extension cord for any reason.

A cut cord could possibly cause a weak point in your wire, making it unsafe

cracked or frayed. If they are cracked or frayed, do not use them.

es

Westfall Fire Dept. (Dept. 39) 101 Mtn. Ave., Matamoras, PA 570-491-4717

Here are a few simple tips you can take to protect your family and home from household dangers that could cause harm to you and your loved ones.

what you are using it for.

s

Greeley Fire Department (Dept. 23) 245 PA Rt. 590, Greeley, PA 570-685-7537

The cold weather is upon us.

Which means most people will be spending a lot more time indoors. The heat will be on and you’ll be spending more time in the kitchen cooking.

Fire safety may not be the first thing you think about, but steps can be taken to make sure your family stays safe. The top 2 most common causes of house fires involve cooking and heating.

New Homes, Remodeling & Lot/House Packages HIC 006369

ip

Lackawaxen Twp. Volunteer Ambulance Service (Dept. 21) 109 PA Rt. 590, Greeley, PA 570-685-4022

Winter Fire Safety Tips

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Pike Co. Fire Depts.

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WWW.EDNIKLES.COM CALL NOW! 570.296.9200

LIVING DELAWARE | WINTER 2018

Disaster Preparedness Plan For Your Pets By being prepared with a well-thought-out disaster plan for different types of disasters, you can potentially save your pet’s life in case of emergency. Some general tips for planning: Before the Disaster: • Make sure your pet wears at least two forms of current identification. You may want to consider a microchip implant or tattoo, combined with an identification tag on a collar. Also, keep the information current if you have registered with any lost and found databases.

• Be sure to place permanent, waterproof “Pets Inside” stickers on your front and back windows to alert emergency workers that pets are in your home. If possible, list the number and types of animals in your household. Should you be unable to go home to retrieve your pets during a disaster, this sticker could help rescue workers find your pets in your home.

• Find a veterinarian in your area before you have an emergency.

• Develop an evacuation plan for your family and include your pets in this plan. Identify relatives, friends, or hotels which will accept your pets. Make plans to shelter livestock and horses in place in a safe area if you cannot evacuate them.

• Start a buddy system with a neighbor. Ask him/her to check on your pet during a disaster if you are not home. Agree to do the same for your neighbor. Exchange information on veterinarians.

• Check to make sure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date. Keep an extra copy of your pet’s health information in your pet disaster/emergency kit. Have a list and schedule of needed medications and several days’ worth of medications available.

• Assemble a disaster kit. See recommended pet first aid kit list and pet emergency survival kit.

During the Disaster • Bring pets indoor well in advance of a storm. Reassure them and remain calm.

• In the event of an evacuation, include pets in your evacuation plans. Never leave pets behind.

• Livestock and horses should be included in your evacuation plan or plans should be implemented to shelter them in place in a safe area.

• In the event of an evacuation, temporary animal shelters may be in operation. Animals brought to a pet shelter should have proper identification, including a microchip, tattoo, and/or collar ID tag and proof of current rabies vaccination. All items with the animal, including carrier, leash, food, bowls, list of health issues or special needs, medications, and any special instructions should also be identified with the animal and owner names.

• Pet shelters will be filled on first come, first served basis. Call ahead for availability.

After The Disaster • After you return home, keep your pets on a leash until they become re-oriented to their home. Often familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and pets could easily be confused and become lost. Also, downed power lines, reptiles brought in with high water, and debris can all pose a threat for animals after a disaster. Water may not be safe for drinking.

• If pets cannot be found after a disaster, contact the local animal control office to find out where lost animals can be recovered. Bring along a picture of your pet if possible.

• After a disaster, animals can become frightened and act aggressive or defensive-monitor their behavior closely and try to keep them on their normal schedules to reduce stress.

