GIVING BACK - the Borough of Phoenixville

Transcription

An INCOMMUNITY Magazine
Phoenixville
Area
GIVING BACK
PAHS Students
Lead the Way in
Community Service
School District News
& Township News
14 Phoenixville School District
32 Borough of Phoenixville
56 Schuylkill Township
62 East Pikeland Township
70 Phoenixville Community
Special Section:
WINTER 2014
in-philly.com
Health & Wellness
Page 74
Our New Members
SEPTEMBER
Coldwell Home
Inspections
Spring City, PA 19475
610-745-3713
The Course of Time
Oakwood Drive
Narberth, PA 19072
516-650-3147
Brandywine Senior Living
at Upper Providence
1133 Black Rock Road
Phoenixville, PA 19460
610-933-3250
Grassroots Marketer
Mont Clare, PA 19453
267-225-4435
1 Touch AVS
917 Old Fernhill Road, Ste100
West Chester, PA 19380
610-948-9300
Lily Laser & Beauty
534 2nd Avenue
Collegeville, PA 19426
610-489-6148
Francesco & Giovanni
Salon & Spa
72 South Trooper Road
Trooper, PA 19403
610-539-2887
Moe’s Southwest Grill
1570 Egypt Road
Oaks, PA 19456
844-489-8845
Mr. Tire
311 Bridge Street
610-935-3677
Northwestern Mutual
150 N. Radnor Chester Road
Ste B-102, Radnor, PA 19087
610-293-3605
OCTOBER
The Chamber recently held Ribbon Cuttings for two Phoenixville businesses,
Mod House Vintage (left) and AFC Doctors Express (right).
GB Photography
Mike Irby Photography
Small Business Saturday
The Chamber would like to remind everyone to support small business this holiday season by buying local at your
favorite retailers, boutiques, and restaurants! Celebrate on Small Business Saturday (November 29th) in Phoenixville!
Chamber launches new website: The Phoenixville Chamber has launched a brand new website,
complete with individual membership directory listings and log-ins, online payment system, relocation
and visitor information, and community calendar. Check out: www.phoenixvillechamber.org to learn more!
171 East Bridge Street
|
|
610-933-3070
|
610-917-0503 fax
CONTENTS
winter
•
We Provide Your Child a Loving,
Caring, and Stimulating
Learning Environment
2 014
897 Valley Forge Rd., Phoenixville, PA • 610.983.0229
www.magicmemories.org
Highly qualified teachers
Small class sizes  Included snacks & lunch
Field trips, Spanish classes, & much more!
on the cover
Left to right: Students Taylor Crown, Emma Dolan, Deandre Gasden and
Zachary Gallow. See story on page 19. Photo by Barry Taglieber.
FREE preschool registration when you present this ad upon enrollment!
features
52 Bye Bye Birdie!
What is
Soroptimist
International
of Phoenixville?
Phoenixville Firebird Festival is a seasonal sensation.
74
Health & Wellness
Some advice for cold & flu season.
departments
2 From the Publisher
12 IN the Loop: What’s news in
Phoenixville Area
14 Phoenixville Area School
District News
32 Borough of Phoenixville News
46 IN Events: Halloween Parade on
Bridge Street
48 IN Events: Auction Goes to the
Dogs
50 IN Person: A Very Phoenixville
Toy Story
56
62
70
74
Schuylkill Township News
East Pikeland Township News
Community News
Business Spotlights
Industry Insights
30 School Safety: Eagle-Wolfington
Leasing
54 Dining Out: VF Trattoria
Over 70 years of local and international service.

Improving the lives of women & girls through
programs leading to social and economical
empowerment.

Scholarships for local girls & women.

Fundraising events like our Fashion Show on April
12th at Rivercrest Country Club.

An amazing group of women working to strengthen
our community on leadership and development.
IN the Know: One Wall, Eight
Stories
sponsored content
7 Kiddie Academy
31 Valley Forge Eye Care

47 Facetime Theatre
61 Phoenixville YMCA
73 Reshaping Nutrition
69 Dental Health: Dr. Gary Riggs and
Associates
76 Retirement Myths: Creative Capital
78 Senior Care: SarahCare of Malvern
IN Community is a publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting
the Phoenixville area and its comprising municipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts
of the people who live and work here. Our goal is to provide readers with the most
informative and professional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
www.siphoenixville.com
Phoenixville | Winter 2014 | in-philly.com 1
FROM
THE
PUBLISHER
CEO & PUBLISHER
Wayne Dollard
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Julie Talerico
j.talerico@icmags.com
W
EDITOR
Bob Byrne
b.byrne@icmags.com
elcome to the winter issue of IN
Phoenixville Area Magazine!
