King of Prussia News Winter 2023

This publication is an effort to keep the community informed with what is actually happening in your area. For future editions, I welcome your thoughts on topics that affect the community. I'd be happy to publish your opinions on any relevant topics.

Do you have an event that you'd like to publicize? Let me know, and I'll do my best to incorporate your event into the newsletter.

This is your community. This is your home. Use this publication to share your thoughts and ideas with your neighbors. Are you ready to get involved in your community?

Township Administration Building

175 W. Valley Forge Road

King of Prussia, PA 19406

Phone: 610-265-2600 Fax: 610-265-0482 www.umtownship.org Mon - Fri 8:15 am to 5 pm

Township Police

175 W. Valley Forge Road

King of Prussia, PA 19406

Emergency and Call for Service: 9-1-1

Phone: 610-265-3232

Anonymous Tip Line: 484-636-3888

Animal Control ...610-265-3232

Courthouse .........610-278-3000

Library................610-265-4805

Parks & Rec.........610-265-1071

Public Works.......610-265-2606

Safety & Codes....610-265-2608

Fire and Ambulance

Emergency Phone: 9-1-1

King of Prussia Volunteer Fire Company

170 Allendale Road King of Prussia, PA 19406

Non-Emergency Ph: 610-265-1063 www.kpvfc.com

Swedeland Fire Co. 609 A Street King of Prussia, PA 19406 Non-Emergency Ph: 610-275-0177 www.swedelandfire.org

Swedesburg Volunteer Fire Company 310 Jefferson St. Bridgeport, PA 19405

Non-Emergency Ph: 610-272-9853 www.swedesburgfire.com

Upper Merion Area School District

435 Crossfield Road

King of Prussia, PA 19406

Phone: 610-205-6400 Fax: 610-205-6433 www.umasd.org

Upper Merion Community Cetner

431 West Valley Forge Road King of Prussia, PA 19406 Phone: 610-265-1071 www.umtownship.org/departme nts/parks-recreation/ community-center

Upper Merion Senior Service Center

431 W. VALLEY FORGE ROAD (in the Community Center Bldg.) Phone: 610-265-4715 www.umssc.o 610-265-6277 FranklinMaps@aol.com

Published by Franklin Maps

David Amsterdam franklinmaps@aol.com

The Valley Forge Music Fair: Legendary entertainment from the 1950s through the 1990s

with the musical Guys and Dolls followed by nine other summer stock shows, and subsequent seasons in the 1950s continued with theater shows. In 1960, the Music Fair got a major overhaul with a new tent system with cantilever supports eliminating the need for poles, as well as better seating and a new sound system. Also during the 1960s Gruber and Gross began booking rock, country, jazz and other musical performances as well as comedians in addition to the Broadway shows.

In 1971, the giant red and orange tent came down and was replaced with a brand new year-round air conditioned and heated facility. It was built with an increased seating capacity of 2750, and opened in July 1972. In addition to the entertainment, the location became a popular location for corporate meetings and high school graduations.

The Upper Merion area in the years after World War II, like much of the rest of the country, was experiencing a time of economic growth, cultural stability and a suburban housing boom helped by the Federal Housing Administration's mortgage loans and benefits from the GI Bill. Along with the influx of residents came a need for entertainment venues aside from those in the city. In 1955, three local businessmen, Shelly Gross, Edward Felbin and Lee Gruber came up with an idea for the music fair to host road companies of broadway shows during the Spring, Summer and Fall.

The group purchased what was once 10 acres of farmland just south of King of Prussia. They raised $100,000 by asking 100 friends to contribute $1,000 each.

Construction began in May 1955 with a bowl shaped amphitheater with a round stage surrounded by terraced seating for more than 1600 people. The first venue was under a tent supported by 18 poles located throughout the seating area.

The first season opened in June of 1955

Throughout the 1970s, '80s and into the '90s, popular shows and entertainers frequently sold out the venue. Kenny Rogers held the record for the most appearances with over 100 including a popular Christmas show. So many stars of all musical genres performed over the years including: Fats Domino; Peter, Paul and Mary; Dionne Warwick; Liza Minelli; Harry Chapin; Charlie Daniels and dozens more. Comedians such as Jerry Seinfeld, Joan Rivers, Don Rickles, Dom DeLuise and Tim Allen all did shows there as well.

