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A NEWSLETTER FOR THE SPRINGMILL COMMUNITY FEBRUARY, 2015Volume XIII Issue 2

Sentinel Index

Tree Proposal Vote Results/Valentine Sonnet ….….……. Pg. 1Notes From Your Board Marc Lichtenfield ……………… Pg. 1Community Reports ...………..………….…….…….……… Pg. 3, 5Community Reports/Helpful Hints/Sudoko ..……….… Pg. 7The Book Page ………………………..…….……….…….….. Pg. 9

Middletown News/Town Meeting …….….…….….……... Pg. 11 Notes from a Snowbird ……………….……………………… Pg. 13 New Year’s Eve/Tree Plans Reviewed Photos …………. Pg. 14

Hummers Parade/Bingo Photos …………… …..………. Pg. 15Cultural Events ……………………………………..……….. Pg. 17Library Programs/Etcetera (Kim Kommando)…… .…... Pg. 19Gas Furnace and A/C Renovation …………..…………… Pg. 21Amazon Tour January 15 .………………………………….. Pg. 21Meet Your Neighbor/The Robertsons ….…………….… Pg. 23To Your Health Cancer Support/Shingles ..….………….. Pg. 25Another Year Has Passed (Poem) …………………………. Pg. 26Advertiser’s Spotlight/ UNika Custom Creations ……….. Pg. 26

Seventy-nine percent of all Springmill residents voted infavor of the latest proposal which allows the CommunityAssociation to plant street trees, that were removedbecause they were unhealthy or presented a trippinghazard, on homeowners property. A 67% majority wasrequired to adopt the new tree proposal. This was alandslide victory. Less than 5% of all residents votedagainst the proposal. The 30 day voting period closed onFriday January 16 and the votes were tabulated andreleased by Tracey Lund, Property Manger on MondayJanuary 19.

Dick Rausch

Notes from Your BoardI have been looking forward to writing this article since thelast year’s initiative for planting street trees had failed. Thisis only one of several reasons in which I ran for the BOD lastyear. Being recently retired, I really wasn’t looking foranother job, especially one that paid so well. Nevertheless,there were some important issues that faced the communityand I felt with my professional experience I could help toaddress them.

With input from the community andsupport from the BOD, a differentapproach to this issue was crafted. Iknew that it would be an uphill battlebut I was determined to do all thatwas necessary to get the 67 percentapproval from the community. So Iset out knocking on doors from oneend of the community to the otherend. At times I must have looked likea disheveled wild man with his hairblown out in every direction. However, to my surprise, I wasgreeted in almost every house by many people I did notknow with welcome arms. We talked about the holidays,their children, books they were reading, aliments and finallythe trees. For numerous reasons, many of the residentswere unable to attend the meetings, and in many casesreally didn’t understand what was being offered to them, andin countless circumstances had no intention of voting. As wechatted, (Notes From Your Board Continued on page 5)

How Do I Love Thee?It is appropriate as Valentine’s Day approaches to reflecton one of the most well known poems ever written.Elizabeth Barrett Browning wrote a series of 44 sonnets (14line poems popularized by Shakespeare in the 16thcentury) about the love she had for her husband-to-be,Robert Browning. Sonnet 43 which begins “How do I lovethee?” dramatically expresses the poet’s intense love.

Sonnet 43How Do I Love Thee? Let me count the ways.I love thee to the depth and breadth and heightMy soul can reach, when feeling out of sightFor the ends of Being an ideal Grace.I love thee to the level of everyday'sMost quiet need, by sun and candlelight.I love thee freely, as men strive for Right;I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.I love thee with the passion put to useIn my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.I love thee with a love I seemed to loseWith my lost saints,- I love thee with the Breath,Smiles, tears, of all my life!- and, if God choose,I shall but love thee better after death.- Elizabeth Barret Browning (1806-1861)

I wish that I had the skill to put my thoughts into words like ElizabethBarret Browning did. Happy Valentine’s Day.Dick Rausch

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Lauri Richardson

Tel (302) 379-9984Fax (302) 368-1060200 N. Dilwyn Rd.Newark, DE 19711Lauriscleaning1@comcast.net

Residential / Office Cleaning

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Springmill Homeowners Association801 Windmilll Lane * 376•5466

Board of Directors Carl Rifino - President

Marc Lichtenfield - Vice PresidentGlenda Schneiderman - Secretary

Gary Merrick, John Rutt - DirectorsKathy Kobus - Treasurer

Joan Gross: Board Recording SecretaryTracey Lund: Community Manager:

Tracey.Lund@mamc.com

Charity Committee: Maria CorvinoClubhouse Committee: Phyllis LichtenfieldCommunications Committee: Dick Rausch

Community Events: Beverly Strong/Peggy AndrewsFinance Committee: Larry Daigle

Maintenance & Repair Committee: George Ryor (Feb.)Property Committee: Carolyn Bodden

Anyone wishing to join a Committee should contact theChairperson of that Committee.

Please note: All committee meetings and activities usingthe Clubhouse must be coordinated with Tracey Lund.

Calendar: Tracey LundFamily Emergency Numbers: Pat Howe, JoAnn Stump

Sunshine: Mary Elizabeth Rhoads / Faith Altman

Community Reports

Property CommitteeIMPORTANT REMINDER: Please, remember to sendor call me with the tree tag number from any privatelyplanted tree in your back yard. If you have a questionon the evaluation and recommendations for the tree by thearborist, I have that information readily available. JohnHosbach, certified arborist, has included suggestions as topruning, root excavation, fertilizer, insecticide, etc. forevery tree in Springmill.

The PC is again revising the Landscape Guidelines forSpringmill. When completed, the guidelines will besubmitted for final approval to the BOD. We are hoping tobe able to distribute updated copies early this spring. Weuse the regulations that are written in the Declaration asthe basis for all guidelines.

TREE SELECTIONS that are made by the homeownerfor the front landscape garden should be selectedcarefully. Verify with the nursery or landscaper as tothe mature height or if tree will retain the desiredshape if pruned. The maximum height of a treeplanted in the front garden is 8 feet.

During winter months Jan., Feb., and March, the PCmeeting time will temporarily be at 1 PM in the craft roomon the second Monday.

THINK SPRING.

Carolyn Bodden

Communications CommitteeThe January meeting was held on the 13th. Tencommittee members attended the meeting. Greg Bennettof Life Touch was a special guest. Carl Rifino, BODLiaison, was in attendance.

The minutes for the December meeting were approved as edited.

Greg Bennett made a presentation on producing an AnnualDirectory with residents’ photos for 2016. He explained theprocedure, time frames involved, and provided samples ofdirectories prepared for similar groups. The directory wouldbe produced at no cost to the community. The committeewill discuss further at the February meeting and make arecommendation to the BOD in March.

Diane Daigle presented the Treasurer's Report. Fiveadvertisers renewed their contracts in the past month.Four 2015 Directory advertisers also submitted theircontracts. Directory printing costs were reflected in theDecember financial statement.

Carol Geiger reported for Advertising in Julie Hambrecht’sabsence. There will be 43 advertisers in the FebruarySentinel. With the elimination of a full page ad from theMarch issue, we now have space available for newadvertisers. There are a couple of prospects for new ads.

Joan Gross provided an overview of the editorial content ofthe February Sentinel. The results of the Tree Proposalvote will be featured on the front page.

Ralph Clair, Circulation Manager, commented that he hasfully recovered from his recent illness and thankedeveryone for their support and good wishes.

