Branding the Poconos - poconobusinessjournal.com
Transcription
Pocono Business Journal Seven Bridge Road, RR# 5 Box 5198 East Stroudsburg, PA 18301 www.pbjonline.com POCONO Regional Business News & Resources THIS MONTH • Carbon County Venue on Upswing.......................... page 7 • Pike County Power Spike..... page 3 • Legislative Updates.............. page 4 • PBJ Columnist: The Business Lawyer............ page 5 • Slayton Property Update...... page 7 May 2006, Vol. 2, Issue 5 Recreation & Tourism Branding the Poconos QUOTE “It takes years to make an overnight success.” — Eddie Cantor OBSERVE World Press Freedom Day Cinco de Mayo Tourist Appreciation Day National Teachers Day Receptionist Day Bike to Work Day Armed Forces Day Waiters & Waitress Day Memorial Day QUESTION Did Monroe County’s unemployment rate increase or decrease for 2005? Photo Credit: Scott Sobrinsky 3 5 6 9 10 19 20 21 29 On a crisp spring day, the main waterfall at Bushkill Falls is one of the beautiful images of tourism and recreation in the Pocono Mountains. By Ken Clark See PMCC Business Magazine ad for the answer on page 10. please recycle this paper www.pbjonline.com We’re accustomed to branding: Cheerios, Ovaltine, Goya, Crest and the like. We could scarcely shop without it. It’s like that with regions, as well as products, which is why both the Pocono Mountains Vacation Bureau (PMVB) and the Pike County Visitors’ Bureau (PCVB) are underway with branding initiatives aimed at a clear definition of what they hope to sell to the tourists that their economies depend upon. Both organizations are following the ancient marketing maxim that says you have to “sell the sizzle” if you wish to sell the steak. While both have the same goal, there is some dispute as to what sizzles best for each. Some entities in the Pike County Visitors’ Bureau, while not abandoning the “Poconos” brand name or seceding from the Pocono Mountains Vacation Bureau, have taken to calling themselves the “Delaware Highlands,” “Lake Wallenpaupack,” or other localespecific designations in their promotional efforts. The Vacation Bureau, which is the official tourist promotion agency for all four Pocono Mountain counties -- including Pike -- has hired a research and marketing firm to come up with some new and exciting “sizzle” to lure visitors. The PMVB, headed by Bob Uguccioni, will spend somewhere in excess of $200,000 in funds (raised by the recently passed room tax) on an exhaustive study to develop a new marketing campaign. The research and marketing firm Yesawich, Pepperdine, Brown and see BRANDING page 6 Professional Profile - The Lodge at Woodloch page 8 2 Pocono Business Journal | May 2006 MONTHLY MISSIVE www.pbjonline.com POCONO Regional Business News & Resources Twin Willow Publishing Company Pocono Business Journal Seven Bridge Road RR#5 Box 5198 East Stroudsburg, PA 18301-9209 570.421.0100 | fax 570.421.0404 www.pbjonline.com PUBLISHER / EDITOR Marynell Strunk REPORTERS Ken Clark Ann Gerfelder Kathy Ruff CONTRIBUTORS Tom Ford Kevin Shivers The Pocono Mountain region has been recognized over the years as a retreat; an oasis of peace. The same amenities that beckon visitors from the hectic cities of the Northeast and beyond have made Monroe and Pike the fastest growing areas Pennsylvania, with tremendous residential and business growth. But aside from those who have turned their weekend get-away into a life-long stay, the Poconos is still a haven for tourists. Regional tourism officials face challenges to keep a fresh and appealing image. Read about some of the efforts that are afoot to continue positioning the area as a destination of choice. Tourism is big business in the Poconos and one Carbon County attraction has bolstered the economy with an unassuming and steady rise. Penn’s Peak has helped foster growth and attract visitors year-round to the area with an appealing entertainment venue. Again this month, Pocono Business Journal is featuring a new columnist. Tom Ford is discussing sexual harassment in his column, The Business Lawyer, and will be addressing a variety of legal issues in future months. Lastly, as the paper continues to grow, please keep PBJ updated with press releases, story ideas, special business events and anything you think the business community would be interested in reading about. We look to hear from you as we work on future issues that will continue to inform, inquire and inspire. Marynell K. Strunk Publisher/Editor mstrunk@pbjonline.com PHOTOGRAPHER Scott Sobrinsky Gary Steigerwalt EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Danielle Eberhardt TABLE OF CONTENTS COPY EDITOR Deborah Schiffer ARTICLES • PUC Aims to Halt Power Spkes in Pike Count . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 • Venue Shows Strong, Steady Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 • Residential Realtor Chosen for Slayton Properties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 SALES CONSULTANT Daniel M. Fredericks PRODUCTION/DESIGN Jason Trump PROFESSIONAL PROFILE • The Lodge at Woodloch Aligns Mind, Body and Spirit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9 CIRCULATION Caryn Fogel COPYRIGHT: PBJ is protected under the federal Copyright Act. Reproductions of any part by any means or facsimiles without the express written permission of the publisher are not permitted. Reprints of PBJ articles are available. For rates and information visit http://www.pbjonline.com/reprints.html. PBJ cannot be responsible for the return of unsolicited material, manuscripts and photographs without the inclusion of a self-addressed stamped envelope. Information in this publication is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy and completeness of the information cannot be guaranteed. Submission of information does not guarantee inclusion. PBJ is published monthly from offices located at Seven Bridge Road, East Stroudsburg, PA 18301. PBJ serves business owners, managers and professionals in the four county Pocono region: Carbon, Monroe, Pike and Wayne. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year or $50 for two years. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Pocono Business Journal, RR#5 Box 5198, East Stroudsburg, PA 18301 DEPARTMENTS • Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 • Editorial Comic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 • HR Tip of the Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 • Legislative Updates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 • PBJ Columnist: The Business Lawyer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 • PBJ Register . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-15 please recycle this paper Advertisers Index ASSI. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Associated Libraries of Monroe County. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 SUBSCRIPTION FORM If you would like to guarantee receiving the Pocono Business Journal monthly, please mail subscription form along with check made payable to: Pocono Business Journal Seven Bridge Road RR#5 Box 5198 East Stroudsburg, PA 18301-9209 Name:___________________________Title:____________________________ Company:________________________________________________________ Address:_ __________________________________ Phone:________________ City:___________________________ State:_____________ Zip:_ __________ ____ 1 year (12 issues): $25.00 ____ 2 years (24 issues): $50.00 Thank you for choosing Pocono Business Journal Blue Cross of Northeastern Pennsylvania. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Brooks Accounting Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Buck Hill Golf Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Bushkill Falls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 C & M Homes, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Chant Realty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Glen Brook Country Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Great Bear Golf & Country Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Journal Newspapers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Michael Baxter & Associates Commercial Real Estate. . . . . . . . . . 8 Pocono Mountains Business Magazine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Sherman Theater. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 The Packaging Place. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Woodloch Resort. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 3 Pocono Business Journal | May 2006 NEWS Milford - The Partnership for Pike County’s three economic development organizations (Chamber of Commerce, Industrial Development Authority, and the Industrial Development Corporation) has announced the selection of its next Executive Director. Amy L. Gruzesky of Factoryville will replace outgoing Executive Dave Wilson, who retired at the end of April. Amy recently served as the Executive Director of the Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau in Tunkhannock, PA. She managed the 230-member organization which promotes tourism and tourism-related business in the four counties of Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna and Wyoming. Previously Amy served as Director of Public Affairs and Development at the Earth Conservancy in Ashley, and she was a regional reporter for the Scranton Times. Amy is a graduate of Penn State University with a B.A. in Journalism. Her professional affiliations include the Northeast Network, a professional organization for women in Northeast PA, for which she served as president from 2005 to 2007. She is also on the Board of the PA Route 6 Tourist Association, serving as vice president from 2005 to 2007; and she is Director of the Endless Mountains Heritage Region. The search committee was comprised of representatives of the four Boards involved in the partnership: Submitted byPike County Chamber of Commerce New Executive Director for Pike County Economic Groups By Ken Clark Amy Gruzesky gets an orientation her first day at work from David Wilson, outgoing Executive Director. the County Commissioners, the Pike County Chamber, the Pike County Industrial Development Authority, and the Pike County Industrial Development Corporation. The committee unanimously expressed its enthusiasm. “We’re delighted to have found someone so imminently qualified. We look forward to Amy’s leadership as we pursue the next phase of economic development in Pike County,” said County Commissioner Harry Forbes. William Stone Speaker at WEDCO Annual Dinner Photo credit: Gary Steigerwalt Honesdale - Guest speaker, William Stone, First Vice President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, was received by an enthusiastic crowd at the Wayne Economic Development Corporation (WEDCO) Annual William H. Stone, Jr. at podium. Dinner. The event was held on April 6 at the Bryn Mawr and represented an opportunity for WEDCO members and guests to gather and reflect on the events of the past year and report on future projects. Stone shared his views and offered many positive comments about Wayne County while acknowledging