PUBLISHED BY THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS • WINTER 2018

Northampton County, PA PUBLISHED BY THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS • WINTER 2018 WELCOME TO THE WINTER ISSUE OF THE FORKS NEWSLETTER! MESSAGE FROM THE TOWNSHIP MANAGER John V. Cornell

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he year 2017 is quickly coming to a close. For the Township it has been a busy year. The following is an overview of the significant challenges of 2017.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Forks Area Art Society................. 3 Long Time Employees Retire...... 4 Girl Scout Gold Award Recognition...................... 5 Forks Township Night................. 6 Forks Township Historical Society......................... 7 Easter Egg Hunt .......................... 7 Winter 2018.................................. 8 2018 Forks Township Yard Waste Site Hours & Regulation..... 9 Lunch with the Easter Bunny...... 9 Lehigh Valley Promise Walk for Preeclampsia......................... 10 Forks Township Parks & Recreation...............11-16 Forks Township Information.... 17

The year began with the Forks Township Police Association and the Township unable to resolve and come to agreement on a new contract which led to entering into an arbitration hearing and award that saw both sides give and take. The main issues were the typical wages, health-care costs, and pension. 2016 also ended with litigation of the public works building. The building construction which began in 2012 faced delays and construction challenges resulting in completion in 2016. The project continues with on-going litigation between the contractor, the design architect and the Township. In approximately 2015 the Township staff, Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors identified a deficiency in the Zoning Ordinance. Pennsylvania case law has determined all municipalities must provide for all uses. It was identified the zoning ordinance provided standards for Use B10 Apartments but did not actually provide any locations. This omission led to a property owner filing a curative amendment. Subsequently the Township proceeded with a “self-cure” to address the omission, and at the time of this publication the process is on-going. In conjunction with the Pennsylvania Municipal Retirement System (the Township’s pension administrator) an early retirement incentive program was put together with the object of streaming operations and cutting costs. The offering realized staff reduction and an annual $220,000.00 savings. 2017 also saw the end of the 5-year waste hauling contract with Republic Services. Under Pennsylvania law municipalities are required to publicly bid contracts of this type. In an attempt to further control cost, the waste site contracts were bid separately from the collection contract. The Mascarro land fill was the successful recycling waste site bidder, and Chrin was the successful municipal waste site bidder. The successful collection bidder was County Waste. In addition the Township implemented the cart system for collection. Beginning with 2010 The Forks Township Comprehensive Plan the Town Center Zoning District concept was created. In 2015 the Township applied for a $25,000 matching grant from Northampton County Economic Development for the visioning process developing a future streetscape. The envisioned streetscape extends from Old Mill Road to Meco Road. The streetscape vision report completed in 2017, will provide an impetus for creating a downtown center. The next step in the process is phasing of the project and seeking State and Federal grants for the formal design and construction. The streetscape will embody sidewalks, crosswalks, streetlights and vegetation creating a walkable downtown environment.

Visit our website at www.forkstownship.org

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FORKS AREA ART SOCIETY

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he Forks Area Art Society (FAAS) is in its 8th year of supporting the arts in our community. Another outstanding lineup of activities is scheduled for the upcoming months. All events are open to everyone who enjoys art.

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Upcoming presenters/demonstrators: - January: Wayne Farley – Guitarist - February: Tara Santoro – Colored Pencil - March: Stephen Cunic – 3 Dimensional Photography - April: Lauren Kuhns – Oil Painting

• Cottage Art Exhibits: Sundays 2-4pm. Location: “The Cottage in the Woods”, 700 Zucksville Road. Each month, member artists will display their work at the Cottage. A different theme will be featured each month. Everyone is invited. There is no admission fee for the public.

• Monthly Charlie Hanson Sketch Nights: 1st Monday of every month at 7pm. Reservations and model fee of $10 required. Location: “The Cottage in the Woods”, 700 Zucksville Road. Reservations can be made using the contact information noted below.

• Amp Up The Art Festival 2018: The Forks Art Society will be hosting its 5th outdoor art festival to promote a creative community gathering of artists. The festival will take place on May 19, 2018 at the Forks Township outdoor amphitheater area from 10am – 4pm. A variety of food vendors and live music will also be on hand. Fine artists and crafters who wish to display/sell their work may complete the application process by downloading an application from our website forksareaartsociety.org or by contacting the Forks Art Society by email at [email protected]. Please join us!! Additional information about these and other exciting area art events can be found on our website or Facebook page.

