www.springmilldelaware.org Volume XVII Issue 4
A NEWSLETTER FOR THE SPRINGMILL COMMUNITY
April 2019
Springmill Board Considers Wind Power For Community
As the costs of providing electricity for the common areas of our development increase, our Board must exercise its fiduciary responsibility and explore alternative sources of power. We must anticipate and install appropriate technologies and systems that would provide for the energy we need now and in the future. Not to look ahead would be foolhardy and border on negligence. To this end, The Board is investigating the installation of a wind-power turbine to replace the windmill decoration currently at the front of Windmill Lane. The decoration serves no function other than enhancing the ambiance. A turbine can do that, too. We have all traveled to shore areas and seen the massive wind farms that power whole towns. In other countries, such farms also border the highways. The wind is used to create power that is then converted to electricity. The installation of a functioning turbine at Springmill could generate enough power for the clubhouse and for other areas in our development as well. What are the advantages of wind power? First, wind is unlimited. It is a free and renewable resource since wind occurs naturally. Harvesting doesn’t affect currents or wind cycles. It is clean and non-polluting, emitting no greenhouse gasses. It is far more eco-friendly than burning wood or fossil fuels. .
Historically, developed nations, including the United States, are dependant on fuels from unreliable sources. Converting to wind power would avoid this political and economic uncertainty. After an initial investment to install turbines and energy centers, the cost of maintaining them is almost free. A small turbine would generate enough electricity to completely power our clubhouse. This would certainly avoid a monthly fee increase for quite some time to come. As the members of the Springmill Board come to know all of the advantages of converting to wind power, they will undoubtedly authorize the conversion. The installation of a single turbine would pay for itself and make us all more conscious of the environment. We must acknowledge the opportunities brought about by new and better technologies. The time for these next steps is now. Helen Weinheimer
Happy April Fools’ Day from the Sentinel Editorial Committee
Springmill Annual Garage Sale Saturday April 27
Hazardous Waste Collection The Delaware Solid Waste Authority will host a Hazardous Waste Collection at the nearby St. Anne's Episcopal School 211 Silver Lake Rd., Middletown,
on Saturday, April 6, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Start now to get ready – See page 21 for more information on both events
Middletown “Drug Drop-Off” Date, time, place and more information will be announced by an email through the Springmill Website
Neighbors Helping Neighbors Doll Sewing Group – Carol Geiger Carolyn Rifino Family Emergency Numbers: Sunshine – Mary Elizabeth Rhoads Pat Howe, JoAnn Stump Faith Altman Library - Julia Hambrecht, Nancy Shannon
2 Windmill Lane, Middletown, DE 19709 302-376-5466 Board of Directors Don Thompson - President Carolyn Bodden - Vice President Bob Collins - Secretary Carolyn Fausnaugh - Treasurer Jerry Steskal - Director Board Recording Secretary Tracey Lund - Community Manager: Tracey.lund@associa.us
Springmill Activities Bocce – Don Thompson Book Clubs 1 – Debra Kupper 2 – Mary Elizabeth Rhoads 3 – Lydia Olson 4 – Mary Jo Starrett 5 – Joan Gross Bridge Thursday 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th Joan Gross Friday a.m. – Beginners & refreshers Marie Rigg Bunco 1 – Deb Kupper Bunco 2 – June Stemmle Cribbage – John Oppelt Dance Party – Bonnie Silva Dinner Group First Thursday Danese Collins Dominos – Jo Verni Golf – Joe Tomasetti (Men’s) Eileen Bogel (Women’s) Hand and Foot – Jo Verni Hand/Knee/Foot Mon. p.m./Tues. p.m. – Carolyn Bodden Ladies Cards – Carolyn Rifino Mah jongg – Pat Wiedemann Meditation – Cynthia Frank Men’s Hearts – Len Brussee Men’s Poker – Tom Ferrara Men's Pool – Larry Daigle
Committees Charity Committee: Pat Kolbay Clubhouse Committee: Joe Grippo Communications Committee: Tom Rigg Community Events (CEC): Peggy Andrews Finance Committee: Open Maintenance & Repair Committee: Georgieanna Anderson Property Committee: Julia Hambrecht Springmill Website: Stan Heer Welcome Committee Person: Joann Campbell Groups Fun With Neighbors: Riggs and Weinheimers Travel: Betty Freeman, Anne Lucas, June Stemmle Anyone wishing to join a Committee or Group should contact the Chairperson of that Committee. Note: All committees, groups and activities using the Clubhouse must coordinate dates and times with Tracey Lund. Calendar: Tracey Lund
Chairman of Communications Committee Tom Rigg Sentinel Editor - Joan Gross, Tom Rigg Treasurer - Sharonlynn Tassone Secretary - Sonya Comstock Design and Production - Joan Gross and Marie Rigg Business Manager - Dick Rausch Advertising - Carol Geiger, Janet Herner, Jerry Ryan, Pat Steskal Editorial - Sonya Comstock, Carol Geiger, Dick Rausch, Lee Rosenson, Jerry Ryan, June Stemmle, Harry Weinheimer, Helen Weinheimer
Men’s Cards ”31” – Len Brussee Music Appreciation Club – Roy Peters Pickleball - Jane Kimmins Ladies Lunch/Red Hats Classie Lassies – Dolores Bille Crimson Belles – Mary Elizabeth Rhoads Happy Hatters – Kathy Kobus Old Bats in the Red Hats Peg McMullen Scarlett O’Hattas – Phyllis Torgersen Night n’Gals – Ann Raymond Red H’attitudes – Peggy Andrews Lunch Bunch Jean Sweeney Romeos – Art Lamb Rummikub – Tues. – Carolyn Rifino Thurs. – Jo Verni Fri. – Tiny Farquhar Senior Exercise – Geri Abel Social Singles – Bridget McGrath/ Kathy Cioffi Tennis – (Men’s/Women’s) Jerry Ryan Texas Holdem – Stan Heer Water Aerobics – Ann Raymond/ Sandy Corrozzi Yoga – June Stemmle
If you wish to join a service group or an activity, contact the leader
Calendar - Joe Grippo, Julie Hambrecht, Tracey Lund Distribution - Diane Morton and the distribution team
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Notes From Your Board It is my interpretation that the concerns raised by Springmill residents are on the negative aspects of having residential geese in our community. I further believe that no one wants to completely remove these animals from our community. Remember - all geese are protected by Federal law. They can be removed, however you must have an EPA permit to do so. I believe our major concern is the damage that is being done to turf grass and the levels of defecation on our walking trails.
The “Pulse of Springmill” survey revealed that geese are a major concern with some of our residents. The survey did not allow the responder to articulate exactly their concerns. There are two types of Canadian geese one being migratory and the other being residential. I believe the concerns are on the residential geese. These geese do not migrant and their offspring will not be taught how to migrate, so they will stay within our community and mate for life.
So, the question is how we can coexist with our residential feathered friends. Here are some ways to reduce the negative impacts: Regrade the land surrounding the ponds to be at least a 65-degree angle. Studies have suggested this steep grade discourages geese from entering a pond. Plant thorny bushes along the perimeter of the ponds. This will be a natural barrier allowing geese to fly into the pond but make it uncomfortable to leave pond to graze. The geese do not like to fly a short distance so to fly over the barrier to graze would not be appealing to the geese. Purchase mating swans to inhabit our ponds. Canadian geese will avoid waters inhabited with Swans This option is more than just replacing the geese with another large bird. Since swans are more territorial than geese, a flock of swans would be smaller because swans will not allow other flocks of swans or geese to invade their territory. Remember the saying, “Birds of a feather flock together”? This is more than a saying, it is how nature works. Hire geese police to patrol the ponds of Springmill. They use trained dogs, mostly border collies, to discourage geese from inhabiting our ponds. They offer free demonstrations on how they can control the population of geese. Hire goose scoopers to pick-up the feces and power wash the walking trails. These are a few ideas on how we can co-habitate with our Canadian residential geese. This is a subject that affects those residents that live close to ponds or use the walking trails more than other residents. The Board would like to hear back from the community, this feedback will be helpful in deciding which direction we should go. The best way to communicate to the board on geese control is through our community website. Simply log on to the website and go to the Residents interactive pages, then click on the Springmill message board, and you will see the topic of geese control. Enter your thoughts and suggestions on how to control our residential geese population.