Since only 30 people are permitted on the January 15Amazon tour, calls will be made to verify attendance.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m.

The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 10,2015 at 7:00 p.m. in the Clubhouse Craft Room. JoanGross will conduct meeting.

Dick Rausch

Charity CommitteeA special thank you goes to the 100 residents whocontributed over $6,000 to the Holiday Fund. Yourgenerous gift brought smiles to the seniors at the MOTCenter. Several gifts were wrapped for families submittedfrom the Neighborhood House. Gift cards were given tothe Delaware National Guard along with cash donations tothe Fisher House, Navy Seals, Wounded Warriors, GarySenise Housing Foundation and the WeekendWarrior Project.

(Charity Committee Continued on page 5)

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Community Reports

Clubhouse CommitteeThe Clubhouse Committee did not have a meeting inJanuary. However, there are a few subjects that I wouldlike to address.

Carpet Update: A 2nd inspection of the GR carpet wasperformed on January 6th. I would expect that we will havea course of action by the time you read this article, and inturn, that information will be relayed to the community. TheClubhouse Committee and the BOD are taking allnecessary steps to ensure the resolution of this issue.

The storage area upstairs is primarily used by the individualcommittees to keep their supplies etc. Because space islimited, please do not put your unwanted items or other itemsfor that matter, upstairs. Each committee has their own areaand they do their best to keep it neat and easily accessiblefor them. On several occasions we have found items thatdon’t belong. It’s puzzling to say the least, not to mentioncauses clutter. I would be only too happy to help if you justcontact me first. Thanks for the cooperation!

As a reminder – The resident’s bulletin board is strictly to beused for topics related to the community. Anything notpertaining to Springmill should not be posted. If you have anotice or article that doesn’t concern Springmill, perhaps youwould want to contact the Communications Committee andhave it published in the Sentinel. Also, remember to dateyour notice or article before posting. It should only remainthere for 30 days.

We all know that the flu has been extremely alarming andrampant this year. Washing your hands often will help protectyou from germs. For your convenience, hand sanitizers havebeen placed throughout the Clubhouse.

The next Clubhouse meeting will be on February 12th at10:00 am. As always, all are welcome.

Phyllis Lichtenfield

I foundin almost every situation that they were open to the proposalpresented to them and checked yes to the change to theDeclaration. It was a privilege to have the opportunity to talkto so many of our residents about everything under the sun.For me, it was truly a rewarding experience I will not soonforget.

With the passage of the tree initiative, Springmill willmaintain the beauty it presently exhibits and in fact, withthe selection of the trees by the Arborist, we will surpassthe present look and take it to the next level. I would like tothank Roy Peters, Dennis Hand and Gino Franceschina.Your help was much appreciated. And, of course, to thecurrent BOD for their support with this difficult issue.

We, as the Board of Directors for the SpringmillAssociation, will always do what is best for the communityand continue to package presentations in a manner thatbest suits the residents, such as continuing to addresssidewalk replacements as the need arises. We are yourrepresentatives, and what we do should and must reflectwhat’s important to the community.

Thank you so much for your support.

Marc Lichtenfield, Vice President

(Notes from Your Board Continued from page 1)

After theholidays, Carolyn Rifino had several unused Kohls cashcertificates. Instead of them expiring, she used them tohelp purchase several pairs of socks, gloves and scarvesfor Happy Feet, an organization that distributed thedonations to homeless men and women outside  theSunday Breakfast Kitchen. Carolyn and I met theorganizers and presented the articles. They then went toWilmington to hand out the gifts.

May you all feel good about how many people yourdonation touched this holiday season.  A special thank yougoes to Judy Graff for collecting the money,to Carolyn Rifino and Ilene Lipstein, who coordinatedbuying and wrapping the gifts, and to all the helpers whoshopped, wrapped the gifts and then distributed them to theMOT and Neighborhood House.

Maria Corvino

(Charity Committee Continued from page 3)

Recent Board MotionsMotion approved for the Finance Committee to reviewcontracts over $10,000 for their feedback to the BOD.Motion approved (5-0)

Activity GroupAs of this writing, we have had our first coffee/soup hour. Allseemed to enjoy the three soups made by: Bob Flynn -potato, Kathy Kobus - beef vegetable and Carolyn Fausnaugh- lentil. The Activity Group would like to thank these generousresidents who took their time to make the delicious soups.

We would also like to thank Carol Wagner for her 50/50winnings which she donated to the A-team.

The movie night has been canceled due to lack of participation.

We are now getting ready for our second BirthdayCelebration on Friday, February 13th at 7:00 p.m. to honorthose with birthdays in January, February and March. Hopeto see you there.

Ann Marie Burns and Claudia GarrettThanks for Caring

I want to thank all of my friends in Springmill for the wellwishes, cards, and recovery food while I was recoveringfrom a holiday stint in the hospital. I am doing better now.Springmill is still the best place to live. Thank you all,

George Ryor

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Community ReportsMaintenance and Repair Committee

The MRC held its meeting on January 8, 2015. Some of theissues we discussed were the various Clubhouse lightproblems. The damaged flood light, in front of theclubhouse & its matching partner, will be replaced byForever Green at no charge.

The decorative light pole by the flagpoles will be repairedwith better weather. We are awaiting alternate quotes.We are awaiting quotations for railing repair. The MRC willkeep you informed on the progress of these proposals.

George Ryor will be the Chairperson for February. Ournext meeting is on February 12th at 7:00 pm in the craftroom. New and old members are always welcome.

Fred Bodden, Chairperson for January

Community Events CommitteeIt may have been cold outside but we had some hotwinners at BINGO. Several lucky residents won twice!! Aprofitable night for some, but a fun night was had by all.

This article was written before the COVERED DISH partybut what I can tell you from the many responses wereceived from the residents stating what they werebringing, it sounds like there will be a variety of some verydelicious food -- yummy!! Check next month’s Sentinel toread more about the exciting menu served at theClubhouse.

SAVE THESE DATES:

February 21- “CHINESE NEW YEAR” Celebrating theChinese year of the sheep. We will be serving everythingfrom soup to fortune cookies. Can’t guarantee goodfortune but we can a good time, so pick up your chopsticksand join us!!! This is always a very well attended party, sobe sure to get your reservations in early. Flyer in Sentinel.

March 14 – “PATTY’S PUB” Come celebrate the wearin’ ofthe green at Patty’s Pub. Enjoy the food, the fun and theentertainment by the Irish Dancers.

March 25 – “WHAT WE WORE”

April 16- “HEALTH FAIR”-- our first here at Springmill

THERE IS MUCH MORE TO COME. Why don’t youbecome part of the party planning? We sure could use yourhelp and some new ideas. The Community EventsCommittee meets the first Wednesday of the month at 9:30a.m. in the Clubhouse. Our next meeting is February 4th.Please try and join us.

Peggy Andrews

Helpful Hint … Choosing wineHere is some information from Colorado’s Varaison Winery onchoosing a delicious wine without popping a cork. Price isn’t theonly factor. A little trick is in knowing the correct alcoholic contentfor red and white wine. Caveat: This is only ONE variant inchoosing a wine. But at least it gives you a place to start if youaren’t a “wine expert.”

First, think of wine as a fruit. There are degrees of ripeness;under ripe, ripe or over ripe. The key to good wine is to fermentripe fruit. ALL fruit, if ripe, will taste good.

