Radnor News Fall 2023

THE RADNOR NEWS THE RADNOR NEWS

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

TOWNSHIP DIRECTORY

Township Administration Building

301 Iven Avenue

Wayne, PA 19087-5297

Phone: 610-688-5600

Fax: 610-971-0450 / 610-688-1279

www.radnor.com

Mon - Fri 8 am to 4 pm

Township Police

301 Iven Avenue

Wayne, PA 19087-5297

Emergency and Call for Service: 9-1-1

Admin. and Records: 610-688-0503

Fax: 610-687-8852

Mon - Fri 8 am to 5 pm

Township Public Works Garage

235 East Lancaster Avenue

Wayne, PA 19087

Phone: 610-688-5600

Fax: 610-687-0201

Radnor Memorial Library

114 West Wayne Avenue

Wayne, PA 19087

Phone: 610-687-1124

www.radnorlibrary.org

Fire and Ambulance

Emergency Phone: 9-1-1

Radnor Fire Company

Non-Emergency Phone: 610-687-3245

www.radnorfire.com

Bryn Mawr Fire Company

Non-Emergency Phone: 610-525-7702

www.brynmawrfirecompany.org

Broomall Fire Company

Non-Emergency Phone: 610-353-5225

www.broomallfirecompany.com

Radnor Township School District

135 South Wayne Avenue

Wayne, PA 19087-4117

Phone: 610-688-8100

Fax: 610-971-0742

www.rtsd.org

Delaware County Courthouse

201 West Front Street

Media, PA 19063

Phone: 610-891-4000

www.co.delaware.pa.us

MLTV-Main Line Network

Public Access TV for Radnor Township 110 W. Lancaster Avenue Suite 210

Wayne, PA 19087

Phone: 610-687-5189

www.mltv21.org

Willows Park Preserve

490 Darby-Paoli Road

Villanova, PA 19085

Phone: 610-955-9246

www.willowsparkpreserve.org

Wayne Art Center

413 Maplewood Avenue

Wayne, PA 19087

Phone: 610-688-3553

Fax: 610-995-0478

www.wayneart.org

Wayne Business Association

P . O. Box 50

Wayne, PA 19087

Phone: 610-687-7698

www.waynebusiness.com

Wayne Senior Center

108 Station Road Wayne, PA 19087

Phone: 610-688-6246

www.wayneseniorcenter.com

Published by Franklin Maps

610-265-6277

FranklinMaps@aol.com

RADNOR EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

Grants Put To Use Over Summer Months

While school might not have been at the forefront of many Radnor families' minds during the summer months, two of Radnor Educational Foundation's grants were being realized for the benefit of many Radnor students who attended Summer Literacy Camp at Wayne Elementary School.

Envision a scene where approximately 300 eager students improve their reading abilities through a fun and educational experience offered by the Radnor Township School District with financial support for special programming provided by the Radnor Educational Foundation.

The success of these special summer programs underscores the transformative power of the Radnor Educational Foundation's grants, which not only provide resources but also create unforgettable moments where education takes center stage in the most enchanting and rewarding ways.

The arrival of the new school year brings promise of new learning opportunities. With a steadfast commitment to enhancing educational experiences, the Radnor Educational Foundation is poised to continue contributing to our students' journey, ensuring that each day is filled with discovery, growth, and achievement.

In addition to grantmaking, the Radnor Educational Foundation supports families experiencing temporary financial hardship through its Neighbors Helping Neighbors program.

To learn more about the Radnor Educational Foundation, please visit www.radnoreducationalfoundation.org

In early July, the camp kicked off with a touch of magic, quite literally. Through a grant funded by the Radnor Educational Foundation, the remarkable magician, Brian Richards, took the stage to present his "Magic of Reading" show. With every sleight of hand, Richards and engaging story, Richards captivated our students' young minds and left them spellbound. This immersive experience became a testament to how creativity can kindle a love for literature and adventure.

As the summer days unfolded, the student campers' dedication to learning was rewarded in a unique and heartening way. Through their diligent participation, they earned "book bucks", a tangible representation of their commitment to attending camp. Students were given one “book buck” for every day they attended camp. With these well-earned rewards in hand, the culmination of their camp journey led them to Children's Book World in Haverford. Here, they ventured into a treasure trove of literary wonders, using their “book bucks” to purchase books that ignited their curiosity and fueled their imaginations. The joy of exploration was further celebrated with a sweet indulgence, as frozen yogurt became the perfect conclusion to their camp days.

