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PUBL ICAT ION OF SAW CREEK ESTATES COMMUN ITY ASSOC IAT ION

S E P T / O C T 2 0 1 3

2012 Survey reSultS DiScuSSeD at annual MeetingOn July 20, 2013 Saw Creek’s Annual Membership Meeting was held in the Top of the World Creek Room. During this meeting, results of 2012’s community-wide survey were discussed. Some of the highlights from the survey are listed below. To see the entire report presented at the annual meeting, please visit our website at www.sawcreek.org.

• Nearly all respondents (98%) were SCE property owners. Almost half of all respondents (46%) consider their property to be their primary residence while another 49% consider it to be their seasonal or vacation residence. Relatively few (5%) rent their property to others. Of those that rent their property, the majority rent yearly with very few renting it weekly and seasonally.

• Nearly half (43%) of the respondents live in their Saw Creek property full time.

• 70% of households have at least one person under the age of 17 living in Saw Creek.

• SCE respondents are primarily of Caucasian decent (68%), the remaining respondents were of Hispanic (10%), African American (7%), and Asian/Pacific Islander (2%) decent.

• Most respondents either commute long distances to work (37%) or are retired (33%). Only one in four respondents works locally, commuting less than one hour.

• More than half of the respondents (58 percent) reported an annual household income of $75,000 or more.

• 59.4% of respondents indicated the main reason for purchasing a house in Saw Creek was because it was a gated community.

(Continued on Page 16)

New Members Voted to Board of Directors

The votes are in, and after being tallied Kathi Connell was re-elected to a second three year term. Joining her on the board are newly elected directors, Bob Long and Robert Shrekgast.

Kathi Connell has been a long time resident and has been volunteering her time to the community for years. She hopes to encourage more community members to volunteer. In fact, Connell identifies one of the most pressing issues that the Board of Directors currently faces as “successfully recruiting and training of volunteers willing to lend their time and talents for the benefit of our community.” Connell also states that “volunteers play an important role in our organization and finding and keeping volunteers has been a difficult task.” She hopes that the Board can develop ways to encourage teens and adults to volunteer. “Our residents are our best talent” she said stating further that volunteers help “the Board to identify events, possible maintenance and safety issues….and overall community improvement…” Connell values her own experience as a volunteer. “Volunteering has allowed me to connect to Saw Creek and make it a better place as well as allowed me to make new friends and get to know my community.”

Bob Long is no stranger to the Board of Directors having served on the Board from 2006 - 2010. Long has also been an active member of the Maintenance Committee as well as the Bylaws Committee. Long was instrumental in the improvements at both the Decker Road and Mill Pond trash areas. Long has a strong business background and looks forward to promoting Saw Creek’s strategic plan. He states his objective as “striving to move SCECA to the next steps in the development of the community”. The future of the community is foremost on Long’s mind as he feels the most pressing issue for the Board is

Continued on Page 30

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

ADMINISTRATION

President’s Message 2

General Manager’s Report 3

Recreation Director’s 4 Report

Treasurer’s Report 4

Did You Know? 4

Health & Wellness 5

Legislature - Promoting A 6 Better Business Climate in PA

Classified Column 8

KIDS KORNER 7

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR 8

EVENTS

Out & About Events 10

BUDGET

2014 Prop. Budget Changes 12

2014 Prop. Operating Budget 15

2014 Capital Proposed Budget 19

ELECTION

B.O.D. By-Law Results 20

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Saw Creek Men’s Club 21

Building & Architectural 21

Appeals Committee 22

Saw Creek Women’s Club 22

Safety Committee 23

SCE NEWS

New Area Code Added 25

What Your Association 26 Board Does For You

Chase The Dream 28

Jr. Tennis Tournament 30

Greetings,

Well, the Summer Season is drawing to a close and vacation time is winding down, especially for all parents of school age children. The hustle and bustle of getting the kids up and down to the bus stop is upon us.

Our summer events, although not starting well with Memorial Day, recovered nicely with great successes at Community Day, July 4th Pool Party and hopefully our Labor Day festivities. I want to give out a thank you to our Recreation Director, Margie Gerstmann, who took a proposal from two wonderful volunteers, Kenneth & Connie Davis and initiated a new event this summer. It was called the “1st Annual Youth Basketball Summer Classic”. This event comprised of 3 teams made up of young men from Saw Creek who participated in this tournament from July 8, 2013 through August 12, 2013. This was a great opportunity to learn positive life skills through teamwork, competition and my hope is we can expand on this event next year.

Please plan on attending the Recreation Department’s Annual fundraiser on Saturday, September 21, 2013. Break out those old 60’s clothes and join us for the 1960’s Fundraiser Dinner Dance- Peace, Love & Groovin’ at the Top of the World Restaurant. $10.00 of the $25.00 admission charge goes directly to benefit the Bushkill Outreach Food Pantry.

The elections are final and congratulations to the successful board candidates. Ms. Kathi Connell was re-elected and the new members, Mr. Bob Long (Previous Board Member) and Mr. Bob Shrekgast (Involved in transition from Developer to our Homeowner Association) bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table. They have been brought up to date on our Strategic Plan and will join the rest of the board in working towards its implementation.

This edition will include the proposed budget for 2014. I want to thank all the departments, committees, especially the Finance Committee and of course, our General Manager, Dave Martin and our Director of Finance, Cathy Wargo, for all their hard work in formulating this budget. Please note, as per our bylaws, homeowners will have a thirty (30) day public comment period. All member comments need to be submitted in writing to the Finance Committee.

As a follow up to the PPL Electric installation of the Susquehanna-Roseland line February meeting, please be advised that members of our Board along with our General Manager will be meeting again in early September with their representatives. All pertinent information from that meeting will be published in the next edition. Again, construction is not scheduled to begin before February, 2014 but it is important that we keep all homeowners informed.

Enjoy the magnificent fall foliage season that we are so lucky to have here in the Poconos.

Respectfully yours,

Bill Montgomery

SCE Board President

S a W c r e e K n e W S S e P t e M B e r | O c t O B e r P a g e 2

SCE BOARD OF DIRECTORSPresident Bill Montgomery bill@sawcreek.orgVice-President Mike Campea michael@sawcreek.orgTreasurer Bob Shrekgast roberts@sawcreek.orgSecretary Kathi Connell kathic@sawcreek.orgMembers Bob Long bob@sawcreek.org Robert Palmer robert@sawcreek.org Ron Trimble ron@sawcreek.org Thomas Soden thomas@sawcreek.org James Hidalgo james@sawcreek.org

MANAGEMENT TEAMGeneral Manager Dave Martin dave@sawcreek.orgDirector of Public Safety Jim Andrews jim@sawcreek.orgDirector of Facilities Jeffrey Gaal jeff@sawcreek.org Recreation Director Margie Gerstmann margie@sawcreek.orgDirector of Human Resources and Administration Peggy Gottschau peggy@sawcreek.orgRestaurant Manager Ryan McGinniss ryan@sawcreek.orgDirector of Member Services Jessica VanDerVliet jessica@sawcreek.org Director of Finance Cathy Wargo cathy@sawcreek.org

COMMITTEES & CHAIRPERSONSAppeals Norda Calder hearingandappeals@sawcreek.orgBeautification Phil Cozzi beautification@sawcreek.orgFinance Peter Derrenbacher finance@sawcreek.orgBuilding & Architectural Dave Stagg maintenance@sawcreek.orgNominating Peter Derrenbacher nominating@sawcreek.orgPublic Information Kristina Neumann pic@sawcreek.org Recreation TBD reccommittee@sawcreek.orgRules & Regulations Joe Meehan rulesandregulations@sawcreek.orgSafety Robert Harter safety@sawcreek.org

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

PUBLICATION OF THE SAW CREEK COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC. © 20115728 Decker Road • Bushkill, PA 18324 P: 570.588.9329 E: info@sawcreek.org

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The Saw Creek News is not responsible for typographical errors, mistakes or misprints. All advertising, including photographs are the property of Niki Jones Agency, Inc and not that of the advertiser. The advertiser has purchased rights of reproduction in the Saw Creek News and does not have the right to reproduce ads in any other place or publication without written permission from the publisher. The Saw Creek News reserves the rights to exercise its discretion in the selection of advertisements.

General Manager’s ReportBy David W. Martin

In this issue, most members will get their first look at the proposed 2014 budget. It’s important to note that this budget remains subject to change based on a final review by the Board of Directors and the feedback we receive from our members over the next few weeks. Now is your opportunity to comment. A brief explanation of year-to-year budget changes is also included in this issue. Please take the time to review the proposed budget and submit your written comments so that we have the benefit of your input when adopting the final budget sometime in November. Once again this year, the budget process is going well thanks to close cooperation between the Finance Committee, the Board of Directors, other committees and management staff.

