springmilldelaware.org Volume XIV Issue 12
A NEWSLETTER FOR THE SPRINGMILL COMMUNITY
Holiday Happenings
DECEMBER, 2016
The Elder Care Insert
Holiday Happenings – Close to Home
The BOD works very hard and spends many hours to enable this community to function in a positive way. We wish to comment on one insert in particular from the November Sentinel; the flyer on the Elder Care Program with the words “CANCELLED BY THE BOARD” stamped across the body of the flyer. The manner in which this was done reflected negative energy. Let me put this situation into the proper context with details.
The Holidays are but once a year and meant to be enjoyable for the entire family. A little traveling and planning will result in a special day and wonderful memories for all. Take a delightful drive through Cape Henlopen State Park from November 18-January 1 and enjoy a dazzling light display of two miles in the comforts of your car. Winter WonderFest welcomes visitors to its annual light display during the holiday season. It is a spectacular display of more than 60 dazzling lights which will please all visitors, young and old alike. Experience an In-Car Scavenger Hunt and a fantastic 3-D experience which starts at dark and closes at 10 p.m. Tickets $15 per car, $30 per van. For more info,info@wonderfestde.org
A resident approached the BOD asking to bring a speaker to the community to speak about Elder Care Concerns. Since this is a very important topic the board felt it would be appropriate to go ahead with this event. The resident was informed that the speaker must be an independent party, not vested to solicit business from the presentation because of the Springmill ByLaws. It was not until the flyer was posted that the wording was a concern…a perception that services could possibly be sold. The cancellation notice from the resident promoting the program seemed a bit extreme given the fact that we all work together to create unity and harmony within Springmill. It is important and necessary to set the record straight by presenting all the facts that led to the decision. The BOD is pleased to serve the community. We invite you to join us at our work sessions to see the process first hand. Let’s move forward together as a united front…that way you win, we win, Springmill wins.
Following the light display, visit the Christmas Village located at the Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminal Grounds from November 25-January 1 starting at 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. (weekends only). Open Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Outside will be Ice Skating at the NEW Rink, a giant Ferris wheel, carnival rides, live music, a strolling Santa and more. Crafts and activities will be held at Santa’s Workshop, and other special events and concerts will be offered. On the Rocks Café will be open inside to provide food and beverages for all ages. Tickets – 60-100 Pack – from $40-$60.
Marc Lichtenfield
A Longwood Christmas cannot be missed. Beginning November 24 through January 8, 2017, enjoy this spectacular garden in its finest wonder. Enjoy listening to holiday music in the Music Room. Explore the seasonal plants and trees all bejeweled with colorful ornaments. A 30-foot floral tree created with hundreds of red poinsettias says the holiday season is here. Indoors and outdoors, the season is reflected in many ways. Dress warmly. This seasonal event is open from 9 a.m.-10 p.m. everyday. Tickets - $20 adults, $17 seniors, $10 – students , children 4 & under free. Purchase timed tickets before visiting. Call 610-388-1000. Just a short drive to Peddler’s Village in Lahaska, PA, where more than 60 specialty shops and six restaurants welcome all visitors to their Christmas village from November 18January 1, 2017. One million lights will be turned on for the holiday season on November 18 at 6 p.m. On December 3 - a parade with Santa Claus, free hot cider, toasted marshmallows, live entertainment and a beautifully decorated village. Take in the beautiful gingerbread displays – an annual treat for competitors with nearly $3,000 in cash prizes. Enjoy holiday shopping or just browsing. A photo with Santa is a great keepsake. All events are free. Location – Rts. 202/263, Phone 215-794-4000.
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Residential / Office Cleaning
Springmill Sentinel Staff Chairman of Communications Committee - Tom Rigg Sentinel Editor - Joan Gross, Tom Rigg Treasurer - Diane Daigle 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 - Carolee Burkey, Sonya Comstock, Wilma Feinberg, Carolyn Fausnaugh, Carol Geiger, Dick Rausch, Lee Rosenson, Jerry Ryan, June Stemmle Calendar - Joe Grippo, Julie Hambrecht, Tracey Lund Distribution - Ralph and Pamela Clair and their team
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Committee and Group Reports Community Events Committee
Springmill Homeowners Association 2 Windmilll Lane, Middletown, DE 19709
302-376•5466
WOW HE DID IT AGAIN!!! Tommy Zito once again entertained the residents of Springmill (all 102 of them) to two and a half hours of songs, jokes and dancing. A few became part of the entertainment singing along with Tommy was Bob Schreckengost, Joyce Foster and Peggy Andrews. It was a great night of fun and laughter. No wonder he is a sell out every time he appears at Springmill.
Board of Directors Marc Lichtenfield - President John Rutt - Vice President Cal Reuss - Secretary Carl Rifino - Treasurer Gary Merrick - Director Carolyn Bodden - Board Recording Secretary Tracey Lund - Community Manager: Tracy.lund@associa.us
“THANKSGIVING DINNER” The tradition continues with eighty nine residents enjoying a delicious turkey dinner and no after dinner clean-up (that’s what makes me thankful) Thanks to all who stay and help putting away the tables & chairs. It is truly appreciated by the very tired ladies of the CEC.
Committees Charity Committee: Maria Corvino Clubhouse Committee: Joe Grippo Communications Committee: Tom Rigg Community Events: Peggy Andrews Finance Committee: Carolyn Fausnaugh Maintenance & Repair Committee: Georgieanna Anderson Property Committee: Julia Hambrecht Activity Group – Claudia Garrett/Ann Hullinger Springmill Website – Stan Heer/Tom Rigg Trip/Travel – Bill Altman/Betty Freeman
“TRIM THE TREE HOLIDAY PARTY” Is a wonderful way to start the holiday season. Trimming the tree, enjoying good food, sipping eggnog and joining in singing carols with friends a neighbors’
Anyone wishing to join a Committee should contact the Chairperson of that Committee.
THE COMMUNITY EVENTS COMMITTEE WISHES YOU AND EVERYONE YOU LOVE THE HAPPIEST OF HOLIDAYS AND A HEALTHY NEW YEAR.
Please note: All committee meetings and activities using the Clubhouse must be coordinated with Tracey Lund. Calendar: Tracey Lund Family Emergency Numbers: Pat Howe, JoAnn Stump Sunshine: Mary Elizabeth Rhoads / Faith Altman
Peggy Andrews
Finance Committee
Maintenance and Repair Committee
The regular meeting of the FC was held Wednesday, October 26, 2016 at 7:00 p.m. in the clubhouse.
The MRC Committee is preparing for the new year by requesting bids for the renovation of the clubhouse parking lot and resealing of driveways on the Northside of our community. We have developed specifications for the bids and will be sending out requests for proposals. The committee members plus input from knowledgeable Springmill residents, assisted in the development of our specifications for both projects.
Guest Don Thompson was welcomed. The chair announced the resignation of Marge Flynn. The Committee thanks her for her service and wishes her well. Bob Lhulier accepted the position of committee secretary. An approved and signed copy of the committee’s mission statement was provided by the Board. Frank Pokorny is the Tree Task Force liaison for the FC.
During this meeting we discussed the trees that are blocking some of the lighting in the clubhouse parking lot. We are working with the Property Committee on a solution to either trim or remove those trees.
The following items were discussed: Disbursements for parking lot replacement and the fire suppression system will be paid from capital reserves in 2017. The process by which home sales and collection of the $1,000 fee on transfers is handled was also discussed.. Homes that transfer as “for sale by owners” were specifically discussed. It was noted that whenever a home is up for sale, it is helpful if the seller notifies Tracey.