Radnor's educators, administrators, students, and community organizations are all encouraged to submit grant applications this fall to unlock funding for projects that cultivate an environment of enriched learning and endless possibilities. As champions of education, the Radnor Educational Foundation stands ready to review and support initiatives that promise to further the Radnor Township School District's reputation in excellence. Please review our website at www.radnoreducationalfoundation.org to learn more about the grant application process.

If you'd like to stay connected and informed about exciting grant opportunities or hear about our grants in action, please considering following the Radnor Educational Foundation on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn or subscribe to our newsletter by emailing info@radnoreducationalfoundation.org.

Could your young athlete be at risk of sudden cardiac arrest?

Playing sports comes with a lot of perks. Whether it's getting exercise, participating on a team or having fun, athletes benefit from their time on the field, track or court in plenty of ways.

But athletes also need to be aware of the risks of playing sports. For instance, football players should know the risks of concussions and take measures to prevent them, like wearing a helmet that fits properly.

Because all athletes put their hearts to work during physical activity, they should also be aware of a condition called sudden cardiac arrest (SCA).

"Sudden cardiac arrest is when the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating, often triggered by an abnormal fast heart rhythm. While this condition is rare, it's also one of the top causes of death in young athletes. What's more, people who suffer from SCA often appear otherwise healthy," says Jason Bradley, MD, director of the Sports Cardiology Program at Lankenau Heart Institute, part of Main Line Health.

Here's what young athletes should know about sudden cardiac arrest, their heart health and engaging in sports safely

How can playing sports trigger sudden cardiac arrest?

Whether you're swimming laps, skating on the ice or kicking a soccer ball, your muscles are being put to work when you play sports. Because of this, they need extra oxygen.

This is where your heart comes in. To deliver extra oxygen to your muscles, your heart pumps harder, which is why your heart rate increases during exercise.

Your heart working hard is a good thing. Exercising your heart muscle regularly makes it stronger and better at pumping blood throughout your body. This improves your heart health and lowers your risk of heart disease.

"While the majority of athletes tolerate these changes with no issues, in athletes whose hearts are not normal to begin with, this extra stress on their heart can cause problems," says Dr. Bradley. "Even in athletes with normal hearts, physical

activity can impact the heart's electrical system at the wrong time causing sudden cardiac arrest.”

Athletes who have a higher risk of sudden cardiac arrest

The majority of young athletes can engage in sports with no heart problems. But because sudden cardiac arrest is a serious and deadly condition, it's important to be aware of your own risk of SCA.

In athletes under age 35, the most common cause of SCA is a genetic heart disease, such as:

A heart muscle disorder, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy

A heart rhythm disorder, such as WolffParkinson-White syndrome, Long QT syndrome or catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia.

You may also have an increased risk of SCA if you:

Were born with an abnormal heart artery

Have a heart infection

Have Marfan syndrome (a disorder that impacts the proteins that make healthy connective tissue, such as those that support your heart)

Have coronary artery disease, which is the leading cause of SCA among people older than 35

Monitoring your heart health and risk of SCA

Many of the causes of sudden cardiac arrest go undetected until sudden cardiac arrest occurs. However, there can be warning signs during exercise, including:

Dizziness

Chest pain

Shortness of breath

Fainting

Seizures

If you have any of these symptoms while exercising, it's important to talk to your health care provider. You should also tell them if you have had a sudden or unexplained death in your family, which may have been related to a heart problem. Depending on your symptoms and family history, your provider may do further testing, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) or echocardiogram (echo). These tests look at how well your heart functions, which can help determine if and how you can engage in sports safely.

They may also refer you to a program like Lankenau Heart Institute's Sports Cardiology Program.

"This program is driven by the full understanding of the importance of timely evaluation of athletes so they can return to their sport as quickly and as safely as

possible," says Dr. Bradley. "We're able to see athletes within 24-48 hours.”

The Sports Cardiology Program offers: Evaluation of athletes for cardiac symptoms both on and off the field, abnormal physical exam findings, abnormal cardiac testing and "return to play" assessments.

A full range of cardiac testing will be available as needed including echocardiography, stress testing, Holter monitoring and cardiac MRI.

Advanced workup, as needed in select patients, to be performed in conjunction with Lankenau Heart Institute's array of advanced imaging modalities, our Genetics and Risk Assessment Program and our electrophysiology colleagues.