Two new board members, Bob Long and Robert Shrekgast, were officially introduced at the Annual Membership Meeting. I’m looking forward to working with them as we continue to plan for the future of the community. If you were unable to attend the Annual Meeting, you can read much of the information that was presented by visiting our website and clicking on Association Documents\Meeting Minutes & Reports\2013 Annual Membership Meeting. There you will find a slide show with all of the relevant information from the meeting.

Some of the more interesting topics addressed at the annual meeting were the statistics and demographic data that we collected during the community-wide survey in 2012. You may recall that the survey was conducted in response to a recommendation by the Strategic Planning Committee. Your responses to the survey confirmed some of what we already know and provided some surprises as well. The information gathered as a result of the survey will be invaluable in furthering the implementation of our Strategic Plan.

Our work on implementing the Strategic Plan continues to gain momentum. The Board has begun meeting regularly to provide strategic oversight and direction for the entire organization. They have tasked me with meeting with each of our standing committees in the weeks and months ahead to get committee input and provide any guidance or support that may be needed. I am excited to see the years of effort by many individuals finally beginning produce real results. Let’s keep the momentum going!

CALL NOWFor

Advertising Opportunities

InSaw Creek News!

845.754.2356

S a W c r e e K n e W S S e P t e M B e r | O c t O B e r P a g e 3

ADMINISTRATION

$

TReASuReR’S RepORTJuly 31, 2013

By Robert T. Shrekgast,SCE Board Treasurer

As of July 31,2013, the Operating Fund

had $2,617,372 in current cash assets.

The balances consist of $278,493 in cash

and $2,338,879 in investments.

Through the end of July, the current year’s

dues collected were $3,487,286 which

represents a collection rate of 82.36%.

Prior year’s dues collected was $107,403

which represents 86.00% of the amount

anticipated in the 2013 budget.

The operating revenue for July was

$111,740. The total year to date revenue

was $3,609,962 which is 91.4% of the

anticipated annual revenue.

The operating expenses for July was

$267,272. The year to date expenditures

were $2,144,576 which is 54.3% of the

annual budget.

The total Capital Reserve Assets as of July

31, was $3,172,486. Of which $312,657 is

cash and $2,805,279 is investments.

Capital income for July was $61,192. The

total year to date income is $322,005,

which is 78.9% of the anticipated income

for the year.

Capital expenditures for the month of

July were $5,477.

The Capital Projects expenditures for the

year to date was $177,548.

The July write off for dues and other

fees was a net of $12,379.

Recreation Director’s ReportBy Margie Gerstmann, Recreation Director

Summer has come to a close and I would like to take this time to thank the staff of Saw Creek Estates and The Top of the World Restaurant, our volunteers and everyone who came out and supported our events.

School is open! Please remember to drop off and pick up your children in a timely manner. The VIP is NOT open for the children to wait inside. They will have access to the bathrooms if need be.

Please check the times of all standing activities as hours may have changed for the fall.

Saw Creek Estates offers many ways to get healthy so please come out and try one of our classes. We have water aerobics, slim down and we offer a weight loss support group on Tuesday evenings. We also have a great fitness center with a weight room and indoor courts.

I would like to highlight some of our upcoming events. We are having our annual fundraiser on September 21, 2013. $10.00 of every ticket sold will benefit Bushkill Outreach.

The tickets are $25.00 per person and include a salad bar and an ice cream bar. So put on your

best 1960’s outfit (optional) and come out and support a great cause. Prizes for best costumes and door prizes will be awarded.

Our Fall Festival will take place on Saturday, October 5, 2013 from 1 pm-5 pm. This year we will be combining this event with the TOW restaurant.

There will be live entertainment on the deck and a beer tasting event from 2 pm – 5 pm. Bring your pumpkins and some extra clothing downstairs to the Creek Room because we will be pumpkin painting and building scarecrows and having a great time with the kids!

Trunk or Treat is just around the corner as well. Come out and decorate your cars and give out candy to the children or just come on up and trick or treat between 11am and 12pm and then join us for a pot luck lunch from 12pm – 2pm. This is always a great time.

You MUST call ahead and make reservations with our Member Service Team to let them know what you and your family are able to bring for the potluck lunch. Remember volunteers and fresh ideas are always needed!

S a W c r e e K n e W S S e P t e M B e r | O c t O B e r P a g e 4

Losing weight is never easy and that is why a group of Saw Creek residents and employees gather together every Tuesday for about an hour, at the Mountain Room, to compare notes and support each other shed the extra pounds.

The group is aided by instructions from TOPS, short for Take Off Pounds Sensibly, a nonprofit, weight-loss support and wellness education organization that has chapters all over the country and Canada.

A Saw Creek chapter was conceived in January when Margie Gerstmann, Recreation Director, suggested to her office colleagues a way to lose weight other than the more popular Weight Watchers.

“It is more reliable and reasonably priced,” said Gerstmann who acts as co-leader of the Saw Creek Chapter that is led by selected officers and guided by its own by-laws. To be a member, one has to enroll and pay a $28 annual membership fee.

Other costs include weekly dues of $1 and an additional 10 cents for every quarter pound gained over the week, if applicable, and in relation to the weight goal set by each TOPS member. Members are provided the TOPS magazine and other materials as part of their dues.

The “weekly dues”, said Jessica VanDerVliet, Director of Member Services who serves as leader of the chapter, is given back to a pool set up by members to fund contests, trips, supplies and other programs.

“We want to encourage people to just try it out,” said VanDerVliet. “This is not about a diet plan. This is about changing lifestyles,” said Margaret Jones, Lead Member Services Representative at Saw Creek and Treasurer of the chapter.

In August, the nucleus group composed of VanDerVliet, Gerstmann, Jones and Kathy Pearson—all Saw Creek employees, invited residents to come to the Open House to discuss TOPS and how beneficial it is.

“There is no selling of products and services. What you will find is a support system,” said VanDerVliet, referring to other members who are as eager to lose the weight. With eagerness is a commitment to get educated and be accountable.

“Accountability is big,” said VanDerVliet.

Since a group of about seven employees started early in the year, they have collectively lost 75 pounds. One person in six months dropped 18.75 pounds by eating sensibly and exercising about three times a week for at least three hours.

Jones, who has successfully shed off quite a number of pounds, said it is a challenge to her taste buds. Instead of pizza and french fries, she is learning to eat spinach and kale.

Aside from recipes, VanDerVliet said they also talk about body image, de-stressing and eating well on a budget during the one-hour weekly sessions.

Health and Wellness - Lose Weight, Gain FriendsBy Tish Leizens, PIC

Gerstmann said that after the Tuesday sessions, TOPS members are encouraged to take up the low-impact Slim Down program held at 6 p.m., at the racquetball court.

There are other events lined up to keep resident of Saw Creek active and healthy. On Thursdays, at the Racquetball Court, residents are invited to engage in high-impact workouts, such as dancing, Zumba, Pilates and Yoga. Water aerobics are listed on the calendar on Mondays and Saturdays. All classes are free.

“Health and wellness is very important,” said Gertsmann.

POunD Per POunD

Open to all Saw Creek

residents and employees

From ages 7 and up

Open to female and male

All body shapes and weight are welcome

Commitment to a healthy

lifestyle highly desirable

Pay $28 membership dues for 1 year

S a W c r e e K n e W S S e P t e M B e r | O c t O B e r P a g e 5

Promoting A Better Business Climate In Pennsylvania

By Rosemary M. Brown, State Representative 189th District (Monroe/Pike Counties)

As Pennsylvania continues to bounce back from the economic recession, improving the business climate for job creation across the Commonwealth has been one of the most important issues facing the Legislature.

With Monroe and Pike counties being home to several tourism hotspots, such as ski resorts, water parks and summer camps, I am committed to supporting legislation which helps improve those businesses.

Because we are situated in the heartland of various outdoor summer camps, several local summer camp officials recently had the opportunity to speak with state lawmakers at a public hearing held in Monroe County regarding legislation to exempt organized summer camps from paying unemployment compensation taxes on their full-time student employees.

As a deputy policy chairman of the Majority House Policy Committee, I am charged with examining legislation that would help improve the business climate across Pennsylvania, as well as help create and retain jobs.

LeGISLATuRe

I believe this legislation gives summer camps, locally and statewide, the opportunity to expand their services to continue thriving in communities across the Commonwealth.

This legislation would amend the Pennsylvania Unemployment Compensation Law to exempt these summer camp owners from paying unemployment taxes on full-time students in which they employ during the 13-week camp season. Current law requires summer camps to pay unemployment contributions on the wages of their student employees who are almost certain to be disqualified for unemployment benefits once they return to school in the fall.

This legislation directly reflects language from New York’s unemployment compensation law. Estimates provided by the Pennsylvania Camp Association declare that these camps across Pennsylvania pay an additional $5,000 to $6,000 per year to comply with the current law. That is money that could be used by summer camp officials to update their facilities, purchase new equipment or add new activities.