The Forks Area Art Society is a non-profit art and cultural organization formed in 2010 to celebrate the endeavors of local artists in a fun and friendly environment. It is open to regional artists and art appreciators and features all forms of visual and performing arts. The Art Society meets at 7:00pm on the 2nd Wednesday of each month (except July) at the Forks Township Municipal Building, 1606 Sullivan Trail, Easton PA 18040. The meetings include amazing presenters as well as “show and tell” segment which showcases the outstanding talents of area artists. Please visit the FAAS website at http://forksareaartsociety.org or contact: [email protected] for more information.

Save Money with a Suburban EMS Subscription Enrollment available now for Forks Residents

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uburban EMS offers a subscription and donation program to the residents of the communities we serve. This allows us to offset the cost of funding ambulances, building expenses, medical equipment and training of our volunteers and staff. Suburban EMS provides 911 service to the residents of Forks Township. Our services are not funded by your tax dollars, including the local services tax (also known as the emergency municipal services tax) therefore, your support will help guarantee that our life-saving team will continue to provide emergency and non-emergency services of the utmost quality at the lowest cost possible to you. The subscription covers October 1, 2017 until September 30, 2018. The cost of our annual subscription is $30 for an individual or $55.00 for a family covering everyone residing in your household. A benefit from subscribing is that your subscription fee is applied to cover any applicable coinsurance/deductibles up to $500 per emergency ambulance trip that you would otherwise have to pay if you are not a subscriber. This is not an insurance policy. We also offer reduced rates for medically necessary non-emergency transportation services for both wheelchair and ambulance that are not covered by insurance. Please contact our office at (610) 253-3548 to sign up.

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LONGTIME EMPLOYEES RETIRE

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his past year has seen the most significant change to our employee landscape ever! Five township employees have retired after many years of dedicated service. With only a half dozen or so employees retiring in the past 20 years, this represents the single largest amount for one year the township has experienced. Our longest serving employee started her career all the way back in 1977, while our least tenured to retire was with the township for over 11 years. Debra (Tindall) Knesz served the township from December 1977 to June of 2017. Nearly 40 years of service to the township, Debi started as a secretary right out of high school. She has served in many different capacities during her tenure including: Secretary to the Superintendent, Sewer Authority Secretary and most recently as Administrative Assistant to the Township Manager. Debi also is a proud mother, and a grandmother to several grandchildren. Ruben (Robin) Featherman is another longtime employee of the township. While not quite as long as Debi, Robin has served the township for over 34 years. Robin began his career as a member of what was then called the “Road Crew”, now appropriately the Public Works Department. Robin’s duties included all aspects of the public works team including: snow removal, street repair, leaf collection and road paving. Robin retires after being promoted to Senior Crew Chief following his dedicated service to not only public works but also to the Forks Township Fire Department where he spent many years of volunteer service. Robin is married and the proud father and a grandfather of several grandchildren. Peter Gheller, better known to all of us as just “Pete”, is the longest serving public works employee to retire. Pete began his long employment in March of 1979, serving in the neighborhood of 38 years. Pete also started with the “Road Crew” and performed many duties associated with public works and later was appointed as Road Foreman then eventually Public Works Director. Once the township’s new Public Works facilities were completed, Pete was given the title of Facilities Manager responsible for overseeing all of the township’s buildings; including the municipal building, recreation center, police and fire buildings to name a few. Pete is also a father and grandfather of two grandchildren. Irene Hess started working for the township full-time in 2005. She began her employment as a temporary employee to help out the growing needs of the township and was later hired on a permanent basis as our Utility Clerk. In this position she was responsible for all sewer and trash billing to the residents. She also greeted residents at the front counter and directed them as necessary to the proper departments. Last but not least, Richard Grifo retires after 25 years with our Police Department. Rick started as patrolman and was later promoted to detective and was involved with several high profile cases. Rick finished out his career as Captain of the Department before his departure this past May. All of these retiring members of the Forks Township Team will be missed by all and hope they all enjoy a long and prosperous retirement. In the years to come, many more exceptional employees will be retiring, opening the doors to future employment opportunities. The township is always open to ways to make our community better and has already hired some outstanding individuals to fill the void of those that have retired and those that are near retirement. Stories about our new hires will appear in the next edition.

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GIRL SCOUT GOLD AWARD RECOGNITION

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irl Scout Ambassador Troop 8756 of PQ Energy Services and the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania is proud to announce with great pleasure the awarding of the Girl Scout Gold Award to Alison Brudnicki of Forks Township. The Girl Scout Gold Award represents the highest achievement in Girl Scouts. It is the most prestigious award in the world for girls and the most difficult to earn. As a Gold Award Girl Scout, you’re challenged to change the world or at least your corner of it. Gold Award Girl Scouts are making the world a better place. These young women are inspiring leaders whose Gold Award projects are impacting the worlds of STEM, education, agriculture, medicine, and more on a local, national, or global level.

