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Year In Rewind: The Radnor Educational Foundation Benefits Students
The 2024-2025 school year has come to a close and there is a lot the Radnor Educational Foundation is proud to reflect on. This includes 24 engaging grants: each having a unique impact on Radnor students. The Foundation worked hard to support Radnor's five schools with these grants, with more than 3,600 students benefitting from innovative ways to expand on their learning journeys. This year's grants ranged from insightful presentations to nationwide speakers, enhancing teamwork for teachers, improving STEM skills through the use of inclassroom drones, and more!
This past year saw approximately $86,000 in grant funding across 24 grant projects — an accomplishment that adds to the $1.5 million that the Foundation has distributed since its inception in 1994.
The grants that took place in the Fall of 2024 were nothing short of amazing. These grants focused largely on growing student skills, such as creativity, emotional intelligence, kindness, and teamwork. One grant that exhibited these skills profoundly was the Elevating Education: Drones in the Classroom grant that benefitted 160 th th students from 4 - 5 grade at Wayne Elementary School. Using newly purchased drones that are safe to fly inside a classroom, students collaborated within teams to program their drones to go through an obstacle course. This grant was a creative way for students to improve their computer science and math skills, as well as providing real-world applications for STEM concepts. Balancing fun and learning in a hands-on fashion was highlighted by this grant, and the smiles and focus on the kids' faces reflect the outcome.
Winter Grant Recap
The winter grant cycle included 10 unique and highly beneficial grants, which varied from supporting clubs and student-led groups, to ensuring a more positive, enlightening, and fun school day. An example of a grant for Radnor High School students to improve mental wellness were Wellness Wednesdays, where support came through raffles and giveaways aimed to incentivize student participation which took place during longer lunch sessions. Some activities that took place were hanging out with rescue puppies, learning about mental health care programs, yoga, bubbles, and more engaging activities.
Spring Grants Recap
The spring grant cycle finished the year out strong. This cycle included several grants for summer programs and also into next school year. The Radnor Educational Foundation always hopes to push the educational experience deeper than just the surface level, and in the Sensory Garden grant from Radnor Elementary School, it did just that. By this coming school year, there will be a sensory-friendly, musical play equipment area outside. This play area ensures that all students have access to equipment and opportunities during their outside play time that is right for them; students who are neurodivergent, those with limited mobility, social-emotional development needs, or other learning needs will benefit from this new attraction on school grounds.
Grant Digitization Complete
The Foundation marked another milestone — changing the grant application process so it is now all digital. This change was an effort to make the process more accessible to the community and to ensure that the organization is up to date with the latest technology. This implementation assures a fast, organized, and simple way to submit grant applications for review, coming from teachers, parents, administrators, and community representatives.
Greater Transparency for Donors Transparency is an important characteristic of the Radnor Educational Foundation yearround. The Foundation recently received the Platinum Level Seal of Transparency by Candid, the highest level of transparency available to an organization as recognized by industry standards for nonprofits. This seal represents an organization's commitment to sharing comprehensive information about its mission, strategy, financials, and impact with the general public and to potential and current donors.
Looking Ahead at 2025-2026
The Radnor Educational Foundation is confident its success from 2024-2025 will carry forward into the next grant year. The Foundation's goals are always to enrich the educational experience, maintain academic excellence, and encourage innovative opportunities for more than 3,600 Radnor students. The Foundation's board of trustees and staff look forward to working alongside the community this year, granting funds for Radnor's students to be as academically enriched as possible.
by
Anna LaVine, RHS Class of 2026
Fall Grants Recap
Metropolitan Veterinary Associates Offers Complete Care for Pets
For more than 35 years, Metropolitan Veterinary Associates (MVA) has provided advanced, compassionate veterinary medicine to families across the region. Today, with both our main hospital in Norristown and our Urgent Care & Specialty Center (MVUCS) in Wayne, our network makes it easier than ever for your pets to receive the care they need, from urgent or emergency visits to advanced specialty care.
