Pocono Farms Weathervane March 2018

March 2018

182

LA KE

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TOBY H AN NA,

St. Patrick’s Day CELEBRATION

Saturday, March 17, 2018 • 6:30 - 10:30 PM For the wee ones - a children’s program will be available

PRIZES AWARDED TO THE LEPRECHAUN WEARING THE MOST GREEN! All You Can Eat Buffet $13.95 Corned Beef & Cabbage served with boiled red potatoes, tossed salad & Irish Soda Bread Potato Leek Soup.......................................................................................................................... $4.50 Irish Rarebit Soda Bread............................................................................................................... $7.95 Mild cheddar rarebit baked on soda bread and topped with diced dill pickles

No Blarney About This Seafood Cocktail................................................................................. $11.95

P E NNS Y LVANIA

1 8 4 6 6

GLACIER LAKE GRILL & PUB MARCH HOURS MONDAY

CLOSED

TUESDAY

CLOSED

WEDNESDAY

CLOSED

THURSDAY

5pm - 10pm

FRIDAY

5pm - 11pm

SATURDAY SUNDAY

12pm - 11pm 12pm - 6pm

KITCHEN CLOSES AT 10 PM ON FRIDAY & SATURDAY

Chilled shrimp, crab and prawns served over lettuce & cucumber with a cognac laced cocktail sauce

All featured Entrees below include house salad and Irish soda bread 4 Leaf Clover Ham........................................................................................................................$13.95 Fresh ham sliced into steaks, pan seared & topped with parsley sauce. Served with rosemary potatoes & peas

Shepherd’s Pie...............................................................................................................................$15.95

RESERVATIONS SUGGESTED 570-894-4435 x132 Our menu can be viewed at www.poconofarms.com

Ground beef & lamb with vegetables and gravy, topped with fresh whipped potatoes. Baked to golden brown

Smithwicks Fish and Chips..........................................................................................................$14.95 Fried haddock deep fried and breaded with Smithwicks beer, includes malt vinegar

Luck of the Irish Leg of Lamb......................................................................................................$17.95 Roast leg of lamb sliced then served with minted orzo and vegetables. Topped with natural au jus

Bailey’s Irish Cream Cheesecake................................................................................................. $5.25 Bread Pudding with Vanilla Irish Whiskey Sauce...................................................................... $4.95

IN THIS ISSUE O U R COMM U NIT Y

IRISH STEP DANCERS • BAGPIPERS BEER & DRINK SPECIALS • LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Limited selections from the grill room menu will also be available Reservations with Katrina by 3/14/18 570-894-4435 x 132 or katrinaw@poconofarms.com Reservations cancelled after 3/14/18 will result in a $10 cancellation fee

From Your Board of Directors

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B.O.D. Meeting Schedule

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Notes from the Manager

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Public Safety

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Women’s Club News

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In the Farms

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A Horse with No Farm

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Letters to Editor

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CA LENDA R OF E V ENTS March Calendar

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SPORTS Fun with Fitness

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Rockin’ Recreation

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Newburgh, NY 12550 PERMIT NO. 335

182 Lake Road, Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania 18466

PAID

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage

From Your Board of Directors

BY HARRY HAMILL BOARD OF DIRECTORS: President Vice President Treasurer Secretary Director Director Director Director Director

Steve Bunker Neil Carlson Collette Houston-Ong Wayne Meyers Frank DeBrincat Harry Hamill Frank Milano Peter Volpe James Yando

COMMITTEE LIAISON ASSIGNMENTS: A & B/Environmental James Yando Communications Harry Hamill Crime Watch Peter Volpe Elections/Nominations Wayne Meyers Finance Collette Ong Fitness Frank Milano Golf Frank DeBrincat Long Range Planning Neil Carlson Pool Peter Volpe Recreation/Tennis Frank DeBrincat

As I write this article the last week of January 2018(for the March Weathervane edition) I hope our remaining winter months go by with fair weather and good health to all. It has been a tough winter so far with sub-zero temperatures and the worst flu season in a decade.

Thought I would highlight a couple of discussion topics, from the past few months Board meetings that as we go into 2018 might be of interest to the membership.