In 1988, founder Lee Gruber died suddenly, and in 1992, Shelly Gross turned over running the business to his son, Rick, who had been working there since he was in high school. By the mid-1990s, the land that the Valley Forge Music Fair occupied was worth more as a retail shopping venue. In 1996, a full season of shows was booked including Tom Jones, Julio Iglesias, The Temptations, The Monkees, a run of the musical My Fair Lady, and a final annual Kenny Rogers Christmas Show. On January 2, 1997, the absolute last show was for children: the Mystical Magical Musical Show.

The Music Fair was torn down shortly thereafter and replaced by the Valley Fair Shopping Center. It is still fondly

remembered by those who saw the many shows there, and by the employees who worked there who have even held reunions over the years.

Please consider joining The King of Prussia Historical Society. We are wholly dependent on memberships and donations to continue our mission of keeping our local history alive. Visit our website at KoPHistory.org or find us on Facebook.

but it's hard to be a young person right now.

Young people are remarkable, From navigating anxiety and maintaining healthy relationships to resisting the pressures of social media and managing stress, growing up is more challenging than ever

That means it's also really hard to be a parent right now we need them to tell us

prepared to LISTEN and understand

. As adults, one of our main goals is to help set our kids up for success, today and for the rest of their lives. Because it's often so challenging to see — really see — when the young people in our lives are struggling, when they are, so we can support them in the ways they need. They will talk if they believe we are .

SpeakUp!, a nonprofit in your backyard, helps young people and adults gain the skills and confidence needed to have courageous conversations about the challenges kids face today from stress, mental health, drugs and alcohol to depression, anxiety, suicide, relationships, social media and more.

Visit speakup.org

to register for SpeakUp!'s Parenting Adult Coffees, Grandparent Coffees, and Youth Mental Health First Aid Training.

Finally, if SpeakUp! is in your child's middle or high school, be sure to experience it!

They can attend without you, and you can go without them - but it works even better when you experience SpeakUp! together!

9:00 to 10:30 AM

Wednesday, January 18 Friday, February 3 Friday, April 14 Wednesday, April 19 Friday, May 5

Friday, February 24

Friday, April 28

Wednesday, May 10

7:00 - 8:15 PM Sexuality & Identity - Virtual 9:00 - 10:30 AM Body Image 8:30 - 10:00 AM Drugs & Alcohol 7:00 - 8:15 PM Drugs & Alcohol - Virtual 9:00 - 10:30 AM Mental Health 7:00 - 8:15 PM Mental Health - Virtual

Wednesday, January 18 Monday, February 20

Wednesday, April 26 Wednesday, May 24

AINTENANCE & DRIVING

Five Steps To Safe Holiday Travel

The holidays are happiest when we can focus on the joy of the journey. That's pretty hard to do on the side of the road. There are some easy steps that can help you preserve peace of mind when you're on a road trip this holiday season. Here's a tire safety checklist to follow before you hit the road.

So, before you hit the road for the holidays, make sure you're driving a set of tires recommended for driving in winter conditions. How will you know? Look for the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol on the sidewall. If you see it, you're set! If not, and you regularly drive in winter conditions, it might be time to buy a set of all-weather or even consider winter tires.

Turn Up The Pressure

Low tire pressure makes blowouts more likely and harms gas mileage. And when temperatures drop, so does the air pressure in your tires — that's why you'll often see your tire light flash on chilly mornings.

Use a tire pressure gauge to ensure every tire is inflated to your car's recommended tire pressure, which you should find on a sticker inside your driver door or in your car's owner manual. If your tires are underinflated, take them to your tire dealer for a fill-up or do it yourself — many gas stations have inflation machines. At CJ's, we'll fill 'em up for free.