The response to our fall debut issue was
overwhelming! We heard from dozens of
businesses and residents letting us know
that they’ve been waiting for a publication
like this! We want to thank our advertisers
as well as our school and township partners
for their endorsement.
OFFICE MANAGER
Leo Vighetti
l.vighetti@icmags.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Jim Paladino
j.paladino@icmags.com
Each quarter, we bring you the latest
school and township news as well as timely
stories on local businesses and nonprofits.
We also feature rich community history,
events, as well as profiles of fascinating
people who are doing extraordinary things in your community.
If you know someone who is making a difference in your community, we’d love
to hear from you. Please email our editor, Bob Byrne, at b.byrne@icmags.com.
As 2014 comes to a close, we look forward to expanding our reach in the
Philadelphia area with additional community publications in 2015.
The staff at IN Community Magazines wishes you and your family a wonderful
holiday season and a happy, healthy New Year!
DESIGNER
Harvey Walls
h.walls@in-philly.com
VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES
Tamara Myers
t.myers@icmags.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Tiffany Marcovsky
t.marcovsky@icmags.com
Eileen Amoroso
e.amoroso@icmags.com
ADVERTISING COORDINATOR
Debbie Mountain
d.mountain@icmags.com
©2014 by IN Community Magazines.
All rights reserved. Reproduction or reuse of any
part of this publication is prohibited without
the written permission of the publisher.
Direct all inquiries, letters to the editor and press releases to:
IN Community Magazines
603 East McMurray Road
McMurray, PA 15317
800.558.0940 ext. 202
Wayne Dollard / CEO
IN Community Magazines
610.924.7322
wayne@icmags.com
IN Community Magazines is the largest magazine publishing company in Pennsylvania.
We are pleased to be partnered with the Phoenixville communities.
Send Us Your Story Ideas!
We’d love to hear from you if you know someone in
your community who is making a difference or has
done something extraordinary. We’re also looking
for interesting story ideas (little-known facts, history
or other news) within your community.
If you have suggestions, email us at
b.byrne@icmags.com.
2 1.800.558.0940, ext. 202 TO ADVERTISE | Phoenixville Area
To Advertise
To advertise, contact
Wayne Dollard at
610.924.7322
Please recycle this magazine when you are
through enjoying it.
Take Control of Your Diabetes
Diabetes affects more than 29 million
Americans –almost 10 percent of the
nation’s population – and is one of
the country’s fastest growing health
challenges. More than one million
adults are diagnosed with diabetes
each year, and an estimated additional
five million individuals with diabetes
have not been formally diagnosed
with the disease.
Phoenixville Hospital offers a diabetes
self-management education program
accredited by the American Diabetes
Association to help those with
diabetes connect with resources and
live a healthy lifestyle. Our diabetes
educators and support staff have
specialized training and experience in
diabetes management and teaching
principles and are committed to
providing a caring environment for
learning.
The program is designed for:
• Anyone with a diabetes diagnosis
• People who are adding insulin or
other diabetes medications to their
current treatment plan
• People having trouble with
controlling their blood sugar and A1c
• Women with diabetes before and
during pregnancy
• Adults whose diabetes is affected by
shift work
Self-management program topics
include:
• Diabetes meal planning: basic
planning to advanced carb counting
• Blood glucose monitoring: setting
blood sugar goals and meeting them
• Insulin overview: types of insulin,
safety issues
• Diabetes complications: prevention,
detection and treatment
• Managing diabetes: during activities
and illness
Quality.
Right Here.
Phoenixville Hospital is proud to have received the
following awards and accreditations.
Most health insurance plans pay for
diabetes education. Get started today!
Call Barbara O’Connor, RN, CDE at
610-983-1022 for information or visit
PhoenixvilleHospital.com.
