www.springmilldelaware.org Volume XVI Issue 12
A NEWSLETTER FOR THE SPRINGMILL COMMUNITY
December, 2018
The Winter Solstice It is getting darker and darker, earlier and earlier, and colder and colder in the afternoon each day, especially since Daylight Savings Time ended. The earlier darkness affects our moods and, for some people, our health. Even the houseplants respond differently. Why does this happen? Blame the winter solstice. Our planet is tilted. It tilts one way in relation to the sun in the winter months, and the other way during the summer. On December 21st, the winter solstice, we experience the shortest period of daylight during the year. Then we begin to slowly shift back to the summer angle each day, and each day’s amount of daylight is a little longer. There is much folklore and verse written about winter. The ancient Celts based their entire calendar around the winter and summer solstices. There is an Estonian proverb, Deep snow in winter; tall grain in summer. There is an English proverb, A fair day in winter is the mother of a storm. We sometimes hear our grandparents say things like Visits should be short, like a winter’s day or Onionskins very thin, mild winter coming in. And we may have heard Summer comes with a bound; winter comes yawning. Winter babies are also special! There are lots of traditions, myths and legends about babies born around the winter solstice. Stories tell us that the winter solstice represents a rebirth of the earth and an anniversary celebration of creation. A baby’s birth also obviously marks a new beginning, and maybe, because solstice babies were survivors, they were viewed as lucky and easygoing. In Greek lore, solstice babies were mischievous and caused trouble for mortals. In Scandinavia, they celebrated the Feast of Juul, at which they burned the yule log to help the god Thor bring the sun’s warmth back to the people. We still light a yule log at Christmastime. In ancient Rome, the seven-day winter solstice festival was known as a saturnalia, at which citizens engaged in carnival-like celebrations. Some of the customary festivities may have carried over the centuries to our Christmas and New Year’s celebrations. The ancient Druids viewed the solstice as a test of endurance, so anything that survived the winter must be particularly resilient. That is why evergreen plants symbolized strength and were often used in ancient Celtic rituals. Stonehenge, in England, is often thought to be a site of Druid solstice celebrations. There is a universal spiritual, as well as meteorological, significance to the winter solstice as it affects us all. There will still be several more months of very cold weather, but the promise of a few more minutes of light each day and the reawakening of the world rejuvenates us all. Mother Nature gives us many gifts. Helen Weinheimer
Springmill Contributes Christmas Giving
Adopt-A-Senior Holiday Shopping
This is the time of the year when people struggle to maintain a normal life style providing food and shelter for their families. Enter Christmas and that struggle intensifies when stores and TV demonstrate all their new items and that “every family should have these in their home.” Parents want to make Christmas a special day for their children, but how? Funds are limited and can only be stretched so far. Without the generosity Continued on page 17
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The processing of shopping for the gifts for the seniors from the MOT Center is a multi-step one. • In early November, I get the list of 25 seniors from the Charity Committee chair who has received it from the coordinator at the MOT. • I then sort the list by the item requested by each senior. Continued on page 17
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
Bocce – Don Thompson Book Clubs 1 – Debra Kupper 2 – Mary Elizabeth Rhoads 3 – Lydia Olson 4 – Mary Jo Starrett 5 – Joan Gross Bowling – Larry Daigle 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 Group – Bonnie Silva Dinner Group First Thursday Danese Collins Dominos – Jo Verni Golf – Joe Tomasetti (Men’s) Joann Stump (Women’s) Hand and Foot – Jo Verni Hand/Knee/Foot Mon. p.m./Tues. p.m. – Carolyn Bodden Mah jongg – Pat Wiedermann Meditation – Cynthia Frank Men’s Hearts – Len Brussee Men’s Poker – Tom Ferrara
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 Activity Group: Claudia Garrett, Ann Hullinger Dance Group: Bonnie Silva Fun With Neighbors: Riggs and Mlodzinskis 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, Wilma Feinberg, Carol Geiger, Dick Rausch, Lee Rosenson, Jerry Ryan, June Stemmle, Harry Weinheimer, Helen Weinheimer
Men's Pool – Bob Cohen Men’s Cards ”31” – Len Brussee Music Appreciation Club – Roy Peters Pickleball - Jane Kimmins Red Hats (listing open groups only) 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 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 Try Me - Ann Hullinger, Diane Daigle Water Aerobics – Ann Raymond/ Sandy Corrozzi Yoga – June Stemmle
If you wish to join a service group or an activity, contact the leader (Contact info is in the Directory)
Calendar - Joe Grippo, Julie Hambrecht, Tracey Lund Distribution - Harry and Candy Bush and their team
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Notes From Your Board Greetings and Salutations to all.
BOD Motions from October 17, 2018 Work Session
...\Carolyn Bo...
Hooray.....The 2019 Budget process is completed. There will NOT be an increase of the monthly HOA for 2019. On November 29, Thursday, at 4 p.m., our treasurer, Carolyn Fausnaugh, gave additional information on our finances. If further clarification of any detail of the finances is needed, please contact Carolyn.
On October 17th, Don Thompson made a motion to accept the property committee proposal for landscape guidelines, as amended, seconded by Bob Collins. Passed 5 – 0. Carolyn Fausnaugh made a motion to accept Book and Assoc.’s engagement letter to perform the 2018 audit, seconded by Carolyn Bodden. Passed 5 – 0. Carolyn Fausnaugh made a motion to solicit an engineering study proposal for October, 2019, seconded by Carolyn Bodden. Approved 5 – 0.
This Springmill Board of Directors is committed to a TEAM approach as our policy. No one person has more authority than the other members as “there is no I in the word TEAM.” We are committed, as a group, to try and make the fairest and best informed decisions possible on any issue. We also feel strongly that our committees need our support in their endeavors. The Springmill committees are an integral part of the TEAM approach and make our community a special place to live. We encourage every resident to attend a BOD work session or any of the Springmill committees' work sessions. If you wish to speak on an issue, let Tracey, or the chairman of the committee, know before the date of the meeting. Also, a reminder that a copy of minutes for all committees is in the library. The BOD work sessions minutes are also on the Springmill website. At the last board's work session, our President, Don Thompson, presented a list of questions expressed by residents concerning the Reybold Developers storage units project behind our community. A copy of these questions is being sent to Reybold Developers with another request for a representative to meet in person with the community.
Sentinel Table of Contents Winter Solstice, Springmill Contributes…………..… Page 1 Notes From Your Board, Board Motions,…………… Page 3 Committee, Group and Activity Reports Clubhouse, Charity, Communications Finance………………………………….…..….…. Page 5 Property, Website, First Thursday Dinner…..… Page 7 Community Events, Fun With Neighbors, ROMEOS, Dance Group, Activities Group…. Page 9 New Year’s Eve Party, Recipes……………….….Page 11 GriefShare Program, Chestertown Havurah……… Page 13 A Major Loss (Willey Farms)………………………… Page 15 Volunteer Party, First Thursday, Tommy Zito…….. Page 16 Thanksgiving, Shopping for MOT, Dickens in Odessa, Polar Region………...…… Page 17 New Game in Springmill……….……………………… Page 18 Safe Driving Seminar…………………………………. Page 19 Middletown News, New Library, Cecil County Choral Authority.……….…….…. Page 21 Connection Church………………………….……..…. Page 23 Book Review, Book Club Choices, MOT Rotary Dictionary…….……….………..…. Page 25 Meet Your Neighbor…………….…………………….. Page 27 Yoga, Memoriam……………………………………….. Page 29 Springmill Library……….….….……….……………… Page 30 Travel Log - Polar Trip….….…………………….…… Page 31
The BOD reviewed and approved the Finance Committee's mission statement for the year 2018-2019. The new Property Guidelines were approved and will be distributed after minor changes. A new survey is being considered for the community to voice concerns This survey helps the BOD recognize issues that are important to the residents. We need your participation to take a few minutes to fill out survey when it comes.. A renewal contract for the continued maintenance of our heating and air conditioning equipment in the clubhouse with Air Temp Services as recommended by the Clubhouse Committee was approved. The Hard of Hearing software is being actively pursued to procure the necessary equipment. We plan to have Rodney of Security Plus attend a meeting to assist us in making the proper choices. The hope is to provide visual enhancement of speakers for our hearing impaired during clubhouse meetings.