Based on the unaudited financial results for 2017, our overall operations again improved financially due DEPARTMENT HEADS to tight expense control General Manager David Timko and increased home sales 894-4435 ext. 100 dtimko@poconofarms.com which generated additional Controller Thomas Franchetti 894-4435 ext. 103 controller@poconofarms.com other income from these Golf Pro Kyle Monahan transactions. Revenue 894-4435 ext. 110 golfshop@poconofarms.com generation will be the focus Greens Superintendent Jeff Lesoine of the management team 894-4435 jeffreyl3@poconofarms.com again in 2018, especially for Chef pfchef@poconofarms.com our golf course and restaurant 894-4435 ext. 130 operations.

Food & Beverage Director Katrina Weithman AD-HOCS New Member Welcoming Grill & Banquet Room

Harry Hamill Collette Ong

894-4435 ext. 132 katrinaw@poconofarms.com Activities Director Joe Sprovkin 894-4435 ext. 113 recdir@poconofarms.com Public Safety & Artie Furman Compliance Director 894-4435 ext. 105 afurman@poconofarms.com Maintenance Dave Winters 894-4435 pfmaint@poconofarms.com Fitness Kristen Aylward 894-4435 ext. 116 fitness@poconofarms.com Communications Susan Nevarez 894-4435 ext. 106 admin@poconofarms.com Pocono Farms Realty Lex Colon 894-0300 lex.colon.realtor@gmail.com

182 Lake Road • Tobyhanna, PA 18466 www.poconofarms.com • admin@poconofarms.com

Host Your Event in Your Community’s Picturesque Lakeside Banquet Facility With seating for 20 to 120 people

Contact Katrina 570-894-4435 ext. 132 • katrinaw@poconofarms.com

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During the last 3 years, we have had over 300 resale certificates issued in connection with the sale of existing homes. This gives rise to a significant new

number of folks moving to Pocono Farms. The Welcoming Committee and our Administrative staff are doing an excellent job of reaching out and informing our new members of all that Pocono Farms has to offer.

However, the best way to make people feel welcome, is to introduce yourself to your new neighbors and maybe tell them what you like the most about Pocono Farms. Take them with you next time to experience that activity with you.

With the turnover of existing homes, Pocono Farms Realty has seen an increase in the average sales price per square foot during 2017. This is a good thing for all our real estate values.

Having a family re-union or a large party? Did you know that the Clubhouse is offering catering services now? Contact Katrina to find out more about this innovative service.

As spring approaches, do you have a young person that might be interested in learning how to play golf ?

Kyle Monahan our PGA Pro

has a program for our young folks that has been getting terrific reviews from both the kids and parents the last few years. Please reach out to Kyle and find out more about this innovative and fun learning experience.

A key source of information, feedback and great ideas comes from our members. Many of our standing committees including: Finance; Fitness Center; LongRange Planning; Election/ Nominations; have not had enough volunteers to even form a committee in 2017.

Please reconsider joining a committee in 2018. We need your input and ideas. There are additional Committees to volunteer for that are operating effectively as well.

Committees normally meet once per month for an hour or two, and the meetings can be telephonic.

The Board only has nine members. We need more input from the Community on what the members want or don’t want for Pocono Farms.

The Committee system is in place to gather additional

CALLING ALL RESIDENTS INTERESTED IN SERVING ON THE PFCCA BOARD OF DIRECTORS! Did you know: • The PFCCA Board of Directors is made up of nine (9) PFCCA members • Each year three (3) seats expire leaving openings for new members to run for and fill • After the expiration of a director’s first three (3) year term, he/she may seek a second term through the normal election process • All directors may not succeed themselves at the expiration of two (2) consecutive elected terms All interested parties should read and fill out a BOD Candidate Application and return it to the Administration Office no later than April 14, 2018 (or postmarked no later than April 13, 2018).

All accepted candidate profiles along with a picture will be published in the May, June and July issues of the Weathervane and will be posted on the website.

This year’s Annual Meeting will take place on Saturday, July 14, 2018 at 10 a.m.