We are also in discussion with an electrician about the cost to change the clubhouse parking lights to LED bulbs. We are obtaining quotes from contractors in preparation for the updating of these lights as the LED lighting is brighter and has a longer life span. During the next several months we will be reviewing and updating the ARC Specifications & Guidelines booklet for a complete revision late next year. The Springmill website has the current ARC Specifications & Guidelines booklet showing a revision date of December 2014. Please note these are the current guidelines and would not change until our next revision.
Budget variances were noted. Operating cash levels are sufficient and the possibility of short term investing of some of these funds was raised. The Finance Committee meets the fourth Wednesday of most months at 7:00 p.m. in the craft room of the clubhouse. November's meeting was rescheduled to November 30 because of the Thanksgiving holiday. Owners are reminded that minutes are on file in the library and are encouraged to observe meetings.
The MRC Committee meets on the second Thursday of the month at 7PM in the clubhouse. We welcome guests to our meetings and if interested in joining please contact any committee member. Georgieanna Anderson
Carolyn Fausnaugh
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Property Committee
Tree Task Force TREE RENOVATION UP DATE FOR 2016
The Property Committee met on November 14th. We welcome Roy Peters and Lori Mlodzinski to our committee. John Rutt was our liaison.
Here a tree......There a tree.........Everywhere a tree, tree....... The tree renovation project is now complete for this year.
The October minutes were approved and a copy will be in the library Property notebook.
Total amount of trees planted is 120. Five Weeping Willows have been placed around drainage pond behind Springmill Drive. Serbian Spruce trees have been added down Windmill Lane between the existing Sycamore trees. These trees are meant as a buffer zone between the Carter Property and Windmill Lane and are not to be used for Christmas trees. Many common area trees were removed and replaced with Nellie Stevens holly, American holly, Japanese Lilac and a couple of Red Cedar firs.
Hopefully by the time you read this the leaves will all be down and cleaned up. If not please go out and shake a tree to get them to fall. Snow – Should we get snow this year it has been decided that the order of cleaning will be driveways, walkways to the houses and sidewalks which need to be cleared 24 hours after the last snowflake falls (town rule). The clubhouse will be last except for where Forever Green trucks will need to come in. The machinery will be here for the winter. There will be a crew on the north, south and center areas. We have requested that a different street be started each time. Note: There are no priority homes. If there is a medical emergency the fastest way is to call 911.
Any wooden stakes on the new lawn trees will remain for a year and provide needed support before the tree roots begin to expand and take hold. So far, Forever Green has had to replace 3 lawn trees from 2015 that did not flourish. In addition the trees from 2015 will have received a fertilization this fall. Springmill still has a 2 year warranty from Forever Green in effect for all trees planted. This February or March 2017, the Tree Task Force will meet to evaluate the tree project of 2016. In addition the group will begin planning the next areas to receive lawn trees and also, prioritize common areas needing reforesting. Included in this process is the number of street trees needing removal. Again, at this time the only criteria used for a street tree removal are: 1. Tree causing a sidewalk lift. 2. dead or diseased tree.
The MRC has put in a request for 2 trees to be taken down in the parking lot due to them covering the lights. Also 2 trees to be trimmed. Estimates are being acquired. Thank you to Agnes Murray, Lori Mlodzinski, Lois Baker and Mark Herner for helping to plant the tulip bulbs by the main entrance.
The Tree Task Force is comprised of a cross section of the Springmill Community from various committees and chaired by the BOD. This group works together using recommendations from a certified arborist and Forever Green Landscaping Company. Much thought is given to where tree planting should be next according to the yearly budget allotment for tree renovations in Springmill. All recommendations and proposals have final approval done by the BOD.
Mark Herner has been looking into the easement areas (grass between sidewalk and road) and what can be done to return them to nice green grass. We will be asking Forever Green their suggestions which could be as simple as seeding with tall fescue, putting down some lawn soil and of course watering. This of course would be the homeowner’s responsibility and we will have more information as the months go on.
REMINDER-DO NOT FERTILIZE YOUR TREE. DO NOT HANG ANYTHING IN NEW TREES AT ANY TIME. PLEASE. You may water tree this spring if needed and definitely talk sweetly and often to your tree all year can't hurt. Call Tracey or myself for any other questions or observations on trees.
We are also asking homeowners to remove plant pots from the beds and to also remove any dead shrub or plants from the beds. Also any tree or bush in the beds that is taller than 8 feet (higher than the gutters) that they either need to be removed or trimmed.
Carolyn Bodden
Travel Group
Any questions concerning property should be in writing either by email or a note in Tracey or Julie’s mailbox.
Springmill’s first trip for 2017 is an overnight in Washington, D.C., from March 24-25. (Look for the flyer in this Sentinel.) Highlights include a guided tour of the White House Visitor Center, the Martin Luther King Jr., F.D.R, Vietnam, Korean and WWII memorials and Arlington National Cemetery.
Our next meeting is Monday, December 12th at 6:30PM. All are welcome. In the right hand column is an article from Carolyn Bodden reporting on the Tree Task Force. Julia Hambrecht
On the evening, March 24th, we will travel to the Kennedy Center to enjoy the National Symphony Pops Orchestra and “Sophisticated Ladies,” presenting 100 years of Ella and Company.
Activity Group Please join us for Coffee and Bagels on December 10th from 10-12 noon in the Clubhouse. This will be our last event for 2016. At this time you may also sign up for the SOUP & COFFEE FEST planned for January 14th, 2017. Our Springmill cooks will be serving Chili, Italian Weddding Soup and Vegetable Soup with bread; along with coffee and sweets. The cost is $5.00 per person and CASH ONLY. You also have the option of completing the flyer for the Soup and Coffee Fest in this issue of the Sentinel and leaving it in the bottom mailbox of Ann or myself. Deadline is 12/23 or capacity of 100 people. HAPPY HANUKKAH MERRY CHRISTMAS JOYFUL KWANZAA
The cost of this great trip will be $439.00 for a double and $489.00 for a single. This amount includes the tips for the bus driver and tour guide. Join us at the Clubhouse for the sign-up on Friday, December 9, from 9:00-10:30. Betty Freeman
Just a Reminder Your Pooch is cute But his Poop is not! Clean up after your friend!!
Ann Hullinger /Claudia Garrett
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Communications Committee
Notes from the Board I would like to reach out to the community and ask for support for our committees. As you know, we have the lowest HOA fees of any community that offer the amenities in which we provide. There are many reasons as to why, but one in particular is that we self-govern. Committees take over the responsibilities and tasks that would be done by management companies. This would require additional employees with salary and benefits raising the HOA fees dramatically. The hardest hit committees are MRC, Property and Clubhouse. We are asking you, the residents, to volunteer a couple of hours of your time each month and join a committee.
Wednesday, November 9, 2016 was the first meeting of the Communications Committee under its new leadership, as elected, in the October meeting. The meeting times and dates were changed. It was agreed by all in attendance that the monthly meeting of the Communications Committee would be changed to the second Wednesday of the month at 10 AM in the Craft Room. An exception will be the next meeting of the Communications Committee, which will be held at Tom Rigg’s home on Dec 13 to celebrate the Holiday season, preceded by a short business meeting. The Editorial meeting will change to the last Tuesday of the month at 9:30 AM in the members homes. (Nov 29 at 9:30AM).
I would like to take this time personally to thank three individuals who have recently left their positions as chairpersons of their respective committees. They are: Carolyn Bodden (Property), Phyllis Lichtenfield (Clubhouse) and Dick Rausch (Communications). Their dedication and hard work is to be commended.
Sonya Comstock will continue as secretary and take minutes, Diane Daigle will continue as Treasurer and keep track of expenses and income. Dick Rausch will be the new Business Manager and handle ad sales. The Treasurer’s report for October showed that our expenses exceeded our income for October, but year to date we are on schedule to make a profit that is contributed to the Springmill General Fund.
I wish everyone and their family good health and happiness for the year 2017. It’s hard to believe how fast time moves as we get older. Take every moment and cherish it, and live for today, because we never know what tomorrow will bring.