Tread Deeply

Check The Weather— And Your Tires

When it comes to winter driving, not all tires are created equal. All-season tires are great for all seasons — if you live on the southern end of the US. But here in PA where we get snow and ice a few times each year, they won't do the best job keeping you safe in those conditions. In fact, even when roads are dry, all-season tires tend to lose much of their grip when temperatures fall below 45 degrees, which hardens their tread rubber compounds and lowers their responsiveness to the road.

Long trips are not the time to mess around with shallow tread grooves. The shallower your tire's tread, the less responsive it is to the road — especially when it's wet, snowy or icy. Hydroplaning is a particularly dangerous possibility when your tread depth is lacking.

Your tire dealer should typically inspect your tire tread when you take your car in for a check-up. If you'd like to check your own tread, perform the quarter test to make sure your grooves are still at safe levels. Insert a quarter with George Washington's headfirst. If you can't see the top of his head, your tires have enough tread to be effective. If you can see the hair on top of George's head…it's time for tires!

Get Rotated And Aligned

If it's been between 4,000 and 8,000 miles since you've had your tires rotated, drop by your tire dealership to get that done. Uneven tread wear can lead to unstable driving and higher noise levels coming from your tires, and it may be a sign of a mechanical issue with your vehicle. While the car is at the shop, ask your dealer to check your alignment, too. Proper alignment can help extend the life of your tires. Poor alignment can lead to rapid and uneven deterioration in tread wear. At CJ's, alignment checks are fast and free!

Check Your Spare

Nobody ever wants to have to use their spare tire, but when you encounter a road hazard it's vital to have one safe and ready When you're rolling through this checklist with your primary tires, make sure your spare is properly inflated and still has solid tread depth.

This checklist comes from CJ's Tire and Automotive. For more than 50 years, CJ's has been keeping customers happy by providing better, faster, and more affordable tires and complete car care. To shop online or schedule an appointment, visit...

CJTIRE.com

When the temperature begins to drop, consider these maintenance and end-of-season tasks that will help you winterize your home and protect your property. Here are 10 simple tips for tasks so you can protect your home all winter long:

1. CHECK THE GUTTERS. Cleaning your gutters is an important part of winter prep. A good rule of thumb is to have the gutters cleaned as soon as the last leaves have fallen in the autumn. To prevent clogging, inspect and clean the gutters of leaves and other debris. Clean gutters also allow melting snow to drain properly and prevent ice dams. Make sure your attic floor is properly insulated. The attic itself should be well-ventilated and about 10 degrees warmer than the temperature outside.

2. PROTECT THE PIPES. Protect against frozen pipes by insulating those that could be susceptible to freezing. When the temperature drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, keep a stream of water running in a few faucets to guard against freezing and bursting. To protect plumbing under kitchen and bathroom sinks, consider opening the cabinet doors so warm air can surround the pipes. It's also a good idea to learn how to shut the water off and know where your pipes are located.

3. BLOCK THE COLD. Caulk holes and around windows, doors, air conditioners and mail chutes to help prevent cold air from seeping in. Use foam outlet protectors to prevent cold air from entering your home. However, the majority of heat loss typically occurs via openings in the attic. Check to make sure that you have enough insulation.

4. TIME TO WEATHERPROOF. Install weather stripping and seals to prevent cold air from entering your home or heat from escaping it, which will reduce your power bills. Door sweeps are also an effective and easy way to keep the cold out.

5. STOP THE SLIPS, TRIPS AND FALLS. Stock up on staples ahead of time, like a snow shovel, ice scraper, flashlights and extra batteries. Keep driveways and sidewalks clear of ice and snow and repair any issues with steps and handrails. You can also be prepared for winter weather safety by keeping deicing salt handy for sprinkling on steps, sidewalks and your driveway. Be sure to read the directions for proper distribution and protective gear.

6. KEEP IT COZY. Set your thermostat to at least 65 degrees Fahrenheit and make sure your house or apartment is well-insulated. Lower the thermostat a few degrees while you're away or sleeping. Consider installing an energy efficient or programmable thermostat to help you keep warm air in the rooms you use the most without racking up high energy bills.

