Hemlock Farms Community April Newsletter by Stuart Communications

HemlockNews

April 2013, Volume XXXVIII, Number 4

Close Enough Far Enough The Perfect Place To Be

Official Publication of the HEMLOCK FARMS COMMUNITY • www.hemlockfarms.org

Annual Easter Egg Hunt a Huge Success By Mary Beth Connors On a beautiful spring (finally!) Saturday morning, March 30, more than 500 children and adults gathered at the Fawn Hill Family Park to take part in the Annual Easter Egg Hunt. “This was the most attended Easter Egg Hunt we have ever had,” said Recreation Director John Wormuth. Animals from Country Ark Farm, the Easter Bunny, a ride on the Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company truck, and prizes were all part of the day.

Children ages four, five and six eagerly rush to gather eggs. Each child is hoping to find a golden egg.

Children on the Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company truck get ready to go for a ride.

Anthony Celona and his grandmother Linda Polizzi stop to watch the chicken.

Photos by Mary Beth Connors

Daniel, left, Casey, and Gianna are delighted with being able to pet the guinea pig. All the animals at the event were courtesy of Country Ark Farm.

“The fire truck ride was new this year,” said Recreation Director John Wormuth. “We appreciate the HFVF&R Co. making this truck available for the enjoyment of the children.”

Community Living: Celebrating 50 years

James Busso, left, and Daniel Sarro get a chance to get up close and personal with the Easter Bunny.

The lucky children at the table each pick up a special prize for finding a golden egg. There were six golden eggs to be found in each age group.

2 • APRIL 2013

HemlockNews

Official Publication of the HEMLOCK FARMS COMMUNITY • www.hemlockfarms.org

SERVING APPROXIMATELY 4,000 HOMEOWNERS and lot owners of Hemlock Farms. Published monthly by the HEMLOCK FARMS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, 1007 Hemlock Farms, Lords Valley, PA 18428.

ASSOCIATION NEWS TABLE OF CONTENTS

Manager’s Report..........................................................2 Letters ...........................................................................4 From the Editor .............................................................5 Board Action in Brief ...................................................6

NEWS STAFF: Mary Beth Connors, Kathie Waibel

Stormwater Primer........................................................7

COPY EDITOR: Sandy Goldin Zaccagnino ADS AND NEWS DEADLINE for next issue: Wednesday, April 24, 2013.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ARE DUE by 4:00 p.m. on Monday, April 29, 2013.

ANY NEWS, ADS, OR AD COPY CHANGES

Employee of the Month ...............................................10 Members’ Time ...........................................................12 Board Focus ................................................................15 Committee Meeting Minutes ...................................... 16

received late will be printed only if convenient to the editor and printer, unless notification was provided to the editor that such material was forthcoming. Only typed material is accepted.

From the Chief ............................................................ 18

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS —accepted

Environmental News

from HFCA members—are $10 for the first 15 words, 20 cents for each additional word; 50 words maximum. Business Classifieds: $20 for the first 15 words, 20 cents for each additional word; 50 words maximum. Garage Sales: $10, 40 words maximum.

FOR ADS, contact the HFCA Office at 570/775-4200, ext. 121 or 138.

THE HFCA DOES NOT NECESSARILY ENDORSE products and services of Hemlock News advertisers. Copies of Hemlock News are available in the HFCA Office. Hemlock News (USPS # 014644) is published monthly by the Hemlock Farms Community Association, 1007 Hemlock Farms, Lords Valley, PA 18428-9059. Annual subscription to Hemlock News is $24. Members of the Hemlock Farms Community Association receive a copy as part of their annual dues. Application to mail at Periodical Postage is PAID at Hawley, PA. POSTMASTER: Send change-of-address information to Hemlock News, 1007 Hemlock Farms, Lords Valley, PA 18428-9059.

Agenda ........................................................................23

Plastic Swoing Up in Lakes.............................................25 Septic Care ..................................................................27

Recreation News Recreation Report .......................................................30 Recreation and Cultural Arts Activities .....................39

Community Living Italian-American Club News ......................................43 Computer Therapist ....................................................45 Sisterhood News .........................................................46 Obituaries....................................................................47 Library News ..............................................................53

BOARD OF DIRECTORS: David Kellerman, President Robert Wolff, Vice President Gloria Talman, Secretary Michael Spitzer, Treasurer Anne Marie Zenie, Assistant Treasurer Pete Ferris Ignatius (Buddy) Gentile Larry Solotoff Jeannette Warms

MANAGER’S REPORT

By Mike Sibio

Association News

EDITOR: Laurie Stuart PRODUCTION: Amanda Reed

HEMLOCK NEWS

Pet Parlor .....................................................................55 Thru the Lens..............................................................59 Writers’ Gazette ..........................................................61 Notices ........................................................................62

To say that we have a few irons in the fire right now is a gross understatement. Spring is always a busy time of the year as we begin to scramble to get work done in time to use our facilities beginning on Memorial Day weekend. This is no easy task when winter weather conditions drag into mid-March. Of major importance to our community is the Porter Township initiative, which is a grass roots effort by the residents of Porter Township to change school district affiliation from the East Stroudsburg district to the Wallenpaupack District. The purpose of this move is ultimately to benefit the children who attend school, especially from Hemlock Farms, as they will be able to join friends and neighbors in the same district. Now, they must travel down to the East Stroudsburg North campus, while almost all the other students in the Community attend the Wallenpaupack campus near Lake Wallenpaupack. This initiative needs your help. Please come out in support during the upcoming public hearings to be held at East Stroudsburg High School, North Campus on Thursday, May 16 and Friday, May 17. Several other issues of importance also will affect our members in the near future. As you are aware, we have been researching funding options for several major projects in the Community. I have consulted with legal counsel on the matter of the green sand filter project, and based on our bylaws and the fact that the project is not a governmentmandated improvement, we will need a membership vote to approve the project. This fact also affects our process to secure low-interest funding for the work through Pennvest. Because we must have all required permits in place before Pennvest will consider our application, we will have to fund the engineering expense, of about $100,000, by borrowing from our reserves. The Board will have to decide if it wants to move forward with the engineering now or wait until the members have an opportunity to vote on the project. We also have two projects that are going to get underway soon that are not Hemlock Farms projects, but they will affect our members. The first is the PPL power line upgrade that will be replacing existing poles along our north/western borders. The new poles will be higher and will carry additional electric current from the Blooming Grove sub-station to the Hemlock Farms sub-station, located on Belgium Way. The poles for the portion of the project in Hemlock Farms will be stored near the Public Works building and possibly near the water tower that is near the sub-station. We expect that work to begin in early April. The PennDot project to replace the open grate bridge over McConnell Creek at its outfall from McConnell Pond also will begin later this spring. The project will

Classifieds ...................................................................63 Continued on page 3

HEMLOCK NEWS

ASSOCIATION NEWS

MANAGER’S REPORT Continued from page 2

reduce Rte. 739 to a single lane, with temporary stoplights to guide traffic flow. Our members who travel south on Rte. 739 from the main entrance or north from the Forest Drive gate should expect delays once the project is underway. I will update this information as it becomes available in the future. Below, please read about each department’s activities during the past month.

ADMINISTRATION Avoid Mailbox Closure – The annual mailbox rental fee of $25 (plus interest) must be received in the HFCA Office by April 30. Nonpayment will result in closure of the mailbox, and an additional $30 fee will be assessed to the account. If you have any questions, please contact Milly at the HFCA Office at 570/775-4200, ext. 110.

ACCOUNTING DEPARTMENT Dues and Installment Plans – Everyone in the Accounting Department and the Receptionist staff were extremely busy during the last two weeks of February through the beginning of March handling Installment Plan paperwork, dues payments and water bill payments. Once again, we processed more than 550 Installment Plan applications. To help reduce costs associated with the Installment Plan, Accounting staff phoned members to verify receipt of payment plan applications and to remind members that monthly installment payments are due the first of each month, beginning April 1. We continue to receive some credit card payments through the website as well. Capital Improvement Fee Fund – Properties are continuing to transfer each month despite a sluggish economy. We had 10 transfers each in January and February. Total capital improvement income is $40,100 through February 2013, compared to $13,416 for the same period in the prior year. Capital improvement fees are generated when properties are purchased by new dues-paying members, excluding banks and foreclosure activity.

COMMUNITY CONSERVATION Forest Management and Firewise – Order forms for the Brandywine Conservancy Native Plant Seed Sale, Wayne Conservation District Tree Seedling and Aquascapes Unlimited Native Herbaceous Wetland Plants are available in the Administration Office. There will not be a bare-root tree order this year because of a lack of interest. One danger tree on HFCA property that was threatening a private lot was removed under contract. Fish Management – A fish shelter, made from Christmas trees, was installed on Hemlock Lake. Many thanks go to the volunteers who helped. Another fish shelter, made from pallets, is being planned for installation this spring. Wildlife Management – The deer report from USDA is available on the website.

Real estate brokers and agents who attended the 7:30 a.m. April 2 stakeholder breakfast meeting left with a PR Munch Kit containing the new Hemlock Farms video, a brochure and a bag of popcorn. (See next issue for more.)

Environmental Education – Seven members were assisted with questions and concerns about trees and wildlife. Educational material and information from two conferences—Pennsylvania Lake Management Conference and International Arboriculture Conference—are available to the Community.

BUILDING DEPARTMENT Building Activity – Again this month, there were no new-home permits issued, leaving our year-to-date total at zero, the same as last year. We did have two Addition/ Alteration permits issued, which brought our year-todate total to three. We are now three ahead of last year’s total.

PUBLIC WORKS Building Maintenance – The Building Department completed 61 service calls, along with the following tasks. New gate arms were made for the 739 and 402 Gates, new light fixtures were installed at the 739 Gatehouse, electric heat was repaired at the 402 Gatehouse, and interior painting continued at the Public Safety Building. At the Clubhouse, pipes were repaired for the baby-pool plumbing; and a defective flow valve was repaired to the heating system, as well as a heat valve for the pool pak system. Piping is being painted in the pool area when that facility is closed, and several lights and fixtures were repaired and/or replaced. At the Administration Building, the sprinkler system was repaired due to a leak in the piping above the main lobby area. As the need arose, this crew also helped during numerous snow events. Roads and Grounds – In addition to completing 74 service orders this month, this crew also addressed snow and ice events throughout March. They were called in early a total of 21 times for snow- and icecovered roads and a total of seven times for removal

APRIL 2013 • 3 of snow at bus stops. Before snow fell, roads were pretreated and anti-skid and salt brine were mixed and stored. After snow events, the snow along the roads was pushed back, maintenance and cleaning of plow trucks was performed, snow tire chains were rebuilt and signs were straightened. Missing signs were counted and ordered and 4x4 posts were replaced, snow that was on and around fire hydrants was removed, and all facilities were shoveled and their steps cleared. Shoulder ruts were filled with modified stone, and potholes were filled using 750 pounds of cold patch. The ice rink was plowed after snow events, and Christmas trees were delivered for a bonfire in preparation for the Ice Skating Social. This crew assisted the Community Conservation Director with constructing and placing fish habitat on Hemlock Lake, assisted the Water Company with pushing up dirt for the new fire hydrants that were installed, and cut up trees that were downed from winter storms. At the Refuse Recycling Center, box and bulk trash were pushed down, and garbage was removed from all facilities. Water Company – For the month of February, the Water Company responded to 10 PA One Calls to mark underground pipe locations, 57 service orders were completed, five community wells were monitored daily, and plumbing repairs were made to the chemical feed lines at Well Site 1. An eight-inch water main break on Long Ridge Drive was repaired, leak detection continued, and three service line leaks were discovered. Repairs were made to these lines using ¾-inch copper line. Five water meters and five ERTs were replaced in members’ homes, five fire hydrants were replaced, and three dirty-water calls were addressed. The Water Company also assisted the Roads and Grounds crew with numerous snow/ice events.

ENGINEERING REPORT Stormwater Management – The Engineering Firm Kleinschmidt continues to work on the design and surveying for the Stormwater Management Project for all of Hemlock Farms. With favorable weather, they will commence the installation of the roadside monuments. The design/surveying work is approximately 56.5 percent complete. Bathhouse Pool/Site Upgrades – The contractor must still complete punch list work and provide credits for work that was not performed or eliminated. Hemlock Dam – The HFCA Board of Directors has approved Kleinschmidt Engineering Firm to perform the design and to acquire the permits for the rehabilitation of Hemlock Lake Dam. A contract agreement will be executed in the near future. HFCA Library Foundation Repair – The contractor Stracka Construction, Inc. is preparing to commence construction in mid-April 2013.

PUBLIC SAFETY Spring is Coming – Now that Punxsutawney Phil has predicted an early spring, we all need to get ready. Any Continued on page 5

A Life of Volunteering

HF CA

RECREATION NEWS

HEMLOCK NEWS

By Mary Beth Connors

HFCA Recreation Department Summer Employment The Recreation Department is accepting employment applications for the 2013 Summer Season. They can be obtained at the Administration Office or www.hemlockfarms.org.

Areas of employment include: ••

Fawn Hill Day Camp Day Camp ~ Day Camp Supervisors, Counselors & Counselors In Training •• Aquatics ~ Badge Checkers, Lifeguards & Water Safety Instructors •• Tennis ~ Instructors & Shack Attendants •• Sports~ Program Coordinators •• Recreation Operations Applications can be submitted to the Administration Office in person or by mail to: HFCA ~ Recreation Department 1007 Hemlock Farms Lords Valley, PA 18428 For further information, please contact Michele Osborne, Recreation Administrator at 570/775-4200 x122.

photo by Kathie Waibel

Interior Firefighter Jim Mason

James Mason has been a member of the Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company (HFVF& Co.)for twoand-one-half-years. He is an interior firefighter. Jim joined the HFVF&R Co. to help save lives and property. Jim was a volunteer firefighter in Monroe Township in New Jersey, and he has been a volunteer his entire life. “Volunteering is part of my life,” said Jim. He was also with the Boy Scouts as his sons were growing up. “ My wife and I have always encouraged our sons to get involved,” he said. Jim is a building engineer in Parsippany, New Jersey. In 2011, Jim and his wife, Patricia, moved to Hemlock Farms from Woodbridge, New Jersey. They have two sons and one daughter-in-law.

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 31

Nature Books and Field Gear Fundraiser for Hemlock Farms Conservancy BEAR-OLOGY: Fascinating Bear Facts, Tales & Trivia By Sylvia Dolson, $12 A treasure trove of facts, folklore and amazing trivia about the nature and history of all bears. Along the way, you’ll meet some famous bears (real and not-so-real) and learn how bears are a part of our lives.

HELP US HELP YOU The HFVF&R Company is not supported ¿nancially through your HFCA membership dues. In addition to assuring the availability of ¿rst class emergency services, all residents are requested to make an annual tax-deductible contribution of $75 or more. This contribution protects your immediate household members from having to pay any out-of-pocket ambulance service fees that exceed your insurance reimbursement.

Serving 24 Hours of Every Day of the Year

HEMLOCK FARMS VOLUNTEER FIRE & RESCUE CO.

1053 Hemlock Farms • Lords Valley, Pennsylvania 18428 • 570-775-6447

Living With Bears: A Practical Guide to Bear Country By Linda Masterson, Foreword by Tom Beck, $13 Learn why human-bear conÀicts are on the rise and what you can do to prevent them at home or at play in black bear country. Practical advice from bear experts and real-life stories from people, parks and communities who’ve learned to coexist with black bears. A Whistler Bear Story By Steven Dolson & Katherine Fawcett, $11 World-renown Whistler may be a ski town, a mountains biking mecca, and an Olympic destination, but it’s also home to some of the most awe-inspiring animals on earth: black bears. In “A Whistler Bear Story,” you’ll meet the real black bears of Whistler: Jeanie, Katie, Marissa, Fitz and Slip among others. They den near favorite ski runs, graze in open meadows under chair lifts, munch on grass on golf course fairways and devour berries alongside mountain bike trails. And sometimes, to their misfortune, they come into town, raid garbage bins, eat berries in people’s yards, and even break into homes and restaurants looking for food. Find out what it’s like to live in a town where bears roam the forests nearby, and learn what the town is doing to minimize humanbear conÀict and preserve our fragile coexistence. Tick Key An easy-to-use tick removal device, 99% effective on the removal of all sizes & types of ticks, $5. Available at the Administration Of¿ce Checks payable to Hemlock Farms Conservancy. Tax deductible poUtion of each bear book is $3. Tax deductible portion of each tick key is $1.40.

OPINION

4 • APRIL 2013

1. All letters for submission must include the member’s name, address telephone number and email address (for verification purposes only) and MUST BE

RECEIVED BY 4:00 P.M. ON MONDAY, APRIL 29. Letters

must be emailed to: mconnors@ hfca.com followed by a phone call to verify receipt. 2. All letters must be 300 words or less. 3. Letters may not be inflammatory, derogatory, obscene, or libelous. 4. Letters should be directed to the issues and not individual members. 5. Letter writers have the responsibility to present facts accurately and may be asked to substantiate their source. 6. While every effort is made to ensure that letter writers are presenting accurate facts, readers are encouraged to verify information with management and staff, Board members, Committee chairs and HFCA. com before relying on the veracity of the statements set forth or relating such statements to others as fact. 7. EDITOR’S NOTES WILL BE ADDED to clarify information, answer questions or correct any factual misinformation according to HFCA Code Chapter 120-5D – Letters to the Editor.

Thank You The Vennie Family would like to Thank Glenn Hoffman and all the Great people who responded to our house fire on March 15, 2013. We are grateful for all our family, friends and neighbors for their love and support. Please take a moment to support your local volunteer fire and rescue for all they do. The Vennie Family

Support Fire and Rescue It seems like we live in a cocoon at times, protected by our families, property, community and jobs. Sometimes along comes an event that threatens that cocoon. We must always be aware of the possibility of the unexpected. The unexpected for us came in November 2012. My husband fell and seriously injured his leg. We were confident that the rescue squad would assist us. The reality was that there were no volunteers on duty that morning and we waited for almost one hour. This is not a letter addressed as criticism but as a concern. Are you all aware that volunteers are in short supply? To that end we must address this concern. I did at Members’ Time and then continued to volunteer as a guest on the ad hoc ALS committee. The rescue squad is a highly trained group of men and women who give up sleep, events and holidays to serve the community. We could not function without it. But it cannot survive on volunteers alone. They are a shrinking group and our community must recognize that we need other solutions. The HF Fire and Rescue Co. have hired additional staff for the hours that are typically unmanned by volunteers. We need to continue to monitor this situation and perhaps hire additional staff as our community grows. Please consider supporting our Fire and Rescue Co. by attending their events, donating when they collect for holidays CA

HFCA members in good standing and members of their immediate families in residence are invited to submit Letters to the Editor for publication in HEMLOCK NEWS, the official publication of the Hemlock Farms Community Association. There is a limit of two letters from the same member family within a single issue of the paper. It is the intention of the editor and the Official Publication and Public Information (OPPI) Committee that publication of letters will allow for a civil discussion about important issues that face the community. The editor or his/her designee will enforce the following guidelines:

LETTERS

Letters to the Editor Guidelines

HEMLOCK NEWS

and especially donating the $75 a year per residence. If it is not for yourself, it could be your visiting family member or friend who become ill or injured and he/ she needs to be transported to the hospital. These contributions run the Hemlock Farms Fire and Rescue Co. We need both! Don’t forget, if you have an emergency dial 911. Pat Tromans

Don’t Cancel the Exercise Class The logic of canceling aerobics classes in the Steer Barn based on school delays completely escapes me. The conditions of the roads in Hemlock are not necessarily the same as the route to Hawley. This has happened a number of times this winter and today, March 14, for example, I saw no snow on our road yet I happened to get a call telling me that the class was cancelled as I was just about to leave for the class. I called the Steer Barn—which was open—to “vent” and heard that people were coming in for the class and therefore being sent home. I know I read an article explaining the reasoning behind the decision (which I can’t find to quote) that mentioned something about the attendees having children and not being able to get to the 9 a.m. class. I don’t know where that idea came from because the majority of us do not have school-age children. I was told that this procedure couldn’t be changed this season because it had been published but there’s no reason that the change couldn’t be put on Channel 15, on our website and in the Happenings. Not to mention that the instructor could be informed and then let us all know. By the time this is printed, snow storms will only be a memory but I hope this reasoning and all the complaints that I know have been tendered will be taken into consideration before a procedure is put in place next winter. Common sense, anyone? Candace Hartman Johnson

Getting ready for Election Season? Want your Letter to the Editor to be effective? Check out this 10-minute video on how to frame a persuasive argument. http://www.riverreporter.com/news/writingletters-tips

Thanks for Public Works On March 18, we had a terrible storm with snow, sleet and freezing rain participating in making driving treacherous. Cars on Route 15 and 206 in New Jersey and 739 in Pennsylvania were at the mercy of Mother Nature’s fury as she made the roads almost impassable. I had to pick up a family member from Newark Airport with an early afternoon arrival. I was hoping we would get home before the storm ravaged the roads—no such luck. The drive home was torturous and excruciatingly long. Nary a one of the aforementioned roads had any evidence of any salt, sand, cinders or an attempt at plowing as late as 8:00 p.m.. I did see PennDOT plows idling on the berm of 739 as we skidded past them. Finally and luckily, we reached the Forest Drive entrance with the car still in 4WD and 1st gear. My thoughts reveled with the thought of only having to drive only a short distance more within Hemlock Farms. Much to my very pleasant surprise, as I turned to come through the Forest Drive Gate, the road in Hemlock Farms was perfectly cleared-plowed, sanded and/or salted and an absolute pleasure to drive home safely on. All of this is to try to express my gratitude to the Hemlock Farms Road Crew and the Department of Pubic Works for another job well done! Kudos, accolades and thanks to you. Dianne Casella

Kudos to our Staff and Committee Volunteers! I’ve served on a number of Hemlock Farms (HF) finance related committees for quite a few years, and for that reason attended the Board of Directors meeting this past Saturday, March 23, 2013 to hear the presentation of the annual audit report from the outside auditors on the financial performance and status of HF. I am happy to report that, thanks to the efforts of our HF staff members and many volunteers on numerous committees, the auditors gave our community an unqualified opinion, which, in auditor terms, says that HF is in excellent financial shape. The auditors were particularly impressed with our various reserve Continued on page 5

ASSOCIATION NEWS

HEMLOCK NEWS

MANAGER’S REPORT

LETTERS Continued from page 4

accounts, which are set up to replace building and equipment and prepare for unexpected contingencies. They stated that our reserves are properly funded to deal with current problems as well as issues which might arise in the future. Having a clean audit report is very important to HF in many ways. The most obvious is that people looking for a place to live are also concerned with the financial condition and operation of the community they are looking at. HF has, and has always had, one of the most solid financial footings in the area.

HF’s sound financial base will serve its members well as we move forward with deciding the best ways to finance the storm-water management, manganese remediation and other infrastructure issues that will require investment in the not too distant future. And again, this is due to the management of HF, the staff running day-to-day operations and the unselfish dedication of our volunteers. So hats off to all involved in helping to make HF the great community it is. Phil Blecker

ATTENTION: Barcode stickers will be deactivated April 30 for members who have an unpaid 2013 dues balance.

This does not apply to members on the Dues Installment Plan.

Continued from page 3

day now, the flowers and trees will begin to bud and blossom, and all of a sudden, the world around us will come back to life. The coming of spring can be beautiful, but there are things to consider when you live amongst nature. As the warmer weather helps each new tree to bud, it also nudges the animals hibernating to wake up. As members of the Community, we need to keep in mind that these animals are going to wake up hungry. That means they will be doing things like knocking down bird feeders and getting into garbage containers. It is important to realize that putting food items into plastic bags inside tightly closed covered containers for roadside pickup will still attract bears. Although there may be a few tricks to help deter them, members may want to consider bringing those garbage bags to the Refuse Recycling Center. We also would like to remind members that all garbage placed out for roadside pickup must be in a tightly covered container. Garbage containers that are breached by an intruder, such as a bear, and which results in garbage strewn about is the responsibility of the property owner and is subject to fines, as outlined in Hemlock Farms Code Chapter 115.

RECREATION Employee of the Month – The employee of the month for the month of February was Michele Osborne. Michele is extremely hardworking and is always willing to go the extra mile to ensure that the Recreation Department is running smoothly. She consistently strives for perfection in everything she does, from

URGENT REMINDER

13), and great features and articles of the many doings in Hemlock Farms (throughout the paper). In preparation for the annual election season and a robust Letters to the Editor section, check out the 10-minute video on letter writing tips. In it, you’ll find the four general categories of letters— persuasion, statement of fact, preaching to the choir, and primal scream therapy, (which is generally a rant session that makes you feel better but probably shouldn’t be handed in for publication), the audience for each of these and tips on writing effective letters in each category. Here’s the link http://www.riverreporter.com/news/ writingletters-tips. Many thanks to all those who contribute. May the days continue to warm, and the natural landscape, inside and out, blossom. Laurie Stuart, Editor

FROM THE EDITOR Thanks to the members of the Official Publication and Public Information (OPPI) Committee George Barbier, Marna Berman, Vincent Comando, Jeff Ferretti, David and Phyllis Malinov, Rita and Michael Spitzer who assisted Hemlock News Coordinator Mary Beth Connors and Assistant Kathie Waibel in readying the pages for publication. The Committee is beginning to explore producing a digital version of the News. We’re also starting to ramp up the “news.” This month you’ll find a Legislative Update, news stories from the Pike County Commissioners, plus full coverage of the April Board meeting. To help with this effort, we’ve added additional reporting by Kevin Kearney. In this issue, you’ll find the third installment of the Stormwater Primer (page 7), information about the filtration system proposed for Well #4 that will be on the ballot in July (page

APRIL 2013 • 5

As per the 2010 Revised Payment Guidelines, any dues balances that are not paid in full (excluding dues installment plan) AS OF JUNE 30, will be assessed a $250.00 administrative fee.

registering boats and formatting and coordinating information in the Official HFCA Handbook, to formatting our Summer Recreation Guide. She is always the first person to ask whether help is needed or if there is more that she can do. Michele, I thank you for all your hard work. It is very much appreciated. Summer Employment – The Recreation Department is accepting applications for all of our summer seasonal positions. If you or anyone you know is interested in summer employment, please stop by the Administration Office and pick up an application. We will be offering a lifeguard certification class here at Hemlock Farms on May 25 and 26 and on June 1 and 2. Sign up at the Administration Office as space is limited. Spring Work – As the weather warms, the Recreation Department is beginning to focus on our outdoor facilities. Staff will be spending numerous hours setting up all the tennis courts, bocce and ball courts, ball fields, playgrounds, pools and beaches. We have put a plan together for a successful summer season, and I am confident our staff will complete all the work necessary to make this so. As the weather warms up, I encourage members to get out and enjoy all of the amenities Hemlock Farms has to offer—and as always, we appreciate your input. If you have any suggestions or ideas for the Recreation Department, please call us at 570/7754200, ext. 122. Boat Day – Saturday, April 6 will be the date for our annual Boat Day. Be at the Administration Office by 7:00 a.m. if you are interested in renting a dock, rack or hitching post space. For your convenience, a listing of available boat dock, rack and hitching post spaces will be posted on the front door of the Administration Office on Friday, April 5 at 4:00 p.m. Now that we have turned the clocks ahead, our spring weather will not be too far away. Soon, the grass will start to grow and the leaves will break from their buds. Outdoor activity will pick up as members take to the outdoors to enjoy the activities they couldn’t do during the winter months. Please enjoy this time of year, and be careful!

ASSOCIATION NEWS

HEMLOCK NEWS

MANAGER’S REPORT

LETTERS Continued from page 4

ATTENTION: Barcode stickers will be deactivated April 30 for members who have an unpaid 2013 dues balance.

This does not apply to members on the Dues Installment Plan.

Continued from page 3

URGENT REMINDER

July (page 13), and great features and articles of the many doings in Hemlock Farms (throughout the paper). In preparation for the annual election season and a robust Letters to the Editor section, check out the 10-minute video on letter writing tips. In it, you’ll find the four general categories of letters— persuasion, statement of fact, preaching to the choir, and primal scream therapy, (which is generally a rant session that makes you feel better but probably shouldn’t be handed in for publication), the audience for each of these and tips on writing effective letters in each category. Here’s the link http://www.riverreporter.com/news/ writingletters-tips. Many thanks to all those who contribute. May the days continue to warm, and the natural landscape, inside and out, blossom. Laurie Stuart, Editor

APRIL 2013 • 5

As per the 2010 Revised Payment Guidelines, any dues balances that are not paid in full (excluding dues installment plan) AS OF JUNE 30, will be assessed a $250.00 administrative fee.

