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Arrowhead Lake Community Association

Volume 1 No. 1SPRING 2012

President’s Message....page 2

GM’s Message..............page 2

Staff Directory...............page 4

“Views from the Lake”...page 5

Swing Into Spring..........page 6

Rec. Report...................page 7

Chief’s Corner...............page 8

Aquatics Report............page 9

Controller’s Report......page 16

More inside

© 2 0 1 2 A r r o w h e a d L a k e C o m m u n i t y A s s o c i a t i o n , I n c .

Feature StoryHave you had enough of old man winter? Are you ready to trade in your snow boots for your summer sandals? What better way to shake those winter blues then to get involved in the abundance of activities the aquatics department has to offer. Read the full story on page 9

INSIDE

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General Manager’s Message

T he arrival of Spring brings with it green leaves, blooming flowers and new opportunities. In an effort to better serve our community, we welcome Scott Patterson, our new Facilities Maintenance Director and Steve Burgoon, our new Communications Specialist to our management team.

Steve has taken charge of answering incoming mail requests from members of our community, posting announcements to our website (www.arrowheadca.org), and designing a revised version of our Smoke Signals Newsletter. He is also working on retooling our website to make it more user friendly. He plans to overhaul the site graphically, as well as add new features that will streamline many of the old websites functionalities, and make visiting it a more enjoyable experience for everyone.

Scott is focusing on preparing our lakes, beaches, and all other association facilities for the upcoming busy season. Currently, Scott is hiring new employees for the maintenance and house keeping departments, as

from the office of Lonnie Howard, ALCA/ASC General Manager

Dear Neighbors,With spring rapidly coming, in fact it’s here already with this unusually warm and lovely weather, our thought s are ahead for the coming summer. In the next few months you should notice a difference in how our roads and facilities are maintained. ALCA has created a newer Maintenance Department , headed by Scott Patterson, to keep up our buildings, beaches and pools.

There is now a Roads and Ditches Department, headed by our former Maintenance Manager, Bob Duboice, who is gearing up under the guidance of a newly hired engineering firm. His department’s work is critical, as all of our rain and melting snow run off either into our lakes or the local watershed. There is also a danger to our sewer plant when the runoff is heavy, and we will be taking steps to alleviate the condition. We will, as concerned citizens, do what we must to keep these waters pristine and to stop our roads and your driveways from washing out.

Your Board of Directors is working harmoniously, and is able to discuss and compromise on issues we don’t always agree on. We are able to educate each other, drawing from our very different backgrounds. We also rely on the professionals who work for us, Lonnie Howard, Charlie Hozempa, Danielle Decker, Steve Burgoon, and Nan Xander. They are, respectively, our General Manager, Financial Controller, Executive Assistant, Communications Specialist, and Recreation Director. We are also looking forward to the opening of our successful day camp, Camp Koda, once again under the direction of Sara Lentowski. I’m sure the children will be happy to see her back.

Under the management of Steve Burgoon, we hope to enter the 21st. century and eliminate as much paper work as possible. It’s become quite costly to mail the Smoke Signals, and as an effort to cut costs, it will be delivered electronically. You will, however if you wish, have the option to have it mailed to your home. We are also exploring electronic payments of your ALCA/ASC bill to cut down on paper work.

Message FROM THE pRESIDENT

continued on page 4

by Barbara Zimmerman ALCA/ASC President

A relatively small purchase for us is a new portable credit card scanner. You will no longer have to carry cash to pay for merchandise or the wonderful din-ners and breakfasts hosted by our capable volunteers. If you prefer cash, we have installed an ATM in the Member Services Building. You need no longer drive to Blakeslee or Pocono Pines to access you money.

I’m hoping to see you at the beaches and pools, horseshoe, bocce, volleyball and basketball courts this summer.

Sincerely,

Barbara ZimmermanALCA/ASC President

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Angler Committee Reportby Jim Coffin and Rich Isphording Anglers Committee Co-Chairpersons

The Arrowhead Anglers will hold the 13th annual Youth Fishing Derby on the weekend of July 14th and 15th. Children between the ages of 6 and 13 are eligible to participate. Pre-registration is highly recommended and will run from June 4th to July 8th.You may obtain a form from the Member’s Services Building or by email.

Participants will be divided into three groups:Novice (age 6-7)

Intermediate (8-10)Advanced (age11-13)

Saturday’s program will start at 8:30AM and end at 11:50AMRegistration will begin at 8:30AM at the Island Pool Pavilion. At 9:00AM the children will stock Bigmouth Bass in the Island Lagoon.