7. HAVE YOUR HEATING SYSTEM CHECKED. Furnaces, boilers and chimneys should be serviced at least once a year to clear any buildup and to keep them running efficiently. Animal nests or creosote buildup in your fireplace can be hazardous. Have an annual inspection before building your first fire of the season. You should also vacuum or sweep out any accumulated ash from the firebox.

8.

TEST YOUR SMOKE AND CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS.

Residential fires are more common in winter, so it is important that all your smoke detectors work. Check them monthly and replace batteries as needed. You should also consider installing a carbon monoxide detector to avoid inadvertently trapping the toxic gas in your home.

9. CLEAR THE YARD. Keep the trees trimmed and remove dead branches and debris from your yard. Ice, snow and wind can weaken trees and cause branches to fall and potentially damage your home, car or even yourself and others.

10. BRING IN THE OUTDOORS. Cold temperatures, snow and ice can damage outdoor furniture and grills. If possible, store them in a garage or basement. If you have a gas grill with a propane tank, close the tank valve and disconnect the tank first. It must be stored outside. If you don't have storage space for your items, purchase covers to protect them from the elements. Remove all garden hoses that are attached to the house, drain them and store them away. Shut off the valves and insulate the faucet.

If you are heading south for the winter, you need to take extra precautions. Turn the water completely off and consider having the plumbing system drained to keep pipes from freezing. Also, have a friend or neighbor check on your home regularly to look for any issues. If a problem is detected, act quickly to minimize potential damage to your property.

Compiled from www.grangeinsurance.com and www.lowes.com.

EALTH & WELLNESS

What's the deal with radon gas and lung cancer?

If you've ever watched late night television, chances are, you've seen a lung cancer commercial with a survivor hooked up to oxygen. The patient grimly tells you in a raspy voice to not smoke unless you want to wind up like them. While it's true that smoking cigarettes is the top risk factor for lung cancer, there are also other causes for lung cancer—including exposure to radon gas.

In the US, approximately 21,000 people die each year from radon-related lung cancer. About 3,000 of these deaths occur among life-long nonsmokers. In fact, radon is thought to be the #1 cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers. Radon gas can be found indoors and outdoors, but when it's inside, it can become a health risk, increasing your chances of lung cancer.

What is radon?

Radon is a natural radioactive gas that's released into the air when elements like uranium and radium (found in rocks and soil) are released during decay. It mixes in the air when it comes up from the ground. You can't see it, smell it or taste it, but inhaling high levels of radon can damage your lungs and might cause lung cancer.

Radon gas isn't only found outdoors. It can also find its way into underground mines, your house, school and other buildings. Radon gas can make its way into buildings and homes through cracks or foundations. It's also possible for it to be in some building materials like granite and certain concrete products or even well water that has radon. Basements and first floors tend to test for high levels of radon because of how close they are to the ground (radon is in the soil).

"Being exposed to radon gas indoors over long periods of time is dangerous for anyone, especially smokers. It's the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the

US,” says Andrew Pitman, MD, a pulmonologist at Main Line HealthCare Pulmonary Medicine in Bryn Mawr and chief of medicine at Bryn Mawr Hospital. “This is an environmental threat that can easily be preventable with a radon test and a dependable ventilation system.”

Outdoors, the gas has a very low level. When radon gas is in poorly ventilated spaces, higher levels of radon can build up, increasing the risk of lung cancer. That's when it becomes dangerous.

What's the connection with radon gas and lung cancer?

About 40% of homes in Pennsylvania have radon levels that measure above the Environmental Protection Agency's guidelines, making it one of the most serious radon problems in the country

Additionally:

Pennsylvania ranks 32nd in the country for lung cancer cases.

While the national average of new lung cancer cases per 100,000 people is 58, in Pennsylvania, that number is 63. This means the rate of lung cancer diagnoses is higher in Pennsylvania than the national average.

Annually, about 21,000 lung cancer deaths in the US are related to radon gas. If you're a smoker and have been exposed to radon, your risk for lung cancer goes up—it's recommended to stop smoking right away.

