Hemlock News January 2016

O f f i c i a l P u b l i c a t i o n o f t h e H E M L O C K F A R M S C O M M U N I T Y • w w w . h e m l o c k f a r m s . o r g

HemlockNewsClose Enough Far Enough

The Perfect Place To Be

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

Association News: 2016 Budget is Adopted

7

Conservancy News: The Year in Review

30-31

January 2016, Volume XLII, Number 1

Community Living: 2016 Community Calendar

50

Happy New Year!

2 • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 H E M L O C K N E W SASSOCIATION NEWS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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.

EDITOR: Connie KernNEWS STAFF: Mary Beth Connors, Kathie WaibelPRODUCTION: MKmediaCOPY EDITOR: Mary Huber

ADS AND NEWS DEADLINE for next issue: Wednesday, January 20, 2016.LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ARE DUE by 4:00 p.m. on Monday, January 25, 2016.ANY NEWS, ADS, OR AD COPY CHANGES 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.CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS—accepted from HFCA members in good standing—are $15 for the first 15 words, and 20 cents for each additional word; 50 words maximum. There is no charge for garage sales, help wanted, voluntary personal services, charitable events, and lost-and-found.FOR ADS, contact the HFCA Office at 570/775-4200, ext. 121 or 138.THE HFCA DOES NOT 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.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Robert Wolff, President

Anne Marie Zenie, Vice PresidentMichael Spitzer, Treasurer

Pete Ferris, Assistant TreasurerLyn Attreed, Secretary

Phil BleckerJeffrey Ferretti

Karen Wilshinsky GriffithsRobert Treptow

FROM THE EDITOR

Official Publication of the HEMLOCK FARMS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION • www.hemlockfarms.orgO f f i c i a l P u b l i c a t i o n o f t h e H E M L O C K F A R M S C O M M U N I T Y • w w w . h e m l o c k f a r m s . o r g

HemlockNewsClose Enough Far Enough

The Perfect Place To Be

On the CoverPhoto by Tom Roew

A happy group of 50+ Club members at their holiday party at Lords Valley County Club. For more 50+ Club news, see page 70.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Close Enough Far Enough The Perfect Place To Be

CLOSE ENOUGH FAR ENOUGH THE PERFECT PLACE TO BE



Lyn Attreed, Secretary3634 Hemlock Farms

Lords Valley, PA 18428570/775-7248

[email protected] Blecker

3053 Hemlock FarmsLords Valley, PA 18428

570/775-6251 [email protected]

Jeffrey Ferretti1068 Hemlock Farms

Lords Valley, PA 18428570-775-1996

[email protected] Ferris,

Assistant Treasurer2080 Hemlock Farms

Lords Valley, PA 18428570/775-8884

[email protected] Wilshinsky Griffiths


570/[email protected]

Michael Spitzer, Treasurer 269 Monahan Avenue

Staten Island, NY 10314570/775-9081718/494-2466

[email protected] Treptow


570/[email protected]

Robert Wolff, President3227 Hemlock Farms

Lords Valley, PA 18428570/775-4200

[email protected] Marie Zenie,

Vice President1794 Hemlock Farms

Lords Valley, PA 18428570/257-0007

[email protected]

Association News ............................................ 2-28From the Editor .............................................................2Manager’s Report ..........................................................3Letters ...........................................................................9Employees of the Year ................................................ 11Board Focus ................................................................12Employees of the Month .............................................13Commonwealth Health News .....................................15News Briefs .................................................................19Board Action in Brief .................................................20From the Chief ............................................................23Committee Meeting Minutes ......................................24Website Watch.............................................................27Agenda ........................................................................28

Hemlock Farms Conservancy News .. 29-31Nature Events ..............................................................31

Environment News ........................................ 32-35Sediment-Removal Project Update on McConnell Lake and Willow Pond ....................33

Cultural Arts News ........................................ 36-38Cultural Arts Report ...................................................36

Recreation News ............................................ 39-44Recreation Report .......................................................39Recreation and Cultural Arts Activities .....................40Food and Friends.........................................................42

Community Living .......................................... 45-72Writers’ Gazette ..........................................................45Women’s Club News ...................................................47Sisterhood News .........................................................48Porter Township News ................................................49Pet Parlor .....................................................................51Knights of Columbus News ........................................53Library News ..............................................................55Jewish Fellowship News .............................................56Food Finds...................................................................59Fire Company News ...................................................60Columbia Italian-American Club News .....................62Computer Therapist ....................................................63Blooming Grove Township News ...............................63Arts Up! ......................................................................64Church Chatter ............................................................67Archives News ............................................................68A Journey Into The Woods .........................................6950+ Club News ...........................................................70Classifieds ...................................................................71

Thank you to the Official Publication and Public Information Committee members Deborah Bar-mann, Vicki Lawless, David and Phyllis Malinov, Antoinette and Gino Silvestri, Georgene Snyder (via telephone), and Michael Spitzer, who assisted Hemlock News staff Mary Beth Connors and Kathie Waibel in reviewing these pages for pub-lication.

Again, there’s something for everyone in this issue! In all my years of bringing Hemlock News to life, I don’t recall there ever being so many photos in one issue! This coming year is loaded with events; see the community calendar on page 50 to save these dates.

Keep warm during the upcoming cold months!Please send your ideas, comments, and sugges-

tions to [email protected]. —Connie Kern

H E M L O C K N E W S J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 • 3ASSOCIATION NEWS

MANAGER’S REPORTBy Mike Sibio

Continued on page 5

Photo by Kathie Waibel

There seems to be some confusion about the timing for the startup and final com-

pletion of the Well # 4 Filtration Project that I would like to clear up. The project is moving forward with an expected testing and startup date in mid-January and, once approvals from PA DEP are secured, the filtra-tion unit will be placed on line. I can’t be sure exactly when it will finally go on line, but we are not far off our late-fall timeline that was published before the proj-ect was started late last year. I had hoped we would be done sooner, but the timing of a project of this size and magnitude is difficult to predict. One thing I can say is that it will be up and running long before the proj-ect is finalized in the spring of 2016. I realize there has been some confusion about various dates that have been discussed in conversations recently and that is because things like final exterior grading, paving, and landscap-ing work can’t be done until weather conditions allow in the spring. At this time, the vast majority of work on the interior and the equipment is complete and, as soon as our contractor can schedule the manufacturer’s rep-resentative to oversee startup, that process will begin. Doug Berg and I continue to pressure the contractor to complete final piping work to allow the startup process to begin. We will keep you up to date on this project as the milestones are met. I’m sure that, in the end, our members will appreciate the final results.

We also continued to move forward with the formation of a Stormwater Municipal Authority, and we expect a final report from our consultant, HRG, Inc., in the weeks ahead. All preliminary indications are that it is financially feasible to seek the formation of the Storm-water Municipal Authority in one form or another. Our ad hoc committee has been meeting with the consul-tants to address our options that will be refined and pre-pared as recommendations to the Board in January. I will continue to keep our elected officials informed of our progress and intentions as decisions are made in the future.

Since it has been only a few short weeks since my last report, I do not have much additional information to present, but the information below represents the day-to-day work that has been accomplished in each depart-ment.

ACCOUNTING DEPARTMENTBudget Process – The 2016 Budget was under review

and all departments and standing committees met with the Finance Committee to review detailed budget lines. The 2016 Budget was adopted on December 12.

Dues Collection Efforts –This year, staff made extra efforts to serve members who have not paid their dues. A total of 127 civil claims were prepared on $448,887.79 of unpaid dues, fees, and assessments. HFCA has obtained 27 judgments thus far totaling $105,028, and 22 liens were filed totaling $76,153 thus far. In addition,

we also filed and obtained service on 19 members resid-ing out of state. A member can contact the accounting department to enter into a Special Payment Plan and begin to pay down past-due debts. As of November 30, we collected 95.44% of dues compared to 94.13% in the prior year. Members’ barcodes were deactivated in early December on accounts with unpaid dues and past-due citations. Dues Installment Applications for 2016 are available at the Administration Office and can also be found on the website.

Capital Improvement Fee (CIF) Income Update – Through November 30, 157 properties were trans-ferred; this resulted in $301,323 of CIF income, com-pared to 134 properties and $255,920 in CIF income in the prior year.

HEMLOCK FARMS CONSERVANCYDonations – Donation responses to our October

appeal are still being received. Your generosity is greatly appreciated. Your donations will help us con-tinue to bring educational programs to Hemlock Farms and make environmental differences to our community and the surrounding area.

was a complete announcement in the November issue of Hemlock News. Also, you may email us at conservancy @hfca.com.

Educational Signage – The Educational signage for Conservancy properties is being designed and will soon be ready for review by the Planning, Land Use, and Architecture Committee.

Living With Bears – The new edition of Living with Bears has arrived! This larger version of the book will cost $24. A portion of the purchase price is a tax-deductible donation.

COMMUNITY CONSERVATIONBudget and Firewise – The Pennsylvania Depart-

ment of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) opened the Firewise grant to applicants, and an appli-cation was submitted for HFCA. The reimbursement amount, if fully funded by DCNR, would be $20,000 for 2016. An equal amount of match will be required. The Firewise sign at the 739 gate was reinstalled. The “Bronze” sign from DCNR that was along Forest Drive at the intersection with Lakeview Terrace was removed because HFCA achieved “Silver” status. DCNR Bureau of Forestry has volunteered to make a new “Silver” sign for Hemlock Farms because we are the only community in Pennsylvania to achieve this award.

Lake Management – The Sediment Removal Proj-ect for McConnell Lake and Willow Pond will begin in the spring when weather and lake conditions are oper-able. The contract was signed by all parties. Engineer-ing drawings were received, are being reviewed, and are available for viewing and input by the committee. Insurance certificates have been executed. Erosion and Sediment Control Plans and federal authorization are being reviewed by government agencies. The Willow Pond dam repair was delayed until December. Wish for a Fish Pond was stocked by Musky Trout Hatcheries with 1,000 fathead minnows and 81 five-to-seven inch bluegills.

Forest Management – Nine tree inspections and one tree-replacement reinspection were performed by HFCA Certified Arborist and Registered Forester Marian Keegan. The Tree Replacement Plan reinspec-tion will require a new Tree Replacement Plan that is being discussed with the homeowner. One resubmit-ted Tree Replacement Plan was approved. The fine for a tree-cutting violation was waived, and a letter was issued notifying the homeowner that they must submit a Tree Replacement Plan per the Tree Code.

Wildlife Management – A PGC biologist was con-tacted regarding creating habitat for the Golden-Winged Warbler in Hemlock Farms. Information to complete the Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) Deer Con-trol Permit for this year’s operations, if needed, was sent to USDA Wildlife Services. One member was assisted with a question about wildlife.

New Year’s Day Breakfast – On Friday, January 1, more than 115 people in the community gathered at the Steer Barn Clubhouse for a breakfast that was catered by Lords Valley Country Club. A portion of the ticket sales was contributed to the Conservancy. Two tickets were raffled off for the show “Joseph and the Amaz-ing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” The winner was a thrilled Janet Syre.

Hemlock Trail – Soon, volunteers from the Conser-vancy Committee will blaze the Hemlock Trail. Now you will be able to hike the trail even if it is snow covered!

Brewster Environmental Scholarship – There have been inquiries about the $1,000 Brewster Environmen-tal Scholarship. The committee is following up with the local schools to answer any questions. If you know stu-dents who may qualify, please have them contact us. If you have any questions regarding the scholarship, there

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Manager’s reportContinued from page 3

Continued on page 6

Hemlock Farms Conservancy – Hemlock Farms Conservancy was assisted with funding Dr. Gary Alt for next year’s educational event and the Pocono Source Water Protection Collaborative regarding allocating grant funds.

BUILDING DEPARTMENTBuilding Activity – No New-Home Permits were

issued this month or last, leaving our annual total at five, one fewer than last year. We did issue two Addi-tion/Alteration Permits for the month, which is the same number as a year ago. Our total for the year is now 15 compared to 21 last year.

PUBLIC WORKSBuildings – In addition to numerous service calls, the

HVAC unit for the indoor pool (Pool Pak) needed some extensive repairs. A new 10-HP motor and a new bear-ing for the fan were replaced. The new generator for the Clubhouse was tested, filled with fuel, and put on line, and the heat/AC system for the new Fitness Center had to be re-programmed. Painting and spackling contin-ues throughout this building when time allows. All AC units at the Conference Center and the Orchard House were removed and stored for the winter. AC units at Administration and DPW were covered. We converted Well House 51 into a storage facility. Parts and equip-

ment were inventoried and relocated. Shelves were also relocated and new shelves were built for greater storage capacity. The manger that is placed at the flagpole at the Clubhouse during the Christmas season was painted and polished, and some electrical work was added. The four buildings that are heated with oil had their burners serviced.

Roads and Grounds – In addition to routine ser-vice orders, facility garbage and recycling was picked up daily at facilities and the Dog Run area. Litter was picked up from the community roadways. Metal and co-mingle were compacted at the Recycling Center, and leaf and dirt piles were mixed. Stone was blown from intersections. Leaves were cleaned from all facili-ties and gate houses, and blowing leaves from ditches continued. Ornamental grasses and wildflowers were cut for the season. Rototilling the wildflower area has begun and is ongoing.

This crew installed a 15-inch diameter by 20-foot long culvert pipe, a ditch was excavated and filled with oversized stone, and about 100 feet of geotextile drain-age material was installed for improved drainage in the Steer Barn area. Four trees were cut down. The yard at Public Works was cleaned up to make room for winter equipment. The security gates at Elm Beach and Fawn Hill were both heat straightened. The gate at Elm Beach also needed to be welded. The temporary oil tank was

removed from the Steer Barn Clubhouse, and the dump-ster was put back in service. The Vac Truck dump area was cleaned, and the Water Company was assisted on repair of several leaks. The Vac Truck continued clean-ing leaves from roadside swales and assisting the road crew and Water Company when required.

Water Company – This month, a member of the Water Company crew, Dino Fiorini, passed away. He will be greatly missed.

With the fall season ending and the holidays coming fast, November was quite busy for the Water Depart-ment. We hired a new full-time service technician, Matt Harrison, and a part-time employee, Scott Birney, for the weekends. They are becoming great additions to the Water Company, so, when you see them, please wel-come them aboard. Our wells produced 18,578,520 gal-lons of water, averaging 619,000 gallons per day (GPD). Please check your bills and reads for any sign of high water usage; we’ve had a number of member service lines leaking—this generates high bills, unnecessary water loss, and requires replacements.

We are coming into the colder months; please check the water lines in your basements and crawl spaces to ensure that they are well heated as to avoid winter freeze-ups, broken meters, and unnecessary charges to your water bill. If there are any questions about prepar-


Manager’s reportContinued from page 5


ing your water service for the winter, please give us a call at the Water Department and we’ll be happy to help you.

Our personnel completed 130 work orders, most of them were turn-offs; the others were meter reads and rereads for high-usage bills. We responded to nine PA-One Calls to mark out underground utility lines, and we were diligent about meter replacement and replacing old or broken curb valves and stands. Hydrant flushing in the community was completed in early December. We also repaired two water-main breaks. One was on Burning Tree Drive on November 16, and the other was on the corner of Mustang Drive and Farrier Lane on November 20. Both were repaired that same day. All of this was completed with little or no interruption to our members’ water needs.

With winter closing in, please remember: if you are leaving for the season, call and make an appointment with us to turn off water service at the street in order to avoid frozen-pipe damage this winter. Doing so will avoid property damage and potentially high water bills over the coming months. We are continuing with pre-ventative maintenance at our well locations and mem-bers’ service-line issues. If you see any potential or cur-rent problems with valves, curb stands, service lines, or our water system in general, please do not hesitate to call the Water Department. Finally, we hope you enjoyed a beautiful holiday season!

SPECIAL PROJECTSFlood Control and Water Quality – Acquisition

of easements is continuing. Planning for creation of a municipal authority and the financial feasibility work is continuing. The municipal authority task force met in October, in November, and again in December to discuss options and review the recommendations of the financial analysis consultant, HRG, and to develop recommendations to the Board of Directors, which are planned for delivery in January.

Hemlock Lake Dam – The Hemlock Lake Dam proj-ect is on hold because the committee and the Board of Directors are considering formation of a municipal

authority that could help Hemlock Farms with financ-ing the project.

Filtration System for Well #4 – Work continues on the Well #4 Treatment Plant: the building is complete; interior electrical and piping work is complete; and exterior underground piping work is proceeding. The treatment equipment has been delivered and is in place. Startup of the plant may occur during December.

Septic Systems – Replacement of the 739 collection and septic systems is underway. The existing system has outlived its useful life. The replacement system should be in service by year-end.

Water System SCADA – Proposals were received for replacement of the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and surveillance security sys-tems. Work will begin early in 2016.

PUBLIC SAFETY

tion that is certified through the National Academies of Emergency Dispatch. Many dispatchers, whether certi-fied or not, will dispatch using a standard Emergency Medical Dispatch protocol.

Parking – Winter will soon be upon us and we would like to begin on a positive note by requesting everyone’s cooperation and to remind our members that, as always, parking on the road or berms of the road is prohibited—especially during snowstorms and ice events. Parking in such a way not only prevents Public Works from serving the community to the best of their ability but it also endangers other motorists.

Flying South – It doesn’t seem possible that another summer has come and gone, and all our snowbirds will once again be flying south or in other directions for the long winter season. Before you leave, please remember to stop by Public Safety or call regarding your houses being empty for the winter. Updating your records and registering your empty house with Public Safety helps us provide you with the best possible service we can.

RECREATION Winter Weather Approaching – During inclement

weather, we ask that members call to determine if the Clubhouse is open and operating on a normal schedule. For information on Clubhouse delays or closures, please call 570/775-6034.

Sledding Hill – The Recreation Department employ-ees are excited to have our sledding hill open again this year. Last year, the sledding hill (which is located east of tennis courts 7 & 8 behind the Clubhouse parking lot) saw a lot of usage and, once the snow starts flying, it will be open for members. We ask that you never sled alone. In addition, watch for the announcement of a sledding party where we will give out prizes and offer refreshments.

December was a busy month for many reasons. For staff, it was the time when the budget was adopted and final preparation was made to close out the year. For our members, it was a time to plan for the holidays and time spent with family. We hope it was a joyous time for everyone.

National Certifica-tion – Congratulations are in order! We are pleased to announce that Dispatcher Susan Weiss has successfully completed the training and testing for Emer-gency Medical Dispatch (EMD). Upon passing this extensive training, she is now Nationally Certified through the National Academy of Emergency Dispatch (NAED).

An Emergency Medical Dispatcher is a professional tele-communicator who is tasked with the following: Gathering information related to medical emergencies. Providing assistance and instructions by voice prior to the arrival of Emergency Medical Services. Dispatching and support of EMS resources responding to an emer-gency call. The term Emergency Medical Dispatcher is also a certification level and a professional designa-

Drug Take-Back ProgramDispose of your expired and unused medications.

Please dump all pills and patches into a Ziploc bag.

We do not take any bottles for disposal.

ACCEPTED:Prescription or non-

prescription pills, vitamins, prescription patches, pet

medications, samples

NOT ACCEPTED:Liquids, ointments,

lotions, sprays, injectables, inhalers,

needles

Bring bagged medications to the Pike County Sheriff’s

Office for safe disposal Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and

12:30 to 4:15 p.m.

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2016 Budget is AdoptedBy MICHAEL J. SIBIO, Community Manager, and ANN MARIE DRAKE, Comptroller

At the Board of Directors meeting on December 12, 2015, the Board adopted the 2016 budget, requiring dues as follows: 2016 2015 Increase Increase Dues Dues ($) (%)Improved lots $2,254 $2,168 $86 3.98%Unimproved lots $1,507 $1,438 $69 4.83%Adjacent lots $1,005 $959 $46 4.79%

In addition to the above, Unimproved and Adjacent lots are billed an annual water availability charge of $174 and a stormwater fee of $144. Improved lots are billed quarterly water bills, which include a water availability fee of $75 per quarter and a stormwater fee of $36 per quarter, plus usage. There is no increase in the water availability or stormwater fees in 2016.

The proposed budget that was submitted in Septem-ber was examined by the Finance Committee line-by-line during the budget review meeting process. Changes were made where appropriate, and budgeted expenditures were once again given extreme scrutiny. Additions were made to improve safety and member services. The annual mailbox fee was increased to $30 per year. Other changes in the 2016 budget, which account for the increase in dues include:

• An increase in funding to the Replacement Reserve in the amount of $270,000 had a large impact. Since this line was reduced in 2015, it was increased sig-nificantly in 2016 to maintain necessary infrastruc-ture needs and replacements of property. This fund-ing level allows for sufficient spending on roads next year.

• Increases to the Public Works budget for snow materials, vehicle maintenance, and a new line for road maintenance to include tree trimming have added $55,000 to the budget.

• A renewal increase of 8% in group health insur-ance accounts for approximately $46,000 additional expense.

•An increase in excess of $40,000 to the Clubhouse budget will result in extended fitness center hours for members to utilize and enjoy the new fitness center, and new equipment for the clubhouse café, which will be operated by staff to serve members during the summer season.

• The Board approved a 3% payroll pool increase. No new positions were added.

The Finance Committee gave its recommendations to the Board at two public budget hearings in October and November, and at the budget adoption meeting on December 12.

New equipment budgeted in 2016 includes the following:From the Operating Fund:• The usual replacements as needed of minor tools,

equipment & furnishings, recreation/aquatics/tennis equipment, clubhouse items, etc.

• Capital expenditures for a hay bale mulcher, a light tower for outdoor events, and a ThorGuard Lightning detection system.

From the Replacement Reserve Fund:• Seven vehicles.• Conference center roof shingles.• Administration roof repairs and ongoing computer

replacements.• Steer Barn tables and chairs.• Clubhouse floor, carpeting for lobby and stairs.• Tennis court and fence rebuild (4 courts).• Kubota mower.• Boat docks at Little Camp and Hemlock Hills.• Boat racks for Hemlock Hills.From the Water Company Replacement Reserve Fund:• SCADA control system and computer upgrade.• Well 1 chain link fence and gates.• Wells 10, 49, and 80 Chemical feed system

replacements, and Electrical upgrades.• Wells 49 and 80 danfoss drive replacement.• 4 Log system analyzer and parts.• Vacuum truck water pump and fan pump.• (2) F350 Utility trucks with plows.• Water meters and ERTs, to be replaced over 10-year

period• Water main replacement (partial in 2016)Roadwork budgeted in the Replacement Reserve Fund:

$850,000 will be added (plus approximately $176,632 unspent from 2015) is also available for road and parking lot repair, resurfacing and line painting.Water Company Budget including Stormwater Management:

No change to the existing water usage rate of $6.95/1000 gallons and to the quarterly water avail-ability fee and stormwater fees. The stormwater fee covers the costs of the vacuum truck operation that clears ditches and culverts and also provides funding for engineering design, permitting, and future storm-water and dam rehabilitation improvements.

2016 HFCA BUDGET - EXPENDITURES$9,275,982

Administration$1,197,178

Public Safety$1,274,076

Public Works$1,488,163

Recreation$1,372,231

Other Member Services

$1,485,117

Risk Management, Bad Debts, Other

$584,179

Contingency $296,038

Capital Items, Reserves

$1,579,000

2016 HFCA BUDGET Expenditures: $9,275,982

2016 HFCA BUDGETRevenue: $9,275,982

2016 WATER COMPANY BUDGETExpenditures: $2,289,147

2016 WATER COMPANY BUDGETRevenue: $2,289,200

2016 HFCA BUDGET - REVENUES$9,275,982

Prior Year Surplus$150,000

Dues$7,803,482

Interest Income$8,000

Other Departmental

Income$1,017,000

Recreation Income$297,500

2016 WATER COMPANY BUDGET - EXPENDITURES$2,289,147

Staff Expenses$255,052

HFCA Management Fee

$105,000

Other Water Operating Expense

$319,701

Risk Management$32,451

Debt Service$461,874

Capital Items, Reserves$540,000

Stormwater Capital Items/Reserve for

Debt Service$134,000

Stormwater Expense$441,069

2016 WATER COMPANY BUDGET - REVENUES$2,289,200

Prior Year Surplus,Water System

$70,000 Prior Year Surplus

Stormwater$50,000

Water Billing$1,483,200

Other Water Service Charges$159,900

Interest Income & Miscellaneous

$1,000

Stormwater Fees$525,100


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H E M L O C K N E W S J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 • 9OPINION

Letters to the Editor GuidelinesHFCA 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: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, JANUARY 25. Letters may be emailed to: [email protected] 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 www.hemlockfarms.org 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.

LETTERS

Continued on page 10

Constitutional Rights do not ApplyAs a member of HFCA and retired military veteran,

men and women of the Armed Forces have bravely answered the call to defend the freedoms our Constitu-tion protects-and many have given their lives.

In December, “Board Action in Brief” section “Appeals” Board President Wolff claims, “since HFCA is not a government entity, constitutional rights do not apply.” The constitution of the United States starts with “We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, ...promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”

I think Amendment I, states it all: “Congress shall make NO LAW respecting an establishment of religion, or freedom of speech, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the gov-ernment for redress of grievances.”

Amendment IV, “The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unrea-sonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated...” and Amendment XIV, “All persons born or naturalized in the United States and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the states wherein they reside. No state shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any state deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law, nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the law.”

I do not recall giving these rights away when I became a member of HFCA.

We, the people of HFCA, do hereby declare our rights under the Constitution of the United States, and request a retraction of our Board President’s statement, “Consti-tutional rights do not apply.”

George McDonald

Children Paying It Forward for Veteransto help our veterans. The girls felt that veterans protected us and our freedom, our right to an education, and freedom of religion and speech. In doing so, some veterans got hurt.

The girls went on to say that they were yelled at, and were told they could not have a stand to sell lemonade. But, some things are worth doing—even when you get yelled at.

The girls said to me, “We don’t know who to give this money to, but you’re a veteran, so can you get this to veterans who need it?”

I now have a check that one of the girl’s mothers wrote for the $200 that Emma

and Jessica made selling lemonade. She asked that I send the check to an organi-zation that supports veterans.

So, in the girl’s names, their hard-earned money is being sent to the Gino J. Merli Veteran’s Center in Scranton to help the resident veterans.

As a veteran, and on behalf of all vet-erans, I am sure I can say, “Emma and Jessica, we salute you, we thank you, and God bless you for your kindness and generosity to our veterans!”

The United States Military Family of Veterans

The Constitution and Private CommunitiesThe United States Constitution’s Bill of Rights is a set of restrictions

imposed on governmental entities. The U.S. Constitution originally applied only to the federal government. Later on, the 14th Amendment and numerous Supreme Court cases have applied most—but not all—provisions of the U.S. Constitution to the states and to their units of local government. Hemlock Farms Community Association (HFCA) is a private non-profit corporation only. It is not a unit of local govern-ment, and that difference is the key.

There has been plenty of litigation on the status of First Amendment rights in private communities like Hemlock Farms. In no Pennsylva-nia case of which I am aware of has a court ever ruled that a commu-nity association comes under the same rules as a governmental entity. For a private entity like Hemlock Farms Community Association to be held to these constitutional standards, a court would have to find that HFCA is a unit of government (what courts call a “State Actor”). No Pennsylvania court has ever done so.

For example, a fairly recent Pennsylvania court case involved a legal restriction on free speech rights in a private community. The govern-ing documents at nearby Big Boulder Lake prohibited all “for sale” signs. In that case the court ruled that: “The courts of this Common-wealth have vigorously defended the rights which are guaranteed to our citizens by both the federal and our Commonwealth’s constitu-tions. One of the fundamental precepts which we recognize, however, is the individual’s freedom to contractually restrict, or even give up, those rights. The [Plaintiff] contractually agreed to abide by the pro-visions in the Declaration at the time of purchase, thereby relinquish-ing their freedom of speech concerns regarding placing signs on this property.”

My original comments stemmed from someone arguing that shout-ing expletives at an HFCA Public Safety officer is constitutionally protected speech. Well, it might be if the person shouts at a state or municipal police officer who is trying to enforce a state law, but it is not protected speech in our private community. Our private rules can be different from these public governmental standards.

My comments reflected upon what the present state of the law really is in a Pennsylvania-planned community.

Robert Wolff, PresidentHFCA Board of Directors

What are our children thinking when Americans are celebrating our veterans, when they are inviting veterans to our schools and town squares to honor them with song and the waving of flags, when they are giving them cards of thanks and, sometimes, coffee and donuts? Do our children really know what it is all about?

Well, I had the pleasure of having two 10-year-old girls share their thoughts about veterans with me. The girls, Emma and Jessica, students of Wallenpaupack Area School, told me that they were out in front of their houses for hours sell-ing lemonade. A sign on their lemon-ade stand stated that the money will go

10 • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 H E M L O C K N E W SOPINION

Administration Office ClOsed

for Presidents' day Monday, February 15

Important Storm-Related Telephone Numbers

Use these direct numbers for fast and accurate information:

UTILITIESPPL ........................................................................ 800/342-5775Verizon PA .............................................................800/479-1919Blue Ridge Communications ................................. 800/222-5377

TRAFFIC AND WEATHERwww.511PA.comDial 511 for PennDOT road conditions in Pennsylvania

ROAD CONDITIONSFor roads under PennDOT’s care:Pike County ............................................................570/296-7193Monroe County .......................................................570/424-3024Wayne County ........................................................570/424-3024

PA State Police ......................................................888/783-6783

HFCA

Thanks for Support to the Homeless

On behalf of Pike County Hands of Hope, I would like to thank several orga-nizations in Hemlock Farms for their recent support of our efforts to assist homeless persons in Pike County.

First, thanks to the Jewish Fellowship, Church at Hemlock Farms and St. John Neumann Parish for their generous dona-tions of toiletries. We stock a supply of soaps, shampoos, hygiene products, and baby supplies for distribution during the year, and our supplies are now replen-ished for the season.

Second, thanks to the Jewish Fellow-ship and the Italian-American Club for their donation of gift cards to grocery stores and cash donations. We use the cash to place homeless persons in shel-ters or motels, or to assist them in getting into an apartment or residence, and the gift cards for emergency food services to the homeless or destitute.

Persons seeking assistance due to homelessness or imminent eviction or foreclosure may call our Hopeline at 570/296-HOPE (4673) or at [email protected].

Jim Pierce, Vice PresidentPike County Hands of Hope

Thanks for Your SupportAt the Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire

and Rescue Company (HFVF&R Co.) meeting, on Monday evening, December 14, Nancy Natt won the holiday raffle. Congratulations to Nancy!

The HFVF&R Co. would like to thank all our friends and neighbors in Hemlock Farms for supporting our raffles, bingo, pasta dinner, tricky tray, calendars, sock hop, and gate collections.

With your help, we (the HFVF&R Co. Auxiliary) was able to give $25,000 to the HFVF&R Co.

Barbara GarofoloHFVF&R Co. Auxiliary President

Keeping Christ in ChristmasOn Sunday, December 20, Public

Safety unexpectedly knocked on my door to investigate a complaint regard-ing the “KEEP CHRIST IN CHRIST-MAS” signs I had placed at the foot of my driveway. Needless to say, I was shocked!