Can I still play sports if I have a higher risk of sudden cardiac arrest?

If you have a higher risk of SCA, you don't have to immediately throw in the towel when it comes to playing sports. In the past, athletes with heart conditions were told to avoid sports, but this is not always the case.

In the right circumstances, athletes with a risk of SCA can play sports with low risk. Your health care provider can help determine how intense your physical activity should be and how closely you should be monitored. They'll also give you recommendations, like staying hydrated and keeping an eye on your electrolytes. All sports teams should also have an emergency response plan in place should an athlete experience SCA, as every minute will be crucial in saving their life.

Exercise has many benefits, including for your heart health. As you take care of your body in other ways—like stretching, eating healthy and resting—make sure you stay on top of your heart health and know your risk of sudden cardiac arrest so you can play your favorite sport safely.

To learn more about Lankenau Heart Institute, visit mainlinehealth.org/heart.

Jason Bradley, MD Director, Sports Cardiology Program at Lankenau Heart Institute, part of

Main Line Health

PET HEALTH & WELL-BEING

Common causes of respiratory distress in dogs and cats

There are few more unnerving scenarios than finding our dog or cat struggling to breathe. Depending on our pet's species, breed, age, and medical history, we can often prevent sudden distress, or at least prepare to act fast.

Respiratory distress can originate from either the upper or lower airways, or both. The upper segment includes the nostrils (nares), nasal passages, sinuses, nasopharynx and larynx (voice box). The lower airways include the windpipe (trachea), and branching bronchi, bronchioli and air sacs in the lungs. The vital function of the respiratory system is to bring oxygen to the bloodstream in exchange for carbon dioxide. A compromise anywhere along the way can have dire consequences. But how can you tell if your pet is in danger?

Signs of Respiratory Distress

Labored or rapid shallow breathing, coughing or gagging, a blueish tongue and gums, lethargy, reluctance to eat or drink, and collapse all mean trouble. Partial upper airway obstructions may cause abnormal sounds on inspiration. A low head with extended neck can also indicate distress. Any cat who is open-mouth breathing should be evaluated right away, because cats do not normally pant! This can be a sign of extreme stress, overheating, or respiratory distress.

Causes of Respiratory Distress in Cats

Top causes of respiratory distress in cats include asthma, heart failure (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy), and pleural effusion. Asthma can be triggered by pollen, dust and smoke. Heart disease can lead to fluid build-up in and around the lungs. Pleural effusion refers to fluid between the lungs and chest wall. This breaks the seal and restricts lung expansion. Fluid can result from viral, fungal, parasitic or bacterial infections, cancers, heart disease, trauma, or other causes. Note that these are lower airway

diseases, but cats can also get upper airway tumors, polyps, infections and foreign body obstructions.

Prevention of Respiratory Distress in Cats Cats have evolved to hide signs of illness. We often discover a problem after it has advanced to an emergency situation. Talk to your veterinarian about vaccinations and heartworm prophylaxis. Be mindful of excessive pollen and dust, and never smoke around your cat. The first time you see your cat pant or wheeze, seek veterinary attention. Asthma and heart disease can both be managed with medications to reduce the risk of sudden respiratory distress.

Causes of Respiratory Distress in Dogs Respiratory distress in dogs can be due to a foreign body (choking), laryngeal paralysis, brachycephalic airway syndrome, acute allergic reactions, congestive heart failure, infections, cancers, and heat stroke. Dogs who chew sticks, certain toys, rawhides, bones, and some people foods may suddenly choke and collapse. There is always a risk with putting your hands in a dog's mouth, so exercise caution and try to remove the object. The risks include getting bitten but also pushing the object further down the airway.

Laryngeal paralysis is another cause of respiratory distress in dogs. Certain breeds, such golden and Labrador retrievers, are predisposed to this condition. This can lead

to upper airway obstruction and heatstroke, as the dog cannot cool properly. This is another emergency requiring immediate veterinary care. Brachycephalic airway syndrome can lead to difficulty breathing as well. Anatomic abnormalities may include stenotic nares (small nostrils), elongated soft palate, everted laryngeal saccules, and a narrow windpipe. Susceptible dogs are the “shortfaced” breeds such as pugs, bulldogs and Boston terriers. Surgery may correct some of these defects, but these dogs are prone to respiratory distress and heat stroke with mild exercise, stress, obesity or overheating.