The Advertising Report showed that we had 35 advertisers in the Sentinel for October and 19 advertisers in the Directory.
On behalf of my fellow board members, we wish you Joy and Peace at the Holidays and throughout the New Year!
The Editorial Committee reported that the December issue will feature a letter from the Board of Directors regarding the cancellation of the Eldercare Seminar. Also some new feature articles, such as Home Maintenance, will be included. There was a discussion of the number of photos in the Sentinel. We will try to reduce the number of photos printed in the Sentinel to 3 or 4 per event and make them larger. All photos taken at an event will be posted as an album on Springmill’s Website and referenced there, in the Sentinel.
Marc Lichtenfield
Board of Director Motions November 2016 1. Motion approved (5-0) to issue violation letters informing home owners of a $25.00 monthly fine if they do not clean algae off their roof and vinyl siding, within 30 days of notification.
Cal Reuss, Board Liaison, asked the Committee to review inserts placed in the Sentinel on a monthly basis before it is distributed. The purpose would be to judge the appropriateness of each insert. There was much discussion on this topic. It was decided that if an inappropriate insert is noticed, it would be brought to the Communications Committee for review.
2. Motion approved for the Website task force to now become the Website Committee with a Mission Statement to follow. (4-1) Reuss opposed.
Dance Group
There was discussion about adding more pages to the Sentinel. Costs had been gathered on the additional expense of adding four more black and white pages. It was decided to wait to see if we were successful in selling more ad space.
We are a bunch of 50 – 80 year old Spring Millers that love to watch people, dance and eat. If you like to do one or all of these things come join us for a night of fun. BYOB and a snack to share. Other than that there is no charge.
Tom Rigg
Clubhouse Committee
On the second Saturday of each month from 7 to 10 PM we can be found in the great room of the clubhouse. We mostly enjoy music from the 60s and 70s.
The Clubhouse Committee met on Thursday,
November 10th. At that meeting , Phyllis Lichtenfield resigned as Chairperson. The Committee thanked her for her service. Joe Grippo was elected as Chairman and Carolyn Rifino as Secretary. Jerry Ryan has offered to be Vice Chair and Frank Basler will be our Treasurer. Both will be nominated at our next meeting.
Come and join us, it's cold out and we are warm souls. Our next event is the New Year's Eve dance. There is no charge. You will stay off the roads and you can even watch the ball drop on TV.
The only other thing we discussed was the Christmas Decorations and Carolyn Rifino will be handling them. Carolyn can use some help so please contact her if you are interested.
In the Sentinel this month you will find a flyer about the dance. The only thing we ask is that you bring something delicious for us to share and let me know what your delicious item will be. We are trying to not have many duplications.
Our next meeting is the 2nd Thursday of December at 10am in the craftroom. We are looking for new members. If interested, please join us at our next meeting.
I look forward to talking to you. Be as healthy and happy as you can!
Joe Grippo
Bonnie Silva
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Saturday, December 3, 2016 Celebrating its 52nd year of tradition, this annual fundraiser for the Women’s Club of Odessa welcomes newcomers and those who return every year to enjoy the beautifully decorated homes and public buildings of the 18th and 19th century periods. This event helps fund college scholarships for local high school seniors. Funds are also directed to many community groups and projects. The self-guided tour offers visitors an opportunity to see these old homes and public buildings fully decorated for the season.
Marie and I were looking for a restaurant where we could celebrate our 47th anniversary. We wanted a place with good food and cocktails and a quiet atmosphere. We decided on the 1861 here in Middletown. We arrived about 6:30 on a Wednesday evening, and found very few diners, but about a half dozen people at the bar. We were very pleasantly greeted by Casey, who seated us and was also our server. The décor is brick and dark wood, reminiscent of an old cellar. Actually, it is on the lower level of the mall, so it is a cellar! We ordered cocktails which arrived promptly and were mixed to our satisfaction.
Tickets can be purchased in advance for $20 pp at the Historic Odessa Foundation Visitors Center (the Bank) in Odessa from Nov.1—Dec. 2. Also, Hatton’s Watch and Repair Center in Middletown will sell advance tickets beginning November 10. Tickets will be sold the day of the event for $25 and $5 for children beginning at 9:30 a.m. at the Old Academy on the corner of 4th and Main Street. Tours begin at the private homes and public buildings at 10 a.m.
The menu features Small Plates (basically appetizers according to Casey) Large Plates or entrees, and Sandwiches. Casey told us two of the most popular items are the 1861 Spicy Wings ($10) and the Lamb Burger with feta, caramelized onion and tomato ($16). We did not order either.
The Christmas Shop will be open all day at the Appoquinimink Training Center, 118 South 6th St., Odessa, from 9:30 – 5 p.m. Parking is available via Rt. 13 South. Enjoy beautiful crafts featured throughout. Fresh greens can be purchased at the Old Wilson Barn at 202 Main St., and a demonstration of Colonial Holiday Greens will be held there from 11-12 noon. The Antique Show and Sale will be held at Old St. Paul’s Church, 506 High Street until 5 p.m.
We both started with a Classic Caesar Salad with Asiago and brioche from the Small Plate menu ($8). The salad was a good size, cold, fresh, and most importantly, it was tasty. Tom ordered the Filet with Pommes Puree, bordelaise. It also had grilled Brussels’ sprouts on the attractively arranged plate. It was a large serving, tender and just a little underdone for a medium.
Santa and Mrs.Claus will be at the Ball House, 207 Main St. from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Not to be missed is a visit to Old St. Paul’s Church located on 506 High St. to hear a concert by “The First State Bell Ringers” from 11 a.m.-12 noon. At 1 p.m. hear Christmas music played on the historic Tracker Organ by Jeanne Hatton accompanied by Christmas carols sung by St. Paul’s United Methodist Church choir. Tea and refreshments will be served there from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.
Marie ordered Crab cakes with a basmati, walnut, romesco garnish. It also had grilled Brussels’ Sprouts. The crab cakes were excellent with very little filling. Dessert was suggested. And of course Tom ordered!! He chose Chocolate Bourbon Cade with Sabayon (Italian white wine custard). Marie ordered a fork and found the cake to be too rich. Tom of course loved it!
The Newark Fife and Drum Corp. will perform throughout the town until 4 p.m. Carolers will be singing in homes and public buildings throughout the day.
We spoke with Megan Babcock, the General Manager about the history of 1861. It is named that because 1861 is the year Middletown was incorporated. Prior to it being 1861, it was Maynard’s Piano Bar and prior to that it was Elements. The restaurant celebrated its fifth year as 1861 on Labor Day this weekend this year.
This year from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. gourmet sandwiches will be served at the WILDWICH Food Truck located in front of St. Paul’s Church, Main Street. Refreshments will also be served by the Knights of Columbus from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. outside the Christmas Craft Shop, Rt.13 South and also at the Odessa Fire Hall from 10 a.m. – 5p.m.
The owner, Jaspal Singh, was a Bar Manager at Fred’s in NYC. He has recently opened a restaurant in Philadelphia, Percy’s BBQ at 900 South Street.
If you miss the activities in Christmas in Odessa on Dec. 3, several events will occur at the Historic Odessa Foundation during December might also be of interest. They include: the Holiday Candlelight Tours, the first of which will be held on Thursday, Dec. 1, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 pm. Reservations are required. Call the HOF at 302-378-4119. The remaining dates for the Holiday Candlelight Tours can be found by visiting the website at info@historicodessa.org. Another event that will appeal to families is an activity for children in conjunction with the Christmas exhibit, The Nutcracker and the Mouse King.