Let us face it – the geese resided here before Springmill was built. We also must recognize that we have various wild life species that invade Springmill i.e. deer, fox, eagles, hawks, rats, mice, snakes, etc. If we were being invaded by rats and snakes, probably no one would be happy. So why did geese rise to a be a major concern. Geese have some good qualities that are both aesthetic pleasing and add to our ecological surroundings. Aesthetically, recreational birding is a popular activity that includes watching, photographing, and feeding. Observing wildlife in its natural environment can be very relaxing and many take pleasure in knowing that they exist. Personally, I enjoy watching a flock of geese flying above in their signature V formation. I enjoy watching goslings crossing the street to go to the pond and being escorted by their parents. Using my imagination, I can convince myself that while crossing the street they are honking to the tune “We are Family”. Ecologically, Canadian geese provide several benefits that may aid other plants and animals. They can serve as seed dispersers by eating plants in one area and then depositing seeds in another area when defecating. Goose feces, in moderation, can contribute to soil fertility by adding nutrients. As part of the food chain, adult geese, goslings, and eggs provide food for animals such as fox, snakes, raccoons, and turtles. Geese can create issues for human health and safety i.e. traffic hazards, slipping on geese droppings, and being attacked by aggressive geese (which often occurs when people get too close to nests or goslings). Geese can cause property damage to residential, commercial, and public property. Canadian geese are often responsible for grazing damage to all turf grass or intolerable levels of defecation on our walking trails. In parks and elsewhere the costs of cleaning-up goose droppings have added to the overall expense of managing our residential Canada geese population.
Don Thompson
Board Motions Motions from the 2-18-19 work session of the Board The BOD passed a motion (4-0) to approve the handbook with the following stipulations: No names to be provided (as titles and positions can change) The BOD must approve final content concerning BOD and committees Must be date neutral
Motions from the 3-4-19 Work Session of the Board Don Thompson made a motion for the Communications Committee to include the pamphlet in the Directory, and provide a preliminary draft to the BOD by the end of March to be reviewed and approved in April . 2nd: J Steskal. Motion approved ( 4-0) C. Fausnaugh asked Tom Rigg to get back to the BOD with the amount of advertising costs for the Directory only ( not including newsletter advertising ). Tom Rigg left the work session.
Draft article to home owners in response to the community survey: C Fausnaugh presented her draft article to be placed in the Sentinel in reference to the BOD responding to the community on the survey that had gone out. C Bodden made a motion to approve the draft, as presented. 2nd: B Collins. Motion approved ( 4-0)
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Committee, Group and Activity Reports Clubhouse Committee
Property Committee
The Clubhouse Committee met on Thursday, March 14th.
The Property Committee met Monday, March 11th. This was Bob Collins’ last meeting as our liaison and we thank him for his help. Jim Merrill attended as a guest.
Don Thompson was our Board Liaison. The item of major importance was the Fire Suppression system. Our new maintenance company, Allegiant, did a very good job in finding two leaks, fixing them, and turning our Nitrogen system back on. I am happy to report that we have been stable since. In the next month or two, Allegiant will inspect all the pipes in the attic.
The February minutes were approved and are in the Property notebook in the library. Edging around the front beds was completed and mulching of the beds and street trees will start the week of April 2nd, weather permitting. Some selective common area trees will also be done. Again we ask that residents do not speak to the contractors about doing personal work while they are working. If you wish to have additional work done call Tracey and she will give you the phone number.
Chuck Ruh reported that some of the water in the pool had to be drained due to the amount of rain that we had and also, our pool company put in more chemicals as part of the winterization. The warming trays for the CEC are on order and to make room for them, we had the sink opposite the pantry removed. Also, a new ping pong table was purchased since a leg on the old table broke off and could not be replaced. Thanks goes to both Joe Speno and Jerry Ryan for helping to put together the new table and dismantle the old one. Finally, another word of thanks to Sam Merrick for changing light bulbs in the Exercise Room.
As the nice weather approaches, we are looking at the landscape once again. A discussion on how to block more of the Carter residences took place and a plan is being pursued. Carl Rifino is working with Davey Tree and you may have seen their trucks in the neighborhood. Pruning of holly trees among others and fertilization of trees in the common areas have been completed. As the year goes on you will be seeing Davey out and about with Carl. The goal is to protect the trees that we currently have in the common area from disease and to keep them healthy. Carl has worked endlessly on this project and we are lucky to have him do this.
Next meeting is Thursday, April 11th at 10 a.m. in the Card room. Joe Grippo
Music Appreciation The April Music Appreciation will feature Walt Angney taking us on a tour of the big band era. Big bands began in the late 1920's and featured a variety of music. In the 1920's, most of the big bands were playing dance music. Some of the bands toured. Others held court at a fixed location. The audience mostly consisted of couples who came to dance. During a musical set, the band would play a specially arranged number -- often featuring a soloist or two. Some of these "featured numbers" were so good that the dancers would stop dancing and would come to the bandstand to listen. Bands like Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw, Tommy Dorsey, Glenn Miller, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Les Brown, Jimmy Dorsey, Claude Thornhill, Stan Kenton were very popular and played mostly Swing Jazz. The Big Band era is generally considered to be 1935-1945.
Janet Herner has contacted Weeds, Inc and he will continue to treat the 5 ponds again this year. An insert in this month's issue will provide you with an estimated schedule of fertilizations, chemical treatments, etc. for the coming year. An email through the website will advise you when each item will be done. Also the information will be on the bulletin board in the clubhouse. Again if you are not registered on the website we encourage you to do so since a lot of information is provided. As the nice weather approaches it is time to think about landscaping. We suggest that you look around your yard and if you have any dead or dying plants or shrubs that they should be removed. If changing your bed landscaping, remember to fill out a landscaping request form, available outside Tracey's office.
After World War II, big bands began to burn out. Traveling from town to town, usually by bus, was very hard on the musicians. The 1950's saw fewer and fewer big bands, and Rock & Roll pretty much killed the last of them.
Our next meeting is Monday, April 11th at 6:30 p.m. in the Craft Room.
Join us at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 9, in the Clubhouse for an hour of music enjoyment.
Julia Hambrecht
Roy Peters
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Committee, Group and Activity Reports (cont.) Community Events
Charity Committee
“ERICK KERNS” Saturday April 27, -7:00 p.m. Eric will be performing his Vegas-style VOICES OF LEGENDS SHOW including vocal impersonations of popular singers from the 1950’s through the 1980’s. Immediately, you’ll be drawn into his engaging performance and taken on the musical ride of your life. Flyer in Sentinel. Seating in limited so get your RSVP in early.
The March pickup for Our Daily Bread went well despite some snow the night before and chilly weather. Our volunteers collected donations from 58 Springmill homes including $115 in cash toward perishable goods. On Monday, April 1, at 8:30 AM., we will be collecting for M.O.T. Senior Center. Their special requests are for canned meals, such as stew and canned fruit, peanut butter and jelly and paper towels. They do not need toilet paper this month.
Thanks to Michele Wiener for bringing us some of the entertainment we have enjoyed here at Springmill. Erick Kerns, Sean Reilly, Ken McBride, The Alpenlanders. GREAT JOB!!
M.O.T., in partnership with the Appoquinimink Early Childhood Pre-School Center, will be looking for volunteer grandparents to spend an hour each week with a 4 yr., old child at the Center. The goal of the year-round program is to help the child thrive. I am sure some of you might find this a very rewarding and fulfilling opportunity. I will have further information regarding the program in the May Sentinel and it will also be in the M.O.T. Newsletter. Thank you for all you give! Happy Spring!
“GARAGE SALE” Saturday April 27, 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Rain or Shine. Questions? contact Joann Campbell or Pat Frail. ‘KENTUCKY DERBY’ Saturday May 4. 2019 - 5:30 pm. Witness the greatest two minutes in sports. Traditional derby menu, nonalcoholic Mint Juleps BYOB! Derby Divas wear your finest hats/headwear and participate in THE PARADE OF HATS. Engage in Springmill’s Pony Race with our own Springmill Jockeys. Flyer in Sentinel - get your RSVP in early.