Following the stocking, the children will be divided into groups and the seminars will begin. The seminars will end at 11:50AM. NO fishing equipment is needed on Saturday. All children must participate in the Saturday seminars

to be eligible to receive awards or receive a ticket for Sunday’s raffle. Sunday’s activities will begin at 8:30AM at the Island Pool Pavilion where the young anglers will receive the rules and regulations for the morning. Fishing will conclude at 11:15AM. Children are to supply their own equipment as well as their choice of bait. They must use a conventional rod and reel and only one rod per child. From 11:15AM to 11:45AM the children will be given lunch.

Following lunch, there will be the presentation of the trophies and the raffle. The raffle has always been a big part of the Derby. Local businesses and the Arrowhead Community have given in the past and every child participating has been given a prize. Donations of new or gently used fishing equipment are needed for the raffle and may be dropped off at the Member Services Building. The Anglers would like to thank the commu-nity for past and future support.

Any adults who wish to lend a hand may contact Rich Isphording at 570-216-1255 or at risphor@ptd.net.

13th ANNUAL YOUTH FISHING DERBY PRE-REGISTRATION FORM*

July 14th and 15th, 2012Please complete a registration form for each child.

(Only 1 child per Registration form)

Name:___________________________________________________________Age: ____________________________________________________________Lot/Block/Section: _________________________________________________Phone: __________________________________________________________Have you participated before: _______YES _______ NO

Submission options for completed Registration Forms:• Drop off at Front Desk in Member Services Building – Attn: Recreation Dept.• Email Rich Isphording, Co-Chairperson at risphor@ptd.net• Mail form to: ALCA, Attn: Recreation Dept., 961 Arrowhead Dr., Pocono Lake, PA 18347• Fill out electronic Registration Form on-line at www.arrowheadca.org (form located under e-forms)

*Pre-Registration period is June 4th though July 8th, 2012. Please do not send in forms until then.

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well as creating standard operating proceedures for all areas under his supervision.

We anticipate great things from both of these new additions and happily welcome them to our management team

General Managers Message continued from page 2

Manager Directory

Lonnie Howard......................................General Manager Carl Kochis..................................................Security ChiefCharlie Hozempa...............................Accting. ControllerDanielle Decker......................Member Services DirectorSteve Burgoon......................Communications SpecialistJill Ziegler..............................................Aquatics ManagerScott Patterson.................Facilities Mantenance DirectorBob DuBoice........Roads/Ditches Maintenacne DirectorJoe Rehm.......................................... Sewer Plant DirectorNan Xander........................................Recreation Manager

2011-2012 Board of Directors

Barbar Zimmerman.............................................President Bill Lucas.......................................................Vice PresidentPat Tierney.............................................................SecretaryJules Weinbaum....................................................TreasurerGerry Burke..........................................Assistant SecretaryTony Pane.............................................Assistant TreasurerRuth Ann Murphy..................................................DirectorGary Zelko...............................................................DirectorChip Allen.............................................................. Director

PUBLIC NOTICEThe EM&R Committee is seeking volunteers to work with them. They keep abreast of Environmental Management and Resources issues, and frequently make suggestions to the Board of Directors on how best to control pollution, conserve the lakes, etc. They usually meet the second Saturday of each month at 9:30 A.M on the lower level of the Member Services Building

(left) The Arrowhead Seniors club held their monthly meeting on March 8th, 2012. The theme of the meeting was “St. Patrick’s Day”. Many club members got into the spirit by wearing green.

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VIEWS FROM

THE LAKE

Spring has come to Arrowhead Lake and the volunteers that help clean up the roads are out doing their job. The amount of trash that is out there is phenomenal! Owners and renters please note that bottles, cans, plastic bags, food wrappers, cigarette butts and packs and fast food containers are not bio-degradable. Contractors please police your surrounding areas for building and lunch materials that have gone astray.Do your part in helping keep Arrowhead Lake clean and good-looking. Trash affects us all.Sheila Calfayan

ALCA has instituted a column for the residents of Arrowhead Lake. Under the heading “Views from the Lake”, the Smoke Signals will be publishing letters, comments and stories from our members. The articles will not be changed or edited by anyone. The following guidelines will be adhered to as follows:A letter/article to be published in the ALCA Smoke Signals is meant to express your opinion, point of view and/or observation of the local scene. State the topic you are writing about. Be clear about its goal and what you’re trying to achieve. Focus on your subject by sticking to a single main point. Letters should be approximately 250 words or less. Be as accurate as pos-sible. Choose words carefully and keep the tone respectful. Avoid personal attacks. End your letter with your name, lot/block/section and telephone number where you can be contacted (only your name will be published in the paper). If your letter is found to be inappropriate, it will not be published and will not be returned to the sender.