Emergency & Critical Care at MVA
When every second counts, our Norristown hospital is open 24/7/365 for emergencies. Our doctors and specialists are trained to handle life-threatening conditions like trauma, toxins, breathing difficulties, or sudden collapse. With round-the-clock availability and state-of-the-art equipment, we provide immediate, expert care when it matters most.
Urgent Care at MVUCS
Some problems don't require a trip to the ER but can't wait for a regular appointment. For these times, MVUCS in Wayne is here daily from 2:00 pm to 12:00 am. Our urgent care doctors treat issues like limping, vomiting, ear infections, minor wounds, and allergic reactions, all in a calm and efficient setting.
“Metropolitan Vet Urgent Care. EXCELLENT experience. It's the compassionate care from the receptionist to the Nurse Carrie to the Vet Dr. Hyman. All were kind understanding, and I never felt rushed. I have always found the Vets at Metropolitan to have excellent clinical knowledge and skills. Thank you to the ENTIRE STAFF.”
Advanced Surgery Across Our Network
When pets need surgery, they deserve the highest level of skill and safety. Our boardcertified surgeons perform a wide range of procedures — from orthopedic and soft tissue surgeries to minimally invasive techniques.
• At MVA in Norristown, we handle the most advanced and complex surgical cases, supported by full specialty and critical care teams.
• At MVUCS in Wayne, our surgeons also perform select procedures, giving families access to expert care closer to home.
No matter the location, every surgery is supported by specialized anesthesia, advanced technology, and a dedicated recovery team focused on your pet's comfort.
One Network. One Commitment.
At Metropolitan, your pets are family and we're here to care for them every step of the way.
MVA is located at: 2626 Van Buren Avenue in Norristown, PA. 610.666.1050
MVUCS is located at: 997 Old Eagle School Road in Wayne, PA. 610.615.7609
For more information please visit: www.metro-vet.com
Barrie E.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Amy's Journey To Sobriety: A Story Of Resilience And Renewal
Before walking through the doors of Mirmont Treatment Center, part of Main Line Health, Amy Legath had already faced numerous battles. For years, she tried to manage her alcoholism through outpatient treatments and abstinence, but nothing seemed to stick.
Alcohol had become her coping mechanism a way to suppress the pain of past traumas and life's overwhelming challenges. As a new mother, she struggled with mental health and the demands of raising her son, who was diagnosed with autism at just 18 months old. The weight of abusive relationships, lossand unprocessed grief left her feeling unworthy of happiness or sobriety
“I let myself go,” Amy admits. “I didn't think I deserved sobriety or happiness. My addiction was taking a toll on my marriage, my relationship with my son and, most importantly, my own sense of self.”
But even in the darkness, Amy held onto a glimmer of hope. She realized that alcohol was robbing her family of the wife and mother they deserved. She made the courageous decision to seek help at Mirmont Treatment Center
The turning point
For Amy, the turning point came when she saw the toll her addiction was taking on her health and her family
“I was losing their trust and love,” she recalls. “I had to get my life back. But more importantly, I had to get myself back.”
With that resolve, Amy entered Mirmont's inpatient treatment program and began a journey that would change her life.
The first days were daunting. The stigma of rehab weighed on her, and she felt guilt about being away from her family
“The first night, I just sat on the edge of my bed, telling myself to get through the night and start fresh in the morning,” she shares.
But as she met others in treatment, Amy found support in unexpected places. Friendly faces welcomed her with open arms, and she began to realize she wasn't alone.
“It was comforting to know it was okay to be scared,” Amy says. “I just needed to open up and let the program help me.”
The path to healing
Throughout her treatment, Amy leaned on Mirmont's traumafocused groups — especially the Core and Phoenix groups — which became her lifeline.
“Facing my trauma head-on brought me back to life,” she reflects. In addition to group therapy, Amy built deep connections with her counselor and fellow patients.
“Having a close-knit group made all the difference,” she explains. “I still stay in touch with some of them to this day.”
Amy's recovery continued after inpatient care. She transitioned to intensive outpatient therapy at Mirmont Outpatient Center in Exton and remains engaged in outpatient therapy today. She also finds strength in the Mirmont Alumni group, which provides ongoing community and support.
