Saw Creek News

SUMMER

2015

PUBLICATION OF SAW CREEK ESTATES COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Annual Membership Meeting The Saw Creek Estates Community Association Annual Membership Meeting will be held on

Saturday, July 18, 2015 at 10:00 am

SCECA DRAFT STRATEGIC PLAN CONDENSED VERSION

in the Top of the World Tennis Courts.

All homeowners are encouraged to attend.

Order of Business:

The following is a slightly condensed version of the Draft Strategic Plan recently introduced by the Board of Directors. The condensed version is shown here due to space and publishing limitations. Copies of the full version are freely available upon request and on our website at www.sawcreek.org.

1. Call to Order and Officer roll call 2. Determination of a quorum 3. Acceptance of minutes of prior Membership meeting 4. Board’s report on budget and Assessment 5. Committee Reports 6. Report on balloting and election 7. Question & Answer

All Members should take the time to review the draft and provide comments to the Board. Your input is extremely important and necessary in order to ensure that the final plan is representative of the wishes and needs of a majority of our members. Please send formal comments and questions to the Board in writing at scebod@ sawcreek.org. Please do so at your earliest convenience as the time for member comment will close within the next few weeks. Thank you for your attention to this important effort.

Saturday, July 18 7 pm - 11 pm

$26.95/person

plus tax and Gratuity

Live entertainment by

Soul Intent

Function of a Strategic Plan A strategic plan is certainly more than simply a “wish list”, but it is equally not a prescription of what the Association must do, or a fixed timetable of dates, events and funding. Those are the responsibility of the entities that make definitive plans for the Association- the Continued on Page 12

5728 Decker Road BUSHKILL, PA 18324 Stroudsburg, PA 18360 PERMIT NO. 322

PAID

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

INSIDE THIS ISSUE ADMINISTRATION President’s Message

2

Communication - It’s a Two Way Street

3

General Manager’s Report

4

Recreation Director’s Report

5

Public Safety Incidents

6

We All Contribute to Community Safety

6

Letters to the Editor

11

TOP OF THE WORLD From the Manager

7

Summer Menu and Snack Menu

8

COMMITTEE REPORTS Men’s Club

20

Building & Architectural

21

Treasurer’s Report

21

SCE NEWS Scholarships 22 Did You Know....

25

First Energy’s Appliance Recycling Program

26

Keeping Your Cool in a Neighborly Way

27

DEP Warns of State-Wide Lyme Disease Risks

28

PA Dog Licensing

28

By Kathi Connell, President The summer has gotten off to a great start and it sure looks like Saw Creek is ready! Under the direction of Dave Martin, Jeff Gaal, George McCormick, and their entire staffs, the pools are clean and open and ready for swimming. I’m hoping everyone has an opportunity this summer to attend one of the many community events being planned by our Recreation Department and Recreation Committee--go out and enjoy your amenities, it is a lot of fun and a great way to meet your neighbors. Please don’t forget to wear your amenity badges when using the facilities.

This is also election time and you should have received your electronic PIN registration letter by now. Please take time to read up on the candidates and cast your vote on-line (www. sawcreek.org) for your choices. With three seats available in July and seven members running, your vote will definitely count! There is also one very important bylaw amendment proposed that if adopted, will allow us to continue to maintain member confidentiality. Read the proposed change and please vote accordingly.

The Board of Directors was presented with the first draft of the 2015 Operating and Capital budgets on June 25th. The draft budget includes recommendations from our recently completed reserve study that will help us plan for our future needs. Numerous Finance Committee meetings will be held over the next several months all of which are always open to all homeowners. I encourage you to attend so you can hear and see firsthand how the process happens.

The SCE Board of Directors have been developing and implementing truly worthwhile community projects and procedures that have touched the lives of all members in Saw Creek. If you feel if there is a program or activity that is too important to enact, cut and/or reduce, it is your responsibility as an owner/team member to come to a monthly board of directors’ meeting and voice your opinion to your community and the Board of Directors. The Board needs your input and advice in order to provide guidance to make the best decisions for Saw Creek.

If time or circumstances prevent you from attending a Board meeting to provide your comments, please at least make every effort to give us your thoughts about the draft Strategic Plan. We need your input for this very important plan. Your opinion matters and your comments will help us to craft a final plan that best meets the needs and wishes of the entire community. So please take a few minutes to review the draft Strategic Plan and let us know what you think. The member comment period will remain open for just a few more weeks, so don’t delay. Copies of the draft Strategic Plan are available online at www. sawcreek,org, at the Member Services Office or by email request to memberservices@sawcreek.org. And as always, please feel free to send your comments and suggestions directly to your Board of Director at scebod@sawcreek.org.

Finally, this July brings to an end the terms of Directors Bill Montgomery, John Mathew and Tom Soden and I would like to take a brief moment to thank these individuals who served our community over the past several years. Bill has served admirably for nearly six years as past President and Director of our Association, although he remains a neighbor and a friend, I will truly miss his support on the Board. John has served as Board Treasurer during his term where he was responsible for overseeing of all Association funds, securities and financial records. John has also worked diligently with the Finance Committee to develop and maintain the Association budget. Tom has served as the Director for nearly six years guiding the Safety Committee through the recently launched Neighborhood Watch Program as well as supporting the Board along his way as well as with the planning of the recent Strategic Plan initiatives.

So, on behalf of all homeowners I would like to extend our sincere appreciation to these individuals who have given countless hours for the good of the community and I encourage you to do the same when you see them around the community! Bill, John, and Tom -– THANK YOU! Be sure to VOTE, put on your sunscreen and I’ll see you at the pool!

EVENTS Out & About Events

29

E. Stroudsburg School District Board Meetings Happenings at the TOP

30 31

SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

2

Communication - It’s a Two Way Street!

More often than not, we hear the complaint from homeowners that they did not know about certain events or happenings in our community. More often than not the information is out there, but residents have to know where to look for it. It takes two to communicate, one to put out the information, and one to receive it. Fortunately Saw Creek has several outlets for dissemination of information.

So, where should you turn as a homeowner to stay informed? If you are reading this, then you have in your hands the number one source for information about events, rule and policy changes and updates on projects, etc. The Saw Creek News is mailed to every homeowner and registered renter and there are always extra copies available at Member Services and at the amenities.

Another great source for information is the Saw Creek website www.sawcreek.org. Here you can find contact information, news updates, upcoming events, Board meeting minutes, financial reports and all our governing documents (rules and regulations, bylaws and aesthetics). You will also find the current and back issues of the Saw Creek News and monthly bulletins. There is also a page with links to services outside the community under our about area. In the coming months a new website will be launched which will give you even more information at your fingertips including a way to submit service requests and eventually view your account and even make payments!

Attend Board meetings. The Board currently meets the second Saturday of each month in the Top of the World Mountain Room at 10:00 am. Most association business is conducted at these meetings and they are open to members and residents. During the meetings there is time allotted for homeowner concerns with each homeowner allowed three minutes to voice their concerns. Of course if you can’t make a meeting, minutes are recorded and are then available on the Saw Creek website the following month. There is also an annual meeting conducted the third Saturday of July every year. An annual report is shared outlining what the board and management has accomplished the prior year and what’s coming up. Again, this report is uploaded to the Saw Creek website after the meeting. Along the same lines, attending committee meetings is also a great way to keep informed. Committee meetings are also held once a month, and are open to all members. You can find a complete schedule of committee meetings on our website.

to a dv ertise email nancy at nancy@ nikijones.com SAW

Saw Creek also publishes a monthly bulletin which can be found at the entrance gates, amenities, and the Member Services office. This is a one page document that highlights the recreation and Top of the World events for the month, any important news updates and lists amenity hours and dates and times of committee meetings. Again, this document can also be found on the website. Both Saw Creek and the Top of the World Restaurant have active Facebook accounts. You can find us on Facebook at Saw Creek Estates and Top of the World Restaurant at Saw Creek Estates. We are continuously updating our Facebook account with important messages and details on upcoming events.

PUBLICATION OF THE SAW CREEK COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC. © 2011 5728 Decker Road • Bushkill, PA 18324 P: 570.588.9329 E: info@sawcreek.org PUBLISHED BY NIKI JONES AGENCY, INC. 39 Front Street Port Jervis, New York 12771 P: 845.856.1266 E: ads@nikijones.com

Speaking of events, there are bulletin boards at both mailbox locations as well as all the facilities.

On these bulletin boards you will find flyers with details on our approaching events. You can also find a listing of upcoming meetings and events on the two LED signs located by Member Services and Mill Pond. And as with all our other communications, they can also be found on the website under the event calendar.

The Saw Creek News 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 the Saw Creek News and does not have the right to reproduce ads in any other place or publication without written permission from the publisher. The Saw Creek News reserves the rights to exercise its discretion in the selection of advertisements.

What if you’ve been through these outlets and you still can’t find what you’re looking for? Simply stop by the Member Services Office or call us at 570-588-9329. One of our staff members would be happy to assist you.

SCE BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Vice-President Treasurer Secretary Members

Kathi Connell James Hidalgo John Mathew Joseph Salerno Bill Montgomery Thomas Sodan Bob Shrekgast James Hidalgo Suzanne Mark Mike Campea

kathi@sawcreek.org james@sawcreek.org john@sawcreek.org joseph@sawcreek.org bill@sawcreek.org thomas@sawcreek.org roberts@sawcreek.org james@sawcreek.org suzanne@sawcreek.org michael@sawcreek.org

MANAGEMENT TEAM General Manager Director of Public Safety Director of Facilities Recreation Director Director of Human Resources and Administration Restaurant Manager Director of Member Services Director of Finance

Dave Martin Jim Andrews Jeffrey Gaal George McCormick

dave@sawcreek.org jim@sawcreek.org jeff@sawcreek.org george@sawcreek.org

Peggy Gottschau George Gerhart Jessica VanDerVliet Cathy Wargo

peggy@sawcreek.org george.gerhart@sawcreek.org jessica@sawcreek.org cathy@sawcreek.org

COMMITTEES & CHAIRPERSONS Appeals Beautification Finance Building & Architectural Nominating Public Information Committee Recreation Rules & Regulations Safety

Norda Calder Phil Cozzi Peter Derrenbacher Dave Stagg Maria Doe Donna Dillon Ida Mathew Roseanne Prasse Robert Harter

appeals@sawcreek.org beautification@sawcreek.org finance@sawcreek.org maintenance@sawcreek.org nominating@sawcreek.org pic@sawcreek.org reccommittee@sawcreek.org violations@sawcreek.org safety@sawcreek.org

Disclaimer:The comments, statements or written opinions expressed in the Saw Creek News are the sole responsibility of the signed individual/author and/or committee and are not edited. All Letters to the Editor and paid political ads do not reflect the opinions or views of the Public Information Committee.

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

3

ADMINISTRATION General Manager’s Report

By David W. Martin On April 18th, 2015 the Board of Directors presented the draft Strategic Plan for Saw Creek Estates Community Association. The main purpose of that meeting was to introduce the draft plan and explain that it’s only a draft - a starting point for ideas on what is possible, what could be done, not what will be done. Its purpose is to facilitate future decisions, not prejudge them.

