2014
ISSUE
2
PUBLICATION OF SAW CREEK ESTATES COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
To: All Members of Saw Creek Estates Community Association: The Board of Directors has received another petition by a group of members who are opposed to the recent decision to manage the deer herd. This latest petition seeks to amend our bylaws by requiring a two-thirds majority vote (known as a super majority) in order to move forward with any deer management options. The petition signatures have been validated and the proposed bylaw amendment will appear on the annual ballot for elections and amendments. The Board has worked cooperatively with this group to call a special meeting and give all of our members an equal opportunity to be heard on the issue. However, on the matter of amending our bylaws, the Board strongly disagrees and urges all members to VOTE “NO” ON THE PROPOSED DEER CULL AMENDMENT. A super majority vote on this issue is not in your best interest and not in the best interest of proper community governance for the following reason. Courts have routinely ruled that super majority voting requirements are fundamentally and inherently undemocratic. Even the United States Supreme Court has explained: “Certainly any departure from strict majority rule gives disproportionate power to the minority.” Gordon v. Lance, 403 U.S. 1, 5-6, 91 S.Ct. 1889, 1892 (1971). A super majority requirement gives a small group of voters a greater influence on the outcome of a vote than another group of greater size but opposite opinion. It is the equivalent of allowing those members who opposed a measure to vote twice while those who favor it are limited to only one vote. If the proposed amendment is allowed to pass, it will mean that the minority rules. It will mean that each member no longer has an equal opportunity to be heard at the ballot box on this issue. It will mean that even a 65% favorable vote must fail due to an unfavorable vote of just 35% of voters. The Board of Directors, both past and present, has always sought to follow the will of the majority. For five years we have worked closely with our members, we have examined all of the evidence, published more than a dozen articles and held two special meetings to get your input on the deer management issue. We remain convinced that deer management remains a safe and effective way to protect and restore our forest ecosystem for future generations. Approving the proposed deer cull amendment will have the opposite effect and that is why, for the sake of democracy, the environment and to protect the voting rights of all members, THE BOARD URGES ALL MEMBERS TO VOTE “NO” ON THE DEER CULL AMENDMENT. Sincerely, Wm. Montgomery, President Kathi Connell, Secretary Ron Trimble, Director Bob Long, Director James Hidalgo, Director
Mike Campea, Vice President Bob Shrekgast, Treasurer Robert Palmer, Director Thomas Soden, Director
ELECTRONIC VOTING This year, member’s in-good-standing will be mailed a postcard with a unique pin/password that will be used to vote online. Postcards will be mailed to before the end of May with instructions on how to vote in this years election. If you don’t receive your postcard by Tuesday, June 10th please contact Jessica M. VanDerVliet, Director of Member Services at (570) 588-9329 ext 2213 or jessica@sawcreek.org. A postcard will be mailed May 28th to each homeowner in good standing to the address on file at the Member Services Office. The postcard will contain a unique pin number for each homeowner to register online to vote. Once you receive your pin number, go to our website at www.sawcreek.org beginning May 30th and click on the VOTE ONLINE NOW button which will redirect you to a secure voting website of VOTEHOANOW.com. Following the prompts indicated on the website, the member will register to vote using the unique pin number indicated on the postcard, their property information (e.g. mailing address & lot and section) and some personal information (name, etc.). Once the ballot has been cast a confirmation email will be sent to the registered email address of the member on file with the association. If a member is unable to go online the Member Services Office will be open Tuesday thru Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm and will set up a private area for the member to vote online. The member must bring with them the mailed postcard with the unique pin number to Member Services. If you do not receive your postcard by Tuesday June 10th you should contact the Member Services Office at (570) 588 9329 or email at info@ sawcreek.org. It’s now your turn to educate yourself on the candidates bios and bylaw amendments and sit down at your computer and VOTE FOR THE FUTURE. It is your right and responsibility.
Deer Management Meeting Results A special Deer Management Meeting took place on March 29, 2014 at 10AM at the Top of the World Tennis Courts.The purpose of the meeting was to disseminate important information and to receive member feedback on the Saw Creek Board of Director’s decision to reduce the size of the whitetail deer herd within Saw Creek Estates.The purpose of the meeting was to allow for viewpoints on culling vs. non-culling and to educate the homeowners of Saw Creek.
Stroudsburg, PA 18360 PERMIT NO. 322
The meeting opened with the President of the Board’s comments, followed by Pat Hammond, a Saw Creek (Continued on Page 16)
PAID
5728 Decker Road BUSHKILL, PA 18324
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
INSIDE THIS ISSUE ADMINISTRATION President’s Message General Manager’s Report Facility Director’s Report Lehman Twp. Tax Increase How Do I Find Out About ...?
2 3 4 5 6
Member Services
6
FINANCE Saw Creek Budget Finance Dept. News Treasurer’s Report TOW Financial Report
8 8 11 11
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
14
DEER MANAGEMENT Deer Mgmt. Fact Sheet History of Deer Mgmt.
16 17
ELECTIONS 2014 Board of Directors Election Candidates
21
Bylaw Amendments
22
CLASSIFIEDS 26 SCE EVENTS
Greetings, It is a pleasure writing for this spring & summer edition since we have just endured one of the harshest winters in my memory. Over 67 inches of snow and extreme temperatures which played havoc with our children’s school schedules, with parents having to make adjustments due to many snow days and 2 hour delays. Special thanks to our maintenance staff for the long, tedious hours put in to plow the roads. PPL is here, constructing access roads to facilitate the installation of the new towers. Most of the construction will be taking place this summer and the Board and Management will keep our homeowners updated via all means of communications, e-mail blasts, newsletters, Facebook, etc. This being the election issue, and at this writing not knowing who has submitted their applications, I just want to offer my thanks to all who are ready to make this commitment. I look forward to the successful candidates joining the current board and working in unison to continue moving Saw Creek towards “World Class” status. Good luck to all the candidates. I encourage all homeowners to take pride in their community by expressing their democratic right and voting in this election. This will be our first year with electronic voting and I am confident that this will increase participation while cutting costs for the Association. The special meeting held on March 29th in response to a petition to halt the deer cull was attended by close to 200 homeowners as well as guest speakers from both sides. I am proud to say everyone acted in a professional and respectful way while expressing their points of view on this very emotional issue. I hope this type of participation will carry forward on other issues affecting our community. The summer is our busiest time of year, with many new events planned. Please keep informed via our monthly bulletin so that you may participate. One of my favorites is the annual “Community Day” which will take place on June 21st. Recreation has a full day of fun and games planned along with hamburgers, hot dogs and soda supplied by the Men’s Club. Please plan on bringing the family, it is a wonderful opportunity to meet your neighbors and make new friends. Six of our fine young boy’s and girl’s have attained the prestigious rank of “Black Belt” at the Pocono Karate Club, run by A. J Ghidella here in Saw Creek. To reach this pinnacle requires years of hard work, dedication, resolve and focus. They are: Angel Pincay- Age 8, Maximus Hidalgo- Age 12, Brianna Serrano- Age 13, Nicholas Yandolina- Age 13, Olivia Yandolino- Age 15 and Anthony Hunter- Age 16. Congratulations to them all for this wonderful accomplishment. I want to wish everyone a happy, safe summer season here in Saw Creek. Respectfully yours, Bill Montgomery, President, SCE Board of Directors
28
COMMITTEE REPORTS Building & Architectural 30 Saw Creek Men’s Club 30 Saw Creek Women’s Club 31 Rules & Regulations Report 31 Jan/Feb Board Resolutions 32 Homeowner Rights & Responsibilities 33 HEALTH & FITNESS Her Heart vs. His Heart
34
SCE NEWS ESU McMunn Planetarium Golden Travel & Social Club
36 37
RESTAURANT CORNER A Great Winter at the TOP!
39
SAW
CREEK
NEWS
MAY-AUGUST
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General Manager’s Report By David W. Martin In the past two issues, I’ve had a lot to say about organizational values and the need to build a community culture firmly rooted in our shared values. A culture that is defined by what we have in common, not by what separates us. Recent events have caused me to reflect further on how our emerging values and culture relate to the current discourse on the subject of deer management. I don’t intend to argue the merits of either side in this ongoing debate, but I do find it most interesting to examine the way in which the debate is being conducted and what it says about our desire and our willingness to promote shared values and community culture.
PUBLICATION OF THE SAW CREEK COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC. © 2011 5728 Decker Road • Bushkill, PA 18324 P: 570.588.9329 E: info@sawcreek.org PUBLISHED BY NIKI JONES AGENCY, INC. 39 Front Street Port Jervis, New York 12771 P: 845.856.1266 E: ads@nikijones.com
At the very heart of the deer debate, we have incompatible points of view. There are of course, a wide range of opinions on the issue, but I think it’s reasonable for the purposes of this article to put them into one of two camps.
Fortunately, most of the member comments we received were very thoughtful and sincere expressions of concern and didn’t resort to name-
Camp One believes an overabundance of whitetail deer is largely responsible for damage to the forest ecosystem and private landscapes and contributes to incidents of Lyme disease and deer-vehicle collisions. In support of its position, Camp One points to research on the history of whitetail deer in PA, evidence of the ecological impacts of over browsing and the cost/benefit of various options to reduce or reverse those impacts. They cite the findings of numerous private and governmental studies as well as testimonials on the recent success of deer herd reduction in similar large private communities and elsewhere. Camp Two generally believes that concerns about the forest ecosystem; private landscapes, Lyme disease and collisions are not sufficiently valid to justify a deer cull by any means, or at least not by any lethal means. In support of its position, Camp Two points to studies which suggest that the forest and deer herd are currently in a natural state of balance; that some degree of imbalance can be attributed to natural and man-made causes other than over browsing and call into question the science used in support of a deer cull. They also offer evidence in support of non-lethal herd reduction techniques they consider to be cost effective and more humane. The battle lines have been drawn! The stage is set for a clash of values and beliefs – strongly held individual values and beliefs. Let the conflict begin! If the conflict is not handled effectively, if we put individual values or personal agendas above our shared values, the results can be very damaging indeed. At worst, it can lead to disrespect and personal animosity; teamwork will breakdown; talent will be wasted; people will disengage from community affairs and we will risk suffering SAW
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.
prolonged negativity and recrimination. There is clear evidence of such negativity, disrespect and personal animosity. Among the many emails we received for and against a deer cull, one person wrote, “As for the Board, it is an incestuous, self-serving bunch.” Come on, really? I ask you, is that the kind of rational, thought provoking commentary we need to resolve our differences? Of course not - it is exactly the kind of thinking we need to resist.
The deer management issue is a good example to study in relation to our values and culture because it includes all of the elements that make culture change such a difficult, but ultimately rewarding effort. There are differences of opinion, disputed and undisputed facts, often intense emotions and rhetoric and a common interest in shaping the direction of our community.
(Continued on Page 21)
SCE BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Vice-President Treasurer Secretary Members
Bill Montgomery Mike Campea Bob Shrekgast Kathi Connell Bob Long Robert Palmer Ron Trimble Thomas Soden James Hidalgo
william@sawcreek.org michael@sawcreek.org roberts@sawcreek.org kathic@sawcreek.org bob@sawcreek.org robert@sawcreek.org ron@sawcreek.org thomas@sawcreek.org james@sawcreek.org
MANAGEMENT TEAM General Manager Director of Public Safety Director of Facilities Recreation Director Director of Human Resources and Administration Restaurant Manager Director of Member Services Director of Finance
Dave Martin Jim Andrews Jeffrey Gaal George McCormick
dave@sawcreek.org jim@sawcreek.org jeff@sawcreek.org george@sawcreek.org
Peggy Gottschau Ryan McGinniss Jessica VanDerVliet Cathy Wargo
peggy@sawcreek.org ryan@sawcreek.org jessica@sawcreek.org cathy@sawcreek.org
COMMITTEES & CHAIRPERSONS Appeals Beautification Finance Building & Architectural Nominating Public Information Recreation Rules & Regulations Safety
Norda Calder Phil Cozzi Peter Derrenbacher Dave Stagg Peter Derrenbacher Kristina Neumann Suzanne Mark Roseanne Prasse Robert Harter
appeals@sawcreek.org beautification@sawcreek.org finance@sawcreek.org maintenance@sawcreek.org nominating@sawcreek.org pic@sawcreek.org reccommittee@sawcreek.org violations@sawcreek.org safety@sawcreek.org
Disclaimer:The comments, statements or written opinions expressed in the Saw Creek News are the sole responsibility of the signed individual/author and/or committee and are not edited. All Letters to the Editor and paid political ads do not reflect the opinions or views of the Public Information Committee.
CREEK
NEWS
MAY-AUGUST
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ADMINISTRATION Facilities Director’s Report By Jeffrey J. Gaal, Facilities Director As you read this the maintenance team will be hard at work cleaning up from a long winter season. We had a near record snowfall total. And don’t forget the 22” storm just in time for the weekend. We only had a few breakdowns, but nothing that could not be repaired in house. We will spend many hours cleaning and servicing winter equipment to be stored for the summer. This year we ran very low on salt due to a statewide shortage. I was able to purchase road salt from some of my other contacts. We made it through the year with a small surplus, which gives us a jump start next season.
with a new professional look. The exterior will be reconstructed to match the look of the Top of the World complex.
whole building. In the near future we will be planning on renovating the bathrooms by the indoor pool.
As you read this the Top of the World complex will have 2 renovated bathrooms downstairs near the Creek room. This work was done by Countrywide Enterprises. This is a welcome addition to the
These are just a few of things we will be doing during the coming months. ENJOY THE SUMMER!
The ski hill was a great success thanks to the snow making and a lot of natural snow. We almost made it to St Patrick’s Day, but the warm temps and a significant rainfall combined with below zero temps caused the hill to freeze solid thus ending the season. All pools will be open before you know it. Many days will be spent cleaning and prepping for the Memorial Day opening. Tree trimming will commence some time at the end of this month and continue through the summer. Trees and limbs will be cut back to allow safer travel and better line of sight at the intersections. This trimming will also allow more sunlight to reach the roadway and allow for safer travel during the shortened and dark days of winter. Capital Projects
Mill Pond outdoor pool concrete surface will be cleaned, acid washed and then the concrete around the pool will be coated and sealed. Top of the World complex will get a new emergency generator. This will keep things running during power outages and storm related problems. Mill Pond dam is almost done being engineered. This will allow for replacement of the emergency spillway valve that is now out of service. This will also address the spillway that needs some cosmetic work. The Falls Bridge engineering study is nearly complete. This bridge will be repaired to alleviate the old and rotten timbers that make up the abutments. Member Service Office will be closed for renovation starting April 8th for approximately 2 or 3 months. The new home for the office staff will be in the Old Public Safety Office. This renovation will consist of a new landscaped front entrance. There will be a few changes to the inside also. New visitor reception area and several new offices all put in place to better serve the customers, SAW
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NEWS
MAY-AUGUST
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Lehman Township Passed Proposed Tax Increase Lehman Township residents will face their second tax increase in three years for 2014. The proposed increase passed unanimously. A public hearing took place at 7 PM December 18, 2014 at the Lehman Township building. “We had a good turnout from the Men’s Club. Myself, Joe Doe, John Magnotti, Ray Saunders, Peter Burgess, Tom Soden (Board member), Pat Siravo and John Thompson attended the public hearing. Unfortunately, other communities were absent. The Three Lehman Supervisors were there - John Sivick, Richard Vollmer and Paul Menditto as well as Secretary/Treasurer, Robert Rohner.”
There was an increase in the general fund tax rate from 4 to 6 mills. The effective increase in our Township portion of the taxes will increase by 38%. This is on top of the increase in 2012 when the Township increased the general fund tax rate from 2 to 4 mills, representing a 78% increase overall. A $750,000 line of credit for potential capital improvements was passed as well. “During the comment period most of us expressed concern that the homeowner continues to get hammered with increases from the township. The county last year increased their
taxes by 18.5%. The state also just announced a substantial increase in gasoline taxes. Pennsylvania American Water, Met-Ed and other utility companies are increasing prices. It’s time our representatives rethink what services they provide which are needed vs. wanted. Clearly, the township has challenges as fewer homes are being built. There are few commercial businesses in their tax base. Homes and businesses are seeking and receiving lower reassessments.”
The meeting was very open and everyone was allowed to speak. When the discussion period ended, the budget was unanimously approved.
SAW
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NEWS
MAY-AUGUST
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How do I find out about…..? Member Services at your service!
By Peggy Gottschau, Director of HR and Administration All too often I hear the words “I didn’t know.” Whether it is in my role as the HR manager speaking to an employee about policies or a homeowner who didn’t realize he couldn’t leave garbage on the ground at the dumpster, the answer is always “I didn’t know we couldn’t do that.” It is usually coupled with “but you didn’t tell me” or “there was no communication.” More often than not the information was out there, but the person in question just didn’t know where to look for it.
By Jessica M. VanDerVliet, Director of Member Services We’re always looking for ways to improve at Member Services. Our Member Services Office is being renovated during the next couple of months. Some things that will be improved will include: •
New patio deck made of pavers, similar to those found at the VIP Bus Stop Area
•
New lobby with comfortable seating while waiting at MSO
•
Double Service Windows! Yeah!
•
Extended counter space for filling out paperwork
•
New furniture and desk area for front staff
•
Relocation of Directors Office
•
New exterior/insulation finishing system, similar look to the Top of the World Complex
So, where should you turn as a homeowner to stay informed? Saw Creek has several outlets for disseminating information. If you are reading this, then you have in your hands the number one source for information about events, rule and policy changes and updates on projects, etc. The Saw Creek News is mailed to every homeowner and registered renter and there are always extra copies available at Member Services and at the amenities. Another great source for information is the Saw Creek website www.sawcreek.org. Here you can find contact information, news updates, upcoming events, Board meeting minutes, financial reports and all our governing documents (rules and regulations, bylaws and aesthetics). You will also find the current and back issues of the Saw Creek News and monthly bulletins. There is also a page with links to services outside the community under our about area. Attend Board meetings. The Board currently meets the second Saturday of each month in the Top of the World Mountain Room at 10:00 am. Most association business is conducted at these meetings and they are open to members and residents. During the meetings there are two 30 minute periods allotted for homeowner concerns with each homeowner allowed three minutes to voice their concerns. Of course if you can’t make a meeting, minutes are recorded and are then available on the Saw Creek website the following month.