ASSOCIATION NEWS HF CA

BOARD ACTION IN BRIEF

The business portion of the Hemlock Farms Board of Directors meeting of March 23, 2013 began at 9:50 a.m., following an A.M. Executive Session. The Board heard the Auditor’s report and ended the seven-hour meeting with an additional P.M. Executive Session. Following a favorable report from Ray Zavada, the Community’s auditor, the Board moved to accept the financial report and to reproduce it for distribution to the Community, and it recommended that membership retain Zavada and Associates as its auditor next year at the Community’s Annual Meeting on July 13. Spitzer/Solotoff. Unanimous. Zavada said that the audit resulted in an unqualified, clean report, which reflected a strong balance sheet. He noted that the collection rate was good, holding steady at over 95 percent (which was excellent compared to other communities and in this current financial environment); and that the Audit Committee, the Finance Committee, Comptroller Ann Marie Drake and Community Manager Mike Sibio were a tremendous asset to the Community’s financial health. Approved the minutes of the February 23, 2013 Board meeting, as submitted. Zenie/Ferris. 8-0-1. Gentile abstains because of absence. Approved the minutes of the February 23, 2013 A.M. Executive Session meeting, as submitted. Warms/Wolff. 8-0-1. Gentile abstains because of absence. Approved a new Hemlock News flag (front page header), as recommended by the OPPI Committee. The Board thanked Stuart Communications for a job well done. Zenie/Ferris. Unanimous. Heard as part of the Treasurer’s Report: — that the collection rate is at 66.71 percent, compared to last year’s percent of 68.83. Comptroller Ann Marie Drake attributed the difference to the number of partial payment plans; she also noted that there were nine property transfers this month, for a total of over 30 in the last three months. She reported that, through the Bylaw change, $17,000 was collected from last year’s dues. Additionally, the Board approved the writeoff of $49,621 due to nine foreclosures

and one prior year upset sale. Spitzer/ Ferris. Unanimous. Heard the recommendation of the Finance Committee to the Board to have management check with the attorney on enabling HFCA to publish addresses and/or stage/block/lot information and/ or map #’s on property owned by members with a past-due balance. Wolff/ Zenie. Unanimous. Heard Wolff suggest that a link be placed on hemlockfarms.org to the Pike County Courthouse website, where all cases that are being heard are listed. Heard the Architecture and Planning and Land Use Committees recommend that the Board place on the July 2013 Ballot, for member consideration, a proposition to amend HFCA Bylaw, Article 3, Section 3.11 B – Committees, to permanently combine these two standing committees; and that the name for the Committee be “Planning, Land Use and Architecture Committee.” Solotoff/ Zenie. By consensus. The Board noted that combining Standing Committees is a Bylaw Amendment that would need to be passed by a 2/3-majority vote of the membership. Reviewed a Storm Water Survey prepared by the Public Works Committee and asked that the survey be reviewed by Mark Bowen of Kleinschmidt Associates, who is developing the communitywide stormwater engineering plan. Heard the recommendation of the Recreation Committee that the Board charge the Planning and Land Use/Architecture Committee with recommending a location for a snack shack at Elm Beach. Café chef Michael Hill has expressed interest in providing packaged food there this summer. Board member Gloria Talman asked whether there was an estimate as to the cost of electricity, and Sibio said that the amounts are not high. Upheld the decision of the Appeals Committee in an appeal having to do with a member parking in the roadway during a storm event. Wolff/Zenie. 1-8. Solotoff votes yes. Upheld the decision of the Appeals Continued on page 8

HEMLOCK NEWS

BID NOTICE

The Hemlock Farms Community Association is soliciting sealed bids for goods and services listed below. Bids will be received until the time speci¿ed on dates indicated, at which time all bids will be opened and publicly read at the Association Of¿ce. Contact Susan Almy, Hemlock Farms Community Association 1007 Hemlock Farms, Lords Valley PA 18428 or by calling 570-775-4200 ext. 119 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. daily or email at sue.almy@hfca.com. The HFCA reserves the right to waive any informalities in or reject any or all bids, or any part of any bid. Award of contracts is anticipated to occur by the Board of Directors at the Board Meeting following the bid opening, or at a subsequent Board meeting. The HFCA is a Pennsylvania, Not-For-Pro¿t Corporation, subject to PA State Sales Tax. BID ITEMS DATE & TIME OF BID OPENING 2 Danfoss DrivesWell 49 & 80 May 23, 2013 11:00 AM Culvert Pipe Replacement May 23, 2013 11:15 AM Roadside Danger Tree Removal September 2, 2013 11:00 AM Printing of the Hemlock News September 5, 2013 11:00 AM Printing of the Handbooks and Annual Reports September 5, 2013 11:15 AM Public Safety HVAC To be determined Public Safety Carpet Replacement To be determined Computer/Vehicle Gate Entry Bar Code System To be determined

By Laurie Stuart

6 • APRIL 2013

Knights of Columbus Annual Golf Classic Monday, June 3

Lords Valley Country Club RegistraƟon: 9:00 a.m. Tee Oī Time: 10:00 a.m.

Cost: $95.00 pp includes: ConƟnental Breakfast, Prizes & More BBQ Lunch, Golf Cart, Golf

Lunch only: $25.00 For reservaƟons call: Charlie at 570/775-7477 Pete at 570/775-8884

ASSOCIATION NEWS

HEMLOCK NEWS

Part III: Two New BMPs invented

APRIL 2013 • 7

A Stormwater Primer

Because the Hemlock Farms Board of Directors insisted that a way be found to cut down the least amount of trees and that things be done in the least expensive way, Kleinschmidt engineer Mark Bowen invented two new Green Best Management Practices (BMP) that will not only help Hemlock Farms, but could become cutting-edge stormwater management practices used nationwide. The two BMPs are Retentive Grading (below) and Soft-Bottom Culverts (next month in Part IV!), which utilize sections of pipe with a coupler that will accummulate the sediment behind it and cut costs by 1/3 (rule of thumb).

Retentive grading This BMP uses a 32-inch SiltSoxx™ that is filled with rotting leaves and ground up trees.* Different lengths of the sock are placed in the woods in strategic places to create barriers that serve as flood storage. The stored water infiltrates into the subsoil and slows down considerably (instead of getting to a lake in an hour by swale, it gets to the lake some 20-30 days later. Along the way, nitrogen, phosphorus and total suspended solids are filtered out, which is important to the continued health of the lakes.

Additionally, the sock is covered with a layer of dirt and plants and grasses are planted. These plants encourage envapotranspiration, the sum of evaporation (water that moves to the air) and transpiration (the amount of water that is taken up by the plants‛ roots and leaves). In order for these plants to grow, the tree canopy needs to be opened up on the uphill side, so that light can reach the forest understory. A small ditch is created so that sand that filters out can be gathered every 5 to 10 years.

*This is considered a LEED innovation because it is utilizing materials that are onsite.

Fun Fact:

Of 53 inches of rain: 2/3 is used by evapotranspiration 7” soaks into the ground through infiltration (The majority of this water will flow laterally and enhance the flow of streams in its path.)

1-2” goes into deep infiltration and reaches the aquifer A 40‛ tall oak evapotranspirates 400 gallons of water a day and sequesters more in its roots.

evapotranspiration = transpiration + evaporation

The trees,plants and grass encourage transpiration. Stored water infiltrates through the subsoil and flows laterally toward the lakes. It also evaporates.

The 32-inch Siltsoxx,™ filled with leaves and ground trees, creates a barrier that stores flood waters.

The acquifer is recharged by some of the water that infiltrates the subsoil.

ASSOCIATION NEWS

HF CA

8 • APRIL 2013

BOARD ACTION IN BRIEF Hemlock Farms Community Association

TOWN MEETING Sunday, May 19, 12:30 p.m.

Steer Barn Clubhouse Auditorium Agenda: I. Update on Board Goals All are encouraged to attend Light refreshments available

II. Ballot Propositions (s) III. Future Projects A. Well #4 Filtration B. Stormwater Management C. Hemlock Lake Dam IV. Question & Answer Period

Link to Hemlock Farms Video

Recently, a professional 12 minute video was released about Hemlock Farms. There is a link for viewing on the home page of the community website, hemlockfarms.org, or you can view directly on youtube.com.

Search in your internet browser for www.youtube.com/user/hemlockfarmshfca

HF C

CLOSE ENOUGH FAR ENOUGH THE PERFECT PLACE TO BE

You are welcome to share the video with your families and friends on Facebook, Twitter or Linkedin.

SAVE THE DATE

Meet the Candidates

running for the Hemlock Farms Board of Directors (Candidates to be announced) All are encouraged to attend

Saturday, June 22 7:30 p.m. Steer Barn Clubhouse Auditorium

Aquarius Plumbing & Electric

Light refreshme nts provided

Cresci Construction

Emergency Service Well & Sewage Pumps Water Treatment systems Heating Systems Water Heaters Plumbing & Electrical Services

Custom, Log & Modular Homes Additions • Remodeling Roo¿ng • Windows Siding • Decks

\ H U

570-828-2422

570-828-6761

www.cresciconstructionllc.com

PA039128

PA038927

Continued from page 6

Committee in an appeal having to do with a member parking in the roadway during a storm event after the member had been asked to move the car. Spitzer/ Warms. 1-8. Warms votes yes. Kellerman commented that the way to avoid citations is, “If you receive a warning, you need to act on it.” Accepted the rest of the Appeals Committee decisions. By acclamation. Heard from the Environmental Committee the recommendation that Hemlock Farms Wells #4, 10, 49 and 80 be included in a baseline water test every three months for a 12-month period utilizing the same test being employed by USGS, which is presently testing Well #4. Sibio said that the funding of these tests (from Marcellus shale drilling proceeds) would become the mission of the newly formed collaboration between Hemlock Farms Conservancy, the HFCA Water Company, Pike County Conversation District, Walker Lake Conservancy and a few others. Heard the Environmental Committee agree with the Board’s decision in February to award the Gypsy Moth spray to Helicopter Applicators. Heard the Environmental Committee agree with the Board’s decision in February to award the Invasive Terrestrial Plant contract to Ecological Solutions. (The timing of the Environmental Committee and the Board meeting made it impossible for the Committee to recommend the bidder.) Accepted the minutes of the Special Board meeting of March 13, 2013. Zenie/ Gentile. Pete Ferris abstains due to absence. Heard the recommendation that the Board assign the topic of heating the outdoor pools and all potential chemical applications to the Recreation Committee for review and consideration, and for the Committee to get back to the Board by July. By consensus. Heard the recommendation of the ad hoc Long Range Planning Committee that the Board assign responsibility for the long-range capital projects list to the Planning and Land Use/Architecture Committee to be reviewed and updated as needed. Heard the ad hoc Long Range Planning Committee recommend that the Board

HEMLOCK NEWS discharge the Committee since their mission has been completed. Heard the ad hoc Project Funding Committee recommendation to the Board that the PennVest loan be discussed and reviewed by the Finance Committee. Heard that the mission of the ad hoc Fitness Center Expansion Committee is limited to developing a plan for the expansion of the Steer Barn Fitness Center, along with attendant necessary improvements, and developing a recommendation to the Board by March 2014. Zenie/Talman. Unanimous. Announced that the expansion of the Fitness Center will not be on the ballot until 2014. Heard the Audit Oversight Committee recommendation to the Board that the Association look into more aggressive methods to collect unpaid balances and that it consider further restricting access to Community property to members in arrears. Heard as part of the ad hoc Source Water Protection Committee that the collaboration is moving along really well. Heard as part of the Manager’s report, that: — there is a Porter Township meeting scheduled for May 15 and 16 to consider whether Porter Township could send its students to the Wallenpaupack School District rather than East Stroudsburg. The Board authorized Mike Sibio, by acclamation, to speak on behalf of the Board on the impact on the Community and students due to the social issues (neighboring students could go to different schools), the necessity of staffing different bus schedules, and the effect on programming if one school is closed and the other is not. Lyn Atreed noted it was also a safety issue in that the weather is very different in the higher elevations around Hemlock Farms than it is in East Stroudsburg. — discussions have been held with PennVest about possible funding for the installation of a green sand filter on Well #4; — several projects coming up this spring include the replacement of power poles that stretch between Blooming Grove substation and our substation.; — a notice of condemnation has been received from PennDOT for the land needed to replace the grate bridge over McConnell stream. The Board resolved to authorize Management to continue to negotiate the easement price, as the Continued on page 9

Continued from page 8

$7,600 that was offered was not deemed sufficient. Zenie/Talman. Unanimous. — the Community will be holding a stakeholder meeting at 7:30 a.m. on April 2 at the Steer Barn Clubhouse. The new Hemlock Farms video, as well as a sixpanel brochure about the Community, will be provided to those attending; and — the repair of the Library foundation will be delayed as details regarding an additional scope of work are worked out with the contractor. In regular business, the Board: Approved the sending of the annual Wellhead Protection Program update. Zenie/Ferris. Unanimous. Authorized the Manager to review the application of two new clubs: the Hemlock Hurricanes Booster Club—a volunteer-led group dedicated to providing support, social activities and fundraising to benefit the children and families of the Hemlock Hurricanes Swim team; and the European Social Club—a nonprofit organization that honors and promotes European heritage and culture, not limited to any one country. Waived the fee to the Hemlock Hurricanes to use the Community’s facilities for a fundraiser, pending approval of the Booster Club. Zenie/Warms. Unanimous. Authorized Management to enter into an agreement with the PA Department of State to place an antenna and a dish on the water tower, for a rate of $1,000 per year, to be used by the Pennsylvania State Police. Talman/Wolff. Unanimous. Authorized Management to contact a broker to dispose of several old telephone systems. By consensus. Larry Solotoff left the meeting at 1:00 p.m. Accepted the resignation of Marianna Knowles of the Archives Preservation Committee and the ad hoc 50th Anniversary Committees as she is currently employed by the Public Safety Department and is no longer eligible to serve on any Committees. Kellerman suggested that, as she has been an important part of the Committee, she might be willing to attend as a guest. Approved the Payment of Bills of $291,876.85 for the Community Association and $42,291.21 for the Water Company, for a total of $334,168.06. Spitzer/

Wolff. Unanimous. Moved to authorize Public Works to expend the entire budget of $759,500 for all of the components of annual Road Maintenance and moved that the bids for crack sealing and road line painting be awarded to the lowest bidder. Spitzer/ Ferris. Unanimous. Awarded the bid for the Replacement of Fire Hydrants and Plumbing Supplies to Exeter Supply, for a total of $17,276.41. The purpose of this bid is to purchase fire hydrant supplies for replacement. The Water Co. Capital Expenditures has $33,500 to cover this expense. Awarded the bid for the replacement of five fire hydrants to Hugh Trivelpiece at a price of $8,750 (this needs to be confirmed). Zenie/Ferris. Unanimous. Wolff out of the room. Awarded the bid for a Kubota Lawn Tractor to Marshall Machinery. The purpose of this bid is to replace a mower in the Public Works Department. Ferris/ Gentile. Unanimous. Wolff out of the room. Awarded the bid for Anti-Skid Material to Springbrook Enterprises on a five-year contract. The purpose of this bid is to continue snow and ice control in HFCA. A portion of Line Item 430.152 covers this expense. Warms/Gentile. Unanimous. Awarded the bid for Magnesium Chloride to JMG Enterprises for $1.25 per metered gallon for two years. Talman/ Zenie. Unanimous. Awarded the bid for Fireworks Display to ZY Pyrotechnics for $9,010. The purpose of this bid is to present a fireworks display for Summer Kickoff. Line item 450.296 has $10,500 to cover this expense. Gentile/Spitzer. Unanimous. Awarded the bid for the Steam Room Tile and Generator to Mario Melchiorre for $24,682.39 to replace the steam room tiles and generator. There is $26,938 in the Replacement Reserve for this project. Ferris/Gentile. 7-1. Warms opposes, with the rationale that the costs were too high. Awarded a bid for tiling of the Stand Shower at the Steer Barn Clubhouse to Mario Melchiorre for up to $4,190 from the Replacement Reserve Fund. Ferris/ Gentile. Unanimous. Approved an amendment of 252-150 Use of Roads Restricted. Wolff/Talman. Unanimous. Reviewed a new design of galvanizedContinued on page 11

APRIL 2013 • 9 6 TONS Driveway Stone

FINANCIAL SPECIALISTS LLC

Delivered & Spread

Member FINRA/SIPC

John R. Fisher, CPA, CFP®

Registered Representative Investment Adviser Representative

$149.00 ¾" Modified Stone Lot Clearing/Clean-up • Fall Clean-up • Debris/Rubbish Removal • Excavation/Earthwork Stump Removal • Driveway Installations/Repairs • Septic Installations Drainage/Water Diversion • Foundation Waterproofing • Rock Walls/Retaining Walls Paver Walkways/Patios • Stone Walkways/Patios • Stone Staircases • Crushed Stone/ Decorative Stone • Mulch • Topsoil/Clean Fill • Flat Rock • Sand • Firewood • Snow Plowing

752 Route 739 Lords Valley, PA 18428 570-775-2850 570-775-2852 fax john.¿sher@ceterafs.com Securities offered through Cetera Financial Specialists LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC.

Family owned Serving the area for over 27 years 24-Hour Towing Mark Prisco, Proprietor

AUTOMARX, INC. 477 Route 739, Lords Valley, PA 18428 (2 miles north of Hemlock Farms on Rt. 739)

570-775-6834 • Fax 570-775-1750

Same Owner, Same Location, Same Great Service... Formerly Armond’s Auto Repair, Inc.

automarx@ptd.net

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

BOARD ACTION IN BRIEF

ASSOCIATION NEWS

HEMLOCK NEWS

Peter Ferris 2080 Hemlock Farms Lords Valley, PA 18428 570/775-8884 Ignatius (Buddy) Gentile 3062 Hemlock Farms Lords Valley, PA 18428 570/445-4491 David J. Kellerman, President 2638 Hemlock Farms Lords Valley, PA 18428 570/775-0946

Larry Solotoff 35 Clover Road Great Neck, NY 11021 570/775-6794 Michael Spitzer, Treasurer 269 Monahan Avenue Staten Island, NY 10314 570/775-9081, 718/494-2466 Gloria Talman, Secretary 1966 Hemlock Farms Lords Valley, PA 18428 570/775-7199

Jeannette Warms 1717 Hemlock Farms Lords Valley, PA 18428 570/775-0280 Robert Wolff, Vice President 3227 Hemlock Farms Lords Valley, PA 18428 570/775-4200 Anne Marie Zenie, Asst. Treasurer 1794 Hemlock Farms Lords Valley, PA 18428 570/257-0007

2013 BOARD CALENDAR

REGULAR BOARD MEETINGS, BUDGET HEARINGS AND NOTICE, ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING, NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS All meetings and events (except where noted below) will be held at the Conference Center beginning at 8:30 a.m., Members’ Time and other oral communications will be at 11:00 a.m. for one-half hour. DATE 2013 April 27 May 18 May 19 May 29 June 22 July 13* July 13* July 21* July 27 August 3 August 24

MEETING/EVENT

TIME/PLACE (EXCEPTIONS)

Regular Board Meeting Regular Board Meeting Town Meeting DEADLINE FOR FILING NOMINATING PETITIONS FOR ELECTIONS TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS* Regular Board Meeting ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING* FIRST VOTING DAY- ANNUAL ELECTIONS* SECOND VOTING DAY-ANNUAL ELECTIONS* RECESSED MEMBERSHIP MEETING Regular Board Meeting Organizational Board Meeting* Regular Board Meeting

*Date determined by Bylaws

8:30 a.m. 8:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m. 2:00 p.m./HFCA Of¿ce 8:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m./Clubhouse 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m./Clubhouse 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m./Clubhouse 8:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 8:30 a.m.

ASSOCIATION NEWS

10 â&#x20AC;˘ A P R I L 2 0 1 3

HEMLOCK NEWS

EMPLOYEES OF THE MONTH

Profiles and Photos by Mary Beth Connors

FEBRUARY 2013

JANUARY 2013

DECEMBER 2012

ADMINISTRATION

PUBLIC SAFETY

PUBLIC WORKS

RECREATION

Jeff Smith

Burl Britt

Mike Kemery

Adrienne Cordani

Jeff is a member of the Administration Custodial Team. He assists with maintaining the cleanliness of the HFCA facilities. He is always ready and willing to fill in whenever and wherever he is needed. Jeff began employment in the Administration Office in December 2012.

Burl is a part-time Patrol Officer. He patrols the roads, issues citations and conducts a Detex check at all the facilities. He also responds to all fire and medical emergencies. Burl began employment in the Public Safety Department in July 2011.

Mike is the Roads and Grounds Equipment Operator. He helps maintain the roads and grounds and repairs potholes. In addition, in the winter months, he will plow snow. Mike began employment in the Public Works Department in May 2000.

Adrienne is an Exercise/Fitness Instructor. She conducts exercise classes and works as a Fitness Attendant and Clubhouse Receptionist. In addition, she helps with the Cultural Arts programs. Adrienne began employment in the Recreation Department in May 2009.

Brianna Bickmann

Doug Regan

Mark McConnell

Candey Grice

Brianna is the Water Company Assistant. She mails the quarterly water bills and schedules meter readings. In addition, she handles all inquiries related to water. Brianna began employment in the Administration Office in April 2011.

Doug is a part-time Gate Officer. He is the first face visitors see as they come into the Community. Doug can always be seen on the overnight shift at the 739 Gate. He began employment in the Public Safety department in June 2009.

Mark is the mechanic who keeps all of the HFCA equipment running smoothly. He is responsible for all HFCA vehicles, trucks, buses and the Vac truck. In addition, he services all of the small equipment used by HFCA. Mark began employment in the Public Works Department in August 1988.

Candey is a Fitness Center Instructor and Clubhouse Receptionist. She helps people in the Fitness Center and recently has been a part of a new program called The Hemlock Challenge. Candey began employment in the Recreation Department in July 2011.

Marie Rode

Mike Plunkett

Bill Krebs

Michele Osborne

Marie is a part-time Front Office Receptionist. She updates barcode stickers, issues badges and answers membersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; questions. In addition, she coordinates committee information and places the minutes on the website. Marie began employment with HFCA in July 2008.

Mike is a part-time Gate Officer. He is the first face that visitors see as they come through the 402 Gate. He is a retired police officer from New Jersey. Mike began employment in the Public Safety Department in November 2008.

Bill is the Staff Engineer. He reviews drawings and specifications for special projects and then oversees each project to make certain that everything is in accordance with the specifications. He is currently working with the engineer with respect to stormwater design. Bill began employment in the Public Works Department in December 2004.

Michele is the Recreation Administrator. She signs up adults and children for the many recreation programs that Hemlock Farms offers. In addition, she updates the Happenings and the yearly Recreation insert. Michele began employment with the Hemlock Farms Community Association in September 2006.

HEMLOCK NEWS

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 11

BOARD ACTION IN BRIEF Continued from page 9

pipe boat racks to be placed at Little Camp, and moved to replace the wooden boat racks at Little Camp with four new galvanized-pipe boat racks, at a cost not to exceed $5,000 and to be done by July 4. The rack will have three tiers. Talman/Gentile. Unanimous. Heard Sibio say said that this project may necessitate overtime costs as the Public Works staff will become very busy with opening up the facilities for the spring/summer season. The Board thanked Mike Schul for his work on the design of the racks. Moved to release the Executive Session

meeting minutes with the names redacted, as per the Manager’s recommendation memo of January 22 . Wolff/Ferris. 7-1. Gentile votes no because he said that all of the minutes should be released. Heard Sibio give the Board a quick update on his plan to examine the alternative methods of operation of the Water Company, which will include an overview of the finances of the system, expectation of future unusual projects and the regulatory landscape. Moved to Second Reading the proposed amendment to HFCA Code Chapter 115 – Solid Waste Disposal. By consensus. Moved to Second Reading the proposed amendment to HFCA Code Chapter 259

– Water System. As part of correspondence, received a thank-you note from Mike and Chris Sibio for the condolences on the death of Sibio’s mother, Clare; a congratulations letter from Davis R. Chant on the occasion of the Community’s 50th Anniversary; a letter of thanks from Gloria Talman to the Public Safety Department for its help in checking on her 95-yearold father; and a letter from the PPL Corporation indicating its intention to rebuild the existing Blooming GroveHemlock 138/69 kilovolt power line to

L.A. CARPET CARE

We clean it all!!

Window Washing Carpeting, Area Rugs and Upholstery Cleaning Tile and Wood Floors Waxing and BufÀng Pressure Washing

AWA Home • Auto • Life • Business

662 Route 739 Lords Valley, PA 18428

PA, NY, NJ 570-775-9800 • 1-888-775-9800

improve the reliability of electric service in the area. The Board recessed into Executive Session at 2:30 p.m. after announcing that a list of important Board priorities this month was the Bathhouse punchlist; Well #4 and the high level of manganese in the water; replacement of the boat racks at Little Camp Beach; and Lot 3. Kellerman said that the monthly list would be a part of the regular Board packet and that each of the items on this month’s list had been dealt with during the meeting.

Serving the Tri-State Area for more than 30 years

Tile and Masonry Repairs

SPECIALIZING IN: Steam cleaning of grout, sealing, and caulking. Quality tile installation and repairs for kitchens/ baths. Masonry work with cultured stone and brick, including repairs for steps, walkways, and foundations.

NO JOB TOO SMALL

Steve Vanderbeck 570-468-0683

Lawrence Ciarelli & Sons

HOME IMPROVEMENTS EMERGENCY ROOF REPAIRS WHEN AVAILABLE RooÀng, Copper Flashings, Siding & Decks, Additions & Alterations, Basements, Kitchens & Baths, Tile Floors, Sheetrocking & Taping, Sheds & Screened Porches, Interior & Exterior Painting, Demolition & Gutting Buildings LICENSED & INSURED • SERVING NY, NJ & PA Serving Hemlock Farms over 27 years

570-775-6996 PA031150

SPECIALIZING IN FLAT ROOFING

Births, Graduations, Engagements, Weddings, Anniversaries, Deaths.

These are all life-changing events that you can share with your neighbors by contacting Hemlock News.

Hemlock News will be happy to print your announcement accompanied by a picture or two. Contact

570-686-5381 • 800-294-8932 CA

PA080922

INSURED

Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire & Rescue Co.

Annual Charity Golf Outing Monday, May 20

Lords Valley Country Club $95.00 per person includes:

11:30 a.m. BBQ Lunch and Registration 1:00 p.m. Shotgun Start 6:00 p.m. Dinner and Prize Presentation Any questions? Call Patty Magie at 570/775-9890. Please complete and mail in registration with check to: Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire & Rescue Co. Golf Committee 1053 Hemlock Farms, Lords Valley, PA 18428 Name ___________________________________________________ Name ___________________________________________________ Name ___________________________________________________ Name ___________________________________________________ Address _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ Phone ___________________________________________________

Mary Beth Connors at 570/775-4200 x 121.

All proceeds to benefit the Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire & Rescue Company

ASSOCIATION NEWS

12 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3

MEMBERS’ TIME

Green Sand Filter on the Ballot

By Kevin Kearney

Seven members addressed the HFCA Board of Directors at the 11:00 a.m. Members’ Time portion of the March 23 Board of Directors’ meeting. Five of them spoke of the continuing problem of manganese in their water. Alex and Glenda Deutsch spoke of their problems with their water. “We have manganese built up in our system,” Glenda told the Board. The couple passed around a one-foot section of the water main from their house, where the inside was coated with blackish muck. Glenda, a nurse, said the water that comes into their house from Well #4— which produced 500 gallons of water per minute— has given her skin problems, such as itching and peeling. “And your skin is your largest line of defense,” she said. She said she and her husband are having their blood tested. Alex told the Board that his wife has not taken a bath in their home in six months. “There are issues,” Glenda told the Board. “There are health concerns.” Alex noted that their toilet is black, too. “It’s not good,” he said. Glenda said, “We’re not trying to be confrontational but it is an issue that is affecting the health of the community. We feel that it is an emergency and needs to be addressed.” She said manga-

nese can cause many ailments, including cancer. She said they had had independent testing conducted and their water is high in iron and sedimentation. The water issue came about when the PA Department of Environmental Protection told Hemlock Farms the chlorine levels had to be increased in the well, which resulted in the naturally occurring manganese to fall out of sequesterization. Community Manager Mike Sibio noted manganese is a common element, but the effects of it are different on different populations. To experience any illnesses from manganese the consumption must generally be large. “We want to fix the problem,” he said. Board President David Kellerman told the Deutsches that the Board is moving forward with the issue, noting that a green sand filter will be on the ballot for membership approval, at a cost of approximately $2 million. When asked if it would be more cost-effective to put in a new well, Kellerman said that a feasibility study has been conducted and a green sand filter is the least expensive way to go. The Board members thanked the Deutsches for coming to the meeting and told the couple the issue is being addressed.

Your source for In-Depth News Coverage By subscription or on your newsstand – $35 per year

To subscribe, send your name, address and phone number, along with payment, to: PO Box 150, Narrowsburg, NY 12764 or call 845/252-7414. The other publication of Stuart Communications, Inc. – Proud publisher of Hemlock News

HEMLOCK NEWS

SPRING THAW REGULATIONS

As per Hemlock Farms Code 198, section 198-2 & 198-4 and Act 180 of 1996 Chapter, “Spring Thaw” went into effect on March 11, 2013 and will continue for 8 weeks. All vehicles with TOTAL GROSS WEIGHT EXCEEDING 10 TONS (20,000 lbs.) will be prohibited from all Hemlock Farms roads during this period. This policy is in effect to help protect our roads from heavier vehicles. If you have any questions please contact the Building Department at 570-775-0671 ext. 119.

Paul Roth also addressed the water issue, saying he, too, is dealing with skin issues. “It’s not healthy, it’s not healthy,” he told the Board, adding that something has to be done with no more delays. Member Pat Pasternak added that the problem has been ongoing for too long. Kellerman reiterated that the issue of the green sand filter will be on the ballot for the July vote, and urged members to take action to make sure that the proposition passes. “We need that vote,” Kellerman said. Claire Ogden said, “You can’t drink the water.” She also was concerned that since only Well #4 is affected, many members who aren’t experiencing any problems may not vote in favor of the green sand filter due to the costs. Sibio said that, even though Well #4 is the only well currently affected, all of the wells work on a loop system, and there is a chance the manganese concentration could spread. He also said the Board is looking into obtaining a low-interest loan from PennVest to help fund the project.