Mike Zides, operations director of Camp Towanda in Honesdale, said Pennsylvania camps are disadvantaged when compared to camps in neighboring states, such as New York, because they have more funding to put into their facilities.

Similarly, Pennsylvania’s camp owners are pumping more money into the state’s unemployment compensation fund rather than investing more into their programs. This legislation now awaits consideration in the House Labor and Industry Committee, and I am hopeful that this legislation will advance this session to help support our summer camps across Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania is also one step closer to creating a more hospitable business environment, as legislation to close the “Delaware Loophole,” and lower other taxes on in-state corporations recently passed in the House of Representatives and awaits consideration in the Senate.

For more than five years, the Delaware Loophole has garnered significant attention and has been criticized as a flaw in Pennsylvania’s

business tax structure. The term was coined to describe a legal tax evasion practice used by some multi-state corporations to reduce their Pennsylvania tax liabilities by transferring the ownership of intangible assets to an affiliated company in Delaware.

Under House Bill 440, the only businesses that would be affected are those which are taking advantage of the loophole for the sole purpose of tax avoidance in Pennsylvania. In fact, the national median Corporate Net Income Tax rate is approximately 7 percent, which means Pennsylvania is nearly 3 percent above the median rate.

A report, “Location Matters,” issued last year by the Tax Foundation and Klynveld Peat Marwick Goerdeler (KPMG) ranked Pennsylvania dead last in state tax costs on businesses. This report confirmed that the Commonwealth’s business tax burden is hampering its job growth. All levels of government talk about creating and retaining more jobs in Pennsylvania.

By closing the Delaware Loophole and lowering the corporate tax rate from 9.99 percent to 6.99 percent, as proposed under this bill, Pennsylvania will create a more welcoming business environment for companies to successfully start up and maintain business, which we believe will increase long-term employment opportunities for the people.

The intent of House Bill 440 is to capture revenue from companies that have transferred money from Pennsylvania subsidiaries to corporations in other states, which do not have corporate taxes.

I am honored to have been chosen to serve the residents of the 189th Legislative District and I look forward to hearing from you and the residents of your community.

For more information or to sign up for my weekly email newsletter, please visit my website at RepBrown.com or follow my legislative Facebook at Facebook.com/RepRosemaryBrown.

Kind regards, Rosemary

S a W c r e e K n e W S S e P t e M B e r | O c t O B e r P a g e 6

W W D J Q X E H I T S C S M E I J F Z U C J Z X Q Y A Z U Q N L X D U P E P P E R S E J H C O O T J S U X K N Q F S P N X G T C W O U Z R G G E Z G B O E N V C W S O S D V I I I C L J W B C O X B T L G W C V A I X E Y T A R P O R I U U D S Z C L R Y B X B R A G L H O P L A E H A Y S B R D T B N A D F M E L U C E M A I Q M I B X O R U W E A P B C S G Y I H Q W N T J N R Q M J H E L O Y F G Y S S K I Y U Z J H O F H Y S U G A R A P S A S T E E B O

S a W c r e e K n e W S S e P t e M B e r | O c t O B e r P a g e 7

HOMeOWner’S claSSiFieD

cOluMnThis free column is available to homeowners to advertise “for sale” or “give-away” household items, pets for adoption, babysitting services, etc. Ads must be 30 words or less and include homeowner name, lot/section and contact phone number or e-mail address. Only the contact name and telephone number or e-mail address will be printed in the paper.

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

EXPERIENCED HOusEkEEPER: Call Sylvie at 570-588-3017

FOR sALE Whirlpool white electric stove. 4 spiral burners – brand new never used $100.00 Call (917) 620-8709

FOR sALE DOWNHILL skIs & BOOTs: Men’s Rossignols with Poles. Marker bindings Nordica boots, SZ 9 Ski tote carrier with lock Lands End Carrying case PRICE: $150.00 complete

CROss COuNTRY skIs & BOOTs: 2 Pair Rossignol skis & bindings with poles 1 pr Man’s boot - sz9 1 pr Woman’s boot - sz 6 t/z PRICE: $25.00 each set or $40.00 for both sets CONTACT: 570-588-6083

LOT FOR sALE Lot 1835, Section 5, Brentwood Drive - $1,000. Contact Cathy: Call (908) 790-1656 or email - cbulger17@verizon.net

letterS tO tHe eDitOr PrOtOcOl

Do you have questions about our

community? Concerns? Looking for advice?

Can you share insights or solutions to

some issues that affects you and/or your

neighbors?

All SCE residents in good standing may

write a “Letter to the Editor.” Letters of

300 words or less, in MSWord format must

include name, lot and section number. The

lot and section number will be used for

verification of member status only and will

not be printed.

The Public Information Committee makes

every effort to see that facts are printed as

available space permits. Your letter may be

directed to: Saw Creek Public Information

Committee at 5728 Decker Road, Bushkill

PA 18324 or emailed to PIC@sawcreek.org

DEADLINE: Last date for submission of

letters for the next issue of the Saw Creek

News is October 1, 2013.

LeTTeRSLetters to the editor

To the Editor:

Diva Here! And I’m FABULOUS!

Since getting together in Saw Creek and the Smithfield Dog Park I have met soooo many FABULOUS new friends. We may even have a little romance going between Reggie and Rockee. We’ll be planning a celebration for Halloween soon. If you would like to join in the FABULOUS fun contact me at SawCreekCritters@gmail.com or call my pet mom, Suzanne @ 301.325.6712. And remember,

Roses are red, Violets are blue, I’m FABULOUS and so are YOU! Diva

To the Editor:

A large Thank You to SCE Public Safety staff for their prompt response to the August 10th water main eruption at my property. A huge mess it was but they acted fast and got the PAWC crew on board quickly. Another huge appreciation to PAWC working through the wee hours of Sunday morning to get the main repaired, and also providing emergency water supplies to neighbors.

-Bill and Maria Meyer

S a W c r e e K n e W S S e P t e M B e r | O c t O B e r P a g e 8

S a W c r e e K n e W S S e P t e M B e r | O c t O B e r P a g e 9

SCe eVeNTSBy Donna Dillon

OUT & ABOUT EVENTS OUTSIDE OF OUR GATES

sEPT 4TH – 11THBog Walk (Wednesdays) Cranberry Bog Tannersville 629-3061

sEPT 6THCOTA Jazz & Arts Festival Downtown Delaware Water Gap 424-2210

sEPT 7THFall Arts & Crafts Fair Bingham Park – Hawley 226-3191EcoZone Afternoon PEEC – Dingmans Ferry 828-2319Monarch Madness PEEC – Dingmans Ferry 828-2319

sEPT 8THIntro to Canoeing

PEEC – Dingmans Ferry 828-2319Intro to Fishing PEEC – Dingmans Ferry 828-2319

sEPT 13THLights Out Lake House Hotel – Saylorsburg 992-3278

sEPT 14THIntro to Home Canning Tomatoes PEEC – Dingmans Ferry 828-2319Volunteer Day – Pike County Day of Caring PEEC – Dingmans Ferry 828-2319

sEPT 15THPocono Challenge Smithfield Beach E Stroudsburg – poconochallenge.comFungus Among Us

PEEC – Dingmans Ferry 828-2319Pocono Cupcake Challenge Shawnee Inn – Shawnee on Delaware 800-742-9633

sEPT 18THDIVA Night Hotel Fauchere – Milford 409-1212

sEPT 20-29THHotel of Horror Lake House Hotel – Saylorsburg 992-3278

sEPT 21sTHarvest Festival PEEC – Dingmans Ferry 828-2319Mudderella – Tamiment – Bushkill – mudderella.com/pennsylvania2013Anthracite Heritage Festival Mauch Chunk Lake Park – Jim Thorpe 325-3669

sEPT 21sT – 22NDRodeo & Chili Cook-Off Shawnee Mt – Shawnee on Delaware 421-723150th Anniversary Grey Towers Milford 296-9630

sEPT 26THCome Paint with Me Grey Towers – Milford 296-9630

sEPT 28THMt Pocono HarvestFest Downtown Mt Pocono 350-6793Fork and the Cork Mt Airy Casino – Mt Pocono 877-MTAIRY1Birds with Dr Terry Master PEEC – Dingmans Ferry 828-2319

sEPT 29THPocono lake Region 13.1 Honesdale to Hawley 226-3191EcoZone Afternoon PEEC – Dingmans Ferry 828-2319

OCT 2ND – 30THBog Walk (Wednesdays) Cranberry Bog – Tannersville 629-3061

OCT 3RD – 24TH Lights Out (Weekends) Lake House Hotel – Saylorsburg 992-3278

OCT 5THHawley Harvest Hoedown Downtown Hawley 226-4064Birds of Prey Migration PEEC – Dingmans Ferry 828-2319EcoZone Afternoon PEEC – Dingmans Ferry 828-2319