As a 10-year resident, I have witnessed the changes in Hemlock relative to Christmas. The annual Christmas tree lighting of the big tree by the Steer Barn became a thing of the past. Then, there was what I referred to as the “Charlie Brown” tree, followed by the two smaller trees we have today strung with Mardi Gras-colored lights. At least the manger and menorah have always been displayed as they should. Now “KEEP CHRIST IN CHRISTMAS” signs at a private residence may be offensive and warrant an investigation by Public Safety? Why was such a complaint even entertained!? What’s next? Residents will be held to certain decorating standards? Will the Holiday Lighting Contest eventually be discontinued?

Later that night, I kept the spirit of Christmas alive by giving toys to a needy family who believed their prayers had been answered. It reaffirmed for them as well as for myself that CHRIST is very much a part of CHRISTmas.

We are fortunate to live in a free country of religious tolerance where all people are allowed to think and practice their beliefs. The state of Pennsylvania is a place where people are respectful of one another and are known to possess a strong sense of community. It seems Hemlock Farms may not be “the place to be” for this caller. After all, it is located in Lords Valley, not far from The Prom-ised Land and Bethlehem.

Lillian DonovanEditor’s Note: HFCA Code Chapter

215 – Signs states which signs are per-mitted/not permitted within the com-munity. See page 81 of the 2015 HFCA Official Handbook.

My Life SavedI would like to commend the Hemlock

EMS team for helping to save my life. I had a heart attack at my home in HFCA on the morning of November 19, approx-imately one week before Thanksgiving. I called 911 and the EMS arrived at my home along with the Hemlock security police. They immediately took me in 20 minutes racing down Route 402 in the ambulance to Pocono Medical Center in East Stroudsburg.

Fortunately, I received excellent medi-cal attention. The medical staff, hospi-tal, and coronary surgeon, Dr. Zama (a world-renown surgeon) was first rate. I was operated on Monday, November 23 (a quadruple bypass), and was home in HFCA for Thanksgiving celebration with my family. Needless to say, I have a lot to be thankful for—all the people who worked together to save my life.

Lena Cohen

Potentially Hazardous TreesIn accordance with their contract with

PPL, Asplundh Tree Service inspected my property last summer. They identi-fied a large dead tree which is rotting at its base in my front yard. I was told that this tree is a potential hazard because it

could fall on a power line in the event of a storm. Asplundh recommended that it be cut down, and I agreed.

However, the tree has yet to be cut down because, according to Asplundh, HFCA has not given them permission to cut down any trees which are more than 10 feet from the roadway. The dead tree in my front yard falls into that category. According to Diana Martin, Asplundh’s liaison to our Community, I am not the only member with this situation, and she informed me that she has been trying to arrange for individual or blanket permits to cut down these potentially hazardous trees at no cost to the property owners. She claims that she has not yet received any decision from HFCA, so these trees still cannot be removed.

Winter is almost upon us. A tree fall-ing on a power line will affect many members, not just the individual prop-erty owner, so removal of these trees is important to our entire community. I do not understand why a timely decision hasn’t been made about an issue which affects the health and safety of people in this community. I, and I am sure other similarly affected property owners, would like to have a decision made on this matter as soon as possible.

Diana Calvert

LettersContinued from page 9

HFCA


Did You Know?

It is ILLEGAL to drive with snow on the roof of your car? When you are cleaning snow off your vehicle be sure to clean the roof. If snow falls off your roof while you are driving, it creates a hazardous condition and may cause an accident.

It is also ILLEGAL to obstruct your license plate—if it’s unreadable due to dirt and grime, you could get a citation. Keep your license plate clean!

Jane Doe

1234 Hemlock Farms

Lords Valley, PA 18428

John Smith

1234 Hemlock Farms


John Smith123 Forest Drive1234 Hemlock FarmsLords Valley, PA 18428

In order to receive letters and publications in Hemlock Farms, use this format:

NameXXXX Hemlock FarmsLords Valley, PA 18428

In order to receive packages in Hemlock Farms, use this format:

NameXXX Forest DriveXXXX Hemlock FarmsLords Valley, PA 18428

If you do NOT have a mailbox at the Mail Room, packages may be returned to the sender.

Mail & Package Delivery Instructions

Please do NOT drop off any FedEx or UPS packages that were wrongly delivered to your house to us at the Hemlock Farms Mail Room. We cannot accept any package that is not U.S. Postal Service.

Public Works Mike Kemery

Mike is an Equipment Operator in the Public Works Department. He operates all equipment, large and small. He began employment in the Public Works Department in May 2000. “It feels good to have been chosen Employee of the Year,” said Mike. “I work with a great bunch of guys.”

On Thursday evening, December 10, the Hemlock Farms Employees of the year were announced at the annual holiday party.

Employees of the Year are chosen for their

exemplary performance in their depart-ments during the year. Interaction with fellow coworkers and the camaraderie they spread is what makes Employees of the Year.

“This award is special because the employ-ees are chosen not by management, but by their peers,” said Community Manager Mike Sibio.

Administration Tara Carrubba

Tara is the Accounts Receivable Administrator. She began employment with HFCA as an Accounting Assistant in April 2013 and, in July 2015, she began working full-time as the Accounts Receivable Administrator. “Being named employee of the year means the world to me,” said Tara.

Recreation Andy Rogali

Andy is a Part-time Custodian at the Clubhouse, and he works the nighttime shift. He began employment with HFCA in April 2006. “Being named Employee of the Year was a total shock. It made me very happy,” said Andy.

Public Safety Lauren Townson

Lauren is a Dispatcher in the Public Safety Department. She began part-time employment in February 2013, and she became a full-time employee in April 2013. “I am surprised and humbled that my coworkers voted for me,” said Lauren.

EMPLOYEES OF THE YEARBy Mary Beth Connors

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To get all the latest HFCA information, visitwww.hemlockfarms.org


BOARD FOCUSBy Connie Kern

2016 Budget PassedThe December 12, 2015, meeting of

the Hemlock Farms Community Asso-ciation (HFCA) Board of Directors (Board) was chaired by President Rob Wolff, with Vice President Anne Marie Zenie, Secretary Lyn Attreed, Treasurer Michael Spitzer, and members Jeffrey Ferretti, Pete Ferris, Robert Treptow, and Karen Wilshinsky Griffiths in atten-dance (Phil Blecker was absent). A fair amount of the meeting focused on sell-ing barcodes to permanent guests and the budget adoption.

To Sell or Not to SellDuring the committee reports, Public

Health, Safety and Security Chair Larry Snyder reintroduced the topic of selling barcodes for permanent guests. “The committee resents the fact that they were bypassed on matters directly deal-ing with the safety and security of this community. If the Board feels that this committee is unnecessary, dissolve us,” said Snyder. He added that the Board improperly passed the resolution of sell-ing barcodes (the Board agreed) because the code must be rewritten in order to sell barcodes. He asked that a Second Reading of this code not be considered before May 2016 so that members can provide input.

Rob Wolff said that there has not yet been a First Reading, and there is no motion before the Board.

Snyder said that it would be very easy with Facebook, Craigslist; etc., to sell barcodes with badges so that holders can use HFCA facilities for $50, that mem-bers are paying $2,200 for; Pete Ferris disagreed.

Public Safety Chief Bill Hamby said that this issue should be looked into more extensively. Snyder said that this motion should have come from the Public Health, Safety and Security Commit-tee, not the Exploring Ways to Increase Revenue Committee. He requested that the issue be tasked to this committee; Spitzer agreed.

Lyn Attreed stated this example: “Jane” is a good friend who is registered as her permanent guest with HFCA. Every friend of Jane’s knows that Jane is

a permanent guest of HFCA. All Jane’s friends have to say is that they are Jane and they can pass through the gate. Attreed suggested that HFCA insist per-manent guests present identification to ascertain who they are every time they enter at the visitor gate. Wolff said that could cause extremely long lines at the gate.

Georgene Snyder suggested register-ing the vehicle as well as the permanent guest.

L. Snyder said that he holds a certifi-cation in industrial security. He said, “There is no such thing as perfect secu-rity. We, by far, have the finest rec-reational facilities in the area. It’s not going to take people very long to learn that they can sell barcodes.”

Ferris asked Hamby how many cases of outsiders are coming in via a barcode; Hamby said that Snyder is saying that there is a potential for this to happen.

Spitzer asked if the potential is there right now for someone to place them-selves as a permanent guest without reg-istering a car; Hamby replied “yes.”

Wolff said that adding more barcodes will make the residents’ line longer. Hamby said that the current administra-

tive procedure is that the car must be registered in Hemlock Farms address (with the exception of employees and certain individuals).

George Barbier said that barcodes will be an option offered to members who may not purchase them, making this a moot point.

L. Snyder said that in the summer you can’t get a lounge chair by the pool; with 200 more people coming in who don’t belong here, this will get worse. Wilshinsky-Griffiths said that there is nothing to prevent people from sharing their recreation badges now.

Vicki Lawless agreed that a permanent guest should have to provide identifica-tion and register the car before getting a barcode. She asked what the potential is of reaffixing the barcode sticker to another car after it is scraped off. The Board agreed that the sticker would not re-adhere after being scraped off the original registered car.

Ferris said that the Public Health, Safety and Security Committee will vote the motion down; Wolff said that the Board can still take action if the motion is not passed through a committee.

This issue was tasked to the Public

Health, Safety and Security Committee for more input and possible motion.

Lee Oakes asked that, since this item was already added to the Replacement Reserve budget for 2016, would it need to be removed? Michael Spitzer said that, even if there was no revenue, it would have minimal impact on dues for the expense of the extra barcodes.

Budget AdoptionFinance Committee Chair Lee Oakes

explained the previous budget hearing meetings and procedures. She made the following recommendations to the Board:

MOTION: That the Board add $7,000 to line 495.500 (Capital Expense – Rec-reation) for the purchase of a light tower. Larry Snyder recommended purchasing a used light tower. Recreation Direc-tor John Wormuth said that a used light tower costs approximately $5,000. Approved by consensus.

MOTION: To add $5,400 to line 420.255 Forest Managment for a Wooley Adelgid Spray. Sibio explained that, in warmer winters, this spray is necessary to preserve hemlock trees in our com-munity. The Board agreed that our signa-ture trees should be protected.Approved by consensus.

Oakes said that a few minor changes were made to certain line items—none having an effect on dues.

MOTION: To approve the Water Com-pany budget for 2016. Spitzer/Attreed. Unanimous.

MOTION: To approve the Association budget for 2016. Spitzer/Zenie. Unani-mous.

Dues for 2016 are as follows: I-lot $2,254, U-lot $1,507, and A-lot $1,005; I-lot dues reflect an increase of $86 (3.98%) over prior year.

Photo by Kathie WaibelFinance Committee Chair Lee Oakes, right, and Comptroller Ann Marie Drake present the proposed budget to the Board of Directors at the December 12 Budget Adoption meeting.

See Something?Say Something!

Call Public Safety 570/775-4242Thanks to your vigilance, we have

helped make this Community safer!

HFCA


Sue AlmySue is the Building Department Assistant. She handles all aspects of processing building permits, and she mails septic compliance notices to members. In addition, she prepares and mails bids throughout the year. This month, Sue handled a very large amount of permit applications and septic maintenance receipts. In addition to her responsibilities, Sue is always available to help in the front office.

Shirley Hoke-CoxShirley is a Sergeant in the Public Safety Department. She responds to fire and medical emergencies, patrols the roads, handles the patrol logs, and assists with monthly reports. Since becoming a sergeant, Shirley has taken on new responsibilities and continues to do well in her new position.

John CorderoJohn is a Technician in the Water Company. He reads meters, replaces meters, works on leaks, and does day-to-day monitoring of the wells. John is a new employee in the Water Company, and he has learned quickly and excelled at his many responsibilities.

Bernadette OuelletteBernadette is the Youth Center Director. She coordinates all events and activities at the Youth Center and assists with all events that involve the youth of the community. Bernadette was key to all of the Recreation Department’s Halloween events. She helped run our Halloween party, the four nights of the Haunted House and Hayride, and she was also at the Trunk or Treat event.

Jeanne FerraraJeanne is the Accounts Payable Administrator; she is responsible for paying the bills, and she also assists with depositing payments and issuing purchase orders. Jeanne was very helpful in getting the initial budget formatted and copied for the Finance Committee and distributed in a timely fashion.

Lauren TownsonLauren is a full-time Dispatcher in the Public Safety Department. She handles dispatching for all fire and medical emergencies and trains new dispatchers. Lauren is a dedicated employee who is always ready to help out when needed. She is an internationally certified Emergency Police Dispatcher (EPD). Lauren will be taking an Emergency Medical Dispatcher course this year.

Sara MaidaSara is a part-time, year-round Aquatics Coordinator. She schedules the aquatic staff, supervises the lifeguards, and does pool maintenance. In addition, she assists the Recreation Department at special events. This September, Sara did a great job balancing her school responsibilities and continuing to be a reliable employee for the Recreation Department.

Tim CortrightTim is a member of the Roads and Grounds Crew. He helps maintain the roads, replaces fallen street signs, and picks up trash at the facilities and along the roads. In addition, Tim plows snow during the winter months. He worked hard on the Gateway Building landscaping project. Tim has also been very helpful at the Recycling Center on the weekends.

ADMINISTRATION PUBLIC SAFETY PUBLIC WORKS RECREATION

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EMPLOYEES OF THE MONTHProfiles and Photos by Mary Beth Connors

Jesse SloanJesse is the Code Enforcement Officer. He surveys properties for code compliance and violations, and he monitors and performs inspections throughout the community. Jesse has been performing helpful services for co-workers in both Administration and Public Works to help them get their projects accomplished.

Diane JohnsonDiane is a full-time Visitor Entry person. She also fills in at the gates whenever needed and assists with dispatch. Because of the recent high volume of work at Public Safety, Diane’s responsibilities require great flexibility.

Susan PowellSusan is the Administrative Assistant in the Public Works Department. She answers members’ questions and keeps the Public Works office running smoothly. Susan is reliable and cheerful, and she is always on hand to help accommodate staff and members’ requests.

Cheryl SwitzerCheryl is a part-time lifeguard, water aerobics instructor, and water-safety instructor in the Recreation Department. In addition, she teaches swim lessons and does lifeguard training. Cheryl always goes above and beyond her duties.


Rich Caridi, Owner

Patty Magie, Broker

Megan Vennie, Assoc. Broker

Tom Schiffer, Realtor/Builder

Linda Anderson, Realtor

Michele Talbot, Realtor

Gretchen Patterson, Realtor

Michael Filip, Realtor/Appraiser

Ina Filip,Realtor

570-775-9890110 Hemlock Farms Road, Suite 1 • Lords Valley, PA

Serving Hemlock Farms and the surrounding areas for all of your real estate needs.

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COMMONWEALTH HEALTH NEWS

Hypothermia and Frostbite… Prevention is the Key!When out in cold conditions, the two

most common hazards are hypothermia and frostbite. With proper awareness and pre-planning, these hazards can be eliminated.

HypothermiaHypothermia is a potentially deadly

condition, which results in an abnor-mally low body temperature. This drop in temperature occurs when the body loses heat faster than it is produced. A combination of cold, wet and windy con-ditions will result in hypothermia for anyone who is inadequately prepared and protected.

Certain conditions will increase your risk:• Improper dress for the conditions• Poor physical condition• Fatigue• Illness• Poor diet or alcohol, tobacco or drug

use

An individual’s physiology may affect the body’s ability to acclimate, possibly increasing the risk.

Symptoms of Hypothermia• Early symptoms of hypothermia are

often overlooked. They include:• Intense shivering• Muscle tension• Fatigue• Intense feeling of cold or numbness

To most people, these just may seem like normal consequences of exposure to winter conditions. Ignoring these early signs can be very dangerous. If you are experiencing early symptoms of hypo-thermia, take action!

Also watch for additional behavioral signs, including:• Slurred speech• Difficulty performing tasks• Loss of coordination• Lethargy• Erratic behavior, poor decisions• Irritability• Slow breathing and heart rate

At the first sign of any of these condi-tions, seek immediate medical attention.

Hypothermia PreventionPreventing hypothermia is not diffi-

cult. In fact, it is much easier to avoid hypothermia than to treat it after the fact. You can prevent hypothermia if you pre-plan—know what the conditions are expected to be and plan your clothing accordingly.

Some clothing tips to remember:• Clothing does not warm you; it

provides insulation to preserve your warmth.

• Layer your clothing.• As much as half of your body heat

is lost through your head and neck; keep them covered.

• Keep rain and wind out of your clothing.

• Ventilate as needed to avoid overheating and sweating.

• Wool clothing is best, followed by synthetics. Down is okay if kept dry; cotton is a bad choice.

If you are out in cold weather, remember these tips:• Do not diet; give your body the

appropriate nutrients. This will increase your metabolism and help keep you warm.

• Continue to drink fluids; water is best, no alcohol.

• Take extra steps to stay warm and dry by preventing exposure to wind and water.

Consider the following:• If you do not need to be outside,

go inside, even if it is only for a few minutes.

• If you cannot go inside, exercise, jog in place, shake your arms, etc. These activities will increase your circulation and increase heat.

Hypothermia TreatmentIf someone is showing signs of hypo-

thermia:• Hypothermia symptoms should

receive medical treatment as soon as possible.

• Prevent further heat loss by sheltering from exposure to wind and water.

• Bring them inside to a warm area, if possible.

• Treat them gently.• Seek medical attention.• Remove any wet clothing, and

replace with dry clothing.• Wrap them in blankets, and cover

their head.• No caffeine, alcohol or tobacco

should be used.

FrostbiteFrostbite is more common than hypo-

thermia. It is the result of the freezing of the extracellular fluid in the skin, which can permanently damage the tissue. This condition usually affects the extremities, such as the tips of fingers, ears and nose, but other exposed areas can also be affected. Like hypothermia, a combination of elements usually leads to frostbite, not cold air alone. In fact, most frostbite is the result of conduction, the rapid transfer of heat—for example, touching cold metal surfaces with bare hands. Exposure to cold temperatures and wind can quickly result in frostbite.

Factors that can increase your risk of frostbite are improper dress for the con-ditions; poor physical condition; fatigue; illness; poor diet; and alcohol, tobacco or drug use.

Signs and Symptoms of Frostbite

Mild frostbite affects the outer skin layers and appears as a blanching or whitening of the skin. This usually dis-appears as warming occurs, but the skin may appear red for several hours. In severe cases, the skin will appear waxy-looking, with a white, gray-yellow or gray-blue color. The affected parts will have no feeling, and blisters may be present. The tissue will feel frozen or “wooden.”

Other indicators are swelling, itching, burning and deep pain as the area is warmed.

Frostbite PreventionJust as with hypothermia, frostbite is

much easier to prevent than it is to treat. All of the items listed above for hypo-thermia would also apply for frostbite.

Frostbite TreatmentIf you think you may have frostbite,

even a mild case, immediately seek med-ical attention.

The following list will provide some guidelines for treating frostbite:• Get to a place where you can stay

warm after thawing. Do not allow the affected body area to refreeze.

• Seek medical attention.• Re-warming should be conducted

under medical supervision.• Warm water is best for re-warming.

Do not rub or massage the area or use dry heat (sunlamp, radiator, heating pad).

• If blisters are present, leave them intact.

• No alcohol, tobacco or drugs should be used.

Summary• Wear proper clothing that insulates

from the cold and provides protection from wind, rain and snow.

• Cover your neck and head.• Protect your hands and feet. (Mittens

are warmer than gloves but may limit activity.)

• Keep clothing and shoes loose, to ensure good circulation.

• Drink plenty of fluids.• Do not diet. Give your body the

appropriate nutrients.• Alcohol, tobacco or drugs should not

be used.• Keep moving; do not stand still.• Take breaks to go inside and warm

up.• Never touch a cold metal object with

your bare hands.

Remember… It’s COLD out there!


Hemlock Farms Community Association

DUES INSTALLMENT PLANAPPLICATION & AGREEMENT

(Member to complete Section A; Signature & Date where indicated)

A. THIS AGREEMENT, made this _____ day of _____________________, by and between Hemlock Farms Community Association, a Pennsylvania nonprofit corporation, with an address of 1007 Hemlock Farms, Lords Valley, Pennsylvania 18428, (the “Association” or “HFCA”) and Member Name: _________________________

of Mailing Address: _____________________________________________________________ (the “Owner”).

Telephone Number: ___________________________ Email Address: ____________________________

Account Number: ___________________________________________________________________________

1. Association is the Community Association of all property owners in Hemlock Farms, a planned community in Blooming Grove, Porter, and Dingman Townships, Pike County, Pennsylvania; and

2. Owner is the owner of residential property in Hemlock Farms, designated as Stage:____, Block:____, Lot:____

Physical Street Address: __________________________________________________________________

3. The parties intend to establish an installment payment plan by which the Owner shall pay the principal amount and interest to the Association in installments.

(To be Completed by HFCA Staff)

B. In consideration of the recitals above, the rights and duties expressed below, and intending to be legally bound, the parties agree as follows:

Owner agrees to pay to HFCA, the amount of $_______, plus interest on the unpaid balance, installments as follows:

a) $_________ of the principal upon signing of the Agreement, which payment constitutes at least 15% of the original dues balance, plus a one-time administrative fee of $25.00 totaling $_________.

b) Not included in the above is Mailbox Rental Fee of $25.00 (if applicable) which is due and payable by March 1.

c) Tenconsecutivemonthlypaymentsof$_________mustbereceivedintheHFCAofficenolaterthanthefirst day of each month (April 1 through December 1). ThefinalpaymentshallbedueandpayablebyDecember 1, 2016. **Interest is based upon prime rate (as of January 1, 2016, plus 1%) TBA.

HFCA agrees that, so long as the Owner makes all payments timely, HFCA shall take no legal action to collect payment of this debt. Owner acknowledges that the unpaid principal balance and other charges allowed under Pennsylvania law are also automatically a lien on the Owner’s lot(s) in Hemlock Farms after March 1, 2016.

IntheeventtheOwnerfailstomaketimelypayments,atwenty-five($25.00)feewillbecharged.Failure to make two monthly payments will result in the termination of this agreement. If any check from the Owner is returned by the bank unpaid, HFCA shall have the right to be paid in full immediately, plus a thirty dollar ($30.00) administrative fee is charged.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this agreement to be signed and sealed the day and date aforesaid.

OWNER: _______________________________________________ Date: _______________________________

OWNER: _______________________________________________ Date: _______________________________

HFCA by: _______________________________________________ Date: _______________________________Michael J. Sibio, Community Manager

DUES INSTALLMENT PLAN INSTRUCTIONS

1. All prior year balances must be paid in full before member(s) may apply for an installment plan.

2. A Twenty-Five Dollar ($25.00) administrative application fee must accompany requests for the Dues Installment Plan, A fifty dollar ($50.00) fee is charged on all applications received after February 1.

3. A dues installment plan must be applied for each year and signed by member no later than March 1. The application fee must accompany the signed Application & Agreement.

4. At least fifteen percent (15%) of the annual dues must be paid no later than March 1. Mailbox fees and/or citations (if applicable) must be paid in full. The member may request a copy of the signed agreement once payment of the application, mailbox (if applicable) and/or assessments, and 15% of dues is paid in full.

5. Payments will be made in equal monthly installments, including simple interest at prime rate (as printed in the Wall Street Journal for the first business day of each calendar year) plus one percent (1%). Payments are due no later than the first day of each month, April 1 through December 1. Installment interest amount is shown on billing statements as a one-time lump charge and remains on the account until the last installment payment is made. Members may prepay at any time.

6. Members must complete a Dues Application & Agreement for each property they are applying for.

7. Members will be deemed in good standing and will lose NO membership privileges if they comply with the terms of the installment agreement.

8. The following procedures shall apply to members who fail to make timely payments on an installment plan:• Late Payment: Twenty-five dollars

($25.00) administrative charge for any installment payment not received by due date.

• Installment Plan will be null and void if two (2) payments are missed. At that time a letter will be mailed demanding payment of the total balance within thirty (30) days, including interest to date, and administrative charges. Otherwise, the Association will file, without further notice, all necessary documents to place a lien on the member’s property. The member’s vehicle barcode sticker will be deactivated and all privileges will be revoked.

• If a check representing any payment due is returned unpaid by the bank, the member is responsible to make immediate payment plus a thirty dollar ($30.00) administrative fee.

!


Photo by Kathie WaibelAccounts Receivable Adminisrator Tara Carrubba and Accounts Receivable Assistant Amy Prisco process Dues Installment Plans. “Don’t forget that the deadline to submit an application at the lower fee of $25 is Monday, February 1,” said Tara.

Hemlock Farms Community Association

MERCHANDISE FOR SALE

Available for purchase at the Administration Office. Limited supplies available.

Show off your Hemlock Farms pride! Imprinted with high-gloss UV inks for

maximum impact and durability, and is made from high-impact flexible styrene.

Beautiful Full-Color License Plate

$5

By MARY BETH CONNORS

At the December 12, 2015, Board of Directors meeting, the Hemlock Farms Community Association (HFCA) 2016 Budget was adopted. The HFCA is, once again, offering members the option to pay their yearly dues on a Dues Payment Installment Plan.

The Installment Plan Application and Agreement forms are available at the Administration Office and on the web-site: www.hemlockfarms.org. There is a $25 application fee ($50 if HFCA receives your payment after February 1). The initial down payment of fifteen percent (15%) is due by Tuesday, March 1. Members must apply each year for the Dues Payment Installment Plan, and a separate application for each property is

required.The interest rate for the Dues Payment

Installment Plan is prime rate (as printed in The Wall Street Journal for the first business day of 2016) plus one percent (1%). For 2016, the interest rate on the Dues Installment Plan is 4.50%. The Dues Payment Installment Plan is billed in nine monthly installments, due April 1 through December 1.

Members must be in good standing in order to apply for the Dues Payment Installment Plan.

Those members who are not signed up for the Dues Payment Installment Plan and who do not pay their dues by Tues-day, March 1, 2016, must pay an inter-est rate of fifteen percent (15%), as per HFCA Code Chapter 85, Article V – Interest Charges.

2016 Dues Payment Installment PlanImproved “I” lots – $2,254Initial payment of 15% = $339 plus $25 administrative fee = $364 plus mailbox fee ($30), if applicable.Monthly payment: $217Unimproved “U” lots – $1,507, plus $174 water standby fee, plus $144 stormwater fee, for a total of $1,825Initial payment of 15% = $274 plus $25 administrative fee = $229, plus mailbox fee ($30), if applicable.Monthly payment: $176Adjacent “A” lots – $1,005 , plus $174 water standby fee, plus $144 stormwater fee for a total of $1,323Initial payment of 15% = $198 plus $25 administrative fee = $223Monthly payment: $128

HFCA Code Chapter 85-9 Interest ChargesFor all other amounts past due, including dues, water billings, and other assessments, the interest rate shall be the maximum allowable rate as stated in the Uniform Planned Communities Act. Administrative charges also apply, including reasonable collection fees and costs and reasonable attorney’s fees, and as stated in Payment Guidelines, which shall be enclosed with the annual dues billing.

Feel the Fun

www.lordsvalleycountryclub.com 570-775-7325, ext 201 • www.facebook.com/pa18428

LVCC is a private not-for-profit club. Memberships available, subject to LVCC Board approval.

Winter Promotion JOIN NOW and get *FREE MEMBERSHIP until 3/1/16!

Lords Valley Country Club

Special Equity Offer Gourmet Dining, Golf, Tennis

Pool/Waterfront, Fitness Room Year-Round Social Events

$9,100 $5,500 1st Year Dues $8,000 $5,000 Initiation

(initiation payable over 2 years)

Preview Membership Gourmet Dining, Golf, Tennis


$5,500 Dues

Social Membership Offer Gourmet Dining


$5,460 $3,500 1st Year Dues (over 50) $3,185 Dues (under 50)

$1,000 one-time administrative fee

Proudly Recognized as a 5-Star Platinum Club

Located in Hemlock Farms. Membership open to all communities

in the tri-state area.

* FREE 2015-16 dues with 2016-17 membership commitment.

Responsible for monthly usage and surcharge.

HFCA

Sign up Soon!


Power Outage InformationPPL has launched an improved power outage website:

www.pplelectric.com/outageBy logging on to the website you can see the size of a

power outage or report an outage to your home. The website will report what caused the outage,

what’s happening with repairs, and when you can expect power to be restored.

Always be sure that your electronic devices are fully charged so that you are prepared in the event of an emergency. In the event

of a major power failure, residents can charge their electronic devices at the Steer Barn Clubhouse.

Refuse Center RemindersBy DOUG BERG, Director of Public

Works and Engineering

The Public Works Committee wants to remind members about usage of the Refuse Center.

The Refuse Center that is adjacent to the Public Works Facility was created for the benefit of all members. It is used by many members daily, and it is main-tained by Public Works staff. The refuse and materials for recycling are collected and disposed of at significant cost to the membership. The focus of this article is the refuse compactors.

Trash and refuse is disposed of in large hoppers, where it is compacted with a hydraulic ram. When large items such as construction framing lumber are dis-posed of in the compactors, the compac-tor does not achieve suitable compac-tion, this leaves an air gap within the container. Consequently, the dumpster may not become full; this causes a “light load” to be trucked away and disposed of, thus increasing costs to the member-ship because we end up hauling away

some portion of a container that holds only air. Trucking is a significant por-tion of the disposal cost. The dumpsters are most efficiently used when they are filled to capacity with refuse and only a limited portion of air.

For this reason, as listed in the Hem-lock Farms Community Association Code Chapter 190, the following mate-rials, among others, are prohibited from being disposed of: Building materials in excess of 3 feet in length or width; Con-struction materials exceeding 3 feet in length or width; Tree limbs; Large auto-mobile parts; and Tires.

Our goal is to fill the compacted con-tainers to their ideal capacity. This will maximize the efficiency of disposal costs.

There is a bulk container at the Refuse Center site that is used for bulky items that may be disposed of upon issuance of a permit. Permits for disposal of bulky items may be obtained by members at the Administration Office. There is a nominal fee for such permits.

NEWS BRIEFS

From the Office of Senator Lisa Baker2016 Youth Wildlife Art Contest Accepting Entries

Pennsylvania’s young artists, in grades 6 through 12, are being encouraged by the Pennsylvania Game Commission to participate in the 2016 Youth Wildlife Art Contest.

The annual Youth Wildlife Art Con-test focuses on Pennsylvania’s Endan-gered and Threatened Species. Submit-ted artwork may be horizontal or verti-cal on 12-inch x 9-inch heavyweight paper, which is no more than a quarter inch thick. Accepted mediums include oils, pastels, color pencils, water colors, acrylic, charcoal, graphite, black and white, or color.

Artwork must be postmarked on or before January 29, 2016, and submitted along with the 2016 Youth Wildlife Art Contest entry form.

Eagle Cam Ready for Newest Residents

Pennsylvania’s Eagle Cam is up and the nesting site is ready for a new family, according to the Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC).

In anticipation of the bald eagle pair’s arrival, the PGC said one-to-three eggs will typically appear in a bald eagle clutch between February and April and hatch in 35 days.

Bookmark the webpage (www.pgc.state.pa.us) today in anticipation of the 2016 nesting.

Resolve to Stop Nuisance Calls in 2016

If you resolve to stop nuisance market-ing calls in 2016, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) recommends determining the answer to five questions to facilitate filing a complaint against a PUC-regulated entity.

The PUC will need the following infor-mation:

• What is the company’s name?• Did you give consent to the company

to receive marketing calls by providing your phone number?

• Did you revoke previous consent to receive calls?

• Did you register with the PA Do Not Call List and/or the national Do Not Call Registry?

• How many calls did you receive with-out consent, and in what timeframe?