Alison’s Girl Scout Gold Award Project was to provide information and craft night at Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center during a Family Night on Friday, May 12, 2017 about Pennsylvania Bats. She provided information on the various bat species found in Lehigh Valley, the value of Bats, how to construct Bat Houses and where to place them. She also led a bat craft activity and bat shaped cookie decorating. Alison’s Project included the construction of 8 Single Chamber and 2 Triple Chamber Bat Houses which were donated to Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center, Pocono Environmental Education Center, and Whitfield Masonic Lodge in Tatamy. Alison also constructed 2 Purple Martin Bird Houses which were donated to Pocono Environmental Education Center and Seiple Farm. She spent 193 hours on her various project details. Let’s congratulate Alison on this lifetime achievement.

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TEL 610-865-3664 FAX 610-865-0969 [email protected]

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FORKS TOWNSHIP HISTORICAL SOCIETY

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Merchant Wagon

rominently displayed in the Municipal Building lobby, a fully restored Merchant Wagon from the 1910 era built by Cyrus J. Graver in his combination wagon shop and smithy just off Sullivan Trail on Kesslerville Road. The original buyer is unknown, however it was found decades later in a barn in Williams Township by Earl Smith, a Forks delivery man. Apparently recognizing Graver’s craftsmanship, he passed the find to Elsie Graver Babp, Graver’s daughter, who acquired the wagon. It was returned to the then existing black-smith and wagon shop where it was built. Upon the passing of the Babps, the building was sold including its contents. The new owners generously donated the wagon to the Forks Historical Society. The Wagon was in remarkably good condition considering its age so the Society decided to have it professionally restored. A fundraising campaign plus a grant from the Department on Community Development was successful and the wagon was professionally restored by an Amish wagon builder. The merchant wagon, also referred to as ‘huckster’ wagon, was from a time when a farmer or merchant would routinely pass through neighborhoods ‘hawking’ their products or wares. Similar wagons made daily early morning deliveries of fresh milk and dairy products into the 1930s. The Historical Society meets monthly (except December) 7:00 PM at Faith Lutheran Church 2012 Sullivan Trail, Forks. Historical Programs of the area are presented. All welcome – Info – 610- 253-1035.

Easter Egg Hunt Date: March 24, 2018 Age Categories: 2-4, 5-7 & 8-10 Prizes awarded at each age level Cost: $2.00 1:00 PM Registration 1:30 PM Start Time Forks Township Amphitheater

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WINTER 2018

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ith the winter season upon us, the Public Works Department has readied all its snow removal equipment and has over 1800 tons of salt on hand. All Public Works, Parks & Recreation and Sewer Department employees are involved in snow removal operations in the township from start to finish. Salting operations start at the first sign that the roadways are starting to be covered with snow or ice. All township-owned roadways are treated as well as state highways that are contracted by the township (Sullivan Trail – from city limits to Stockertown Borough, Knox Avenue, Richmond Road – from the city limits to Meco Road, Kesslersville Road – from Sullivan Trail to Church Road, Frost Hollow Road). All roadways deemed unsafe throughout the storm will be treated as needed and as time allows. Snow plowing starts after all roadways have been treated at least once with salt or the accumulation reaches 2”. All vehicles must be removed from the streets during snow removal operations (Ord.#129) or the vehicle could be towed. All roadways will be plowed and monitored throughout the storm as needed. The last plowing pass will be done curb to curb. Please do not throw or blow snow back into the roadway after the plow has passed. This only creates a hazard for you or your neighbors when it re-freezes becoming harder to remove before the next storm.

Basketball Hoops ALL basketball hoops must be removed from the street and the public rightof-way prior to any snow removal operations. This means that in developments the hoop must be a minimum of 4 feet from the road edge and not placed on the sidewalks. If a basketball hoop is found placed in the street, it will be considered a road hazard and be removed by the Public Works department.

Tree Trimming Trees located along township roadways that are found to interfere with plowing or salting operations will be trimmed back as needed.