One of the key points stressed at the Town Hall meeting was this – the single most important ingredient needed to finalize the strategic plan is direct input from as many members as possible.

The Board of Directors needs and wants input from all of our members in order to shape the final version of the plan. That is why the Board began requesting public comments immediately after release of the draft plan. As of this writing, it has been six weeks since the plan was introduced.

Thus far, we have received formal comments from a total of twelve members.

Thank You to those of you who have taken the time to share your thoughts and concerns. You know that we value your input and respect your opinions and that we have tried to respond

promptly to each of your questions and concerns.

Your feedback will be used to revise and improve the draft plan. Again, many thanks for taking the time to comment.

The Board of Directors and management desperately want and need to hear from you on the draft strategic plan - one of the most important efforts the community has ever undertaken. The Board has been criticized occasionally for a lack of transparency or not seeking member input prior to taking action or making decisions. While such criticism might have been justified at various times, it certainly cannot be justified in this case.

We want and need your input.

And so, to everyone who hasn’t yet had the opportunity or inclination to send us your comments, please be reminded that there is still plenty of time. We know that the priorities of daily life and work often don’t leave much time for such things, but we do value your input and opinion and we will respond.

Please take just a few moments to review the draft plan and share your thoughts and suggestions in a

constructive way. We want to end up with a better plan which includes your input and truly reflects the needs and aspirations of the majority of our members. Let us know where you feel the plan might come up short or perhaps goes too far.

Formal written comments are the most helpful and effective way to contribute. Please write to the Board of Directors at scebod@sawcreek.org or you may email me at dave@sawcreek.org.

The time for comments is limited so please contact us at your earliest convenience. Thank you.

List and Sell your home with us!

BUYERS! We have the largest inventory of homes in the Poconos.

FREE DEED! Just ask.

Sellers • Evening and weekend appointments always welcome • Nobody sells homes like we do, that’s because we’re committed • We get you the highest price in the shortest amount of time • We advertise everyday, everywhere especially online with all the best home selling Internet sites • Ask about our Global Home Warranties • FREE DEED – no obligation, call today

Call 570.588.3440 BUSHKILL OFFICE

www.BHGwilkins.com Interested in a Career in Real Estate? Call us and ask how.

SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

The friendliest site in real estate featuring the friendliest search for real estate.

PAGE

4

Recreation Director’s Report

By George McCormick, Recreation Director Event planning is a process that takes time, commitment and thoroughness. If done properly, a program’s level of success can be measured by not just dollars and cents, but more importantly, by its value to its audience. There are five essential components to planning a successful event: research, preparation, advertising, execution and analysis.

Research starts with a look at past events, and then grows to other possibilities. This means researching attendance records, program costs and reading through feedback from the audience and the volunteers, who helped with these events. While it can be difficult to put a dollar amount on the audience’s enjoyment from past programs, there is a fair amount of value that can be measured from their feedback. Certain programs may not be big money makers, but can be beloved by those who attended. For these types of programs, it would be helpful to gauge the potential for growth in the future if that event is to be repeated (is the program relatively new, did weather or other emergency circumstances affect the event, were there other programs happening at the same time elsewhere, etc.), or is there highly positive benefit to the community to continue running these programs (i.e. fundraising). Also, another aspect of researching program potential is to learn about current trends. In some cases, programs can experience high attendance and positive reviews initially; yet, as they are repeated they become less popular. Typically, in-depth research into trends should be able to help determine whether an activity is more of a fad or a possible worthwhile ongoing investment.

Furthermore, measuring the cost of implementing and running programs should be factored, as well.

SAW

Cost is mostly likely to have an impact on the preparation of programs. A list of items needed to successfully run the event will have a price tag; is that price reasonable? Also, how many people will be needed to successfully run the event? Besides volunteers, everyone else covering the event will need to be paid. When planning an event, things that need to be clearly determined include not only staffing and supplies, but also unplanned elements, such as weather, outside influences and emergencies. While it is near impossible to completely account for these circumstances, planning for the unknown can be done to minimize their effect. What if it rains? What if Lehman Township picks the same date for one of their events? What if an accident blocks Decker or Edinburgh on the way to the event? Obviously, uncontrollable circumstances, like these, would likely impact an event, but should they prevent us from rescheduling them or trying again next year?

Advertising can be the tool that affects the success of an event the most. Nobody is going to attend an event that they do not know about. Here at Saw Creek, we have a variety of good methods of communicating: SCE News, monthly bulletins, flyers, sawcreek.org, Facebook, marquees, LEDs, committee meetings and best of all, word-of-mouth.

If information for upcoming events is put out in a consistent and timely manner, then advertising

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

should be a great tool to help gauge a program’s value.

Once the research is over, the event is outlined and the ads are out, then executing the program will become easier. If the planning was done well, the focus will be on monitoring and resolving the unforeseen factors; such as moving the event in the case of rain.

Post event analysis is one of the most overlooked steps in the process. Here at Saw Creek, the Recreation department takes notes on virtually every aspect of each event. Attendance numbers are recorded, immediate feedback is noted, suggestions are jotted down and the audience mood is gauged. Afterwards, any more comments that are shared with the management are taken into account. All of these factors are reviewed with the management and the Recreation committee to help start the process all over again. Suggestions are raised, discussed and often implemented if there is a consensus for them. The other major component in event planning happens at each of these steps: involvement from the audience. Voicing your opinion about programs can be the biggest key element in making them better. The best way to do this is through my office or at the monthly Recreation Committee meeting on the third Thursday of each month.

You can reach me at george@sawcreek.org or by phone, (570) 588-9329, ext. 2218.

PAGE

5

2015 1st Quarter Public Safety Incidents Reported through April 2015

INCIDENTS

Jackie Borer – 2015 First Quarter OPR Recipient Top of the World employee Jackie Borer was recently picked as Saw Creek’s 2015 first quarter Outstanding Performance Recognition winner. Jackie is a long standing employee with over 10 years service to Saw Creek and the Top of the World. One of her peers nominated Jackie because of the devotion she exhibits to her job and the community itself on a regular basis. As a matter of fact, on at least two occasions this past winter, Jackie spent an uncomfortable night sleeping at the restaurant during snow storms so that she would be available for work the next day since there were events planned at the restaurant.

This type of devotion is commendable and we are lucky to have such an employee on staff.

Congrats Jackie!

Burglary Burglary Alarms Citations Issued Criminal Mischielf/Vandalism Domestic Disturbance/Disorderly Conduct Emergency Medical Response/Assist Fire Fire Alarms Harrassment/Assault Illegal Dumping Motor Vehicle Accidents Total No. of Incidents

Prior Months Incidents

9 116 56 4 1 38 4 0 1 5 8 242

Current Month Incidents 0 53 80 0 3 8 2 0 1 13 3 163

Year to Date

9 169 136 4 4 46 6 0 0 18 11 403

2014

43 493 483 23 40 130 11 1 13 29 38 1304

2013

23 617 379 13 37 225 6 8 24 18 37 1387

Other: 166 Radar/Traffic Details were conducted in April throughout the Community with 34 Citations/Warnings for Speeding; 19 Citations/Warnings for Stop Sign;1 Dirt Bike Violation Citation; and 3 DL/Registration infraction; Citations were issued

We All Contribute To Community Safety Because we live within a community association, the potential to solve the kinds of problems that plague individual homeowners is very good. All home owners and residents must realize that they have a responsibility to provide for their own safety and security. The Public Safety Department is a piece of that security/safety puzzle.

An individual homeowner can do a good deal in preventing a burglary at their own property and the property of others. Pay attention to your preparedness at home. Correct lighting, proper trimming of bushes near windows, quality locks just a few ideas of ways to make your home a ‘Harder Target”.

Support our Neighborhood Watch program and become involved. Involvement means simply being alert to what is going on in your neighborhood. If you see, hear or smell something out of the ordinary call Public Safety. This is how we all work together to prevent crimes committed at your home and in your neighborhood.

As residents of this community we all have an obligation to participate, to communicate and to take action. We as an organization will work to get the word out more often about what is going on in the community that concerns you. That will be done through this newspaper, email blasts, flyers, etc. You can access statistics on Public Safety activity through the monthly report which is posted each month on the website. But please, you should be taking precautions and reporting suspicious people, vehicles and activity without prodding from management.

The only thing that keeps us from taking control of our community and eliminating vandalism, burglary and other community-based crime is 100% participation by all of the members of our community.

If we all kept an eye out on our neighbors house while they are away, reported suspicious activity and/ or persons, and complied with our rules & regulations, then we would virtually eliminate the causes of neighborhood crime.

It can be easy to complain about the restrictions and lack of personal freedoms that living within a community association entails. Instead, we should be focusing on how we can use our association to help improve the quality of our lives. Let’s start focusing on the positives...and working together to preserve community safety. It is a great place to start!

SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

6

From The Top Of The World Manager

By George Gerhart, Restaurant Manager it is always best to make a reservation early.

We also have Tiki Buckets- Summer inspired cocktails you definitely want to experience.

Well, I’m coming up on my first year as the Manager of the Top of the World Restaurant, and in looking back I can see that we have come a long way. Concepts, designs, menus and services have all been stepped up for the benefit of our members.

Yes, there is still room for improvement, and we work towards that every day. But you should be proud of the hidden gem right in your own neighborhood.

I’m constantly being told that you are not aware of the many events, entertainment and fun things going on at the TOP. I would like to touch on this topic for a minute. Every year when we do our budget process, we as managers sit down and discuss what events we would like to have and when. We also try to meet with the various Saw Creek Clubs and also any groups we will be hosting for charities. So, when we plan for the money needed to host these events, it is usually done six months to a year in advance. Therefore, it would seem to reason, that some changes will occur- (and often do). In our effort to get the communication to you in as timely a manner as possible, we also meet every Thursday at a communication meeting where we are six weeks out for flyers, email blasts, Facebook, etc. It is here where we proof and approve all events coming, and also approve the release of flyers for the upcoming events. I know that the managers of the different departments post information on the monthly calendars, digital signs, the marquis, the mailboxes, the MSO, VIP, Fitness center and also the TOP. It is posted on Facebook and also email blasts to the best of our ability. Most of the events are also in the Saw Creek Newspaper- even if the event details cannot be finalized by print; there is mention of all the events happening for that time period. So what I’m trying to say is that there needs to be some sort of responsibility on your part to get involved with what is happening. Short of going door to door, we are pretty advanced as far as communicating to you as a community compared to our neighbors.

SAVE THE DATE!!!! August 15th is Saw Creek’s GOT TALENT SHOW. Call 570-588-6600 to enter and show off your talent!

Finally, I would like to inform everyone that you CANNOT bring alcohol from the outside onto a liquor licensed facility. That means that NO outside alcohol can be carried into the Top pool area. Our lifeguards, bartenders and staff will check all bags, purses, coolers, towels, etc. We will ask you to remove it or ask you to leave if you are in violation. If you must have your own alcohol, we ask that you frequent one of our other pools that are not covered under our license. It is YOUR community and your responsibility to protect the license. It is not worth a large fine over a bottle of beer being smuggled in illegally.