Understand your consumer complaint options and review the PUC checklist before filing a complaint to expedite a resolution.

DON’T LET THIS HAPPEN TO YOU!

Last year we experienced extremely cold temperatures causing reports of frozen water lines bursting and water meters freezing. If you have a heater going in your crawl space,

remember to also close your vents. You can also insulate areas to prevent the cold temperatures.

Going away? Make an appointment for seasonal water turn-off 48 hours in advance by calling 570/775-4200, ext. 113.

Remember, someone must be present to sign the work order.

Senator Baker’s Hawley Office:2512 Route 6Hawley, PA 18428Phone: 570-226-5960FAX: 570-226-5964M-F: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

HFCA

HFCA


BOARD ACTION IN BRIEFBy Connie Kern


BOARD CALENDAR REGULAR BOARD MEETINGS, BUDGET HEARINGS AND NOTICE,

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING, NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONSMembers’ Time and other oral communications

will be at 11:00 a.m. for one-half hour.

DATE MEETING / EVENT TIME / LOCATIONJanuary 23 Regular Board Meeting 8:30 a.m., Steer Barn ClubhouseFebruary 27 Regular Board Meeting 8:30 a.m., Steer Barn ClubhouseMarch 19 Regular Board Meeting 8:30 a.m., Steer Barn ClubhouseApril 16 Regular Board Meeting 8:30 a.m., Steer Barn ClubhouseMay 21 Regular Board Meeting 8:30 a.m., Steer Barn ClubhouseMay 22 Town Meeting 12:30 p.m., Steer Barn ClubhouseMay 25* Deadline for filing 2:00 p.m., HFCA Office Nominating Petitions for Elections to the Board of DirectorsJune 25 Regular Board Meeting 8:30 a.m., Steer Barn ClubhouseJuly 9* Annual Membership Meeting 10:00 a.m., Steer Barn ClubhouseJuly 9* First Voting Day – 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Annual Elections Steer Barn ClubhouseJuly 17* Second Voting Day – 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Annual Elections Steer Barn Clubhouse Recessed Membership MeetingJuly 23 Regular Board Meeting 8:30 a.m., Steer Barn ClubhouseAugust 6* Organizational Board Meeting 10:00 a.m., Steer Barn ClubhouseAugust 27 Regular Board Meeting 8:30 a.m., Steer Barn Clubhouse*Date determined by Bylaws

The December 12, 2015, Hemlock Farms Community Association (HFCA) Board of Directors (Board) meeting began at 8:30 a.m. and immediately moved to Executive Session, in which legal, budget, and personnel issues were discussed. Phil Blecker was absent.

MOTION: To accept the minutes of the regular Board meeting of Novem-ber 21, 2015, as submitted. Ferris/Zenie. Unanimous.

MOTION: To accept the minutes of the Executive Session meeting of November 21, 2015, as submitted. Ferretti/Treptow. Unanimous.

Treasurer’s ReportMOTION: That the Board approve the

write-off of uncollectible accounts total-ing $11,571 due to a foreclosure. Spitzer/Zenie. Unanimous.

Comptroller Ann Marie Drake reported that collections through November 30, 2015, are at 95.44% (the same time last year, collections were at 94.13%). She

said that there were 56 Special Payment Plans in 2015.

Through November 30, 2015, a total of 157 properties were transferred resulting in $301,323 of Capital Improvement Fee (CIF) Fund income, compared to 134 properties and $255,920 in CIF income in the prior year.

Manager’s ReportIn addition to the complete Manager’s

Report beginning on page 3, Commu-nity Manager Mike Sibio reviewed the following:

- Clarified the Well #4 Filtration Proj-ect timeline (see page 3).

- Minutes of the Hemlock Farms Con-servancy (HFC) November 22 meeting.

- Letter of approval from the Penn-sylvania Department of Environmen-tal Protection (PA DEP) regarding the removal and remediation of a 2,000-gallon #2 fuel oil tank at the Steer Barn Clubhouse.

- MOTION: To authorize $14,000 from

HFCA General fund to HFCA Holding LLC (may be charged to Contingency, or to line 496.000 Other Expense, HFCA Holdings LLC). Treptow/Spitzer. Unani-mous.

- MOTION: To grant Sibio the signa-ture authority for a Natural Resource Conservation Service grant to create a golden-winged warbler habitat. Spitzer/Ferris. Unanimous.

Committee Reports The following committees (representa-

tives) presented their respective motions to the Board for consideration:

Official Publication and Public Information (no motions) – George Barbier announced that the Community

Ambassador Program will be imple-mented by January 1, 2016.

Planning, Land Use, and Architec-ture (no motions) – Carol Comando said that the committee has received satel-lite-dish rules from two communities and requested the Board provide them with direction. By consensus, the Board referred this to the ad hoc IT Committee.

Public Health, Safety and Security (no motions) – Larry Snyder reintro-duced the issue of selling barcodes to permanent guests. A lengthy discussion ensued (see Board Focus on page 12); the result was to task this committee with further investigation.

Recreation (John Wormuth) – To

We Need Your HelpReport any suspicious activity you see, such as:• Unrecognized individuals walking around the neighborhood, on the

roads or in the woods, especially near houses with no vehicles in thedriveway.

• Slow moving vehicles making repeat passes on your street.• Vehicles parked in courts, along roads or at known unoccupied houses.

If you see anything unusual, call Public Safety at

570/775-4242and the department will immediately investigate.

PROTECT YOURSELF:• Lock all windows, doors and vehicles every time you leave your property

for any period of time.• Put interior lights on a timer when you are away from home.• If you will not be home for an extended period of time, have someone

take in your refuse containers from the curb and if you receive newspaper delivery, have a friend pick the papers up on your behalf so the papers do not remain outside of your home.

• Lock all doors even when you are at home, just to be on the safe side.• If possible, secure your valuables in a locked location inside the home.• Be cautious when hiring contractors and be sure to supervise any work

within the home.• Double-check to be sure windows and doors are secured after contractors

complete any work in the dwelling.• If you have an alarm system, use it each time you leave the house.• Network with your neighbors to report suspicious activity.• Report hang-up phone calls to Public Safety.

Remember, “If you see something, say something.”

HFCA

HFCA


Board action in BriefContinued from page 20

HFCAHFCA

HFCA BUDGET SUMMARY EXPENSES November 30, 2015 (Unaudited-Internal)

WATER BUDGET SUMMARY EXPENSES November 30, 2015 (Unaudited-Internal)

accept the application for the Computer Club. Attreed asked about the purpose: If the club should charge dues, would that violate the club’s purpose since the application claims that it is cost free? Scott Hillman said that the club would not charge mandatory dues or fees. Trep-tow/Zenie. Unanimous.

Appeals (Mark Moulton) – By consen-sus, the Board agreed with this commit-tee’s recommendations below:

Citation #30938 (unsafe speed), appeal denied.

Citation #08398 (barking dogs), appeal denied.

Moulton asked about old business of 1) setting the fine at $0 for missing docu-ments when shown at appeal (the Board said that this issue was sent to the Public Health, Safety and Security Committee, and they chose not to act upon it), and 2) a tabled appeal for a driving-under-the-influence citation. Attreed said that the Board was waiting for more information as to “why?” Wolff said that he does not recall the citation. Moulton said that he would provide the information for the next Board meeting.

Environment (Nick Santelli) – Two motions relating to additions to HFCA Code Chapter 154 – Natural Resource Code, Section 154, were discussed briefly (see Committee Minutes on page 24 for motions). Attreed said that the

Board formed an ad hoc committee last month to address the tree code and would like to see any and all changes made at one time. Santelli said that the motions presented were to codify the code already in place; the ad hoc committee’s task was to combine the current tree code with the engineer’s suggestions. He suggested that two members from each standing committee should serve on this ad hoc committee. Wolff asked what would happen if both arborists disagree? Santelli replied that Sibio is usually the arbiter. Sibio said that there is currently no procedure to follow if there is a dis-agreement, and he would like to see one instituted before a member incurs costs for an arborist. Wolff would like to see an information sheet in place to pres-ent to homeowners when they apply for a tree permit. By consensus, the Board directed Management to compile an addendum to the Tree-Permit Applica-tion.Ad hoc and Subcommittees of the Board:

Municipal Authority Task Force (no motions) – Spitzer reported that this committee met with the Board during Executive Session and recommended moving forward with forming an author-ity. He continued with a synopsis of the committee’s progress and announced that the authority’s official name will be

“Hemlock Farms Watershed Protection Authority.” He said that this committee will produce draft documents, includ-ing Memorandum of Understanding, Ordinance, Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws, and Management Agreement(s) that would define the authority for sub-mission to the Board for review (possi-bly mid-January).

Payment of BillsMOTION: To approve payment of bills

as listed in “Bills for Approval,” com-prised of $234,709.10 Community Asso-ciation, and $591,989.63 Water Company, for a grand total of $826,698.73. Spitzer/Wilshinsky Griffiths. Unanimous.

Awarding of ContractsThe Board deferred the contract for

printing of the Handbook and Annual Report until next month.

CommunicationsWolff reviewed a neighbor-to-neighbor

dispute letter from a resident. No Board action required.

Sibio reviewed the following:- Letter from Mark Bowen of Newell

Tereska & MacKay Engineering to Kevin White of PA DEP regarding the Flood Control, Water Quality, and Stormwater Project requesting an exten-sion of the resubmission deadline for the

GP-11 permit application.- “Caught in the Act” certificates for

Lis Baumann and PJ Bunce.- Letter from Lords Valley Country

Club (LVCC) requesting that the names of LVCC, Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company, The Church at Hemlock Farms, and Jewish Fellowship be displayed at the entrance to Hemlock Farms. Referred to the ad hoc Gateway Corridor Beautification Committee.

MiscellaneousNo one signed up to speak at Members’

Time.The Board’s punch list was reviewed,

and the meeting adjourned at 12:17 p.m. Wilshinsky Griffiths/Ferretti. Unani-mous.

XXXX

Mailbox Fee Increase

Eff ecti ve January 2016, the mailbox fee will

increase from $25 to $30. The cost has not increased since 2005.

0

200,000

400,000

600,000

800,000

1,000,000

1,200,000

1,400,000

BUDGET YEAR TO DATE ACTUAL YEAR TO DATE

0

50,000

100,000

150,000

200,000

250,000

300,000

350,000

400,000

450,000

500,000

BUDGET YEAR TO DATE ACTUAL YEAR TO DATE

HFCA


Wellness FairBy MARY BETH CONNORS and KATHIE WAIBEL

Photos by Kathie WaibelMargaret Lusardi speaks with Sean Szmal, Regional Manager of Geisinger Wellness Program, about wellness issues.”He was very informative,” smiled Margaret.

After a brisk walk up the steps to the clubhouse, Assistant Community Manager Dorisann Mooring has her blood pressure checked by Katie Mills, Wellness Specialist for Geisinger’s Eastern Region.”My blood pressure was great!” announced Dorisann.

Human Resource Specialist Fran Gavin with the donations she received from local business people.

Fran Gavin, left; Roger Howell, President of Howell Benefits Services; and Howell Benefits Director of Administrative Services Maureen M. Frey prepare for the presentation on employee health benefits.

Recreation Director John Wormuth has his blood pressure checked.”My blood pressure was perfect,” stated John.

On Friday, December 4, the Hemlock Farms Community Association (HFCA) held an open enrollment meeting for the HFCA staff. Included at this meeting was a “Wellness Fair.” A brisk walk up the stairs of the Steer Barn Clubhouse was encouraged, then staff members were able to have their blood pressure checked.

Representatives from Geisinger were there to answer questions about well-ness, and they supplied the staff with

brochures on tips for healthy eating and healthy living.

A presentation from Roger Howell, President of Howell Benefits Services, informed staff of the health and dental benefits as well as the flexible spending accounts that are available. Mr. Howell has been in this business for 36 years.

“We included a Wellness Fair in order to make this event more interesting for the staff,” said Human Resource Spe-cialist Fran Gavin.


FROM THE CHIEFBy Richard Hall, Fire Chief

PUBLIC SAFETY ACTIVITY SUMMARY FOR DECEMBER 2015

Happy New Year!You wouldn’t know with the great

weather we’ve had that it is winter! Con-ditions do change quickly in the North-east especially in the Pocono Mountains. Blinding, wind-driven snow, extreme cold, icy roads, and downed trees and power lines can accompany winter storms. Communication lines can be cut off, and access to emergency and medi-cal services may be severely limited once extreme weather hits. It’s important to know what to do before, during, and after a winter storm.

Before:Have your car winterized. This includes

having quality winter tires.Prepare a disaster-supply kit. Families

with children should have each child create their own personal pack.

Establish an out-of-area contact (such as a relative or family friend) who can coordinate family members’ locations and information should you become separated. Make sure children learn their phone numbers and addresses and the emergency plans. Prepare your home for the winter months. Install storm win-dows and shutters, and insulate attics and walls. Caulk and weather-strip doors and windows and wrap pipes with insu-lation.

During:A winter storm watch means conditions

are right for a severe storm to develop within 36 to 48 hours. Avoid going out-side or traveling—the safest place to be during a winter storm is indoors.

During a winter storm watch:Listen to the radio or TV, or log onto

weather-related Internet sites for the latest weather information.

Review your family’s disaster plan.Watch for changing weather condi-

tions.Move any pets or other animals to a

sheltered area (make sure they have water).

A winter storm warning means a life-threatening severe winter storm has begun or will begin within 24 hours. A

blizzard warning is issued when condi-tions are likely to produce deep drifts, life-threatening wind chills, and blind-ing snowfall.

During a winter storm or blizzard warning:

Listen for news and weather updates.Dress in many layers.Implement your disaster plan regard-

ing food, water, and supplies if you are unable to go out for a prolonged period.

To conserve fuel, lower the thermo-stat to 65° F during the day and 55° F at night.

If power goes out, you may be forced to find other means of keeping warm during the storm. Use only safe emer-gency-heat sources, such as a fireplace with a sturdy metal screen and a supply of wood; a well-vented wood, coal, or camp stove; or a portable space heater.

After:Use common sense before going out-

side after a storm. Dress warmly in many layers, and always wear a hat. Pro-tect your lungs by covering your mouth. Stretch before shoveling heavy snow, and remember to take breaks to avoid overexertion. Continue to listen to the news and weather updates.

Contributed photo

Present Month

Same Month Prev. Year

YTD YTDPrev. Year

Burglary 1 0 3 5

Theft 0 1 13 7

Driving While Impaired 0 2 17 17

Assault 0 0 0 3

Response to Fire Calls 3 5 54 69

Criminal Mischief 5 1 29 18

Weapons Offenses 0 0 0 0

Incidents at Gates 0 1 14 13

Harassment 1 0 8 4

Drug Abuse Violations 1 0 15 6

Domestic Disputes 1 3 13 25

Offenses Against Family & Children 0 0 0 0

Liquor Law Violations 0 0 0 2

Public Drunkenness 0 1 2 2

Disorderly Conduct 0 1 7 10

Trespass 0 0 5 3

Response to Alarms 8 12 167 167

Missing Persons / Run Away 0 0 4 3

Auto Accidents 1 3 50 36

Animal Incidents 0 2 8 24

Misc. Calls for Service (Patrol) 2,288 394 7,367 5,429

Medical Responses 25 22 436 430

Investigation of Persons 1 2 16 25

Investigation of Objects 0 0 16 17

Investigation of Properties 0 6 67 112

Investigation of Other Jurisdictions 0 1 4 5

All Other Incidents 11 12 127 130

Detex Checks 4,274 2,019 33,095 28,908

Check Association Facilities 8,957 7,572 85,161 79,070

House Checks 163 45 1,523 1,179

Citations 78 155 1,076 1,699

Written Warnings 37 57 499 703

Speeding Citations 8 15 148 188

Speeding Warnings 15 37 344 339

Commercial/Construction Citations 0 0 0 0

Commercial/Construction Warnings 0 0 0 1

Commonwealth Citations 0 0 0 0

Incidents with Involvement of PSP 5 6 58 58

Assist Fire & Ambulance 64 80 1,076 1,043

Assist Motorist 6 10 65 130

Traffic Stops 56 147 1,229 1,365

Misc. Calls Received by Dispatcher 2,288 3,021 38,894 37,782

Visitor Entry Calls 7,967 6,823 96,115 85,016

Total Gate Passes Issued 8,353 7,463 93,367 93,763

Vehicle Report: PS 1 – Traveled2,048 PS 4 – Traveled:2,559 PS 2 – Traveled:1,136 PS 5 – Traveled:3,545 PS 3 – Traveled: 4,347 PS 6 – Traveled:2,855

Total miles driven: December, 2015: 16,490 December, 2014: 14,565Total miles driven: YTD: 181,793 Previous YTD: 170,603


COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES


Bill Payment ResponsiblityFailure to receive your dues or water bill does not relieve you of your responsibility to pay on

a timely basis.2016 dues bills and fourth-quarter

water bills will be mailed in January.If you have a question, please call the

HFCA Office at 570/775-4200.

If Fed Ex or UPS has left a package at

your home that does not belong to you, please do

the following:If it is a FedEx package,

call 1-800-Go Fedex.If it is a UPS package, call 1-800-Pick UPS. You should not bring these

items to the Hemlock Farms Mail Room as the USPS cannot

deliver these packages.

Refuse Recycling Center Holiday Hours

Martin Luther King Day WeekendSaturday and Sunday, January 16 and 17

10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.Monday, January 187:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.

Presidents’ Day WeekendSaturday and Sunday, February 13 and 14

10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.Monday, February 157:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.

Enjoy Curbside Single-Stream Recycling

Recyclables can be placed together in the same bin! No sorting required!

Glass, Plastic #1-7 (except all foam), Aluminum, Steel Cans, Clean Foil,

Aluminum Pie Plates, Paper, Cardboard

The recycling can must be labeled for recycling.The recycling can must be securely covered.

Call 570/729-8125 if trash has not been picked up.

RECYCLING PICK UP DATES 1/18 2/1 2/15 2/29

3/14 3/28 4/11 4/25

Recyclables can be placed together in the Recyclables can be placed together in the same bin! No sorting required!

Glass, Plastic #1-7 (except all foam), Aluminum, Steel Cans, Clean Foil,

Aluminum Pie Plates, Paper, Cardboard

TIMELY PAYMENTS

The HFCA accounting department has noticed that a mailed check could take 5-7 days to reach us.

Banks can take 7-10 days to process and mail payment requests when using online banking. PayLease

payments initiated on the website can take 3-5 days to process before we receive payment. Please keep this in mind when you are paying

your bills in order to avoid late fees.

Thank you!

ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEEDecember 5, 2015Present: Robert Davis, Greg Lawless, Jim O’Brien,

Michael Saffarewich, Nick Santelli, Sally Schwartz Jan Sussman, Mara Zibrin

Staff: Director of Community Conservation Marian Keegan

Guest: Cindy RaaenDiscussions followed on the Natural Resource Code

and the fact that process in the tree replacement sec-tions 154-1 and 154-2 has developed certain procedures that should be codified

MOTION: Santelli/Zibrin: The Environment Committee recommends to the Board that Chap-ter 154, The Natural Resource Code, Section 154-1 Tree Regulations - generally be revised to include a section I, the tree permit application includes HFCA providing a certified arborist, at no cost to the applicant, to conduct the field inspection of the trees listed on the tree permit application. Following that inspection by the HFCA certified arborist, the applicant can elect to hire and compensate a certi-fied arborist of their choice to conduct their own tree risk assessment. UNANIMOUS

Rationale: Presently, HFCA tree inspections are per-formed by a certified arborist. This motion codifies that practice and in addition, provides the homeowner with a choice of hiring their own certified arborist.

MOTION: Byrnes/Schwartz: The Environment Committee recommends to the Board that Chap-ter 154, The Natural Resource Code, 154-2 Tree Removal Permits, be revised to include a section C tree replacement credits. An owner who has planted

trees and shrubs on their property within 2 years of the tree permit application will receive credit for those plantings as per requirements in Section 154-2 B. UNANIMOUS

Rationale: Presently, HFCA provides this credit pro-cedure and this motion codifies that procedure.

Monarch Butterfly Habitat classified as a “Group” by the Board.

FINANCE COMMITTEEDecember 5, 2015Present: Lyn Attreed, George Barbier, Neil Barmann,

Michael Cerullo, John Chapman, Leo Kelly, Anthony Licchi, Lee Oakes, James Pellechia, Pat Quinn, Michael Schul, Michael Spitzer, Jan Sussman, Anne Marie Zenie

Staff: Community Manager Mike Sibio, Assistant Community Manager Dorisann Mooring, Comptroller Ann Marie Drake

Review of 2015 Budget before AdoptionManagement provided information regarding the pur-

chase of a light tower to be used for Recreation outdoor events or by Public Works staff as needed.

MOTION: Chapman/Licchi: To recommend to the Board to add $7,000 to Line 495.500, Capital Expense-Recreation for the purchase of a light tower (from the preferred list). BY CONSENSUS

Rationale: This equipment will aid in workplace safety as well as members’ safety at events.

The committee discussed the Board-approved motion to allow members to purchase barcode stickers for their permanent visitors at an annual fee of $50.

HFCA

HFCA

HFCA

HFCA

HFCA


coMMittee MinutesContinued from page 24

The Bridge over Shohola Creek on Route 739 is now

OPEN!The bridge officially opened on

Friday, December 18, 2015.


Dollar amounts do not match

Dollar gure incomplete

A NOTE TO MEMBERS:When writing out your checks, please be careful that your numeric dollar amount matches what you write in as the dollar value, and sign and date checks properly. The office is receiving a high volume of checks made out containing ERRORS. If checks are not filled out correctly by the member, HFCA will return the check back to the member, causing delays in payments. Also, please use either blue or black ink when writing checks; no red, green, or any other color. Thank you, The Administration Staff

Other business: The committee received an up-to-date listing of Special Payment Plans. By consensus, the Finance Committee agreed with Management’s rec-ommendations. It was noted that Special Payment Plans are helping with collections and have improved cash flow this year.

OPPI COMMITTEENovember 28, 2015Present: George Barbier, Debbie Barmann, Jeff Fer-

retti, Bernie Hoffman, Vicki Lawless, David Malinov, Phyllis Malinov, Georgene Snyder, Michael Spitzer, Rita Spitzer

Staff: Hemlock News Coordinator Mary Beth Con-nors, Hemlock News Assistant Kathie Waibel

MKmedia: Connie Kern, Lori MaloneRita Spitzer discussed the Advertising Subcommittee

report.MOTION: Barbier/Snyder: The OPPI Committee

requests that the Board of Directors approve initiat-ing the Community Ambassador program by Janu-ary 1, 2016. UNANIMOUS

The committee recommends that Community Ambas-sadors attend the next New Neighbor afternoon event.

PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEEDecember 5, 2015Present: Peter D’Alauro, Andy DiGuardia, Gus

Howing, George Schmitt, Art Sussman, Michael Zibrin

Board Liaison: Pete Ferris

Staff: Director of Public Works/Engineering Doug Berg

Doug Berg reported on the progress on the Well #4 Water Treatment Plant, the 2015 Water Main Replace-ment project, and the 739 Collection and Septic System replacement project.

Michael Zibrin reported on the Flood Control Project; a lengthy discussion ensued about the need for contin-ued public education and the status of various aspects of the project—particularly easement acquisition and the concept of a municipal authority formation.

Source Water Protection: Doug reported that two wells (Gateway Building and Well 70) have been sealed.

RECREATION COMMITTEEDecember 6, 2015Present: Joe Barca, Jill Blessington, Carol Comando,

Diane Gentile, Jen Passenti, Linda Polizzi, Cindy Raaen, Rita Ruth, Cheryl Schmitt, Sally Schwartz, Jami Sloan, Bob Stoller

Staff: Director of Recreation John WormuthGuests: James O’Brien, Scott HillmanRecreation Directors Report:John advised us that the Pickleball Club was

approved.Discussions took place regarding the following:The Hemlock Farms Computer Club.The minimum age requirements to utilize The Fit-

ness Center.A pilot program for children 6th grade and up utiliz-

ing the Fitness Center and report back to this commit-tee.

Update from Public Works regarding the structure/multipurpose building

The Day Camp Building improvements. Funding would be requested from CIF.

Effective January 4, 2016, the Fitness Center will be open all day

January 12-14, 2016, the pool will be closed to install the UV system.

HFCA CODE CHAPTER 220SNOWPLOWING

220-2 Snow Plowing onto HFCA Property ProhibitedIt is prohibited to place snow removed from driveways or parking pads on the HFCA roadway or right of way other than at the mouth of the driveway.Per HFCA Code Chapter 1 – Adoption and Enforcement 1-2b: A $25 fine will be assessed for this violation.

It is imperative that, when you encounter a snow removal vehicle at an intersection, to

stay 75 to 100 feet from the front and back of the equipment. These vehicles make sudden

stops, turns, and backing-up maneuvers.

IMPORTANT: Drivers following too closely will be fined by Public Safety.

HFCA

HFCAHFCA


OFFICE OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK.

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OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT

Gateway at Hemlock Farms 657 Route 739 • Lords Valley, PA 18428

Contact: 570/775-4200, ext. 125Community Manager: [email protected]

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.

You may submit your question:1. In the Hemlock Farms drop box at the Mail Room2. In the front door mail slot at the Administration Office3. Email Mary Beth Connors at [email protected]. Call Mary Beth Connors at 570/775-4200, ext. 121

WEBSITE WATCHBy Lis Baumann, Website Administrator

Happy New Year! To coincide with the mailing

of the 2016 annual dues statements, here is a refresher course on setting up a user account on the members’ website:

• Go to www.hemlockfarms.org and click “Members Login.” You will be redirected to the Sign-In/Sign-Up page. Existing website users sign in on the left side of the page, and new users sign up on the right by clicking “New User? Sign Up Today.”

• New users should enter their first and last names in the boxes provided on the signup form, then enter their Hemlock Farms physical street address (the three-digit house number followed by the actual Hemlock Farms street address) in the next field. Leave the Unit # field blank, type Lords Valley for the city, PA for the state, and 18428 for the ZIP.

• Create a user name and password, confirm the password, and enter a valid email address so that we can reach you if your log-in attempt was unsuccessful.

• Click your agreement to the website’s terms and conditions and, from there, you should be able to log in to the web-site.

Paying water bills and dues on the web-site requires that an additional account be set up with PayLease. Instructions are as follows:

• Once logged in at the members’ web-site, select the Site Map or hover your mouse over the Home menu option.

• Choose “Dues and Water Informa-tion” in the dropdown menu.

• Select “Pay Your Dues and Water Online Here.”

• When the payment screen opens, select which payment type you would like to use (electronic check or credit card). Fees for the two types are: $2.95 per electronic check (ACH transaction), 3% per credit card transaction, or 4% if using American Express.

• In the pop-up screen, select “Click here to continue making your payment.”

• If you haven’t yet registered with Pay-Lease, click “New Users Registration,” input the requested information, then click “Create Account.”

• Once registered, you will be directed to the “Make a Payment Now” page. Enter the amount you would like to pay. You may specify the type of payment (dues or water) in the Notes section. The fees for using PayLease will be calcu-lated on the next screen after you enter your payment, and you will have time to review the total before you submit.

As always, anyone who has questions is encouraged to contact the website administrator at [email protected].

Water Billing Period Water Usage Period Water Billing Date

1st Quarter Jan–Mar April

2nd Quarter Apr–June July

3rd Quarter July–Sept October

4th Quarter Oct–Dec January

Due to the possibility of severely frigid temperatures, homeowners should make sure that their home has

sufficient heat so that pipes won’t freeze.If there are heaters in your crawl space,

make sure to check that they are operating.During sub-zero temperatures, open your faucet and

let a trickle of water flow to prevent frozen lines.

ARE YOU LEAVING HEMLOCK FARMS FOR THE WINTER?To schedule

SEASONAL WATER SERVICE TURN-OFFplease contact the Water Company at 570-775-4200, ext. 113,

24 to 48 hours before your return to Hemlock Farms.Someone MUST be present in your home for the turn-off appointment.

Basic charge $75

per quarter

Fourth-quarter water bills will be mailed in January. Payment is due within 30 days.

Failure to receive your bill does not relieve you of your responsibility to pay on a timely basis.

If you have any questions, please call the HFCA Office at 570/775-4200, ext 113.

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

Thanks to your vigilance, we have helped make this Community safer!g

HFCA

HFCA

HFCA

HFCA


AGENDA

REGULAR BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING JANUARY 23, 2016

8:30 A.M. AT THE STEER BARN CLUBHOUSE • 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 (½) HOUR

I. Quorum Roll Call

II. Approval of Minutes of Previous Meetings

A. Regular Board Meeting of December 12, 2015:

MOTION: _____/____ - To accept the minutes of Regular Board Meeting of December 12, 2015, as submitted/corrected/amended.

VOTING: Aye ____ Nay ____ Abstain ____

B. Executive Session Meeting of December 12, 2015:

MOTION:_____/______ - To accept the minutes of the Executive Session Meeting of December 12, 2015, as submitted/corrected/amended.


C. Budget Adoption Meeting of December 12, 2015:

MOTION:_____/______ - To accept the minutes of the Budget Adoption Meeting of December 12, 2015, as submitted/corrected/amended.


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. Official Publication and Public Information B. Finance C. Planning, Land Use, and Architecture D. Public Health, Safety and Security E. Public Works and Physical Properties F. Recreation G. Elections H. Appeals I. Environment J. Ad hoc and Subcommittees of the Board: 1. Real Estate 2. Gateway Corridor Beautification 3. Source Water Protection Steering 4. Project Funding 5. Municipal Authority Task Force 6. ALS/EMS Oversight 7. Human Resource 8. RESERVED 9. Financial Management Planning 10. RESERVED 11. RESERVED 12. Audit Oversight 13. Flood Control and Water Quality

Stormwater Project 14. RESERVED 15. Exploring Ways to Increase Revenue 16. Archives Preservation 17. RESERVED 18. Information Technology

VI. Payment of Bills

A. MOTION:_____/_____ - To approve payment of bills as listed in the report “Bills for Approval” at the Board Meeting of

January 23, 2015, comprised of $ _______ Community Association, and $ ______ Water Company, for a grand total of $ ________.

VII. Awarding of Contracts

A. MOTION: ______/_____ - That the Board award the contract for Printing of Handbook and Annual Report to _________ at a cost of $______.

B. MOTION: ______/_____ - That the Board award the contract for Clubhouse Security to _______________ at a cost of $______.

VIII. Second Reading______ Underscoring denotes new wording.--------- Dashes denote deleted wording.

IX. Unfinished Business

A. Semi-annual Review of Executive Session Minutes.

X. New Business

XI. First Reading______ Underscoring denotes new wording.--------- Dashes denote deleted wording.

XII. Communications

A. Written

B. Oral

XIII. Miscellaneous

XIV. Adjournment

HFCA

The Administration Offi ce will be distributing

the 2016 Handbook as you pick up your

Recreation Badges and 2016 Mirror Stickers.

Recreation Badges and Mirror Stickerswill be available for pickup at the Administration Office

beginning Sunday, April 3. In order to pick up the badges, you must be a member in good standing for all the

properties you own. You may obtain 2016 mirror stickers for all your vehicles at one

time by bringing the vehicle registrations or photocopies of registrations.

2015 Recreation Badges will be honored at the Clubhouse until Monday, April 18, 2016.

HFCA

H E M L O C K N E W S J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 • 29CONSERVANCY NEWSCONSERVANCY NEWS..........................................................................