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2018 FORKS TOWNSHIP YARD WASTE SITE HOURS AND REGULATIONS November 5, 2017 until March 11, 2018 YARD WASTE HOURS: Monday ........................................... Closed Tuesday........................... 8:30am – 4:30pm Wednesday...................... 8:30am – 4:30pm Thursday.......................................... Closed Friday............................................... Closed Saturday ......................... 8:00am – 1:00pm

There will be someone at the site during the hours of operation. Proper ID (Driver’s License) will be required to show proof of Township residency to enter the yard waste site. Should you hire a contractor to drop off any yard waste from your Township residence, they will be required to have a Yard Waste Drop Off Authorization Form that can be found on the Township website or picked up from the Public Works office located at 100 Newlins Road East, Easton Pa 18040.

March 12, 2018 to November 4, 2018 YARD WASTE HOURS: Monday........................................... Closed Tuesday ........................ 11:00am – 7:00pm Wednesday ................... 11:00am – 7:00pm Thursday.......................................... Closed Friday............................................... Closed Saturday ......................... 8:00am – 1:00pm

The following items are prohibited from being dumped at the yard waste site: Lumber, Pressure Treated Wood, Paneling, Pallets, Shingles. If you have any questions or need a form emailed, please call 610-438-2670.

Lunch with

TheEaster y n n u B JOIN FORKS TOWNSHIP PARKS AND RECREATION & THE EASTER BUNNY FOR LUNCH

MUST PRE-REGISTER FOR LUNCH To register: Call 610-250-2260, online or stop by the Community Center

DATE:

March 24, 2018

TIME:

12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m.

LOCATION: Forks Township Fire House COST:

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$5.00 (children under 12) $8.00 (adults)

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YOU MUST PRE-REGISTER FOR ALL SESSIONS

FORKS TOWNSHIP PARKS & RECREATION ROOM RE NT AL S

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ant a great place to entertain guests at an affordable rate? Come check out the Rooms at Forks Township Community Center. We offer 5 rooms that can host birthday parties, showers or graduation parties. Price includes 6 foot rectangle tables and chairs that would accommodate your party.

Room A...............$30.00/hour Room B ..............$35.00/hour

RESIDENT ROOM PRICES Room C............ $30.00/hour Multipurpose Room...........$35.00/hour Room D............ $45.00/hour

TH E RE CRE ATI O N H O U S E

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he Recreation House is located at 708 Zucksville Road. This former private home has two large rooms, bathroom, and kitchen facilities available for use. The location is perfect for small group meetings, parties, and showers. Rooms are 17x17 (capacity of 22) and 17x16 (capacity of 19). In addition to the inside facility, the home has a beautiful deck and large yard for warm, sunny day activities. Plenty of parking is available. The cost is $35 per hour for residents.

P A V I L I O N S:

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ant a great place to entertain guests at an affordable rate? Come check out the Pavilions at Forks Township. We offer two great pavilions that can host birthday parties, baby showers, graduation parties, or barbeques. Brief descriptions of each pavilion: COMMUNITY PARK PAVILION – Located in the heart of Forks Township’s community park, the pavilion seats approximately 50 people. There are electrical outlets, a charcoal grill, and restrooms. Resident Rental price is $40 for four hours, $10/hour for each additional. BRADEN AIRPARK PAVILION – 3520 Sullivan Trail, Easton PA, 18040. The pavilion seats approximately 100 people, and there are electrical outlets, charcoal grill, and restrooms. Resident Rental price is $60 for four hours, $15/hour for each additional. There is no alcoholic beverage or pets allowed at either pavilions.

FITNE S S CE NT E R

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hinking about joining a fitness center, then look no further. We have a fully functional fitness room right in the Community Center. Whether you are a beginner or a professional exercise enthusiast, our fitness center is perfect for you. Our fitness center offers a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere to exercise in. We have a wide variety of equipment, which includes treadmills, steppers, elliptical machines, bicycles, and rowers. We offer a 13-unit circuit and a free weight area that includes a Smith machine with an extensive range of varied weights, plus so much more. Personal Trainers are available at an additional fee. Memberships are available for anyone 18 years of age or older.

RESIDENT MEMBERSHIP FEES: Basic Plus Family .................................. $535.00/year College Fitness....................................... $180.00/year 1-Month College................................ $15.00/month Basic Plus Adult..................................... $280.00/year 3-Month College................................ $45.00/quarter Basic Plus Senior................................... $220.00/year 3-Month Adult................................... $70.00/quarter Adult Fitness.......................................... $240.00/year 3-Month Senior.................................. $55.00/quarter Senior Fitness........................................ $180.00/year Walk-in Fee................................. $5.00/day

BASIC PLUS MEMBERSHIP:

Includes unlimited use of the fitness room, gymnasium (when available), game room, and locker room

FAMILY MEMBERSHIP:

Is considered two adults in the same household and any dependent children through the age of 18 living in the same household