OCT 5TH – 6THJim Thorpe Fall Foliage Days Downtown Jim Thorpe 325-5810

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REPLACEMENTS FOR MYERS, HYDROMATIC, LIBERTY OR GOULDS PUMPS

ENVIRONMENT ONE REPLACEMENTS STARTING AT $1350.00

PRICES DO NOT INCLUDE PA SALES TAX

2 HP GRINDERS STARTING AT $1050.00

OCT 6THFall Classic Car Show Bingham Park – Hawley 226-3191

OCT 12THWiffle Ball competition Barley Creek Brewing- Tannersville 629-9399

OCT 13THHarvest Lake Stroll Skytop Lodge – Skytop 855-345-7759

OCT 12TH – 13THTimber Festival Shawnee Mt – Shawnee on Delaware 421-7231Harvest &I Heritage Days Downtown Hawley 253-5492Jim Thorpe Fall Foliage Days Downtown Jim Thorpe 325-5810Quiet Valley’s Annual Harvest Festival Quiet Valley – E Stroudsburg 992-6161

OCT 14THHotel of Horrors Lake House Hotel – Saylorsburg 992-3278

OCT 16THDIVA Night Hotel Fauchere – Milford 409-1212

OCT 18TH – 20THBlack Bear Film Festival Milford Theatre – Milford 409-0909

OCT 19THEvolution of Grey Towers Landscape Grey Towers – Milford 296-9630Fall Foliage – Hikers Paradise PEEC – Dingmans Ferry 828-2319Nature at Night PEEC – Dingmans Ferry 828-2319

OCT 20THEco Book Club PEEC – Dingmans Ferry 828-2319Easy Does it Hikers PEEC – Dingmans Ferry 828-2319EcoZone Afternoon PEEC – Dingmans Ferry 828-2319

OCT 19TH – 20THJim Thorpe Fall Foliage Days Downtown Jim Thorpe 325-5810

OCT 25TH – 27THElvis Festival Fernwood – Bushkill 528-5560

OCT 26THDramatic Reading: A Night With Poe Grey Towers – Milford 296-9625PEEC A BOO PEEC – Dingmans Ferry 828-2319

OCT 27THCemetery Walk Grey Towers – Milford 296-9625

OCT 31sTHotel of Horror Lake House Hotel – Saylorsburg 992-3278

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BuDGeT2014 Proposed Budget Changes

OPERATINg REvENuE LINE ITEms

06340-000 Owner Late Fee Income: Increase based on 3-year historical trend and current year to date experience.

06390-000 Owner Interest Income: Increase based on 3-year historical trend and current year to date experience.

The following comments relate to the 2014 Proposed Budget and briefly explain significant increases/decreases on various budget line items. General Ledger account numbers are shown in the same order as they appear in the Proposed Budget. It is important to note that this is a proposed budget. The proposed budget and explanations shown below are subject to change. Members should direct questions or comments in writing to: Finance@sawcreek.org. All comments will be carefully considered by the Finance Committee and Board of Directors prior to adoption of the final budget.

06327-000 Code Enforcement Fines: Increase based on 3-year historical trend and current year to date experience.

06420-000 Badge Income: Increase based on 3-year historical trend, current year to date experience and badge fees increased to $5 per day / $20 per week.

06425-000 Renters Registration Income: Increase based on 3-year historical trend, current year to date experience of increased number of short-term rentals.

06430-000 Gate Card Income: Increase in the demand for gate cards and charging $20 fee for cards in excess of the allotted 2 gate cards per property.

06485-000 Resale Certificate Fees: Increased do to turn around on foreclosures, short-sales and anticipation of continued moderate improvement in overall home sales.

06490-000 Room Rental Fees: Increased in anticipation of new fees for rental of tables, chairs and VIP Pavilion.

06491-000 Recreation Activities Income: Raised fees as follows (proposed new fees shown); Guest Wrist Bands - $2; Swim Lessons - $35; Lifeguard Class - $175; CPR/First Aid Cert. - $50.

06495-000 Ski Ticket/Lesson Income: Increased in anticipation of policy change requiring Season Pass ($5, available to members only) and $20 Lift Ticket fee for all others. Amenity badges will no longer be accepted for free skiing. Lesson fees remain unchanged.

OPERATINg EXPENsE LINE ITEms

07114-100 Gate Card Expense: Increase in card sales, offset by increased Gate Card Income.

07320-000 Office Supplies: Increased due to one-time expense - desktop scanners for Accounting and HR departments to improve document handling and storage efficiency.

07400-000 Printing & Reproduction: Increased due to 3-year historical trend and current year to date experience.

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Get a FREE Disney Dining Plan* when you purchase a 6-night/7-day non-discounted Walt Disney Travel Company room and ticket package at select Disney Moderate, Disney Deluxe, or Disney Deluxe Villa Resort hotels! Or, purchase a 6-night/7-day non-discounted Walt Disney Travel Company room and ticket package at a Disney Value Resort and receive a Free Quick Service Dining Plan!*

* The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Tickets valid for one Theme Park per day and must be used within 14 days of first use. No group rates or other discounts apply. Excludes Disney’s All Star Movies Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, 3-Bedroom Villas and campsites. Advance reservations re-quired. Excludes gratuities and alcoholic beverages. Children ages 3–9 must order from children’s menu if available. Some Table-Service restaurants may have limited or no availability at time of package purchase.

Book by Sept. 15, 2013!

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2014 Proposed Budget Changes Continued

07460-000 Meeting Expense: Reduced because current year budget includes one-time expense for tables and chairs not needed in 2014.

07260-000 Postage & Mail: Reduced in anticipation of mailing of only two to four issues of the Saw Creek News per year instead of current six issues and increased use of electronic media for communication.

07170-000 Collection Expense: Increased volume and cost of collecting delinquent accounts.

07255-000 Credit Card Processing: Reduced based on 3-year trend and renewed effort to encourage payment by check or debit card.

07181-100 Information Technology: Increased to provide additional third-party tech support for networked systems and equipment.

07150-000 Professional Consulting Fees: Reduced because current year budget includes one-time expenses for project engineering no longer required.

07280-000 Commercial Insurance: Premium rate increases for General Liability, Directors & Officers, Auto, Workers Comp, and Property & Casualty insurance.

08025-000 Recreation Supplies: Increased to improve the quality/variety of activities and entertainment during Community Day and other major events.

08400-000 Ski Shop Expense: Reduced because current year budget includes one-time expenses not required in 2014.

PAYROLL WAgEs, TAXEs & BENEFITs

An average increase of 2% in employee base wages is anticipated for 2014. Employee health insurance premiums have increased due to claims history and market conditions. It should also be noted that certain changes in organizational structure, headcount, working hours, and amenity hours of operation are being considered. These changes may increase or decrease overall wage expenses in some departments. Among the changes currently under consideration are:

Administration – A reduction in Member Services Office hours which might include closing Mondays and opening all day Saturday instead.

Recreation – Increased hours for custodial staff; rotating closure of one outdoor pool every Monday –Thursday for maintenance; Mountainside and VIP outdoor pools will not open prior to June 21st; Closure of Mill Pond indoor pool effective October 1st; Summer indoor pool hours will be limited from 9:00am to 12:00 noon (except for prepaid pool parties, sanctioned activities or when outdoor pools are closed due to inclement weather).

Public Safety – Departmental restructuring may include staffing the gates with Patrol Officers (Act 235 Certified) for enhanced service and security. A new supervision rank is also under consideration.

Maintenance – No staffing changes are anticipated at this time.

07310-000 Training & Professional Development: Reduced due to more in-house training.

08790-000 Simple IRA Expense: Increased due to greater program participation.

09155-000 Life Safety/Security/CCTV: Increased due to new CCTV equipment, enhanced fire extinguisher inspection and maintenance, gate access tech support.

09658-000 Public Safety Uniforms: Reduced because current year budget includes one-time expenses not required in 2014.

08510-000 Lakes & Grounds: Increased – Landscaping contract expense moved here from Beautification budget line (see 08590-000 below).

08590-000 Beautification: Reduced – Landscaping contract expense moved to Lakes/Grounds budget line (see 08510-000 above). Net combined Grounds/Beautification expense is reduced.

09045-000 Vehicle - Gas/Diesel: Increased due to fuel price volatility and current year to date experience.

09116-000 Parking Lots/Lines/Signs: Reduced because current year included one-time expenses for community-wide road line painting, not required in 2014.

09140-000 HVAC Repairs: Increase due to aging equipment, rising cost of refrigerants and anticipated purchase of refrigerant recovery equipment.