Hemlock Farms Conservancy (HFC) has bear books available as a fundraiser. COST TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATIONA Whistler Bear Story $14.95 $6.71BEAR-OLOGY $19.95 $9.21Joy of Bears $19.95 $9.21Living With Bears $24.00 $10.21

The purchase of these books supports HFC, helping to bring educational programs to the community and surrounding area.

Photo by Kathie WaibelNature’s Children Director Kelly Stagen, left, Nature’s Children Aide Sidney Colwell, and Sidney’s brother Jaden prepare to ship the filled TerraCycle package.

TerraCycleBy KATHIE WAIBEL

In August 2015, at the Hemlock Farms Conservancy dinner, one of the items in the silent auction was a recycle box from TerraCycle. Jeff Ferretti won the box, then donated it to Nature’s Children.

Under the direction of Kelly Stagen, the youngsters from the Nature’s Children program and the Day Campers brought in items that are not regularly accepted for recycle, such as yogurt cups, dried-out markers, a vinyl tarp, children’s toys, video tapes, dental-floss containers, and more. The box was filed and shipped back to TerraCycle in December.

TerraCycle is a highly awarded inter-national upcycling and recycling com-pany that collects difficult-to-recycle packaging and products and repurposes the material into affordable, innovative products.

TerraCycle works with more than 100 major brands in the U.S. and 22 coun-tries overseas to collect used packag-ing and products that would otherwise be destined for landfills. The company repurposes that waste into new, innova-

tive materials and products that are avail-able on line and through major retailers.

More information about TerraCycle, recycling, and the products that have been produced can be found at www. terracycle.com.

Ship your waste back to TerraCycle using the pre-paid shipping label that is either pre-affixed to your box or printed from your TerraCycle account.The waste will be recycled by TerraCycle into new products.For additional boxes or supplies, visit www.terrracycle.com or call 1-866/967-6766.

FUNDRAISERSFUNDRAISERS

Images of Hemlock Farms

The Hemlock Farms Conservancy is a tax exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code.

Contributions are tax deductible to the extent allowed by the IRS. Images by Kathie Waibel

CoastersFour-coaster sets (two sets shown) handmade from trash CDs and DVDs. A beautiful way to recycle into something useful, $15/set.

Available at the Administration Offi ce.Checks payable to Hemlock Farms Conservancy.

Tax deductible portion of each tick key is $2, of each card pack is $8.50, and of each coasters set is $15.

Greeting Cards A package of fi ve greeting cards with nine scenic images of Hemlock Farms on recycled semi-gloss paper with spank space inside for a personal note suitable for any occasion, $13.50.

Tote Bag Shopping bag available, $2.

NEW TICK KEYS IN

MANY COLORS!

Tick Key An easy-to-use tick removal device, 99% effective on the removal of all sizes & types of ticks, $5.

http://www.terracycle.com

http://www.terracycle.com

30 • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 H E M L O C K N E W SCONSERVANCY NEWS

By KATHIE WAIBEL

As 2016 begins, the Hemlock Farms Conservancy (HFC) wants to review the highlights of 2015. One of HFC’s objec-tives is to bring educational programs to Hemlock Farms residents. HFC works to implement programs that conserve, pro-tect, and sustain our environment.

JanuaryHFC began the year by publishing an

educational article on recycling house-hold batteries. The article outlined the different types of batteries and where they can safely be recycled.

Recycling BatteriesThe following batteries can be taken to one of our Pennsylvania’s Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Program events.

Alkaline and Zinc Carbon Batteries

Nickel Metal Hydride Batteries

Nickel Zinc Batteries

Lithium Ion Batteries

Lithium Button Cell Batteries

Silver Oxide Batteries

Zinc-Air Batteries

The Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program webpage at http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/household/14079/hhw_collection_programs/589595, contains a complete list of these HHW collection events.

WARNING: BATTERIES CAN CAUSE FIRES!All batteries (even those you might think are “dead”) that are lying around loose in your kitchen junk drawer, or in your pocketbook, or placed in your trash for disposal, can cause a catastrophic fire if the terminals are accidentally “bridged” by each other or by any metal object, such as a paperclip or a pen. Never allow batteries to be in contact with each other or with any metal object. For more information on batteries causing house fires, Google these three words: batteries cause fires

FebruaryOn February 8, HFC invited PPL’s

E-Power team to Hemlock Farms. Infor-mation on money-saving tips was pro-vided via a power point presentation and printed material was distributed.

May

AprilOn Sunday, April 19, the first Earth

Day Event was held in the Conference Center and Orchard House. There was an art show featuring landscapes in Hemlock Farms, the 4-H Club had a workshop on planting, and the Environ-ment Committee introduced the concept of a Monarch Butterfly Garden project. Members from HFC, the Landscape Club, the Fishing and Boating Club, the Library, the Scouts, the Archives Pres-ervation Committee, Food and Friends, and Brewster Gardens had displays and information available for all who vis-ited. Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company served refreshments and offered tours of one of their equip-ment trucks.

Saturday, May 9, HFC welcomed Director of the Delaware Valley Raptor Center Bill Streeter, who brought his Birds of Prey to Hemlock Farms.

JuneA full day of fun sponsored by HFC, the

Community Conservation Department and the Recreation Department was held on Environmental Day, Sunday, June 28. 5,361 lbs. of electronic waste was collected, a guided kayak and boat tour of Hemlock Lake took place, a beach BBQ was held at Little Camp Beach, Dr. Walter Jahn conducted a pond study at Wish for a Fish Pond and, in the evening, the movie “Chasing Ice” was shown at the Steer Barn Clubhouse.

Continued on next page

The Year in Review

H E M L O C K N E W S J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 • 31CONSERVANCY NEWS

2016 NATURE EVENTSEarth Day CelebrationSunday, April 24Orchard House & Conference Center. Displays from various nature-related clubs & groups. Art show featuring art using recycled materials.

Firewise DaySaturday, May 7, noon-2 p.m.HFVF&R Company, Station 29. More details will follow.

E-Waste DaySaturday, June 25, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Advance Recovery at Public Works,$10 per CRT unit (any electronics with a cathode ray, i.e.: TVs, computer monitors) is payable at drop-off location, all other electronics accepted for free.

Environment DaySunday, June 26Kayak & Boat Tour of Hemlock Lake led by Dr. Walter Jahn & Peter Talman, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Additional events TBD.

“Home Movies of Wildlife in Hemlock Farms”Dr. Walter Jahn. Time & location TBD.

Live Reptiles & AmphibiansFriday, July 1, 8 p.m.Steer Barn Clubhouse, free. We welcome the return of Pocono Naturalist/WNEP Rick Koval! See & touch an assortment of critters. Learn about their habitat, diet, range, & many interesting facts.

Birds of PreySunday, July 10, 1 p.m. Steer Barn Clubhouse, free. Bill Streeter is an educator & Director of the Delaware Valley Raptor Center. He has rescued, rehabilitated, & released many raptors. Bill brings those raptors who were not able to be released (due to the extent of their injuries) on tour to educate audiences.

Plants & MushroomsSunday, August 28, 1 p.m.Hemlock Trail. Meet in the Mail Room parking lot & explore the forest along the Hemlock Trail. Herbalist Nathaniel Whitmore will point out many edible & medicinal plants, including many types of mushrooms. Wear sturdy shoes, bring bug spray & water for a short hike.

Bears of Hemlock Farms Sunday, October 16, 1 p.m.Steer Barn Clubhouse. Wildlife Consultant/Bear Expert Dr. Gary Alt is a biologist who studied the bears living in Pike County for many years. He has completed a detailed study on generations of bears that lived and denned in Hemlock Farms. View a PowerPoint presentation.

June (continued) AugustO n S a t u r d ay,

August 22, herbal-ist Nathaniel Whit-m o r e g u i d e d a group of people on a hike on the Hem-lock Trail where the par t icipants learned about some of the native plants and mushrooms. There were even edible mushrooms discovered!

OctoberOn October 18, Dr.

Gary Alt, former PA Game Commission Biologist, gave an inter-esting and amusing lec-ture and slide show illus-trating his early career studying the black bears of Pike County. Most of his research was done in and near Hemlock Farms.

During June, the vision of a Monarch Butterfly Garden became a reality with the dedicated members of the Environ-ment Committee, the Community Con-servation Department, Hemlock Farms Conservancy, the Public Works Depart-ment, and volunteer members of the community.

July

On Friday, July 3, Pocono Naturalist Rick Koval brought many of his reptiles and amphibians to the Steer Barn Club-house. Rick teaches about the habitat, diet, and anatomy of many local reptiles and amphibians.

A week later, on Friday, July 8, HFC hosted i t s second annual fundraiser dinner at Lords Valley Country Club. Guest speaker Executive Director of the Pike County Conservation

District Sally Corrigan praised the Con-servancy for monitoring conservation issues such as water quality and forest health in Pike County.

NovemberIn November, the Conser-

vancy proudly announced the introduction of the Brewster Environmental Scholarship. This $1,000 scholarship is open to any Delaware Val ley, East Stroudsburg, or Wallenpau-pack School District high school senior who plans on furthering his/her educa-tion in the natural sciences.

BREWSTER ENVIRONMENTAL

SCHOLARSHIPAPPLICATION OVERVIEWThe Brewster Environmental Scholarship is a $1,000 award that was established in 2015 to assist college-bound high school seniors who excel in their studies and who plan to use their talents and expertise in the service of environmental protection. Each year, one winner is selected to receive this scholarship.

SCHOLARSHIP ELIGIBILITYThe student plans to attend an accredited college or university for the fall semester, plans to major or minor in one of the natural sciences or other appropriate subject, and demonstrates a strong personal commitment to the environment and environmental sciences.

Applications must be received by the Hemlock Farms Conservancy, 3737 Hemlock Farms, Lords Valley, PA 18428, or [email protected]

by Earth Day, April 22, 2016.

Question? Contact Kathie at 570/775-4200, ext. 138.

32 • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 H E M L O C K N E W SENVIRONMENT NEWS...........................................................................ENVIRONMENT NEWS

Photo by Kathie WaibelDid you think that the bears were hibernating just because it’s December? During warm winters, bears delay hibernation and continue to be out and about searching for food. Don’t let your guard down! Always be vigilant about your garbage.

“Keep Our Wildlife Wild” Campaign Continues

Feeding wildlife is dead wrong. It’s also against HFCA Code Chapter 102. Allowing wild animals access to human food and garbage can be deadly. Human food will make wild animals sick. Also, wild animals fear people, keep a distance, and will not bother you—so long as they remain truly wild. If they have access to human food and garbage, they want more. Then, their natural ways are ruined. When their normal wildness and fear of humans is lost, conflicts occur.Keep them wild.

In doubt about what to do? Call the HFCA Department of Community Conservation at 570-775-4200, ext. 127, or visit these websites: www.pgc.org, www.bearsmart.org, www.keepmewild.org

KEEP OURWILDLIFE WILDMind Your Trash Black bears and other wildlife are your neighbors, too. • Never feed human food or garbage to wildlife • Properly dispose of garbage at the Refuse

Recycle Center or the morning of trash collection • Always store food and scented products indoors • Feed pets indoors • Bring in bird feeders at night and when away • Supervise pets and small children at all times





This message is supported by the Hemlock Farms Community Association and the Hemlock Farms Conservancy.

By MARIAN KEEGAN, Director of Community Conservation

Did you know that during “normal” winters, when temperatures are freez-ing, bears come out from their hiberna-tion sites on warm days?

What happens when we have a warmer winter like this year? Bears delay hiber-nation. Bears will continue to search for food longer into the late fall and winter months, and stay inside their dens in a state of hibernation for less time.

Here’s another tidbit worth knowing. The bears in Pike County are big! Pike County hunters usually harvest high numbers of bears that are well over 700 pounds. What does that mean for Hem-lock Farms?

Hemlock Farms is surrounded by state forests and private hunting grounds, and our community is bear habitat. If you

read Dr. Gary Alt’s bear report (found on the HFCA website or in the Hemlock Farms Library) or attended his presen-tation last year in the Steer Barn Club-house, you know that Hemlock Farms has long been a home to bears. Also, Hemlock Farms has a history of learning how to live with bears by allowing them to den, search for natural food, and raise their young. You may have been blessed to observe bears in the community as they roam about.

Have you been caught off guard by bears still rummaging through your gar-bage? Now that the bears have extended their “food gathering” into the winter months, remain vigilant stewards of all wildlife. Manage your garbage! Don’t litter. Secure your garbage cans inside structures. Wait to put trash out until the morning of collection day in securely closed containers or dispose of your

Contributed graphicThis poster, and several other varieties of this poster, appear at HFCA facilities to remind members and guests to “Keep Our Wildlife Wild.”

By MARIAN KEEGAN, Director of Community Conservation

A year ago, the HFCA Department of Community Conservation began an educational campaign to “Keep Our Wildlife Wild” by improving the way the commu-nity handles its trash. The program culminated with a presentation at the Steer Barn Clubhouse by the world-renowned bear biologist Dr. Gary Alt, who did his orig-inal bear research in Hemlock Farms. The campaign will continue this year so that conflicts with wildlife are lessened.

Here’s what we did last year:• Designed, developed, and printed several varieties

of a beautiful and colorful poster that urged members and guests to “Keep Our Wildlife Wild.” This poster is prominently displayed at several facilities as an urgent and constant reminder not to feed the wildlife, and how to mind our trash.

• Designed, developed, printed, and distributed a pam-phlet, “Homeowner’s and Renter’s Guide to Living with Bears in Hemlock Farms.” This is packed full of concise ways and reasons about living peacefully with bears.

• Sourced, purchased, and installed two outdoor recy-clable/trash receptacles that are animal resistant. These receptacles are for use by members and guests when recreating outdoors. Household garbage is not to be dis-posed into these receptacles!

• Redesigned and rebuilt animal-resistant lids for large outdoor trash bins, or handled the trash indoors.

• HFCA commissioned a study by Dr. Alt to update and document all the bear dens in the historical record that were noted in Hemlock Farms. The report is avail-able on the HFCA website and in the Hemlock Farms Library.

• The Hemlock Farms Conservancy sponsored a pre-sentation, “The Bears of Hemlock Farms and Beyond,” by Dr. Alt at the Steer Barn on October 18 that pre-sented his study, stories about his early research, and an educational look at the eight species of bears in the world.

This year, the bear guide will be made available to new members and distributed throughout the commu-nity at facilities and events. The wildlife posters will be displayed prominently at facilities as a constant reminder. More animal-resistant recyclable/trash con-tainers will be purchased and installed at outdoor facili-ties for use by members and guests. HFCA will look at ways to responsibly handle trash generated at facilities. Dr. Alt will be commissioned by HFCA to further study the bears in Hemlock Farms by tracing familial lines from mother to daughter, and the Hemlock Farms Con-servancy will sponsor a presentation of his findings in an entertaining and educational presentation (see 2016 Nature Events on page 31 for details).

Don’t let these efforts fall by the wayside. Do your part to manage your trash and don’t feed the wildlife!

Warm Winter Bears

trash at the Refuse Recycle Center. Use HFCA trash receptacles according to proper use and code. Never dispose of

your household trash at HFCA facilities. Separate your trash from recyclables at designated receptacles.

H E M L O C K N E W S J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 • 33ENVIRONMENT NEWS

HFCA plans to remove accumulated sediment from McConnell Lake and Willow Pond beginning in the spring of 2016 as soon as conditions are oper-able and government approval has been obtained.

A slurry of sediment will be suctioned from the bottom of the lake and pond using pumps, then the slurry will be pumped through pipes to settling tanks. Pumps will be on floating barges, and barges will be moved around with a pon-toon-type boat. Spill-prevention mea-sures will be in place to prevent release of fuels and oil, and to contain accidental releases. Pipes will be laid and floated across the surface of the water. The main pipeline generally will be down the middle of the lake with side lines from the shoreline. Crossing areas for boat traffic will be designated. Settling tanks will be located in a section of the park-ing lot at Laurel Ridge. Erosion and sedi-mentation structures will be properly in place. Clear water from the settling tank will be returned to McConnell Lake. Vac trucks will remove the dewatered sediment and transport it to the disposal site located on Belgian Way. Once dried, the sediment will be available for use by

SEDIMENT-REMOVAL PROJECT UPDATE ON McCONNELL LAKE AND WILLOW POND





HFCA NOTICE

members and HFCA for landscaping and gardening.

At this time, Laurel Ridge will remain open for swimming, bathing, boating, and fishing. However, the full capacity for using Laurel Ridge and enjoyment of all the resources at the facility will be temporarily affected until operations, including restorations, are completed. Water quality, fish habitat, and the facili-ties at Laurel Ridge and on Willow Pond will be monitored throughout the proj-ect.

Engineering drawings for the project are available for viewing at the Admin-istration Office.

Questions or concerns?Contact Director of Community Conservation Marian Keegan, 570/775-4200, ext.127. Guests are welcome to bring concerns and comments to the Environment Committee meetings that are scheduled for January 9, February 6, March 5, April 2, May 7, and June 4. The meetings begin at 8:30 a.m. in the Orchard House.

Caution!Firewood or

Nursery Stock may be Infested with

Bad Bugs or Disease!!

Avoid moving firewood in or out of Hemlock Farms,

or use local wood.Be very cautious when buying nursery stock!

HFCA

Photo by abundantnature.com, Insert photo by mortonarb.orgMany small dark bumps on the twigs of our oak trees is a sign of a severe infestation of the lecanium oak scale.

Honeydew Rain From Insects on Our Oak TreesBy MARIAN KEEGAN, Director of

Community Conservation

Honeydew is a liquid waste produced by the lecanium scale insect that feeds on sap from the twigs of our trees, and exude the honeydew. Sap is the carbo-hydrate energy needed by trees to sur-vive, grow, and reproduce. Honeydew is rich in sugar and leaves a shiny coat-ing where it lands. Then, black sooty mold grows on the honeydew and stains our cars, decks, outdoor furniture, tree leaves, and shrubbery. If the scale con-tinues to suck the sap from our oak trees, the oak trees may die.

Normally, this scale insect does not reach nuisance or damaging infestation levels. The scale insect is natural to our forests. Predators, such as a tiny wasp and the larvae of the lady bug beetle, eat the scale insects and keep the scale population low.

However, the lecanium scale popula-tion has increased to very high numbers in our area. Controlling the lecanium scale can be challenging and may need to be repeated over several seasons. Moni-toring the level of infestation and proper timing of insecticide applications is a major key to success. HFCA is develop-ing monitoring and treatment strategies for oak trees around the community.

Two methods are usually recom-mended. A “basal bark method” and a “crown spray method.” A “basal bark method” uses the insecticide dinotefuran

(“Safari”) that is applied to the trunks of trees when it is not raining. A “crown spray method” uses horticultural oil that is applied to the crown or leaves of trees when the scale insect is vulnerable to the horticultural oil. The scale is vulnerable to horticultural oil when dormant or in the “crawler” stage. The concentration rates of horticultural oil are different for dormant applications and crawler stage, so a certified pest applicator/Certified Arborist should be hired to do the work. Not using the right concentration could damage the tree if it is too high, or waste your money if it is too low!

The basal bark method is generally more costly, but one application may be effective for several years. One strategy to address this infestation would be to treat only large infested oak trees around the home using the basal bark method. The many trees in the forested part of your wooded lot may survive the severe infestation until the predator population increases. Or, you can use the crown spray method on as many trees as you can afford. Or, a combina-tion of basal bark method (dinotefuran) on the trees near your home and crown spray method (horticultural oil) on other trees on your wooded lot.

In coming months, I’ll talk about another sap-sucking insect attacking our hemlock trees, and a complex of dis-eases attacking our spruce and fir trees.

Contact Director of Community Con-servation Marian Keegan at 570/775-4200, ext. 127, if you have questions.

34 • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 H E M L O C K N E W SENVIRONMENT NEWS

LIGHTINGPLEASE KEEP YOUR LIGHT

ON YOUR PROPERTYHFCA follows “Dark Skies” guidelines.

The Board of Directors encourages every member to comply with these guidelines.

• Residents should minimize the use of floodlights and other high intensity lighting which trespass onto neighboring properties. Use shielding and direct floodlights down-ward at an angle greater than 45 degrees so that it illuminates only the area directly below the light source. A fully shielded light cannot be seen from the same elevation as the light source. Walkway lights instead of floodlights provide the necessary illumina-tion without the glare.

• Lights which are on a timer and on all night can be an annoyance to your neighbors. And, even if motion-sensitive lights are working correctly, these lights may go on and off all night long due to nearby tree branches, the movement of animals, or passing vehicles.

• Consider turning off your outside lights when you are in for the night.

• Each homeowner should ensure that every outdoor lighting fixture on their property is providing only the amount of illumination necessary for the required task.

As you consider ways to secure your home from thieves, remember the research and guidelines from dark skies. Constantly lit bright flood lights don’t deter thieves because they can hide in the shadows of the bright lights. If you use flood lights with a motion detector, make sure that the light is properly shielded so that the light shines only on your property.

Websites for sky-friendly lighting: www.starrynightlights.com

www.darksky.org

TREESTREE REMOVALS

Code Chapter 154: A tree-removal permit is required to remove any tree that may be dead or alive and hazardous to your property. The permit is free but there is a $250 per tree fine for removing a tree without a permit.

If you want to remove a tree that has been determined by the inspector to be non-exempt, you must submit a Tree Replacement Plan and it must be approved before non-exempt trees can be removed.

Courtesy Tree Flagging to mark your trees available at HFCA.

USE LOCAL FIREWOODBe cautious when buying firewood (or

nursery stock), outside of Hemlock Farms, as it may be infested with bad bugs or disease.

WATERKEEP OUR DRINKING WATER CLEAN

The HFCA Source Water Protection Com-mittee advises the Board of Directors about protecting our wells and drinking water. Please help by informing the HFCA Office of locations of materials on their property that may be harmful to the Hemlock Farms Water System such as: wells, geothermal wells, bore holes, underground propane, gasoline, oil storage tanks, dumpsites or chemical storage.

CAR WASHINGWater from residential driveway or fund-

raising car wash events typically runs down the street or parking lot and into the nearest pond or storm swale. This wastewater may carry detergents, trace amounts of metals, and small amounts of fuels and automotive fluids. Because this water goes untreated into the nearest body of water, it has the potential to harm fish and other aquatic life, or pollute our drinking water. Wash your vehicles at a car wash. Car washes are regulated by law to recycle wastewater.

SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEMSPUMP-OUTS AND

INSPECTIONS REQUIRED (HFCA CODE CHAPTER 207)

It is the responsiblity of the member to have their sewage disposal system inspected by a Pennsylvania licensed pumper/hauler using the approved inspection checklist; repaired or pumped, if necessary; and to provide HFCA with a receipt and the completed inspection checklist. The date of the inspection, pumping or repair must be documented on the receipt. Receipt must be submitted to HFCA within 30 days of inspec-tion, pumping or repair. Violation of this code carries a fine of $250 for each month of non-compliance. After four months, HFCA is authorized to take action and charge the member for the inspection, pumping or repairs. During some inspections, there have been reports of dried-out sludge. Be aware that dried-out sludge cannot be pumped from a tank and further action must be taken.

LAKES & PRIVATE PONDSNATURAL SHORELINE VEGETATION

– NO ALTERATIONSCode Chapters 98 and 254: Dumping, fill-

ing, digging, cutting vegeation, or otherwise altering the shoreline of HFCA lakes, ponds or inlets is prohibited. Existing alterations must be removed and vegetation restored. The natural vegetation condition within the 30-foot corridor of the high water mark of any HFCA water body must not be altered. A fine of $10 per day shall be assessed for each violation.

ACCESS IS LIMITEDMembers who own lakefront/pondfront

property own the property to the water. These areas are private property. The only way to access a pond is on greenbelt. However, once at the pond, you may not walk around the perimeter or fish behind someone’s property unless that property owner gives you permission to be there. Some ponds do not have any access area available to the public. A map of accessible areas is available in the HFCA Office foyer and by visiting hemlockfarms.org.

PETSINDOOR LIFE IS GOOD!

Your HFCA Environment Committee encourages all Hemlock Farms cat owners to keep their cat indoors. Contact HFCA Department of Community Conservation at 570/775-4200, ext. 127, if free-roaming or feral cats are a nuisance in your neighbor-hood. Never leave any pet or small child outside unattended.

RECYCLING AT THE REFUSE RECYCLE CENTER

RECYCLE... IT WORKS! Do Commingle Glass, Plastics, Aluminum

and Cans at the Refuse Recycling CenterGlass (clear, green, brown): Glass food

and beverage containers can be easily recycled by removing caps and lids and rins-ing out the container. Labels can remain.

Plastics: All plastics # 1-7 except any foam. Remove lids and rinse out container. Labels can remain.

Aluminum: foil and food and beverage containers or cans with food/liquid debris removed/rinsed. Labels can remain.

Iron, Steel and Tin Cans: All food and beverage cans are recyclable. Rinse out cans before placing them in your recycling container. Labels can remain.

Don’t Commingle Scrap Metals, Paper and Cardboard, Yard Waste at the Refuse Recycle Center. Use Separate Bins or Designated Areas.

Scrap Metals: Wire, pipes, pots, etc.Paper and Cardboard: Newsprint, con-

struction paper, phone books, magazines, junk mail, corrugated cardboard.

Yard Waste: only leaves are accepted opposite the Refuse Center, and, through January, Christmas trees free of decorations.

Not accepted: Hazardous waste as defined by state and federal regulations: Automobiles; Building material not cut to size per code; Construction materials exceeding 3 feet in length or width; Explosives (*dynamite, hand grenades, blasting caps, shotgun shells, fireworks); Friable asbestos; Helium tanks; Herbicides; Infectious, Pathological, Chemotherapeutic, and Biological waste; Large automobile parts (i.e.: engine, transmission, rear end, frames, etc.); Tires (cars or trucks); Vehicle batteries; Paint (enamel or oil base); Paint thinners; Pesticides; Propane tanks.

Don’t mix these materials with your re-cyclables: Ceramic Cups/Plates, Mirror and Window Glass, Light Bulbs, Heat Resistant Ovenware, Drinking Glasses, Flower Pots, Styrofoam (including all foam #6 plastic), Plastic Bags/Wrap, wax coated cardboard, b atteries, unnumbered plastics, electronics, aerosol cans.

Storing Your Recyclables for Curbside Pick-up or Transport to the Refuse Recycle Center

Sanitary storage practices include:• Rinse out jars, cans or bottles.• Soak a paper towel in ammonia

and toss into storage containers to keep out animals.

The Hemlock Farms Refuse Recycle Cen-ter is now accepting refrigeration units (air conditioners, dehumidifiers, refrigerators, and freezers) with Freon.

The prices are as follows: Air conditioners & dehumidifiers $25.00 each, Freezers & refrigerators $50.00 each

RECYCLE LABELSPeel-and-stick recycling labels are avail-

able at the Administration Office FREE of charge. These labels can be affixed to your recycling containers for curbside pick-up.

REPORTS AVAILABLEThe following reports are available on

the HFCA website (hemlockfarms.org), the Library, and the HFCA Administra-tion Office:

2015 Bear Den Study by Dr. Gary Alt: Locations, photographs, and descriptions of 41 den sites are documented.

2015 Gypsy Moth Risk Assessment Re-ports: analyzes data from 140 plots within the community and advises on expected caterpillar population for the next spring.

2014 USDA Deer Management Report: analyzes survey data, discloses harvest results, and makes recommendations for next year.

2014 USDA Goose Report: discloses loca-tion of goose nests and treatments.

2014 Annual Lake Report: analyzes data, discloses treatments, and summarizes conditions on all lakes and ponds in the community, and makes recommendations.

2014 Lake Watch Water Quality Report: analyzes data from samples collected by the Lake Watch Team on Elm, McConnell, Hemlock and Lower Lakes.

2013 Invasive Plant Control Report: discloses treatments and makes rec-ommendations for controlling Japa-nese barberry, Japanese stiltgrass, and phragmites.

Multiple Year Fish Survey: describes the fish populations in our lakes and ponds and makes recommendations.

2013 Drinking Water Report.2010 Special Stormwater Run-off Study

Report: analyzes data from shoreline water samples along Hemlock and Lower Lakes.

WILDLIFEFeeding wildlife (such as deer, turkey,

waterfowl, feral cats, and bear) is prohib-ited in the community because it is harmful to wildlife and everyone’s health and safety. Your cooperation and understanding in following this policy is critical to the success of our wildlife management programs. Violations carry a minimum fine of $100.

CLEAN AIRIDYLING VEHICLES

Turn off your vehicle engine when you are not driving it.

FIREWISEWHERE FIRE-ADAPTED

COMMUNITES LEARN TO PROTECT HOMES FROM WILDFIRES

Connect to wildland fire protection information with a click of a mouse: www.firewise.org

We all must understand the serious threat of wildfires. Homes and property do not have to become fuel for a wildfire. Here are simple FIREWISE steps you can take.

• A non-flammable 3' barrier of rocks, stone, or other pervious material should surround any structure and be void of vegetation.

• Live vegetation beyond the 3' non-flammable barrier to 25' should be spaced 3' apart.

• Dead vegetation within 30' of any structure should be removed. Only leafy material may be taken to the Public Works compost area. Do not blow leaves into wooded or waterfront areas.

• Prune branches up to six feet above the ground on all trees within 30' of any structure.

• Roof and gutters should be free of leaves, pine needles, limbs, twigs, and other debris.

• Stack firewood at least 30' from all structures.

• Open areas under porches and decks should be enclosed with 1/8th-inch wire-screen.

• Spark arrestors are mandatory on all chimneys. Chimney flue, cap and spark arrester should be periodically inspected and cleaned.

• A garden hose with nozzle, rake, bucket, and ladder should be stored outside during a wildfire threat.

• Children should know how to report forest fires or other emergencies.

OUR BEAUTIFUL COMMUNITYEARTH-COLORED TARPS

RECOMMENDEDThe HFCA is urging everyone to use

earth-colored tarps, namely brown or green. If you have non-earth-tone tarps, please change them to enhance the look of your property and to blend in with the environment.

PLEASE DO NOT LITTER!Help keep our community clean.

DURING A WILDFIRE“READY-SET-GO”

Panic and disorganization can result when community members are unprepared for a wildfire. Use the information below if a wildfire approaches.

• Channel 15, HFCA website, and the Public Notification System will maintain emergency information.

• Vehicles should be backed out of the garage and parked in your driveway facing the street.

• Windows, vents and doors in your home and garage doors should be shut.

• Garage door openers and fuel tanks should be shut off.

• Pets should be placed together with instructions for their proper care during an evacuation.

• Evacuate immediately when advised.• Travel to a designated shelter or ar-

range for housing in a safe area.• Wear protective clothing: shoes,

long cotton pants and shirt, hat, dry handkerchief.

• Take your emergency “GO BAG” or emergency kit when evacuating.

For more information, visit www.fire-wise.org; or contact the Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company at 570/775-6447.

FIRE DANGER SIGNIs now located at the Mail Room.

MEANINGS OF THE FIRE DANGER RATINGS

AND A “RED FLAG WARNING.”FIRE DANGER AND

FOREST FIRE BEHAVIORLOW: Fires will not spread beyond the

heat of a camp fire or brush fire. Precipita-tion may be present.

MODERATE: Fires will start from open flames, camp, or brush fire. Fires will spread slowly, and may go out alone.