Let us assist you in planning next event your next special event Applications can be obtained in the Administration Let us your assist youspecial in planning or can be filled out online at Baptism ~ Baptism Quinceanera Bar / Bat Mitzvah Rehearsal Dinner Mitzvah Bar / Bat www.poconofarms.com under e-forms Confirmation Shower Confirmation Family Reunion Sweet 16 You must log in first to access the e-forms First Communion Wedding Reunion Family First Communion Quinceañera WEAT HERVA NE M A RC H 2 0 18 Rehearsal Dinner Shower Sweet 16

Office

diverse opinions on what should be the priorities of Pocono Farms.

passenger bus to be used for PFCCA on-site and off-site activities. Management is also working on new activities and I encourage both our longevents, along with upgrading time members, and especially some of our facilities in 2018, our new members, to get to increase member interest involved on a Committee, and participation) or even better, to run for the Board. Applications for Aggressive collections of the Board are due to the delinquent dues (2017 showed Administrative Office by additional improvement in April 14, 2018. Committee collections of delinquent applications can be dues and in 2018, new more submitted after the July aggressive techniques will Annual Meeting. Committee be undertaken with the terms run from September to expertise of an experienced the following August. collection attorney.)

I encourage everyone, but again especially our new members, to visit the Clubhouse for an event or for a bite to eat. Events are advertised in all the PFCCA buildings, but I find the e-mail blasts of events and activities to be most informative and excellent reminders. Please make sure that the Administrative Office has a current e-mail for you to receive these alerts.

Staff development to provide the staff assistance in developing themselves and the community (Management and staff will continue to identify and attend professional seminars and meetings in 2018 to obtain creative innovative ideas to improve our community)

some of the needed initial inputs) With some of our residents away for the winter, and our weekend residents not being able to make it up every week due to weather conditions, keep an eye out for anything that just doesn’t look right.

If you see something, please report it.

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE POCONO FARMS COUNTRY CLUB ASSOCIATION, INC. PUBLISHED BY NIKI JONES AGENCY, INC. 39 Front Street, Port Jervis, New York 12771 P: 845.856.1266 E: info@nikijones.com

Better yet, please consider joining the Crime Watch Patrol and help keep our community safe and in compliance. Please contact the Administration office for further details.

This will be my last article on behalf of the Board as my term representing you ends at the July 2018 Annual Meeting.

It has been a very interesting experience. I gained a lot of knowledge on the functions of Pocono Farms and the issues of operating it. Wish I could have accomplished more on your behalf.

Better marketing for the engagement of our present and future residents, and Hope our winter is over by to market the lifestyle at The Board is still focused Pocono Farms (Management the time you read this, if not, stay warm and safe. on the following near-term is developing a longer term areas and will spend time in focused strategy, which will 2018 reviewing a longer-term include a marketing plan Strategy still being prepared by for Pocono Farms. Outside management on the direction consultants have been of Pocono Farms and the engaged to facilitate the opportunities and challenges development of this Strategy to attain this Strategy. with input being sought from the community as Increased participation by this project moves forward. our residents, utilization of (Unfortunately, the Longamenities and community Range Planning Committee events (The Board authorized does not have enough the purchase of a 36member interest to provide

Articles appearing in The Weathervane are presented as a community service. They do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher or of the Pocono Farms Country Club Association, Inc. The publisher and the PFCCA disclaim any liability for any advertisements published herein, in no way endorse or guarantee these ads and reserve the right to reject any ads submitted. Position of advertising in the newspaper is not guaranteed.

idea@poconofarms.com DO YOU HAVE A...

...COMMENT?

...QUESTION?

...SUGGESTION? Send an email to a current board member.

Responses will be sent directly to the sender and periodically published in the Weathervane

2018 BOA RD OF DIRECTORS MEETING SCHEDU LE ALL MEETING TIMES ARE 7PM UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

M arch 23, 2018 A pril 20, 2018 M ay 17, 2018 J une 29, 2018 J uly 13, 2018 S aturday , J uly 14, 2018 10 am A nnual M eeting

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Notes from the Manager Public Safety

BY DAVE TIMKO

BY A. FURMAN DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC SAFETY PFCCA

Hello everyone. March is here, I wish I could tell you it’s been mid 70’s and sunny, but I don’t lie. Although it has been cold and we have had our share of inclement weather, I have been receiving applications for permits. This month I wanted to touch upon that specific area. There were multiple times late in the year, where a homeowner did something on their property without a permit and fines were imposed. This was a shame because every permit would have been a no fee permit. So I wanted to go over the permit process and some of the fee/no fee situations.

For simplicity, figure almost everything you want to do will require a permit. It’s better to call and ask, then we can tell you yes or no. First, let’s start with the no fee permits.