Pat Kolbay
Fun With Neighbors March Trivia was a huge success (see pictures on page 18) April Game Nite is Saturday April 6. We will be playing Charades. Come at 7:00, bring your own beverage, table snack and a smile.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Pizza Nite is Friday April 19. Come at 4 with your own beverage, a snack, and money for pizza!! Let’s have fun! The Riggs and the Weinheimers
“MEMORIAL DAY’ May 27, “THE SENSATIONS” June 15, “FOURTH OF JULY PARTY” July 4, “CARD & GAME PARTY” July 17,
Coffee Hour Returns!! New and Revised
The CEC thanks Jerry Steskal for being our Board Liaison the past 3 months.
The trial return of the Saturday Coffee Hour on March 2nd was well received (see pictures on page 17). The March 16th event was not as well attended, probably because there was a communication mix-up and it was not on the calendar or advertised. So we are going forward with the coffee hours on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month from 10 a.m. ‘til noon. In April, that would be the 13th and the 27th. However, since the yard sale is the 27th, we will not have coffee that day. The only coffee hour for April is on the 13th.
The CEC meets the first Wednesday of the month at 9:30 a.m. in the craft room. Our next meeting is April 3, Peggy Andrews
ROMEOS We meet at a different restaurant for lunch on the third Thursday of every month. This is a group of men who get together to share food and conversation.
Bring a cup of your favorite beverage, or bring your own coffee pod and use the Keurig machine. Bring a snack for yourself, and a napkin. Join your neighbors for a good social outing. This is a “Carry-in – Carry-out” type affair, so there will be minimal clean-up. No expense, no supplying snacks and drinks for folks - just meeting neighbors and catching up!
All are welcome to attend. Contact Art Lamb to be put on the e-mail list.
Pat Frail
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Committee, Group and Activity Reports (cont.) Communications Committee
Come and Learn Mah Jongg
The Communications Committee held its monthly meeting, Monday, March 11 in the Clubhouse. Our liason was Carolyn Bodden, substituting for Carolyn Fausnaugh.
Recruiting more Mah Jongg Players! Come Learn The Game! We are looking to bring in more Mah Jongg players – men and women! If you haven't played in a while, or have never played, we invite you to come see what it's all about on Wednesday afternoons at 1 p.m. If there is enough interest, we plan to schedule some practice games on Tuesday mornings. One or two of us will be there every week to help you learn/brush up.
Minutes of the previous meeting, held on February 18, 2019 were approved. Sharonlynn Tassone, gave the Treasurer’s Report for January 2019. Several comments were made to add notes to the report to give more detail, Dick Rausch, as Business Manager, reported that we currently have 42 advertisers in the Sentinel. There are renewals needed. The Editorial plan for the March Sentinel was reviewed. We will have an appropriate April fools day article on page one.
What is Mah Jongg? It is a game played with tiles and a game card. Play involves obtaining combinations of tiles that match up with a hand on a Mah Jongg card. The cards change every year and can be purchased through either the Natonal Mah Jongg League or the American Mah Jongg Association for a nominal fee of $8. For practice purposes – we will have some cards for you to use.
Seminar subcommittee report Safe Gardening is scheduled for March 21. The next seminar will be by Spicer Mulliken, April 11, then Elder Law, with Kathleen DeLacy, April 24, and a Dove’s Nest Pollinator Site update at a date to be determined. Mark your calendars now so you don’t miss these informative meetings. The Seminar sub-committee is making plans for future seminars in the fall, we will take a break during the summer months. Some suggestions are a seminar on recycling, a seminar on fall prevention and maybe a visit from our Mayor. There was discussion about the Springmill Handbook. The BOD approved it at first with no photos or names. After further discussion it was agreed that photos, names and title will be included as long as the Handbook is combined with the Directory. This new format will be distributed with the Sentinel in January 2020. It will be more up to date since it will incorporate the results of the General Meeting elections.
This is a game, like most, where understanding comes through practice. It is a game of skill, strategy and calculation and involves a degree of chance. It takes several times of playing to become comfortable. If interested in learning to play or if you have any questions, feel free to contact Roe Lamb (See Directory for contact information) She will let you know if a game is scheduled for that week. Our Wednesday afternoon leader is Pat Weidemann
Our next meeting is Monday, April 8 (second Monday of the month) at 10 a.m. in the Clubhouse. Come and join us if you would like to be part of the Communications Committee. Tom Rigg
Poker Players Wanted
Bridge Players Wanted
Long-running game on Wednesday’s at 6:30 PM
We are trying to get the First Thursday afternoon bridge going again. So far, we have 10 people. We play at 1:00 p.m. the first Thursday of every month.
Springmill men have been playing “dealer’s choice” poker every Wednesday evening for the past 15 years. No “wild card” games are played. The stakes are minimal but the fun is maximum. Come to the Clubhouse card/pool room at 6:30 P.M. on any Wednesday and join the fun.
If you would like to join us, contact Marie Rigg.
Contact Tom Ferrara for more information.
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Committee, Group and Activity Reports (cont.) Dance Party News
MRC
The MRC Committee met on March 14th. We welcomed a The March 9 dance provided a lovely evening for all those who came. The theme was Saint Patrick’s Day and there was new member, Roy Peters. At the meeting, we reviewed our project an abundance of green to be seen. plans: Parking lot lighting, walking trails (renovation/resurfacing), sidewalks/ driveway (grinding/expansion joints) and scheduling the annual walk through the community to identify replacement work for sidewalks and driveway aprons.
The Dance Party Group is busy planning it’s second VERANDA BARBECUE & DANCE on Saturday, JUNE 8 at 6 P.M. Last year’s event was well-attended and lots of fun. Make sure to mark your calendars so that you won’t miss out.
We had hot dogs and burgers with all the fixin’s. Our Grill Masters got rave reviews. Guests brought along their favorite dishes to share and as usual, Springmillers brought delicious and innovative salads and sides. You’ve still got time to come up with some creative ideas! It doesn’t matter if you come alone, but it’s more fun to invite your neighbors for a great evening outside on the pool-side Our next meeting is scheduled at the clubhouse for Thursday, veranda of our lovely clubhouse. The pool will be open and we’re hoping for great weather again. The music was provided April 11th at 7:00 p.m. in the craft room. outside so that we could dance under the canopy of stars. Georgieanna Anderson More information will be coming in the May Sentinel along with a sign-up sheet. As spring is right around the corner, the committee would like to remind you, if exterior work to your home is being considered, review the ARC Architectural Guidelines and submit an ARC Change Request form, if required, to our Community Manager, Tracey Lund. The ARC Guidelines and ARC Change Request forms are available on Springmill’s website. The forms are also located in the clubhouse outside of Tracey’s office.
You Are Invited!! First Thursday Dinner Group Our thanks go out to Barbara and Roger Keller this month for hosting our time together. We will be dining at the Back Creek Restaurant on April 4, at 4:30. Please RSVP by email to Barbara and Roger (contact info in Directory) As usual, if you would like to invite a neighbor to join us, please feel free to do so, but just make sure either the neighbor or you lets the Kellers know in time to include them in their reservation count for Back Creek. (Springmill Newcomers, this group started out as a group of folks who had moved in during the past few years and wanted to connect in some way. I say this as a reminder that many of us have not lived here all that long. In fact, we referred to the group as the Newbies.) If you are not on our email list, and would like to dine with us, just let me know and I will gladly add you to the list. We welcome those first time diners who will be with us in April and we know you will find us to be open and receptive – no cliques here – and we think you will enjoy just being out with a bunch of nice neighbors. Peace, Danese Collins
Research shows dancing can improve your mental health by boosting your overall happiness. Dance party, anyone? Dancing is a great cardio workout. Like any good, low-impact cardio workout, dancing can improve cardiovascular health, increase stamina, strengthen bones and muscles and stave off illnesses. There are so many reasons why dancing is good for you, it’s hard to know where to begin. It’s great fun and good for the body as well as the mind. Besides being a good form of exercise and having a truly positive impact on our health, a recent study showed that it also makes us smarter! Eileen Bogel
REDUCTION – “Y” MEMBERSHIP DUES Belong to AARP? Member – Bear-Glasgow YMCA? Take note - your monthly dues of $56 can be reduced by 50% simply by calling 1-888-887-5963 or registering on Health YourWay.com. Print confirmation letter with number given and take it to the Y. Dues for seniors will be reduced to $28 monthly starting the following month. Take advantage of all the facilities that the Y offers – pools, gym, exercise room, sauna, aerobic classes both in the water and on land and many other types of fitness classes. Open seven days a week from early morning to evening, staying healthy and strong is at your doorstep. Sonya Comstock
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Recipes for all Seasons Passover Sweet Potato and Apple Latkes
Easter Asparagus Balsamic Stir-Fry
1 pound sweet potatoes, scrubbed 3 eggs, beaten 3 Tablespoons flour (Matzoh meal for Passover) 1 teaspoon salt, pepper to taste 3 Tablespoons finely chopped onion 1 cup coarsely shredded tart apple Oil for frying Grate the sweet potatoes and mix with the eggs, flour, salt and pepper, onion and apple. Heat 1/8-inch of oil in the bottom of a large skillet. Place heaping Tablespoonfuls of the batter in the hot oil, flattening the mounds so they form pancakes of about 3 inches. Brown well for about 4-5 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels and serve hot. Can be served with syrup, applesauce, sour cream. Serves 4 Submitted by Helen Weinheimer
2 teaspoons olive oil 2 cups diagonally-sliced asparagus 1 cup sliced mushrooms ½ cup chopped onion 1 Tablespoon balsamic vinegar ½ teaspoon dried thyme ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon ground pepper Heat oil over medium-high heat and stir-fry asparagus, mushrooms and onion one minute. Add remaining ingredients and stir-fry one minute more until asparagus is crisp-tender. Serves 4 Note: Watch heating olive oil as it burns easily. Once heated, don’t dawdle.