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BuDGeT

2013 Budget 2014 Budget

OPERATINg AssEssmENTs $1,339 $1,352

DUES & FEES06305-000 Annual Dues Assessments $3,420,000 $3,449,85206306-000 Prior Dues Assessments $120,000 $120,00006335-000 Owner NSF Fees $500 $40006340-000 Owner Late Fee Income $50,000 $55,00006345-000 Owner Payment Plan Fee $17,000 $17,000 06370-000 Owner Collection Costs $5,000 $5,00006380-000 Owner Admin. Fees Income $4,000 $4,000 06390-000 Owner Interest Income $52,000 $61,00006327-000 Code Enforcement Fines $20,000 $25,00006460-000 Citation Income $25,000 $20,000

Dues & Fees Income $3,713,500 $3,757,252

ADMINISTRATIVE06420-000 Badge Income $8,000 $11,00006425-000 Renters Reg $6,000 $8,00006430-000 Gate Card Income $12,000 $13,00006450-000 Income from Statements $1,000 $1,000 06921-000 Bulk Dumping Owner Receipts $15,000 $15,000 06440-000 Building Permit Income $1,000 $1,000 06485-000 Resale Certificate Fees $18,000 $20,00006360-000 Misc. Income $1,500 $1,500 06455-000 Personal Property Sales 0 006410-000 Blue Ridge Cable Franchise $66,000 $66,000 06920-000 The Falls-Gate Income $17,700 $17,700 06530-000 Rental Income - Cellular $16,700 $16,700 06820-000 Interest - Operating Account $25,000 $25,000

Administrative Income $187,900 $195,900

RECREATION06490-000 TOW Room Rental $8,000 $9,00006491-000 Recreation Activities Income $5,000 $9,00006495-000 Ski Ticket/Lesson Income $8,000 $11,00006496-000 Ski Rental/Tech Service Income $26,000 $26,000

Recreation Income $47,000 $55,000

TOTAL INCOmE $3,948,400 $4,008,152

EXPENsEs:

ADMINISTRATIVE 07114-100 Gate Card Expenses $3,000 $4,00007115-100 Badge Expenses $1,500 $1,500 07320-000 Office Supplies $7,500 $9,00007400-000 Printing & Reproduction $10,000 $11,00007460-000 Meeting Expenses $11,400 $6,40007410-000 Travel & Entertainment $1,400 $1,000

Proposed 2014 Operating Budget

Continued on page 16

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07440-000 BOD Reimbursable Exp $1,000 $70007260-000 Postage & Mail $18,500 $13,30007171-100 Postage Meter Rental $3,000 $2,60007177-100 Federal Express $300 $300 07113-100 Copier Service Contract $4,000 $3,00007118-100 Miscellaneous Expenses $1,600 $50007170-000 Collection Expense $36,000 $45,000

Administrative Expenses $99,200 $98,300

GENERAL & PROFESSIONAL07250-000 Bank Charges Operating $2,500 $1,80007255-000 Credit Card Processing $26,000 $20,00007181-100 IT-Technology $15,600 $25,00007300-000 Dues & Subscriptions $1,400 $1,00007150-000 Professional Consulting Fees $33,000 $18,00007160-000 Legal Fees $55,000 $53,00007020-000 Accounting Fees $17,500 $18,00007350-000 Advertising - Bids $2,000 $2,000 07251-000 Licenses & Permits $500 $50007420-000 Property Taxes $1,000 $2,00007202-000 Code Enforcement Exp $1,200 $50007430-000 Federal Income Tax $10,000 $8,00007280-000 Insurance Commercial $262,000 $286,000

General & Professional Exp. $427,700 $435,800

Administrative & General Exp $526,900 $534,100

RECREATION08015-000 Rec. - Training $2,100 $2,00008020-000 Recreation -Dues & Sub $1,100 $1,00008025-000 Recreation Supplies $15,000 $20,00008040-000 Rec. - Sports Equipment $6,100 $3,00008050-000 Recreation - Fitness Center $3,800 $4,500

Recreation Equipment $1,00008040-000 Recreation Uniforms $1,000 $75008740-001 Janitorial/Cleaning Supplies $8,500 $8,500

Recreation Expense $37,600 $40,750

SKI EXPENSE08400-000 Ski Shop Operating Exp $6,500 $2,50008408-000 First Aid Supplies $1,500 $1,10008409-000 Ski - Hay $1,000 $1,30008410-000 Ski Facility Repairs $3,800 $4,00008430-000 Snow Mobile & Groomer Exp $7,500 $7,500 08470-000 Ski Snow Making Electric $15,000 $13,00008480-000 Ski Inspections $5,000 $4,000

Ski Expenses $40,300 $33,400

Total Recreation Expense $77,900 $74,150

PAYROLL08610-000 Admin. Office/Mgt Wages $359,100 $368,90008700-002 Admin. P/R Tax Expense $35,600 $35,65008750-002 Admin. Employee Benefits $46,000 $58,779

Administrative Payroll $440,700 $463,329

Proposed 2014 Operating Budget (continued)

Continued on page 17

PleaSe Pay tHe annual aSSeSSMentS By cHecK iF yOu can!

By Cathy Wargo, Director of Finance

credit card fee’s are an expense in the budget and last year it cost $17,348 in crdiet card processing fees and this year it has already cost Saw creek $18,877 from January – July 2013.

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08635-000 Recreation Payroll $275,500 $288,06508638-000 Ski Shop Wages $47,200 $21,970

Ski Snow Blowers Wages $24,96008700-003 Rec. P/R Tax Expense $37,100 $33,92508750-003 Rec. Employee Benefits $17,000 $21,98408700-005 Ski PR Taxes $7,300 $5,396

Ski Snow Blowers Pyrll Taxes $4,900Recreation Payroll $384,100 $401,200

08640-000 Public Safety Department $656,700 $694,79008641-000 Public Safety OT $27,900 $31,25008700-004 Public Safety Tax Exp $76,800 $75,81408750-004 Public Safety Emp. Benefits $60,000 $62,556

Public Safety Payroll $821,400 $864,410

08650-000 Maintenance Salary $380,200 $372,80008650-001 Maintenance Overtime $25,000 $25,000 08700-001 Maint. P/R Tax Expense $38,000 $37,50008750-001 Maint. Employee Benefits $44,000 $37,363

Maintenance Payroll $487,200 $472,663

HUMAN RESOURCES07143-100 Payroll Service $16,000 $16,000 07310-000 Training & Professional Dev. $10,000 $7,00007340-000 Advertising - General $1,000 $1,000 08770-000 EH&S Compliance $1,000 $50008780-000 Employee Retention $3,200 $3,00008790-000 Simple IRA Expense $11,000 $13,500

Other Payroll Expense $42,200 $41,000Total Payroll Expense $2,175,600 $2,242,602

PUBLIC SAFETY07125-000 Alarm Monitoring $1,800 $1,00009155-000 Life-Safety/Security/CCTV Ma $8,000 $11,20009665-000 Pub Safety Expense/Equip $5,000 $5,00009050-000 Public Safety Vehicles R&M $9,000 $9,000 09658-000 Public Safety Uniforms $15,200 $7,00009660-000 Public Safety Fuel $23,000 $25,00009668-000 Public Safety Training $4,000 $4,000 09670-000 Community Relations/Outreach $1,200 $1,300

Public Safety Exp $67,200 $63,500

UTILITIES08900-000 Electric $85,000 $85,00008930-000 Water & Sewer $30,000 $31,50008950-000 Utilities - Gas $85,000 $80,00007270-000 Telephone Expense $15,000 $18,00009630-000 Internet Service $15,000 $15,00009700-000 Waste/Recycling & Compactor $195,000 $195,000

Utilities Expense $425,000 $424,500

POOL EXPENSE08210-000 Pool Contract-Service & Chem. $20,000 $20,50008220-000 Pool Repairs $15,000 $10,000

Proposed 2014 Operating Budget (continued)

Continued on page 18

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08240-000 Pool Supplies $2,500 $2,000Pool Expense $37,500 $32,500

GROUNDS08510-000 Lake & Grounds $5,000 $41,60008590-000 Beautification/Landscaping $53,000 $11,50008598-000 Environmental* $5,000 $60,000

Grounds Expense $63,000 $113,100

MAINTENANCE EXPENSE09250-000 Maintenance Supplies $21,700 $22,00009251-000 Maintenance Uniforms $3,000 $1,60009005-000 Maint. - Equipment Rental $1,000 $60009040-000 Mower/Tractor Exp $1,500 $1,500 09041-000 Backhoe Expense $4,000 $4,000 09030-000 Vehicle Maintenance $20,000 $20,000 09045-000 Vehicle - Gas/Diesel $25,000 $35,00009220-000 Maint. Licenses & Permits $3,600 $2,500

General Maintenance Exp $79,800 $87,200

09020-000 Salt/Cinders $35,000 $35,00009025-000 Snow Removal Supplies $2,000 $2,000 9800-000 Snow Removal Sub-Contract $2,000 009115-000 Road Repair/Storm Water $225,000 $250,00009116-000 Parking lots/Lines/Signs $35,000 $10,000