Tree, yup it’s free. But please put the number of trees you want down and please mark them.

Fence, it is free but there are certain criteria that must be adhered to.

The foundation of the Four Pillars that the Board has laid out as the guiding principles to the management team will be the basis for this • month’s article. These Four Pillars allow us to stay fundamentally focused on strategies aimed at achieving successes at each level.

Aggressive Approach Towards Bad Debt – There are a few action items that we have or will be implementing that will have a positive impact on this item.

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We have re-negotiated our agreement with our collection attorney to identify a more aggressive approach to collect outstanding debt and the processes to follow, if needed, into the court system.

•

Our collection attorney has developed a more detailed collection policy that will be presented to the Board • for adoption/resolution.

Driveway, no cost, but again certain criteria. Concrete, asphalt, stone, pavers. There are differences.

Painting, free but again that criteria thing. Mainly the color.

Siding, same as number 5.

Now let’s go over some of the permits that have fees associated with them. Usually with this type of permit, a Township permit is also needed. I tell everyone to get theirs first before you come see us. Also, with some of them I will have to deal with property lines and setbacks, “that pesky criteria thing again”.

Shed, pretty simple but there are size regulations.

Garage, same as above as to size, but also other criteria.

•

Deck, again that criteria thing (especially with the township) zoning rules.

Carport, different from a garage but again there are rules specific to carports.

Hopefully this has shed some light on our permit process.

It is a painless process and shouldn’t take more than 5-10 minutes of your time to fill out the paperwork. Once I get it from the office, there is a few days turnaround until I return it to them. They contact you and you pick up your permit and away you go. I know all you gentleman remembered your prospective others on Valentine’s Day, and because of that your honeydew list is not so long this year which means we won’t be seeing each other very often.

And for those few who were forgetful, that list is as long as your arm and I will be seeing your name on lots of permits this year.

As always, should you have questions or concerns please don’t hesitate to call me or just stop by. My door is always open.

Artie Furman Director of Public Safety PFCCA 182 Lake Road Tobyhanna, PA 18466 ph (570)-894-4435 ex. 105 fax(570)-894-8400 email afurman@poconofarms.com

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The amount of bad debt is slowly starting to swing in the Association’s favor.

As bad debt decreases, that puts more funds into the operating account, which allows us to do more for the community.

as many of our members as we can. We post these opportunities online, in the Weathervane, or in emails.

One way in which we are trying to get you involved is through our fitness • referral membership program. At the July 2017 Annual meeting of the Association, it was suggested to look at the fitness center rates for a more affordable option. As most are aware, the operating costs of the fitness center are supposed to be self sustaining by those that use it (which it has been since its opening in 2010).

In early February, Krissie, our fitness director, rolled out the 20% discount referral program. It gives new fitness members the opportunity to save 20% on their yearly fitness membership If you are thinking of taking up golf as a hobby or sport, we have some very attractive opportunities for membership from weekday to full time member at very affordable introductory

Increased Member Participation – One of the advantages of community living is that there are typically programs and events offered by the Recreation/ Activity and Food & Beverage departments that promote social gathering with other members of the community.

These events and programs are created to provide a diversity of programs for all ages and interests, ultimately adding value to your community living experience.

•

We are constantly reviewing and evaluating our offerings to appeal to

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prices. We even have a discount program for first year homeowners.

Please contact our PGA Professional – Kyle Monahan for more information.

There are also a lot of opportunities to join a Pocono Farms Committee. Some of our standing committees have current openings. The committees usually meet once a month for about an hour. Committees provide a vital role in the sustainability of Community Associations such as ours. If you are interested in joining a committee, or finding out more about one of them, please stop by our Administration office.

All committee meetings are open. The office can provide you a schedule so that you may attend a meeting to get more familiar with it.

Team (People) Development – This is an ongoing process here at Pocono Farms. We are very fortunate that we have a solid core group of managers and staff. With all

IN THE FARMS • of the water parks and large hotels, etc. opening in our region, attracting qualified candidates to join our team is sometimes difficult.

•

We will be embarking on the implementation of a succession and retention plan to assist in the retention and development of the talent we have. This will include some focused cross training and opportunities to attend classes, seminars, • web training and certifications to increase their value to us (Pocono Farms) so that we may bring more value and services to our members.

Better and Increased Marketing – We need to do a better job of getting our members involved and communicating the opportunities available.