Check out the event listing to see some of the bigger events that you want to attend. Remember,

Have a great summer, come up to the Top, and enjoy the events we have planned.

Our New Summer Dinner Menu is starting July 1st. This will be the third dinner menu change this year. The pub menu will remain the same.

The Top snack bar has 5 new items on it including Personal Pan Pizza, Oreo Churros, Stuffed Pretzel Sticks, Kielbasa, and Corn on the Cob. In addition, we lowered the prices and changed the menu from last year.

TIK I TA PAS PEEL & EAT SHRIMP

½ Pound $5

Full Pound $10

FRESH MOZZARELLA & TOMATO SALAD $8 TIKI SALAD $5 Micro Greens, Diced Tomato, Black Olives in an Orange Citrus Dressing. Garnished with Flatbread Crackers SPINACH SALAD $6 Baby Spinach, Diced Tomato, Black Olives, and Hard Cooked Eggs in an Orange Citrus Dressing. Garnished with Flatbread Crackers SOUTH PACIFIC SALAD $6 Baby Greens, Mandarin Oranges, Diced Tomatoes and Chinese Noodles in an Oriental Dressing FLORENTINE CHICKEN SALAD WRAP $6 Fresh Spinach, Diced Tomatoes, and Our Own Chicken Salad in a Spinach Wrap ANTIPASTI WRAP $6 Fresh Mozzarella, Diced Tomatoes, Marinated Artichoke Hearts, Black Olives, and Roasted Red Peppers in a Garlic Herb Wrap ISLAND WRAP $7 Shrimp Salad, Diced Tomatoes, Baby Greens, and Roasted Red Peppers in a Spinach Wrap BACON AIOLI BLT WRAP $6 Baby Greens, Crispy Chopped Bacon, Diced Tomatoes and Bacon Aioli in a Spinach Wrap CLAMS OR OYSTERS ON A ½ SHELL $1 EACH *Consuming raw or undercooked meats, seafood, shellfish or eggs may increase your risk of food borne illness

TIK I SHOTS

TIK I BUCK ETS $10

Here are some items you may not know about the Top of the World restaurant:

•

LIFE PRESERVER

•

SVEDKA CLEMENTINE BAY BREEZE

•

SVEDKA STRAWBERRY WITH LEMONADE

•

SVEDKA CLEMENTINE, CRANBERRY & PINEAPPLE JUICE

Over the ski season we opened the Pinnacle Chill & Grille- an inside bar and place to chill out from the cold- located in the Creek Room.

•

TROPICAL FUN

•

SVEDKA CLEMENTINE SUNRISE

•

SVEDKA MANGO & PINEAPPLE

•

SVEDKA CLEMENTINE, PINEAPPLE, GRENADINE & ORANGE JUICE

•

OCEAN WAVE

•

SVEDKA ELECTRIC POOL SIDE LEMONADE

•

STOLI BLUEBERRY AND SIERRA MIST

•

BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS

•

SVEDKA STRAWBERRY LEMONADE, BLUE CURACAO & PINEAPPLE JUICE

•

FIREBALL & RUMCHATA

•

SVEDKA SAWCREEK PUNCH

•

SUMMER DESSERT

•

SVEDKA MANGO, ORANGE, PINEAPPLE JUICE & GRENADINE

•

PINNACLE CARAMEL APPLE & BAILEYS

•

SVEDKA FRENCH SUNSET

•

DRUNKEN SUNSCREEN

•

•

PINNACLE COCONUT AND PINEAPPLE

SVEDKA STRAWBERRY LEMONADE, PINEAPPLE & RASPBERRY LIQUOR

Since January, we have hosted 27 events at the Top of the World. There are 30 events planned for the second half of this year. How many did you attend?

The tiki bar had a makeover and is also serving a Tiki Tapas menu- which will be open 6 days in July and August (closing Tuesday with the pool). Now you can get lunch without leaving the community.

SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

7

TOP New SU MMER MEN U APPETIZERS

CHICKEN CORDON BLEU NUGGETS $6.95 CHEESESTEAK EGG ROLLS $8.95 Accompanied with a Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce Served with Marinara Sauce FALAFEL CROQUETTES $6.95 Presented with Cucumber Wasabi Sauce CHEF’S SUMMER CREATIONS

All Chef’s Creations come with Choice of Soup or Salad, Starch and Vegetable (excluding pasta Dishes) CARIBBEAN JERK SWORDFISH STEAK finished with Jamaican Relish

$17.95

$12.95

BROCCOLI SCAMPI tossed with penne pasta

GEORGIA PEPPERED CHICKEN smothered with grilled candied peaches

$16.95

STEAK BRUSCHETTA 10 oz Ball Tip Steak Smothered with Tomato Bruschetta

$18.95

BROILED HADDOCK with lemon and butter or Lime Teriyaki Glaze

$17.95

BONE IN PORK CHOP 12 oz pork chop dressed with a Black Bean Redeye Gravy

$16.95

CHICKEN SALTIMBOCCA seared with Prosciutto, Swiss, Spinach and Demi Glaze

$17.95

PORCINI & TRUFFLE RAVIOLI with Garlic Butter Sauce & Parmesan sprinkle

$14.95

CHICKEN PARMESAN traditional Chicken Parmesan with Penne Pasta

$16.95

$15.95

ROTINI ROMESCO Tri Color Spiral Pasta, Spinach, Kalamata Olives, Capers, Garlic & Ground Tomatoes

$13.95

SQUID INK PASTA with Mushroom and Sundried Tomato Alfredo

SUMMER MENU SUMMER SNSNACK ACK MENU SNACKS SN ACKS CANDY CHIPS POPCORN SOFT PRETZEL NACHO CHIPS W/ CHEESE MOZZ STICKS FUNNEL FRIES

$1.25 $1.00 $1.75 $1.75 $2.00 $2.50 $4.25 $4.00

NEW ITEMS

CORN ON THE COB $1.50 STUFFED PRETZEL STICKS $2.95 BOSCO PERSONAL PIZZAS

FRIES FRIES TATER TOTS….

$2.50 $4.00 $6.00

SIDE BUCKET BARREL

FRENCH FRIES… SIDE BUCKET BARREL

ADD GRAVY…..$1.00 ADD CHEESE…$1.00

$2.00 $4.00 $6.00

SLOPPY JOE $3.00 HAMBURGER $3.18 W/ CHEESE $3.50 CHEESE STEAK $6.00 ADD ONIONS/ PEPPERS $0.75 MEATBALL SUB $3.25 CHILI SM $3.00 LG $4.00 CHIPOTLE BLACK BEAN BURGER $5.00 W/ CHEESE $5.50

COMBO YOUR MEAL (WITH FRIES & DRINK)

$6.95*

plus tax

HOT DOG ADD CHEESE ADD ONIONS ADD CHILI

HAM, EGG AND CHEESE

KING CONE CHOCO TACO I/C SANDWICH CHOCOLATE ÉCLAIR

$2.25 $2.25 $2.25 $2.25 STRAWBERRY ÉCLAIR $2.25 CHIPWICH $2.25 RAINBOW POP $2.25 FREEZE POPS $1.00

FOUNTAIN SODA….$2.49 ICED COFFEE………$2.00 CRAFT ARTISEN SODAS….$1.75

FRESH SQUEEZED LEMONADE …………..$2.75 CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

$2.50

FROZEN TRE ATS FROZEN TREATS

BE V ER AGES BEVERAGES

SAW

$0.50 $0.50 $0.75

$1.50

JALAPENO DOG $2.50 CHEESEBURGER DOG $2.50 POLISH KIELBASA $3.50 BREAKFAST TORNADO

POPCORN CHICKEN $3.75

CHEESE $3.50 PEPPERONI $4.00

OREO CHURROS $3.50

FROM GRILLE FROMTHE THE GRIL LE

8

SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

9

SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

10

LETTERS

LET TERS TO THE EDITOR PROTOCOL

Letters to the editor

We are appalled to find out that the community went ahead with the murder of 300 deer. We were told that a recount would take place and then it would be discussed whether or not it was necessary to go ahead. Knowing that a large number of homeowners were opposed to the idea of the slaughter of deer deeply saddens us. We moved to the country to live in nature. Killing deer, installing PPL high towers that cause brain cancer and building a Community Center knocking down more trees is not our idea of communing with nature.

More and more people will start to leave Saw Creek if you continue on this path. You want the community to voice their opinions, but when they do you ignore it.

After living here happily for 10 years we are very distressed at this latest attempt to spend more money on unnecessary items that only take away from nature not enhance it.

Anna Benjamin and Felicia Gironda

Do you have questions about our community? Concerns? Looking for advice? Can you share insights or solutions to some issues that affect you and/or your neighbors?

All SCE residents in good standing may write a “Letter to the Editor.” Letters of 300 words or less, in MS Word format must include name, lot and section number. The lot and section number will be used for verification of member status only and will not be printed.

The Public Information Committee makes every effort to see that facts are printed as available space permits.Your letter may be directed to: Saw Creek Public Information Committee at 5728 Decker Road, Bushkill PA 18324 or emailed to PIC@sawcreek.org

DEADLINE: Last date for submission of

Poolside Comedy Night

letters for the next issue of the Saw Creek News is September 1, 2015.

Saturday, August 1 9:00 pm Brought to you

by Father Paul Productions $15.00 SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

11

SCECA DRAFT STRATEGIC PLAN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 professional management, the appropriate advisory committees, the governing Board and ultimately the Members.

What the strategic plan attempts to do- in the words of Professor Bryson- is to provide a process, “a disciplined effort to produce fundamental decisions and actions�, by defining those items and goals to which the Association should devote serious consideration in order to fulfill its mission, and to set out both the assets the Association can utilize and the challenges it will face as it conducts that consideration. In other words, its objective is to facilitate decisions, not prejudge them.

Having been adopted by the Board of Directors, the Draft Strategic Plan is now being released to the Association Members for their review and comment. After any updates are made to the Draft Strategic Plan based on input from Association Members, the plan will become a working document to guide the Association. Recommended actions will ultimately be expanded and criteria to measure the accomplishment level of the goals will be developed.

It is very important that all members understand that the Strategic Plan is not a collection of decisions already made, nor is it a list of things we must do. Approval of the draft plan does not mean that you agree with everything that is in the plan, nor does it mean that every goal or thing presented in the plan will come to fruition in the exact same manner or form in which it was originally conceived. Approval of the plan means you agree generally speaking, with the overall concepts, direction and outcomes contained in the plan.

It is equally important to know that in implementing the strategic plan, everything and anything contained in the plan must and will be implemented through our normal planning, budgeting, review and approval processes. There will be ample opportunity for further review and comment during the implementation of the plan.

The goal of the Strategic Plan is to provide a roadmap to the future that permits the Association to be more proactive and more efficient. The Strategic Plan will chart the course for Saw Creek reflecting the needs, desires and aspirations of the Saw Creek Property Owners and guests so necessary to the future success of the association.

Communications

Strategic Goal Continue and expand all Communication Channels with the Property Owners at Saw Creek Estates Discussion: Communication in all planned communities is important. Communication in a planned community the size of Saw Creek Estates is critical to the success of the community. Over the years the Association has done a reasonable job of communicating with the Members of the Association. However with the many changes in society, it is time for Saw Creek Estates to take a fresh look at Association Communications.