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Forks Township is a participant in the Capital Blue Cross Silver & Fit Program, Healthways SilverSneakers® Fitness Program, and Healthways Prime® Fitness Program


FORKS TOWNSHIP PARKS & RECREATION

PER S ONAL T R A I N I N G I S AVA I L A BLE AT TH E FITN ESS C EN TER

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ur Certified Personal Trainers recognize that each person is unique. They specialize in designing customized programs that suit your personality and fitness goals, yet integrate into your lifestyle quickly and easily. Our personal trainers will update your program regularly so you never get bored yet continue to get the results you want! Plus, they have expertise in training members with special medical needs including heart disease, post-rehab for injuries, and others. Forks Community Center’s personal trainers will help you look and feel your best every day!

PRICES: ½ HOUR SESSION $35

COM M UNI T Y C E N T E R M E M B E R S HIP S BASIC MEMBERSHIP PRICES: RESIDENT RATES

Basic Youth: ..................... $65.00/year Basic Adult: ..................... $85.00/year Basic Senior: .................... $65.00/year Basic Family: .................. $150.00/year

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ant to encourage your children to get moving, so your family or child can become a Community Center basic member. Memberships include the gymnasium (when available), video game room, and locker room. Basketball, volleyball, tennis, and dodge ball can be played in open gymnasiums. Basic Membership - Includes unlimited use of the gymnasium (when available), game room, and locker room

ADULT FITNESS CLASSES AVAILABLE AT THE FORKS TOWNSHIP COMMUNITY CENTER NOTHING CANCELS A PROGRAM FASTER . . . than people waiting until the last minute to register for it! All programs have a minimum enrollment — and if we don’t reach the minimum by a certain date, the class gets cancelled. Please don’t delay! Register today at www.forkstownship.org/recreation or call 610-250-2260.

ZUMBA - $5.00 WALK-IN

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hen participants see a Zumba class in action, they can’t wait to give it a try. Zumba classes feature exotic rhythms set to high-energy Latin and international beats. Before participants know it, they’re getting fit and their energy levels are soaring! There’s no other fitness class like a Zumba Fitness Class. It’s easy to do, effective and totally exhilarating, often building a deep-rooted community among returning students.

ZUMBA FITNESS

ZUMBA GOLD - Morning Classes

Mondays: 7:00-8:00 PM

Tuesday: 10:45 – 11:30 AM Thursday: 10:45– 11:30 AM

Check out our Facebook for updates and specials: Like our page on Facebook: Zumba with Dana

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azzercise is a pulse-pounding, beat-pumping fitness program that gets you results…

Like our page on Facebook: Forks Township Jazzercise.

We’re on Twitter @ Forksjazzercise

fast. It’s a calorie-torching, hip swiveling dance party with a hot playlist to distract you from the burn. 13 CLASSES/WEEK Monday - Friday: 9:30 AM Monday: 10:35 AM – Strength 30 Thursday: 10:35 AM – Strength 30 Monday – Thursday 6:00 PM (Tuesday is Low Impact & Wednesday is Strength60) Saturday & Sunday: 8:30 AM $42/month for unlimited classes Babysitting Offered Monday-Friday Morning classes (for a small fee) Special: Join us in the New Year! $0 down plus 2 free classes for a friend and $10 Krewcash. Come to class or visit jazzercise.com/fitforlife to sign up. Visit Jazzercise.com for full schedule and more information Contact Pam Capaldi for more information - 610-730-2378, [email protected] 12



YOGA CLASSES YOGA FLOW

BEGINNER YOGA

In this class we will link breath to mindfull movement in a flowing sequence of seated, standing and balancing postures building heat, strength and flexibility. All poses can be modified to work for students with different levels of ability. Please bring a yoga mat, a towel, and a water bottle.

A vinyasa style flow designed for students looking to focus on proper alignment of fundamental yoga poses. We will create a combination of movement and stillness to clear the mind and work the body. All levels are welcome. SATURDAYS 9:30 – 10:30 AM $10 Walk-in

TUESDAYS OR THURSDAYS 6:30 – 7:30 PM $10 walk-in

AEROBICS CLASSES BUTTS & GUTS WITH DEB

BODY SCULPT WITH DEB

A butt-kicking, core-wrenching class aimed at improving your entire body while working your butt and gut. This well-rounded high energy aerobics class is designed to strengthen all your major muscles using steps, weights and body weight. Come workout with this aerobics class to get into your summer body!