There are over 1,450 homes within Pocono Farms that we must communicate to.

•

We must also look to fill the open nights in the banquet room with outside functions. This is a very competitive market, however one must admit that we are a very unique property with a great backdrop of a lake for ceremonies and functions. We will be spending more of our marketing dollars this year in our efforts to attract that banquet business.

We are also starting to expand our exposure and presence in the Realty social media realm. We want to attract families that are looking for everything we have to offer as a community.

As stated in a previous report, we have engaged Management Matters to assist the Board and Management in the development of a long term strategic and master

plan for Pocono Farms.

This plan will need to be communicated to all members and assist this Board and future boards as they plan for the future of Pocono Farms.

These Four Pillars are all tied to building value in your community, getting members involved, collecting dues and generating revenue to provide the services and products our members expect and deserve, and attracting and retaining talented staff members to provide those services.

It is nice to see things trending in a more positive direction. Our goal is to continue to improve on these trends. Property values are starting to tick up once again, albeit slowly.

However, the Board and Management will continue to plan and implement the strategies necessary to maintain this trend.

PFCCA OFFICE HOURS Monday - Saturday 8:30am - 12:30pm & 1:00pm - 4:30pm ID Badge Picture Hours: 8:30am - 12:00pm & 1:00pm - 4:00pm Capital Improvement Fees on transfer of property: House: $1,350 Lot: $675 BUILDING REGULATIONS: Permits are required from the township and from PFCCA. Please check with the office (570-894-4435) as to your specific needs.

• Building permit required from respective township and PFCCA before construction begins • Construction permitted from 7am - 7pm Monday- Saturday – excluding major holidays • Resale certificates are required. Fee is $300.00. Resale and other related documents can be obtained at www.homewisedocs.com REFUSE COLLECTION: Curbside pick-up of household trash and recycling is done on Mondays and Tuesdays beginning at 6:00am by County Waste. County Waste will only pick up household trash and accepted recycling. If you have any other items to discard, please call them at 570-382-3304 to set up arrangements.

Major Holidays that will affect your collection days are: New Years Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, and Christmas. When those holidays fall on a Monday or Tuesday, garbage collection will shift by one day.

ANIMALS: Dogs must be leashed or on owner’s property at all times.

Wildlife, such as deer and black bear, are common at Pocono Farms. We ask that you NOT FEED any wild animals.

Women’s Club News

BY T. DELLISANTI

It has been decided by majority of members our next Pocono Farms Women’s Club luncheon will be at the Jubilee located on 940 W Pocono Pines on Feb. 14, 2018 and will meet at 12:00 noon. Lunch will be your choice from the menu.

EMERGENCIES: For ALL emergencies including medical or fire please contact 911 first, then contact Public Safety at 570-894-4435 x105.

WEATHERVANE DEADLINE NOTICE In order to produce a better newspaper for the Community, a Weathervane submission deadline has been established.

All articles, announcements, classified ads, etc. must be submitted to the Newsletter Coordinator on or before the 1st of each month for publication in the next issue of The Weathervane. Submissions made after this date will not be considered until the following month.

Your cooperation is appreciated.

Publication of articles is subject to the approval of the Communication Committee.

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TO ADVERTISE IN THE WEATHERVANE CALL 845-456-1218

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Egg Coloring

IN THE COMMUNITY ROOM

Saturday, March 24, 2018 • 12-2 PM

FEEL FREE TO BRING ADDITIONAL EGGS - WE HAVE PLENTY OF DYE

Hop on down for some Easter fun! 2 eggs & dye will be provided - There will also be an Easter craft for all ages!

Sign up required - Deadline: 3/20/18. Sign up in the Administration Office Contact Joe at 570-894-4435 x 113 or recdir@poconofarms.com

2/14/2018 Parents:

Please remember towww.poconofarms.com/calendar_print2.asp?report_type=1 dress your child appropriately for egg coloring

Pocono Farms

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• - Clubhouse CLOSED • - Clubhouse CLOSED • - Recreation Committee • - Chair Yoga • - Mahjong Mtg • - Dumpster Open

• - Clubhouse CLOSED

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• - Clubhouse CLOSED • - Dumpster Open • - Dart League