CSI

Lee Oakes informed the Board that Wayne Memorial Hospital and its Community Health Centers have launched a comprehensive study to determine the most critical unmet health care needs throughout Pike and Wayne counties, as well as the Carbondale area of Lackawanna County. The study will analyze needs and associated priorities. The study’s completion date is June 30, and the final product will be available on the hospital’s website, www.wmh.org. Lyn Atreed asked a question about recycling plastics. There is single-stream if you choose to put your recycling out at the street. Atreed asked if members could do all varieties at the Refuse Center. The Board said yes. She also asked about the status for the new code for outdoor furnaces. Sibio said legal reviewed the modifications, and it will go back to the Environmental Committee, and then come back to the Board. For more information about a filtration system see page 15. John Meenan, Proprietor 3018 Hemlock Farms 570-775-4086

Security Systems Inc.

Burglar • Fire • Closed-Circuit Television Intercom Systems • Music & Sound Systems “Protecting lives and property since 1978” License # PA025297

Serving Hemlock Farms over 25 Years

BERTSCH CONTRACTING

General Home Improvement and Building Contractor

Garages • Additions • Remodeling • RooÀng • Siding Interior & Exterior Painting • Decks • Kitchens • Baths Flooring • Sheds •Driveway Stone • Electrical Work

FREE ESTIMATES

Member of Pike County Chamber Of Commerce, Pike Builders Association Licensed: PAOAGHIC001935

Call Dave, Bill or Tom • 570-686-1298 PO Box 1430 • Milford, PA 18337

ASSOCIATION NEWS

HEMLOCK NEWS

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 13

A Green Sand Filter: A remedy for Well #4 The Background:

Well #4 was developed in 2001. It is permitted at 500 gallons per minute. The original water quality contained concentrations of iron and manganese, and a sequestering agent (a polyphosphate compound) was an adequate means of preventing these naturally occurring metals from creating objectionable taste, odor and color within the distribution system. Since the well was added to the system in 2002, the concentration of manganese has increased. In addition, the recent DEP groundwater rule has required increased concentration of chlorine for disinfection, has created a situation where the sequestering agent is no longer able to keep the manganese in solution. After study, Entech Engineering has recommended that an oxidation/ pressure filtration process (commonly referred to as a green sand filter, pictured right) would reduce iron and manganese levels. This treatment process could be located on HFCA property along Meadow Court relatively close to Well No. #4. The concentrations of iron and manganese in the permitted levels are as follows: Well 4 PA DEP MCL Iron 0.18 mg/l .3 mg/l Manganese 0.357 mg/l 0.05 mgl

The AdEdge AD26

While these metals are not hazardous to health, they have the tendency to produce taste, order and color in water supplies.

The Details:

The project cost for this treatment solution is approximately $1,870,000, which includes site work, yard piping, a 40· x 60· building, the filter equipment itself (pictured right), and a liquid sludge thickening facility for liquid sludge disposal, and non-construction costs including engineering and permitting. Should sludge dewatering and drying be required for disposal of dried iron and manganese solids at a landfill, the costs could increase to $2 million.

The Disposal:

The iron and manganese removed from the water treatment process will need to be disposed in either a liquid or solid state. It is likely that liquid sludge disposal at a publically owned wastewater plant will be possible. The risk of relying on liquid sludge disposal at a public wastewater treatment plant is that the Authority could, in the future, decide to terminate receiving the sludge. One approach would be to construct a pair of lagoons wherein the thickened sludge could be dried for landfill disposal. Dried iron and manganese sludge will like always be permissible for landfill disposal as residual municipal waste.

Ongoing Maintenance Costs:

Operating costs for this Well #4 treatment system will approach $15,000 annually, which includes an allowance for filter media replacement and 1% liquid sludge disposal at a unit cost of 25 cents per gallon of sludge disposed.

This project will be on the ballot in July.

ASSOCIATION NEWS

14 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3

HEMLOCK NEWS

50th Anniversary MOTHER’S DAY Steer Barn Dinner Buffet Sunday, May 12

Save the Date Saturday, June 29 6:00 p.m.

Gala 50-Year Anniversary Celebration Dinner-Dance Reservations will be accepted at Lords Valley Country Club beginning April 15 ~ 570/775-7325 x 200.

Seating’s at 2:30 PM 4:30 PM 6:30 PM $25 per person Youngsters 10 and under $12 Coffee & Tea Included Please Make Reservations at the Administration Office

Young Greens Local Radish & Moscatel Vinaigrette Pasta Primavera Spring Vegetables, Black Olives, Basil & Parmesan Iron Seared Salmon Fillet Six Onion Confit & Chive Beurre Blanc Chicken Francaise Lemon, Garlic & White Wine Reduction Hand Carved London Broil Forest Mushroom & Roasted Shallot Gravy Confetti Rice & Smothered Potatoes Miniature Desserts

Girl Scout Troop # 50758

50th Anniversary Celebration contributed photo contributed photo

Dine outdoors under a tent on the Country Club grounds, or seating is available indoors.

A beautiful ice sculpture created by Chef Daniel presides over a Deluxe Raw Bar at Lords Valley Country Club.

Watch for your invita on in the mail! Limited sea ng — reserve and pay early! $60.00 pp (18 and over) includes an evening of music by a prominent band indoors, and DJ JAM outdoors. A buﬀet menu served at various loca ons throughout the evening will be a sampling of Asian, South American, Grill House, Pasta, Vegetarian, and a Raw Bar with a Viennese Dessert Table and Chocolate Fondue. Complimentary shu le busses are available for transporta on from Elm Beach parking lot and the 402 bus stop. The shu le service will begin at 5:00 p.m. and depart every 30 minutes so guests may arrive by 6:00 p.m.

Guests will have the opportunity to purchase (cash only) drink ckets redeemable for bar beverages (so drinks, water, and coﬀee are included in the cket price). Sea ng is open, both indoors and outdoors. A re for the evening is Casual Elegant (no jeans or shorts).

Saturday, April 20, from noon to 3:00 p.m. at the Fawn Hill Day Camp Building. OPEN TO ALL GIRLS IN HEMLOCK FARMS!! Cost: Active Girl Scouts wearing vests $1.00, their guests are FREE if they register to become a Girl Scout or Brownie for next year! Girls interested in participating in the event - $2.00. Come for crafts and light refreshments! Fun crafting with recycled materials. For additional information, contact Dee Brannigan at 570/257-0049.

Learn about scouting! Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Hemlock Farms.

ASSOCIATION NEWS

By Kevin Kearney

In and Outside the Community By KEVIN KEARNEY The top issues discussed at the March 23, 2013 meeting of the Hemlock Farms Community Association Board of Directors included the annual audit, issues with members with past due balances, the possibility of students shifting from one school district to another, upcoming projects and two new Community clubs. The meeting was chaired by President David Kellerman. In attendance were Vice President Rob Wolff, Secretary Gloria Talman, Treasurer Michael Spitzer and Board members Pete Ferris, Jeannette Warms and Anne Marie Zenie. Member Larry Solotoff participated in the meeting via phone. Annual Audit Ray Zavada, the Community’s auditor, presented a favorable financial report to the Board. He said a recent audit resulted in an unqualified, clean report, which reflects a strong balance sheet. “Overall, I’d have to say your community has a very strong balance base,” Zavada told Board members, adding that the Community was in a “very good financial position at the end of 2012.” He said the Community has $19 million in assets and $3 million in liability. “That’s outstanding,” he said, noting that there is plenty of money in reserve in the event of a crisis. It’s also important because the Community has several projects that need to be completed, including the repair of Hemlock Lake Dam; the work needed at Well #4, which has a high concentration of manganese and is in need of a green sand filter; and stormwater management. “They are not small items,” Zavada said, though the Board is seeking a low-interest, PennVest loan for some of the work. Zavada also said that the collection rate was good, holding steady at over 95 percent—which he said was excellent com-

Photo by Mary Beth Connors

Auditor Ray Zavada of Zavada Associates presents the Board with the annual audit report. “The Community has a very strong balance sheet,” said Zavada.

pared to other communities and in this current financial environment. Additionally, he said that the Audit Committee, the Finance Committee, Comptroller Ann Marie Drake and Community Manager Mike Sibio are tremendous assets to the Community’s financial health. Board President David Kellerman said he was pleased to hear the positive remarks about the financial situation and “it’s good to know we have things in order.” The Board accepted the financial report in order to reproduce it for distribution to the Community and recommended that membership retain Zavada and Associates as its auditor next year at the Community’s Annual Meeting on July 13. Unpaid Balances The Board heard from the Audit Oversight Committee, which recommended that the Association look into more aggressive methods to collect unpaid balances and to consider further restricting access to property to members in arrears. There are about 200 members who are delinquent on their payments. “We pay the dues and they get a free ride,” said Treasurer Michael Spitzer. It was suggested that the Board publish the names of those with past due balances, not to embarrass them but to let them know it is a serious matter. The Board also discussed sending strongly-worded letters to those who aren’t paying, although Community Manager Mike Sibio noted there is a Fair Debt Collection act. The act says people in debt cannot be harassed into paying. The Board discussed other options, such as going to Sheriff sale and levying

personal property. Sibio spoke of a previous Sheriff sale on a delinquent property that netted positive results. The Association covered their assessment, fines, improvements, and broke even. “We came out very clean in that one,” Sibio said. One property, which the Association will have a title search on, could go to Sheriff sale because the owner owes $17,000. There are other property owners the Association holds liens on, but those members still come on the property. The board discussed ways to disallow their convenient access to the property, such as charging them a fee as they come into the gate. Spitzer said if they collected just half the money that is owed they would be able to pay for the proposed expansion of the fitness center. And collecting past dues would also help fund other important projects. Possible District Change The Board also discussed the possibility that students in Porter Township may be moved from the East Stroudsburg Area School District in Monroe County to the Wallenpaupack Area School in Pike County. The purpose of this move is ultimately to benefit the children who attend school, especially from Hemlock Farms, as they will be able to join friends and neighbors in the same district. Community Manager Mike Sibio said there would be a whole host of issues the Community would face if a move is made, from busing to social issues. Sibio was authorized to speak for the Community at the public hearing that will be held at the East Stroudsburg High School North Campus on Thursday, May 16 and Friday, May 17. In 2009, a group called the Porter Township Initiative petitioned to move students from East Stroudsburg to Wallenpaupack, according to published reports. The Board noted that Wallen-

paupack has higher test scores and lower property taxes than East Stroudsburg. Projects, New Clubs The Board noted that some projects will be coming up. PPL will be changing the power poles—making them higher—in that stretch of land between the Blooming Grove substation and Hemlock’s substation. There will be a redundant service that will benefit the area in the event of a power outage. PPL is expected to start moving equipment into one laydown area, across from Public Works. PPL also is expected to use the Hemlock substation to store equipment. The Board said the work would start soon. The Board also authorized Management to enter in an agreement with the PA Department of State to place an antenna and a dish on the water tower, for a rate of $1,000 per year, to be used by the Pennsylvania State Police. The Board also discussed the upcoming PennDOT project to replace the opengrate bridge over McConnell Creek at its outfall from McConnell Lake. The Board authorized the Manager to review applications submitted by two new clubs, the Hemlock Hurricanes Booster Club and the European Social Club. The Booster Club consists of a group of volunteers dedicated to provide support, social activities and fundraising to benefit the youngsters on the Hemlock Hurricanes Swim Team. The Board waived the fee to the Hemlock Hurricanes for using the Community’s facilities for a fundraiser, pending approval of the Booster Club. The European Social Club is a nonprofit organization that honors and promotes European heritage and culture. It is geared toward developing social, recreational and cultural activities. The meetings are open to all Community members, regardless of their ethnicity. For more Board Action in Brief, turn to page 6.

Your question with your name and Mike Sibio’s answer may be published in the Hemlock News feature column, “Ask the Manager” as space permits.

BOARD FOCUS

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 15

HEMLOCK NEWS

You may submit your question: 1. In the Hemlock Farms drop box at the Mail Room 2. In the front door mail slot at the Administration Ofʎce 3. E-mail Mary Beth Connors at mconnors@hfca.com 4. Call Mary Beth Connors at 570/775-4200, ext. 121

ASSOCIATION NEWS

16 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3

COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE MARCH 2, 2013 Present: Carolyn Baker, Stuart Baker, Dennis Fleming, Hank Hudgins, Nick Santelli, Sally Schwartz, John Sredinski Background information was supplied by Nick Santelli, with the opinion that baseline testing of all Hemlock Farms wells should be undertaken. Presently, one well is being tested by United States Geological Survey (USGS), and the idea of having our other four wells tested was discussed. The cost of these tests may be offset partially by available grants that are being explored. MOTION: By Nick Santelli/Stuart Baker to recommend to the Board that Hemlock Farms wells #4, 10, 49 and 80 be included in a baseline water test every three months for a 12-month period utilizing the same test being employed by USGS, which presently is testing our well #1. PASSED: 6-1. In favor: Carolyn Baker, Stuart Baker, Dennis Fleming, Hank Hudgins, Nick Santelli, Sally Schwartz. Opposed: John Sredinski.

Rationale for: This motion is in support of ad hoc Source Water Protection Committee’s motion of October 1, 2012, and again on January 7, 2013. Threats of contamination to our drinking water are not limited to the unconventional gas mining technique known as fracking. All of our wells face the possibility of contamination from hazardous spills, septic malfunction and numerous nonpoint sources of pollution. All of our wells do not draw water from the same aquifer, nor are all of our wells located in the same watershed. Therefore, testing of one is not a baseline for the other four wells. Each well requires its own baseline. Rationale against: Normal testing is an ongoing process. Additional full spectrum “baseline” testing associated with possible water contamination by fracking, which has never been proven as a contaminant and is not possible in Pike County for many years, and with the very remote possibility a major chemical spill within the Hemlock Farms watershed is not warranted. Local contaminants from septic field malfunctions would be

picked up by normally occurring tests. Testing many years prior to any such contaminating occurrence would not be appropriate and would be a wasteful use of Hemlock Farms funds, as testing would have to be repeated immediately after such an occurrence to be valid. MOTION: By Nick Santelli/Dennis Fleming to state that the Committee agrees with the Board’s decision to award the Gypsy Moth spray to Helicopter Applicators. PASSED: 6-1. In favor: Carolyn Baker, Stuart Baker, Dennis Fleming, Hank Hudgins, Nick Santelli, Sally Schwartz. Opposed: John Sredinski. Rationale for: This lowest bidder met the requirements of the contract. Rationale against: Insufficient information concerning the application and potential human and wildlife hazards was presented. How do we know that the treatment was effective? Invasive Terrestrial Plant Contract: MOTION: By Nick Santelli/Sally Schwartz to state that the Committee agrees with the Board’s decision to award the Invasive Terrestrial Plant contract to Ecological Solutions. PASSED: 6-1. In favor: Carolyn Baker, Stuart Baker, Dennis Fleming, Hank Hudgins, Nick Santelli, Sally Schwartz. Opposed: John Sredinski. Rationale for: This is the only bidder that met the requirements of the contract. Rationale against: Insufficient information was presented as to possible candidates. No foreign invasive species has ever been eradicated, and the only possible control is to inter-plant the area in question with a more aggressive species that will reduce the spreading of the invasive species. Also, the so-called invasive species of Japanese Barberry provides food in the form of seed to wintering birds.

OPPI COMMITTEE MARCH 2, 2013 Present: George Barbier, Jill Barbier, Vincent Comando, Chris Eagan, Jeff Ferretti, David Malinov, Phyllis Malinov, Alberta Rosiak, Michael Spitzer, Rita Spitzer, Roy Sturm Staff: Mary Beth Connors, Kathie Waibel News staff: Laurie Stuart The Public Relations Committee has recommended to the Board that

HEMLOCK NEWS there should be a redesign of the front page of Hemlock News to incorporate our new logo. Laurie Stuart, our editor, has created a prototype. MOTION: By Phyllis Malinov/Roy Sturm to recommend that the Board approve the prototype of Hemlock News front page that was created by editor Laurie Stuart. PASSED: 10-0-1. Abstained: Michael Spitzer. Rationale: The horizontal design of the prototype maintains the available space for editorial matter.

PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE MARCH 2, 2013 Present: John Chapman, Pete D’Alauro, Bill Fischer, Manfred Germann, Cosimo Gianatiempo, Gus Howing, Frank Maget, Patricia Pasternak, George Schmitt, Jeannette Warms Guest: Pete Ferris Staff: Director of Public Works Bob Vandercar, Staff Engineer Bill Krebs The Stormwater Survey was reviewed and discussed by the Committee. Bill Krebs had an issue with question #6, and it was decided to send the survey to the Board for approval with changes to question #6. MOTION: By Cosimo Gianatiempo/ Pete D’Alauro to recommend to the Board that the stormwater survey be approved, with the following changes to be made: to delete, in question #6, the option of “property or properties adjacent to mine,” and to replace the word “worst” in the entire survey with the word “any.” PASSED: 9-0-1. Abstained: Jeannette Warms. There were several bids to be voted upon, and the following motions are the Committee’s recommendations to the Board: MOTION: By Pete D’Alauro/John Chapman to recommend that the Board approve the Road and Maintenance Contract bid of Wayco, Inc., in the amount of $623,661.20. This amount is covered in the Replacement Reserve Fund. PASSED: 9-0-1. Abstained: Jeannette Warms. MOTION: By Gus Howing/John Chapman to recommend that the Board approve the bid for road line painting from Interstate Road Mgt., in the amount of $13,557.50. PASSED: 9-0-1. Abstained: Jeannette Warms. Continued on page 17

ASSOCIATION NEWS

Continued from page 16

MOTION: By Pete D’Alauro/Patricia Pasternak to recommend that the Board approve the bid from Asphalt Maint. Solutions, in the amount of $10.97 per gal. PASSED: 9-0-1. Abstained: Jeannette Warms. MOTION: By John Chapman/Gus Howing to recommend that the Board approve the bid for magnesium chloride to JMG Enterprises for two years at $1.25 per metered gallon. PASSED: 9-0-1. Abstained: Jeannette Warms. MOTION: By Cosimo Gianatiempo/ Bill Fischer to recommend that the Board approve the bid for fire hydrant and plumbing supplies from Exeter Supply, in the amount of $17,276.41. The Water Co. Capital Expenditures will cover this expense. PASSED: 9-0-1. Abstained: Jeannette Warms. MOTION By Pete D’Alauro/Patricia Pasternak to recommend that the Board approve the bid to replace five fire hydrants from Hugh Trivelpiece in the amount of $8,750. PASSED: 9-0-1.

HowKaT

Abstained: Jeannette Warms. MOTION: By George Schmitt/Manfred Germann to recommend that the Board approve the bid for a Kubota lawn tractor from Marshall Machinery in the amount of $12,841.90. This expense will be covered by the Replacement Reserve Fund. PASSED: 9-0-1. Abstained: Jeannette Warms. Motion: By George Schmitt/Manfred Germann to recommend that the Board approve the bid for anti-skid material from Springbrook Enterprises for five years. PASSED: 9-0-1. Abstained: Jeannette Warms.

PUBLIC HEALTH, SAFETY AND SECURITY COMMITTEE MARCH 9, 2013 Present: Peter Ferris, Hank Hudgins, Julie Iannuzzo, Kathie Joseph, Ralph Lenzi, John Nash, Angelo Papa, John Pasternak, Jim Pellechia, Jeanette Warms Board liaison: Rob Wolff Guest: Pat Pasternak Staff: Public Safety Chief Bill Hamby Board Liaison Report: Regarding the newly designed boat rack, the Board is going to be discussing the related safety 1740 Route 6, Hawley, PA (Blooming Grove Twp.)

570-576-2911 • 570-296-5312

Shop Hours: M-F 8-5:30; Sat 8-12 PRECISION AUTOMOTIVE

24-Hour Road Service Towing 570-832-4355

COMPLETE VEHICLE, TIRE AND SERVICE CENTER We Do More Than Oil Changes!

PA INSPECTIONS Due: April, May, OFFICIAL June 2013 PA

INSPECTION Inspections done by STATION Professional Certified

Senior Discount Available

ASE Mechanics

State Inspections of Heavy Trucks, School Buses, Vans, RVs & Trailers

U-HAUL RENTALS &

We Install U-HAUL Trailer Hitches Call for Prices: 570-685-2104

Checks Accepted U \ H

• FREE Shuttle Drop-Off and Pick-Up Service • FREE Brake Inspection • FREE Wheel Alignments with Purchase of 4 Tires • Rental Cars Available

Check out our Tire Prices! All Inclusive: Mounting, Balancing, Valve Stem NO Hidden Prices!!

$15.00 OFF

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 17

issues that need to be resolved. New Business: A general discussion was held of speed limit enforcement on Hemlock Farms roads.

COMBINED PLANNING AND LAND USE AND ARCHITECTURAL COMMITTEES MARCH 10, 2013 Present: Planning and Land Use: Lyn Attreed, Carol Comando, Kathie Joseph; Architectural: Michael Schul, Eileen Sokol, Robert Treptow (also a member of PLU) Guest: Cheryl Schmitt Staff: P&LU – Dorisann Mooring; Arch. – Code Enforcement Officer Jesse Sloan Unfinished Business By consensus, the Architectural and Planning and Land Use Committees recommend that the Board place on the July 2013 CA

COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES

HEMLOCK NEWS

ballot, for member consideration, a proposition to amend HFCA Bylaws, Article 3, Section 3.11-B, Committees, to permanently combine these two standing committees and that the name for the committee be the Planning, Land Use and Architecture Committee. Rationale: From the late 1970s, one of the major responsibilities of the Architectural Committee was to review residential plans for homes, decks and additions, and to make recommendations for approval of permits. In 1996, Blooming Grove Township adopted its Building Code to apply to all residential structures, including deck and open porches, and appointed a Building Official to review and issue permits. Since that time, the Architectural Committee has had difficulty attracting members. HFCA Bylaws, Article III, Section 3.11-C states: “Each of the standing Continued on page 18

HFCA Annual Membership Meeting and Voting Days

The 201 Hemlock Farms Community Association (HFCA) Annual Meeting will be held on Saturday, July 13, at 10:00 a.m. at the Clubhouse. The two-day annual election of Board of Directors members will be held during these hours: Saturday, July 13, from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., and Sunday, July 21, from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

NOMINEES

Nominations for Members of the HFCA Board of Directors At the 201 election, HFCA members will elect three (3) members to the Board of Directors to three-year terms. Board members whose terms expire are Ignatius (Buddy) Gentile, David J. Kellerman, Jeanette Warms. HFCA Bylaws - ARTICLE 3 - SECTION 3.2 Number of Directors; term; qualiÀcations There shall be nine (9) Directors who shall be elected at the annual meeting of the members. The three (3) candidates receiving the highest number of votes shall be elected for three-year terms to replace the three (3) Directors whose terms expire during that year. Directors shall serve without compensation for staggered three (3) year terms that begin at 10:00 a.m. of the ¿rst Saturday in August following the date of their election. All nominees and directors shall be over the age of eighteen (18), shall be members of the Association entitled to vote, shall have completed at least one (1) year of service or is currently serving on a Standing Committee, and shall be free of any conÀict of interest including but not limited to the type of conÀict referred to in Section 3.6. Complete Instructions and applications for petitions to ¿ll these Board of Directors’ positions are available at the

any regularly priced service with this ad

Administration Building. All petitions must be returned and physically received at the Administration Building by the Corporate Secretary, Gloria Talman, on or before 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 29, 2013.

ASSOCIATION NEWS

18 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3

COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES

FROM THE CHIEF

MARCH 16, 2013 Present: Lyn Attreed, Neil Barmann, Phil Blecker, Carole Capsuto, John Chapman, Gus Howing, Leo Kelly, Stan Morin, James Pellechia, Pat Quinn, Michael Spitzer, John Sredinski, Gloria Talman, Peter Talman, Darryl Thaler, Anne Marie Zenie Staff: Community Manager Mike Sibio, Comptroller Ann Marie Drake Mike Sibio discussed current happenings of the ad hoc Public Relations Committee. The Committee agrees with Management that funding for future public relations endeavors will be discussed at budget time. The matter of collections on delinquent accounts receivable was also discussed. It is the Committee’s desire to look into more creative ways for the Association to receive payment on members’ accounts that are in arrears. These methods include more aggressive procedures for the Association to gain judgments and liens on members who have past-due accounts, as well as methods to limit use HF C

You’ve arrived! What’s your hurry?

The Board of Directors urges you to follow the speed limit.

There are few places that rival the peace, tranquility and beauty of Hemlock Farms. Set in the beautiful Pocono Mountains, Hemlock Farms offers members the warmth and security of a gated community, set in a pristine environment. With 75 miles of clearly marked roadways, the Hemlock Farms traveler can relax, slow down and enjoy the scenery. The maximum speed on Hemlock Farms Road is only thirty-five (35) miles-perhour. It is prohibited to exceed the posted speed limit on any HFCA roadway.

This month, I would like to go back to the basics. Calling 9-1-1 is the most important thing to do in an emergency! It sets in motion the response to get help to you. When you call 9-1-1, there is certain information that the dispatcher is going to need from you. Try to stay calm when speaking. Yelling and screaming will make it harder for the dispatcher to understand you. First, give the address of the emergency. We can’t get help to the people who need it if we don’t know where to go. Say your name, phone number and a brief description of the emergency. If you remain calm, the dispatcher will be CA

MARCH 17, 2013 Present: Jill Blessington, Jennifer Passenti, Pat Pasternak, Linda Polizzi, Rita Ruth, Sally Schwartz, Jami Sloan, Eileen Sokol, Robert Stoller Guest: Cheryl Schmitt Staff: Recreation Director John Wormuth John distributed several bids for the Committee to review. MOTION: By Bob Stoller/Jamie Sloan to recommend that the Board accept the bid from ZY Pyrotechnics for the fireworks display, in the amount of $9010. UNANIMOUS. Rationale: They were the lowest qualified bidder. MOTION: By Bob Stoller/Linda Polizzi to recommend that the Board accept the bid from Mario Melchiorre for the Steam Room Replacement Project and generator, in the amount of $24,682.39. UNANIMOUS. Rationale: He was the lowest qualified bidder. MOTION: By Pat Pasternak/ Linda Polizzi to recommend that the Board accept the proposal from Bath Fitter, in the amount of $4190, to fix the standing shower area. UNANIMOUS. Rationale: The shower area is in need of repair. Maintenance will be easier. MOTION: By Jami Sloan/Eileen Sokol to recommend that the Board ask the Planning and Land Use Committee to look at Elm Beach for a recommendation of a location for a snack shack. UNANIMOUS. Rationale: This would provide a service to the members of the Community.

Back to Basics

FINANCE COMMITTEE

RECREATION COMMITTEE

By Richard Hall Fire Chief

able to get the ambulance or fire truck to you as quickly as possible. After you call for help, the dispatcher might give you instructions about what to do until help arrives. If you are calling for an ambulance, it is very helpful to have handy a list of current medications that the patient is taking. Also noted on the list should be the patient’s allergies and the doctors’ names and phone numbers. It is important to update the list whenever any of these details are added or deleted. In a fire emergency, you should get everyone in the house to safety before calling 9-1-1.

Please be advised...

Pyrotechnics will be used to harass the geese in Hemlock Farms during weekday hours. There will be loud startling cracks — it is not gunfire. CA

committees shall consist of no less than five (5) members who shall serve at the pleasure of the Board.” Architectural Committee membership fell below the minimum number required. The Planning and Land Use Committee has also experienced a decrease in membership over the last several years. Proposed Mission Statement: MOTION: By Michael Schul/Kathie Joseph to recommend that the Board approve the following mission statement for the Planning, Land Use and Architecture Committee: In its advisory capacity to the Board, the Planning, Land Use and Architecture Committee shall develop, recommend and coordinate the process of community planning in Hemlock Farms in order to preserve the quality and aesthetics of the Community as a distinctive and desirable place to live, through recommendations on land use policies and priorities. UNANIMOUS.

of facilities and/or privileges by members who are not in good standing. MOTION: By Carole Capsuto/ Pat Quinn to recommend that the Board have Management check with the attorney on enabling HFCA to publish addresses, and/or stage/block/lot information, and/or map numbers on properties owned by members with past-due balances. PASSED: By consensus, with Board members abstaining.

Continued from page 17

Photo by Kathie Waibel

HEMLOCK NEWS

STORMWATER NOTICE Ribbons of different colors are being placed throughout the Community. These colored ribbons have a signiÀcant meaning to the layout for stormwater management and wetland delineation. Please leave these ribbons in place, as stormwater surveying has begun.

HEMLOCK NEWS

Legislative Update From the Website of PA State Senator Lisa Baker On her Website, senatorbaker.com, there is a link to comments made at two public hearings regarding school safety and emergency preparedness in the wake of the Sandy Hook tragedy and Superstorm Sandy. Senator Baker also unveils a bipartisan bill to overhaul PA child protection laws by implementing changes recommended by the Pennsylvania Task Force on Child Protection to expand the definition of who could be considered a perpetrator of child abuse. She states that her bill would include “anyone with direct or regular contact with children.”