Recommended Actions: Continue to support a Communications Position to spearhead all communications for Saw Creek Estates Community Association: website, newsletter and related communication responsibilities. This position is tasked with overseeing Communications with Property Owners in order to maximize the use of email and social media to promote events and to assure the accuracy, completeness and professional quality of those communications.

Take steps to maximize email and social media as key promotional tools for the internal and external marketing of Saw Creek Estates.

Consider giving the website and newsletter a new look.

Add a Question and Answer section to the newsletter as a means of providing Association Members with factual information about questions that are being asked and rumors that are being circulated.

Hold Town Meetings to update the Community on key issues two to four times a year.

Host Roundtable meetings with Committee Chairs on a regular basis throughout the year.

Use communications with the Association Members as a means of engaging them in order to promote a vibrant, active Community.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 13 SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

12

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 Community Governance and Management

Strategic Goal Recommended actions that will serve to strengthen the Community Governance System and Management of the Saw Creek Estates Community Association Discussion: In order to continue to be successful as a Planned Community, Saw Creek Estates must have a Board and Advisory Committee System led by competent and caring Volunteer Property Owners and a Management Team up to the challenging task of operating the Community on a day-to-day basis.

Recommend Action: Reach out to the Membership and seek input as to whether Members would be willing to act as a consultant, professional ear, trainer, etc. Request them to define their areas of expertise, amount of time he/she would be available, etc. Develop a database of this information for future reference.

Make Advisory Committees more effective by communicating clearly the responsibilities and mission of each Advisory Committee. Provide all Advisory Committees with easy access to the information they need to accomplish their tasks. Increase the level of communication, interaction and involvement between the Advisory Committees and Board of Directors. View Committees as advisory partners with the Board of Directors.

VOLUNTEERS MAKE A PERSON A L DIFFERENCE! It’s YOUR COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER and GET INVOLVED! Get Involved: JOIN or CONTACT the SCE Committee of your choice!

E-mail: info@sawcreek.org Telephone: 570-588-9329

Develop an Advisory Committee Manual and required training program for Advisory Committee Members.

Establish a Nominating Committee to recruit a new group of Community Volunteers to serve the Association Board and Advisory Committees that is representative of the Saw Creek Estates Community Association Membership.

Develop a Board Manual to guide current and future Directors.

Establish a Board Orientation Program for all Board Members at the start of each new Board year.

Recognizing the significant cost of team member turnover to the Association, establish a long-term management contract/commitment that meets the requirements of the Bylaws in order that the Manager/Management Team and the Saw Creek Community can develop long term plans with additional confidence in the continuity of management for the Community.

Make every effort to educate the various stakeholders in the Community that Committees are to advise the Board. The Board sets policy considering recommendations from the Advisory Committees and the Management Team implements Board Policy.

Explore alternative technical opportunities and guidelines for Board and Advisory Committee Members to attend some meetings other than in person.

Review all Community Documents (Declaration, Bylaws, Rules and Regulations) and develop a plan for updating these important documents.

In order to facilitate meaningful change, the Board of Directors should consider engaging an independent outside consultant to review organizational structure, governance and management practices.

Financial Considerations

Strategic Goal Recommend actions that will serve to continue to strengthen the financial position of Saw Creek Estates without placing financial stress on our Members Discussion: In order to survive and prosper as a Planned Community, Saw Creek Estates must continue to strengthen and stabilize its financial position.

Recommended Action: Consider the creation of a Capital Improvement Fund (CIF) and an annual contribution from the General Operating Fund to the CIF. The Transfer Fee and PPL Contribution are also sources of funding for the CIF. See attached information.

Develop a five year operating and capital budget.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

13

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

27 Pennsylvania Counties Remain in Drought Watch

Search for new ways to generate revenue for the Saw Creek Estates Community Association. As a part of this, consider a plan to permit a very limited number of outside memberships to utilize facilities that have excess capacity. The emphasis in considering this would be placed on increasing revenue opportunities without sacrificing exclusivity or quality.

Lack of precipitation

Consider hiring an independent consultant in order to facilitate decisions on financial planning and investments, staffing, compensation, benefits and related issues.

major factor

Going forward the Strategic Plan should be reviewed on an annual basis prior to budget preparation and should be formally reviewed and updated at a minimum of every three to five years.

Long Range Facilities Planning

Despite the recent precipitation events, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is maintaining a drought watch for 27 counties across Pennsylvania because parts of the state have below-average groundwater and in some areas surface water levels.

“We are still recovering from a very dry fall and below-normal precipitation this winter,” Acting DEP Secretary John Quigley said. “These factors have contributed to low groundwater and surface water levels mostly in the northeast and central portions of the state.”

The 27 counties under the drought watch are Berks, Bradford, Cambria, Carbon, Clinton, Columbia, Indiana, Lackawanna, Lawrence, Luzerne, Lycoming, McKean, Mercer, Monroe, Montour, Northumberland, Pike, Potter, Schuylkill, Snyder, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Tioga, Union, Wayne, Westmoreland, and Wyoming.

The lack of groundwater recharge can cause well-fed water supplies, both private and public, to go dry. All Pennsylvanians are advised to heed this drought watch by conserving their water use and consumption.

•

To reduce water use, residents can:

•

Run water only when absolutely necessary by avoiding running water while brushing teeth or turning on the shower many minutes before use

•

Check for household leaks; a leaking toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water a day

Strategic Goal Monitor Community facilities and improve and expand facilities as needed to accommodate changes in the use, size and demographics of the Membership Discussion: From the creation of Saw Creek Estates, the facilities have been a major factor for attracting new Property Owners. Over the years the programming of these facilities has added an additional component to the “draw”. In order to meet the recreational, social and essential service needs of the Members, the Association needs to continue to focus on improved maintenance of all facilities in the near term and a Long Range Facilities Master Plan. Professional Planners can provide invaluable assistance in developing plans based on the community’s strategic goals.

While the Long Range Facilities Master Plan has quite a number of improvement items listed, there are a number of areas that need significant attention: VIP Center Area- This is the Main Street of Saw Creek Estates and the following are some possible recommendations for that overall area.

Consider acquiring the parcel of land that exists between the VIP Center Property and The Falls Community.

Create a Master Plan for the VIP Center Property and the additional property that includes a new multipurpose, Town Hall Facility located at the other end of the property to replace the current VIP Center.

Considerations for facility are as follows: Spaces that will facilitate a wide range of Community activities, meetings and events.

A Multipurpose Area (6,000-10,000 square feet in size) with easily dividable spaces that can facilitate basketball, volleyball, club meetings, children’s, pre-teen and teen activities as well as the Community meetings of the Association. The multi-purpose area may also be available for rental for private functions such as wedding receptions, family reunions, etc.

Offices and much needed storage for various departments, committees and clubs.

A large outdoor pavilion for Community Events and capable of being flooded for ice skating during the winter months. The pavilion would be available for rental for Private Member Events when not needed for Community Events.

A large game room.

Public Safety headquarters including garages and storage.

An indoor mailroom as a means of eliminating the mailboxes on Decker Road.

Run dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads

Incorporation of the existing pool and tennis facilities.

•

Use a broom, not a hose, to clean driveways, steps, and sidewalks

Improvements to the pond to better facilitate the rental of non-power watercraft and the overall enjoyment by the Property Owners.

•

Wash the car with water from a bucket; if a hose is used, control the flow with an automatic shut off nozzle

An improved area for School Bus pickup and drop off.

•

Completion of the trail around the pond and restoration of the beach area.

Relocation of the playground between the Member Services and the VIP Center.

A catering kitchen in order that food can be brought from the TOW restaurant for events at Town Hall.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

A comprehensive parking plan designed to accommodate all of these uses.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

14

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14

Change the name from VIP Center to something which represents a new beginning for Saw Creek Estates.

continued from page 14

Maintenance Center - The Maintenance Center is key to all other operations in the Community and the following are recommendations for that overall area.

•

Set sprinklers to water the lawn or garden only, do not water the street or sidewalk

•

Use soaker hoses and trickle irrigation systems to reduce the amount of water used by 20 to 50 percent

•

Mulch around shrubs and garden plants to reduce evaporation from the soil and inhibit weeds.

•

Plant native plants that require less care and water than ornamental varieties

•

Cover swimming pools to prevent evaporation

•

Adjust the lawn mower to a higher setting to provide natural ground shade and to promote water retention by the soil

Create a Master Plan for the Maintenance Facilities on Decker Road and at the former Stables area.

Develop plans for an additional building for the indoor storage of maintenance vehicles and equipment and other uses as needed.

Expand the existing building for the better storage of equipment related to the snow-making/grooming, snowplowing and ice control operations.

Develop a plan to improve the fencing and screening of the Maintenance Yard.

Provide adequate covered storage for winter road materials.

Top of the World (TOW) Facility - This is a major amenity area for the Community and the following are recommendations for that overall area.

Once the New Town Hall is completed, the TOW Facility can be reconfigured to only handle the restaurant, skiing, fitness and wellness, tennis and the indoor swimming pool.

All meeting space will be moved to Town Hall. This will free up the Mountain Room for expansion of the Fitness Center or other desired uses.

The basketball hoops will be moved to the Multi-Purpose Room at Town Hall, thus eliminating conflict between the tennis players and basketball players and other who often wish to use the indoor tennis courts.

Search for opportunities to make the building more handicap accessible.

Construct an equipment storage building for ski/maintenance equipment at the bottom of the ski hill.

Position the building in a manner that one side or end can house a covered “stage” that can be utilized for concerts, movies, etc. during the Spring, Summer, Fall months.

Evaluate the option of lighting the ski area as a means of expanding use opportunities for Property Owners.

Study the parking at TOW to determine the parking configuration that provides the maximum amount of parking spaces for the available space.

Mill Pond Facilities- This is a major amenity area for the Community and the following are recommendations for that overall area.

Look at all of the land available to the Association at Mill Pond and create a Master Plan for an improved area for receipt of mail, school bus pickup and dropoff and parking to support the lake, beach, watercraft, pool and court facilities at that location.

Evaluate the potential of expanding the building on the side furthest away from the pond.

Evaluate the potential to convert the Mill Pond Facility into a Pre-Teen/Teen Center for evening and weekend use by that important demographic in the Community.

Evaluate the feasibility of running an internal shuttle between the Mill Pond Facilities and the new Town Hall Facility at key operating times.

Evaluate the natural area below the outflow of Mill Pond as a potential picnic area for use by Property Owners.

Marketing

Strategic Goal Develop a marketing plan based on what attracts New Property Owners to Saw Creek Estate and how New Members can be recruited Discussion: The continued operation, growth and financial stability of the Saw Creek Estates Community is dependent on maintaining a strong real estate market. Attracting young families, in particular, will provide vitality for the Community. Saw Creek Estates primarily draws Property Owners from the

DEP has notified all water suppliers in the affected areas of the need to monitor their supplies, particularly those that rely upon groundwater, and update their drought contingency plans as necessary.

A drought watch declaration is the first and least-severe level of the state’s three drought classifications. It calls for a voluntary five percent reduction in non-essential water use.