Letters can to be sent to:Arrowhead Lake Community AssociationAttn: “Views from the Lake.”961 Arrowhead Drive, Pocono Lake, PA 18347

Or via email to alcamail@epix.net or on the Arrowhead Website www.arrowheadca.org

It is important to have a venue where opinions can be freely stated. Please use this space as your soapbox or platform to state your opinion

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Tuesdays (rain dates will be on Wednesdays). Children between the ages of 9 and 12 have class from 9 to 10:30AM (Rally Ball) and the 13 to 17 year olds (Teen Program) will meet from 10:30AM to 12PM. The children’s program will begin on Tuesday July 3. All instruction will take place at the Island courts.

The tennis committee actively works to promote tennis for both youth and adults. We welcome suggestions and your participation on our committee

Questions regarding the tennis program should be addressed to Leah Tierney, Tennis Sub-Committee Chairperson: t i erney leah@yahoo.com

Tennis continues to be a popular summer sport at Arrowhead Lake. Weather permitting tennis nets will be up early this spring. Players will enjoy playing on the Minisink and newly resurfaced Island courts.

As you probably have read in the Board minutes or 2012 budget, construction of two new tennis courts has been approved to replace the courts that were torn down to build the new Lodge parking lot.

Three PTR tennis Pros and USTA members will pro-vide group tennis instruction for ages 9 through adults. Group lessons for children will start Tuesday July 3, 2012. Group lessons for adults will begin Saturday July 7, 2012. Group lessons will run for six weeks.

Participants will pay the same fees for group tennis lessons as last summer. Adult participants, who are homeowners, will pay a fee of $40.00, and renters will pay $45.00. Children of homeowners will pay $30.00 and children of renters will pay $35.00.

Registration forms will be available at the Front Desk of the Member Services Building beginning on Monday June 4. Please note that the registration forms for children 9-16 must have the signature of a parent or legal guardian. In order for a child to register, the parent MUST provide proof of age (either a stamped birth certificate or passport), to be presented at the time of registration. Credit cards are accepted (Visa and Mastercard). On Saturday, June 9th and June 23 from 10AM to 12PM at the Member Services Building adult players and parents of youth tennis players may register with tennis committee members available to answer questions about the program.

There will be two levels of experience classes offered on Saturdays for the adults (rain dates will be on Sundays) – an intermediate or advanced class from 9 to 10:30AM and a beginner or intermediate class will be held from 10:30AM to 12PM . The adult program will begin on Saturday July 7. Please note that adult participants will be grouped according to their current skill level. Children’s tennis classes will be held on

Swing into Springby Leah Tierney, Tennis Sub-Committee

http://www.arrowheadca.org

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The “Rec” Reportby Nan Xander, Recreation Manager

Since the start of the New Year, the Recreation Department, has offered several wonderful events and activities. I hope that you had the opportunity to enjoy several of them, such as our monthly All You Can Eat Breakfast Buffets, Potluck Dinners, a Spaghetti Dinner, a Family PJ Potluck and Game Night, an Outing to the Crystal Cabin Fever events that was held at the Sculpt-ed Ice Works in Lakeville, PA, a delicious Ice Cream Social, a Daylight Savings Time Indoor BBQ, a free Move and Mingle Night, a free Mind Boggling Trivia Night and a Fish and Chips Dinner.

The Recreation Department, along with the Recreation Committee, has been very busy planning the activities and events for the upcoming months. In looking to the future and taking a peek at a few of the summer activities we have planned, you will discover that we have a very fun-filled schedule! There are four bonfires scheduled for this year (June 23, July 21, August 25 and September 1); three Ice Cream Socials (May 18, June 29 and August 10); four bus trips are also on the schedule to the Shawnee Playhouse (June 13), New Jersey Aquarium (July 18), Philadel-phia Zoo (August 22) and Hershey’s Christmas Can-dylane (December 1). Additionally, a Pig Roast is on the calendar for Saturday, July 21 and a Clam Bake on the Beach on Saturday, August 25.

Be sure to mark your calendars for our annual carnival and fireworks. This year, the carnival will run from Thursday, August 16 through Sunday, August 19 with a spectacular fireworks display on Saturday, August 18. For information on all of our summer activities, events and programs, please pick up a copy of the Sum-mer Recreation Guide, which will be available at the Member Services Building, the Clubhouse, and at the pools and beaches, on Memorial Day weekend. Please remember to plan ahead, as some events require pre-registration.

With the spring season upon us, the opening of the pools is just around the corner. Island and Choctaw pools will be open on the weekends only beginning

on Saturday May 26 from 11AM to 7PM, weather permitting. Please note that Minisink Pool will not be opening until Saturday June 16 when the facilities are scheduled to open full time, Monday through Sunday.