HIGH: Fires will start from a lighted match and spread rapidly in dry grass, slower in other fuel. Fires will burn until extinguished.

VERY HIGH: Fires will start readily from match or glowing cinders, will spread rapidly as they increase in size, and may crown in young conifers.

EXTREME: Fires start readily from sparks or cigarette butts, spread and crown rapidly. Spot fires from embers blown in the wind are common. All burn fiercely and may blow up unless promptly controlled.

A Red Flag Warning, also known as a Fire Weather Warning, is a forecast warning issued by the United States National Weather Service to inform area firefighting and land management agencies that conditions are ideal for wildland fire ignition, and rapid spread. After drought conditions, and when humidity is very low, and especially when high or erratic winds which may include lightning are a factor, the Red Flag Warning becomes a critical statement for firefighting and emergency management agencies. These agencies often alter their staffing and equipment resources dramatically to accom-modate the forecast risk. To the public, a Red Flag Warning means high fire danger with increased probability of a quickly spreading vegetation fire in the area within 24 hours.

IMPORTANT ENVIRONMENTAL REMINDERS

If you have questions or concerns, please contact Director of Community

Conservation Marian Keegan at 570/775-4200, ext.127.

WILDLIFE

A wealth of information about protecting the environment in our community is also

available on the HFCA website: WWW.HEMLOCKFARMS.ORG.

H E M L O C K N E W S J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 • 35ENVIRONMENT NEWS

On a septic system?

When’s the last time you thought about it?

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

TM

Your septic system is part of your home and your responsibility.

For SepticSmart tips, visit www.epa.gov/septicsmart.

Maintaining, and inspecting and pumping your system according to HFCA Code Chapter 207:

Saves You Money Regular maintenance fees of $250 to $300 every

three to four years is a bargain compared to the cost of repairing or replacing a malfunctioning system, which can cost between $3,000 and $7,000. The frequency of pumping required for your system de-pends on how many people live in your home and the size of the system.

Protects Your Property Value An unusable septic system or one in disrepair will

lower your property value, not to mention pose a potentially costly legal liability.

Keeps You and Your Neighbors Healthy

Household wastewater is loaded with dis-ease-causing bacteria and viruses, as well as high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus. If a septic sys-tem is well-maintained and working properly, it will remove most of these pollutants. Insufficient-ly treated sewage from septic systems can cause groundwater contamination, which can spread dis-ease in humans and animals.

Improperly treated sewage also poses the risk of contaminating nearby surface waters, significant-ly increasing the chance of swimmers contracting a variety of infectious diseases, from eye and ear infections to acute gas.

When is the Air That We Breathe Unhealthy?By MARIAN KEEGAN, Director of

Community Conservation

We suffer unhealthy consequences when the air that we breathe is polluted with toxic chemicals. The U.S. Environ-mental Protection Agency (EPA) and Pennsylvania Department of Environ-mental Protection (PA DEP) monitor air pollutants. Carbon monoxide, ozone, particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide are the pollutants that are measured to determine when we need to protect ourselves. Some of these pol-lutants are greenhouse gases that affect climate change. To help us protect our-selves when our air is unhealthy, PA DEP issues cautionary health warnings when pollutants reach unhealthy levels. Health warnings include cautionary actions that should be taken by individuals to protect themselves from the pollutants.

HFCA receives cautionary health warn-ings from PA DEP when air quality is unhealthy for the region that includes Pike County. HFCA then notifies our employees so they can take the necessary precautions. For members, HFCA offers a link to an EPA map that shows air quality with the health warnings on the website. Find this link on the HFCA website under the tab “Current Happenings” or “Local Services.” Click on “Weather & Travel Info,” then “Air Quality Index.”

The Air Quality Index divides pollutant levels into color-coded air quality catego-ries as shown below. Air quality in the Orange, Red, Purple, or Maroon category triggers a cautionary health warning.

Cautionary actions that you should take depend on the pollutant or pollutants as well as the “color-coded” category. The table above describes the specific cau-tions to be taken depending on the pol-lutant and category. These actions will be included with the health warnings.

For more information, visit the PA DEP website at www.dep.pa.gov/Business/Air/BAQ/MonitoringTopics/AirQualityIn-dex, or the EPA website with the map of forecasted Air Quality Indexes at www.airnow.gov.

COLOR AIR QUALITY

Green Good

Yellow Moderate

Orange Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups

Red Unhealthy

Purple Very Unhealthy

Maroon Hazardous

Cautionary Health Actions by Air-Quality Category

Pollutant Good Moderate Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups Unhealthy Very Unhealthy Hazardous

Ozone

Particulate(PM-10 and PM-2.5)

Carbon Monoxide

Sulfur Dioxide

None

None

None

None

Usually sensitive people should

consider reducing

prolonged or heavy exertion

outdoors.

Usually sensitive people should

consider reducing

prolonged or heavy exertion

outdoors.

None

None

Active children and adults, and people with lung disease, such as asthma, should reduce

prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors.

People with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children

should reduce prolonged or heavy

exertion.

People with heart disease, such as angina, should reduce heavy

exertion and avoid sources of CO, such

as heavy traffic.

People with asthma should consider

reducing exertion outdoors.

Active children and adults, and people with lung disease, such as asthma, should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion

outdoors. Everyone else, especially children, should reduce prolonged or heavy

exertion outdoors.

People with heart of lung disease, older adults, and

children should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion. Everyone else should reduce prolonged or heavy exertion.

People with heart disease, such as angina, should reduce moderate exertion and avoid

sources of CO, such as heavy traffic.

Children, asthmatics, and people with heart or lung disease should reduce

exertion outdoors.

Active children and adults, and people with lung disease, such as asthma, should avoid all outdoor exertion. Everyone

else, especially children, should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors.

People with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children should avoid all

physical activity outdoors. Everyone else should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion.

People with heart disease, such as angina, should avoid exertion and sources of CO,

such as heavy traffic.

Children, asthmatics, and people with heart or lung

disease should avoid outdoor exertion. Everyone else should reduce exertion

outdoors.

Everyone should avoid all physical activity outdoors.

People with heart or lung disease, older adults, and

children should remain indoors and keep activity levels low. Everyone else should avoid all physical

activity outdoors.

People with heart disease, such as angina, should

avoid exertion and sources of CO, such as heavy traffic. Everyone else should reduce

heavy exertion.

Children, asthmatics, and people with heart of lung disease should remain

indoors. Everyone else should avoid exertion outdoors.

HFCA

Pike County is also in the “New Jersey Highlands” area that is monitored by the state of New Jersey. HFCA will receive notices from New Jersey when air quality in this area reaches unhealthy levels. HFCA will compare the occurrence of the two notices to determine if a difference is reported. Director of the Department of Community Conservation Marian Keegan will keep your Environment Committee informed.

Color-coded Air Quality Categories

36 • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 H E M L O C K N E W SCULTURAL ARTS NEWS

CULTURAL ARTS REPORT By Amy Strapec, Cultural Arts Director

........................................................................CULTURAL ARTS NEWS


Hemlock Players Acting

WorkshopThursdays

February, 11, 18, 25, March 10, 17, 247:00-8:30 p.m.

Art Room/Steer Barn Clubhouse

$50 members/$60 guests

This six-session class led by Tony Romano will combine

improvisation, acting techniques, and scene study to bring out the actor in you! Learn to be

comfortable and effective on stage.

Ages 16 and up.

Beginners welcome!

CULTURAL ARTS

Mardi Gras PartySaturday, February 6

7:00-11:00 p.m. Steer Barn Clubhouse

$20 in advance/$28 at the doorSnow date: Saturday, February 20Snow date: Saturday, February 20

GAMES

EATCasino NightPrizes for the most chips!

Music, dancing, appetizers, soda,

coffee, and 20 poker chips to start you off!

Masks not required, but suggested!

Prizes for best costume, masks,

and MORE!


coffee, and 20 poker chips to start you off!

Snow date: Saturday, February 20Snow date: Saturday, February 20


coffee, and 20 poker chips to

DJ Celo


coffee, and 20 poker chips to PRIZES

Casino Night

DANCE

Photo by Lisa Elmer“This is a selfie of my son Alex and me skating at the Rockefeller Center Ice Rink with the big Christmas tree in the background,” said Lisa Elmer.

On Wednesday, Decem-ber 9, the NYC bus was

almost full. The day was warm for December, and there was no rain! Lisa Elmer, a fairly new member to the com-munity, went on this trip for the first time with her young son Alex, and she wrote about it:

“The entire day was a magical one for Alex and me. After arriving in New York, the first thing we did was walk down to view the Rockefeller Center Christ-mas tree. Then we watched some of the ‘Today Show’ filming through the win-dows at 30 Rockefeller Plaza. We lucked out and were able to participate in a seg-ment of the ‘Kathy Lee and Hoda Show’ when we were in the NBC Experience store. Since I recorded the show, we got to watch ourselves on TV when we got home. After that exciting experience, we strapped on our ice skates for fun at the Rockefeller Center Ice Rink. We found a good burger spot for lunch before attend-ing the Broadway show ‘Sylvia.’ After the show, we spent some quiet time at the magnificent St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Alex and I went back to the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree after dark to see it all lit up. Finally, it was time to grab a slice of NYC pizza and board the bus back to Hemlock Farms.”

The Cultural Arts Department is gear-ing up for an exciting 2016 with music events, art shows, trips to the city and

more. February is Mardi Gras time! It will be on Saturday, February 6 from 7 -11 pm. Come and join the party with DJ Celo, gaming tables for fun, and prizes for best costumes/masks, most chips, and more! Enjoy colorful appetizers and goodies! BYOB.

HFCA

HFCA

H E M L O C K N E W S J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 • 37CULTURAL ARTS NEWS

Steer Barn Clubhouse Showcases

Artwork byKelly Stagen

The featured artist is Kelly Elizabeth Stagen. Her art is crafted entirely of recycled items, in a way that is non-toxic and friendly to the environment.

A Christmas Carol

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Photos by Bonnie McCafferyTiffany Simpson and Eric Haupt sing “The Twelve Days of Christmas” portraying Nephew Fred and Fred’s wife.

John Meenan and Jean Bond portraying Old Joe and Mrs. Dilber.

Linus Bond as Tiny Tim and David Baxter as Bob Cratchit share a happy moment.

Kevin Bond as a Boy in the Street and Joe Schmidt as Scrooge—after Scrooge’s epiphany.

The Cratchit family: David Baxter, left, Christine Martuscelli, Christa Simpson, Celia Bond, Danny Salvati, and Linus Bond reluctantly toasting Scrooge.

By AMY STRAPEC, Cultural Arts Director

“A Christmas Carol” was performed by the Hemlock Players on November 13, 14, and 15. The photos commemorate a totally engaging and entertaining pro-duction.

Director Tony Romano is already plan-ning the troupe’s next show; most likely it will be a musical in June (i.e., “Take Me Along”). Tony often proposes that we do rather big shows despite the fact that our stage is small, our props and scenery are limited, and the availability of rehearsal space is limited due to the Steer Barn Clubhouse’s utilization by so many clubs, classes, meetings, and other activities.

Sharing the space also means that props, scenery, lighting, and sound equipment have to be dismantled and put away (somewhere) after almost every rehearsal! However, despite these drawbacks, Tony is enthusiastic about doing shows, and doing big shows at

that—plays with larger casts—in order to give opportunities to more actors. In fact, Tony often has to adapt the script—especially the staging—to accommodate the size of the cast.

For example, most of the cast of “A Christmas Carol” (eighteen actors) sat in the audience between entrances (and it worked!). Sometimes, Tony has to adapt the script because there aren’t enough men available to be in the play. (By the way, the Hemlock Players need a strong chorus of men and women for the June musical.)

Sometimes, adaptations go on until (or during) the final rehearsals due to last-minute circumstances. But, as they say, “The show must go on!”

I think that few in the audience of the Hemlock Players’ productions realize how much effort goes on behind the scenes to make these shows happen. And such wonderful shows they are, too! So, KUDOS to the director, the actors, and the crew; we are so very lucky to have you here in our community!

38 • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 H E M L O C K N E W SCULTURAL ARTS NEWS

Photos by Kathie Waibel

Ongoing Pottery CourseTuesdays, January 12, 19, 26,February 9, 16, 23

12:30-2:30 p.m.Art Chalet

$130 members/$156 guests (includes all materials)Instructor Amy Strapec

This class is for those with experience on the potter’s wheel. Students will experiment with surface decoration techniques on thrown forms.

Class is limited to four students.

Throwing Clay on the Potter’s

Wheel for Beginners

Thursdays, February 11, 18, 25, March 10

1:00-3:00 p.m.$80 members/$96 guests

Art ChaletInstructor Amy Strapec

Class is limited to four students, ages 15 and up.

Handbuilding with ClaySaturdays, January 16, 23, 30, February 6, 13, 20

2:00-4:00 p.m.Art Chalet

Instructor Christine MartuscelliPatterns in clay using rollers, stamps, or any material that creates movement

and line will be used to make a textured bowl, mug, or functional tray. Ages 14 and up.

Contributed photo

Soaking Salts and Sachets ClassOn Friday, December 11, five ladies gathered around an assortment of essential oils, herbs, wine, and goodies and created their very own scents for sachets and bathing salts. The ladies’ creations are so personalized that items originally intended to be gifts will be kept for themselves! Joanne Gogarty, who ran this very interesting workshop, has worked in the spa industry for more than 25 years. Christine Martuscelli, left, Lis Bauman, Milly Sersea, Michele Osborn, and instructor Joanne Gogarty prepare to assemble their own unique scents. Not included in picture is Amy Strapec.

Contributed photoRena Hottinger, left, Peggy Kelly, and instructor Christine Martuscelli show off the artworks they crafted in Christine’s workshop that took place in November 2015. The next class will be in January. Join the fun!

Janice Rudy sings at Karaoke Night on Saturday, December 5. DJ Billy O provided the entertainment for the evening.

Contributed photosVicki Lawless gets up and sings her heart out!

KaraokeCreated for Those

Who Want to Have Fun!

By AMY STRAPEC, Cultural Arts Director

DJ Billy O kept the entertainment lively and intermixed with singers who were looking for their moment onstage. We gave each of them a well-deserved round of applause for belting it out in front of the crowd! There was a winner for the ugliest sweater—the prize went to Rita Ruth! She received a beautiful basket full of wintertime seasonal goodies. The runner-up was Mary Ann Ciardullo.

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H E M L O C K N E W S J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 • 39RECREATION NEWSRECREATION NEWS.............................................................................. RECREATION REPORTBy John Wormuth, Recreation Director

Happy New Year from the Recreation Depart-

ment! I hope everyone had a fun, safe, and healthy holiday season.

Many people use the new calendar year to focus on their health and fitness, and the Recreation Department has classes and programs for members of all ages to enjoy. Please see page 40 for a full list of all of our classes and programs. We now offer Personal Training with Candey Grice, and we are planning an Indoor Triathlon for this February.

We have added additional hours in the newly renovated Fitness Center. We are now open all day on Monday through Friday; there will no longer be mid-day closings from 12:30 to 4:00 p.m. With the Clubhouse now open all day, feel free to utilize the Game Room or the café to relax or play games with friends or use our Wi-Fi service. Please check the full Clubhouse schedule on page 44 for the new updated Fitness Center hours, exer-cise class schedule, and pool hours.

Please call the Administration Office

(570/775-4200) for details on our out-door programs that are dependent on the winter weather. This is also the number to call for updates on the sledding hill and ice skating rink. The sledding hill is located in the back of the Clubhouse parking lot, east of tennis courts 7 & 8. The ice skating rink is located next to the Conference Center on Orchard Drive.

Recreation Operations staff had a busy month storing materials for the winter. A great deal of time was spent invento-rying all of our materials and re-orga-nizing our storage areas to maximize storage. The staff spent a few weeks this past fall painting the Day Camp building so it will be clean and fresh for spring and summer programs. All tennis courts

except courts 4 and 5 are closed for the season. These courts will remain up all winter for play on nice days. The Rec-reation Department is awaiting the deep freeze of winter in hopes of having the skating rink up and running for the rest of the winter. We need some cold, dry weather to freeze the rink. With our ice resurfacer, we will be able to smooth out the ice nicely.

The youngsters had a great night last Saturday, January 2, as they rang in the New Year. They are having a craft night on Saturday, January 16, when they will be making their own candy. The Youth Center staff would like to welcome our youth members to the Youth Center for some fun-filled nights. Stop in and share your ideas with them. The Youth Center schedule is on this page.

We hope you can get outside and enjoy the beautiful winter weather in the Pocono Mountains!

Pool Rules and Regulations

The following guidelines are designed for your safety. You are responsible for the safety of your children and yourself. Please follow the direction of the guards at all times. EACH PERSON

USING FACILITIES MUST HAVE A RECREATION BADGE AVAILABLE AT ALL TIMES. Lifeguards can use discretion to adapt rules to accommodate various bathing conditions (e.g. crowds).

Lifeguards may prohibit individuals with poor swimming ability from swimming in deep water.

Indoor Pool Rules (in addition to the above rules):1. NO JUMPING, RUNNING OR DIVING is permitted at the Indoor Steer Barn Clubhouse Pool.2. Anyone under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian 18 yrs. or older in the

Indoor Pool.3. Shoes must be removed before entering the Indoor 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 in the Indoor Pool.6. Shaving is prohibited in all areas of the Indoor Pool.7. Wading pools: Children must be accompanied and supervised by an adult or guardian at all times.8. Food is prohibited in the Indoor Pool area. Water is the only drink permitted.

HFCA

The Clubhouse CLOSING TIME varies each evening.The entire building will close 20 minutes after that.

Please allow yourself ample time to shower and use the locker rooms.

Scent SenseIt doesn’t make sense to use a scent in the Clubhouse shower or sauna.

Be considerate of others’ allergies— use an unscented soap!

The only liquid permitted in the sauna is drinking water!

A scent is something private and should be applied ONLY to you AFTER you leave the Clubhouse.

[email protected]

192 Karl Hope Blvd., Lackawaxen, PA 18435

SAVE BIG!

SEASON PASSES

SEASON RENTALS

18 Trails • 100% Snowmaking

Terrain Park • Night Skiing

SKI • TUBE • SNOWBOARD

YOUTH CENTER HOURS

Fall Winter Hours

Friday & SaturdayGrades 5 through 12, 7 p.m.-12 a.m.

SundayGrades 5 through 12, 1-3 p.m.

Lego Club: Thursdays, 3:30-5:00 p.m.Sundays, 3:00-5:00 p.m.

Summer HoursSunday and Monday – Closed

Tuesday, Wednesday & ThursdayGrades 5 through 12, 7-11 p.m.

Friday & SaturdayGrades 5 through 12, 7 p.m.-12 a.m.

Weather-related ClosingsDuring inclement weather before heading over to the Clubhouse for your workout, swim, or fitness class, be sure to call ahead to determine if the building is open (570/775-6034).

Pool ClosingThe pool will be CLOSED on January 12, 13, and 14 for the installation of the

UV system.

HFCA

HFCA

40 • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 H E M L O C K N E W SRECREATION NEWS

RECREATION AND CULTURAL ARTS ACTIVITIES

20-20-20Mondays, 9-10 a.m.Steer Barn Clubhouse, free. Mix of cardio, strength, & resistance using weights, bands, & sticks.

Aqua AerobicsTuesdays, 4-5 p.m. Resumes in FebruarySteer Barn Clubhouse indoor pool, free.

Artists’ Studio TimeWednesdays, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Steer Barn Clubhouse Large Art Room, free. An informal gathering to create art in whatever form you choose. No instruction, bring along your art supplies, relax, & socialize with other artists. RSVP: Cultural Arts Department at 570/775-4200, ext. 118.

Billiards LeagueThursdays, 6-9 p.m.Steer Barn Clubhouse game room. Questions? Contact Dave at 724/344-2807

Candy Bingo-Valentine’s DaySunday, February 14, 1 p.m.Steer Barn Clubhouse.Bring a candy bar to trade for a Bingo card (or purchase one at the door). Winner of each game will choose a candy bar from the prize table. Special door prizes & drawings during the event for more opportunities to win.

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

Dance FitnessMondays, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Fridays, 9-10 a.m.Steer Barn Clubhouse, free. Energetic workout! Learn to dance as well as fitness technique. Easy-to-follow routines incorporating fitness, hip hop, Latin, & ballet, as well as traditional dance/aerobic steps.

Fitness Center Introduction ClassThursdays, January 14 , 11 a.m. January 28, 5 p.m. Steer Barn Clubhouse Fitness Center, free. Recreation Director John Wormuth will take a group through the new Fitness Center & will demonstrate how each piece of equipment works & will explain what muscle group the equipment works. The tour takes about 45 minutes.

Handbuilding with Clay*Saturdays, January 16, 23, 30, February 6, 13, 20, 2-4 p.m.Art Chalet, $130 members/$156 guests. Instructor Christine Martuscelli. Patterns in clay using rollers, stamps, or any material that creates movement & line will be used to make a textured bowl, mug, or functional tray. Ages 14 & up.

Hemlock Players Acting Workshop*Thursdays, February, 11, 18, 25, March 10, 17, 24, 7-8:30 p.m.Art Room/Steer Barn Clubhouse, $50 members/$60 guests. Six-session class led by Tony Romano will combine improvisation, acting techniques, & scene study to bring out the actor in you! Ages 16 & up. Learn to be comfortable & effective on stage. Beginners welcome!

Ice Skating SocialSaturday, February 13, 7-9 p.m.Ice Rink at the Conference Center. Bring your skates, listen to music, warm your toes by the bonfire, & enjoy complimentary hot chocolate & refreshments.

Informal Play GroupFridays, 12-2 p.m.Steer Barn Clubhouse. Bring your pre-school aged child and some toys for interactive play with other youngsters. Children must be supervised. For questions & more details contact Nicole Kinney at 503/502-1584.

Informal T’ai ChiMondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 10:30 a.m.-12 noonSteer Barn Clubhouse, free. Creates a mind/body connection. T’ai Chi has been shown to reduce stress levels & lower blood pressure while improving strength, flexibility, & balance.

Informal Walking GroupThursdays, 9-10 a.m.Meet at the Steer Barn Clubhouse. Contact Joan at 570/257-0210.

Junior Fitness*Sundays, 5:30-7 p.m.Fitness Center, $40/month members, $48/month guests. Instructor Candey Grice. The class will introduce youngsters ages 11-13 to the Fitness Center & the proper use of the equipment. Circuit Training & floor exercise will be incorporated into each weekly workout.

Lego ClubSundays, 3-5 p.m.Youth Center. Youngsters 4 & up are encouraged to explore their creativity with Legos. Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Legos provided.

Little Dragons Martial Arts*Wednesdays & Fridays, 4:15-5 p.m.Steer Barn Clubhouse, $60/month members, $72/month guests. Introduction to blocks, kicks, stances, & bag work in an upbeat, fun manner for ages 5 & 6. Also discussion of the importance of discipline & self-control.

Making Bubbles Swim Program*Mondays, Wednesdays, SundaysSteer Barn Clubhouse Indoor Pool. Classes for ages 6 through adult. Five session class card: $35 members/$40 guests. See ad on page 41.

Mardi Gras PartySaturday, February 6Steer Barn Clubhouse, 7-11 p.m., $20 advance, $28 at door. Snow date: Saturday, February 20. DJ Celo. PRIZES, GAMES, DANCE, EAT. Casino Night, prizes for the most chips! Music, dancing, appetizers, soda, coffee, & 20 poker chips to start you off! Masks not required, but suggested! Prizes for best costume, masks, & MORE!

Martial Arts with Master Daniel Verbeke*Wednesdays & Fridays Children 5-6 p.m.; Teens/Adults 6-7 p.m.Steer Barn Clubhouse, per month: $60 members, $72 guests. Open to ages 7 & up.

Ongoing Pottery Course*Tuesdays, January 12, 19, 26, February 9, 16, 23, 12:30-2:30 p.m.Art Chalet, $130 members, $156 guests (includes all materials). Instructor Amy Strapec. This class is for those with experience on the potter’s wheel. Students will experiment with surface decoration techniques on thrown forms. Class limited to four students.

Personal Trainer*Various daysSteer Barn Clubhouse Fitness Center, one-on-one training: $40/hour; group of 2 or 3: $60/ hour. Candey Grice holds several certifications in personal training. Candey is available to help members establish a fitness regimen & achieve personal goals.

Pickleball IndoorsTuesdays & Wednesdays, 12-3 p.m.Steer Barn Clubhouse. There will be no play on Tuesdays that the 50+ Club meets. Any questions? Care to join the fun? Contact Diane at 570/257-0075.

Sit & FitTuesdays & Sundays, 9-10 a.m.Steer Barn Clubhouse, free. A great workout

that focuses on defining your muscles, improving overall cardiovascular health, & burning calories. A unique way to challenge the muscles without lifting weights. Combines strength & resistance training with dance moves using a chair.

Step, Core, and MoreThursdays, 6:30-7 p.m.Intermediate level step aerobics, free. Core strengthening exercises to follow, with & without weights. Never boring!

Throwing Clay on the Potter’s Wheel for Beginners*Thursdays, February 11, 18, 25, March 10, 1-3 p.m.Art Chalet, $80 members, $96 guests. Instructor Amy Strapec. Class limited to four students ages 15 & up.

Triathlon*Saturday, February 13Steer Barn Clubhouse, $20 members, $24 guests. Ages 14 & up, winners for each age category will be recognized. Register in advance, sign in begins at 8:15 a.m., event begins at 9 a.m. Swim 12 minutes for total laps, ride a stationary bike for 12 minutes for total distance, run on the treadmill 12 minutes for total distance.

Yo-latesThursdays, 5-6 p.m.Steer Barn Clubhouse, free. Flow combining strengthening, lengthening and flexibility using a full range of body muscles while achieving definition & relaxation.

Yoga with Toby*Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Steer Barn Clubhouse, five sessions: $40 members, guests $48. Yoga encourages flexibility, balance, & strength. Instruction can be modified for different levels of flexibility. NO WALK-INS!

*Sign up at Administration Office


On a freezing January afternoon, two youngsters are bundled up to roller skate at the Mail Room Basketball Court.

H E M L O C K N E W S J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 • 41RECREATION NEWS

ValentineCANDY BINGOSunday, February 14

Steer Barn ClubhouseDoors open 1:00 • Calling 1:30 p.m.

FreeBring a sealed wrapped candy bar to trade for a

Bingo card (or purchase candy at the door). Winner of each game will choose a candy bar from the prize table. Special door prizes and drawings will be held throughout the event for more opportunities to win!

Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Swim Program

Now – MaySteer Barn Clubhouse Indoor Pool

Ages 6 and older (adults welcome!)Beginner* to Advanced Skill Levels

Program improves technique, breathing, balance, and coordination *swimmer must be capable of fully submerging their head under water.

Mondays 4:00-5:00 p.m. Wednesdays 4:00-5:00 p.m. Sundays 5:00-6:00 p.m. or 6:00-7:00 p.m.

$35.00 members/$40 guests for a 5-session class cardRegister & purchase class cards at the Administration Office.

Making Bubbles

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n On Sunday, December 27, Special Events Coordinator Adrienne Cordani hands a bingo card to Fran Bowen and her children, Lilly, Mathew, and Jack. “We are all looking forward to playing bingo,” said Fran.

Photos by Mary Beth ConnorsVicki and Greg Lawless play candy bingo. “I won!” smiled Greg. “We had a great time.”

A table laid out with the door prizes for the winners.

Luke Pawliczak, left, with his mother Nicole, his sister Isabella, and his brother Connor play Candy Bingo. “They had fun playing for delicious prizes,” said his grandparents Rita and Michael Spitzer.

Cathy Theologis and her sons, Spiro and Nicholas, place their fruit markers on the cards. “The fruit loops were good!” said the boys.

CANDY BINGO


Pho

to b

y K

athi

e W

aibe

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Have you been to the new Fitness Center? Have you ever wanted to go but did not know where to start?

This is your chance to learn about all the equipment in the Fitness Center!

Fitness Center Introduction ClassThursdays,

January 14, 11:00 a.m., and January 28, 5:00 p.m. Steer Barn Clubhouse Fitness Center

Free

Recreation Director John Wormuth will take a group through the new Fitness Center and will demonstrate

how each piece of equipment works and will explain what muscle group the equipment exercises.

The tour takes about 45 minutes.

JUNIOR FITNESSSundays, 5:30-7:00 p.m.

Monthly fee is $40 members / $48 guests. Will introduce youngsters ages 11-13 to the Fitness Center and the

proper use of the equipment. Circuit Training and Floor Exercise will be incorporated into each weekly workout.

Fitness Instructor Candey Grice.

Photos by Kathie Waibel

Indoor Triathlonfor Everyone!

Saturday, February 138:00 a.m. registration, 9:00 a.m. start

Steer Barn Clubhouse • $20 members/$24 guests

12 MIN

UTES

for total laps

ride an upright for total distance

on a treadmill for total distance.

SWIM

Everyone can go at their own pace.

Geared for ages 14 and up, there will be winners for different age categories.

RUN

FOR

BIKE

for Steer Barn Clubhouse • $20 members/$24 guests

SWIMSWIMSWIM

Early Registration

BONUS: Register at

Administration Office

by January 31 and

receive a FREE

event T-shirt!

FOOD and FRIENDSBy Pat Tromans HFCA

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Happy New Year from our Food and Friends members! Well, will it be a cold, snowy, icy winter? Or will we have a mild winter this year? So far, the tem-perature has been so moderate that a light jacket is the norm for outdoors. Time alone will tell!

Meanwhile, as the temperature remains relatively mild, we can enjoy our friends on the first Monday of each month. Come join us at the Orchard House at 6 p.m. Check with Mary regarding the theme of the month. Her number is 570/775-1977.

December featured our annual cookie exchange. After a light supper of pizza, we sampled the cookies we had brought. We shared so many varieties of cook-ies and, of course, one of the favorites was the Linzer torte cookie. Actually, they were all delicious and fun to sample and exchange. No matter how many you

brought, you went home with more. How does that happen? A wonderful recipe for gluten-free peanut butter cookies by Rosemarie is the featured recipe this month.

See you in January!

Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies1 cup peanut butter1 cup sugar1 egg1 tsp. vanilla

Mix everything in a bowl. Let sit 15 minutes. Roll dough into balls and press down crisscross with a fork. Sprinkle a little sugar on the top and bake at 350º F. 12-15 min-utes.

H E M L O C K N E W S J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 • 43RECREATION NEWS

Santa arrives and greets everyone with a “Merry Christmas” and a handshake. Santa stopped once or twice to pose for pictures.

Photos by Kathie WaibelOn Sunday, December 20, the Steer Barn Clubhouse is festively decorated for the holidays. The Children’s Holiday party is in full swing with a cookie-decorating table, a coloring table, and DJ Celo on stage with great dance music!

Four-year-old Tristan Mijangos-O’Neill and Ashley O’Neill just finished decorating a cookie that was baked by the Food and Friends group.

Maryann Ciardullo and her three-year-old daughter, Waverly, are coloring a picture of Santa.

Rylee Arenson, left, Recreation Special Events Coordinator Adrienne Cordani, and Allyson Arenson are available to greet the party-goers.

n Two-and-a-half-year-old Jayleen Hernandez is perched on Santa’s lap. After the picture was taken, she received a gift from Santa’s bag.

Computer ClubThe Hemlock Farms Computer Club was recently approved by the Board of Directors. It was established to help residents help each other in the world of ever-changing computers

and computer-related technologies. The club also strives to assist other groups and clubs within the community, occasionally providing hands-on workshops, and volunteer assistance.

Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of every month, 7:00-10:30 p.m. at the Conference Center.

To join, visit HFCCLUB.com or call Scotty at 570/257-4125.

HFCA

Children’s Holiday Party


CANDEY GRICE will be available for

PERSONAL TRAINING at the new Fitness Center.

Candey will be available to help members establish a

fitness regimen and achieve personal goals.

Candey currently holds several certifications in Personal Training and other areas of

Fitness. She is currently working towards a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science with a

concentration in Fitness and Wellness.

One-on-One $40/hourGroup of 2 or 3 $60/hour

Additional 20% for guestsSign up at the Administration Office.

HEMLOCK FARMS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION Steer Barn Clubhouse Schedule ~ Winter 2016

570/775-6034 www.hemlockfarms.org Clubhouse Pool & Fitness Center & Game Room

*The entire pool area and all electronic machines in the Fitness Center close if thunder is heard in the area and will remain closed for a minimum of 30 minutes.

Steer Barn Classes

*Please note that program hours, classes, and instructors are subject to change

**Costs are associated with some of our classes. Please see class description for details. *Informal Classes are Volunteer-Led

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday8:00 am ‐ 9:00 pm Fitness Center

8:00 am ‐ 9:00 pm Fitness Center






8:00 ‐ 10:00 am Lap Swim

8:00 ‐ 10:00 am Lap Swim

8:00 ‐ 10:00 am Lap Swim

8:00 ‐ 10:00 am Lap Swim

8:00 ‐ 10:00 am Lap Swim

10:00 ‐ 11:00 am Informal Aqua

Aerobics

10:00 ‐ 11:00 am Aqua Aerobics

10:00 ‐ 11:00 am Informal Aqua

Aerobics

10:00 am ‐ 8:00 pm Open Swim





4:00 ‐ 6:00 pm Making Bubbles**

(1 lap lane)

4:00 ‐ 5:00 pm Aqua Aerobics


(1 lap lane) 4:00 ‐ 9:00 pm Open Swim (1 lap lane)

5:00 ‐ 9:00 pm Open Swim (1 lap lane)





5:30 ‐ 7:00 pm Junior Fitness Training**

6:00 ‐ 9:00 pm Billiards Group Game Rom

12 ‐ 7 pm Game Room

12 ‐ 4 pm Game Room

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday9:00 ‐ 10:00 am

20‐20‐209:00 ‐ 10:00 am

Sit & Fit9:00 ‐ 10:00 am Informal Indoor Walking Group

9:00 ‐ 10:00 am Dance Fitness

9:00 ‐ 10:00 am Sit & Fit

10:30 am ‐ 12:00 pm Informal T'ai Chi

10:30 ‐ 11:30 am Yoga with Toby**


10:30 ‐ 11:30 am Yoga with Toby**


12 ‐ 2:00 pm Informal Play Group

4:15 ‐ 5:00 pm Little Dragons Martial Arts**

4:15 ‐ 5:00 pm Little Dragons Martial Arts**

5:00 ‐ 6:00 pm Martial Arts** (beginners)

5:00 ‐ 6:00 pm Yo‐lates

5:00 ‐ 6:00 pm Martial Arts** (beginners)

6:30 ‐ 7:30 pm Dance Fitness

6:30 ‐ 7:30 pm Cardio Kick‐Boxing

6:00 ‐ 7:00 pm Martial Arts**

(intermediate/advanced)

6:30 ‐ 7:30 pm Step, Core & More

6:00 ‐ 7:00 pm Martial Arts**

(intermediate/advanced)

Exfol

iatin

gIn the Clubhouse, the use of exfoliates is frowned upon, especially in the pool area, steam room, and sauna. The practice of exfoliating should be done in the privacy of one’s home, not in a public area.

The weather is unpredictable, however, when the snow comes, the sledding hill will open! Bring your sled, saucer, tube, or snowboard to the sledding hill behind the bocce courts from dawn to dusk. There is a banner on tennis courts #7 and #8 that points to the hill. It is recommended that you never sled alone, bring a buddy and have FUN!

When the temperature is consistently cold, the ice skating rink will open on Orchard Drive, next to the Conference Center. Bring your skates and a thermos of hot chocolate! Watch for an announcement in the Happenings! If there is a snowfall, clearing the roads is a priority for staff—it may take a few days for the ice to be cleared. For conditions, call 570/775-4200.

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H E M L O C K N E W S J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 • 45COMMUNITY LIVINGCOMMUNITY LIVING.............................................................................

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

The Christmas Tree

“We spend January 1 walking through our lives, room by room, drawing up a list of work to be

done, cracks to be patched. Maybe this year, to balance the list, we ought to walk through the rooms

of our lives…not looking for flaws, but for potential.”

—Ellen Goodman

CorrectionThe incorrect author was credited on

the Hireath piece. It should have been credited to Barbara Sirotkin.

DO YOU WRITE…Poetry, Prose, Fiction, Memoir???

GREAT!SHARE THE EXPERIENCE

at the Hemlock Writers’ Meeting2nd and 4th Mondays of each month

1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at The Orchard House

Next WRITERS’ GAZETTE deadline for entries:

Wednesday, January 20Poetry & short story submissions

considered for publicationContact Lorraine Davis at 570/775-1916.

By MARIANNA KNOWLES

It’s January 4th and I am sitting in the living room staring at a dead Christ-mas tree. It’s been dead for two weeks. I watered it every day. It still died by Christmas. There we were with family gathered around us at what was more like a wake than Christmas, with the deceased standing in a corner rather than horizontal in a casket. This was depressing, as my sister always has the most beautiful tree with perfectly placed ornaments and lights.

Oh well, no sense mourning its death, best to get on with its disposal. I am responsible for stripping it of the orna-ments. I approach it with caution as it stands there staring at me with hatred in its sagging, brittle branches, daring me to come one inch closer. Well, am I going to let a dead evergreen intimidate me? Of course I am. I feel responsible. Its demise must be my fault. Wasn’t I responsible for it? Yes, I was and yes, I failed. Now I must get to it. I just can’t bear staring at it another minute.

Gloved hands outstretched I approach with caution. The first few ornaments come off. Not so difficult, they’re coming off quite easily. Never verbalize the obvious. The next two snag and must

be pulled, showering me with dry, brittle pine needles. So it goes, more and more pine needles fly in my face. If I look in the mirror I’m sure I look just like a pin cushion. At last the ornaments are all off and the next step looms…the lights. I stand there amid a rather large bed of pine needles, staring at the tree. I can’t start yanking off the last of its “cloth-ing.” I’ll wait for my husband to come home. He’s not afraid of the tree.

At last he’s home. We begin to remove the lights, coil and box them. The star is the last to come off. We stand there staring at a completely naked tree. It’s indecent to do so. I want it put to rest. I want it gone. “Right,” says my husband. “Open the door to the deck and I’ll shove it out.” Another tree bites the dust.

It’s at that point I look down and real-ize it’s not gone. I’ll be sweeping and vacuuming up pine needles for the next eleven months.

The dead evergreen has had the last word.

HFCA

The Cat and the Snowstorm

By LORRAINE DAVIS

Oh, how our son loved that cat!He told everyone who would listenhow it beat up the neighbor’s dog—

one of those little pocket-book types, you know,the ones with the yippy, earsplitting barks.

He was an independent sort—no snuggler,but then there was that day when winterhad pretty much closed down the town

that he got himself in a bit of a fix.

The snow started in the evening.Wind-whipped, it blew into drifts waist high.By sunrise, the landscaped had transformed,all the usual landmarks buried-mail boxes,

street signs, even cars, pretty much invisible.Our son, glad for a snow day, lounged on the couch

watching cartoons.

The cat, however, true to his nature, was curious.,and fearless.

The first chance he got, he ventured out,cautiously at first, then with abandon

when he discovered he could stroll atop the heaps of snowcrusty and solid on top.

He’d gotten almost to the neighbor’s yard when hehit a soft spot and disappeared with a piecing meow

into the drift.Our son, horrified at the sight of his beloved cat sinking and frightened

grabbed his boots and plowed through the waist-deep snowdigging down through the mound until he reached him, scared and

snowy.

Once safely inside, curious and fearless Mr. Cat,took a long and serious nap

and perhaps considered the case against curiosity,the flaws in fearlessness.

For years after,we told that storyabout how our son

rescued his cat from the snowdriftand how much he loved that cat.


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H E M L O C K N E W S J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 • 47COMMUNITY LIVING

WOMEN’S CLUB NEWSBy Jill Barbier

Women’s ClubMeetings resume in April

CALENDAR

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

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

CanastaMondaysConference Center, 6:30 p.m. Contact Joan at 570/775-6555.

Mah JonggContact Mary at 570/775-1591 to be placed on a sub list.

Senior Center Lunch & GamesMondays, February 1, March 7Pike County Senior Center. $3 includes lunch, $0.50 for games only. Contact Barbara at 570/775-7669, five days prior.

Dames & GamesWednesdays, January 27, February 24, March 30Conference Center, 12:30-4 p.m., $3 pp snacks included, bring a beverage. Many games offered or bring your own. RSVP: Barbara at 570/775-7669.

Pizza and PictionaryFriday, January 8Conference Center, 12-3:30 p.m., $12 members/$14 guests. BYO beverage. Drop payment in Women’s Club box at Mail Room marked “Pizza & Pictionary” by Tuesday, January 5. Contact Kathy at 570/775-9167.

Hot Dogs and BingoFriday, February 5Conference Center, 12-3:30 p.m., $12 members/$14 guests. Hot dogs with toppings & snacks. BYO beverage. Grab bag prizes. Enjoy an afternoon of food & fun. Drop your payment in the Women’s Club box at the Mail Room, marked “Hot Dogs & Bingo.” Contact Kathy at 570/775-9167 by January 29.

Snacks, Sandwiches, & CinemaFriday, March 4Conference Center, noon. $12 members/$14 guests. Movie TBD-Suggestions welcomed. Contact Kathy at 570/775-9167.

Outside, Lords Valley Country Club may have

been downright balmy in early Decem-ber, but inside for our Holiday Luncheon, all was a winter wonderland. As usual, the 160-plus members and guests were treated to a tasty meal and good service. Many were fortunate to win raffles, and we thank Kathy, Barbara, and Marianna for organizing and shopping for gifts, and Sally for artistically putting together the baskets. Angie thanked members of the Board for their efforts to make the day festive, including Pat for table seat-ing, Judy and Evelyn for selling raffle tickets, and Diane Pelino for distributing the donation letter.

Angie also thanked the following for their efforts during the year: Gloria and Eilene for organizing the Women’s Club bocce league, Diane Gentile for design-ing flyers, Mary for keeping track of the mah-jongg groups, Joan for canasta, and Pat and Evelyn for scrabble.

Marianna presented a total of $2,100 to nine organizations. Without your partic-ipation in the club’s fundraising through-out the coming year, we will not be able to continue supporting these deserving

Mary Brouder, Left, and Kathie Joseph decide where to deposit their raffle tickets. It was difficult since there were more than 60 gifts from which to choose.

n Rhoda Barr, left, Dot Anderson, and Angela Pelligrini find where they will be sitting. Pat Rutkowski made sure everyone had a great seat with friends.

Marianna Knowles, far right, hands out Women’s Club donations to representatives from local organizations at the Holiday Luncheon.

Photos by Jill BarbierHelen Wood smiles because she knows that she is on Santa’s (aka Tom Roew) good list and won’t be getting coal this year.

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Winter 2015 DonationsBlooming Grove Food Pantry .................... $500HFVF&R Co. ....................... $350HF Library ........................... $350Troop Packages ................. $300HF Landscape Club ............ $200Pike County Senior Center .................. $100St. Joseph’s Center ............ $100Port Jervis/Deerpark Humane Society.............. $100G.A.I.T................................. $100

TOTAL: $2,100

organizations. For a start, sign up for the Hot Dog and Bingo fundraiser on Friday, February 5, at 12 p.m. in the Confer-ence Center. Bring your own beverage, and hot dogs with all the usual toppings and a snack will be provided. Drop your check in the Women’s Club Mail Room box, $12 members/$14 guests, by Friday, January 29. For further information, contact Kathy at 570/775-9167.

48 • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6 H E M L O C K N E W SCOMMUNITY LIVING

SISTERHOOD NEWSBy Heather Greenfield and Gail Neldon, Co-Presidents

MeetingMeetings resume in April (fourth Sunday/month)Jewish Fellowship, Board meeting 9:30 a.m.; general meeting 11 a.m.

Mah Jongg/Card PartyThursday, June 16Lords Valley Country ClubTuesday, July 19Woodloch SpringsFriday, August 19Lords Valley Country Club

Bus Trip Mystery DinnerThursday, June 23Fun-filled bus trip to New Hope’s Peddler’s Village Mystery Dinner Theater, Henry Mercer’s Font Hill Castle, & the Moravian Tile Factory in Doylestown. Contact Gail at 570/775-0606.

Bus Trip Rockefeller’s Kykuit Estate Thursday, August 25Bus trip to Rockefeller’s Kykuit Estate and Art Collection, Union Church Chapel at Pocantico Hills with Rockefeller’s

The holiday season is behind us, but we, the Sisterhood of the Jewish Fellowship,

wish all of our Hemlock Farms neighbors a very healthy and happy new year!

SisterhoodFor more information, contact Gail Neldon at 570/775-0606, Heather Greenfield at

570/775-0564 or 239/692-9222, or Carole Weiss at 570/775-7497 (Fellowship Office).

CALENDARcommissioned Chagall and Matisse stained-glass windows accompanied by art lecturer and guide, Kelly Stagen. Contact Gail at 570/775-0606.

Philadelphia and Beyond Art and History JauntSeptember 20-223-day, 2-night bus trip: Includes two hotel nights with breakfasts, one dinner followed by a chat with a Founding Father, National Constitution Center Tour plus a performance of Freedom Rising, & tours of the Mutter Museum, the New Barnes Foundation Art Museum, the National Museum of American Jewish History, the Reading Terminal, & the Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton N.J. This all-inclusive trip, including the busdriver’s tip, is $475/person double occupancy (additional $149/person for single occupancy). Travel insurance available at $38/person & must be paid within 10 days of making your deposit. To save your spot on this interesting, packed-full jaunt, send a $75/person deposit by March 1 to Sisterhood, c/o JFHF, 1516 Hemlock Farms, Lords Valley, PA 18428. Contact Gail Neldon at 570/775-0606.

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Pocono Environmental Education CenterCall PEEC at 570-828-2319 to register for programs.

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570-828-2319 • [email protected]

Cross Country Skiing January 16, 30, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. – Free Sunday, January 17, 24, 31, 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, January 23, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. “Bridge the Gap” Cross Country Skiing on the McDade Trail, $20 adult / $10 child. Learn the basics of cross country skiing and practice on an old logging road loop. You decide how many loops to ski. Skis, polesm and boots provided. Register w/shoe size to guarantee a spot.

Intro to Snowshoeing Saturday, January 16, 23, 30, 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, January 17, 24, 31, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. $10. Learn the basics of snow shoes and enjoy a winter stomp through the woods. No experience necessary—we provide the equipment and teach you everything you need to know. Register early to guarantee a spot.

Ecozone Discovery RoomSaturday, January 16, 1-4 p.m.$2 per person. Climb into a bald eagle’s nest, crawl into a bat cave, and dig in a fossil pit! Explore this indoor discovery room and

enjoy hands-on exhibits on natural history, sustainability and the local environment. No registration required.

Animal TrackingSunday, January 17, 1-3 p.m.$5. Animals leave behind clues that give us glimpses into their lives. Explore our natural areas for tracks, trails, scat, territory marks, eat marks, and other signs that animals leave as they travel through the fields and forests of the Poconos.

Eagle Watch for Eagle Enthusiasts!Saturday, January 30, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.$20. Join us on a trip north in search of eagles. Visit the Mongaup Reservoir, the Delaware River, and the Eagle Institute to look for winter residents and nesting pairs. Bring a lunch, camera & warm clothes. Call to reserve a seat in the van.

Ecozone Discovery RoomSunday, January 31, 1-4 p.m.$2. Climb into a bald eagle’s nest, crawl into a bat cave, and dig in a fossil pit! Explore this indoor discovery room and enjoy hands-on exhibits on natural history, sustainability and the local environment. No registration required.

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HFCA


PORTER TOWNSHIP NEWSBy Cheryl Schmitt

DISCOUNT SKI TICKETS

Tickets are available to purchase at the HFCA Administration Office during normal business hours.Acceptable forms of payment are cash or check. Credit cards are not accepted at this time.No refunds on ticket purchases.

Gate Our Price Price Savings

ELK MOUNTAIN (day or twilight)Midweek $54 $51 $3Weekend/Holiday $66 $61 $5

MONTAGE MOUNTAIN (open to close)Midweek $50 $39 $11Weekend $59 $49 $10Youth Midweek (ages 6-18) $35 $27 $8Youth Weekend (ages 6-18) $45 $37 $83-hr. Snow Tubing $20 $17 $3(Fri-Sun or Holiday)

SHAWNEE MOUNTAIN (open to close)Adult (any day) $50-60 $48 $2-12Youth (18 & under, any day) $40-45 $38 $2-7Ski/Snowboard Pkg. $90-95 $75 $15-20

SKI BIG BEARShow your HFCA Recreation Badge at the ticket window to receive a 15% Lift Ticket Discount.

Over 20 Years’ Experience

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HFCA

December 7Resident of Porter Township Bob

Ott had a problem with a 911 call and, with the assistance of Emergency Man-agement Coordinator Rob Hellyer, he is trying to get the name of his road changed to avoid future confusion.

Road Master Ken Kohler reported that work is supposed to begin on the bridge on Route 402 by the Pickerel Inn in December; it will take two months to finish, depending on the weather.

The 2016 budget was adopted.

January 4The 2016 Porter Township reorgani-

zation meeting was held on January 4. Elected positions and appointment of

positions for 2016 were announced. The regular township meeting followed.

Road Master Ken Kohler reported that equipment was delivered to the Pickerel Inn Bridge on Rt. 402, but Leeward Con-struction has not yet started that project for the state.

Low-bidder Kirk Suma and Company was selected to perform the 2015 audit.

There was an update on land swap with DCNR.

The road-name dilemma with Whit-taker Road(s) has still not been resolved.

The next scheduled township meeting will be on Monday, February 1, 2016, at 6 p.m.

Meetings that fall on a holiday will be held on that Tuesday instead.

SAVE the DATESaturday, May 7, 2016DaTESaturday, May 7

Sponsored by State FarmHemlock Farms

Volunteer Fire & Rescue CompanyHemlock Farms Road

Make Plans to Participate!WILDFIRE COMMUNITYPREPAREDNESS DAY

www.Wildfi rePrepDay.org

HFCA

Payment of $30.00 must be received by Monday, February 29, in order to avoid closure

and costly extra charges.This fee is included on your

yearly dues bill.

XXXXAttention Mailbox Owners

HFCA


2016 COMMUNITY CALENDAR(All dates subject to change)

JANUARY08 WC Pizza & Pictionary Conference Ctr

FEBRUARY05 WC Bingo & Hot Dogs Conference Ctr05 CIAC Everyone Loves Chocolate Event SJN06 HFCA Mardi Gras Event Steer Barn Snow date: February 20 13 HFCA Indoor Marathon Event Clubhouse 13 HFCA Ice Skating Social Ice Skating Rink 14 HFCA Valentine Candy Bingo Steer Barn

MARCH04 WC Snacks, Sandwiches & Cinema Conference Ctr11 HFCA CA Event (TBD) Steer Barn12 HFCA CA Café Night (TBD) Steer Barn18 CIAC “Italian Art History” SJN26 HFCA Community Easter Egg Hunt Fawn Hill Field26 HFCA Candy Bingo Steer Barn

APRIL02 HFCA BOAT DAY Admin Offi ce 02 HFCA Cultural Arts Event (TBD) Steer Barn04-17 ANNUAL CLUBHOUSE CLOSURE15 WC Luncheon FHDC Bldg.16 CIAC “Madame Butterfl y” at Cinemark Off Property17 JF Sisterhood Women’s Seder Jewish Fellowship24 HFC Earth Day Event Conference Ctr & Orchard House 27-May 4 50+ Club Trip Off Property

MAY01 CA NYC Bus Trip Ballet Off Property07 Firewise Day Firehouse14 HFCA HFCA CA Café Night (TBD) Steer Barn15 JF Holocaust Memorial Service Jewish Fellowship20 WC Spring Luncheon Off Property 22 HFCA Town Meeting Steer Barn23 HFC Golf Tournament LVCC23 CIAC Golfers / Non-Golfers Tournament Off Property27 HFCA Movie Night! Steer Barn 28 Landscape Club’s Annual Plant Sale Mail Room 28 CHF Trifl es & Treasures Sale Church @ HF 28 HFVF&R Pig Roast Firehouse29 HFCA Beach BBQ Elm Beach

JUNE01 CIAC Day Bus Trip Off Property03-05 Hemlock Players Spring Production Steer Barn11 HFVF&R Dinner & Tricky Tray Firehouse12 HFCA Welcome New Neighbor Event Steer Barn13 WC Event Off Property15 HFCA CA NYC Bus Trip Off Property16 JF Mah Jongg Luncheon LVCC18 CHF Strawberry Festival Church at HF18 JF Concert Event Jewish Fellowship23 JF Day Trip Off Property24 HFCA Sunset Yoga Elm Beach25 HFC “E-Waste” Recycling DPW25 HFCA CA Outdoor Concert Fawn Hill26 HFC Environment Day

SEPTEMBER03 End of Summer Beach BBQ Elm Beach03 JF Concert Event Jewish Fellowship09 CIAC Day Trip Off Property10 HFCA CA Café Night (TBD) Steer Barn11 9/11 Memorial Service Memorial Site / Fire House12 CHF Golf Outing LVCC16 WC Off Property Luncheon Off Property 17 HFVF&R Event Firehouse20-22 JF Bus Trip Off Property24 JF Concert Event Jewish FellowshipJULY

01 JF Bake Sale Jewish Fellowship01 HFC “Rick Koval Amphibians & Reptiles” Steer Barn02 Summer Kick-Off (Rain Date: July 3) Elm Beach03 HFCA Fine Art & Craft Show Clubhouse09 HFCA Annual Membership Meeting & 1st Voting Day Steer Barn/Art Rm09 HFCA CA Outdoor Concert Fawn Hill10 HFC “Bill Streeter’s Birds of Prey” Steer Barn15 HFC Fundraising Dinner LVCC16 Children’s Fishing Derby Little Camp Beach16 WC Roaring 20s Dance Steer Barn16 JF Concert Event Jewish Fellowship17 HFCA 2nd Voting Day Steer Barn/Art Rm20 HFCA CA NYC Bus Trip Off Property23 HFVF&R Event (TBD) Firehouse23 HFCA CA Comedy Night Steer Barn24 Hemlock Lake Swim & Beach BBQ Little Camp Beach29 CA Sunset Yoga Elm Beach30 HFCA CA Party at the Beach Elm Beach31 JF Book Sale Jewish Fellowship

OCTOBER05 CHF Interfaith Tea Church @ HF06 50+ Club Off Property Event Off Property08 HFCA Dorney Halloween Haunt Bus Trip Off Property08 CHF Trifl es & Treasures Sale Church @ HF 08 CIAC Night at the Races SJN09 HFCA Everything Apple Festival Orchards14 WC Wine & Cheese Event Conference Ctr15 HFCA Children’s Halloween Party Steer Barn15 HFCA CA Café Night (TBD) Steer Barn16 HFC Presents: Dr. Gary Alt Steer Barn19 HFCA CA NYC Bus Trip Off Property19 WC Bronx Zoo & Arthur Avenue Trip Off Property21-22 Hemlock Haunt (Hayrides/Haunted House) Art Chalet & Youth Ctr.28-29 Hemlock Haunt (Hayrides/Haunted House) Art Chalet & Youth Ctr.29 50+ Club Halloween Party Steer Barn30 HFCA Trunk or Treat Elm Beach

NOVEMBER04-06 Hemlock Players Fall Production Steer Barn09 WC Off-Property Lunch Off Property17 CIAC Bowling Night Off Property26 Holiday Craft Fair Clubhouse

DECEMBER03 CA Café Night Steer Barn07 50+ Club Holiday Luncheon @ LVCC LVCC09 WC Holiday Luncheon @ LVCC LVCC14 CA NYC Bus Trip Off Property14 KofC Holiday Luncheon @ LVCC LVCC17 HFVF&R Co. Santa Visits18 HFCA Children’s Holiday Party Steer Barn18 CHF Live Nativity Church @ HF31 50+ Club New Y ear’s Party Steer Barn

Hem

lock

New

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pho

tos

AUGUST03 K of C Special Social for Special People Little Camp Beach06 JF Gala Game Night Jewish Fellowship07 HFCA CA Wellness Expo Steer Barn07 JF Book Sale Jewish Fellowship13 Hemlock Farms Day (Rain date: August 14) Fawn Hill17 HFCA CA NYC Bus Trip Off Property18 CIAC Annual Picnic Off Property19 JF Sisterhood Mah Jongg Luncheon Off Property19 HFVF&R Old Time Fiddlers Event Firehouse20 HFCA CA Comedy Night Steer Barn20 JF Concert Event Jewish Fellowship24 50+ End of Season Bocce Picnic Bocce Courts25 JF Day Trip Off Property 26 CA Sunset Yoga Elm Beach27 HFCA CA Outdoor Concert (TBD) Fawn Hill28 HFC “Nathaniel Whitmore Plants & Mushrooms” Hemlock Trail29 WC Picnic Fawn Hill

HFCA


PET PARLORBy Mary Beth Connors

PET OF THE MONTHFor Adoption

Pike County Humane Society... We Care!

570/296-7654 • 189 Lee Road, Shohola, PA 18458 • pikecountyhs.blogspot.com

I Need a Home!Sam, a one-year-old purebred Beagle, is in dire need of a good home. He is housebroken and loves kids. Sam told me that his owner’s grandson is moving in with him in February.“Steve’s grandson is severely allergic to me,” whimpered Sam. “I can’t be in the same house with him.”If you are interested in more information on Sam or adopting him, contact Steve Pelosi at 570/352-2589.

Fudge lived in a home for 9 years and came to PCHS as an owner surrender. He is laid back, friendly, good with other dogs, loves to be around people,

owner stated housebroken. Will bark at strangers. Will spin in circles at the door to let you know he needs to go potty. Would prefer a calm, quieter home. Would be fine with older children. Fudge will need some time to readjust to new home environment. Please consider giving a senior a second chance.

Winter is the time when donations slow down, so they are needed more than during

other seasons.

Bobcat WarningBobcat season opens in WMU 3D (our area of Pike County),

from December 21-January 12. When walking your dog in state forest lands, be careful to keep

your pet on the trails as traps may be set for fur taking. Last year a

Hemlock Farms dog named Apollo was accidentally trapped off the

Maple Swamp Trail.

Dog owners using this facility are responsible for abiding by these rules and regulations.• All dogs must have ID tag and

current rabies vaccinations.• Owners must supervise their dogs.

Never leave a dog unattended.• Dog Run open daily, sunrise to

sunset. Closed Wednesdays, 6:00 a.m.-8:00 a.m. July–October.

• Owners must clean up after their dogs immediately, and fill any holes dug. Please deposit all litter in a refuse container.

• Owners must be in control of their dogs at all times and prevent aggressive behavior, biting, fighting, or excessive barking.

• Owners are solely liable for damage or injury inflicted by their dogs. Dogs acting aggressively must be removed immediately. Dogs showing repeated aggression cannot use the Dog Run.

• Young children must be under constant adult supervision. No child under the age of 12 may supervise a dog.

• Strollers, carriages, bicycles, glass containers, children’s toys, food or treats are NOT permitted in the Dog Run.

• Female dogs in heat and puppies under four months of age are prohibited.

• Your dog must be on a leash when exiting the vehicle and approaching the outer gate. Open the outer gate only when the inner gate is closed to prevent dogs from running out. Wait until your dog is inside the main area and acclimated before removing the leash. Keep the leash ready.

HFCA DOG RUNMaple Ridge Drive Open sunrise to sunset.

HFCA

HFCAMystery CatsWhen Jean Bond’s neighbor came

to her with two one-year-old cats that needed a good home, Jean agreed to take them.

“Were we ever lucky!” said the siblings. “We are so glad that we didn’t have to be separated.”

Poirot always defers to his sister in all things, including special treats. “If Miss Marple wants my portion of food, I move away to make room for her,” he smiled.

Miss Marple told me that she and her brother spend lots of time cuddling.

“We get along very well,” said Miss Marple.

The cats told me that they enjoy a treat or two at 4 a.m.

“Jean goes to bed early so that she can be ready for us,” they said.

Miss Marple, top, a two-year old-cat, rests in her basket. “I was named after a character in an Agatha Christie novel,” purred Miss Marple.Poirot, at left, the two-year-old brother of Miss Marple, looks out the window to see what is going on. “Did you know that Hercule Poirot is a famous detective created by Agatha Christie?” he asked.

Charlotte, a three-year-old Black Labrador Retriever and Cattle Dog mix, relaxes in her back yard. “Did you know that Cattle Dogs were originally bred in Australia to herd livestock?” asked Charlotte.

Homeless No MoreTara and Chris Carrubba wanted a dog

for their three children. They decided to adopt a homeless dog to give it a better life.

When their youngest child was old enough to help care for a dog, they logged onto Petfinder and located a dog at Pregnant Dog and All Breed Rescue located in Newfoundland, PA.

After a lengthy and extensive interview process, Tara and her family travelled to the shelter to meet Charlotte, who went right up to Tara’s son Kyle and smiled at him. Kyle’s face lit up.

Charlotte told me that she was rescued from a shelter in South Carolina, where she had been abandoned.

“After I gave birth to too many pup-pies, I was no longer needed,” said Char-lotte, sadly.

Charlotte told me that she has scars on her neck from being tied and probably from wearing a collar that was too tight.

“I was not loved or played with,” said Charlotte. “I am settling into my new home very nicely. I love the children, and I know that I am now part of a loving family.”


An open invitation to Hemlock Farms residents:

Dinner by Daniel Lords Valley Country Club’s Award-Winning Chef

Friday, January 29, 2016 • 6-9 pm

Lords Valley Country Club

www.lordsvalleycountryclub.com 570-775-7325, ext 205 • www.facebook.com/pa18428

LVCC is a private not-for-profit club. Memberships available, subject to LVCC Board approval.