Through a cooperative program with the U.S. Geological Survey, DEP helps fund a statewide network of gauges to monitor groundwater levels and stream flows. This network provides the state’s drought coordinator with comprehensive data that is used to determine drought classifications. In addition to precipitation, groundwater and stream flow levels, DEP monitors soil moisture and water supply storage. This data is shared with other state and federal agencies.

DEP also offers water conservation recommendations and water audit procedures for commercial and industrial users, such as food processors, hotels and educational institutions.

These recommendations and additional drought information are available by clicking here or visiting DEP’s website, www.dep. state.pa.us, keyword: drought.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

15

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

Neighborhood Safety Tips For Parents

Northern New Jersey and New York Metropolitan Area. It is important to understand what attracts New Property Owners to Saw Creek Estates, how to inform prospective buyers about the unique benefits of Saw Creek Estates and how to influence them to purchase and participate in the Community. The Saw Creek Estates Community needs to determine its “brand” and strive to continually promote this brand.

Otherwise outside forces will determine the brand.

Unfortunately no neighborhood is completely immune to crime. However, there are steps you can take to help keep your family and your neighborhood safe.

Recommended Action: Create a Membership/Marketing Advisory Committee to study and coordinate the Marketing of Saw Creek Estates.

Utilize the new Communications Position to be the liaison to the Membership/Marketing Advisory Committee and handle the website, newsletter and membership/marketing duties for Saw Creek Estates.

Know where your children are. Have your children tell you or ask permission before leaving the house and give them a time to check in or be home. When possible, have them leave a phone number of where they will be.

Take steps to maximize email and social media as key promotional tools for marketing Saw Creek Estates.

Study the creation of a Referral Program to encourage existing Property Owners to actively promote Saw Creek Estates with their family, friends and colleagues.

Help children learn important phone numbers. Have your children practice reciting their home phone number and address, and your work and cell phone numbers. If they have trouble memorizing these, write them down on a card and have them carry it at all times. Tell your children where you will be and the best way to reach you.

Set limits on where your children can go in your neighborhood. Do you want them crossing busy roads? Are there certain homes in your neighborhood that you don’t want your children to go to?

Get to know your children’s friends. Meet their parents before letting your children to go to their home and keep a list of their phone numbers. If you can’t meet their parents, call and talk to them. Ask what your children might do at their house and if they will be supervised.

Choose a safe house in your neighborhood.

Pick a neighbor’s house where your children can go if they need help. Point out other places they can go for help.

Teach children to settle arguments with words, not fists. Role-play talking out problems, walking away from fist fights, and what to do when confronted with bullies.

Remind them that taunting and teasing can hurt friends and make enemies.

Work together with your neighbors. Watch out for suspicious and unusual behavior in your neighborhood. Get to know your neighbors and their children so you can look out for one another

Encourage action by local and nearby Real Estate Professionals to further promote the purchase of properties at Saw Creek Estates.

Consider establishing an in-house real estate company as a means of better promoting Saw Creek Estates and re-establishing the Saw Creek Estates Brand.

Establish a program for maintaining foreclosed and abandoned homes. Look at legal options to force the financial institutions to take quicker action to get new owners for these homes.

Recreation

Strategic Goal Evaluate the recreation programs that are currently taking place and develop a plan to add/delete programs in order to provide a balanced program for the Property Owners of Saw Creek Estates Discussion: While recreation programs are an important part of the “culture” of Saw Creek Estates, it is important that the programs be worthwhile and meet the needs of Saw Creek Estates residents.

Recommended Action: Evaluate the quality of the recreation programs currently being offered as well as the usage as a means of determining the programs that should be continued.

Look at programs that are being offered in other areas to determine new programs that would be an exciting addition for the residents of Saw Creek Estates.

Put emphasis on developing a minimum of one high quality family oriented event each month during the non-summer season.

Study programs that might be offered for resident groups that are not served by the current recreation program offerings.

Explore options to enhance off-season use of the ski area.

Evaluate the need and possible location for a dog park.

Look at open space areas in the Community where additional passive recreation areas could be developed such restoration of the old bridle trail.

Relationship with Neighboring Communities

Strategic Goal Develop a plan to strengthen the Community’s relationship with other Planned Communities within 10 miles of Saw Creek Estates Discussion: Developing and strengthening the Community’s relationship with neighboring planned communities provides multiple opportunities. A united front when negotiating with the Township provides strength and leverage. Sharing ideas, success stories and failures can reduce work and costs on projects.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

16

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

Communities can also benefit from a security perspective, as many times issues of vandalism and burglary overlap communities. A better relationship with neighboring communities opens the door for promoting the Saw Creek Estates amenities that might be available for use on a very limited basis by the public now or in the future.

Recommended Action: Invite Managers and Board Members from other Planned Communities within 10 miles of Saw Creek Estates to an introductory luncheon. This could expand to regular meetings to share ideas, challenges and solutions and would serve as a means of introducing the Top of the World bar and restaurant to neighboring communities who might not be familiar with them.

Consider a plan to permit a very limited number of outside memberships to utilize the facilities that have excess capacity. The emphasis in considering this would be placed on increasing revenue opportunities without sacrificing exclusivity or quality.

Consider opening the ski area on a very limited basis to some outside memberships.

Develop a plan to better inform a target market within 10 miles of Saw Creek Estates of the amenities that are available on a very limited basis. Include a plan utilizing email and social media.

Restaurant Operation

Strategic Goal Take action to streamline the operation of the private restaurant at Saw Creek Estates and better education the Association Members that the TOW restaurant is an association amenity Discussion: Only a small percentage of Planned Communities have a food and beverage operation. It is one of a number of major features that sets Saw Creek Estates apart from the majority of other Planned Communities in the region and in the nation. The Top of the World Restaurant at Saw Creek Estates is an Association amenity. It is neither a standalone business nor a profit center. Thus, like all of the other amenities at Saw Creek Estates, the operation of the restaurant requires a subsidy as part of the Association’s annual operating budget.

Recommended Action: Create a plan to better educate the association members of the restaurants amenity status versus business status Evaluate the three café (snackbar) operations in the Community and develop a plan for the future operation of this service to the Community or repurpose those facilities.

Consider what improvements, if any, would make the restaurant more efficient, flexible and appealing to new and existing members.

Consider retaining a consultant to do a review of the food and beverage facilities and operations at Saw Creek Strategic Plan Financing

Strategic Goal Saw Creek Estates shouldn’t resist long-range planning in favor of short-term objectives. Instead of developing programs and projects based on its annual budget, the Association must prepare financial plans and multi-year budgets to fund the programs and projects that it’s members need and desire Discussion: If there was ever a good time for sound planning, thoughtful decisions and deliberate actions, it is NOW. Saw Creek is at a very good point in its history - a point not likely to occur again for decades.

Average annual dues increases have been kept well below inflation; Available cash has increased from $3.5M a few years ago, to more than $6M today; Budget surpluses have been achieved regularly over the past 10 years; We have been able to fund numerous capital improvement projects; We have cut expenses, invested wisely and protected the value of your membership; The sluggish economy now appears poised for recovery; CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

17

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

Pet Safety

Real estate market trends are improving; Historically low interest rates and favorable lending terms;

With summer in full swing, many families will be planning a vacation. With the growth of pet-friendly hotels and restaurants, your pets can now join the family trip! Lucky for you, Bamboo (www.bamboopet.com) offers numerous products to provide safe and fun memories during your travels.

Debt-free Association with excellent credit-worthiness; 30-year replacement reserve fund already in place; $2.5M cash due from PPL settlement.

When planning your vacations, if bringing your pet is not an option, remember that keeping them on your property in a shelter isn’t an option either, according to Pennsylvania Animal Cruelty Law--Abandoning any animal or depriving any animal of necessary sustenance, drink, shelter or veterinary care, or access to clean and sanitary shelter which will protect the animal against inclement weather and preserve the animal’s body heat and keep it dry is against the law. Shelters on homeowners property’s, which must fit into the guidelines set forth in the Homeowners Guide, are to be used as temporary shelters during the day and should not be used as housing for pets when you are on vacation or business trips.

Just an added reminder, all dogs within the SCE community must be leashed. According to our Rules and Regulations, in compliance with the PA Leash Law, dogs are not permitted to run free. All stray/unattended dogs and cats reported to SCE Public Safety will be picked up by the proper agency.

We must capitalize on the unique and very favorable conditions we’re in right now. With that in mind, we have provided some hypothetical financial models for a long-range plan. As you consider the examples which follow, keep in mind that these models DO NOT represent the actual or anticipated costs of anything contained in the Draft Strategic Plan. They are only meant to demonstrate how various project spending levels might affect annual assessments.

The actual cost will be decided by you, based on your needs and desires for the future and how much you are willing to invest in that future. Saw Creek Estates has a tremendous amount of leverage working in its favor right now.

Sample Financial Models

The chart below shows a rage of financing options and will give you an idea of what the annual cost per member might be for total project costs ranging from $2 to $5 million.

The following assumptions are used throughout.

Billable Properties = 2,546 (2,927 x 87% collection rate) Minimum Cash Down Payment = $1,000,000 Term of Loan = 15 or 20 years Interest Rate Range = 5% to 8% Fixed APR Annual Cost Per Member

Total Project Cost

15 Yr. Term @

20 Yr. Term @

5% APR

8% APR

5% APR

8% APR

$2 Million

$37 = 10¢ a day

$45 = 12¢ a day

$31 = 09¢ a day

$39 = 11¢ a day

$3 Million

$75 = 20¢ a day

$90 = 25¢ a day

$62 = 17¢ a day

$79 = 22¢ a day

$5 Million

$149 = 41¢ a day

$180 = 49¢ a day

$124 = 34¢ a day $158 = 43¢ a day

It’s not surprising that talk of multi-million dollar projects might give rise to concern by many of our members.

When we think about it from an individual point of view, the costs can seem quite excessive. But when we consider that the costs are being shared by all members, we can see that it is actually possible to fund $2 million in improvements for less than 10¢ a day; and as much as $5 million for less than 50¢ per day.

Finally, please remember that these costs are not directly related to anything contained in the Draft Strategic Plan. They are only meant to show how various project spending levels might affect annual assessments.

The final outcome and cost of our Strategic Plan goals is entirely up to you!

SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

18

SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

19

COMMITTEES

SUPPORT O U R A DV ERTISERS

SHOP LOCA L!

Saw Creek Men’s Club

By Peter Derrenbacher, Club President Club members had a great time at Ehrhardt’s on April 21st for the dinner/show “Nunsence”. Spring cleanup was on May 2nd and many of our members were there to help clean the community roads.

As a result of the community generosity at our gates this year our club raised over $2,500 and again presented $1,000 scholarships to three Saw Creek individuals who are graduating East Stroudsburg (North) and attending college. Emily Becker, Samual Velez and Taylor Runo were presented checks on June 5th. Many of us are now getting ready for the community picnic which will be held on June 20th.

