Locust Lake Villager

On-line at www.locustlakevillage.org

WINTER 2016

First Snow Early snow fell on LLV Saturday and Sunday, November 19-20.

Mother Nature surprised forecasters who were calling for 2 inches for the Poconos. Five to seven inches were recorded in LLV between 8 p.m. Nov. 19 and 2 p.m. Nov. 20.

NO DUES INCREASE

LLV 2017 Budget Approved By unanimous vote at its Nov. 19 meeting, the Locust Lake Village (LLV) Property Owners Association (POA) Board of Directors approved the 2017 operating budget for LLV. The 2017 budget calls for a total income of $1,842,332.89 balanced against total expenditures of $1,842,332.89. 2016 was budgeted at $1,786,348.19.

There will be no increase in POA assessments (dues) unlike 2016’s increase of $12. The annual assessment per property owner remains at $1,281.84.

“We are in a position that as the numbers change, they do not affect the assessment to the membership,” said POA Treasurer Vince Moderski.

A major factor contributing to no increase in the annual assessment is a surplus of $83,444.60.

“We collected $43,529.12 more in previous years dues than we budgeted for in 2016,” explained Moderski. “In reality, our surplus would have been $39,915.48.”

Another increase that kept the annual

Continued on Page 22

Santa Claus has a gift for Cara Hayes, 4, while her sister Holly, 2, with her grandmother Tammy Hayes, prepares to hand her sign-in sheet to Santa’s reindeer helper, Diane Wolek, at the Anglers Club’s 24th annual Kids Christmas Party held at The Chalet on Saturday, Dec. 10.

See Story on Page 23

WINTER WEATHER

Ranger Staff Offers Safety Advice

By Andy Gross, Chief, Locust Lake Village Rangers Winter has finally settled in around us in Locust Lake Village (LLV). There was that pre-winter storm that dumped five or six inches Saturday evening into Sunday (Nov. 19-20) on the village. Perhaps it was a sign of things to come.

So, let’s take a look at how winter weather affects safety and security at LLV.

ELECTRONIC VOTING

Skiing, snowboarding, tubing and sledding For safety reasons, we need to keep these areas restricted for safe and proper use. Skiing and snowboarding are only permitted on the Ski Hill located next to The Chalet. Tubing and sledding are only permitted on the hill located at the village’s natural recycling facility located on the left behind the

Continued on Page 6

Final POA Approval Needed For e-Voting This past spring, members in good standing of the Locust Lake Village (LLV) Property Owners Association (POA) approved by a vote of 578 to 45 a change in LLV’s bylaws to allow voting by electronic devices.

Wade Burchell, then chairman of the LLV bylaws

committee, stated, “This electronic voting change raises LLV to a select group of associations that have electronic voting, and definitely puts us ahead of others.”

While the POA has approved the change to electronic voting, Burchell, now POA board liaison for the bylaws committee, said at the committee’s recent meeting that the POA approval for the change is the first step in the process.

“In order for electronic voting to go forward, we need to make changes in the wording of the bylaws to include electronic voting,” explained committee chair Pat Hiddleson, “in accordance with LLV’s overall bylaws.”

Those changes will require an approval vote of 50 percent plus one of the POA members in good standing as of Dec. 31, 2016.

“These are not changes to the bylaw itself,” continued

Continued on Page 21

Newburgh, NY 12550 PERMIT NO. 335

PAID PRSRT STD U.S. Postage

About the Village Table of Contents About the Village From the Desk of the Community Manager

2

POA Chairman’s Comments

3

Kasarda Appointed to Replace Laspee

4

Deck Expansion Explored

5

LLV Community Garden Takes Shape

6

Security You Can Be Fined For Unsightly Conditions

8

LLV Ranger and PMRPD Nail Thieves

8

Inside & Outside The Village LLV Calendar of Events

9

Houses of Worship

9

Writers for The Villager

9

LLV Lifeguards

9

Village Honors Its Veterans

10

Soup-er Bowl Welcomes New LLV Residents

11

LLV FALL FESTIVAL What A Weekend!

LLV Chili Cook-Off Officers Advise Against Drug Use

12 13 13

HALLOWEEN PARTY Costumed Characters Take Over Chalet

14

Stor yteller Weaves Haunting Native American Tales

15

About Village People Dee Kasarda: ‘Someone Special: A Lion’s Tale’

16

John and Marie Heil LLV No Place for Litter

17

LLV Is Perfect for Birding

18

Fran’s Finds: An Unforgettable ‘Journey Along’ the Poconos

19

Anglers Update: Lakes Stocked

20

Archer y Club Update: LLV Archers Complete Sixth Year

21

I want to start this Christmas message by thanking all the Locust Lake Village volunteers that have worked so hard this past year. From the members of the board to each committee member a heartfelt thank you for a job well done! Locust Lake Village enjoyed another great year, thanks to your efforts.

The recreation events this season were a huge success due to the hard work and dedication of the volunteers. Our board steered us through the pitfalls of managing our community, leaving us in a strong position heading into a new year. All our committees have contributed to this success, and my gratitude is beyond words. Locust Lake Village is a better place thanks to your efforts! The board recently passed a budget for the new fiscal year. I am pleased to announce that despite rising costs for insurance, electricity, supplies and just about everything, we have not raised the assessment for 2017. A lot of work goes into keeping costs down while maintaining the landscape and infrastructure of Locust Lake Village. I feel the staff and the board have done an excellent job of this, and I am proud to be a part of that effort.

As we reflect on the past year, I also want to thank the staff who worked side by side with the volunteers to shape and contribute to the success of the Village. My thoughts turn to your contribution, and I would like to say thank you for your dedication and support. There are only a few days left until we come to the end of 2016. The success and achievements that we have accomplished will be history and the challenges of a new year will begin. Over the past two years, there has been a tremendous influx of new property owners, and there is no reason why that trend should not continue. With this influx, the village will need to adapt to the changing demographics of these new members while still maintaining the core values that are the foundation of this community. This can only be accomplished with our continual commitment to open lines of communications between the staff, the board, and the property owners.

We will continue our efforts with the weekly e-blast and there will be five issues of the Villager in 2017. We are going to do our best to add to the excellent work that Ray DiSandro started with the Village website. We ask you, the property owner, to please stay informed by using the information we send you, signing on to the website and by offering positive and constructive feedback even when the subject is negative in nature.

Finally, I would like to share my five simple New Year resolutions. These are my resolutions as your community manager, and I state them here so that you all can call me on it if I don’t keep them. I would love some company working on these resolutions so feel free to take them as your own. I do not mind sharing.

1. At all times be civil in my communications, whether verbal or written. Let’s stop yelling at each other.

2. Remember, there are two sides to every story. I will not assume what I was told is gospel truth until I know

both sides of what happened or what is said. Make decisions and opinions based on the whole story, not just someone’s interpretation of what happened or what was said.

3. Say NO to rumors and gossip. Someone always winds up getting hurt even with the most innocent of stories.

4. Don’t assume a negative when someone presents an idea, suggestion or concern. Think of it as an expensive

bottle of wine that needs to breathe after it’s open. Listen completely, take a moment to let it breathe in your mind and then give an opinion if one is requested.

5. This year I plan to have a more positive focus on life, no matter what is going on around me, to concentrate on past successes rather than past failures, to seek the next action steps needed to build on those past successes and to create new ones. To find ways to help each member of the staff, volunteers or anyone who interacts with Locust Lake to have a fulfilling experience and be part of these successes.

Note: You will see it has nothing to do with exercise, dieting or refraining from any adult beverages. I want to be a better person, not dull and miserable.

I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May your holiday celebrations be very special times and create fond memories that last forever.

Positively working for you,

Dan

Daniel T. Dougherty, Jr. – CMCA, AMS

PAGE 2 | LOCUST LAKE VILLAGER | WINTER 2016

FROM WILL ROBINSON

POA Chairman’s Comments I would like to clarify the item on Chairman’s Ruling that was printed in the fall edition of The Villager:

Chairman’s ruling Board Chair Will Robinson announced that members of the LLV POA board may no longer chair committees so that there will be no risk of any conflicts of interest. Carrie Pohl will continue to chair the Recreation Committee until she can find someone to replace her as chair.

I never had a concern about a possible conflict of interest regarding board members serving as committee chairs.

While we don’t always agree 100 per cent on everything, it is safe to say there is no disagreement that all of the board members place the best interests of the Village first and foremost as they carry out their fiduciary duties of serving on the board of Locust Lake Village.

My intent – which wasn’t meant to be a “ruling,” was to try to get as many volunteer members involved in the Village organizations as possible. By naming non-board members to chair committees, I was hoping to start developing future board members into part of the Village governance. Individual board members will continue to serve as liaisons to committees in which they have expertise or interest, but providing non-board members an opportunity to provide committee leadership will hopefully result in broader and diverse leadership opportunities.

Some have interpreted my actions as a demotion to some committee chairs which could be no further from the truth. It was a purposeful action to develop board leaders of the future.

Respectfully, Will Robinson Board Chair, Locust Lake Village Property Owners Association.

Locust Lake Village POA

© Copyright 2016 1778 Lake Lane, Pocono Lake, PA 18347 P: 570.646.3616 www.locustlakevillage.org

OFFICE HOURS: Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 9:00 am - 4:30 pm Wednesday - Closed Sat. & Sun. 8:30 am-4 pm

PUBLISHER: Niki Jones Agency, Inc. 39 Front St., Port Jer vis, NY 12771 P: 845.856.1266 E: publisher@nikijones.com Community Manager Dan Dougherty, Jr. Office: 570.643.8653 Cell: 570.778.8923 dan@locustlakevillage.org Recreation Nicole Hill, Director Office: 570.643.8655 nicole@locustlakevillage.org Office Staff Lillian Bellis, Asst. Office Admin.