the challenges inherent in the county’s rapid growth. PUC Aims to Halt Power Spikes in Pike County “Taking a longer-term view, the region’s performance is quite remarkable. As you may know, Pennsylvania is the third slowest growing state in the country. However, the northeastern comer of the Commonwealth has had a different experience. Pike, Monroe, and Wayne counties lead the way as the fastest growing counties in the Commonwealth and are among the fastest growing nationally. Several factors that have contributed to this strong economic performance, and the good news is that those factors should continue to support strong performance in the years ahead,” says Stone. Stone’s speech in full is available at www. philadelphiafed.org. The Pennsylvania Public Utilities Commission wants to let Pike County consumers buy their electricity collectively from a “retail aggregator,” rather than take regulatory measures to offset a whopping 128 percent power cost increase imposed in February by the Pike County Light and Power Company. The PUC announced an April 28 auction in which one successful bidder will be selected to pool consumers into a collective base to bring down prices that spiraled out of control this past winter, triggering near panic among customers in the northernmost county of the Poconos. “The price spike in Pike County is an unintended consequence of the world energy situation and reflects the volatility of the overall energy market,” Commission Chairman Wendell F. Holland said in a press release. “Today we have laid the groundwork for a deliberative process that makes every effort to allow the market -- rather than regulation -- to improve this situation for consumers, employers and community organizations.” He said all participating bidders in the power broker auction “must demonstrate the capability to serve residential consumers by indicating adequate staffing at service centers to field questions.” Pike County Light and Power unilaterally raised its prices at what PUC spokesperson Jennifer Kocher called “the pinnacle of a very bad market.” “Since then, prices have leveled off,” she added. “And the commission reserves the right to reject any part of this process if it doesn’t benefit consumers.” How do you bring joy to your workforce? Plan your next meeting at Photo credit: Gary Steigerwalt WOODLOCH RESORT From left: William H. Stone, Jr., First Vice President/CEO, Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia; Robert J. Suhosky, Executive Director of WEDCO; and William Davis, President, Wayne Bank. please recycle this paper 800.572.6658 opt 6,2 AN AWARD-WINNING RESORT & CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE Nestled in the Northeast Pocono Mountains Lake Region www. W O O D L O C H .com 4 Pocono Business Journal | May 2006 Legislative Updates By Kevin Shivers EDITORIAL damages based on his/her proportionate share of responsibility. If a business owner is ten percent liable, s/he would be required to pay ten percent of the damages awarded. Gov. Rendell Vetoes Bill on Junk Lawsuits Gov. Ed Rendell vetoed legislation, SB 435, intended to help reduce junk lawsuits. The veto was issued despite calls by countless small-business owners, retailers and manufacturers across Pennsylvania urging him to sign the bill into law. The veto by Gov. Rendell was an apparent flip-flop by the Governor who as a candidate in 2002 pledged to support similar legislation if it reached his desk. The veto also marked the third pro-small-business bill in three years that was rejected by the Governor after reaching his desk. This veto comes fresh on the heels of his veto of legislation, HB 515, last December to reduce taxes on manufacturers, small businesses and working families; his veto of regulatory flexibility legislation, HB 2442, in 2004 would have required state agencies to seek small-business input during the drafting of proposed regulations, and require agencies to examine less costly regulatory alternatives to protect small business. SB 435 requires a defendant in a lawsuit to pay damages proportionate to their liability. This legislation recodifies Act 57 of 2002, the “Fair Share Act,” which passed with wide bipartisan support. That law was ruled unconstitutional by the courts on procedural grounds that it violated the single-subject requirement of the state’s constitution. The unfair doctrine of joint and several liability can require a defendant that is found only one percent liable in a lawsuit to pay one hundred percent of damages awarded. Plaintiffs’ lawyers use joint and several to snare as many defendants as possible in search of the wealthy defendant, regardless of the degree of involvement of the defendant. Small-business owners often fall victim to these ‘deep-pocket’ searches. Importantly, forty four other states have already taken action to reform this outdated and unfair legal doctrine. SB 435 replaces the doctrine of joint and several liability with “comparative responsibility,” which requires a defendant to pay New Employer Mandate The Pennsylvania State House kicked off Small Business Week on April 10-14 by voting to raise the state minimum wage to $7.15 and hour -- a forty percent increase. House Bill 257, sponsored by State Rep. Mark Cohen (D-Philadelphia), would raise the state minimum wage to $7.15 by July 2007. The measure now heads to the State Senate. A study by the Employment Policies Institute reports that a $2 increase in the minimum wage in Pennsylvania will result in over 10,000 job losses and will cost job creators and workers more than $262 million in higher labor costs and lost income. Ultimately, they said such an increase would make it harder for small businesses to manage costs and hurt the very workers it’s intended to help: young workers, low-skilled workers and those trying to reenter the workforce. Introduction of Employer Healthcare Mandate In April, State Rep. John Taylor (R-Philadelphia) announced he is sponsoring legislation, HB 2495, to require Pennsylvania companies to pay as much as nine percent of their payroll for employee health insurance costs. The bill serves as the framework to require small businesses to pay for their workers’ health insurance. Proponents, including Rep. Taylor, claim this bill only applies to large businesses like Wal-Mart. The state’s leading business associations note this legislation threatens all Pennsylvania businesses. Similar legislation became law last year in Maryland targeting businesses with 10,000 workers. Already, Maryland state lawmakers this year have introduced a bill to require all businesses to pay for their workers’ health insurance. Small business owners note the bill doesn’t solve the problem. Small businesses and their workers are unable to afford health insurance due to rapidly rising health care This Summer, Stay Close. Go Far. Summer Sessions 2006 at East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania 3-Week Session starts May 22! Pre-Session May 22 - June 9 Courses offered in most fields Main Session June 12 - July 21 Low tuition Study Abroad Programs* Post Session July 24 - August 11 For complete schedule and registration information, visit www.esu.edu and click on Summer Sessions. For more information, call 570-422-2854. * Available for credit or for self-enrichment costs. The John Taylor bill, HB 2495, does nothing to solve that underlying problem or guarantee that one additional person will receive health insurance. To the contrary, this bill will cost people their jobs and no job means no health insurance. Imposing a health care mandate on Pennsylvania employers will place our businesses at a competitive disadvantage with other states and dramatically raise the costs of goods and services. Workers Compensation Conference The Bureau of Workers’ Compensation has announced that its fifth annual Workers’ Compensation Conference will be held June 12, 13 and 14 at the Hershey Lodge and Convention Center in Hershey, PA. The conference promises to offer participants insights from experts in the field of worker’s compensation. Representatives from the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, the insurance industry, employers, claimant and defense counsel, labor and the health care industry will come together to share their knowledge and experience on the worker’s compensation system. The conference registration fee is $225 per person. Registration form and event details can be found at: http://www.dli.state.pa.us/landi/ lib/landi/bwc/wcconf/2006_mailer.pdf. To register, complete the form and mail to Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, 1171 S. Cameron Street, Room 324-A, Harrisburg, PA 71104-2501 no later than June 2, 2006. Sign up for NFIB Small-Business “Take it to the Hill” Summit Hundreds of the nation’s small-business owners are expected to descend on Washington for the 2006 NFIB National Small-Business Summit June 18-20 at the Grand Hyatt in Washington, D.C. for NFIB’s first-ever “Take it to the Hill” event. The NFIB National Summit will give small-business leaders the opportunity to gather and meet face to face with their senators and representatives on Capitol Hill. Together, NFIB members will share their experiences of how Washington decisions affect small businesses everywhere. Business and political speakers also include Charlie Cook, Stuart Rothenberg, Newt Gingrich and Tony Snow. To register for the Summit, please visit www.nfib.com. Register now for one or more courses in Small class sizes ©Copley News Service. Visit Copley News Service at www.copleynews.com. ESU is a member of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education. Kevin Shivers is the PA State Director of the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB). Founded in 1943, NFIB is the nations’ largest small-business advisory group, representing the consensus views of its 600,000 members in Washington, DC and all 50 state capitals. To join NFIB, call 866314-7621. For more information on NFIB/ Pennsylvania, go to www.nfib.com/PA. NOTE TO READERS: Opinions expressed in any commentary published in PBJ are not necessarily a reflection of the opinions of PBJ. Likewise, PBJ will not be held responsible for any suggestion or advice published by PBJ and PBJ assumes no liability for actions that result based on such material. The publisher and staff welcome your opinions on issues. Write to PBJ at the address listed on the inside front cover or e-mail editor@pbjonline.com. 5 Pocono Business Journal | May 2006 NEWS Defending Discrimination Claims – It Costs A Lot to Win, But Even More to Lose The Business Lawyer Tom Ford www.pbjonline.com/blog At one of the employment law conferences we attended a few years ago, a Pennsylvania Human Relations Commissioner estimated that every Pennsylvania employer will face at least one employment discrimination claim every seven years. When it takes five-figures to defeat even spurious claims in court, that is an eyeopening statistic. What is at stake for an employment discrimination claim? If an employer loses in court, it can be hit with a judgment that includes back pay as well as