This aerobics class will use traditional body sculpting methods using free weights, steppers and your own body for your sculpting needs! Body sculpt was designed to provide you with a total body workout in one short hour! All levels are welcome and are encouraged to come and join us. THURSDAYS 7:00 – 8:00 PM $10 walk-in

WEDNESDAYS 7:00 – 8:00 PM $10 walk-in

TOTAL BODY WORKOUT TOTAL BODY FUSION WITH ERIN This total body workout will incorporate strength and conditioning using your body weight in addition to minimal equipment. Throw in a dash of cardio and this workout will perk up your week. 6-Week Session WEDNESDAYS January 10 – February 14, 2018 7:00PM – 7:45PM $72/Session, $15 Walk-in 6-Week Session WEDNESDAYS February 28 – April 4, 2018 7:00PM – 7:45PM $72/Session, $15 Walk-in 13



LITTLE MUSICIANS SCHOOL YEAR SESSIONS (babies up to age 3) Dance to theme-related songs using instruments including egg shakers, streamers, rhythm sticks, maracas and more. Each class features a guitar sing-along, a story, a parachute and bubbles!

10-WEEK SESSIONS WINTER SESSION: Tuesdays or Thursdays – November 28-February 8 (no class December 26 or 28) SPRING SESSION: Tuesdays or Thursdays – February 20 – May 3 (no class March 29th and April 3rd) 9:45 – 10:45 AM $135 or $105 for sibling/session

SMILE TIME “Grown up & Me” with Miss Dawn (Ages 2-4)

HERE I GROW EARLY LEARNING with Miss Dawn

(Ages 3-5) Children attend independently as an intro to structure, for enrichment, or as a sole preschool experience. A unique balance of child-centered play and teacher-directed instruction, in a cheerful setting. Each class features circle time, themed activity centers, crafts, concept lessons, songs and movement, games, and discovery projects. Designed to help young learners develop an enthusiasm for education, ease separation concerns, build friendships and cooperation, & enhance self-expression. Small class size allows for tailored, developmentally appropriate curriculum! Healthy snack provided. For more info or to register contact Dawn D. at [email protected] 8-WEEK SESSIONS Tuesdays and Thursdays, September – May 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Join any time of year! 14

Make new friends and develop a longer attention span in this “mini-introduction” to preschool. Our cheerful activities build an excitement for learning while reinforcing turn-taking and early cognitive concepts. Enjoy a story, rhymes, circle time, crafts, music & movement, games and more! For more info or to register contact Dawn D. at [email protected]. 8-WEEK SESSIONS Fridays, September – May 10:00 – 10:50 AM Join any time of the year!

FORKS TOWNSHIP PARKS & RECREATION MINECRAFT ADVENTURE (Ages 6-8) Introduce students to the educational version of MC now used in schools throughout the country focusing on learning through Minecraft. Students will discover Minecraft essentials while searching for clues to unlock doors, participating in scavenger hunts, taming wolves and riding pigs! Interwoven with the fun, students will be introduced to the basics of computer networking, the geometry of multidimensional objects and the rendering of video game graphics. Enroll today and let the Minecraft adventure begin! An initial introduction to MinecraftEdu where students manipulate an avatar to mine, craft and build in an engaging virtual world. They work together focusing on teamwork not gaming. Interwoven with the fun, students will be introduced to the basics of computer networking as they work together off the Internet with their own version of MC.

ADVANCED ROBOTICS (Ages 6-12) Using technology to structure the mind. Analyze problems in computational terms, gain practical experience of writing computer programs in order to solve problems. Encourage students to start creating and debugging simple programming sequences in the easy-to-use icon based drag and drop software. Lets them use logical reasoning to predict the behavior of the program and explore the instant effect on the physical LEGO model to identify potential optimization of the program. Example: Build the WeDo Giant model and use the programming to make the Giant model react and move upon request.


6 WEEK SESSION Tuesdays Dates: January 23-February 27, 2018

Time: 6:00pm Cost: $60.00

6 WEEK SESSION Thursdays Dates: March 1 – April 5, 2018 Time: 6:00pm Cost: $60.00

YOUTH BEGINNER’S TENNIS LESSONS (Ages 6-13 years) Our youth tennis lessons will be divided by our Certified Tennis Instructor into a Beginner’s Level 1 and a Beginner’s Level 2 class. The Level 1 class will be focusing on the introduction of new players to the game of tennis. The class will be modified to fit the participant’s level of play. Low energy balls or smaller racquets may be used to help ease the beginner into play. Level 2’s class will be a more in-depth class for those who want to learn the sport in an exciting, progressive and structured setting. Participants in both levels will focus on their swing, rallying back and forth and begin to learn about the different spins you can put on the ball.