Linda Buscavage Office: 570.643.8650 llvpoa@ptd.net Office Administrator Mary Marucci Office: 570.646.3616 mary@locustlakevillage.org Ranger Staff Andy Gross, Chief Office: 570.643.8656 24/7 dispatch: 570.646.3532 Fire & Police: 911 Maintenance Shawn Heller Office: 570.643.8659 llvmaintenance@gmail.com Accounting Kathleen Benner Office: 570.643.8652 kathllv@ptd.net Disclaimer:The comments, statements or written opinions expressed in Locust Lake Villager are the sole responsibility of the signed individual/author and/or committee and are not edited. All letters to the editor and paid advertisements do not reflect the opinions or views of Locust Lake Villager. Locust Lake Villager is not responsible for typographical errors, mistakes or misprints.

All advertising, including photographs are the property of Niki Jones Agency, Inc. and not that of the advertiser.

The advertiser has purchased rights of reproduction in Locust Lake Villager and does not have the right to reproduce ads in any other place or publication without written permission from the publisher. Locust Lake Villager reserves the rights to exercise its discretion in the selection of advertisement.

PAGE 3 | LOCUST LAKE VILLAGER | WINTER 2016

NOVEMBER POA MEETING

Kasarda Appointed To Replace Laspee In addition to approving the Locust Lake Village (LLV) Property Owners Association (POA) budget for 2017, the POA Board of Directors tended to other issues affecting the village at their Nov. 19 meeting held at The Chalet. Before the start of the meeting, Chairman Will Robinson asked for a moment of silence in honor of LLV residents who have passed on. They are: Ray DiSandro, Joseph Friel, Joesph Bartol, and Joseph Massi.

Chairman Will Robinson announced that Bob Christensen, co-chair of the Building and Grounds Committee, will take the lead in development of The Chalet parking. Christensen will function as POA board coordinator for the project to oversee its progress.

Robinson also announced that recently elected Laura Lapsee has submitted her letter of resignation from the POA board. Lapsee, who also is director of the Clymer Library in Pocono Pines, stated that her deepening involvement with the library has reduced the time available to devote to her duties as a member of the POA board. “Regretfully I have accepted her resignation,” said Robinson.

Under POA Bylaws, the candidate who received the next number of votes in the recent election will replace the board member who has resigned. In the 2016 election held this past summer, Laspee received 234 votes, and Dee Kasarda, 215 votes. Robinson then appointed Kasarda to a one-year term to replace Laspee. Kasarda will be eligible again to run for office in the next election.

POA Treasurer Vince Moderski in his report stated that The Chalet parking lot project thus far has cost $24,000 including expenses for lot plans, equipment rental, 2A paving stone, demolition of the Tancredi house, dumpster rental, and kits for parking bumpers. This amount has been somewhat offset by $14,196.72 that was earmarked in the capital improvement budget for the project and $2,740 in POA member donations to that budget.

Committee Reports

Strategic Planning: Chair Bob DiLullo indicated that Strategic Planning will expand its focus to a broader 20-year vision. However, the current five-year planning will be applied to the 20-year goal.

Building and Grounds: POA Property Manager Dan Dougherty, Jr., reported on behalf of the committee that LLV’s roads need to be re-measured to include their width as well as their length. Dougherty indicated that he will get cost estimates for applying CP-2 to LLV roads. CP-2 is a bituminous binder that is an extremely flexible base course that can be used for new construction of existing gravel roads or over existing but severely deteriorated roadways. It is more economical instead of a total reconstruction, added Dougherty.

Recreation: Dougherty reported on behalf of the committee that longtime LLV resident Terry Jones was honored a “Volunteer of the Year” at the recent Volunteers Dinner held at The Chalet.

POA members and the board of directors follow the agenda for the Nov. 19 meeting held at The Chalet.

Bylaws: Chair Pat Hiddleson stated that the committee has completed the necessary wording to go forward in the electronic voting process. POA members in good standing will receive in late February 2017 a letter with a ballot to approve the word changes for electronic voting in the bylaws. It was noted that members can indicate their preference for electronic or mail voting by checking the appropriate box that will appear at the bottom of the 2017 dues assessment.

Village Life: The Living With Technology series will resume on a regular bi-monthly basis at The Chalet.

Chair Diane DiSandro announced plans to form a Grief Support Group to help POA members deal with the loss of a loved one or friend. The group was scheduled to have its first meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 14 after the weekly luncheon at The Chalet.

PAGE 4 | LOCUST LAKE VILLAGER | WINTER 2016

Proposed Chalet Deck Expansion

Legend Existing New

39’ Option #2 429 sq. ft. NEW

11’

New Stairs

19’

32’

8’

Existing Stairs

LLV to Excavate @5’ of existing Slope

Option #1 332 sq. ft. New

7’

23’

Existing Open Deck

15’ Remove Ex. Stairs

10’ Chalet Interior

3’ 0”’

Existing Door Replacing By LLV

Storage Area

Bob Christensen, co-chair of the building and grounds committee, reviews plans for a proposed expansion of the deck at The Chalet.

AT THE CHALET

Deck Expansion Explored At the Saturday, Oct. 15 meeting of the Locust Lake Village (LLV) Property Owners Association (POA) Board of Directors monthly meeting, the LLV Building and Grounds Committee (B&GC) took the first step to addressing the need for an expansion of the deck at The Chalet.

“From the feedback I get,” said LLV Property Manager Dan Dougherty, Jr., “some people are not coming to the Friday Night Barbecues because they can’t get a seat.”

A more aesthetically pleasing deck with more room to walk and more room to sit comfortably at the tables.

Provide volunteers ability to work more efficiently and effectively.

Provide more outdoor seating to generate increased income.

“In order to grow the barbecues, we should consider doing this project,” said Carrie Pohl, board member and current chair of the recreation committee.

The board of directors charged Bob Christensen with obtaining estimates for all three options for deck expansion.

Bob Christensen, co-chair of the committee, said about the current outdoor seating capacity, “It was so packed for the Labor Day barbecue, that if you wanted to sit outside, people either stood or left.”

Christensen added that the current deck situation affects the recreation committee’s ability to generate more income even though some people decide to sit inside when deck seating reaches capacity.

“Many people have complained they would much rather sit on the deck than indoors and cannot get there early enough to get an outdoor table,” he said.

The B&GC submitted two options for expansion. Option one calls for an expansion of 619 sq. ft.; option two, 230 sq. ft. An additional option calls for a roof over the seating area.

Christensen said that four contractors had been contacted for preliminary proposals. Of the four, Oak Ridge Construction, of Pocono Pines, was the only company interested in submitting a proposal.

Dougherty gave a favorable review of the company.

“Oak Ridge is the builder up here,” he said. “They don’t cut corners, but we’ll still need to issue an RFP (request for proposal).”

Christensen noted a number of concerns that justify a deck expansion: Safety at the grill area: not enough space for cooks to work safely.

Photo by Meena Spitz

LLV Volunteer of the Year

LLV Property Manager Dan Dougherty, Jr. presents Terry Jones with the 2016 Volunteer of the Year award at ceremonies during the annual Volunteers Dinner held at The Chalet on Saturday evening, Nov. 12. Jones, who pitches in at the Friday Night barbecues, picnics, and serves on the Village Life Committee among other activities and events, said she was honored as well as overwhelmed by the award.

PAGE 5 | LOCUST LAKE VILLAGER | WINTER 2016

SEED BY SEED

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Ranger Staff Offers Safety Advice mail box area just beyond the intersection of Lake Lane and Oak Terrace.

Driving

Winter driving is a challenge for even the most experienced driver traveling in the best equipment. When the roads in LLV are covered with ice and snow, even in spots, far more-thanusual attention is necessary when driving in these conditions. Sometimes observing the posted speed limit throughout most of LLV of 25 mph is too fast. The rule of the winter road is: Reduce your speed to meet the existing conditions, and reduce the danger of skidding into a ditch.

Plowing and parking

LLV Community Garden Takes Shape The idea of a community garden at East Lake in Locust Lake Village (LLV), conceived by LLV resident Steve Geffen, is nearing reality.

At the Oct. 15 meeting of the LLV Property Owners Association (POA), the board of directors approved the construction of a water line from the East Lake snack bar to the site of the garden bordering on centerfield of the ball field.

“Let’s do it before the frost sets in,” said board chairman Will Robinson.

The cost for installation of the line which will provide the garden with water is $1100. It is considered part of the preparation for the project, and will be handled by the LLV maintenance staff.

“It will be a new asset to the community,” said board treasurer Vince Moderski.

Due to approval of the water line in 2016, the remaining cost of the garden to be absorbed in the 2017 capital fund falls under $5,000 “It is a capital item that meets the spending criteria of under $5,000,” said Moderski, looking ahead to the 2017 budget.

Any capital item costing over $5,000 requires the approval of LLV property owners in good standing.

The LLV Maintenance Staff performs a very difficult job in working to keep village roads passable during the winter season. Help them by not parking on village roads and lanes. Parking in the roadway makes clearing the roads and lanes of snow very difficult. Keep in mind that it is a violation to park at any time on a roadway in LLV.

Geffen championed the community garden idea through LLV’s Strategic Planning Committee.

It is the property owner’s responsibility to have his or her driveway accessible for exiting off the roadway for parking. When you contract with a snow removal service to clear your driveway, remind the driver not to plow snow into the roadway or into a ditch. Doing so is a violation and could result in a fine.

According to his proposal, the garden would be a fenced-in area for 30, 4 ft. by 8 ft. raised-bed plots for growing vegetables or flowers. The plots would be rented to LLV property owners for a one-year term at a cost between $25 and $30 per plot. Assembly of the boxes and erection of the fence would be done by volunteers who have committed to this project.

Initial estimate for the garden is $5,500 which includes materials to build the garden boxes for the plots, fencing, and installation of the water line.