Carolyn Bodden, Vice-President Springmill BOD
Calendar Table of Contents Appo Library Update, MOT Area Events……………. Page 1 Cultural Events, …………………………………….…… Page 4
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Committee, Group and Activity Reports (cont.) Clubhouse Committee
Communications Committee
The Clubhouse Committee met on November 8th. Tracey, our Community Manager, did a training session on Committees, which covered the relationship of the committees to the Board, the duties of the Chairperson, and the duties of the Committee members. Many thanks to Tracey for her time and efforts.
The Communications Committee held its regular monthly meeting in the clubhouse on Monday, November 12, 2018 at 10 a.m.
We have a new StepOne recumbent stepper bike for the Exercise Room. This bike should be more user-friendly for a 55-plus community. Heartline will be here in the Exercise Room to do some training when the bike arrives. We will let the community know when that is to happen. Many thanks to Jim Mahla for his efforts in doing the research.
Sharonlynn Tassone Treasurer’s Report.
Minutes of the previous meeting were approved. the
Dick Rausch reported that we currently have 40 advertisers in the Sentinel. There are renewals needed and new advertisers to be sought . We are seeking advertisers for the 2019 Directory, as it will go to press in December. In the 2018 Directory there were 16 advertisers. The editorial plan for the December Sentinel was reviewed. The Seminar sub-committee has made some plans for future seminars. Can You Hear Me? (Flyer in Sentinel) on December 12, Who Gets Grandma’s Yellow Pie Plate? on February 6, and Safe Gardening on March 21. Mark your calendars now so you don’t miss these informative programs. There are other seminars that are in the works and we will let you know about them when plans are finalized.
Carolyn Rifino is in charge of the Christmas Decorations. She will let the Committee know the decorating date and time. Finally, we are having an intercom system installed. This will allow Tracey to see who is at the door when the bell rings and it will enable her to allow entry into the Clubhouse from a button under her desk. Our next meeting will be Thursday, December 13th in the Craftroom at 10 a.m. All are welcome. Happy Holidays to all.
gave
Dr. Gary Marencin, Presenter for I can’t Hear You
The Communications Committee has been trying to determine the best way to implement the use of the hearing impaired computer. We are getting nearer to a resolution.
Joe Grippo
Charity Committee
Dick Rausch is continuing to coordinate the History of Springmill project. We will meet again in the spring to assess progress and make changes.
On a chilly, rainy Nov. 5th, our faithful volunteers collected donated groceries from 54 households for Neighborhood House. Monday, December 3rd at 8:30 A.M., we will be picking up for Neighborhood House again. They are most appreciative of your generosity, especially at this time of year.
A discussion was held on a proposal made to the Town of Middletown at a previous council meeting, to erect a twostory self-storage facility behind Dunkin Donuts. Tom Rigg, Lee Rosenson, Sonya Comstock and Don Thompson attended the Town Council meeting on November 5, 2018 regarding this proposal. Don Thompson spoke to council expressing our concerns.
Our merry elves, led by Ilene Lipstein and Carolyn Rifino, have begun shopping and wrapping. Your generous donations have made this possible. The seniors and families they shop for will have a wish-filled holiday season. Our military and veterans will also benefit from your wonderful gifts.
Carolyn Bodden was our BOD liaison. She spoke to us about being on the Board and its plans for the future. Tom Rigg
A very special thank you to the Dinner Club and the Activities Committee for their contributions to the Holiday Fundraiser!
Finance Committee
The Charity Committee had a lovely luncheon at the Brio Restaurant to honor our outgoing chair, Maria Corvino! God bless you, Maria! We are so lucky to have you here at Springmill!
The BOD is working with the Finance Committee on updating their Mission Statement, statement of work, and selecting this year’s chairperson. As always, the committee is also seeking new members.
Please remember our “Toys for Tots” campaign at the “Trim the Tree” party, Sunday, December 2nd at 3 P.M. Not able to go? Just drop your toy at my house before Sunday evening, Dec. 2nd.
Carolyn Fausnaugh
We thank you for all your help this year and wish you Joy, Peace and Love during this beautiful Season! Pat Kolbay
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Committee, Group and Activity Reports (cont.) Property Committee
Website www.springmilldelaware.org
The Property Committee met on Monday, Nov. 12th. Jerry Steskal attended as our Board liaison. Chris Chappelle, a former member of the Committee, attended as a guest.
This month's subject is Photos. Did you know that there are at least 6 areas on our Website where Residents can post their own pictures for sharing with others in the Community? I have mentioned some of these in the past, but this month's article will consolidate them all into a single reference. There will not be space here for detailed instructions, so if you need help, you can use the new "Contact Webmaster" link on the Home Page.
The revised guidelines were discussed and will be in the December Sentinel. They were pulled back from the November issue due to a revision on page 1. The committee is still having discussions on the turf management issue. Forever Green is no longer providing services for the community, including the leaf removal. We have asked our new landscaper, Page Precision Cuts, to do the final mowing and and leaf removal. Since Page was not to start until April with the mowing, the Property Committee has met with Zach Page and Jay Morris, who will be the crew supervisor for Springmill, and discussed the service. We ask that everyone be patient, as whenever a new contractor, whether for Clubhouse, Property or MRC, there is always a learning curve. We will be meeting with Page on a bi-weekly schedule to discuss issues that may arise. They are located just up the road on 896 and being a local company we will have access to them whenever needed. If you have any questions concerning the new landscaper, please feel free to call me, Julie, or Mark Herner and we will answer them to the best of our ability. We believe in transparency with the community.
The first and most easily recognized area is "Resident Photos". Here you will find many "Albums", organized into "Categories" and "sub-Categories". Click in the "Select" Box to view the breakdown. Click on a Category to see the Albums in the Category. Click on an Album title to see the Photos in the Album. Many of these Albums allow anyone to upload a photo; these albums will have a "Submit Your Own Photo" link at the top of the Album page. Although Residents can add only 1 photo per submission, they are not limited to how many they can submit. As you add a photo, please remember to include a Title and/or Description. Check out the 2 new Albums, "Oktoberfest 2018" and the "Halloween Dance Party". There is even a short video in the Oktoberfest album. Another area for Residents to share photos is the "Springmill Message Board". When creating a new message, either a new "Topic" or a "Reply", below the message "box" there are "Browse" links for uploading up to 5 photos. See Dick Rausch's post about Longwood Gardens’ Nightscape for an example of how this looks. Click a picture to see an enlargement.
Our next meeting will be Mon., December 10th at 6:30 P.M. in the craft room. If you wish to attend and want to be put on the agenda, notify Julie by December 6th. We encourage residents to attend a meeting and consider joining this small committee that has very large duties. Julie Hambrecht
One area that I and the Task Force would really, really like to see more participation is the "Profile Photo". Currently there are only 17 residents who have added a Photo to their Profile. For me, this could be a really cool way to connect a name with a face, which I am very bad at. Remember, only registered Springmill Residents will be able to see these photos.
First Thursday Dinner Group Wow! I don’t know about you, but I am finding it difficult to believe that we are preparing for our closing dinner in 2018. I hope that we will have a good turn out, as we are not only closing out the year, but we are also dining in a new location. Our gathering will be at Luisa’s Cucina Italiana, 849 Washington Avenue, in Chestertown, Maryland, on December 6, 2018 at 4:30.
Also part of every Profile is a Feature called "Profile Photo Albums". Residents may add an unlimited number of Albums, with an unlimited number of photos in each album. Click the "Update Profile" link at the top of any page, then click "Update Photo Albums" and follow the prompts. To see an exmple of both "Profile Photo" and "Profile Photo Albums", click Springmill Directory, then scroll to Heer, Stanley, then click "View".