Appetizers: Choice of…

Fresh Buffalo Mozzarella Tomato Carpaccio, White Beans, Basil Pesto

Pickled Red Onion Maple Roasted Duck “French Toast”

Brioche, Orange Custard, Maple Emulsion Apple Compote, Pink Peppercorn

Crabby Plate Crab Cake, Tempura Soft Shell Crab

Spicy Mayo Slaw, Pepper Jam

Salad: Choice of…

Roasted Beet & Goat Cheese Baby Arugula, Candied Walnuts

Red Wine & Olive Oil, Local Honey Traditional House Salad

Entrées: Choice of…

Middle Eastern Lamb Loin Stuffed Grape Leave, Chickpea Falafel, Hummus

Grilled Eggplant, Citrus Yogurt Diver Scallops & Shrimp

Creamy Polenta, Sautéed Spinach Tomato Vin Blanc, Tomato Chutney

Asian Salmon Steak Ginger Cabbage, Sesame Rice Cake, Wasabi Aioli

Sweet Soy Vinaigrette, Pineapple Angus Beef Sirloin

Basil Whipped Potatoes, Onion Ring Asparagus Succotash, Red Wine Jus

Pan Seared Butter Fish Grilled Zucchini, Tomato Basil Risotto

Balsamic Reduction, Grilled Portobello Charred Berkshire Pork Loin

BBQ Onions, Potato Pancake Creamed Root Vegetables, Bourbon Glaze

Desserts: Choice of…

Crème Brulee Macerated Berries, Funnel Cake Fries Maple Cinnamon Oatmeal Pudding

Rum Raisin Ice Cream, Maple Emulsion, Caramel Pecans “Chocolate Bar”

Almond Croquant, Shaved Coconut, Chocolate Mouse

Coffee/Tea/Soft Drinks Included; Wine, Beer & Liquor Tickets may be purchased at the door

$40.00/PP, all-inclusive (personal check or cash only) Reservations required: 570-775-7334

(Please provide entree selections when making reservation.)

Santa reads to the children.

Santa Claus Came to LVCC

Photos by Mary Beth ConnorsOn Saturday morning, December 5, Ray and Maureen Larkin with their six-year-old granddaughter Delaney Donavan enjoy breakfast with Santa.”We came last year and had a great time,” said Ray. “I enjoyed talking with Santa,” said Delaney.

Six-year-old Braedon, left, and two-year-old Teigan Goulett with

Santa and his elves.

Helen Williams, left, and Lee Costantino came to the breakfast just to see Santa, enjoy the food and the view. “I asked Santa for good health so that I can continue to enjoy living in Hemlock Farms,” said Helen.


KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS NEWSBy Art Benshoof

Knights of Columbus, Council #12571

LORDS VALLEY For membership information, contact

Ray Podeszwa at 570/775-6307.

CALENDAR

MeetingsThird Monday/monthSt. John Neumann Parish Hall, 7 p.m. All Brother Knights are invited.

Food for Families & FriendsSunday, February 7St. John Neumann Parish Hall, 2-4 p.m. Nutritious home-cooked meals (Chicken Parmesan) for individuals & families undergoing financial difficulties or in need of fellowship. RSVP: Joan at 570/775-0681 on Monday, Thursday, & Friday between 9 a.m. & 2 p.m. or Bob at 570/775-9826 on Tuesday & Wednesday.

On Saturday evening December 5, three men made their 1st degree Exem-plification in joining the Knights of Columbus Council 12571, St. John Neu-mann. We welcome to our council our newest members, John McAneney, Chris Passenti, and Thomas Smith.

The Food for Families dinner on Sunday, December 6, was a rousing suc-cess. More than 55 guests joined for a turkey dinner with mashed potatoes and mixed vegetables. The highlight of the meal appeared to be the split-pea soup with ham made by brothers Angelo Papa and Arnold Santandreu.

On Tuesday evening after the 5:00 p.m. Mass, the annual lighting of the crèche took place in front of the church with Father Ryan officiating. Afterwards, we served hot dogs and coffee. When Father Ryan asked “Why hot dogs?” Charlie Denniston replied, “Because it’s easy!”

The Knights’ annual Christmas party for children was held on Sunday, December 13, after the 10:30 a.m. Mass. The children and their parents were served hot dogs, desserts, and beverages. Brother Charlie Denniston took pictures of the children with Santa Claus as Santa listened to their requests for Christmas.

A wonderful Knights Christmas Party was held at Lords Valley Country Club on Wednesday, December 16. The coun-try club was beautifully decorated and

provided a warm setting for this annual event. An ample array of appetizers was served during the cocktail hour that began at 6:00 p.m. A delicious meal con-sisting of four possible entrees was fol-lowed by ice cream, pies and cookies. A DJ provided music before and during the meal with a variety of selections for dancing afterwards. Kudos to brothers Ed Blaney, Angelo Papa, and Bernie Hengel for a fantastic evening.

Vogel and Moore IncMatt Boulanger

[email protected] Forest Drive Suite ALords Valley, PA 18428

(570) 257-0330

©2006 Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies. Nationwide Life Insurance Company. Home office: Columbus, Ohio43215-2220. Nationwide, the Nationwide Framemark and On Your Side are federally registered service marks of Nationwide Mutual InsuranceCompany. Not available in all states. Subject to underwriting guidelines, review and approval.

Better rates on better policies meansBETTER INSURANCE.Call or stop by today for a quote on your homeowners insurance.

Vogel and Moore Inc.Matt Boulanger

[email protected] Route 739

Lords Valley, PA 18428570-257-0330

License # PA025297

Burglar • Fire • Closed-Circuit TelevisionIntercom Systems • Music & Sound Systems

“Protecting lives and property since 1978”

CSI Security Systems Inc.

John Meenan, Proprietor3018 Hemlock Farms

570-775-4086

Residential • Commercial • Industrial Insured & Bonded

973-650-6193570-296-6110

[email protected] Lic# 7576 • PA# HIC 030559

Licensed Electrical Contractors

Have your panel/house inspected

by our Electricians

PA, NY, NJ570-775-9800 • 1-888-775-9800

Home • Auto • Life • Business662 Route 739


AWA

Contributed photosVince Joseph, left, Jeff Vaccarino’s daughter Olivia, and Santa.

The Knights enjoy themselves at their holiday party at Lords Valley Country Club.


Things to Know About Living in Hemlock FarmsADMINISTRATION OFFICE

119 Lookout DrivePhone 570/775-4200

Fax 570/775-7370Office Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Daily except TuesdayHFCA accepts credit cards only for dues and water balances on www.hemlockfarms.org. Click Home, Dues Information, and choose "Pay your dues and water online here."

ANNUAL DUES 2016:"I" lot = $2,254"U" lot = $1,507 plus $144 for stormwater and $174 water standby fee"A" lot = $1,005 plus $144 for stormwater and $174 water standby feeCapital Improvement Fee:Improved “I” lot = $2,168Unimproved “U” lot = $1,084Adjacent “A” lot = $1,084

WEBSITEWWW.HEMLOCKFARMS.ORG

Sign In! Sign Up!Did you know......that you can register your visitor online?...that you can enter your classified ads online? (Some fees may apply)Members can sign up for access to the "members only" area of the website by creating a user account.The weekly Happenings will be emailed to all website users.

BUILDING DEPARTMENT 119 Lookout Drive

570/775-4200, Ext. 119Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

PERMITSFence 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) 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 feetBuilding permit required from respective township and HFCA before construction begins.

CONSTRUCTIONIf 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–Con-struction Vehicles.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.

EXTENSIONS AT HFCA OFFICE: 570/775-4200

Accounting Department ................................ 1Building Department ..................................... 3Hemlock News ............................................... 5Library ....................................................... 132Recreation Department ................................. 4Youth Center .............................................. 130Water Company ............................................. 2Almy, Sue ................................................... 119Baumann, Lis............................................. 111Bickmann, Brianna .................................... 113Broschard, Ray ........................................... 142Carrubba, Tara ........................................... 115Cassidy Gavin, Fran ................................... 146Connors, Mary Beth ................................... 121Drake, Ann Marie ...................................... 141Ferrara, Jeanne ......................................... 139Keegan, Marian ......................................... 127Kemery, Kay ............................................... 114Mooring, Dorisann ..................................... 124Nally, Kevin ................................................ 137Osborne, Michele ....................................... 122Pearston, Jennifer...................................... 140Peney, Elaine ............................................. 128Prisco, Amy ................................................ 148Sarro, Kathy ............................................... 123Sersea, Mildred .......................................... 110Sloan, Jesse ............................................... 131Strapec, Amy .............................................. 118Thatcher, Jill .............................................. 112Waibel, Kathie ........................................... 138Wormuth, John .......................................... 126Yale, Helen................................................. 125

MANNAMANNA will continue to provide hospital equip-ment and rides to doctor appointments. How-ever, 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 Vince Joseph 570/775-7153 (for medical equipment or doctor rides).

APPEALS HEARING REMINDERIF YOU WANT A HEARING

If you receive a citation, you have 30 days to appeal. You are expected to provide your own defense & evidence.Bring any and all evidence to your hearing: Pictures, Witnesses, Bills, Proof of StatementsIf you have to cancel your requested scheduled Appeals Hearing, exclusive of valid reason, you must call 570/775-4242 at least 24 hours in ad-vance. 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.

PAVING YOUR DRIVEWAYThe Board of Directors wants members to be made aware of a potential situation should members wish to pave their driveways in the near future.When the future Stormwater Management Plan is implemented, many driveways may have to be cut into in order to replace culvert pipes. Once the driveway has been cut and repaired, the member would have to deal with the settling of the driveway, which could take up to two years, and future regrading may be necessary.The Association has easement rights on all Hemlock Farms roadways for utility and storm-water facilities.Given the above information, the HFCA asks that you take this into consideration before applying for a paved driveway permit.

PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT363 Hemlock Farms Road

Open 365 days a year, 24 hours a dayFor Fire and Medical Emergencies call 911; for all other emergencies contact HFCA Public Safety at 570/775-4242.Visitor Entry: 570/775-GATE (4283) or log on to the HFCA websiteMembers and residents must authorize all visitors through the gates prior to arrival by calling the visitor entry number or logging on to the HFCA website.Lost and Found Department located in the Public Safety Building.

SELLING YOUR CAR?If you sell or dispose of your vehicle, you must alert the Hemlock Farms Community Admin-istration Office in order to deactivate your barcode. 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.

NOTICE: IT’S THE LAWBe aware, SPECIAL FIRE POLICE are Sworn Officers of Pennsylvania Local Government Title 35 – Act of 1941, P.L. 137, No. 74Further, Pennsylvania Law (Title 75, Sections 3327 and 3102) provides for:PERSONS FAILING TO OBEY A FIRE POLICE OFFICER’S INSTRUCTIONS OR INDICATIONS RELATING TO TRAFFIC FLOW COMMITS A SUMMARY OFFENSE AND SHALL, UPON CONVICTION, PAY FINES AND ARE SUBJECT TO SUSPENSION OF THEIR DRIVING PRIVILEGES.In an Emergency Response Area, these fines are DOUBLED.

HELP PREVENT FIRES!Be extremely careful around any fire!! Do your part to see that Hemlock Farms remains free from the danger of fire. The following code was prepared with your safety in mind.

RECYCLING CENTER INFORMATION

233 Maple Ridge Drive570/775-0956

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.Independence Day Weekend:

Friday-Monday, 7 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 of Thanksgiving Week: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Friday of Thanksgiving Week: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Christmas Day: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.New Year’s Day: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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.

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.”115-9 Disposal at HFCA Facilities: Disposal of Solid Waste, generated at residence, is pro-hibited at HFCA facilities, except at the Refuse Recycling Center when Center is open. 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 COLLECTIONHouse-to-house pickup is scheduled on Mondays beginning at 5:30 a.m. by Waste Management (570/729-8125). 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 at 800/222-2028 or 570/729-7125. Reference this account #: 153-59562, WM one-time PU Beach Lake. Residents must notify Public Safety to avoid being cited for non-compliance of HFCA Code, Chapter 115 – Garbage: Solid Waste Disposal. Construction materials must be cut to no longer than 3’ in length.

LET’S HELP TO KEEP OUR COMMUNITY CLEAN.

Please do not litter!

MAIL ROOM349 Hemlock Farms Road

HF Mail Room 570/775-9901Hawley Postmaster 570/226-4847

WINDOW Hours: Monday–Saturday: 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.;

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 Ser-vice. 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.

BULLETIN BOARDIn 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 submit a 2"x3½" business card to the HFCA Office. For a fee, the card will be placed on the bulletin board for a period of three months.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!For mail addressed to Hemlock Farms, use this format:

Name123 Street Address9876 Hemlock FarmsLords Valley, PA 18428

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.





HFCA


BOOK REVIEWBy Anne Marie Zenie

LIBRARY NEWS

Library Acquisitions

Hemlock Farms Library117 Lookout Drive

570/775-4200, ext. 132

HoursDuring inclement weather, please call to confirm if open.Monday: 10 a.m. to 12 noonTuesday: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.Thursday: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.Thursday: 5 to 7 p.m.Friday: 10 a.m. to 12 noonSaturday: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.Sunday: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

CALENDAR

Book Discussion Group3rd Tuesday/monthAll welcome! Contact Eilene at 570/775-2755.

Pre-School Story HourTuesdays, through June10:30 a.m. No pre-registration required. Contact Rhoda at 570/775-9035.

Check out the NEW Book Sale area!

FictionAfter She’s Gone by Lisa JacksonAshley Bell by Dean KoontzAsk Him Why by Catherine Ryan HydeDark Tides by Chris EwanThe First Hostage by Joel C. RosenbergForgotten Soldier (A Pike Logan

Thriller) by Brad TaylorHouse of the Rising Sun by James Lee

BurkeHunting Trip - A Novel of Love and War

by William E. Butterworth IIIThe Magic Strings of Frankie Presto by

Mitch AlbomMurder Most Unfortunate-A Rick

Montoya Italian Mystery by David P. Wagner

Precious Gifts by Danielle SteelRiot Most Uncouth - A Lord Byron

Mystery by Daniel FriedmanSecret Sister by Jayne Ann KrentzStorm Front by Robert ConroyTipping Point - The War With China by

David PoyerTom Clancy - Commander in Chief (A

Jack Ryan Novel) by Mark Greaney

Easy FictionThe Little Snow Plow by Lora Koehler

Is This a Library or a Book Store?Hemlock Farms Library Offers the Best of Both Ask Him Why by Catherine Ryan Hyde

“Books are like lobster shells, we surround ourselves with ’em, then we grow out of

’em and leave ’em behind, as evidence of our earlier stages of

development.”—Dorothy L. Sayers,

The Unpleasantness at the Bellona Club, 1928.

Ask Him Why is Catherine Ryan Hyde’s latest novel. One of her previous works, Pay It Forward, was a best-selling novel that was adapted into a motion picture. Pay It Forward is one my favorite books, and I hoped I would enjoy Ask Him Why as much. I did, until the end! Don’t

worry—I won’t ruin the ending for you.Ask Him Why is the story of a family

with a tragic secret. It describes their attempts to reconcile their past with their future. The novel begins as the oldest son returns from fighting in Iraq. The story is told from the point of view of his two younger siblings, Ruth and Aubrey.

At the beginning, Ruth states, “I was fifteen when our brother Joseph was shipped overseas to fight, and I was fifteen when he came home, uninjured, three-and-a-half months later. Yeah, I know what you’re thinking. The army doesn’t tend to have deployments that last only three-and-a-half months. That was the heart of our problem right there.”

What follows is heart wrenching as the siblings grapple with what happened to their brother and the aftermath of his decision. The story is compelling, and the characters are believable. I actually stayed up reading until one-thirty in the morning to find out what happened to the family!

Ask Him Why might be the perfect book to read when you’re snowed in this winter.

By ANNE MARIE ZENIE

Visit our new Hemlock Farms Library Book Store located at the entrance of the library. A variety of books—fic-tion, cookbooks, gardening, history, children’s books, and much more—is offered for sale at low prices. Recently, an article in The New York Times (Sunday, December 6, 2015) presented a strong argument in favor of creating per-sonal book collections.

Teddy Wayne, in “Our (Bare) Shelves, Our Selves,” stated, “...the loss of print books and periodicals can have signifi-cant repercussions on children’s intel-lectual development. Perhaps the stron-gest case for a household full of print

books came from a 2014 study published in the sociology journal Social Forces. Researchers measured the impact of the size of home libraries on the reading level of 15-year-old students across 42 nations, controlling for wealth, parents’ education and occupations, gender, and the country’s gross national product. After G.N.P., the quantity of books in one’s home was the most important pre-dictor of reading performance. Owning books in the home is one of the best things you can do for your child aca-demically.”

So, consider stopping by the Hemlock Farms Library Book Store to increase the size of your personal library!

Contributed photos

Rhoda Barr reads to the

children during Story Hour at

the Library.

Santa visits the Library.

HO!HO!HO!


JEWISH FELLOWSHIP NEWS

“A beautiful sight, we’re happy tonight, skating in a winter wonderland.”

Ice Skating SocialSaturday, February 13

Ice Rink at the Conference Center7:00-9:00 p.m.

Everyone is invited for a fun night of skating!

Bring your skates,Listen to music,Warm your toes by the fire, and enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and refreshments!

Photo by Ina FilipOn Saturday, December 5, the Jewish Fellowship Religious School held its annual Hannukah luncheon. Students Ryan Hirshman, left, Jack Filip, Toby Shedd, Joshua Griffiths, and Samuel Filip, seated, gather around their teacher, Rhoda Barr.

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HFCA

HFCA


Warren Heck Honored as Man of the Year

By MARCIA ROSE YAWITZ

Warren Heck, a resident of Hem-lock Farms and New York City, was awarded the Man of the Year Award by the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA). The event took place at the Sheraton Hotel in Manhattan on December 8. It was an extremely suc-cessful event. 80% of donated funds to CCFA are used for medical research to cure and combat this disease.

Crohn’s Disease effects approximately 3.2 per 1,000 people in the US and Europe. There are no medical or surgi-cal procedures that can cure the disease, however, research sponsored by CCFA has led to better treatments for this debilitating disease, and people are able to live relatively normal lives.

Warren Heck is Chairman of the Board of Greater New York Mutual Insur-ance Company, which was founded at the turn of the last century and whose history is directly tied to the growth of real estate in New York City. He began his career at Greater New York Mutual in 1962 as a junior underwriter, and he retired 53 years later as its CEO. During his tenure there, he established the com-pany’s underwriting policy, supported the real estate community in NYC, and expanded the company from a tri-state writer to a super-regional carrier operat-ing in 15 states.

After 9-11, Warren lobbied heavily and testified on multiple occasions before Congress to ensure the passage of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act, making it possible for business to continue to oper-ate without interruption following that terrible attack on us.

Under his leadership, Greater New York Insurance was and is active in charitable-giving campaigns that sup-port a broad array of causes, including the CCFA Take Steps Walk, which it sponsors each year in May.

Within the last six month, Warren received numerous awards for his tire-less contribution to a myriad of causes that include the Israel Bond Neil D. Levin Memorial Award, the National conference for Community and Justice Humanitarian Award, the Chairman’s Distinguished Service Award from the NY Insurance Association, the NAMIC Chairman’s Award for leadership and outstanding services, The Free Enter-prise Award from the Insurance Fed-eration of NY, and the Eugene A. Toale Memorial Award for promoting profes-sional development and education in the insurance industry. In his spare time, Warren mentors students at Baruch Col-lege in careers in the insurance industry.

A Hemlock Farms resident for more than 10 years and a member of LVCC, Warren advises the community on its insurance coverage. He has recom-mended changes to the Finance Com-mittee and to the Board so that we are fully and better covered.Contributed photos

AFFORDABLE MONTHLY RENT • NO BUY-IN FEE

Belle Reve provides seniors with Personal Care, Memory Care and Skilled Nursing in a kind and loving environment.

404 East Harford Street • Milford, PA 18337 570-301-6097 • www.bellereveseniorl iving.com

Compassionate Care is unforgettable...Belle Reve provides Personal Care, Memory Care and Skilled Nursing 24 hours a day. Our specially-trained staff treats your loved one with the utmost respect and dignity in a safe and secure environment.

Contact Kaitlyn or Michele today to schedule a tour at 570-301-6097 or [email protected]

E L E C T R I C A L C O N T R A C T O RS P E C I A L I Z I N G I N

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Ed Cuff.. . Your electrical specialist who lives in Hemlock Farms Community.103 Unfranchise Way, Shohola, PA 18458

HIC Number: PAOAGHIC:006096

EDWARD CUFFELECTR ICAL CONTRACTOR INC .


Think you can text and drive?

THINKAGAIN

Photo by Cindy RaeenOn Saturday, December 5 , Adrienne Cordani, left, Dorisann Mooring, Sally Kruper, Pat Vanca, Cindy Raeen, Linda Polizzi, and Cheryl Schmitt enjoy an Olde English Holiday Tea at Good Shepherd Church in Milford.

CresciConstructionCustom, Log & Modular Homes

Additions • RemodelingRoo ng • Windows

Siding • Decks

570-828-2422www.cresciconstructionllc.com

PA038927

AquariusPlumbing & Electric

Emergency ServiceWell & Sewage Pumps

Water Treatment systemsHeating Systems

Water HeatersPlumbing & Electrical Services

570-828-6761PA039128

License Your Dog If you are a dog owner in Pike County, it is important that you license your dog. Licensing is mandated by state law and is enforced by the Pennsylvania

Department of Agriculture. Fines for failing to secure a license range from $25 to $400. The Pike County Treasurer’s office maintains a database of licenses that are issued, which enables lost dogs to be returned to their

owners more readily. This reduces costs incurred by the municipalities when the Humane Society must take possession of a lost dog.

Pike County Treasurer’s Office is located at 506 Broad Street, Milford, PA 18337,

570/296-3441, open Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Licenses can also be purchased locally at R&ME Licensing, Route 739,

Lords Valley, PA 18428, 570/775-9757.

Club Meetings and ProgramsChess ClubThursdaysConference Center, 7:30 p.m. All levels welcome. Contact Andy at 570/775-9479.

Computer ClubSecond Tuesday every monthConference Center, 7-10:30 p.m. To join, visit HFCCLUB.com or call Scotty at 570/257-4125.

Fishing ClubNew members welcome! Contact Marie at 570/775-0630 or [email protected].

Food & FriendsFirst Monday/monthOrchard House, 6 p.m. If you cannot

prepare/bring anything, a $5 suggested donation for refreshment. Contact Mary at 570/775-1977.

Happy HookersThursdaysConference Center, 1 p.m. Contact Evelyn at 570/775-9829.

Landscape ClubContact Ronnie at 570/775-8893 or Dianne at 570/775-9204 for information on joining.

Neighbor-to-NeighborThird Wednesday/month Next meeting: February 17Conference Center, 7-8:30 p.m. Guest speaker: Coffee & donuts served.

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BERTSCH CONTRACTINGGeneral Home Improvement

and Building ContractorGarages • Additions • Remodeling • Roofing • Siding • Sheds

Interior & Exterior Painting • Decks • Kitchens • Baths • FlooringDriveway Stone • Electrical Work • Structural Landscaping

FREE ESTIMATESMember of Pike County Chamber of Commerce, Pike County Builders Association

Licensed: PAOAGHIC001935Call Dave Bertsch • 570-686-1298

PO Box 1430 • Milford, PA 18337

Serving Hemlock Farms for more than 25 Years


FOOD FINDSBy Marina P. KennedyInformation from a Member

Camelback Resort for Trails End RestaurantAnd More Great Dining Options

no job too big or

small!

now scheduling

free estimatesHIC: PA023120

[email protected] 739 — .5 mile South of I-84

Exit 34 Lords Valley, PA

570.775.6850

Additions • Decks • Remodeling

The new Camelback Resort is your place for great dining. And you don’t have to be a guest to enjoy their fabu-lous eateries. Stop by whenever you are in the Tannersville area. Restaurants are accessed through the resort lobby where the staff is pleased to direct you.

We visited on a Sunday evening and enjoyed a dinner at Trails End, a casual, yet stylish grill that serves a wonderful array of sandwiches, entrées, and sides. Trails End is ideal for intimate gather-ings, families, and large groups. The res-taurant has comfortable seating options and wraparound windows with a great view. The lovely patio area has two fire pits that will warm you up if you wish to venture outdoors, and the spacious bar

is an ideal spot to relax and enjoy their fine beverage program that includes spe-cialty cocktails, draft beer, and wine by the glass or by the bottle.

Chef Luke Polles has created a menu that has just the right variety. Selections are perfectly presented and expertly sea-soned. Popular starters include fresh, Warm Pretzel Sticks ($8.99) and Lobster Deviled Eggs ($7.99). The Strawberry Pecan Salad ($11.99) is a house favorite, and their homemade Chili ($8.99) can spice up your lunch or dinner. Grownup Mac and Cheese has a delicate blend of five cheeses and can include mix-ins like lobster or veggies. Be adventur-ous and indulge in the Burger Expedi-tion ($10.99), where you can be creative

with toppings and garnishes. Culi-nary delights like the Rotisserie Baked Chicken ($18.99), Filet Mignon ($29.99), or Halibut Crab Gratin ($21.99) are sat-isfying and absolutely delicious. The Kids’ Menu ($6.99) has options that are sure to please youngsters.

We highly suggest that you top off your meal with their specialty dessert, S’mores ($9.99). This scrumptious treat is served family style, with melted choc-olate and toasted marshmallows.

Camelback Resort also has several other excellent restaurants. Stop by Nautilus at lunch or dinner for made-to-order sushi, lite bites, and drinks while you relax in the maritime-themed eatery that overlooks the resort’s famous indoor water park “Aquatopia.” Their buffet res-taurant, Hemispheres, offers an enticing breakfast or dinner with daily specials.

Camelback Resort is located at 193 Resort Drive, Tannersville, PA. 18372. Call 855/515-1283 or visit http://www.camelbackresort.com.

Contributed photos


FIRE COMPANY NEWS By Gary Garofolo, Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire

and Rescue Company President

Step Out of Your Comfort Zone

HFVF&R Co. & AuxiliaryCALENDAR

Facility for RentFirehouse Pole BarnAvailable for parties, showers, birthdays, & any special occasion. The pole building located at the Firehouse Complex, Hemlock Farms Road. For more information & costs, contact Jim Thompson 570/234-9436.

Fire Company Lottery CalendarBuy a calendar for $25 from Charlie Denniston at 570/775-7477 or [email protected]. See ad on page 68 for details. You can win multiple times during the year! All winners will be paid by check the following week.

Serving 24 Hours of Every Day of the YearHEMLOCK FARMS VOLUNTEER

FIRE & RESCUE CO.1053 Hemlock Farms • Lords Valley, Pennsylvania 18428 • 570-775-6447

$80 HELPS US HELP YOU!

The HFVF&R Company is not supported financially through your HFCA membership dues.In addition to assuring the availability of first-class emergency services,

all residents are requested to make an annual tax-deductible contribution of $80 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 when our ambulance assists them.

If you are interested in

volunteeringfor the

HFVF&R Co.in any way,

please call the station at

570/775-6447,or stop by on Monday evenings

from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m.

Giving of yourself to others in need makes you a better person. And I think that most people want to be the best version of themselves that they can be. The Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company provides you that opportunity, if you will join us.

We have been responding to emergen-cies in Hemlock Farms for 46 years. That is almost half a century of directly helping those in need in our commu-nity. Now we need our community to help us. Of the population that lives in the approximately 3,500 homes here in Hemlock Farms, we have only 34 active volunteers who are qualified to respond to alarms. It is the reason why we have had to hire personnel to keep our ambu-lances responding.

We realize that some of you are working two or more jobs, which is what is con-

tributing to the decline in volunteerism all over the country. But if you and/or members of your family can donate an average of eight hours a month, we can use you as active members. If you cannot do that, we have non-active positions that require only a couple of hours a month.

We accept men, women, and children from 14 years of age and up. We have entire families that are members. Volun-teering for the Hemlock Farms Volun-teer Fire and Rescue Company is great for young teenagers. It teaches them responsibility and gives them a hobby that keeps them out of trouble. They are the future of our fire company.

If your circumstances force you to use your spare time to earn money, there are also paid positions for Emergency Medi-

cal Technicians (EMTs) and drivers for our ambulances. We can educate you on how to get qualified for these positions. What an easy commute it is to our fire-house!

People are always telling me how much they appreciate the work the fire com-

Contributed photosAssistant Chief Jesse Young, left, Chief Rich Hall, and Fire Police Captain Dan Bazquez discuss fire company business.

HFCA

HFCA

pany does. This is an inexpensive hobby that is meaningful to your community. It is satisfaction. I invite you to contact me for more information at 570/257-4041 or [email protected]. I will be happy to spend all the time necessary to explain all the aspects of our company.

Dave Prell, one of our paid EMTs, and firefighter Jim Masson by our traffic unit.

Junior Firefighters Joey and Anthony Fisher in front of our rescue truck.


Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company

Lottery Calendar Fundraiser Buy a calendar for $25.00 from Charlie Denniston.

Charlie can be reached at 570/775-7477 or [email protected].

When you purchase the calendar, you will select a three-digit number from

000 to 999. These numbers correspond to the evening Pennsylvania Pick 3 Lottery

played straight only. If your number is drawn any day of the year, you win the

amount indicated on the calendar. You can win multiple

times during the year!

All winners will be paid by check the

following week.

HFCA

SERVING THE TRI-STATE AREA“SINCE 1976”

PORT JERVIS PAVING

• BLACKTOPPING• STATE-OF-THE-ART SEALCOATING

• DRIVEWAYS• ROADS• PARKING LOTS• MOBILE-HOME PARKS

At Port Jervis Paving, we do it all.Your estimate is free.All the details required under HFCA (20% rule) are included in the free estimate.We will do the paving and sealing of your driveway at a reasonable cost to you.Plus, if we receive your signed contract, we will cover the cost of the Hemlock permit ($35) and we will obtain it for you!

INSURED & GUARANTEEDFREE ESTIMATES

CALL 24 HOURS

570-296-7810845-856-2531

Tom Bowers, OwnerIf you’re considering Port Jervis Paving, please call us at 570-296-7810 or at 845-856-2531.

Photos by Kathie WaibelHemlock News Assistant Kathie Waibel surrounded by her seven grandchildren, Matt Waibel, top left, and his brother, Louie; Christopher Simon, left; Bella Waibel, Samantha Simon, Silas Mazakas, and Ellie Waibel. “I’m feeling very blessed!” said Kathie.

On Saturday, December 19, Santa, delivering toys to children in the community, is chauffeured to homes in Hemlock Farms by the Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company.

This is eight-month-old Silas’s first Christmas. He is enjoying

his visit with Santa!

Celebrating their first Christmas with their eight-month-old son are Cherylyn Mazakas, left, Silas, Santa, and Stephen Mazakas. “I like this Santa visit,” Silas appears to say. “I was a very good boy!”

Santa’s Visit


COLUMBIA ITALIAN-AMERICAN CLUB NEWSBy Barbara Denniston

Columbia Italian-American Club

For membership information, contact Anne Marie Zenie at 570/257-0007. 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.

CALENDAR

Monthly Dinner MeetingThird Fridays, January 15, February 19St. John Neumann Parish Hall, dinner 6 p.m., meeting 7 p.m., members $10/guests $12. Contact Joanne at 570/775-6766 the Friday prior to the dinner.

Everybody Loves ChocolateFriday, February 5St. John Neumann Parish Hall, 7-9 p.m., $7. Everyone is welcome for some delicious, decadent chocolate desserts & beverages! RSVP: Gail Giannini at 570/775-0990.

Film: IlCapitaleUmanoFriday, March 18St. John Neumann Parish Hall, after the monthly meeting. An award-winning foreign film telling the story of how the lives of two families intertwine after a tragic Christmas Eve accident. Members & guests welcome!

Madame ButterflySaturday, April 16Simulcast performance of Madame Butterfly at the Cinemark Theater in Moosic from The Metropolitan Opera House, 12:55 p.m., $27. Everyone welcome! RSVP: Eilene at 570/775-2755.

Non-Golfers OutingMonday, May 23Details to follow.