Geffen cited the success of a similar project at Big Bass Lake, which has been expanded due to overwhelming demand.

Feel free to contact the administration office with any questions if you feel yours is a unique situation at (570) 846-3616.

Registration of family vehicles

All vehicles that are on the grounds of LLV must be registered with the administration office, including vehicles of property owners, renters, guests, and visitors. Registration is important because the Ranger Staff needs to determins if a vehicle belongs in the village. If there is a problem with a vehicle (disabled, illegally parked, etc.), registration helps the Ranger Staff identify the owner and, most important, how and where to contact the owner.

With the new year waiting in the wings, all vehicle registrations will need to be renewed as of Jan. 1.

This means that the registration sticker that you now have on back of your rear view mirror will no longer be valid. For a new registration, be sure to bring to the administration office your current vehicle registration and insurance in order to complete the process.

Safe and secure

The Ranger Staff has the mission of keeping the roads and lanes of LLV as safe as possible. They are shared by all modes of vehicular traffic as well as by pedestrians.

With your cooperation and the consistent enforcement of LLV traffic laws by the rangers, we all can share in a safe and secure community.

Best wishes for a safe and happy holiday season from the LLV Ranger Staff.

PAGE 6 | LOCUST LAKE VILLAGER | WINTER 2016

LAKEFRONT LAKEFRONT

293 Partridge Drive

VACATION RENTAL HomeAway 4315702

176 Cottontail Lane

LAND

$154,800; 350 Fawn Road MLS #PM-38655

$169,500; 174 Marthas Lane MLS #PM-27569

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$12,500; 108 Lake Lane MLS #PM-32434

$79,900; 249 Elk Run MLS #PM-23659

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$119,500; 166 Beech Lane MLS #PM-35612

$193,000; 326 Ridge Drive MLS #PM-33638

LAND

New Listing

New Listing

Newly Renovated

$209,985; 2028 Beaver Run Road MLS #PM-41955

$189,000; 110 Aaron Drive MLS #PM-41476

$92,500; 1511 Locust Lane MLS #PM-40523

Michele Colyer Direct or Text 570-236-5701 Sales

Vikki Diettrick Direct or Text 570-854-2457 Sales

$44,900; 2009 Ridge Road MLS #PM-41739

Pat Quinn Direct or Text 201-779-3513 Sales

Frank Weiss Direct or Text 610-908-6874 Rentals / Sales

Dennis Nappi II Direct or Text 406-616-2744 Sales

Heather Rickert Cell 215.850.9640

Jeff Rickert Cell 267.456.8844

"Our PASSION for Real Estate became our PROFESSION!"

PAGE 7 | LOCUST LAKE VILLAGER | WINTER 2016

Security IN THE LLV RULES & REGS

You Can Be Fined For Unsightly Conditions By the Locust Lake Village Ranger Security Staff As Security Rangers patrol Locust Lake Village (LLV), we will at times notice that an unsightly condition exists on a particular property. Unless the property owner takes action to remove the items or debris creating that condition, that owner is in violation of LLV Rules & Regulations, and is subject to a fine.

Under the LLV Rules & Regulations, property owners or residents are obligated to maintain both the common facilities and individually owned properties in an aesthetically pleasing and well-kept condition.

No doubt the natural beauty of the Poconos is a primary reason why folks become property owners at LLV. It isn’t to leave that “old clunker” to rot in the driveway or to forget about that pile of rotted firewood out in the yard. Or to let that shed become rundown to the point where it becomes a haven for insects or smaller versions of wildlife such as skunks or ground hogs or field mice.

So, let’s take a quick refresher on some of the provisions of the Safety and Quiet Enjoyment section of the Locust Lake Village Rules & Regulations, Section J, Nuisances: Unsightly and Unkempt Conditions, page 15.

Junk Materials

MUTUAL POLICE AID

In accordance with Tobyhanna and Coolbaugh Township nuisance ordinances, “Junk material, including but not limited to unused, discarded or abandoned machinery, vehicle parts, equipment or appliances which are not confined within a permitted structure” is unlawful to store or dump on private property (which is the lot or lots on which stands a property owner’s home). This also includes junked vehicles, household furniture and/or other items, which pose a hazard, attract children, animals, etc. Remember, depending where you reside in LLV, your property is in either Tobyhanna or Coolbaugh township.

LLV Ranger and PMRPD Nail Thieves

Fallen Trees

From LLV Ranger Incident Report The Locust Lake Village (LLV) Ranger Staff assisted the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department (PMRPD) on Oct. 1in the apprehension of two suspects seen carrying items from a house at 1398 Slutter Road.

While on routine patrol, Ranger Chief Andy Gross observed two suspicious males walking along Lake Lane and carrying a blanket.

Owners are required to remove fallen trees from improved properties in a timely manner when:

Unsafe Conditions (Roadways)

Property Owners Association members or their agents (including renters) are prohibited from:

They identified themselves as Raymond Longo, 19, and Dante Clark, 18, who stated that they were not residents of LLV. It was later established that Longo is from Long Pond and Clark is from Pocono Lake.

According to Gross, Clark stated that the two were enroute to J&J Towing on Slutter Road to retrieve a truck impounded the previous night.

• The tree is located in Property Owners Association easement area • The tree is situated in the open • The tree is considered a nuisance to neighbors

• Blowing or plowing snow into the roadways of LLV • Blowing or raking leaves into the roadways or culverts of LLV • Leaving branches or brush along the roadside

Property owners also are required to remove leaves from ditches that border their properties.

When Gross contacted J&J Towing to verify Clark’s statement, the towing service replied that there was no such truck on its premises. Gross proceeded to follow Longo and Clark as they made their way to the village’s rear gate that opens onto Slutter Road. Observing from the LLV parking area adjacent to the gate, Gross saw the two suspects enter the property at 1398 Slutter Road.

Moving to the cul-de-sac at 122 Selig Road which backs up to the rear of 1398 Slutter Road, Gross reported that he had a clear view of the two suspects entering and leaving the structures at 1398 Slutter Road numerous times. While observing the actions of the two suspects, J&J Towing contacted Gross for more information on the developing incident, then called PMRPD.

If you have misplaced your copy of the LLV Rules & Regulations or don’t have one, a good idea is to stop by the LLV Administration Office and request a copy which is free for the asking.

Should there be anything that needs to be removed or discarded from your property, there are services that will haul and dispose of bulk items and automobiles. Some of these services are free of charge.

For example, the company that picks up trash in LLV will remove most bulk items at no additional cost. However, they will not remove construction materials or auto parts.

Contact the LLV Administration Office with any questions you may have at 570-646-3616 or just come in.

Keep in mind that we all have a stake in LLV and the responsibility to preserve that natural beauty and environment we call home.

PMRPD Cpl. Matthew Nero, Officer Richard Michaels, and K-9 Officer Niko arrived at the scene. Nero released Niko who cornered the suspects as Nero and Michaels forced Clark and Longo to the ground. Clark and Longo were taken into custody, charged, and taken to Monroe County Prison. “This is an example of the close working relationship we have with PMRPD,” said Gross. “It is a form of mutual aid practice by law enforcement agencies everywhere.”

Cpl. Nero and K-9 Officer Niko recently participated in LLV’s Fall Festival.

PAGE 8 | LOCUST LAKE VILLAGER | WINTER 2016

Inside & Outside the Village THROUGH THE WINTER

Houses of Worship

LLV Calendar of Events More events will be added throughout the winter and some dates may change due to the availability of vendors, etc.

This is a general outline of winter activities. For more information, contact LLV Recreation Director Nicole Hill at (570) 643-8655.

• Wednesday Luncheons from Noon to 2 p.m. at The Chalet will continue until April 26.

• Tuesday, Dec. 27 – LLV Day at Great Wolf Indoor Waterpark, 1-7 p.m., pizza party included; must register in advance at the administration office.

• Saturday, Dec. 31 – New Year’s Eve Dinner & Party at

The Chalet (BYOB!)– 7 p.m.-1 a.m. Kids 11 and under will have their own party downstairs and will join their families for the traditional midnight toast. Please register in advance at the administration office.

• Saturday, Jan. 14 – Ice Fishing Clinic hosted by

the Anglers Club, 12-2 p.m. at East Lake (weather permitting). Wing Night at The Chalet, 6-10 p.m.

• Sunday, Jan. 15 – Ice Skating Party, 1-3 p.m. at

Pilgrim Lake – weather permitting. Family Bingo at The Chalet starts at 7 p.m.

Pocono Wesleyan Church 203 Spur Road Pocono Lake, Pa. - 570-646-7456 Poconolakewesleyan.org

• Saturday, Feb. 4 – Ice Golf at Pines Lake – Noon-3 p.m.

St. Maximillian Kolbe RC

• Saturday, Feb. 18 – Cardboard Sled Race, 1-3 p.m.

5112 Pocono Crest Road Pocono Pines, Pa. - 570-646-6424 Stmaxkolbepoconos.org

at the Sledding Hill—weather permitting. Evening Event TBD, more info to come.

• Sunday, Feb. 19 – Ice Fishing Contest hosted by the

St. Mark RC Church

Anglers Club at Locust Lake, 9-11 a.m.—weather permitting. Family Bingo at The Chalet starts at 7 p.m.

1052 Bear Lake Road Thornhurst, Pa. - 570-472-3061 Churchofstelizabethstmark.org

• Saturday, March 18 – Recreation event TBD, more info to come.

• Saturday, April 8 – Lunch with the Easter Bunny at

Thornhurst United Methodist Church

The Chalet, Noon-2 p.m., crafts, egg decorating and Easter egg hunt.