Only a little more than 10% of nonsmokers exposed to radon get lung cancer

If you think you've been exposed, there are do-it-yourself radon testing kits or you can call a professional to test for radon levels.

While there aren't any medical tests to see if you've been exposed to radon, depending on the home test results, you can still talk to your provider. They'll determine if you need regular health checkups or screenings for possible signs of lung cancer.

Lung cancer symptoms can include:

Chest pain or tightness

Trouble breathing

New cough, or a cough that won't get better

Hoarseness

Difficulty swallowing

If you're having any of these symptoms, it's important to tell your provider who may refer you to a lung cancer specialist. They work with patients to prevent, diagnose and treat lung cancer.

How to reduce exposure to radon. Before you can reduce your radon exposure, the first thing you'll want to do is test your home for radon. In the US, nearly 1 out of every 15 homes has tested for high levels of radon.

Since radon levels can vary depending on the day or month, there are both shortand long-term tests available. Depending on which device you purchase, short-term detectors only check the radon levels between 2 to 90 days. Long-term tests are recommended because they measure radon levels for more than 90 days. Both tests are simple to use and affordable. Your state or local radon official can offer guidance on which test might be right for your home.

Radon levels of 4 pCi/L or higher are considered unsafe, with the Environmental Protection Agency recommending levels are reduced to 2 pCi/L or lower. You'll want to fix your home by hiring a certified or qualified radon mitigation contractor They'll discuss ways to reduce your radon exposure such as installing a radon mitigation system.

There are different methods to lower radon levels, but the EPA recommends the soil suction method, which blocks radon from coming into your home by sucking it from under your home and redirecting it into the air where it is diluted.

The ultimate goal is to reduce your exposure to radon, which can help lower your chances of developing lung cancer

How can you lower chances of lung cancer?

No one wants a cancer diagnosis. Although lung cancer isn't always avoidable, there are things you can do to lower your chances of developing lung cancer

If you're a smoker, quit. And get your home tested for radon. Taking these preventative steps can help keep you healthy.

If you have questions about radon gas exposure or lung cancer, schedule an appointment with a Main Line Health provider by calling 1.866.CALL.MLH (225.5654).

Andrew Pitman, MD, Pulmonologist, Main Line Health

Winter Pet Safety — From Antifreeze to Icy Walks

By: Shara Bankhead, BS, CVT

While the holiday winter wonderland season has passed, winter is truly here this month, and with these colder temperatures come some hidden dangers for pets!

Antifreeze

This common fluid found in most garages is necessary for our cars but can be deadly for pets! Dogs are most likely to ingest antifreeze, but cats ha been known to lap it up as well due to its sweet smell and taste. This is a HUGE concern as the primary

chemical ingredient in antifreeze is ethylene glycol. This chemical elicits an almost immediate effect — similar to wha is seen in alcohol poisoning (altered mental state, difficulty walking/balancing). It rapidly progresses into full nervous s depression and kidney failure, with the damage reaching its peak between 12-36 hours for both cats and dogs.

Is antifreeze poisoning treat even with emergency veterinary care and aggressive IV fluid therapy guarded to poor for full recov

So please remember to keep any antifr securely sealed and well out of your pet's reach and clean up spills immediately

Salt/Snow Melt

Part of winter life for many is keeping steps, sidewalks, and driveways safe to walk on by using rock salt and/or snow melt. Many types of ice melt contain toxic chemicals or salts and are not safe for pets especially if they lick their paws after walking outside. The best way to keep your pet safe in icy weather is to choose pet friendly ice melt, or clean paws thoroughly when your pet comes inside.

There are many pet friendly options including Safe Paw, Safe Step, Morton's Ice Melt, etc. If you live in a development with an HOA, talk to your board members about what is being used throughout your neighborhood. Chances are, there's more than one pet owner concerned about their pet's safety!

Check Under the Hood!

If any outdoor kitties call your neighborhood home, please, please, PLEASE check under your cars, in the wheel wells, and up and under the chassis! When temperatures drop, these heat seeking animals will seek out any source of warmth, and if they choose a vehicle and that vehicle gets started while they're still snuggled in/on it, they can get severely burned, have limbs amputated, or be killed.