Volunteers are a fundamental part of the Recreation Department and they are of great importance to our community. If you would like to volunteer your time to help out with our events, please contact Barbara Swirczewski at (570) 643-8114 or alca_recreation4@frontier.com

If you have a suggestion for a new event or a comment about an event that you have attended, please feel free to contact me at (570) 643-8115 or you can email me at alca_recreation@epix.net. Alternately, you can also fill out a comment/suggestion form that will be available at all recreational events. Knowing what our members’ likes and/or dislikes are is very important to me. Your input can make an impact on what type of events we offer and how we can improve and develop them. I openly welcome your input at any time.

Wishing you and your families a beautiful and enjoyable spring!

A complete schedule of upcoming events is available on the ALCA website:

http://www.arrowheadca.org/calendar.asp

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The Chief’s Cornerby Security Chief Carl KochisAs the warmer weather approaches more of our residents will start to enjoy the facilities and activities that aren’t always available in the winter months. For example; bike riding, recreational vehicles, playgrounds, etc. With the extra traffic and pedestrians, the Security Department would ask that all residents adhere to traffic regulations to ensure safety of our community.

Recreational Vehicle training classes for non-licensed drivers will commence May 5, 2012. Classes will continue every other weekend and will be conducted at the Member Services Building at 9:00 a.m. Registration for the training classes can be done by Member Services who will be supplied with the class schedule. A completed application is required the day of the exam, for underage applicants age fourteen and older a parental consent and birth certificate is also required.

The Security Department would like to remind recreational vehicle owners that the vehicle registrations expired January 1, 2012. Please obtain a current registration for your recreational vehicle if you haven’t already

The Security Department issued a total of 105 citations, 21 warnings in January and 72 citations and 21 warnings in February. In January 7,628 miles were patrolled while conducting 2,629 house checks. In February 7,434 miles were patrolled while conducting 2,387 house checks

Security Statisitics:January 2012 February 2012Accidents 1 Accidents 0Alarms 10 Alarms 6 Ambulance 13 Ambulance 6Burglary 0 Burglary 0Criminal Mischief 0 Criminal Mischief 1Dog Calls 8 Dog Calls 7Miscellaneous 67 Miscellaneous 75Owner/Guest Assists 26 Owner/Guest Assists 15Law Enforcement Assists 6 Law Enforcement Assists 6Theft 1 Theft 2

SEE YOUR AD HERE!Visit http://www.arrowheadca.org

and check out the different advertising tiers available!

Don’t be left out of the next issue!Get your ad in today!

Smoke Signal ads start as low as $25.00

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Have you had enough of old man winter? Are you ready to trade in your snow boots for your summer sandals? What better way to shake those winter blues then to get involved in the abundance of activities the Aquatics De-partment has to offer. The summer will be here before you know it! So let’s go, get out and jump on in. Besides our programs that focus on exercise we have a tremendous opportunity, for the youth of Arrowhead, the “Rapid Arrows” swim team. The Rapid Arrows is an organized swim team coached by Kristin Loughran, an experi-enced adult, which will hold weekly practices to perfect their trade.

In order to keep the swimming competitive but fun, the Rapid Arrows will host the 8th Annual Lifeguard-Swim team Games charity event, a friendly competition between the lifeguards and the swim team. We are also look-ing forward to our always exciting swim team car wash fundraiser which raises money to keep our team in the water, and of course the award ceremony to honor all the hard work that our young people put into the summer. The Rapid Arrows exemplify what Arrowhead is all about; getting out, being active and having fun. It is truly a great experience that these swimmers will cherish for the rest of their lives. So parents, please inquire of your young one if they are ready for a challenging yet fun experience in the water. We will keep you posted with all pertinent information for this exciting endeavor.

Now some news about our facilities! This year the Swim team, swim lessons, water aerobics, the Island Pool rental shack, as well as all pools and beaches will be managed by the Aquatics Department. Our aim is to keep as many facilities safe, clean and open as possible. The facility hours, rules and regulations will be posted in the 2012 Recreation Guide, which will also include all the great events we have in store for the summer, like the Dive-In Movie (a longtime family favorite). We hope everyone will join us for the summer kick-off campfire on Friday, May 25 at Beach 2

See you then!

In the Swim of things

by Jill Ziegler, Aquatics Manager

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2012 WELL TEST INFORMATION

Well testing will take place at the Member Services Building from 9:30AM to 11:30AM on the following dates:

Saturday May 19th, 2012Saturday July 21st, 2012

Saturday September 15th, 2012Sample bottles can be picked up on the Friday before the day of the test in the Lower Level of the Member Services Building from 6PM to 8PM

These bottles will also be available during the morning of each test.COST

Total Coliform Test $15.00

Total Coliform, Nitrate/Nitrite and Lead Package Test $50.00

Payments can be made at the time of the bottle pick up. No Cash Payments will be accepted.