The restaurant is located on Rte 71 N. Broad Street, in the mall across the street from Elana’s flower shop. We parked in the back and entered through their back door into the bar area. We had to go down 4 steps to the entrance, and the outside light was not on. We could have entered from the front mall entrance, which is about 10 steps up. So beware! 1861 is not handicapped accessible. Although it is pricey, we would suggest it for a special occasion. Or just don’t eat as much as we did!
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1861 is open M-TH 5-10p.m, F & S 5-11p.m. Tom Rigg
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The following is a list of new books that were donated in OCTOBER/NOVEMBER. We are happy to say that we donated approximately 100 paperback books to the Stockings for Soldiers. Eileen and Julie
Rowley, Emma Rowlings, J. K. Rubio, Marco Scottoline, Lisa
HARDBACK Acampora, Lauren Ashcroft, John Baker, James A.
The Wonder Garden Never Again Work Hard, Study..and Keep Out Of Politics Barker, Clive Imajica Barnard, Robert At Death's Door Benchley, Peter White Shark Burkett, Larry The Thor Conspiracy Berra, Yogi Ten Rings Clark, Mary H I Heard That Song Before I’ll Walk Alone Death Wears A Beauty Mask I”ll Be Seeing You Let Me Call You Sweetheart You Belong To Me Pretend You Don’t See Her All Through The Night I've Got You Under My Skin The Cinderella Murder We'll Meet Again Clinton, Bill My Life Colacello, Bob Ronnie & Nancy Evanovich, Janet Notorious Nineteen The Shadow Of Your Smile Fitch, Janet White Oleander Follet, Ken Jackdaws Ford, Jamie Songs of Willow Frost Forsyth, Frederick. The Fourth Protocol Freedman, J. F In My Dark Dreams Gardner,Lisa The Next Accidenthe Gellman, Barton Angler Golf Miscellany Matthew Sillvelrman Goulden, Joseph The Super Lawyers Grisham, John The Runaway Jury The Client Haberstam, David Everything They Had Hughes, Karen Ten Minutes From Normal Hyde,H.Montgomery Room 3603 Kuhn, Jim Ronald Reagan In Private Lane, Randall The Zeroes Lear, Martha Weinman Where Did I Leave MY Glasses? LeCarre, John Absolute Friends Lang, Maya The Sixteenth of June Lllywelyn, Morgan After Rome Lowenstein, Roger Origins of the Crash Ludlum, Robert The Aquitaine Progression The Parsifal Mosaic MacMillan, Margaret Nixon and Mao Macomber, Debbie Angels At The Table McNaught, Judith A Gift of Love Nasaw, David The Patriarch O'Reilly, Bill Legends & Lies Patterson, James Private - The Games Roberts, Nora Sanctuary Rove, Karl Courage Consequence
Sharansky, Natan Stout, Harry S. Sykes, Plum Tillman, Barrett Trump & Kiyosaki Waller, Jon H. Woodward, Bob PAPERBACK Caldwell, Megan Carr, Robyn Child, Lee Ciresi, Rita Coben, Harlan Deaver, Michael Donally, Claire Hamiliton, Nigel Herbert, Frank Higgins, Kristan Johansen, Iris Mckenna, Shannon Nunn, Mae Rivers, Francine Sisman, Robyn Thor, Brad Trigiani, Adriana Tyler, Anne
Downton Abbey Harry Potter and the Cursed Child An American Son Dirty Blond Devil's Corner Corrputed Betrayed Every Fifteen Minutes Courting Trouble Dead Ringer Come Home Save Me Fear No Evil Upon the Altar Of The Nation Bergdorf Blondes Above and Beyond Why We Want You To Be Rich Beyond the Khyber Pass Shadow Vanity Fare The Promise Worth Dying for Make Me Pink Slip Just One Look A Different Drummer Cat Nap Bill Clinton God Emperor of Dune The Best Man The Wind Dancer Extreme Danger Cowboy In The Kitchen Redeeming Love (LP) Just Friends Code of Conduct The Shoemaker’s Wife A Spool of Blue Thread
(Christmas in Odessa continued from page 9) This will be held on Sunday, Dec. 4, from 2 p.m. - 3 p.m. at the HOF Visitor’s Center. It includes a tour of the exhibit and an activity which has children making a craft related to the exhibit as well as having beverages and festive treats. Reservations are also required for this special event. The third event planned for families will be on Sunday, Dec. 11, at the Visitor’s Center from 2-3:30 p.m. Once again, it focuses on the title of the Christmas exhibit, and families are invited to paint their own nutcracker after a tour of the exhibit. Materials will be supplied, and reservations are required. To add to the holiday activities at Historic Odessa, beginning on Saturday, Dec. 3, a Demonstration of Festive Foods at the Collins-Sharp House will add another highlight to the tours. There hearth cooks will prepare a sumptuous holiday feast. These hearth cooking demonstrations will be held on the following two Saturdays, Dec. 10 and Dec. 17 during the regular tour hours. Come and enjoy what delightful events we have for you and your family and friends to enjoy this holiday season.
Sonya Comstock / Rita Ryor
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7 in Delaware
222 Carter Dr., Suite 104
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Our Daily Bread Opening Comfort & Joy
On October 25, Miss Delaware cut the ribbon that officially opened the doors of “Our Daily Bread” dining room to the residents of Middletown. All were treated to a tour of the newly furnished building featuring a large dining room able to serve 64 people. This was a soup kitchen long in the making but now a reality for those who look forward to a healthy hot meal prepared by willing groups of volunteers.
Kristin Hannah Joy has always looked forward to Christmas, a time of getting together with family and friends and celebrating the season. Not this Christmas as she is newly divorced and her ex-husband is about to wed her sister who is pregnant after having an affair with him. The season is anything but happy for her as she dreads what is to come. Without giving it a second thought, she purchases a ticket on a charter plane to the Northwest. She tells no one of her plans and sets off for an adventurous journey.
Betsy Cave, President of ODB, welcomed all those who came to this opening as well as thanking all the volunteer groups who prepare these nutritious meals week after week. She named all the Board members and gave special thanks to Mark and Janet Herner who worked tirelessly on the renovations and donated equipment and to Mark and Sue Holden who have done so much for ODB. Presently, there are about 250 volunteers who make this soup kitchen so special for needy families.
Shortly after being in the air, the plane crashes, but she survives and makes her way to a small town and a soonto-be closed B&B. A young boy sees her desperation for a place to stay and shows her to a room. The next morning she meets the boy’s father, Daniel, who seems as kind as his son but tells her he is in the prospect of moving back to Boston and a different life. His wife was killed recently in a car crash, and he wants to move away from this area. His son feels differently and wants to stay. Each day is more pleasant than the previous one as Joy grows close to these two. She tells both Daniel and his son her situation and that she must return to her previous life, but promises them both she will stay until Christmas. A sudden awakening to the noises of a hospital and her sister standing over her are confusing. Her sister explains to her that she has been in a coma for ten days after being found near the plane crash site. Joy is bewildered and saddened to hear this news, as she recalls the last ten days spent with Daniel and his son and how she felt such happiness again in her life, and it seemed all so real. Was it a dream? Waiting her release from the hospital, she contemplates ways to recapture that dream. Sonya Comstock
As President, she also recognized Tim DeSchepper who created the idea of a soup kitchen which began at Dale United Methodist Church. She thanked the Mayor for leasing the present building to the organization at a minimal cost. She also recognized Robert McGee, Councilman, for representing the Mayor at this event.
Miss Delaware Cuts Ribbon
Betsy Cave
A wonderful reception was offered to all the guests prepared by the ODB volunteers. Betsy Cave thanked all who have made contributions by way of time or money and said contributions are what will keep this organization serving residents in the future. For more information, contact Betsy Cave at 302-285-9540 or ourdailybread2016@gmail.com. Sonya Comstock
Book Club Choices for December Book Club 1 (Deb Kupper/1st Wed.) Our group will be going out to dinner and then return to Springmill to have dessert and exchange gifts at one of our member’s homes. Happy Holidays! Book Club 2 (Mary-Elizabeth Rhoads/4th Tues.) This month our group will be enjoying the holidays. Happy Hanukkah and Merry Christmas!