Fruit has acid, sugar, alcohol and flavors. More acid and less sugarequals low alcohol. Less acid and more sugar equals high alcohol.The term “dry” means there is no fermentable sugar.

The perfect white wine needs 12% to 14% of alcohol by volume.The perfect red wine needs 13.5% to 15% of alcohol by volume.The percentage of alcohol by volume is listed on EVERYbottle’s or box’s label…usually in the lower right-hand corner.

Now, here’s the correct way to taste white wine, including rosé,sparking wines, and champagne. Pucker your lips and keep thewine in the center of your lips. Think about it, when you sip amore acidic fruit juice, you pucker.

For tasting red wines (and forget the color, it’s only a “redwine” if it says red on the label), put the wine under yourtongue and swirl it to the sides.

Extra factoid: It is NOT necessary to rinse your glass or eatcrackers or bread between tastings. Wine is only soluble inalcohol. So, as long as you pucker and/or swirl as you taste,you’ll only taste the wine in your glass, not the previous one.We experimented and it’s true.

Check the wines in your house, or check the hundreds ofbottles on the shelf at your local wine store.

*With many a thanks to Helen Jackson for her great notetaking skills.

June Stemmle

Springmill SudokuSudoku is easy to play and the rules are simple. Fill in the blanks so that

each row, each column, and each of the nine 3x3 grids contain oneinstance of each of the numbers 1 through 9. Game below is easy level.

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Review: The Boy in the Woodsby Carter Wilson

Tommy Devereaux is a successfulbestselling author whose booksare about serial women murderers.

While his past books are fiction, hisnewest book is not. Thirty years ago,when he was 14 years old, he and twoother buddies witnessed a murder butnever reported it to the police. Theypledged never to speak about this horrorto anyone. Writing has helped him dealwith that day, but now the murderer hascontacted him asking to meet in person. Why after allthese years would she request such a meeting? Tommyis a happily married man. Never has Tommy mentionedwhat happened when he was a teenager in Oregon. Hefeels guilty that the crime was never reported as it shouldhave been. He knows that if it is disclosed now, all threemen will face prison time for not letting the police know.

A meeting with the killer is arranged and what she wantsfrom Tommy is the real story of her as a serial killer of 38people included in his book. That is not her only request.He learns that one of his two buddies committed suicideyears ago. Why? The killer tells Tommy what happenedand the circumstances that led to his death. When thesecond buddy, a prominent politician, dies, Tommy knowsit is just a matter of time before he too dies. A trip back towhere it all happened makes Tommy realize the nightmarewill never be over as long as she lives. What is to be doneto end this ordeal and pay for a tragic decision made as ayoung boy is his only way out.

Sonya Comstock

Book Club Selections For FebruaryBook Club 1 (Deb Kupper/1st Wed.) Our group will belooking at Out of the Box Awakening by Jennifer Therot.

Book Club 2 (Mary-Elizabeth Rhoads/4th Tues.) Ourgroup will be reviewing George Washington’s Secret Sixby Brian Kilmeade.

Book Club 3 (Lydia Olson/3rd Mon.) Our book club’sselection for February is Mother, Daughter, Me by KatieHafner.

Book Club 4 (Mary Jo Starrett/1st Wed.) We will bediscussing China Dolls by Lisa See.

Book Club 5 (Joan Gross/3rd Tues.) When we meet, wewill be reading Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline

June Stemmle

Springmill Library Update

Who would think that in the days of electronicreaders that actual books are still being boughtand read in great abundance? Well if you come

up to our own Springmill Library you will see that that isexactly what is happening. We are happy to say that wehave received approximately 500 donations in 2014 andthat was only a half year. Of course some may beduplicates but still that is a lot of books. Thank you to allwho have donated.

The duplicates are given to the Odessa Library (AppoquiniminkLibrary does not want any) and also the woman’s correctionalfacility in Wilmington. In November when we were goingthrough the books Ken Christie dropped by and asked what wedo with the books. He asked if we would donate thepaperbacks to Mathew Dunn, a senior at Appoquinimink HighSchool. It seems that each year seniors are required tocomplete a “senior project” that will have a special meaning tothemselves. Mathew chose Stockings for Soldiers. He had agoal of 100 stockings he wanted to donate. The timing wasright and Springmill was able to donate over 100 paperbacks(hardcopy books would have been too heavy to ship) to thiscause. In the end Matt was able to donate items for over 200stockings. It seems that Springmill is always there to help othersand the library is happy to have been a part of this project.We also receive many magazines. We do ask though, thatmagazines not be any older than 6 months since we havelimited space.

Jigsaw puzzles have become a popular item also so keepthem coming. They do not have to be signed out but pleasereturn when finished so others can enjoy them. Also besure that all pieces are there as it can be very frustratingnot to be able to find that one piece.

So all in all – if there is a book you are interested in readingstop in at the Springmill Library and there’s a good chanceyou will find it there.

Thank you again for all your support.

Eileen Bengermino and Julie Hambrecht

The Romeo’s Luncheon will be hosted by Bill Leutner. Wewill be going to LaPiazza on Main St. at 12:30 onThursday, February 19.

Please let Bill know if you will attend and if you need a ride.

Joe Grippo

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SPRINGMILL RESIDENT SPECIALS

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Town MeetingAt the first meeting in the new year, Mayor Ken Brannerasked attendees to stand and offer amoment of silence for the lateCouncilwoman Robin Burgess, whopassed away in December. A newcouncil member will not be appointed toreplace her, as elections will be held onMarch 2 for council members. He askedthat candidates submit their applicationsto the town by February 6. The GeneralElection ballot will consist of a one-year term for council tofill the late Councilwoman’s term, three two-year terms forcouncil and a two-year term for Mayor. Information aboutcandidates is shown below.

Delaware Glass Services, Inc., was given approval by thetown to operate a shop for residential and commercialglass services on Patriot Drive.

A Grotto Pizza restaurant will be constructed on the formerauto mall site on Rt. 301 across from Kohl’s.

The Mayor announced that the entire police force wears bodycameras at all times and has been for the past two years.

Jim Young, who heads the annual Salvation Army drive inDecember, announced that a total of $24,456 was raised.He also credits the contribution of many high schoolstudents who rang bells throughout town to help with thisdrive. He thanked all volunteers for their involvement inthis fund raising event.

Sonya Comstock

Election of Town Council MembersDrew Chas, the newest member of the Council, is seekingre-election. When elected eight months ago in a specialelection, he eagerly accepted responsibilities, along with theother seasoned members. He has a background in businessmanagement, so balancing the budget was an immediatepriority. He is now comfortable and confident with his positionand wants to continue in this role. Drew knows living in a safecommunity and all the amenities that are part of thiscommunity require constant diligence by the Mayor andCouncil. He credits the Mayor for always seeking new andpositive growth for the benefit of residents. That credit is alsoextended to all the town employees who serve the town everyday. Drew is a chiropractor who practices at CampChiropractic in Middletown. A life-long resident of Middletown,he and Amy have twin daughters, Delaney and Kallie. Heasks for your vote again, so he can continue servingMiddletown residents.

