of the POCONO PLATEAU
Detox center proposal presented to Tobyhanna Twp. supervisors
by Ruth Isenberg
The former Sportsman/ Blakeslee Inn parcel could be reborn as Evergreen Detox Facility, if Tobyhanna Township Supervisors look favorably on a proposal to amend the township’s zoning ordinance to allow facilities of that type in a commercial zone. At the March 6 supervisors’ meeting, representatives of site owner Pocono Raceway said that currently such facilities would be limited to residential zones.
Joseph Mattioli IV presented an overview of the plans for the 3.2 acre site. Evergreen would be a state licensed detox facility, primarily housing people for five to seven days, some longer depending on the substance from which they would be withdrawing.
The need is great, Mattioli said, especially since Covid. Evergreen would be an attractive facility, much like a high-end hotel, “a place you get to go to,” rather than
a place you have to go to. There would be nurses and a doctor on site 24 hours a day, and a 1 to 7 ratio of nurses to patients across all three shifts.
The 50-bed facility would house people who voluntarily sought treatment, and would include a percentage of Medicaid beds, so it would be accessible to everyone in the community. “It should be something everyone has access to,” Mattioli said.
Patients would be able to leave if they wished, but the facility would be secure, and patients would be transported in and out of the facility; they would not have cars or phones.
Mattioli said 55 to 60 jobs would be created if the facility is approved.
The township planning commission has already seen the presentation, and further information will be forthcoming.
STR change
Short-term rental changes were another topic of
discussion. A suggestion was made to reconsider couting children under the age of 2 as counting toward the total number of occupants allowed. No decision was made.
On another short-term rental isssue, however, supervisors did act. Newly appointed assistant township manager Crystal Butler explained that the application process is requiring several reviews of information, and that some applicants are not correcting deficiencies after being notified, but are just re-submitting the same information. Areas of particular difficulty are the requirement for a property manager within 30 minutes of the township, the requipment for commercial insurance, and the requirements for PA sales tax license and Monroe County hotel tax license.
“We’re trying to help them,” said township manager Bob Bartol, but
See TOBYHANNA TWP, page 2
Local Youth Forestry Camp now empty
by Seth Isenberg
Youth Forestry Camp #2 (YFC) in Kidder Township, at Hickory Run State Park, is empty. The facility is still open. The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services has recently moved youths in their care to their homes, or into the care of their home counties, or sent them to the YFC #3 in Huntingdon County, east of Altoona.
Most of the local staff is now working at the PA Department of Human
Services’ Secure Treatment Unit in Pittston.
Here is the statement from the PA Department of Human Services Press Office:
“Pennsylvania’s youth forestry camps (YFCs) provide treatment, care, and custody services to Pennsylvania’s most atrisk youth. The current design of Hickory Run YFC does not support secure placement, which is where the juvenile justice system’s greatest placement needs are at this time. At present,
See YFC, page 2
The 1st 2 copies FREE 50¢ each additional copy BOXHOLDER Presorted Standard U.S.POSTAGE PAID WHITE HAVEN PA PERMIT NO. 18 POSTAL CUSTOMER
©2023, All Rights Reserved VOLUME 27, NUMBER 17 Mid-March, 2023 Journal
Delaware Lodge at the Youth Forestry Camp.
Tobyhanna Twp.
Continued
by the third time around with no correction to the application, the staff is spending too much time rereviewing each application, “and it’s not fair to the residents [of the township] as a whole. Supervisors agreed, and voted to charge a $200 fee for each resubmission beyond the third. There were several complaints about individual STR properties. A daa base of the STRs tracks complaints, and permits can be revoked after three complaints. It was noted that the legitimacy of the complaints is also tracked and recorded, and that there is a penalty for false complaints.
About 60 permits have been issued so far, but there are over 200 applications in process. The staff has also begun tracking down STR owners who have not begun the process of applying.
Other Business Supervisors appointed Bethanne Eisler as township secretary and recording secretary to replace Butler.
The approved a temporary joint tax collection district resolution to allow Coolbaugh Township’s tax collector to also collect taxes for Tobyhanna Township until Decembere 31.
A public hearing for a zoning ordinance amendment regarding towing operations will be advertised; supervisor Joseph Colyer abstained.
A paving wavier was approved for Xavier Landscape; it was requested for the rear of the site because of the heavy equipment being used. Colyer and John Kerrick both abstained on this vote.
The Pinecrest Development Amended Phasing Schedule was approved; supervisor Brendon Carroll abstained.
The amended subdivision plan for Toby Site LLC was approved; Kerrick abstained.
One bid was received for the fire pumper for Pocono Summit Volunteer Fire Company in the amount of $301,500 from Fire Fighter One; it was approved unanimously.
In public comment, Ed Tutrone addressed the letter to residents published in the last Journal of the Pocono Plateau regarding the Tobyhanna Township Volunteer Fire Co. He acknowledged that the supervisors paid indivdually for the ad, and noted their response would be printed.
YFC
Continued from page 1
all youth at Hickory Run YFC have either been released to their home counties or transitioned to our Youth Forestry Camp 3 facility in Huntingdon County in order to maintain their current level of care.
Most of Hickory Run YFC’s staff have transferred to support the new Northeast Secure Treatment Unit in Pittston. While the Hickory Run YFC is currently still open, discussions about the future of the facility are ongoing.”
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Articles Of Incorporation were filed with the Department of State of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, at Harrisburg, PA, on February 27th, 2023, for the purpose of obtaining a charter of a nonprofit corporation organized under the Nonprofit Corporation Law of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The name of the corporation is: Rotary Club Of Mt. Pocono Foundation, Ltd., which is organized Exclusively for charitable, educational and other purposes as permitted by Section 501(c) 3 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. The Incorporator is Hal H. Harris.
PAGE 2 THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-MARCH, 2023
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Public Notice
from page 1
Stormwater plan update needed in Mt. Pocono
by Pat Albano
Mount Pocono Borough Council met on February 21 to consider an update to its storm water management ordinance. Engineer Drew Wagner informed council “The borough is long overdue [since 2000] to ensure facilities are installed properly and not filled with trash.” Wagner added, “There is a May 2 deadline which if not met might jeopardize the borough’s ability to be eligible for hazard relief funds.”
Mayor Randy Altemose asked “What are you asking the borough to do and can others do these inspections?”
Wagner replied, “You need to adopt an ordinance consistent with the [county] plan.”
The board also considered several tree trimming quotes for Knob Overlook. Stag Tree Specialist, KC Tree Service and Keystone Tree Specialist provided estimates ranging from $5,000-$9,000. Knob Overlook has not been addressed in five years.