Temperature Extremes

If it's too cold for you to venture outside, it's too cold for your pets!

As a general rule of thumb if it's below freezing, in and out potty breaks are all it takes. Granted, some pups need more exercise, and that is perfectly fine. Depending how long of a walk/run you are going on, consider a coat or sweater for your dog and ensure that they are dry and warm once you've returned home.

Help! I've Fallen…

Even our sure-footed felines can lose their traction, and fractured limbs, slipped discs, and sprains can also happen to them — and their canine counterparts!

Should you notice your pet holding up a limb, hear a yelp of pain, or notice that one of their limbs is swollen, please call your veterinarian or bring them to see MVA's emergency service.

It can be very dangerous to attempt to treat these injuries at home — most human anti-inflammatories are toxic to pets, and any type of splint/immobilization could result in you being bitten. While you may have the experience to handle this type of injury, there may be more going on that you cannot assess without an x-ray or veterinarian's evaluation.

Stay warm, be safe, and remember, MVA is here for your pets 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year Even holidays.

Carpal Tunnel Q & A

Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release Can Relieve Pain Quickly

Carpal tunnel syndrome may be more notorious than it deserves to be. “It's probably the most common hand and wrist diagnosis that people hear about,” says Praveen Murthy, MD, a fellowship-trained orthopedic hand and upper extremity surgeon at Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center. If you have pain or tingling in the hands due to carpal tunnel syndrome, simple steps often resolve symptoms. If nonoperative measures aren't effective, surgery can provide fast relief. “Many patients tell me they wish they had come to see me sooner,” Dr. Murthy says. He offers essential information about hand health.

over time. A hand specialist can determine what's really causing pain.

What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?

Nerve compression. The carpal tunnel goes through the wrist into the hand and contains a nerve plus nine tendons that bend the fingers. Over time, a variety of conditions can cause these structures to become inflamed and swollen, reducing the space available in the tunnel. The nerve becomes pinched against the roof of the tunnel, on the palm side, which leads to finger pain and numbness that often wake people at night.

How can people deal with it?

There's a natural tendency to sleep with bent wrists, which compresses the tunnel like kinking a garden hose. Wearing an over-the-counter carpal tunnel brace that holds the wrist straight every night for a few weeks sometimes relieves pain sufficiently that people don't need further treatment. Cortisone injections can further help to decrease swelling in the tunnel.

What does surgery do?

What results can people expect?

Endoscopic carpal tunnel release typically offers a fast recovery and minimizes postoperative pain in the palm. Patients can use their hand freely after surgery, and many return to work as early as the next day. Patients often tell me they got their best sleep in a long time the night after surgery. Heavy gripping and lifting can hurt for a few weeks, but everyday activities are not impaired. If I had carpal tunnel syndrome, I'd have this highly effective procedure in a heartbeat because of how happy patients are with the results.

What don't people tend to know about hands and wrists?

Many elements are at play. Several bones and joints can develop problems like arthritis. Ligaments and cartilage can develop sprains and tears. Tendons can develop tendonitis. A nerve can become compressed. All of these can result from injury, overuse or simply wear and tear

If nonoperative steps don't relieve pain or a nerve test determines that signals through the wrist are severely impaired, we can open the roof of the tunnel in a procedure called carpal tunnel release, so that the nerve has all the space it needs. This has been done for decades as an open procedure, using a longer incision in the palm. Today, we also offer minimally invasive endoscopic carpal tunnel rele in which we enter through a small incision in a natural crease of the wrist and rele the tunnel from the inside using a camera.

with Dr. Praveen Murthy, Orthopaedic Hand Surgeon, Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center

OH, THE HOLIDAYS!

DECORATE, TASTE — WATCH YOUR WASTE!

Quick — what time of year generates the most trash for landfills? That's right, it's the holiday season. Online shopping and shipping, wrapping paper, more uneaten food, toys, and electronics being replaced. You get the idea. Household waste increases about 25% this time of year!