We are excited about the renovations. Since we moved from our former location in 2006 the Member Services Offices has needed an upgrade. We expect to have all of the work completed before the July 4th holiday. During the time of renovations Member Services Staff has relocated to the former Public Safety Building (across the street). While in the temporary location we may not offer copy, fax or postage services but will still be able to process members and guests as usual with gate cards, amenity badges and property account needs.
There is also an annual meeting conducted the third Saturday of July every year. An annual report is shared outlining what the board and management has accomplished the prior year and what’s coming up. Again, this report is uploaded to the Saw Creek website after the meeting. Along the same lines, attending committee meetings is also a great way to keep informed. Committee meetings are also held once a month, and are open to all members. You can find a complete schedule of committee meetings on our website. Saw Creek also publishes a monthly bulletin which can be found at the entrance gates, amenities, and the Member Services office. This is a one page document that highlights the recreation and Top of the World events for the month, any important news updates and lists amenity hours and dates and times of committee meetings. Again, this document can also be found on the website.
Remember we are just a phone call away, please call us at (570) 588-9329 or email us at memberservices@sawcreek.org if you need assistance, we are here at your service!
What’s Lurking under Your Snow Pile? By Nic Hutta, Compliance Officer Spring is finally here and the snow has melted. This past winter’s snow fall buried several forgotten violations, ice locked in your Christmas and Holiday decorations, and plows have pushed away your driveways and landscapes. But warmer weather is here and it is time to start the cleanup. Starting May 1st Bulk Dumping will be open every Saturday for you to get rid of that unwanted trash and debris buried by the snow. Time to get outside and remove those long past due holiday decorations and put them away for next year. Take a walk around your property (with rake in hand) and start your landscaping projects. Please remember that if you are completing any landscaping and driveway projects, to submit a minor work permit first. The Compliance Officer is always willing to help with ideas for property improvements. Happy spring! SAW
Both Saw Creek and the Top of the World Restaurant have active Facebook and Twitter accounts. You can find us on Facebook at Saw Creek Estates and Top of the World Restaurant. We can be found on Twitter @SCE_Community. Up to the minute news like facility or road closings can be found here as well as information on upcoming events. Speaking of events, there are bulletin boards at both mailbox locations as well as all the facilities. On these bulletin boards you will find flyers with details on our approaching events. And as with all our other communications, they can also be found on the website under the event calendar. What if you’ve been through these outlets and you still can’t find what you’re looking for? Simply stop by the Member Services Office or call us at 570-588-9329. One of our staff members would be happy to assist you.
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NEWS
MAY-AUGUST
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SAW
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$ FINANCE
Finance Dept. News By Cathy Wargo, Director of Finance
Run Date: 04/18/14
Run Time: 02:26 PM
Page: 1
I would like to take this opportunity to welcome two new employees to our finance department and to congratulate Lynda Keogh on her new position as HR assistant.
Yearly
Our new Accounts Receivable and Bookkeeper is Debra Bertone, Debra brings 15 years experience as a full charge bookkeeper which includes; accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll and bank reconciliations. She also has an associate’s degree in Business Management and will be a great asset to the accounting department.
SAW CREEK ESTATES COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION SAW CREEK ESTATES COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, OPERATING INCOME/EXPENSE OPERATING INCOME/EXPENSE
Period: 03/01/14 toto03/31/14 Period: 03/01/14 03/31/14 Current Period Actual
Budget
Year-To-Date Variance
Account
Description
Actual
Budget
Variance
Budget
2,684,713.38
2,785,834.00
(101,120.62)
3,439,300.00
47,276.49
30,000.00
17,276.49
120,000.00
200.00
150.00
50.00
400.00
18,159.94
17,500.00
659.94
55,000.00
14,250.00
14,500.00
(250.00)
17,000.00 5,000.00
INCOME: DUES & FEES 212,680.33
206,358.00
16,399.31
10,000.00
100.00
50.00
9,582.56
8,200.00
350.00
.00
250.00
416.00
(166.00) 06370-000 Owner Collect/Legal Fees Rei
885.50
1,248.00
(362.50)
375.00
333.00
42.00 06380-000 Owner Admin. Fees Income
750.00
999.00
(249.00)
4,000.00
4,429.08
4,500.00
10,196.06
13,500.00
(3,303.94)
61,000.00
8,554.70
6,252.00
2,302.70
25,000.00
5,870.00
4,374.00
1,496.00
17,500.00
______________ ______________ ______________
______________
2,234.04
2,084.00
3,405.00
1,458.00
6,322.33 06305-000 Annual Dues Assessments 6,399.31 06306-000 Prior Dues Assessment 50.00 06335-000 Owner NSF Fees 1,382.56 06340-000 Owner Late Fee Income 350.00 06345-000 Owner Payment Plan Fee
(70.92) 06390-000 Owner Interest Income 150.04 06327-000 Code Enforcement Fines 1,947.00 06460-000 Citation Income
______________ ______________ ______________ 249,805.32
233,399.00
16,406.32
Dues & Fees Income
2,790,856.07
2,874,357.00
(83,500.93)
3,744,200.00
3,063.00 840.49
2,275.00
788.00
11,000.00
2,800.00
(1,959.51)
2,440.00
8,000.00
3,500.00
(1,060.00)
13,000.00
Our new part-time Accounts Payable Clerk is Lisa Breunig; she is currently taking accounting courses at Northampton Community College and has an associate degree in Applied Science. She also has experience working in a legal office with clients, insurance carriers and processing receivables. I look forward to the upcoming year working with Debbie and Lisa and feel both will contribute their knowledge and experience to the Accounting Department here at Saw Creek.
ADMINISTRATIVE 1,011.00
500.00
10.00
650.00
709.00
1,250.00
50.00
83.00
1,015.00
1,000.00
511.00 06420-000 Badge Income (640.00) 06425-000 Renters Registration (541.00) 06430-000 Gate Card Income (33.00) 06450-000 Account Information Income 15.00 06921-000 Bulk Dumping Owner Receipts
249.00
(149.00)
1,000.00
2,650.00
(1,092.00)
15,000.00
.00
.00
.00 06440-000 Building Permit Income
50.00
.00
50.00
1,000.00
2,000.00
1,500.00
500.00 06485-000 Resale Certificate Fees
5,200.00
4,500.00
700.00
20,000.00
191.38
125.00
.00
.00
1,473.71
1,475.00
1,191.02
1,391.00
130.60
41.66
615.59
2,042.00
66.38 06360-000 Misc. Income
1,552.52
375.00
1,177.52
1,500.00
17,036.29
16,500.00
536.29
66,000.00
(1.29) 06920-000 The Falls-Gate Income
4,421.13
4,425.00
(3.87)
17,700.00
(199.98) 06530-000 Rental Income - Verizon
3,573.06
4,173.00
(599.94)
16,700.00
334.22
124.98
209.24
500.00
3,344.25
6,126.00
(2,781.75)
24,500.00
______________ ______________ ______________
______________ Page:
.00 06410-000 Blue Ridge Cable Franchise
88.94 06820-000 Interest - Operating Account (1,426.41) 06821-000 Investment Income Operating
______________ ______________ ______________ Run Date: 04/18/14
Run
100.00 1,558.00
8,397.30 10,057.66 Time: 02:26 PM
RECREATION 569.47 48.75
680.00 300.00 Current Period .00 Budget
(1,660.36)
Administrative Income
43,512.96
47,697.98
(4,185.02)
195,900.00
Scholarships Galore
2
SAW CREEK ESTATES COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, OPERATING INCOME/EXPENSE
(110.53) 06490-000 Rec/TOW Room Rental03/01/14 to 03/31/14 1,697.57 Period: (251.25) 06491-000 Recreation Activities Income 405.75
2,040.00 1,300.00 Year-To-Date 11,000.00 Budget
(342.43)
9,000.00
(894.25)
1,555.00 1,555.00 06495-000 Income Actual Variance Account Ski Ticket/Lesson Description 2,365.54 2,000.00 365.54 06496-000 Ski Rental/Tech Service Inco 262,741.38 246,436.66 16,304.72 TOTAL INCOME ______________ ______________ ______________ ============== ============== ============== 4,538.76 2,980.00 1,558.76 Recreation Income
20,250.00 9,250.00 Actual Variance 23,826.54 26,000.00 (2,173.46) 2,880,548.89 2,962,394.98 (81,846.09) ______________ ______________ ______________ ============== ============== ============== 46,179.86 40,340.00 5,839.86
9,000.00 Yearly 11,000.00 Budget 26,000.00 3,995,100.00 ______________ ============== 55,000.00
______________ ______________ ______________
______________ ______________ ______________
______________
EXPENSES ADMINISTRATIVE .00
.00
.00 07114-100 Gate Card Expenses
1,073.25
1,000.00
(73.25)
4,000.00
.00
.00
.00 07115-100 Badge Expenses
1,150.00
1,000.00
(150.00)
2,000.00
1,189.34
900.00
(289.34) 07320-000 Office Supplies
1,734.62
1,600.00
(134.62)
9,000.00
623.25
400.00
(223.25) 07400-000 Printing & Reproduction
1,250.73
1,050.00
(200.73)
11,000.00
1,073.08
1,000.00
2,373.83
2,500.00
126.17
6,400.00
.00
83.33
1.60
249.99
248.39
1,000.00
.00
59.00
1,600.00
700.00
565.40
650.00
.00
25.00
.00
.00
.00
150.00
2,611.21
3,750.00
(73.08) 07460-000 Meeting Expenses 83.33 07410-000 Travel & Entertainment 59.00 07440-000 BOD Reimburseable Exp (900.00) 07260-000 Postage & Mail 84.60 07171-100 Postage Meter Rental 25.00 07177-100 Federal Express .00 07113-100 Copier Service Contract 150.00 07118-100 Miscellaneous Expenses
7,662.28
7,717.33
55.05
175.00
36.99
700.00
2,900.00
(2,052.90)
14,800.00
565.40
650.00
84.60
2,600.00
31.47
75.00
43.53
300.00
.00
.00
.00
3,000.00
.00
150.00
150.00
500.00
6,495.10
11,250.00
4,754.90
45,000.00
______________ ______________ ______________
______________
1,138.79 07170-000 Collection Fees
______________ ______________ ______________
138.01 4,952.90
Administrative Expenses
19,766.91
22,599.99
2,833.08
100,300.00
GENERAL & PROFESSIONAL 210.36
150.00
6,398.36
5,400.00
(998.36) 07255-000 Credit Card Processing
(60.36) 07250-000 Bank Charges Operating
536.07
2,084.00
1,547.93 07181-100 IT-Technology
.00
.00
.00
1,500.00
1,500.00 07150-000 Professional Consulting Fees
2,697.14
4,417.00
1,719.86 07160-000 Legal Fees
.00
.00
.00 07020-000 Accounting Fees
.00
.00
.00 07350-000 Advertising - Bids
.00
.00
.00 07251-000 Licenses & Permits
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00 07202-000 S CodeA Enforcement Expense W C R
.00
2,000.00
21,799.32
21,707.00
.00 07300-000 Dues & Subscriptions
.00 07420-000 Property Taxes
2,000.00 07430-000 Federal Income Tax (92.32) 07280-000 Insurance Commercial
EEK
557.33
450.00
(107.33)
1,800.00
18,174.55
15,900.00
(2,274.55)
20,000.00
1,684.17
6,252.00
4,567.83
25,000.00
78.99
100.00
21.01
1,000.00
3,000.00
4,500.00
1,500.00
18,000.00
18,091.09
13,251.00
(4,840.09)
53,000.00
(8,431.25)
.00
8,431.25
18,000.00
.00
.00
.00
2,000.00
.00
.00
.00
500.00
.00 W S NE .00
Continued on Page 8
.00 A Y - A .00 U G U S 500.00 M T .00
.00
2,000.00
.00
2,000.00
2,000.00
8,000.00
65,212.00
65,121.00
(91.00)
286,000.00
Calling all students! Scholarships, scholarships and more scholarships. Finding scholarships can be easier than ever. There are thousands of scholarships out there to be applied for. Are you super tall? Well, there’s a scholarship for that. http://tall.org/tci-acts/scholarships-2/ Are you Patriotic? Yes, there’s one for that too. http:// www.vfw.org/Community/Programs. There is no limit as to what you can get a scholarship for! Are you a Bruce Lee enthusiast? Yep, there is a scholarship specifically for that as well. http://www.bruceleefoundation.com. For scholarships for Military Dependents, go to http://www.collegescholarships.org/scholarships/ dependents.htm. There are over 230,000 scholarships out there. Even Pennsylvania American Water has an annual Stream of Learning Scholarship Program. Go to http://www. studentscholarships.org and you’ll see that there are scholarships for everyone. It’s never too early to start! Who knew that scholarships aren’t simply for high school seniors or current and returning college students? Did you know that there are also ample opportunities for elementary and middle school students? I didn’t, until recently. That’s why I felt it was important to share with you some of the scholarships that are presently available for all ages. Send an email to ScholarshipMentor@gmail. com with the words "subscribe" in the subject to get your own monthly copy of the most current scholarships to date. Get those essays ready and good luck! PAGE
8
7,662.28
Run Date: 03/21/14
7,717.33
GENERAL & PROFESSIONAL Run Time: 11:42 AM
SCE Board of Directors 2014 Meeting Schedule May 10, 2014 - TOW Mountain Room June 14, 2014 - TOW Mountain Room
210.36
150.00
6,398.36
5,400.00
Continued 536.07from Page 2,084.007 .00 .00 Actual 2,697.14
INCOME: DUES & FEES
55.05
July 19, 2014 - Annual Homeowners’ Meeting All BOD meetings begin at 10 AM SHARP Homeowner comments will begin at 10:15 AM & again at end of meeting
TOW Board Meeting – 9AM July 2014 – TOW Board Meeting
19,766.91
22,599.99
(60.36) 07250-000ESTATES Bank Charges Operating 557.33 450.00 SAW CREEK COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION SAW CREEK ESTATES COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION,
Current.00 Period 1,500.00 Budget
(998.36) 07255-000OPERATING Credit Card Processing 18,174.55 INCOME/EXPENSE
OPERATING INCOME/EXPENSE
Period: 03/01/14 to 03/31/14 1,547.93 07181-100 IT-Technology 1,684.17 Period: 02/01/14 to 02/28/14 .00 07300-000 Dues & Subscriptions
78.99
1,500.00 07150-000 Consulting Fees Variance Account ProfessionalDescription 1,719.86 07160-000 Legal Fees
100,300.00
Page: 1
(107.33)
1,800.00
15,900.00
(2,274.55)
20,000.00
6,252.00
4,567.83
25,000.00
21.01
1,000.00 Yearly 18,000.00 Budget 53,000.00
100.00 Year-To-Date 4,500.00 Budget 13,251.00
.00
.00
.00 07020-000 Accounting Fees
(8,431.25)
.00
8,431.25
18,000.00
.00
.00
.00 07350-000 Advertising - Bids
.00
.00
.00
2,000.00
.00
.00
.00 07251-000 Licenses & Permits
.00
.00
.00
4,417.00
3,000.00 Actual 18,091.09
2,833.08
1,500.00 Variance (4,840.09)
.00 .00 .00 07202-000 Code Enforcement Expense .00 .00 .00 652,944.23 653,467.00 (522.77) 06305-000 Annual Dues Assessments 2,472,033.05 2,579,476.00 (107,442.95) .00 .00 .00 07420-000 Property Taxes .00 .00 .00 15,056.11 10,000.00 5,056.11 06306-000 Prior Dues Assessment 30,877.18 20,000.00 10,877.18 .00 2,000.00 2,000.00 07430-000 Federal Income Tax .00 2,000.00 2,000.00 Run Date: 04/18/14 75.00 100.00 25.00 06335-000 Owner NSF Fees 100.00 100.00 .00 21,799.32 21,707.00 (92.32) 07280-000 Insurance Commercial 65,212.00 65,121.00 (91.00) 6,433.7802:26 PM 5,800.00 633.78 06340-000 Owner Late Fee Income 8,577.38 9,300.00 (722.62) Run Time: ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ 3,660.00 4,500.00 (840.00) 06345-000 Owner Payment Plan Fee 13,900.00 14,500.00 (600.00) SAW CREEK ESTATES COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, 31,641.25 37,258.00 5,616.75 General & Professional Exp. 98,366.88 107,574.00 9,207.12 635.50 416.00 219.50 06370-000 Owner Collect/Legal Fees Rei 635.50 832.00 (196.50)
225.00 333.00 (108.00) ============== ============== ============== 2,935.00 4,000.00 (1,065.00) Current Period 39,303.53 44,975.33 5,671.80 3,109.66 2,084.00 1,025.66 Actual Budget Variance 1,675.00 1,458.00 217.00 RECREATION
July 12, 2014 - TOW Mountain Room
Administrative Expenses
OPERATING INCOME/EXPENSE
06380-000 Owner Admin.Period: Fees Income 375.00 666.00 (291.00) 03/01/14 to 03/31/14 ============== ============== ============== 06390-000 Owner Interest Income 5,766.98 9,000.00 (3,233.02) Year-To-Date Administrative & General Exp 118,133.79 130,173.99 12,040.20 06327-000 Fines 6,320.66 4,168.00 2,152.66 Account Code Enforcement Description Actual Budget Variance 06460-000 Citation Income 2,465.00 2,916.00 (451.00)
______________ 674.00 ______________ 800.00 ______________ 126.00 08015-000 Rec. - Training 686,774.28 682,133.00 4,641.28 & Fees-Dues Income .00 .00 .00 08020-000 Dues Recreation & Sponsor
47.75 ADMINISTRATIVE 1,102.76 887.00 .00
240.00 61.23 1,171.00 .00 .00 53.92
200.00 1,000.00 1,200.00 .00
650.00 100.00 1,250.00 .00 83.00 500.00
1,473.71 (25.44) 1,191.02 .00
98.36 .00 650.72 .00
125.00 16,500.00 .00 1,475.00 .00 1,391.00 .00 41.66 .00
17,500.00 ______________ 2,000.00 3,744,200.00 1,000.00
152.25 08025-000 Recreation Supplies/Exp.