Jason Faulkner - (incumbent – seeking re-election – noinformation available)

Rob Stout – one-year vacancy position. First time seeking a

M i d d l e t o w n N e w s

Sonya Comstock

council seat, knowing that politics can create a thrivingcommunity where expectations are met. As an owner ofAlpaca Signs and Designs in town located next door to theEverett Theatre, he took a personal interest in restoring thetheatre to its glory days. He spearheaded a campaign for anew marquee that would be an exact replica of the originaland he succeeded. His interest for encouraging the growthof Main Street with new businesses and attractions is hispersonal goal. Working with the town’s program manager,he found that he could contribute his ability for improvingMain St. with his personal connections and dedication.Getting involved meant becoming a member of theMiddletown Chamber of Commerce as well as C&DMarketing and discussing new ideas and improvements withthe members. As VP of the MOT Big Ball Marathon, he hashelped raise much needed funds to aid local food banks andhelp with emergency funds needed by underprivilegedresidents. In time, he sees Middletown as a “destinationplace” as it will offer something for everyone. He believes inkeeping the history of the town intact and is willing todedicate his time to making it happen. Rob asks for yourvote so he can fulfill his philosophy of leaving things betterthan before.

Jim Royston – first time seeking office for the one-yearposition. Upon moving into Middletown in 2000 with hisfamily, he immediately became involved in local activities.With several children in school, he became a member of theBoys and Girls Club, MOT Little League, Middletown HighSchool All Sports Booster, MOT Football and CheerleadingClub and is now a member of the Planning and Zoning Boardand has been for four years. Jim says he has a passion forserving the community. He would like to see a new healthcare facility in the historic district. He believes the areaformerly known as Shone Lumber Co. is moving along in theright direction by seeking restaurants and upscale shops inthe newly renovated area. He feels that Middletown lacksgood-paying jobs and should make this a priority. The idealarea for these jobs would be near the Emergency Center andHealthSouth. Services beyond what the doctor can providewould prove best and offer employment to highly skilledcandidates. He admires the creation of Westown which hasgiven residents shopping, restaurants and entertainmentthereby keeping residents close to home. Jim asks for yourvote so he can keep the town growing in the right direction.

Ken Branner, Mayor for 26 years, is seeking his 13th term.From a small farm town with few amenities when he firstserved, he has transformed this town into a modern hamletwhere people can live and shop for their needs. Almost20,000 residents can thank the Mayor for continuing to addservices of all kinds to Middletown and making this town idealfor all. From our own Police Department to the EmergencyCenter and recently HealthSouth, Middletown continues toadd quality to our lives. He seeks your confidence in voting forhim so he can continue serving all of us.

Application for council seats must be submitted to Town Hallby February 6th at 4:30 p.m.

Sonya Comstock

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Travel Log - Notes from a Snowbird

After driving to Florida for the past four years, Lee and Idecided last winter to take the Auto-train this year. Weliked to get to Brunswick, Georgia before stopping for the

night (usually a twelve hour drive). Last year, we had atremendous amount of traffic in South Carolina (two hours to go30 miles) all the while there was a light, but steady rain. Generallywe take turns at the wheel, one driving, and the other napping.Having just finished my turn as the driver, I was more than happyto have Lee take over so I could close my eyes for a couple ofhours. However, he started to doze and the car drifted onto theshoulder of the road. No incident except accelerated heart rateand heightened awareness on my part! Then and there, thedecision to take the train was made!

We left our house at 10:00 AMon January 2 for the drive toLorton, Virginia -- already betterthan our former 5:00 AMdeparture. A leisurely twohours later, we arrived at thestation. Check-in waspaperless and effortless. Wewere able to get the dinnerseating we wanted at 7:00 PM(5:00 and 9:00 are the other options) and had a couple ofhours to relax and have lunch before boarding at 2:30. Ourseats were in the coach section (there are also sleepersections) and featured comfortable recliners with plenty ofspace between rows, quite unlike the airlines. We also hadaccess to overhead storage. We were allowed two carry-onseach, and brought along pillows and blankets along with asmall cooler with snacks. After stowing our stuff, we walkedto the lounge car where we immediately came upon anothercouple who rents in our same community in Florida. It was sonice to catch up with them. There is Wi-Fi available in thelounge for those who wish to use it.

The train left the station at about 3:45 PM which is nearly 15minutes early and we were on our way. We read and lookedat the scenery while we traveled along at nearly 60 mph.During the night, the speed increased to 70 mph. When ourdinner time was called, we walked through two cars to thedining car where we were seated at a table for four with acouple from Columbia, Maryland. We enjoyed a pleasantmeal and conversation for about an hour until gently remindedto finish up and get out so the crew could set up for the nextseating.

We returned to our seats and read for a while and then Leedecided to watch the movie (A Walk to the Future, atearjerker, he said) in the lounge car. I decided to get somesleep. We both took a melatonin tablet around midnight tohelp us sleep during the overnight hours. It did work and weboth felt refreshed in the morning, although the seats are notso comfortable as sleeping in a bed. Continental breakfastwas served in both the dining car and the lounge, and I hadpacked hard-boiled eggs in our cooler, so we ate and wereready to begin our day. The train was about an hour lategetting into Sanford, Florida due to mechanical issuesovernight and we waited about an hour for the car to be

unloaded. We then had a three hour drive to our condo.Still and all, it was a good way to get here feelingrelaxed rather than exhausted and we plan to take thetrain again next winter.

Auto-train facts and figures:Length of trip -900 milesLength of travel -17 ½ hoursroughlyNumber of crew - 28Number of passengers - 593Number of vehicles - 303Number of seats per train car-60The number of passengersand vehicles was for our triponly. Other days may havemore or less.Next month, typical week of activities.Stay warm and healthy.

Ilene Lipstein

Manatees in the Port Largo CanalSnowbirds Pat and Jim Mahla spend the winter monthsin Key Largo FL. Jim posted this to his Facebookaccount:“Hello from KeyLargo, Andy, daughterLisa and grandsonsSpencer and Harryvisited us for theChristmas Holiday.They did it ALL, frompara-sailing to seeingthe reef in a glassbottom boat .… butwe could not get a manatee to show up in the canal. Sureenough a few days after they left there were 4 or 5manatees in the canal this morning. For a drink of freshwater they agreed to pose.”

Peppie and Bert Dekker in ThailandThe Dekkers have visitedThailand regularly, duringDelaware’s cruel wintermonths, over the pastseveral years. On theircurrent trip they stoppedby the Temple of theReclining Buddha.Reclining Buddha is 150feet long and 50 feethigh. The eyes and feetare decorated withmother-of-pearl. Carvingsin the feet depict the 108characteristics ofBuddha. From Facebook.

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The Dance Group hosted the New Year's Eve gathering atthe Clubhouse. There were between 50 & 60 residents whocame and went throughout the evening. Many dropped inafter going out for dinner.

Others brought food and other goodies while the DanceGroup provided the music in the form of CDs and supplieda large sheet cake to ring in the New Year. Everyone was

Arlene Gurnee, JeanRoyal, Noreen Ryan

Partygoers toast to health and happiness in 2015. Terry Markisohn, Gene Hester,Marion and Tom Smith

Sharon and Gary MerrickRoe and Art Lamb

in a convivial mood andenjoyed each others companywhile waiting for the 2015 ballto drop.

Happy New Year to all.

Joe Grippo

Vera Bagnatori, Bonnieand Tony Silva, Chuck and

Lynn Ruh

Frank Basler, VeraBagnatori, Don Strong

Pat Frail, BernadetteHnat, Peg Andrews

Joe and Dodie DiGiacinto,Arlene and Bill Gurnee,

Charlaine and Jim Hutchinson

Carolyn and Carl Rifino, Betty AnnOpalach, Jean Royal, Ida Nelson, Joe

Nelson, Bill Gurnee, Gil Royal

On January 5th, Springmill residents were given theopportunity to review the tree plan for their Individual lots.