Can you be more TrashSmart? Try these ideas (or even just one!):

Downsize — Smaller gathering, less decorations, careful gifting* so you create less waste Reusable, durable plates and silverware, cups, napkins, tablecloths (ask about renting) Shop (and wrap!) with reusable bags!

Plan for guests to bring a dish in their own containers they can take back home, OR Have guests bring reusable containers for leftovers they may take home Cleaning the house — old socks for dusting rags; microfiber fleece cloths are washable Vinegar for glass surfaces

Electronic invitations — Evite®, Greenvelope, Punchbowl®, Zazzle, Inc.

Online resources can help you plan how much food you need Gifts for experiences — tickets to an event, museum or zoo membership, cooking class or trip Gifts of your time — Babysitting, pet sitting, gardening help, lessons for a new hobby, teach someone a new skill

Gift cards for services, not goods — gas stations, car washes, hair/nail salon, massage, lawn service, audio books, pet services

Homemade food and gifts show your creativity, time, and effort Reusable, useful containers such as cookies in a flowerpot, or jewelry in a new pair of gloves

RECYCLING BIN: Non-metallic wrapping paper and greeting cards without batteries

COMPOST: Evergreens, tea bags, coffee grounds, leaves, twigs, fresh cranberries

GARBAGE CAN: Cellophane, tissue paper, musical greeting cards, plastic ware

BATTERIES are special: To find out what to do with them visit: https://www.chestercountyswa.org/DocumentCenter/View/2379/Battery-chart-for-web-page-RepairedHere's what to do with them

So, this year…celebrate how mindful you are with sustainable consumption and disposal practices. What GOOD behaviors and habits can YOU start on your way to being TrashSmart? And New Year's resolutions are just around the corner…

By

Patti Lynn—Recycling Resources Manager , Easttown

TIQUETTE

Wild, Wild Courses

Golf is such a healthy hobby. You get outside, breathe deeply and enjoy perfectly-curated courses. And yet, there is always a bit of a risk with nature. Even golf courses can be red in tooth and claw.

Consider Skukuza Golf Club, where you must sign a waiver of indemnification prior to playing. Why? Because it abuts Kruger National Park in South Africa, and the warthogs, hippos, and lions have as much right-of-way to the fairways as you do. But no worries, if you want to give that buffalo a wide berth, you can claim relief.

The USGA's “Dangerous Animal Condition” (sub 16.2b of usga.org rules) can be invoked if playing could cause you serious physical injury because your ball is in close proximity to dangerous creatures like snakes, bees, fire ants, bears, or alligators.

Up here in Pennsylvania, Canadian geese are the mundane bane of golfers and greenskeepers' lives. But a far more enthralling bird can be found on some PA courses—the Bald Eagle. Due to a restoration program between the Pennsylvania Game Commission and the Canadian government (which provided the chicks) the population has increased from only 3 nesting pairs in 1983, to over 300 nests in 2020. You can check out data on our national bird in PA at Bald Eagles (pa.gov)

Some golf courses have actually become sanctuaries for declining species, like burrowing owls. Researchers paired with nine golf courses in eastern Washington state to install 130 artificial nesting burrows for these adorable avians. And since they are active during the day, the owls provide an enchanting opportunity for players to enjoy some real consistent birdies.

golfers. Our classification as a non-profit keeps costs down, and our club organization ensures all members have input in club operations. The result is competitive golf in a collegial atmosphere at a great price!

GTGP is also an associate club of the Golf Association of Philadelphia. Members are eligible to play in GAP

Member Play Days at private clubs in the area.

The latter are relatively common throughout southern Florida. You've seen the video of the massive alligator strolling across Buffalo Creek Golf Course in Palmetto, Florida, yes? Giant Gator Walks Across Florida Golf Course | GOLF.comYouTube Nicknamed “Chubbs,” he is estimated to be about 16 feet long, and has actually been a draw for the course. Golfers are advised to let him play through.

Marsupials can be impressive interlopers too. Imagine trying to tee up with a troop of kangaroos in front of you! According to former Australian Police Officer, Anthony Elliott, the roos usually emerge at dusk, and while they can be lethal if threatened, the mob is generally pretty docile. But they are a protected animal, and it's an offense to injure them. So, patience, mate.