(401.46)
1,000.00
1,401.46
9,600.00
1,711.86 2,052.00 .00
1,500.00 1,775.00 .00
(211.86) 277.00 .00
10,000.00 11,000.00 4,000.00
(116.00) 665.89 543.00 ______________ 1,650.00 ______________ (1,107.00) ______________ 50.00 .00 50.00 6,253.64 8,500.00 2,246.36 3,200.00 3,000.00 200.00
15,000.00 ______________ 1,000.00 40,400.00
830.49 2,935.13 1,731.00 .00 50.00 1,334.11
2,150.00 3,200.00 2,250.00 .00 166.00 2,000.00
(1,319.51) 264.87 (519.00) .00
250.00
1,111.14
1,500.00
536.29 (310.62) (2.58) 72.75
66,000.00 2,500.00 17,700.00 1,100.00
2,728.66 4,084.00 (1,355.34) 1,803.10 5,500.00 3,696.90 ______________ ______________ ______________ 7,232.52 9,000.00 1,767.48 35,115.66 37,640.32 (2,524.66) .00 .00 .00
24,500.00 7,500.00 ______________ 13,000.00 195,900.00 4,000.00
______________ ______________ ______________
______________
533.80 06360-000 Misc. Income
1,361.14
536.29 RidgeOperating Cable Franchise .00 06410-000 08400-000 Blue Ski Shop Exp. (1.29) Income 25.44 06920-000 08408-000 The FirstFalls-Gate Aid Supplies (199.98) Income - Verizon .00 06530-000 08409-000 Rental Ski - Hay
56.70 .00 (1,391.28) .00
06820-000 08410-000 06821-000 08430-000
Interest - Operating Ski Facility RepairsAccount Investment Income Operating Snow Mobile & Groomer Exp
2,042.00 .00 ______________ ______________ 766.99 1,000.00 ______________ 233.01 08470-000 Ski Snow Making Electric 25,701.90 27,257.66 (1,555.76) .00 .00 .00 08480-000 Administrative Ski InspectionsIncome ______________ ______________ ______________ RECREATION 741.55 1,000.00 258.45 Ski Expenses 795.00 680.00 115.00 06490-000 Rec/TOW Room Rental
17,036.29 1,210.62 2,947.42 227.25
2,382.04 .00 203.62 1,295.18
2,782.00 800.00 83.32 1,700.00
18,200.00 1,360.00
(399.96) 800.00 120.30 404.82
8,000.00 4,500.00 13,000.00 800.00 1,000.00 8,500.00
20,000.00
16,700.00 1,300.00 500.00 4,000.00
6,431.33 (231.90)
33,400.00 9,000.00
88.00 ============== 400.00 ============== (312.00) 06491-000 Recreation Activities Income ============== Ticket/Lesson Income 13,015.00 5,500.00 7,515.00 2,681.21 3,600.00 918.79 06495-000 Ski Total Recreation Expense 15,783.00 14,000.00 1,783.00 06496-000 Ski Rental/Tech Service Inco
357.00 ============== 1,000.00 ============== (643.00) ============== 18,695.00 11,000.00 7,695.00 18,022.31 26,700.00 8,677.69 21,461.00 24,000.00 (2,539.00)
9,000.00 ============== 11,000.00 73,800.00
______________ VIP SNACK BAR ______________ ______________ 29,681.00 ______________ 20,580.00 ______________ 9,101.00 ______________
______________ ______________ ______________
______________
Recreation Income
41,641.10 ______________ 37,360.00 ______________ 4,281.10 ______________
55,000.00 ______________
Total VIP Expense
.00 .00 .00 ______________ ______________ ______________
.00 ______________
.00 .00 .00 ______________ ______________ ______________
11,768.67 1,128.10
16,500.00 900.00 2,950.00 300.00
3
4,000.00 ============== 61,000.00 Yearly 536,100.00 25,000.00 Budget
(102.76) 08026-000 Recreation Events Exp. (313.00) .00 06420-000 08040-000 Badge Rec. - Income Sports Equipment (410.00) 06425-000 Renters Registration 38.77 08050-000 Recreation - Fitness Center
(79.00) Card Income .00 06430-000 08740-000 Gate Recreation Uniforms (83.00) 446.08 06450-000 09200-000 Account JanitorialInformation Supplies Income 295.00 ______________ 1,000.00 ______________ (705.00) 06921-000 Bulk Dumping Owner Receipts ______________ .00 .00 .00 06440-000 Building Permit Income 1,939.66 2,600.00 660.34 Recreation Expense 2,000.00 1,500.00 500.00 06485-000 Resale Certificate Fees 658.80 SKI EXPENSE 17,036.29 .00
______________ 674.00 ______________ 800.00 ______________ 126.00 2,541,050.75 2,640,958.00 (99,907.25) .00 .00 .00
500.00 500.00 3,439,300.00 2,000.00 120,000.00 8,000.00 Page: 400.00 286,000.00 55,000.00 ______________ 17,000.00 435,800.00 5,000.00
26,000.00
PAYROLL 25,983.56
28,116.00
2,132.44 08610-000 Administrative Payroll
80,595.41
87,738.00
7,142.59
2,617.34
2,500.00
(117.34) 08700-002 Admin. P/R Tax Expense
11,138.95
13,700.00
2,561.05
35,700.00
5,009.59
4,600.00
(409.59) 08750-002 Admin. Employee Benefits
16,279.88
13,800.00
(2,479.88)
58,800.00
______________ ______________ ______________
______________
______________ ______________ ______________ 33,610.49
35,216.00
Run Date: 04/18/14
Run Time: 02:26 PM 14,034.89 13,546.00 3,608.68
2,000.00
170.62
.00
2,514.40
1,500.00
1,813.66 Actual 162.64 24.58
Current Period 1,800.00 Budget 400.00 .00
1,605.51
Administrative Payroll
108,014.24
115,238.00
7,223.76
463,400.00
39,097.85
41,638.00
2,540.15
269,600.00
7,524.25
22,000.00
(170.62) 08639-000 Ski Snowblowers Wages INCOME/EXPENSE 9,859.69 OPERATING
15,000.00
5,140.31
25,000.00
Period: (1,014.40) 08700-003 Rec. P/R Tax Expense03/01/14 to 03/31/14 9,292.93
8,500.00
(792.93)
32,500.00
(13.66) 08750-003 Rec. Employee Benefits Variance Account Ski PR Taxes Description 237.36 08700-005
Year-To-Date 5,400.00 Budget 5,000.00
2,534.68 Variance 4,437.09
Yearly 22,000.00 Budget 5,400.00
2,900.00
2,040.83
4,900.00
______________ ______________ ______________
______________
(488.89) 08635-000 Recreation Payroll
(1,608.68) Ski Patrol/Shop/Instruct 13,475.75 21,000.00 SAW08638-000 CREEK ESTATESWag COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION,
2,865.32 Actual 562.91
(24.58) 08700-006 Ski Snowblowers Taxes
______________ ______________ ______________ 22,329.47
19,246.00
51,879.99
53,446.00
1,327.73
2,608.00
1,280.27 08641-000 Public Safety OT
8,220.15
7,800.00
(420.15) 08700-004 Public Safety Tax Exp
(3,083.47)
4,087.25
4,725.00
859.17
Recreation Payroll
99,438.00
23,424.38
381,400.00
145,910.09
160,338.00
14,427.91
694,800.00
4,048.25
7,824.00
3,775.75
31,300.00
24,906.58
28,300.00
3,393.42
75,800.00
13,675.36
14,175.00
499.64
62,600.00
______________ ______________ ______________
______________
637.75 08750-004 Public Safety Emp. Benefits
65,515.12
68,579.00
3,063.88
Public Safety Payroll
188,540.28
210,637.00
26,829.81
28,678.00
1,848.19 08650-000 Maintenance Salary
80,220.40
916.42
1,500.00
583.58 08650-001 Maintenance Overtime
28,537.85
2,561.27
2,500.00
(61.27) 08700-001 Maint. P/R Tax Expense
4,052.88
3,000.00 35,678.00
1,152.60
1,333.00
175.00
200.00
22,096.72
864,500.00
86,032.00
5,811.60
372,800.00
11,000.00
(17,537.85)
25,000.00
14,973.89
15,600.00
626.11
37,500.00
13,265.57
9,000.00
(4,265.57)
37,400.00
______________ ______________ ______________
______________
(1,052.88) 08750-001 Maint. Employee Benefits
______________ ______________ ______________ 1,317.62
Page: 4
76,013.62
1,566.01 08640-000 Public Safety Payroll
______________ ______________ ______________
34,360.38
368,900.00
Maintenance Payroll
136,997.71
121,632.00
(15,365.71)
472,700.00
3,173.84
3,999.00
825.16
16,000.00
175.00
200.00
25.00
7,000.00
.00
249.00
249.00
1,000.00
.00
.00
.00
500.00
23.52
50.00
26.48
3,000.00
2,724.59
3,675.00
950.41
13,500.00
Continued on Page 9
SAW
83.00 C R E E K.00 N E W S .00
.00
23.52
50.00
.00
1,025.00
180.40 07143-100 Payroll Service 25.00 07310-000 Training & Professional Dev. - General M A83.00 Y -07340-000 A U Advertising GUS T PAGE .00 08770-000 EH&S Compliance 26.48 08780-000 Employee Retention Program 1,025.00 08790-000 Simple IRA Expense
9
Run Date: 03/21/1428,678.00 26,829.81
Page: 1 372,800.00
80,220.40
86,032.00
5,811.60
28,537.85
11,000.00
(17,537.85)
25,000.00
626.11
37,500.00
(1,052.88) 08750-001 Maint. Employee Benefits INCOME/EXPENSE 13,265.57 9,000.00 (4,265.57) OPERATING Period: 03/01/14 to 03/31/14 ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ Period: 02/01/14 to______________ 02/28/14
______________
Run Time: 11:42 AM1,500.00 916.42 2,561.27
2,500.00
4,052.88
3,000.00
Continued from Page 8 34,360.38
Budget
1,152.60
1,333.00
175.00
200.00
DUES & FEES .00 .00 652,944.23
83.00 .00 653,467.00 50.00 10,000.00
23.52 15,056.11 .00 100.00
583.58 08650-001 Maintenance Overtime
SAW CREEK ESTATES COMMUNITY14,973.89 ASSOCIATION (61.27) Maint. P/R Tax Expense 15,600.00 SAW08700-001 CREEK ESTATES COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, OPERATING INCOME/EXPENSE
35,678.00 Current Period
Actual
INCOME:
1,848.19 08650-000 Maintenance Salary
1,317.62
Variance
Maintenance Payroll
Account
136,997.71
2,561.56 240.00 636.01 1,171.00
.00 .00 ______________ 295.00 Actual 5,540.07 .00
750.00
Budget
3,173.84
3,999.00
825.16
16,000.00
175.00
200.00
25.00
7,000.00
.00
249.00
249.00
1,000.00
.00 2,472,033.05 23.52 30,877.18
.00 2,579,476.00 50.00 20,000.00
.00 (107,442.95) 26.48 10,877.18
500.00 3,439,300.00 3,000.00 120,000.00
2,724.59 3,675.00 950.41 100.00 100.00 .00 ______________ 8,577.38 ______________ 9,300.00 ______________ (722.62) 6,096.95 8,173.00 2,076.05 13,900.00 14,500.00 (600.00)
13,500.00 400.00 ______________ 55,000.00 41,000.00 17,000.00
635.50 832.00 (196.50) ============== 375.00 ============== 666.00 ============== (291.00) 515,662.80 555,118.00 39,455.20 5,766.98 9,000.00 (3,233.02)
5,000.00 ============== 4,000.00 2,223,000.00 61,000.00
83.00 07340-000 Advertising - General .00 06305-000 08770-000 Annual EH&S Compliance (522.77) Dues Assessments 26.48 06306-000 08780-000 Prior Employee Retention Program 5,056.11 Dues Assessment 1,025.00 08790-000 Owner SimpleNSF IRA Fees Expense 25.00 06335-000
1,025.66 06327-000 Code Enforcement Fines
6,320.66
1,458.00 217.00 06460-000 Citation Income .00 ______________ 250.00 ______________ 250.00 07125-000 Alarm Monitoring ______________ 826.30 900.00 73.70 09155-000 Dues Life-Safety/Security/CCTV Ma 686,774.28 682,133.00 4,641.28 & Fees Income 105.94 416.00 310.06 09665-000 Pub Safety Expense/Equip Run Date: 04/18/14
1,410.26 ADMINISTRATIVE Run Time: 02:26 .00 887.00
Variance
25.00 07310-000 Training & Professional Dev.
635.50 416.00 219.50 06370-000 Owner Collect/Legal Fees Rei ============== 225.00 ============== 333.00 ============== (108.00) 06380-000 Owner Admin. Fees Income 157,166.58 161,410.00 4,243.42 06390-000 Owner Total Payroll 2,935.00 4,000.00 (1,065.00) InterestExpense Income 2,084.00
472,700.00 Yearly
Budget
180.40 07143-100 Payroll Service
1,025.00 75.00 ______________ 6,433.78 ______________ 5,800.00 ______________ 633.78 06340-000 Owner Late Fee Income 1,351.12 2,691.00 1,339.88 06345-000 Owner Other Payroll Expense 3,660.00 4,500.00 (840.00) Payment Plan Fee
3,109.66 PUBLIC SAFETY 1,675.00
(15,365.71)
Actual
Description
121,632.00 Year-To-Date
2,152.66
25,000.00
2,465.00 2,916.00 (451.00) .00 ______________ 250.00 ______________ 250.00 ______________ 2,385.37 2,200.00 (185.37) 2,541,050.75 2,640,958.00 (99,907.25) 917.31 1,032.00 114.69
17,500.00 1,000.00 ______________ 11,200.00 3,744,200.00
(660.26) 09050-000 Public Safety Vehicles R&M
9,000.00
584.00 06420-000 09658-000 Badge Public Income Safety Uniforms 629.43 1,752.00 1,122.57 (313.00) 2,052.00 1,775.00 277.00 SAW CREEK COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, (478.23) 09660-000 PublicESTATES Safety Fuel 5,949.46 6,249.99 300.53 (410.00) 06425-000 Renters Registration 830.49 2,150.00 (1,319.51) OPERATING INCOME/EXPENSE 333.00 (303.01) 09668-000 Public Safety Training 896.01 999.00 102.99 1,250.00 (79.00) 06430-000 Gate Card Income 1,731.00 2,250.00 (519.00) Period: 03/01/14 to 03/31/14 325.00 325.00 09670-000 Public Safety Comm. Relation 267.59 325.00 57.41 83.00 (83.00) 06450-000 Account Information Income 50.00 166.00 (116.00) Current Period Year-To-Date ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ 1,000.00 (705.00) 06921-000 Bulk Dumping Owner Receipts 543.00 1,650.00 (1,107.00) Budget Variance Account Description Actual Budget Variance 5,641.33 101.26 Public Safety 12,700.62 15,057.99 2,357.37 .00 .00 06440-000 Building PermitExp Income 50.00 .00 50.00
7,000.00 11,000.00 25,000.00 8,000.00
584.00 1,200.00 2,083.33 650.00
2,000.00 1,500.00 500.00 UTILITIES 658.80 125.00 533.80 6,104.78 5,000.00 (1,104.78) 17,036.29 16,500.00 536.29 2,048.17 2,000.00 (48.17) 1,473.71 1,475.00 (1.29) 10,998.30 7,000.00 (3,998.30) 1,191.02 1,391.00 (199.98) 2,521.18 1,500.00 (1,021.18) 98.36 41.66 56.70 .00 1,250.00 1,250.00 650.72 2,042.00 (1,391.28) 11,427.69 16,000.00 4,572.31 ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ 25,701.90 27,257.66 (1,555.76) 33,100.12 32,750.00 (350.12) RECREATION POOL EXPENSE 795.00 680.00 115.00 475.43 500.00 24.57 88.00 400.00 (312.00) .00 200.00 200.00 13,015.00 5,500.00 7,515.00 .00 .00 .00 15,783.00 14,000.00 1,783.00 ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ 475.43 700.00 224.57 29,681.00 20,580.00 9,101.00
06485-000 Resale Certificate Fees 06360-000 08900-000 06410-000 08930-000 06920-000 08950-000 06530-000 07270-000 06820-000 09630-000 06821-000 09700-000
3,200.00
Misc. Income Electric Blue Ridge Cable Franchise Water & Sewer The Falls-Gate Income Utilities - Gas Rental Income - Verizon Telephone Expense Interest - Operating Account Internet Service Investment Income Operating Waste/Recycling & Compacto Administrative Income Utilities Expense
06490-000 08210-000 06491-000 08220-000 06495-000 08240-000 06496-000
Rec/TOW Room Rental Pool Contract-Service & Chem Recreation Activities Income Pool Repairs Ski Ticket/Lesson Income Pool Supplies Ski Rental/Tech Service Inco
Pool Expense Recreation Income
GROUNDS ______________ ______________ ______________ .00 .00 .00 08510-000 Lakes & Grounds 2,500.00
2,500.00
.00
.00 2,500.00
3,000.00
200.00
20,000.00
1,361.14 250.00 1,111.14 11,039.67 19,000.00 7,960.33 17,036.29 16,500.00 536.29 5,695.38 4,800.00 (895.38) 2,947.42 2,950.00 (2.58) 43,294.05 29,000.00 (14,294.05) 2,382.04 2,782.00 (399.96) 5,399.74 4,500.00 (899.74) 203.62 83.32 120.30 2,475.25 3,750.00 1,274.75 2,728.66 4,084.00 (1,355.34) 29,902.77 48,000.00 18,097.23 ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ 35,115.66 37,640.32 (2,524.66) 97,806.86 109,050.00 11,243.14
1,500.00 85,000.00 66,000.00 36,500.00 17,700.00 80,000.00 16,700.00 18,000.00 500.00 15,000.00 24,500.00 195,000.00 ______________ ______________ 195,900.00 429,500.00
1,128.10 1,360.00 (231.90) 2,902.52 1,400.00 (1,502.52) 357.00 1,000.00 (643.00) 185.50 600.00 414.50 18,695.00 11,000.00 7,695.00 .00 .00 .00 21,461.00 24,000.00 (2,539.00) ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ 3,088.02 2,000.00 (1,088.02) 41,641.10 37,360.00 4,281.10
9,000.00 20,500.00 9,000.00 10,000.00 11,000.00 2,000.00 26,000.00 ______________ ______________ 32,500.00 55,000.00
______________ ______________ ______________ .00 .00 .00
______________ 41,600.00
.00 08590-000 Beautification/Landscaping
2,500.00
2,500.00
.00
2,697.08
2,700.00
2.92
60,000.00
______________ ______________ ______________
______________
.00
Grounds Expense
For Advertising Opportunities In Saw Creek News!