The Men’s club will be providing free hamburgers, hot dogs, salads, beverages from noon until 2 PM at the pavilion. Our annual golf outing will be at Fernwood on July 13th. Both members and nonmembers are more than welcome to play. Our club meets the first Thursday of every month at 6 PM in the Mountain Room, followed by light food and beverages at the TOW. Why not show up at one of these meetings to check us out? For more information, please contact Peter Derrenbacher, 570-588-7522.

This is the 14th year the Men’s Club will be hosting a golf tournament. It will be held at the Fernwood Golf Course. Proceeds from this event are used to support the civic activities of our club including, the annual community picnic, free ski lessons, Lehman township annual fishing derby, trunk or treat, scholarships and local charities.

You can participate in a number of ways: -Play golf - You don’t need to be a Men’s club member! $90 includes a continental breakfast, green fees, cart, buffet lunch and prizes. Golf only would be $60. It will be held at the Fernwood Golf Course, Monday, July 13th, 8 AM registration and continental breakfast with a 9 AM shotgun start. A steak and chicken barbeque luncheon will follow.

-Become a Tee box sponsor. Individual $50; Businesses $100. You will have your name posted on boards placed on various holes on the course for golfers to see and you will receive recognition in the SCE news as a contributor.

-Donate a prize, gift certificate, or cash donation.

Please contact our club Treasurer, Robert Detlefs, 203 St Andrews Drive, Bushkill, PA 18324 or call Peter Derrenbacher, Club President, 570-588-7522.

SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

20

Building & Architectural Committee

Treasurer's Report

As of May 31, 2015

By David Stagg, Chairman One of the projects this year the Building and Architectural Committee will be monitoring is the renovation to the two restrooms at the TOW Indoor Pool area. The Bid for this project has gone out with all of our specifications and material requirements. The planned start date is for midSeptember after the busy summer season so that our members will not be greatly inconvenienced.

The 2015 Road and Storm Water Repair project is underway. The Committee along with Management has identified the areas that were deemed in need of repair and paving. There are some parking lots that have also been identified as needing attention to. The bidding process for this project is under way. The bids are due back by the third week in June.

The Committee is looking forward to a nice warm summer that we can enjoy all the amenities this Community has to offer.

Long Term Rentals Wanted!

570.421.8950 570.588.3440 570.839.4174 570.296.6946 www.BHGwilkins.com

Stroudsburg Bushkill Mt. Pocono Milford

SAW

Operating Account

Total Operating Income received as of May 31, 2015 Dues Income: $3,398,363.00 Other Income: $340,348.00 Collection rate: 78.41%

Variation from prior yr: +3.41

Total Operating Expense as of May 31, 2015 Prior year dues collected:

$ 3,738,711.00

$ 1,757,471.00

$48,384.00 - 36% of 2015 anticipated amount

Operating Cash on Hand: Checking/Current Account: M/L Investments:

$ 3,046,156.00

$ 432,406.00 $ 2,613,750.00

Capital Account Total Capital Income received as of May 31, 2015 Total Capital expense as of May 31, 2015

$

Capital Reserve Cash on Hand: Checking/Current Account: M/L Investments:

$ 3,009,134.00

$ 5,629,452.00 $ 420,312.00 $ 176,555.00

Respectfully Submitted, John Mathew, Treasurer

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

248,011.00 $202,365.00

$ 388,237.00 $ 2,620,897.00

Total amount outstanding to the Association: Total write off for the year: Total Charges and Fees added as of May 31, 2015:

2, 3 & 4 BEDROOM UNFURNISHED UNITS NEEDED NOW!

✔ We get top rental rates ✔ Pre-qualified tenants • Credit Check • Landlord varification • Employer varification • Minimum 1 year ✔ Management services available

$

Treasurer’s as Report of May 31, 2015

2015

PAGE

21

SHOLARSHIPS On June 5, 2015 three students and SCE residents from East Stroudsburg High School North were awarded Scholarships from the Saw Creek Men’s and Women’s Club. Congratulations to Men’s Club Scholarship recipients Emily Becker and Samual Velez and the Delores Danielson Memorial Scholarship recipients Emily Becker and Taylor Runo.

EMILY BECK ER I have been blessed to have had a handful of phenomenal teachers educate me so far in my life. What I have realized throughout the years is that certain qualities can be found in each and every one of the teachers from whom I have learned the most, both inside and outside of the classroom. I have found that the two most important characteristics an effective teacher can have are passion and organization; with these two qualities, a teacher can sufficiently educate any kind of student in any grade level.

It’s an End of the Season Celebration!!!

Enjoy Roasted Pig BakedBeans Corn on the Cob Coleslaw 3 Bean Salad Potato Salad Macaroni Salad Rolls with Butter and cookies!

It is absolutely imperative that a teacher enters his or her classroom with zeal, positivity, and excitement; without this kind of passionate atmosphere, learning is disrupted immensely, and there really is no point in the teacher being there. Students, especially young students, need to be involved in order to learn, and no student wants to be in a classroom with a teacher that hates his or her job. Feigned passion will not suffice, either; students are intuitive human beings that can sense when their teachers are not putting forth their whole hearts. In the same essence, a teacher with true passion will be able to connect with his or her students on a deep, personal level and effectively educate them.

Organization is an essential characteristic of an effective teacher; without structure and order, not only do teachers’ lessons become misconstrued by students, but they also lose their meaning. Even a passionate teacher lacks effectiveness without the element of organization. Teachers need to take the time out of their lives to construct elaborate lesson plans for their students and then implement these plans in a manner best fit for their classes. Students benefit from order and routine, familiar tasks enable students to focus on the task at hand with minimum distractions. Thus, if a teacher possesses qualities such as zealous passion and impeccable organization, he or she is an effective teacher.

TAY LOR RU NO

Saturday August 29th 1-4PM $16.95 Plus tax and Gratuity

Education has been a major part of my life, it has shaped me into the well educated student I am today. Without education I would not be the individual I am today. Education has greatly impacted my life by helping me develop different ways to adapt to new situations, learn in different ways, and gave me the knowledge I have today. ln future jobs, one can be put into an unfamiliar situation and you have no control over it.

Education has taught me to adapt and go with the flow of things.

You cannot always be in control, but it is also beneficial if your boss witnesses that you can be put into any occurrence and be fine, Some people panic, whereas I will have an advantage of being calm and collective.

Education has also helped me learn in different ways. People can learn from visual aspects, hands on projects, or auditory. Everyone has a preference but being well educated, you developed how to learn in many different ways. People who are not well educated would have a difficulty learning a way he or she is uncomfortable with.

Education prepared you to take in information however it is presented. Lastly, education has given me the information I have today. ln future situations at jobs, one has to be able to have a wide vast of knowledge so he or she can partake in any conversation or relate to someone the business is trying to join with. lf you are uneducated, then it would be difficult for you to be a part of an intellectual conversation in a professional manner.

Education is privilege, not a right, and it has been a major part of my life, and will continue to be a major part of my life as I take this journey into college pursuing a career.

SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

22

SA M V ELEZ As a current resident and employee of Saw Creek Estates, I can attest to the positive effect this community has had on me recreationally and educationally. Because I have been residing here for as long as I can remember, many of the fond memories I have in my life have taken place through an event the community sponsored, or a simple 10th birthday party at Mill Pond Pool. Once the first semester of college begins, the time I spend in Saw Creek will be less than ever before.

It would bring me great pleasure to return to this community many years from now and seeing the younger generations benefit from the community’s events just as much I have through my own childhood.

Events that bring people together like Community Day or events that help kindle curiosity like the Snake and Animal Farm have always received plenty of participation from residents. Saw Creek has been more than successful with hosting events year round for its residents and guests. In conjunction with these events, if the community can maintain the conditions of the outdoor facilities such as the pools, the basketball courts, and the softball field, it will surely enhance the experiences and participation at these events.

Even though Saw Creek creates so many events for its homeowners, there is one event that has always come to mind. In order to promote even more physical fitness and unity amongst the homeowners, I believe the community should host an annual 5k run/race to help a local organization like the Bushkill Outreach or American Red Cross.

The event could start at any of the amenities and end at Top of the World where the runners can end their feat, and be awarded refreshments.

The event can be run by anyone who is either a homeowner of Saw Creek or someone who lives outside the community.

Sports have played an integral part in who I am and I believe that they have changed me for the better. I still have many friendships from my young days as a soccer player for the Bushkill Youth Association and I was reminded of these days when I saw that there was a summer-long sports camp through the community. Not only will this program continue to educate the children of Saw Creek about fitness and athletics, but also forge lasting friendships within the community.

If Saw Creek maintains the organization and the efficacious planning of the community and its events, there is no doubt that it will cease to promote recreation, opportunities, and education.

to a dv ertise email nancy at nancy@ nikijones.com

CAREER in Real Estate... ✔ One-on-one classes ✔ Webinars ✔ Seminars ✔ Never a charge or fee ✔ Learn to do rentals & sales ✔ Be your own boss Now is the time! Take courses on-line – ask us how.

Ask for our FREE Recruit Packet.

Learn more.

SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

23

Contact Dennis Mooney VP Company Recruiter dmooney@wilkins1.com www.BHGwilkins.com Positions open all offices

SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

24

SCE NEWS DID YOU KNOW????

•

that the 2015 SCE electronic voting closes at 4:30 PM on July 10, 2015?

•

that Saw Creek is a wonderful and amenity filled community that offers two indoor pools; four outdoor pools; indoor/outdoor tennis courts; basketball courts; two lakes; outdoor walking trail; a fitness center; softball field; outdoor volleyball; on-site ski slopes our own Top of the World Restaurant and located within 5 miles of horseback riding, alpine skiing, a flea market, Shawnee Resort and 20 miles from outlet shopping?

•

that a “Member in Good Standing” shall have only one (1) vote for each owned lot and that a lot with multiple owners shall only be allowed one (1) vote?

•

the Annual Homeowners’ Meeting will be held Saturday, July 18th at the TOW Complex?

•

Shawnee Riverfest IV festival will be held Sunday July 12, 2015? Shawnee Riverfest is a family fun event aimed at bringing the community together for kid friendly games, free concert, CD sales, auction items, food vendors and more. Call 570-424-4000 for more information.

•

that lifeguards are completely in charge of all swimming areas and their instructions must be obeyed?

•

that trail bikes, ATV’s, mini-bikes, go carts and similar vehicles are not permitted to be operated on Saw Creek Estate’s Community roadways? Violation of this Rule & Regulation will be a $100.00 fine for the first offense and a $250.00 fine for the second offense with impound of vehicle(s).

•

that Lehman Township offers free summer concerts at Lehman Community Park? For more information and an update to calendar of events visit www.lehmantownship.com

•

that the exterior of all structures located on your lot, which is visible from any point of any adjacent lot, shall be maintained in good repair and appearance by the property owner?

•

the Top of the World Restaurant offers affordable menu and food options for families? Call 570-5886600 for more information and reservations.

•

the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and local county veterans’ offices provide assistance to Pennsylvania veterans and their widows and children in receiving benefits for which they are eligible? Call 215-381-3040 for further information.

•

socializing with or otherwise distracting a lifeguard while he or she is on duty, is prohibited?

SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

HOMEOWNER’S CLASSIFIED COLUMN This free column is available to homeowners to advertise “for sale” or “give-away” household items, pets for adoption, babysitting services, etc.