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

LIVING DELAWARE | WINTER 2018

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

PAGE 7

Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Emergency Supply Kit: • Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation

• Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both

• Flashlight and extra batteries • First aid kit • Whistle to signal for help • Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place

• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities • Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food) • Local maps Additional Items to Consider Adding to the Kit: • Prescription medications and glasses • Infant formula and diapers • pet food and extra water for your pet • Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container

•

Cash or traveler’s checks and change

•

Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from www.ready.gov

•

Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person.

Consider additional bedding if you live in a coldweather climate

•

Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, Bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented color safe or bleaches with added cleaners

•

Fire extinguisher

•

Matches in a waterproof container

•

Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items

•

Mess kits, paper clips, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels

•

Paper and pencil

• Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children.

PAGE 8

LIVING DELAWARE | WINTER 2018

DIG DELAWARE Winterberry and American Bittersweet Ilex verticillata, commonly known as winterberry holly, is a native shrub that loses its leaves each autumn.

After the leaves have yellowed and dropped, you are left with spectacular, brightly colored berries along every stem. The berries are a joy to have in your winter garden or to enjoy naturally in the wild.

Winterberry holly has a tremendous geographical range. Native populations stretch from Nova Scotia south to Florida and west to Missouri. It can be found growing in moist, swampy soils, in damp low grounds; but can also be grown successfully in average garden soils. This easy to grow plant has few insect or disease problems. In the wild it can range from three to fifteen feet. Winterberry blooms in June with white inconspicuous flowers.

Male and female flowers are found on different individual plants. The berries remain on the plant for several weeks or months

through the winter. The birds will become interested in them as they soften.

There are several types of native winterberry cultivars available. The Berry Heavy series has extra-large, plentiful fruits which can be red or gold. Mr. Poppins is the male pollinator for this series. These are shrubs standing six to eight feet tall. For a three to four foot shrub, try the dwarf Little Goblin series.

flowers fade, orange-yellow capsules appear. In late fall and winter, the capsules open to reveal bright red berries. The berries remain on the plant well into winter brightening the winter landscape and supplying food for birds and other wildlife. When growing bittersweet for the berries, you will need both a male and female plant.

In your home garden, place American bittersweet in a sunny location in almost American bittersweet vine any soil. The vine usually is a vigorous deciduous vine doesn’t need fertilizing, but that grows from fifteen to occasionally may benefit twenty feet tall. It is native from small doses of general to central and eastern North purpose fertilizer. Prune America. In the wild you the vines in late winter or find it growing on rocky early spring to remove dead slopes and shoots and control excess growth. in woodland areas. You will see it winding around Both winterberry holly and trees and low shrubs. In the American bittersweet lend home garden you can grow beautiful color and interest bittersweet along a fence or to the natural other support structure. landscape and will enhance The vines produce your home garden with yellowish-green spring spectacular color during the blooming flowers. As the drab, dark days of winter.

Winterberry

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PAGE 9

Board of Supervisors Meetings

Notice is hereby given that the meetings for the Delaware Township Board of Supervisors for 2019 will be on the second (2nd) and fourth (4th) Wednesday of each month on the following dates: January 9th and 23rd, February 13th and 27th, March 13th and 27th, April 10th and 24th, May 8th and 22nd, June 12th and 26th, July 10th and 24th, August14th and 28th, September 11th and 25th, October 9th and 23rd, November 13th and 27th, December 11th and 25th.

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 p.m. and regular meetings at 7 p.m.

EVENTS January 5, 2019

2019 Bulk Dump Disposal Dates

February 2, 2019 March 2, 2019 April 6, 2019 (Potential Electronic Recycling Day) and April 20, 2019

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.

May 4, 2019 and May 18, 2019 June 1, 2019 and June 15, 2019 July 6, 2019 and July 20, 2019 August 3, 2019 and August 17, 2019 September 7, 2019 and September 21, 2019 October 5, 2019(Potential Electronic Recycling Day) and October 19, 2019 November 2, 2019 December 7, 2019

2018 Trunk or Treat a Great Success!

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 meetings in 2018 will be held quarterly, as needed, at 10:30am on the 3rd (third) Saturday of March, June, September and December 2018. These meetings will be held at the Delaware Township Emergency Management Building, located at 116 Wilson Hill Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328.