Council member Norm Delano mentioned high costs for the flashing sign ordinance, arguing “We should add digital signs to the ordnance.” Borough manager Joshua Walker noted, “Costs of $25K or higher require bids.” Delano suggested, “If you give me half the road crew, I’ll install the signs at no cost to the borough.”
Council also considered ongoing security/safety issues with Mount Pocono
Municipal Authority’s lease agreement. Board membr Claudette Williams asked, “Where is their management?” MPMA was invited to address their concerns with the council, but did not. MPMA did inform council that they have appointed a one-man committee to discuss with the borough whether they will stay or leave.
Walker also updated council on the maintenance garage project, with three separate structural, architectural, and mechanical bids totaling $30K. Board president Don Struckle said, “We need additional quotes.”
There was an update on the recent dog park survey. Council member Debra
Fulton questioned a revised plan to lower the $25K cost of the park.
Mayor Altemose received a letter from the mayor of Kazbegi municipality, Georgia, in Asia. Kazbegi seeks to “promote a resolution of mutual cooperation and friendship between Mt. Pocono and Kazbegi as sister cities.” Both communities foster tourism, have beautiful parks and similar population densities. The Kazbegi
mayor expressed an interest in visiting Mt Pocono and offered an invitation to Mayor Altemose to visit his municipality.
Manager Walker announced that the borough still has two million in grants outstanding.
Parks and Recreation noted First Fridays will be May 5 and June 2 at 6 p.m. with this year’s theme of Classic Cars and Jazz. Street cleaning will be conducted April 17-20.
Student teaching this spring
Elle Price, of Pocono Pines has been placed as a student teacher for the University of Findlay’s spring semester. Price is in a student teaching
position at Wilson Vance Elementary School in Findlay, Ohio.
Price is pursuing a degree in early childhood education.
THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-MARCH, 2023 — PAGE 3 570-453-0463 www.slusserlawfirm.com Talk to a lawyer in one hour or less Attorney Christopher B. Slusser Millions recovered HAZLETON • PHILADELPHIA
Response from Tobyhanna Township Volunteer Fire Company
This is the letter placed in the last issue by the Tobyhanna Township Supervisors. Our responses are in red.
To the Residents of Tobyhanna Township:
For the past several months, there have been many statements, questions and concerns regarding the new Tobyhanna Township Fire Ordinance #571 and the Tobyhanna Township Volunteer Fire Company (TTVFC). We, the Board of Supervisors, would like to provide some history … and explain what the Ordinance actually states about the items most frequently questioned and criticized.
We would also like everyone to know that the ISO Rating for Tobyhanna Township has NOT changed since TTVFC has been out of service. ISO Ratings determine how well one’s local fire department can protect your community and home. ISO ratings are used by homeowner’s insurance companies to set rates. Many people have been blaming recently increased rates for their homeowner’s policies on a change in our ISO rating. That is not true. You may want to contact your homeowner’s insurance company to find out what caused your increased cost.
Not 100% true, there are other factors that calculate into your rating. ie: distance from a firehouse, distance from a fire hydrant (water source). Being more than 5 miles from a firehouse puts the rating at max (10). Do call your insurance company and also ISO for questions.
HISTORY
Several years ago, the Fire Commission* met with both Fire Companies, Tobyhanna Township Volunteer Fire Company (TTVFC) and Pocono Summit Volunteer Fire Company (PSVFC) regarding a New Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) spelling out what was expected of both Fire Companies, and what was expected and to be paid for by the Township. A draft was completed by both Companies and was awaiting approval when President Ed Tutrone of TTVFC approached the Township Solicitor after a Township meeting and stated that TTVFC will not sign the MOU unless ownership of the Blakeslee Fire Building is signed over to TTVFC. The Blakeslee Fire Building, located on Route 115, is owned and maintained using funds from the Taxpayers of Tobyhanna Township. This ownership demand by President Tutrone was rejected by the Board of Supervisors (BOS).
Since TTVFC refused to participate in the MOU process, the Supervisors asked the Fire Commission to produce a new Fire Ordinance. After several Fire Commission meetings, TTVFC sent a letter dated March 25, 2021 to the Board of Supervisors stating they would only participate in the drafting of a Fire Ordinance with the Board of Supervisors because, in an earlier meeting, President Tutrone and Chief Counterman stated that the Fire Commission has no authority to make changes. After no cooperation and participation from TTVFC, the Board of Supervisors asked Solicitor Coleman, Tobyhanna Township’s lawyer, to meet with both Fire Companies and draft a new Fire Ordinance (in lieu of the MOU) with their input. Solicitor Coleman met several times with both Fire Companies and then submitted a draft Fire Ordinance to the Board of Supervisors. The Board met several more times separately with both Fire Companies, and then received a notification from TTVFC that they would be bringing its attorney to the next Fire Ordinance meeting. PSVFC agreed with the draft Fire Ordinance, but TTVFC was still not in agreement with parts of the Ordinance. After several more meetings, the TTVFC presented its own version of the Fire Ordinance removing most of the certification and taxpayer funding requirements from the original draft. Those are essential items needed for accountability! The Board of Supervisors used some of TTVFC’s changes, but not all. Then we placed the required advertising announcing the upcoming meeting to discuss the Fire Ordinance, and placed it on the BOS agenda for a vote. The Fire Company never refused to meet or talk about the MOU or ordinance. PSVFC asked Mr Carbone three times for a meeting and TTVFC asked twice, no meeting ever took place. As for not participating in the MOU process, we were told by the township solicitor Harry Coleman in June 2021 at our monthly fire company membership meeting we should not be negotiating with the Fire Commission as it is only an advisory committee and has no authority to make policy. TTVFC along with their attorney met with the BOS and their solicitor on three occasions to discuss the proposed fire ordinance. TTVFC submitted a marked up version of the ordinance in April of 2022 to the BOS of which they adopted almost none of TTVFC’S suggestions.
On Aug 12, 2022, the Solicitor for the Township received a letter from the attorney for TTVFC stating that if the Fire Ordinanc“eis adopted in its present form the Fire Company will not agree to operate as the officially recognized fire company for the Township.”
This was due to the fact that there was no grace period for the required training the township wanted us to have. Also the training they require limits the man power pool, there maybe individuals that do not want to go into a fire, but want to volunteer in some other discipline on the fire grounds.
On Aug 15, 2022, the Fire Ordinance was passed by the Board of Supervisors and took effect within 5 business days. Per the letter submitted by TTVFC on Aug 12, they removed themselves from active Fire Service effective Aug 22, 2022. Again due to no grace period , with no grace period TTVFC and PSVFC were automatically non-compliant and in violation of the ordinance. Our letter also stated we would continue to respond if called using our own funds so we could continue with discussions and keep the taxpayers with timely responses.