A new chapter
Amy recently celebrated one year of sobriety — a milestone she cherishes. Her life has transformed in ways she never imagined. She's thriving in a new healthcare role, surrounded by a supportive team.
Most importantly, her relationships have blossomed. Her son is thriving, and she treasures being present for his growth. Her marriage is healing as she and her husband rebuild trust. Even her long-strained relationship with her mother has been renewed — the two recently took a cruise to Alaska together, an experience Amy fully enjoyed while sober.
Staying the course
Every day, Amy recommits to her recovery.
“I've realized I'm stronger than I gave myself credit for,” she says. “I took my life back, and now I'm living in a way I never thought I could.”
Her advice to others on the journey to sobriety is simple but powerful: “You have to want it for yourself. It's not easy, but if you give yourself grace and take it one day at a time, you can do it. Don't be afraid to ask for help — there's no shame in it. We all need help sometimes.”
Amy is optimistic about the future. Her primary goal remains staying sober and making herself proud each day. She hopes to give back by staying active with Mirmont's Alumni group and serving others through Alcoholics Anonymous.
“I may not know exactly what life has in store for me,” she says, “but knowing I'll face it sober makes it that much more exciting.”
Amy's story is a testament to the power of resilience, the strength in vulnerability, and the life-changing impact of seeking help. Her journey reminds us that recovery is possible and a brighter future is always within reach.
Recovery is possible.
If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use or mental health, Mirmont Treatment Center is here to help.
To learn more, call 1.888.227.3898 or visit mainlinehealth.org/recovery.
SOLARIZE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT Ready to Stop Climate Change?
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 SOLARDEL25 on the website or call 888.573.2672 to schedule your appointment. Expires Dec 31, 2025
Solar the Easy Way
Solar after the PV Tax Credits End It is still a great investment but unless you are on someone's build schedule, its too late to getHome solar federal tax credits for home solar - it would have to be built and green lighted for operation by PECO by Dec 31, 2025. On the plus side, payback times will improve because power costs have skyrocketed in the last 2 years and will continue to do so due to rising demand from data centers. PECO offers solar rebates: $500 for residential and first year production based for commercial. Grants are available for income eligible households. Leases are also available. Our contractor is at capacity for 2025 We are now evaluating for 2026.
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.
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 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.
Are Other Energy Tax Credits Gone?
Mostly Yes - Solar, EV, and Air-Source Heat Pump Home energy efficiency tax credits are all gone after Dec. 31, 2025. For some reason, ground source “geothermal” heat pump credits remain for now. Success in fighting climate change has always required consumers to buy lower carbon options and that will not change. The costs
of power and regular cars are headed higher than ever. Solar and Electric Vehicle costs are lower than ever and will save you thousands of dollars over the life of their use. There is no time like the present to take action and claim your tax credits!
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 non-profits 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
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/@haverfordeac.
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.
VOTING INFORMATION
Contention in Retention
To understand the contention for the retention elections in Pennsylvania this year, you need to understand a bit about our Commonwealth's history
In 1969, Pennsylvania revised its Constitution, and the process for judicial elections was changed. Initially, all judicial candidates are affiliated with a party and are elected through a partisan contest. This political process continues for all judges at the magisterial level who run in competitive elections every six years. However, a merit retention provision was adopted that allows all appellate judges to be retained for additional ten-year terms by a simple “yes” or “no” vote. Only the name of each judge appears on the ballot without reference to any political party. This change was designed both to remove senior judges from the pressures of party politics and to promote decisions based solely on the merits. Each judge may serve an unlimited number of terms until they reach the mandatory retirement age of 75.
Judicial elections occur in odd numbered years. Thus, this November, we will be voting both in competitive elections for judges in the lower courts and in retention elections for judges in the Court of Common Pleas as well the Commonwealth, Superior, and Supreme Courts. A simple majority of the votes cast must be YES to retain a judge.