June’s Oatmeal Cookies
Toffee Brickle Back by popular demand!!
Preheat oven to 350 degrees; makes 5 dozen Ingredients:
During the coffee hour on March 2, many people were asking Kathy Cioffi for her recipe. Such a good one needs to be shared
1 c white flour & ½ c whole wheat flour 1 c sugar or monk fruit 3 TBS flax seed 1 tsp. cinnamon ½ tsp. salt 1 ¾ c uncooked oatmeal 1/3 c each of craisins, sunflower seeds, and chocolate chips 1 lightly beaten egg ½ c canola oil & ½ c melted butter (3TBS) 2 TBS molasses ¼ c milk
Line a 10 x15 pan (or larger) with tin foil. Place saltines in a single layer, touching each other on top of the foil. Melt ½ cup of butter (no margarine) in a non-stick pan. Add 1 cup of brown sugar (packed well) and bring to a full rolling boil. Boil and stir 3 minutes. Pour immediately over the crackers and spread evenly with a spatula. Immediately bake in a 400 degree oven for 5 minutes only. When taken from the oven, sprinkle 12 ounces of chocolate chips over the hot mixture in the pan. When melted, spread them out evenly. Sprinkle 8 ounces of chopped nuts (Kathy uses walnuts) evenly over the hot chocolate and press the nuts lightly into the chocolate. Refrigerate for several hours. Peel the foil away and break into random pieces. Store in covered container in the refrigerator or freezer.
Directions: In a large bowl, stir together the flours, flax seed, sugar, cinnamon & salt and other dry ingredients. Then stir in wet ingredients. Drop by teaspoonfuls onto baking sheets. Bake 10-12 minutes. Remove & cool.
• Plan ahead • Do some warm up exercises • Light stretching • Use proper positioning • Take frequent breaks • Use long handled tools to extend your reach • Stop gardening when you get tired
• Consider a foldable gardening bench that allows you to sit, kneel or just have help getting up. Mix together and enjoy your gardens! Taken from Michelle Brill’s Presentation See page 17
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Travel Group Goes to Shen Yun This epic production was not to be missed…and we didn’t, but first we stopped for some sustenance. On Thursday, February 28, we traveled to Philadelphia for lunch at the historic City Tavern to enjoy a lunch prepared by Chef Walter Staib, best known for his show “A Taste of History.” A highlight, besides the food, was being served by wait staff dressed in 18th century costumes…like a mini trip to Williamsburg! And we cannot forget having our photo taken with Chef Staib, an unexpected, but memorable addition to our day. Then it was on to the Merriam Theatre to see “5,000 years of civilization, live on stage,” from our well-positioned orchestra seats. Shen Yun was a multi-dimensional journey through China’s culture; music, dance, acrobatics, and fabulous costuming set against magnificent Chinese backdrops. It was awesome! You should know that the troupe will be performing at other venues in our area, including New York. We also found out that the show changes EVERY year, so even if you saw it this year, you can enjoy a whole new experience in 2020. You are given a program when you arrive which provides a detailed explanation of each “story” that is performed from the beginning of China to the present day. I was surprised to see that it even included two stories involving the Communist takeover. The stories have no dialogue, just dance, with the exception of narrators who come out before each story to provide a synopsis…in case you didn’t read your program ahead of the performance. My favorite part was the transition from the stage to the screen backdrop, where the dancers seamlessly disappeared for a moment and then reappeared in the backdrop to continue the storyline. The small cast (maybe fifty), considering the amount of time they were on stage, must be in fantastic condition to perform at such a consistent level. Someone asked when I returned to describe the performance. I’d have to say it was a combination of a typical theater or dance performance combined with the Olympics and a bit of theology from Sight and Sound at the end. Truly unique. June Stemmle
In March, after seeing “Something Rotten” at the Playhouse on Rodney Square, we decided to go out for dinner. After much discussion, we selected Ubon on Justison Street on the Riverfront. “Located in Wilmington’s Shipyard Center, UBON combines an enchanting atmosphere with delicious, high-quality Thai food. Our recipes have been passed down through three generations of our family and represent the fusion of traditional central Thai dishes with northeastern (Isaan) Thai style. Our food features a subtle, modern influence that makes our menu one of the most unique dining experiences in the area. “ (Ubon’s website) We arrived a few minutes before 5 and were seated immediately. Our server was very knowledgeable about the cuisine as well as being courteous and attentive. Although Thai food is usually thought of as spicy, at Ubon you can select your degree of hotness. There are 6 levels of spiciness: 0 - No Thank You, 1 - Tabasco 2 - Jalapeno 3 - Habanero 4 - Ghost 5 - Carolina Reaper To customize your spiciness even more, you can order a 0 or a 1 and ask for a 3, 4, or 5 on the side. You can then carefully add more seasoning to your entrée. Since there were three of us, we decided to order an appetizer to share. We selected the “Floating Market” consisting of Veggie Spring Ross, Thai Guy’s Wings, Dumplings (AKA Buddha Bellies, Minced turkey, shrimp, crab, and veggie in a hand folded dumpling). There was enough for all of us and we sent the tray back empty. Keith ordered the Honey chicken. (Crispy marinated chicken in a sweet and sour sauce on rice with chilled broccoli) Although I did not taste this, it certainly looked good. The broccoli maintained its fresh green color and was the first thing Keith ate – must have been good. Tom ordered Pad Thai with shrimp (stir fry rice noodles, tofu, carrots, cabbage, and egg in a tamarind sauce*) Tom ordered this with a “1” spice level and tried some on the side of “3”. He liked the “1” level. I ordered the Basil shrimp (Pad Karprow) (Stir fry onions, bell peppers, string beans, bamboo shoots in a spicy basil sauce) I ordered a “2” and found it quite good – but next time I would order a “1” and add the spice side to it. The entrees were $15 each and the appetizer $19. I would recommend this restaurant on a nice spring, summer, or fall evening when you can stroll along the riverfront before or after dinner. In March, we did no “strolling”, more like “running” to the car! Please be aware that the restaurant is on the Riverfront Walk and does not have direct access for drop off at the door. *Footnote - Wikipedia – Tamarind is a leguminous tree in the family Fabaceae indigenous to tropical Africa. The genus Tamarindus is a monotypic taxon. The tamarind tree produces pod-like fruit that contains an edible pulp used in cuisines around the world. Other uses of the pulp include traditional medicine and metal polish. The wood can be used for woodworking and tamarind seed oil can be extracted from the seeds. Its tender young leaves are used in Indian cuisine, especially in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Because of tamarind's many uses, it is cultivated around the world in tropical and subtropical zones.
Marie Rigg
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Left - Helen and Harry Weinheimer present Trivia questions, written by themselves, to the teams. Right - Winning Team show their Bragging Rights Great Job Weinheimers!!