Janet Herner, Sue Holden
Book Club 3 (Lydia Olson/3rd Mon.) This month we will not be meeting due to the busy holiday season.
Mark Herner
Reception
Springmill Pool Room Chatter
Book Club 4 (Mary Jo Starrett/1st Wed.) We will be enjoying “Lilac Girls” by Martha Hall Kelly.
Since 8/1/16 the following perfect games have been recorded
Book Club 5 (Joan Gross/3rd Tues.) When we meet, we will be talking about our latest reads during our holiday luncheon.
Gary Merrick 1 Tom Ferrara 2 Len Brussee 2 Larry Daigle 4 Bob Cohen 6
June Stemmle
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Evening with Tommy Zito
Zito performs to a capacity crowd.
Tommy Zito, Bob Schreckengost
Bev and Don Strong, Ruth Rudloff, Joe and Ginny Grippo
Claudia Garrett, Jo and Mark Verni, Ann Marie Burns, Chris Chappelle, Ann Hullinger, Eileen and Richard Bengermino
Carla and Jim Rutolo, Chuck and Lynn Ruh, Mary and Bill Sapp
Swinging to the sounds
Neighbors enjoying the evening
Zito as the Phantom
Neighbors in the News IT PAYS TO READ! …and it pays to participate in contests. I discovered that, when I received a phone call from
Congratulations to Ida and Joe Nelson on their 65th wedding anniversary
Appoquinimink Library telling me I was the winner of their Summer Reading Program for Adults. Now, I’m not the most prolific reader in Springmill, so I’m thinking it was probably my good fortune that I did take the challenge and sign up to read and critique books during the summer. My reward was a bag of “loot” including journals, a lunch bag, an insulated cup, and a gift card for Amazon. Since I “never win anything” this was a big deal for me, so I had the media specialist take my photo with my bag of goodies. Since we have five book clubs and numerous readers in our community, I would recommend your joining in the fun next summer…I know I’ll be doing it it again. “You can’t win it if you’re not in it!” That phrase applies not
only to lottery tickets, but to just about anything in life .
June Stemmle
Upon entering the clubhouse, one was greeted by voodoo dolls and thanks to Tom and Marion Smith for all of the Halloween decorations that put everyone in the spirit of Halloween. Everyone enjoyed the night by dancing, socializing and playing Halloween games. Sandy Maguire
Neighbors enjoying themselves
Enjoying the music
Joe Nelson, Carolyn and Carl Rifino Ida Nelson
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Lou and Lori Mlodzinski, Sandy Maguire, Bonnie Silva Sam & Anne Merrick, Tony Silva
Volunteer Party The volunteer party was held on Saturday, November 13, 2016. Marc Lichtenfield, on behalf of the BOD, welcomed volunteers and thanked them for the many hours of service they give to the community. The varied and delicious array of food was prepared by Chef Martin and served by his staff. Money collected in the doll raffle goes toward supplies needed to continue the Giving Doll project. Floral centerpieces were won by several of the residents. Photos: Lee Rosenson
Marc welcomes volunteers
Mel Geiger, Frank Basler
Gary Merrick Carl Rifino
Ilene Lipstein, Dennis Hand -Doll winner, Carolyn Rifino
Beautifully presented appetizers
Maria Corvino, Merle Fausnaugh
Pulled pork, beef brisket, rolls, potatoes
Sal Dimenno, Eileen Bengermino, Lois Dimenno
Salad Bar
Noel Carey, Jessie Crisfield, Jo Verni, Joe Walsh, June Glass, Ilene Lipstein
Note: Additional pictures for all events may be found on the Website.
Annual Thanksgiving Dinner The Thanksgiving Dinner tradition continues. Over 90 residents enjoyed a bountiful feast catered by Stoltzfus from the Dutch County Farmers Market. The four lovely young Amish girls did a terrific job serving everyone. It was nice to see many new comers sharing dinner with their new neighbors. The 50/50 was won by John Rutt. Photos: Lee Rosenson & Joe Grippo
Ann Hullinger, Annette Ianelli, Pat Frail
Peg Andrews joins a chorus of servers.
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Laurie Leone, a certified yoga instructor, will be teaching a meditative/restorative yoga class at the Clubhouse on Fridays, from 9-10:00. The cost is $10.00 for drop-in students and $8.00 for those who sign up for the month. Laurie has taught many kinds of yoga classes, but always teaches according to the needs of the students in the room. This is a very traditional approach as historically yoga was taught to each individuals practice. She will shape the day’s lessons to those who show up on Friday.
Robot Revolution We took our two granddaughters (ages 13 and 11) to the Franklin Institute Robot Revolution Exhibit. Kirsten, the 11 year old, is really into robotics and is participating in a robotics club that designs, builds, codes, demonstrates and competes in “battles” with their creations against other clubs. Do you remember years ago going to the World’s Fair? I remember the section of the fair showing the “future” (now the past). What I remember most vividly is the exhibit on the “new phone booths”. Phone booths had always been Superman’s changing room and now were evolving into the wall phone with no door. Where on earth was Superman going to change?
Because breath is at the heart of yoga, Laurie always links breath and movement. She finds yoga poses that help the students find their “best breath” and modifies poses to help her students find new inner resources of strength and flexibility using breathing techniques. Along the way, Laurie’s students will be strengthening and stretching, improving circulation and joint range of motion; “things that help us do for our body”. Laurie has found that more mature students are able to access stillness and focus better than younger students. They are also used to disciplined thinking and have an awareness of subtleties in their body. This opens them up to the possibility for a deeper, more transformative yoga.
The Robot exhibit reminded me of that. Robots are now in our everyday lives. Most of us are aware that robotic technology is used in surgery (the Da Vinci system). Drones are robotic technology in action. It is robotic technology that is used to investigate problems in underground pipes. Fire Departments use robots to search through buildings that are deemed too unsafe for firefighters. Armed Forces use them to assist soldiers in the field. Of course we have always wanted a robot to clean our homes, and there is one – The Roomba Vacuum uses sound sensors to “hear” the dirt it is picking up and to know if the floor is clean. It continues to run over the same spot until the sensors tell it the area is clean.These robots are in everyday use. Many of them are on display in the Robot Revolution exhibit. Not just on display, but actually performing their assigned task(s).
While, we will still have our free yoga class each Monday, Friday's class will be a wonderful opportunity to experience a more gentle yoga experience tailored to our 55+ population. You are invited to stop by and observe or join in…Laurie always brings a few extra mats. She also brings “toys” that help achieve poses like blocks, straps, blankets, etc. Consider this your invitation to try something new…a personalized approach to yoga.
It is the humanoid robots that are the future – the new phone booths. We played Black Jack with a robot as dealer. He/She/It added the points and knew who won (as well as dealing the cards)! Another humanoid plays tic tac toe interactively (I lost). Have you ever solved a rubik's cube? One humanoid robot was able to do so. The cube was given to the museum visitor to twist and turn and then handed back to the robot. The robot certainly solved it faster than we could. It was amazing!
June Stemmle
Winter is now approaching. We have been very lucky with some mild weather. This makes us forget that it is not only a good idea to shut off our outside water spigots and drain our hoses, if we use them. In many houses, one turn-off valve is under the kitchen sink and one under the bathroom sink. In some houses, they are in closets. Two years ago I forgot to turn the outside water off and I paid the price in the spring. I wound up with a broken pipe.
It is hard to imagine all the possibilities this technology can lead to. We will probably never really know, but our grandchildren will. They will see the new phone booth evolve. While the Franklin Institute is not my thing, (too many school kids on trips running around seemingly unsupervised), I did have an interesting day. If you have grandchildren and want to take them, you will learn a lot about the world in which they are growing up. We would recommend you plan your trip, if on a week day, to arrive after lunch. The school trips seem to leave by 2PM.