future pay, rehiring the plaintiff, paying compensation for lost benefits, out of pocket expenses, compensatory damages and, what may be the unkindest cut of all, paying the plaintiff’s lawyer. Yes, it can cost a lot to win – but even more to lose. The first line of defense, then, is to do whatever you can to avoid discrimination claims in the first place. The second: keep them out of court. This month we are going to talk about how the way you handle the claims at the agency level affects whether you have to deal with them in court. In our next column, we will discuss things that you can do to help avoid the claims altogether. Before an employment discrimination claim can get to court, the claimant has to go through one of the governmental agencies that enforces anti-discrimination laws. In Pennsylvania, that is either the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) or the Federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The usual role of the PHRC or EEOC is to investigate the claims and issue a determination; that is, to state an opinion on whether the claimant has established a discrimination claim. They then try to resolve the dispute. After the agency is finished, then the claimant may go to court. BUT, it is exceedingly rare that a claimant who loses at the agency ends up taking the case on to court. For all practical purposes, if you win at the agency level, the case is over and you can get back to your business. Unfortunately, because the agencies seem more informal than court cases, most claimants do not have lawyers at the agency level, and because employers often misunderstand how what they do there can affect a court case, employers often don’t give the agency case the attention it deserves. You need to take the complaint seriously because the agencies surely do. Care needs to be taken toGB prepare PMVB appropriately detailed responses to each allegation – responses that not only take into account the facts of what happened, but also complement your legal defenses. Successful defense of an agency complaint requires, at a minimum, interviews of co-workers and witnesses, review of employment or application records, obtaining affidavits when appropriate, and preparing full documentary support for the defenses. A solid defense will also pull together evidence relating to “similarly situated” employees. In most cases the agency will ask for that information, but even where it does not, in the right hands it can be helpful to your defense. In most cases, these tasks are best left to experienced professionals, who may understand better the nuances of the law, because, after all, what your witnesses say can – and will – be used against you. You need to get your responses right and get them right the first time. Any later changes can be used, fairly or not, as evidence that you gave false reasons for your conduct and are covering up actual discriminatory intent. Winning at the agency level takes time, money, and a great deal of careful thought and analysis. But it takes much less time and much less money than winning in court. Win at the state level and you are more likely to avoid the much more expensive court case and get back to doing what you do best, running your business. Tom Ford is a principle at Smithford Business Lawyers, LLC, with offices in Stroudsburg and Wilkes-Barre. You can reach him at 800-728-1406, by e-mail at tff@sfalaw. com and read his blog at www.pbjonline.com/blog. Golf Guide Ad.qxd 4/20/2006 1:08 PM Page 1 Rated Top 20 Best Golf Courses in Pennsylvania — Golf Digest Magazine · Jack Nicklaus Signature Design · 18 Hole / Par 71 / 7,025 Total Yards · 5 Sets of Tee Boxes · Tee-to-Green Irrigation · Tee-to-Green Bent Grass · No Parallel Fairways · Golf Shop · Restaurants · Group Packages · Memberships please recycle this paper A Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course Call4/11/2006 (570) 223-2000 visitPage www.greatbeargolf.com pocono Bus Journal_06.qxd 11:20orAM 1 Explore... Our NEW! Trail Map Trail Map Adventure Adventure ❖ ❖ ❖ ❖ ❖ ❖ Eight Waterfalls Paddleboat Rides Native American Exhibit Miles of Nature Trails Gift & Souvenir Shops Ice Cream Parlor ❖ ❖ ❖ ❖ ❖ Fishing Wildlife Exhibit Miniature Golf Fudge Kitchen Snack Bar Open 9 a.m. 7 days a week April through October. November – weather permitting. ❖ Youth group rates available. Adult chaperone required for every 10 youths... Chaperone is Free. ❖ Free parking and picnic area. THE NIAGARA OF PENNSYLVANIA Managed by ARAMARK Route 209, Bushkill, Pennsylvania 18324 • 570-588-6682 • www.visitbushkillfalls.com 6 Pocono Business Journal | May 2006 NEWS BRANDING ... cont. from page 1 PBJ BLOG Talk about business online with PBJ columnists. www.pbjonline.com/blog Photo Credit: Scott Sobrinsky Russell (YPB&R) has been hired to launch the campaign designed to identify an image that will appeal to community and industry leaders, and a brand promise directed at current and prospective visitors. “Our last slogan was ‘Pocono Mountains: More to Love,’” said PMVB Director of Marketing Gail Starrett. “To us, that communicated all the different things there were to do here. We dropped that slogan several years ago … and now we’re looking for a new tagline. We want to be able to develop a whole entire marketing campaign that will make the Pocono Mountains attractive, not only to consumers, but also to meeting planners and tour operators.” Starrett said developing a new image for the region will be accomplished through the use of focus groups and on-line surveys to find the most compatible motto and advertising approach, right down to the color and letter font for the PMVB Web site. The final marketing paradigm will be used uniformly to promote all four counties in the Poconos – Monroe, Carbon, Wayne and Pike. But the feedback from Pike, the northernmost and rural of the four counties, has been less than positive about the Vacation Bureau’s umbrella approach, which is why a group of hoteliers formed the Pike County Visitor’s Bureau (PCVB) last year. “It’s a sensitive issue because there is a broad range of opinion about how effective the Pocono Mountains Vacation Bureau has been in various segments of the tourist business,” said PCVB president and co-founder Sean Strub. And Eric Ehrhardt, owner of Ehrhardt’s hotel and restaurant on the shore of Lake Wallenpaupack and PCVB vice president, agreed. “The idea of the Pike County Visitors’ Bureau is to emphasize the facilities within Pike County and work with the Vacation Bureau very closely,” he said. “We’re still very much in the development stage and we’re a long way away from a specific brand or image. There are some of us that feel we are very closely in line with the Vacation Bureau, while others are thinking we should distance ourselves from them. Those are issues we’re still working out.” Strub said many Pike County hotel operators feel short-changed by the Vacation Bureau’s promotion of “the destination resort and the heart-shaped bathtub factor,” which does not serve businesses that do not offer those types of experiences. Strub added that stake-holders along the Delaware River draw most of their clientele from the Hudson River Valley, New Jersey and Connecticut, rather than from Monroe County and the Lehigh Valley. “For businesses located along the Delaware River, their clientele has no sense of being in the Poconos,” he said. “When you’re trying to come up with a brand that will market the river, you can’t be state specific. That’s where the Delaware Highlands brand came from. We don’t think it’s our role to impose a brand on them and we’re trying to work with the Vacation Bureau to get them to be more willing to participate in things that are not just solely marketing the Pocono brand.” Strub was quick to deny, however, that he is an advocate of secession from the PMVB. “The Pocono brand is an enormously powerful one with tremendous application, but I think there are some businesses that can profit by not using the brand, and if they want to do their marketing under other brands, I think they should be allowed to do so,” adds Strub. At the Vacation Bureau, Starrett said the marketing campaign being developed with YPB&R “will be broad enough to be usable by all four of our counties.” “I am aware that some entities in Pike County like to describe Pike as being in the Delaware Highlands, but we consider Pike County in the Pocono Mountains,” she said. “We certainly are the official tourist promotion agency for the four counties of Monroe, Carbon, Pike and Wayne.” The Delaware River works its way through the Gap, luring tourists year after year to the Pocono Mountains. 7 Pocono Business Journal | May 2006 NEWS Venue Shows Strong, Steady Growth By Ann Stevenson Week after week, Penn’s Peak host up to 1,800 concert goers at its unique and comfortable facility in Jim Thorpe. With its spacious dance floor, loft ceilings, twin bars and restaurant, Penn’s Peak patrons enjoy a breathtaking overlook of Beltzville Lake, plus a commanding, picturesque fifty-mile panoramic view of northeastern Pennsylvania’s Appalachian Mountains. Open since February 2003, Penn’s Peak provides a spectacular variety of entertainment in a part of Pennsylvania that has lots to offer residents and visitors year round. Just miles from Exit 74 of the Northeast Extension (476) of the Pennsylvania Turnpike, it is geographically convenient to Hazleton, Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, Stroudsburg, the Lehigh Valley, Philadelphia and New York City. Carbon County’s Director of Economic Development, Toni Artuso, remarks that Penn’s Peak has added a significant resource that impacts the quality of life in Carbon County. “Beginning their third season, Penn’s Peak offers local jobs and a great entertainment venue,” says Artuso. “It has added to the attractiveness of the Jim Thorpe area for Pennsylvanians and those visiting from farther away.” In addition to the year-round concert schedule, Penn’s Peak hosts weddings, trade shows, conferences, seminars and private parties. The concert schedule appeals to fans of just about every taste. This spring’s line-up includes talents such as Bobby Vinton, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Kenny Rogers, Pertpetual Groove, the 4th Annual Tech Net Comedy Night, Beatlemania Now, Dark Star Orchestra, Pat Residential Realtor Chosen for Slayton Properties Benatar & Neil Giraldo, Little River Band, Raymond the Amish Comic and Merle Haggard, among others. Some of the entertainers even extend their stay to enjoy the area after the show. And it’s not just the music and entertainment that make a visit to Penn’s Peak a trip to remember. You can dine and dance and wander through their expansive property that also includes two bars and a gift shop to pick up those memory making mementos. There are shows that include family style meals, or you can enjoy your meal at Roadies Restaurant that also provides a concert menu of everything from soups, salads and sandwiches to a prime rib dinner with all the trimmings. Or if that’s not your style, you can also wait until after the show and enjoy Roadies’ moonlight menu of light (and some not-so-light) late night fare. Penn’s Peak is a complete concert experience, but for those who want to make it a weekend getaway, they have partnered with Pocono Mountains Vacation Bureau to inform customers of area cultural events, local hotels and other lodging options, and other tourist opportunities. “Pocono Mountain visitors comprise a good number of our customers,” says Lynn Stelling, events coordinator. “We want to make sure their visit is exceptional from beginning to end.” The fact that two new hotels have opened close to the facility since 2004 may be testament to the effect Penn’s Peak has had on area tourism. For those who are eager to hear their favorite performers close to home, or who are seeking a weekend getaway with friends, Penn’s Peak has a lot to offer. For more information, visit www.pennspeak.com. By Ken Clark Three properties seized by the court from jailed Brodheadsville builder Dennis Slayton have been sold under sealed bid by commercial real estate broker Michael Baxter. At this writing, Baxter was unable to identify the buyers because details of the deal still were being finalized. However Baxter did note that the sale, heated by notoriety surrounding its circumstances, will generate approximately $2 million, up from his original estimate of $1.5 million. “This was a rare opportunity where we were able to capitalize on the otherwise adverse press about the owner and utilize it to market the real estate,” Baxter stated. “There was substantial interest in the properties and the sealed bid process helped us quickly and fairly to secure a buyer from a number of qualified candidates.” Monroe County Judge Jerome Cheslock designated Baxter as receiver of Slayton’s holdings in a bid to pay off $1.1 million owed to Pennstar Bank and other creditors. Slayton, who initially fled jurisdiction, remained incarcerated in Monroe County Correctional Facility where he is awaiting trial. Slayton is accused of taking approximately $500,000 from home buyers, then defaulting on promised construction. Properties include an office building in Brodheadsville, an undeveloped 38-acre parcel of land in Tannersville and a home on Woods Way in Hamilton Township. Baxter, who specializes exclusively in commercial real estate, said he chose Cristina Primrose from ReMax of the Poconos to handle sale of the home. “I had proposals from several qualified residential brokers,” Baxter said. “I selected Cristina based on her performance in the marketplace.” The parcel of land on Route 611 has received municipal approval for construction of a 32-unit townhouse development which Baxter notes that the new owner will pursue. Pocono Business Journelr 4-13-06.qxd 4/11/2006 4:29 PM Page 1 Become a 2006 Member of Legendary AT E R G W NE S! E 27-hole Donald Ross designed Masterpiece RAT Choose the membership that best suits your needs… Golf Golf Golf Golf Golf Golf Golf Golf GolfGolf Golf Golf Golf Golf Golf Individual, Couple, Family, Junior, and Corporate (with and without carts) www.buckhillgolfclub.com 8 Pocono Business Journal | May 2006 PROFESSIONAL PROFILE The Lodge at Woodloch Aligns A couple’s professional talents, dreams and passion to make a difference have blossomed into a new business located on seventy five wooded acres in Hawley, Pike County. John E. Lopis and his wife, Ginny Michel Lopis, have transformed their twenty-year experience in spa design and operations consulting into the Lodge at Woodloch, a $37 million luxury destination spa including 58 guest rooms, 27 treatment rooms and many other lavish amenities. The 40,000 square foot spa will open its doors on the edge of Lake Wallenpaupack next month. “We have never been able to take all of our ideas and bring them together in one place,” says John Lopis, co-owner and co-founder. “Everything that our guests are involved with in our program – and indeed back home – have to do with the choices that they make.” Those choices blend fitness, adventure, creativity, wellness and pampering holistically into an “awakening” experience the owners hope will encourage wise lifestyle choices while at the same time providing enjoyment, satisfaction and rejuvenation of mind, body and spirit. Options can include unwinding in the spa’s therapeutic soaking pools or hydro-massage waterfalls, or relaxing in an infinity-edge whirlpool overlooking the lake. Guests choose the pace and can customize programs to meet their exclusive desires. Basic programs include smoking cessation, executive renewal and other group or individual instructions for a half-day, full day or on an individual á la carte basis. “We became committed to coming to this large market and creating a drive-to spa, something that would be a regional draw so that people would not have to involve additional time and cost for travel,” says John. Photo Credit: Gary Steigerwalt By Kathy Ruff The Lopis’s taking a moment to stand in the outside waterfall before the water starts rushing over the rocks. The location’s proximity to New York City and the northeast corridor provides access to a large volume of prospective clients ranging from spa-goers and vacationers to golfers, outdoor enthusiasts and professionals wanting to get away from the everyday stresses. Its closeness to the Delaware River, state game lands and the Woodloch Springs Country Club Community’s 18-hole championship golf course further adds to its magnetism. “Being an elegant, high-quality facility is one of the things that’s going to make us different,” says Ginny. That difference focuses on a holistic approach that blends into a realistic lifestyle for its guests. Your commercial property is a valuable asset... How do you identify a qualified Commercial Specialist? Here are three questions you can ask to ensure that your agent is qualified. 1. Does the broker sell anything other than commercial property? (The correct answer is NO.) 2. How many commercial properties has the agent sold? (This will give you an idea about their real experience.) 3. How much of the agency’s advertising budget is spent on marketing commercial property? (The answer should be 100 %.) Our imitators flatter us, but only one group of agents can truly claim the title Commercial Specialists... www.baxcommercial.com (570)-620-1900 (800) 930-9788 100% Commercial, 100% of the Time! 9 Pocono Business Journal | May 2006 PROFESSIONAL PROFILE Mind, Body and Spirit The Lodge at Woodloch’s notable amenities: • 46 rooms and 12 suites all with oversized bathrooms, flat-screened TVs, high speed Internet access, and spacious private outdoor balconies overlooking a lake, ponds and gardens • 27 treatment rooms for services including massage, shiatsu, mud and seaweed wraps, hydrotherapies and many others • 100-seat gourmet restaurant featuring healthy, light cuisine and chef’s demonstration kitchen • Co-ed therapeutic soaking pools with 8’ and 4’ hydro-massage waterfalls • Library with large outdoor porch overlooking the lake • Meeting, presentation and game rooms in addition to learning and activities center • One-mile recreation trail, woodland gardens, gazebos and waterscapes • Year-round outdoor infinity edge whirlpool with radiant heat deck • Indoor pool, salon, lounge and boutique. • Two multi-purpose studios, a fully-equipped cardio/weight training studio and a yoga/meditation studio “Oftentimes when we look at a program that is holistic, that includes mind, body and spirit or focuses on wellness, we think of the more austere environments like retreats,” says John. “Our lodge is intentionally appointed in a very sophisticated and comfortable way. We have all the comforts people are used to enjoying that provide true relaxation.” John and Ginny Lopis stand inside the soon-tobe main entrance at the Lodge at Woodloch Close to completion, the inside waterfall will be a focal point within the spa area. One well-appointed feature that serves a dual purpose is the chef’s kitchen, which doubles as culinary classroom with demonstrations promoting healthy gourmet dining. “We intend to create one of the finest dining experiences in the destination spa experience in the country,” says Ginny. “That comes from the quality and preparation of the cuisine we have.” Unlike most destination spas, the facility will offer fine wines, beer and alcohol as part of its realistic lifestyle management philosophy. “We believe that it’s appropriate in a balanced, healthy lifestyle to have the opportunity to choose a glass of wine with dinner,” says Ginny. “We have made a decision to include fine wines and beers. We do a lot of those things in Principals: John E. Lopis, Ph.D, and Ginny Michel Lopis, M.A, founders and owners Key Personnel: John Lopis and Ginny Michel Lopis, founders/owners; Leslie Johnson, spa director; Lyle Bolyard, executive chef Telephone: 570-658-8500 Web Site: www.thelodgeatwoodloch.com Total Investment: $37 Million Opening Date: June 2006 Estimated No. of Employees: 150-200 Recognition: 2005 International Spa Association Visionary Award our lifestyle when we are home. To say we are not going to do it here didn’t make any sense to us.” What also makes sense to John and Ginny is providing employees with an environment to enrich their labors and ultimately their guests’ experiences. “We feel that in order for our employees to properly communicate the philosophies that we teach and the practices that we offer our guests, staff should know about them firsthand,” says John. “One of our business philosophies is that the culture of our organization is built on the same principles of those things that we are offering to our guests.” Employees will participate in wellness programs, hikes and other offerings to gain a hands-on knowledge of the facility’s amenities, enabling them to better accommodate the clientele. “There is a real awareness and taking responsibility for managing our own lifestyles,” says John. “We are helping our guests, our staffs and ourselves to the awakening process, to be more connected to those choices we make, how we manage our lifestyles, and what satisfaction it brings us. It helps everyone to be more aware to grow in those ways.” That growth includes time for employees to donate time each month to charitable work. “It’s a nice way to make a contribution to the community and to have our employees share something that we think is very good for their lifestyle awareness and their feelings about themselves,” says John. “We see spas as an opportunity to help people open their hearts and open their minds. It helps them to be aware of how to affect the world around them in a positive way,” says Ginny. “If we are not creating a healthy world, it’s pretty hard to be healthy in our own individual space.” The couple believes the spa will create a wholesome space to make a difference in the economics, increased visibility and promotion of the region. The spa anticipates employing between 150 and 200 people in a variety of jobs. “We expect at least eighty percent of our revenue stream to be out-of-state patrons, so we are bringing substantial support to the local and state economy,” says John. “We want to share