Payments by check should be made to Microbac Laboratories.Only sample bottles provided by the lab should be used for testing.

Please do not use your own sample bottles. Other containers will not be accepted.

If you choose the package test, you must use a faucet that has not been used that day so you can catch the first draw from the water line

(preferably from an indoor faucet or tap).

All samples must be brought to the Members Services Building by 11:30AM for the lab to pick up on the day of testing.

(above) Ted Borek, ALCA resident, stands with his goose control decoy. The decoy is anticipated to assist in the “goose problem” experienced by Arrowhead Lake.

(above/center) The new ATM in the Member Services Building is now available for residents and visitors. The machine, owned by Kingston Amusment, is not affiliated with any bank or savings & loan and carries a surcharge of $2.50 for each transaction.

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The selection of a grinder pump to best serve the residents of Arrowhead Lake has been under consid-eration for several years. During this period pump manufacturers were asked to submit the specifications of their grinder pumps and at the same time the Sewer Committee was working to develop the specifications that would best serve the community.

This was not an easy task and one of the basic considerations was that sewer lines do not serve all areas of the community. Also, part of the community is on a gravity system while a growing number of homes are connected to a pressure system. There were unique considerations of each to be considered. This was complicated by the moratorium placed on further expansion until some of the newer sewer lines could be surveyed and approved by PA-DEP. This condition was passed with relative ease only to be hindered by the fact that DEP had a change of philosophy. Previously, we had been encouraged to add residents to the central sewer system.

DEP reversed itself and is currently requiring new construction in certain parts of the lake to have an onsite septic system unless the land does not “perk’ or otherwise support a septic system.

While this was going on, the Sewer Committee con-tinued to pursue a suitable grinder pump to serve the community. To this end, in 2011 three pumps manufacturers were asked to submit specifications of their onsite grinder pumps. Two of the companies complied and based on their submissions and interviews with authorized dealer personnel, a final determination was made.

At the October 2011 meeting of the Sewer Commit-tee a vote was taken on two questions. First, is there a need to have more than one brand of pump offered for residential use in Arrowhead Lake and, which pump do you feel will best meet the needs of our community? The majority of the committee indicated that only one brand was necessary and the pump chosen was the E One pump. The vote was six members in favor with one abstention and one no vote.

The results of the vote was communicated to the ALCA Board of Directors. At the November meeting the Board accepted the recommendation of the committee and the E One pump is now the only pump permitted to be used in any Arrowhead Lake residential property.

It is interesting to note that the E One pump has been installed in more than 100 homes in Arrowhead Lake and that their reliability has been excellent. Add to this the fact that Tobyhanna Township requires that the E One pump be used by residents (not residing in private communities) and the fact that an authorized dealer for the pump is located in Blakeslee adds to the comfort of knowing that we have chosen the right pump for our community

SEWER COMMITTEE TAKES ACTIONby Don Pitzer, Sewer Committee Chairperson

www.arrowheadca.org

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The Trading Post

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2012 is bringing a new era to Arrowhead Lake roads and ditches. The Board of Directors has approved BCM as our new engineering company. The new Road and Ditch Department has already done a walk thru of the area near Choctaw Pool on Wyomissing with our engi-neering firm. BCM is currently working on this project and has already had the area surveyed after our walk thru. Our goal is to correct the drainage in these areas before DSA (Driving Surface Aggregate) can be ap-plied. If we don’t take care of our drainage first, the new road driving surface will be damaged by runoff going down the road, and water coming out of the ditches.

After the ditch work is completed, the DSA will be placed into the roadway 8 inches deep, and then will be compacted to 6 inches. By placing the DSA in an 8 inch lift, it will insure that all of the stones and fines will be able to lock into each other to insure the longest life of our road surface. In the future the DSA can be regarded and the driving surface and crown restored by our Road and Ditch Crew with equipment the Association owns already.

The DSA will be placed on the roadway with a paving machine. By using the paving machine we are guarantied that it will be placed on the roadway at a uniform depth and will have the proper crown to allow water to run off of the roadway into the ditches. This will help to stop the constant cycle of repairing potholes and washouts. Another advantage of DSA is the fact that we will need less dust control products sprayed on the roadway, due to the hard compacted nature of this surface.