From the Desk of PA State Representative Rosemary Brown Pennsylvanians needing assistance with home heating bills have through April 26 to apply for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This program was originally slated to end March 29. The House unanimously approved a Senior Property Tax Credit Bill to provide property tax relief to seniors who volunteer in local schools. Representative Brown will be hosting free veterans assistance hours at her East Stroudsburg district office, 696 Seven Bridge Road, Suite 101, on Thursday, April 11, and on the second Thursday of each month. Contact: 570/420-8301.

From the Desk of PA State Representative Michael Peifer The House approved a measure to phase out state-owned liquor stores in favor of privatization. Peifer writes that the bill requires Responsible Alcohol Management Program (RAMP) training for retailers, as well as age compliance checks, and that the bill would offer displaced state store workers “financial help to pursue education and training, preferential treatment for state jobs for which the employee has necessary skills and additional points on the state civil service exam.”

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 19

New DEP septic policy derided By FRITZ MAYER, From the pages of The River Reporter MILFORD, PA — State officials are taking public comment on a new policy that would amend the rules for the installation of new septic systems. Under the proposed rules, in areas with exceptional value and high quality waters, such as Wayne and Pike counties, septic systems could not be placed closer than 150 feet from a body of water or 30 feet from a stream. Further, there would be a requirement for underground septic systems to be surrounded by a barrier to prevent the effluent from traveling underground. This would be done to prevent nitrates from getting into the water. Local officials in the region have complained loudly that such a policy, which is being considered by the PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), is not needed, and it will crush development in the region.

At the Pike County Commissioners meeting on March 20, commissioner Rich Caridi said from a scientific perspective “there is not a nitrate problem; we don’t have one.” He said the measure of nitrates in the water analysis from Lake Wallenpaupack is one milligram per liter, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, through what he called “dubious tests,” had determined that a level of 10 milligrams per liter “could have”—and he underscored the words “could have”—a link to blue-baby syndrome or cyanosis, which involves heart defects in newborn babies. Caridi said that because of the price of the technology, “a new home could face as much as $25,000 in new costs, if they can find someone who knows the new technology.” Commissioner Matt Osterberg said the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania has launched an initiative to halt this policy from being adopted. He said, “We’re pushing to make sure

that this does not occur because it’s pretty devastating to our economic development, never mind home building.” He added that Senator Lisa Baker, representatives Mike Peifer, Rosemary Brown and Sandra Major are all on board with the notion that the policy regarding nitrates is not needed. A document on the DEP website says, “In infants, drinking water having greater than 10 milligrams per liter nitrate nitrogen, the nitrate-reducing bacteria in the intestine can convert nitrates to nitrites. These nitrites change the hemoglobin in the infant’s blood stream to methemoglobin. Hemoglobin carries oxygen to the cells of the infant’s body. Methemoglobin cannot carry oxygen. If enough hemoglobin is converted to methemoglobin, cyanosis and oxygen deprivation occurs. Death has been attributed to nitrate concentration in water of less than 40 milligrams per liter.” Visit www.depweb.state.pa.us/portal/ server.pt/community to register to leave a comment.

PA House of Representatives passes historic liquor bill By FRITZ MAYER, From the pages of The River Reporter HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania House on March 22 passed what Governor Tom Corbett called historic legislation that would privatize the state owned system of wine and liquor stores. He said it was the first time either chamber of the government has passed such legislation since the end of the Prohibition era 80 years ago. The bill would ultimately give total control of the issuance of permits to sell alcoholic beverages and enforcement of the liquor laws to the state, but the retail sale of all beer, wine and liquor would be handled by the private sector. There were several changes in the house legislation as compared to the bill proposed by Corbett. For instance, current beer distributors, which are already private, will be given first opportunity to buy the new wine and spirits licenses before anyone else, and the price will be lower than what others will be asked to pay. Union representatives and others have expressed concern about the number of

jobs that will be lost if the state system is privatized. Representative Duane Milne said that there will be more jobs because the privatized system will be larger than the current one. Milne wrote, “Privatization will yield more employment opportunities for workers, as a state store system with 600 stores gives way to a market-driven system of upwards of 1,800 outlets. These private operations all will be seeking to hire employees experienced in the adult beverage sector. Additionally, entities hiring employees of the state store system will be granted a $2,000 per year tax credit for each such employee hired.” On the other side of the equation, there is concern that employees now earning state pensions will not receive those pensions under a privatized system of the sort the house envisions. The measure passed in the house with a vote of 105 in favor of privatization and 90 opposed, but the senate may not be so quick to serve up a majority in support of the measure. Senate Majority Leader Dominic Pileggi said finding 26 votes in the

TRR photo by Fritz Mayer

Employees at the state store in Hawley, PA

may be seeking new employment if the liquor privatization plan passed by the house is also ratified by the senate.

senate to allow the plan to go forward may prove difficult. He said, “One of the issues that has been raised many times is the access issue for rural areas that are served by the state store system, that might not get sufficient service from private licensees.” He added that the focus of a bill supported by the senate would have to address convenience, selection and a competitive price. Also, the issue of whether or not the state should immediately end state participation in wholesale operations would have to be settled. Corbett said he understood there was still a lot of work to be done to get the bill passed. The next step in the process would be for the senate to hold hearings on the proposed legislation.

Code

HF CA

ASSOCIATION NEWS

20 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3

AMEND HFCA CODE 252 – VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC

Avoid Mailbox Closure The Annual Mailbox Rental Fee of $25.00 (plus interest) must be received in the HFCA Office by April 30. Non-payment will result in Mailbox closure and an additional $30.00 fee. There will be at least a 48-hour delay to re-open your mailbox after payment is received. Please return the two Mailbox keys by April 30 if you no longer wish to rent the Mailbox.

Porter Township School District Change Update:

SAVE THE DATE: Pennsylvania Department of Education Public Evidentiary Hearing scheduled for May 16 and 17 at East Stroudsburg High School North Campus in the Library at 1:00pm. This is the time for public participation. Please plan to attend.

252-140 Use of Roads Restricted A. Every person operating a motor vehicle on Hemlock Farms’ roads must have in his or her possession either a valid gate entry device/sticker, in accordance with Chapter 117 – Gate Entry Device, or a valid pass issued in accordance with Chapter 118 – Guests. It is also prohibited to attempt to gain entry to the Community except through the use of a valid gate entry device or pass issued in accordance with the Codes of the Hemlock Farms Community Association. B. Only licensed motor vehicles and vehicular transport, including but not limited to automobiles, motorbikes or motorcycles, shall be allowed to use the roads of the HFCA. C. Every person operating a bicycle, moped, motorized bicycle or motorized tricycle shall ride the same as far as practicable to the right side of the roadway at all times, except when making a left turn. Enforcement The assessment for violation of Section 252-140 A is $100 The assessment for violation of Section 252-140 B is $25. The assessment for violation of Section 252-140 C is $15.

HEMLOCK NEWS

Details to follow.

Customers of Waste Management Enjoy Single-Stream Recycling. All of your recyclables can be placed together in the same bin! No sorting required!

Recycle Labels

Did You Know?

Peel and stick recycling labels are available at the Administration Office RECYCLE

From Everyday Collection to Environmental Protection, Think Green! Think Waste Management. www.wm.com Recycling will be picked up every other week. The recycling can must be labeled for recycling. The recycling can must be securely covered.

Recycling Pick Up Dates 4/15 4/29 5/13 5/27 6/10 6/24 7/8 7/22 8/5 8/19

free of charge.

These labels can be affixed to your recycling containers for curbside pick up.

Over 20 Years’ Experience

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

NO TOO B O J SMALL

Carpentry • Additions/Alterations Doors • Windows • Decks • Kitchens/Baths Handyman Service • Finished Basements FREE ESTIMATES • FULLY INSURED

JEFF DAROJA, INC. LORDS VALLEY

PA015368

570-775-9338

H \ FAX 570-226-3997

HEMLOCK NEWS

ASSOCIATION NEWS

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 21

30 Years of Service Two Employees Each Celebrate 15 Years of Service

Jesse began working in the Public Works Department as part of the Roads and Grounds Crew. After a year, he became a member of the Building Maintenance Department and was named the official painter of HFCA facilities. When he successfully completed the National Certification Program for Construction Code Inspectors, Jesse became the HFCA Code Enforcement Officer. He responds to members’ requests for building, construction, repair or addition permits. In the role of Code Enforcement Officer, Jesse traverses the Community to inspect, monitor and report Community members’ infractions. “Jesse is a team player and ready to willingly assist his coworkers whenever they are in need,” said Assistant Com-

Director of Public Works Bob Vandercar Bob Vandercar began working in the Public Works Department in 1993 as an equipment operator. After two years, Bob had to leave his position for personal reasons. Then, in 1997, he returned to Hemlock Farms as the Acting Director of the Public Works Department, and he was named Director in 1988. Bob supervises 21 fulltime employees and 11 part-time employees. His department is responsible for the entire infrastructure of Hemlock Farms and for the maintenance of the Water Company. “Bob is a highly dedicated employee who is always willing to take on any project, regardless of its complexity,”

Photo by Mary Beth Connors

Director of Public Works Bob Vandercar, left, and Code Enforcement Officer Jesse Sloan each receive an award for 15 years of service with the Hemlock Farms Community Association from Community Manager Mike Sibio.

said Community Manager Mike Sibio. “His ability to maintain the daily operations at such a high level, while managing our special projects, is a skill Bob can be proud of. We are fortunate to have someone of his caliber guiding our Public Works Department.”

Bob and his wife, Jackie, live in East Stroudsburg. They have one daughter and one grandson. Bob enjoys boating and biking, and he especially loves spending all the time he can with his seven-year-old grandson.

HFCA Adopt-A-Highway Cleanup

Code Enforcement Officer Jesse Sloan

munity Manager Dorisann Mooring. Jesse and his wife, Jami, live in Hemlock Farms and have two teenage daughters. On the weekends, Jesse likes to restore old cars and motorcycles.

By MARY BETH CONNORS

Hemlock Farms Community AssociaƟon Adopt-A-Highway Group will conduct the Įrst cleanup of the season on Saturday, April 27 at 9:00 a.m.

Volunteers͕ please meet at the Steer Barn Clubhouse parking area to carpool to our designated area on Route 402. All are welcome to parƟcipate. This is a community event that takes place “outside our gates” in cooperaƟon with PennDOT. For any quesƟons or informaƟon, contact Kathie Waibel at 570/257-0152.

22 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3

ASSOCIATION NEWS

HEMLOCK NEWS

ASSOCIATION NEWS

HEMLOCK NEWS

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 23

AGENDA REGULAR BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING APRIL 27, 2013 8:30 A. M. AT THE CONFERENCE CENTER 8:35 A.M. POSSIBLE EXECUTIVE SESSION 10:00 A.M. COMMITTEE REPORTS MEMBERS’ TIME AND OTHER ORAL COMMUNICATIONS ARE SCHEDULED AT 11:00 A.M. FOR ONE-HALF (1/2) HOUR I. Quorum Roll Call II. Approval of Minutes of Previous Meetings A. Regular Board Meeting of March 23, 2013: MOTION: _____/____ - To accept the minutes of the Regular Board Meeting of March 23, 2013, as submitted/corrected/amended. VOTING: Aye ____ Nay ____ Abstain _____ B. Executive Session Meeting of March 23, 2013: MOTION:_____/______ - To accept the minutes of the Executive Session Meeting of March 23, 2013, as submitted/corrected/amended. VOTING: Aye ____ Nay ____ Abstain ____ III.

Treasurer’s Report

A. Uncollected Dues MOTION: ______/______ - That the Board approve the write-off of uncollectible accounts totaling __________________. IV. Manager’s Report V. Committee Reports A. Architectural B. Official Publication and Public Information C. Finance

D. Planning and Land Use E. Public Health, Safety and Security F. Public Works and Physical Properties G. Recreation H. Elections I. Appeals J. Environmental K. Ad hoc and Subcommittees of the Board: 1. Real Estate 2. RESERVED 3. Source Water Protection Steering 4. Project Funding 5. RESERVED 6. Advanced Life Support Oversight 7. Human Resource 8. Fiftieth Anniversary 9. Financial Management Planning 10. Public Relations 11. Fitness Center Expansion 12. Audit Oversight 13. Stormwater Enhancement 14. RESERVED 15. Exploring Ways to Increase Revenue 16. Archives Preservation 17. RESERVED 18. Information Technology

A. MOTION:_____/_____ - To approve payment of bills as listed in the report “Bills for approval” at the Board Meeting of April 27, 2013, totaling $ _______ Community Association, and $ ____ Water Company for a grand total of $ ________. VII. Awarding of Contracts: A. Color Coat Tennis Courts 9 & 10 MOTION: _____/_____ - That the Board award the contract to Color Coat Tennis Courts 9 & 10 to _______________ at a cost of $_____. B. Purchase of Pre-owned School Bus MOTION: _____/_____ - That the Board award the contract for the purchase of a Pre-owned School Bus to _______ at a cost of $ ____. VIII. Second Reading ______ Underscoring denotes new wording. --------- Dashes denote deleted wording. A. Proposed Amendment to HFCA Code Chapter 115 – Solid Waste Disposal. MOTION: _____/_____ - That the Board approve the proposed amendment to HFCA Code Chapter 115 – Solid Waste Disposal

VI. Payment of Bills: Continued on page 24

WATER BUDGET SUMMARY EXPENSES February 28, 2013

HFCA BUDGET SUMMARY EXPENSES February 28, 2013 Unaudited BUDGET YEAR TO DATE 300,000

250,000

Unaudited

ACTUAL YEAR TO DATE

BUDGET YEAR TO DATE 160,000

140,000

120,000

200,000 100,000

150,000

80,000

60,000

100,000 40,000

50,000

20,000

ACTUAL YEAR TO DATE

ASSOCIATION NEWS

24 â&#x20AC;˘ A P R I L 2 0 1 3

AGENDA Continued from page 23

AMEND 115-3 Disposal Locations Solid Waste generated at each residence shall be placed for disposal at a location not more than ten (10) feet from the edge of the HFCA road (herein called Curbside Roadside) for house-tohouse pick-up or deposited at the HFCA Refuse/ Recycling Center when Center is open.

B. Proposed Amendment to HFCA Code Chapter 259 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Water System MOTION: _____/_____ - That the Board approve the proposed amendment to HFCA Code Chapter 259 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Water System AMEND â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 259 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 11- Water Billing

115-4 Disposal Methods (Amended 03/24/12)

B.All bills will be rendered on a periodic basis as shall be determined by the Board of Directors. If a bill is not paid by the due date, which is thirty (30) days after the billing date an interest charge will be added to the amount billed. Additionally, a $25 administrative charge shall be added for failure to make timely payment. All interest billed will be on a simple interest basis. The interest rate for each calendar year shall be the same as established in Code Chapter 85 - Dues, paragraph 85-9. If a bill is not paid in full within fifteen (15) days after the date of the statement assessing past due charges, the customer will be notified that service will be turned off if the full balance is not paid within

a. Solid Waste deposited at Curbside Roadside locations shall be secured in a rigid, tightly closed, covered container; not plastic bags or cardboard boxes. b. Quantities of Solid Waste placed Curbside Roadside for disposal shall not exceed three (3) 32 gallon containers per pick-up. c. Recycling placed at Roadside shall be secured in a rigid, tightly-closed covered containers; not plastic bags or cardboard boxes. Containers must be clearly marked Recycling. _______________________________________

HEMLOCK NEWS fifteen (15) days following the date of the turn off notice. Any established turn-off and turn-on charges will also be included. In the event that service is shut-off for non-payment, it will be restored only upon payment of the full outstanding balance due the Association. IX. Unfinished Business: X. New Business: A.

Conservancy Insurance

XI. First Reading: ______ Underscoring denotes new wording. --------- Dashes denote deleted wording. XII. Communications A. Written B. Oral XIII. Miscellaneous XIV. Adjournment

<RX FDQ EH

5(:$5'('

Better rates on better policies means BETTER INSURANCE.

IRU <RXU

4XDOLW\ &UHGLW

$VN $ERXW 2XU 3UHPLXP &RQVXPHU /RDQ 3URJUDPV 3HUVRQDO 6HFXUHG /RDQV 3HUVRQDO 8QVHFXUHG /RDQV )L[HG 5DWH +RPH (TXLW\ /RDQV $XWRPRELOH /RDQV 59V $79V Â´&\FOHVÂľ 0DULQH /RDQV ,PSURYHG /DQG /RW /RDQV

Čą Â&#x2DC;Â&#x203A;Â?Â&#x153;Čą Â&#x160;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2022;Â&#x17D;Â˘ČąČ&#x160;Čą Â&#x2018;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2022;Â&#x160;ČąČ&#x160;Čą Â&#x2019;Â&#x2022;Â?Â&#x2DC;Â&#x203A;Â?Čą Ĺ&#x2DC;Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x153;ČŹĹ&#x203A;Ĺ&#x2122;Ĺ?Ĺ? ČąČąČąĹ?Ĺ?Ĺ&#x203A;ČŹĹ?Ĺ&#x2013;Ĺ&#x2122;Ĺ&#x2013; Ĺ&#x203A;Ĺ&#x203A;Ĺ&#x;ČŹĹ?Ĺ&#x153;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x153; %DVHG RQ D PLQLPXP FUHGLW VFRUH RI DQG VXEMHFW WR :D\QH %DQNÂśV FUHGLW SROLF\ 6RPH UHVWULFWLRQV DSSO\ 0LQLPXP PD[LPXP DPRXQWV PD\ DSSO\ $GGLWLRQDO LQIRUPDWLRQ VXFK DV WHUPV UHVWULFWLRQV IHHV FORVLQJ FRVWV DYDLODEOH

Call or stop by today for a quote on your homeowners insurance. Vogel andand Moore Vogel Moore Inc Inc Matt MattBoulanger Boulanger boulanm1@nationwide.com Boulanm1@nationwide.com 641 Route 739 98Lordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ForestValley, DrivePASuite A 18428 Lords Valley, PA 18428 (570) 257-0330 (570) 257-0330 ÂŠ2006 Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies. Nationwide Life Insurance Company. Home office: Columbus, Ohio 43215-2220. Nationwide, the Nationwide Framemark and On Your Side are federally registered service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. Not available in all states. Subject to underwriting guidelines, review and approval.

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 25 ENVIRONMENTAL NEWS ENVIRONMENTAL NEWS........................................................................

HEMLOCK NEWS

Plastic Showing Up in Lakes Presents risk to drinking water

“(Researchers) also know it intertwines with their intestines and affects how nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream.” Eriksen said that microplastics can look like food, such as fish eggs, to the fish and could be eaten by organisms that are, in turn, eaten by other animals, causing the plastic to move up the food chain. There are ways to diminish plastic pollution. In addition to recycling and not dumping trash, Mason and Eriksen also encourage people who use facial scrubs to choose products that don’t use microplastic beads. “One jar of facial scrub has conservatively 5,000 beads of microplastic,” Eriksen said.

Source: www.TheNews-Messenger.com; Dec 12, 2012; by mkhorn@gannett.com

Contributed Photo

This sample, taken from one of the Great Lakes, shows some of the plastics found there.

Reference: www.thenewsmessenger.com /a r t icle/20121212/ NEWS01/312120034/Study-finds-highlevels-plastic-Lake-Erie?gcheck=1

At Port Jervis Paving, we do it all.

• BLACKTOPPING • STATE-OF-THE-ART Your estimate is free. SEALCOATING All the details required under HFCA (20% rule) are included in the free estimate. • DRIVEWAYS We will do the paving and sealing of your driveway • ROADS at a reasonable cost to you. • PARKING LOTS Plus, if we receive your signed contract, we will • MOBILE-HOME PARKS cover the cost of the Hemlock permit ($35) and we will obtain it for you! If you’re considering Port Jervis Paving, please call us at 570-296-7810 or at 845-856-2531. SERVING THE TRI-STATE AREA “SINCE 1976”

PORT JERVIS PAVING CA

know it,” she said. One sample taken in that area showed 600,000 pieces per square kilometer. “That’s more than twice any sample that I’ve taken on the ocean,” said Marcus Eriksen, executive director of the 5 Gyres Institute. Because this is the first study done on plastic pollution alone in the lakes, scientists can’t say for sure how fish and other animals are affected, but Mason said that plastic pollution on the ocean provides some possibilities. She pointed to the stomachs of sea turtles and the albatross, a bird. “Any time you find one of these animals dead, its gut was literally filled with plastic,” she said.

Kristina Smith Horn discusses the findings of a group of researchers who have discovered more plastic in water taken from Lake Erie than from the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. The garbage patch is a well-publicized location in the Pacific Ocean—the size of Texas—that is filled with degrading plastics: bags, pieces of bottle and tiny bits called microplastics. In the three Great Lakes the researchers sampled—Erie, Huron and Superior—there were plenty of microplastics, which measure less than 1 millimeter in diameter. According to Sherri Mason, associate professor of chemistry at the State University of New York Fredonia, they can come from facial scrubs that include exfoliating beads, some of which are made of plastic. Mason partnered with the 5 Gyres Institute to do the study, which is expected to be published next year. Microplastics don’t break down. Instead, they go down the drain after you wash, through the wastewater treatment process unchanged and out to the lake. According to Mason, these are worse than the larger pieces of plastic netted during the study. “They could be sitting in the glass of water you have in front of you, and you could drink them and not

Tom Bowers, Owner INSURED & GUARANTEED FREE ESTIMATES CALL 24 HOURS

570-296-7810 845-856-2531

Birds of Prey presented by Bill Streeter of the Delaware Valley Raptor Center

Followed by an Ice Cream Social! Sunday, April 14

Fawn Hill Day Camp Building at 2:00 p.m. Sponsored by Great Family Event! FREE ADMISSION

ENVIRONMENTAL NEWS

26 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3

HEMLOCK NEWS

Pick Up Poop Because dogs can’t flush! Source: www.wheredoesitgo. weebly.com and the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District Did you know that dog droppings can impact our groundwater, streams and lake? When it rains, bacteria from doggie doo can soak into groundwater or be carried by rainwater to our lakes, ponds and streams. The polluted water is not treated at a wastewater treatment plant, and that’s not good for the environment or for our drinking water. “How is bagging my pet’s waste any better? Isn’t that just garbage in a landfill?” The answer to that question is yes, but it eliminates the direct contribution of bacteria to local waterways (not to mention, it’s simply the polite thing to do when walking your dog around the neighborhood). And biodegradable bags help the situation further.

Yes, I promise to PUP and pick up poop! Cleaning up after my dog is a simple step I can take that helps keep my watershed clean and waterways free of harmful bacteria. I want to “doo my doo-ty” and take the PUP Pledge! I will clean up after my dog! By signing the form on the website, my dog will receive a PUP bandanna to show everyone that we care about our environment.

Contributed photos

PUP Pets are sporting their PUP wear!

One simple action can make an environmental difference: Pick Up Poop. You are encouraged to take the PUP pledge to bag your pet waste and properly dispose of it in a trash receptacle. Even President Obama admits to doing the dirty deed of picking up the poop

from the First Dog! Not to mention, it’s the polite thing to do for your neighbors’ sake, especially when walking your pets in a park. You can view an adorable YouTube video and send for free stuff by visiting the website at www.wheredoesitgo.

weebly.com. Show your neighbors you care about your neighborhood and your environment. So, PUP it up, Hemlock Farms. Doo your doo-ty because it’s the right thing to doo.

Unquestionable Quality

Building MAGNIFICENT Homes From Your Plans Or Ours TAKE A TOUR AT:

www.springvalleybuilders.net

ASK ABOUT

Building In The Lake Region Since 1988

(570) 676-6005 • Interior & Exterior Painting • Power Washing • Free Estimates • Paper Hanging • Fully Insured

BEHIND WAYNE BANK

BOOKING FOR EXTERIOR SEASON

Full-Time Resident Serving Hemlock Farms • Since 1987 PA037647

STRAPEC

PAINTING

570 775 9628

A Three-Generation Family Business

Ask for Ty

$1 FOR 1 2 MONTHS st

Completely ete tely ly Paved Facility acili cciili lity ty

(New move-ins only)

U-HAUL TRUCKS U 10 foot to 26 foot 1

OFFICE OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK.

570-775-7710

www.climatecontrolselfstorage.com E-mail: climatecontrol@hotmail.com I 84 Exit 34 645 Route 739 739, Lords Valley Valley, ½ mile south of I-84,

Local & One-Way Rentals

ENVIRONMENTAL NEWS

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 27

HF CA

HEMLOCK NEWS

Septic Care Septic system maintenance isn’t complicated, and it doesn’t need to be expensive. It is, however, very important for keeping our drinking water, lakes and ponds clean Upkeep comes down to four important elements: inspection and pumping; water efficiency; proper waste disposal; and drainfield care. This series of four articles will be repeated three times this year in the Hemlock News for your education on the upkeep of your on-lot sewage disposal system.

Maintain your Drainfield Your drainfield—a component of your septic system that removes contaminants from the liquid that emerges from your septic tank—is an important part of your septic system. Here are a few things you should do to maintain it: • Parking: Never park or drive on your drainfield. • Planting: Plant trees the appropriate distance from your drainfield to keep roots from growing into your septic system. A septic service professional can advise you of the proper distance, depending on your septic tank and landscape. • Placing: Keep roof drains, sump pumps and other rainwater drainage systems away from your drainfield area as excess water slows down or stops the wastewater treatment process.

Do you care about our lakes? Want to know what you can do to help keep them pristine? If so, then please consider donating a little bit of your time to the Lake Watch Team. We are looking for volunteers who are willing and able to be trained to collect water samples so that the conditions of our precious lakes can be monitored. All training and equipment will be provided. At most, you will be needed for once-a-month sampling from May through September.

Please contact Director of Community Conservation Marian Keegan at 775-4200 ext. 127 for details.

Masters Pest Control now offers a lawn and yard treatment to reduce the risks of Ticks. We use EcoSmart products that are USDA National Organic Program

MILD WINTER LARGE DEER POPULATION

(NOP) compliant, have low impact on human health, lowest toxicity to nontarget organisms (birds, ¿sh, animals), and the lowest risk of groundwater

TICKS

$50

contamination (no harmful residue).

OFF

Offer as a stand alone discount and not valid with any other promotion or discount. Terms of this coupon subject to change or terminate without notice. Expires June 30, 201

GUARDIANS

HEALTH & HOME

Specializing in Residential Pest Control

Hassle-Free Pest Prevention Programs H Yard Treatments for Ticks Addressing the special concerns of the Hemlock Community Family-owned and operated for more than 27 years Our courteous and knowledgable ofﬁce staff will be able to answer many of your questions O over the phone. Our service technicians are neat, professional and respectful.

570-296-4488 or contact us at:

info@masterspestcontrol.com visit us at:

PA HIC # 076851

www.masterspestcontrol.com

Carpenter Ants Wasps/Bees Spiders Termites Flies Ticks Fleas Bed Bugs Mice/Rats Roaches Earwigs Millipedes/Centipedes

and More!

28 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3

ENVIRONMENTAL NEWS

HEMLOCK FARMS CONSERVANCY (HFC) BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING MARCH 17, 2013 Board members present: David Kellerman, Michael Spitzer, Gloria Talman, Rob Wolff Executive Committee members present: Ginny Malone, Sheldon and Joan Polishook, Nick Santelli, Kelly Stagen, Pete Talman, Tom Wendel Staff: Community Manager Mike Sibio, Hemlock News Coordinator Mary Beth Connors Treasurer’s Report: No report. IV. Unfinished Business: There was a discussion of taxexempt status and how this applies to projects being considered by the Conservancy. V. New Business: A. Ginny Malone discussed changing the Conservancy logo. The purpose of this new logo is for consistency and to drive members to the website. Mike is to ask Condron if they would provide design assistance for the new logo as a donation to the Conservancy. The new design will then go to the HFCA Board for approval. B. Consortium – There was dis-

cussion about engaging partners that would allow the HFC to obtain grants for water testing. HFC will serve as point person, with Marian Keegan as staff. VI. Miscellaneous: A. There was discussion on obtaining an executive membership with Costco for $15 a month. This membership would give the Hemlock Farms Conservancy the ability to use credit cards. MOTION: By Michael Spitzer/David Kellerman to authorize Tom Wendel to open an executive account with Costco on behalf of the Conservancy. UNANIMOUS, B. Discussed was the idea of opening an American Express credit card. It was decided that HFC would pay the fee if someone donates to the Conservancy. MOTION: By Michael Spitzer/ Rob Wolff that the HFC become a member of the Pike County Chamber of Commerce. UNANIMOUS. Staff is to investigate membership in the Tri-State Chamber of Commerce.

2013 NATURE EVENTS

sponsored by the Hemlock Farms Conservancy

“Birds of Prey” with Bill Streeter and an Ice Cream Social Sunday, April 14 Fawn Hill Day Camp Building, 2:00 p.m. “Fish Habitat” with Joe Gallagher Saturday, April 27 Laurel Ridge Beach, 4:00 p.m.

“Medicinal Plants” with Nathaniel Whitmore Friday, July 19 Hemlock Trail, 1:00 p.m.

“Wild Edible Plants” with Nathaniel Whitmore Friday, May 10 Hemlock Trail, 1:00 p.m.

“Fish Behavior” with Joe Gallagher Saturday, August 24 Laurel Ridge Beach, 4:00 p.m.

“How to Hook a Fish” with Joe Gallagher Saturday, June 22 Little Camp Pavilion, 4:00 p.m.

“Mushroom Walk” with Nathaniel Whitmore Friday, September 6 Hemlock Trail, 1:00 p.m.