John Hosbach, arborist, BOD and tree task force memberswere available to answer questions. Looking at those treeswas like a breath of spring on a cold winter’s day.

Ann Newswanger,Charlotte Smith

Art Lamb, Bob CohenRuth Cohen,Bonnie Silva

Ida Nelson, Carolyn RifinoTony Silva, Sandy McGuire, SharonMerrick serve the New Years Cake

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2014 Was the Year ofthe Rear

Sonya Comstock and ChrisChappelle enjoy parade

Middletown Hummers ParadeThe 2015 Middletown Hummers Parade entries advocatedlegalizing marijuana and made fun of topics such as the Ebolavirus scare, President Obama visiting the I-495 bridge, VisitingRoyalty William, Kate and family, New Jersey Gov. ChrisChristie, local political sign stealing, Middle Eastern oil-producing countries falling on hard times, the "Walking Dead"zombie craze, and "The Year of the Rear." “There’s noshortage of buffoons to ridicule this year,” said the Hummers’

Lifetime Grand Marshall Jack Schreppler. The HummersParade has been going on annually for the past 40 years andprovides an hour of fun for attendees on January 1 each year.Informal, offbeat and irreverent, no one is off-limits, as aparade target. Participants often push the envelope, fromfloats that advocate legalizing drugs to spoofs of newsworthyevents, celebrities and a year’s worth of popular culture.Photos and info provided by Sonya Comstock and Transcript.

Marchers wearing Ebola Protective Gear

Dropping Oil Prices Have ArabsBegging for Handouts

Royal Family Visits US Pres Obama VisitsI495 Bridge Repair

Marchers advocate Marijuana Legalization inDelaware

Political Signs Stolen by Candidate’sHusband

Many Winners at January 16th Bingo Night

CEC members selling 50-50 tickets The first game is about to be called andthe ink daubers are ready

Ernie Casper and Bernadette Hnat runthe games

Carolyn Rifino, Betty Freeman Janet Geftman,Anne Currie

Ginny Grippo and Peggy Andrews at therefreshment table

Joan Jacoby won the 50-50while Ron looks on

Lois Baker won the finalgame which was the Coverall

The CEC sponsored the annual Bingo Night event onJanuary 16. About 60 residents attended. Ernie Casperwas the guest Bingo caller and everyone agreed he did agreat job. Bernadette Hnat helped with called numberdisplay. Peggy Andrews, Ginny Grippo and other CEC

members provided refreshments and ran the 50-50. Therewere 14 Bingo games played and with the 50-50 15 peoplewere winners. The big winners were Joan Jacoby and LoisBaker who won the 50-50 and Coverall Bingo game.Dick Rausch

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Springmill Activity ContactsBook Clubs - See Book Club Selections for contactsBocce – Ann LucasBowling – Larry DaigleBridge (Thursday Afternoon) - Joan GrossBunco – Looking for a CoordinatorComputer Resources – Dick RauschDoll Sewing - Carolyn RifinoGolf - Fred Wendt - MSML/Joe Tomassetti-SMGLGourmet Club – Debra KupperJazzercise – Gail RouillerLibrary – Julia Hambrecht & Eileen BengerminoMahjongg – Barbara AbramsMen’s Hearts – Len BrusseeMen’s Poker – Tom FerraraMen’s Pool – Lenny BrusseePickleball – Jane KimminsRed Hat Society – Kay O’Day-AllenRomeos - Nick CiranniRummikub - Jo Verni/Jane KimminsSocial Singles - Cathy Cioffi/Bridget McGrathTennis -Bill GurneeTexas Holdem – Janet GeftmanThe Timeless Travel Group - Glenda SchneidermanWater Aerobics – Ann Raymond/Sandy CorroziWelcoming Committee - Peggy AndrewsYoga - June Stemmle

Please note: All committee meetings and activities using aClubhouse room, must be cleared with Tracey Lund.

ArdentownNew Candlelight Theater, 2208 Millers Rd.,302-475-2313Matinee & Evening Shows January 17-February 22“Young Frankenstein” – Musical, comedy and a thrillingscore. Tickets - $59 – includes dinner buffet.

WilmingtonGrand Opera House,818 North Market Street, 302-652-5577Wed. Feb. 4 - 8:00 p.m. (Baby Grand) – “An Evening withJohn Reilly and Friends featuring Becky Stark and TomBrosseau” – Performing folk songs, classic country tunesand bluegrass standards. Tickets - $29Sat. Feb. 7 – 7 p.m. – “Frogz (Imago Theatre)” – Mastersof mime, dance and acrobatics – family entertainment – amenagerie of animals fill the stage. Original productiontoured internationally for over three decades beforeappearing on Broadway three times. Tickets - $24Fri. Feb. 13 – 7:30 p.m. – “Classics Three: Love andDeath” – Tickets - $60Sun. Feb. 15 – 7 p.m. – (Baby Grand) – “Band CalledHonalee” – Three artists perform folk music returning to theera of Peter, Paul and Mary as well as Bob Dylan, TheByrds and Joni Mitchell. Tickets - $24Tues. Feb. 17 – 7:30 p.m. – “Tedeschi Trucks Band” –Tickets - $59-$76Fri. Feb. 20 – 8 p.m. – (Baby Grand) – “Guy Davis & EricBibb” – Two blues and gospel experts explore traditionalAmerican blues music. Performed on Prairie HomeCompanions, Mountain Stage, World Café and ConanO’Brien. Tickets - $30Tues. Feb. 24 – 8 p.m. – “The Chieftains” – Returing toThe Grand after 25 years, The Chieftains bring traditionalIrish music to the stage. Tickets - $48-$57Sat. Feb.28 - 7:00PM – (Baby Grand) – “First StateBallet” – Two one-act ballets – “Carmen” and the Delawarepremiere of “The Young Lady and the Hooligan” – Tickets -$35 – senior discount ticketsDuPont Theatre, 1007 N. Market St.,302-656-4401Matinee & Evening Performances Feb. 17-22“Peter and the Starcatcher” – take a hilarious romp throughthe Neverland you never knew. Company of a dozenactors play more than a hundred characters all on a journeyto answer the century-old question. How did Peter Panbecome The Boy Who Never Grew Up? Tickets - $20-$76Delaware Theater Co., 200 Water Street, 302-594-1100Matinee & Evening Performances Feb. 4 – Feb. 22“Nora” – Riveting reduction of Ibsen’s Famous “A Doll’sHouse” – A woman who risks losing everything to save herfamily. Secrets, lies and struggles for power continue totest relationships between men and women today. Tickets-$30-$40

Sonya Comstock

Cultural EventsMiddletownEverett TheatreFri/Sat Feb. 6&7 - 7:30 p.m. – “Interstellar” – All Tickets -$6Middletown High SchoolSat. Feb. 28, March 6&7 – 7:30 p.m. – “Guys & Dolls” –Tickets - $8St. Andrews’ SchoolNoxontown Rd., 302-378-9511Fri/Sat Feb 20&21 –7:30 p.m. - “Godspell” presented bythe students. Free

SmyrnaSmyrna Opera House, 7 W. South Street, 302-653-4236Sat. Feb. 14 – 6 p.m.-12 a.m. – “11th Annual Arts Cotillion– Arabian Nights” – Entertainment and fun with music byThe Glass Onion, live/silent auctions, hearty horsd’oeuvres, open bar and dancing – Tickets - $90-$100

DoverSchwartz Center for the Arts, 226 S. State St.,(302)678-5152Fri/Sat. Feb. 27/28 – 7 p.m. – “How to Succeed inBusiness without Really Trying” – presented by St.Thomas More Academy – Tickets - $10Patchwork Playhouse, Kent County Theatre Guild, 140E. Roosevelt Ave., 302-674-3568Fri/Sat. Feb. 27/28 – 8 p.m. – “Doubt” – Set in 1964 in aCatholic school in the Bronx, Doubt centers on therelationship of the strict principal of the school and herpersonal crusade to unearth the truth about Father Flynn.– Tickets - $16-$18

AcknowledgementGod bless you all for your acts of kindness and expressions ofsympathy on the great loss of my mother Claire, who was 101years old. We sincerely appreciate all of the support. Thankyou for keeping our family in your thoughts and prayers.