Ads must be 30 words or less and include homeowner name, lot/section and contact phone number or e-mail address. Only the contact name and telephone number or e-mail address will be printed in the paper.

Mail to SCE: 5728 Decker Road Attention Public Information Committee or email information to PIC@sawcreek.org.

For Sale Entire Contents of Woodworking shop.

Too many items to list. All in good to new condition and All prices are negotiable.

Please call Jerry at 570-431-4237

PAGE

25

Writers, Photographers Wanted We are always looking for interesting stories, drawings, poems and/or photographs for The Saw Creek News. If you want to submit anything, or if you have an idea for a regular column, please contact PIC at pic@sawcreek.org.

FirstEnergy’s (Met-Ed) Appliance Recycling Program Recycle your old refrigerator or freezer and receive a check for $50. Chances are that old refrigerator or freezer in your basement or garage is running up your utility bill by an average of $150 a year.

Recycle it, reduce your energy use and keep harmful materials out of landfills. We’ll pick it up and you’ll pick up $50.

Old refrigerators and freezers can use up to four times more electricity than new models.

FirstEnergy’s Pennsylvania utilities have contracted with JACO Environmental to provide appliance recycling services to their Pennsylvania residential and small commercial customers. JACO will perform all pick up and recycling activities for this program.

To schedule an appliance pickup with JACO, call 877-270-3521 or schedule online.

You will receive $50 for recycling a working refrigerator or freezer, and $25 for a working window air conditioner.

Checks will be mailed by JACO about six weeks after pickup. See below for program requirements.

Details

Home pick-up at no extra cost $50 reward for refrigerators and freezers $25 reward for room air conditioners All units responsibly recycled - including proper handling of harmful materials and recycling of 95% of fridge materials Eligibility

Offer available to First Energy (Met-Ed) residential and small commercial customers Refrigerators and freezers must be between 10 cf-30 cf - this is a typical kitchen fridge size (see “correct size” calculator for instructions on how to measure and to check your unit) Room air conditioners can only be collected with a refrigerator or freezer Limit of 2 refrigerators or freezers and 2 room air conditioners per customer per year Units must work and should be plugged in prior to collection so crew can confirm this Refrigerators and freezers must be cleaned out and defrosted and water lines disconnected Units must be accessible with a clear and safe path for removal The removal team will not risk injury or modify your home such as removing doors or railings to remove a unit Web-site for above: http://www.jacoinc.net/ EnergySave/PA/met_ed.html

SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

26

Keeping Your Cool in a Neighborly Way Summer’s here and many part-time and seasonal residents are returning for another great summer of fun and relaxation. With many of our neighbors in relatively close proximity to each other and with little opportunity to get to know seasonal members and guests, it’s not surprising that one family’s summer fun can sometimes lead to another’s aggravation. Have you ever noticed that things that bother you slightly (your dog barking, your screaming kids, your loud car muffler) can cause your neighbors to go ballistic, much in the same way that their behavior might sometimes affect you? The key to minimizing conflict with your neighbor is to take responsibility for being a good neighbor. What does being a good neighbor look like? It doesn’t mean that you have to be best friends or spend time together. Simple consideration and appropriate communication with your neighbor is all that is necessary.

Please be considerate of your neighbors and follow a few simple rules to make everyone’s summer season the most rewarding it can be. The following tips are some helpful suggestions for achieving a peaceful coexistence with your neighbors: Meet your neighbor. Introduce yourself at the mailbox, when taking a walk, or when you see the moving boxes arrive. Learning your neighbors’ names and regularly offering a cordial “good morning” or “hello” can be the start of a positive relationship. Don’t worry about whether or not they reciprocate. The important thing is that you are making an effort. Don’t wait until you have a problem to meet your neighbor.

usually go better than you think. Neighbors are often not aware that their actions are negatively affecting others. Usually, people are willing to make changes if you approach them respectfully.

Don’t wait to talk about things that bother you. If your neighbor does something that bothers you, let them know. By communicating early and calmly, you take a big step forward toward resolving the problem.

Don’t wait until a minor irritation becomes a major issue and makes it difficult to discuss.

Separate the person from the problem. Conflict can happen whenever two or more people interact with one another. It occurs because we are all unique individuals with different perspectives, values, and needs. Focusing on the issue, not the person will allow you to take care of the problem while maintaining or improving your relationship with your neighbor.

Be respectful. Talk directly with the neighbor involved with the problem. Don’t gossip or spread rumors with other neighbors. Gossip damages relationships and can hurt other people. Problem solving is only possible when we treat each other with respect.

Be calm. If a neighbor approaches you accusingly about a difficulty, listen carefully and thank them for telling you how they feel. You don’t have to agree or justify your behavior. If you can listen and not react defensively, then their anger will subside, the lines of communication will remain open, and there is a good chance of working things out.

Listen well. When you discuss a problem, try to understand how your neighbor feels about an issue and why. Understanding is not the same as agreeing, but will increase the likelihood of a solution that works for you both. Summarize what you hear and ask questions to clarify your understanding of their view of the problem.

If things get heated, take a break. If you need to, take a break to calm down and think about what you and your neighbor have discussed. Arrange a time to finish the conversation later, and then do so. It’s hard to problem solve when you are having a heated discussion.

Constructive communication can resolve conflict, and talking things over directly is the best way to handle problems and avoid community enforcement or the courts.

Keep your neighbors informed. Contact your neighbors before you do something that might affect them. Informing your neighbors ahead of time allows them to make plans or tell you how your project will affect them. Getting their input lets you act in a way that avoids problems.

Observe the Golden Rule. Treat your neighbors the way they would like to be treated. Set an example by being considerate about noise from vehicles, tools, stereos, group activities and pets.

Be aware of differences. Differences in age, ethnic background, years in the neighborhood, etc. can lead to conflicting expectations or misunderstandings unless you make an effort to communicate and understand each other.

Consider your neighbors’ view. How does your compost pile, dog run, or son’s car parts look from your neighbors’ backyard or windows? Keep areas that are in others’ view reasonably neat and presentable.

Be appreciative. If your neighbor does something you like, tell them! They will be pleased that you noticed the yard work or the new paint job. It will be easier to talk later when they do something that you don’t like.

When there is a Problem:

Don’t assume that discussing it will aggravate your neighbor. Your neighbors can’t help resolve a problem they don’t know exists. Focus on: Learning rather than delivering a message Understanding rather than blaming Joint problem solving rather than who is at fault If you use these approaches, the conversation will SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

27

DEP Warns of State-Wide Lyme Disease Risks

PA Dog Licensing

A study found deer ticks in all 67 Pennsylvania counties, prompting state officials to caution residents about the risk of Lyme disease.

It’s impossible to resist taking advantage of the warm weather in Pennsylvania and spend time walking around the many local parks or hiking along the winding trails. The state’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) urges residents to take extra care with their clothing and bug spray to avoid an increased risk of Lyme disease.

For the first time, blacklegged (deer) ticks have now been observed in all 67 counties of Pennsylvania, according to researchers at the DEP. The blacklegged tick is the primary carrier of Lyme disease, an infectious disease caused by the bite of an infected tick that can cause fever, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, and joint pain, according to the DEP.

Dog Laws?

All dogs three months of age or older must be licensed. Licenses are issued by the County Treasurer of either Pike or Monroe County.

All dogs must be under control and must not be allowed to run at large. Dogs are personal property, and owners are responsible for damages caused by their dog.

“DEP’s Vector Management team’s confirmation of the high risk of Lyme disease in every county of the Commonwealth verifies that every Pennsylvanian, from Philadelphia to Erie, must take precautions to prevent the spread of Lyme disease,” said acting DEP Secretary John Quigley.

It is illegal to mistreat or abuse any animal.

Violations should be reported to a local humane organization or the PA State Police.

The department’s research found the blacklegged tick and the causative agent of Lyme disease present in all 67 counties of Pennsylvania. The research also found that in recent years the blacklegged tick has become imbedded in western Pennsylvania, though the prevalence rate of Lyme disease still remains relatively lower than the rest of the state.

“The first line of defense against Lyme disease and any other tick-borne illnesses is avoiding tick infested areas. We know, however, that as the weather becomes nicer many residents spend more time outdoors.

We suggest that people wear protective clothing, use insect repellent (i.e. DEET), and do a full body check after spending time outdoors,” said acting Physician General Dr. Rachel Levine.

The study also confirmed the presence of two other human pathogen diseases, Babesiosis and Anaplasmosis, in Pennsylvania blacklegged ticks. The prevalence rates of these two diseases were much lower than Lyme disease.

It is illegal to abandon or attempt to abandon any dog.

No dog under eight weeks of age may be sold, traded, bartered or transferred.

You may not place any poison or harmful substance in any place where dogs may easily eat it, whether it is your own property or elsewhere.

Pennsylvania has reported the most cases of Lyme disease in the nation for the past five years. All Pennsylvanians are encouraged to take precautions to prevent the spread of tick-borne illnesses.

“Parents should check their children for ticks. Showering within two hours of outdoor exposure may also help prevent transmission. If an individual has been bitten by a tick, we recommend that they remove the tick carefully with a set of fine tipped tweezers. If an individual develops signs and symptoms of Lyme disease after a tick bite, we urge them to seek medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment of Lyme disease may prevent late-stage complications,” Dr. Levine said.

SOURCE: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection; Pennsylvania Department of Health

What are Pennsylvania’s

Owners of dogs and cats 3 months of age or older are required to have a current rabies vaccination.

It is illegal to interfere with an officer or employee of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture engaged in enforcement of dog laws.

Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement is charged with the following responsibilities: •

Enforcing licensing and control of dogs

•

Enforcing kennel licensing and inspections

•

Investigating dog bites

•

Seizing and detaining any dog seen running at large

•

Reimbursing individuals for dog-caused damage to livestock, poultry and domestic game birds

•

Establishing and enforcing the quarantine of dogs in certain areas when required

•

Funding counties and humane organizations to establish dog control facilities

•

Providing educational services concerning dog ownership in Pennsylvania

•

Enforcing the Pennsylvania Rabies Law

For further information contact: Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement at (717) 787-3062 or email questions to ra-doglaw@state.pa.us.

SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

28

SCE EVENTS OUT & ABOUT EVENTS OUTSIDE OF OUR GATES July 1-31st PEEC Nature Adventure Camp – PEEC 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319

July 11th – 12th Wayne Co Antiques Show – Wayne Highlands Middle School, 482 Grove St, Honesdale – 253.2635

July 4th – 25th Farmers Market – Courthouse Square – Stroudsburg www.monroefarmersmarkt.com

July 12th Shawnee Riverfest – Shawnee In 100 Sawnee Inn Dr, Shawnee – 424.4000 Little Eco Explorers – Beavers – PEEC 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828.2319 Sunday for Singles – PEEC – 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828.2319 Bog Walk – Tannersville Bog – 552 Cherry Lane Rd, E Stroudsburg – 629.3061

July 5th – 26th Farmer’s Market – The Grotto, 508 Hartford St, Milford – 973.293.8383 Slushy Sundays – Mt View Vineyard Winery 1220 Neola Rd, Stroudsburg – 619.0053 July 7th – 28th Community Concert Series – Shawnee Inn 100 Shawnee In Dr, Shawnee on Delaware 800.742-9633 Farmers Market - Shawnee Inn 100 Shawnee In Dr, Shawnee on Delaware 800.742-9633 July 11th Frog Frolic – PEEC – 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828.2319 Moonlit Drumming – PEEC – 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828.2319 Music in the alley – Quiet Valley, 347 Quiet Valley Rd, Stroudsburg – 992.6161

July 18th Ecozone Discovery Room – PEEC 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828.2319 Nature at Night – PEEC – 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828.2319 Classic Car Show – Pocono Palace Rt 209, Marshalls Creek – 839-5199 Kayak Paddle – PEEC, 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828.2319

By Donna Dillon

W EEK LY POOL CLOSINGS FOR SU MMER MONTHS In 2013, the Board of Directors approved a plan to rotate weekly closings for each of the outdoor pools to help minimize over usage, cleanliness and wear & tear. For 2015, the same rotation will be used for these closings.

Mill Pond Outdoor Pool Closed on Mondays Top of the World Outdoor Pool Closed on Tuesdays VIP Pool Closed on Wednesdays Mountainside Pool Closed on Thursdays

July 18th – 19th Audubon Art & Craft Festival – Wallenpaupack HS – 2552 Rt 6, Hauley – 484.256.4485 Poconos’ Wurst Festival - Shawnee Mt Ski 401 Hollow Rd, Shawnee – 421.7231

July 19th Canoe Paddle – PEEC – 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828.2319 July 24th-26th PA Blues Festival – Split Rock Resort 100 Moseywood Rd, Lake Harmony – 800.255.7625 July 25th Wild Edibles Walk – PEEC – 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828.2319 Earthen Healing – PEEC – 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828.2319 July 26th Butterfly Walk – PEEC – 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828.2319 Ecozone Discovery Room – PEEC – 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828.2319 Kayak Paddle - PEEC, 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828.2319 July 31st-Aug 2nd Pennsylvania 400 - Pocono Raceway- Long Pond Rd, Long Pond – 800.RACEWAY Women’s Weekend – PEEC – 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828.2319 Aug 1st-2nd Annual Festival of Wood – Grey Towers 151 Grey Towers Dr, Milford – 296.9630

SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

29

E ast Strou dsburg A rea School District School Board Meetings July 20, 2015 -- 7:00 PM in the Carl T. Secor Administration Center Board Room

Aug 1st – 29th Farmers Market – Courthouse Square, Stroudsburg www.monroefarmersmarket.com Aug 1st – 30th Waterfall Walk – Delaware Water Gap National Park Dingmans Falls Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 426.2418 Aug 2nd Kayak Paddle - PEEC, 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828.2319 Frog Frenzy - PEEC, 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828.2319

Aug 9th Pocono Chicken Wing Off – Shawnee Mt, 401 Hollow Rd, E Stroudsburg – 421.7231 Canoe Paddle - PEEC , 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319 Ecozone - PEEC , 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319

Aug 2nd – 30th Farmers Market – The Grotto, 508 Hartford ST, Milford – 973-293.83836 Slushy Sundays – Mt View Vineyards 1220 Neola Rd, Stroudsburg – 619.0053

August 17, 2015 -- 7:00 PM in the Carl T. Secor Administration Center Board Room September 21, 2015 -- 7:00 PM in the Carl T. Secor Administration Center Board Room

Aug 12th Perseid Meteor Shower – Delaware Water Gap National Rec Area – Milford Beach – 828.2319

Aug 3rd – 21st Nature Adventure Camp – 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828.2319

October 19, 2015 -- 7:00 PM in the Carl T. Secor Administration Center Board Room

Aug 15th Shawnee Mt Mud Run - Shawnee Mt, 401 Hollow Rd, E Stroudsburg – 421.7231 Kayak Paddle - PEEC , 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319 Dragon Fly Walk - PEEC , 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319 Starlit Drumming - PEEC , 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319

Aug 4th – 25th Community Concert Series Shawnee Inn – 100 Shawnee Inn Dr, Shawnee on Delaware Shawneeinn.com/calendar-of-events Farmers Market - Shawnee Inn 100 Shawnee Inn Dr, Shawnee on Delaware – 424.1405

November 16, 2015 -- 7:00 PM in the Carl T. Secor Administration Center Board Room December 7, 2015 -- 5:30 PM in the Carl T. Secor Administration Center Board Room

Aug 5-26th Wednesday Bog Walks – Tannersville Bog, 552 Cherry Lane Rd, E Stroudsburg – 629-3061

December 21, 2015 -- 7:00 PM in the Carl T. Secor Administration Center Board Room

Aug7-15th Wayne County Fair – Route 191 N, Honesdale - 253-5486

Present this ad and get $2 off each ticket purchased!

CHAMPIONSHIP

RODEO

Presented by Malibu dude ranch

SATURDAY NIGHTS

Follow 7th Street to Foster Hill Rd in Milford, follow to Marlibu Ranch

June 27th Thru Labor Day at 7:00 PM GATES OPEN AT 5:30—RAIN OR SHINE

ADULTS $18 KIDS 5-12 $12 [4 and under FREE]

SAW

CREEK

NEWS

11

SUMMER

Aug 16th Challenge Pocono Mts – Tamiment Resort to Shawnee Inn – 100 River Rd, Shawnee on Delaware www.challenge-familyusa.com/challenge-poconomountains Frog Frenzy - PEEC , 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319 Bog Walk – Tannersville Bog – 522 Cherry Lane Rd, E Stroudsburg – 629-3061 Singles Nature Hike - PEEC , 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319 Aug 22nd Canoe Paddle - PEEC , 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319 Aug 22nd-23rd Pocono State Craft Festival – Quiet Valley 347 Quiet Valley Rd, Stroudsburg – 992-6161 ABC Supply 500 – Pocono Raceway 500 Long Pond Rd, Long Pond 1.800.RACEWAY Aug 23rd Ecozone - PEEC , 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319 Aug 23rd – 29th West End Fair – 570 Fairgrounds Rd, Gilbert – 610.681.4293 Aug 25th Hike to Center of Bog – Tannersville Bog, 552 Cherry Lane Rd, E Stroudsburg – 629-3061

1.800.8MALIBU • WWW.MalibuDudeRanch.com 351 Foster Hill Road • Milford, PA 18337

Aug 8th Annual Heritage Craft Day – Quiet Valley, 347 Quiet Valley Rd, Stroudsburg – 992.6161 Day Hike – PEEC , 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319 Ferns & Lycophytes - PEEC , 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319 Bog Walk - Tannersville Bog, 552 Cherry Lane Rd, E Stroudsburg – 629-3061

2015

Aug 28th – 29th Bioblitz - PEEC , 538 Emery Rd, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319

PAGE

30

Aug 28th-30th Wally Lake Fest – Rt 6, Hawley – 226.2141

Sept 6th – 27th Sunday Milford Farmers Market The Grotto, 508 Hartford St, Milford 293.8383

Aug 28th – Sept 7th Greene Dreher Sterling Air – Fairgrounds, Rte 191, Newfoundland – 676-4047

Sept 7th Waterfall Walk Delaware Water Gap National Rec Area, Dingmans Falls Visitors Area – 426.2418

Aug 29th Warrior Dash – Pocono Raceway, 500 Long Pond Rd, Long Pond – 312.980.9983 Summer Lecture Series – Delaware Water Gap National Rec Area, Bushkill Meeting Center – 426.2418

Sept 4th-6th Waterfall Walk – Delaware Water Gap National Rec Area, Dingmans Falls Visitors Area – 426.2418

Sept 5th – 26th Saturday Monroe Farmers Market Courthouse Square, Stroudsburg www.monroefarmersmarket.com

JULY

Sept 12th Arts & Crafts Fair – Bingham Park, Hawley – 226.3191 Bog Walk – Tannersville Bog, 8050 Running Valley Rd, Stroudsburg – 629.3061

Sept 2nd-9th Wednesday Bog Walk – Tannersville Bog , 552 Cherry Lane Rd, E Stroudsburg – 629.3061

Sept 5th-6th Pocono Garlic Festival - Shawnee Mt, 401 Hollow Rd, E Stroudsburg – 421.7231

W hat you are NOT going to want to miss...

Sept 11th – 13th COTA Jazz & Arts Festival Downtown Delaware Water Gap Delaware Water Gap – 424.2210

Sept 1st Shawnee Farmers Market – Shawnee Inn, 100 Shawnee Inn Dr, Shawnee on Delaware 424.1405

Sept 5th Stroudfest & Bicentennial Bash Courthouse Square & Main St, Stroudsburg – 420.2808

H appenings at SAW CREEK & the Top!

Sept 12th-19th Summer Tour Season – Quiet Valley, 347 Quiet Valley Rd, Stroudsburg – 9952.6161 Sept 19th – 20th Rodeo & Chili Cook Off - Shawnee Mt, 401 Hollow Rd, E Stroudsburg – 421.7231

1 - Aug. 14 - SCE Youth Camp - Call Recreation for registration details

•

3, 10, 17, 24, 31 - KARAOKE FRIDAYS at the Top

•

4 - TOW BBQ - Top of the World Pool 1-6pm

•

11 - Summer Seafood Soiree - Top of the World Pool/Tiki Bar. Summer Tennis Classic - Outdoor Tennis Courts

•

18 - Blues, Brews & BBQ at the Top 6-9pm

•

26 - Movie Night: Lego Movie TOW Creek Room 7pm

Sept 20th Sunday Bog Walk – Tannersville Bog, 552 Cherry Lane Rd, E Stroudsburg – 629.3061

august

Sept 27th Pocono Lake Region 13.1 Honesdale to Hawley Route 6 Hawley – 226.31941

•

1 - Pocono Snake & Animal Show 2pm COMEDY NIGHT at the Top

•

2 - MARTINI EVENT at Top of the World 3pm

•

7, 14, 21 - Karaoke Fridays at the TOP

•

8 - Junior Tennis Tournament CARIBBEAN NIGHT 6pm

•

15 - SAW CREEK’S GOT TALENT EVENT

•

21 - FREE Family Movie Night - MP Beach 8:30pm. Rain location: The Creek Room at TOW Complex

•

22 - Star Gazing with PEEC

•

29 - End of Summer Luau & Pig Roast 1-4pm

Sept 28th Full Moon Hike – Tannersville Bog, 552 Cherry Lane Rd, E Stroudsburg – 629.3061

Sept 6th Slushy Sundays – Mt View Vineyard 1220 Neola Rd, Stroudsburg – 619.0053

•

september •

5 - 80’S NIGHT 6pm Paintball Fundraiser

•

6 - Yard Sale at the VIP

•

7 - Monday Night Football Club starts

•

21 - Movie Night: Cinderella

•

26 - CULTURAL DAY 1-8pm

For more information, call Top of the World at 570-588-6600 or the Recreation Dept. at 570-588-9329, Ext. 2218 Please Note: All activities, dates, and/or times are subject to change with or without notice.

SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

31

SAW

CREEK

NEWS

SUMMER

2015

PAGE

32