Pocono Farms Weathervane - October 2022

Register to see live entertainment, watch a magic show, enjoy a buffet, make arts and crafts, play Halloween games, and get CANDY!!!

Be sure to wear a Halloween costume!

After having some Halloween fun head over to the kayak launch pad behind member services for our Trunk or Treat!

570-894-4435 ext.

HOURS

MEMBER SERVICES OFFICE

MON. - SAT.

8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

FITNESS CENTER

MON. - SUN.

5:00 AM - 10:00 PM

COMPACTOR

WED. & FRI. • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

SUN. • 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

POCONO FARMS REALTY

SUN. & MON. • CLOSED

TUES. - SAT. • 10:30 AM - 4:30 PM

From Your Board Of Directors

BY JIM RIBARDO

Work in Progress!

Pocono Farms and our residents have all faced many challenges over the past three years. Our daily work and school rituals, our family home lives, and our outside activities have all significantly changed. But we must move on. Pocono Farms board of directors, our management, our committees, and the entire staff have been busy planning for the future. The complete reconstruction of the swimming pool is the top priority project and hopefully will be completed by Memorial Day 2023. New playground equipment has been ordered and should be installed this fall. The beach renovation was completed this spring and has seen increased use this year. Thank you for your support.

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

BOARD OF DIRECTORS:

President James Yando

Vice-President Annette Doerr

Treasurer Bill Weimer Jr

Secretary Steve Baker Director Renee McClure

Director Rich McCormick Director Collette Ong Director Jim Ribardo

Director Pete Volpe

COMMITTEES:

• A & B, Environmental, Crime Watch Rich McCormick

• Finance Bill Weimer Jr

• Golf Jim Ribardo

• Recreation, Tennis, Steve Baker/ Pool, Fitness Peter Volpe

• Communications/ Long Range Planning Renee McClure

DEPARTMENT HEADS

General Manager Dave Timko 894-4435 ext. 100 dtimko@poconofarms.com

Asst. General Manager Katrina Weithman 894-4435 ext. 132 katrinaw@poconofarms.com

Controller Milt Kwasnik 894-4435 ext. 103 controller@poconofarms.com

Golf Pro Kyle Monahan 894-4435 ext. 110 golfshop@poconofarms.com

Greens Superintendent Jeff Lesoine 894-4435 jeffreyl3@poconofarms.com

Chef Tom Mack 894-4435 ext. 130 pfkitchen@poconofarms.com

Recreation Director Noah Drayton 894-4435 ext. 113 recreationdir@poconofarms.com

Public Safety & Compliance Director Artie Furman 894-4435 ext. 105 afurman@poconofarms.com

Maintenance Dave Winters 894-4435 pfmaint@poconofarms.com

Fitness Director Krissie Aylward 894-4435 ext. 116 fitness@poconofarms.com

Member Services Susan Nevarez 894-4435 ext. 106 admin@poconofarms.com

Pocono Farms Realty Lex Colon 894-0300 lex.colon.realtor@gmail.com

Website/Communications Eric Eiden Coordinator webcomcord@poconofarms.com 894-4435 ext. 201

The official publication of the Pocono Farms Country Club Association, Inc.

BY NIKI JONES AGENCY, INC.

Front Street, Port Jervis, New York 12771

845.856.1266

info@nikijones.com

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.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETINGS

ALL MEETINGS START AT 7:00PM IN THE COMMUNITY ROOM BELOW THE CLUBHOUSE UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED!

2022

October 28, 2022

November 18, 2022

December 16, 2022

2023

January 27, 2023

February 24, 2023 (Board Work Session)

March 23, 2023

From The General Manager

BY DAVE TIMKO, CMCA, AMS, General Manager – PFCCA, Inc.

As we enter into the Fall and Winter months at Pocono Farms, it’s budget time. This is when the management team develops their budgets. We use historical data as a basis along with current trends in both the revenue and expenses.

We analyze these trends in developing the operating budget for the upcoming year prior to submitting the budget to the Board of Directors and Finance committee for their review and comment.

Each year, we also review any recurring contracts/services and shop for the best available price for that product or service. Property insurance, equipment leases, and utility providers are just a few that we shop on a routine basis. Unfortunately, the current market is not as competitive as it once was. Inflationary costs are affecting every aspect of our budgeting process.