Phyllis Lichtenfield

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(Also a Springmill Resident)

FOLLOW ME TO MY OFFICEFOR ALL YOUR INSURANCE NEEDS

State Farm

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Appoquinimink LibraryFebruary Programs

Listed below are the on-going programs at NCC SouthernLibrary. Phone number for informationor registration is (302) 378-5588. Thehours at the library are: Monday10-8, Tuesday/Wednesday 1-8,Thursday- Saturday 10-5, andclosed on Sunday.

February is “Love your Library”month. Keep a log of yourreading…books check out of thelibrary, and you may receive a prizeif you bring your log in by March 7.Note: The Library will have two closures in February (the2nd and 16th)

ON-GOING PROGRAMSAdult Book Discussion meets the 3rd Wednesday of themonth at 7:00 PM. This month’s selection, “Light in theRuins” by Chris Bohjalian, will be discussed on February 18.E-book and E-Audio book tutoring by appointmentduring library hours. Call 378-5588.Spin-a-Yarn Group Chat as you knit or crochet. Meets everyTuesday at 7:00 pm, for all levels of experience and all ages.Sew Bee It Quilters meet the 2nd Saturday at 10:00 am,for novice & experienced quilters.Delaware Money School Call 1-800-267-5002 for monthlytopic and to register.Job Center Tuesday from 2:00-5:00 pm; FREE help withjob hunting, resumes, interviewing skills, etc.New Castle County Register of Wills Tuesday, February3, from 5 -7:45 pm.New Castle County Office of Property Assessment If youare 65+, you may be eligible for a County and school taxdiscount. A representative will be available EVERY Friday from2-5:00 pm to answer questions or help you fill out an application.

ADULT PROGRAMS…$$ and/or registration may be requiredZumba Gold Sat. 9;15-10;15; $6 drop-in fee, instructor isTeddi Zia and Gaye Council.Defensive Driving Saturday, February 7, from 9-1:00.Steps to Avoiding Scams presented by Stand by Me 55+,on Thursday, February 26, at 10-11:00.Pilgrimages Saturday, February 28, at 2:00 pm.Presented by Osher Lifelong Learning Institute…will coverplaces of literary and historical importance.

CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS…registration requested- Movers & Shakers 45 min. classes on Tues. at 10:30- Rhythm, Rhyme & Story time on Fridays at 10:15 forages 3+ (Not on Feb. 13)- Lego Club Tuesday, February 10, at 6:30, ages 5-11,registration required.- Minecraft Open Play Club Drop in the 1st & 3rdWednesday of the month to create and explore; combinestechnology, gaming and LEGO. Registration Required!February 4 & 18th. Ages 8+- Math & Science Discovery Class Listen to stories anddo make & take activities on (Continued next column)

Friday, February 13, at10:30 am. For ages 3+.- Paws for People – Read Saturday, Feb. 7 & 21, from11-12:00. Read aloud to a friendly, furry pet.- Games to Play Games, puzzles, playing cards andactivities for ALL ages from 1-1:45 on Saturday, February 21.

June Stemmle

(Continued from prevous column )

Discovered on The Internet!:Komando.com

This site was submitted by Rosemarie (Roe) Lambwho wrote me saying "I have a website that I havebeen subscribing to religiously since we moved down

here 10 years ago!!  It's:   www.komando.com.

I used tolisten to heron the AMstation inNY all thetime.When wemovedhere, Icouldn't getthat stationto come inclearly -probablybecause itis - AM!  But then I discovered her website and now I havea subscription to her weekly digest.  I read it all the timebecause she truly is a computer guru.  She coverseverything about computers plus everything technological.She keeps me right up to date on all the latest that's goingon in the world of technology.  And she writes in everydayEnglish - not "computerese" - which makes it even better."

So I did as Roe asked and checked it out. Great find. Sofar I'm still busy digesting the free information and acting onsome of it - topics like "Five details Facebook asks for thatyou shouldn't give"; “Store your passwords safely andeasily"; “One click to opt out of Google Ads" and much,much more. Subscriptions are $1.10 a week basic and$1.67 week premium.

Check it out for yourself. Thank you, Roe.

If you know of an interesting site that you would like tonominate for this article - send me the link. If you likethese articles let me know. Thanks.

Carolyn Fausnaugh, cfausnaugh@verizon.net

Etcetera

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All types of Glass & Screens - Sales & Repairs

Springmill Discount: $2.75 off every car wash!

$2 Off

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Even when you try to be pro-active, things can happen ontheir own schedule. We had planned to purchase a newfurnace and air conditioner in the spring (tends to becheaper then)…ours was at that “magical” 12-year point,when things start going wrong. But the furnace decidedthat this winter was the best time and so let us know with aleak and a crack…luckily discovered during our annual fallmaintenance. What was even funnier was I had justreceived an e-mail from Jane Kimmins suggesting I do anarticle on the topic because she noticed so many of herneighbors were having new installations. So, Jane, thisarticle is for you.

Our service company is Oliver Heating & Air Conditioning,but I’m sure you’ve seen and/or used any number of othercompanies; Fletcher, Horizon, and Sobieski to name a few.If you check a recent Consumer Reports, furnaces wererecently rated, with American Standard (the toilet folks),Trane, and Carrier among the top three NOT needingrepairs. “Reliability is very important, because when furnacesfail, 77% need significant work or replacement.” Carbonmonoxide is also a possibility with a crack…and we had a¼ inch one. Our service person came out that evening, wechose a model, the Trane, and set an installation date.**Cost will vary depending on the model, the warranty,manufacturer rebates, etc.

Today, two trucks and the service people, Mark and Mattarrived at 8:00 am. They will be spending the day in theattic, the laundry room and outside. So, if you needanything from those areas, it’s good to get them before thework starts. Mark’s job is to handle the furnace, and Matttakes care of the air conditioner. Both started the work inthe same way, dismantling the old products and reclaimingthe refrigerant, which would be recycled back at the plant.

Once all the old equipment was removed, the real work started.Our first “blip” occurred because the new air conditioning unitwas larger. We had to decide whether to use the same pad orput it on concrete blocks. Was it to allow air flow? Was it forstability? A call to the office said it was primarily so the unitwasn’t damaged by weed whackers. Since we all have stonesaround our units, and since the unit has plastic around its base,we decided it was fine to just use the original pad. Other thanthat, and making a few changes to bring them up to code,everything went smoothly. Before I knew it, the air conditionerand furnace were in place and the final step of putting ductsand pipes in place and some soldering to hold things togetherwas being started…all before 11:00. The installation of bothunits went smoothly and all work, including putting in a “smart”digital thermostat and clean up was completed by 3:00 PM. Aquick tutorial on the “care and feeding” of all units and we hadheat again. Yea! A bonus…it’s as quiet as my Boschdishwasher; can’t ask for more than that.