Once the ditches on the roads above and below Wyomissing are engineered, you can expect to see Maintenance re-ditching as well as installing new driveway and road pipes in this area. In the upcoming months you will see the Road and Ditch Department working to restore the drainage and prepare the Wyomissing for the DSA application

tALES FROM THE rOAD

by Bob DuBoice Roads/Ditches Maintenance Director

Fats, Oils, and Grease

by Joe Rehm, ASC Wastewater Treatment Plant Manager

Fats, Oils, and Grease (often referred to as FOG) are problem substances in wastewater. Most FOG does not mix well with water. FOG, floats on water and clings to surfaces void of water, this is why grease col-lects on the top of drain lines first. As additional FOG flows down a line, the line will eventually clog. FOG that does not collect inside drain lines ends up in the sewer system.

Many trouble calls are due to sewer line blockages caused by excessive amounts of FOG in discharged wastewater. Some of these blockages occur in the customer’s sewer lines and pumps, while others cause a more serious problem by obstructing the pump sta-tions and main sewer lines of the collection system.FOG that manages to find its way into our waste-water treatment plant (WWTP) remains a problem substance due to its molecular structure. FOG simply requires much more time, energy, and resources to manage than other, more common organic wastes received at our WWTP, additionally, FOG is a primary source of sewer odors, whether inside a building or emanating from a sewer line in the street.

FOG is the number 1 cause of sewer back-ups in homes. Even a small amount in drains can cause a se-rious (and expensive) plumbing blockage, or overflow in your home.

Managing discharged FOG is expensive, the more it costs to maintain the sewer system, the more it even-tually costs the customer.

The most effective, and recommended, method of controlling the amount of FOG in wastewater, is to simply not let it go down the drain. It is always best to put FOG in the garbage instead of the drain. Wipe-clean all pots, pans and dishes before washing them in the sink or dishwasher. Pour FOG into an old jar, coffee can, or plastic bag with a zip closure. When full, seal it and tie it up in a plastic bag (a grocery bag) and dispose of it with the garbage.

Let’s Stay FOG Free

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Greetings! First I would like to congratulate our new communications specialist, Steve Burgoon, for the great job he has done in re-starting the community’s Smoke Signals Newsletter. Go Steve!

Weseloh Carney & Co. Inc., recently completed the field work for their audit of our Financial Statements as of December 31, 2011. During the exit conference with the auditors, I was informed that there were no findings or adjustments to our accounting for the financial statements and no recommendations pertaining to our procedures and financial controls. As your Controller, this is my goal; however, I wish to give special recognition and a statement of my appreciation for my accounting staff, Luisa Anes and Shannon Ritzke, for the terrific job they do in handling many thousands of financial transactions each year for the Association and sewer company.

We have made arrangements to place an ATM at the front desk area of the Member Services Building. Members, guests, renters and contractors now have convenient access to cash twenty-four hours per day without having to leave the community.Recently, we purchased a portable credit card machine that operates on the AT&T network. For the convenience of our members, we hope to be able to accept credits cards (VISA & Mastercard) at most events including events held at the Clubhouse, Lodge, Pools and Beaches.

Financially speaking, we are starting the year very well. Below is an abbreviated view of our income statement (Cash Basis), actual versus budget for the first two months of 2012:

I am happy to report that the new Trash/Recycling Center is generating significant savings for the community. We are also keeping tons of recyclable materials away from the landfills. For the first two months of 2011, the community spent $60,730 on trash removal. For the first two months of 2012, the total cost of removing trash and recyclables was $14,840. This includes the removal of trash/recyclables by Waste Management and the operating expenses of the Trash/Recycling Center. This is a dramatic savings of $45,890. In addition to the savings, we estimate that we have kept 25 tons of recyclable materials away from the landfills.

For anyone having a difficult time meeting their financial obligations to the Association or sewer company, payment plans are available through the Accounting office. Please call 570-646-1771 and ask for the Accounting Office for more information

Controller’s Reportby Charlie Hozempa , Controller

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by Environment Officer, Jim RoeneltEnvironmental Concerns

Feeding Wildlife

In the past year I have come across some homeowners feeding the wildlife we share our woods with. I can understand the desire to have these animals on your property to view. I can also understand the feeling that you are helping them through the winter months when food is hard for them to find. But, the reality is, you can be hurting them more then helping them. Wildlife is best kept wild. The more we feed wild animals, the more contact there can be with people. That can be dangerous, depending on the animal (e.g. bears, coyotes). It can also bring disease-carrying wildlife in closer proximity to peoples’ living spaces. Wild animals have specialized diets and can die from the wrong foods. Many people feed wildlife as a form of entertainment; but bread, popcorn, French fries, corn, and leftovers can cause disease, mouth injuries, throat obstructions and death in animals adapted to eat other foods.