The condensation drain pump connected to your furnace should be checked regularly and cleaned two or three times a year. This is again a very simple job to perform. You can pour a cup of bleach or vinegar into the pump and let it stand for a few minutes, then add water to activate the pump. When the pump turns off, add more water till the pump turns on again. If the water is draining, you are ok. Doing this on a regular basis will prevent the pump from build-up and clogging.
The Robot revolution exhibit runs until April 2, 2017. Give tickets as a Holiday gift to your children/grandchildren if you do not wish to accompany the younger ones! Just a note, investigate the advantages of taking a yearly family membership to the Franklin Institute. It could save you money and become a gift that keeps on giving.
Also, it is a good idea to turn off the water in the house when you go on vacation or will be away several days. This could save you mega bucks if the heater leaks or the overflow pipe overflows.
Marie Rigg
At this time of the year it is good to think about changing some batteries. If you haven't (Continued on page 21)
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(Holiday Happenings continued from page 1) For those who enjoy visiting the nation’s capital, The Gaylord National Resort’s ICE! is a special holiday event you won’t want to miss. The theme for 2016 is Christmas Around the World showcasing holiday traditions from many countries. Step inside a winter wonderland created entirely of 5,000 BLOCKS of ice, weighing two million pounds, hand-sculpted by 40 international artisans. The attraction is fully interactive allowing guests to roam inside, around and on top of holiday scenes. The indoor, walk-through attraction is housed in an enormous 15,000 sq.ft. structure to help maintain its internal temperature of nine degrees. To stay comfortable inside, guests are loaned oversized winter coats to wear. Bring you own hat and gloves. Hours – open daily – tickets (adults) $29, kids (3-11) $21. Discounted tickets for groups of 20 or more are available. Visit www.christmasonthepotomac.com or call 301-965-4000. Sonya Comstock
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Meet Your Neighbor Even though Catherine (Kitty) Hutson, of 637 Poets Way, has lived here almost as long as I have, we never met before she joined Book Club II a few months ago. I discovered why, when her name came up as one of the “final six” on my list of residents to interview. During most of her years of residence, she was still working, and then she was caring for her husband, who passed away last year, on September 20, after 61 years of marriage.
Raymond from UD, and was happy to discover she was also a resident in Springmill.
Kitty was born in West Grove Hospital in Pennsylvania. The family, however, lived in Landenberg on a sixty-acre farm and continued to live there until she was ten when her father died. Her father had also owned the town’s general store since before she was born. The family then moved to Union Park Gardens in Wilmington. Kitty attended Ursuline Academy. She then went on to receive a secretarial degree from Goldey Beacom College. Kitty was a Wilmington resident until she married at twenty-one. She has lived in Delaware the major part of her life.
Kitty’s favorite travels over the years have included Australia, Hawaii, and Europe. Her son is a flight attendant, making trips that much easier. The family also has a place in Lewes that gives her pleasure.
Since retiring, Kitty spends her time reading, watching TV, and volunteering at her church, St. Margaret of Scotland. She’s also in the process of downsizing and generally “cleaning out”. As you get older, you realize you really don’t need all the stuff you’ve collected over the years and no one in the family wants it either.
Kitty doesn’t have any pets, with the exception of the “fox guarding the front door”. She does have three children: Peggy Bailey and her husband Kirk, John and his wife Helen, and her other son, Tom. They all live in Delaware. She also has four grandchildren; Shannon, John Jr., Julie Bailey and Mark Bailey, and one great-grandchild, Andrew (8), who was born one day before his Great Pop-Pop Andy’s birthday.
Kitty married her husband, Andrew, another Delawarean in 1955. They met at an Armory dance at St. Anthony’s. The couple first lived in Kiamensi Gardens, a community near Stanton. Small world fact…Ann Hullinger, of 404 Morning Glory Lane, was their neighbor and their children attended the same grade school. The Hutson’s next move was to Caravel Hunt before deciding to downsize to Springmill in 2003. Kitty and Andrew were first attracted to the fact that Springmill had single-family homes on one level, that the landscaping and snowplowing were taken care of, and that there were a variety of activities. They also liked that there was a gym available in the Clubhouse. Having lived here for a number of years, Kitty still likes everything that attracted the couple in the first place. Until Kitty retired in 1997, she was the Office Coordinator in the Mechanical Engineering Department at the University of Delaware. She worked for the professors in that area for twenty years full-time and 10 years part-time. She was then called back to the department and worked for ten more years, retiring for the second time in 2008. She remembers Ann
Kitty would like you to know that she goes to church four days a week. Both she and her husband were very involved at St. Margaret’s; he was an acolyte and a Eucharist minister. He was one of the first in the diocese to receive the Order of Merit in December 2005 from Bishop Salarelli. Kitty’s primary church job was to open up the church four days a week. That’s where she met two other residents of our community, Jane Kimmins and Suzanne Bilinski. It seems Springmill creates its own “small world”. Having spent some time with Kitty, I’m glad she’s a part of our small world, and I hope you get to know her a little better too. If you’re walking along Poet’s Way, you can’t miss her “pet fox”. When asked, “Why a fox?” She said it was because it reminded her of when her brothers used to go fox hunting when she was a child. And that brings us full circle to the importance of family, family history, and creating Springmill history too. Happy Holiday to everyone in our community family from Kitty…and me! June Stemmle
Annual Budget Meeting The November 21, 2016 Springmill Budget meeting was held at 6PM in the Clubhouse. The meeting was preceded by an announcement from Tracey Lund, Property Manager regarding the fact that it is the homeowners responsibility to remove algae from the roof and siding of their homes. Reminder letters will go out in the spring. Then there was a presentation on insurance by Springmill’s broker, Kenneth Dash, of Dash and Love, Inc. Ken pointed out that it was important, as residents, to carry the proper type and amount of insurance. It is essential that we have at least liability and property damage coverage. This is what is included in the typical HO3 policy. This policy should cover your home, personal property, loss assessments (association assessments for unbugeted expenses), additional living expenses in case of situation where you must leave your home, and drain backup. He pointed out that it is important, as homeowners, to maintain your home to help prevent disasters. He said he would be available by phone for anyone who had questions. This presentation was followed by the Budget meeting. Carl Refino, as treasurer, took over the presentation. Marc and Carl said we are in good shape financially. Carl presented a condensed summary of 2016 income and expenses and a projection of 2017 income and expenses. There was discussion about the differences in figures on the report and a discussion of how reserve money is invested. There was little change between the two years except in the Maintenance and Repair category. Monthly assessments will remain at $150 per month for 2017. The presentation was followed by a question and answer period. Several residents asked for a more detailed report in the future. The summary that was presented made for easy understanding but didn’t give the background to individual items. Perhaps both are needed to make the budget clearer in the future. Tom Rigg
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Springmill Discount: $2.75 off every car wash!