Above - Trevor Baboolal and David Leasure try out the table Left - Joe Grippo and Joe Speno assemble the table
A select group of Springmill residents spent an enjoyable winter Sunday afternoon listening to an early St. Patrick's Day concert by the Jolly Tars (Ken Purcell and Jake Laubach). Ken and Jake used made up Irish names to get everyone in the spirit of the festive Irish holiday which actually occured a week later. They combined sea shanties, which is their specialty, with traditional Irish tunes and ended with a rousing version of “When Irish Eyes Are Smilin”. Of course, the audience pitched in and helped the Tars when requested to sing, clap and snap fingers .Ken Purcell interjected several saucy stories which tickled everyone’s funny bone. After the first set The CEC invited all to partake in a sumptuous spread of cheese, cold cuts, crackers, fruit and a dessert table along with coffee. Bailey’s Irish creamer and Irish whisky were available to spike the more adventurous attendees’ coffee. Congratulations to the CEC for bringing a little fun to a dreary winter Sunday afternoon. Dick Rausch
On a sunny but cold day, the annual Spring Expo took place at the Townsend Fire Hall. Several hundred people took advantage of this event to see what vendors have to offer to the public. Entering the Expo, each person was given a bag of treats and asked to fill in a card to win one of the many door prizes offered. Where to begin? Either direction offered something in the way of information, special gift items, and some tempting food. Meeting other folks from Springmill along the way was a time to stop and chat and take photos. Winners of door prizes were the Baboolals and Cathy Uranko. Vendors could be found in both rooms eager to introduce themselves and present a souvenir. Time passed quickly with visiting so many vendors and enjoying various samples. By the time the event ended, all attendees had enjoyed a special day and were leaving with a large bag of goodies plus valuable information on vendors that might be needed in the near future. Sonya Comstock Pictures Clockwise: Cathy Uranko and Dick Belber, Trevor and Carol Baboolal, Dennis Hand, Jane Kimmins Center: Sharon and Gary Merrick
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Phyllis Burris, Tex Morton Sally Midash and Bernadette Hnat get ready to start the game
First round winners
Betty Freeman wins the 50/50. Noel Carey and Tiny Farquhar look on
Second round winners
The Delaware Forest service, in cooperation with the DE Dept. of Transportation, and Dept. of Natural Resources Fish and Wildlife, are teaming up to create almost 30 acres of much needed pollinator habitat. Treating the 30 acre parcel behind Springmill with a prescribed fire will help remove invasive plant species and promote the growth of native grasses and plants, without the use of chemicals . After the prescribed fire is completed, the Fish and Wildlife staff will prep any areas we were unable to treat with fire and plant the area with native wildflowers Photos available on Delaware.gov The Sentinel thanks Sonya Comstock for her communication efforts in order to keep Springmill up to date
A rainy day did not stop residents from attending the seminar on gardening and what not to do. Michelle Brill, Physical Therapist, Christiana Care Health Service, presented an informative presentation on how to garden without undue exertion on our senior bodies. She covered the safe way to enjoy gardening from doing a warm-up before starting and to take breaks periodically to save our backs, hips and knees. A few tips on how to bend safely and use our legs to support our weight will save many backaches after a day of gardening. Brill started with positioning our body over base of support to the proper sitting and kneeling posture. Her suggestions include using long-handle tools, avoid twisting and throwing contents and keeping your hips and pelvis facing the direction of your work. She also raised the importance of performing wall squats, arm lifts and performing hamstring stretch exercise. With the warm weather approaching and the desire to get outside and dig in that garden, one should approach this activity in a somewhat cautious manner. Start with a brisk walk first and then begin gardening taking time out for a rest break. The yard will still be there when you return eager to start again. A pamphlet on “Safe Gardening� is available in the clubhouse offering good advice to all. Sonya Comstock
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Congratulations Eddie See article on page 23
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Horus Sight Tech and MyEar app Did You Know about MyEar app???
Did You Know about Horus sight tech???
Now for the deaf and hearing impaired. I have new technology that was found while volunteering on a committee researching a way to assist deaf congregants in our church hear the pastor without using an interpreter. It is an app called MYEAR, June Stemmle Some of you know that, at age 20, I went blind in both that uses earbuds and an iPhone to translate, in eyes. We never found out why, but whatever the REAL TIME, speech to text. We tried it in church doctors did helped because within six months, my sight started recently and it worked perfectly! There are other audio returning. Then at age 60, I developed a pre-cancerous smartphone apps, but this new one has the potential to improve condition in both eyes; freckles on the eye called nevus the daily life of anyone with a severe or profound hearing loss. appeared, that are checked on every six months. They are similar to moles on your skin. Needless to say, with my sight “It was created by Brandon Isobe and was inspired by his history, I have kept track of anything related to vision ever since. father Gerald Isobe, a deaf Hall of Fame golfer and a graduate That interest and research brought me to a device called Horus, of the National Technical a wearable tech that acts as a personal assistant for blind or Institute for the Deaf in visually impaired people. Horus is worn on the head like Google Rochester, NY. Gerald grew up glass or a sports announcer headset (You’ll seem very au lip reading and became courant with it on.), but for the visually impaired. It helps those frustrated with only having difficulty seeing do day-to-day tasks; cooking, reading, understanding 30% of what was identifying people, or walking down a street. To get more being said and tired of asking information and a video, go to people to repeat things. The app www.horus.tech/?-en_us, and choose Horus Vision Technology. was created out of that “Saverio Mugia and Luca Nardelli, founders of the Swiss frustration.” The great thing is artificial intelligence company, Eyra, created Horus after that the app is affordable…only $9.99 at iTunes! For more encountering a blind person needing help at information you can go to brandon@appmyear.com or visit his a bus stop. While still students, they were Facebook page for tips/tricks on using the app. working on a computer to give “vision” to a Two more items: robot and realized the same technology If you ever need a Sign Language Interpreter in Delaware, could help humans.” What they developed you can call 302-594-0754. is basically a headset and camera, which connect to a mobile phone sized device that If you want to procure money to supply Smartphones for your is easy to conceal in a pocket or purse. The organization, school or church, grants are available. I know that cameras sees/sends images of the because we are presently looking into that possibility for our church. surroundings to the processor. That Picture taken from Horus website May all of you enjoy life with wonderful sight and hearing, but information is then translated into audible if you know someone who can use this information, please pass form “inside the wearer’s head” through bone conduction, bypassing the ear canal, so it can only be it along. heard by the wearer. IF you already wear a hearing aid, the June Stemmle system can connect directly to that. It sometime pays to have a medical problem or volunteer for a committee. If you have difficulty hearing or seeing, this article is for you. First, I’ll get personal and tell you what brought me to learn about these two devices.
I’m not a scientist, so it’s hard to explain in print. You really have to see it to believe all it can do…and Horus gets smarter the more you use it! If you find your vision is failing, please check out the website, you won’t be sorry.
There Are Newcomers in Springmill!! Say hello, invite them to go to an event or committee meeting with you. We Welcome Anita Viets – Dawn Court 19
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222 Carter Dr., Suite 104
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Garage Sale
Advertiser of the Month
APRIL…ANNUAL GARAGE SALE!!!
MAYSE Painting & Contracting Justin Mayse’s original dream was to become a major league baseball player. However, when several arm surgeries were suffered by him, he realize that this dream would never happen. This happened while he was attending the University of Delaware, and he knew his future would lie in something else.
It’s almost that time…SATURDAY, APRIL 27, so start going through the garage, kitchen, closets and cubbies. This is the one time each year, you get to downsize those things you don’t want or use and get tax-free money for it! It takes a bit of time and effort, so we’re giving you a heads-up this month. What I do is use some storage bins and just add things as I go from room to room and spot something. I then move the bin/s to an empty space in the house, the attic or a room. It’s surprising how much you can accumulate. Then the day before the garage sale, I set up a table or tables in the garage, so they are ready for the big day. This is a rain or shine event and is well publicized with signs and on social sites like Facebook and MOT Resale, so we usually get a good crowd. IF it rains, just leave things in the garage (I park my car in a neighbor’s driveway that’s not doing the sale...ask first.), if it’s nice, you may want to move your items to the driveway or lawn. If you just have a couple of items, partner with a neighbor/neighbors for a “group sale.” Makes for more fun and lively conversation from 8:00-1:00.