“Environmental Day” Sunday, June 30 • Electronic Recycling Day – Public Works Garage area, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. • Firewise Day with the Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire & Rescue Company at Station 29, from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. • Pond Study with Dr. Jahn at Wish For A Fish Pond, 6:00 p.m.

“Electronic Recycling Day” Saturday, September 7 Public Works Garage Area, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. “Ice Fishing” with Joe Gallagher Saturday, October 26 Little Camp Pavilion, 4:00 p.m.

HEMLOCK NEWS

Feel the Fun

Lords Valley Country Club

Ready...

Set...

GO!

Season opens on April 1st!

L ORDS V ALLEY COUNTRY CLUB

1963-2013

LVCC is a private not-for-profit club. Memberships and outside events are subject to approval by the LVCC Board. 570-775-7325, ext. 201 www.lordsvalleycountryclub.org

ENVIRONMENTAL NEWS

HEMLOCK NEWS

Safety Tips during Aerial Spraying for Gypsy Moth Control

This springâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;most likely in Mayâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; HFCA will spray a chemical from a helicopter onto our tree leaves to control the gypsy moth caterpillars. Btk is the spray product. Btk is not harmful to humans or animals. Still, take these ordinary precautions to avoid the spray: â&#x20AC;˘ Stay inside (including pets) and close doors and windows during spraying. â&#x20AC;˘ Avoid sprayed areas until they are dryâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;this includes your pets. â&#x20AC;˘ Wash your hands after being outside. â&#x20AC;˘ Rinse spray residue from outdoor furniture with water.

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 â&#x20AC;˘ 29

Trees and Human Health May Be Linked Adapted by Marian Keegan, RF, Director of Community Conservation Do you ever just â&#x20AC;&#x153;feel sickâ&#x20AC;? when a favorite tree or trees succumbs to death? Evidence is increasing from multiple scientific fields that exposure to the natural environment can improve human health. A new study by a collaboration of researchers from federal agencies and universities continue to provide support that the presence of trees is associated with human health. For Geoffrey Donovan, a research forester at the Forest Serviceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pacific Northwest Research Station, and his colleagues, the loss of 100 million trees in the eastern and midwestern United States was an unprecedented opportunity to study the impact of a major change in the natural environment on human health. In an analysis of 18 years of data from 1,296 counties in 15 states, researchers found that Americans living in areas infested by the emerald ash borer, a beetle that kills ash trees, suffered from

The following reports are available on the HFCA website, the Library, and the HFCA Administration OfďŹ ce:

2012 GYPSY MOTH RISK ASSESSMENT REPORT: ANALYZES DATA FROM PLOTS WITHIN THE COMMUNITY AND ADVISES ON EXPECTED CATERPILLAR POPULATION FOR THE NEXT SPRING 2012 USDA DEER MANAGEMENT REPORT: ANALYZES SURVEY DATA DISCLOSES

an additional 15,000 deaths from cardiothe association is yet to be determined. vascular disease and 6,000 more deaths Other studies have shown that trees may from lower respiratory disease when emit anti microbial agents that boost compared to uninfected areas. When human immune systems. emerald ash borer comes into a comThe emerald ash borer was first dismunity, city streets lined with ash trees covered near Detroit, Michigan, in 2002. become treeless. The borer attacks all 22 species of North The researchers analyzed demographic, American ash and kills virtually all of human mortality, and forest health data the trees it infests. Only ash trees are at the county level between 1990 and attacked by the borer. Currently, the 2007. The data came from counties in emerald ash borer is present in thirtystates with at least one confirmed case of one counties since the first detection in the emerald ash borer in 2010. The findthe state in 2007. ingsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;which hold true after accounting This study was conducted in collaborafor the influence of demographic diftion with David Butry, with the National ferences, like income, race, and educaInstitute of Standards and Technology; tionâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;are published in the current issue Yvonne Michael, with Drexel University; of the American Journal of Preventive and Jeffrey Prestemon, Andrew LiebMedicine. hold, Demetrios Gatziolis, and Megan â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a natural tendency to see our Mao, with the USDA Forest Serviceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s findings and conclude that, surely, the Southern, Northern, and Pacific Northhigher mortality rates are because of west Research Stations. Reference: Am some confounding variable, like income J Prev Med 2013;44(2):139 â&#x20AC;&#x201C;145. or education, and not the loss of trees,â&#x20AC;? said Donovan. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But we saw the same pattern repeated over and over in counties with very different demographic makeup.â&#x20AC;? Although the study shows the association between loss of trees and human mortality from cardiovascular and lower respiratory Photos by Dan Herms, Ohio State University disease, it did not prove a tree-lined street in Toledo, Ohio in 2006 is seen prior to an causal link. The reason for A emerald ash borer infestation.

HARVEST RESULTS AND MAKES RECOMMENDATIONS FOR NEXT YEAR

2012 USDA GOOSE REPORT: DISCLOSES LOCATION OF GOOSE NESTS AND TREATMENTS 2012 ANNUAL LAKE REPORT: ANALYZES DATA DISCLOSES TREATMENTS AND SUMMARIZES CONDITIONS ON ALL LAKES AND PONDS IN THE COMMUNITY AND MAKES RECOMMENDATIONS

2012 LAKE WATCH WATER QUALITY REPORT: ANALYZES DATA FROM SAMPLES COLLECTED BY THE ,AKE 7ATCH 4EAM ON %LM -C#ONNELL (EMLOCK AND ,OWER ,AKES

2012 INVASIVE PLANT CONTROL REPORT: DISCLOSES TREATMENTS AND MAKES RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CONTROLLING *APANESE BARBERRY *APANESE STILTGRASS AND PHRAGMITES

MULTIPLE YEAR FISH SURVEY6: DESCRIBES THE FISH POPULATIONS IN (&#! LAKES AND PONDS AND MAKES RECOMMENDATIONS

2010 SPECIAL STORMWATER RUN-OFF STUDY REPORT: ANALYZES DATA FROM SHORELINE WATER SAMPLES ALONG (EMLOCK AND ,OWER ,AKES

2010 DRINKING WATER REPORT.

This is three years later, in 2009, after the invasive insect spread to the neighborhood. Do you feel the pain?

HEMLOCK NEWS RECREATION NEWS RECREATION NEWS...............................................................................

30 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3

RECREATION REPORT

By John Wormuth, Recreation Director

So far, this early spring season has been like night and day compared to last year’s spring. Last year, we saw temperatures in the 60s and 70s. This year, we saw snow and temperatures in the 30s. Needless to say, at this time last year, we were playing tennis—not shoveling sidewalks and plowing roads. This year is a reality check! Staff is ready to begin setting up outdoor facilities and to do summer preparation work. This spring, we plan on doing a lot of grounds work—mulch on the playground at Fawn Hill and baseball dirt to both of our fields. Over the course of the next month, the staff and I will be

going to every facility to perform maintenance where it is required. Mark your calendars! Monday, April 15 is the first day of signups for summer recreational programs. Members interested in summer recreation programs are encouraged to look through the Summer Recreation Guide, which is a detailed list of the summer programs. Over at the Youth Center, I’d like to thank our outgoing Youth Board members—President Margo DePatie, Vice President Noelle DePatie, Secretary Marissa Boyd and Treasurer Madison Guzzo—for their time and service, and I would like to welcome the new Youth Board: President Margo DePatie, Vice

President Jenna Van Duyne, Secretary Lifeguard Maritza Jahn and Treasurer Noelle Certifi cation Class DePatie. The new Youth Board’s first official business was to assist with will take place over the the St. Patrick’s Day swimming course of two consecutive party, which was a fun night in weekends: Memorial Day the pool. weekend, May 25 and 26; Once the weather breaks and and the weekend of June 1 spring officially arrives (weathand 2. Please sign up at the er-wise), I hope that everyone is able to spend some time outAdministration Office soon doors at our Recreation facilities. because class Summer is right around the corner, size is limited. and 2013 will be one of the busiest in recent memory. Until then, enjoy the beautiful, soon-to-arrive spring weather that the Poconos has to offer.

The Clubhouse will be closed for annual maintenance from Monday, April 8 through Sunday, April 21.

The ZLQWHU schedule for the Steer Barn Clubhouse can be obtained on the Community website: www.hemlockfarms.org. It is also available at the Administration Of¿ce and at the Clubhouse. 570/775-6034

INDOOR POOL RULES: 1. NO JUMPING, RUNNING OR DIVING is permitted at the Indoor Pool. 2. Anyone under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian 18 years or older. 3. Shoes must be removed before entering the Pool area. 4. Showers are required before entering any bodies of water including after being in the hot tub, steam room or sauna. 5. No balls, frisbees, or other throwing objects permitted. 6. Shaving is prohibited in all areas of the Natatorium. 7. Wading pools: Children must be accompanied and supervised by an adult or guardian at all times. 8. Food is prohibited in the pool area. Water is the only drink permitted. No glass.

CA HF

Steer Barn Clubhouse Schedule

closets. Most of the carpets in the building will be receiving a professional deep cleaning. The door used by members to enter the natatorium will be replaced. Staff will be organizing all rooms and closets. All of the exercise equipment—weights, mats and balls—will be thoroughly cleaned and returned to their proper areas.

STEER BARN CLUBHOUSE CLOSING

The annual closing of the Clubhouse will occur from Monday, April 8 through Sunday, April 21. The Spring schedule will resume on Monday, April 22. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Martial Arts classes are scheduled in the Fawn Hill Day Camp Building during the two week closure. HF CA

During the closing, we will be updating the steam room and sauna and also changing out the sprinkler heads in the natatorium that are part of our fire protection sprinkler system. We will be draining and refilling the main pool with fresh water. The Steer Barn Clubhouse hardwood floors will receive a new finish to maintain a clean look, and we will be repairing

YOUTH CENTER HOURS

Fall/Winter Hours

Summer Hours

1RZ through June 25

June 2 through September

Friday and Saturday 7pm-10pm 5th through 8th grades 10pm-12am 9th through 12th grades

Sunday and Monday CLOSED

Sunday 1pm-3pm 9th through 12th grades 3pm-5pm 5th through 8th grades

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 7pm-9pm 5th through 8th grades 9pm-11pm 9th through 12th grades Friday and Saturday 7pm-10pm 5th through 8th grades 10pm-12am 9th through 12th grades

A Life of Volunteering

HF CA

RECREATION NEWS

HEMLOCK NEWS

By Mary Beth Connors

Areas of employment include: ••

photo by Kathie Waibel

Interior Firefighter Jim Mason

A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 31

Serving 24 Hours of Every Day of the Year

HEMLOCK FARMS VOLUNTEER FIRE & RESCUE CO.

1053 Hemlock Farms • Lords Valley, Pennsylvania 18428 • 570-775-6447

32 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • H E M L O C K N E W S

H E M L O C K N E W S • A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 33

An Evening of Appreciation By Hemlock News Staff Mary Beth Connors and Kathie Waibel

A table of assorted awards await presentation.

On Saturday evening, March 23, at Lords Valley Country Club (LVCC), more than 120 people gathered for the Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire & Rescue Company (HFVF&R Co.) Annual Appreciation Dinner. Among the guests were many local dignitaries. (And we were there.) Numerous awards and certificates of appreciation were presented to the men and women who volunteer their time and skills to assist with fire and medical emergencies every day of the year.

Music was supplied by E. A. B. Entertainment and an Elvis Presley impersonator provided fun for everybody. “He really got people up and dancing,” said HFVF&R Co. member Anne Marie Zenie. There were many more volunteers awarded honors for their years of continued service to the HFVF&R Co. “This dinner is to show appreciation for all the hard work and hours of volunteerism that the members of the HFVF&R Co. give to the Company and the Community,” said Secretary of the HFVF&R Co. Patty Magie.

Kyle Hannel, left, receives a five year’s service award from Steve Telmar. Kyle was also recognized as the Most Improved Firefighter of 2012.

Laura McGrath, left, Roseanne Zumo and Anne Marie Zenie welcome everyone to the evening of festivities.

Steve Telmar, left, receives an award for five years of service to the HFVF&R Co. from Patty Magie.

Buddy Magie receives an award for 15 years of service with the Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company.

Patty Magie, left, presents the Retired Treasurer Award to Jean Christian. Jean served from 2003-2013. Helen Yale, left, and Carol Ann and Nick Mazza are a few of the honored guests at the evening’s dinner.

Pete Ferris and Hemlock Farms Community Association Assistant Chief of Public Safety Lori Mordenti are ready to enjoy the evening.

Recipients of the EMS Life Saving Award 2012 are Caryn Capparelli, left, Anne Marie Zenie and Lyn Attreed.

John Kauffman, left, receives the Firefighter of the Year Award for 2012 from Rob Palumbo.

Patty Magie, left, awards Chris Detrick an award for five years of service as an EMS person.

Helen Tsigaris and Evelyn Airey thank the gathering for their support after Helen lost her son and Evelyn lost her husband. Both Billy Tsigaras and Ed Airey were life members of the HFVF&R Co.

A crowded dining room at the LVCC.

Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company

Auxiliary Meeting

Spaghetti Dinner

First Friday of each month

Saturday, April 27

Resumed April 5, through September 6, 10 a.m. coffee, meeting 10:30 a.m. Firehouse. New members always welcome. Contact Barbara Garofalo at 570/257-4041.

Firehouse from 5-7 p.m. Adults $12; children under 10 $6. Includes: Salad, spaghetti, meatballs, sausage, bread & butter, dessert, coffee, tea and soda. BYOB. For further information contact Barb at 570/257-4041.

Line Dancing

Annual Golf Outing

Tuesdays “Elvis” croons to the crowd while handing out beads to Jesse Telmar and other women in the crowded room.

“Elvis” and Hemlock News Staff person Kathie Waibel start off the evening’s musical entertainment. “It’s a tough job but somebody has to do it!” said Kathie.

Tim Morey, left, is recognized by Steve Telmar for five years of service with the Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company. Tim also received the Retired President’s Award from 2011-2012 earlier in the evening.

Patty Magie, left, awards De Keefe an award for twenty years of service as an EMS person.

Rob Palumbo, left, awards James Mason the Fire Chief’s Appreciation Award for 2012.

Firehouse, Classes began March 5 and are scheduled from 7-8:30 p.m. Cost is $5.00 per person. For more information call Judy Lawbin 570/470-8063.

Monday, May 20 Lords Valley Country Club. $95.00 pp includes: 11;30 a.m. BBQ lunch & registration; 1:00 p.m. Shotgun Start; 6:00 p.m. Dinner & Prize presentation. For further information contact Patty at 570/775-9890.

RECREATION NEWS

34 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3

HEMLOCK NEWS

2013 Recreation Badges Are Available

On Monday morning, March 18, members arrive at the Administration Office to pick up their current year’s badges and vehicle stickers. It is necessary for you to present a valid auto registration in order to obtain your badges and vehicle mirror sticker. Photos by Kathie Waibel

Recreation badges for 2013 are available NOW! The colorful badges boast the Hemlock Farms 50th Anniversary Logo. Be sure to keep one as a souvenir!

HFCA Recreation Badges, Mirror Stickers, the 2013 Official Handbook and the 50th Anniversary Souvenir Journal are available for pickup at the Administration Office. Sheldon Polishook, left, receives his badges from Receptionist Lis Baumann. “I was first in line,” claimed Sheldon.

In order to pick up the badges, you must be a member in good standing for all the properties you own. You may obtain 2013 mirror stickers for all of your vehicles at one time by bringing the vehicle registrations or photocopies of the registrations.

Members in good standing sign for their badges on an electronic pad. Although you cannot see your signature, your autograph is captured in the network system.

“Hemlock Hurricanes DJ Dance Party” Hemlock Hurricanes Swim Team Fundraiser Saturday, April 6 • 7:00-11:00pm Steer Barn Clubhouse $10 reserved tickets/ $12 at the door includes light refreshments.

BYOB,All Welcome! Come on out, support the swimmers and dance the winter blues away!

Sure to be a great time! Call Jeanne @ 570-241-1271 or

email ferrjos@ptd.net to reserve your tickets today!

Old Badges Needed

Bring your 2012 Recreation Badges to the Administration Office when you pick up your NEW BADGES.

We will accept any year of old badges! A grateful “Thank You” from the ad hoc Archives Preservation Committee

RECREATION NEWS

HEMLOCK NEWS

Cultural Arts Department

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 35

Hemlock Farms has Talent!

presents the

2013 Artists’ Tour Application If you are an artist and wish to be considered, please fill out application below and return by June 1, 2013 Name: __________________________________________ Email address or Hemlock Farms Box Number: ______________ Photos by Kathie Waibel

Phone: __________________________________________ Website: _________________________________________

On Saturday, March 23, Nancy and Tony Romano, seated at a table in the Steer Barn Clubhouse, conduct the first day of auditions for the June performances of “Our Town.” More than a dozen residents read for various parts in the play. A second audition was held, and the performers were selected to form the “Hemlock Players,” a new group under the umbrella of the Cultural Arts Department. Look for more opportunities to showcase your acting skills in the future!

Street Address: ____________________________________ _______________________________________________ Describe your art in 30 words or less: _____________________ _______________________________________________ _______________________________________________ Brief Biography for advertising and marketing _______________ _______________________________________________ _______________________________________________ _______________________________________________ Planned educational component, demoQVWUDWLRQs, lecture, hands on

Caryn Capparelli, left, Joan Roach, and Michelle Kennedy read some character parts of the play. Caryn appeared some years ago as Wyatt Earp’s girlfriend, Josie Wales, in a twenty-minute condensed version of the movie “Tombstone.” “I had so much fun acting, I wanted to try it again,” she giggled. Joan performed on the stage in high school and college. “I love performing in the theater!” she stated. Michelle is a high school English teacher. Acting is a regular part of her students’ curriculum.

_______________________________________________ Is your home handicapped accessible? _____________________ Please indicate if there are steps and how many? _____________ Please return to: Amy Strapec, HFCA, 1007 Hemlock Farms, Lords Valley, PA 18428 amy.strapec@hfca.com or drop off at Administration Office

opportunity, etc. ___________________________________

Great American Cleanup Saturday, April 20 at 11:00 a.m. Sign in at the Steer Barn Clubhouse Wear appropriate attire—no sandals

Each participant will be given a safety vest, gloves, and trash bags, supplied by PennDOT, the coordinator of keeping PA roads beautiful. Pick up litter at your designated location. Students earn community service hours while helping to keep Hemlock Farms …The Perfect Place To Be In case of inclement weather, call 570/775-6034 for event information.

Saturday, April 27 Steer Barn Clubhouse, doors open at 7:30 p.m., show starts at 8:00 p.m. Tickets go on sale at the Administration Office starting March 15. $16.00 pre-paid or $20.00 at the door. Table snacks, soda & coffee included. BYOB & munchies.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Happy Manâ&#x20AC;?, Cahal Dunne has appeared on David Letterman, PBS, and Entertainment Tonight.

Back by Popluar Demand... DJ JAM

Come celebrate Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day (without the children!) Saturday, May 11 from 7:00 - 11:00pm At the Steer Barn Clubhouse $8.00 pre-paid or $10.00 at the door.

Tickets on sale NOW at the Administration Office! BYOB & Snacks. Coffee, Tea & Soda Available!

Cafe Night Dinner Before The Show

Cream of English Pea Soup Irish Organic Smoked Salmon & Pumpernickel Crouton â&#x20AC;˘ Spinach & Roasted Onion Salad Bacon & Cheddar Crumpet, Sherry Vinaigrette â&#x20AC;˘ Shepherdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s & Fishermanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pies Sweet Garlic and Saffron Potatoes â&#x20AC;˘ Berry Trifle Oatmeal & Raisin Crums

The Steer Barn Clubhouse 570-775-6034 ext 2 Let Us Cater Your Next Special Event or Meeting

â&#x20AC;&#x153;His show keeps a steady repartee with the audience,â&#x20AC;? says Variety Magazine.

HEMLOCK NEWS

Saturday, April 27 at 6:00 p.m.

HF CA

Cultural Arts Department Presents CafĂŠ Night

HF CA

RECREATION NEWS

36 â&#x20AC;˘ A P R I L 2 0 1 3

Bus Trip to HAVE A HOOT

Family Fun Center in Milford Sunday, April 28 Bus departs from the 739 Bus Stop at 12:30 p.m. Returns to Hemlock Farms at 3:30 p.m. $15.00 per person includes transportation, two hours of play structure fun, choice of participating three times on any of the following: laser tag, rock climbing wall, or ropes course.

Arcade game cards and snacks can be purchased separately. Children under 10 must be accompanied by someone 18 or older. Sign up by Monday, April 22.

HEMLOCK NEWS

RECREATION NEWS

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 37

Youth Pool Party a Splash! Photos by Kathie Waibel

On Sunday, March 17—a freezing St. Patrick’s Day—the Hemlock Farms Recreation Department hosts a Youth Pool Party in the steamy warmth of the Clubhouse. The swimmers’ laughter rang throughout the building.

The youngsters enjoy the change of scenery from the Youth Center to the Pool. A few of the partygoers show off their St. Patty’s Day spirit with shamrock glasses.

RECREATION NEWS

38 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3

What do you need a dumpster for??? • Construction Debris • Yard Cleanups • Bathroom/Kitchen Remodel • Basement Cleanouts

HEMLOCK NEWS

NEED A DUMPSTER?

CIAL E P S G N I LEAN SPRING C UP TO

Hemlock Farms Residents Family Owned & Operated

F F O 5 $7 etails. Call for d

We Offer

570-257-0404 • TOLL FREE 855-514-junk

FULL SERVICE

WWW.WERENTDUMPSTERS.COM

Cleanouts!

NO APPOINTMENT NEEDED 570-685-CARS (2277) 1413 Rt. 6, Greeley, PA 18425

21.99 + tax

(Most Vehicles) Includes up to 5 quarts of oil w/ coupon

SAVE $ 15

Includes FREE Car Wash

Not to be combined w/ other offers. Exp. 5/6/13

FULL SERVICE OIL CHANGE REG. 36.99

(at the corner of Rt. 6 & 434)

PA STATE INSPECTIONS TIRES • BRAKES • ALIGNMENTS All major brands of tires at discount prices including: Michelin • BFGoodrich Goodyear • General Tire •Dunlop

NO APPOINTMENT NEEDED

Visit our website for more exclusive coupons & great savings!

www.The AutoPros.net

ONLY $14.99

+ tax

We Àll propane on RVs and Motor Homes, too!

M-F: 8-5:30, Sat: 8-5, Sun 9-3

BBQ TANK REFILL

FREE WHEEL ALIGNMENT

with the purchase of 4 Tires (Most Vehicles)

Includes FREE Car Wash Not to be combined w/ other offers. Exp. 5/6/13

TAIL E D & H S A C AR W Gift Certificates Available

OPEN 7 DAYS:

RECREATION NEWS

HEMLOCK NEWS

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 39

RECREATION AND CULTURAL ARTS ACTIVITIES 20-20-20

HFCA Clubhouse Reminder...

Fridays Steer Barn Clubhouse, 9-10 a.m., free. Moderate- to high-impact moves followed by muscle conditioning using light hand weights, medicine balls & resistance bands and step platforms. Abdominal exercises & cool down with flexibility training & stretching closes the class.

Reminder to All Parents/Guardians: The Steer Barn Clubhouse rule is that all children under 14 must be directly supervised by an adult 18 or over at all times.

Aqua Aerobics Tuesdays Steer Barn Clubhouse Indoor Pool, 4-5 p.m.

Boot Camp Saturdays, 7:45-8:45 a.m. Instructor John Wormuth

Mondays, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Instructor Candey Grice Steer Barn Clubhouse, free. Looking for a challenging workout? Boot camp is for you! Mix calisthenics & body weight exercises with interval, plyometric & strength-training routines.

Bus Trip to Have A Hoot* Family Fun Center in Milford Sunday, April 28 Bus departs route 739 bus stop at 12:30 p.m. and returns to Hemlock Farms at 3:30 p.m. $15 pp includes transportation, two hours of play structure fun and choice of participating

three Ɵmes on any of the following: laser tag, rock climbing wall, or ropes course. Children under 10 MUST be accompanied by someone 18 or older. Sign up by Monday, April 22.

Café Night* Saturday, April 27 Steer Barn Clubhouse doors open at 7:30 p.m. show begins at 8 p.m. Cahal Dunne is “Ireland’s Happy Man”. He has appeared on David Letterman, Entertainment Tonight and PBS. Tickets go on sale March 15 at the Administration Office, $16 pre-paid or $20 at the door. Snacks, coffee/soda/tea included in price. BYOB and munchies, if desired!

Saturday, May 11 Photos by Sharon Knoepfler

Steer Barn Clubhouse doors open at 6:30 p.m. DJ JAM from 7-11:00 p.m. Back by popular demand! Dance Party! Coffee/soda/tea available. BYOB and snacks if desired!

Above: On Saturday, March 23, at The Church at Hemlock Farms, more than 100 people gathered for a free Easter dinner. The dinner was possible because of the many people who brought food or gave a donation. “There were generous donations from Shop Rite in Port Jervis and Weis Markets in Lords Valley,” said Sharon Knoepfler.

Dance Fitness Mondays & Wednesdays Steer Barn Clubhouse, 9-10am

Thursdays Steer Barn Clubhouse, 5:45-6:45p.m. Free energetic workout! This class will teach you dance as well as fitness technique. Easy to follow routines incorporating fitness, hip hop, Latin, ballet as well as traditional dance/aerobic steps.

At left: Patrick and Jennifer Dwantake a break at the Easter Dinner. “The work done by Larry Knoepfler was very much appreciated,” said Jennifer. “Larry made the ham and shrimp scampi with pasta, and he decorated the Church with balloons.”

Fit Lite Tuesdays & Thursdays Steer Barn Clubhouse, 9-10 a.m., free. Focus on no-impact & low-impact moves that will get your heart pumping, without stressing your joints. Exercises help increase bone density & core stability.

SEPTIC TANK CLEANING

Fused Glass Clock* Saturdays, May 4, 11 Steer Barn Clubhouse, Large Art Room, 9:00 a.m. - noon. Instructor: Shelli Aulisio. $80.00 pp materials included, learn glass fusing basics such as glass cutting, drilling holes in glass and assembling pieces for firing. Create your own one-of-a-kind time piece.

Ask your neighbors about our high-quality service Routine Waste Accumulation Inspection

Continued on page 42

Septic Tank Cleaning Drain¿eld Cleaning

REMOVALS PRUNING CABLING LOT CLEARING STUMP GRINDING LAND CLEARING EXCAVATING BULLDOZER SERVICE

We’re Not Out Here... Baking Cookies!

CRANE RENTAL

140-foot Crane Service • Bucket Service

570.685.3453

Septic Systems Installed t We accep ’ rs to ti e p com for septic coupons ning tank clea

25 YEARS EXPERIENCE CARL LORIZ F REE ESTIMATES F ULLY INSURED P A028725

High-Pressure Line Jetting Septic Pumps—Alarm & Repair Service

www.kobenv.com

Major Credit Cards Accepted

All Calls are Answered

24/7 Emergency Service

570-775-9292

Toll Free (888) 345-6688

40 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3

COMMUNITY LIVING

11 – 5 Y MA

HEMLOCK NEWS

2013

Water gushes from the hydrant for several minutes until a visual inspection verifies that the water is clean and the hydrant can be closed.

Spring Cleaning For The Water Company

The Hemlock Farms Water Company will be conducting its spring Hydrant Flushing Program beginning Monday, April 22, and lasting approximately 10 working days. All work will be conducted between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. The Hydrant Flushing Program is being conducted as a routine maintenance procedure to help ensure the sanitary conditions of our water distribution system. Residents should draw water for drinking and cooking purposes prior to the flushing time. Should you have any questions about this activity, please feel free to call our office: 570/775-4200 x 113. Thank you for your cooperation. Thomas J. Sekula Water Company Supervisor

solve the problem of stained clothing from the washing machine and discolored sinks, tubs and dishwashers. Should your clothes get discolored after washing them, do not put them in the dryer. Make sure your water has cleared up and re-wash the clothes.

Fire hydrant flushing is an annual task of the HFCA Water Company. The Community has more than 300 fire hydrants and more than 600 valves that lead to the main pipes underground. Every year, the process begins by closing valves and opening hydrants to remove accumulated sediment in the lines. When first opened, the hydrant gushes copper-colored water—water with sediment. The water is permitted to flow for several minutes. Samples are taken by staff during the process, and when the water is clean, the hydrant is closed. Unfortunately, each time a water line is disturbed to accomplish these efforts, the homes in the area will experience water that is discolored, cloudy and contains particles of rust that break away from the inside of the pipes. In some cases this has been severe but in most cases the water clears up in a short time. An effective way to avoid this water from entering appliances, tubs and sinks is to open an outside spigot before using your water again and allowing the water to run for 15 to 20 minutes. Collect the last gallon or so in a pail or clear jug to observe the condition of the water. This will clean the water in the lateral and service lines coming into your home and, except in extreme conditions, will

It’s Time for our Spring Cleaning!

By HELEN YALE, Assistant to the Community Manager, and KATHIE WAIBEL, Hemlock News Assistant

What do you know about H2O?

To schedule seasonal water service turn-on, please contact the Water Company at 570/775-4200 x113, 24 to 48 hours before your return to Hemlock Farms. Someone MUST be present in your home for the turn-on appointment.