As usual, time seems to improve all systems. We nowhave increased efficiency for heating and cooling…above

95%. We have a “drawer” for replacing filters…which onlyneeds to be replaced once a year. And the thermostat hashuge numbers and stays lit…good for old eyes. If you are

closing in on that 10-12 year mark, I would suggestthinking about replacing it before you need it some coldwinter day. Should you have a maintenance contract, aswe do, ask some questions on the service person’s nextvisit…be sure they look for rust, water, cracks or signs ofaging. Stay warm.

June Stemmle

Renovation 101Gas Furnace & A/C

Code change requirednew box and wiring

New A/C Unit New gas furnace

Amazon Fulfillment Center TourCommunications Committee Sponsored Tour on January 15

About 6 months ago, Amazon began running tours at six of itsdistribution centers, including the 1.2 million square-foot site at560 Merrimac Ave. in Middletown. The tours are great forcustomers who want to see what happens after they click ‘buy’ onAmazon. The $15 million Middletown center opened in late 2012.

More than 2,000 people work there at certain times of the year,making Amazon Middletown’s single largest employer, by far.

A group of about 30 Springmill residents participated in a touron January 15. The tour lasted about an hour. Headphones areprovided so that participants can better hear the guide, AshleePartlow. The group was led on the hour-long journey throughthe distribution center.

While traveling along the same path that all products takethrough the building, the group learns numerous facts aboutAmazon, including its busiest day (Dec. 1, 2014 when over 40million items were shipped), the number of tote boxes at theMiddletown site (40,000), etc.

These tours are very popular and the Springmill tour was completelybooked soon after the signup sheet was placed on the Clubhousebulletin board. In fact it was overbooked and a few people whosigned up late had to be excluded, for which we apologize. Othergroups within Springmill plan to sponsor additional tours. More detailswill be provided when the new date(s) are set.

Dick Rausch

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The Robertsons are a prime example of reinventing yourselfvia a second career after retirement. Angie had spent heryounger years as a teacher and a mom. After earning aMaster’s Degree in Counseling from Wilmington University in1996, she began working with the Northern ChesapeakeHospice Foundation as a bereavement counselor for childrenand adults. These days she works part-time, as her skills areneeded, and does more speaking engagements. Clint, youremember, started as an engineer and switched into teaching.At this point in time, as the Director of Business Policy, andwith twenty years at Wilmington University, he pretty muchmakes up his own schedule. Who said you can’t have itall…something you love to do and doing it at your choosing.

During their free time, Angie enjoys knitting, reading, cooking,shopping, playing Bunco, and traveling with her husband of 41years. Clinton likes to spend his down time reading, especiallytopics involving history and different cultures. I commented thatthe ladies have lots of book clubs, yet as many men as I’veinterviewed that enjoy reading…many of whom have extensivelibraries… there is not one book club for men. Who knows,maybe Clint will start one…it’s long overdue.

These two have traveled quite a bit. Angie commented thatthe bags never really got put away this year…just unpackedand repacked. As a matter of fact, they were packed andready to leave for the beach the next day. They both love thebeach and water “anytime, anywhere, and in any season.”Their other favorite destination is the Southwest…Arizona andNew Mexico. The Robertsons are a proud military family, withfour members serving in the Navy and Coast Guard. Some oftheir travel involves visiting them. One of their most favoritetrips was to the Oheka Castle on Long Island, NY. They madereservations for their 40th anniversary last year. Clint sweetlycommented on the fact that “it wasn’t long enough.” Angiesaid, “The castle looks like Cinderella could walk out at anyminute.” The castle’s history included an interesting story. Itseems the original owner, Otto Herner Kahn, a German Jew,was not accepted in society. So, he built his castle on a hillhigher than the Roosevelt’s Sagamore Hill…a bit ofcomeuppance. Another tidbit…If you like to play Monopoly, thebanker pictured on the box was modeled after Mr. Kahn.Oheka might be a fun place to visit for its history, beautifullocation or just because of the owner’s story.

We previously mentioned the Robertsons’ two children, Clintonand Monica. Clinton IV is married to Alex and has threechildren; Caleb (18) Savannah (14) and Thomas (13), all livingin Delaware. Monica and her husband, Giancarlo, live inVirginia with their two children, Bianca (4) and Ella (1).

As for final thoughts, Clint and Angie recommend “stayingyoung at heart, seeking out happy people to surround you,finding joy in what you do…and doing what you love.” Afterreading this, I think you’ll agree that this twosome havefollowed their own advice.

June Stemmle

When Clint and Angie Robertson’s name was pickedfor an interview, the name didn’t sound familiar, so Ithought perhaps they were fairly new to Springmill.

Imagine my surprise and chagrin to find out that this couplehas lived up the street from me, at 68 Springmill Drive, forthe past 12 years. Somehow our paths hadn’t crossed insimilar activities…and, it turned out, both were still workingpart-time. After an hour and a half of delightful chatter, weknew each other well enough to end our visit with a big hug.Now it’s your chance to meet these “Springmill old-timers.”

Angie was born inChestertown, Maryland, andwas quick to add that she haslived on the eastern shore formost of her life. She receivedher undergraduate teachingdegree in Salisbury andtaught fifth grade in Marylandschools until she marriedClinton in 1973.

Clint was born in Dover,Delaware, but lived in Clayton until he was 17. He attendedcollege at the U. S. Merchant Marine Academy and thenworked for five years as an engineer in the Merchant Marines.He met Angie in Easton, when he was “between ships” in1972.

After marrying, their first home was in Seaford, where Clintworked as a plant engineer at DuPont’s Nylon Plant. He waseventually transferred to South Carolina. Angie stoppedteaching when she became pregnant with their first child, ason they named Clinton IV. The next move brought themnorth. They lived in Bucks County, while Clint commuted bytrain to New York City for a year (a ride he said he actuallyenjoyed), where he worked on the 12th floor of the WorldTrade Center. When the NYC office was closed, the couple’snext stop was Wilmington, DE. By this time a second child, adaughter they named Monica, was born.

Since both sets of their parents were still living, theRobertsons wanted to stay close to the Delaware/Marylandarea. Clint finally took a buy-out in 1994 and retired fromDuPont. He then chose to get his doctorate and startedteaching at Wilmington University. They lived in a seventeen-room Victorian house in Elkton, Maryland just prior totransitioning to Springmill in February 2003.

The couple decided their house was just too big and too much totake care of, especially since the children were grown and hadmoved out. Downsizing in an area they knew, where friends andfamily resided, made Springmill a perfect choice. Plus theywanted to travel more. The freedom from landscaping andupkeep, not to mention lower taxes, was a definite draw.

Since moving, they love the fact that everything is soconvenient, appreciate their friendly neighbors, and, with worktaking less time, they look forward to enjoying more of theactivities offered. With a son living locally and other friendsand family close by, visits are easy and frequent. Clint andAngie did add that they have particularly enjoyed the dancingopportunities at the Clubhouse and the availability of trips.