Feeding the wrong diet to a baby animal even for a day or two can permanently damage developing muscles, bones and tissues, making survival impossible. Even feeding supposedly “healthy” food is harmful because it alters the animal’s foraging patterns and can cause overpopulation which ultimately leads to starvation. Everything in life has checks and balances, including nature. When we interfere with these, it throws everything out of balance, and the animal is the one that usually suffers the consequences.

Springtime also brings bears. It is at this time of year when they come out of hibernation with their cubs that they can be extremely dangerous. A mother bear will do anything to protect her cubs if she believes they are in danger. Explain to your children that if they should come upon a bear with cubs, it is important that they not get between the cubs and their mother. They should back away from them, and when at a safe distance, leave the area. Never let your dog go out alone, or off leash (especially at night). The best way to avoid a confrontation is to turn on outside lights, and make noise to alert the bear that you are coming. The last thing the bear wants is a surprise confrontation. They will most likely leave without you ever knowing they were there

Bear BoxesSince our new trash disposal area has been opened, some property owners have taken it upon themselves to remove their bear boxes from the front of their properties. I’m sure you noticed, as I have the positive affect this has had on our community. No longer are the roads cluttered with mismatched bear boxes, or bear boxes that are falling apart. For those property owners who have not had a chance to remove their boxes, plans are in the works to help you do just that.

Once the plan is finalized, you will be notified on how to proceed. If you have contracted with a trash cart-ing company, and would like to keep your bear box to store trash between pick-ups, we ask that you move your bear box to the side or back of your home. When you move your garbage to the roadside on your pick-up day, make sure it is in containers with secure lids. Please notify the Environmental Officer if you are hav-ing, or plan to have a private carting company pick up you trash

articles continues on page 20

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The Pocono Summit Youth Cheerleaders competed at Cheer Ltd. Nationals at CANAM in Myrtle Beach, SC from March 16, 2012 to March 18, 2012. The team has been preparing for this competition since October 2011. Alexis Masker competed individually in the Youth Cheerleader Division and came in 2nd place. We also had a stunt group, (Alexis Masker, Samantha Guerra, Amber Kane, Lauren Buckstein and Shianne Felder), compete in the Youth Stunt Group Division and they came in 1st place. The team competed in the Junior Recreation Intermediate Division and they came in 1st place by twenty-one points. These girls did a fantastic job and they can’t wait to compete next year, hopefully in Florida!

The Team is coached by our very own Member Services Associate, Brittany Tomol and has resident, Sarah Bender, as a member of the squad

Pocono Summit Youth Cheerleading

www.arrowheadca.org

A Letter of Thanks

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KEEP ARROWHEAD LAKE GREENPLANT MORE TREES

Buy quality trees and plants that fit the planting site. With proper care and maintenance, trees are safe and they protect you and your family with shade and reduced energy costs.

The roots of a strong, healthy growing tree prevent soil erosion and properly maintained trees increase your property values. Hire a certified tree profes-sional to carefully prune your trees. Get a second opinion and ask tough questions.

For more information visit www.treesaregood.com

When the time comes to do some tree work don’t forget to fill out a ALCA no fee tree permit application

Environmental Concerns continued from page 18

Building Permit ProceduresWith the warm weather quickly approaching I’m sure there are Homeowners thinking of performing construction projects on their homes. Certain construction projects may require Township Zoning Permits, Guardian Building Permits, as well as ALCA Permits. An ALCA Permit Policy and Procedures packet as well as a Permit Application Form can be obtained from the Members Service Building. Building and Construction Regulations can be found in ALCA’s Rules and Regulations, as well as online at ALCA’s web-site (Refer to Article XXII Building and Construction Regulations). If you are unsure if permits are needed , and in order to avoid delays and possible citations for failure to comply with the Rules and Regulations, you can call, or e-mail me and I’ll be happy to walk you through the procedures, or answer any questions you may have

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Island Rental Shack

O P E N M O N D AY- S U N D AY 1 0 A M - 7 P M(WEATHER PERMITTING)

ALL PRICES INCLUDE PENNSYLVANIA SALES TAX DRIVERS LICENSE IS REQUIRED FOR RENTALS.

WRISTBANDS MUST BE WORN AT ALL TIMES.BOATS, BOATS, AND MORE BOATS!!