Road Maintenance Exp $299,000 $297,000

09130-000 Building Repairs $25,000 $27,00009140-000 HVAC Maintenance & Repairs $7,000 $10,00009160-000 Sewer Maintenance $2,500 $3,00009180-000 Plumbing Repairs - Common $5,000 $4,00009190-000 Electrical Repairs $5,000 $3,50009615-000 Exterminating $2,000 $2,000

Building Maintenance $46,500 $49,500

Total Maintenance $425,300 $433,700

TOW SUBSIDY08385-000 Top of the World Restaurant $150,000 $150,000

Top of the World Subsidy $150,000 $150,000

TOTAL EXPENsEs $3,948,400 $4,068,152

Contingency * 0 $60,000Current Year Net Income/(Loss) 0 0

Proposed 2014 Operating Budget (continued)

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Full Star Enterprises, Inc. 570-223-2950 570-807-3081

fullstar97@yahoo.com

Stump & Tree Removal Septic Installation & Repair Retaining, Rock, Stone Walls Paver Driveways & Walkways Drainage Work Yard Ponds

Fully Insured Free Estimates

www.fullstarenterprises.com

2014 Capital Proposed Budget

2013 Budget 2014 BudgetReserve Assessment $103.00 $136.00

2,554 2,552

INCOmE:

DUES & FEES: Capital Reserve Assessments $263,062 $347,072 Prior Years Capital Assessments $5,000 $5,000 Capital Transfer Fees $110,000 $120,000 Interest - Contingency Invest 0 0

Interest - Capital Invest $30,000 $20,000Sale of Assets 0 0 Dues & Fees Income $408,062 $492,072

CAPITAL EXPENsEs:

Capital & Replacement Exp. $390,500 $491,708Total Capital Expense $390,500 $491,708Current Year Net Income/(Loss) $17,562 $364

CAPITAL PROJECTs:

Item Description Estimated Cost

TOW Carpet - Restaurant, Mt. Room, Fitness Center $25,000

Gate Operators (2 replacement) $10,000

Woodbridge Bridge Repairs $180,000

Mill Pond BLDG - Engineering $7,500

MSO BLDG - Engineering $7,500

TOW Outdoor Pool - Sandblasting/Tile/Coping stones $40,000

TOW Generator $65,000

Plow $6,500

Portable Pump and Generator (gates) $10,000

Chipper $17,000

M-8 Bucket Truck $60,000

Indoor Pool Furniture $5,000

LED Signs - 2 (one double sided & one single sided) $53,208

Treadmill $5,000

$491,708

suPPORT OuR ADvERTIsERs

BuY LOCAL! Your Contributions keep

Area Businesses THRIvINg!

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eLeCTIONS

5 JOHN STREET CARBONDALE, PA 18407 570-281-9760

16 CHESTNUT STREET MONTROSE, PA 18801

570-278-2260

July 15, 2013

To the Board of Directors Saw Creek Estates Community Association 1125 Saw Creek Estates Bushkill, PA 18324

The following are the results of the Board of Directors and By-Law election for 2013:

The Board of Directors Election results are as follows:

John T. Mathew 254 Robert Shrekgast 262 Robin Anne Casalta 148 Bob Long 330 Joseph J. Salerno 242 Kathi Connell 348

The results of the By-law votes are as follows:

Article X-Section C. Amending Bylaaws For 423 Against 87

Article VIII-Section K. Contracts For 384 Against 127

Article IV-Board of Directors-Powers & Duties For 434 Against 76

Article VIII-Finances For 428 Against 74

Article VI-Section E. Appeals Committee For 434 Against 76

Article III- Association Meetings Section G. Voting/Ballot Handling For 450 Against 63

Article V- Officers Section B. Signature Authority For 427 Against 90

There were a total of 555 ballots received by our office.

Thank you for the opportunity to provide this service.

Sincerely,

William Owens, CPA William Owens & Co., CPA

247 Fox Run Lane, Suite 102 East Stroudsburg, PA 18302 Quality childcare you can trust!

For Infants to School Age Children Located next to Mignosi’s Foodtown

M-F: 5 am–8 pm Sat: 8 am – 5 pm

Curriculum receives recognition through the National Council for Private Schools. http://www.the-road-to-excellence.com

TRY OUR LOYALTY PROGRAM!

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COMMITTeeSSaw Creek Men’s ClubBy Peter Derrenbacher, Club President

Building & Architectural CommitteeBy David Stagg, Chairman

The summer is just about over which is hard to believe. The Committee hopes everyone has been enjoying all the amenities our Community has to offer.

The 2013 Road and Storm Water project has been awarded to Wayco Co. If past performance is any indication we should be very happy with their work. Wayco was also awarded the contract to do the storm water work on Saunders Drive. We hope the Homeowners on Saunders Drive are not being inconvenienced but in this Committee’s opinion the end results will be well worth any inconvenience.

Along with the road paving project we will be painting lines throughout the Community. Any road that is in predetermined construction area will be painted at a later date.

The Budget process has begun for 2014. For the 2014 budget the Building & Architectural Committee is planning on visiting roads and storm water areas that we hope to have done in 2014. This way we are hoping to have a more accurate dollar amount that will be needed to complete the project for the new budget.

The Building and Architectural Committee would like to remind all Homeowners that if you have a Culvert pipe or swale it is your responsibility to maintain them.

By keeping the pipes and swales free of leaves and other debris we will have less road and driveway washouts in heavy rain storms.

We are moving along with all of the proposed 2013 projects for our community and hope to have all completed by year’s end.

Enjoy all our Community has to offer and stay safe.

The Men’s Club sponsored the SCE community picnic on Saturday, June 22nd at the VIP. It was a great day and well attended. We provided free hamburgers, hot dogs, salads and soda for all to enjoy. Our annual golf outing at the Shawnee Golf Club on July 27th was a great success! Over 50 golfers played in the scramble followed by dinner at Pub 570 where over 60 attended. This event is critical to our fundraising activity and allows the club to donate monies to local charities as well as helps to fund various events for our community including the annual community picnic and free ski lessons. A special thanks to the following individuals and companies who purchased tee box ads and/or gifts for this event.

On July 21st our members attended the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse for a dinner/show to see “The Great American Songbook 4” and as usual no one was disappointed.

August 11th 27 of our members attended a RailRiders game. Our upcoming events include our annual Men’s/Women’s club picnic at Bushkill Falls on September 21st. Our club meets the first Thursday of every month at 6 PM in the Mountain Room, followed by snacks and beverages at the TOW. For more information, please contact Peter Derrenbacher, 570-588-7522.

Alan & Michele Brower Joe Casanova Kathi Connell Cramers Jim Danielson Peter & Barbara Derrenbacher Joe & Maria Doe Eastern Alarm Systems Engle-Hambright & Davies, Inc.

Kiley Associates Jim & Eileen McElligott Mohegan Sun – OTB Northern Safety & Industrial Ray & Jackie Pace John Pierce Pub 570 Grill & Tavern RBC Wealth Management Reliable Sign & Striping

SuPPOrt Our

aDvertiSerS

SHOP lOcal!

Finance Committee In this edition of the SCE news you will find the preliminary 2014 Operating and Capital budget. The Finance Committee along with Management and various Board members had meetings on June 27th, July 11th, July 25th, Aug 8th, and Aug.22. The board reviewed the draft at a meeting on Aug. 28th.At a number of these meetings managers from the various divisions made presentations to discuss their respective departments. As you are well aware, everything done at Saw Creek requires funding. SCE gets no Federal, State or Local aid. Whether it’s public safety, recreation, maintenance, paving, plowing, storm water management and trash removal these activities require funding.

Please take the time to review the budget. The preliminary budget calls for a 3.2% increase in our overall dues. As you are well aware in 2013 there was no increase. Unfortunately the association, like individual homeowners, is facing increases in Insurance, fuel , utilities and other expenses. There will be meetings which are open to members to comment on the proposed budget and they are as follows:

• Thursday, September,27th – Finance Committee Meeting – 7PM, Mountain Room• Saturday, October 12th – Board Meeting – 10 AM, Mountain Room• Thursday, October, 25th- Finance Committee Meeting - 7 PM, Mountain Room• Saturday, November 9th- Board votes to adopt the 2014 budget

In addition, written comments can be submitted in writing to the Finance Committee.

Saw Creek Real Estate LLC Sears Carpet & Air Duct Cleaning Robert & Loraine Shrekgast

The Big “A” Travel Destinations – Maria Doe Wayne Bank William E. Owens & Co., CPA PC Young & Haros, LLC

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APPEALs COmmITTEE OvERvIEW:

As per our Association Bylaws, when an Association Member received a Public Safety or Code Enforcement Citation they have the right to appeal that citation.