A few years ago he owned an Herbal Life Nutrition Club in Pike Creek and gave all his customers his business card for painting contracts. Calls came in, and he began a successful business by providing excellent painting services to many residences. He found total satisfaction in painting homes and seeing the look of pleasure on customers’ faces when they view the finished work. Living in Bayberry, he estimates he has painted 32 of the homes to the total satisfaction of all. Pleased with his success as a residential painter, he and his family, his wife and daughter will soon be moving to the Estates at Saint Annes. In Springmill, he has painted two homes so far and knows the residents were very pleased with his work. He is now painting full time and enjoying the work as well. Justin is aware that popular colors change over time, and today the most popular color is grey with bright white trim and black accents. To change the total look of a kitchen, painting kitchen cabinets has become very popular. He works with Sherwin-Williams Paint Store where a color coordinator will visit a potential customer’s home and make suggestions about the best color. This gives customers $50 off their paint purchase, and they are assured the right color was selected for their home.
Get the family involved. They can help with bigger or heavier items, act as a cashier, or just be there to give you a break. My daughter and grand kids love to be part of the day. It gets very festive with neighbors visiting to shop or just chat and meeting people in the community at large. Some come every year…the man looking for trains, the lady looking for jewelry, people looking for toys, tools, baby stuff (If you watch your grandchildren, get rid of things as they grow out of them.) or kitchen gear. Someone is out there for everything…even used towels to use around their pool area or wiping down cars. I’m always amazed at what people want.
His wife works as a Branch Manager at Fulton Bank, and she is always passing out his business card to potential customers. He has been in his own painting business for two years. While he is a young man, age 30, he feels he has tumbled into a career that he thoroughly enjoys and is successful at, and this success might allow him to retire at an early age.
The nice thing is that anything that doesn’t sell can be donated to an organization or Good Will or just restored in those bins until next year. So, whether you’re a longtime resident or just moved in, start looking around, gathering, and preparing; Saturday, April 22, will be here before you know it. I will put a reminder in April’s issue, but put the date on your calendar today.
Justin knows that popular colors come and go, and the color of today will change in time. He will be back to paint that home again with a new popular color. Women make all the color choices in homes because they are more focused on the look. With three employees, Justin and his crew are anxious to help Springmill residents with their new painted look. He can be reached at 443-553-6503. Sonya Comstock
Should you have questions, you can call Joann Campbell or Pat Frail, the chairpersons of this CEC sponsored event. June Stemmle
Saturday Recycling Event
Book Club Choices
Hazardous Waste Collection
Book Club 1 (Deb Kupper/1st Wed.) We will be reading “Paper Wife” by Laila Ibrahim.
Hazardous Waste Collection at the nearby St. Anne's Episcopal School 211 Silver Lake Rd., Middletown, on Saturday, April 6, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Book Club 2 (Mary-Elizabeth Rhoads/4th Tues.) This month our group will be critiquing “House Rules,” by Jodi Picoult. Jacob is a teenager with Asperger’s syndrome, so we’ll probably learn more about that condition as we read; Picoult is a top-notch researcher.
Household Hazardous Waste- Product containers marked with words, “Warning: Hazardous,” “Flammable,” “Poisonous,” “Corrosive” or “Explosive.” For example; household cleaners, garden pesticides, paints, nail polish, fluorescent bulbs, or antifreeze. Electronic Goods Recycling- Electronic Equipment such as, old computers, printers, CD players, microwaves, telephones, televisions, game boys, fax machines, answering machines, and VCRs. Paper Shredding- Residents can bring up to 2 file boxes of personal confidential papers for shredding (financial and legal documents, receipts, and tax and medical records). Papers with staples or paper clips are accepted. https://dswa.com/event/household-hazardous-waste-electronic-
Book Club 3 (Ginny Grippo/3rd Mon.) This month we will enjoying “China Dolls,” by Linda See. Book Club 4 (Mary Jo Starrett/1st Wed.) Our group will be discussing “A Gentleman in Moscow” by Anor Towles. Book Club 5 (Joan Gross/3rd Tues.) When we meet, we will be talking about “The Flight of the Sparrow” by Amy Belding Brown. June Stemmle
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Middletown News New Business
Town Meeting
Stumpy’s Hatchet House – first indoor hatchet throwing venue – 819 Middletown Warwick Rd., Bldg. E2 – Open Wed-Sun - Phone 302-378-4737
The first order of business was the swearing in of the Mayor and three Council Members to the public. The new Police Chief, Robert Kracyla, was introduced to all. His swearingin ceremony took place on the evening of the election on March 4. Mayor Branner extended his appreciation to the two retiring councilmen, Jason Faulkner and Howard Young. Faulkner has spent thirty years supporting the town by first being on the Planning Board and then on the Town Council. Young was on the Town Council for four years, and the Mayor thanked him for his service. Both men received plaques honoring them for their dedication to the town.
Sonya Comstock
Town Election The results of the town election on March 4 are as follows: Mayor Ken Branner ran unopposed and will serve for two years. Drew Chas was re-elected as a member of the town council for two years. Aaron Blythe and Jim Royston are two new members who will serve for two years.
Approval was given tor “Little Big Ball” for August 30-31 from 6 p.m.-6 a.m. rather than the 24-hr. marathon in previous years. This event will take place at Silver Lake Park.
At the conclusion of the town election, Mayor Ken Branner introduced the new Police Chief, Robert Kracyla, who was sworn in at the same time.
Approval was given to close Rt. 299 from 6 a.m. until 5 p.m. for the annual Peach Festival on August 17. Town Hall and the Church on Main St. will offer free parking.
Sonya Comstock
Approval was given to show five movies in Silver Lake Park beginning in June. Each will take place on the last Friday of the month. The event is referred to as “Movies Under the Stars.” The Chamber of Commerce announced entrepreneurial scholarships for small businesses which would be $500 per business.
Springmill Resident Goes to Special Olympics World Games
Debbie Pfeil, Project Manager of KCI, presented a resolution to adopt the Downtown Development District Plan for the town. This was approved by the town council. Presented to the council was the preliminary development plan for the demolition and construction of a new Everett Meredith Middle School. The present building will be demolished in 2020, and by 2022 a new building will be constructed. All school equipment will be offered to other state schools. The Early Childhood Center will remain in place. When the new Middle School is completed, plans will be made to build a new Childhood Center by Brick Mill School. The old Childhood Center will be converted to a training center. A new traffic light will be added on Broad St, and traffic patterns will change for a safer drop-off location for parents.
Eddie Joyner of Whispering Trail has spent the last months preparing for the Special Olympic World Games in Abu Dhabi. The Opening Ceremonies were held on March 14. Esselee Davis and Tom and Marie Rigg watched the ceremonies in the Springmill Clubhouse. Eddie marched onto the field with Team USA (arrow is pointing to Eddie on the screen) Such a proud moment for Eddie and Esselee! Tom and I were very happy to share it with them.
A Preliminary Major Land Development Plan behind Aldi’s was approved with changes. The revised plan replaces a smaller building with two buildings, a combined 58,800 sq. and also added a 2,000 sq.ft. Bank to the Phase 2 parking lot. Expected completion date in late spring or summer.
The World Games hosted 7500 athletes from 190 countries in 24 sports. Delaware had only 4 athletes.
Approval was given for a Wawa Gas Station and Convenience Store to be constructed at the corner of Armstrong Corner Road and Summit Bridge Road. The space was originally to become a Royal Farms facility, but they changed their mind and Wawa seized the opportunity because of its proximity to the new 301 and its official entrance into Middletown. Question asked by a council member was whether this new station would provide free electric service for autos. Response was this request should be considered.
Eddie was competing in bowling. He is a member of the Special Olympics of Delaware MOT Tigers Bowling Team. The Special Olympic Oath is “Let me win, but if I cannot win let me be brave in the attempt.” Well done, Eddie, Congratulations! You won! Sixth place in singles and Seventh place in doubles. (See additional picture on page 17)
Approval was given for a Conditional Use Permit request for La Bonne Nutrition LL (Herbalife Nutrition Club/store) to operate in an M-I-zoned area. The location was the former home of Rita’s Ices. Sonya Comstock
Marie Rigg
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Did you know???? That the Delaware Department of Corrections provides a variety of products and services to residents through Delaware Correctional Industries? I didn’t until I was chatting with Pat Kolbay during a Meet Your Neighbor interview and she mentioned a missing chair that was being reupholstered there. Of course, that pressed a mental button to do an article on their services, and here it is.