Like to join a group of birdie lovers? The Golf Tour of Greater Philadelphia welcomes new players in the new year!

Information about our tours and tournaments is available at www.golftourphilly.org, or by emailing

TonyMcCarthy@golftourphilly.org Happy Holidays, and see you on the links!

*The Golf Tour of Greater Philadelphia (GTGP) is a locallyoperated golf league for amateur

www.golftourphilly.org

TonyMcCarthy@golftourphilly.org 484.753.4914

REATIVITY

NEW Energy at GNAL

New Seasons bring renewed energy and this season we have new energy with new members and volunteers. These last few years have tested the metal of almost everyone, us included. Nonprofits had to look inward for different ways to do business to meet the needs of their community and members.

We are happy to talk about our newest members and volunteers that keep this modest art nonprofit going day-to-day. For instance, we have Brittany Delp, our Vice President of the organization who brings enthusiasm and an eagerness to expand and attract new members to our humble art league by adding fun community art events at GNAL. Brittany is an artist herself and enjoys providing the backdrop for these events.

You may have noticed the fresh look on our website (gnal800west.org) and that is due to Kathy Klocko who k

our day-to-day adjustments online. When you see new classes, art shows or events you know she has been busy! MayEllen Sillcox always has a smile and kind words for all of our new and established members. You will see her at events and shows snapping away with her camera, you guessed it, photography is her thing!

Mondays and Thursday afternoons are hopping with Nicole Lee as our beginner acrylic and watercolor instructor. If you are new to art or want to learn something new you will likely meet her on a Monday or Thursday class. She is calm, funny and very soothing to be around. You can pick out her art by the expressive landscapes she pain

I want to mention our grant writer, Frrancesca Barone. She takes all of our needs and weaves them into a document that can be presented to venders and donors to help us keep our building and programs fresh and lively

Ria, our dedicated President, has made all these classes possible by embracing the new way of business. She has welcomed new ideas and provided us with a sounding board for all of us to use. This way the best creations come out of Greater Norristown Art League with exciting energy for the whole community.

Just like each of these individuals, you also might find a match to volunteer in your own backyard. Look to local small nonprofits that provide a service in your community and drop by, you never know what is needed. You might be the perfect fit!

Greater Norristown Art League is a local non-profit art education organization, located at 800 West Germantown Pike, East Norriton, PA 19403

Please check out our website at or our FB page @GNAL800West.org Katherine Bampfield gnal800west.org Kdesign.gallery

VALLEY FORGE PARK A

We all know that a walk through nature is good for the soul, but the Valley Forge Park Alliance recently teamed up with Daemion Counseling Center and REI to provide people with an even more meaningful experience: walking for mindfulness.

What is mindfulness? It's a practice that brings our awareness to the present moment, helping us to engage more authentically and freely. Over a series of walks last fall and spring, therapists from Daemion Counseling Center taught mindfulness techniques and allowed time for sharing the effects of practice.

“The therapist was open and inspiring,” said one participant. “I loved her and all the people who walked with us.”

Participants practiced the power of being present. While the participants walked, they paid attention to the experience of

LLIANCE

the moment by tuning into their senses. They looked at how the interaction of the material world affected their emotions. The observations from before and after one walk were astounding! Participants went from feeling grey and cloudy to yellow and sunny through the hour of observation, conversation, and exercise. They even noticed an increased awareness throughout the week in their daily activities.

“As a longtime community partner, REI Co-op is proud to support Valley Forge Park Alliance's mindfulness walks,” said Demyan Hryciw, REI Retail Operations Coordinator. “The EPA reports that Americans spend ninety percent of their lives indoors. These walks provide a great opportunity to get outside and tune in to oneself. Thank you, VFPA & Daemion Counseling!”

Interested in trying a mindfulness walk for yourself? Stay tuned: another series will launch in the spring!

by Sarah Reisert, Advancement Committee Chair

Photo by Karen DelRaso