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Call our 24-hour Confidential hotline

570-296-HELP (4357) All services and programs offered are free of charge. ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢

24-hour Confidential Crisis Hotline Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) Emergency Overnight Assistance Legal & Medical Advocacy/Accompaniment Empowerment Advocacy School Programs Community Prevention Education Support Groups Office: 570-296-2827 Email: empowerment@shopc.org 402 Broad Street Milford, PA 18337

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LIVING DELAWARE | WINTER 2018

DELAWARE in the PAST Where Was It All? As you ride down the River Road, (Rte 209), enjoying the beauty of the forests and fields, surely you must have wondered about the stories you’ve heard of the busy community of Dingmans Ferry. What did it look like? Where were the homes, the schools and the grand hotels? Though we can’t go back in time to see for ourselves, I can give you some insight as to ‘what was where’.

THE GRAND HOTELS

The Dingman House

The Delaware House

Shady Lawn

The Dingman House (Block 164 on the map): Heading down The Bethany Turnpike, (739), stopping at the traffic light at 209, look to your right.

One of the first homes in Dingmans Ferry was built on this spot in the early 1800’s. As the years passed, this three room home grew into a popular resort attracting visitors until it was demolished in the 70’s making it one of the last remaining resorts in the area.

The Delaware House (Block 160 on the map): Opening in 1866, travelers would pass the time sitting in rocking chairs enjoying the scenery and fresh air or hiking up to Silver Thread Falls all for $7 a week. If you were to turn right at the light on 209, The Delaware House stood just South of Johnny B. Road.

Shady Lawn (Block 179 on the map): Heading towards the Dingman Bridge you will pass the former location of the Shady Lawn House on your right.

Built in the 1860’s, this modest farmhouse grew to include a restaurant and inn which offered visitors country hospitality at its best.

Want to learn more? To know where the blacksmith once set up shop? Where locals would go to gas up the car, shop for groceries, attend church services or shop for antiques? Contact the Historical Society. You can even purchase the full version of the map above which shows the location of every home and business for just $5. So if you are not fortunate enough to remember the past, let us help you!

Block 167 The Blacksmith Shop

Block 108 Albright Store

Block 175 Texaco Gas

Shop Local SUPPORT THE LOCAL BUSINESSES

LIVING DELAWARE | WINTER 2018

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LEGISLATURE Senate Moves to Improve School Safety Provide Districts More Resources, Options Pennsylvania legislators consider school safety a critical issue and a top priority. Lawmakers have responded to this issue by passing legislation to ensure our schools are a safe place for children and staff. The goal is to give schools the

resources they need to identify threats so we can prevent school violence before it starts.

Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle came together to pass a comprehensive, bipartisan school safety bill that will make new resources available to school districts throughout the state. The new law emphasizes local control. Each school district will have an opportunity to assess their unique needs and circumstances, allowing them to pursue safety options that are in the best interests of students.

options to improve school safety, including hiring school security personnel and counselors, purchasing safety equipment like metal detectors, and implementing special programs to reduce violence in schools.

A school threat reporting and monitoring system that will allow students, teachers, school employees and members of the community to anonymously report any potentially unsafe situations for students.

School safety assessments and guidelines to help Highlights of the new law identify and address include: potential security issues.

A new $60 million grant program that will give school districts flexible

Mandatory training on school safety and security for school employees.

TO ADVERTISE CALL 845.456.1218 PAGE 12

LIVING DELAWARE | WINTER 2018

PARKS & REC

New Game Commission App Available Whether you’re looking for a place to hunt, need a license, or want an easy way to report your deer or turkey harvest, the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s new mobiledevice app is a one-stop shop that’s loaded with information hunters and trappers need most.

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According to the Game Commission, using the app, which is free to download at the iTunes and Google Play stores, hunters can find out what’s in season and where, when hunting hours start and end, and whether they’ll need to wear fluorescent orange while in the field.