Our hosts this month are Helen and Harry Weinheimer. You may RSVP the Weinheimers (See Directory for contact info). As always, we ask that you respond with a “yes” that you will attend or regrets because you cannot attend. These responses save our hosts from having to make calls or drop off notes in mailboxes to make sure that you get to be included in the count. And … they appreciate your help.
And finally, there is the "Pet Directory", and "Flea Market". These Features also allow up to 5 photos to be added whenever a new posting is made. Our next Task Force meeting is January 8 at 10:00 AM in the Great Room. Anyone is welcome to attend. Stan Heer
Danese Collins
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Committee, Group and Activity Reports (cont.) Community Events
Fun with Neighbors
“TOMMY ZITO” the Piano Man was as great as ever. What a terrific entertainer! He started off with Sweet Caroline and all the audience sang along. And he just kept going on, interacting with the audience, - a little trivia, a song request, and of course Tommy’s great sense of humor. Everyone was up dancing and there were so many good dancers that I may have heard that “DANCING WITH THE STARS” would be interested if they ever have a geriatric show (just kidding)!!
At our November Scavenger Hunt, we searched the clubhouse for fire extinguishers, awards, capacity statement, artists’ names, books and more. Some were never found!! But it was also a good education. People who participated now know there are four fire extinguishers and they know where they are – Can you locate them? It is a good safety exercise!! Pizza is always good – especially on a cold November Friday before Thanksgiving! Ten of us gathered in the clubhouse on November 16 to share stories and pizza.
“THANKSGIVING DINNER”, as always, was a gastronomic success. The food was delicious and plentiful with many going back for seconds. The four lovely young ladies (from Stoltzfus market) did a great job serving. Sharing Thanksgiving with our friends here at Springmill is a nice way to start the holiday season.
For Game Night, Saturday December 1, we will be playing your favorite board games. Some will be provided, but feel free to bring a game, along with a smile, a snack and a beverage! Pizza night will be Friday, December 21 at 4 p.m.
“TRIM THE TREE” will surely get us in the Holiday Spirit. The Springmill Carolers will perform and then lead us all in singing, as we enjoy appetizer’s, the buffet, dessert, and sipping eggnog. There will be no Bah Humbug at our party!!!
See you then!! The Riggs and the Mlodzinskis
The CEC thanks Don Thompson for being our Board Liaison in October & November. The CEC will not be meeting in December. We will be having a well-earned holiday brunch (no set-up, serving or clean-up for us). Our next meeting will be on January 9, 2019 at 9:30 am in the craft room
Dance Group
The members of the Community Events Committee: Ruth Rudlof Bernadette Hnat Ginny Grippo Joyce Foster Pat Frail Ann Newswanger Ann Basler Cynthia Frank Joann Campbell Phyllis Burris Beverly Strong Charlotte Smith Diane Jenkins Danese Collins Michele Wiener Peggy Andrews
COME JOIN THE FUN WITH FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS JANUARY = NO DANCE FEB 9 MAR 9 APR 13 MAY 11 JUNE 8 (BBQ + DANCE)
JULY 13 AUG 10 SEPT 14 OCT 26 (Halloween Dance) NOV 9 DEC 31 (New Year's Dance) COME JOIN THE FUN WITH FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS
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.
BYOB+ A Snack to Share 7 P.M. - 10 P.M. at the CLUBHOUSE 50's-70's - Rock n Roll Line dancing - Slow dancing
All are welcome to attend. The December luncheon is being handled by Rog Keller. He is making reservations at Bertucci’s (201 W. Main St. Newark) for Thursday December 20th. RSVP to Rog.
Activities Group The only coffee social for this month is December 8 at 10 a.m. Bring your coffee mug, one dollar and a smile.
Contact Art Lamb to be put on the e-mail list.
There will be no more coffee hours until further notice. Claudia Garrett and Ann Hullinger
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Committee, Group and Activity Reports (cont.) Dance Group New Year's Eve Party! The Saturday Night Dance Party Group is again hosting a GALA to bring in the New Year. Last year's covered dish was a huge success and we would like to repeat that event PLUS bring back the Sensations for the dance party portion of the evening. The format was very well - received and offers two separate but connected options. You can attend either ONE or BOTH events. 1. If you would like to attend the covered dish dinner, it will start at 7:15 p.m., with the doors opening at 6:45 p.m. The sign-up asks you to choose what to bring before-hand so there aren't duplications. Main dishes, sides, appetizers, and desserts to feed 6-8 people are welcome. During the covered dish dinner, we will play our own music. There is no charge to attend the dinner. BYOB. 2. If you prefer to have dinner elsewhere but would like to join us for the LIVE music and dancing to the Sensations at 9 p.m., you can purchase a ticket for that event. The cost for the post-dinner party will be $17 pp - BYOB and snacks. A champagne toast will be provided by the Dance Party Group! 3. If you want to stay all evening for dinner and music, you will need to bring something for the covered dish, a snack for later, BYOB, AND purchase a Sensations ticket. The whole evening will run from 6:45 p.m. until we welcome in the NEW YEAR at midnight! The party is a wonderful way to welcome in the New Year of 2019. We will reserve tables for groups of 8 or more. Ask your friends and neighbors to join in for this delightful gathering. If you have misplaced the flier that we put in your mailbox, look for a flier in this month's Sentinel. Fill it out and bring it to Bonnie Silva's mailbox (see Directory for address) before the 8th of December. Call Bonnie Silva or Tom or Marion Smith for more information.
Springmill Recipes Italian Style Spaghetti Squash There are a variety of squashes available this time of year. This has become one of my favorites, especially because it’s easy to prepare and is a delicious alternative to spaghetti at only 190 calories per serving with 5 grams of protein, with low sodium and low fat. Need: a medium size squash, about 3-4 pounds (serves 4), baking dish, chef’s knife, paring knife, fork, and tablespoon. 2 tablespoons of olive oil ½ medium red onion, diced 2 medium plum tomatoes, diced ¼ teaspoon salt and pepper 1 garlic clove, minced ½ cup pasta sauce…think Prego or Ragu Parmesan cheese to taste (optional) Prepare: Cut the squash in half crosswise using a chef’s knife. Use a paring knife to detach the seeds in the center. Then use a tablespoon to remove them. Place the squash halves, cut side down in a glass baking dish (Pyrex or Corning). Add 1 cup of water and cover with plastic wrap. Microwave on high for 10-15 minutes until tender (Use a knife to pierce it). Let it cool. - Meanwhile, in a large pan, heat the olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent. Add the tomatoes, garlic, pasta sauce, salt and pepper. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes. Put aside. - Your squash should now be ready for the fun part…grandchildren are amazed at this part. Using a fork, scrape the squash strands into a bowl. They actually look like spaghetti strands! Once you have every last bit, transfer the squash strands to your pan and stir together until blended. - Once it’s warmed through, it’s ready to eat…toss some parmesan on top for added flavor. OR you can refrigerate it to use as an entrée or side dish. It will be fine for at least a week. By the way, if you prefer, you can cook one half at a time and just cover and refrigerate the other half until ready to use later in the week. (An uncooked squash can last up to 2 months in a cool spot like your garage.) June Stemmle
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Springmill Resident Specials
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GriefShare Program Coming to Springmill Experiencing heartache due to the death of a loved one? Sorrow and grief seem to be a part of your every waking moment? Having trouble sleeping due to your loss? Simply wish you had someone to share your memories with? If you answer “yes” to any of the preceding questions, then we would like to invite you to a group that you may find to be just what you need. Whether your bereavement experience is current or not so recent, encouragement, comfort and help in grieving the death of a spouse, child, parent, sibling, other family member or friend can often be found in sharing with others. This group will provide an opportunity to be around others who understand what you are feeling. It will provide valuable information about facing your new normal in life and renewing your hope for the future. Many grieving people find they are only beginning the work of healing when family and/or friends have already returned to their daily life routines, and thus fear what others may think. You will recognize that it is okay for us to deal with death in different ways and at different rates. Too often people tend to try to swallow their grief instead of allowing it to do the God-given work for which it is intended. The GriefShare program focuses on grief topics associated with the death of a loved one through a DVD seminar that features nationally respected grief experts and real-life stories of people, followed by a small group discussion about what was viewed. And … confidentiality is very much a part of this nondenominational program.