845.754.2356
5
4,000.00 13,000.00 1,300.00 1,000.00 Yearly ______________ 15,000.00 Budget 63,500.00 1,000.00
.00 08598-000 Environmental
______________ ______________ ______________ 2,500.00
2,250.00
5,000.00 Page:
594.55
PM
1,655.45
4,168.00
CALL NOW
37,400.00
11,500.00
5,197.08
5,200.00
2.92
113,100.00
MAINTENANCE EXPENSE 2,747.26
1,800.00
(947.26) 09250-000 Maintenance Supplies
8,523.01
7,100.00
(1,423.01)
22,000.00
.00
.00
.00 09251-000 Maintenance Uniforms
.00
.00
.00
1,600.00
.00
.00
.00 09005-000 Maint. - Equipment Rental
.00
.00
.00
600.00
.00
.00
.00 09040-000 Mower/Tractor Exp
445.13
450.00
4.87
1,500.00
.00
.00
267.35
300.00
32.65
4,000.00
392.32
1,667.00
1,274.68 09030-000 Vehicle Maintenance
.00 09041-000 Backhoe Expense
11,008.09
5,001.00
(6,007.09)
20,000.00
2,830.47
2,000.00
(830.47) 09045-000 Vehicle - Gas/Diesel
20,272.97
12,000.00
(8,272.97)
35,000.00
25.01
180.00
434.52
760.00
325.48
2,500.00
______________ ______________ ______________
______________
154.99 09220-000 Maint. Licenses & Permits
______________ ______________ ______________
Run Date: 04/18/145,647.00 5,995.06
Run MAINTENANCE Time: 02:26 PM ROAD 5,928.43
.00
293.09
300.00
.00
.00
(348.06)
(15,340.07)
Page: 87,200.00
46,797.22 27,000.00 (19,797.22) COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION,
35,000.00
General Maintenance Exp
(5,928.43) 09020-000 Salt/Cinders SAW CREEK ESTATES
40,951.07
6.91 09025-000 Snow Removal Supplies INCOME/EXPENSE 1,037.21 OPERATING
6,372.25
300.00
281.81
2,100.00
.00
834.00
834.00 09140-000 HVAC Maintenance & Repairs
.00
250.00
250.00 09160-000 Sewer Maintenance
301.16
340.00
262.58
292.00
.00
100.00
(6,072.25)
3,916.00
12,500.00 12,500.00
.00
250,000.00
Year-To-Date 218.73 100.00 (118.73) Actual ______________ Budget ______________ Variance ______________
Yearly 10,000.00 Budget ______________
48,053.16
28,600.00
(19,453.16)
297,000.00
1,456.96
3,600.00
2,143.04
27,000.00
926.29
2,502.00
1,575.71
10,000.00
.00
750.00
750.00
3,000.00
38.84 09180-000 Plumbing Repairs - Common
559.00
1,020.00
461.00
4,000.00
29.42 09190-000 Electrical Repairs
500.79
876.00
375.21
3,500.00
.00
300.00
300.00
2,000.00
______________ ______________ ______________
______________
100.00 09615-000 Exterminating 3,070.45
Building Maintenance
5,604.96
49,500.00
============== ============== ==============
3,443.04
==============
.00 08385-000 Top of the World Restaurant
______________ ______________ ______________ 12,500.00
2,000.00
.00
Road Maintenance Exp
============== ============== ============== 12,500.00
462.79
1,818.19 09130-000 Building Repairs
______________ ______________ ______________ 845.55
1,500.00
03/01/14 to 03/31/14 .00 .00 09115-000 Road Repair/Period: Storm Water Mgt
Current.00Period 150.73 (150.73) 09116-000 Parking lots/Lines/Signs Actual ______________ Budget ______________ Variance Account Description ______________
25,611.00
.00
50,000.00
9,048.00
Continued on Page 10
(12,500.00)
150,000.00
______________ ______________ ______________
______________
STopA W CREEK of the World Subsidy
NEW 50,000.00
37,500.00
6
S37,500.00 M A Y(12,500.00) - A U G U150,000.00 ST PAGE
10
281.81
.00 Run Date: 03/21/14
2,100.00
.00 Run Time: 11:42 AM 301.16
Treasurer’s Report March, 2014 As of March 31, 2014, the Operating Fund had $3,191,155 in current cash assets. The balance consists of $92,256 in cash and $2,698,909 in investments. Through the end of March the current year's dues collected was $2,919,100 which represents a collection rate of 67.36%. This is a short fall of 2.23% in anticipated collections. Prior years dues collected to date was $54,488 which represents 44% of the amount anticipated in the 2014 budget. The Operating Fund revenue for March was $262,831. The year to date revenue was $2,880,638. This is 72.10% of the annual anticipated revenue. The anticipated revenue had a short fall of $83,057 at the end of March. The Operating Fund expenses for March were $266,520, of which $157,167 were payroll expenses. The year to date expenditures were $913,099, which is 22.51% of the annual budget The expenditures include an environmental charge of $2,697 which will be charge against surplus. The Capital Reserve Assets as of March 31 are $3,433,533 of which $561,708 is cash and $2,844,848 is investments. The balance of $26,977 is accounts receivable. The Capital Fund income for March was $33,929. The total for the year to date is $294,750 which is 61.50% anticipated for 2014. The Capital Fund expenditures for the month were $22,089. The year to date expenditures were $87,699.
1,818.19 09130-000 Building Repairs
834.00
834.00 09140-000 HVAC Maintenance & Repairs
250.00
250.00 09160-000 Sewer Maintenance
340.00
1,456.96
3,600.00
2,143.04
926.29
2,502.00
1,575.71
.00
750.00
750.00
SAW 38.84 CREEK ESTATES ASSOCIATION 09180-000 Plumbing RepairsCOMMUNITY - Common 559.00 1,020.00 SAW CREEK ESTATES COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, OPERATING INCOME/EXPENSE
27,000.00
10,000.00 Page: 1 3,000.00
461.00
4,000.00
375.21
3,500.00
100.00 09615-000 Exterminating 300.00 300.00 Period: 02/01/14 to 02/28/14 .00 ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ Current Period Year-To-Date 845.55 3,916.00 3,070.45 Account Building Maintenance 3,443.04 9,048.00 5,604.96 Actual Budget Variance Description Actual Budget Variance
______________ Yearly 49,500.00 Budget
262.58from Page 292.00 Continued 9 .00
29.42 09190-000 Electrical Repairs
500.79
OPERATING Period: 03/01/14INCOME/EXPENSE to 03/31/14
100.00
============== ============== ==============
============== ============== ==============
12,500.00 12,500.00 .00 08385-000 Top of the World Restaurant INCOME: ______________ ______________ ______________ DUES & FEES 12,500.00 12,500.00 .00 Top of the World Subsidy 652,944.23 653,467.00 (522.77) 06305-000 Annual Dues Assessments
15,056.11
10,000.00
50,000.00
150,000.00 ______________
30,877.18
635.50 416.00 219.50 06370-000 Owner Collect/Legal Fees Rei Other Funding 225.00 333.00 (108.00) 06380-000 Owner Admin. Fees Income .00 .00 .00 06859-000 Contingency Reserve 2,935.00 4,000.00 (1,065.00) 06390-000 Owner Interest Income ______________ ______________ ______________ 3,109.66 2,084.00 1,025.66 06327-000 Code Enforcement Fines .00 .00 .00 Total other funding 1,675.00 1,458.00 217.00 06460-000 Citation Income Dues & Fees Income Bad Debt Expense
==============
(12,500.00)
50,000.00 2,472,033.05
37,500.00
2,000.00
______________ ______________ ______________
5,056.11 06306-000 Prior Dues Assessment
100.00 75.00 25.00 06335-000 Owner NSF Fees ============== ============== ============== 6,433.78 5,800.00 633.78 06340-000 Owner Late Fee Income 266,479.80 273,939.66 7,459.86 TOTAL EXPENSES 3,660.00 4,500.00 (840.00) 06345-000 Owner Payment Plan Fee
______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ 686,774.28 682,133.00 4,641.28 .00 .00 .00
876.00
37,500.00 2,579,476.00
20,000.00
(12,500.00) (107,442.95)
10,877.18
100.00 100.00 .00 ============== ============== ============== 8,577.38 9,300.00 (722.62) 913,058.75 944,058.98 31,000.23 13,900.00 14,500.00 (600.00) 635.50
832.00
(196.50)
150,000.00 3,439,300.00
120,000.00 400.00 ============== 55,000.00 4,055,200.00 17,000.00 5,000.00
375.00 666.00 (291.00) .00 .00 .00 5,766.98 9,000.00 (3,233.02) ______________ ______________ ______________ 6,320.66 4,168.00 2,152.66 .00 .00 .00 2,465.00 2,916.00 (451.00)
4,000.00 60,000.00 61,000.00 ______________ 25,000.00 60,000.00 17,500.00
______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ 2,541,050.75 2,640,958.00 (99,907.25) .00 .00 .00
______________ ______________ 3,744,200.00 .00
ADMINISTRATIVE 887.00 (3,738.42) 240.00 (3,738.42) 1,171.00
1,200.00 (27,503.00) 650.00 (27,503.00) 1,250.00
.00
83.00
295.00
1,000.00
(313.00) 06420-000 Badge Income 23,764.58 Current Year Net Income/(Los (410.00) 06425-000 Renters Registration 23,764.58 Current Year (79.00) 06430-000 Gate Card Income
2,052.00 1,967,490.14 830.49 1,967,490.14 1,731.00
1,775.00 2,018,336.00 2,150.00 2,018,336.00 2,250.00
277.00 (50,845.86) (1,319.51) (50,845.86) (519.00)
11,000.00 (100.00) 8,000.00 (100.00) 13,000.00
(83.00) 06450-000 Account Information Income
50.00
166.00
(116.00)
1,000.00
(705.00) 06921-000 Bulk Dumping Owner Receipts
543.00
1,650.00
(1,107.00)
15,000.00
TOW Restaurant 2013 4th Quarter Financial Report .00
.00
.00 06440-000 Building Permit Income
50.00
.00
50.00
1,000.00
2,000.00
1,500.00
500.00 06485-000 Resale Certificate Fees
3,200.00
3,000.00
200.00
20,000.00
658.80
125.00
17,036.29
16,500.00
1,473.71
1,475.00
1,191.02
1,391.00
533.80 06360-000 Misc. Income
1,361.14
250.00
1,111.14
1,500.00
17,036.29
16,500.00
536.29
66,000.00
(1.29) 06920-000 The Falls-Gate Income
2,947.42
2,950.00
(2.58)
17,700.00
(199.98) 06530-000 Rental Income - Verizon
2,382.04
2,782.00
(399.96)
16,700.00
1,128.10
1,360.00
(231.90)
9,000.00
357.00
1,000.00
(643.00)
9,000.00
18,695.00
11,000.00
7,695.00
11,000.00
536.29 06410-000 Blue Ridge Cable Franchise
Fourth quarter net41.66 operating56.70 results increased notably when compared to both budget120.30 and 4th quarter 98.36 06820-000 Interest - Operating Account 203.62 83.32 500.00 2012. In650.72 a year to2,042.00 date comparison, the T.O.W.’s performance was quite favorable when compared24,500.00 to (1,391.28) 06821-000 Investment Income Operating 2,728.66 4,084.00 (1,355.34) both budget______________ and previous year’s performance as well. With expenses out,______________ an increased focus on ______________ ______________ ______________leveling ______________ ______________ cost management practices, and a good Administrative product,Income the T.O.W. continues, and will continue, in a 25,701.90 27,257.66 (1,555.76) 35,115.66 37,640.32 (2,524.66) to move 195,900.00 positive direction. RECREATION
Performance vs. Budget 795.00 680.00 115.00 06490-000 88.00
400.00
Rec/TOW Room Rental
(312.00) 06491-000 Recreation Activities Income
4th Quarter Comparison 13,015.00 5,500.00 7,515.00 06495-000
Ski Ticket/Lesson Income
Food & Beverage14,000.00 sales exceeded by Ski 16.73% orService $7,025.43 in the fourth quarter. 15,783.00 1,783.00 plan 06496-000 Rental/Tech Inco 21,461.00 24,000.00 Combined (2,539.00) food and 26,000.00 ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ alcohol sales______________ exceeded plan by 14.31% or $10,119.52. These favorable sales results were accompanied by 29,681.00 20,580.00overage 9,101.00 41,641.10 37,360.00 55,000.00 a 24.22% or $8,052.95 in COGS. Recreation Total Income income minus COGS combined to yield4,281.10 a gross profit of $39,530.17, which is 5.52% or $2,066.57 above plan for the quarter. Total expenses in the fourth quarter were ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ under budget by 11.3%, or $4,267.03, resulting in a quarterly net profit of $4,000.63 over projected income.
Year to Date Comparison
In a year to date comparison of budget vs. actual performance, results yield even better results. F&B sales in 2013 exceeded budget by 15.5% or $29,269.32. Combined, Food and Alcohol sales exceeded plan by 15.31% or $50,649.39. COGS increased a 9.82% or $15,292.66 over budget. Total income minus COGS combined to yield a gross profit of $210,556.73, which is 20.18% or $35,356.73 over budget for the year. Total expenses were over budget by 4.87% or $15,829.54, resulting in a year ending net income of $19,527.19, or 13.02% increase over budget. Performance vs. Prior Year 4th Quarter Comparison
$
The March write off report, for dues and other fees was a net of $102,290. This represents $74,070 in write offs and !76,360 in added charges and fees. the year to date write offs were $113,260. The added charges and fees were $311,785. This information is based upon the March Financial Statements dated April 10, 2014. Respectfully Submitted, Robert T. Shrekgast, Treasurer
Food & Beverage sales in Q4 2013 were up when compared to the same period last year. F&B sales increased by 14.63% or $6,258.13. Combined food and alcohol sales went up by 14.8% or $10,417.81 year over year. Cost of goods also increased by 5.44% or $2,130.10. With a gross profit of $39,530.17, The T.O.W.’s profitability has increased by 26.53% or $8,287.71 over 2012. Total expenses in Q4 were down by .13% or -$94.19, resulting in a $8,381.90 or 20.01% increase in net profit versus 2012 performance.
Year to Date Comparison
YTD, the Top’s sales performance was quite strong. Total sales are up 13.78% or $45,833.03 over 2012. COGS rose by 6.4% or $10,279.99, as would be expected to support increased sales. Gross profit for the year rose by 19.68% or $34,630.01 over the prior year. Total expenses for the year were up by 8.26% or $26,024.25, yielding a net income of -$130,472.81, an improvement of $8,605.76 over the same period this time last year. Conclusions
Top of the World performance continues to improve. We have experienced good results across the board. While efforts in managing our beverage cost have proven effective, our focus moving forward into 2014 will be food cost. If this proves successful, it will result in a large amount of money going down to the bottom line. In summation, we will stay the course in developing our guest service, product, & cost management practices into 2014, resulting in what I am sure is going to be further success.
SAW
CREEK
NEWS
MAY-AUGUST
PAGE
11
SAW
CREEK
NEWS
MAY-AUGUST
PAGE
12
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SAW
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NEWS
MAY-AUGUST
MILFORD OFFICE
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13
LETTERS
LET TERS TO THE EDITOR PROTOCOL
Letters to the editor To the Editor – Oh Deer!