ROW BOATS OR PADDLE BOATS - $10.00 PER HOUR(LIFE JACKETS INCLUDED WITH ALL BOAT RENTALS)

**ASK ABOUT FISHING PACKAGE DEALS** ADULT FISHING POLE & TACKLE - $10.00 PER DAY YOUTH FISHING POLE & TACKLE - $5.00 PER DAY WORMS (NIGHT CRAWLERS) - $3.00 PER CUP

**ASK ABOUT BICYCLE RENTAL DEALS**

ADULT CRUISER BICYCLE - $10.00 PER DAY ADULT BICYCLE HELMET - $2.00 PER DAY YOUTH BMX BICYCLE - $10.00 PER DAY

(HELMETS INCLUDED WITH ALL YOUTH BICYCLE RENTALS)

**ASK ABOUT SPORTS EQUIPMENT DEALS**

BASKETBALLS/FOOTBALLS/VOLLEYBALLS/SOCCER BALLS BOCCE BALL/HORSE SHOES/SHUFFLE BOARD EQUIPMENT

$5.00 PER DAY TENNIS RACQUETS - $5.00 PER DAY

(INCLUDES A BAG OF TENNIS BALLS)

**ASK ABOUT OVERNIGHT RENTAL PACKAGES**

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1st QUARTER BOARD OF DIRECTORS ALCA/ASC MEETINGS SYNOPSIS

Below are just excerpts from the ALCA and ASC BOD Monthly Meetings and all Special Meetings Minutes for the first quarter 2012.

For a complete copy of the approved meetings minutes, please visit the ALCA Website (www.arrowheadca.org) or stop by the Front Desk in the Member

Services Building and ask for a paper copy of Board Minutes. The Board of Directors encourages all Members to attend the upcoming monthly Board of Directors Meetings. The schedule for the upcoming BOD Meetings is April 14th, May 5th,

June 2nd, July 7th, August 4th, and September 8th. The meetings beginning at 9:30 AM and are held in the Clubhouse.

The Annual Membership Meeting is scheduled for September 2nd at 1:00 PM

•Recognition of Jack Adamson, former Board Director and President•Introduction of new Board Director, William “Chip” Allen•Illegal Dumping Fines of $500 for the 1st Offense and $1,000 fine for 2nd Offense and Subsequent Offenses was approved•Recycling Fines of a Written Warning for the 1st Offense and $300 fine for 2nd Offense and Subsequent Offenses were approved•Usage of the Clubhouse, free of charge for one night was approved for a local Boy Scout Group•New Employee Handbook was approved•Proposed changes to the ALCA ByLaws and the timeline of set dates for distribution of directed proxies, etc. were approved•ALCA Rules & Regulations with annual updates were approved •The Journal’s, Smoke Signals Newspaper Proposals were not approved•Jim Hyde resigns from Budget & Financial Planning Committee•Pat Grace and Mike Granahan become Maintenance Committee Members•Purchase of a John Deere Tractor, not exceeding the 2012 approved Budget amount was approved•The Landscape Ad-Hoc Committee RFP Proposal (design plan) for the Lodge was approved•David George resigns as Chairperson for the Sewer Committee•Don Pitzer becomes the Sewer Committee newest Chairperson•New Rental Policy was approved•Sandy Valley Greenhouse & Tree Service, Inc’s Bid for U-Channel posts with breakaways for the Tobyhanna Township 9-1-1 ALCA Street Signs was approved•Dates to have the 2012 ALCA Carnival and Fireworks coincide and stay within 2012 approved Budget were approved•Aquatic Environment Consultants, Inc. to perform a Fish Study on both lakes within ALCA were approved

continued on page 23

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•Aquatic Environment Consultants, Inc. proposal to perform the Lake Treatments on both lakes was approved•Bingo Sub-Committee of the Recreation Committee was approved to be a separate Ad-Hoc Committee•Trash Recycle Center overall savings for first two months of 2012 is $45,890•Purchase of replacement servers and 10 PC’s was approved•Re-cap of Seniors Club Meeting with State and Local officials, including Representative Mario Scavello•Resolution moving 2011 Operating Surplus Funds to Lodge Reserve Fund for $126,382 was approved•New Well at Beach 4 Proposal approved •Introduction of new Facilities Maintenance Director, Scott Paterson•Introduction of new Communications Specialist, Steve Burgoon•ALCA Newsletter (Smoke Signals) was approved to be created in-house, dispersed quarterly, except for Special Editions, such as the Election Issue•First in-house created Smoke Signals Newsletter to arrive sometime in April was approved

continued from page 22

Please complete the form and mail it to the address below

We want to hear from you!!Let us know if you would prefer to have future issues of the Smoke Signals Newsletter mailed to you.

Name:__________________________________________________________________Street:___________________________________________________________________City: ____________________ State:________ Zip Code: _____________________

Mail to:Smoke Signals Newsletter

Arrowhead Lake Community Association961 Arrowhead Drive

Pocono Lake, PA 18347

or complete the e-form located on the ALCA website

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Kids CornerTry to find these words