• - Dumpster Open • - Dart League

• - Dumpster Open • - Dart League • - Private Party

• - Dumpster Open • - Dart League • - Bunny Brunch

• - Clubhouse CLOSED • - Mahjong

• - Mahjong

• - Mahjong

• - Mahjong

• - Clubhouse CLOSED • - Chair Yoga

• - Chair Yoga

• - Chair Yoga

• - Chair Yoga

• - Clubhouse CLOSED • - Dumpster Open

• - Pool Committee Meeting • - Dumpster Open

• - Dumpster Open

• - Dumpster Open

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• - Thirsty Thursday

• - Thirsty Thursday

• - Thirsty Thursday

• - Thirsty Thursday

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• - Golf Committee Mtg • - Crime Watch Mtg • - Chair Yoga • - Mahjong • - Dumpster Open

• - Scholarship Application • - St. Patrick's Day Party Deadline • - Chair Yoga • - Mahjong • - Dumpster Open

• - Chair Yoga • - Mahjong • - Dumpster Open

• - Seafood Buffet • - Chair Yoga • - Mahjong • - Dumpster Open

• - Egg Coloring

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A Horse With No Farm ~ We’ve Come A Long Way Baby

BY EMILY DENNY

In 1967, when Pocono Farms Development was founded, there wasn’t much there to report. No big box stores and no shopping centers, just two sleepy resorts; Mt. Airy Lodge, a kitchy honeymoon destination and Pocono Manor with its grand stone mansion and golf course, and -- as would soon be discovered -- a whole lot of rocks.

sat on the asphalt next to the unheated pool, played tennis facing the sun, volunteered their teenage sons to move rocks for the back nine and enjoyed old fashioned, friendly hospitality. Santa Claus rode a bright orange modo-ski around the farms spreading Christmas cheer. A tradition that would last for over 20 cold, wet, snowy Pennsylvania winters.

By 1970, a clever marketer would dub this rocky, wooded stretch of land between two highways: “the gem of the Poconos”. An advertisement bearing this slogan made its way into the New York Times.

While most commuters tossed it in the bin on their way out of Penn Station, my Grandfather held onto it and held the words in his head.

Pretty soon after, he and my grandmother were writing the check to buy their present property in Pocono Farms.

It wasn’t perfect, and even after forty-eight years of development, many coastal country clubs might be inclined to say it’s still not perfect. But Pocono Farms is not a place intended to be defined by perfection. All members, past and present, have defined Pocono Farms’ development.

Still, as you’ve read over the last few articles there was a long way to go from there; party phone lines to be used, and rocks to be moved, pools to be built, and golf carts to be upgraded. Even so, the residents of Pocono Farms in the seventies made do. They

As time goes on, present has a way of eclipsing the past.

But, it does so in much the same way the moon eclipses the sun. Two celestial bodies, nowhere near each other in space, nowhere near each other in size. And yet, when one crosses in front of the other they line up perfectly. From Art Wall taking the first drive in khakis to Kyle Monahan taking his first drive of the day in bright

pattern pants. Soft spikes and Big Berthas replaced metal spikes and wooden shafts, but the sense of community, friendship and colorful conversations between the people have not changed.

As I’ve been writing this article, many changes have gone on in my own life.

At the tail end of 2017, my great-grandmother, Belle Lippman, passed away at 105 years old. Looking through her photographs, we found a picture of her and my greatgrandfather at the Doral Beach Club in the 1950s. My parents weren’t born yet, and these two families wouldn’t cross paths for another 30 years. But my Mother’s grandparents and my Dad’s parents would come to know each other eventually. They would become a family.

In an earlier article I talked about how I imagined the 70s at Pocono Farms. The flowered bathing caps, the cigars, the smoking jackets, everything in black and white. And there it was in a black and white, my image of how country club life looked in the 70s, but it was my great grandparents in the 50s, and of all places the Doral beach club.

the history of the place he so fondly remembers from his childhood. Participating in various activities throughout the years, happy to see new faces, new buildings - like a fine scotch, getting better with age. Junior golfers are on their way to rivaling Art Wall. And, who knows, maybe tennis will find its way back into fashion again.

There have been many hills and valleys as the community grew over the past 20 years, but things have always risen.

Since the completion of the back nine, other people have been active participants, have added their expertise, their sweat equity, their vision.