LEGAL ACTION
Since TTVFC removed itself from operating in Tobyhanna Township effective Aug 22, 2022, the Township’s Solicitor filed an injunction against TTVFC. There were three (3) main parts to the issued injunction:
1) Ownership of the Fire Apparatus
They are titled,registered,insured and maintained by TTVFC
2) The return of any unused Taxpayer Funds
There is none as the Township BOS wrote the checks DIRECTLY to the vendors. As stated by Mr.Carroll it is to ensure it gets there.
3) Setting a date for TTVFC to vacate both Emergency Buildings owned by the Taxpayers
The Judge read the injunction and sent the case to mediation. A hearing before the mediator produced no agreement, so the case was sent back to the Judge for a court date and hearing. Hearings were held on Dec 10 and Dec 20, 2022 in front of Judge Higgins. We are awaiting hisdecision.
WHY HAVE A FIRE ORDINANCE?
The Fire Ordinance is about Fire Tax Accountability for services rendered by both Fire Companies. This includes on-time Budget and Certification Requirements for all Fire Equipment and Apparatus. The Fire Ordinance requires all Fire Personnel to have at least the minimum required Certifications for the position they hold within the Fire Company.
We never disagreed with this only the no grace period in the ordinance.
This is not government overreach (as claimed by TTVFC). The Board of Supervisors believes these are reasonable requirements of all fire companies and personnel as part of the BOS’ fiduciary duty to the Residents of Tobyhanna who pay a Fire Tax as part of the annual property tax.
The government overreach comes in section 9-11, delinquency of fire service of the ordinance. The fire board that would be appointed solely by the BOS would have the authority to take over the financial, administrative and oprerational duties of the fire companies with no authorization needed from their memberships. To date there has been no descriptions of what would constitute delinquencies for an appointment of a fire board.
MISUNDERSTANDINGS? HERE’S THE FACTS
√ The Board of Supervisors will select the Fire Chiefs - FALSE
The Fire Company selects its own Chiefs as long as the applicants meet minimum requirements.
See section 9-11delinquenies of service sub section D through F. Section D,3(B) Authority. The fire Board SHALL have the authority to remove,appoint or affirm all fire company officers,ancillary boards and committee members to serve in various capacities as specified in the fire company by laws.
Fire Ord §9-10. Election of Officers
(a)The members of the Fire Company are further authorized to elect from its membership such officers as may be provided in the bylaws of the Fire Company. The Board of Supervisors must be provided the qualifications and fire education and training of all members.
The public should be confidant knowing that their Fire Chiefs have the experience AND certifications needed to manage a fire scene. Currently, the Assistant Chief, Ed Tutrone, does not have the minimum qualifications (Certifications) required for the position according to not only the Fire Ordinance, but also TTVFC’s own Rules and Regulations.
PAGE 4 THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-MARCH, 2023 PAID ADVERTISEMENT
— THIS IS A PAID ADVERTISEMENT PLACED BY THE TOBYHANNA TOWNSHIP VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY —
Assistant Chief Tutrone does have the experience and training set forth in TTVFC’S own S.O.G.S . These are the same training qualifications that were put into place by past Chief and current chairman of the BOS John Kerrick. He has the qualifications as stated in the ordinance also, See 9-10 (B) ALL FIREFIGHTERS ARE REQUIRED TO HOLD , AT A MINIMUM, A CERTIFICATION OF FIREFIGHTER 1(NFPA 1001). ALL LINE OFFICERS ARE REQUIRED TO HOLD, AT A MINIMUM, A CERTIFICATE OF FIREFIGHTER II (NFPA1001). FIRE ESSENTIALS SHALL BE ACCEPTABLE. The grace period talked about earlier was finally enacted by resolution December 2022 four months after passing the ordinance and four days before heading to the court hearing. Why do you ask ? This is because we asked for documentation of PSVFC’S training of members and officers and we were told that they had none, a direct violation of the ordinance, and so the grace period of two years was given. Nothing was ever extended to TTVFC so that we could return to service. Our S.O.G’S were adopted last on 11/2017 with no changes or additions after.
√ The Fire Company cannot apply for a loan without permission from the Board of Supervisors - BOTH TRUE AND FALSE
The Fire Company can approve on its own all expenses or loans up to $10,000. BOS approval is required for expenses over $10,000.
TTVFC is a private 501c 3 nonprofit corparation. With the rights to act as a business. Above is only one of many examples of government over reach.
Fire Ord §9-7. Control of equipment and funds
C. No capital expenditures over $10,000 shall be made by the fire companies, which shall require its borrowing of money or the pledge of Township credit without the prior written submission and consent of the Board of Supervisors. Township control is the key word even in their own heading. We have never asked for a pledge of Township credit for any purchase of equipment.
TTVFC took out a Fire Company loan in an amount exceeding $1.3 million for a new Ladder Truck without the approval of the Board of Supervisor
The loan referenced was taken out in June of 2021 before there was even a draft of ordinance #571, and for $750,000 not $1.3 million. A public hearing was held by law at the fire station to seek objections, no one showed up to object.
√ TTVFC cannot respond to Mutual Aid calls to help other municipalities - FALSE. The fire company is not allowed to run mutual aid calls in Tobyhanna Township, where the Township says the tax dollars come from.
The Fire Company may continue handling Mutual Aid calls per the Ordinance Fire Ord §9-4. Authorized duties and permitted activities of fire company D. The fire company is generally permitted to respond to calls and provide services to municipalities outside of the Township with which it maintains mutual response agreements.
TTVFC was misleading the public in its statement. They are allowed to respond to Mutual Aid calls.
Not allowed is to enter into a separate contract with another municipality, getting funds from them while using equipment, apparatus, fuel, insurance, etc. that were all paid for with Tobyhanna Township taxpayers’ money. TTVFC entered such a contract with Coolbaugh Township, and never reimbursed the Township for the expenses attributed to the calls they answered and were paid directly to them by Coolbaugh.
There is no contract between TTVFC and Coolbaugh Twp. We were afforded the same luxury from Coolbaugh Township as PSVFC is, yet no mention of PSVFC’S non payment back Tobyhanna Township. By PSVFC’S own presentation to Coolbaugh Twp. in October of 2021they responded 55 times into Coolbaugh Twp. and 100 times in Tobyhanna Twp. all at Tobyhanna Township taxpayer expense. Where is the outrage towards them? Why is it ok for one Fire Company but not the other?
Fire Ord §9-4. Authorized duties and permitted activities of fire company
H. The fire company may not enter into any agreement with municipalities or fire companies, other than mutual aid contracts, located outside of the jurisdictional limits of Tobyhanna Township without written permission from the Tobyhanna Township Board of Supervisors.