COMMUNITY LIVING

HEMLOCK NEWS

Living in Hemlock Farms ADMINISTRATION OFFICE 119 Lookout Drive Phone 570/775-4200 Fax 570/775-7370 Office Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Daily except Tuesday HFCA accepts credit cards on www.hemlockfarms.org. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FEE ON TRANSFER OF PROPERTY: Improved “I” lot = $1958 Unimproved “U” lot = $1248 Adjacent “A” lot = $832

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• An HFCA “Drop Box” is available at the Mail Room (no postage required) for Administration Office mail only. The HFCA Office also has a slot in the front door for Administration Office mail. • Anyone having their house re-sided must contact the Water Company at 570/775-4200, Ext. 113. • Daily Recreation Passes are available for purchase at the Clubhouse as well as the HFCA Office at a cost of $3.00 per person per day and $15.00 per person per week, upon presentation of a current recreation badge. • Dogs must be leashed or on members’ properties at all times. • Hemlock Farms Cable TV station: Channel 15.

WEBSITE WWW.HEMLOCKFARMS.ORG Did you know... ...that you can register your visitor online? ...that you can enter your classifieds online? Members can sign up for access to the "members only" area of the webiste by creating a user account.

EXTENSIONS AT HFCA OFFICE: 570/775-4200 Accounting Department ........................1 Building Department .............................3 Hemlock News .......................................5 Library ...............................................132 Recreation Department .........................4 Youth Center ......................................130 Water Company .....................................2 Almy, Sue ...........................................119 Baumann, Lis.....................................111 Bickmann, Brianna ............................113 Broschart, Ray....................................142 Connors, Mary Beth ...........................121 Drake, Ann Marie ..............................141 Ferrara, Jeanne .................................139 Flaherty, Lisa .....................................110 Keegan, Marian .................................127 Kemery, Kay .......................................114 Mooring, Dorisann.............................124 Nally, Kevin........................................137 Osborne, Michele ...............................122 Peney, Elaine .....................................128 Rode, Marie .......................................123 Sersea, Milly ......................................110 Sloan, Jesse .......................................131 Strapec, Amy......................................118 Thatcher, Jill ......................................112 van der Toorn, Dana ..........................115 Waibel, Kathie ...................................138 Wormuth, John ..................................126 Yale, Helen.........................................125

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 41

MAIL ROOM Location: 349 Hemlock Farms Road HF Mail Room 570/775-9901 Hawley Postmaster 570/226-4847 Send mail to: 2400 Hemlock Farms WINDOW HOURS: Monday–Friday: 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Saturday: 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon Building access: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. NO LONGER NEED A MAILBOX AT HEMLOCK FARMS? The mailboxes at our Mail Room are owned by HFCA and not by the U.S. Postal Service. Please do not leave your mailbox keys at the Mail Room when you wish to close your mailbox.If you sell your property in Hemlock Farms, or if your lease expires, please drop off your mailbox keys at the HFCA office on Lookout Drive and request that we close your mailbox. MAILBOX KEYS If you plan to be away from Hemlock Farms for any extended period of time. The maximum period of time that the mail can be held at the Mail Room per postal regulations is 30 days and the minimum is 3 days. An Authorization to Hold Mail Form must be completed by the box holder. Verbal requests cannot be honored. Forms are available at the Mail Room window. BULLETIN BOARD In order to advertise non-business items, members may submit a 3"x5" index card to the HFCA Office. The card will be posted on the Mail Room bulletin board for a period of one month. Local businesses may be submit 2"x3½" business advertisements to the HFCA Office. The card will be placed on the Mail Room bulletin board for a period of three months for a fee of $10. The Mail Room staff is currently placing yellow “cards” in your mailbox to alert you that you have a package to pick up. Packages may be picked up at the window during posted hours. Please remember that you MUST present your card at the window before you will be given your package. NO EXCEPTIONS!

BUILDING DEPARTMENT 119 Lookout Drive • 570/775-4200, Ext. 119 • Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. PERMITS Fence Code, Chapter 106 – Permit required (no fee) Major Roof Repair Code and/or Replacement Roof – Permit is required (no fee) Natural Resource Preservation Code – Permit required (no fee). Required before cutting down any standing tree, dead or alive. Trees will require replacement if not considered a hazard or if removed without a permit. Minimum square footage per house: 1,500 square feet Building permit required from respective township and HFCA before construction begins.

CONSTRUCTION If you are expecting any kind of delivery on a Sunday or on a national holiday that requires the use of a construction vehicle, please be aware that such vehicles will not be allowed entry as per HFCA Code Chapter 252-25–Construction Vehicles. This code also prohibits the operation of construction vehicles on Sundays and on national holidays on Hemlock Farms roads. Construction vehicles permitted 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday–Friday and Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. except from July 1 through Labor Day, when entry will be limited to Monday through Friday.

RECREATION NEWS

RECREATION AND CULTURAL ARTS EVENTS Continued from page 39

Fused Glass Mosaics*

Kick Boxing

Saturday, April 27

Tuesdays

Steer Barn Clubhouse, Large Art Room, 9:00 a.m. - noon. Instructor: Shelli Aulisio. $50.00 pp materials included, learn glass fusing basics such as glass cutting, using mosaic nippers and assembling pieces for firing. Make a one-of-a-kind plate or a bowl! Ages 10-14 must be accompanied by a participating adult.

Steer Barn Clubhouse, 6:30-7:30 p.m., free. Intermediate full body training including punches, kicks & power moves, light to moderate weight training followed by cool down. Everyone welcome!

Glass Fusing 101*

Tuesdays 5-6 p.m., Thursdays 4-5 p.m. or 5-6 p.m., Saturdays 7-8 a.m., Sundays 7-8 a.m.

Making Bubbles with Coaches Alex & Kathy*

Fridays, April 26, May 3, 10, 17

Steer Barn Clubhouse Indoor Pool, $60/ month or $8/class. Class pre-requisite: Participants are required to attend a Skills Evaluation Session ($8). Members of the 2012 Hemlock Hurricanes Swim Team are exempt from this fee.

Steer Barn Clubhouse, Large Art Room, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Instructor: Shelli Aulisio. $125.00 pp includes materials for two 12” platters & several jewelry pieces or up to eight 6” appetizer plates.

Great American Cleanup of PA

Martial Arts with Master Daniel Verbeke*

Saturday, April 20 Sign up at the Steer Barn Clubhouse 11 a.m. Each participant will receive work gloves, a vest and trash bags. Pick up litter at your designated location. Wear appropriate clothing—NO SANDALS! In case of inclement weather call 570/775-6034 for event information.

Wednesdays & Fridays Steer Barn Clubhouse, beginners 5-6 p.m.; intermediate/advanced 6-7 p.m., $50/mo. Open to adults & children ages 5 & up.

Martial Arts Free Demonstration Class

Informal Tai Chi

Friday, April 6 Steer Barn Clubhouse. Children 12 and under from 5-6:00 p.m.; teens

Monday, Wednesday & Friday

and adults from 6-7:00 p.m. All are welcome to attend!

Master Gardner Workshop* Saturday, May 18 Steer Barn Clubhouse, Large Art Room, 1 – 3 p.m.. Instructor: Gayle Jones. $10.00 pp workshop focuses on how to plant your garden, basic pruning tips, a power point presentation on rain barrels, and highlighting deer resistant plants. Sign up by May 4. Gardening books and magazines will be offered for sale.

Golf Polo shirts .................... $30.00 Tee Shirts ............................. $12.00 Tote Bags.............................. $30.00 Water Bottles.......................... $5.00

by Thorton Wilder

Wednesdays, April 17 & 24 Orchard House from 4:30-5:30 p.m. $10.00 per child, kindergarten through 4th grade. Children will learn about the Brewster Garden and the fun of growing their own food. Each child will plant seedlings which will be transplanted in a new section of the Garden dedicated to Nature’s Children.

A play directed by Tony Romano and performed by the NEW “Hemlock Players”

Saturday, June 1 at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, June 2 at 2:00 p.m.

New York City Bus Trips*

Wednesdays, April 10 & May 15 Departs from Fawn Hill Parking Lot at 7:30 a.m. Explore the city on your own! Departs NYC at 7:30 p.m. $29 pp, sign up two weeks prior.

Steer Barn Clubhouse Tickets $5.00 sold at the door

Yoga with Toby*

performance approximately 1 ½ hours

Tuesdays Steer Barn Clubhouse, 4:45-5:45 p.m., $6 each class; sign up for at least four classes. NO WALK-INS!

Thursdays Steer Barn Clubhouse, 10:30-11:30 a.m., $6 each class; sign up for at least four classes. NO WALK-INS!

*Sign up at Administration Office

CA HF

In order to celebrate this milestone in our history, a variety of commemorative souvenirs will be available at 50th Anniversary Events and at the Administration Ofﬁce.

Our Town

Nature’s Children*

Steer Barn Clubhouse, 10:30 a.m.-12 noon, free. Creates a mind/body connection. The practice of T’ai Chi has been shown to reduce stress levels & lower blood pressure while improving strength, flexibility & balance.

HEMLOCK NEWS HF CA

42 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3

50th Anniversary Progressive Dinner Saturday, May 18

Cost is $10.00 adults; $5 youngsters 12 and under; FREE for toddlers 3 and under.

Coffee and water available at all locations.

Open seating is limited ~ sign up at the Administration Office SOON!

Appetizers served at the Church at Hemlock Farms at 5:00 p.m.

Mugs ...................................... $7.00 Anniversary Journal ..................N/C

Dinner served at St. John Neumann Church at 6:30 p.m. (BYOB) Desserts served at the Jewish Fellowship of Hemlock Farms at 8:00 p.m.

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 43 COMMUNITY LIVING COMMUNITY LIVING...............................................................................

HEMLOCK NEWS

ITALIAN-AMERICAN CLUB NEWS

By Rosanne Mardarello

Kitchen staff: Bob Desiano, Frank Giannini, Angelo Papa, and Vinny Fodera.

Contributed photos

Members Barbara Denniston and Joanne Lenzi show off their winning decorated cake.

Our “famous” 20-foot dessert buffet features homemade specialty items.

Event Committee members Marie Desiano, Gail Giannini, Cathy Ewan, Eilene Papa, and Phyllis Fodera show off some of the 40 raffle baskets they assembled from items donated by members.

HF CA

The next dinner/meeting of the Columbia Italian-American Club (CIAC) is scheduled for Friday, April 26, 2013. Please note—this is a date change. Also, please RSVP to Jeanette at 570/775-7570 no later than Monday, April 22, 2013. Dinner still is only $10 for members and $12 for guests. Prospective members are always welcome! Our third annual “Italian Festa and St. Joseph’s Day Celebration” was a huge success due to the huge response of the Community. More than 120 members and guests were treated to a family-style Italian dinner and to our famous 20-footlong dessert buffet (all homemade!). An “Italian” Cake Decorating Contest provided lots of entertainment fun, and it raised money for the Blooming Grove Food Pantry as well. Barbara Denniston and Joanne Lenzi, working as a team, were the winners of the competition. Our Club’s fundraising efforts make possible, among other things, the CIAC Scholarship Awards. Applications are available through local high school guidance departments, and awards are made in the spring. The Columbia Italian-American Club was incorporated in 1998 and will celebrate its 15th anniversary in 2013. The five founding fathers created an organization whose purpose was “to promote good will through good deeds.” An anniversary celebration is being planned, and it will be a tribute to past and present members whose contributions have helped make the CIAC what it is today. We are proud and pleased to announce that membership is at an all-time high of more than 60 families. For membership information, contact Joanne Rand at 570/775-6766. Upcoming Events: May 18 – Participation in the Community 50th Anniversary Progressive Dinner. June 12 – Annual Non-golfers Golf Outing July/August – Annual Picnic/CIAC 15th Anniversary Celebration Details for all upcoming events always can be found in Hemlock News, in the Happenings, on Channel 15 and on the Mail Room bulletin board.

CALENDAR For membership information, contact Joanne Rand at 570/775-6766. Details for all upcoming events can always be found in Hemlock News, in the Happenings, on Channel 15 and on the Mail Room bulletin board.

Meetings Friday, April 19

Members and guests enjoy their “Sunday” dinner.

St. John Neumann Parish Hall, dinner 6 p.m., meeting 7 p.m., members $10, guests $12. Contact Roe to RSVP at 570/775-4009 five days prior.

COMMUNITY LIVING

44 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3

HEMLOCK NEWS

Get Ready to Spring into Summer

570-775-9890 662 Route 739, Lords Valley, PA

Walk to Pool or %each from any of these homes

409 FOREST DR. $110,000.00 AFFORDABLE VACATIONS START HERE

127 MOUNTAIN VIEW DR. $150,000.00 PERFECT FAMILY GET AWAY

101 BROADMOOR DR. $185,000.00 EVERYTHING YOU NEED AT THE RIGHT PRICE

121 HIGHLAND LANE $300,000.00 BEAUTIFULLY LANDSCAPED POSSIBLE MOTHER/DAUGHTER

804 CLYDESDALE CT. $349,000.00 5 PLUS BEDROOMS WITH ROOM FOR ALL

111 BLACKBIRCH LANE $369,000.00 YOUR MANSION IN THE MOUNTAINS

www.HemlockRealtyGroup.com Serving Hemlock Farms and the surrounding areas for all of your real estate needs. Home Sales • Rentals • Commercial Properties License Number: RB067699

Rich Caridi, Owner

Patty Magie, Broker

Megan Vennie, Assoc. Broker

Barbara St. Denis, Realtor

Tom Schiffer, Realtor/Builder

Beth Rossitto, Realtor

Lisa Flaherty, Realtor

Linda Anderson, Realtor

COMMUNITY LIVING

COMPUTER THERAPIST

JWI NEWS

By Phil Orenstein Information from a Member

Dear Computer Therapist: Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve started using the Mozilla Firefox browser as an alternative to Internet Explorer to view Web pages. On some Web pages, the text size is too small for my needs. How can I permanently adjust the text size of Web pages displayed in Firefox? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Squinty Dear Squinty: Open any Web page using Firefox. Go to the Tools menu and select Options. Once the Options dialog box opens, select the Content icon. Use the drop-down menus to set the font size. You can also set the font type here. Be aware that some Web pages can override your selection. To override their override, from the Options dialog box, click the Advanced button. Simply uncheck the option â&#x20AC;&#x153;Allow Pages To Choose Their Own Fonts Instead Of My Selections Above.â&#x20AC;? Dear Computer Therapist: Whenever I power up my computer, it gets to a certain point and then shuts off, only to restart again. It just keeps endlessly rebooting. The only way to stop it is to press the power button to shut it completely off. I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get to my desktop. Is there any way to fix this? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Loopty Loop Dear Loopty: This is definitely one of the top irritating problems, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not uncommon. It could be caused by a hardware issue (faulty motherboard, bad memory, a fried video card), a conflict-

By Marilyn Meyerowitz

ing application in the Startup folder, or a corrupt system file infected by a virus or a Trojan. The first thing is to stop the automatic reboot so you can see the error message and try troubleshooting. In Windows Vista and Windows 7, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need to access the Advanced Boot Options menu. Press the power button and immediately keep pressing the F8 function key once per second. At the menu, select â&#x20AC;&#x153;Disable Automatic Restart At System Failure.â&#x20AC;? On the next reboot, see if the error message helps you. If not, perform a complete system scan with your antivirus software. You do have an antivirus program, right? If the scan reports no infections, your next chore is to make sure that there are no conflicting applications in the Startup process. Follow the steps above to access the Advanced Boot Options menu. This time, select Safe Mode. Once in Safe Mode, hit the Start button. In the Search box, type â&#x20AC;&#x153;msconfigâ&#x20AC;? (without the quotes). In the System Configuration dialog box, choose the Startup tab. Uncheck all Startup items. Try rebooting normally. If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get an error message, go back into Safe Mode to try adding one Startup item at a time. Repeat the process to reboot normally. Once you get the error message, you know that the last Startup item you checked is the culprit.

NEW WATER SERVICE CHARGES

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 â&#x20AC;˘ 45

Things are lining up for a great 2013 season. JWI will be presenting its tribute to the Hemlock Farms 50th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, June 15 at the Steer Barn Clubhouse. We have been asking members, friends, and everyone we know to share photos from their years in Hemlock Farms. These are being turned into a slide show, and the viewing will be open to everyone in the Community. Wine and cheese and great memories will be the theme of the evening. Keep the date open and watch for more info. Our first regular meeting will be held at the Conference Center on Sunday, May 5 at 11:00 a.m. We will be updating our calendar of events and discussing the card parties and other plans for the season. Our featured speaker will be David Deckinger, owner of Pike Global Foods. David, an accomplished graduate of the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), will be showing us how to use herbs, seasonings and oils in our cooking and how to make everyday food more interesting and tasty. With food prices constantly increasing, it will be great to see how, with just a few spices, ordinary chicken and fish can be transformed. The best part is that you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to be an expert cook. Come and learn some new tricks to add interest to old favorites. June 9 is the date of our annual paid-up Membership Luncheon. This year, our speaker will be Michael Sullivan, CEO of the Pike County Chamber of Commerce. Though we live in Pike

(Effective January 1, 2013)

Note: A Stormwater Fee billed Quarterly to I-Lots ($26 previously from 1/2009) ..........................................................$36.00

Water consumption charge per 1,000 gallons

Continental Breakfast

Water Usage Period

Water Billing Date

1 Quarter 2nd Quarter 3rd Quarter 4th Quarter

January thru March April thru June July thru September October thru December

April July October January

Third Monday of each month 7 p.m., St. John Neumann Parish Hall. All Brother Knights are invited.

Third Sunday of each month After 10:30 a.m. Mass

Water Billing Period

2013 Entertainment Book for Northeastern PA $30. Contact Gail at 570/775-0606 for delivery to your door.

Meeting Sunday, May 5, 11:00am Speaker: David Deckinger on herbs & seasonings

Membership Luncheon Sunday, June 9 Speaker: Mike Sullivan of Pike County Chamber of Commerce

History of Hemlock Farms Slide Show Saturday, June 15 Steer Barn Clubhouse, 7 p.m. Enjoy wine & cheese as you watch the show. All welcome.

Lords Valley For membership information, contact Ray Podeszwa at 570/775-6307.

Meetings

Billing Cycle for Water Bills

For membership information, contact Blossom Kusnitz at 570/775-6135 or Enid Goldberg at 570/775-9460.

CALENDAR

This fee covers the cost of two employees to operate the Vacuum 7ruck and related miscellaneous expenses for this vehicle. This fee also funds erosion control materials, tools, permits, stormwater engineering and future stormwater improvements. (previously 4.95 since 1/2000), billed quarterly ..................................... $6.95

JWI CALENDAR

Knights of Columbus, Council #12571

Note: Quarterly basic water charge is for: Fixed costs of water system maintenance .........................................$50.00

County, many of us do not know a lot about the county. Sullivan will be discussing upcoming cultural events, points of interest, and some of the businesses that make Pike County a go-to place. You must be a member in good standing to attend, so if you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t paid your dues or if you have questions about them, please contact Blossom Kusnitz at 570/775-6135. Also, please make sure that Blossom has your latest email and contact information. We will be emailing a complete calendar shortly to all of our members. We have tribute for all occasions. Each time you send a card, you earn donor credit. Ruth Rothman will be happy to help you if you call her at 570/775-7462.

HF CA

HEMLOCK NEWS

Texas Holdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;em Second Saturday of each month 10 a.m., St. John Neumann Parish Hall, $40 per player. Top prize: $1,000. Contact James at 570/775-6959.

Annual Golf Classic at Lords Valley Country Club Monday, June 3 Registration: 9:00 a.m.; Tee off: 10:00 a.m. Cost: $95.00 pp includes continental breakfast, prizes and more! BBQ lunch, Golf Cart and Golf game. Lunch only: $25.00. For reservations contact Charlie at 570/775-7477 or Pete at 570/775-8884.

Conference Center, Thursdays, 7:30 p.m.

Fishing & Boating Club

New members welcome! Contact Vinny at 570/775-9379.

Food & Friends First Monday of the month Orchard House, 6 p.m. Contact Pat at 570/775-1741 or Jeannette at 570/257-0026.

Girl Scouts

Daisies â&#x20AC;&#x201C; K-1st grade, contact Bernice at 570/257-0295. Brownies 2nd-3rd grade, contact Dee at 570/257-0049.

Happy Hookers Thursdays Conference Center, 1 p.m. Contact Evelyn at 570/775-9829

Landscape Club

Contact Ronnie at 570/775-8893 or Dianne at 570/775-9204.

Spring Meeting at Ronnieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House

Friday, April 26 at 9:30 a.m.. Call Ronnie at 570/775-8893

Neighbor-to-Neighbor Third Wednesday of the month Conference Center, 7 p.m. Contact Richard Sandbrook, President 570/775-0566 or greyhound0227@yahoo.com

Red Hat Scarlet Divas Third Thursday of the month Conference Center, 10 a.m. Contact Lorraine at 570/775-7380.

Red Hat Bus Trip

HF CA

Red Hat Scarlet Divas of Hemlock Farms are going to Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs. All are welcome! Monday, April 6 the bus leaves Hemlock Farms at 10:00 a.m. Cost is $18.00 and is due by April 15. Price includes $15.00 free slot play and a $10.00 food coupon. Contact Lorraine at 570/775-7380 ASAP as seating is limited!

CALENDAR SISTERHOOD OF THE JEWISH FELLOWSHIP

Niagra Falls & Toronto Trip Monday-Friday, September 23-27 $534 pp, double occupancy includes 4 nights lodging, 8 meals, guided tours of Niagra Falls & Toronto, ride on â&#x20AC;?The Maid of the Mistâ&#x20AC;?, gaming at Fallsview Casino, a visit to Casa Loma and much more. Departs Lords Valley Monday, September 23 at 8 a.m. for more information contact: Gail Neldon at 570/775-0606 or Carol Weiss at 570/775-7497.

Meeting

Sunday, April 21 at 11:00 a.m. Guest speaker, Sam Einhorn, will tell his story as a Holocost survivor.

By Arlene Rudin

We wish all our Jewish friends and neighbors a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Zesen Pesach,â&#x20AC;? and all our Christian friends and neighbors a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Happy Easter.â&#x20AC;? Our March Sisterhood meeting was a wonderful Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Passover Seder. To the traditional Seder plate, we added an orange to recognize all marginalized people, and a cup of water to remind us of Miriam and the important role she and the well played in the exodus. We told stories of the Passover Seders of our youth. After we read the 10 ancient plagues of blood, frogs, lice, beasts, cattle disease, boils, hail, locusts, darkness, and death of the firstborn,we discussed the ten modern plagues of inequity, entitlement, greed, fear, distraction, distortion of reality, unawareness, discrimination, silence, and feeling overwhelmed and disempowered. Much has changed in more than 300 generations, but plagues still exist, and what behaviors do we need to change to fix them? The singing and Seder meal gave us much to think about. Our April Sisterhood meeting on Sunday, April 21, at 11:00 a.m. should prove just as exciting. Sam Einhorn, a member of the Fellowship, will tell his story as a Holocaust Survivor. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a fascinating tale of courage and survival. Our book for April will be â&#x20AC;&#x153;Little Bee,â&#x20AC;? by Chris Cleave. This is the story of two women. Their lives collide one fateful day, and one of them has to make a terrible choice, the kind of choice we hope you never have to face. Two years later, they meet again ... the story starts there ... The Book Club meeting will be at Nancy Nattâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 24. The trip to Niagara Falls and Toronto is open to the entire Hemlock Farms Community, so if you want to be guaranteed a seat call, Gail at 570/7750606 and send your $75.00 pp check ASAP. The bus is already half full. The â&#x20AC;&#x153;NEWâ&#x20AC;? Apex Trading brochure is available in the Fellowship Lobby or you can go to www.wholesaleisrael.com to see all the products. Contact Arlene at 570/775-9472 to order. The GiftCent deadline for April is Tuesday, April 30. A list of all gift cards available can be obtained at the office or by going on line to www.giftcerts.com.

HF CA

Chess Club

SISTERHOOD NEWS

HEMLOCK NEWS

Interfaith Holocaust Memorial Service Sunday, April 7 at 2:00 p.m. Jewish Fellowship at Hemlock Farms

Club Meetings & Programs

COMMUNITY LIVING

46 â&#x20AC;˘ A P R I L 2 0 1 3

Pike County Area Agency on Aging

Blooming Grove Center 150 Pike County Boulevard (off Route 739 North), Lords Valley, PA 18428

570/775-5550 Fax: 570/775-5558

Website: pikeaaa.org OfÂżce hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Centers also located in Lackawaxen and Dingmans Ferry

LUNCH: Mondayâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Friday, 11:30 a.m. Suggested cost: $2.50/pp. Call for reservations.

Have any free time? Volunteers are always needed and welcome. Available at the Senior Center:

Grief and Alzheimer support groups, Fitness and wellness program, Eyeglass clinics, Flu shots, AARP driving classes, Free income tax preparation, Arts and crafts, Home-bound meal delivery, Monthly newsletter, Exercise classes, Theme luncheons, Trivia contests, Transportation to shopping and doctor appointmentsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;call 570/296-3408 or 866/681-4949. We Have WI-FI Bring your laptop or android device to any of our centers, enjoy lunch, connect to our WiFi and browse the Web. Line Dancing Tuesdays, 10 a.m. Bingo games Wednesdays & Thursdays Tuesday, $SULO 9:00 a.m. A Veterans Representative is available to assist with veteranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s issues.

Wednesdays, April 17 & 24 Yoga with Lori. AARP Driver Safety Course: Wednesday, April 17 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a four hour refresher course starting at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, May 22 & 23 at 1:30 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; two four hour classes for those who have never taken the course. AARP members $12, non-members $14. Advance registration only by check payable to AARP and mailed to PCAAA, 150 Pike County Boulevard, Hawley, PA 18428. For more information call 570/775-5550. Computer Lessons by appointment, will resume in May.

COMMUNITY LIVING

HEMLOCK NEWS

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 47

OBITUARIES

On March 11, 2013, the Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company lost another longtime member; Edward Airey, 84, passed away, and I can only assume he joined his next Fire Company. Ed came to Hemlock Farms in 1987 and joined the HFVF&R Co. almost the same day. I was Fire Chief at the time and can remember being skeptical of this new member. Oft times after serving for many years with another fire company, it is difficult to learn the ways of a new company. Ed had already achieved “life membership status” with the Jefferson Township Fire Department in Milton, NJ. That skepticism was short lived and Ed quickly became a vital member of our department, that’s not to say he didn’t bring his vast knowledge of fire fighting, vehicle rescue, fund raising, and running a Fire and Rescue Company that he had acquired from his old company. Quite often Ed would say “In my old company. . .” a term that remains today within the Company, sometimes tongue-in-cheek. Ed served for more than 20 years with his new company; he became a life member, was an active fireman, drove the trucks and ambulance, was a first responder, and held various positions with the Company’s Board of Directors. He was a past Assistant Chief and Deputy Chief and, when he said he was going to start slowing down with the Company (something he never really did) he was elected as Honorary Fire Chief of the Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire and Rescue Co. If something needed to get done, you could always count on Ed Airey to be there to help. As his eyesight began failing, Ed would still come to the Company meetings to listen and be an active participant. The Hemlock Farms Community owes a debt of gratitude to Ed for his service to the community. Ed, you will be missed, and I am proud to say you were part of my old company… or maybe I should say, OUR old company!

Janice G. Larkin

Alfred Buehler passed away on February 28, 2013, in Dunmore, PA. Al and Anne, his wife of 58 years, retired to Hemlock Farms in 1997 after his 25-year career at the New York City Fire Department. Al and Anne traveled extensively, but the Hemlock Farms Community was their cherished home. They joined the Lake Wallenpaupack German-American Club, where Al served as a club vice-president for seven years. The couple also was active as Friends of the Pike County Library, where Al was a vice-president for two years and always supported the Library’s annual book sales and fundraising efforts. Al suffered a hemorrhagic stroke in 2009 and was confined to a wheelchair. His health declined suddenly, and surrounded by his family, he took the final step of his life’s journey on February 28, 2013. His path touched many, and he will be deeply missed. Al is survived by his wife, Anne Buehler of Hemlock Farms; his daughter Maggie Buehler of New York, NY; his son, Steven Buehler, of Belmont, CA; his daughter Diana Mischler of Glendale, NY; and his brother, Richard Buehler of Bowie, MD. Please consider a donation in Al’s name to support the Pike County Public Library or the Pike County Humane Society.

Janice Larkin, a Hemlock Farms resident for more than 40 years, passed away suddenly on December 21, 2012. Born on September 29, 1924, in Queens NY, Janice was the daughter of the late Olga and David Leecock. She was a graduate of Richmond Hill High School. She began her career as a receptionist for Lybrand Brothers in Manhattan and later worked for New York Telephone. After her marriage to Raymond Larkin in 1945, she moved to California with her husband, where he was stationed as a Marine. In 1946, Janice returned to New York and worked as a nutritionist at Central General Hospital in Plainview, but later went back to work for New York Telephone, which later became AT&T, in the recruitment department. Janice was a resident of Hemlock Farms for more than 43 years, first as a part-time resident and, after retirement, as a fulltime resident. She was an active member of the Hemlock Farms Women’s Club. She enjoyed playing Mahjong with other Hemlock residents. Janice also enjoyed golf, and for many years, she was a member of the Port Jervis Country Club. Janice is survived by her three siblings; Joan Neff, Eleanor Truman and Thomas Leecock. She was the beloved aunt of many, many nieces and nephews and will be sorely missed by all. A memorial Mass will be held at St. John Neumann Church on Saturday, April 27, 2013, at 10:00 a.m.