The app also provides instant access to the Hunting & Trapping Digest – the Game Commission’s complete regulations handbook – as well as the agency’s Mapping Center, which charts hunting opportunities including pheasant releases on state game lands and other hunting properties.

Those in need of licenses can buy them online through the app, or find an issuing agent nearby where they can pick up a license in person. And those who are successful in big-game pursuits can report their harvests through the app, learn the locations of bear and elk check stations, or find a processor where they can donate venison through the Hunters Sharing the Harvest program. Wildlifelaw violations can be reported through the app, and hunters can document their exact location to share in the case of an emergency.

LIVING DELAWARE | WINTER 2018

Scouts Camp at Akenac Park The Milford Scouts camped at Akenac Park over Columbus Day weekend. Eleven Boy Scouts from Troop 71 and their adult volunteers spent the first night there, and they were joined by the Arrow of Light & Webelos 2 Cub Scouts from Pack 71 and their parents for the second night. The light rain did not dampen their spirits! One of the boys was the proud new owner of a World War II era tent which he set up for the first time Friday night. They built a small campfire in a portable grill, so that they would leave no trace at the park. The Boys Scouts and Cub Scouts practiced their scout skills and played games inside the rec hall during the heavier rain, and worked together to prepare a meal for about 25 people Saturday night.

After dark they found lots of places to hide around the park grounds for their favorite game of Manhunt. The Delaware Township Supervisors and staff were so helpful and welcoming to our troop and pack. We are very grateful to them for allowing us to spend the weekend at Akenac Park, and hope we will be allowed to return another time!

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PAGE 13

Important Information about an Energy Assistance Program

Apply online at www.compass.state.pa.us Applications are also available at your local county assistance office.

Statewide Toll-Free Hotline 1-866-857-7095

‫معلومات مهمة حول برنامج معونة الطاقة‬

Philadelphia County - Call (215) 560-1583

If you need help paying your heating bills, or have a heating emergency...

Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech disabilities and wish to communicate with the helpline may call PA Relay Services by dialing 711.

If you believe you are in a heating crisis, contact your local county assistance office (CAO).

A listing of CAOs and other helpful information can be found at: www.dhs.pa.gov/citizens/heatingassistanceliheap/index.htm

LIHEAP May Be Able To Help You

If you live in the following counties, contact your crisis contractor:

Pike Luzerne (866) 822-0359 267-9181 (800)

Monroe Wyoming (877) 905-1495 (570) 836-4090 HSEA 18

8/18

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program

As a local agent, I’m here for you.

Debbie & Matt Boulanger Vogel & Moore Ins (570)257-0330 bouland@nationwide.com

Not all Nationwide affiliated companies are mutual companies and not all Nationwide members are insured by a mutual company. Nationwide, Nationwide is On Your Side, and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2018 Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. NPR-0784AO (02/18) ##

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LIVING DELAWARE | WINTER 2018

and how it’s collected through apps and websites.

UPDATING

“I love country music.”).

Name your network in a way that doesn’t let people know it’s your house.

ILOVECOU NTRYM****

CYBER SAFETY STARTS AT HOME!

GET YOUR FAMILY, FRIENDS, COMMUNIT Y

BACK IT UP

SHARE WITH CARE

Protect your valuable work, music, photos and other digital information by making an electronic copy and storing it safely.

AND CO -WORKERS INVOLVED IN

SOMETHING BIG!

CYBER SAFETY STARTS AT HOME!

With everyone in the family using the internet to engage in social media, adjust the home thermostat or shop for the latest connected toy, it is vital to make certain that the entire household — including children and older adults — learn to use the internet safely and responsibility.

Think before posting about yourself and others online. Consider what a post reveals, who might see it and how it could be perceived now and in the future.