What happens if a judge fails to meet the 50 per-cent threshold or must retire before the end of his or her term? This creates a vacancy that is filled by appointment of the Governor. These selections are reviewed by the Senate Judiciary Committee and then confirmed by a majority vote of the Senate. Can a judge be removed from office for other reasons? Under the PA Constitution, the Code of Judicial Conduct in the Pennsylvania Rules of Court, the Rules Governing Standards of Conduct of
Magisterial District Judges, and other court rules and orders set by Pennsylvania's Supreme Court, a judge may be removed from office, suspended, or disciplined for misconduct in office.
Only once in recent history has a retention election created a commotion. In 2005, the Supreme Court and its justices became caught up in a pay raise controversy at the same time that two of its judges were up for retention. One was retained with 54 percent of the vote while the other was removed with only 49 per-cent voting to keep him in office. This contention had nothing to do with their judicial opinions but rather with the lack of transparency in the proposed salary increases that eventually were passed as a package along with raises for other government officials. Public sentiment was swayed when reimbursement for judicial expenses was revealed that, in addition to salary, included such items as pricey transportation costs and $100 to $400 meals. Twenty years ago, that seemed extravagant!
Historically, low voter interest and turnout have been the pattern for retention elections when there are no “big offices” or “important names” on the ballot. This year may be different as there is growing interest in the retention of our Supreme Court judges. Although the elections are nonpartisan, there is concern that the politicization of the courts may undermine the impartiality and rule of law. Further, the need to fund these campaigns can result in a conflict of interest, especially when contributions may come from those who appear before the judges.
Retention elections in Pennsylvania were designed to ensure accountability while preserving judicial independence. A simple Yes or No vote for the retention of three of the seven Pennsylvania Supreme Court justices is likely to make a difference in your future and that of our Commonwealth.
It's a Nonpartisan Process
No political affiliation will be listed on the ballot.
It's Unique to Pennsylvania
Unlike federal judges with lifetime appointments, the voters of Pennsylvania determine whether judges remain on the bench.
To help you become informed, the Pennsylvania Bar Association has done your homework. Based on diligent scrutiny of the judges, their opinions, and credentials, fellow lawyers have rated candidates as either highly recommended or recommended. Become informed by their Judicial Evaluation Committee (JEC) before you vote. Go to pavotesmart.org
COMMUNITY CONNECTION
Tribute to Jim Murray, 1938-2025 by
What I enjoy most about being a producer/host at MLTV21, one of the leading public access TV stations in the TriState area, is the opportunity to interview so many interesting people, many of whom are extraordinary human beings whose lives are especially inspirational. None more so than Jim Murray, who passed away August 25th at age 87.
Rick Anthony, Main Line Network Producer/Host
Soon after, his prayers were answered. He contacted McDonald's and asked for a percentage of Shamrock Shake sales to buy the house for the families of sick children. McDonald's stepped up and donated all Shamrock Shake sales proceeds. The only condition was that Jim name it the Ronald McDonald House. No one could imagine what would happen next.
Jim was general manager of the Philadelphia Eagles for 14 seasons. To his credit, he hired Dick Vermeil and helped guide the team to the NFC Championship in 1981. He proudly wore his Super Bowl ring and had endless tales about the team and its players. Not bad for a kid from a West Philadelphia row house.
However, Jim's greatest achievemen being of service to other people. When the child of Fred Hill, an Eagles' tight end, was diagnosed with leukemia, Jim helped launch a highly successful charity called Eagles Fly for Leukemia. As a result, Jim wan know more about leukemia. His research led him to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, where he met Dr. Audrey Evans, the head oncologist. He re offered to make a donation to help the hospital. What Dr. Evans said in response to Jim's offer changed Jim's life and the liv thousands of sick children and their parents.
“You know what else we need?” Dr said. “When I tell a family their child has leukemia, I've changed their family's life forever. So I'd like to get a room in a YMCA where they could stay while their child's being treated.”
Jim's quick reply: “You need a house.
Jim wasn't sure what to do next, so he did what he always did - he prayed for guidance.
With Jim's guidance, the first Ronald McDonald House opened its doors on October 15, 1974, not far from where he was born and raised. He called it, “the “McMiracle.” The Ronald McDonald House now provides affordable lodgings for
families of sick children in more than 64 countries and has saved the families an estimated $932.6 million. It is truly a McMiracle.