On the revenue side, we constantly look at ways to generate additional revenue. Banquets, food and beverage, and golf generate substantial revenue for PFCCA, Inc. each year. We evaluate our products and services on a regular basis so that we ensure we stay competitive in those markets. We shop different vendors for the best available pricing on our food and beverage products so that we can continue to offer our members and guests the best in food and beverage, at an affordable price.

We have made some great strides over the past few years in our operations. We have seen member visits grow in all areas. This is as a compliment to our hard working and dedicated staff. We will continue to work hard to provide our members the opportunity to participate in a variety of programs and events that make Pocono Farms what we all want it to be – a thriving community where its members want to live, and where prospective property owners choose to look to purchase a home.

In closing, we will continue to do our due diligence in preparing, monitoring, and delivering a budget that is attainable and realistic. We will continue to challenge ourselves in providing our members the opportunity to get involved and participate in as many events and programs as they wish. That is the foundation of choosing to live in a community – being and getting involved.

Speaking of getting involved, most of our standing committees could still use some members. It only takes about an hour a month. If you are interested, please stop by our member services office and pick up an application or ask any questions that you may have about joining a committee.

If you have any questions on any event/program or getting involved, please contact any of our operations staff. Remember, we are here to help.

Enjoy the fall colors!!

Neighborhood Watch

BY RUSS KELLY

October is one of the most colorful months of the year here in the Poconos. We get up every day and experience what people drive for miles to see. With weather changes on going, you can’t help but ask how this will affect our yearly display. Every day on the news you see the reports of devastating storms, fires, flooding, and drought. I know that in years past major floods have taken their toll here in Pennsylvania, but we have had time and taken the steps to minimize future flooding problems in many areas of the state. But what we’re seeing now seems to be a yearly experience in many sections of the country. So, we should enjoy what we have for as long as it survives.

You know who really gets to enjoy the colors here in the farms? Crime watch patrol drivers. I couldn’t miss that opening. Every week they see the start of the coloring and follow it through to the end. What a great time to volunteer and see if you would like to become part of the group.

This month however means that a number of drivers pack up and head for the sunshine states. Some leave for a while after the holidays, but it starts in October. Those of us that are not leaving are finishing up the lawn mowing for the season. No more letters from Artie, our code official, concerning high grass will be sent out. The leaves that come off our trees are just about done falling. Although it seems that you always get plenty more from the other trees in the

area. If you live near a township road, they will vacuum them up if you pile them along the edge of the road. Keep an eye out on the Pocono Farms website, they usually print a schedule stating what days the road department will be picking up in the farms.

With the pandemic apparently behind us, I expect there will be more kids out for Halloween this year. So, we have to be aware that more kids will be out walking on the road. Most times the kids aren’t paying attention to cars on the road, so we must be more aware of them.

As a last item, one thing that was on the mind of many of our drivers at the august luncheon meeting was some of the problems caused by the shortterm renters. Both the representative of Coolbaugh township and our administration assured us that they were continuing to remind the owners of these properties of their responsibilities. Generally, complaints have been down, but neighbors affected by these properties should call the office, or the code official and let them know where and when the problem took or is taking place. We have been assured that action will be taken. But remember, nothing is going to change if no one is reporting the problem. Also, the police have a nonemergency number 570-992-9911, and have responded when I’ve called.

The volunteers drove about 128 hours in august. We need more volunteers, call the office at 570-894-4435, or leave a message for Russ Kelly at 570-894-4034.

Public Safety

BY ARTIE FURMAN - CMCA, AMS

2022 is just flying by before my eyes, here it is October already. You know what that means? Yes, that is correct, chocolate for Artie. I love Halloween and no, not just for the sweets. I am still trying to figure out my costume, it you have any suggestions let me know. Be kind please.

As we approach years end, and that horrid white fluffy stuff will start to appear sooner than later, I always talk about preparing your car for winter driving. Prepare early before it’s too late. If your tire tread is low, you will just sit and spin in the snow. Check your wipers, if you are seeing streaks now in just rain, you need wipers. The cold is a big drain on your car battery, that is why they are called cold cranking amps. If you having a hard time starting your car in warmer weather, then it won’t start when it is freezing out. The last two items are your antifreeze and your wiper fluid. I always use the cold weather wiper fluid in winter to help de-ice my windshield. And check your antifreeze level, if you go to a place like Advanced Auto Parts, they will check all these items for you for free.