The member must submit a formal request and a hearing will be scheduled. The member is then

Saw Creek Women’s ClubBy Robin Long, President

As Another summer season comes to an end. Pools close, children and grandchildren go back to school as you sit there sipping your tea or coffee wondering what to do? The answer is to come see what Saw Creek Women’s club is about.

We meet the first Thursday of each month at 12:45 p.m. in the Mountain room. We start out with a free lunch prepared each month by 3 volunteers from our club followed by a business meeting.

The new board members are working really hard on some new and exciting things to do this year. I love being involved with the women’s club. I met so many wonderful women and I know you will too.

2013 Annual Appeals Committee ReportBy Robert Palmer, Board Liason to Appeals Committee

designated as the “Appellant” for the citation.

Hearings are held once a month on a Saturday morning. They are not open to the public. The Appeals Committee Members are community volunteers appointed by the Board. There is a Chairperson who oversees each hearing.

Representing the Association at the hearings

will be Public Safety, Code Enforcement, and Administration Staff. Also present is the Board Liaison to the Committee. The Appellant may bring individuals to assist them during the hearing.

The Appellant will provide testimony as to why they are appealing the citation.

Verbal, written, photo, and video documentation pertinent to the citation may be presented by the Appellant and the Association. The Committee Members and Association Staff may question the Appellant and anyone that has provided evidence or testimony.

The Appellant will be dismissed. The Appeals Committee will then review everything presented and reach a majority decision. Only the Appeals Committee Members can vote on Hearing actions. The Appellant will be notified via mail as the Committees decision. A summary of all Hearings is sent to the Board.

ANNuAL APPEAL HEARINg sTATIsTICs: From 7/1/12 to 6/30/13 there were 73 Appeal Hearings. 53 Hearings were found Guilty (including No Shows). 20 Hearings were found Not Guilty.

The Citation as follows. 27 Motor Vehicle Violations (includes: Speeding, Stop Signs, Parking, Careless Driving, Documents); 14 Illegal Dumping Violations; 3 Gate Violations; 5 Other Violations (include: Disturbing the Peace, Harassment); 24 Property Violations. Total 73 Citations.

Association Members wanting to serve on the Appeals Committee need to submit a Volunteer Application available at the Members Service Office.

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Safety CommitteeBy Suzanne Mark, Vice Chair

We’ve earnestly been working to monitor and foster items that concern the health, safety and security of the residents of Saw Creek. The Safety Committee would like to broaden our perspectives in two potential projects. One is the development of community wide emergency preparedness. The other project would be the presentation of a National Night Out program, http://www.natw.org/ scheduled in August 2014. While this 30 year old program originally was a crime fighting campaign to ‘take back the streets’, today it has become a fun night out to meet your neighbors because ‘a connected neighborhood is a safer neighborhood.’ So help us plan these events and activities we need your ideas, suggestions and support. While we would love new members for the Safety Committee, if you can’t or care not to join the committee but would like to volunteer for one of these projects, please let us know. Come Join the Party”! safety@sawcreek.org or Suzanne @ 301.325.6712.

sAFETY TIP

Are you prepared for severe weather conditions?

As we approach severe weather season, we need to take some time to review how well we are prepared for a disaster or just a general emergency. Saw Creek is taking great strides to be better prepared to protect the community as well as individual residents. But each of us needs to be as self-reliant as possible. Saw Creek staff, first responders and volunteers may not have the time or resources to help individuals in community wide emergencies.

Stock up- flashlights, batteries, and a battery operated radio or Walkman/iPod, canned or dry food, bottled water should be high on your list. If you have a propane grill or charcoal grill, you can have hot meals. Check to see if you have cookware that can be used directly on flames. If you don’t have any, buy some inexpensive pots and pans and maybe a teapot to make tea or instant coffee. Imagine you are ‘camping and roughing it at home!’ Think NAVY- it’s not a job, it’s an ADVENTURE!

If a storm is coming, fill your bathtub with water, but remember we operate on grinder pumps and if power is off, they don’t work! No one wants an overflowing pump in the basement. It will create an adventure you don’t want to have.

Stay in touch- If you don’t have a cell phone, get an inexpensive one with limited minutes to hold just for emergency situations. Saw Creek was great in providing residents with the ability to charge cell phones and computers, but you can be self-reliant with a car cell phone and computer adaptor that will work off your car battery through your cigarette lighter readily available at Walmart, Best Buy and Radio Shack.

Be Prepared. We’ve all heard the siren call of the Boy Scouts of America. Robert Baden-Powell, the Father of Scouting defined the meaning of the motto as follows: “A scout must prepare himself by previous thinking out and practicing how to act on any accident or emergency so that he is never taken by surprise.” Let’s all start practicing for no surprises!

ARE YOuR PETs PREPARED FOR sEvERE WEATHER CONDITIONs?

The two articles below are wonderful resources for pet parents. Print them out and keep them in a safe place.

http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/disaster-preparedness

http://petspot.aaa.com/pet-news/emergency-preparedness-and-your-pets/

Plan and execute your family’s emergency procedures today, tomorrow may be too late!

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New Members Voted to B.O.D.(Continued from Page 1)

tHanK yOuFormer Board Members Eda Dalfol and Amos

Hawkins were presented with trophies as a

thank you for their years of service to Saw

Creek’s Board of Directors.

Marianne Glamann, AVP 5165 Milford Rd

East Stroudsburg

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“Understanding what the role of a BOD is, and how the BOD impacts the future of the community.” He also feels that the Board needs to look at “where the community wants to be in the future and how the community is looked at by other outside interests.”

Bob Shrekgast has been a property owner since 1982. Shrekgast was one of the driving forces in the initiation of negotiations with Resorts, USA, that resulted in the turnover of the facilities and assets to the property owners of Saw Creek. He has a strong financial background, and in fact was the Chief Financial Officer for the Township of Old Bridge, NJ. He has shared his financial talents with Saw Creek serving on the Finance Committee and will now serve as the Treasurer of the Board.

Skrekgast and Long are replacing outgoing Directors Eda Dalfol and Amos Hawkins. Both were presented with trophies from Board President, Bill Montgomery as a thank you for their years of service.

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SCe NeWS

To ensure a continuing supply of telephone numbers, the new 272 area code will be added to the area served by 570. This is known as an area code overlay.

WHAT’s AN AREA CODE OvERLAY? An overlay adds another area code (272) to the same geographic region as an existing area code (570). An overlay does not require customers to change their existing area code or telephone number.

WHO Is AFFECTED?

The 570 area code covers the northeastern portion of the state serving communities such as Scranton, Williamsport and Wilkes-Barre.

WHAT Is THE NEW DIALINg PROCEDuRE?

To complete local calls within the home area code, begin to dial the area code + telephone number. This means that all calls in the 570 area code that are currently dialed with seven digits will need to be dialed using area code + telephone number, for example, 570-555-1212.

WHEN DOEs THE CHANgE BEgIN?

Effective immediately you can begin using 10 digits whenever you place a local call from the 570 area code. If you forget and dial just seven digits, your call will be completed until September 21, 2013.

Starting September 21, 2013 you must use 10-digit calling for your call to complete. If you don’t, your call won’t be completed and a recording will instruct you to hang up and dial again.

As of October 21, 2013, new customers in the 570 geographical area may be assigned telephone numbers with the 272 area code.

What is a local call now will remain a local call regardless of the number of digits dialed and whether area code is 272 or 570.

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO?

In addition to changing your dialing procedure, reprogram your automatic dialing equipment, such as, life safety systems, telephone sets, PBXs, fax machines, alarm and security systems, gates, speed dialers, call forwarding settings, voicemail services to 10-digit dialing from 7-digit.

Revise your business stationery or advertising materials to ensure the area code is included.

New Area Code Added to Pennsylvania 570 Region

Get ready to change the way you dial your calls!

WHAT WILL REmAIN THE sAmE?

• Your telephone number, including the current area code. Your price for your calls, coverage area, and other rates and services. What is a local call now will remain a local call regardless of the number of digits dialed.

• You will continue to dial 1+ area code + telephone number for local and long distance calls made outside the home area codes of 272 and 570.

• Emergency service remains just three digits, 911.

• If 211, 311, 411, 511, 611, 711 or 811 are currently available in your community; you can still use these codes with just three digits.

WHO mAY YOu CONTACT WITH quEsTIONs? If you have any questions regarding information provided in this notice, please call (service provider’s name and number) or access the following websites for more information: (service provider’s web site) or PA PUC website: http://www.puc.pa.gov/consumer_info/telecommunications/area_codes.aspx.

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KnOW tHe ruleSHave you checked out the Saw Creek’s covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs) lately? If not, now’s a great time to brush up on the do’s and don’ts of the community, especially since the Board of Directors recently updated our Rules and Regulations document.