According to a New York Times article following Jim's death, he said founding the Ronald McDonald Charity was just “putting people together that can hold hands, hold hearts and say, you know what, we're on defense, but you can't win without a good offense.”
Despite his celebrity, Jim was one of the most unassuming, humble people you'd ever meet. I used to see Jim at Mass. One day, about seven years ago, I asked him if he would be a guest on my show to talk about his book, “Life is an Audible: The Jim Murray Story,” The book was written by a mutual friend, Steve McWilliams, who also wrote “Green Bananas; the Wisdom of Father Bil Atkinson,” the first paraplegic to be ordained a Catholic priest.
My May 28, 2019 30-minute interview with Jim was a vivid reflection of the man - a quick Irish wit, an engaging storyteller, a philanthropic entrepreneur, a selfless man who received great joy from helping others. A life well lived, for which he is now receiving his eternal reward.
Rest in peace, Jim.
The May 28, 2019 MLTV21 interview with Jim Murray can be seen on YouTube at https://youtu.be/bjaK4kt9saA
Jim Murray with former Eagles coach Dick Vermeil (left)
Jim Murray on set for an interview at Radnor Studio 21 in 2019.
ARTS & CREATIVITY
The Gift of Great Teaching
In America, education at every level is suddenly in the crosshairs. Politics aside, I suspect that the vast majority of we-the-people value our schools and the individuals who work tirelessly in them. And we all have stories to tell about our best and worst experiences. Send me yours!
Thinking about the best, we might agree that great teachers love to teach and that they also love to learn. They have a special ability to respond to their students' individual needs and encourage them to think, experiment and grow. Here is one of my heroes in the art world:
After some research, I found Kassem Amoudi at Wayne Art Center. I had been exhibiting my more realistic work for a few years and had taken a couple of Abstract Art classes
By Laurie Lamont Murray
with Moe Brooker before he retired. But I wasn't there yet…Abstract is well, abstract. It is very challenging because there is nothing in front of you but a blank canvas. Nothing to copy. Tabula rasa.
Kassem's credentials impressed me. A Jordanian American, he had studied and exhibited internationally before coming to the U.S. He is a faculty member at PAFA, Woodmere and the Perkins Center as well as Wayne Art Center. But what captivated me was his ability to look thoughtfully at each of his students' work and offer suggestions for ways to improve it.
Kassem speaks frankly about his preference for abstract art, pointing to the continual surprises and places of interest one can find looking at an abstract piece. He will
recommend underpainting to create history in a painting, and will point out that there needs to be a balance in areas of busy and calm. He will encourage varying values and line weights to achieve mystery, and will suggest work by well known (and some lesser known) artists whose work has something in common with the direction a student is headed. As a lifelong student of art, Kassem says that
looking and seeing are not the same thing. As artists develop their eye, painting becomes easier and more interesting. He begins each class with a discussion of work by an artist who has grappled with and successfully met some of the challenges his students are facing. He likes to see how the masters have modified their work in progress. Next, Kassem reviews everyone's progress individually. His critiques are encouraging and always on target.
Kassem's own rather prolific body of work has evolved considerably in the time I have known him. He speaks of forcing himself to try things he hasn't done before. His doors and windows, favorite symbols and connecting lines have given way to more flowing movement. It is the process, not the final results that interest him. The things that happen in the life of the canvas, the editing out with a dominant color have led him to work that is more beautiful and interesting than ever before. He points out that abstract art doesn't have the traditional depth of field that realism has. Instead, modern artists respected the twodimensionality of the canvas. Kassem notes that the most distant part of a painting is the canvas itself. Everything is popping at you. Space, even paper thin space, is of utmost importance. Working with contrasts — larger vs small, thick vs thin, dark vs light — maintains the two dimensional integrity of the canvas. For Kassem Amoudi, the canvas is a living thing and "I am a tool for something that guides me through it."
Kassem Amoudi with student Susie Maguire at Woodmere Art Museum