If you choose to call instead, that main number is (302) 857-5491. The director of the facility is Mark Pariseau, the operations manager is Ed Bower, and Kim Coury handles sales and marketing. The person Pat worked with on choosing fabric and finishes was Stephen Lisinski. Since there were over 100 books of fabric alone, she said he was a BIG help in narrowing her choices.
Let me begin with the plethora of items and services available from the inmates who are trained and employed there; printing and silk-screening, embroidery, custom furniture and reupholstery, refinishing, garment manufacturing, custom manufacturing for outdoors, and they have a motor pool. The cost of training is partially paid for through these product sales. You, as the customer, actually get to benefit in two ways. First, you have quality work done at a lower cost, and second, the inmates who are accepted into the vocational program learn a skill they can use after release, which in turn means there is less of a chance they will end up back in the prison system.
Now that you have ALL the basic information, let me share the Kolbay’s experience. Pat found out about the services through “group chatter.” Springmill is very good at sharing information. She compared a few estimates before giving them a call. Their price was right and she is a believer in “positive rehabilitation,” so that also prompted her choice.
When Pat researched reupholstering her chair through other businesses, the cost was almost double that of the quote for DE Correctional Industries. One caveat is that you do have to drop off/pick up the piece AND you need to have clearance previously arranged prior to visiting…it is a prison after all. Clearance can be arranged by calling (302) 653-3204. Delivery and installation services are available if you’re ordering case goods and seating…you can call the Customer relation staff to get a quote for that at (302) 857-5491. There is a 6% fee for orders of $5,000 or less, which would be the majority of orders from anyone in Springmill. The fee also includes delivery, assembly, set-up, and removal of packaging materials…just like most companies. VERY explicit directions to their location can be found at their website www.DCI.Delaware.gov . By searching various parts of the website, you can also get more information about the various services and who to contact for each. There is also an order form on-line.
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She took the chair (see picture of before and after) to Smyrna (about a 20 minute ride). It fit nicely in the back of her Prius, but if you have a friend with a van or truck, that might even been easier. Once there, she had a choice of over 100 sample books from which to choose with a wide range of costs. She credits Stephen with helping her narrow her search regarding fabric, color and cost. The two of them discussed the details she wanted in the finished product, and once she was satisfied, she left a deposit. Customer alert!! The process can take several months, much longer than a regular business. But since it wasn’t their only chair, Pat didn’t mind the inconvenience. In her words, and as you can see from the photo, the chair came back beautifully upholstered…but too generously stuffed. Not a problem. They took it back without question and redid it at no cost. “It is lovely and the wood refinishing is better than I expected. I was so pleased, I took in a wing chair and ottoman and was also very pleased with the result.” Well, that’s the end of her story and my research. Delaware Correctional Industries is definitely a place to investigate for repairs or custom work in a variety of areas…as long as you are patient and want to save money. June Stemmle
Retirement Planning College Savings Plans Financial Planning
Springmill Discount: $3.00 off every car wash!
10% Senior Discount
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Springmill Contributes
Book Review Accidental Heroes Danielle Steel
Springmill Community, with the help of the Charity Committee, contributes to many charities, some on a frequent basis and other just at Holiday time. In order for residents to know how their contributions are used, I have asked Pat Kolbay to write a series of articles on the charities supported by Springmill’s Charity Committee. Tom Rigg
On an ordinary spring morning at JFK Airport, two planes depart for San Francisco. At the same time, TSA agent Bernice Adams finds a postcard of the Golden Gate Bridge left in the bin bearing a threatening message. Bringing it to the attention of her supervisor, she is met with a dubious response that it means nothing. Bernice has an uneasy feeling about the words and contacts Security. Ben Waterman also becomes suspicious but is uncertain as to which plane might be in difficulty.
Our Daily Bread Bread Dining Room of MOT, Inc. “Meals served at no cost to those in need.” Our Daily Bread is a volunteer organization dedicated to feeding low-income families, individuals, children and the elderly of the Middletown, Odessa and Townsend communities with nutritious food in a safe environment.
Ben checks the passenger list and his focus turns to the A321 flight with Helen Smith as its senior pilot. She retired from military service with full honors. Her husband’s death in Iraq affected her deeply and now she is a widow mother with three young children. This flight is carrying a major movie star plus an off-duty pilot who has just lost his forty-year career. Also flying is a distraught father traveling with his baby son that he has abducted from his estranged wife. Relying on instinct, Ben is convinced that this plane might never reach San Francisco. Could the pilot be so wrapped up with the loss of her husband that she would be willing to end it all? Could her co-pilot, who has been turned down several times to be the pilot on a major airline, be willing to harm all passengers and himself? The reasons given to him not to be promoted are that he is unstable and has anger management issues. The off-duty pilot with a forty-year career has been fired because of one incident. All three could be the predator.
In 2008, a non-profit corporation called Our Daily Bread Dining Room of MOT, Inc. was formed. From 2012 until June 2016 meals were served 2 Mondays a month in the Dale United Methodist Church. In 2015, the former New Castle County Health Building was leased from the town of Middletown. The building was renovated with grants and donations to create a commercial kitchen and dining room. The first meal in the new building was prepared and served on Sept. 12, 2016. The community in need, is now served lunch Monday through Friday and dinner Tuesday and Thursday in a warm and welcoming dining room. The cooking and serving is done by volunteer groups from the surrounding area, churches, businesses, civic organizations and concerned citizens. Many of our Springmill residents are involved as volunteers.
Helen Smith proves she is not the one to end her life and that of her passengers, but how to protect all passengers becomes a major challenge. Somehow she must continue to fly the plane without letting on she knows who the potential killer is. Her expertise as a pilot in the war keeps her steady and calm as she works with security to avert this tragedy. She experiences firsthand the support of a few passengers who know that their lives depend on calculated analysis and spontaneous response when the time comes.
Improvements are ongoing, especially in the kitchen with upgrades and additional food prep appliances. Several times a year, the public is invited to delicious fundraiser dinners which help Our Daily Bread to continue growing. Their hope, with support from the community, is to fill the calendar with meals. We at Springmill support Our Daily Bread with several food pickups a year. Our first one this year was on Monday, March 4th. Please consider the “Needs List” that you will receive, as you prepare your donation for Our Daily Bread in the future.
Sonya Comstock
Pat Kolbay
Grief Share Group Springmill’s Grief Support Group will soon be closing out this session, but will return in late summer or early fall. Watch the Sentinel for updates. We will be meeting on the dates listed below at 5:30 in the Community Center for the remainder of this session. March 17 Lessons of Grief – Part One • We will become aware of an often-overlooked reason that grief is so painful • Why going to church can be so difficult • The benefits of helping others March 24 Lessons of Grief – Part Two • This session provides a more complete picture of who we are now that our loved one is gone • Why no one grieves perfectly • What grief can teach us about relationships
March 31 Heaven • Some questions about heaven and the afterlife are explored • Whether we should communicate with our deceased loved one • Whether near-death experiences are reliable descriptions of heaven • And many others April 7 What Do I Live For Now? • Why moving forward is a necessity • Why it’s a process • Why peace and pain will always coexist If you have ever lost a loved one (pets included), you are welcome. Danese and Bob Collins
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Elana's Broad St. Florist & Gifts has been offering the Middletown, DE area superior floral arrangements and assortments for more than 10 years. Come in and browse Elana’s unique collection of gifts items. 500 N. Broad St. Middletown, DE 19709 elanasbroadstflorist.com elanasflorist@gmail.com Mention this ad for a 10% discount on all purchases
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New Orleans and Cruising the Lower Mississippi Many of you have taken European riverboat cruises; I haven’t, but I did decide to start with a domestic cruise on the lower Mississippi River aboard the America, one of the paddleboats that is part of the American Cruise Company’s fleet. The best sailing dates for the lower Mississippi are in the spring or fall. We traveled in the middle of March, when the temperatures were supposed to be comfortably mild in the 70’s to 80’s with lower humidity. As it turned out, the south wasn’t exactly sultry during our trip. We did have weather in the 70’s, but also days that were cooler than hoped for in the 50’s and 60’s. Most days were also cloudy…luckily not rainy, so OK for touring. My planning was indecisive until two days before departure. I ended up packing long pants, capris, short sleeves, long sleeves, sneakers, sandals and cardigans along with ear warmers, gloves, and the windproof waterproof jacket I took to Iceland. As a traveler, I’m a planner and ready for ANYTHING! There are monetary advantages to traveling on certain dates. We received a $1,000 discount for traveling before peak season. Our stateroom was listed as AAM, just below the suites and was still over $5,000 after the discount. That cost included the hotel, all meals, breakfast room service, complimentary cocktail hour, WIFI, and excursions at each port. Starting with a bonus day/night in New Orleans to get acclimated, the tour starts with a day touring the city before boarding. You can use your bonus day at the start of the trip by boarding a Hop On Hop Off sightseeing tour that costs $39 and starts at 9:30 and ends at 3:30 p.m. It has 18 stops with a free cemetery tour and a discount book for restaurants in the city. The other possibilities are a Swamp & Bayou sightseeing tour in a covered boat. It lasts 2 hours and costs $51. Or you could do a Food Walking Tour, which lasts 3 hours and costs $54.99. During the tour you visit world renowned restaurants, learn about the history of cooking and enjoy food tastings. All three received 5 star ratings. Once on board, you travel back in time for a unique experience, on a charming ship, in a comfortable room with a balcony, which allows 24-hour views of the Mississippi as it slowly makes its way up from New Orleans to Vicksburg and back. Along the
way there were tours to Oak Alley, Houmas House, Baton Rouge, St. Francisville, and Natchez.