with them the feeling of pride we have in bringing to the Northeast region here in Pennsylvania, in the Pocono Mountains, something that we are positive will be rated as one of a very small collection of high-end destination spa properties.” The couple projects sales of between $15 and $20 million annually. For the Lopises, the venture represents a lifelong dream come true: to help themselves and others grow. 10 Pocono Business Journal | May 2006 NEWS Submitted by Weiler Corp. Pictured at the Groundbreaking are members of Weiler’s Management Team along with key executives of the Lamb Company (Karl Weiler, Jeff Smith, Cynthia Konrath, Cappy Noto, Dennis Brown, Jim Teeple, Dick Gommel, Frank Hettes, Jeff Welday, and Chris Weiler). please recycle this paper Cresco - Weiler Corporation, a leading manufacturer of power brushes for the welding, fabrication and manufacturing industries, is adding approximately 40,000 square feet to its Cresco facility. The building project will encompass a 25,000 square foot addition to its offices and a 16,000 square foot addition to its existing 55,000 square foot distribution center. Renovations to offices and employee areas in the distribution center are underway as well. Excavation work for the expansion is being handled by Papillon & Moyer, of Stroudsburg. Lamb Construction, of Genesee, has been hired to build the new facility. “We are very excited to be breaking ground on the expansion of our facility,” said CEO Karl Weiler of Weiler Corporation. “This venture is a testament to how much our business has grown and we look forward to many more prosperous years.” Weiler Corporation is an ISO 9001 manufacturer of power brushes, specialty abrasives and maintenance products that are used in a wide range of industries from aerospace to automotive to shipbuilding. The company provides world-class service and surface conditioning solutions. Weiler employs over 400 workers in its Cresco facility and has four other manufacturing facilities world-wide.For more information call (800) 835-9999 or visit www.weilercorp.com. PPL Utilities Invests in NEPA Submitted by NEPA Alliance Weiler Corporation Breaks Ground Pittston – Jeffrey Box, Acting President & CEO, NEPA Alliance accepts a check for $10,000 from Paul Canevari, PPL Utilities. The check represents PPL’s annual investment to the Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance (NEPA). NEPA promotes economic development throughout the counties of Carbon, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, Pike, Schuylkill and Wayne. 11 Pocono Business Journal | May 2006 NEWS New Mattioli Emergency Center at PMC East Stroudsburg - Local dignitaries, emergency response personnel, hospital staff and other invited guests were given the first public tours of the new 101,000 square foot Mattioli Emergency Center at the end of March. “This evening provides a unique opportunity for the community to take a complete tour of an Emergency Room,” said Dr. Peter Favini, FACEP, Chief of Emergency Medicine. “Usually such tours must work around patient areas, or they take place after an ER has already been in use, so this is a rare opportunity.” Designed to meet the needs of a growing community, Pocono Medical Center’s new Mattioli Emergency Center will offer new and improved services for emergency patients. Pocono Medical Center’s Mattioli Emergency Center is one of the top five busiest Emergency Centers in Pennsylvania, treating nearly 70,000 patients in 2005. “To put this growth in historical perspective, the ER in the Jordan wing was designed to accommodate only 30,000 patients per year,” Richard Henley said. “Today, we are able to provide care for more than 70,000.” The need for emergency medical care in the area is growing so quickly that the new facility is opening only five years after the renovation of the old emergency department. The new Mattioli Emergency Center, part of Pocono Medical Center’s expansion project that also includes the ESSA Heart and Vascular Institute, will increase service capacity to treat up to 42 patients concurrently. Features of New Facility: - Two new general radiology rooms - Decontamination Room - Psychiatric station with Crisis Intervention Specialist - Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SAFE) treatment room - All 42 patient rooms are individual, walled rooms to provide privacy PBJ BLOG “Blogging for Business” Talk about business online with PBJ columnists. www.pbjonline.com/blog HR Tip of the Month Growing The Best One third of employers in recreation and tourism fail to meet their business objectives because their employees do not possess the skills necessary for success. So when you hire high-potential employees, how do you get them to focus on the “right things” to increase customer satisfaction, build customer loyalty and add to the profitability of the business? • Create and reward the desired culture—having fun while serving others; • Use prompt feedback and regular performance evaluations that focus on the four or five key elements of an employee’s job description; • Provide training opportunities in service, leadership and management; • Encourage growth with competitive pay, benefits and promotion from within; and • Emphasize innovation and the big picture. 12 Pocono Business Journal | May 2006 CALENDAR OF EVENTS May 3 NEPA Technology Seminar Series, Victoria Inn Suites, Pittston, 5:30 pm. – 8:00 p.m. Free hors d’oeuvres with cash bar. For directions and to register online visit http:// www.kimbletechnology.com/seminar.htm. May 4 BNI (Business Network International), Bartonsville, 7:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. Howard Johnson, Rt. 611 and I-80 Exit 302B, Bartonsville. Contact Karen Sherrill, (570) 895-4242. May 4, 8, 11 & 15 Microsoft Access Level 1, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., The Center for Business & Industry at Northampton Community College, Fountain Court, Bartonsville. Call for fees. Contact Jennifer Kszak at (610) 861-5331 or visit www.northampton.edu. To register over the telephone using a credit card call (877) 543-0998. May 4, 11, 18 & 25 Learn To Use Your Computer, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Fee: $150. The University of Scranton, Center for Continuing Education. Call (570) 941-7582 or visit www. scranton.edu/cce. May 5 BNI (Business Network International), Stroudsburg, 7:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m., breakfast. Fee $7. Sherman Theater. Contact Victoria Mavis, Core People Resources, (610) 863-0329, or visit http://www.bninj.com/cgi-bin/ viewchapter.cgi. May 6 & 13 Photo Correction & Repair, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Fee: $243. The University of Scranton, Center for Continuing Education, (570) 941-7582 or visit www.scranton. edu/cce. May 9 Pocono Mountains Chamber of Commerce, Women in Business, 12:00 Noon. Sam Snead’s Tavern, Shawneeon-Delaware. Hosted by Shepherd’s Maternity House, sponsored by Holly Corcoran CPA. Cost $13 Chamber members in advance, $16 non-members and walk-ins. Call (570) 421-4433. May 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, & 25 MS Project, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Fee: $399. The University of Scranton, Center for Continuing Education, (570) 941-7582 or visit www.scranton.edu/cce. May 11 BNI (Business Network International), Bartonsville, 7:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. Howard Johnson, Rt. 611 and I-80 Exit 302B, Bartonsville. Contact Karen Sherrill, (570) 895-4242. May 11 & 16 & 18 Introduction to Project Management, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Fee: $125. The University of Scranton, Center for Continuing Education, (570) 941-7582 or visit www. scranton.edu/cce. May 12 BNI (Business Network International), Stroudsburg, 7:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m., breakfast. Fee $7. Sherman Theater. Contact Victoria Mavis, Core People Resources, (610) 863-0329, or visit http://www.bninj.com/cgi-bin/ viewchapter.cgi. May 15 Pocono Mountains Chamber of Commerce, Membership Appreciation Event, 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. MAY Caesar’s Brookdale, Rt. 611, Scotrun. Hot and cold hors d’oeuvres and networking. Free to members only. Advance registration required. Call (570) 421-4433. May 16 University of Scranton MBA Program Public Information Session, 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Notre Dame Junior/ Senior High School, 60 Spangenburg Ave., Scranton. Learn about the nationally recognized MBA program and courses that are available in the Stroudsburg area. For more information call 800-366-GRAD or visit www. scranton.edu/adults. May 17 Pocono Mountains Marketing Day, Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. PMVB Members $75/$70, non-members $85/$80 (Fee increases after pre-registration date of May 5.) Includes continental breakfast, luncheon and door prizes. Top market research firm presents analysis of Pocono Mountains Brand. Learn how to get more positive media coverage, great networking opportunity. For more information contact Adriane Holloway, (570) 421-5791 or email Adriane@poconos.org. May 17, 24 & 31 Macromedia Dreamweaver 8, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Fee: $414 includes lunch. The University of Scranton, Center for Continuing Education, (570) 941-7582 or visit www. scranton.edu/cce. May 18 BNI (Business Network International), Bartonsville, 7:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. Howard Johnson, Rt. 611 and I-80 Exit 302B, Bartonsville. Contact Karen Sherrill, (570) 895-4242. May 18 & 19 Understanding Copyright, Trademarks and Fair Use, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Fee: $225 includes lunch. The University of Scranton, Center for Continuing Education, (570) 941-7582 or visit www.scranton.edu/cce. May 19 BNI (Business Network International), Stroudsburg, 7:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m., breakfast. Fee $7. Sherman Theater. Contact Victoria Mavis, Core People Resources, (610) 863-0329, or visit http://www.bninj.com/cgi-bin/ viewchapter.cgi. May 19 Pocono Mountains Chamber of Commerce, Monthly Breakfast, 7:30 a.m., Best Western Pocono Inn, Stroudsburg. Sponsored by Blue Cross of NEPA, Special Program by Big Brothers/Big Sisters. Advance registration $8 Chamber members, $12 non-members. At the door, $10 Chamber members, $16 non-members. Call (570) 421-4433. May 23 Membership Meeting, Lehighton Area Council of the Carbon County Chamber of Commerce, 101 North Third Street, Lehighton, 5:30 p.m. Author of “Conversation on Networking” demonstrates how to develop long-lasting business relationships. Cost $15. Reservations required. Contact (610) 377-2191 or email laccc@ptd.net. May 25 BNI (Business Network International), Bartonsville, 7:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. Howard Johnson, Rt. 611 and I-80 Exit 302B, Bartonsville. Contact Karen Sherrill, (570) 895-4242. May 25 & June 1 Advanced Practical Desktop Publishing, 9 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Cost $ 414. The University of