342 Old River Road Thornhurst, Pa. - 570-842-1434 Facebook: Thornhurst Umc

Congregation B’nai Harim Reformed 5349 Pocono Crest Boulevard Pocono Pines, Pa. - 570-355-5350 Bnaiharimpoconos.org

WANTED

Community Bible Church of Pocono Lake

Writers For The Villager

899 Route 940, Pocono Lake, Pa. 570-646-8995 Poconolakechurch.org

There are so many interesting people and events here in Locust Lake Village on whom and on which your Villager tries to report. While we give them our best shot, we feel we could do better. But “to do better,” we need some help.

That’s where you may come in to play—that is, to write.

The Villager is looking for folks who would like to write for this noble publication. That involves covering events, writing informative stories on trends in the Village, or coming up with your own story ideas for assignment by our editorial coordinator. You don’t need to be a Pulitzer Prize winning writer. We will work with you to get you up to speed if the last time you wrote something was a term paper in college or an English assignment in high school.

One requirement: You need to be curious as to the why something is or what effect that something could have on the Village. Some topics that may interest you: recipes and cooking; nature; hobbies; home maintenance; Village events; club and committee meetings to name just a few.

Get in touch with Fran Odyniec, The Villager’s editorial coordinator, to set up a meeting to get started. Contact him at Francis1937@live.com.

LLV Lifeguards Job applications can be picked up at the Locust Lake Village office. Returning lifeguards must contact Nicole Hill (570-643-8688) if you plan on returning for the 2017 summer season.

Requirements:

• A valid American Red Cross Lifeguarding and

First Aid Certification (or be able to obtain by May 2017).

• American Red Cross CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer (or be able to obtain by May 2017).

• Must be a least 16 years of age by Memorial Day Weekend 2017.

• Pre-employment completion of the American Red 07612

Cross Waterfront Lifeguarding Module (training provided).

• Mandatory pre-employment drug testing and

background checks per LLV employment policy.

PAGE 9 | LOCUST LAKE VILLAGER | WINTER 2016

LLV Veterans enjoy a free breakfast at The Chalet as part of Veterans Day observance. Photo by Mary Friel

THANK YOU LLV VETS

Village Honors Its Veterans

By Mary Friel After a solemn flag raising ceremony, especially meaningful following on the heels of the presidential election, a community breakfast open to all Villagers was held at The Chalet to honor Locust Lake’s Veterans.

Prior to the Veterans Breakfast, Chief Ranger Andy Gross led a flagraising ceremony on the south lawn of the village administration building.

Starting at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 13, volunteers Gloria Pellegrino and Terry Jones served up a breakfast buffet that gave credence to the saying: “An army moves on its stomach.”

On the menu were: scrambled eggs, potatoes, sausage, bacon, French toast, waffles with choice of fruit

toppings and whipped cream. As if that weren’t enough, trays of assorted muffins and Danish topped off the morning.

Volunteers Eileen and Bill Binns served as cashiers, and ensured that LLV Veterans ate free of charge.

“Our Veterans unselfishly dedicated and united themselves to safeguarding not only our country but the freedoms we enjoy as a free society,” said Chief Ranger Andy Gross.

“The Veteran’s Breakfast is a perfect example of the Village coming together to honor and thank our Veterans for their service, and at the same time to enjoy each other’s company over a delicious breakfast.”

Happy New Year!

LLV residents and guests ring in 2016 at The Chalet. Register now at administration office for New Year’s Eve 2016.

PAGE 10 | LOCUST LAKE VILLAGER | WINTER 2016

15 SOUPS DE JOUR

Soup-er Bowl Welcomes New LLV Residents

By Mary Friel Volunteer members of the Village Life Committee under the co-chairmanship of Ray and Diane DiSandro were tasked with revamping the way in which new Locust Lake Village (LLV) homeowners are welcomed into the village and more importantly, made to feel a part of the dynamic LLV community.

It was agreed early-on that since having a welcoming party for new and current homeowners had been successful earlier this year, the committee decided to continue with this approach. As a result, a wine and cheese party was held at The Chalet to welcome new property owners over the Memorial Day weekend.

Following up at the June meeting, the committee recognized that new LLV members who purchased homes after the May holiday would have to wait at least a year for another welcoming event. Not wanting to leave new LLV members feeling that they were ignored, the committee voted to sponsor two welcoming events each year: one in the spring (Memorial Day) and one in the fall (Fall Festival Weekend). It was decided to call the fall event “Sunday Soup-er Bowl� and serve soups contributed by current LLVmembers, plus bread, wine and mulled cider.

LLV residents enjoy seasonal beverages and fun at the Soup-er Bowl Party held at The Chalet on Sunday, Oct. 9 to welcome new residents to the village. Photo by Mary Friel

The First Sunday Soup-er Bowl was held, Oct. 9, and, according to committee organizers, the response was overwhelming. Fifteen– that’s right 15—unique and delicious homemade soups were brought to the event by LLV members.

Near the end of the Soup-er Bowl, attendees were asked to vote for their favorite soup. The crowd, faced with the daunting challenge of choosing the top four “soupers,� took its time in casting its votes.

After the votes were counted by the committee, the winners were announced: Rebecca Brown (French Lentil), Linda Bernstein (Butternut Squash), Lydia Loux (Pumpkin Mushroom), and Karen Chorney (Italian Wedding).

On behalf of The Village Life Committee, co-chair Ray DiSandro thanked everyone who contributed soup, wine, breads and mulled cider.

“We can all look forward to adding the Sunday Soup-er Bowl to the LLV calendar of events in the years to come,� DiSandro said, “and to creating another Locust Lake Village tradition.�

It is with great sadness that the Village Life Committee reports the death of Ray DiSandro on Oct. 18. Ray co-chaired the committee with his wife Diane, and will be sorely missed. He was a dedicated volunteer and made a difference in our community.

The Soup-er Bowl Party was a “soup-er� success with LLV folks bringing 15 different homemade soups to the party. Photo by Mary Friel

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LLV FALL FESTIVAL What A Weekend!

In typical Locust Lake Village (LLV) fashion, the village’s annual Fall Festival did not fail to please.

From the picnic to kids games and activities there was virtually something for everybody over the Columbus weekend, Oct 7-9.

Highlights of the weekend included a family scavenger hunt, hayrides, pumpkin decorating, the Second annual Chili Cook-off on Friday night, Oct.7, a Karaoke & Wings Night on Saturday, Oct. 8—both events held at The Chalet, and a special visit from the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department.

Kids of all ages had the opportunity to speak with Officer Matt Nero who brought the police department’s drug awareness display along with K-9 Officer Nico, who couldn’t wait to be petted.

“Fun for kids and their families was the order of the weekend,” said LLV Recreation Director Nicole Hill. “We hope the festival provided not just entertainment and relaxation but also the opportunity for residents and their guests to get to better know each other.”

Another hayride is about to head out during the LLV Fall Festival. Photo by Mary Friel

Recreation Committee Chair Carrie Pohl recognized the role volunteers played in making the festival a success.

“Our volunteers have the knack for making sure people have fun,” said Pohl.

“Praise and thanks to them and the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department for their role in helping our community develop a stronger understanding of the public safety services they provide and the people behind those services.”

Sisters Mary and Caroline Kinney turn their pumpkins into rock stars.

Photo by Mary Friel

Noell Knell shows off her pumpkin (with a little help from grandma).

Photo by Mary Friel.

To Advertise Call Nancy at 845-754-2356 PAGE 12 | LOCUST LAKE VILLAGER | WINTER 2016

SECOND ANNUAL

LLV Chili Cook-Off Challenges Taste Buds

By Meena Spitz As the cold weather sets in over Locust Lake Village (LLV), so does the spirit of fall.

As the kick-off to its annual Fall Festival, LLV held the spiciest event of the season on Friday, Oct. 7 at The Chalet: the Second annual Chili Cook-Off.

This year’s Cook-Off brought three brave contestants out in the cold weather, clutching crock pots of their favorite chili recipes. The crock pots were set out on a table, were plugged in, heated up, and the night began.

Categories were chosen by the event directors to give the contestants a smaller target. Rather than aiming to have the best chili at the event, the contestants could focus on a specific type of chili. The three categories were: spicy, most unique, and best overall.

Tom Spitz, Laura Laspee, and Al Markin judged the event. They enthusiastically sampled the chili, carefully noting what they thought of each one. Because all three were judging for the first time, they had a lot to discuss after the taste testing.

Bob Boyer’s entry won spiciest chili. One observer stated that his chili put a kick into the night. Boyer wrote “Slightly Spicy” on his label, however it seems it was spicier than he thought.

Thomas Cortez’s Four Bean Chili took the prize for most unique. Last but not least, Karen Chorney’s Pumpkin Chicken Chili won Best Overall.

As the night continued, the audience was given the treat of tasting all the chilies. Compliments and praise spread around the room as they indulged themselves.

Thomas Cortez later spilled that his “recipe” is more of a chance. “It’s different every time,” he revealed after receiving his prize.

Boyer’s spicy chili was a top hit for those folks who prefer a bit of a kick. There were of course some little guys that steered clear of his spicy crock pot. Boyer set out his chili, grabbed something to eat, and hit the road before he was even announced a winner.

When LLV Recreation Director Nicole Hill presented Karen Chorney with her award, she was delightfully surprised.

As she was honored Best Overall chili, her husband Dave humorously asked if it was the only entry of the night.

Markin remarked that entries of this year’s Chili Cook-Off were truly unique, adding that the event was a good way to bring the community together for a fun night.

Laspee said that there was excitement in tasting the different categories. She stated, “Who would pass up a night of food tasting?”

Having been in the food business for many years, Spitz said how impressed he was with the contestants’ entries, “blown away by the variety and individuality of every chili pot.” He admitted that some of the recipes were so original and creative that he couldn’t have come up with them himself.