Collapsing trachea, most common in toy breeds, is a defect of the windpipe. Stress, exercise, obesity, and coughing can trigger the defective C-shaped cartilage rings to collapse. Mild cases may be managed medically, while surgery may be required for more severe cases. Yorkshire terriers, toy poodles, and chihuahuas are examples of susceptible breeds.

Prevention of Respiratory Distress in Dogs Talk to your veterinarian about vaccinating your dog for kennel cough and influenza in addition to the core vaccines. Choose chew toys mindfully, avoiding ones that can break apart into chunks. Brachycephalic breeds can have corrective surgery, and dogs with laryngeal paralysis and collapsing trachea may also be surgical candidates. Annual exams can help diagnose heart disease and other problems that can be managed medically. Obesity is a risk factor in both dogs and cats, so keeping them trim can help. And of course, never leave your pet in a vehicle on a warm or sunny day.

Respiratory distress can be terrifying for both pet and owner. It's important to have a plan for getting immediate veterinary assistance if needed. Knowing the signs, your own pet's risk factors, and how to prevent common respiratory emergencies can help both you and your pet breathe easy.

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WHAT IS CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME?

BY THE PHILADELPHIA HAND TO SHOULDER CENTER PHYSICIANS

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm. The condition occurs when one of the major nerves to the handthe median nerve is squeezed or compressed as it travels through the wrist.

In addition to numbness and tingling, carpal tunnel syndrome can cause swelling, weakness, and night time pain. Patients sometimes describe dropping things unexpectedly and may have difficulty with buttoning shirts, tying shoelaces, or handling loose change.

What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is frequently seen in individuals who develop swelling or inflammation in their hands. People who smoke, as well as those with connective tissue diseases, diabetes mellitus, and hypothyroidism, may be at greater risk. Repetitive work activities can also cause carpal tunnel syndrome.

The median nerve acts as an electrical wire between the spinal cord and the hand. The nerve passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist along with nine tendons that bend the fingers. When the tendons in the

wrist become swollen and inflamed, the median nerve can become compressed by the transverse carpal ligament (see figure), leading to carpal tunnel symptoms.

Early on, symptoms commonly occur during sleeping hours. In more advanced cases, the symptoms can become problematic during waking hours. Many sufferers describe symptoms with benign activities, like reading the newspaper or driving a car.

What can a hand surgeon do to help?

A hand surgeon can order special nerve tests to verify the extent of the problem. Custom wrist splints are helpful for early stages of carpal tunnel syndrome. These splints are worn at nighttime to relieve pressure on the median nerve and to prevent the wrists from bending during sleep.

Cortisone injections often provide excellent relief from symptoms. Unfortunately, symptomatic relief is only temporary, and most people experience a recurrence of symptoms after 3-4 months.

For chronic or more advanced cases, carpal tunnel surgery is often recommended as the best course of treatment.

What can I expect from surgery? Surgery provides more space for the median nerve and relieves pressure on the median nerve and tendons. This procedure is typically done under light sedation and local anesthesia and usually takes only minutes to complete.

While there are several different approaches to performing carpal tunnel surgery, usually a 1/2 inch incision is made near the wrist and use of a camera to release the tunnel under direct visualization. This minimally invasive approach minimizes discomfort following surgery and allows patients to return to activities more quickly. Over 95 percent of patients improve dramatically following surgical intervention, with most returning to daily activities within days. Many patients can resume heavier job-related activities after 2-4 weeks.

Contact us at 1-610-768-5959 to schedule an appointment with one of our providers.

14

Offices in Pennsylvania & New Jersey

including:

King of Prussia · Havertown

Paoli · Langhorne · Limerick

Center City Philadelphia

South Philadelphia

Willow Grove · Lansdale

Rockledge · Glen Mills

Cape May Court House

Cherry Hill

Hammonton

WILLOWS PARK PRESERVE

“Tear it down? No Way!”