Margaritas have replaced Manhattans as the drink of choice. Water Parks and big box stores have been built. Santa Claus now sits on a comfy chair instead of straddling a snowmobile. At our own house an orange shag carpet became hardwood floors (installed by locals, of course), and a sewage drain became a front garden.

There are more stories in Pocono Farms to be shared - to pick up the rock and continue to tell the story.

The connection between the Doral and Pocono Farms begin and end with these two references: a photograph and the colorful comment by Sandy Raymond. But Pocono Farms was never meant to be the Doral, it was built on a different model, one where community involvement took precedence over exclusivity and prestige.

My father would one day write a check of his own to bring his family back to the Farms. Old memories mixing with new ones as he planted his own roots, moving more rocks, and contributing to 8

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A new wave of families are beginning to populate the landscape, making their mark on the community as it moves forward into future generations. I am happy to say that we are not the only second-generation or even third generation family to purchase a home in this community which means we’re not the only ones who weren’t scared away by the rocks and the red dirt and the asphalt.

We’ve come a long way, baby.

There’s nothing but uncut future to look forward to. A beautiful 18 hole golf course, a fitness center, a full calendar of organized activities for young and old, and a full service restaurant with organized parties and events year round.

It is the people and all the unique qualities, all the warts and moles that make someone or someplace unique.….

No, it’s not the Doral. But, it sure is home.

Hope to see everyone as the community comes together to celebrate our 50 year anniversary in 2020.

Share Your Pocono Farms Photos With Us!

Letters Dear Collette, I was delighted to discover the notice, inserted with our current statement, that a change has been made in the policy about the use of our amenities. I think that the new policy answers the concern of those who signed on the petition and those who came with me to the board to support the request.

If you’d like to see your photos published in the Weathervane or on Pocono Farms Facebook page, please email Admin@poconofarms.com

It is good to know that our board does, in fact, listen to the members of the community.

We’d love to publish pictures of our neighbors in Pocono Farms! Whether it’s a community event, your family and friends enjoying our beautiful amenities, or your seasonal photos around the Farms.

Let’s spread the good news!

All images must be high resolution (300 dpi) jpegs for print and include the name of each person in the picture.

Thank you for your support and please express my gratitude to the rest of the board as well.

Ginny The Rev. Canon Ginny Rex Day Diocese of Bethlehem, retired We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children.” - American Proverb

TO ADVERTISE CALL 845-456-1218 OR EMAIL POCONOFARMS@NIKIJONES.COM

Nicholas P. Maro D.P.M.

Nicholas P. Maro, D.P.M., F.A.C.F.A.S.

FOOT & ANKLE SPECIALIST

Dr. Nicholas Maro is a Board Certified Foot Surgeon & Fellow of The American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons.

Diplomate, American Board of Podiatric Surgery.

Podiatric Surgeon

POCONO COUNTY PLACE

Treating Conditions Related to: · Foot & Ankle Pain/Injury · Diabetes Foot Care · Skin & Nail Conditions · Wound Care

· Fabrication of Foot & Ankle Appliances · Foot Deformities (bunions & hammertoes)

POCONO FARMS

196 Nicholas P. Maro D.P.M.

FOOT & ANKLE SPECIALIST

(Handicapped Accessible with Vascular Testing and X-Rays on Premises)

Podiatrist Serving the Tobyhanna & Pocono Region for Over 25 Years!

Podiatric Surgeon

GREEN ROAD

TO MOUNT POCONO

452 Route 196 · Tobyhanna PA, 18466 · p: 570-839-7005 Surgicenter & Hospital Affliated · Most insurances accepted PA, NY, NJ. WEAT H ERVA NE

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Fun With Fitness

THIRSTY THURSDAYS

BY KRISSIE AYLWARD, PFCCA FITNESS DIRECTOR

I am so excited to announce to you our new Pocono Farms “Friends In Fitness” referral program!!!

6:00—8:00pm

BEER SPECIAL:

Smithwick’s - Ireland’s Oldest Ale MARCH 8th Chicken Francaise $10.95

Thinly pounded chicken breasts lightly coated with flour and dressed with a white wine lemon sauce. Served with honey glazed carrots and wild rice.

MARCH 15th All Things Caesar $11.95

Make your own Caesar salad with the traditional toppings. Your choice of grilled shrimp or chicken or make it a wrap! Served with house made chips and garlic bread sticks.