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 MS Word format must include name, lot and section number. The lot and section number will be used for verification of member status only and will not be printed. The Public Information Committee makes every effort to see that facts are printed as available space permits.Your letter may be directed to: Saw Creek Public Information Committee at 5728 Decker Road, Bushkill PA 18324 or emailed to PIC@sawcreek.org
I have seen the deer population increase in large numbers over the years and recognize that the deer population is definitely a problem as well documented by legitimate studies. I believe the time to drastically reduce our deer population is long overdue. I do not favor the extinction of our deer population, but we do have a duty to manage the growth consistent with our reasonable need for safety. Deer overpopulation has dire effects on our environment, our health, and our safety. I have trouble understanding those who recommend birth control as a more humane solution. Deer are not human. They were not meant to live to old age in urban density. If contraception were cheaper and more effective than culling, I would have no problem with it. But the evidence is overwhelming that it is not. Contraception takes multiple attempts, is hard to track, and is often ineffective. Estimates begin at over $1,000 per doe. The cull is not eliminating deer; it is reducing the population to the estimate our community can handle. Deer are not pets, and, although they have large eyes and graceful bodies, they are not sensitive souls. They are a wild animal population now badly out of balance — bad for them, bad for us. Beyond the inconvenience of harvesting a deer with your front bumper, we MUST manage and cull the herd, unless we want starvation to do so and respect wild animals for what they are, not because you anthropomorphize them and see them through romantic lenses. But whatever we do, we must act quickly before the damage that the deer are causing becomes irrevocable. From all that I have read, the proposed targeted hunts are the cheapest and most effective means of reducing herds, and with great effect. Beyond the inconvenience of harvesting a deer with your front bumper are humane concerns. We MUST manage and cull the herd, unless we want starvation to do so. And, respect wild animals for what they are, not because you anthropomorphize them and see them through romantic lenses Kathi Connell
DEADLINE: Last date for submission of letters for the next issue of the Saw Creek News is August 31, 2014.
To the Editor: I respectfully renew my objections to the LED sign purchase and their use anywhere within the Saw Creek Community. LED signs are significantly in conflict with the approved architectural standards of the community supporting a natural environment, will change the nature and character of the community to an urban street setting, act as a visual intrusion, increase light pollution disrupting visibility of the night sky and may cause hazardous driving congestion resulting in accidents. Their limited use during emergencies is neither an economical, practical or logistical way to notify homeowners of emergency information. Other more highly effective and inexpensive ways need to be pursued. Suzanne Mark
To the Editor: A huge, heartfelt thank you goes out to the Saw Creek Women’s Club, Saw Creek Men’s Club, Saw Creek Estates Community Association, and the kindhearted individuals who donated recently to our family. Last year both of our children were diagnosed with life-threatening illnesses. Thirteen year old Jake has Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma. His cancer was caught early, and he is doing well now, but he will require continuous monitoring and treatment for the rest of his life. Kiley, now 17 years old, was diagnosed with Secondary Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a rare and grave immune disease. Kiley went through nine weeks of chemotherapy and very strong dosages of medications. At this time, she does not need a bone marrow transplant and she is considered to be in remission. She will also have a life-time of frequent monitoring, as HLH can recur. As you can imagine, traveling to and from medical appointments, hospitalizations, surgeries, and treatments has been overwhelming - not only emotionally but financially, too. The donations we received of gas cards, checks, and gift cards tremendously helped with transportation costs. It is a pleasure to live in a community with many thoughtful and helpful folks. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for your generosity! Mark, Danine, Kiley and Jake Sileikis SAW
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Letters to the editor continued To the Editor: Deer Problem - In 1976 we purchased a corner property in Saw Creek. In subsequent years, during the summer months, we could stand on our property, and barely see the roadways and neighboring houses. We consistently observed several species of plants, birds, and small animals. We had no water run-off problems. Why? Because of the abundant undergrowth, plant life, and trees growing on our property. There were very few deer and they avoided us. As the years passed the undergrowth began diminishing. Newly sprouted trees, germinated plants, nesting birds, small animals vanished. The lower branches on trees disappeared. Trees dying or downed by storms were not being replaced by new trees. Traffic noise had increased. Why? Because of the increasing number of deer devouring all the vegetation they could reach. Now in the summer, we can clearly see roadways near and away from our property. We not only see the neighboring homes, but distant homes, sheds, road signs, and utility poles, that we could not see before. We spent considerable time and money trying to landscape our property. We try the so-called “Deer Resistant Plants” that the deer consumed anyway. Why? Because no action had been taken to control the deer population within our community. For years the herd had been growing and slowly destroying the ecological environment within our community. Now, regarding the Deer Culling issue. After studying all the possible options for downsizing the herd, I believe that a Culling Program should be instituted ASAP. Having fewer deer will not reduce our property values but having less forest will. The old saying “You can’t see the forest for the trees” will be replaced with “You can’t see the forest because there are no trees”. Hopefully common sense will prevail on this issue! Robert Palmer
To the Editor: Shame on us! That’s all I could keep thinking as I sat on Saturday March 29 at the Special Membership Meeting regarding the deer cull. How did it come to this? Yes, I was a deer feeder, and yes, I only stopped when I was told I had to after the Board of Directors passed the no feed rule. But all the hullabaloo of the last few months had me wondering how could the Board not have told us about this problem long ago? Then, I did what seems like so few at this meeting did. I researched, I asked questions, I read the information that was on the website and in the last issue of the Saw Creek News. I listened intently to the experts at the meeting talk about environmental issues and humane issues. At one point during the meeting I realized that it was not the Board who hadn’t told me about this problem, it was I who didn’t bother to read the Saw Creek News, attend meetings, keep myself informed or observe the changing environment around me. Where were I and my other fellow homeowners during the last 5 years while this issue was being discussed and written about in the newspaper? Was I hiding under the rock in my yard that is now clearly visible due to the lack of vegetation? I went into the meeting with no strong feelings on either side of the issue; I came away from the meeting better informed, something I should have done long ago. Shame on me, shame on all of us! Steve Gottschau
To the Editor: We would like to thank our Board Members along with everyone at Member Services for their generosity and support at the passing of Doris Trimble. She was a resident here for 23 years. During those years she was a member of the Women’s Club where she held the position of Treasurer for a number of years. Doris was also the Treasurer and a volunteer at the Bushkill Outreach for more than 20 years. She was also a member of the Bushkill Women’s Club, the Garden Club and St. John’s Senior and Travel Clubs. Eighteen months ago she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. She continued her volunteer work until two weeks prior to her passing. The Trimble family misses her a great deal. We cannot possibly express our gratitude to all the individuals who honored her life. How wonderful to have been so loved. She lives on in our memories and we believe she would be amazed at how loved she was. Our heartfelt thanks to all, and especially those individuals who called and visited with her recently. Sincerely, Ron and Iris Trimble and Family SAW
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DEER MGMT. Deer Management Fact Sheet The Board of Directors approved moving forward with measures to reduce the deer population within Saw Creek Estates. The Board’s decision is supported by more than three years of study, including deer population surveys, public debate and open meetings. The Board recognizes that this remains a controversial issue in the minds of some members and has prepared the following information in support of its decision. 1. A well balanced ecosystem. The main objective is to take steps over a number of years to restore the natural state of our forest ecosystem. Decades of over-browsing by a single species (whitetail deer) has destroyed the habitat of many other species. Literally scores of low-growing plants, shrubs, wild flowers and berries have vanished from our forest floor along with the many species of ground dwelling birds and animals which normally depend on those plants for food and shelter. 2. Benefits for all species. Three separate studies by professional wildlife biologists have consistently
shown the deer population to be at record high levels and as a result, the overall health and welfare of the herd is among the worst in the state. Reducing the size of the herd will provide major benefits to all plant and animal species within the community, including the whitetail deer. 3. Proven results. Positive results achieved by deer management efforts in other private communities, state parks and crop lands have shown deer management to be effective at increasing the long term health, beauty, diversity and sustainability of all species. 4. Safety First. After a review of alternatives, it was determined that the only legal, safe and effective means of reducing the herd is through a controlled hunt. The hunt is conducted by just one expert shooter accompanied by a driver and spotter. These well trained and highly qualified individuals carry out similar operations throughout the state each year in complete safety and without incident. Concern about the use of firearms within the
Deer Management Meeting Results (Continued from Page 1)
Resident who represents homeowners who are against the culling. Dave Martin, Saw Creek’s General Manager gave a history of the Deer Management issues in Saw Creek. Those that were opposed to the culling gave presentations on the subject. Laura Simon from the Humane Society spoke about alternative measures that were studied in order to reduce the size of the deer population in areas of the United States. This included, but was not limited to studies regarding contraception of the deer. Wendi Freeman from Lake Naomi/Timber Trails spoke of the Deer culling in her Community, citing that, if culling were conducted the right way, would bring back the underbrush and restore the Ecosystems that existed before the deer culling took place. Marian Keegan from Hemlock Farms, another Community, spoke and talked about the reasons on how the culling restored the Ecosystems in her development along with scientific studies that had shown the restoration of the underbrush and various animals that were almost extinct to their community restored. The USDA and the PA Game Commission spoke as well. This was followed by comments from members in good standing in Saw Creek who voiced their opinions and asked the panel questions regarding the culling vs. non-culling of the deer. Over 70 members in good standing attended the meeting. Each side was very respectful of the other side’s opinions and questions. People were concerned that if the culling were to be executed, their dogs and cats would be shot. The USDA does not go on anyone’s property in order to carry out the culling. Many
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people believe in feeding the deer. There is currently a $100 citation in place for feeding the deer. Deer cannot ingest food that was not designed by nature for consumption, thus causing serious illness and even fatalities to occur. It is a state law in Pennsylvania that feeding deer is prohibited. In 2008 there was an issue on the Deer Management in Saw Creek that was raised by homeowners. Our community researched the situation for 5 years and had the USDA and private companies come to Saw Creek to assess the situation under the supervision of our compliance officer, Nick Hutta. There is currently a memberproposed by-law amendment by community members against the culling of the deer that was brought to the Board of Directors for review (see proposed amendment 2014-02). There had to be at least 150 signatures of homeowners in good standing that signed the petition in order to change the by-laws. This by-law change will be placed on the Annual Candidates ballot.Votes have to be cast by May 31, 2014 at 4:48PM. One week prior to this, special post cards will be mailed to all deeded homeowners with a unique password and pin number. Homeowners need to register to vote at Saw Creek.org. If the cull goes forward, there is a short window of opportunity that the Community can utilize to cull the deer. Culling cannot take place until the end of hunting season, which encompasses the end of December 2014 through the beginning of March 2015. Each year Saw Creek Management re-evaluates the culling and takes into account proposals from our compliance
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community is unfounded. These professionals use special rounds which break apart on impact rather than pass through a target. Most importantly, they will not be operating in close proximity to houses and they simply will not take a shot unless they are 100% certain of their target and a completely safe backdrop. The Board of Directors considers safety to be the highest priority and they are confident that the hunt poses no threat to the safety of our members and guests. 5. Public benefit. All deer taken during the hunt will be professionally processed and packaged for consumption and then donated to Bushkill Outreach to help needy families in Saw Creek Estates and the surrounding area. 6. Get the full story. For all the facts, please visit our website www.sawcreek.org, send comments to wildlife@sawcreek.org or call 570-588-9336 for more information. Also see the upcoming issue of the Saw Creek News and/or bulletin boards throughout the community.
officer, Nick Hutta and the USDA. Our compliance officer, Mr. Hutta will go out at night on random days and has done so for the past 5 years along with the USDA to determine if it is and was necessary to cull the deer herd.The survey route is designed by the USDA and Mr. Hutta helped to design this “map”. A healthy population of deer consists of 12 deer per square mile. 20-30 deer per square mile is considered a “good, healthy” amount.What Saw Creek and the USDA determined was that Saw Creek has over 150 deer per square mile.White tail deer is considered to be unmanaged here in Saw Creek because the deer feel Saw Creek is a safe haven to live in mainly because people in Saw Creek feed the deer on a regular basis. Usually this herd moves around causing it to be a “managed” species.When the deer’s environment is stable and non-threatening, the deer stay in a given area and become “comfortable” and never leave.This is why the deer in Saw Creek are considered unmanageable. The PA Game Commission is the legal entity in Pennsylvania that decides the legalities of the management of the whitetail deer. Deer can be hunted as a normal sporting activity (this cannot occur is Saw Creek); there has to be controlled hunting decided upon by the Game Commission and permits would be given to those hunters decided upon by the Game Commission; permits are given for sharpshooting or targeted killing which has to meet particular specifications. By and large, the Pennsylvania Game Commission has to conduct more scientific studies on contraception in deer and how this method can affect any humans who may consume deer who are given contraception. The Game Commission is extremely protective of the white tail deer. And a system of checks and balances has to be in place. Environmental management is extremely crucial and the ecosystems in a given environment have to be studied as well.
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The History of Deer Management in Saw Creek The following summary is provided to inform our members of lengthy review process which the Board of Directors and members of the community have undertaken in addressing the ‘deer management’ issue in Saw Creek Estates. This is also intended to address some of the inaccurate or incomplete information which has recently been circulating among community members and residents. The Board of Directors would like all of our members to be fully informed, beginning with an understanding of the history of this important issue and how it has evolved to the present day The deer management issue was raised by our members, not by the Board of Directors. The discussion of deer management by any means, lethal or non-lethal, emerged out of the larger concern for the preservation and restoration of Saw Creek’s natural resources, and in particular, the ongoing degradation of our forest ecosystem. Degradation of the forest ecosystem was the issue first brought before the Board in 2008 by a group of concerned homeowners. The Board responded to member concerns by establishing a committee to study the matter. The Board worked to ensure that the Wildlife/ Environmental (W/E) ad hoc committee included a balance of members with experience and interests in wildlife/environmental issues; who were willing to objectively assess the state of our forest ecosystem; review the facts and opinions, and make recommendations concerning a wide range of options to address our member’s concerns. Environmental/Wildlife Committee educated the public, sought input from all concerned. In the spring of 2009, the W/E committee began holding open meetings. At the same time, an article appeared in the Pocono Record (and reprinted in the Saw Creek News) to inform the community that forest degradation was being actively discussed and that options to manage the deer population were being considered within the context of that broader discussion. Both articles included notice of the date/time of the next committee meeting. The article also noted that more education was needed; that a decision on any deer management options was at least one or two years away and, that multiple options would be considered. The Wildlife/Environmental Committee invited residents; speakers from Hemlock Farms (a large private community with relevant experience in forest/deer management issues) and conservationists, environmentalists and other interested parties to join in this community effort. The W/E Committee included voting members who were (and remain today) opposed to any lethal form of deer management. We value and respect their opinions and we welcome their full participation in community affairs today, just as we did when we asked that they serve on the committee. In the fall of 2009, the Wildlife/Environmental Committee reported its preliminary findings in the Saw Creek News, again emphasizing the need for continued research and education. With Board approval, the committee published and distributed fact sheets and posters throughout the community to increase awareness and participation. The committee also recommended and the Board approved the first deer population density survey and a special meeting of the members to discuss the full range of issues and concerns about the health and welfare of our forest and the deer herd. SAW
A special meeting was held in October 2009 to hear expert opinions and all points of view. Notice of the meeting was published in the Saw Creek News and in a concerted effort to boost attendance; volunteers handed out flyers at the gates for several days in advance of the meeting. The meeting included discussion by professional wildlife biologists, foresters and representatives of the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, the Cherry Valley Wildlife Rehabilitation Center and others. The meeting also included a lengthy question and answer period to allow our members ample opportunity to question the presenters and community leaders. After a year of consultation and analysis, the committee recommended a range of options including a strict no-feed policy and other lethal and non-lethal deer management alternatives to help restore a more natural, sustainable balance of plant and animal species within our forests. The Board promptly approved the no-feed rule, but decided to take no further action on methods to reduce the size of the deer herd, preferring instead to give the no-feed policy a chance to work. The Board also approved additional deer density surveys to carefully monitor the size and health of the deer herd and the potential effectiveness of the new no-feed rule. The Board approved $60,000 to be reserved for future wildlife and environmental work including the follow up deer surveys, additional research and education and potential herd reduction measures, should they become necessary. Much misinformation has recently been circulated regarding the cost of a deer cull, which is estimated to be $30,000 in the first year and then decline over 3-5 years to as little as $1,500 for continued monitoring in subsequent years. Deer density surveys in 2009, 2011 and 2013, have each confirmed that the herd is too large for the existing habitat to support them without ongoing and severe affects on deer health and mortality rates and the health and well being of our forest ecosystem.
open session meeting of December 2013 - which brings us now to the present day. Significant renewed interest by supporters and opponents as well as a member petition in response to the Board’s December vote have demonstrated the need for another special meeting. The Board has postponed deer cull operations in the hope that this meeting will resolve most of the deer management questions and concerns for the majority of our members The Board also recognizes that no matter what the outcome of the meeting, the questions and concerns of some members will not be resolved to their liking. Nonetheless, we are extremely grateful for everyone’s renewed interest and participation and we hope that as a result, more of our members will continue to stay well informed and actively involved for the betterment of the community.