Facilitating these sessions will be our neighbors Robert Collins (Masters in Counseling) and Danese Collins, (Master of Divinity and Masters in Education). Both facilitators completed additional course work in Counseling the Bereaved and Grieving at Lancaster Theological Seminary (United Church of Christ). Rev. Danese also completed coursework in Clinical Pastoral Care and Education, which included 400 hours as a hospital chaplain, and has served as a volunteer chaplain with Hospice of Delaware. At the beginning of this month, a flyer was placed in your mailbox. To register just complete the bottom portion and return it to their mailbox at 84 Springmill Drive. If you fail to register, or want to come a time or two to check things out, please come on ahead and meet with us. Since each session is self-contained (addressing a different area of grieving), you are welcome to begin attending the GriefShare group with any session. Regardless of when you begin, we believe you will find encouragement and strength. And --- just like at the movies, you may continue into the next session until you have completed the 13-week cycle. GriefShare will meet weekly in the Clubhouse on Sunday evenings from 6:00 until 7:30 p.m. If you have questions, just call Danese at 745-6336. Because holidays are often the most difficult times, we plan to begin this support group on December 9, 2018 and it will run through March 3, 2019. Book cost is $15 - to be paid when you receive your book.
Chestertown Havurah Holds Interfaith Meeting in Springmill There was a cousins club meeting at the Weinheimers’ home in Springmill a few weeks ago. It was a gathering of Muslims, Christians and Jews to learn more about one another. If you remember, our religious patriarch, Abraham, had two sons, Ishmael and Isaac. Muslims are descendents of Ishmael, while Jews and Christians are descendents of Isaac. So, generations later, we’re all cousins! Irfan Patel, of The Islamic Society of Delaware here in Newark, shared much about Islam’s history and practices. Irfan is chair of The Society’s interfaith relations committee and often visits those of other faiths in an effort to develop mutual understanding. At the Springmill meeting, he shared current demographics, that the countries with the greatest Muslim populations are Indonesia and India, not Middle Eastern countries as we usually think. The members at The Islamic Center come from 35 different countries. Mr. Patel, himself, came to this country from India to get an MBA (he’s an Iowa Hawkeye) and to, perhaps, work a few years to get experience. Then he decided to stay and is now married with four children who are all American citizens. Muslims around the world share common basic beliefs, that there is one god, that his name is Allah, and that Muhammad is his prophet. Local customs in each country differ, but these core Islamic beliefs are universal.
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Irfan talked about the Koran, the Muslim holy book, and how it guides their daily lives. We were able to hear him describe religious observances and we could find similar customs in some of our own practices. Women and men dress conservatively and women cover their heads out of modesty. Men and women worship separately and say personal prayers five times a day. And during Ramadan, the Muslim holy month, there are specific morning and evening prayers, as well as daytime fasting. At the end of Ramadan, there is an Eid celebration at The Chase Convention Center that draws about 8,000 people. Many Western religions have comparable customs and practices. Such cousins club meetings encourage understanding and respect. Equally important, they dispel misinformation and apprehension. There is much to learn from one another, not necessarily to adopt, but to value. We look forward to building on what we learned when we meet again soon.
Helen Weinheimer
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At 2 a.m. on Monday, November 5, at Willey Farms, a disastrous fire swept through this familiar landmark known and treasured by many and destroyed everything. Fire companies from the MOT area rushed to the farm, bringing in gallons of water to put out the fire. Townsend is a rural area, so no hydrants were available for use. Every effort was made by the fire companies to save the structure, but it was not to be. Willey was totally destroyed in a fire that burned the 60,000 sq. ft. building. Smoldering flames were still evident in the morning hours. Rt. 13 was closed for a period of time the next day. Willey Farms was always more than just a store to many of us. It symbolized the old-fashioned way of shopping for plants, produce, salads, jams, baked goods and a wonderful gift department for all seasons. All items were conveniently located, and the customer service was always present. Searching for a special gift item, whether it be related to food products or
(Christmas Giving continued from page 1)
With the holidays approaching, Willey’s was the place to go for a wreath, ornaments, poinsettia plants and personal items. Now that is all over. No lives were lost, but a long history of a wonderful heritage is gone. We will miss Willey’s and not just the shopping experience, but the wonderful people who continued the legacy started 43 years ago. The new generation of the founders say they will rebuild Willey, and we are pleased to hear that news, but we know it will be a long time before we are able to travel back to one of our favorite stores. In the meantime, we will all miss Willey and wish them a speedy recovery. Sonya Comstock (Adopt A Senior continued from page 1)
of folks from Springmill answering requests from Neighborhood House, many families would not be able to have
They are permitted to ask for up to three gifts. I write them down by men’s/women’s, shoes, socks, lingerie and sleepwear, slippers, coats, hats, scarves, pants/jeans, sweaters/ blouses/ shirts, active wear.
presents under the tree for their children. Carolyn Rifino has been offering her time to coordinate gifts for needy families in the MOT area. For eight years plus the Charity Committee Chairperson has requested a wish-list from Neighborhood House of 40-45 people to make Christmas special for their loved ones. They respond by sending us a list for ten families. The Chairperson asks for help, and Carolyn Rifino responds to coordinate the shopping as she has done for many years. The wish list indicates clothing or houseware items needed, sizes and color preferred and the mention of a favorite toy the children would enjoy receiving under the tree. Pat Kolbay, the new Charity Chairperson, sends out an email to the committee asking for helpers to assist with the shopping. Carolyn says a good response usually follows. Families are divided among the helpers, and then the fun begins. Getting Christmas items for their children is a top priority, and most mothers do not ask for gifts for themselves, so a gift card is usually presented to the mother to be used at her discretion.
• Ruth Cohen usually shops with me along with Lee Rosenson, when he is available.
• When I get the items home, I separate them by recipient, compute the amount paid for each (so I can attempt to equalize what is spent on each person by purchasing gift cards), and attach gift receipts.
• Members of the Charity Committee and others in Springmill are invited to my house to wrap each gift. We try to have three packages for every senior on the list. • By the designated deadline, I deliver the gifts to the MOT Center. Everything is handled anonymously - we don’t know who the seniors are and they do not know that their gifts come from Springmill. This is very much a feel-good activity and quite gratifying for all involved. See picture on page 16. Ilene Lipstein
Kohl’s is the place to go for most items, knowing the store will give the Christmas helpers a 30% discount and help them with a personal shopper at their side. A wide selection of items is available to satisfy the families and make their holiday special. A hectic but fun day is enjoyed by all the volunteers who select items that will be well received by the families. Families are divided alphabetically, that is, A,B,C,D and then a numerical list for the selection, keeping everything organized for each family. Checkout is painless now that individual gift receipts are given for an entire family package rather than matching each receipt to an item. With shopping now completed, gift wrapping follows at the clubhouse. Volunteers are requested to come and help with this process so that the entire project can be started and finished and delivered within a week. A fun but busy work day for all involved. Neighborhood House notifies the families when the gifts will be brought to the facility, and they eagerly await the arrival of Santa’s helpers. For Springmill folks, knowing a few families will enjoy a better Christmas with our help, the reward is helping others achieve that goal. Isn’t that what Christmas is all about?
something for the home, one could always ask for assistance in choosing an appropriate gift. No pushing or rushing to complete a sale, just honest advice on choosing the right gift.