NOTE: This is one of the conditions in the Ordinance that TTVFC refused to agree to. √ TTVFC has claimed (and it remains on its website) that if the BOS determines that the Fire Company is not complying or found delinquent, they will “be fined a <sic> $1000 a day and 30 days in jail until we do comply. Along with that they will appoint
their own people to take over.”
-FALSE
It is not on our web site. It is a confusing statement that our attorney asked to have put in the appropriate section of the oridinance and it was not moved. The section that contains the penalties refers to the general public and NOT members of the Fire Company.
Fire Ord §9-13. Violations and penalties
Any person who shall violate any provisions of this Chapter 9, §9-6 shall, upon conviction thereof, be sentenced to pay a fine not exceeding $1,000. … the defendant may be sentenced and committed to the county prison for a period not exceeding 30 days. Fire Ord §9-6. Interference with fire-suppression forces.
A. Interference with volunteer fire company operations. In accordance with Pennsylvania Title 18 and this chapter, it shall be unlawful to interfere with, attempt to interfere with, conspire to interfere with,obstruct or restrict the mobility of, or block the path of travel of any volunteer fire company emergency vehicle in any way or to interfere with, attempt to interfere with, conspire to interfere with, obstruct or hamper any volunteer fire company operation.
WHAT WE LEARNED IN COURT
1 TTVFC was operating and answering EMS calls from 2018 until recently without a QRS (Quick Response Service license issued by the PA Dept of Health. This license is required to respond to medical calls. Not having a QRS for more than 4 years put the Township and Residents at high risk for a liability lawsuit. TTVFC answered 124 calls during this time period, according to the Monroe County Control Center. At a recent Township meeting, President Tutrone blamed a past member (Charles J. Dickinson)for the expired licenseand that he only recently found out. This past member(Charles J. Dickinson) took the stand at the hearing and testified that President Tutrone did know in 2018 that the QRS license was going to expire and it was noted in Daily Log Report #1136, which TTVFC would not produce.
A QRS license is not required to be dispatched to a medical assit call, any Fire company can assist EMS. PSVFC answers the call when requested. As for the report, it only mentions contacting the Dept. of health about renewal not expiration of licensure. As for not producing report #1136, we were not bound by law to produce it, and it was asked for two days before the hearing when Mr. Charles J. Dickinson conspired with the Township to have it included.
2 TTVFC has filed incorrect and or incomplete tax forms for several years by not listing all the services paid for by the Taxpayers. They did not include all of the funding of its operations that was paid by the Township with Taxpayer funds, including utilities, gas, snow removal, etc.
We have our taxes done by a CPA. We were never given any information from the Township about cost or expenditures on the Township owned buildings. In our entire 93 year exsistance we were never given this information, and if needed we will amend our taxes accordingly. When past Chief, Chairman of the board at the fire company and current Chairman of the BOS John Kerrick was there still no information and that would have made him responsible for the tax returns also.
3 TTVFC did not and would not produce any National Pro Board Certifications for its current Membership. Several months ago, Battalion 1, a consulting group, was hired by the BOS to survey the Township’s Fire Companies’ trucks, apparatus, certifications, number of firefighters that worked each fire, etc. The goal of the survey was to learn what the BOS could do to enhance fire services for the Township. PSVFC fully cooperated, answering all questions on the survey. TTFVC would not send all of the information requested, including each member’s Certifications, number of fire fighters at each fire, etc. In its email response, the Fire Company stated that they do not keep individual certification records on file. This is in violation of its own procedures and of the Fire Ordinance
The certifications were produced . We did cooperate by sending 180 reports to Battalion 1. We would not however give them remote access to our computer system for them to come and go as they chose. The other reason for that action was Mr. Charles J. Dickinson works/worked for Battalion 1 and no past member will ever be given remote access. We recieved an email from Battalion 1 thanking us for cooperating in the survey and that it is finally complete.
NOTE: This is one of the conditions in the Ordinance that TTVFC refused to agree to. 4) TTFVC did not produce any bank records or cancelled checks to show or prove how much of its own funds (excluding Fire Tax Funds) they put towards the purchase of Fire Apparatus. This information is needed by the Court todetermine ownership of the Apparatus.
Continues on the next page
PAID ADVERTISMENT THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-MARCH, 2023 — PAGE 5
THIS IS A PAID ADVERTISEMENT PLACED BY THE TOBYHANNA TOWNSHIP VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY
THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-MARCH, 2023
Continued from page 5:
The documents requested were absolutely brought to court on December 9th and 20th and the Township Solicitor Harry Colemans chose to do nothing with them.
Also, Ed Tutrone handed a flash drive with the financials to Solicitor Harry Coleman at a Board meeting the Monday before the first hearing.
5) TTFVC failed its annual Fire Relief Audit in 2021 because of incomplete and/or inaccurate record keeping.
Not 100% true we failed because of a sales tax payment of over $600. That was not caught by then President Charles J. Dickinson and Treasurer Earl French to advise the membership not to pay it. As for the record keeping the auditor never looked at our inventory list which was included in all the paperwork provided to him to work from home as COVID protocol mandated.
6) TTVFC did not produce any documentation or records to prove its claim that they receive only 42% of its income from Taxpayer funds. The Township produced several documents showing all of the Taxpayer funds that went toTTVFC, totaling over 75% of the cost of the trucks (based on estimated value of $3 million spent on fire trucks in the past 10 years). Again explained in #4 above
IN CONCLUSION…
Over the past 10 years, TTVFC has received over $2,500,000 from the Taxpayers of Tobyhanna, plus an additional $691,774 in Relief Funds from the State of Pennsylvania. The Board of Supervisors hopes the Public can now see how this entire process started, where we are today, and the reasons why there was a need for a new Fire Ordinance.
10 Years - $1,250,000 from the tax fund,$1,250,000 from other funding and the $691,774 in relief funds that come from the state not the Township. It is a fee the state puts on Insurance Companies who operate outside of Pennsylvannia, for use of Fire Companies to purchase fire fighting and life safety equipment. They failed to take out 9 years of expenditures for the emergency services building that should have been charged to PMREMS the other tenant in the building. At $3.1 million as claimed that equals $310,000 per year, far less then a paid fire department per year.
IT IS ALL ABOUT ACCOUNTABILITY. The BOS has a fiduciary responsibility to be certain all services within its control are operating safely (for employees, volunteers, contractors, and the community), upholding all standards/codes, and are financially prudent.
The Fire Companies has the same Fiduciary responsibilities as the Supervisors. We provide them our tax returns and yearly financials prepared by our CPA yearly.