W ildlife No Feed Policy: Saw Creek Estates and the Board of Directors would like to remind all residents of the current rule found in Section V. COMMUNITY & COMMON PROPERTY UTILIZATION - #4 of SAW CREEK RULES AND REGULATIONS: A. It is prohibited to place or offer any food/ enticement on any property which results in the attracting of wildlife; such as deer, bear, geese, and/or turkey.Tier 1 Offense of $50.00 ** For additional information and/or to obtain a copy of the SCE Rules and Regulations, please visit www.sawcreek.org
Each survey showed the deer density to be 200 or more deer per square mile, far exceeding expert recommendations for a healthy sustainable population of 10 to 20 deer per square mile. Thus, even if the survey results were reduced by half and the recommended sustainable population density was tripled, the deer herd and the forest in Saw Creek Estates will both continue to suffer and are in danger of reaching a tipping point if nothing is done to reverse the declining ecological state of our forest. Five successive Boards have reviewed the work of the Wildlife/Environmental Committee and they have heard the valid and heart-felt concern of our members on all sides of the issue. Each Board in turn, has repeatedly weighed all of the available facts, considered the full range of opinions expressed to them by our members and evaluated all of the options at their disposal. There has not been a rush to judgment on this issue by any stretch of the imagination. Deer management, deer killing, deforestation, ecological imbalance or whatever you wish to call it, the subject has been discussed openly, written about more than a dozen times in the Saw Creek News. After reviewing the history the matter, the current Board felt that the past four years have provided sufficient information and opportunity for comment and that a decision point had been reached. A professional cull operation on a date to be determined was approved by a 6-2 vote of the Board in its regular
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NOW OFFERI NG H EATI NG OI L & KEROSEN E I N PI KE COU NTY
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ELECTIONS 2014 Board of Directors Election CA NDIDATES Six applications for this year’s Board of Directors Election were received by the Nominating Committee by the deadline of Friday, April 12th, 2014. All members in-good-standing will be permitted to electronically vote for three (3) candidates. Please review each candidate’s biography and make an informed decision, you may notice that the Nominating Committee changed the application this year to include some challenging questions. Please feel free to send emails to the candidates if you have specific questions or concerns that you would like addressed by the candidate. Remember, it’s your community; it’s your vote, DON’T WASTE IT!!! This year, member’s in-good-standing will be mailed a postcard with a unique pin/password that will be used to vote online. Postcards will be mailed to before the end of May with instructions on how to vote in this years election. If you don’t receive your postcard by Tuesday, June 10th please contact Jessica M. VanDerVliet, Director of Member Services at (570) 588-9329 ext 2213 or jessica@sawcreek.org.
M ark Pender markpender@hotmail.com
What do you think is the single most important challenge facing the community today and why? USDA deer management is by far the biggest issue facing our community. The shooting of deer inside our community is completely unacceptable to many homeowners, some of whom purchased their property specifically to enjoy the community's deer. Mark Pender believes the community's deer population is healthy and balanced and he is a strong proponent for an amendment to the bylaws that would require a strong majority decision -- a two-thirds decision through a homeowner ballot -on all deer management issues.
General Manager’s Report Continued from Page 3
calling. The same must be said of the Board of Directors and those individuals who have taken the lead in opposition to a deer cull. Throughout discussions of the Special Meeting agenda, providing documentation, drafting communications to our members and related matters, the collaboration has remained largely productive and respectful. Both sides readily acknowledge our common interests and are intent on providing our members a full and fair presentation of the facts, in spite of conflicting personal goals and desires. It serves as a fine example of how we should work to resolve conflicts. That conflict exists is not necessarily a bad thing. As long as our common interests and shared values are continually held in higher regard than our differences, it is possible to resolve nearly any conflict. If conflict is handled correctly, we can expect increased understanding, greater community involvement and a renewed faith in our ability to tackle even the toughest problems. These are cornerstones of the organizational culture change that we hope to achieve. We are of course, still in the midst of the deer management debate. The issue has not been settled. The conflict must still be resolved. What remains to be seen is whether we can resolve this conflict in keeping with our shared values and desire for a community culture rooted in those values. I like to think that we can, we must and we will!
How have you been involved in the community to date? Mark Pender helped lead the first deer petition in January calling for an immediate halt to USDA management of the community's deer. Recognizing how important this issue is to many homeowners, he immediately began informing homeowners of the Board's decision. The petition resulted in a special meeting of members in late March. In early March, he helped organize a second petition, one that would require a homeowner ballot on all deer management issues. He and his wife Patricia Hammond have spent many hours in many homeowner living rooms discussing the urgency of the deer question. What skills do you possess that make you a great candidate for the SCE Board of Directors? Mark Pender is a communications professional, having worked as a business journalist for the last 27 years. He understands urgency, that homeowners physically must have -- in their hands -- information as quickly as possible. And the information must include the reasons behind the Board decisions, clearly and transparently explained. What is your pertinent background, education or experience as a candidate? A freelance journalist specializing in economics, Mark Pender works for both Market News International (20 years) and Econoday (14 years). His reports on economic indicators and the U.S. Treasury market appear daily on many business websites including Bloomberg.com and Barrons.com. His economic interviews appear on professional systems including Bloomberg and Thomson Reuters. A great privilege of his was managing content for Time Square's world famous Zipper, the iconic headline scroll that has informed the nation since 1928. Mark is a Phi Beta Kappa from U.C. Berkeley with a Bachelor of Arts in English. He has a Master of Arts in English from Claremont Graduate School and a Master of Fine Arts in Cinema-TV Production from the University of Southern California.
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Suz anne M ark
BYLAW
marksuzane@aol.com
AMENDMENTS 2014 Bylaw Amendments This year there will be two amendment proposals to the Saw Creek Bylaws on the ballot. Please read both of them carefully and cast your decision (yes or no) on the electronic ballot along with your choice from the list of candidates for the Board of Directors. The electronic ballot will be available on the Saw Creek website at www.sawcreek.org starting May 30th. As per the current Saw Creek Bylaws Article X Section C4 – “If two thirds (2/3) of all valid votes returned on a proposed amendment are in favor of adoption, then the amendment is passed and becomes effective immediately”. PROPOSED BYLAW AMENDMENT 20141 (Board Executive Officer Recall) Note: Changes are indicated with underlining. PROPOSED CHANGE FROM: a majority vote of all Directors TO: a Two-Thirds affirmative vote of all Directors
What do you think is the single most important challenge facing the community today and why? Communication is a two way street. While it is of utmost importance that the SCE Board keep Homeowners fully aware of Board actions and community activities, it is equally important that the SCE Board listen and understand what the community wants and needs. The recent deer culling controversy only emphasizes this point where homeowners regardless of their stance on the issue were caught off guard. The message from homeowners did get to the SCE Board but it took drastic measures from concerned citizens. We need to develop opportunities for dialogue not monologue. Board meetings are often limited to one way communication. In 2014 the SCE Board reduced the SCE newsletter from 6 issues per year to only 3. Perhaps we need to revisit this decision, find another way to get the word out and engage in a conversation. Short questionnaires or online web surveys might provide guidance for the Board to have a clearer understanding of what homeowners think. How have you been involved in the community to date? Finance Committee- member Recreation Committee- Chair, activities volunteer and newsletter writer Safety Committee- Vice Chair and newsletter writer, Saw Creek Critters- coordinator Women's Club- Awareness Chair What skills do you possess that make you a great candidate for the SCE Board of Directors? A LOVE OF SAW CREEK! A SINCERE DESIRE TO MAINTAIN AND IMPRPOVE OUR COMMUNITY'S LIFESTYLE WHILE CONTROLLING THE BOTTOM LINE. In decades of recreation industry experience, I have always been concerned for quality programs and operation of facilities by scrutinizing both the effectiveness balanced by efficiency. In many ways Saw Creek is a small city or resort. My background has been very much on the ground and in the trenches dealing with everything from maintenance, marketing, staffing, programing, administration and evaluation- the same basic functions as we have here in Saw Creek. That hands on kind of knowledge and involvement should help me understand the challenges and strategies we need to make Saw Creek the greatest place to live. Most of all I would hope that I am approachable and available to learn and understand what fellow neighbors, friends and homeowners want for our Community What is your pertinent background, education or experience as a candidate?
AMENDED BYLAW ARTICLE V. OFFICERS Section G. Board Executive Office Recall: A Board Executive Officer (President, Vice‐President, Secretary and Treasurer) can be involuntarily removed as a Board Officer by a TwoThirds affirmative vote of all Directors providing:
International Association of Amusement Parks & Attractions- VP of Education & Training National Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds- Education Director National Recreation & Park Assoc. (NRPA)- President of Commercial Recreation & Tourism Branch Pennsylvania Recreation & Park Society- Secretary & Delegate/NRPA Mid-Atlantic Council Advisory Boards: East Stroudsburg U.,York College of PA, Keystone College of PA Mt Gretna Borough, PA- Councilwoman Washington DC Council of Governments- Vice Chair, Environmental Issues Committee National Park Service- Sr Management, National Resources Specialist- Mid-Atlantic Region Rank America- Corporate Coordinator of Recreation/Recruitment, ADA Compliance & Water Safety MARK of Excellence- consultant, writer, resort operations Magazine Writer/Columnist- Resort Management, Outdoor Hospitality, Woodall's Campground Management, Resort Trades, Parks & Recreation Trades, regional & national dog & pet publications U of Maryland- PhD program & undergraduate
JUSTIFICATION: To promote a more uniform decision. PROPOSED BYLAW AMENDMENT 20142 Current Bylaw: Article IV Board of Directors 3. Powers and Duties Section C. Actions requiring Members’ Two-Thirds Approval
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Eda Dalfol
BYLAW
edalfol@verizon.net
AMENDMENTS
What do you think is the single most important challenge facing the community today and why? It is my opinion that the most important challenge facing the community today is our ability to be totally transparent of information to the members. In order for the community to become more involved we need to understand their issues. It is not easy for many homeowner who work out of state. When they come home many have to attend to their homes and family and are not able to attend Sat. BOD meetings. It is my suggestion that we improve with less issues on our web site so that current information is readily available. We also need to have communication to our homeowners face to face.We have BOD meetings every second Saturday of the month and the homeowners who speak during member comments get information returned to them from the BOD's.This is our community and all input to the BOD is important and must be addressed.
The Board shall have authority to exercise powers only after obtaining approval of two-thirds (2/3) of those association members voting by mail ballot at a member meeting. These powers shall include: Transfer, dispose of or grant rights of easements to Common Facilities. Proposed Bylaw Change: Article IV Board of Directors 3. Powers and Duties Section C. Actions requiring Members’ Two-Thirds Approval
How have you been involved in the community to date? I currently asked to be accepted on the PIC committee. I want to add to this the committee some information I have gain through my years in the board and well as on the Finance Committee. Both of these venues helped me to work and understand the working of the community. I worked for private and public businesses during my working days. All these jobs were in N.J where I currently lived before coming to Saw Creek as a permanent homeowner. I am retired and have time to add to the community process. I have a BA in Economics and a BS in Finance. I am a graduate from East Stroudsburg University P.A and Caldwell College in N.J. What skills do you possess that make you a great candidate for the SCE Board of Directors?
The Board shall have authority to exercise powers only after obtaining approval of two-thirds (2/3) of those association members voting by mail ballot at a member meeting. These powers shall include:
I am an accountant and have worked in that field since graduation. I have been previously BOD member for two terms. I have been off the BOD for one year and I am now eligible to run again. My Financial background I can be a resource for future SCE Budgets.
1. Transfer, dispose of or grant rights of easement to Common Facilities and; 2. Manage the size, concentration, density, or location of the white tail deer population within the Saw Creek Estates Community Association property. Voting eligibility requirements will be the same as in Article III Section G.
What is your pertinent background, education or experience as a candidate? I graduated from East Stroudsburg University.PA with a BA in Economics and a BS in Accounting. I worked for several companies both private and public. Some of my companies are Capezio Inc, Acuent Inc,Ralph Lauren, and Discovery Zone Inc. My many years as an account in various businesses gave a great deal of information and methods for future yearly budget process. I am currently retired and I now have time to spend time into my community.
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Reason/Justification The SCE guide for construction, architectural and aesthetic standards states; “The residents of Saw Creek Estates Community Association live in a natural woodland and mountainous setting.” Many members purchased property and built homes in Saw Creek Estates to enjoy the” unique, natural beauty, and ambiance” of this setting. Our natural wildlife is a major part of our Community. Culling the deer herd would be a major change to our Community and should be a decision of the majority of homeowners through a Community-wide vote.
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Mich ael J. Campea mjcmike@aol.com
What do you think is the single most important challenge facing the community today and why? Implementing the Strategic plan we developed. This plan will establish Saw Creek Estates as a world class gated community. And will insure SCE is current or ahead other communities, this will also increase property values. In the next term I hope to have the strategic plan fully implemented, which will make Saw Creek a desirable and in demand gated community which will have a profound effect on property values. How have you been involved in the community to date? Served on the Building and Architectural committee for and number of years first as a member, then as co-chair. I also served on the Strategic Planning Committee and when I became a Board member, served as liaison to the committee. Served as V.P. of the Board of Directors since February of 2011. While serving on the Board I was instrumental in making changes to our by-laws so we can better manage capital projects concerning scheduling and progress payments. Also I made a complete survey of all the roads in Saw creek which enabled us to contract out line painting of every road in Saw Creek. What skills do you possess that make you a great candidate for the SCE Board of Directors? 35 years in the construction industry with knowledge in every aspect of construction and project management. My term in office has educated me as to the workings of a gated community, what is important to its improvements and the necessity to maintain existing amenities in world class condition. Owned and operated a real estate company which bought, improved and sold multifamily dwellings, and managed tenant’s relations for rental units. What is your pertinent background, education or experience as a candidate? Graduated college with a associates degree in computer sciences, went to work for IBM for a number of years, then decided to make a career change. I was interested in construction so I joined up with a construction company, over the years I advanced myself to Project Manager then Construction Manager for a major N.Y.C. contractor. In that position I managed multimillion dollar contracts exceeding $10,000,000.000, hired and managed office staff and construction workers.
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Joseph J. Salerno
Get Involved, Stay Informed, Do Your Part
josephjsalerno@yahoo.com
What do you think is the single most important challenge facing the community today and why? I believe the biggest challenge is opening the lines of communication between the Board and the Community. Many Members have expressed their concerns and needs to other residents but never take it further because they feel it will be ignored. Many residents due to reasonable circumstances are unable to attend meetings. We need to provide those residents with a transparent option to voice their opinions. We need to prove to the community that their concerns and needs are being addressed. Open lines of communication benefit us all.
When most of us decided to buy our home and live within our community association, the last thing that probably came to mind were the possibilities that community association living presented. After all, anytime a group of homeowners work together for a common goal, practically anything is possible.
How have you been involved in the community to date?
From increasing our community's aesthetic appeal and eliminating neighborhood crime,
I have lived in Saw Creek with my family since October 2005 (9 years 6 months) and have been present at various events. I frequently make use of the amenities networking with the community. Shortly after I moved to Saw Creek my Brother-in-law, my parents and best friend became homeowners. I talk to many people in the community about various concerns and listen to their opinions about Saw Creek. I am volunteer assistant teacher in the children's Karate class over at the Top of the World Creek Room. I am a Real Estate Agent under Saw Creek Real Estate LLC and I spend many hours showing prospective buyers the community and assisting sellers as well.
to creating a more influential voice in regional issues, the opportunities to benefit from being a part of a community association lie waiting to be seized. The possibilities are limited only by our ability to work together. Unfortunately, without a clear understanding
What skills do you possess that make you a great candidate for the SCE Board of Directors?
of how and why our community association
My Business experience, I spent most of my years as an Accomplished Senior Governance Professional working on Wall Street. I was known as a Result-Oriented Professional, recognized for taking on major initiatives, adapting to rapidly changing environments and resolving critical issues to ensure bottom line success. Responsibilities included Project management, Legal and Regulatory Compliance, Operational Risk Reporting, Auditing, Strategic Planning, Assessment, Leadership, Team Development, Mentoring/instruction, Policy Developing and Technical Enterprise Systems Planning and Integration. Prior to my Wall Street Career I worked in the Law Enforcement field. I responded to calls and complaints involving fire, automobile accidents, assaults, robberies and other misdemeanors and felonies. Protecting residents and safe guarding assets. Enforcing rules and regulations. Currently, I am a Licensed Real Estate Agent who enjoys assisting people with their Real Estate needs.
operates, those possibilities will elude us.When we can grasp the theory that underlies our governing documents and the reasons that our Board and management must, at times, do what they do, then we take a giant step towards realizing the potential of our community. Our community association is no different than any other organization. In order to succeed and reach its potential, it needs the
What is your pertinent background, education or experience as a candidate?
support and involvement of its members. Just
Besides my Business, my Law Enforcement and Professional experience I have been an active member of the community for 9 and a half years. Along with my wife of seventeen years Martene, my son Jason (11) and my daughter Serena (3), I have attended various events and activities in Saw Creek. Many of our active members live a similar family and commuter lifestyle that I was accustomed to for many years and I know the difficulties and challenges they face. With my extensive leadership, teamwork, strategic planning, listening skills and experience I can assist in communicating the community’s concerns/needs, creating new policies and/or assist in the polishing of existing policies, as well as help create a plan for the future as our community continues to grow and change.
think of the goals that can be achieved when we all work together for the betterment of our community. Instead of perceiving our association as an obstacle to overcome, try thinking of it a tool to help us create a more comfortable life-style. But, like any tool, we need to learn how to use it effectively before it can do any good. Get involved, stay informed and do your part.You won't be sorry!
SUPPORT O UR A DV ERTISERS SHOP LOCA L! SAW
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A nnual Membership Meeting The Saw Creek Estates Community Association 12th Annual Membership Meeting will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2014 in the Top of the World Tennis Courts. The meeting will begin at 11:00 am and all Homeowners are encouraged to attend. Order of Business: 1. Call to Order and Officer roll call 2. Determination of a quorum 3. Acceptance of minutes of prior Membership meeting 4. Board’s report on budget and Assessment 5. Committee Reports 6. Report on balloting and election 7. Question & Answer
James Hidalgo nyhidalgo@yahoo.com
What do you think is the single most important challenge facing the community today and why? I think it is the lack of communication between the Board and the community. Unfortunately, many members are unable to attend the meetings due to various extenuating circumstances, and members can only make a difference when they are able to communicate their views to the Board. Our homeowners present more than general concepts and abstract themes; they offer personal experiences and observations that dictate their needs and all the needs of the community and our Board Members are elected to serve all who live in the community, not just those who vote for them. That is why we must open up various lines of communication for our homeowners to express their opinions and communicate to the Board, As an active member of the community people around the community know who I am and often come and speak to me about issues that concern them. As a Board member, I feel it is my responsibility to communicate to the Board these concerns and provide feedback to the residents who can't attend the meetings. Only through communication can our homeowners control their destinies, rather than be subject to the whims of others. How have you been involved in the community to date?