5 Ways to Reduce TYPE 2 Diabetes
Research shows that for each of these strategies incorporated daily, men
reduced their chances of developing diabetes by 31% and women by
39%. For those who embraced all five, the risk of Type 2 diabetes feel by
approximately 80%.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Maintain a healthy diet
Achieve optimal body weight
Exercise
Limit alcohol consumption
Don’t smoke
MRI, Breast MRI, Mammography,
Breast Ultrasound, CT
PhoenixvilleHospital.com
phoenixvillehospital.com
GO RED FOR WOMEN!
Did you know that heart disease kills more women than cancer, AIDS,
and stroke? Did you know that 64% of women who suddenly die
from heart disease had no previous symptoms? Heart disease kills 60
women each hour in the United States.
February, which is “Go Red for Women” month, will be here before
we know it! It is a great time for women to get the facts about heart
disease and learn about risk factors, symptoms, and things women can
do to reduce their risk of becoming a statistic. Throughout the month
Are you at Risk of a Heart Attack?
There are two types of risk factors for heart disease:
• Genetic (which you are born with)
• Acquired (which are most commonly caused by lifestyle)
It’s important to take the time to learn which risk factors apply to
you and then take steps to eliminate or reduce them.
Risk factors you can’t control include:
• A family history of high blood pressure
• Heart disease (especially with onset before age 55)
• Aging
• Type I diabetes
• Being male
• Being female (after the onset of menopause)
Risk Factors you CAN control include:
• High blood pressure
• Low levels of high-density lipoproteins (HDLs) or high levels of
triglycerides or low-density lipoprotein (LDLs)
• Smoking
• Stress
• Excessive drinking
• Leading a sedentary lifestyle
• Being overweight by 30% or more
• Eating a high-saturated fat diet
• Type2 diabetes
Managing your Risk
The first step is to know your own risk factors for her heart attack.
One you do, consult your physician as the first step to start
making heart-healthy changes your physicians can help you
control risks that can be managed as medically recommended
lifestyle changes.
of February, Phoenixville Hospital will be holding free education
events, health screenings, and fun activities for the women of our
community. In addition, we will be once again partnering with local
school districts and community organizations to get the word out
about Go Red for Women month.
Check out PhoenxvilleHospital.com for an event schedule. If you would
like to host a Heart Health event, call Lori Cunningham at 610-983-1551.
During a Heart Attack, Minutes Matter!
If you or someone with you experiences
one of more symptoms of a heart
attack, call 9-1-1 immediately and
ask to the go the ER at Phoenixville
Hospital, which an accredited chest
pain center.
Heart attacks are not always sudden and
intense. Many heart attacks start slowly with
only mild pain or discomfort. Some people
so not experience chest pain, but instead have
other signs.
Heart Attack Warning Signs
• Chest Discomfort: uncomfortable pressure, heaviness,
squeezing tightness or burning that lasts for more than two
minutes, or goes away and comes back.
• Discomfort in Other Areas of the Upper Body: May be felt in
one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
• Shortness of Breath: This may occur with or without chest
discomfort.
• Other signs: May include braking out in cold sweat, nausea,
vomiting, light-headedness or extreme weakness or fatigue.
Woman often have other less common warning signs of heart
attack:
• Atypical chest, stomach or abdominal pain
• Nausea or dizziness
• Shortness of breath and difficulty breathing
• Unexplained anxiety, weakness or fatigue
• Palpitations, cold sweats, paleness
Comprehensive Heart
Care…Right Here at
Phoenixville Hospital
According to the American Heart Association, 84 million people in
the U.S. suffer from some form of cardiovascular disease, affecting
blood flow throughout the body. Cardiovascular disease can lead to
heart attacks, strokes or other complications.
The Heart Center at Phoenixville Hospital focuses on care for the
heart and connected circulatory system. Our comprehensive
program includes preventative, diagnostic, interventional and
surgical care and outpatient cardiac rehabilitation. Our team of
skilled cardiologists, nurses and technologists work together to
provide patients with personalized, state-of-the-art care. With highlytrained physicians and sophisticated technology such as a biplane
catheterization lab that allows for complex radiofrequency ablations,
Thermocool Smart-Touch Catheters and Ocelot Lumivascular
equipment, local patients have access to exceptional heart care right
here in our community.
The Heart Center at Phoenixville Hospital has received accreditation
in treating patients with Heart Failure and as a Chest Pain Center
with PCI from the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care.