Happy New Year to All!Hope everyone had a joyous and beau-

tiful Christmas!Our annual Christmas Party was held

on Sunday, December 6, at Best Western Inn at Hunt’s Landing. This is always a festive and fun event, and we thank everyone who came out to celebrate with us. As usual, DJ Faith had everyone up and dancing. Our basket committee outdid themselves with many beautiful baskets given out during the evening. Many thanks to Joann Cerullo and her talented committee for all their hard work. A big “thank-you” goes to Jim Pellechia for organizing this event.

Our Events Committee has been hard at work planning some fun and interest-ing activities for the coming year. Please refer to our calendar for more details on upcoming events.

Call today to find out more about this rewarding opportunity

570.586.3135Each Home Instead Senior Care® franchise office is independently owned and operated. ©2015 Home Instead, Inc.

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ABOVE ALL CONTRACTINGROOF REPAIRS • KITCHENS/BATHS • SIDING • DECKS • SKYLIGHTS

WINDOWS/DOORS • PAINTING/STAINING • POWER WASHING • PLOWING

Call Dave at 570-775-4204

Photos by Angelo PapaJimmy Pellechia presents a check from the Columbia Italian American Club to Knight Pete Gangarossa for the Marine and Knights program to send packages to the troops overseas.

Eilene Papa, left, presents a donation to St. John Neumann’s Youth Group members Sydney and Ryleigh Maney. Other CIAC group members present for the donation were Marie Desiano and Lisa Mannarino.

Eilene Papa, left, presents a check to Mary Brouder of the Blooming Grove Food Pantry. Other CIAC group members present for the donation were Marlene Stoller, Jeanette Ilardi, and Joanne Cerullo.


COMPUTER THERAPISTBy Phil OrensteinInformation from a Member

Dear Computer Thera-pist: It seems that one prob-

lem led to another on my Windows 7 computer. First I had a problem where my system displayed a “memory low” noti-fication after several hours of running Windows Media Player. So I restarted my computer. Now I have another problem: “The Audio Service is not Running” and there’s a red X on the speaker in the tray. So I tried restarting again. Still no sound. I’d like to hear from you. – Sounds Bad

Dear Sounds: The first simple thing you can try to fix the problem is adjusting the volume. If that does not work, you can try starting the Windows Audio service by following these steps: First click the Start Button, type “services.msc” (with-out quotation marks) in the Search Bar, press Enter to start “Services.”

In the right pane, verify whether the “Windows Audio Service” is started. If not, double-click the service. In the tab “General,” make sure the “Startup Type” is “Automatic.” Then click the button “Start” under “Service Status” to start this service. You can also try running the Audio Troubleshooter by going to Start, Control Panel, Troubleshooting, Trouble-shooting Audio Playback. Follow the wizard to complete the troubleshooter.

Dear Computer Therapist: I just upgraded from Windows 7 to Windows

10. I now have no audio when playing a music DVD. Can you help me get my computer to sing to me? – Sounding Off

Dear Sounding: Microsoft’s newest operating system, Windows 10, has brought its own share of problems and post-update issues including the annoy-ing “No Sound On Windows 10” issue. To fix this, you can try opening Start, in the Search Box, enter “Device Manager.” Select it from the list of results. Under “Sound, Video, and Game Controllers,” select your sound card. Open it, select the Driver tab, and select Update Driver.

If Windows doesn’t find a new driver, look for one on the device manufacturer’s website and follow their instructions. If those steps didn’t work, try uninstalling your audio driver by opening Device Man-ager, right-click the audio driver, and select “Uninstall.” Restart your device and Win-dows will attempt to reinstall the driver.

If that didn’t work, try using the generic audio driver that comes with Windows 10. Here’s how: in Device Manager, right-click your audio driver, choose “Update Driver Software,” then select “Browse My Computer for Driver Soft-ware,” choose “Let Me Pick From a List Of Device Drivers” on my computer, select “High Definition Audio Device,” select Next, and follow the instructions to install it.

BLOOMING GROVE TOWNSHIP NEWSBy Helen YaleExecutive Assistant to the Community Manager,

Blooming Grove Township Supervisor

During the period from November 17 through December 21, seven building permits and six zoning permits were issued.

Good News! The Route 739 bridge opened on Friday, December 18.

More good news! The 2016 Budget was advertised and approved with no increase in taxes. Blooming Grove Township has the third-lowest taxes in Pike County.

Five lot combinations in Hemlock Farms were approved by the supervisors.

The final tax checks for 2015 were presented at the December 21 meeting. Fire-tax checks in the amount of $43,800 were presented to both Blooming Grove Volunteer Fire Department and Hem-lock Farms Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company, and a check in the amount of $9,000 was presented to Tafton Vol-unteer Fire Company. An Ambulance Tax check in the amount of $27,630 was given to Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company and a check in the amount of $3,070 was given to Tafton Volunteer Fire Company.

Penn State Extension is planning to build a memorial garden at the State Police Barracks on Route 402 in memory of Corporal Dickson. In response to a request for donations, the supervisors agreed to donate $1,000 to the fund.

At the December 7 meeting, Lance Spodek gave an update on the work being done by the Emergency Services Commission. Lance spoke about all the administrative work that is required by both the Fire and Ambulance divisions. Therefore, the supervisors decided that it would be beneficial to have a profes-sional manager employed by the town-ship to oversee both the Blooming

The Blooming Grove Food Pantryhelps many families in Hemlock Farms.helps many families in Hemlock Farms.

The Blooming Grove Food Pantryhelps many families in Hemlock Farms.

Contributions of non-perishable foods or toiletries in non-breakable containers can be dropped off any time in the bins at the rear of St. John Neumann Church or

at the Mail Room in the Food Pantry Bin.

Support the Food Pantry—nourish your neighbor!

Pike County Area Agency on Aging

Blooming Grove Center150 Pike County Boulevard (off Route 739 North), Lords Valley, PA 18428

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

Website: pikeaaa.orgOffice hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Centers also located in Lackawaxen and Bushkill

LUNCH: Monday–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 appointments—call 570/296-3408 or 866/681-4947.

Grove Fire Department and the Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire and Rescue Com-pany. The Commission is in the process of developing a job description.

Supervisor Schmalzle announced at the December 21 meeting that this was my final meeting, as my term is up and I decided not to run again. I was thanked for my nine years of service and presented with a gift from Supervisors Nick Mazza and Randy Schmalzle. Jo-Anna Donahue, Secretary/Treasurer, presented me with a gift from the staff. Some members pres-ent also thanked me for my service. I will still attend meetings from time to time, but I don’t have to worry about coming out in bad weather or attending 8:30 a.m. workshops each month.

Some residents along Route 739 were present to express their displeasure with neighbors shooting automatic weapons and explosives all day and into the night as well. They have spoken with the State Police and are not happy with the lack of response from them. Chairman Mazza said that he and Commissioner Caridi are trying to set up a meeting with the owner of the property. The property is leased so they think the owner may not be aware of what is going on at the property.

Everyone is invited to join us at our regular meetings which are held the first and third Mondays of the month at 6:00 p.m. in the Township Building on Route 739. When a holiday falls on a Monday, the meeting will be held on Tuesday. Martin Luther King Day is not a holiday for the township.

Wishing my Hemlock Farms neighbors a healthy and prosperous new year!

HFCA

HFCA


HFCA

Houses ofWorship

The Church at Hemlock Farms(Interdenominational Christian Church)98 Willow Drive • 570/775-6787www.churchathemlockfarms.orgWorship ServiceSunday, 10 a.m. Fellowship time/reception 11 a.m.Sunday School10 a.m. for children pre-school-7th grade. Women’s MinistriesContact the Church office at 570/775-6787.Morning Circle: 2nd Tuesday/mo., 11 a.m.Mission Circle: 3rd Tuesday/mo., 11 a.m.Evening Circle: 3rd Tuesday/mo., 7 p.m.

Jewish Fellowship of Hemlock Farms540 Forest Drive 570/775-7497 • www.jfhf.orgShabbat Service followed by Oneg Resumes in AprilFriday, 8 p.m.Shabbat Service, Torah Study & KiddushSaturday, 9:30 a.m.Religious SchoolSundays, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Arlyne B. Berkman Building. Contact Rhoda at 570/775-9035 or the Fellowship office at 570/775-7497.

St. John Neumann705 Route 739, Lords Valley 570/775-6791 • www.sjneumann.comServicesSaturday, 4 p.m., Sunday, 10:30 a.m.Good Shepherd: Sunday, 8 a.m.Boy Scout Troop #416Meets 1st, 2nd, & 4th Mondays, 6 p.m., ages 11-18.Open Bereavement Support GroupSecond Thursday/month, 10:30 a.m., Parish Hall. Contact Evangeline at 570/775-7658.St. Vincent de Paul OutreachLet’s Stay Connected. A daily check-up call or friendly visit as requested. Contact Arlette at 570/257-0030 or Margaret at 570/775-1647.

ARTS UP!By Joan Polishook

What determines beauty? Unfortunately there are no

set standards for determining the ele-ments that constitute beauty simply because aesthetic qualities vary from one individual to another. It is often said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so how then is a work of art to be judged for its aes-thetic value? What pro-cess is involved when it comes to critiquing a painting? The judg-ing process is not simple and, often enough, it is not unusual for a panel of judges to differ in opinion regarding the same work of art. This is true not only in the assessment of artwork but actu-ally in establishing norms for most other things—for example, what is constituted as gourmet food, fine wine, a piece of music, a beautiful home, or even the design of a whole community like our own Hemlock Farms? Since there are no standards, it is perhaps best to rely upon one’s knowledge and experience in a given field as it deals with the fabric

of aesthetic judgment. It is challenging for sure!

And here is a challenge for Hemlock Farms artists. With your brushes, paints, pens, and pencils, and the eyes of an artist, create your aesthetic interpreta-

tions of how you see the community in which we all live. Take into consideration every-thing from nature, the forest, the lakes and trees, wildlife, and the overall architecture of

Hemlock Farms. Your artwork will be a creative record of life in Hemlock Farms as you see it, and it should make for an interesting exhibit in the 2016 Tribute to Hemlock Farms in July/August at the Gallery at Chant Realtors LV. This annual group show is exclusive to—and celebrates all—fine artists in Hemlock Farms. Please consider joining in by get-ting started now. The prospectus for the event will be available in early spring; watch for more information in the coming months.

The Archives Preservation Commit-

“A thing of beauty is a joy forever.”

—John Keats

Contributed photo

Press Release

National Recognition for Artist

tee is also interested in original artwork by Hemlock Farms artists—past paint-ings that relate to the history of the com-munity. Let us hear from anybody who has art by Rossi, Benedon, Farnell, or Ochsner to loan or donate. The Hemlock Farms Archives display is open on first Fridays from 10-1.

In the meantime, the New Year at the gallery begins with an exciting display of oil paintings by returning painter and award-winning artist Tricia Lowery-Lippert. “Painted Light” illuminates the walls of the Gallery at Chant Realtors LV through February 26. Call 570/775-7337 for information and directions.

Happy New Year to all!

Contributed photo

Emily Thompson’s oil paint-ing “Auto Body” appears in the year-end issue of Poets and Art-ists Magazine 50 Memorable Paintings of 2015.

“It is an honor to have been chosen from such an amazing group of artists, especially since hundreds of artists were consid-ered,” said Thompson.

The work was also selected as part of the jury’s favorite 15% of entries in the November Bold Brush Painting Competition. “Auto Body,” an oil on panel part of a new series of the artist’s abstract painting, will be shown at the Monmouth Museum’s 37th annual Juried Art Exhibition from January 16-March 13.

Emily is the daughter of Hemlock Farms members Joan and Sheldon Pol-

ishook. She resides in Bucks County, PA, with her husband, award-winning artist George Thompson.


Something NearbyDavis R. Chant Gallery

631 Route 739, Lords ValleyOpen 7 days, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Tricia Lowery-LippertOil Paintings

Now-February 27

Lauren deLeeuwPaintings

March 1-April 28Reception: Saturday, March 5

5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Contact: Joan Polishook 570/775-6896 For more info call: 570 775-7337

Culture Vultures A Day at the Met

By LAURA deLEUUW

New York City has so much to offer so, thankfully, the Cultural Arts bus trip in December was not canceled. We all wanted to play—some wanted to see a show, and some just wanted to go win-dow-shopping and see the tree at Rock-efeller Center. But Mary Politis, Rena Hottinger, and I decided that we were going to vulture on culture at the Met and “suck it dry.”

Amy Strapec, as usual, was in great form, checking our names on the bus to make sure there were no stowaways (satire). The ride was comfortable, and we arrived in New York approximately 180 minutes later.

On arrival, we took a cab to the Met. The first floor was Egyptian art. We saw the old Kingdom tomb of Perneb, the Meketre models, and the statue of the female Pharaoh Hatshepsut. Dazzled, we then perused the gems of the Greeks. Mary, who is Greek, was so happy to see them.

She proudly said, “I am really so blessed to be Greek!”

On the second floor was the art of Asia—subtle subdued paintings, giant Buddhas, and gorgeous jade sculptures.

After cappuccinos at The American Wing Café, we went to the third floor,

where we saw American art—paint-ings by Eakins, Homer, Sargent, and the Hudson River School—as well as period rooms, where we admired the furniture and beautiful living rooms of that era. There, we saw a beautiful Christmas tree, which we admired for a long time. It was well decorated with mostly vin-tage artifacts. What a sight to behold; Rena said it is the most beautiful tree she had ever seen!

We then went off to see the European paintings at the Robert Lehman Col-lection—Italian renaissance paintings, works by Botticelli, El Greco, Rem-brandt, Ingres, Renoir and Matisse. We met some artists from the Art Student League, my alma mater, who were paint-ing. They were in Leonid Gravits’s class, which involved learning art theory and technique by copying the masters.

The last two hours we spent with Con-temporary art—1900 to present—the works of Dali, Matisse, Hopper, Pollock, de Kooning, and Warhol. Being a con-temporary painter, I was in my element and could not get enough to devour. Mary and Rena had to drag me out.

Having to leave without satisfying my hunger, this starving vulture asked the cabdriver who was taking us back to the bus to find us a nice, decently priced res-taurant. He told us the restaurants in the

theater district were all overpriced and if we did not mind walking a few blocks, he would drop us off at Yum-Yum, a nice Thai restaurant. We really lucked out! We loved the food, and it was about $17 each for an appetizer, an entrée, and a Thai beer

We must have walked for miles, but it was not our legs that received a work-out at the Met, instead it was our eyes that were opened so that we could see infinity. I am waiting for the next trip. If anyone wants to hang out with me at the Met, feel free to do so!

Contributed photos

HFCA

Laura admires a Van Gogh painting in the museum.

Contributed photosLaura de Leeuw on the steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.(Inset) Rena Hottinger at the museum’s Asian Wing exhibit of Buddhas from different cultures.

Mary Politis, left, Rena Hottinger, and Laura de Leeuw by the Christmas tree.


The Wise Men come to worship the Newborn King: Ryan Lim, left, Thomas Ferrara, and Lily Bunyan, far right.

St. John Neumann Christmas Concert and Pageant

Writer/Director Pat Ohman leads the combined choirs.

Photos by Leland AmesThe Angel Gabriel, played by Laura McIneney, right, announces to the Virgin Mother that she will give birth to the Savior, Jesus, the Christ.

St. Joachim (Mary’s father) played by Thomas Principe, left. The Blessed Virgin Mary played by Allyson Arenson.

St. Luke (Eric Haupt, left) interviews the mature Mary (Susan Rustin).

Shepherds Anthony Celona, left, Alex Elmer, and Alyssa Capurso.

Singing Angel Amelia Moniot

Soloist Casey Schallowitz

Soloist Emma Robine

Soloist Jessica Mara

Soloist Joseph Ferrara

Soloist Lily

Bunyan

Ryan Lim sings “The Little

Drummer Boy.”

On Friday, December 18, The Deanery Choir, with the St. John Neumann Adult and Youth Choirs, presented their annual Christmas Concert and Pageant. The

first half of the program was a concert of lovely and lesser-known Christmas anthems and songs sung by the children, the adults, and the combined choirs, for

the enjoyment of everyone in the packed church.

The second half of the program featured the children in the pageant, “Mary Tells the Story.” St. Luke interviewed the older Mary about the Christmas story for his Gospel. As Mary’s memories unfolded, the young people acted out the familiar scenes, interspersed with appropri-ate choir music.

As a delightful surprise finale, James Marino persuaded his friend, Santa Claus, to take time out from his busy schedule to pay us a visit.


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CHURCH CHATTERBy Millie Diefenbach

Greetings from The Church at Hem-lock Farms. We wish you all a happy, prosperous, and blessed new year!

Last month, I wrote about the Chrismon tree and the work of our Ladies’ Minis-tries in repairing the ornaments and dec-orating the tree with them. Pictured here is the tree, beautifully decorated with the Chrismons and small white lights. The Advent wreath stands in front of it.

Both the Christmas Concert and Living Nativity were wonderfully done, and the weather also cooperated with warmth and sun!

On the following Sunday, we enjoyed a Cookie Walk, sponsored by the Sunday School team! To the delight of everyone, there were lots of homemade cookies!

Compared to December, January will be a quiet month. Some folks go to their favorite “warm” spots for the winter. They will be missed, and we wish them well!

We invite everyone to join us on Sun-days at 10:00 a.m. and worship with us.

All are welcome! Pastor Herb always delivers an inspiring sermon, and the atmosphere is always very friendly. So, come on out and let us wel-come you! If you need fur-ther information, please con-tact our office at resource://skype_ff_extension-at-jet-pack/skype_ff_extension/data/call_skype_logo.png or call 570/775-6787.

Until next month, be blessed!

Contributed photos

After the concert, there was a Living Nativity outside in our Prayer Garden, in which the Sunday School children each had a part, with live goats and sheep.

Our annual Christmas Concert was on Sunday, December 13, performed by our Adult Choir and the Children’s Choir, with narration by Pastor Herb Jacobsen.


ARCHIVES NEWSBy Peter TalmanArchives Preservation Committee Chairperson

Photos by Kathie WaibelOn Sunday, December 13, the Welton Heritage Center hosted an open house. Members of the Archives Preservation Committee Kelly Stagen, left, Jill Barbier, Helen Wood, Pete Talman, Phyllis Malinov, Anne Marie Zenie, Joan Polishook, and David Malinov prepare to welcome visitors to the event.

Elm Lake and Lower Hemlock Lake

Elm Lake was not created by William Brewster. When Western Heritage origi-nally purchased the Brewster property in 1963, the company had planned to con-struct a lake that was large enough for swimming and fishing but that would also allow for sailboat races. As with a couple of other planned facilities, such as an airstrip, the lake was never created.

The land on which Elm Lake is located was not originally part of the Brewster holdings, however, according to Davis Chant, it was obtained by Western Heri-tage and, in the early 1970s, the present lake was constructed. Only the earliest members of Hemlock Farms can recall when there was no Elm lake.

Lower Hemlock Lake, the smallest of our four lakes, is but twenty acres in

One of the featured displays includes framed copies of cartoons submitted for publication in Hemlock News during 1996 by Diane Wertman. The cartoons depict the stick deer, then named “Hemlock Horace.”

This cartoon was published in the December 1996 Hemlock News.

The stick deer, now officially named “Brewster,” was moved again—this time to a grassy area to the left of the Orchard House. This location will

protect it from any harm during storm events. Sporting a knitted hat and warm scarf, Brewster

is ready for winter!

Open HouseBy KATHIE WAIBEL

At the recent Welton Heritage Center open house, voters continued to cast bal-lots to name the stick deer. At the end of the day, the votes were counted, and our stick deer now has a new name, “Brew-ster.” The runner-up names in the con-test were Spike and Buckley. Thanks to everyone who voted!

All are invited to browse through the artifacts displayed in the Welton Heri-tage Center on the first Friday of every month from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. There will be a member of the Archives Pres-ervation Committee on hand to answer any questions you may have. If you want to read any back issues of Hemlock News, you can browse through a com-

area, but it has provided much satisfac-tion for the recreational fisherman as, of course, have the other lakes and ponds of our community. However, at one time or another, golfers at Lords Valley Coun-try Club may have been frustrated by the presence of Lower Hemlock Lake as they tried to avoid losing a ball or two in its waters. How many have tried to drive their ball over the lake, only to have it land quite short of its goal?

From the time William Brewster first created Hemlock Lake—to the con-struction of Elm Lake—these bodies of water have provided innumerable hours of fun and relaxation for the residents of Hemlock Farms and their guests.

Next: The Ponds of Hemlock Farms

puterized archive of every issue that was published.

In addition, there are many old photo-graphs and displays of items from the past—too many to name. You could easily spend a pleasant hour or more learning some of the rich history of Hemlock Farms.

Welton Heritage Center in the Orchard House

is OPEN the first Friday of the month from 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.,

or by appointment by calling 570/775-7199.

Visit the display that the Archives Committee has collected to learn more about the history of Hemlock Farms. Members of the committee are

available to answer questions.

The Archives Preservation

Committee is searching for memories of the

early days in Hemlock Farms.

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.

HFCA

HFCA


A JOURNEY INTO THE WOODSBy Vanessa Bittner, the Outdoor Girl

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Photo by Kathie WaibelRed-tailed hawks are best distinguished from other hawks by their cinnamon reddish tails and are generally a rich brown above, and whitish below. They have a four- to five-foot wingspan, stand above two feet tall, and weigh up to four pounds.

Also known as a “roadside” hawk because of its hunting style, the red-tailed hawk will also “mantle” its prey after killing it, spreading its wings to form a shield that hides it from other predators.

Photos by Vanessa BittnerRed-shouldered hawks have brownish heads and backs, with reddish/orange breasts and bellies. Their tails are black with several narrow white bands. They have a three- to four-foot wingspan, stand up to two feet tall, and weigh up to three pounds.

Hawks are primarily perch hunters. They hunt from an exposed perch that offers a wide field of view. Their diet includes rodents, birds, frogs, and snakes. They can be spotted hunting on wires and tree branches, and even on tops of towers.

Warmer temperatures so far this winter have allowed for many creatures to keep active here and find an adequate supply of what they may need to survive. Nor-mally by now, most hawks have migrated south. Hawks typically migrate alone, although sometimes in small flocks. They can travel several hundred miles a day, at about 30 to 40 miles per hour. Alternating between soaring, flapping, and gliding, they display a graceful, butterfly-like flight pattern. They are mostly observed during the two days fol-lowing a cold front when conditions are favorable for catching a boost from ridge and mountain updrafts—wind power!

As high-flying creatures with binocu-lar vision, hawks nest on treetops where they have a commanding view of the sur-rounding landscape, and they use soaring flight to help establish and maintain nest-ing territories. While soaring, they survey their territory and locate intruders.

Both the red-tailed and the red-shoul-dered hawk species perform elaborate aerial courtship displays, also called “sky-dancing.” The pairs will soar together in wide circles at high altitudes, and males often engage in steep dives and fly slightly behind the female. The male and the female soar towards and then away from each other, sometimes

interlocking talons and spiraling toward land together. They are usually monoga-mous and mate for life, reusing nests from previous years and remaining in the same territories.

Red-tailed hawks have significantly replaced red-shouldered hawks through-out most of eastern North America. With continuing new construction and defor-estation, the remaining habitats for these birds is more favorable to red-tailed hawks. They seem to prefer open areas with patches of trees, and to be more tolerant of human-dominated environ-ments. On almost any long car ride, to anywhere, we are able to see them.

Hawks are called birds of prey, with a highly variable diet. They are fast, effi-cient predators that have sharp talons and strong hooked beaks. The only ani-mals in our area that will prey upon them are the bobcat and the great horned owl; raccoons occasionally eat their eggs.

The hawk has a very distinct, pierced call that is usually given while soaring. They may appear only as a single crea-ture, but they are capable of mighty fine and great things. After all, the hawk has the ability to fly and reach the skies with clear vision!

Finding Balance Hawk-Style


50+ CLUB NEWSBy Jill Barbier

For membership information, contact Carol at 570/871-3086. Membership dues: $10 pp (7/1/2015-6/30/2016). Drop check in 50+ Club box at HF Mail Room. If you know a member who should receive a card,

contact Joan at 570/257-0210.

Many thanks are due the 50+ Club Board for

making our annual holiday party at the Steer Barn Clubhouse enjoyable for all of us. Kat and Tom gave a stellar per-formance, and Cyndi Chipple, who plans the speaker/entertainment for our meet-ings, tells me that they will be back for a repeat performance with new material at our May general meeting.

The festivities continued with a joyous night of great food and dancing to the music of DJ Faith at Lords Valley Coun-try Club. Thank you goes to Aida for arranging this great celebration of the season.

Our Tuesday, February 2, general meeting will have Gary Garofolo speak-ing about our Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company.

We’ll see all you hardy stay-at-Hem-lock-for-the-winter folks then!

Photo by Tom RoewSally and Paul Kruper enjoy the holiday party at the LVCC with fellow 50+ Club members and guests.

Photos by George BarbierCharlie Denniston surveys the pile of holiday presents that members donated for area children. Charlie and Barbara distribute these gifts every year, much to the delight of the youngsters who receive the gifts.

Kat performs for 50+ Club members at the holiday party. She and Tom not only sang, but also showed off their ballroom dancing moves.

CALENDAR

MeetingTuesday, February 2Steer Barn Clubhouse, 1 p.m. Speaker: Gary Garofolo of Hemlock Farms Volunteer Fire & Rescue Company.

VolleyballMondays & ThursdaysSteer Barn Clubhouse, 1 p.m. Contact Rosalie at 570/775-1724.

Weight WatchersWednesdaysOrchard House, 8:30 a.m. 8-week program. Contact Pat at 570/775-7522.

Woodloch Pines OvernightWednesday-Thursday, April 20-21The weekend will include meals, accommodations, & a nightclub show. A 3-meal package of lunch, dinner, & breakfast the next morning is $157 double, $188.40 single, or $141.30 triple. A 2-meal package is also available. Contact Aida at 570/775-9646.

Secrets Silversands Resort & SpaWeek of May 4-11Riviera Maya, Mexico. All-inclusive resort with elegant accommodations, gourmet dining at 9 restaurants offering breakfast, lunch, dinner, & snacks, unlimited top-shelf spirits, free WiFi, day & night activities, pristine swimming pools & white-sand beach, outdoor theater, & much more. Several room categories available. Airfare & insurance extra. For signup, contact Barbara at 570/775-7477. For deposit ($100 non-refundable) & insurance or airfare, contact Pat Groll at 570/296-8818.

42nd StreetSaturday, May 21The Scranton Cultural Center, 2 p.m., $55 member/$58 guest. Transportation not provided. Contact Rita at 570/775-6483.

SHOUT! The Mod MusicalWednesday, June 15Buffet lunch & gaming at Monticello Racino beginning 11:30 a.m. Show at Forestburgh Playhouse at 2 p.m., $50 members/$53 non-members. Contact Rita at 570/775-6483 or 570/498-7242.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!


CLASSIFIEDS

To advertise in Hemlock News classifieds, contact

Kathie Waibel at 570/775-4200, ext. 138.

HFCA

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You’ve arrived.There are few places that rival the peace, tranquility and

beauty of Hemlock Farms. Set in the beautiful Pocono Moun-tains, Hemlock Farms offers members the warmth and security of a gated community, set in a pristine environment.

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The maximum speed on Hemlock Farms Road is only 35 miles-per-hour. It is prohibited to exceed the posted speed limit on any HFCA roadway.


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BIRTHSGRADUATIONSENGAGEMENTSWEDDINGSANNIVERSARIESDEATHS

Share your life-changing events with your

neighbors by contacting Hemlock News.

Hemlock News will be happy to print your announcement

accompanied by a photo or two.

Contact Mary Beth Connors at 570/775-4200, ext. 121.

HFCA

Lacawac Sanctuary94 Sanctuary Road, Lake Ariel, PA 18436 • 570-689-9494

Sanctuary Hours: Open to the public every day from sunrise to sunset.Visitor Center Hours: 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday • Hours Vary, Weekends

Eagle DaySaturday, January 23, 1 to 4 p.m.Wallenpaupack Environmental Learning Center. Join the Delaware Highlands Conservancy and Talen Energy for a free afternoon of fun for the whole family. Enjoy “Live Birds of Prey” with Bill Streeter of Delaware Valley Raptor Center (two opportunities at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Visit the library for hands-on activities for all ages to learn about eagles and other native birds. Registration in advance not required.

Great Backyard BirdsSaturday, February 6, 1-3 p.m.Wallenpaupack Environmental Learning Center, free. What birds are chirping in your backyard? We’ll explore the types of feeders and seeds that attract birds to our Pennsylvania backyards. The Northeast PA Audubon Society’s expert birders will provide tricks and tips for remembering who’s who going tweet-tweet. Interested families and friends may construct a recycled feeder and take-home an observation sheet. The Great Backyard Bird Count runs through February 15. Hang and watch your feeder, record your sightings and enter your report online. Simple tutorial provided. Registration required.

Be a Weatherperson! Saturday, February 20, 1-3 p.m.Kids Program ages 8+, $10. We’ll explore some key components to measuring weather. Pre-register to receive a supply list of recycled materials for creating your own measuring tools to take home and record the weather in your backyard! Open to families of children 8 and up, and scouts looking to earn the merit badge. Notification of alternative location provided to registered participants upon necessity. Registration required.

Get-Out HikeSaturday March 19, 11 am- 1 pmBig Lake Trail, members free, non-members $5. Enjoy a guided journey to the Lake Wallenpaupack shoreline by snowshoe or winter-boot. Bring along a snack and prepare for a 3-mile-trek to explore the winter shoreline. We’ll pass two ponds and traverse steep terrain to reach our destination. Open yourself to enjoy nature and kick out “cabin fever.” Dress for the current forecast. Follow Facebook and check your email for up-to-date notifications. This hike may take place at Shuman Point Natural Area, pending road conditions.

HFCA

Celebrates the New Year!

By KATHIE WAIBEL

On Friday morning, January 1, Hem-lock Farms Conservancy, Lords Valley Country Club, and the HFCA Recreation Department partnered to host a New Year’s breakfast. A portion of the ticket price included a donation to the Conser-vancy. Donations to the Conservancy help bring educational programs to the community—such as the events outlined on pages 30 and 31 in this issue.

The Steer Barn Clubhouse was festively decorated, and tables that accommodated parties of two to a group of ten were invitingly set with centerpieces, linens, china, and silverware.

At 10:00 a.m., the first guests began to arrive and were shown to their reserved table. Coffee was served at the table and folks were encouraged to partake of an inviting buffet of scrambled eggs, cheesy eggs, potato puffs, sausage pat-ties, bacon, and French toast casserole. In addition, there was an option to have your eggs made to order at an omelet station. Also available were a heaping bowl of fresh fruit, a mound of bagels with three choices of cream cheese, and platters of pastries and cakes.

“This was Super Excellent!” said a smil-ing Ken Grossman as he was leaving.

“The breakfast was phenomenal!” stated a beaming Kelly Stagen.

“I would come to this event every year,” said an enthusiastic Bob Zenie.

Five omelet pans were used for

creating custom-made omelets

for diners. This combination looks

yummy!

Photos by Kathie WaibelAlthough more than 100 people attended the breakfast on New Year’s Day, it never seemed overcrowded in the Clubhouse. Guests enjoyed private tables for their families and friends and there was plenty of room for socializing with their neighbors.

John, Laura, and four-month-old Abigail Kaminski are new members of Hemlock Farms. “This is the first event that we’ve been able to attend, but we look forward to many more,” said John.

Hemlock News January 2016

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Transcript of Hemlock News January 2016