Signs of The Season
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Town Meeting Matt Burrow, Superintendent of Appoquinimink School District, presented a referendum on the school district which stated that additions to the present schools have to be made in the near future to accommodate the ever growing population. He also stated that a new high school has to be added as well as Sonya Comstock an elementary school in Whitehall and that the Everett Meredith Middle School has to be demolished and a new middle school constructed in its place. These changes do mean an increase in property taxes. Residents will be able to vote on the referendum on December 20. The building on West Main St. (next to Sully’s) might become a mini-mall if conceptual plans are approved for renovations. The building is now empty. The new owners plan to convert the building into small retail stores adding to the improved vision of Main Street. Jim Young, Coordinator of the annual Kettle Drive for the Salvation Army, is seeking volunteers to ring bells at various locations. The fund raising drive will take place from Nov. 18-Dec. 24 and is now in its ninth year. He thanked the many high school students who have volunteered their time in past years. For those who can spare even an hour during the holiday season, Young would welcome them. Please call Jim at 302-378-5059 or at 373-8200. Nick Manerchia, Director of Middletown Main Street, announced plans for the holiday season starting with Black Friday, November 25, and the tree lighting ceremony. He also asked the audience to honor Saturday, November 26, as Small Business Day and to shop in town after the annual Christmas parade that day. Sonya Comstock
New Business
Ken Cimino, Coordinator for the 301 Construction Project, announced at a recent meeting that everything is moving along as scheduled and even somewhat ahead. Comments by the contractors were that the number of trucks in the Bunker Hill area have been reduced by half decreasing the noise and amount of flying dirt to nearby properties. Bridge work is scheduled before the end of the year depending on the weather. Three exits from 301 will be at Levels Road, north of Armstrong Road and Jamison Corner. The toll road will be $4 per car. It was noted that local residents will be able to find various routes thus avoiding the toll. No toll booths will be constructed and for those having E-Z Pass, the toll will be added to your account as with other toll roads. A camera will photograph license plates. For those without the pass, a statement will be sent to your home address expecting payment. Ignoring the statement will result in loss of driving privileges. Because of our location which is close to major highways, most of us would never use Rt. 301. Those who live to the extreme North and South areas will be affected. Sonya Comstock
(Helpful Hints continued from page 17) done so in a long time, the thermostat battery should be changed. I would suggest at least once a year. This is a simple process and can be done by anyone. No special tools or experience is necessary. Smoke alarm batteries should also be changed at least once a year. Again, not a difficult task. If you are unable to climb a ladder, ask someone to do it for you. Also, bear in mind that smoke detectors have a life span of about 10 years before they become unreliable. Unless you have experience with electricity and feel comfortable working with it, have an electrician replace them. Attention to the above items will give you peace of mind when you are away from home. Joe Grippo
Choose Your Contractor Wisely
Aldi Supermarket has now opened its 17,000 sq.ft. supermarket. The German-based discount supermarket will offer discount prices and exclusive product brands – only about 10% of the products sold are national brands. Location – corner of Rt. 301 and Bunker Hill Road. Hrs. of Operation – seven days a week.
This is a follow up to an article that I submitted to the Sentinel about 5 years ago. The article was about window re-placement. Basically, it is just as important to choose a reliable contractor for the job as it is to choose the right window. We had some of our windows re-placed 5 years ago by one of our advertisers, G.T.L. REMODELING. A problem developed with one of the windows and although numerous attempts were made to solve the problem from the inside of the house; they were not successful. It was determined that the repairs had to be made from the outside of the home. Normally after 5 years, most contractors would inform the homeowner that the warranty had expired and any repairs would be at owner’s expense. This was not the case with G.T.L. One of the owners, Tim Lucky, came to our home and determined that there was a possibility that an installation problem might exist. He proceeded to remove the aluminum capping from the exterior of the window and made some adjustments. This solved the problem but the cost would have been $500.00 or more with material and labor. It was not at our expense.
Sonya Comstock
ll dmi n i W ning Clea
Lesson learned. Choose your contractor wisely! Jerry Steskal
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Dressing Up The Holidays
As announced in the insert in last month's Sentinel, an organizational meeting for the new Website Committee was scheduled for November 7. Unfortunately, this meeting needs to be rescheduled for sometime after the New Year, as only 2 people showed up. This will also serve as a second opportunity for more residents to express an interest in learning more about our website. We want the website to be responsive to Residents needs and wishes, so we hope additional people will want to become involved. Look for an announcement on the Website and on the Bulletin Board in the Clubhouse.
As I’ve gotten older and the family is at a stage of no young ones – absolutely no young ones – I find I have two conflicting approaches to Christmas in my own home. 1. I miss making a big deal out of decorating 2. I don’t have the energy to put into making a big deal out of decorating that only Merle and I and possibly a few neighbors will see 3. I need some new ideas – maybe just one or two great feats to give me holiday joy and satisfaction! So, I made a list of possibilities: 1. Dress up my gifts a bit more 2. Decorate the fireplace mantle more elaborately 3. Concentrate on the front door 4. Find pretty new holiday throw pillows So, I searched the web and selected three sites I found useful. Here is the best of what I found: Gift Wrapping – it seems there are four easy areas to focus on: paper, tags, bows, and creative containers! And, pictures to give me ideas. Lots of pictures! Midwest Living Magazine: http://www.midwestliving.com/holidays/christmas/easy -christmas-gift-wrap-ideas/? HGTV http://www.hgtv.com/design/make-and-celebrate/handmade/40holiday-gift-wrap-ideas-pictures Better Homes & Gardens http://www.bhg.com/christmas/gift-wrapping/
We continue to look for ways to spark more interest and provide reasons for people to revisit the website. One advantage a website has is that it can be updated on a daily basis, so that it can always be up to date. Another is that it can be “interactive” , meaning it is a 2-way communication system. There are many interactive features on our website, which we, as webmasters, wish more people would take advantage of. The most recent example of such a feature is the Photo Contest which was also announced as an insert in last month's Sentinel. So far there has been very little participation, and because the implementation of this feature requires a lot of “webmastering” effort, this feature is in danger of being discontinued. Please visit the Photo Contest link at the bottom of the Navigation List on the Home page; there are some very interesting Photos for Residents to judge.
Front Door Decorating – We just repainted our front door – a lovely dark green. Who knew there was a magazine named Top Dreamer! http://www.topdreamer.com/31-creative-front-door-christmasdecorations/ Homebnc.com – beautiful and creative home décor ideas https://homebnc.com/best-christmas-door-decorations/ Country Living Magazine http://www.countryliving.com/diy-crafts/g2734/christmas-doordecorations/?
In another attempt to keep the website interesting and relevant, by the time you read this, we will have introduced another new Feature – Recipe Book. Residents may submit and display their favorite recipes. Like any of the Interactive Features on the website, its success will depend heavily on Resident participation. Also, sometime after the New Year, we will once again attempt to schedule a “seminar” for those folks who are hesitant to make use of the interactive features of the website. Watch for an announcement on the Website and on the Bulletin Board in the Clubhouse.
Decorate the Fireplace Mantle: More from Midwest Living http://www.midwestliving.com/homes/seasonaldecorating/holiday-ideas/christmas-mantel-dec Shelterness is a blog about DIY projects and interior design.
On a final note, during the past month we have had a number of Registration Requests where there are two first names in the First Name Field. Please be aware that the Website allows only one name to be listed as the Primary Member. It is OK for two people in a household to share a single Website registration, but it will have to be in one name only. For your review, the Registration Instructions are linked from the Home Page. Stan Herr
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Your Committees at Work
Volunteer Spotlight Halina Wind Preston Holocaust Education Committee
The next Chairperson report we are highlighting is the Community Events Committee, also commonly referred to as the CEC, chaired by Peggy Andrews, who shared the following information. The goal of the Community Events Committee is to provide, to all the residents of the community, a social atmosphere with a variety of events that are both entertaining and informative. And we do just that!
Founded in 1978 by two Polish women who had survived the Holocaust and met in Wilmington, the Holocaust Education Center has a mission of educating the community on the causes and events of the Holocaust so that its lessons may prevent such a tragedy from happening again.
Peggy Andrews
We started off 2016 with Bingo and a Potluck Social. Then we enjoyed music and a sing-a-long with Mr. Charisma. Two new events this year were a really amazing show by Mentalist, Mark Stone, followed by the surprising and very entertaining Mystery Dinner Party. During the year, there were the always popular Kentucky Derby Party, Card Party, Memorial Day Party, Fourth of July Party, Howling at the Moon Pool Party, Labor Day Party, and the annual Garage Sale.