HOMEOWNER’S CLASSIFIED COLUMN This free column is available to homeowners to advertise “for sale” or “give-away” household items, pets for adoption, babysitting services, etc. Ads must be 30 words or less and include homeowner name, lot/section and contact phone number or e-mail address. Only the contact name and telephone number or e-mail address will be printed in the paper. Mail to SCE: 5728 Decker Road Attention Public Information Committee or email information to PIC@sawcreek.org.
HOUSE CLEANER / Housekeeper I have 12 years experiences in house cleaning/ housekeep. I’m RELIABLE, DEPENDABLE and VERY DETAILED. Upon my services I will provide references. You can contact me at my e-mail: marttinej19@aol.com or phone: (239) 313-1499.
Lot for Sale Lot 2414, Section 31, Southport Drive. Extra large, wooded home site. .84 acres. $19,000; Owner financing. Call 727-784-1924; email brad0001@verizon.net
Lot for Sale Lot 1823 Section 5 FOR SALE BY OWNER! ¼ acre, pie shaped lot- $19,500. Call 631-796-1034.
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1. Currently on the SCE Board of Directors for three years, served three years prior. 2. Active liaison to the Rules and Regulations Committee. 3. Volunteers for self-defense classes on a weekly basis at the Top of the World for the children and adults in our community, brining 40 years of experience in Police Defensive Tactics and expertise in Taekwondo Karate as a Head Instructor. I had 25 years devoted to a youth program for Suffolk County Police Athletic League (PAL) which is similar to Pennsylvania’s Big Brother/Big Sister Program. 4. Served 4 years on a Safety Committee to bring my 30+ years of police background and expertise to the community. What skills do you possess that make you a great candidate for the SCE Board of Directors? As a retired Police Officer, I have 30 years of experience serving many communities with integrity as a public servant, focusing on protecting and caring for all of those in my jurisdiction, as well as ensuring respect is shown and people are treated equally for those I encounter. Working fairly and compassionately with diverse personalities, backgrounds, and cultures has been something I have been doing throughout my career and continue to do today. My resilience has been tested during the 911 attacks, when in the face of adversity, I had to continue to provide protection and serve my community, as well as effectively communicate and listen to everyone from other law enforcement agencies to affected civilians at the time when tension, fear, and pain was at its highest. Additionally, as a public servant, my daily role was to implement good problem solving skills, since I have to encounter many serious problems, where thinking quickly to make fair and just decisions to resolve people’s problems was a priority. My personal responsibility was proven, where I was not only responsible for peace and order, and also had a secure my communities and provide protection to the people while remaining responsible for myself and every action I took. These characteristics were practiced for 30 years, continue today, and are taught to my children, so that they too can become good citizens, which make great communities. What is your pertinent background, education or experience as a candidate? As owners for over 10 years my wife Rebecca and I have 3 sons Patrick (17), Jacob (15) and Maximus (12) and we actively attend community events and programs and utilize the amenities. I am aware of issues that our community faces, including our bus stop areas. As a Police Officer my training includes: Certified Police K9 Handler with a certification in Police Explosive Detection. Worked extensively with multiple City, State Agencies in addressing homeless and gang activities throughout the Metropolitan area. Smith & Wesson F.B.I. certified in Police Tactics/Instructor Glock Armorer and Firearms Safety Instructor NY State Radar Speed Measurement Child Passenger Safety Advocacy Instructor Clearance with Secret Service Presidential Protection Unit
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SCE EVENTS OUT & A BOUT – E V ENTS O UTSIDE OF O U R G ATES
June 20th Habitat for Humanity Golf Outing Buck Hill Golf Club, Buck Hill Falls – 476-9846 June 20th – 24th Bluegrass Festival, Greene Dreher Sterling Fair New Foundland – 610.573.0797
By Donna Dillon
May 3rd Pocono Xterra Big Pocono State Park Tannersville – 814-0346 Dancing in the Clouds – Skytop Lodge, Skytop – 595-8924
June 21st Roots & Rhythm Music & Arts Festival Main St - Honesdale – 253.5492 Summer Garden Party – Quiet Valley Historical Farm, Stroudsburg – 992-6161
May 4th Walk MS – Pocono Raceway Long Pond - 215-271-1500 Ext 24118 Wildflower Walk – PEEC, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319
June 21st – 22nd Pennsylvania Wine &I Food Festival, Split Rock Resort Lake Harmony - 800.255.7625
May 10th Family Fishing - PEEC, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319
June 22nd Rain Barrels - PEEC, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319
May 10th – 11th Plant Sale - PEEC, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319
June 28th Ecozone Discovery Room - PEEC, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319 Small Animals - PEEC, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319
May 17th Art on Main – Downtown Stroudsburg – 476-4460 Civilian Military Combine Camelback Mountain – Tannersville Bird Walk - PEEC - Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319 Herpetologoy – Dr Laduke - PEEC Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319
June 29th Canoe Paddle - PEEC, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319
May 17-18th Jim Thorpe’s Birthday, Downtown JimThorpe – 325.9281 26th Annual Farm Animal Frolic - Quiet Valley Living Farm, Stroudsburg – 922.6161
June 30th Annual Golf Outing - PEEC, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319
May 18th Run for the Red Marathon Throughout Monroe County – 476-3800
July 3rd Fireworks Celebration – Central Park Honesdale – 253.5492
May 24th Pocono Xterra – Hickory Run St Park, White Haven 814.0346
July 4th Fireworks Display, Lake Wallenpaupack – 226.3191
May 24th – 25th 26th Annual Farm Animal Frolic – Quiet Valley Living Farm, Stroudsburg – 922.6161 Shawnee Celtic Festival - Shawnee Mountain Shawnee on Delaware -421.7231
July 5th Fireworks Display – Shawnee Mountain Shawnee on Delaware – 421-7231
May 31st Bird Photography - PEEC, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319
July 5th & 6th Pocono Indycar 500 – Pocono Raceway Long Pond- 800-RACEWAY July12th Music in the Valley Quiet Valley Historical Farm, Stroudsburg – 996.6161
June 1st Black Bear Trialhlon, Beltzville State Park – Lehighton Singles Nature Hike - PEEC, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319 Wild Edibles Walk - PEEC, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319 June 6th – 8th Pocono 400 – Pocono Raceway, Long Pond – 800.RACEWAY
July 12-13th Antiques Show – Wayne Highlands MS Honesdale – 253.3625
June 7th Pocono Raceway Festival, Sherman Theater – Stroudsburg Family Fishing - PEEC, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319 Volunteer Day - PEEC, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319
July 13th Shawnee Riverfest III – Shawnee Inn Shawnee on Delaware – 424.4000
July 19th – 20th Audubon Art & Craft Festival Wallenpaupack HS – Hawley - 256.4485 Wurst Festival - Shawnee Mountain Shawnee on Delaware – 421-7231 July 25th – 27th PA Blues Festival- Blue Mt Ski, Palmerton – 610.826.7700 Aug 1st – 3rd Gobowling.com 400 – Pocono Raceway Long Pond – 800-RACEWAY Aug 1st – 9th Annual Wayne County Fair Fair Grounds – Honesdale – 253.5486 Aug 2nd Heritage Craft Day – Quiet Vally Historical Farm, Stroudsburg – 992.6161 Aug 2nd - 3rd Annual Festival of Wood – Grey Towers Milford 296-9630 Aug 4th – 9th Carbon County Fair – Fair Grounds, Palmerton – 610.826.1862 Aug 9th 1st Annual Blue’s Microbrews Fest Blue Mt Ski Area – Palmerton – 610.826.7700 Aug 10th Pocono Chicken Wing Off, Shawnee Mountain Shawnee on Delaware – 421-7231 Aug 16th Shawnee Mt Mud Run, Shawnee Mountain Shawnee on Delaware – 421-7231 Aug 22nd – 24th Wally Lake Fest – Lake Region Hawley – 226.2141 Aug 23rd – 24th Pocono State Craft Festival – Quiet Valley Living Farm, Stroudsburg – 992-6161 Open Market Fair – Lake Wallenpaupack, Hawley - 18428 Aug 24th – 30th West End Fair – Fairgrounds, Gilbert – 610.681.4293 Aug 26th-Sept 1st Green Dreher Sterling Fair – Fairgrounds Newfoundland – 676.4047 Aug 30th Stroudfest – Main St, Stroudsburg – 420-2808 Aug 30th – 31st Pocono Garlic Festival, Shawnee Mountain Shawnee on Delaware – 421-7231
June 8th Ecozone Discovery Room - PEEC, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319 Little Eco Explorers - PEEC, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319 June 14th Arts & Crafts Fair – Bingham Park – Hawley Wild Edibles Walk - PEEC, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319 June 14th Wally Man Triathlon – Lake Wallenpaupack Visitors Center, Hawley – 240.678.0505 June 15th Family Fishing - PEEC, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319 Pond Explorers - PEEC, Dingmans Ferry – 828-2319 June 19th YMCA Celebrity Golf Outing – Shawnee Inn Shawnee on Delaware – 421.2525
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June 2014
May 2014
MAY
JUNE
PLEASE NOTE: THIS TENTATIVE CALENDAR OF EVENTS IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
**May is National Fitness & Sports Month
Thu 1
4
5
6
7
PLEASE NOTE: THIS TENTATIVE CALENDAR OF EVENTS IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Fri
Sat
2
8
9
12
3 Spring Clean, BBQ 12pm VIP TOW Motown Night Event Pizzazz 7-11pm
1
10 Mother’s Day Dinner
8
Mon 2
Tue 3
Wed 4
Thu 5
Fri 6
13
14
15
16
Hank Schob 6pm
9
10
11
12
13
14 TOW—Split Rock 8-11pm Flag Day
17 TOW Entertainment Soul Intent 8-11pm
15
24 Outdoor Pools Open BBQ 1PM TOW-Live Music MP-DJ
22
16
17
18
19
20
21 Community Day VIP 11am-4pm VIP 11am-4pm Pools - Summer hrs Poolsstart start Marty Reynolds 6pm Summer hours TOW Pairing6pm & MartyWine Reynolds Deck Party
23
24
25
26
27
28 TOW Wine Pairing & Deck Party
Father’s Day
Mother’s Day 18
19
20
21
22
23
Sat 7 Murder Mystery
Lost in Place 8pm-11pm
Cinco de Mayo 11
Sun
Marc Von Em 8-11pm
25 26 Yard Sale Flag Raising TOW VIP 9:00am-3:00pm Flag pole 11:45am
27
28
29
30
31 Regina Sayles 8pm-11pm
29
30
August 2014
July 2014 JULY
Car Wash Fundrais- Memorial Day
AUGUST
PLEASE NOTE: THIS TENTATIVE CALENDAR OF EVENTS IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE
PLEASE NOTE: THIS TENTATIVE CALENDAR OF EVENTS IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Sun
Mon
**July is Juvenile Arthritis & National Parks Month
Tue 1
Wed 2
Thu 3
Fri
7 SPORTS CAMP
13
14 SPORTS CAMP
20
21 SPORTS CAMP
8 SPORTS CAMP
15 SPORTS CAMP
22 SPORTS CAMP
9 SPORTS CAMP
4 Fish Derby Fish for Free Day
16 SPORTS CAMP
23 SPORTS CAMP
10 SPORTS CAMP
17 SPORTS CAMP
24 SPORTS CAMP
Sun
Sat
Independence Day 6
**June is National Safety Month
11 SPORTS CAMP
18 SPORTS CAMP
25 SPORTS CAMP
5 TOW-BBQ”S MP-DJ Zac Lawless & Friends 12 Tennis Summer Classic Stargazing Jump Start Duo 8pm 19 Blues, Brews & BBQ (fundraiser at TOW) Don Mayer Blue Band 7pm 26 MP Beach Party & Regatta
Mon
Tue
Wed
28 SPORTS CAMP
29 SPORTS CAMP
30 SPORTS CAMP
31 SPORTS CAMP
5 SPORTS CAMP
6 SPORTS CAMP
7 SPORTS CAMP
8 SPORTS CAMP
9 Jr Tennis Tourn. Stargazing Schubert & Binder 8pm
10
11 SPORTS CAMP
12 SPORTS CAMP
13 SPORTS CAMP
14 SPORTS CAMP
15 SPORTS CAMP
16 Seafood Fest Laser Tag Fundraiser Nite Flyte 7pm-10pm
17
18
19
20
21
22
23 Wildlife Show Jump Start Duo 8pm-11pm
24
25
26
27
28
29
30 End of Summer Pool Party at TOW Split Rock 1-5pm
CALL NOW For Advertising Opportunities
845.754.2356 SAW
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Sat 2 Caribbean Night Big Wahu Caribbean Band 7pm-10pm
4 SPORTS CAMP
31 Yard Sale VIP 9am—3pm
TOW Bourbon & Cigar Night on the Deck
Fri 1 SPORTS CAMP Pot Luck Adult Pool Party
3 Rain Date for TOW Bourbon & Cigar Night on the
Marc Von Em 8pm 27
Thu
**August is National Immunization Awareness Month
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COMMITTEES Building & Architectural Committee By David Stagg Chairman of the Building and Architectural Committee The Building and Architectural Committee would like to thank Jeff Gaal and his Maintenance Staff for doing a great job with snow removal. This winter certainly presented many challenges for the Staff of Saw Creek Estates. It proved to be a winter that just never seemed to quit. Hopefully by now we are all thinking of Spring and warm weather. The projects for 2014 have already begun. If you have been up to the TOP you will see a lot of activity in the restrooms by the Creek room. Renovations have begun on the men’s and ladies rooms there and should be completed in April. New carpeting in the Restaurant and Mountain room is planned to be installed this year. One of the most significant projects we have planned for this year is phase one of Member Services Building renovation. This includes residing the outside of the building to resemble the look of the TOW complex. The plans also include a new deck and walkway plus landscaping the area. The Reception area inside the building is slated to be redesigned to better serve the Membership. The Woodbridge Drive East bridge project will be sent out for bid. The bridge needs to have the abutment and wing walls repaired as they have started to erode. The bid for the roads and storm water areas that were identified by the committee and slated for repair will be going out shortly. The 2014 Line Painting project will include all of the roads that were under construction in 2013 along with roads that are in need of it this year Enjoy all our Community has to offer and stay safe.
Saw Creek Men’s Club By Peter Derrenbacher, Club President Although this has been a tough winter, it hasn’t stopped our loyal bowlers from playing every Tuesday morning! Our Beef and Beer scheduled for January 25th at the TOW was rescheduled to Feb. 1st due to weather. Our club again donated $250 to SCE recreation to offer free ski lessons on Feb. 1st & 2nd for our homeowner’s children. In addition we have donated over $1,000 to various local charities. As most of you know our club raises money annually to offer a number of $1,000 scholarships to our residents children who are seniors attending East Stroudsburg High School North and going to attend college. If your child is eligible they should contact their school advisor. IMPORTANT – Our members will be collecting at our gates on Friday, May 16th and Saturday, May 17th. Please be generous! We have established the date for our annual fund raiser golf outing. This year we are playing at The Great Bear Golf Club. It is Monday, July 14th. Please note your calendars. Other key dates include AAA baseball on May 25th; Community Picnic on June 21st; Ehrhardt’s/ Lake Wallenpaupack on June 25th and AAA baseball on August 10th. Our club meets the first Thursday of every month at 6 PM in the Mountain Room, followed by light food and beverages at the TOW. Why not check us out! For more information, please contact Peter Derrenbacher, 570-588-7522.
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 SAW
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Saw Creek Women’s Club
Rules and Regulations Report
By Robyn Long, President
Hi Everyone.
Finally spring!!!
Has anyone told "Mother Nature" that it is spring? We are still huddled in our warm homes and awaiting outdoor activities to start. As I had promised, I would include in our newspaper the Rule and Regulation update if there were any and yes we had a couple ..
By Roseanne V. Prasse - Chairperson
The snow didn’t keep us in (well some days!). We made our way to Sorrenti Cherry Valley Vineyards for wine tasting (to keep us warm) and a pizza making class. In March some of us tried our luck at the Sands Casino in Bethlehem. The club has some great trips planned that will keep us busy for the rest of the year. April, we have a bus trip planned to view the Cherry Blossoms at Branch Brook Park, NJ followed by a Portuguese lunch and a tour of the Newark museum/Ballantine House. May, we are off to Rice’s market in Bucks County followed by lunch at the famous Cock and Bull Restaurant in Peddler’s Village. June the club will be presenting a $1000.00 scholarship to a Saw Creek female who will pursue a career in education. Next year we are looking into sponsoring a Pink Light Walk to raise awareness for Breast Cancer. On Monday nights we have our on going Mexican Domino game at the Top Of The World restaurant. Please come and join us. The club is also collecting dues for next year’s membership $25.00.As always we meet the 2nd Thursday from Sept. – June in the mountain room at 12:30 for a light lunch and business meeting.
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• Ski Pass Policy:
a) The Season Pass fee is a one time charge that will cover the printing and production of the Pass. The fee is non-refundable and the individualized passes are not transferable. The citation for transferring of the season pass is a Tier I offense. • The Rental of the VIP Pavilion:
a) The VIP Pavilion is to be used on a first come/first serve basis, unless it is previously reserved by members for SC Events, which will take precedence. b) Burning or Grilling of any kind is prohibited UNDER the VIP Pavilion. (Tier 1) c) Loud or irritating sounds that disturb the peace of the others are subject to a Tier I offense. Both these additions are in the Rules and Regulations and these can be accessed via our Website and/ or the old fashion way of calling the Members Service Office. I would like to STRESS that you as a homeowner or renter can ask our Members Service office any questions that will assist you in making the RIGHT decisions when it comes to your property. They are there to help us and are happy to do so. Also at this time, I would like to remind everyone of their" 911 Signs" These should be on our properties now. These little green signs can actually save LIVES! I would also like to bring up the NEED for Volunteers. I have heard many reasons why individuals cannot join and some of them seem to be valid, but Committees are run in a Democratic way, we vote on when we meet, what time and who will be Chairperson. This is your community, have a say in what goes on. All are welcomed to our meetings, which are held on the third Tuesday of each month in Members Services Office at 7:00PM.