As always if you have questions or concerns do not hesitate to contact us.

Round by Round

BY DON STORMS

We continued to have great weather this August. The golf course is in great condition. The green side bunkers continue to hold up well from last year’s improvement project. The tree removal project makes the course safer, improves play and looks better.

We all thank Jeff and his staff for their work to keep course in great condition. Also, thanks to Kyle, Kim, and staff for all they do to keep our pro shop operating smoothly. From the time you check-in, to keeping golf carts clean, to starting at hole #1, they do a tremendous job. In addition, we have two new posts with a sign on them. One at hole # 1 and the other at hole # 10. They will give the course conditions for the front and back nine. “Carts 90 degree” signify that there are no restrictions. “Modified Holes” signify that certain holes are cart path only. “Cart Path Only” signify that all carts are restricted to cart path. More details on course conditions are posted on Clubster.

As a reminder, there is a sign board with general and useful information posted on it. The suggested and accepted golf attire code for women and men is posted there. One sign shows “The Proper Way to Repair a Ball Mark” and the other sign shows “Divot Repair: Replace or Fill.” The more we make our own course repairs during a round, the better the course is for all of us.

Labor Day may represent the end of summer as the kids return to school and fall preparations begin for the upcoming winter. However, it’s still a good time to enjoy a round of golf.

Ladies Mahjong

Monday & Friday afternoons in the Garden View Room

Golf

Second Wednesday

at

September 14, 2022

Tree Removal Tree Trimming Land Clearing Landscaping

Tree Removal

Tree Trimming Land Clearing Landscaping

Light Excavation Stump Grinding Chipping Bucket Truck Services

Light Excavation

Stump Grinding

Chipping

Bucket Truck Services

Labor Day Weekend Celebration 2022 Recap

BY ERIC EIDEN

On Friday September 2nd, 2022, through Monday September 5th, 2022, Pocono Farms Country Club Association hosted its Labor Day Weekend Celebration.

The celebration kicked off with dinner and live music by the Pocono Duo in the Lakeside Grill & Pub for guests to enjoy delicious food with good tunes. Later in the evening, a movie on the beach was held where families watched Sing 2, while munching on some s’mores.

On Saturday September 3rd, the beach opened to many guests wishing to swim, paddle board, kayak, or hang out, taking in the late summer weather. The Tiki Bar opened on the beach and guests enjoyed food from the Per Pierce Family BBQ.

There were many activities for families to take part in, including a bounce house, petting zoo, a face painter, candy bingo, and free cotton candy. Magician Artie Miller stopped by to dazzle guests with his

Rockin’ the Night Away!

BY ERIC EIDEN

On Friday August 26th, 2022, The Yesterday Band performed at the Pocono Farms Country Club Association’s Banquet Room playing the best dance tunes from the decades in rock & roll!

The evening kicked off with some tunes from The Yesterday Band while guests enjoyed a buffet dinner prepared by the Lakeside Grill & Pub kitchen staff. Then the music kicked up with The Yesterday Band playing rock & roll hits to get guests grooving!

The evening of the performance Bob Penett was on guitar and vocals, Martin Trokan was on drums, Joe LaDore was lead guitar, Jeff Sukenick was vocals and guitar, Jeff Kempton on bass, and George Byrne on vocals and guitar.

magic tricks, while Jim Roberti played live music. The day ended with live music by Andrew Moses in the Lakeside Grill & Pub.

On Sunday September 4th the Tiki Bar and the Per Pierce Family BBQ returned for the day, while a strolling ventriloquist interacted with guests. A cornhole tournament was held, having families compete with one another for a prize. Free sno cones were handed out to cool off guests from the hot summer weather.

On the final day of the celebration, Monday September 5th, the Lakeside Grill & Pub opened for a summer beer blowout and frozen drink frenzy. Even though it rained most of the day, it didn’t stop guests from having fun indoors!

Thank you to everyone who participated in our Labor Day Weekend Celebration this year, we hope to see you back next year!

“We love getting together and playing,” Bob Penett said. The Yesterday Band have been together for nine years with George Byrne being vocals and guitar, Bob Penett being vocals and guitar, and Fred Remner were the founding members of the band. George Byrne came in to play as a special guest after leaving the band and moving to Texas.