For those of you who were unaware, CC&Rs play a crucial role in keeping the association running smoothly. CC&Rs are legally binding rules and regulations that each homeowner agrees to when he or she purchases a unit within the association. If owners rent out their homes, it’s the owner’s responsibility to inform the new residents of the bylaws as well.

CC&Rs include stipulations on assessments, building design and additions, and the governance of the association. All residents need to understand these CC&Rs so they don’t unintentionally violate them; owners can be fined by the association and—in extreme cases—sued for violating the CC&Rs. Owners are empowered when they understand the CC&Rs and the procedures for changing or amending them when they are no longer applicable or relevant to the community.

While they may seem arbitrary, the CC&Rs are legally enforceable. They also help ensure the association as a whole can thrive and that members are treated fairly and equally. So don’t be left in the dark—check out the association’s CC&Rs today!

You can pick up a copy of the community’s Bylaws, Architectural Standard and Rules and Regulations at the Member Services Office, or download them from our website at www.sawcreek.org.

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sO, WE HAvE A BAskETBALL LEAguE.

HOW DID THIs ALL HAPPEN?

We were approached by Connie and Kenneth Davis. They have been running youth basketball in the Bronx for years. They felt that it was a good way to keep our kids in the community engaged and promote self-esteem.

Is THIs THE FIRsT TImE WE'vE HAD IT?

Yes. The name of our league is Chase the Dream.

HOW mANY ARE INvOLvED?

We have a total of four Saw Creek teams that play against each other. We are hoping to be able to play against other communities in the next year or so.

WHAT's THE AgE RANgE?

The ages are 13 to 19.

ARE THEY ALL sAW CREEk BOYs?

We have a fourth team of mixed communities with members from Pine Ridge, Country Club Estates of the Poconos, Lake of the Pines and Tamiment.

Saw Creek Launches Basketball LeagueMargie Gerstmann, recreation director, talks about a new sports program

ARE gIRLs INvOLvED?

Not as of yet. We will have a girl’s team if we get enough interested. We have already spoken to a couple of the girls who have shown an interest for next year.

WHERE AND WHEN DO THEY PLAY?

They play every Saturday and Sunday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the VIP outdoor courts or rain site is Top of the World indoor courts.

HOW DOEs THIs WORk?

Basketball has been a recreational sport in the Bushkill Community for at least a decade. It is our intention to take this recreational sport and make it into a tournament that will improve the community’s wellbeing.

The program will allow both the coaches and participants to take an Oath that will bind them in an agreement that each one will present himself as a role model on and off the basketball court. Each team will play one game each weekend for six weeks followed by the League playoffs. Playoffs will be determined by a four-team tournament.

HOW ARE THE kIDs REsPONDINg TO THE

LEAguE?

Due to the age range of the players, there are some players who are dedicated enough to come out and play for our organization either before or after work depending on their schedules.

These kids are tweeting about the games and have generated a ton of excitement. They are competitive and are learning respect as a unit for their individual teams. The camaraderie is outstanding to watch. They embrace each other on the court in ways that they would never have figured out how to do off the courts.

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When my husband and I initially began this tournament, we had a completely different vision of the tournament than what has actually played out across the summer. Our initial vision was that we would get a group of kids and mold them into basketball players by teaching them the skill of basketball. What we actually got was a group of very talented young men that we molded into a team. Believe it or not, at times, what we accomplished in reality was a lot harder than what we'd envisioned. To give you an idea of how talented these young men are, I showed Coach Daily (Athletic Director of North High School) a picture of the teams. He stated that we had put together a very talented group. He was a little concerned about the ability of being able to get a few of them to play as a team. When I told him that they had already played as a team across the entire summer, he was pleased to hear that they were working together as a unit. He was even happier to hear that Saw Creek had invested in the tournament to give these young men something positive to focus on across the summer.

These young men dedicated their time and talents each week to making our tournament a success. At the beginning of the tournament, players like Kyle Redman, Matt and Jake (aka Jake from State Farm)

Chase The Dream In Saw Creek:By Connie Davis

demonstrated an adequate skill level. However, by the end of the tournament, Kyle Redman and Matt had improved week over week and gained a level of aggression that has help to identify them at a higher competition level than when they started.

Jake (aka Jake from State Farm) our youngest player at 13, whose family spends the Summer in Saw Creek at their summer home became like the tournament mascot, because he was truly missed when he was not able to make it to one of the games. There were also players like Abdul and Derrick who were talented that I chose to make

captains of their teams to teach them the lesson of responsibility. They both took charge of their teams from the start. The competition between these two teams was apparent from the beginning. Therefore, it came as no surprise that these two teams finished first and second place in the tournament. They both had perfect attendance the entire series and were phenomenal in helping to set up the court every weekend.

Yoube and John were the captains of the other teams and probably had the hardest time getting their players to play each week because 90% of

Continued on page 29

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Chase The Dream In Saw Creek (continued)

their teams had weekend jobs. Kudos to them for consistently managing to have their starting five each week. You two made a true contribution to the success of the tournament. Watching players like Ernesto, Kyle Mills, Jeremy, Winston, J.J. and Edwin let me know that there was definitely not a lack of talent in our Tournament.

Caseam was known as a strong defensive player on the football field and it showed in his rebound ability on the concur. When they got hot, Semar and Jamal's 3-pointers could be counted as soon as the ball was released from their finger tips. These guys were on fire. Salim scored 54 points in one game.

This was he most point scored in one game by any player. Although he's very verbal, he will always give you an unbelievable performance. He's not one that you would want to miss. Sekou, although not on a winning team, lead the league in scoring for the season. This kid put in an incredible effort and even at times carried his team on his back. He is a player that I can't wait to see suited up again next year along with Rob. Rob is 15 but his potential unlimited. I've never seen this kid back down to even the most intimidating of players. Therefore, gaining him respect throughout the league.

My five nominees for MVP were Semar, Salim, Jamal, Abdul and Derrick. This decision was so hard because the level of competition in these players were remarkable. At one point, I wasn't sure who should recieve the award. I had to speak to Coach Daily for further clarification of what the title and definition of what MVP really means.

At that point, it narrowed it down to two players, Jamal and Semar. In the end, I chose Jamal because I felt he best represented what and MVP player should be. However, enjoy it for now Jamal, because I am pretty sure that Semar and

the rest of the players are coming for your title next year. These four MVP nominees as well as Jamal along with Winston, Edwin and Kyle Redman played in and won an all star game against a team from the Bronx. To see these kids play as a team with so much talent on it was awesome. They were complete team players with outstanding camaraderie .

We exercised numerous screens and assist as well as a well spread point margin per player. If you're a family member of any of the young men who played in our tournament, you should pat them and yourselves on the back because this summer they have truly Chased The Dream in Saw Creek. Baruch, Kevin, Damion, Dwayne and every other player who was not mentioned by name, you were all appreciated. None of you are undervalued. You made a commitment and stuck to it and for that I thank you and look forward to working with you next year. If you missed this season, you still have an opportunity to participate next season.

Our applications will be given out in April and due by May. We look forward to seeing you then. In closing, I would like to give thanks and special recognition to our volunteer parents Rob, Phil, Allison, Salim and all other who freely gave their time and efforts to contribute to a successful series. I would also like to thank our staff and ref as well as Saw Creek Recreation and Activities Staff. Margie and Rene, we started this as a vision and have ended it with these young men chasing a dream.

Thank you for everything. I am already looking forward to next year. Bill thanks for coming out to meet the young men in our tournament at the Barbecue. If you're not busy, perhaps we can have you come back out for series tip off next year so that they can again Chase The Dream In Saw Creek.

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JuniOr tenniS tOurnaMentSaw Creek’s Annual Junior Tennis Tournament

was held on August 10, 2013. Congrats to all

our winners and to all who participated.:

Boys' 18 & Under Champion: Isaac Scheffer Finalist: Will Kyaw

Court Star I Champion: Riley Harris Finalist: Jordan Thompson

Court Stars II Champion: Sophie Merkulov Finalist: Mila Haraida 3rd Place: Jacob Harris 4th Place: Sasha Haraida

• The majority (60%) find Association fees to be very or somewhat reasonable considering the overall quality and number of services and amenities. Only 12% consider the dues to be very unreasonable.

• Overall most respondents want to maintain balance of annual assessments, services and amenities at or near current level rather than raise assessments or cut services.

• Most respondents (80%) feel they receive a satisfactory level of information regarding finances, rule changes, upcoming meetings, events and other decisions made by Saw Creek Estates.

• Nearly all respondents (99%) use electronic means to stay in touch and 85% said they are interested in receiving more information via email.

• The majority of respondents primarily stay informed via Saw Creek News (77%). Other top information sources are emails (45%) and the monthly bulletin (37%).

2012 Survey reSultS cOntinueD FrOM Page 1

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