Happy Hanukah
Sonya Comstock
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Volunteer Party The Board of Directors welcomed almost one hundred volunteers to its annual Thank You Event. Don Thompson thanked all volunteers for their time and energy on many committees making life in Springmill enjoyable while keeping dues affordable. The Great Room was decorated in fall attire, and guests were treated to a wonderful array of appetizers and beverages. Catering the affair was Shermscatering, who kept the food tables filled with delicious appetizers, while another table kept the wine glasses filled as requested. A 50/50 raffle with an end prize of a Giving Doll went to Carolyn Bodden who was so pleased to be the winner. Thompson mentioned that of 362 homes in Springmill, there are 157 volunteers who keep and make Springmill a wonderful place to call home. For those residents who are not involved in any committee, but would like to learn more about one, contact the committee chair listed in The Sentinel. It’s a great way to meet new folks and to enjoy life more. Whatever your talent is, committees will welcome you. Sonya Comstock Photos: Lee Rosenson
Don Thompson welcomes and thanks volunteers
Nancy Shannon, Helen Jackson, Helene Silverman, Lois Baker
Mark Holden, Frank and Linda Pokorny, Sue Holden
Charlotte Smith, Bernadette Hnatt, Joyce Foster, Kathy Cioffi, Joann Campbell, Pat Frail, Sally Midash, Peg Andrews, Ro Lamb
Kathy Kobus, Chris Chapelle, Julie and Bob Hambrecht, Ann Hullinger, Helen and Greg Gaden
Bev and Don Strong, Shirley Smith, Gloria Speno, Herb and Cynthia Frank, Carol Geiger, Pat Steskal, Mel Geiger
Linda Stewart, Jerry and Noreen Ryan, Penny Reuss, Bob and Ruth Cohen, Frank and Ann Basler, Cal Reuss, Bob Stewart
Helen and Harry Weinheimer, Diane Morton, Ilene Lipstein, Joan Gross, Jessie Crisfield, Carolyn Fausnaugh
It’s The First Thursday Again Mangia! Mangia! And we did at Trattoria di Napoli in Bear. The first-Thursday dinner group enjoyed its November feast and friendship. Everyone loves Italian food!
Photos: Lee Rosenson
Tommy Zito Returns
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Photos: Lee Rosenson
Thanksgiving Dinner The annual Thanksgiving dinner was held at the clubhouse on November 17th, catered by Stoltzfus at the farmers market. The menu consisted of traditional Thanksgiving fare of turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, green beans, squash, rolls and gravy. And, of course, pie for dessert served by the smiling ladies seen below. Thanks to Peg Andrews and the CEC. Photos: Lee Rosenson
Green beans, butternut squash, turkey, stuffing, yummmmmmm
Gene and Shirley Smith, Ginny Grippo, Noreen and Jerry Ryan, Joe Grippo
Lois and Sal DiMenno, Jean and Rick Mullen
Carol Wagner, Lois Baker, Helene Silverman, Helen Jackson, Nancy Shannon, Jean Sweeney
Betty Freeman, Todd Freeman, Sam and Anne Merrick, Roe Lamb
Pie served with a smile
Polar Region The beauty of the Polar Region by Noel Carey See Travel Log on page 31
Adopt A Senior
Scrooge’s Hat and Scarf Lee Rosenson, Ilene Lipstein, and Ruth Cohen Shop for MOT Seniors shop for MOT Seniors
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Ghost of Christmas Past
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New Card Game Comes to Springmill A new card game is being started on Thursday nights in the Great Room from 7 P.M. -9 P.M. The game is “Pay Me” (a version of “3 Crowns”). All are invited to play. Just bring 11 dimes and 1 quarter and join in this fun game. 222 Carter Dr., Suite 104
Ann Hullinger and Diane Daigle
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Safe Driving for Seniors James M. Ellison, MD, MPH, the Swank Foundation Endowed Chair in Memory Care and Geriatrics at Christiana Care Health System, presented an informative seminar on seniors driving. He is a renowned Clinical practitioner, researcher and educator in geriatric and adult psychiatry with special expertise in geriatric mood and anxiety disorders, cognitive impairment and dementia. The Swank Center opened in 2011 offering neurological consulting and memory care focusing on preventive falls, frailties and other serious concerns of senior citizens. One of the primary concerns and most important to seniors is driving – when to turn in the keys and how to adapt to a life without a car. Dr. Ellison made it clear that not being able to drive means a person loses independence and is now dependent on family members or friends or other modes of transportation. For many seniors, this is disastrous and difficult to accept. Because most seniors do not live close to their children, life now changes dramatically. Dr. Ellison discussed the factors involved with safe driving as we age and some of the ways we can maintain our driving independence as long as practical. When folks are used to getting into their cars at any time to do whatever they want, if at any time that ends, it becomes a major life adjustment. Not being able to drive sometimes results in becoming socially isolated and eventually retiring to a nursing home. Dr. Ellison says older citizens have proven to be safer drivers than younger ones, as they do not speed, drive that much at night or take to the road when there is snow and ice on the ground. Giving up driving is most difficult, but sometimes it becomes necessary. A person’s primary care doctor should be asking questions about driving skills, that is, confusion about parallel parking, getting lost in familiar surroundings, forgetting where to shop and what to buy.
When these symptoms are noted, a patient should be made aware of what is happening and what the next steps may be. Perhaps family members should be notified, and even the Department of Motor Vehicles, so that the person can be tested for driving skills. Dr. Ellison noted that in 2014 there were 25 million licensed drivers over the age of 70 and from 1997-2014, that is an increase of 30%. Today, people are living longer and more in control of their health. The most common health problem of older citizens is dementia, which affects about 45% of the population. Memory loss is one of the most commonly described symptoms of dementia. These changes usually start off quite small and may be observed as people leaving their keys in certain places or putting things in strange places. Also, concern should be about seizures, which are serious to the driver as well as other drivers. Most accidents that occur with senior citizens are minor, but in that age group, a minor accident may result in those with osteoporosis having a fracture, or going into shock or heart failure. Another important factor for seniors is making a left turn, which requires strength in our vision and cognitive function. When seniors have difficulty paying attention to road signs, cannot make quick decisions, or drive much too slowly, it is time to visit the family doctor and discuss these changes. Older citizens should have their eyes checked periodically, not just for a new prescription, but also for cataracts, which can easily be corrected. Also stressed by Dr. Ellison is the use of certain medications. All doctors seen by a person should have a current list of medications as well as names of other doctors seen by a person. Every doctor should report to the DMV certain driving conditions of the patient. AAA also gives road tests. It is necessary to plan ahead before there is a crisis. This informative Seminar made everyone aware that as we age, we may need to make radical changes to our life style while still enjoying the benefit of living. Sonya Comstock
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302-653-6277 20
Middletown News Town Meeting
New Library in 2021
At the monthly meeting, Daneya Jacobs, Middletown Main Street Director, announced the holiday plans beginning on Saturday, December 1, with a parade at 2 p.m., followed by activities for children from 3-5 and then the tree lighting ceremony at 5 p.m. The Lamp Posts will be decorated by local merchants with a contest on the best holiday post. Approval was given to Clark Construction Co. to construct office space at 703 Industrial Drive. Approval was given to Sweet Dream Confections Co. to open their hand-crafted chocolate confectionery business at 1 Shallcross Place in the New Year. Jim Young, Chairman of Salvation Army Kettle Drive for Middletown, announced the ringing of the bells will start on November 17th and run through December 24th in ten locations, adding the Westown movie theater as an additional location. For those who would like to volunteer, contact Jim at 378-5059. For those who can only give a short time schedule to this event, Jim appreciates the time. This organization donates 95% of its collection to helping folks in need. Don Thompson, of Springmill, asked the Mayor and Town Council about the proposed storage units to be constructed close to the community. The Mayor replied that this project has not received approval from the Planning Board yet. It must have this approval before it can be presented again to the Mayor and Town Council either for approval or rejection. Funding has been approved from the State for road construction on Rt. 299 from Rt. 1 to Catherine Street, beginning next year. The Mayor announced plans for a new New Castle County library to be constructed at the former Promenade location on the corner of Catherine Street and Rt. 299. The county purchased some of the land formerly owned by Chetty Builders. Chetty Builders plans to build a housing development on the remainder of the land next to the library. Before building can begin on the library or the housing, Chetty would have to return deposits to all those who purchased condo units and never received their funds when the Promenade project was canceled. The Mayor and Council look forward to having this library in Middletown in the near future. Sonya Comstock
Greeting Card on Middletwown, DE website