Guests ended the evening with dancing to the tunes provided by The Yesterday Band. Thank you to everyone who came out to hear them play!

History Behind the Plate

BY ERIC EIDEN

The Pocono Farms Country Club Association’s Softball Team plays against other teams in the communities of the Poconos and carries a winning record in the community.

The idea of forming a softball team in the community originated, years ago, from the Recreation Committee. Bob Penett was asked at the time to captain the team and they were able to play a game in consecutive seasons, winning both.

Fast forward to this year and again the Recreation Committee planned the project of creating another softball team. This time as a ‘pilot program’ to be developed into an ongoing team to compete against other communities in the Poconos. Bob Penett was again asked to organize and manage the team.

A dozen residents consisting of both men and women formed the team in June. Steve Baker, Board liaison to the Recreation Committee and the first baseman, helped arrange for a practice field in Coolbaugh Township. After three Saturday practice sessions, the Team played its first game at Pocono Lake. The second game was played at Lake Naomi two weeks later. Pocono Farms was victorious in both contests with an aggregate score of 63-25!

“Everyone was so friendly, and we loved playing them,” Bob Penett said.

With the support of the General Manager Dave Timko, Assistant General Manager Katrina Weithman, and the Board of Directors, there is a high chance for the team to reform in 2023 under new management, with extra players.

The softball team is always looking for new players interested in playing ball for the next season. We hope to see some new players and fans to cheer the team on during the games!

Members of the Pocono Farms team are:

Back row, left to right: Tim Gamberzky, Bob Penett, Steve Baker, Brandon Casasnovas, Scott Nolen, Kirk Pabon, Amanda Tallon

Front row, left to right: Kirt Joseph, Justin Pabon, Tim Dunker

Super Senior Coal Scuttle Victory!

BY ERIC EIDEN

On Friday August 26th the Pocono Farms Country Club Association’s golf team in the Super Senior Coal Scuttle at Fox Hill Golf Club placed third, beating many top clubs in the area!

The team representing Pocono Farms Country Club Association included Ed Murphy, Tom Sirolly, Don Cain, and Tim Holland. Holland was tied for first place with a score of 70, shooting 32 on the back nine. Congratulations to the winners representing our community!

Also on August 26th, the Putting for Parkinson’s Disease Putting Tournament was held. The tournament had golfers competing on a four-hole putting course for a chance to win an Odyssey putter. Congratulations to Timmy Gaudette for winning the putting tournament!

All benefits of the Putting for Parkinson’s Disease Putting Tournament benefit the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. Thank you to everyone who participated!

Fun with Fitness

BY KRISSIE AYLWARD, PFCCA FITNESS DIRECTOR

Let’s talk Pickle ball. It seems to be all the rage and those courts were packed this summer! I even had the opportunity to team up with Maria, from Member Services, and play a game or two with some of our residents.

To be honest I had no idea what Pickle ball was all about and I’m assuming many of you may not know either. So, let’s chat about it.

Pickle ball is a fun sport that combines many elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It is played both indoors or outdoors on a badminton-sized court and a slightly modified tennis net. Pickle ball uses a paddle and a plastic ball with holes and can be played as doubles or singles. It’s perfect for all ages and skill levels.

Pickleball was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, a short ferry ride from Seattle, Washington. Three dads – Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum — whose kids were bored with their usual summertime activities — are credited for creating game. Pickleball has evolved from original handmade equipment and simple rules into a popular sport throughout the US and Canada. The game is growing internationally as well, with many European and Asian countries adding courts.

A pickleball court is the same size as a doubles badminton court and measures 20×44 feet. In pickleball, the same court is used for both singles and doubles play. The net height is 36 inches at the sidelines and 34 inches in the middle. The court is striped like a tennis court with right and left service courts and a 7-foot non-volley zone in front of the net (referred to as the “kitchen”). Courts can be constructed specifically for pickleball, or they can be converted using existing tennis or badminton courts.

Pocono Farms has two pickleball courts that are open from sunup to sundown (7 am – 7 pm) and we also have equipment available in the Member Services building you can borrow if needed. I encourage you to get out and play some pickle ball before the courts close for the winter season. In fact, next spring I am thinking that we should have some pickle ball tournaments/Round Robins. Interested? Stop in and see me to let me know or email me:

fitness@poconofarms.

Let the Pickle Ball Palooza begin!

As always, I thank you for your support, Krissie