By Rick Hesse Life member HFVF&R Co.

Alfred Buehler

Edward Airey

Visit us online www.hemlockfarms.org

CALENDAR For membership information, contact Carol at 570/871-3086. Membership dues: $6pp (7/1/20126/30/2013). Drop check in 50+ Club box at HF Mail Room. If you know a member who should receive a card, contact Renee at 570/775-6327.

Meeting Tuesday, May 7 Steer Barn Clubhouse, 1 p.m. The guest speaker is Derek Ballinger of PennStar Bank discussing “Fighting Identity Theft”

Volleyball Mondays & Thursdays Steer Barn Clubhouse, 1 p.m. Contact Rosalie at 570/775-1724.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic April 16-23, 2013 All inclusive! $821 double, $1045 single. Bus and airfare will be additional. Contact Jim at 570/775-7879

Dream Girls May 11 Scranton Cultural Center. Lunch at noon, Play at 2 p.m. Cost is $54 per ticket and $16 for lunch. Drive your own car or carpool. For information contact Rita Ruth at 570/775-6483.

Maestro at the Movies June 8 Scranton Cultural Center. North East Philharmonic Pops Concert at 8 p.m.. Cost is $44 per ticket. Include VIP tour of venue, orchestra seating, a free gift and a preconcert reception form 6-7:30 p.m. with light refreshments. Drive your own car or carpool. For information contact Rita Ruth at 570/775-6483.

Villa Roma Overnight Monday, and Tuesday, June 10 & 11, 2013 $140pp double occupancy includes three meals, an Hawaiian Luau, all resort activities, entertainment & accommodations. Contact Aida at 570/775-9646.

Montreal/Quebec City August 19-23 $600. Two days/nights in each city. Contact Marv at 570/801-1088 (cell).

COMMUNITY LIVING

48 â&#x20AC;˘ A P R I L 2 0 1 3

Main Fire Hall, 484 Route 739 570/775-7355.

Roast Pork Dinner Sunday, April 14 1-5 p.m., $12pp adults, $5 children, under 3 years of age free, includes: Roast Pork cooked three different ways, salad, vegetable,apple sauce, coffee, tea, and dessert.

Chicken Bar-B-Que Dinner Sunday, June 23 1-5 p.m., $12pp adults, $5 children, under 3 years of age free, details to follow.

Blueberry Breakfast Sunday, July 21 8 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1 p.m. $7pp adults, $4 children, under 3 years of age free, details to follow.

Tricky Tray Saturday, August 17 5 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Call 7 p.m. All Welcome.

Blueberry Breakfast Sunday, August 25

8 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1 p.m. $7pp adults, $4 children, under 3 years of age free, details to follow.

By CHRIS EAGAN In grammar school, I took the polio vaccine on a cube of sugar. That little act may have saved my life, or saved me from a life of difficulty. As of today, poliomyelitis has been eradicated from the United States, and due to global efforts, only three countries reported polio cases as of February 2012. There is an aftermath to having polio for about 25 to 50 percent of those who recover from the acute infection. Years after having the initial illness, these people begin to experienceâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; in varying degrees of severityâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x153;Post-Polio Syndrome.â&#x20AC;? People who had polio in the past begin to notice a new weakness in previously affected muscles. This isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a new polio infection, but it represents previously affected muscles becoming even weaker and possibly shrinking in size. The patient also experiences fatigue, both generalized and in the muscles. Around 1975, in Niger, Africa, a threeyear-old girl was supposed to get her

Houses ofWorship

The Church at Hemlock Farms (Interdenominational Christian Church) 98 Willow Drive 570/775-6787

Worship Service Sunday, 10 a.m. Fellowship time/reception 11 a.m.

Sunday School Sunday, 10 a.m.

Adventure Camp Fridays from 6:30-8 p.m. For children from kindergarten through 6th grade.

Youth Group Wednesday, 6 p.m. for youngsters middle school through high school. Contact the church office for more information at 570/775-6787.

WOMENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MINISTRIES:

polio vaccine. However, on the day of her appointment, she came down with German Measles. She did not get vaccinated. A few days later, when her mother woke her, the little girl could not sit up. Her muscles just did not work. She could not stand, she could not sit, and if she was propped up, she just flopped over. Thankfully, her father was a gendarme and there was a hospital for the employees and their families. The little girlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents learned that their baby had polio. I met this young lady years ago when she came to America from her country. She told me she remembers her legs being in casts to prevent deformities. She remembers hours and hours of physical therapy and her mother carrying her on her back to and from therapy. She had braces to help maintain her leg function and acupuncture to keep the muscles viable. She had about five surgeries to correct malformed muscles, including a muscle/bone graft so she could at least wiggle her toes. Her right leg functions, but her left leg is flaccid. She told me

that she has lost muscle strength over the years and that she gets very tired by the end of the day. She has been diagnosed with Post-Polio Syndrome. This brave woman came to Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; alone, in a wheelchairâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;for a better life. She now has a husband and two boys, and she is attending college. She is amazing. I guess a virus canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t paralyze the human spirit!

The Pd Woc Archives Preservation Committee is searching for memories of the early days in Hemlock Farms.

HF CA

Do You Know?

Blooming Grove Township Volunteer Fire Department Lords Valley, 1 Mile North of I-84

HEMLOCK NEWS

Do you have any memorabilia in your attic or basement, or in the back of your closet? Please contact Mary Beth Connors at 570/775-4200 x 121.

Free Community Dinner Saturday, April 27, 4-7 p.m. All are invited to attend. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not necessary to bring anything, but these dishes are needed: soup, bagged salad, side dishes & desserts. Cash donations are always appreciated. Contact Jennifer at 570/775-9796.

Trifles & Treasures Collections & Sale Date Begins Monday, April 8 through Thursday, May 16. Drop off items to the church office Monday-Thursday between 9 a.m. & noon. Items needing pick-up require a payment of $25 at least 24 hours in advance. If you are moving or need help with a clean-out of any sort, contact Kathy Wahnon at 570/241-1010. Sale date is May 25, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Jewish Fellowship of Hemlock Farms

540 Forest Drive â&#x20AC;˘ 570/775-7497

Shabbat Service followed by Oneg Friday, 7:30 p.m.

Shabbat Service, Torah Study & Kiddush Saturday, 9:30 a.m.

Religious School September-June, Sundays, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Arlyne B. Berkman Building. For information, call Rhoda at 570/775-9035 or the Fellowship Office at 570/775-7487.

St. John Neumann 705 Route 739 Lords Valley 570/775-6791 www.sjneumann.com

Services:

For more information, contact Eileen at 570/775-1729.

Interfaith Holocost Rememberance Service

Saturday, 4 p.m., Sunday, 10:30 a.m. Good Shepherd: Sunday, 8 a.m.

Morning Circle

Sunday, April 7 at 2:00 p.m. All are invited for prayers & readings. Refreshments will be served.

Boy Scout Troop #416

Second Tuesday of the month, April 9, 11 a.m.

Mission Circle Third Tuesday of the month, April 16, 11 a.m.

Evening Circle Third Tuesday of the month, April 16, 7 p.m.

Bus Trip to Mohegan Sun Tuesday, April 9. Cost of $21.00 includes transportation, $15.00 slot voucher and $10.00 food voucher. Seating is limited and reservations must be paid by March 30. For information contact the Fellowship Office at 570/7757497.

Meets 1st, 2nd & 4th Mondays, 6 p.m., Ages 11 through 18

Parents Bereavement Support Group Second Thursday of the month, 10 a.m., Parish Hall. Contact Nancy at 570/7752733 or Evangeline at 570/775-7658.

COMMUNITY LIVING PAID ADVERTISEMENT

HEMLOCK NEWS

n o M R I a y U 21st M e t o V

Shannon Muir

The Right Experience, Right Values, Right Choice for Magisterial District Judge of Palmyra, Greene and Blooming Grove Townships

Experience As a litigator, appellate attorney, and public defender who has worked on hundreds of cases in Pike County, Shannon handles a diverse caseload. Her work encompasses precisely the types of cases that come before a Magisterial District Judge: criminal law, landlord/ tenant disputes, protection orders, and community association matters.

Values Shannon, best known for her volunteer representation of the youth exploited in Luzerne County’s “Kids for Cash” scandal, received the 2008 Pro Bono Award from the Juvenile Law Center. Shannon is a mother of three, and will bring understanding and real world experience to her courtroom.

Paid for by Friends of Shannon L. Muir, Esq.

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 49

50 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3

HEMLOCK NEWS

General Tree Care Trimming Hazardous Tree Removal Stump Grinding Storm Damage Cleanup Snow Plowing Firewood

147 Blooming Grove Rd. Lords Valley, PA 18428 Reg # PA073150

570-470-4528 Thank you for the opportunity to be of service to you.

PLEASE VISIT US AT OUR WEB SITE

www.busybeaverts.com

Lords Valley Septic Service 570-775-7040 SEPTIC SYSTEM REPAIRS

Septic Pump Alarm & Repair service AFFORDABLE SEPTIC SYSTEM REPAIRS TANK & PUMP REPLACEMENTS DRAIN FIELD REFURBISHED Inspections pumping

Cert. # 1060

Lords Valley Septic Service is a Certified Full-Service Company serving Lords Valley and the surrounding areas. We provide 24-Hour Emergency Response. Located within a ½ mile of Hemlock Farms Main Entrance.

Weekend Availability Credit Cards Accepted

CALL US TODAY! CertiÀed Pumper Hauler Hugh Trivelpiece

570-840-5111 www.LVSEPTIC.com

Waterline Replacement or Repair Piers and Additions Culvert Pipes and Driveway Repair

ABS DUMPSTER

Perimeter and French Drains Exterior Waterproo¿ng 175 Blooming Grove Road Lords Valley, PA 18428 hught@ptd.net

Trivelpiece Excavation (570) 840-5111 PA# 034095

Visit us online at: www.absdumpster.com

Remove Unwanted Trash Easily!

E-mail us at: absdumpster@yahoo.com

Don’t stress about how to remove your trash!

Mailing Address: 105 Cub Road Greeley, Pa 18425

We look forward to hearing from you!

Simply call us for pricing, and we can schedule a date and time to drop off your dumpster. You can fill the dumpster at your own pace, and we will pick it up for removal! We are a locally owned and operated company providing excellent service to our customers!

1-570-955-6698 Blake Magie, Owner & Operator

105 Cub Road Greeley, Pa 18425 ABS Dumpster is part of A Better Service, Inc.

52 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3

HEMLOCK NEWS

COMMUNITY LIVING

HEMLOCK NEWS

BOOK REVIEW

By Anne Marie Zenie

“Escape from Andersonville: A Novel of the Civil War,” By Gene Hackman and Daniel Lenihan I was in the mood to read a romantic fiction, happily-ever-after kind of book, but Anita Jorgensen, President of the Hemlock Farms Library, chose this book for me to review, and I’m glad she did. This novel by Gene Hackman (yes, the actor!) and Daniel Lenihan has exciting action, memorable characters and interesting history. The story begins in 1864. Nathan Parker is a captain in the Union Army during the Civil War. He and his soldiers are forced to surrender to the Confederates, and they are dispatched to the infamous Andersonville prison camp in Georgia. One of the prisoners reacts to the conditions at Andersonville by stating, “I must say that I am absolutely appalled at what I have witnessed in this hellhole. It is positively a blight on the nation’s spirit that American soldiers, regardless of their allegiance, should treat prisoners of

their own blood in such a contemptible manner.” Parker responds, “This is a symptom of the whole nation losing its humanity.” Faced with the despicable conditions in the prison camp, Parker decides to escape to Vicksburg, hoping to convince his superiors to take action to free his men. When his superiors do not agree to his plan, Parker decides to act on his own, and with the help of some dubious characters, he sets out on a course to rescue the men he left behind at Andersonville. I started reading this book while I was sitting on a beach in South Carolina with my friend Cheryl Lottman. I did not think the story would hold my attention in that setting, but it did. Nathan Parker is a fascinating protagonist, and you will not want to put this book down until you find out what happens to him and his men.

Calling all Children: Starting May 1 through Labor Day, the Library will be giving out a Library Surprise Bag—one for those eight and under and one for those nine and above. Starting June through Labor Day, there will be a Scavenger Hunt in Dewey’s World, as well as a Reading Challenge. Please be sure to check in at the Volunteer Desk to participate in these summer-long events.

— The Hemlock Farms Library Board

Pike Conservation Partnership

April 17, Rain Garden Site Visit, 10 am, Lackawaxen Fire Hall, Lackawaxen, PA. Contact PCCD at 570-226-8220 or visit www. pikeconservation.org April 20, Pike-Wayne Earth Day Festival, 10 am-3 pm, PPL Wallenpaupack Environmental Learning Center, Hawley, PA. Contact PPL at 570-253-7001 or pplpreserves@pplweb.com April 20, Forestry Program, 9am-3pm, Milford Experimental Forest, Milford, PA. Registration is required. Contact the Delaware Highlands Conservancy at 570-2263164 or visit www.delawarehighlands.org

April 20, Grey Towers Heritage 8K Run/Walk, Registration starts at 7 a.m. and race begins at 8am. Grey Towers National Historic Site, Milford, PA. Contact Grey Towers at 570-296-9625 April 25, Water Wonders of Pike County, 6-7:30 pm, Pike County Conservation District, 556 Route 402, Hawley, PA. Contact PCCD at 570-226-8220 or visit www.pikeconservation.org May 4, Field Trip to the Basha Kill Area, 8:30 am, Join a carpool group in either Hawley or Matamoras, PA, to drive to the Basha Kill. Contact Bob from NE Audubon Society at 570/676-9969

Quote of the Day: Live always in the best company when you read! — Sydney Smith LIBRARY NEWS Acquisitions Fiction Accursed, by Joyce Carol Oates Bad Blood, by Dana Stabenow Breaking Point, by C. J. Box Damascus Countdown: A Novel, by Joel C. Rosenberg Family Pictures, by Jane Green Family Way, by Rhys Bowen Gotcha, by Fern Michaels Guilt, by John Kellerman (Large Print) Kinsey and Me, by Sue Grafton (Large Print) The Power Trip, by Jackie Collins (Large Print) Rage Against the Dying, by Becky Masterman Sound of Broken Glass, by Deborah Crombie Striker: An Isaac Belle Adventure, by Clive Cussler Sweet Tea Revenge, by Laura Childs Traps, by Mackenzie Bezos You and I, Me and You, by Mary Jane Davidson A Week in Winter, by Maeve Binchy (Large Print)

Nonfiction The Day the World Came to Town: 9/11 in Gander, Newfoundland, by Jim DeFede May 4, Evolution of the Grey Towers’ Landscape: Springtime in Cornelia’s Gardens, 11:00 a.m., Grey Towers National Historic Site, Milford, PA, Contact Grey Towers at 570/296-9625 May 5, Wildflower Walk, 9am-12pm, Pocono Environmental Education Center, 538 Emery Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA. Contact PEEC at 570/828-2319 May 11, Lake Wally Paddle, 12-2:00 pm, PPL Wallenpaupack Environmental Learning Center, Hawley, PA. Contact PPL at 570-253-7001 or pplpreserves@pplweb.com May 11, Introduction to Fishing, 10am-12pm, Pocono Environmental Education Center, 538 Emery Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA. Call PEEC at 570-828-2319 to register. $10 child / $5 adult

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 53

Hemlock Farms Library CALENDAR 117 Lookout Drive 570/775-4200, ext. 132

Hours

During inclement weather, please call to confirm if open. Monday: 10 a.m. to 12 noon Tuesday: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday: (December-April) 5-7 p.m. Thursday: (May-November) 6-8 p.m. Friday: 10 a.m. to 12 noon Saturday: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Pre-School Story Hour Tuesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

October 2-June 2013. No registration required. Call Rhoda at 570/775-9035 for information.

Book Sale at the Library The month of April Gardening; Fix-it; Crafts

50th Anniversary Celebration: Pick up information at the Library regarding monthly surprises, reading challenge and scavenger hunt and prize.

American Red Cross Blood Drives Saturday, May 4 at The Hemlock Farms Firehouse, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The American Red Cross and Patty Magie would like to extend a friendly challenge to the Hemlock Farms Community to donate blood in support of their favorite community group and/or organization. At each blood drive the group that has presented the most donors will be awarded a trophy which then will be passed on to the winning group at the next blood drive. A certi¿cate of appreciation will be presented to all groups that want to be a part of this competition. Contact Patty Magie at 570/775-9890 in order to participate! The American Red Cross appreciates the ongoing support from Hemlock Farms and we value the partnership that we have with your community!

COMMUNITY LIVING

HEMLOCK NEWS HF CA

54 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3

Hemlock Farms Women’s Club CALENDAR

General Meeting Saturday, April 27, Steer Barn Clubhouse at 10:30 a.m. Featured speaker is interior designer Janet Schmierer of JFS Designs. Light refreshments served.

Social Bridge Group Mondays 12:30 p.m., Library. Contact Evelyn at 570/775-9553 to sign up for the following week.

Scrabble Group Mondays Photos by Dee Brannigan

On Saturday, March 2 at the Mail Room, members of Hemlock Farms Brownie Troop 50758 BreAnna Brannigan, left, Alani and Rachel Sersea, Abbey Schroeder, and Marie Crugnale sell Girl Scout cookies.

Members of Brownie Troop 50758 participate in World Thinking Day at the Wallenpaupack Middle School. The Troop chose to study Australia and researched Girl Scouting in that country. They shared their information and then went from table to table to learn about Girl Scouting around the world.

Women’s Club Luncheon Friday, May 31 at Erie Trackside, Port Jervis 12:00 p.m. Cash Bar – 1:00 p.m. Luncheon Cost is $25 Member / $27 Guest

Accompaniments:

Roasted Red Bliss Potatoes Vegetable Medley Fresh Baked Rolls

Seasonal Salad

Entree Choices:

Dessert:

Roast Beef Au Jus Cranberry Herb Stuffed Breast of Chicken Flounder with Crabmeat Stuffing Eggplant Parmesan (Vegetarian)

Fresh Fruit Cup New York Cheesecake Coffee, Tea, Iced Tea (upon request at table)

Dues of $10 must be paid in order to attend luncheon. Submit separate checks for luncheon and dues. Do not staple check to form and use name as printed on check when reserving.



Women’s Club Spring Luncheon

One member of each group call Pat at 570/775-7720, beginning May 1 through the deadline of May 17. Deposit checks and this form in the Women’s Club Mail Room box. Cost is $25 Member / $27 Guest. Name _____________________________________ Tel. # _____________________________________ Guest's Name _______________________________ Amount enclosed ___________________________ Circle Entree Choice: Beef

Chicken

Fish

Eggplant

Circle Dessert Choice: Fruit Cup

NY Cheesecake

NEIGHBOR-TO-NEIGHBOR NEWS By Anne Sandbrook, Secretary

We are positive folks in Hemlock, and we welcome back our “snowbird” neighbors and remain hopeful about the trees budding, plants being put on the deck in anticipation of warmer weather, spring cleaning and a general feeling of wonderment watching nature take its course. We’re very excited to tell you about the terrific guest speakers who’ve agreed to talk at our future monthly N-2-N meetings. Mike Sibio will speak in May. We’re delighted that he’s found the time in a very busy schedule to come to our meeting. Mike will give us an update on the state of Hemlock Farms and a taste of what’s in the works for our future. Of course, questions will be plentiful, and we look forward to his answers. John Wormuth, Recreation Director, will visit us in June to discuss the youth programs planned for our youngsters. Ronnie Diaz plans to join our meeting in September to talk about the hardworking Landscape Club and their wonderfully creative landscaping designs. Bill Hamby, Public Safety Chief, very graciously accepted our invitation and will speak at our October meeting. Bill has offered to speak about an array of programs available to the Community, of which many of us are not aware. July, August and November are still open, and we welcome anyone who wishes to be a guest speaker. December, of course, has no meeting scheduled because of holiday commitments. An exciting year is planned, and we hope you’ll come and join us. Happy spring!

1-3 p.m., Conference Center. Contact Pat at 570/775-8858.

Canasta Mondays 7-10 p.m., Conference Center. Contact Joan at 570/775-6555.

Dubs Cards Wednesday, April 24, May 29 12:30-4 p.m., Conference Center, $3pp. Lessons 15 minutes prior to game, light refreshments, BYOB. RSVP: Barbara at 570/775-7669.

Lunch & Games Monday, May 6, June 3 11:30 a.m., Pike County Senior Center, $3pp at the door. Men are welcome! Contact Barbara 570/775-7669, 5 days prior to reserve.

Brooklyn Botanical Gardens Tuesday, April 23 Cost: $37 members/ $39 guests. Includes transportation and driver’s tip, bus leaves Fawn Hill at 9 a.m. Men are welcome! Admission to Gardens is $5/seniors/$10 for those under 65. Drop check in Women’s Club mail box at the Mail Room marked Botanical Gardens. Call Pat at 570/7757720 to reserve.

Spring Luncheon Friday, May, 31 Erie Trackside, Port Jervis, noon--cash bar, 1 p.m. lunch, $25 members, $27 guests. The menu selection form will be in the April Hemlock News. Deposit menu selection & check (sepate from dues check) in the Women’s Club mailbox at the Mail Room in an envelope marked Pat. Contact Pat at 570/775-7720 beginning May 1 to deadline May 17 for table seating.

HEMLOCK NEWS

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 55

PET PARLOR

Profiles by Mary Beth Connors

Members who use the Dog Run are reminded to pick up after their dogs. Dog waste bags are supplied at the Dog Run. Remember, you must supervise your dog at all times while utilizing the Dog Run.

Please Give Us a Home! Last September, outside of Kathy’s Rowe’s house, two-year-old Peanuts gave birth to a litter of three kittens. “Only two of us survived the winter,” said the small kittens. Kathie tried and tried and was finally able to get the mother and her two kittens into her house. Once that was accomplished, she brought them all to the vet to be spayed and vaccinated. “This cost Kathie a lot of money,” squeaked the kittens. The kittens told me that Kathie is unable to keep them, and they really need to find good homes. “We would like to stay together, but if this is not possible, we hope that at least one of us will be adopted,” pleaded the kittens. All three females have had all their shots, and they are litter-trained and people-friendly. “I hope someone wants us,” said the small family.

PET OF THE MONTH For Adoption

Two- year-old Peanuts watches her two kittens. “I hope we all find homes,” sniffled Peanuts

If you are interested in all or one of these cats, please call Kathie Roew at 570/775-9167.

Wanted Patrick and Susan McGuire wanted to rescue a mutt. They journeyed to the North Shore Animal League on Long Island with their 15-year-old son, Jamie, to find the perfect dog. At eight-weeks of age, Dexter had been dropped off at the shelter. “Nobody wanted me,” sighed Dexter. When Dexter saw Susan and Patrick come into the shelter, he went right up to them. “I just looked at them with determination,” said Dexter. “And they melted.”

A Little Carry-On Patrick and Susan McGuire wanted a small dog they could carry easily. “They also wanted a companion for Dexter,” explained the diminutive Bentley. When Patrick and Susan learned from a friend that there were three eight-week-old Shih Tzu puppies that needed good homes, their interest was piqued. Bentley told me that anyone who would want to adopt him had to be interviewed. “Forty people were interviewed,” he reported. After Patrick and Susan were interviewed for the second time, they were finally chosen. “Lucky for me,” smiled Bentley

Seven-month-old PJ Jr. and her sister Bella snuggle up in their cozy cat condo. “I am named after my mother, Peanuts,” said PJ Jr.

This is Dot. Shy at first, this medium sized 2 year old pretty Shepherd/Husky mix was surrendered when her owner moved and couldn’t take her along. Your patient TLC will help her understand a loving people family is a very good thing while also making her receptive to the positive training that will help her master her housebreaking and basic obedience skills. If you can devote the time and attention she needs, you will be well rewarded with a smart devoted companion and fantastic loving playmate. Come and spend some time with Dot and let her steal your heart so you’ll want to be taking her home.

Pike County Humane Society... We Care! 570/296-7654 189 Lee Road, Shohola, PA 18458 pikecountyhs.blogspot.com

Low-Cost Vaccination Clinic Bentley, a 12-year-old Shih Tzu, relaxes on his chair. “I am a mature dog,” stated Bentley. “I need my rest.”

Dexter, a 15-year-old Shorthair Snoozer is doing what he does best. “I am snoozing,” yawned Dexter. “Actually, I am a mutt!”

April 6, 2:00 to 7:00 p.m., Dingman Township Municipal Building on Fisher Lane in Milford

COMMUNITY LIVING

56 â&#x20AC;¢ A P R I L 2 0 1 3

!8.6 *?: * )..3 *5 85

HEMLOCK NEWS Happy Anniversary Hemlock Farms 1963 - 2013

;;796.? 7;*9? 76 %;*//

>>> "7,767 7<:.%.*9,1 ,75

2,3 *@@*

#<*42;? %.9=2,. >*9-

*6,? !A *9*

29* $7@5*6

&75 7976.?

*924?6 *4+76.

7. 26* .96*6-.@

.962. 2.:32

7609*;<4*;276: .6;<9? >*9- )266.9: 29* $7@5*6 *:;.9: $<+? >*9 29* $7@5*6 #<*42;? %.9=2,. >*9*6,? !A *9* 976@. >*9- /79 !<;:;*6-260 %*4.: ,12.=.5.6; &75 7976.? #<*42;? %.9=2,. >*9 .6;<9? %52;1 $.*4;? 97<8 #<*42;? %.9=2,. >*9-

$<;1 *%*4*

*:;.9: $<+? >*9-

! &! "$ !" !'%

*::>77- 92=.

)( .++).( , 1 )! -# + +)* +-0 &., -# (-+ ( -) )(( && % $, $"#- +),, -# -+ - )- &&0 ()/ - +$/ - ) % *$(" ))', 0). ( )'!)+- &0 )'') - )( )! . ,-, %<6-*? 8924

&1. %<99.? 92=. !8.6 7<:. &7<9 (2:2; &1.5 44 76 %<6-*? 8924 /975

%<99.? 92=.

). *9. 79.,47:<9. %179; %*4. %8.,2*42:;: ;;796.? 76 %;*// ;7 --9.:: $.*4 :;*;. ..-:

HEMLOCK NEWS

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 57

Living in Hemlock Farms

HFCA CODE CHAPTER 188 – RECREATION FACILITIES

HFCA CODE CHAPTER 71 – DOGS 71-3 DOG WASTE A. Any person owning or responsible for a dog shall immediately remove any excrement left by such animal on any Community property or right of way or on any private property other than property owned or leased by the person owning or responsible for the dog and dispose of the excrement in a sanitary manner. B. Any person walking a dog shall have in their possession a device or equipment for picking up and removing the dog excrement. C. Exception: Seeing Eye dogs and certified working dogs specially trained to assist disabled individuals and that the person has a disability which prevents the individual from removing the excrement or any person using a dog in emergency or rescue operations. D. The assessment for a violation of Section 71-3(A) is fifty dollars ($50.00).

HFCA CODE CHAPTER 115 GARBAGE – SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL 115-9 DISPOSAL AT HFCA FACILITIES Disposal of Solid Waste, generated at residence, is prohibited at HFCA facilities, except at the Refuse Recycling Center when Center is open.

RECYCLING CENTER INFORMATION

If a holiday falls on a Sunday, the 233 Maple Ridge Drive • 570/775-0956 Refuse Center will be open from REGULAR HOURS: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, 7 to 10 a.m. & 5 to 8 p.m. on the Monday following Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. the holiday. HOLIDAY HOURS: NO BULK TRASH DISPOSAL DURING HOLIDAYS. Memorial Day Weekend ........................Sat. & Sun.:10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Mon.: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. July 4 .....................................................10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Labor Day Weekend ..............................Sat. & Sun.: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Mon.: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday of Columbus Day Weekend ......7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thurs. & Fri. of Thanksgiving Week ......10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Christmas Day........................................Closed New Year’s Day......................................10 a.m. to 6 p.m. REFUSE/RECYCLING CENTER ACCESS RESTRICTION Garbage-Solid Waste Disposal Code—Chapter 115-2 Source of Solid Waste states: “Solid waste shall originate from HFCA properties. Disposal of solid waste generated at locations outside of HFCA property is not permitted.” Use of the Refuse/Recycling Center is limited to residents with homes in Hemlock Farms. If a resident has a visitor, worker or family member who will be assisting them with the disposal of household trash at the Recycling Center, a permit must be obtained for their vehicle from the HFCA office or the Public Safety Department. Vehicles using the Refuse/Recycling Center must desplay a current valid mirror sticker. REFUSE COLLECTION House-to-house pickup is scheduled on Mondays beginning at 5:30 a.m. by Waste Management (800/869-5566). A maximum of three tightly covered 32-gallon containers will be picked up. Bulk pickup can be arranged in advance by calling Bulk-Item Pickup (800/869-5566). These numbers also may be called to report missed trash pickup. CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS MUST BE CUT TO NO LONGER THAN 3’ IN LENGTH.

188-6 LITTERING All owners and guests are required to deposit all their litter and refuse in refuse covered containers. Residential and other household garbage shall not be placed in or around recreation facility trash receptacles or dumpsters. LET’S HELP TO KEEP OUR COMMUNITY CLEAN. Please do not litter!