Building a new library has been in Middletown’s plans for the past 15 years…since I was first a member of Friends of the Library along with Rita Ryor. At that time, we took all the preliminary steps of incorporating funds, looking at locations within 15 minutes of primary users (Marl Pit Road was originally considered.), thinking about design, and fundraising. When the Middletown High School site was moved to its present location on North Broad Street in the Pettinaro Building, we thought it would be temporary. Little did we know it would take over a decade to finally be put on the top of the list for Middletown’s own building. But last month, the County announced that a $24 million, 25,000-square-foot “state of the art” library would be built on the eight acres next to the Post Office on Main Street. For those of you who are new, this was to be the site of Westown Theater, but has remained vacant since those plans were scrapped. Southern Delaware has been underserved, so I’m delighted with the prospect of a centrally located library in our area. My only concern about the location regards traffic…it can be horrendous on Main Street at certain times of the day. I am told that “adequate parking and ease of accessibility” were considered in the choice of location, as well as its proximity to local schools. Time and traffic patterns will tell. The new facility, which will be more than three times the size of the present library, will be paid for with a combination of state, county, town, and private funds. Groundbreaking is set for 2019, followed by a year or two of construction. Since Middletown has been touted as “the fastest-growing region of the county,” we’re glad to see this long-desired plan come to fruition. June Stemmle
Cecil County Choral Society This marvelous choral group is coming to Middletown and to the Bethesda United Methodist Church, East Main Street, on Saturday, December 8, at 4 p.m. A 60-member group will perform Caroling in the Snow - beautiful holiday music for all to enjoy. Cher Finnan, President of this choral society, welcomes all to come and enjoy this gift of sharing the love of music. Kevin A. Wekke, director of CCCS since 2001, has led this choral group to presenting outstanding performances over the years. His background consists of choral studies at Westminster Choir College, which has produced notable choral directors. He has performed in concert at the Lincoln Center with award-winning middle and high school choral groups. The performance on December 8 is open to the public (ages 12 and up) and is free. For first-time attendees, be prepared to enjoy a memorable performance that will carry you through the hectic holiday season. Sonya Comstock
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New Connection Church to Open members, welcome new fam“Just Show Up” is a ilies, serve as part of the secuwell-known axiom assority team and engage with ciated with Connection children and youth. VolunCommunity Church. teers serve throughout the You may have seen it on week in the Food Ministry, a billboard on Rt. 301, on Office and maintenance of the flyers at the Peach Fesbuilding. tival, or as part of their e-mail address. From its The church has witnessed Under Constuction beginnings, the commumany miracles in its elevennity has been encouryear journey toward the aged to “just show up just as they are” on Sunday mornings completion of the new building. The generous members have and throughout the week at Connection. In 2001, a team of given sacrificially to raise the money needed to fund the fourteen families from Cornerstone Church in Bear, DE, felt project, some postponing vacations, cashing in savings and called to join Pastors Kari and Alan Jones to plant a new retirement funds, or borrowing against their homes. There congregation in the Middletown area. They gathered for a have also been miracles totaling over $1 million, such as few months, leased some space in a building on Green Verizon relocating telephone poles, a sidewalk in front of the Street across from the Middletown Fire Department and church no longer required, DelDOT removing the launched their first service on Christmas Eve, 2001. The requirement to relocate gas lines, in addition to the incredible congregation grew quickly and within a few years, serious support from Fulton Bank. consideration was given to finding a permanent location that Connection has always focused on the needs of the would be welcoming to the growing community. community and that will be no different at their new location. The year was 2007 when the church purchased 27 acres on A designated room will hold freezers and cabinets for Route 301. Since then, there have been challenges and donated food from generous businesses and church celebrations that have included the economy crashing in members. Families in need are welcome to receive food on 2008, road work and site work, architects, and building bids. Tuesday or Thursday mornings and that schedule may even Financing was a major hurdle, but the generosity of its expand in the new facility. congregation and a loan from the bank made it all possible. Choosing the right contractor was the next step, which led Who are the pastors? them to PHB (Phillips Home Builders, Inc.) who designed Kari and Alan Jones are and is currently building a church that will be a beacon to both ordained Elders in The United Methodist the community and beyond for many generations to come. Church who pastored As guests arrive at the future location on Summit Bridge individually before hearing Road, they will be greeted by folks in the parking lot, at the the call to start a church in front door and at the Hospitality Center where refreshments ever-growing Middletown are served. First-time guests will receive a package with and lead the congregation information about the church and what it offers. In the together. They reside in Sanctuary that seats 350, co-pastors Kari and Alan will Longmeadow, have four deliver the sermon in their back-and-forth “tag-team” style grown children and seven that complements the contemporary and dynamic worship. grandchildren and value To make it accessible for all ages and abilities, a ramp the time they are able to access to the preaching platform has been added. spend together. The congregation is now over 550 members The church has been designed with parents who have and continues to welcome new members all the time. children and youth in mind. There are rooms specially geared It has been a long journey for the pastors, staff, leaders and for infants, toddlers, and pre-kindergarteners, so their parents congregation of Connection Community Church. They can attend the worship service while their little ones hear, sing anticipate celebrating at their new church this Christmas. and learn on their age level. A large space, called “The Gym,” Services on Christmas Eve will be held on December 23 at will house elementary-aged students in an environment where 7 p.m. and December 24 at 4, 5:30 and 7 p.m. Just show they can learn about their faith. “The Gym” will double as a up and come as you are! place for Middle and High School youth to play basketball, Each day brings the opening of this church closer to reality and ping pong, and dodge ball throughout the week. a special reason to celebrate the season in a perfect setting. The new church, in colors of deep blue and putty (selected by the members), is more than just a sanctuary where Sonya Comstock services are held and then all leave for home. While there are only seven paid staff members, this staff seeks out volunteers to round out its role in the church. On Sunday, approximately 50-60 volunteers help with parking, greet
Just Show Up!
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Retirement Planning College Savings Plans Financial Planning
Springmill Discount: $3.00 off every car wash!
10% Senior Discount
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Book Club Choices
Book Review Home for Christmas by
Holly Chamberlin Creating a memorable holiday for the family is what Christmas is all about, and Nell King intends to make this Christmas the best ever. This will probably be the last Christmas that her two grown daughters will spend with her. Her new home in Maine is quite cozy and modest compared to the home she shared with her former husband and daughters. That was before her husband divorced her for a much younger woman, and she left Boston with her two daughters and settled in a seaside town in Maine.
Book Club 1 (Deb Kupper/1st Wed.) We will be reading “Ghostwriter” by Alessandra Torre. We will once again gather to celebrate our friendship with a festive holiday meal and gift exchange. Book Club 2 (Mary-Elizabeth Rhoads/4th Tues.) This month our group will look forward to reading a book of our choice as we enjoy the season. We wish you all a Happy Holiday! Book Club 3 (Ginny Grippo/3rd Mon.) This month we will not be meeting in December. We wish you all a joyous season and a Happy New Year.
Working hard at all sorts of crafts to decorate the home, along with baking multitude trays of cookies, Nell sees that life has delivered her a cruel twist by forcing her to accept the inevitable; life without her daughters and being alone. Now what?
Book Club 4 (Mary Jo Starrett/1st Wed.) Our group will be discussing “Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine,” by Gail Honeyman.
Her oldest daughter, Molly, has never forgiven her father for leaving all of them, but now has a boyfriend who plans on making her his wife in due time. Her other daughter, Felicity, is loyal to both parents, but tells Nell she plans on spending her next Christmas with her father and stepmother at a ski resort in the Alps. That leaves Nell all alone for the special holiday.
Book Club 5 (Joan Gross/3rd Tues.) When we meet, we will be lunching together at the Blue Crab Grill…no reading required. June Stemmle
As a young woman, Nell met and fell in love with a young man, but her family did not approve the match. Unwilling to stand her ground, she gave in to her family wishes and married someone who could provide a better life for her. That first love is now a successful novelist who is coming to her town for a book signing. Attending this event with her good friend, Nell sees sparks of love with this man that never died. Is it possible that these two could become a couple once again? Would her family approve this time? How would her daughters react to this new man in the family? Nell takes extra caution in rekindling this old romance knowing there are now so many players in the game. Christmas is a time of new beginnings as Nell moves gingerly along this new path.