For more information about the Heart Center at Phoenixville Hospital or
to get connected to one of our physicians, visit PhoenixvileHospital.com.
Cardiac Rehab…Right Here
If you’ve been diagnosed with a heart-related condition, your doctor
may decide to prescribe cardiac rehab to help strengthen your heart,
reduce risk factors, and help you resume a normal or semi-normal
lifestyle. The Cardiac Rehabilitation program at Phoenixville Hospital
offers structured exercise programs designed to meet each person’s
special lifestyle needs and exercise goals. Our specialized cardiac
rehab staff is dedicated to helping you recover faster and more
completely. Let us help you get educated on your heart health, learn
how to be more active, and get on with your life as a stronger and
healthier you.
Based on your diagnosis, Medicare and most insurance plans may
cover cardiovascular rehabilitation. Our professional staff can help
obtain doctor’s consent and our business office counselors are
available to help patients make payment arrangements. After the
rehab program ends, patients can continue with monitored workouts
at the rehab for a monthly fee as an out-of-pocket maintenance
program.
For more information about the Cardiac Rehabilitation program at
Phoenixville Hospital call 610-983-1243.
Testing, testing...for Your Heart
The Heart Station at Phoenixville Hospital is an integral part of the hospital’s comprehensive program to fight heart disease. Located in the
south tower of Phoenixville Hospital, the Heart Station provides non-invasive tests that offer your physician valuable information in the
diagnosis and management of heart disease. These procedures are conducted by our qualified cardiologists, certified nurses and highly
trained technologists.
Heart station services include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
EKG
Holter Monitoring
Echocardiogram
Stress Testing
n Nuclear; Stress Echo; Non-imaging
Echocardiogram
Transesophageal Echocardiogram
Cardioversion
Carotid Ultrasound
Upper & Lower Extremity Artery Ultrasound
n as well as other Arterial Ultrasound studies
For more information about the Heart Station at
Phoenixville Hospital, please call 610-983-1191.
Convenience is a top priority, especially when you are sick. Phoenix Family Medicine has three convenient
locations staffed with board-certified physicians who treat patients of all ages, from newborns to senior
adults. Same-day and evening appointments are available and walk-ins are welcome. We accept most
insurance, Medicare and Medicaid. Ask about services your plan may cover at no cost to you.
ce Handler, D.O.
oard Certified in
ternal Medicine
Stephanie Kaliner, D.O.
Dana
D.O.
DanaBurkholder,
Burkholder,
DO
Payce
Handler, D.O.
DO
Board
CertifiedPayce
in Handler,
Board Certified
Certified in
Board Certified
Certified in
Board
in
Board
in
Family
Practice
Family Practice
Internal Medicine
Family
Practice
Internal
Medicine
Dana Burkholder, D.O.
Board Certified in
Family Practice
Stephanie
D.O.
StephanieKaliner,
Kaliner, DO
Board Certified
Certified in
Board
in
Family Practice
Family
Practice
Kelly Cavalli, DO
Board Certified in
Internal Medicine
610-935-3929
Payce Handler, D.O.
Stephanie Kaliner, D.O.
Board Certified in Phoenixville
Board300
Certified
in
Schuylkill
Road
Internal
Medicine
Family Practice
King
of Prussia 700 S. Henderson
Road, Building B, Suite 230
Norristown 1308 DeKalb Pike
610-935-3929
610-935-3929
Phoenixville
300 Schuylkill Roadand Floaters Mean for You?
What
Do Flashes
King of Prussia 700 S. Henderson Road, Building B
Ravi
Dilip Patel, MD,
Norristown
1308 DeKalb Pike
Vitreoretinal Specialist,
lle 300 Schuylkill Road
Moore Eye Institute
0 S. Henderson Road, Building B
wn 1308
DeKalb
Pike
Sometimes
people
see small, moving spots or specks in their field
Periodically check the vision in each of your eyes to make sure there
are not any new floaters or flashes. Cover one eye and pick a point
straight ahead to look at. Count the number of floaters and pay
attention to how long and how intense the flashes are.
You should see your eye doctor if:
of vision. These sensations are called “floaters”. Floaters may appear
Phoenixville
300 Schuylkill
Road
• You have
never seen floaters and flashes before and all of a sudden
as dots, circles, lines, clouds, cobwebs, or other
shapes. They usually
you
start
seeing
a lot of
look gray or white and are somewhat
see-through.