Meet Your Neighbor

Thank You for Your SupportThank you to all of our neighbors and friends for gifting us withfood, flowers, visits, calls and cards during my two surgeriesand subsequent stay at the Broadmeadow rehab facility. Stanand I are truly blessed to live in this community.Pat Heer

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Cancer Support CommunityJan Shallcross, Kent County Director, has opened a supportgroup center in the Blue Heron Building on Carter Drive,Second Floor. This group meets once a week on Thursdayevening from 6-8 p.m. Danielle Brown is the Facilitator fromthe Helen Graham Cancer Center. Originally, this group metin Dover but with so many patients in the MOT area, it wasnecessary to open another office close by.

The group offers support forpeople who have beenaffected by cancer, whether itbe themselves or a lovedone. The motto of thissupport group is that no onehas to face cancer alone.Sometimes just talking aboutwhat folks are going throughhelps reduce the helplessness they suffer. By listening toothers who explain their personal situation, one can realizeothers face the same problems. A person may have justbeen diagnosed with cancer and is at a loss as to what toexpect and how to deal with this disease. What is offeredat this support group covers many concerns. Other expertsaddress social, financial and quality-of-life issuesconnected with cancer. This group helps survivors byaddressing the emotional impact of cancer.

In addition to the cancer support group meeting, classes areoffered such as tai chi on Tuesday afternoons from 1:30-2:30 p.m., and yoga on Tuesday evening from 7-8 p.m.These classes are offered at the same location. Thedifference between tai chi and yoga is that tai chi helps withbalance and stability as well as teaching memories. Tai chiis a class that has members on its feet while yoga exercisesare done sitting down, and concentration is on breathing andstretching. All classes are led by licensed professionals.

These meetings are free to anyone affected by cancer. Supportgroups are for individuals and families and friends of loved oneswith cancer. While doctors may refer patients to cancer supportgroups, word of mouth plays a large role as well.

The support group is funded by corporations andfoundations, fund raising events and individuals in thecommunity. Ms. Shallcross is most appreciative of CampChiropractic’s willingness to offer the cancer support groupa room in their office for their meetings.

For more information on attending a meeting, contact JanShallcross at 302-734-0898 or visit the website atwww.cancersupportdelaware.orgSonya Comstock

T o Y o u r H e a l t h

Springmill Sentinel StaffEditor: Dick RauschTreasurer: Diane DaigleSecretary: Janet GeftmanLayout and Production: Joan Gross, Dick RauschBusiness Manager: Julia HambrechtAdvertising: Carol Geiger, Janet Herner, Jerry Ryan, PatSteskal,Staff: Mary Jo Starrett, June Stemmle , Sonya Comstock,Directory: Joe Grippo, Julie HambrechtDistribution: Ralph and Pamela ClairCalendar: Tracey Lund

Please forward all articles & inquiries to:springmillnews@hotmail.com

ShinglesShingles,shown on TV as a most painful skin rash, is notsomething to take lightly. It is well known that one out ofevery three persons 60 years or older will get shingles.Some facts to consider:

Having had chickenpox means the risk is much greater ingetting shingles because it is the same virus that causeschickenpox but now reappears as shingles.

Older people may have a weak immune system due tostress, injury or certain medication.

One out of every six persons older than 60 years who getsshingles will have severe pain where the shingles rash islocated. The pain can be debilitating and last for severalmonths or even years with no treatment or cure from it.

Shingles may lead to serious complications involving theeye and other health issues.

A one-time shingles vaccine is recommended for adults 60years or older. The vaccine is also recommended for thosewho already had shingles. While the vaccine does notprevent one from getting shingles, it can reduce the chancesof having long-term pain. Speak to your healthcareprofessional about getting a one-time dose of this vaccine.

The vaccine is also very safe. For most people the worstside effect is mild redness or arm soreness.

You also need to know that Medicare covers the shinglesvaccine as one of its preventive benefits. But, unlike someother vaccines that are paid through Part B, the shinglesvaccination is covered by Part D.

If you have a Part D prescription drug plan, it will pay forthe vaccine itself and for your doctor or other health careprovider to give you the shot. You are only responsible forpaying the plan's approved copay at the time you getvaccinated, which usually runs around $60 to $80.

But, you need to make sure you follow your plan's rules inorder to keep your out-of-pocket costs down.

Sonya Comstock

Many ThanksFor the cards and visits received from my friends inSpringmill during my recovery from a stroke. I receivedexcellent care at the HealthSouth Rehab Hospital.

John Mitchell

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Another year has passedAnd we're all a little older.

Last summer felt hotterAnd winter seems much colder.

There was a time not long agoWhen life was quite a blast.

Now I fully understandAbout 'Living in the Past'

We used to go to weddings,Football games and lunches..Now we go to funeral homesAnd after-funeral brunches.

We used to have hangovers,From parties that were gay.Now we suffer body achesAnd whine the night away.

We used to go out dining,And couldn't get our fill.

Now we ask for doggie bags,Come home and take a pill..

We used to often travelTo places near and far.Now we get sore assesFrom riding in the car.

We used to go to nightclubsAnd drink a little booze.

Now we stay home at nightAnd watch the evening news.

That, my friend is how life is,And now my tale is told.

So, enjoy each day and live it up...Before you're too damned old!

Anonymous

UNika Custom Creations10 West Green St. Middletown, Tel: 302-535-5955

Nika Hipsher introduced me to her creative shop which ran thelength of her store in room after room. From the moment oneopens her door, what is obvious is that everything visible has herspecial touch. Her talent for bringing new life to treasured pieces isher passion, and folks appreciate a new beginning for somethingthat desperately needed her flair. Bringing old small pieces offurniture that only needed a new veneer to continue existing in thehousehold is what Nika does best. How did this all begin?

Craft shows were how Nikastarted and with her husband’shands, they were able torestore old pieces to a new“better than before” existence.These craft shows led Nika tothe idea of opening a shopwhere she could showcase hertalent. In May of 2014, sheopened her shop on Green Street making many of the itemsfor sale. As a person who never threw anything away, shefound herself married to someone who kept nothing. Nika wasable to convince her husband that old treasured items couldhave a new life with her talented hands which were alwaysbusy. Folks would bring in special furniture which includedsmall tables and cabinets and chairs and ask for advice onhow they could be restored and proudly displayed again.

A photo album with the many pieces restored is certainly worthlooking at when visiting her shop. With her special brand ofpaint, American Paint Company, which consists ofclay/chalk/Mineral based paint vs. acrylic or latex paint, Nikaoffers workshops to help people learn the techniques ofrestoration. Workshops also teach distressing techniques,sanding – wet vs. dry, antiquing with wax, finishing techniquewith top coat or waxing, and patrons leave with confidence totackle a project at home. Her different workshops are GirlsNight Out, Couples Only and others. Workshops are usuallyheld on Friday evenings depending on times and schedules ofeveryone. People are surprised at what they can do oncethey learn the technique from her. For those who would ratherturn over the entire project to Nika, she takes over andrestores the item to the customer’s satisfaction. Nika’s mainfocus is painting small to medium furniture pieces that standout in a room for many years.

As a retailer, Nika says one must keep a season or two aheadof the current date. That means working on what is currentand picturing the next season well before it arrives. Downcomes the current items and without hesitation, the nextseason is on display. Many of her items are one of a kind, soshe suggests that customers buy the piece when they see it.Items are recycled, repurposed, repainted, distressed, vintageand more. She welcomes folks to step inside her shop andsee firsthand what creativity can do.

UNika is located across from Town Hall. Hours are Tues-Thurs – 11-6, Fri & Sat 10-5 and closed on Sun. and Mon.Please check her Facebook page @UNikacustomcreations.Sonya Comstock

Another Year hasPassed …

Advertiser’sSpotlight

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