It is a lesson in America’s Civil War History, gives you the opportunity to visit some of the grand plantations homes of the Deep South, and to step into Mark Twain’s shoes when he was a riverboat captain. I would definitely recommend rereading some of his works, especially “Life on the Mississippi” or “Huckleberry Finn.” Before leaving I also immersed myself in other southern reading. I especially enjoyed “Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens and “Whistler” by John Grisham. On the paddleboat, time is frozen as you enjoy the luxury of river travel from long ago. There are numerous activities to keep you amused; games, tea time, entertainment, daily lectures & tours. The blue tours each day are free, or you may choose to upgrade for a minor fee to a silver tour or for a bit more to a gold tour. We did mostly free ones, but did opt for one silver and one gold. We figured we probably wouldn’t be back again and wanted to make the most of our time and choices. The silver tour was to the J.N. Stone House Tour with tea and a concert ($30). The gold tour was the Atchafalya Basin Boat Tour ($80) that took us into the bayou to see all the flora and fauna of the region and included a seafood lunch at the Wharf. I would recommend the Basin tour, but skip Pat’s at the Wharf. It was the only restaurant nearby, but it was sub-par in food. The food aboard the vessel would deserve a 4 Star rating…at times fantastic and other times a bit inconsistent, BUT, they are willing to accommodate what you want even if it’s not on the menu…a definite plus. Chef Philomen even made me my own plate of beignets when I mentioned I hadn’t tasted them yet…delivered to my stateroom within an hour of our conversation. Now that’s service! Betty Freeman and I enjoyed our time aboard to book another cruise for 2020. This time we are sailing on the Song and following the route of Lewis and Clark in the Northwest part of the United States. If you think you’d like to come along next June, or if you’d like to try an American riverboat cruise, we’ll be happy to give you more information. June Stemmle https://theearthdayimages.com/ earth-day-quiz
When was the first Earth Day? Earth Day was first observed on April 22, 1970, when an estimated 20 million people nationwide attended the inaugural event. Senator Gaylord Nelson promoted Earth Day, calling upon students to fight for environmental causes and oppose environmental degradation with the same energy that they displayed in opposing the Vietnam War. What disaster lead to the founding of Earth Day? a. Extinction of American mega fauna b. An oil spill off the coast of California c. The Chernobyl disaster d. An oil spill off the coast of Africa Answer: An oil spill off the coast of California – Underwater drilling caused the disaster when more than 200,000 gallons of crude oil created an 800-mile oil slick off the coast.
If you live north of the equator, in which direction would you point your solar panels to get the best result? a. East b. North c. West d. South Answer: South – If you live south of the equator, you point the panels north. . The United States uses most of its household energy every year to power what? a. Heat and cool the house b. TVs, computers and phones c. Lights d. Heat water Answer: Lights – Most homes in the United States use fossil fuels for heating. Compiled by Marie Rigg
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Now that days are longer and milder temperatures can be expected, we can look forward to spending more time outdoors enjoying our favorite sports and fitness activities. Also, the pool will be open in less than 60 days. Here is the first sports update for 2019. Bocce: Don Thompson reports: Spring has finally arrived, and it is time to form our 2019 Springmill Bocce Club. Bocce is a low impact easy to learn game and just plain fun. The annual registration form is inserted in this issue of the Sentinel. Please complete the form by April 15th. All efforts will be made to accommodate your preferred day to play. If you have recently moved to Springmill we would especially like to invite you to register and join in on all the fun. Don’t be concerned if you do not know anyone, or even how to play. The coordinators will be happy to place you on a team and teach the fundamentals. This is a great way to meet other members of the community and get out of the house and enjoy the sunshine. Now for those who do not want to commit for an entire season please consider registering as a substitute player. Substitute players are always in need. I am also delighted to announce that Anne Lucas will be joining me as an Assistant Coordinator for our Bocce Club. So, let us get rolling. Middletown Ladies Golf League: Eileen Bogel reports: The Middletown Ladies Golf League is proud to announce the start of our TWENTY-FIRST SEASON! The Middletown Women's Golf League is holding their welcome back meeting on Thursday, April 4, 2019 at our home course, Back Creek Golf Club. This is a 9-hole and 18-hole women’s golf league. Our season will begin Thursday April 11th; tee time is 9:00 am and will extend through the beginning of October. When the weather turns warmer, start time is 8:00 am, usually June, July, August. Hope to see some new members from Springmill joining the league this year. Springmill/Spring Arbor Men's Golf League (SMGL): This year we will be playing 4 courses: Back Creek (our home course), Odessa National, Garrisons Lake and Frog Hollow. Our season starts on April 4th and run until October 31st. We currently have 52 members and average about 28 players per week. Most leagues collect money for weekly competitions. We do not, except for an occasional competition. We are a play for fun and social interaction league. Our yearly dues are $10.00. Anyone interested in joining this residence-based league, contact Joe Tomassetti at j.tomassetti@verizon.net. Pickleball: Jane Kimmins reports: The Spring, Summer, Fall Pickleball season will begin on April 22nd at 8:30 AM and continue until 10 AM for experienced players. The game will continue through the season every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8:30 to 10 AM. The word "experienced" is used very loosely. If you have played tennis, ping pong, handball or racquetball, we consider you experienced. New players or people who have tried the game before and want to give it another try will be welcomed at the tennis/pickleball court at 10 AM. We will have spare
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racquets, some experienced players and enough balls to get spring training started. Hopefully, everyone will start at the same level. Please join us for the start of the season, enjoy the game and meet some fantastic people. See you on the 22nd. Tennis: Jerry Ryan reports: Spring has sprung and a few tennis players have already been out on the courts. So grab your racquet and come out for some fun in the sun. We start at 9:30 AM Saturday and Sunday. As it warms up we start at 9:00 AM and finally at 8:30 AM. We also play Tuesday and Thursday mornings. This is a great time to come out and work out the ”rusty Joints" caused by winter and then be in full swing for the season. The Bocce and Tennis/Pickleball courts are always open, weather permitting. Whenever the mood hits you get some people together and start playing. Bocce equipment is in the closet in the Craft Room. Water Aerobics: Ann Raymond will provide a complete report on the plans for Water Aerobics in the May Sentinel as we approach the 2018 pool opening. Yoga: June Stemmle reminds everyone that a Yoga session is held in the Clubhouse Great Room every Monday morning at 9:00 AM. Meditation follows Yoga from 10:00 – 10:30 AM. Cynthia Frank will help you to learn to de-stress, relax, and find peace and serenity. All are welcome. Fitness: Staying fit should be a goal which will help us to age gracefully. Springmill offers several ways to help everyone stay fit. With Senior Exercise, Yoga, Meditation, the Gym, Water Aerobics, and miles of scenic paths and streets for safe walking and bicycling, it is easy to get out and help stay fit at your own pace and ability. Compiled by Dick Rausch
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