Scranton, Center for Continuing Education. Course is part of the Desktop Publishing Certificate series. Students will learn how drawing and imaging software integrates with page layout and design concepts. Advanced color correction methods in Photoshop, image editing in Illustrator and document preparation in QuarkXPress will equip students with the skills they need to produce commercial quality projects. Call (570) 941-7582 or visit www. scranton.edu/cce. May 26 BNI (Business Network International), Stroudsburg, 7:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m., breakfast. Fee $7. Sherman Theater. Contact Victoria Mavis, Core People Resources, (610) 863-0329, or visit http://www.bninj.com/cgi-bin/ viewchapter.cgi. Contact PBJ for Introductory Ad Rates. May 20, 27 & June 3 Introduction to ArcGis, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Fee: $800. The University of Scranton, Center for Continuing Education, (570) 941-7582 or visit www.scranton.edu/cce. May 20, 27 & June 3 Digital Photography, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Fee: $385. The University of Scranton, Center for Continuing Education, (570) 941-7582 or visit www.scranton.edu/cce. May 22 Quickbooks, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Fee: $150 includes lunch. The University of Scranton, Center for Continuing Education, (570) 941-7582 or visit www.scranton. edu/cce. www.pbjonline.com e-mail: ads@pbjonline.com POCONO Regional Business News & Resources www.pbjonline.com Pocono Business Journal | May 2006 13 NEWS Bushkill - After a busy off-season during which the bridge at the Main Falls was replaced and many other renovations and improvements completed, Bushkill Falls has opened for the 2006 season. Its woods and streams—including eight lovely waterfalls—are once again ready for the many visitors who seek a quiet, scenic refuge from their busy lives. “Hurricane Ivan in 2004, the resulting high water level, and the winter freeze snapped the supports of the bridge at the Main Falls,” commented manager Donna Smith. “This bridge has been completely replaced with all new material. Our yellow trail was also renovated with attractive, Adirondack-like posts and rails, and eastern white cedar has been used for the skillfully hand-built fences that now border our trails. This new look echoes the appearance of the Adirondack’s great lodges,” concluded Ms. Smith. Another improvement is the installation of a new restroom facility. This spacious building is equipped with top-of-the-line amenities: a family room, baby changing stations, auto flush and autowater capability, and automatic towel dispensers. The facility was carefully built to blend in unobtrusively with the other structures clustered near the entrance to the trails. Open daily at 9 a.m. Bushkill Falls parking is always free. Admission to the falls and exhibits is $9.00 for adults, $8.00 for seniors and groups of 25 or more, $4.00 for ages 4 to 10, and free for children under four. Many businesses host company events at Bushkill Falls by renting the open-air Bar-B-Que Pavilion that has ten charcoal burners set in a stone wall and picnic tables to seat up to one hundred. The entire pavilion may be rented for $100 per day, or $50 for half of the pavilion. Bushkill Falls is located off Rt. 209 on Bushkill Falls road in Bushkill (exit 309 off I-80). For more information call 570-5886682. The Web site address is www.visitbushkillfalls.com. Photo credit: Scott Sobrinsky $750,000 Invested to Refurbish Bushkill Falls A glimpse of the new trail system installed at Bushkill Falls. Brooks Accounting Services Steve Brooks Full Sourced Payroll Service at 25-75% OFF A Professional Business @ e*Speed Serving small businesses and large corporations Stroudsburg 570-992-1489 www.brooksaccountingservices.com PEEC Receives Funding for Education and Facilities Lehman Township -The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) announced the receipt of two grants at the beginning of 2006. In February, a $15,000 grant from Sanofi Pasteur in Swiftwater has been used to support PEEC’s year-round environmental education programs for local teachers, students, families and scouts. In March, PEEC and Lehman Township received an award announcement from State Representative John Siptroth (189th District) during the township supervisors meeting. PEEC will get $500,000 from Pennsylvania’s Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program through Lehman Township. These funds will be used to continue PEEC’s campus upgrades including cabin renovations and replacement, a new bathroom and shower facility, and multiple circular tents also known as ‘Yurt’ cabins. PEEC is located within the boundaries of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area off Route 209 between Bushkill and Milford. Its mission is to enhance environmental awareness, knowledge and appreciation through hands-on experience in a natural outdoor classroom. PEEC provides unique environmental experiences to families and groups of all ages. For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on the Web at www.peec.org. 14 Pocono Business Journal | May 2006 PBJ REGISTER NEW CORPORATIONS The Corporation Bureau at The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of State has informed the Pocono Business Journal that it is in the process of revising the database access for this information. Therefore New Incorporation listings will not be available until further notice. FICTITIOUS NAMES The Corporation Bureau at The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of State has informed the Pocono Business Journal that it is in the process of revising the database access for this information. Therefore New Incorporation listings will not be available until further notice. DEEDS (March 2006 - Over $250,000) Carbon County Franklin Township Gregory Boyer to Michael Gornick, $308,000, S&W Partners to Andrew Drazek, $322,745. Kidder Township North Todd Payer to Christopher Shandley, $255,000. Kidder Township South William Thorwarth to Robert Ryan, $250,000, James Ferrero to Leonard Combs, $270,000, Glenn Carlough to Jeffrey Sturgis, $285,000, Dong Won Kim to Ernest Abati, $281,500. Penn Forest Township Alfred Natale to Arne Schweikle, $260,000, Menelaos Valianatos to Pencor Wireless Communications Inc, $450,000. Monroe County Barrett Township Linda Lacativa to Martin Horowitz, $$293,000, Betty Domiano to Bestway of Pennsylvania, $425,000, Thomas Stanton to Nick Lucaciu, $299,000, Carolyn Berish to Eric and Leslie Abbott, $320,000. Chestnuthill Township LTS Development to Frank and Lillian Bianco, $330,650, Deutsche Bank Nat’l Trust Co to Zoe Smith, $275,000, Sandra Gerkhardt to Joshua and Bryn Gillow, $269,000, Dolores Casalaspro to Richard and Diane Stewart, $317,900, Matzel Development at Mt Terrace LLC to Norma Jumbo, $256,479. Coolbaugh Township Brian Pinkney to Jose Espinal, $293,000. East Stroudsburg Borough Teresa Kramer to Robert Furino, $265,000, Eleanor Krueger to Patti and Colleen Keeley, $270,000, TM Builders Inc to Gregory R Hill Revocable Trust, $309,900, T&T LLC to Robert and Sofia Lugris, $252,000. Eldred Township Reuben Hartzell to Eric and Jennifer Haderthauer, $253,000. Hamilton Township Stefan Hadjiev to Ortiz Real Property LP, $500,000, Hamilton Township Properties LLC to Rodney Holdings LLC, $945,000, Stephen Lukas to Robert Kramer, $375,000, Martin Koch to Cherie and Theodoro Quinones, $287,000, George Ortiz to Pocono Prime Rentals LP, $650,000, National City Mortgage Corp to Huseyin and Zeynep Cagatay, $301,000, Gary Fleming to Rocco and Angela Beard, $250,000, Brian Suwalski to Beth and Daniel Mount, $290,000. Jackson Township Henry Acchione to Martin and Helang Kravitz, $349,000, Joseph Odermatt to Thomas Griggs, $250,000, Scott Zambelli to Sebastian and Agnieszka Hass, $260,000, Pedro Rivera to Michael and Jessica Weremecki, $364,900, Eliu Ramirez to Nicholas Paust, $283,050, Mary Dastolfo to Gail Arnholdt, $323,000, Harold Schedin to Stephen and Allison Hubbs, $253,900, Tim Tran to Lisa Primeau, $422,000. to Khaled and Hoda Soliman, $384,000, Joseph Pula to Zofia and Leszek Pietrzak, $322,500. Middle Smithfield Township LTS Development, LLC to Javier and Madelin Castellanos, $387,100, C&M homes at CCP to Terrance and Kiran Babb, $452,047, Tyrone Bannister to Pedro and Damaris Encarnacion, $305,000.Toll PA IV LP to Andre Cox, $ 487,450, US Home Corp to Sarwat and Mirna Hanna, $340,000, Tyka LTD to Clayton Davis, $318,396, Toll PA IV LP to David Flynn, $421,576, Toll PA IV LP to Richard and Carol Roberts, $316,720, Darlay Guillouette to Naeim Meqdadi, $280,000, Toll PA III LP to Clement and Michelle Patterson, $699,787, Ciro Tapia to Grzegorz and Tatiana Mludzik, $285,000, Last Frontier Inc to Jerry Smallwood, $339,094, Frederick Schlimm to Charles and Kristin Madlin, $449,900, Toll PA IV LP to Edwin Doerr, $424,900, Gartner Homes LLC to Russell and Diane Bender, $350,000. Tobyhanna Township Nataliya Lukyanova to Elliott and Pam Israel, $292,500, Richard Kozak to Howard and Samantha Wallace, $927,000, Richard Duggan to Steven and Stacey Principe, $728,500, Davis Belanger to Raul Russi, $285,500, Teicher Organization at Pinecrest Lake LLC to Janine Zegel, $309,900, Daniel Witt to David and Karen Kovalcik, $296,000, Teicher Organization at Pinecrest Lake LLC to Sam and Marianne Garofalo, $343,513, Marvin Russell to David and Inamarie Johnson, $250,000, Tracy Paciorkowski to Kevin and Cathy Koehler, $565,000, Andrew Sharp to Alphonse Friscia, $320,000, Carolyn Nebbia to Senta Caleb, $269,000, NNN Acquisitions, Inc to Theme Family Limited Partnership B, $752,000, Richard Westerberg to Anthony and Jacqueline Dangelis, $410,000, Robert Barr to Nathan Boyd, $252,280, Raymond Donovan to Scott and Joanna Fitzpatrick, $252,500, George Novick to Jeffrey and Virginia Doherty, $277,000. Mount Pocono Borough Kathleen Luckner to Kathleen Reichert, $267,000, Bryant Ross to Stanley Manasseh, $275,000. Paradise Township William Riede to Richard and Carmen Rodriguez, $385,000. Pocono Township Rudolf Wohlfarth to Alcot Orane Brooks, $375,000, Ronald Litwin to Michael and Helen Lewin, $290,000, Ruben Figueroa to Alan and Sarah Rhoden, $460,000, Mark DeLuca to Jason Theobold, $460,000. Polk Township Norman Hopely to Steven Dudak, $600,000, Pasquale Frank DeLuca to Husnija Sabovic, $300,000, Meadow View Enterprises LLC to Antonio Figueredo, $268,134. Terri Koch to Karen Smith, $265,000. Price Township Thomas King to Wendy Andershonis, $275,000. Ross Township Thomas Mulcahy to Robert and Janet Pellek, $280,000, Robert Pellek to DWM LLP, $450,000, Peter and Gerda Baumann to Michael and Bernardine Vanuiter, $285,000. Marvin Papillon to Lisa and Joseph Buccieri, $285,000, L&P Homes Inc to Aidan and Jennifer Boland, $312,000. Smithfield Township Gerard Brogna to Gordon and Jilian Sears, $345,000, Monroe-Pike Land LLC to Garland McAllister, $395,880, C&M Homes at Shawnee to Andreas Dyer, $319,502. Peter Camacho to Ricardo Jurado, $343,000, ABD Smithfield Inc to Kevin Edwards, $479,000, Jason Wilson to Paul and Maureen Fable, $250,000. Stroudsburg