MARCH 22nd Post St. Patrick’s Day but a wee bit of Irish: Steak & Mushroom Pie $10.95

Tender chunks of steak baked with mushrooms, onions, Guinness stout and red wine topped with a flaky crust. Served with mashed potatoes, mixed green salad and fresh baked soda bread.

MARCH 29th Soup, Salad & Wings $11.95

Selection of three seasonal soups, wings with a variety of sauces, tossed salad and rolls.

To reserve a table call Katrina at 570-894-4435 x132 or e-mail katrinaw@poconofarms.com

It’s a proven fact that when you workout with a buddy you are more successful in reaching your goals, staying accountable, and consistent. I want to help you be SUCCESSFUL and this is the PERFECT opportunity for that.

Here’s how it works: You sign up for a year and bring a friend and they sign up for a year, both of you save 20% off the yearly membership rate!!! Both memberships must be paid in full at the time of sign up.

As an added BONUS we are offering our Direct Debit* program to anyone who would like to split their payments up over the year and we are WAIVING the INITIAL SET UP FEE!!!

With the addition of four new treadmills and four new classes coming, NOW’S THE TIME TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS AMAZING PROGRAM!!!

Please stop by the Fitness Center and I would be happy to chat with you and get you set up.

As always, I appreciate all your support and kind words.

Krissie

NEED ACCESS TO THE WEBSITE? VISIT poconofarms.com

Click on RESIDENT LOGIN and FORGOT PASSWORD Your Log-in & Password will be emailed to you 10

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Rockin’ Recreation

BY JOE SPROVKIN

Wow! It’s already March!

A RECAP FROM JANUARY:

The winners of our wellattended Chili and Wing Cook Off were the following: Winners of the wing sauces were Diane McCormick and Neil Carlson.

Winners of the chili were Dave Winters and Lyn Olechnovich.

I want to thank everyone who attended, participated in making the sauces and chili, and the judges panel. We ended up with 6 different flavors for each.

Join us for the kids egg coloring event which will be held in the community room Saturday, March 24th, from 12pm-2pm. I ask for you to The winning team was, “It sign up in the administrative Is What It Is,” the members office located in the fitness are, Danny Vadella, Tanya center so I know how many Chervenak, Lisa Dougher and eggs to prepare for. Of course Mike Fortuna.

January was also the end of our 12 week long bowling league that is held at Summit Lanes Wednesday nights.

you are welcome to bring your own eggs, I will have plenty of dye.

This year’s Bunny Brunch will be held on Sunday March 25th. Call Katrina to make reservations. (Reservations are required).

I want to thank all six teams for an exciting and fun 20172018 season!

Once again we had a good turnout for our Texas Hold’em Tournament.

The 2018 dart season started on January 7th. We meet Sunday’s in the Glacier Pub Room at 1:00pm and 2:30pm. There are 12 teams making this year our best attended season to date.

MARCH EVENTS TO COME:

Join us for our St. Patrick’s Day Event, which will be held on Saturday March 17th in the Banquet Room. Make sure you see the details on the fliers that are out.

Pocono Farms Golf Scholarship Applications

are available on our website (under documents), at West High School and in the Administration office.

All applications must be received no later than 4:30pm March 16, 2018 Interview date is scheduled on April 7, 2018 Did you know ? 

That since 2004, over $48,000.00 in scholarships have been awarded through the Pocono Farms Golf Scholarship program

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Contributions to this fund are made through various golf outings held throughout the golf season

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Scholarships have also been awarded through funds set up memorializing past golf members

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You do not have to be a golfer to submit an application.

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There are eligibility requirements for the scholarship program. There is consideration given to academic record, extracurricular involvement, community or volunteer service, and your personal interview with the scholarship selection committee.

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There are two (2) scholarships each worth $1,500. awarded each year.

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Our New Year’s Resolution is to become YOUR Real Estate Agency.

OUR dedicated agents are focused solely on OUR community, Pocono Farms Country Club Association.

We know that we can serve OUR homeowners better than the rest!

Not Ready to Sell? We can rent your home for you!

Pocono Farms Realty offers a Property Management service, That takes the stress out of renting your home!

Did you know?

One Team, One Dream Call us TODAY to schedule your listing appointment!

570-580-4550

Spring is the best time to list!

Call now! We are only 20 days away!

570-580-4550