Cpl. Matt Nero, of the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department, points out the types of devices used to conceal illegal drugs. Photo by Mary Friel

SERIOUS FESTIVAL TIME-OUT

Officers Advise Against Drug Use

By Mary Friel While the Locust Lake Village (LLV) Fall Festival offered a seemingly endless supply of fun and games at East Lake on Saturday, Oct. 8, there was a serious time-out provided by the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department with Cpl. Matthew Nero and his 8-year-old German Shepherd-Belgian Malinois mix K-9 Officer Niko.

As part of the department’s ongoing community outreach efforts, Cpl. Nero set up an informative display with important information about the dangers of the growing epidemic of drug use (both prescription and recreational drugs, especially heroin) not only here in the Pocono region, but also across the country.

Part of the display were a number of surprising common household products that are used to achieve a “high,” a situation that has become disturbingly prevalent among young people.

Nero proudly pointed out that K-9 Officer Niko is trained in patrol, narcotics, tracking, and apprehension. Not every K-9 is trained in these skills, he added. In fact, Nero and Niko travel the country to train other police department K-9 units.

LLV Recreation Director Nicole Hill said that the community owes a debt of thanks to Nero and Niko as well as the Pocono Mountain Regional Police force for the law enforcement work they do to protect the LLV community.

The Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department with headquarters on Route 940 in Pocono Summit covers an area of approximately 200 square miles including Tobyhanna Township, Coolbaugh Township, Mt. Pocono Borough,Tunkhannock Township, and Barrett Township. For information, call (570) 895-2400 or Pocono Mountain Regional Police (570) 839-7676.

Corporal Matt Nero brought K-9

Officer Nico to the LLV Fall Festival

PAGE 13 | LOCUST LAKE VILLAGER | WINTER 2016

HALLOWEEN PARTY

Costumed Characters Take Over Chalet

Bat Girl, Emo, the Joker, Super Girl, Super Man, and a number of other celebrities converged on The Chalet Saturday afternoon Oct. 22 to wend their magic and super powers for the Locust Lake Village (LLV) annual Kids Halloween Costume Party.

“We come every year,” said Tamara Hayes who had brought two of her eight grandchildren, Holly, 2, and Cara, 4, to the festivities. “It’s a lot of fun.”

Holly and Cara, who had already spent time at the crafts table making a ghostie and a spider, nodded in agreement with their grandmother.

Emma Krapf, 3, showed up as Elsa from the movie “Frozen.”

Her mother Lisa hinted at the inspiration for Emma’s costume. “We watch ‘Frozen’ regularly,” she said.

It’s a mad scramble for candy on the deck of The Chalet as Halloweeners go after the candy treats at the LLV Halloween Party.

Of the party, she commented, “I think it’s awesome.

Other communities don’t do this for kids.”

At the crafts table, Lisa Spitz, LLV’s arts and craft

coordinator, was busy helping the costumed revelers create ghosties, spiders, pumpkin art, and other seasonal activities.

“It’s for the kids to have fun,” Lisa said, taking a brief break, “and spend time with their families. This is good family time too.”

Lisa’s assistant, her daughter Rebecca, added, “This is a good thing for kids to do to get out of the house on a rainy day, even if it’s Halloween. Many of these kids come for the crafts and bring their families.”

Nathan Rupp, 5, dressed as a transformer fireman, had made a spider and a ghostie at the crafts table.

Asked if he had run into any difficulty making those items, Nathan said with a nod, “No, not tough.”

Tyler Clark, 10, came dressed and made up as a very convincing Joker.

“It’s just fun,” Tyler said while painting a face on a pumpkin.

William Nothum, 11, as Dead Shot, Matt Harris, 12, as Emo, Stephen Nothum, 12, as Santa Coming Down the Chimney, and John Bromiley, 12, as Cousin It from the Addams Family, when asked if they were having fun, collectively exclaimed, “Yes!”

The Nothums’ father, Alex, whose grandparents brought him to the annual party when he was a kid, echoed a popular comment from parents at the party.

“It’s great for the kids,” he said. “And it’s better for the community. I’ve always stood by that.”

A trio of costumed characters Madison Clark, 8, a policewoman, Chase Clark, 5, The Hulk, and Gabriel Meyers, 5, a bumble bee, hovered about The Chalet splitting their time between the crafts table and games led by LLV Recreation Director Nicole Hill and her husband Craig.

Games included the “over-the-top” Mummy Wrap.

Volunteers from the merry-makers including Stephen Nothum stood stock still while costumed characters wrapped them from head to toe in toilet paper.

“It’s nice for kids their age,” said the Clark kids’ father Brandan as he surveyed the festivities. “It’s awesome, fun, and a great time.”

PAGE 14 | LOCUST LAKE VILLAGER | WINTER 2016

Getting Spooky Crafty Lisa Spitz, LLV’s arts and crafts coordinator, said that kids at the Halloween Costume Party “love their finished product.”

Spiders: Take the cardboard core of a toilet paper roll, dip it in paint, add eyes and legs.

Ghosties: Apply Elmer’s white glue to a “ghostshaped” piece of construction paper, dab cotton balls to the paper, let dry.

Pumpkins: The real thing that draws artistic fun by painting faces on them.

Doing pumpkin art at the LLV Halloween Party are (from left) Madison Clark, 8, Garbriel Meyers, 5, and Chase Clark, 5.

Storyteller Rob Aptaker spins a web of mystery with his scary Native American tales at Fright Night held Saturday, Oct. 22 at The Chalet. Photo by Meena Spitz.

FRIGHT NIGHT AT LLV

Storyteller Weaves Haunting Native American Tales

By Meena Spitz

The Joker and the Policewoman do the mummy wrap (with rolls of toilet tissue) at the LLV Halloween Party.

LLV Halloweeners make quick work of the candy scramble at the LLV Halloween Party.

Aptaker told stories of ogres eating children, unseen monsters in the woods, river monsters that cause droughts and death, mass amounts of bugs, Cherokee monsters that eat the livers of children, and giant stone men. Each of these stories had a lesson to be learned through the mistakes or heroic actions of the characters: Listen to your elders; take care of your pets; do not be selfish; be brave but also smart; make sure you stay clean. Aptaker told all of these lessons with grand gestures, facial expressions, and sound effects.

Transformer Firefighter Nathan Rupp, 5, works on a spider as Emma Krapf, 3, as Elsa from “Frozen” creates a ghostie with some help from her mom, Lisa.

Tamara Hayes and her granddaughter Cara, 4, admire the spider Cara made at the crafts table at the LLV Halloween Party.

Rob Aptaker has been telling stories for about 25 years. More than happy to be doing what he loves, he stood center stage at The Chalet on Saturday, Oct. 22 to tell some of his favorites. Before the guests arrived, he said some were less scary for the little guys while others were a little more spine chilling.

Taylor Clark, 10, as The Joker, paints a pumpkin at the Halloween Party held Saturday, Oct. 29 at The Chalet.

The intriguing crew of (from left) William Nothum, 11, as Dead Shot, Matt Harris, 12, as EMO, Stephen Nothum, 12, as Santa Going Down the Chimney, and John Bromiley, 12, as Cousin It from the Addams Family are ready for tricks or treats at the LLV Halloween Party.

Why does Aptaker like telling stories so much?

“Because everyone loves a good story,” he exclaimed, “So by default, they love me!”

Most of the stories he has collected are from personal friends and experiences he has gained from traveling. Aptaker specializes mostly in Indian stories and lore. He stated that they are his favorite because they always have a hidden message or lesson.

The stories he shared with his Locust Lake audience were from Native American nations Cherokee and Iroquois. Aptaker said stories are better told aloud rather than read because they have more character.

Dressed in an Iroquois tribal ribbon shirt, and beating on a hand held drum, he got the night started with a Native American song appropriately called The Welcome Song.

LLV Volunteers Lisa and Rebecca Spitz set up pumpkin lights throughout The Chalet for the event.

Comfort snacks such as Ice cream, candy, and chips were available for any hungry or perhaps frightened folks in the audience, who, nevertheless listened intently to Aptaker’s stories.

Lisa Spitz, crafts coordinator, demonstrates how to create pumpkin art beginning with an apple half at the LLV Halloween Party.

Fright Night stories were part of a series of storytelling nights arranged by the LLV Recreation Committee.

PAGE 15 | LOCUST LAKE VILLAGER | WINTER 2016

About Village People SPECIAL MESSAGES

Dee Kasarda: ‘Someone Special: A Lion’s Tale’ One day a catfish and a lion met, fell in love, and had a son they named Leeo. Leeo liked to play and have fun with his lion cub cousins as well as his catfish cousins.

But as time went on, Leeo and his friends began to notice that Leeo was different: He had a tail of a fish and the body of a lion.

How Leeo deals with his uniqueness to live on land and in the sea, and how his cousins and friends help him achieve self-esteem is the theme of a children’s book, “Someone Special: A Lion’s Tale,” written and illustrated

by Locust Lake Village resident Dee Kasarda.

In turn, Leeo saves from potentially fatal perils those who once laughed at him as well as those who accepted him for what he was.

“Leeo is a special needs hero,” explains Kasarda. “He isn’t like a fish. He isn’t like a lion. And he isn’t like a sea lion. He’s just different. But his parents praise him for his special abilities and uniqueness.”

Kasarda depicts different life-challenging situations in which young kids may find themselves, and how through her characters they could deal with them.

Leeo solves the problem of attending school with his catfish cousins by breathing underwater through a long hollow reed. But his cousins still make fun of him saying, “He doesn’t belong here. He doesn’t breathe like we do.”

Because of his fish tail, Leeo couldn’t run with his lion cub cousins, which made him feel left out. But his cousin Kim got his cub cousins to solve this problem by chewing through the back of a cart that had washed up

on the beach so that Leeo could put his tale on the cart and run with his front legs.

As Kim said, “It’s more fun to play together.”