6-WEEK SESSIONS Beginner SESSION 1: Wednesday, January 3 - February 7 SESSION 2: Wednesday, February 14 – March 21 4:30 – 5:30 PM $75/session

YOUTH INTERMEDIATE TENNIS LESSONS (Ages 9-13 years) Once your child has progressed out of the beginner’s class, they will be able to join our intermediate classes. The class will touch on the child’s swing, their rallying and ball handling skills, as well as teaching situational drills while simulating a match. 6-WEEK SESSIONS INSIDE Intermediate SESSION 1: Sundays, January 21 – March 4 SESSION 2: Sundays, March 11 – April 22 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM $75/session

ADULT TENNIS BOOTCAMP You are never too old to play tennis and never too old to start. Grips, footwork, forehand and backhand groundstrokes, volleys and serves will be introduced. Participants will also focus on coordinating movement and balance, hitting the ball with purpose and direction, and improving skill level through strengthening of the fundamentals. 15

6 WEEK SESSIONS ON SUNDAYS Beginners: 8:30 – 9:30 AM Intermediate: 9:30 – 10:30 AM Session 1: January 21 – March 4 Session 2: March 11 – April 22 $85/session


FORKS TOWNSHIP PARKS & RECREATION FORKS ADULT SPORTS LEAGUES

Coed Adult Leagues Coming Soon! Looking for responsible referees with a general knowledge of Softball or Soccer. Referee will be paid per game. If interested in becoming a referee, contact Chris Pula via email at [email protected]

START A CLUB If you are looking to start a club, let us help you! Let us help you market and get the club started. Clubs will be able to get discounted rates for the use of our facility rentals. All who are looking to start a club contact our Recreation Manager, Chris Pula via email ([email protected])

BASEBALL LESSON Join a 4 week group hitting/fielding session with our baseball instructor Chris Pula. Chris Pula was a 4 year starter at West Chester University and was a member of the 2012 National Championship Team. Chris posted a career .300 avg throughout his college campaign and led the team in RBI’s and home runs in 2013. These sessions are designed to pinpoint areas of a player’s game that need improvement and build upon the established strengths of each player. “My goal is to create an environment that will challenge each individual player to improve their own skillset, as well as, attack the mental side of baseball.” –Chris Pula 4 WEEK SESSIONS IN FORKS COMMUNITY PARK 10-12 years - Tuesdays 4:30pm-5:30pm 13-16 years - Thursdays 4:30pm-5:30pm $120 per player Maximum of 6 players per session

B

ring your dog and come to PetPalooza, which is a day for you to spoil your pets. We are going to have vendors from surrounding pet stores, veterinarians, and adoption centers. If you do not have a pet, you may find your companion here at our event, which is being held at the amphitheater in Forks Community Park. We are going to be giving out a free tennis ball to the first 100 dogs. Interested in becoming a vendor? Contact Chris Pula via email at [email protected]. SATURDAY, MAY 12, 2018 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM Free Admission

SPRING CLEANING

DISCOUNTED WINTER SKI/BOARD TICKETS

$20 a table

S

pring cleaning is right around the corner! Forks Township Parks and Recreation will host a Community Yard Sale. We are looking for individuals and families who want to sell gently used items they no longer use such as: toys, children’s clothing, tools, sports equipment, etc. Space is limited – sign up early. Contact 484-280-0535 or [email protected] for more information or for an application.

Available at the Forks Township Community Center

T

he following ski tickets will be arriving December/January. Call or stop by the front desk of the Community Center to check. • Jack Frost Big Boulder • Blue Mountain • Bear Creek • Shawnee

SATURDAY, APRIL 7th 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

16

FORKS TOWNSHIP MUNICIPAL COMPLEX

1606 Sullivan Trail - Easton, PA 18040 • Phone: 610.252.0785 / Fax: 610.252.2081 Hrs of Operation: 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM - Monday through Friday

THE FOLLOWING DAYS THE MUNICIPAL BUILDING WILL BE CLOSED IN OBSERVANCE OF THE 2018 HOLIDAY SCHEDULE: NEW YEAR’S DAY ...................................... Monday, January 01 MARTIN LUTHER KING DAY ................. Monday, January 15 PRESIDENTS’ DAY .................................. Monday, February 19 GOOD FRIDAY ............................................... Friday, March 30 MEMORIAL DAY .............................................Monday, May 28 FOURTH OF JULY....................................... Wednesday, July 04

LABOR DAY............................................... Monday, September 03 COLUMBUS DAY.......................................... Monday, October 08 VETERAN’S DAY ...................................... Monday, November 12 THANKSGIVING DAY – ........................Thursday, November 22 DAY AFTER THANKSGIVING ................... Friday, November 23 CHRISTMAS DAY.......................................Tuesday, December 25