We see a lot of shocked expressions on the faces of community members when they hear that tearing down the Willows Mansion was a real possibility not too long ago. It was not such a crazy idea at the time. The Mansion, owned by Radnor Township and located in the idyllic Willows Park, was over a century old, costly to operate and in need of major repairs. In 2013, the decision to close the grand, historic building — the site of so many memorable events, from weddings, to proms, to craft shows and more — was made. After seven years of the Mansion sitting idle, a group of Radnor residents with a vision and passion for preservation founded the Willows Park Preserve in 2017. In 2019, the Willows Park Preserve signed a 25-year lease with Radnor Township to restore, maintain and operate the Willows Mansion for community use. We have a long way to go before the complete restoration of the Willows

Mansion, however, we are excited to welcome the community back to this beautiful community asset to enjoy educational programming, celebrations, meetings, retreats, music concerts, health and wellness programs, and so much more! We invite you to learn more about our nonprofit and the history of the Willows Mansion and to support our goals. We hope to see you soon.

Here are a few opportunities to join us at the Willows Park Preserve in the coming months. For a complete listing of our programs and events, please visit our website: www.willowsparkpreserve.org

WPP Leadership SeriesCreating Community Connections

Tuesday, September 19 6:15pm to 8:00pm Come learn from two dynamic and inspirational women who are making an incredible impact in the community. This is a FREE program for middle school age to adults.

Jazmine Smith - CEO and

Founder of Eyekonz Sports League Inc.

Jeannine Fallon AnckaitisExecutive Director for Youth Development United and Chester Upland Youth Soccer. WPP Annual Fall Fundraiser

Friday, October 13, 2023

Our largest fundraiser every year! 100+ community members from the Main Line and beyond come to the Willows Mansion to enjoy an evening of live music, catered food, a silent auction and community connections. We are currently looking for sponsors and silent auction items.

Holiday Open House

Friday, December 8 (private reception) and Saturday, December 9, 2023

Local Vendors, children's crafts, holiday music performed by local high school students and more! We are currently looking for sponsors and vendors. Wellness at the Willows Spring, 2024

A FREE event for the whole community. Over 15 classes to choose from throughout the

ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COUNCIL (EAC)

THE RADNOR TOWNSHIP

Did you know that the Radnor Township Environmental Advisory Council (EAC) is giving awards for eco-friendly yards? Do you have diverse plantings in your yard such as trees, bushes, native perennials, and pollinator-friendly species? Do you avoid use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides? Have you reduced the amount of grass turf on your property? If so, you could qualify for the Radnor Township EAC’s Eco-Friendly Yard Award. To spread the word that the “perfect lawn” with chemically treated and manicured turf grass is harmful to our environment, we would like to recognize eco-friendly yards in Radnor Township.

Please contact the Radnor Township EAC at eac@radnor.org if you qualify, or if you have any suggestions or questions.

If you live in Radnor Township and feel you might qualify for the award, please contact us at eac@radnor.org. We would love to visit your yard. The award is a beautiful flag that you can place in your yard to let your fellow Radnor resident know that a diverse yard is not a messy one — it’s ecologically friendly!

day. Over 18 vendor tables with free health and wellness information. We are looking for instructors and sponsors.

If you would like to host your next event at the WPP, register for a program, learn about volunteer opportunities, provide financial support, or simply want to learn more about the WPP, please visit our website: www.willowsparkpreserve.org or email us at: info@willowsparkpreserve.org

Turf lawns discourage helpful pollinators and birds, are susceptible to both drought and flooding, and if treated with chemicals, pollute the local streams and rivers. Trees, bushes, and perennials have much deeper roots and thus are resistant to drought and flooding. They also attract native pollinators and birds, absorb more carbon dioxide, and are beautifull. Once established, they also require less maintenance.

The Radnor Township EAC sees one of its major roles as educator to provide citizens with useful information that will help maintain and improve the environment in which we live. The EAC also encourges voluntary programs through community participation. Currently the EAC is developing educational programing and a composting program.

Our website serves as a resource for the community. We have information on our website about tax rebates and incentives to save energy in your home.

https://www.radnor.com/government/ boards-and-commissions/environmentaladvisory-council

SOLARIZE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT Ready to Stop Climate

Change? Get it Done!

Battle climate change and get pay back in both cash and the satisfaction of knowing that you and thousands of your neighbors, businesses and Towns throughout the Delaware Valley are getting the job done! Some steps require no investment and some do. ALL can save you money. Web sites like https://haverfordclimateaction.org/ provide a one-stop shop for information on things you can do, upcoming webinars, videos and more. The biggest savings in energy is to use less; please consider an energy assessment if you have not had one done. Peco offers this for $49. For a limited time, PECO is offering Solarize Delco participants a special $10 discount* for any home energy assessment. Please use the special promo code SOLARDEL23 on the website or call 888.573.2672 to schedule your appointment.*Limited time offer expires September 30, 2023. Limited supply per household and where applicable. Certain restrictions apply. You must be a PECO residential electric customer to participate. One Energy Assessment per residence, per year. This program is subject to change, including termination, without prior notice. Appointments are available MondayFriday. Limited number of appointments available on Saturdays.