At a recent Township meeting, the President of TTVFC, Ed Tutrone, was asked, “Is it that the TTFVC could not follow the Fire Ordinance, or was it that the TTFVC just does not want to follow the Fire Ordinance?” Tutrone gave no answer. From what was testified, we learned that TTVFC does not follow all of its own Bylaws and Procedures … so it makes sense that they would resist agreeing to the new Fire Ordinance, which basically matches TTVFC’s own Procedures.
NOT TRUE the answer Ed Tutrone gave was , that we could not follow it because both companies would be delinquent the day the ordinance went into effect . The response back from the supervisors was DO NOT SPEAK FOR PSVFC.
The Board of Supervisors encourages all Residents to read the Fire Ordinance (on Tobyhanna Township’s website at http://bit.ly/fireord). Then YOU can determine if this Fire Ordinance is government overreach (as claimed by TTVFC) or responsible accountability of Taxpayer Funds used for Fire Protection for the Residents of Tobyhanna Township. The Board of Supervisors will continue to perform its fiduciary responsibilities to the public who elected them, and will continue to provide this Township with the best equipped and certified Emergency Services available Yes, please read ordinance #571 and pay close attention to section 9-11Section D 3(B). In the 93 years of TTVFC’S history we have never had a problem with our fiduciary responsibilities and we have always been transparent with our financials.
Tobyhanna Township Board of Supervisors
* Fire Commission – Formed by the BOS approximately 5 years ago to act as a gobetween for the Fire Companies and the BOS. The Fire Commission (comprised of 5 people: 2 Supervisors and 3 people from the Township) met with the Fire Companies, learn their needs regarding materials, funds, etc., and then the Commission would go to the BOS with those requests.
PRESERVING THE POCONOS WITH PHLT Discover the vitality of vernal pools
March 25 hike focuses on important (but temporary) piece of natural cycle
by Carol Hillestad For Pocono Heritage
Land Trust
On a spring hike in the woods, one sure way to amaze a child (or a grownup!) is to discover a red eft along the trail. Glowing red-orange in the leaf litter, these tiny creatures light up the forest floor.
At barely 3 inches long and weighing less than a grape, red efts are one stage in the life of the red-spotted newt salamander. Their delicate toes and big eyes are appealing, but there is much more to their life story than just being adorable.
Red efts get their start in life in a special kind of forest wetland called a vernal pool. These shallow freshwater pools are fed by rain and snowmelt. They are the essence of ephemeral: They show up every year in the same places, last just a few months, and dry up by late summer.
But what a busy few months. Red-spotted newts, wood frogs, spring peepers, marbled salamanders, American toads, and many other kinds of native amphibians return to their home vernal pools to breed. The peeping, croaking, and calling can be nothing short of raucous.
The young hatch, grow and mature, safe from fish and other predators which only inhabit permanent waters. Fully grown, they leave the wetland, ready to live an air-breathing, land-dwelling existence.
These little dabs of life might not seem like much. And the fleeting spring waters where they breed may not seem “useful” on a human scale.
But looks can be deceiving.
Salamanders are hugely abundant in a healthy forest — so abundant that they outweigh the biomass of many large mammals — making them a critically important source of food. Everything from owls to raccoons to bobcats to turtles have salamanders on the menu.
And those nondescript, “useless” vernal pools? Turns out they’re pretty darn indispensable. As the breeding ground for salamanders, vernal pools are an essential foundation of animal life in the forest.
Protecting woodlands— and their life-giving vernal pools— is a big part of what we do at Pocono Heritage Land Trust.
DISCOVER VERNAL POOLS
One of the founders of Pocono Heritage Land Trust, Don Miller, has been on the trail of vernal pools for most of his life. On Saturday, March 25, Don will share his knowledge during a vernal pool exploration from 1 to 4 p.m. at Kurmes Nature Preserve in Paradise Township.
On the walk, Don will talk about the biology, dynamics, and importance of vernal pools and amphibians — and ways each of us can help keep them safe, healthy and thriving.
Because what would the woods do without them?
Sign up for the vernal pool exploration by contacting Abigail Dillon, PHLT outreach coordinator, at adillon@phlt.org or 570-4241514. This program takes place drizzle or shine. Please wear comfortable shoes, layers for the weather, and bring water.
Note: The vernal pool is a short walk from the parking area at Kurmes Nature Preserve off Devils Hole Road in Paradise Township. If you would like to attend but can’t stay for the full program, please know you are welcome to register and stay as long as you are able.
ABOUT POCONO HERITAGE LAND TRUST
Pocono Heritage Land Trust (PHLT) is dedicated to the conservation of important lands and waters — including open space, agricultural landscapes, and natural areas in the Poconos. The beauty and diversity of the Pocono landscape have drawn people to this region for well over a century. Today, more than ever before, long-term protection of precious natural areas depends in part on the actions of concerned private landowners. Preserving our natural legacy and ensuring that your land is protected in its natural state can bring many benefits. Perhaps the most gratifying is the knowledge that present and future generations will cherish the natural areas your actions made possible.
For information: phlt.org or 570-424-1514.
PAGE 6
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Book Clubbing at PMPL—long and short
Did you know that Pocono Mountain Public Library has two book clubs all year round? We have our regular book club coming up on March 14 (Tuesday at 2 p.m.), where we’ll be discussing Tara Westover’s New York Times Best Seller, Educated.
Westover’s book is a powerful memoir describing the author’s
isolated childhood. Being born to a survivalist family in Idaho, Westover had her first classroom experience at the edge of 17. Westover describes her parents’ beliefs, and violent behavior of her brother, and her thirst for education which leads her to Harvard and Cambridge University. It’s incredibly inspiring and a page-turner.
But if you don’t have the
time for reading an entire book, consider our Short Story Book Club on March 7 (also, Tuesday at 2 p.m.) where we’ll be reading Agatha Christie’s “The Love Detectives.”
Satherwaite and Quin set out to solve the murder of Sir Dwight, and it looks like the widow and her lover did it. But are things as they seem? The answer to this question might arise
from the most unexpected of circumstances. Copies of this story are available at the circ desk.
If you’re interested in participating in either book club, call 570894-8860 #2 or email joe@poconolibrary.org for a copy of Educated and/or “The Love Detectives.” Also, check out our website www. poconolibrary.org where
you can learn about what other programs PMPL has got to offer.
PMPL has tons of programming for both kids and adults. Plus, the library has e-book platforms, computers, printing, and hotspots and Chromebooks that patrons who live in Mount Pocono and Coolbaugh Township can check out.
THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-MARCH, 2023 — PAGE 7
Seth’s Sightings
Our newspaper business is a member of a multi-state organization of community newspapers. At the end of last week, we attended that organization’s conference, held in Harrisburg. Due to my pending time in the hospital, we paid to take the dogs with, so the family was together.
Bull and Spookie are good travelers, though Bull tends to try to climb up front with us a bit. They also tolerate time in the car when we need to have dinner or attend a meeting. What was most fun was to be with them in the hotel room. The event was in the Best Western Premier and they had been renovating. We were given a beautifully laid out room on the first floor, with new everything. We brought a blanket for the dogs to lie on, and we set up our camp on the cushy bed. To keep the room comfortable, the heating/cooling system had a fan that made
by Seth Isenberg
noise enough to mask the sound of heavy traffic—the interstate was just a few hundred feet out back.
Our room was close to our meetings. It was also close to other conference rooms, and there was to be a wedding. It proved to be quite fancy—some of us joked that we should be “crashers,” but they were dressed far more elegantly than we were.
We had a successful meeting, we learned things, made some new friends, and generally had a good time.
One of my tasks while there was to pick up a member at the Harrisburg train station. As we had brought the dogs, this meant loading up the dogs to make the pickup (we couldn’t leave the dogs alone in the room). On this run, it took a few extra minutes for me, since I didn’t precisely know where the station was. It turned out the train was a few minutes late, and our
friend had just reached the front of the station as I pulled up. Perfect timing.
As a treat, I took her on a mini-loop tour of the state capitol before the quick ride back to the conference.
On the return trip I parked and paid the meter and accompanied her into the station. The front hall is a beautiful older design with polished wood and marble. In the bridge area that extends over the tracks, the place had a distinctly old bus station feel, with old wood benches and a dingy paint scheme. We waited until the train arrived, and I went down to track level to see her into the train, and to experience a little bit of Harry Potter. I’d never done this before
As I made it back to my car, I was able to see the train slowly pull out in the direction of Philadelphia.
Our arrival home Saturday was in plenty of time to go
out to the game dinner held by Faith Church at Sliver Ridge Hunting Club. This was a good feed, and I had some luck with the tricky tray.
We were able to watch the Penguins outdoor hockey game in the Cleveland Browns football stadium on AHL-TV. Our guys lost that one in overtime, but came back the following day for a regular time win. We still have tickets available for the next few games. If you’re interested send an e-mail to journalsethi@gmail.com.
Sightings this week include several foxes in both Lehigh and Foster Townships. I sighted two on Sunday night—they may have been out because it was garbage night.
Crocuses have joined our flowering plants at the house. The snow drop cluster is putting on a spectacular show, while the crocuses are very modest just now.
I finished this column while driving toward Philadelphia after Monday night’s snowfall. Our area was pretty with its fresh light coating of powder. So was the drive south. The morning run had us passing a fair number of trucks, some of which were still blowing snow off their top sides. Of note were the number of critter haulers bringing their loads to Hatfield.
The snow area ended south of the Quakertown area. I’m home from my surgery as we send this off to press. Best wishes of good health to all.
PAGE 8 THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-MARCH, 2023
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Police Beat
2-24 at 7 a.m., PA State Police - Fern Ridge received information regarding a ‘Safeto-Say Something PA’ report that a post on SnapChat was being circulated by Pleasant Valley Middle School students stating: “do not go to school today, someone in the 8th grade is going to shoot up the school.” It was reported this post began circulating on February 23. Upon PSP arrival to Pleasant Valley Middle School in Chestnuthill Township, all students were thoroughly searched and sent through metal detectors. Through interviews with students the threat was deemed not credible, but the investigation is ongoing.
9:45 p.m. on 2-18, the Pocono Mountain Regional Police were dispatched to Pocono Summit convenience store to meet an injured man in his car. He was bleeding from the head. Police found the 66 y/o man, and saw he had multiple head lacerations. He told police that he was assaulted by a man that he had befriended named “Chino,” who assaulted him inside his home, striking
by Seth Isenberg
him with various objects. Chino then stole cash and his cell phone before fleeing. The victim then drove for help, due to his phone being stolen. He described to police the man, his vehicle, and a general location where Chino lived. Police were then able to locate Chino and the described vehicle at a residence on Deats Lane in Tunkhannock Township (Pocono Summit area off Sullivan Trail), identifying him as Angel Marquez. Marquez had blood spatter on his face, clothing, and hands. He was arrested and found to be in possession cash with blood on it as well. Marquez was arraigned before District Judge Muth on aggravated assault, robbery, threats, and more, with bail set at $20,000.
The victim was transported to the hospital and admitted.
2-18, PSP was called to a Pine Street, Chestnuthill home to investigate the death of a 75 y/o, and determined it natural.
Keeping the Rubber Side Down
2-20 at 2:30 p.m., a 48 y/o Wilkes-Barre driver lost control of his Scion in the
snow while westbound on Interstate 80. The car spun into a following tractor-trailer, which sent it off the road and into a small tree. The Scion was disabled, and its driver needed a Pocono Mountain Regional ambulance ride to
Geisinger WVMH. PSP-F sent him along with a ticket for driving too fast for conditions. The truck was also disabled, and both vehicles needed a local tow.
2-27 just after 6 p.m., a 50 y/o Paramus, NJ, driver
lost control of his Equinox while driving Interstate 80 east in Kidder Twp. in winter conditions, going off the road and ending rubber side up. No one was hurt. The driver was ticketed by PSP for
See POLICE BEAT, page 11
PAGE 10 THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-MARCH, 2023
Police Beat
Continued from page 10
driving at an unsafe speed for conditions.
The Pocono Plateau is not HIGH Enough for some
2:44 a.m. on 3-7, Troopers from the PSP-Fern Ridge conducted a traffic stop tractor-trailer for vehicle code violations. Troopers saw that the truck’s driver displayed indicators of drug use. The operator consented to field testing and was deemed to be under the influence of narcotics. A consent to search the truck and trailer was ultimately granted by the operator. During the search, Troopers
seized approximately one pound of khat/heroin mix. The operator was arrested, and taken to the Monroe jail on charges of manufacture, drug dealing, drug possession, DUINarcotics, and multiple traffic violations. He was arraigned by a Magisterial District Judge and bail was subsequently set at $25,000 cash.
Seven other DUI incidents were reported during this period in the PSP-F area.
Stealin’
PSP was called regarding the theft of a red and silver BMX GT bicycle from a Basswood Court, Indian Mountain Lakes home on 2-23. The investigation is ongoing.
3-4 Someone stole a ’23
Coleman UTV and a golf cart from a garage at the West End Fairgrounds. The thieves damaged windows, discharged fire extinguishers, and stole a golf cart. Two juvenile boys, 17 and 15, were seen by a passer-by while they were doing donuts in the golf cart behind Our Lady of Peace. PSP investigated and found the golf cart key in the possession of the teens. The UTV was found in the pond behind the church. The boys have been arrested.