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January and February Board Resolutions Resolution Number: 01-11-2014-1 January 11, 2014: In accordance with Covenant #14, a Motion for the BOD to hereby designate those areas identified by the USDA and PA Game Commission for deer management to be those areas where firearms may be discharged within the community for the sole purpose of deer management made by BP; seconded by JH; all remaining members in favor; motion carries. Mike Campea in favor Kathi Connell in favor Bob Long in favor
Bill Montgomery in favor Bob Shrekgast in favor Tom Soden in favor
Resolution Number: 01-11-2014-2 Motion
to direct the General Manager to pursue a plan of merger between Top of the World and Saw Creek Estates made by BP; seconded by JH; all remaining members in favor; motion carries. Mike Campea Kathi Connell in favor Bob Long in favor Bill Montgomery in favor Bob Shrekgast in favor Tom Soden in favor Resolution Number: 01-11-2014-3
Motion to approve the carryover of four (4) Capital Projects from 2013 to 2014 made by KC; seconded by MC all remaining members in favor; motion carries. James Hidalgo in favor Bob Long in favor Bill Montgomery in favor Bob Palmer in favor Bob Shrekgast in favor Tom Soden in favor Resolution Number: 01-11-2014-4 Motion to approve the new SCE investment policy as recommended by the Finance Committee effective 1-11-2014 made by BL; seconded by TS; all remaining members in favor; motion carries. Mike Campea in favor Kathi Connell in favor James Hidalgo in favor Bill Montgomery in favor Bob Palmer in favor Bob Shrekgast in favor Resolution Number: 01-11-2014-5 Motion that effective January 2014, the Board of Directors hereby authorizes Merrill Lynch to invest up to 20% of the Capital Fund to be allocated as 1/2 in equity and 1/2 in corporate bonds made by BS; seconded by BM; all remaining members in favor; motion carries. Mike Campea in favor Kathi Connell in favor James Hidalgo in favor Bob Palmer in favor Bob Long in favor Tom Soden in favor Resolution Number: 01-11-2014-6 Motion to proceed with deer management operations as recommended by the USDA made by JH; seconded by BP; TS and BL opposed; all remaining members in favor; motion carries. Mike Campea in favor Kathi Connell in favor Bob Long opposed Bill Montgomery in favor Bob Shrekgast in favor Tom Soden opposed Resolution Number: 02-08-2014-1
February 8, 2014 Motion to approve the SCE Personnel Manual Updates effective 1-11-2014 with SAW
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no change to page 13 for holiday introductory period made by MC; seconded by KC; all remaining members in favor; motion carries. James Hidalgo in favor Bob Long in favor Bill Montgomery in favor Bob Palmer in favor Tom Soden in favor Resolution Number: 02-08-2014-2
Motion to accept the bid of $35,678.00 from Visual Information Systems, Inc. for purchase of two (2) double sided LED signs made by MC; seconded by TS; all remaining members in favor; motion carries. Kathi Connell in favor James Hidalgo in favor Bob Long in favor Bill Montgomery in favor Bob Palmer in favor Resolution Number: 02-08-2014-3 Motion to accept the bid from ALTEC for the purchase of a 2006 AT37G Ford 550 Diesel Bucket Truck for $37,000.00 made by KC; seconded by MC; all remaining members in favor; motion carries. James Hidalgo in favor Bob Long in favor Bill Montgomery in favor Bob Palmer in favor Tom Soden in favor Resolution Number: 02-08-2014-4 Motion to approve a budget change request to reallocate $13,000.00, as recommended by the Finance Committee from the bucket truck expense for the purchase of a new chipper made by KC; seconded by TS; all remaining members in favor; motion carries. Mike Campea in favor James Hidalgo in favor Bob Long in favor Bill Montgomery in favor Bob Palmer in favor Resolution Number: 02-08-2014-6
Motion to reallocate $3,838.00 from the bucket truck expenses, as recommended by the Finance Committee to the TOW bathroom renovation project made by BL; seconded by KC; all remaining members in favor; motion carries. Mike Campea in favor Bill Montgomery in favor Bob Palmer in favor Bob Shrekgast in favor Tom Soden in favor Resolution Number: 02-08-2014-7
Motion to award the TOW bathroom project for completion of two (2) bathrooms to Countrywide Enterprises for a cost of $67,838.00 made by MC; seconded by BL; all remaining members in favor; motion carries. Kathi Connell in favor Bill Montgomery in favor Bob Palmer in favor Bob Shrekgast in favor Tom Soden in favor
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Homeowner Rights and Responsibilities 4. Vote in community elections and on other issues.
Homeowners have the right to:
6. Receive all documents that address rules and regulations governing the community association—if not prior to purchase and settlement by a real estate agent or attorney, then upon joining the community.
1. Participate in governing the community association by attending meetings, serving on committees and standing for election.
7. Appeal to appropriate community leaders those decisions affecting non-routine financial responsibilities or property rights.
6. Contact association leaders or managers, if necessary, to discuss financial obligations and alternate payment arrangements.
2. Access appropriate association books and records.
8. A responsive and competent community.
7. Request reconsideration of material decisions that personally affect them.
As assessment-paying members of our community, we are entitled to certain rights and—in return— we have certain responsibilities.
In turn, homeowners have the
3. Prudent expenditure of fees and other assessments.
responsibility to:
4. Live in a community where the property is maintained according to established standards. 5. Fair treatment regarding financial and other association obligations, including the opportunity to discuss payment plans and options with the association before foreclosure is initiated.
SAW
1. Read and comply with the governing documents of the community. 2. Maintain their properties according to established standards.
5. Pay association assessments and charges on time.
8. Provide current contact information to association leaders or managers to help ensure they receive information from the community. 9. Ensure that those who reside on their property—tenants, guests or family members— adhere to all rules and regulations.
3. Treat association leaders honestly and with respect.
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: HEALTH & FITNESS Her Heart Vs. His Heart Her Heart
The female heart weighs 9 ounces. The approximate number of beats per minute is 70-73. The female cardiovascular system is unlike the male cardiovascular system and should be treated differently. The female heart vessels are softer and not as scarred. In order to assess your risk for heart disease, you should ask your doctor to use the Reynolds Risk Score to check your risk for heart attacks. The calculator takes inflammation and family history into account. Unless the patient’s risk is 10% or higher, you should take statins. If you have chest pains and there is concern about your stress test or EKG your doctor may order you an angiogram. Since plaque builds up in smooth layers instead of bulging out, the angiogram may not detect any problems. If you still have chest pain, you should ask for treatment. This could be coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD). The tiny arteries in a woman’s heart may tighten or spasm when they should be relaxed. This reduces blood flow. One glass a day of wine, beer or spirits may reduce women’s disease risk by 35%. The ethanol
in the alcohol boosts the good cholesterol and helps fight blood clots. Chest pains are not the only danger signs of a heart attack. Signs that you should call 911 include deep fatigue that could mimic a flu that you cannot get rid of. Shortness of breath, abnormal sweating, vomiting or nausea, rapid or irregular heartbeat, or indigestion or a choking feeling all lasting more than 5 minutes are reasons for concern. Also be cognizant of unusual pain in your jaw, neck or arms without chest pain. Taking 2 low-dose (81 mg) aspirins a day can reduce heart attack risk by 26% in women over the age of 65. In women of the age of 45 it can lower the risk of ischemic stroke, which is a common type of brain stroke triggered by a blood clot, by 35%. Please speak to your doctor before taking any pills. His Heart
The average weight of a man’s heart is 10.9 ounces and the amount of beats per minute is 68-71. Men’s doctors should use the Farmingham and Reynolds calculators and base recommendations on whichever score is higher. You should work on every aspect of the score that is within your control, which includes cholesterol, blood
pressure and inflammation level. If your 10 year risk is above 5% you should have a conversation with your doctor about anything that could improve your health. Most men’s plaque juts out from the arteries. Angiograms pick up problems in 93% of men with chest pain. This test should be administered after an EKG or stress test if you still have chest pain. But if you receive a clean angiogram, don’t assume that all is well. Men can have CMD as well and should ask for treatment. Like Women, a drink a day can reduce a man’s risk for heart disease by up to 41%. Benefits drop if you have more than two drinks at one time. The key danger sign of a heart attack is crushing chest pain. Men should be aware of the same signs for a heart attack as in women. Call 911 if you feel something is not quite right. Many people wait more than two and a half hours after symptoms occur and the chance of dying from a heart attack increases 42% with each 30 minute delay. Men should take two daily low-dose aspirins if you are over the age of 40. Heart attacks can be reduced by 30-35%. The side effects are stomach or intestinal bleeding and the risk is higher in men than in women. Men should drink a 1/2 glass of warm water before taking aspirin and 1/2 glass of warm water after taking aspirin. This allows for the dissolution of the aspirin at a quicker rate and would therefore, reduce the risk of bleeding. As with women, please speak to your doctor before taking any pills.
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Over $500 R aised! Over 50 people participated in the third annual Jane Monteforte Celebration Walk held on April 26. Over $500.00 was raised for local shelter animals as well as generous collection of donated pet food, toys, etc.
Black Belt Test On March 15, 2014 Pocono Karate Club had their first Black Belt test. All students pictured received a First Dan (First Degree) Black Belt in 2 different styles of Karate, Kyokushin (Japanese Karate) and Taekwondo (Korean Karate). Congratulations Angel Pincay (18), Shane Hidalgo (12), Brianna Serrano (13), Nicholas Yandolino (13), Olivia Yandolino (15) and Anthony Hunter(16). The Chief Instructor of Pocono Karate, Alexander Ghidella has been teaching Karate to residents here in Saw Creek for over 4 years. This healthy learning atmosphere has made the students grow into a family of their own. Congrats to all who have achieved so much!
Best Foods for a Belly Balance Fiber: Edamame is very good for your gut’s good bacteria to flourish.Your good bacteria feast on the fiber in legumes such as these green based soy beans. Asparagus and bananas are very good for your gut as well. Yogurt: Regular or Greek-style yogurt contains live cultures of bacteria which are excellent for your gut. Fermented Foods: The good bacteria turn cabbage into sauerkraut. Miso, soy sauce or fermented pickles are also great for your gut.
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SCE NEWS ESU McMunn Planetarium Have a little extra time on a Friday night? Do you want something fun and educational to do? East Stroudsburg University's McMunn Planetarium offers free shows once a month on Friday evenings at 7 and 8 P.M. Tickets for these family friendly shows are released the Monday before the show. Each participant is limited to four tickets. To attend, just sign up on the university's website. You need to get your tickets early as there is limited space inside the planetarium. The shows are run by the ESU's talented Professor Buckley. He donates his time to bring the community this learning experience. Shows last about an hour, and if it is a clear night, Professor Buckley will bring out a telescope as you are leaving to get a glimpse of our beautiful moon. One of the recent shows taught the participants about the phases of the moon. The production explained why sometimes we see the moon at night and others during the day. At another show the audience was treated to the inner workings of a telescope. All shows are children friendly, but due to the darkness anyone who is achluophobic should not attend. It is a good time close to home and you just may find some other Saw Creek residents in attendance as well.
W inners of the 2014 A nnual Ski R aces held on February 15, 2014.
No coupons or discounts accepted SAW
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The Golden Travel & Social Club Have you moved up to this area recently, or have you been living up here for some time and now have decided you want to get involved in some activity? Do you enjoy traveling and meeting new people? Maybe you should consider joining the Golden Travel & Social Club. This club has been in existence for about 12 years. As the title of the club suggests, we do both day trips and longer trips by bus; however, when doing longer trips, we stop every evening at various accommodations on route to our destination. Often times we visit various sites along the way to break up the daily routine of the bus trip This is a terrific way to meet and socialize with people! In the past we have traveled to South Dakota, Colorado, Michigan, North Carolina, Georgia, Canada, and Nova Scotia. We had two really successful trips this year to Cape Cod, MA and our very popular trip to Nashville, TN for our Christmas trip.
E aster egg h unt! It was a beautiful day for Saw Creek’s annual breakfast with the Easter Bunny and Easter Egg Hunt!
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In addition to our many bus trips, we also have two socials a year, one in June and one in December. Our club meetings are held every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at Pub 570, 5261 Milford Rd., Rt. 209North, East Stroudsburg, PA 18302 at 12:00 noon. A delicious buffet luncheon is served for a nominal fee after our business meetings. Often times we have speakers who address various topics of interest to our members. Our membership dues are $15.00 annually, running from July through June. Our by-laws specify that anyone going on the trips must join the club. Currently we have about 130 members. It is not required to attend meetings, but attendance is strongly encouraged. It is at the meetings where the bond between members develops and carries over to our various trips. We are currently on break, since we do not meet during January, February, and March. Our first meeting for 2014 will be on Thursday, April 10th at 12:00 noon. We have quite a few trips scheduled for 2014. Our trip to Costa Rica, which is planned for Oct. 24-Nov 1, 2014, has already reached its maximum of 37 people. We have trips to the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse-May 14th; a three day bus trip to Philadelphia – June 9-11; a trip to Maine in August; a Broadway Play Trip in September; and our holiday trip to the Newport, RI Mansions next December. Many of our members live here in Saw Creek and the surrounding area. Other members come from Stroudsburg, Mt. Pocono, and the Saylorsburg area. If you are interested in receiving additional information about our club and upcoming trips, you may contact Phil Cozzi, President (570-5880555); Jean Thompson, Travel Coordinator/Social Director (570-972-6434 or 570-839-9968). E-mail address for Jean Thompson is olollis@ptd.net; Club e-mail address is goldentravelsocial@live. com. Call or come to our first meeting to see what we are all about!
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RESTAURANT CORNER
A Great Winter at the TOP!
I’d like to start by sending out a heartfelt thanks to all of our patrons. It’s all of you that keep the restaurant moving in a positive direction. The staff, Chef Jeremy, and I want to let you know, “We appreciate it”. That being said, we had great winter at the Top!!! And as fun as it was, it’s FINALLY time to look forward to summer and all of the exciting events planned at the Top of the World!! . Later this month, April 26th, we have our Country Western Night with the “Ramblin’ on Band”. We will be offering a themed buffet. The band will be giving line dancing instruction to anyone interested. Make sure you get your reservation for this one, as they are filling up quickly! Kicking the summer off is our Memorial Day Barbeque, 5/24. That’s when we open our outdoor pools, the Tiki Bar, and Snack Bar with a blast. There will be a barbeque available on the deck and live entertainment poolside with Franzo & Friends from 1pm-5pm. Only two weeks later, 6/7, we have a great event for a date night! We are hosting a Murder Mystery Dinner. That’s when trained actors come and play out a drama with audience participation during your meal!! Again, reservations are encouraged, as interest is very high in this event. This next event is for the lady’s. On 6/21, the TOW is hosting a five course tapas wine pairing. Chef Jeremy and Southern Wine & Spirits’, Jay Nee collaborated and put together a beautiful tapas style menu. Based on the flavor profile of each course, Jay has paired a unique wine. So if you are a wine pro, or a novice, this one is bound to be loads of fun, and informative. Don’t forget to keep your eye on the horizon for or other events this summer; 4th of July Pool Party, Blues, Brews & BBQ, Bourbon & Cigar Dinner, Caribbean Night, & our Seafood Fest. It’s measuring up to be fun filled summer that everyone can be a part of. So if you are a regular, thanks for the business, and we will see you again soon!!!! If you are a homeowner, that hasn’t been here in a while, for whatever reason, come check us out. You will be pleasantly surprised!!! We’ve undergone a great deal of change in the last two years. All of which, are aimed at providing better service, and a better product, at a competitive price, for you, the homeowner. If it’s your first time up here, be sure to ask for me Ryan. I’ll be sure to come by, and introduce myself. Here’s to a SUNNY & WARM summer!!!! Once again, on behalf of everyone here at the Top, Thank You!!! Cheers! Ryan McGinniss
Grilled M a hi M a hi
with a PineApple Strawberry Salsa
Grill should be on a med heat and grates should be clean and oiled. For the Mahi Mahi I like to use a Fresh Filet cut into 8 oz portions. I prefer skin Off for this preparation.So we are going to take our Filets and Season both sides with a 50/50 mix of kosher salt and coarse ground black pepper. Then we need to Drizzle a little bit of Olive Oil on the Filets to help it from sticking. (Be careful to not use too much oil because it will cause a flare up when placed on grill.) Placing the Filets on the Grill We need to set them at a 45 Degree Angle after 4 minutes turn the filets 90degrees so you have nice grill marks. Then Flip your filet and repeat the steps. So total cooking time will be about 16 minutes. Fish should be firm to the touch and an internal temperature of 160 degrees. PineApple Strawberry Salsa
One Fresh PineApple - Peeled cored and diced One Pound Fresh Strawberries- Cleaned Diced One Onion- Diced One Teaspoon of Fresh Minced Garlic One Large Green Bell Pepper-Diced One large Tomato- Diced One Jalapeno – Deseeded and Chopped fine Cilantro Leaves 3oz- Coarsely Chopped Kosher salt and Coarse Ground Pepper to Taste If you want to Kick It up a Little add 2oz of your favorite Tequila
Plating Place your Grilled Mahi Mahi on your serving dish and smother it with your Pineapple Strawberry Salsa And Enjoy! Here’s to A fun Summer Cooking On the Grill! — Chef Jeremy Greene
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 SAW
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