On another day while he was out swimming, Leeo sensed that a powerful storm was gathering and headed for shore to seek shelter under some fallen trees with Kim. The storm created large rolling waves that crashed on the shore, and beached many of Leeo’s catfish cousins. Then Kim got carried out to sea in the undertow.

Using his special abilities, Leeo not only returned the catfish to the sea using his cart but also swam out to rescue Kim who was clinging to a piece of driftwood.

Almost certain tragedy struck when Kim was hoisted aboard a pirate ship whose captain and crew were planning to have her for dinner.

Longtime LLV resident Dee Kasarda with a copy of her children’s book, “Someone Special: A Lion’s Tale,” which she wrote and illustrated, sits by the fire with her friend Cooper.

Kasarda works in the concept of teamwork when Leeo’s cousin Caitryn calls for the Seaweed Patrol to distract the pirates while a humpback whale takes Leeo to the ship where he frees Kim from a cage. The whale takes both of them to the safety of shallow water near the beach as two other humpbacks continuously circle the ship causing its crew to become dizzy and eventually disappear over the horizon.

Leeo is then hailed a hero at an underwater tea party hosted by Caitryn and his catfish cousins and at a bonfire on the beach with his lion cub cousins.

At both events, Leeo is proclaimed a hero and made king of both land and sea.

Kasarda, who illustrated the book with watercolors, says that “Someone Special…” has those messages of teamwork and acceptance that can especially apply to children between the ages of four and ten.

Kasarda prefers to work in watercolors but also paints in oils and acrylics. Her favorite subjects are people, nature, still-life, dogs, and sunflowers, and she also does crafts. One example seen many times during the summer at Pines Lake is her Olaf costume which she made out of a bedspread and some imagination. She also has won awards for her art and is a proponent of positive thinking.

“Someone Special: A Lion’s Tale” (31 pages in softcover) is published by CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, North Charleston, South Carolina. To obtain a copy, contact: Dee Kasarda, (570) 977-7991 or order through Amazon.

“I want to help them with their self-esteem and how to handle bullying,” she continued. “We need to start with the young to begin preparing them for adulthood.”

Dee Kasarda reviews the illustrations and notes she made in preparation for her children’s book, “Someone Special: A Lion’s Tale.”

Kasarda for the most part is a natural artist, and studied under the late Jean Littlefield, of Pocono Lake Preserve.

She was an award-winning watercolorist and member of the Pocono Mountain Arts Council.

Congratulations

LLV Property Manager Dan Dougherty, Jr. presents the Certificate of Appreciation to Dee Kasarda for her three years of service as a member of the LLV Property Owners Association Board of Directors.

PAGE 16 | LOCUST LAKE VILLAGER | WINTER 2016

John and Marie Heil:

LLV No Place For Litter Proceeding ahead at 25 miles per hour, there are some things you may not notice while driving about Locust Lake Village (LLV), but John and Marie Heil do.

That something is called litter, and it bothers John and Marie.

“People discarding trash on the road make LLV look like no one is tending to the beauty of the village,” John said, which he and Marie consider a most valuable asset of the community.

So, they decided to do something about it in a quiet and leisurely way. Over the last few years while going out for a walk, they pick up the litter left by others on the roadside of Lake Lane from the administration building to East Lake.

“If there’s one thing that bothers me,” Marie admitted, “is seeing others’ trash and litter all over. And there’s more of it in the summer.”

According to the Heils, the trash or litter they pick up takes many forms: soda bottles, beer cans, fast food wrappers, even open containers.

“They come in off of 940, come to a stop sign on Lake Lane, and toss litter out the vehicle’s window,” explained Marie of the carelessness that leads to littering.

to see what he could do, that one cub tucked the ornament underneath him so much to say, ‘It’s my toy and you can’t have it.’”

During a power outage, John lit bees wax candles carrying one with him out to the shed along their driveway. Lo and behold he came face-to-face with a black bear who had somehow gotten into the shed.

“He thought the bees wax Marie and John Heil do their LLV civic duty with their pick-up patrol on one of the village’s roads. was candy,” John recalled with a laugh. “He gave me John added, “LLV is a Gold Star community which ten seconds to get out of there one way or the other.” means we need to maintain a clean and respectful Another time, he noticed that the bags of soil he had community. And it doesn’t hurt property values, either.” stacked up near the shed had been moved.

Their advice to LLV property owners is simple enough.

“A bear dragged the soil bags over to the bird feeder off the deck in the backyard,” John said. “He had tried to get “Be more considerate,” said Marie. “Take your litter home with you.” them high enough to get to the feeder.”

Again through her kitchen window, Marie observed a family of skunks crossing their backyard.

Or, as John pointed out, before going out onto 940, “They will discard open containers (alcoholic beverages) onto the roadside because it is illegal to drive on a pubic road with an open container.”

What really riles up these two concerned LLV residents are the broken glass bottles they find along Lake Lane.

“People throw glass bottles to see if they can hit a tree,” Marie said.

But that’s only half of what could happen.

“That glass can cut the paw or leg pads of animals,” said John.

“The mother and the father were on each side of three little ones,” she recounted of the formation. “As they walked, they would swing from side to side.”

It’s obvious that John and Marie have developed an appreciation for nature and the need to preserve the environment of the village.

“That’s the reason we do this,” Marie said of their litter patrol. “We need to preserve this environment for future generations.”

John agreed with Marie.

“Take your litter and discard it at home or recycle it.

That’s what we do.”

People often stop along Lake Lane to thank the Heils for their dedication.

“We’re not doing it for thanks,” Marie pointed out, but she admits that it’s a nice gesture. “We’re doing it for the community.”

This quiet but dynamic duo does their pick-up on average twice-a-month.

“We get three Shop-Rite bags full,” said Marie of a typical pick-up patrol.

These two longtime LLV residents fully understand the threat littering poses to the village’s environment and wildlife.

“It’s the most beautiful place in the Poconos,” said John of LLV. “People don’t realize that the Poconos are a stopping point for birds migrating north and south.”

From their dining room and kitchen windows, they have a front-row seat to the shows that deer, bear, raccoons, fox, porcupines, and even skunks put on.

One day Marie was cooking some spaghetti sauce and the aroma drifted out to the back yard through the kitchen window. All of a sudden, a mother bear with her three cubs appeared.

“From that day on we watched the cubs grow,” she said.

Marie feels that the mother bear sensed that their backyard was a safe area for her kids.

“One cub decided to play with a bunny lawn ornament,” she recalled. “He sat down with his back to a tree and played with it. When one of the other cubs came over PAGE 17 | LOCUST LAKE VILLAGER | WINTER 2016

LOOK UP!

LLV Is Perfect For Birding

By Bob Gettis Locust Lake Village (LLV) ranks high on everyone’s list regarding water sports, fishing, deer and bear spotting, hiking, archery, photography, festivals, barbecues, and many other types of recreation and relaxation. But there’s one past time that, in a sense, goes right over everyone’s head. It’s called birding, and is a hobby that enables folks to learn to identify different birds based upon their call and visual description.

Birding opportunities are immense in LLV, given the abundance of natural cover and berry bushes. Dying or dead trees also are a good food source for birds because they become havens for insects. And let’s not overlook LLV’s lakes which are important to migratory birds, especially water fowl. Who hasn’t seen a duck or two paddling by down by a beach?

An American Bald Eagle rests on an ice peninsula in Pines Lake. Photo by Mary Gettis

A first-time sighting of the brilliantly colored Scarlet Tanager. Photo by Bob Gettis

The Male Rose Breasted Grosbeak Photo by Bob Gettis

Pileated Woodpeckers photographed during their mating dance. Photo by Bob Gettis

In the simplest of terms, to be a birder you just have to keep your ears and eyes open.

For example, my wife Mary spotted an American bald eagle on a peninsula of ice on Pines Lake earlier this year. You could call that a rare find because eagle sightings in the Poconos are infrequent and always special.

By the same token, good spots for birding at LLV are the lakes. That is where you are most likely to see hawks, osprey, and an occasional eagle. The best times for birding are early morning as well as in the spring. But, because of LLV’s natural habitat, birding is good all year round. LLV is blessed with a wide variety of perching birds, waterfowl, and raptors.

To get maximum enjoyment out of the hobby, you need two basic items: a good pair of binoculars (in the $100 range) and a pocket bird guide to identify the type of bird you are viewing. Some of the better known birding guides include: Sibley Guide to Birds; National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Birds, Eastern Edition; Sibley’s Birding Basics; Stokes Field Guide to Birds of North America; Peterson’s Field Guide to Birds of North America; and National Geographic Kids Bird Guide of North America.

With the gift-giving season upon us, binoculars and a bird guide make a welcome gift that will encourage a deeper appreciation for the pristine environment that we enjoy

and that predates LLV by more than a few thousand years, and provide a direct connection with nature. Keep in mind: You are never too old or too young to begin birding.

Bob and Mary Gettis are longtime LLV residents and have been active birders for about 20 years.

PAGE 18 | LOCUST LAKE VILLAGER | WINTER 2016

FRAN’S FINDS

An Unforgettable ‘Journey Along’ the Poconos

By Fran Odyniec OK. So you may know about Blakeslee, Tobyhanna, Long Pond, Mt. Pocono, Cresco, Swiftwater, Tannersville, Bartonsville, Stroudsburg, East Stroudsburg, Marshall’s Creek, even White Haven and a few points in between.

And you can probably reel off names like Kalahari, Mt. Airy Casino, Great Wolf Lodge, Aquatopia, Camelback, Split Rock Lodge and any number of franchises like Holiday Inn, Hampton House, Howard Johnson, Fairfield Inn, and Best Western among others here in the Poconos. Of course, there also are those delightful bed and breakfast lodgings.

But did you know that at one time the area stretching from the Delaware Water Gap to Tobyhanna Township was dotted with literally hundreds of hotels, lodges, boarding houses, inns, and resorts?