Camp Cadet
Camp Cadet is a free leadership/law enforcement overnight camp for kids ages 13 to 15. Applications for this year’s program from July 23 to 28 at Marywood University are open to March 17. Go to www.
trooprcampcadet.org to learn more and apply online.
PennDOT
Winter weather duty will continue as long as we have winter weather. When plow trucks are active, give them a wide berth so they can do their job. Be alert for black
ice when temperatures are below freezing.
Pothole patching, tree trimming, and crack sealing are underway with crews out doing work on various roads.
Use www.511PA.com to check conditions on 40,000+ miles of PA roads for free. It provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to 1000+ traffic cameras. It’s also a smartphone application, or by calling 5-1-1.
St. Luke’s Care Now offers fast, convenient care for minor illnesses and injuries when your primary care doctor can’t see you immediately.
• Minor illnesses and injuries including: the common cold, flu, sinus infections, sprains, strains, broken bones and more
• A St. Luke’s provider is always available.
• Walk-in Lab and X-ray services with a script from your primary care physician at this location
• Comprehensive Occupational Medicine services available for local employers
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THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-MARCH, 2023 — PAGE 11 St. Luke’s Care Now – Pocono Summit 174 Harvest Lane, Pocono Summit 272-639-5430
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Baby”
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Obituaries
DONALD E. KEIPER
Donald “Ducky” E. Keiper, 94, of Pocono Lake, passed away on Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at The Gardens at Stroud Nursing Home, East Stroudsburg.
He was the loving husband of the late Hester R. (Lenhart) Keiper. Born in Pocono Lake, he was the son of the late Alvin
and Clara (Argot) Keiper. There are no services scheduled at this time. Cremation will take place in H.G. Smith Crematory, Stroudsburg.
The Kresge Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. www.kresgefuneralhome. com
HARRY ANTHONY SANTORY
Harry Anthony Santory, of Tobyhanna, passed away on February 25, 2023 at the age of 40. He was born on May 23, 1982 in Manhattan, NY to the parents of Nancy Diaz and Harry Santory. He was the loving husband of Antasia Santory, with whom he shared 23 years.
Harry loved spending time with his family and friends, watching his favorite sports teams, and most of all working on his cars.
Harry is predeceased by his father, Harry Santory. He is survived by his wife, Antasia Santory; children, Gabriella Quinones and Kayla Santory; mother, Nancy Diaz; step-father Jose Diaz; sister, Sabrina Diaz; niece, Sophia Rodriguez; and step-mother, Lourdes Cruz Leon.
The family would like to thank the amazing community that has come together to support Harry and his family throughout their life.
A service was held March 2, at Bolock Funeral Home, 6148 Paradise Valley Rd, Cresco.
KATHLEEN BRIDGET DUFFY DAILEY
Kathleen Bridget Duffy Dailey, of Tobyhanna, passed away on February 20, at the age of 65. She was born on March 22, 1957 in East Stroudsburg, to parents Gail (Moss) and George Duffy. She was a source of light and joy to everyone who knew her and will be deeply missed.
Kathleen was the mother of three loving children: Nicholas Dailey, Patrick Dai-
ley, and Michael Dailey. She is survived by her husband, Richard Dailey; her two sons, Patrick and Nicholas; and her grandson, Rowan Dailey. The family would like to thank everyone who has reached out to them during this difficult time.
Bolock Funeral Home, 6148 Paradise Valley Rd, Cresco, was in charge of arrangments.
ROBERT GRANITZKI
Robert Granitzki, 60, of Tobyhanna, passed away on Tuesday, February 28, 2023. Robert was born in East Stroudsburg and worked as a diesel mechanic at PPL Electric Utilities for many years. He enjoyed hunting and archery as well as the outdoors.
Robert will be lovingly remembered by his son, Seth Granitzki and his companion Brianna Campell; daughters, Casey Granitzki and her companion Cory Magwood and Samantha Granitzki and her companion Carey Clarke;
sister, Christine Leatherman and grandchildren, Ellie, Lillie, Aiden and Gemma. Services will be private at the convenience of the family.
Bolock Funeral Home, Cresco, was in charge of arrangements. Saint Nicholas Byzantine Catholic Church
ROUTE 940 • POCONO SUMMIT (Between CVS & Tractor Supply)
JON PETER LUGOS
Jon “Jonnie” Peter Lugos, 37, of Mount Pocono, passed away on Tuesday, February 21, 2023. Jonnie was a talented massage therapist and a well-known waiter in the Pocono Mountains. He loved his friends and animals, and truly possessed a heart of gold. Jonnie was genuine, compassionate and always willing to go the extra mile for those he loved. Jonnie had a magical ability to reach people in a deep and positive way which left everyone with an unforgettable impression, many would say he had a quality that could not be described “Je Ne Sais Quoi”.
Jonnie left behind many family and friends that were touched by his beautiful soul; including his mother, Mary Skasko and her fiancé Richard Klinkel, his father Jesse Lugos, his sisters, Amy Shannon and Kaitlin (Lugos) Cruz, his brother in laws, Thomas Shannon and Christian Cruz and his niece, Parker Shannon.
DIVINE LITURGY (MASS) For Mass Times Call (570) 839-8090
Very Rev. Michael Salnicky, Pastor For Parish Office Call (570) 595-3265
In honor of Jonnie and his love for animals, in lieu of flowers please donate to a local animal shelter in his memory.
To celebrate Jonnie’s wonderful spirit a memorial will be held for close family and friends.
PAGE 14 THE JOURNAL OF
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Obituaries
BARBARA JEAN DEPPNER
Barbara Jean Deppner, 69, of Effort, passed away Saturday, March 4, 2023 at home.
She was the loving companion of the late Percy House for over 37 years. Born in Paterson, NJ, she was the daughter of the late Robert VanWinkle and the late Josephine (Smith) Tannis.
She was the most loving and caring mother, sister, grandmother, and friend. She loved spending time with family, and playing Bingo as much as she could. She cherished all of her grand babies. Barbara spent most of her life loving and caring her family and others as she was a CNA for over 40 years. She will be loved and missed dearly by all that knew her.
Barbara is survived by her sons, Clifford Williams and his wife, Samantha, Jason Deppner and his wife, Dana Graham, Danny Deppner, and Brice House and his wife, Ashley; daughters, Brandi Deppner, Wendy Dominguez and her husband, Cesar, Jennifer Smith, Kelly House, and Amanda Paff; brother, Robert VanWinkle; sisters, Susan Bass and Linda VanWinkle; 21 grandchildren; and 7 greatgrandchildren. In addition to her parents and her husband, Barbara is preceded in death by her sister Joan Lewis and her daughter, Sara Jean House.