With everyone in the family using the internet to engage in social media, adjust the home thermostat or shop HELP MAKE YOUR for HOME A SAFE the latest connected toy, it is vital to make certain that the DIGITAL HAVEN BY PROTECTING entire household PERSONAL — including children andYOUR older adults — learn INFORMATION SECURE NETWORKS, DEVICES AND ONLINE IS LIKE MONEY. WI-FI ROUTER LIVES WITH THESE TIPS: to use the internet safely Set and responsibility. a strong passphrase VALUE IT. PROTECT IT. KEEP A CLEAN MACHINE

LOCK DOWN YOUR LOGIN

Having the latest security software, web browser and operating system is the best defense against viruses, malware and other online threats. Remember, mobile phones and tablets need updating too!

Usernames and passwords are not enough to protect key accounts like email, bank and social media.

Improve account security by enabling strong authentication tools such as biometrics or unique one-time codes.

Information about you, such as your purchase history or location, has value – just like money. Be thoughtful about who gets that information and how it’s collected through apps and websites.

(at least 12 characters long) for your Wi-Fi network.

Focus on positive sentences or phrases that you like to think about and are easy to remember (for example, “I love country music.”).

Name your network in a way that doesn’t let people know it’s your house.

ILOVECOUNTRYM****

GET INVOLVED ON SOCIAL MEDIA Use #CyberAware in all your tweets! Like us on Facebook (/StaySafeOnline) to catch live segments with experts each week and follow us on Twitter (@StaySafeOnline) for the latest news, resources and more.

BECOME A NCSAM CHAMPION Register yourself and/or your organization as a Champion to take action in support of NCSAM. It’s easy and FREE to sign up at staysafeonline.org/ncsam.

JOIN THE #CHATSTC TWITTER CHATS Join our weekly discussion each Thursday in October at 3 p.m. EDT/Noon PDT.

LEARN MORE ABOUT NCSAM AND STAYING SAFE ONLINE STAYSAFEONLINE .ORG/NCSAM

UPDATING StaySafeOnline

/StaySafeOnline

The National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) is the leading neutral nonprofit, public-private partnership devoted to educating and empowering our global digital society to use the internet safely and securely. Our core strengths are to educate, convene and amplify.

National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, held annually in October, is co-led by NCSA and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

SHARE WITH CARE

BACK IT UP

GET YOUR FAMILY, FRIENDS, COMMUNITY

Think before posting about yourself and others online. Consider what a post reveals, who might see it and how it could be perceived now and in the future.

Protect your valuable work, music, photos and other digital information by making an electronic copy and storing it safely.

AND CO-WORKERS INVOLVED IN

SOMETHING BIG!

HELP MAKE YOUR HOME A SAFE DIGITAL HAVEN BY PROTECTING NETWORKS, DEVICES AND ONLINE Call Us At LIVES WITH THESE TIPS: GET INVOLVED ON SOCIAL MEDIA

845-456-1218 PERSONAL INFORMATION IS LIKE MONEY. VALUE IT. PROTECT IT.

SECURE YOUR WI-FI ROUTER

Set a strong passphrase (at least 12 characters long) for your Wi-Fi network.

Focus on positive sentences or phrases that you like to think about and are easy to remember (for example, “I love country music.”).

Name your network in a way that doesn’t let people know it’s your house.

and ask about KEEP A CLEAN our special MACHINE Advertising Rates!

Having the latest security Information about you, such as your purchase history or location, has value – just like money. Be thoughtful about who gets that information and how it’s collected through apps and websites.

software, web browser and operating system is LIVING DELAWARE | WINTER 2018 the best defense against viruses, malware and other ILOVECOUNTRYM****

Use #CyberAware in all your tweets! Like us on Facebook (/StaySafeOnline) to catch live segments with experts each week and follow us on Twitter (@StaySafeOnline) for the latest news, resources and more.

LOCK DOWN YOUR LOGIN

BECOME A NCSAM CHAMPION Register yourself and/or your organization as a Champion to take action in support of NCSAM. It’s easy and FREE to sign up at staysafeonline.org/ncsam.

Usernames and passwords are not enough to protect key accounts like email, bank and social media.

Improve account security

PAGE 15