Alan Sweeney’s book, “Journey Along the Delaware Lackawanna and Western Railroad, A Pictorial History of Pocono Mountain Boarding Homes, Hotels, Inns & Resorts from the Delaware Water Gap to Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania,” artfully turns back the hands of time and captures those images in photographs and postcards.

Sweeney recounts that in the late 1800s and well into the 20th century, folks sought summertime relief in the Pocono Mountains from the sweltering cities of Philadelphia and New York. The best, and in the early going, only way to reach the cool, refreshing, healthy, and therapeutic air of the mountains was by train, the Delaware Lackawanna and Western Railroad in particular. The DL&W (later known as the Erie Lackawanna) ran from Hoboken, New Jersey, right through the Water Gap and Monroe County on its way up to Scranton and points beyond.

The Hop Inn today on Old Route 940 in Pocono Pines is a mere shadow of what it once was as the Pocono Lake Hotel with its 35 rooms.

It brought thousands of vacationers to places with names such as Indian Queen Hotel, Henryville House, Monomonock, Swiftwater Inn, Pocono Pines Assembly, Pocono Lake Hotel, Hotel Fulmer, Pocohasset House, Tobyhanna House and many, many others.

Most of these classic establishments are now not more than just memories or have been lost to history.

Perfect for reading by the fire, “Journey Along’s” 323 pages contains eight chapters named for Pocono Mountain station stops on the DL&W. What Sweeney has found to fill those chapters is both a treasure trove of history of the Pocono lodging industry and a tribute to his ten years of research conducted at local historical societies and scouring private collections.

As a kid, this reporter and his family spent a few summer vacations at Karamac. It was located on the New Jersey side of the Water Gap with its lodge, cabins, Olympic-size swimming pool, and Wigwam, the resort’s huge recreation hall. Karamac, which we referred to as a blue collar resort compared to neighboring Fred Waring’s Shawnee On the Delaware, can be found on pages 30 and 31 in the Water Gap chapter.

Sweeney introduces each chapter with an overview of the particular area. He also includes brief historical sketches with each photo and postcard as well as a Timely Tidbits section with known and little-known facts about the area such as: the electric railway that ran between Stroudsburg and Delaware Water Gap that charged a fare of 10 cents; most of the resorts were built of wood; and the tourist season ran from May to October because the early establishments weren’t winterized.

“Journey Along” is a real find, and a must-read if you want to know more about the Poconos. It was first published in May 2007 by Tribute Books, of Eynon, Pa. (www.tribute-books.com), and is available at the Clymer Library in Tobyhanna and at Amazon.com.

Chapter 7 deals with the establishments in Pocono Summit. Pocono Manor, Mountaintop Lodge (now part of Lake Naomi properties), Laurel Inn, Naomi Pines House, Pocono Pines Assembly, Pocono Crest, Pocono Summit Hotel, and Pocono Lake Hotel along with the Pocono Summit Station once again come into view.

Pay particular attention to the photo of the Pocono Lake Hotel on page 254, last known as the Hop Inn. Although it has fallen into disrepair, it still stands forlornly on Old Route 940 behind The Junction ice cream stand on Route 940.

Alan Sweeney’s “Journey Along The Delaware Lackawanna and Western Railroad: A Pictorial History of Pocono Mountain Boarding Homes, Hotels, Inns & Resorts From The Delaware Water Gap to Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania.”

In chapter 8, the Tobyhanna chapter, Sweeney includes photos of Tobyhanna House, Mountain House, The Beachwood, Chichester House, and Pine Grove Cottage.

The Tobyhanna Station, which is still in outstanding condition, is pictured as it should be because it was the gateway to those local resorts.

Honored

LLV POA board chairman Will Robinson honors Bob Christensen with the village’s Certificate of Appreciation for his service and contributions to LLV as a member of the POA Board of Directors during his three-year term.

Christensen was vice-chairman during the third year of his term.

PAGE 19 | LOCUST LAKE VILLAGER | WINTER 2016

ANGLERS UPDATE

LLV Lakes Stocked

By Joe McCusker The annual Locust Lake Village fish stockings took place in October and November.

In mid-October, Pines Lake was stocked with 8,000, 3 ½ to 5-inch golden shiners; Locust Lake, 250, 5 to 8-inch largemouth bass; Pines and Locust lakes, each 501, 5- to 7-inch black crappies (250 in each lake); and Pines and Locust lakes, 501, 5 to 8- inch walleyes (250 in each lake). East Lake and Locust Lake also were stocked with trout on November 30 for the winter/ice fishing season. Bill Burke, Bob Leonard, John Heil, and Steve Geppen assisted with the stockings. All stockings were recommended or approved by Bill Kirkpatrick Aquatic Environmental Consultants in Scotland, Pa. An Anglers Club meeting was held on Saturday, Nov. 26 at 10 a.m. at the LLV Chalet. Multiple topics of discussion took place.

The annual Kids Christmas Party was held on Saturday, Dec. 10 at the LLV Chalet. Additional details to follow...

Remember to pay annual Anglers Club dues for 2016, if you have not already done so. Annual dues are still only $10.

Any questions regarding club membership status or the Anglers Club, contact Tom Rafter at: traft60@aol.com, or Bob Wolek at: bobalu2@ptd.net, or Joe McCusker at: jgcmmc4@comcast.net.

COURTESY REMINDER: Be mindful of the 3 trout daily limit within LLV during the Pa. “extended” season, and the catch and release of all largemouth bass and panfish regulations within LLV.

UPCOMING EVENTS: Tentative dates and times: Ice Fishing Clinic on Saturday, Jan. 14 at East Lake from 12 – 2 p.m.

Ice Fishing Contest at Locust Lake on Sunday, Feb. 19 from 9 - 11 a.m., pending safe ice conditions and weather.

Official dates and times to follow via LLV E-blasts and Anglers Club communications.

Anglers President Tom Rafter helps with the 2015 annual stocking.

File photo.

Happy Holidays to everyone from the Anglers Club!

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PAGE 20 | LOCUST LAKE VILLAGER | WINTER 2016

Mark Brugler (left) and Mary and Bob Gettis of the Archery Club are out on the range for a ghoulish Halloween shoot.

Thanks

ARCHERY CLUB UPDATE

LLV Archers Complete Sixth Year

By Bob Gettis With a continuous improvement program that included a new 3D area and additional shooting lanes this year, the Locust Lake Archery Club is wrapping up its sixth year in the Village. The members had a Halloween shoot and pictured holding the Ghoul (but not sure who’s who) is President Mark Brugler. Mary and Bob Gettis were part of the range set up crew.

For the Halloween Shoot the range featured spiders, bats, pumpkins, skeletons and a werewolf.

Brugler was honored this year by fellow members as “Archer of the Year” for his years of service as president and just for being a nice guy.

The Archery Club offers beginners, novices, and accomplished shooters an opportunity to learn and hone their skills. Through the club, archery hunters are able to tune their bows and qualify for hunting seasons.

As it enters its seventh year, the Archery Club welcomes new members. You must be a property owner to apply and applications are available at the LLV administration office. Send questions about the club to Bob Gettis at

rbgettis@comcast.net. The club looks forward to seeing you up at the range in 2017. Best of the holiday season to all from the LLV Archery Club!

LLV POA board chairman Will Robinson reads from the village’s Certificate of Appreciation he is about to present to Rich DeMarco for his efforts and contributions to LLV during his three-year term as a member of the POA Board of Directors.

Continued from page 1

Final POA Approval Needed For e-Voting Burchell, “but changes to the wording of the bylaw to allow for electronic voting.”

POA members in good standing will receive notice of the changes in a letter that will be mailed to them in mid-February 2017.

Members will have until the close of business on June 15 to turn in their ballots in person or by mail to the LLV administration office.

“Consider these changes as finetuning,” Hiddleson said, “to actually implement electronic voting.”

The LLV Bylaws Committee reviews for final LLV POA approval the phraseology in The LLV/POA Board of Directors Article III, Section 3, Voting, that permits electronic voting in the village. Doing the has estimated that electronic review are (clockwise) Chair Pat Hiddelson, Susan Bachor, Wade Burchell, board liaison, voting will save between $500 and and Dan Doughtery, Jr., staff interface. $600 in mailing and administrative costs to the village each time a vote of LLV is required. However, POA members will still retain the option of either using electronic voting or mail balloting. Expected startup date for electronic voting is 2018 in order to allow ample time for completing and testing the needed technology structure.

The letter (or ballot) will include an all-inclusive question as to the approval of the word changes and a question for approval of voting procedures. “Each of these changes has been reviewed by LLV’s attorney Greg Malaska of the law firm of Young & Haros LLC in Stroudsburg,” said Burchell. Young & Haros offers legal counsel on statutes, rules, and regulations for homeowners and condominium associations in Pennsylvania.

Hiddleston pointed out that when e-voting is up and running, every vote will be vetted so as to eliminate the risk of multiple voting from one address. “Each household has only one vote,” she explained.

Mayan Archer

Seen at a Mayan exhibit at a museum in San Francisco, this wood sculpture depicts the use of the bow.

The committee will verify by early January 2017 that each LLV household in good standing will be able to cast one vote. The mission of the bylaws committee is to review each of the POA’s bylaws, admittedly an arduous task, said Burchell. “Our bylaws have been in effect for 40 years without any changes or updates,” he said. “The committee is utilizing a methodical and complete approach to reviewing each of LLV’s 28 bylaws on a case-bycase basis to make them more receptive to the current needs and welfare of our community.”

Changing bylaws is not the same as changing rules and regulations that govern committees, LLV staff, and the LLV board of directors. “Rules and regulations do not need POA membership approval,” said Burchell of the difference between rules and regulations and bylaws. “However, changes to rules and regulations must ultimately be approved by the POA board.”