Solar the Easy Way

Solar PV Tax Credits Supercharged

Home solar tax credits went up to 30% for 2023 and beyond making solar payback even better. Non-profits can now also benefit and get a direct 30% federal rebate for systems turned on in 2023. Deadline to sign up for 2023 is Sept. 30, 2023.

Solarize DelCo Group Pricing

Residents, non-profits, and businesses in Delaware County Email us at solarizedelco@gmail.com with name, address and phone number and we can help you assess whether the Solarize Delco program with vetted vendors and a significant discount over market rates is right for you.

New Low Income Grants and Leasing Options

Income qualified homeowners can apply for a grant (up to $5,000) while funds last or take advantage of our new partnership with a vetted leasing firm that can reduce monthly bills by a combination of Solar PV and weatherization. Solarize Delco can help you decide what is best for you.

Who are we?

Your neighbors, an all volunteer non-profit providing education, unbiased information and an easier path to putting solar on your home, business or house of worship. We can help Houses of Worship and other nonprofits find sources of funding as well. More info at www.solarizedelco.org

Search Solarize Philly and Solarize SE PA for programs outside of DelCo.

Ready to Solarize Now?

In Delaware County, PA - fill out a form on www.solarizedelco.org or Email us at solarizedelco@gmail.com with your name, address and phone number and we can help you assess whether the Solarize Delco program with a selected vendor and a significant discount over market rates is right for you. In Bucks, Chester, and Montgomery County - Email solarizesepa@gmail.com

The Clean Energy Co-Op can help businesses and nonprofits go solar through education and solar development with the capital of local Co-op members. Contact info@cleanenergy.coop to learn more.

Climate Webinar Series Videos

Watch these informative recorded Climate Action Workshops on Solar Home, adapting to Electric Vehicle use, Purchasing Renewable Energy, and others at https://www.youtube.com/channel/ UCwISP41eRhD0SUyHxGpY9xQ

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

BLUEPRINTS: Father Robert Hagan (Sport and Inclusion)

Bo-Dean Sanders transferred from Cheyney University to Villanova University, where he played football on a predominantly white team. Since then, Sanders has been passionate about spreading the positive messages behind diversity and inclusion and how sports can impact that sphere. This summer he started up a program at Main Line Network, a public access television station in Wayne, Pennsylvania. Entitled “BLUEPRINTS,” his show focuses on these positive viewpoints regarding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from guests' perspectives. In August, Sanders welcomed Father Robert P. Hagan, O.S.A., the Prior Provincial for the Providence of St. Thomas of Villanova, and a well-known face to fans of Villanova athletics.

Sanders: “Could you explain your perspectives on diversity, equity, and inclusion based on what you do?”

Father Rob: “It couldn't be a more important topic, not just a topic, but a way of life… Deep down within every human heart is that desire for belonging. That everybody has a story. That everybody has a yearning to be welcomed and to be loved. And so I find myself in a position, whether it was at Villanova or in my new role as Provincial for the Province of St. Thomas of Villanova to really help promote that message and that way of life. My role is not just at Villanova now, we have other schools in Merrimack College, Malvern Prep, St. Augustine Prep, and other parishes… (This idea of inclusion) isn't my idea, but this is a way of life that has been shown to us that works and, deep down, regardless of your faith tradition, I think that there's a spirit that unites us all. And any way that we can promote that in business, in sport and team, in the church, I think we're all called to do that.”

Sanders: “I believe in a spiritual foundation and a sports foundation… I grew up in a Southern Baptist environment in Jacksonville, Florida where I attended my grandmother's Southern Baptist Church. She was a leader in the church and when I transferred to Villanova from Cheyney, I began to learn about the commonalities. My grandmother was the head usher - she was the disciplinarian for the little ones in the church. I discovered that there was a commonality between the nuns and the ushers. I heard my Catholic teammates talk about the nuns and them being disciplinarians. For someone who grew up in an all-black environment and then transferred into the Villanova experience, I was able to say 'oh, we have something in common. Does that make sense?”