Borough Jeanine Silvani to Paul Pemberton, $250,000, Robert Acosta to Emereste LLC, $300,000, TS Realty Inc to Robert Furino, $270,000, Louis Vento to Gregory R Hill Revocable Trust, $399,900, Cynthia Sheska to Robert and Joanne Michniewicz, $280,000. Stroud Township Broadmoor Constructions, Inc to Patricia Billy, $414,000, John Marolakos to Edward and Kellianne Ingenito, $307,500, Joseph Dipipi to Lurline James, $367,900, Vladimir Traynin to Michael and Nancy Giris, $419,000, Chiang Shuei Cheng to Peter Wilk, $335,000, Florence Baldwin to LTS Development LLC, $600,000, Anne Marie ButlerClark to Gerard and Karen Brogna, $312,000, LTS Development LLC to Charles Shepherd, $379,900, Daniel Mount to Bi Fang Chen, $285,000, Buff-Nauman Inc to Paul and Linda Kaserman, $336,000, Helen Colon to Ross and Samantha Graham, $262,000, Federal National Mortgage Association to Kevin and Amy Matthews, $274,000, Lawrence Barnikel to Francesca Carollo, $356,001, Melija Islami to Giovanni and Ariette Escobar, $309,000. LTS Development LLC to Keith Johnson, $406,050, LTS Development LLC Tunkhannock Township James Olofsson to David and Carmelita Dungan, $335,000, Nationwide Realty Group Inc to Alexis and Raymond Smith, $260,500, Matzel Development at Mt Terrace LLC to Bernardino Perez, $273,801. Pike County Blooming Grove Township Theodore Folkman to Eli Khazanov, $295,000, Lester Neuman to David Kellerman, $350,000, Boris Tansky to Ben Pickering, $360,000, Frank Santiago to Carl Hermann, $325,000. Delaware Township James Buckley to Suzan and Dennis King, $330,000, Donald Vantassel to Natan and Alina Reznik, $262,000. Dingman Township Peter Blackwell to Sheila Korick, $375,000, Nicolino Sergio to Ekaterina Alkvist, $467,000, James Williams III to Michael and Eileen Lebron, $265,000, James Leighty Construction Inc to John and Rosemary Curwood, $512,717, Thomas Nasi to Phillip and Carmen Venello, $307,400, Edward Dewland to Frank and Joanne Jordan, $349,900, Michael Ciancitto to Marilyn Bechtold, $320,000, John Chelbus to Anthony Catanzaro, $615,000, Hewitt Relocation Services Inc to Cameron Kelts, $325,000, Edward Nikles to James and Michelle Williams, $305,000, Betty Fascio to Lisette Rodriguez, $250,000, Delaware Highlands Properties LLC to Paul and Donna Hannigan, $485,000. Greene Township Anne Hinton to Bryan and Kerry Walter, $289,000, Rock Solid Community Inc to Regent Homes Inc, $295,000. Bruce Emery to Kam Sau Shi, $375,000. Palmyra Township James Ennis to Jena Hernandez, $510,000, Robert Kingston to Dianne and Kevin Cherry, $475,000, Richard Wilson to Thomas and Ruth Dipalme, $250,000, Bryan Collier to Louis and Delores Amodeo, $320,000. Shohola Township Minnie Ash to Hal Goldstein, $285,000. Westfall Township Steven and Kristen Drake to John Gogolen, $250,000, George Droege to Edmund and Deborah Lemire, $450,000. Wayne County Buckingham Township Kevin Headley to Thomas Conway, $285,000. Cherry Ridge Township Daniel Krol to Michael Erbach, $339,900. Damascus Township Richard Kammer to William and Barbara Kirk, $280,000. Lake Township Rhoda Kleiman to John and Joanne Killmeyer, $280,000, Bonnie Ludwig to David and Megan Martin, $562,500, Gerard Bellarmino to Sheryl Siclari, $285,140, Dominick Mustascio to Steven Ostrovsky, $285,000. Lehigh Township John Brown to Mark and Carol Unger, $329,000. Manchester Township Irmgard Engelhard to Thomas Renehan, $250,000. Paupack Township Harold Rowen to John and Elaine Skeuse, $1,650,000, Anthony Hoffman to Jon and Brenda Hart, $482,500, Carol Krokowski to James and Janette Dacey, $800,000, James Dempsey to John Herbert, $500,000, David Pauley to Thomas Demaio, $252,500. Salem Township Forrest Compton Ind & Tr to Outlook Properties LLC, $631,500. South Canaan Township Marilyn Turner to Stephen and Janet Orbine, $495,000. Starrucca Borough James Timlin to Steven and Lisa Lantier, $495,000. MORTGAGES (March 2006 - Over $250,000) Lackawaxen Township Jeanette Klecar to Edward and Eugenia Johnston, $285,000, Woodloch Pines Inc to M2Holdings LLC, $525,000, Gerard Castro to Nick Monastero, $380,000, Timothy Mezick to Jack and Catherine Cireco, $370,000, SSI Properties Inc to Thomas and Debra Manzione, $538,365, Dorothy Crenshaw to Richard Lau, $270,000. Banks Township Donald Betterly, M&T Co, $265,000. Lehman Township Charles Centrelli to Thomas Spilotros, $256,000, J&S Development to Philip and Linette Caroselli, $316,370, Kalian at Poconos LLC to Randy and Karisma Page, $268,190, J&S Real Estate Properties to Charles Irby, $254,400. Franklin Township Danny Rankovich, Wachonia Bank, $250,000. Matamoras Borough James Williams to No 806 Pennsylvania Avenue LLC, $315,000. Milford Borough James Marione to Malcolm and Deborah Wilbur, $280,000, Joseph Schwartz to James Murrin, $375,000. Milford Township Coming Next Month ... June 2006 Carbon County East Penn Township Duane Schleicher, New Tripoli Bank, $500,000, Northside Heights Mobile Home Estates, Inc, New Tripoli Bank, $500,000. Kidder Township North SSVR Enterprises LLC, Northeastern Economic Development Co of PA CDC Inc, $1,698,000, Vacation Charters LTD, First National Bank of Palmerton, $300,000. Kidder Township South Charles Seravalli, Continental Bank, $300,000, Ridgewood Country Estates Homeowners Association Inc, PNC Bank NA, $300,000, David POCONO www.pbjonline.com Regional Business News & Resources Education & Training www.pbjonline.com •Where can businesses get help from local educational institutions? •Investing in your employees. Why it’s important. •Are potential employees adequately trained for the workforce? •Professional Profile: What the local community college offers business and industry. 15 Pocono Business Journal | May 2006 PBJ REGISTER London, Mauch Chunk Trust Company, $318,000. Stephen Messina, Stonebridge Bank, $280,000, Edward Weaver, ESSA Bank & Trust, $250,400. Lansford Borough Stanley Costello, Penn Business Credit, LLC, $1,000,000. Mahoning Township Alfonso Sebia, Penn Business Credit LLC, $1,000,000, Stanley Costello Jr, Penn Business Credit, LLC, $1,000,000, Joseph Marks, Nesquehoning Savings Bank, $250,000. Nesquehoning Borough 1125 Route 209 Associates, American Bank, $500,000. Palmerton Borough Kal-Tac Inc, First National Bank of Palmerton, $650,000. Penn Forest Township Carol Ferrera, Mauch Chunk Trust Co, $260,000, Glenn McGovern, MERS, $390,000, Arne Schweikle, MERS, $260,000, Ara Cheftalian, Premier Bank, $662,250, Bridge Associates of Albrightsville LLC, Russell Morello Jr, $722,500, Lisa Zurzolo, MERS, $250,000, Spectrum Community Services Inc, Wachovia Bank, $275,000. Towamensing Township Susana Bullrich, MERS, $264,000, Linda Lee Kauffman, Keystone Nazareth Bank & Trust Co, $250,000. Weatherly Borough Stanley Costello, Penn Business Credit LLC, $1,000,000. Monroe County Barrett Township Martin Horowitz, Commonwealth United Mortgage, $278,350, Sand Spring Enterprises, Penn Star Bank/NBT Bank, $530,000, Bestway of PA Inc., Sovereign Bank, $425,000, Bestway Enterprises, Inc., Sovereign Bank, $425,000. $254,717, Shannon Campbell, MERS/National City Bank, $359,100, Francis and Denise Bertola, MERS/Indymac Bank, $254,400, Naeim Megdadi, Chase Bank, $280,000, Clement and Michelle Patterson, MERS/HSBC Mortgage Corp, $559,800, Charles and Kristin Maslin, Wells Fargo Bank, $250,000, Edwin Doerr Jr, ING Bank, $300,000, Russell and Diane Bender, MERS/Cendant Mortgage, $275,000, Andre Cox, MERS/SLM Financial Corp, $385,600, David Flynn, MERS/ TBI Mortgage Corp, $337,250, Richard and Carol Roberts, wells Fargo National Bank, $252,000, John and Manuela Tufano, MERS/Decision One Mortgage Co, $270,250, Jerry Smallwood, MERS/ Fairmont Funding, $322,139, Wayne Lederman, MERS/Countrywide Bank, $548,900, Thomas and Paula Mickens, MERS/Americas Wholesale Lender, $355,500. Mount Pocono Borough Joseph Fama Sr, MERS/Homecoming Financial Network, $250,000, Mariluz Ocasio, MERS/Countrywide Home Loans, $314,000. Paradise Township Richard and Carmen Rodriguez, ESSA Bank & Trust, $250,000, John and Suzanne Slashinski, MERS/Equifirst Corp, $255,000. Pocono Township John and Joyce Marzella, MERS/Premier Bank, $319,000, Gladys Bryant, New Country Mortgage Corp, $277,500, Alcot Orane Brooks, Argent Mortgage Co, $375,000, Betsy Vargas, MERS/ Countrywide Home Loans, $258,120, Robert Czopoth, Merchants National Bank of Bangor, $1,200,000, Thomas and Sandra Santiago, MERS/ Countrywide Home Loans, $310,160, Valerie and Edwin Rodriguez, MERS/Americas Wholesale Lender, $280,000, David and Johanna Contino, MERS/Countrywide Bank, $287,090, Cirilo Martinez, Bankers First Mortgage, $264,800, Richard and Pauline Verwey, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, $285,000, Richard and Pauline Verwey, Financial Freedom Senior Funding Corp/Indymac Bank, $285,000, Alan and Sarah Rhoden, Wells Fargo Bank, $300,000, Jason Theobold, MERS/Home123 Corp, $368,000. Chestnuthill Township Frank and Lillian Bianco, MERS/Countrywide Bank, $297,585, Dale McFarland, ESSA Bank and Trust, $344,000, Christina Chos, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, $285,000. Robert and Rebecca Potts, Wachovia Bank National Association, $400,000, Sherneth Rowe, MERS/Countrywide Home Loans, $279,000, Janice and Kamau Kenyatta, National City Mortgage, $256,500, Barry and Robin Wassum, Keystone Nazareth Bank & Trust Co, $300,000, Richard and Diane Stewart, MERS/Countrywide Home Loans, $254,320, Endys Suarez, National City Mortgage, $288,000, Christina Chos, AFC First Financial Corp, $285,000, Trevor and Susan Dudley, Option One Mortgage Corp, $295,740, Albert Guzman, MERS/Equifirst Corp, $279,000. Polk Township Steven Dudak, First National Bank of Palmerton, $525,000, Karen Smith, Jim Thorpe National Bank, $265,000, Tracey Alexander, MERS/Gateway Funding Diversified Mortgage Services, $325,000, Husnija Sabovic, Frank Pasquale Deluca Estate, $250,000, Antonio Figueredo, MERS/Equity One, $441,000, Laverne and Lance Long, Champion Mortgage/Keybank National Assoc, $297,500, Mark and Debra DeLuca, MERS/MidAtlantic Farm Credit, $391,900. Coolbaugh Township Christopher and Rebecca Sarajian, MERS/Decision One Mortgage Co, $297,500, Martin and Toni Grant, HSBC Mortgage Corp, $260,300, John and Hellen Huggins, National City Mortgage, $264,400, May Associates, First National Community Bank, $1,600,000, Erica Richetts, Ameriquest Mortgage Co, $256,500, Cecslyne Baptiste, Webster Bank National Association, $338,400. Ross Township Brian Hannis, Wachovia Bank National Association, $292,000, William and Pamela Hoffman, MERS/American Home Mortgage, $281,200, DWM LLP, Wachovia Bank National Association, $360,000. Eldred Township Michael Cooks, Pocono Community Bank, $332,000, Joseph Ketels, MERS/Americas Wholesale Lender, $275,000, Karen Schuster, Jim Thorpe National Bank, $265,000. Hamilton Township Ortiz Real Property/Ortiz Realty, Wachovia Bank, $400,000, Sciota Village Estates, Colebrook Financial Co, $2,500,000, Rodney Holdings, Community Bank and Trust, $756,000, Anthony and Jessica Zugel, Keystone National Bank and Trust, $390,000, Solibe and Uchenna Ufondu, Wachovia Bank National Association, $290,000, James