Teacher training and workshops for those who teach the Holocaust have been developed along with curriculum for grades 5-12. There is also a collection of publications and films related to the Holocaust at the Brandywine Hundred Library. It is an excellent resource for anyone wishing to learn more about that period of history.
On our fall/winter calendar, there was our Newcomer’s Brunch and Tea, and a presentation by Rene Goodwin on Eleanor Roosevelt (Part 2), The War Years. We were again entertained by the piano man, the fabulous Tommy Zito and then our annual Thanksgiving dinner. In December there will be the Holiday Trim the Tree Party to end our events for 2016. We will then begin to formulate Events for 2017, some of which will be another Health Fair and a NEW Mystery Dinner. The Community Events Committee does not receive a budget. It operates at “no cost” to the community at large. Your ticket purchases for individual events is the only money we receive to execute these events. All of these events require a great deal of planning, creativity, shopping, and follow-through. Along with setting up the room, moving furniture, and serving food, there is always post-party clean up. It is a lot of work, but the members of the CEC do it because we all want to make Springmill a social and fun place to live, We have a great committee: Ruth Rudloff, Cynthia Frank, Joyce Foster, Ginny Grippo, Ann Newswanger, Bernadette Hnat, Beverly Strong, Ann Basler, Pat Frail, Joann Campbell, Phyllis Burris, Roe Lamb, Charlotte Smith, Marie Rigg, Diane Jenkins, Danese Collins, Linda Rutt, and Nancy Jaeger. That sounds like a big committee, but we need a big committee to orchestrate bigger and better events.
June Stemmle
VOLUNTEERING Share your experiences Volunteering is a great way to feel needed, in touch with your neighbors and be active in your community. If you volunteer for an organization outside of Springmill and would like to share its mission and/or your experience, as a volunteer with them, please contact Tom Rigg to submit an article. If you wish, one of the Sentinel writers will be happy to interview you and write the article for you.
The current committee is an interfaith group of volunteers who develop and implement programs to further that mission. I have been a member of this committee for the past ten years, after working with a similar center on Long Island. My particular area of responsibility in Wilmington has been organizing an interfaith clergy trip to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, DC. Over 100 clergy have attended over the last several years. Other groups that the committee has brought to the Museum include teachers and law enforcement personnel.
A multi-part documentary, “No Denying: Delawareans Bare Witness to the Holocaust”, was produced and distributed to every high school and college library throughout the State. In addition, the producer shows the discs and speaks to various groups around the State. Two Holocaust survivors also do speaking engagements to schools, church groups and civic audiences to provide eyewitness testimony to this horrific event. At the Jewish Community Center in Wilmington a Garden of the Righteous Gentiles honors non-Jews who risked their lives and those of their families to save Jews during the Holocaust and who later settled in Delaware. The Garden also has a sculpture dedicated to the memory of the 1.5 million children who perished during the Holocaust. It was created by Israeli artist Aharon Bezalel. Each year, in the spring, Yom Hashoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day is commemorated in Wilmington and around the world. The Committee provides speakers who reflect on the millions killed by the Nazis between 1933-1945. Freedom Plaza near the County Office Building is the site of a Memorial sculpture created by Elbert Weinberg. It is a dramatic representation of several of the death and concentration camps built by the Nazis. Memorial prayers are said there after the program. It is difficult for me to explain my passion for working with this committee and my dedication to Holocaust education. I was too young to personally know any individual victim although extended family members who lived in Europe were among the victims. I have had many opportunities to meet and work with survivors. I have found them to be incredibly resilient and grateful to be able to live and have families and prosper. I can only tell you, that I hope to continue this volunteer work as long as I am able. Ilene Lipstein
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Senior Help - Insurance In this column I will talk about insurance. Although I have extensive experience with insurance companies in claims and have qualified as an expert, as with anything, you should discuss any suggestions in this column with your own agent, broker or company. I hope in presenting this you will gain a little more understanding and perhaps feel a little more comfortable in dealing with insurance matters.
2. If you have a Medicare Supplementary Policy,you should know that all policies of the same type are identical. That is, if you have an F policy, all F policies are exactly the same. The only difference is the premium that you pay and the company that administers it. The point is why should you pay more premium to one company for an identical policy in another company.
First, a few definitions of common terms. An insurance company such as Hartford, Liberty Mutual, or others are the writers of the policy. They are the ones who ultimately get the premium you pay, and pay the claims that you have. Some companies such as Liberty Mutual are direct writers. Thus when you call them to insure something, be it your home or auto, you are dealing with an employee of the company. That employee has the authority of the company and any representations that they make, and that are made on behalf of the company.
3. If you have a Medicare Part D policy (drugs) the state of Delaware has a listing of all companies offering that policy, and a website where you can easily enter the prescriptions that you take. The site will then show you your total annualized cost for each of the plans. You can then choose the lowest cost plan. However a caveat is that each company may have a different formulary that can change at any time. You have little or no control over that. Further, your drugs can change while the policy is in effect, which will either lower or increase your annual cost.
Other companies such as Hartford deal through agents or brokers to procure the insurance. They may or may not deal directly with you should you have a claim. To get insurance you must go through an insurance agency who then will either deal with another insurance entity or with the company directly.
4. Most Part D companies offer a mail order service for longterm prescriptions. Co-pays through them are cheaper than at a regular pharmacy. Some companies have preferred pharmacies which offer lower co-pays.
The term agent has a specific meaning. An agent represents a specific party and acts within the confines of the agreement between the two. A broker deals with agents of the company. Insurance agencies sometimes have authority to act on behalf of several companies in obtaining insurance. Insurance brokers must shop companies to place insurance policies.
You may email me at hsfrank53@gmail.com for suggestions about future columns or topics or questions about insurance. Herb Frank
A Letter From Middletown Police
Obtaining insurance is a function of market conditions as well as specific underwriting requirements. The term underwriting had its origins at Lloyd's where businessmen desiring to assume a risk, attach their signatures on the document describing that risk and the premium. That still exists today although in a much more highly refined process.
Please see see the insert in the December Sentinel for the letter concerning missing jewelry in Springmill
When market conditions are tight (i.e. fewer companies willing to write insurance and/or more people desiring insurance) underwriting restrictions are more severe and the cost of insurance is higher. The opposite situation occurs when market conditions are loose. Compounding this is the method by which insurance companies make money (and thus are willing to write insurance). That subject is too complex for this article.
In October I was elected by the Communications Committee to be the new Chairman and editor of the Sentinel. It is a real honor to take on this responsibility following the excellent leadership of Dick Rausch.
Since my purpose is not to write a whole book about insurance but rather try and help seniors, here are a few tips to save money:
I know I have big shoes to fill but will do my best to make Springmill proud of producing a quality monthly newsletter and its other publications. I hope the community of Springmill will continue to support the Communications Committee it its effort to make this the best community to live in south of the canal.
1. If you insure high value jewelry, you should be aware that you can insure it on the policy called a floater. This covers specific pieces of jewelry anywhere, for almost any reason of loss or damage or theft, without deductible. Another benefit of a floater is that it gives you a lump sum amount for nonvalued items. There is a dollar limit in total and for each individual item you claim. For scheduled items you will have to assign an amount for each item you insure. Often it will be recommended to insure it for the appraised value. This results in an excessive premium, since appraised value rarely equals cost or market value. It is often much greater. Insurance will pay in the event of loss, their cost to replace it or repair it or the limit you assigned whichever is less. Most companies have relationships with jewelers that enable them to replace your item at a cost less than what you could.
I would also like to see more neighborhood contributions to the Sentinel. Send us articles on your trips, your daytrips, your volunteer opportunites, any special awards, anniversaries etc. If you do not want to write it, but wish to share it, contact me at trigger870@yahoo.com and one of our writers will be happy to write it for you. Tom Rigg
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