Father Rob: “Absolutely. I really appreciate the way you phrased it. Because nobody has a monopoly on values. When you talk about Villanova, you start talking about Vertias, Unitas, Caritas - you know, truth, love, and unity. That speaks to every family, every state, and every geography. I was blessed in my time at Villanova to work with some wonderful coaches… and they would invite me into the recruiting process and so I had an opportunity often to meet with a family. And they might not be Catholic, they might not be white, and they might not be familiar with Villanova. And often the student athlete would be accompanied by a grandmother or an uncle, and we would just

talk about common values: we go to class, we want you to graduate, there's only one ball…and so we're looking for humility and willingness to be a part of something bigger than yourself, and that would resonate. And it wasn't because we were in the same church or in the same town. And so it was so exciting to find that common ground and build on it.”

Sanders: “You shared a picture with you and the Villanova basketball coaches, (and shared another) with Brian Westbrook and Malcolm Grace. You have a unique experience to talk about how team sports is a great way to build relationships across different socio-economic backgrounds and religions.”

Father Rob: “That picture with Brian and Malcolm was taken during a day at Villanova dedicated toward allyship. And that would be recognizing that people, off and on the margins, it's not enough to say 'have a good day, good luck. What are you doing to invest in their success?' That day was spent promoting that message and certainly Brian and Malcolm have done that in their lives. There really is an intersection between sport and spirituality. To be in a locker room, with people of all different races and faiths and economic backgrounds, to be working toward a common goal where the sweat is the same and the blood's the same color….At Villanova we're working on our attention to diversity, that's a goal for us, but working in athletics has really been a gift to my priesthood. There really is no greater opportunity for diversity than in a locker room on a football or basketball team where you're going after a common goal and want to share your talents…And I find the special coaches are preaching to them more than I am. There's only so much you can talk about Xs and Os and obviously you need some talent on the field, but what are the intangibles? Do we respect each other, do we forgive each other, do we pick each other up? So in my role I often look at examples often from scripture, but also from life. But what's really exciting is when they start to do it themselves. When it's not just me or a coach or it's a captain or underclassman who is encouraging in that way, and then you've got something special because it's coming from them.”

“You've probably heard the line before: be kind to people. Because everybody you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. And you see people and say 'how are you doing?' and they say 'fine' or they smile and behind that might be 'I'm homesick' or 'nobody on this campus looks like me‘ or 'I haven't sat on the bench since third grade and I'm not playing and I'm losing my identity.' W health is a big issue these days: not just for students, but for all of us. What we're talking about here is just a great opportunity to reach out to people. Don't assume that everybody's okay. Everybody's walking around with a broken heart. And so, if you have an opportunity to be a father-figure to somebody or to be a fr somebody or just have a cup of coffee with somebody and ask how they're doing and actually wait to hear the answer….

“I had an opportunity (this summer) to celebrate a wedding for two of our f basketball players: K overlapped for a period of time on the team. Really from different w Malvern Prep grad and T Philly, was exceptionally highly recruited, went to Wake Forest for his freshman year

tragically separately lost both his mother and his brother and transferred to Villanova to be closer to home. And so these two intersect on this team. At the wedding, Tony was (Kevin's) best man, and (Tony) made a toast and said 'you know Kevin when I met you at Villanova, I was trying to prove myself and overcome a lot of difficulty in my own life and you were trying to show that you belonged on the team, and we bonded, and your family became my family.' He kept referring to him as his brother and I just thought, 'what a wonderful story… that sport brought them together on a team and they discovered so much more.'”

Sanders: “You get a chance to see how those relationships start organically and are built to become the fabric of their relationship for a long period of time, right?

Father Rob: “It's really a gift. In my new role, I'm not as connected to the athletics department as I was and I really miss that aspect of it. Obviously, people like to talk about the championships and cutting down the net, but when you're sitting on the bus, you're waiting for a flight that didn't show up, it's 3AM and you're eating chicken fingers with a guy and you find out that he just broke up with his girlfriend, or his grandmother is not well back at home, or his cousin's in prison, and you start to have these conversations and build these meaningful relationships. That's why you get so passionate on the bench because you're rooting for them like they're your own family.”