and Christine Wilson, MERS/Americas Wholesale Lender, $340,000, Mark and Gina Schmidt, North Penn Bank, $286,000, Matthew and Vallia Cilli, ESSA Bank and Trust, $388,000, Robert and Alexandra Kramer, Wells Fargo Bank, $300,000, Bruce and Erica Stein, CCO Mortgage Corp, $417,000, Pocono Pine Rentals, Silver Hill Financial, $520,000, Deena and Jack Cashion, MERS/Novastar Mortgage, $289,000. Jackson Township Dennis and Delores Kurc, Wachovia Bank National, $500,000, Luis Rodriguez, MERS/Americas Wholesale Lender, $388,000, Martin and Helang Kravitz MERS/Quicken Loans, $279,200, Ramon Martinez, National City Mortgage, $291,650, Hubert McQueen, MERS/BNC Mortgage, $297,300. Middle Smithfield Township Javier and Madelin Castellanos, HSBC Mortgage Corp, $367,700, Shridat and Sitawatie Prasad, Ameriquest Mortgage Co, $260,912, Terrence and Kiran Babb, Prosperity Mortgage Co, $359,650, Sarwat and Mirna Hanna, Wells Fargo Bank, $272,000, Clayton Davis, SunTrust Mortgage, Price Township Jay & Devika Jainauth, MERS/Countrywide Bank, $373,350, Lyndon and Damaris Bradshaw, MERS/ Countrywide Bank, $280,746, Carl and Patricia Kjellberg, MERS/Mortgage Now Inc, $272,000. Smithfield Township Gordon and Jillian Sears, MERS/Citywide Mortgage Corp, $258,750, Susan Mirkovic, ESSA Bank & Trust, $400,000, Family Bonds Inc, ESSA Bank & Trust, $400,000, Andreas Dyer, Wells Fargo Bank, $255,600, William Godfrey, MERS/GMAC Mortgage Corp, $250,000, Kevin Edwards, JP Morgan Chase Bank, $383,200, Brenda Pina, MERS/Fremont Investment & Loan, $261,000, Garland McAllister, Allied First Bank, $250,000, Donald and Debra Dannemann, MERS/ Provident Funding Group, $300,000, Ricardo Jurado, MERS/New York Mortgage Co, $325,850, Rudene and Roderick Marshall, Webster Bank National Association, $283,100, Steven Hopkins, Washington Mutual Bank, $250,000, Global Signal Acquisitions, Morgan Stanley Asset Funding, $200,000,000. Stroudsburg Borough George and Tammy Loudon, Manufacturers and Traders Trust Co, $520,000, Daniel and Edward Henning, Citizen’s National Bank of PA, $250,000, Gregory Hill, MERS/HSBC Mortgage Co, $299,900, George and Tammy Loudon, M&T Bank, $818,860, George and Tammy Loudon, M&T Bank, $491,316, George and Tammy Loudon, Northeastern Economic Development Co., $805,000, Robert Furino, Bankers First Mortgage, $268,500, Tarig and Raana Subhani, 2004-0000416 LLC, $312,000. Stroud Township Kelly Burgoon, Ameriquest Mortgage Co, $251,250, Jason and Esmerelda Zavala, MERS/ American Home Mortgage, $260,000, LTS Development, First National Community Bank, $570,000, Darrell Cox, Wells Fargo Bank, $262,822, Paul and Linda Kaserman, MERS/Pinnacle Mortgage/Pinnacle Funding, $268,800, Jermine and Gail Ransome, MERS/Countrywide Home Loans, $250,000, Anthony and Joyce Jose, ESSA Bank and Trust, $297,000, Malcolm Stokes, Jr., MERS/Freemont Investment and Loan, $360,000, Keith Johnson, MERS/Countrywide Home Loans, $386,600, Debra Smith, MERS/Cardinal Fiancial Co, $262,000, Khaled and Hoda Soliman, ESSA Bank & Trust, $338,000, Meadow Run Builders, Harleysville National Bank & Trust, $324,000, Patricia Billy, MERS/Fremont Investment & Loan, $331,200, Lurline James, MERS/First NLC Financial Services, $312,700, Michael and Nancy Giris, MERS/Countrywide Home Loans, $280,000, Robert and Sandra James, MERS/WMC Mortgage Corp, $415,000, Robert and Veronica Zichelli, MERS/Bankers First Mortgage, $288,000, Peter Wilk, PHH Mortgage Services, $268,000, Charles Shepherd, National City Mortgage, $303,900, Robert and Patricia Ellis-Esson, MERS/Quicken Loans, $300,600, Ross and Samantha Graham, Soveriegn Bank, $262,000, Giovanni and Ariette Escobar, MERS/ Wachovia Mortgage Corp, $297,953, Biospectra Inc, ESSA Bank & Trust, $500,000, Biospectra Inc, ESSA Bank & Trust, $500,000, BSI Holdings, Theologos Thanos, $1,200,000. Tobyhanna Township David and Diane Carbone, Indymac Bank, $294,400, Sam and Marianne Garofalo, Bank of America, $271,000, John and Kathleen Gallagher, ESSA Bank and Trust, $275,000, Anthony and Jacqueline Dangelis, MERS/SunTrust Mortgage, $300,000, Ned and Mary Wehler, Community Bank, $400,000, Howard and Samantha Wallace, MERS/Wachovia Mortgage Corp, $627,000, Steven and Stacey Principe, ABN Amiro Mortgage Group, $582,800, Brian and Karen Stroup, MERS/Home Loan Center/Lending Tree Loans, $254,000, Kevin and Cathy Koehler, Washington Mutual Bank, $370,000, James and Cynthia Fitzgerald, Wachovia Bank National Association, $300,000, Barbara Thomashower, CitiMortgage, $450,000. Tunkhannock Township David and Carmelita Dungan, MERS/National Future Mortgage, $301,500, Henry Sorensen, Wells Fargo Bank, $327,750, Daniel and Martha Nelson, Webster Bank National, $250,778, Mohammed Uddin, MERS/Decision One Mortgage Co, $320,000, Jeffrey and Bennie Brennan, First National Bank of Palmerton, $380,000. Pike County Blooming Grove Township Pauline Tykochinsky, ABN AMRO Mortgage Co, $272,669, David Kellerman, Wachovia Bank NA, $252,500, Louis Weissbart, HSBC Mortgage Corp, $300,000, Carl Herrmann, Long Beach Mortgage Co, $260,000. Delaware Township Suzan and Dennis King, MERS/USSA FSB, $264,000, Peter and Anne Drysdale, CCO Mortgage Corp, $255,000. HSBC Mortgage Corp, $350,000. Palmyra Township Outlook Design and Construction, North Penn Bank, $280,000, Brian Laabs, MERS/Delta Funding Corp, $256,400, Nino Infante, BNY Mortgage Corp, $322,500, David Wilding, Fidelity Deposit & Discount Bank, $700,000, Joseph Rapine III, Sovereign Bank, $400,000, Nino Infante, Secretary of Housing & Urban Development, $322,500, Robert and Kathleen Benedetto, Wayne Bank, $1,600,000, Louis and Dolores Amodeo, MERS/ Countrywide Home Loans, $250,000. Porter Township Peter and Denise Lombardi, HSBC Mortgage Corporation, $340,000. Shohola Township Joseph and Rosa Garcia, MERS, $350,000. Westfall Township Rosemary Palermo, First Horizon Home Loan Corp, $285,000, William Griffin Jr., Financial Freedom Senior Funding Corp, $307,500, William Griffin Jr., Secretary of Housing & Urban Development, $307,500, Eric and Christy Conklin, First Mariner Bank, $310,000, Nicholas and Kimberly Brino, Americas Wholesale Lender, $476,800, Robert and Denise Hagglund, MERS/American Mortgage Network Inc, $281,250, Edmund and Deborah Lemire, MERS/First Horizon Home Loan Corp, $$260,000, Delaware Highlands Properties LLC, Dime Bank, $1,000,000, Delaware Highlands Properties LLC, Samall Associates Inc, $450,000. Wayne County Berlin Township Dominick and Lisa Mobilio, MERS, $264,000, Paul and Lisa Semler, MERS, $345,000. Buckingham Township Thomas Conway, MERS, $256,500. Canaan Township Michael and Christine Brundage, Dime Bank, $330,000. Cherry Ridge Township Michael and Kristin Erbach, Wells Fargo Bank, $285,000. Clinton Township Allyn and Joan Bartholomay, Honesdale National Bank, $450,000. Damascus Township Michael and Yvonne Stone, Harleysville National Bank & Trust Co, $250,000. Honesdale Borough Mountain Laurel Real Estate, LLC, Dime Bank, $1,430,000. Dingman Township Dean Quirk, First Horizon Home Loan Corp, $359,500, Matthew Houston, MERS, $300,000, Ekaterina Alkvist, MERS/First Magnus Financial Corp, $373,600, John Curwood, First Horizon Home Loan Corp, $410,120, Phillip and Carmen Venello, MERS/First Continental Mortgage & Investment, $261,290, Sean and Kristine Oregan, MERS/E-Loan Inc, $268,200, Kenneth and Elizabeth Pilecek, National City Mortgage, $342,000, Walter and Nazarena Badyna, Citizens Bank of PA, $255,000, Cameron Kelts, Washington Mutual Bank FA, $260,000, Paul and Donna Hannigan, MERS/Wachovia, $388,000, Paul Cronin, MERS/ Decision One Mortgage Co, $283,500, Cheryl Jones, MERS/Mortgage It Inc, $292,500, Maria Vassel, HSBC Mortgage Corp, $314,000. Lake Township David and Megan Martin, MERS, $272,500, Allan and Marilyn Smolinsky, Wachovia Bank, $250,000, William and Eileen Culley, Wayne Bank, $300,000. Greene Township Regent Homes Inc, Gaffken & Barriger Fund LLC, $950,000, Andrew and Lisa McCalla, Ameriquest Mortgage Co, $250,000. Paupack Township Guerrino and Anna Vlacich, MERS, $321,000, KFK Holdings, Madison Bank, $400,000, Lawrence and Kerry Hopwood, Merrill Lynch Credit Corp, $332,000, John and Donna Azaraian, Greater Alliance Federal Credit Union, $3,065,000, Joseph and Janet Zammit, Wells Fargo Bank, $250,000, James and Janette, Wells Fargo National Bank, $417,000, David Krokowski, Unity Bank, $927,000, John Herbert, MERS, $280,000, Charles and Anna Gregg, Financial Freedom Senior Funding, $300,240, Charles and Anna Gregg, Housing & Urban Development, $300,240. Lackawaxen Township M2 Holdings LLC, Woodloch Pines Inc, $475,000, Todd Michael Builders LLC, First National Bank of Palmerton, $400,000, Thomas and Sherri Kempster, ESSA Bank & Trust, $255,000. Lehman Township Carlos Alvarado, MERS/Accredited Home Lenders, $251,750, Vincent and Ersilia Gallo, Argent Mortgage Company LLC, $289,000, Richard and Marie Sheftman, National City Mortgage, $288,000, Charles and Karen Morgan, MERS/ Countrywide Bank, $297,000, Nadesa Tejada, Wachovia Mortgage Corp, $276,800, Philip and Linette Caroselli, MERS/Mortgage Now Inc, $253,336, Jacek and Aneta Grundwald, MERS/ Countrywide Home Loans, $287,000. Matamoras Borough No 806 Pennsylvania Ave LLC, Silver Hill Financial LLC, $252,000. Milford Borough James Murrin, Louis Degiorgis Tr, $275,000. Milford Township Louis and Roseanne Lavalle, Wachovia Bank, $250,000, William and Janeth Degraw, MERS/ Lehigh Township Frank and Judy Lacorte, Vartan National Bank, $270,000, Mark and Carol Unger, LA Mortgage Services, $263,200. Manchester Township Kenneth Mirch, Dime Bank, $500,000. Palmyra Township Valentina Klerman, Option One Mortgage Corp, $272,000. Salem Township Outlook Properties, Penn Security Bank and Trust Co, $1,470,000, Outlook Properties, Penn Security Bank and Trust Co, $892,000, Anthony and Gail Inglima, MERS, $250,000. Scott Township Michael Gangadeen, Wayne Bank, $276,000. Sterling Township Wayne Economic Development Corporation, Commonwealth Financing Authority, $3,162,000. Disclaimer: Deeds and mortgages recorded as accurately as possible adhering to the cover dates in the County Recorders office. 16 Pocono Business Journal | May 2006
Similar documents
October 2006 - poconobusinessjournal.com
COPYRIGHT: PBJ is protected under the federal Copyright Act. Reproductions of any part by any means or facsimiles without the express written permission of the publisher are not permitted. Reprints...
More informationPA Uniform Construction Codes Provide Standards and Frustration
• Legislative Updates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 • PBJ Columnist: In The Commercial Zone . . . ...
More informationPartnerships in the Poconos
Journal Newspapers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Manpower. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Michael Baxter & Associates Commercial Real Estate. . . . . . ...
More informationMay 2009 - poconobusinessjournal.com
cannot be responsible for the return of unsolicited material, manuscripts and photographs without the inclusion of a self-addressed stamped envelope. Information in this publication is gathered fro...
More information