Sonya Comstock
Springmill Residents Volunteer in MOT Rotary What is the world’s population? If you don’t know the answer, ask any 3rd grader in the Appoquinimink School District. They know, or, at least, they know where to find the answer. You see, last month every third-grader, almost 900 students, received a dictionary from MOT Rotary. (See picture above) The dictionaries contain the usual alphabetized listing and definitions of words, but also much more. Did you ever wonder about the dwarf planet, Pluto, or how to say, “I love you” in Braille? Which branch of government initiates tax legislation or how are Roman numerals used to distinguish football Super Bowls? It’s all there in the comprehensive dictionary. As part of an annual project, teams of MOT Rotarians delivered to each class in each of the district’s seven elementary schools. The students were incredibly excited, as many siblings, and even some of their parents had received similar dictionaries in previous years. The teachers build the dictionaries into their curriculum and, in June, the students get to take the dictionaries home to keep. In the picture above, 3rd-graders at the Townsend Elementary School show their happiness with their new learning tool. And when the thank-you notes come, some written in Braille, the Rotarians can’t stop smiling, too. What is the estimated population of the world? About 7,256,490,000. If you want to know more, ask a 3rd-grader. He or she will know. Helen Weinheimer
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Meet Your Neighbors the friendships that developed between her and her customers. She described it as being a substitute for chatting and solving problems over the backyard fence. While she never went back to full-time nursing, she did put her skills to use in assisting the young mothers who visited her store, in raising her own brood, and in nursing her parents as they aged. She opened a second small business, a wedding gown consignment shop, but it was too time consuming running two shops, so that small business was given up.
This month we’re back to meeting neighbors who have been here for a while. Let me introduce Pat and Steve Kolbay, of 581 Whispering Trail, who have resided in Springmill since 2013. Pat was born in Darien, Connecticut and remained in the family home until her marriage at age twenty-five. During that time, she attended St. Elizabeth’s College in New Jersey for two years. While there, she made the decision to change her major and pursue a nursing degree. She transferred to Cornell University, graduating their five-year B.S.N. program in 1959.
While Pat was keeping busy with home, children and business, Steve was building a career in accounting. Initially he opened his accounting practice from a home office. As the business grew, he moved to an office in Irvington on the Hudson in New York. The first person he hired was a quadriplegic, who turned out to be a great employee and an asset to the office. Steve mentioned that the young man, who had been in an accident at age 15, actually won awards for outstanding accomplishments for someone living with challenges. Steve’s company was also one of the first small companies to use electronic filing for taxes. Knowing the difficulties of building a small business, Steve founded Irvington’s first Chamber of Commerce, which he proudly added is still going strong.
Steve was born in Norwalk, Connecticut and stayed there until he married, with the exception of a stint in the Navy; he enlisted right after high school. Steve said he enjoyed the experience. It gave him the opportunity to attend three Class A schools. He obtained Top Secret Clearance, which allowed him to attend crypto repair school (This is just what you think…you learn to repair machines used in decoding.). His last tour was in the Philippines. From there he was traveled to many embassies and consulates to service crypto equipment. After his time in the service, he took advantage of the G.I. bill and attended Fairfield University, a Jesuit school in Connecticut, majoring in accounting. One of the fun college stories involved a part-time job as a “launchman” at the local yacht club. It was his responsibility to ferry yacht club members out to their boats. He remembers one particular launch boat was the FDR barge, because it had been owned by President Roosevelt to get to his yacht. After four years, Steve graduated and the couple married a week later. They’ve now been married for 56 years and are still holding hands.
Eventually, the children were grown, they were getting older, the big house on the side of a steep hill was becoming more difficult to maintain and involved a LOT of climbing…it was time to downsize. The Kolbay’s decided on Springmill because Delaware had milder weather, was centrally located to most of their children, required no outside maintenance, came with a two-car garage, had a community pool, and…taxes were low. As to how they feel having lived here for five years, both agreed that the people they’ve met and the friendships they’ve established are on the top of the list along with the relaxed atmosphere and the numerous activities. They also appreciate that Springmill is in a good location for shopping and medical needs as well as being close to their church.
But, as usual, we need to step back and discover how they met and fell in love. The couple met at a 20/30 Club…a club where people between age 20 and 30 get together on a Saturday morning for coffee and decide what to do on Saturday evening. It seems that Pat and Steve arrived one Saturday with different “dates,” but left with each other. Steve said he was attracted by her beautiful red hair. Pat thought Steve, just out of the Navy was a “handsome hunk.” She even provided a photo of him in uniform to prove her point. The twosome dated for about five years…enough time for Steve to receive his degree. But as soon as that diploma was in hand, the wedding bells rang in 1962. The couple moved to Yonkers, NY, because they wanted to be close to the city and continued to stay put for the next 51 years.
Pat has always enjoyed crafting, cooking, gardening, reading, and driving…she still travels to visit her cousin in Canada several times a year. But she also makes time for family, to play Bunco, to give time to her church, to head the Charity Committee this year, and to partake of yummy food as part of the Dinner Club (formerly the Gourmet Club). Steve enjoys watching TV sports (golf, football, baseball, and basketball). He takes pleasure from walking, even though it’s no longer on the golf links, assisting with church projects, and he is presently helping his wife on the Charity Committee. Along with Pat, he is a member of the Dinner Club and is also a member of the Romeos; while she lunches with Red Hat, he’s out with the guys. Sports teams they watch together are the Boston Red Sox, New York Giants, Notre Dame college football, college basketball, and lots of golf.
Pat worked as a Public Health nurse in NY City, teaching on a personal level, until her second child, a daughter, was born and then became a stay-at-home mom raising a total of seven children. Then in 1989, she bought a small business, a children’s consignment store that was even featured on Oprah’s TV show. It seems one of her customers contacted the show when they requested ways their viewers saved money. She was selected! The show taped the customer in her house before visiting Pat’s store. Pat operated the store for almost 20 years. The thing she loved most about it was
Their favorite vacation spots are Cape Cod, Hawaii, and Scotland. Pat’s mom was born in Glasgow, Scotland. They’ve been there a number of times to visit family and have a trip in the works for 2019. Continued on page 29)
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Leg Stretching The Sanskrit name for this posture means “big toe” because you hold the toe while stretching the legs and hips. It may be hard to reach the toe at first, so use a belt or band for posture 3 and 4. **If you have difficulty lying on the ground, try it on your bed before getting up for the day. Starting Posture #1 Lie on your back, with your legs straight and together. Then bend your right knee in toward your chest. Everyone should be able to do that, and even if you do nothing else, you’ve helped open up the back muscles and awakened your digestive tract. (Have your band close by…you’ll need it when we get to the third step.) Big Toe Posture #2 While your leg is bent, grab your big toe with the first two fingers and thumb of your right hand. This will place your knee on the outside of your right arm, near the elbow. Just leave your left arm on the floor or place it on top of your left thigh.