You know, Bo, I do a lot of funerals and nobody comes up to the podium to give the eulogy and say 'Man, he had a big house,' or 'he scored all the points.' They say 'he picked me up when I was down,' or 'he reached out to me when he knew I lost my job.' They are those moments that really don't make the cover of Sports Center that really are the essence of what we're talking about. And it defies race, it defies what your title or your bank account says. Deep down, most people believe that. If we can find ways to cut through all the noise and all the external stuff that we use to separate ourselves and get into that common ground, which Augustine would say is our heart…To be able to walk with these men and women on those journeys, at least for a short time, has been a gift.”

Paying It Back and Paying It Forward

by Laurie Lamont Murray

Most artists I know feel very lucky. We are able to spend our time doing what we love: making art. Ask a group of 25 who has inspired us and you will get 25 very different answers. There is at least one common denominator, and that's a sense of gratitude. This is what got us thinking about groundbreaking women.

Groundbreaking Women is an exhibit by ARTsisters at Chester County Art Association in West Chester, running from September 14 through October 4. If you have a chance to stop by you'll find a gallery full of tributes to women (some famous, some not) who have helped us or inspired us along the way. Explore what ignites creativity…an uncharted voyage into the artist brain!

For starters, we have our heroes: family and friends deserve a lot of credit. In fact ARTsisters began with the recognition that becoming an artist isn't something you just do. It takes time and works best with the support of people who think the way you do, to help navigate the steep learning curves and the challenges of tempering passion with professionalism.

Today many of us have studios, or at least a room to make art in. But that is a fairly recent luxury! Priscilla Bohlen recalls her mother, an artist, painting in the kitchen as she raised 3 children. Mothers who were supportive and encouraged us to explore our art are part of our story. And here's an interesting twist from Sue Stefanski: the children and grandchildren whose successes, interests and abilities we have nurtured come full circle to pay us back…becoming unwitting role models for us as artists! You 'll hear us describe these women in terms of their strength, courage, kindness and persistence. Edna Santiago recalls that her aunt's joy-filled laugh showed what a wonderful thing it is to be a woman.

So where do we find inspiration? Artists draw strength from people they admire in every walk of life. Deb Simon, who particularly loves painting landscapes, credits early environmentalists like Marjorie Stoneman Douglas, a journalist, women's suffrage advocate and staunch defender of the Everglades. Another influence was marine biologist Rachel Carson, an award winning nature writer and early opponent of pesticides. She taught us that “in nature nothing exists alone.”

Of the many women artists we admire, Georgia O'Keefe is a favorite cited by Nancy Tabas and several other ARTsisters. O'keefe professed to be terrified every moment of her life, but refused to let that hold her back. She left New York and her philandering husband to forge an artist's

life in New Mexico, adopting a genderless lifestyle and wardrobe.

Cyndi Philkill notes that like O'keefe, America's first female surgeon Mary Edwards Walker found women’s attire restrictive and unhealthy. Dr Walker took it a step further, dressing as a man, because hoop skirts hardly suited a Civil War surgeon, POW and abolitionist.

Another famous Walker (no relation) to earn our utmost respect was Madame C.J. Walker, who became the first Black American millionaire. Kathleen Spicer tells us that Walker's Afro-American hair product company employed more than 40,000 people and gave back more, funding many scholarships and charities.

Sometimes inspiration comes in emotional waves. Consider artists like Ginny Conover, whose painting communicates how she feels about poetry or the music that resonates with her. Others like Barbara Dirnbach study what is working in a wellknown artist's work and reimagine that approach in their own way. What they create will intentionally deviate from the art they've studied, because who wants to copy? But the spirit will be there. Barbara specifies that Alice Neel's ability to capture attitudes and emotions in her portraits is something that she always wants to achieve in her own distinctive work.

Vibrant colors and adventurous textures may be our motivators. Doing something that hasn't been done before, using nontraditional materials are groundbreaking approaches in their own right. Our art might seek to challenge, or to bring a sense of peace.

ARTsisters is committed to charitable outreach and donates a percentage of our sales to a worthy cause we have researched. For Groundbreaking Women, we will be donating to Unite for HER, a wonderful organization in West Chester which provides free services and programs to people with breast and ovarian cancers.

Chester County art Association

100 N. Bradford Ave. West Chester, PA 19382

www.chestercountyarts.org

ARTsisters: www.artsisters.org

Unite for HER

127 E. Chestnut St., First Floor, West Chester, PA 19380

https://uniteforher.org

Cyndi Philkill — “Dr. Mary Walker”

Louise Herring — “What's Beyond”

Sandra Benhaim — “In Search Of The Fountain Of Youth”