Arrangments have been entrusted to Kresge Funeral Home.
www.kresgefuneralhome. com
LEONARD J. DOMINICK
Leonard J. Dominick, 84, of Arrowhead Lake, passed away on Sunday, March 5, 2023. He was the loving husband of the late Marjorie J. Dominick. Born in Pittston, he was the son of the late Giuseppe and Maria (Borino) Dominick.
He honorably served his country in the United States Army. He was a graduate of Bloomsburg University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in education and received a master’s degree from Temple University in Philadelphia.
Leonard worked for Bristol Township School District and taught at Harry S. Truman High School as a Social Studies teacher and assistant football coach. Leonard especially enjoyed traveling with his wife. They traveled extensively throughout the USA, Europe and Canada. Leonard and Margie loved to host
Lenten Dinner set March 24
family and friends at their home. These gatherings are fondly remember by all who attended. Leonard also enjoyed golfing, cross country skiing and playing pocket billiards.
Leonard will be lovingly remembered by his brother, Paul Dominick and his wife Helen as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces and greatnephews. Leonard is preceded in death by his brothers, Charlie, Louie, John, Gino and Paul and his sisters, Lucy Chelli, Angie Walker and Jenny Scoda. A viewing will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, March 12, at the Bolock Funeral Home, 6148 Paradise Road, Cresco. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11 a.m. on Monday, March 13, at Saint Elizabeth R.C. Church, 5700 Bear Creek Boulevard, Bear Creek.
The public is encouraged to join St. Maximillian Kolbe for a delicious meal and delightful fellowship on Friday, March 24, from 4-6 p.m. at 5112 Pocono Crest Road near the intersection of Routes 940 and 423 in Pocono Pines. The buffet will include a variety of meatless dishes for your dining pleasure. In addition to our traditional dishes –fish, lasagna, stuffed shells, macaroni and cheese, halushki, pierogi, and vegetables the dinner will include several “surprise” casseroles as well as a garden salad, choice of soups, bread, hot and cold beverages, and a visit to St. Max’s famous dessert table. All menu items are available while supplies last.
Enjoy a delicious array of food at a low price –$12. You do not need a reservation and take-outs are available for those unable to dine in.
For many years, the Social Concerns Committee has held three dinners during the Lenten season; proceeds have helped to fund our many outreach endeavors. The committee is actively involved in programs benefiting both the parish and the surrounding community.
The dinner will be held downstairs in Our Lady of the Lake Hall, which is handicap accessible. In the event of snow or hazardous road conditions, the dinner will be postponed and rescheduled to Friday, March 31.
For additional information, call 570-646-6424 or 570839-9346; you can also visit the parish website www. stmaxkolbepoconos.org
THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-MARCH, 2023 — PAGE 15
Moms for and against liberty discussed at PMSB meeting
by Pat Albano
At the March 1 meeting of the Pocono Mountain School Board, Jessica Branson from Pocono Pines addressed the board, stating she recently heard online of a group called ‘Stop Moms For Liberty.’ “This group calls for harassing and picketing any business that hosts Moms for Liberty members,” she said. Branson expressed disappointment that she saw Marion Pyzik’s name tagged as part of ‘Stop Moms for Liberty.’ “I initially supported Pyzik when she became president. As a business-
woman herself Pyzik should condemn these cancel culture actions, and I call for her removal from the board.”
Pyzik responded by saying she is on both moms for and against liberty, adding “We may not always agree on everything but I will respect and listen to all sides.”
Angie Rivera, a member of Moms for Liberty stressed “We try to help others be familiar with parental rights and I invite others to have a conversation with us instead of name calling. Come to know us and what we stand for—that’s how it starts with
From the Statehouse Federal changes coming to Medicaid renewals
by State Rep. Jack Rader (R-Monroe)
Major federal changes to Medicaid renewals are set to take effect April 1.
Under federal rules during the pandemic, the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) still sent annual renewals to recipients, but their health coverage did not change even if they became ineligible; this is known as continuous coverage.
However, a recent federal law has ended this temporary requirement that allowed coverage to continue. Starting on April 1, Medicaid recipients will need to, once again, begin completing annual renewals on-time to maintain their coverage.
All Medicaid recipients will need to go through a renewal process around
the time of their normal renewal date in the next 12 months to determine if they are still eligible for Medicaid. In some cases, DHS will use recent available case data to automatically complete the renewal. Those households will receive a letter affirming that their renewal is complete, and they are eligible for another year of coverage. When that information is not available, DHS will send renewal information to households which must be completed and returned to DHS within a specified timeframe.
Despite the April 1 effective date for the end of continuous coverage, no Pennsylvania resident will automatically lose their health coverage without first having an opportunity to renew or update their case. Learn more at www.dhs. pa.gov.
an introduction, not an assumption.”
District superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Robison opened the meeting noting artwork from Swiftwater Intermediate grades 5-6 as part of a Community Exhibit in East Stroudsburg.
She mentioned the Pocono Mountain East Jazz Ensemble that performed in Bethlehem.
Robison praised 35 students from Swiftwater SGA who organized a paper product drive and collected paper to fill 30 boxes, delivered to the Pocono Mountain Hunger Ministry.
In honor of March as Music in our Schools Month, the East High School Concert Choir will perform at the PA State Capital. Robison concluded her report stating
the District received Safety Grants totaling $45K to upgrade security and camera systems.
Financial Officer Joseph Colozzo gave an update on the proposed budget “Stay tuned to hear initiatives and to find out funding applicable for school districts,” he said, referring to the state budget to be announced by Governor Josh Shapiro on March 7.
Nora Wandalowski, Director of Cyber Programs, discussed aligned Pocono Mountain courses and curriculum development for grades 7-12. Wandalowski praised PMSD Cyber teachers in all courses and singled out art courses. New subjects include studio art, where students can participate either in-person
or in cyber formats. Several students were available to display 3-D printing and designs. Director Ron Byrd and board president Pyzik encouraged others to visit student displays.
The board heard discussion on MCTI’s operating budget which includes approving a 15,000 square foot muti-purpose room addition. The addition will be utilized for student assembly, graduation and is also available to the community.
Motions were approved for the extended school year, as well as conferences and field trips.
PAGE 16 THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-MARCH, 2023 GUN & KNIFE SHOW Split Rock Resort Convention Center March 18 and 19 Sat 9-5 • Sun 9-4 Admission $9 Single Day Ticket $15 Two-Day Ticket www.eagleshows.com