2018 FORKS TOWNSHIP MEETING DATES BOARD OF SUPERVISORS: PLANNING COMMISSION: ZONING HEARING BOARD: RECREATION BOARD:

First Thursday of each month at 7:00 PM (Workshop) @ Municipal Building Third Thursday of each month at 7:00 PM (Regular Board Meeting) @ Municipal Building 2nd Thursday of each month at 7:00 PM @ Municipal Building 2nd and 3rd Monday of each month as required 3rd Monday of each month at 6:00 PM @ Community Center (Exceptions: No meeting in July & December)

FREQUENTLY CALLED NUMBERS WATER: Easton Suburban Water Authority: 610-258-7181 SEWER & GARBAGE: Forks Township Municipal Building: 610-258-5909 GAS : UGI Corporation: 800-276-2722 ELECTRIC: Met Ed Corporation: 800-545-7741 • PP&L: 800-342-5775 EMERGENCY CONTACTS: Emergencies: DIAL 911 • Non-Emergency: 610-759-2200 PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET: Verizon: 800-837-4966 RCN: 800-RING-RCN (1-800-746-4726) • Service Electric: 610-865-9100 Direct TV: 1-888-777-2454 (cable & internet only) IRS (Internal Revenue Services): 800-829-1040 HOSPITALS: Easton Hospital: 610-250-4000 LEHIGH VALLEY HOSPITAL: 610-402-2273 • St. Lukes Hospital: 610-954-4000 Administration for Community Living: 202-401-4634 DEP (Department of Environmental Protection): 866-255-5158 National Capital Poison Center: 800-222-1222 Social Security: 800-772-1213 Medicare: 800-633-4227 PennDot Motor Vehicle Services: 800-932-4600

STATE OFFICIALS

Senator, Mario Scavello (R)-District 40:................................................................................... 610-863-1200 Representative, Joe Emrick (R)-District 137: .......................................................................... 570-897-0401 Governor, Tom Wolf (D): ........................................................................................................ 717-787-2500 Congressman, Matt Cartwright-17th Congress. Dist.: ............................................................... 570-341-1050

NORTHAMPTON COUNTY SERVICES Animal Health & Welfare:............................................................................................................................................610-252-7722 Easton Area Public Library: .........................................................................................................................................610-258-2917 Easton Area School District: ........................................................................................................................................610-250-2400 Housing Authority: ......................................................................................................................................................610-759-8488 Two Rivers Chamber of Commerce: ..........................................................................................................................610-231-5320 Office of Veteran Affairs: ............................................................................................................................................610-559-3199 United States Post Office – Cantelmi’s Forks Hardware CPU: .................................................................................610-515-9800 17

Forks Township would like to thank the businesses that appear in this newsletter and to recognize them each as supporters of our community. For it is with their contributions that this newsletter has been produced at no charge to our residents.

501 Brodhead Street | Easton, PA | (610) 253-7225 | [email protected]

Programs for ages 2 1/2 to 4 years old We invite children to explore, predict, investigate, and manipulate through play. Play is a young child’s way of learning. Visit us at collegehillns.org

Klein Farms Dairy & Creamery Featuring Raw Milk, Ice Cream, Handmade Cheeses & Yogurts 610-253-8942 OPEN DAILY 7am-7pm [email protected] • www.KleinFarms.com 410 Klein Rd, Easton, PA 18040

Call us today for an inspection or a FREE HVAC System Estimate! Master Plumber PA# 031 / NJ# 06054 Home Improvement PA# 013611 / NJ# 13VH0060090

$79 (Reg. $124)

22 Point Heating Inspection (does not include oil systems)

edwin stipe inc • 877-337-8473 coupon expires 4/30/18

Creating Beautiful & Distinctive Landscapes in Your Back Yard!

PA Home Improvement Contractor #000767

1511 Sullivan Trail • Easton, PA 18040

610-252-8833 Come Visit Us at www.Atlanticridge.com

$49

Plumbing System Inspection Special


$50 OFF

Any Plumbing, or Heating Repair


PRST STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID HARRISBURG, PA PERMIT NO. 609

Forks Township 1606 Sullivan Trail Easton, PA 18040

This Community Newsletter is produced for Forks Township by Hometown Press 215.257.1500 • All rights reserved®

To Place An Ad Contact Denise At Hometown Press • 610-346-6126 • [email protected]

PUBLISHED BY THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS • WINTER 2018

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