APPEALS HEARING REMINDER

IF YOU WANT AN APPEALS HEARING If you wish to appeal your summons, there are certain things you should do. You are expected to provide your own defense & evidence. Bring any and all evidence to your hearing: Pictures, Witnesses, Bills, Proof of Statements If you have to cancel your requested scheduled Appeals Hearing, exclusive of valid reason, you must call 570/775-4242 at least 24 hours in advance. If you don’t, there is an additional $100 fine because the issuing staff member is waiting especially for you, costing the Community money for your requested hearing.

MANNA MANNA will continue to provide hospital equipment and rides to doctor appointments. However, MANNA will no longer be providing food. The MANNA box at the Mail Room will be used to collect food for the Blooming Grove Food Pantry. EQUIPMENT AVAILABLE: Wheelchairs • Walkers • Canes: plain, adjustable and four-pronged • Commodes • Toilet seat extenders • Shower seats • Hospital tray • Transfer board For information, call Peter Dietrich at 570/775-1647. If no answer, the back-up contact numbers are: for medical equipment – Vince Joseph 570/775-7153; for Doctor rides – Larry Snyder 570/775-0999.

SELLING YOUR CAR? HOW THE BARCODE GATE-ENTRY SYSTEM AFFECTS YOU IF YOU SELL YOUR CAR... If you sell or dispose of your vehicle, you must notify the Hemlock Farms Community Association Office (HFCA) in order to deactivate the barcode sticker. If a person enters the community with the car using the member’s old barcode sticker, the member can be fined $100 for a first offense, $200 for a second offense, and $300 for a third offense, as per HFCA Code Chapter 117 – Gate Entry Device.

COMMUNITY LIVING

58 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3

The Steer Barn

HEMLOCK NEWS

FOOD & FRIENDS By Jeannette Warms

By PETER TALMAN, Chairperson of the ad hoc Archives Preservation Committee The question is often asked by visitors, “Why is the Clubhouse referred to as the Steer Barn?” The simplest answer is, “Because the original building was a steer barn.” Going a little deeper, however, and looking back to the time when the Brewster family owned what is now Hemlock Farms, there was no scarcity of animal life, both wild and domestic. Along with the dairy farm that the family created during the 1930s and early 1940s, a large barn was erected to house bulls and their neutered siblings, called “steers.” The steers were raised specifically for slaughtering to provide beef, either for the family and guests or for outside customers of the dairy. By 1963, the Brewsters had sold all of the property to Western Heritage Limited, a company well known for its careful planning and preservation of the natural environment. Most of the buildings were left intact and therefore provided a good foundation for what became Hemlock Farms. The steer barn was among the structures saved. In the earliest years of Hemlock Farms’ existence, this became the clubhouse for the Community’s residents. Among those early residents were Roland and Carolyn La Spisa, who remember going to the Steer Barn for church services prior to the building of St. John Neumann Church on Route 739. The Hemlock Farms 50th Anniversary Journal state that “a dream come true” occurred in 1992 when the Community witnessed the opening of the improved Steer Barn and Clubhouse. The facility now included an indoor pool and fitness center, in addition to a café area and other meeting rooms. “The Steer Barn”— one would be hard pressed to find another community, either public or private, with a facility having such a unique name. That’s another reason to look at Hemlock Farms as: “Near enough, far enough, the perfect place to be!”

Next month: Hemlock Dairy

The 6th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day Saturday, April 27, 2013 • 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Pike County Sheriff’s Office 500 Broad Street Milford Pa, 18337

Pennsylvania State Police Department Psp- Troop R, Blooming Grove 434 Route 402 Hawley Pa, 18428

Wayne County District Attorney’s Drug Task Force Stephen’s Pharmacy- Hawley 24 Main Avenue (Inside Iga Market) Hawley Pa, 18428

At our March meeting we had an International theme. We enjoyed everything from egg rolls to Irish soda bread. We had an excellent turnout of ladies who like to cook and share their recipes with friends and neighbors. Our meetings are on the first Monday of the month at 6pm at the Orchard House and we invite you to join us for some "Food & Friends"

Irish Soda Bread: 3 1/2 cups sifted flour 1 c granulated sugar 1 tsp salt 1 tbs baking powder (use fresh baking powder) 1 tsp baking soda 1 1/2 c seedless raisins 1 tbs caraway seeds 1 1/2 c buttermilk 2 tbs melted butter Preheat oven to 375 and grease an 8 1/2" round cake pan. Into mixing bowl sift flour, sugar, salt, baking powder and baking soda. Add the raisins and caraway seeds, and mix to coat raisins. Meanwhile, mix eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter in small mixing bowl (all at room temp). Pour into the dry ingredients mixing until moistened. Turn batter into pan and bake for 15 min at 375 then lower temp to 350 for an additional 45 mins. Makes one loaf.

Roasted Cauliflower 1 head of cauliflower juice of ½ lemon olive oil 2-3 cloves garlic, peeled & minced coarse salt freshly ground pepper Parmesan cheese (optional) Preheat oven to 400º F. Cut cauliflower into florets and put in a single layer in an ovenproof baking dish. Toss in the garlic. Sprinkle lemon juice over the cauliflower and drizzle olive oil over all. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place in oven, uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes, or until top is lightly brown. Test with a fork—it should easily pierce the cauliflower. Remove from the oven and sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

COMMUNITY LIVING

HEMLOCK NEWS

HF CA

THRU THE LENS

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 59

By Hal Rosenblum, Photographer

Lights Out! Lights out? Hopefully, after reading this, you will not have to put your camera away when the light gets dim. The one source of light that everyone has available, no matter what kind of pointand-shoot camera, is the built-in flash. Some Single Lens Reflexes (SLRs) also have a built-in flash, and others have a socalled hot shoe to which an external flash is attached. No matter what, the flash can be automated to achieve correct exposure. You may have to change your camera setting to “auto/flash” or “flash,” depending on your camera. Keep in mind that built-in flashes are small and will not reach beyond 8, 10 or 12 feet, depending on the available light. To the owners of SLRs, the same holds true, but if you have a hot shoe on top of the body, do yourself a big favor and buy an external flash unit. I recommend purchasing the same brand as your camera as this assures dedication of camera-flash to achieve correct exposure. No matter what flash unit you are using, the resultant photo most likely will appear as if it were taken by flash. Most times this is fine, but the idea of the perfect picture is one that does not look like a flash was used. Light modifiers are available to correct just that. If your camera has a pop-up flash on top of the body, you may want to search Lumiquest’s Soft Screen and Vello’s Universal Pop-up Diffuser, for example. For Nikon SLR users, there is a new prod-

uct, “Easy Bounce,” that sells for about $30. The users of external flash units can consider products from Lumiquest, Gary Fong (Lightsphere) and Stofen’s Omni Bounce, which are available in sizes to fit a particular flash unit. No flash allowed, but you still need the photo? Check your menu to see if your camera is set to “iso-auto.” If it is, then your camera iso speed will be increased automatically and allow more light to fall on the memory disk. However, you may choose to manually raise the iso within the menu for a particular situation. If you make any manual change of settings, remember to go back to the menu after your project is done and reset. Sometimes, it’s just too dark, and holding the camera steady for a longer time period to expose the scene will not work. The answer is a tripod. Most cameras have a tripod attachment hole on the bottom of the camera body. Tripods come in all sizes and at varying prices. Remember that your camera is going to sit on top of the pod, so a flimsy tripod is not a good idea given the cost of your camera. A slightly better constructed tripod will be but a few dollars extra. With your camera on top of the tripod, you can then take long exposures— car traffic trails, candle-lit scenes, moonlit scenes, etc. The lens aperture (opening) can be set smaller to allow a greater depth of field.

Art Show at The Gallery at Chant Realtors motivated to design and create one-of-akind works with a focus on strong values and light. Her April show is a colorful welcome to spring. For more information, call 570/775-7337.

Something Nearby…

CA HF

An art exhibit entitled “Motivated by Watercolor,” featuring the work of award winning artist Linda Kreckel, can be viewed from April 1 to April 29, 2013, at The Gallery at Chant Realtors LV, 632 Rte. 739, Lords Valley, PA. The gallery is open seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. An attraction to watercolor inspires Kreckel to paint rural landscape, scenes from her travels and flowers from her garden. The artist, challenged by the medium, is

Davis R. Chant Gallery

631 Route 739, Lords Valley Open 7 days, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Watercolor Landscape Painting By Linda .UHFNHO April 1 - 28

Mixed Media, Paint & Photo By Joan Sayer May 1 - 29 • Reception: Saturday, May 4

Whimsical Paintings By Doug Gilbert June 1 - 28 • Reception: Saturday, June 1

Pocono Environmental Education Center Call PEEC at 570-828-2319 to register for programs

538 Emery Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328 • 570-828-2319 • peec@peec.org Spring Waterfalls Saturday, April 6 – 1:00-3:00pm Sunday, April 28 -- 1:00-3:00pm $20 The melting snow and spring rains have raised the water level. Join us as we travel to some truly magni¿cent waterfalls. Dress in warm layers, wear sturdy footwear, and bring a camera! Call within a week of the program to reserve a seat in the van.

Earth Day Celebration Saturday, April 20 – 10:00am-4:00pm $5 per car Help us celebrate the Earth! There will be hands-on learning stations, interpretive hikes, conservation exhibits, animals, crafts, food, music, and much more! Pre-registration is NOT required.

Volunteer Day – Spring Cleaning Sunday, April 7 – 9:00am-12:00pm “A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions” – Lawrence G. Lovasik Help us clean up after winter and prepare for the spring. Hope to see you there! Refreshments provided. Please call to register.

Sunday for Singles – Off Campus Nature Hike Sunday, April 21 – 1:00-3:00pm $5 This monthly hike is all about meeting new people and exploring nature together. This off-campus hike will visit a local trail. Transportation is provided - please call to reserve a seat in the van.

EcoZone! Afternoon Sunday, April 7 – 1:00-4:00pm Free Explore our new hands-on, discovery room. Crawl through the bat cave; sit in the eagles’ nest, and more!

EcoZone! Afternoon Sunday, April 21 – 1:00-4:00pm Free Explore our new hands-on, discovery room. Crawl through the bat cave; sit in the eagles’ nest, and more!

Salamanders, frogs and more! Saturday, April 13 – 1:00-3:00pm Sunday, April 28 – 1:00-3:00pm $5 Amphibians are stirring in the woods! Join us as we explore nearby breeding pools for salamanders, frogs, and egg masses. We’ll provide nets and collection jars for gentle, up-close study. Wear boots and clothes that can get a little muddy or wet. Please call to register.

Drum Making Workshop April 27-28 $250 / $200 commuter rate Master drummer, Maxwell Ko¿ Donkor, will lead you through the steps of making your own drum, from selecting the materials to heading the shells. Create your own drum and bring it to a Moonlit Drumming program in the summer! Please call to register.

EcoZone! Afternoon Saturday, April 13 – 1:00-4:00pm $5/person Explore our new hands-on, discovery room. Crawl through the bat cave; sit in the eagles’ nest, and more! Spring Peeper Search Saturday, April 13 – 8:00-9:00pm $5 These tiny tree frogs have thawed out and are active again in our forested wetlands. Listen to the impressive choir made by these vocal amphibians as we carefully catch, study, and release them. Bring a Àashlight for better searching! Please call to register. Park History Tour Sunday, April 14 – 9:00am-3:00pm $10 members / $20 non-members Explore the Park to ¿nd the many scenic and historic sites within our beloved recreation area. Bring a water bottle, lunch, and a camera for great photo opportunities. Call to reserve a seat in the van. Carpooling encouraged.

SPORTSMAN SERIES: 1 of 3: Introduction to Fly Fishing Sunday, April 28 – 10:00am-12:00pm $20 ($50 for all 3 sessions) Learn the basics of Ày ¿shing. Practice knot tying and casting. Join Tom Battista from the Broadhead Chapter of Trout Unlimited for a fun afternoon and learn some new skills. Please call to register. Summer Day Camp June 24 – August 16, 2013 9:00am-4:00pm Children, ages 3-15, can enjoy weeks of exploration & discovery at PEEC’s Summer Day Camp! Each week is focused on a theme, such as Bugs & ButterÀies, Magni¿cent Mammals, Outdoor Living Skills, & Backpack Explorer. For more information, please call 570-828-2319 or checkwww.peec.org

COMMUNITY LIVING

60 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3

HEMLOCK NEWS

BULLETIN BOARD Weisel Home Remodeling & Custom Woodworking Custom/Stock Kitchens • Design • Corian • Granite Laminate Countertops • New Cabinetry Designed & Built Existing Cabinetry Updated • Off-Season Home Watch 2364 Hemlock Farms, Lords Valley, PA 18428

weiselhr@ptd.net

570-257-0271

PA 084220

STRAPEC

PAINTING

Member: National Society of Professional Engineers and National Association of Certi¿ed Home Inspectors Licensed in Connecticut, New York and Pennsylvania

Landscaping • Lawn Care Tree Work • Pressure Washing

NY & CT: 212-987-0984 • PA: 570-775-4217

We Install Heat Pumps SAVE 50% ON HEAT

GROUND MAINTENANCE General cleanup, Lawn care, Gravel driveways

SNOWPLOWING • SEPTIC TANK INSPECTION Pierce 570/775-7479 PA55213 PJ 570/775-9475

HANDYMAN AL

• 25 YRS. EXPERIENCE • QUICK RESPONSE • RELIABLE • QUALITY CRAFTMANSHIP

25 Years Experience

PA083153 FULLY INSURED FREE ESTIMATES

PA012533

Al Savincki • 570-775-0781

Free Estimates

ELECTRIC OPENERS

Installation Q Replacement Maintenance Q Sales Q Service Compare our Free Estimates Tom Scheuermann ~ 570-775-6157

COMPUTER PROBLEMS SOLVED • PC Service & Repair • Hardware/Software Installation • Hardware/Software Upgrades • Wired & Wireless Networking • Virus/Malware Removal • Pre-purchase Consulting

E.P.J. TILE

KITCHENS, BATHS and MORE

570-878-3393

NJ Lic # 12940

GARAGE DOORS

Exceptional Home Improvements & Repairs Specializing in Small Jobs: Electrical • Plumbing • Carpentry

Bonded & Insured

RAYMOND SZMYD, President 570-685-5807 • 570-685-5577 Fax

ComPro

Dan Marcus

• Roofing Specialists • Flashing/Leak Repairs • Deck Replacement • House Painting/Staining • Crawl Space Repairs • Power Washing PA039130

M.C. TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

• New designs • Renovate existing landscape • Stonework • Brick Pavers • Walkways • Patios • Tree Removal • Tree Planting

Shabby Chic furniture Refinishing/Refurbishing Custom Window Treatments Custom Upholstery Fabric by the Yard

Residential & Commerical

HOUSE GUARD

570-775-9250

JFS DESIGNS

Lightning Quick Electric Service, Inc.

Weekly inpsections of your house & property

ROMA ROOFING

20 Years Working in Hemlock FREE ESTIMATES 570-685-4858

570-877-9179

Joelschachter1@aol.com

Painting, Staining, Power Washing

A Three-Generation Family Business Ask for Ty

Home Maintenance

Joel W. Schachter, PE

HOME CARE INTERIOR / EXTERIOR

570 775 9628

TM MOREY

Precise Home Inspections, LLC

LORDS VALLEY HOME & GROUNDS MAINTENANCE

• Interior & Exterior Painting • Power Washing • Free Estimates • Paper Hanging • Fully Insured Full-Time Resident Serving Hemlock Farms • Since 1987 PA037647 • www.strapecpainting.com

570-775-6989

Janet F. Schmierer

732-788-9414

Interior Designer/Artist jfsinteriors@yahoo.com

FATHER & SON

WINDOW CLEANING SERVICE For Brighter Living, Call... (Father) 570-828-9521 Hank (Son) 570-828-8309 Paul RR 1, Box 918, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328

COMMUNITY LIVING

HEMLOCK NEWS

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 61

The Writers’ Gazette S P O N S O R E D B Y T H E H E M L O C K FA R M S W R I T E R S ’ G R O U P

The Pink Box By JOAN POLISHOOK

March 20, the dawn of a new season. A time of growth, beauty and joy. Who, other than those who suffer from seasonal allergies, doesn’t like spring? Imagine opening your windows and taking a deep breath. Is there anything better than the scent of spring? Is there anything better than the warmth of sun on your face or those little dust motes that float in sunbeams? No, there isn’t. Every year, spring gives me a renewed sense of purpose. Although I’m not a gardener, spring urges me to plant. Herbs, simple flowers, doesn’t matter. It’s just nice to see things

take hold and grow. I eagerly watch those trees that sprout leaves. Little baby buds that will grow and mature. Then, there are the birds. The soft cooing of wood doves, the flocks of little starlings and the ever-famous robin red breast. Why wouldn’t you just love the sights and sounds of these beautiful creatures? Hope springs eternal in new life of any sort. Well, it’s time to get out there and enjoy the first days of glorious spring. But wait, first I have to find my gloves and boots.

The Red-Headed Stepchild By LORRAINE DAVIS Browsing the web one afternoon, I came upon a journal of poetry called The Red Headed Stepchild— a place for poems rejected by the more upscale publications. Loving the title, taken by its spirit of generosity,

I thought back to my own flops and fizzles. Like the love poem that sounded like a sappy Hallmark card or the one reflecting on a sad and sorry time one that should have remained filed in a dark and web-filled corner in my bank of memories.

Then there are those pieces that start out as a well-planned road trip but somewhere took a wrong turn ending up at a dead end, or worse wrapped around a tree.

the pink box!” Sometimes the box, which had been saved after the chocolates that were originally in it had been consumed, was packed full. At other times, it was close to empty, a sign that its contents were being well used. My little fingers would occasionally reach beneath the pretty, flower-printed cover of the box in search of coins for the movies on a Saturday afternoon if Mother wasn’t around to give me change from her purse. Finding 25 cents, I was off to the neighborhood theater with my friends for a double feature and the weekly serial, courtesy of “the pink box,” third drawer from the top of the highboy.

By MARIANNA KNOWLES

In the spring, I have counted 136 different kinds of weather inside of 24 hours.

Spring

It was in the third drawer from the top of the highboy, that small pink box. A highboy is another name for a bureau or a tall dresser, like the oak one with its carved drawer fronts and brass pulls that was in my childhood home. I had to stand on tiptoes to reach the third drawer from the top, where neatly folded shirts, shorts and handkerchiefs belonging to my dad were kept. Right in the center, between articles of clothing, was the pink box. Its hinged rectangular top opened from front to back with a tiny pink ribbon tab. Inside were many things—collar stays, cuff links, a key-chain or two, a few tie pins and some coins, quarters, nickels and dimes—a lot of dimes because they were saved for the washing machines in our building’s laundry. The pink box was a kind of “Lost and Found.” If anyone in the family was looking for some little thing, Mother would often say, “Look in the pink box!” Or, if she wanted to save some small trinket, she’d announce, “I’m putting this into

DO YOU WRITE…

Poetry, Prose, Fiction, Memoir???

GREAT!

SHARE THE EXPERIENCE at THE WRITERS’ GROUP 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at The Orchard House BEGINNERS WELCOME! Next WRITERS’ GAZETTE deadline for entries:

Here’s a journal that says “your imperfections have found a home” in The Red Headed Stepchild.

Wednesday, $SULO

Poetry & short story submissions considered for publication Contact Marianna Knowles at 570/257-0032.

COMMUNITY LIVING

62 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3

NOTICES

Hemlock Farms Public Safety

PUBLIC SAFETY ACTIVITY SUMMARY FOR MARCH 2013 Present Month Burglary Theft Driving While Impaired Assault Response to Fire Calls Criminal Mischief Weapons Offenses Incidents at Gates Harassment Drug Abuse Violations Domestic Disputes Offenses Against Family & Children Liquor Law Violations Public Drunkenness Disorderly Conduct Trespass Response to Alarms Missing Persons / Run Away Auto Accidents Animal Incidents Misc. Calls for Service (Patrol) Medical Responses Investigation of Persons Investigation of Objects Investigation of Properties Investigation of Other Jurisdictions All Other Incidents Detex Checks Check Association Facilities House Checks Citations Written Warnings Speeding Citations Speeding Warnings Commercial/Construction Citations Commercial/Construction Warnings Commonwealth Citations Incidents with Involvement of PSP Assist Fire & Ambulance Assist Motorist Traffic Stops Misc. Calls Received by Dispatcher Visitor Entry Calls Total Gate Passes Issued

Vehicle Report:

Total miles driven: Total miles driven:

Same Month Prev. Year

YTD

HEMLOCK NEWS

In case of a Fire or Medical Emergency: Call 911. For all other emergencies, please call Public Safety at 570/775-4242. Visitor Entry: 570/775-4283 (775-GATE) Lost & Found located at Public Safety.

YTD Prev. Year

What’s Your Hurry? Speed limit in Hemlock Farms ranges from 15 to 35 miles-per-hour. Hemlock Farms Road is the ONLY road in the Community that has a speed limit of 35 miles-per-hour. It is prohibited to exceed the posted speed limit.

351

305

954

814

REGULAR HOURS:

Monday through Friday, 7 to 10 a.m. & 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. HOLIDAY HOURS: No bulk trash disposal during holidays. Memorial Day Weekend ............ Sat. & Sun.:10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Mon.: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. July 4 ................................................................................................. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Labor Day Weekend ................. Sat. & Sun.: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Mon.: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday of Columbus Day Weekend ................................................... 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday & Friday of Thanksgiving Week ......................................... 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Christmas Day ................................................................................................... Closed New Year’s Day ................................................................................. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

1,824

1,364

5,738

3,482

8,212

8,695

24,580

24,372

106

160

351

472

186

109

476

359 206

171

144

213

194

120

103

281

322

2,735

2,497

8,008

7,326

6,115

5,723

16,921

16,531

6,350

6,097

17,793

17,585

PS 1 - Traveled: 2,955 PS 2 - Traveled: 1,095 PS 3 - Traveled: 2,937

PS 4 - Traveled: 4,385 PS 5 - Traveled: 1,658 PS 6 - Traveled: 1,994

March, 2013: 15,024 YTD: 45,520

March, 2012: 17,504 Previous YTD: 48,902



See Something? Say Something!

Call Public Safety at 570/775-4242.

CLICK IT or TICKET

Buckle Up – It’s the Law

A Law You Can LIVE With

When riding in a vehicle, remember to use the seat belts.

Are your visitors spending too much time at the gates? Save them time by pre-authorizing them at Public Safety before they arrive or register online at hfca.com. Stop by Public Safety with the name and vehicle information of your visitor and Public Safety will give you a pass valid for the date your visitor is arriving. You can then mail it to your visitor.

Recycling Center Information 233 Maple Ridge Drive

Maple Ridge Refuse Center • 570/775-0956

REFUSE/RECYCLING CENTER ACCESS RESTRICTION

Garbage-Solid Waste Disposal Code—Chapter 115-2 Source of Solid Waste states: “Solid waste shall originate from HFCA properties. Disposal of solid waste generated at locations outside of HFCA property is not permitted.” Use of the Refuse/Recycling Center is limited to residents with homes in Hemlock Farms. If a resident has a visitor, worker or family member who will be assisting them with the disposal of household trash at the Recycling Center, a permit must be obtained for their vehicle from the HFCA office or the Public Safety Department. Vehicles using the Refuse/Recycling Center must desplay a current valid mirror sticker.

REFUSE COLLECTION

House-to-house pickup is scheduled on Mondays beginning at 5:30 a.m. by Waste Management (800/869-5566). A maximum of three tightly covered 32-gallon containers will be picked up. Bulk pickup can be arranged in advance by calling Bulk-Item Pickup (800/869-5566). These numbers also may be called to report missed trash pickup.

COMPOSTING

A space across from the Public Works Facility is set-aside as a compost pile to recycle ONLY leaves from your yard. You may deposit your leaves on the compost pile, and take buckets of composted material (soil) for use in your gardening and landscaping projects. Removing truckloads of soil by contractors is not allowed.

CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS MUST BE CUT TO NO LONGER THAN 3’ IN LENGTH.

If a holiday falls on a Sunday, the Refuse Center will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on the Monday following the holiday.

COMMUNITY LIVING

HEMLOCK NEWS

CLASSIFIEDS

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 • 63

30+ years Experience PAHIC#083296 Insured

Plumbing & Heating

LOT FOR SALE - .37 acre on Forest Drive - $12,000. Please call Paulina for more information. 917/846-7932.

THIRD GENERATION Fully Insured • Residential • Commercial

570-241-1270 Joe Ferrara

ÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊ Ê LÊÌ ÊÃ > tÊ ÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊ7iÊÃ ÜÊÕ«tÊ7 days a week! All Type Quality Expertise Plumbing Immediate Response À i ` ÞÊ-iÀÛ ViÊUÊ,i >L iÊEÊ,iÃ« Ã L i v À`]Ê* ÊUÊ,iÃ `i Ì > ÊEÊ iÀV >

xÇä°{ä °{ÓnäÊUÊ i ÊÓä£°Çnn°xÓÓ£ HF

HOUSE FOR RENT - Four-bedroom ranch, 2 full baths. $1,800 furnished, $1,600 unfurnished. Call owner at 561/998-4700.

7 ` > `Ã

HOUSE FOR SALE – 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, fireplace, screened-in porch, rear wrap-around deck with view of lake. Sauna, excellent location, and other unique features. Must see to appreciate. Asking $129,000. Call evenings after 6:00 p.m. for appointment – 516/8251868.

See Something? Say Something! Call Public Safety 570/775-4242

joefec@ptd.net Standby Generators Air Ventilation and Humidity Control Ductless Air-conditioning Custom Audio and Video Installations Plasma/LCD TV Installation Specialty Lighting Applications FULL-SERVICE ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR

HEAT PUMP & GAS HEATING SPECIALIST FUJITSU FACTORY TRAINED

NICK JAHN

Repairs Installations Tune-Ups

570-828-2221 jahnn5@yahoo.com Insured • PA7141

REBATES AVAILABLE

Authorized Dealer

CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING

Rob LeMay 845-551-6754 10 years of quality home improvements in Hemlock Farms. Major renovations to custom-finish carpentry.

Free Estimates Insured PA reg. # PA005181 NJ reg. # 13VH02753300

Bill & Wayne Enterprises, Inc.

Exterior Waterproo¿ng Perimeter & French Drainage Septic System & Septic Tank Repairs Excavating, Stump Removal, Yards Driveways, Waterlines, Stone & Fill Hauling & Piers

Phone 570-226-9558 Cell 570-493-1304

Jeff Hiller • PA#006191 143 Hiller Lane, Greeley, PA 18425 www.bwentinc.com • info@bwentinc.com

onstr uc C s ’ tio r. D n

PA011719

BE SELECTIVE... CALL SELECTIVE

PA002949

SELECTIVE PLUMBING

• INSURED • HEMLOCK FARMS RESIDENT • FRANK PIRANIO • 570-775-4084 • PLUMBING REPAIRS

Dishwashers & Faucets Installed • Electric Water Heaters Repaired or Replaced Toilets Repaired or Replaced • Small Plumbing Jobs • Winterizing • All Work Guaranteed

ARE YOU A

GRANT WRITER

WITH GOVERNMENT EXPERTISE? Hemlock Farms Community Association and the ad hoc Project Funding Committee is looking for one volunteer with experience in writing federal, state, and local grant applications with specific expertise in water company and stormwater management projects. The purpose is to prioritize, then recommend to the Board when, how and if, these and other currently identified community projects could be funded, while adhering to the boundaries of HFCA governing documents. If you are qualified and interested, or know somebody you think could be, please contact Marie Rode at 570-775-4200, ext. 123, or send a résumé to Marie.Rode@hfca.com.

“WE DO

IT ALL”

New Homes • Additions • Screened Porches • Roofs • Decks Kitchens • Bathrooms • Garages • Electrical • Plumbing

One Call Does It All

570-226-6362

Of¿ce Location: Route 402, Blooming Grove

“Our 20 Years of Experience and Pride Means a Quality Job”

INTERSTATE GENERAL CONTRACTING 570-685-1231

RooÀng • Siding • Decks

PA005919

• Kitchens • Bathrooms • Finished Basements • Painting • Pressure Washing • Sheet Rocking • Additions • Garages • Sheds

SATISFYING CUSTOMERS FOR MORE THAN 25 YEARS

24-HOUR EMERGENCY ROOF REPAIR We are a family owned and operated business. We give prompt, reliable and quality service.

64 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3

COMMUNITY LIVING

HEMLOCK NEWS

Model Seder Photos by Kathie Waibel

Rabbi Nathan and Director of the Religious School Rhoda Barr lead the Model Seder at the Arlyne B. Berkman Education Center. “It is wonderful to see the enthusiastic participation and support of the parents for the children,” commented Rhoda.

Gefilte Fish, hard-boiled egg, carrots, and celery comprise lunch for the participants. These are traditional foods eaten at holiday time.

Ian Murch lights the holiday candles at the beginning of the Seder.

Rabbi Nathan holds the Seder plate and explains the symbolic meaning of each of the foods on the plate. Casey Rothman pours “wine” (grape juice). It is customary to drink four cups of wine during the Seder.

The sader plate holds traditional foods, each with a symbolic meaning and prayers.

Lucas Kitt reads from a book called the Haggadah. Haggadah means “the telling” in Hebrew, and it contains instructions for the Seder, blessings and the Passover story. Toby Shedd asks one of the Four Questions prior to the retelling of the story of Exodus.

Ryan Hirshman receives an award for completing every homework assignment. His award was presented before the Model Seder begins.