PAGE 21 | LOCUST LAKE VILLAGER | WINTER 2016

Continued from page 1

LLV 2017 Budget Approved assessment at $1,281.84 is penalties and late fees. “Collection of those items came in $8,444.28 higher than budgeted,” Moderski continued. “The concentrated efforts of our front office made that possible.”

As reviewed at the 2017 proposed budget hearing of Nov 12, property owners began to catch up on outstanding dues from prior years, a trend that led to a recommended budget increase of $2,000 expected in 2017.

Dues for 2017 are forecast at $1,534,828.29, an increase of $12,351.80 reflecting an increase in new property owners. A surplus of $83,444.60 is the largest surplus since 2010, the year that recorded a surplus of $106,722.87. Surplus for 2015 was $59,952.01, while 2014 was only at $39,779.61.

Moderski put the effect of surpluses in perspective. “Lower surpluses lead to higher dues increases needed to fund village improvements,” he said referring to the dues increase of $12 in 2016.

On the expense side of the 2017 balance sheet, the following items are the major budget-eaters: Administration up $14,973.01 (4.052 per cent) due to a new parttime position to assist with process modernization; Ranger Patrol up $19,823.77 (6.702 per cent), due to increases in salaries; Maintenance up $6,896.79 (2.446 per cent), due to a new maintenance supervisor, a foreman and one new full time employee; and Recreation up $17718.93 INCOME (12.261 per cent) due to hire of a seasonal assistant director for high activity times.

Other expense increases in the 2017 budget are in environment and lake management for lake treatment and goose control, up $3,175 (8.570 per cent) and an increase in Pennsylvania Unemployment Wage base from $9,500 to $9,750, and in 2018 it will be $10,000. The sate unemployment tax rate LLV will pay has not yet been set, but in 2015 it was 8.056 per cent, based on employer history.

Funds for roads was reduced by $3,000 (5.357 per cent) because dust control is now handled in-house along with a deceased use of road rental equipment.

There was also a reduction in capital reserve expense of $4,073 (1.441 per cent) due to current year funding.

Low Return On Investments POA Treasurer Vince Moderski expressed concern that the return on investments is still at an all-time low. This is reflected in the interest rates paid on certificates of deposit (CDs) by financial institutions that range from as low as 0.55 per cent to as high as 1.24 per cent. The POA has invested in two CDs with FirstTrust Bank at the highest rates but LLV has reached the limit of $250,000 with them. Other CDs are with banks such as GE Capital Bank, Santander Bank, Mercantile Commerce Bank, Discover Bank, PNC, but these are administered by the investment firm of Edward Jones. LLV also has PNC Premium Money Market fund that pays no interest.

Under the POA’s Financial Policy and Procedures, “all finds of the Association shall be kept in depositories approved by the POA Board and insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. All funds in depositories in excess of the statutory insurance limit set by the F.D.I.C. or funds not needed for immediate use by the Association shall be invested… only in marketable United States Treasury or Agency instruments guaranteed by the full faith and credit of the United States Government.”

Moderski has recommended in the last year that the POA invest a portion of the capital reserve fund which is just under $1 million in long term bonds that would yield as much as 4 per cent interest in a 10-year $50,000 bond that would generate $2,000 in annual income. Over ten years, the total income would be $20,000. However, Modeski added that “at the present time it doesn’t appear that our investment policy will change because the majority of POA has a low risk tolerance.”

LLV POA Board Chairman Will Robinson (center) answers a question from the floor of the Nov. 19 board meeting held at The Chalet.

DUES CURRENT YEAR DUES PRIOR YEAR(S) DUES PENALTY SECURITY SERVICES RENTERS BADGES GUEST BADGES RENTAL REGISTRATION INTEREST OPERATING INCOME BUILDING PERMITS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FEE RESALE CERTIFICATES MISCELLANEOUS MAILBOX RENT INCOME CREDIT CARD CHARGE INCOME RETAIL SALES RECREATION INCOME RENT INCOME BINGO INCOME SKI VOUCHER INCOME RECREATION VEHICLE INCOME VIOLATION INCOME GATE ACCESS INCOME TOWER RENT INCOME SURPLUS/DEFICIT TOTAL INCOME

EXPENDITURES MAINTENANCE ENVIRONMENT & LAKE MANAGEMENT ADMINISTRATION RECREATION ROAD MAINTENANCE RANGER PATROL RISK MANAGEMENT CONTINGENCY RESERVE EXPENSE UTILITIES TRASH TOTAL EXPENDITURES

2016 BUDGET 1,516,626.51 18,000.00 12,000.00 5,200.00 28,000.00 2,850.00 16,000.00 800.00 2,000.00 35,000.00 6,000.00 1,400.00 5,600.00 1,700.00 4,800.00 33,000.00 15,120.00 0.00 1,200.00 22,000.00 3,500.00 1,200.00 9,495.00 44,856.88 1,786,348.39

2016 BUDGET 281,909.07 37,050.00 369,566.39 144,514.80 56,000.00 295,793.13 58,176.00 35,000.00 282,573.00 82,366.00 143,400.00 1,786,348.39

PAGE 22 | LOCUST LAKE VILLAGER | WINTER 2016

2017 BUDGET 1,534,827.13 20,000.00 12,000.00 5,200.00 25,000.00 2,850.00 16,000.00 800.00 2,000.00 35,000.00 6,000.00 1,400.00 5,600.00 1,700.00 5,200.00 31,000.00 17,047.00 0.00 1,200.00 22,000.00 3,500.00 800.00 9,763.00 81,289.60 1,840,176.73

2017 BUDGET 287,727.78 40,225.00 383,730.84 162,233.73 53,000.00 315,347.38 58,176.00 35,000.00 278,500.00 82,836.00 143,400.00 1,840,176.73

CHANGE FROM PRIOR YEAR'S BUDGET

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CHANGE FROM PRIOR YEAR'S BUDGET

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Happy Holidays!

LLV Welcomes Santa A series of snow flurries throughout Locust Lake Village preceded the annual Anglers Club Kids Christmas Party held at The Chalet, Saturday afternoon, Dec. 10.

Santa probably had something to do with it.

Now in its 24th year, the party is among the biggest events of the year at LLV. The Anglers and friends had transformed The Chalet into a festive holiday haven for children of all ages to await the arrival of Santa Claus.

“I think it’s the prettiest setting ever,” said Tom Rafter, president of the Anglers Club, as he and volunteer Dee Kasarda worked the sign-in station located near the Christmas crafts tables where, assisted by reindeer helpers, kids of all ages created holiday keepsakes.

Every child of the 43 who attended received an age-appropriate gift from the big guy dressed in red who held court at the front of The Chalet. He received children and their wishes before a fireplace with a mantle and a Christmas tree decorated with lights and ornaments that would warm the heart of any modern day Scrooge. Bob Cratchit would certainly approve.

Dustin Fitzgerald, 7 1/2, with the help of reindeer helper Carrie Pohl, fills a bag with choice oats for Santa's reindeer.

The Anglers Club provided all the gifts, snacks, sodas, and hot dogs for the party.

“It’s fantastic,” said Tracy O’Drain, who accompanied daughters Simone, 12, and Maggie, 10, to the festivities. “It’s the shimmer and glimmer of the event.”

Jayson and Elizabeth Bolton, uncle and aunt of Sebastian, 4, and Penny, 2, observed, “They love it. They’ve been looking forward to it all week long.”

Hoping for the best, Jenny and Dennis Nappi were about to get in the line to Santa with their kids, Sebastian, 4, and Penny, 2.

“We were working all week on not crying,” laughed Jenny.

A video, produced by Tom Dowd, provided a pleasant surprise and another festive touch to the event.

Projected on a large screen strategically positioned over Santa’s fireplace for all to see, the video, “Children’s Christmas Parties 2009-2015,” captured scenes from parties held at The Chalet over the last seven years.

“Well, I had the pictures,” Dowd said in an understated tone. “And I have the software.” He included a music track that complemented the seemingly endless collection of photos that magically appeared in carefully programmed segues.

The result, in addition to Santa, was a high point of the party.

Simone O’Drain, 12, and Maggie O’Drain, 10, follow Christmas tree angel Cheryl Dowd in making Christmas trees out of napkins and popsicle sticks at the 24th annual Anglers Club Kids Christmas Party.

“It also show the progression of what’s been done to improve The Chalet,” Dowd added.

Before Santa’s arrival, those crafts tables, shepherded by reindeer helpers, kept the young folk busy. From making angels out of paper plates, turning pine cones into Christmas trees, folding napkins into Christmas trees to stocking up on reindeer food and making Santa masks among other endeavors, creativity reached North Pole workshop proportions.

For Rudolph and company, the young folk crafted Santa faces on plastic snack bags, then filled them with choice oats. Using brown pipe cleaners as ties, they affixed a short poem that instructed them to sprinkle the magic food on their lawns so that the smell of oats would guide Santa’s reindeer to their homes on Christmas morning.

Tammy Hayes, who was with her granddaughters Cara, 4, and Holly, 2, and grandpa Charlie Weaver, said of the party, “I love it. It keeps family and community together.

And it’s snowing!”

About that snow, Santa said, “I ordered it, but we need a little bit more for skiing.”

He revealed that he has an inside line to Mother Nature.

Morgan Friel, 4, carefully applies glue to a pine cone that she will transform into a Christmas as pine cone princess Sue Petro and Morgan’s grandmother, Mary Friel, watch.

PAGE 23 | LOCUST LAKE VILLAGER | WINTER 2016

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P.O. Box AB - Pocono Lake, PA 18347 (At the entrance to Locust Lake from Route 940 in Pocono Lake) Phone: 570.646.3600 â&#x20AC;˘ Toll Free: 1.800.588.2808 Fax: 570.646.1234 Website: www.c21poconolake.com E-mail: info@c21poconolake.com

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