(MYN continued from page 27) As for family, their seven children are Steven (VA), Alison (Hawaii), Timothy (NY), Brendan (NY), Megan (VT), Michael (PA) and David, who died unexpectedly at age 27. Their nine grandchildren include Matthew (34), Christopher (28), Melissa (26), Jared (29) Nicholas (27), Victo (25) Aodhan (18), Liam (11) and Jessica (9). They also have one great-grandson, Calvin (3). When I asked what has kept them together for so many years, Pat responded that, “We made a promise…a solemn promise to stay together.” She added that it hasn’t always been easy, but they’ve always managed to compromise and see each other’s point of view. Steve added that they have a great life, he has a great wife, and they are happy, contented, and enjoying life in Springmill. I learned a lot about one of my backdoor neighbors during our chat, and now you know them a little better too. Since this is Pat’s first year as Charity Chair, I hope you’ll make the transition easier by donating generously to their Holiday Drive this month. June Stemmle
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Big Toe Posture #3 Now without releasing your toe, straighten your right leg. Your left leg will remain flat on the floor with your foot flexed. This will probably be too difficult using just your hand…it is for most people, including me. So, instead, release the position, grab your band, place it under your right foot, and then, holding both pieces of the band in your right hand, lift your right leg to a straight position. The goal is to do it without the band, but, let’s get real, that takes time and more flexibility than most of us have. Big Toe Position #4 Once you have the band under the right foot, and your leg is straight up, the last position is pretty easy. You just gently ease the leg to the side, as close to the floor as you can. This will open up the groin area. Let your body be your guide. We NEVER overdo! Once you’ve completed the moves with the right leg, repeat all the positions with your left leg. Now, even though I’ve given you four possibilities, it doesn’t mean you have to do all of them on the first try. If you find the first one easy, move to the second. When that becomes comfortable, try number three and finally number 4. June Stemmle
The complete list of books in the library can be seen on the library section of the website. Also any new books listed on the website has a small paragraph describing the book. You can find it on the library page. We encourage everyone who uses the library to use the website. The back shelves between the windows and also the the book rack on the table have the newest books. We also have quite a selection of jigsaw puzzles that residents enjoy and we will gladly take contributions. Magazines can be found on the table outside the library. Julie and Nancy
PAPERBACK Connolly, Michael Cook, Robin Evanovich, Janet
Grann, David Gross, Andrew Gunn, Jeff Hawley, Noah Patterson, James
Perry, Anne Potok, Chaim Robb, J. D. Sandford, John Woods, Stuart Zusak, Markus
HARDCOPY
9 Dragons Charlatans The Pursuit The Scam Curious Minds The Job Killers of the Flower Moon The Dark Tide Glorious The Good Father 12th of Never 5th Horseman 3rd Degree No Graves As Yet The Chosen Secrets in Death Echoes in Death Storm Front Cut and Thrust Carnal Curiosity The Book Thief
Bergamini, David Child, Lee Grafton, Sue Lamb, Wally Molloy, Aimee Patterson, James Pilcher, Robin Riordan, Rick Sandford, John Sedaris, David Sheehy, Gail Steel, Danielle Tillman, Barrett Vistica, Gregory Woods, Stuart
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Japan's Imperial Conspiracy Gone Tomorrow R is for Ricochet I'll Take You There The Perfect Mother I, Michael Bennett A Risk Worth Taking The Throne of Fire Deadline Calypso The Silent Passage Accident Forgotten Fifteenth Fall From Glory Scandalous Behavior
Travel Log - Polar Trip the ship joked that on the reverse side of the signs was a welcoming message to the polar bears reading "FOOD". We all were disappointed that were no polar bear sightings during our 20 day cruise, as the previous week there had been many reports of the bears on land as well as on ice floes.
Once upon a time there was a pigtailed, freckle-faced 6th grader in Plains School, Oneonta, NY dreamily coloring in the great circles, lines of latitude and polar zones on an outline map of the world thinking, "I'll go there!" Fast forward 60+ years and it happened!
Moffen Island is a tear-shaped island in this area with a population of walruses. During the mid - 20th century these animals were close to extinction, but are now thriving and their population is increasing. The flat shore line provides a good spot for this second largest seal species to sunbath and frolic. The shallow water keeps large ships from nearing the island, and visitors from smaller boats are required to remain 500 meters from the animals between May 15 and September 15.
Still eager to see the top of the world, I embarked on a Holland America cruise aboard the MS Prinsendam for the "Spitsbergen & Arctic Circle Explorer Cruise" on July 16th. We sailed north from Amsterdam stopping in Alesund, Norway, a quaint fishing harbor which is the threshold to one of the most picturesque fjords, Geirangerfjord. This fjord with green waters, and rocky outcrops on a tall precipitous mountain fulfilled everyone's wishes for picture perfect views.
In the Svalbard Islands, birds are the only other land animal. Often along the water's edge, bright green areas of vegetation are visible from the ship, alerting us to look in the cliffs above for rookeries of sea birds. Some of the birds we saw were Kittiwakes, PinkFooted Geese, Little auks and Arctic skua.
We left port at 10:30 p.m. (sunset was at 11:01 p.m.) for the northernmost parts of the world. In two days I would not be able to note sunrise and sunset in my log, as we were in 24 hour sunlight. The orbit of the sun in this area is like a tilted halo about 20 degrees above the horizon. The water and air temperatures were 45° F. at 7 a.m., and neither value warmed up during the 24-hour days. My sleep pattern was mixed up because I was out walking on the top deck at 1, 2, 3 or 5 a.m., glorying in the experience - just because I could! It was very exciting and invigorating! Even with room-darkening drapes, the sun managed to sneak in around the edges and surround the window with a glowing frame.
During the 17th century, the islands in this area were important in the whaling industry. On Amsterdan island, the town known as Smeerenburg or Blubbertown was populated by up to 200 men processing and warehousing whale oil. Remnants of huge vats used to boil the blubber are still visible. There are myths of larger numbers of workers there with an established town including bakeries, churches and even ladies of "negotiable affections" but recent research on the island has found no evidence of this. But, it makes an interesting story!
Our introduction to life in the world of permafrost was in Svalbard, an archipelago of islands with snow-crowned peaks and glaciers, the largest of which is Spitsbergen, named by William Barents, a Dutchman, in 1596. The largest city, Longyearbyen, is 600 miles from the North Pole and named for an American, John Longyearbyen, who in 1906 founded the city and opened a successful coal mining company.
Sailing through these islands gave us an opportunity to view many fjords and tidewater glaciers on beautiful sunny days while enjoying a great sense of quiet. The opportunity for reflection and was one of the joys of the cruise. Surrounded by the stunning scenery, one can put many concerns and worries into perspective. Ny Alesund, at 79 degrees North latitude, is recognized as the northernmost permanently inhabited civilian community. The town began as a coal mining center in the early 1900s, but when mining was halted in 1963, it became a scientific community with research stations from 15 nations studying weather and climate. There are evidences of the extinct mining business, as well as an anchor pylon used by Nobile and Amundsen to launch the airship "Norge", which unsuccessfully tried to fly to over the North Pole to Alaska in 1926. These plus the northernmost post office are the tourist attractions in this town of no more than 130 residents (that is ALL the beds available in the town).
Permafrost is an interesting phenomena. It is the reason the homes are all built on stilts (so they do not sink). Tourists are advised to stick to established paths and streets to preserve the permafrost. This permafrost, in conjunction with low tectonic activity ,is the reason this area is the home of the Svalbard Global Seed Vault. Inside a mountain 130 m. (426 ft.) above sea level, beneath the permafrost, is a large manmade cavern which houses the Doomsday Vault also known as a vegetarian Noah's Ark. In this special environment are found seeds of 4.5 million plant varieties preserved at minus 18 degrees Celsius (-0.4 degrees F.), which are available for genetic research and plant breeding. The purpose is to maintain seeds for research, not to provide seeds to replenish farms and gardens in cases of natural disaster. Only one country has made a withdrawal. Due to the civil war in Syria, scientists outside Aleppo had to flee an international agricultural research lab leaving all samples and research materials behind. Syria withdrew seeds from the Vault to allow the research to continue.
Nearing the polar ice cap we began to encounter the ice pack that signified that we were reaching our destination. The excitement we all felt was mirrored and magnified in the faces of the Indonesian and Phillipine staff members who were also on deck taking selfies, with backgrounds of ice, and glaciers, to send home to their families in tropical countries. Every "Once upon a time" story has a happy ending and this story will not disappoint. Life on a cruise ship has its own rhythms and entertainments ... such as bingo. On one of the last sea days the bingo prize was a 7-day cruise for 2. I went, made my $35.00 “donation� and I WON! Told you it had a happy ending.
Polar bears are the second largest mammal population in Longyearbyen. Tourists and residents are able to walk around the town freely, but if they wish to leave the city limits they must carry a rifle or be accompanied by someone who does. The triangular yellow warning signs with a polar bear in the center are constant reminders of their presence. The comedian on
Noel Carey See picture on page 16
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