They
may
move
or
King of Prussia 700 S. Henderson Road, Building
B them.
•
You
had
floaters
and
flashes
before, but you notice a sudden
remain in one place. About 7 out of 10 people experience floaters at
Norristown
1308
DeKalb
Pike
increase
in
how
many
there
are.
some point during their lives. It is easiest to see floaters when looking
• A veil or a gray area appears in your peripheral vision or side vision.
at a plain background, like a blank wall or blue sky. Deleted two
• You have had floaters and flashes for a long time, but they now look
sentences for space.
different than they used to.
Flashes of light, called “flashes”, sometimes appear with floaters.
• Your floaters interfere with critical tasks such as reading and driving.
Flashes look like flashing lights or lightning streaks, even though no
• You had floaters in one eye months or years ago and now have them
light is actually flashing. Flashes are similar to the sensation of “seeing
in the other eye.
stars” when a person is hit on the head. Flashes are usually noticed at
It is important to get regular eye exams and to inform your doctor if
night or in a dark room.
you experience floaters or flashes. If your eye doctor finds a serious
Floaters and flashes are very common and are usually not a sign of a
problem, he or she may be able to fix it before it causes loss of vision.
dangerous medical condition. However, if both floaters and flashes
Thanks to advances in medicine, several surgical procedures are
begin suddenly, it may indicate a more serious eye problem, such as
available to treat a retinal tear and retinal detachment, if any are found
a retinal tear or retinal detachment. Retinal detachment sometimes
during your eye examination.
leads to severe loss of vision and blindness. If a floater appears all of
Ravi Dilip Patel, MD is a board-certified Vitreoretinal Surgeon who
a sudden or if there is a rapid increase in the number of floaters, you
specializes in complex vitreoretinal surgery and medical retina conditions
should see an eye doctor immediately. You may have a serious eye
at Phoenixville Hospital. For information on floaters and flashes
problem.
evaluation or to schedule a appointment in the Phoenixville office, call the
While you cannot prevent floaters and flashes, you can prevent
Moore Eye Institute at 610.422.5000.
vision loss by recognizing the symptoms of retinal tear and retinal
detachment.
610-935-3929
SPONSORED CONTENT
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
SPONSORED CONTENT
Kiddie Academy
So Much More Than Child Care
F
or the past four years, Kiddie
Academy of Phoenixville has not
only been educating the region’s
children and preparing them for higher
learning, they’ve been accumulating
accolades for doing it.
Janel Work, director of Kiddie Academy,
said earning those accreditations
is a testament to her and her staff ’s
commitment to educating the kids of
Phoenixville.
“We set the bar high for the standard
of child care at our center,” she said. “We
surpassed our three-star Keystone Stars
State Accreditation in August, and earned
“I have three kids under the age of 5, and all of
my kids are here at the facility,” she said. “I’m
trying to mold the program for not only for
my own family as well as the community. The
work we do here will pay off for generations.”
state-of-the-art,
Kiddie Academy accepts children ages 6 weeks
assessments are
through 12 years for before- and after-school
care, full summer camp, and pre-K classes.
individualized and Classrooms are state of the art, assessments are
individualized and healthy snacks aren’t just
healthy snacks aren’t included, they’re grown on site.
“We were ranked top in the state for our food
just included, they’re program, which avoids processed foods,” Work
said. “We make our own muffins and chicken
grown on site.
nuggets. We grow vegetables in the backyard.
our fourth star, which is the highest
We teach proper portion control and what a
level of state accreditation in Pennsylvania. Now that we’ve
healthy plate should look like. We’re setting the foundation
achieved this status, we’re currently going for our national
for well-rounded students. Seventy-five percent of their brain
accreditation.”
development is happening before the age of 4. We are very
Seeing that kind of performance at Kiddie Academy
proud of the enrichment we are providing to help each child
shouldn’t come as a surprise. Prior to opening the academy,
grow.”
Work has a background of a decade in public education. Work
Parents looking to enroll their children in Kiddie Academy
won Director of the Year out of all of the Kiddie Academies
should plan ahead. Due to the quality of the program, there
in the United States this year, and was flown out to Las
is a substantial waiting list for enrollment. Free tours are
Vegas and surprised with the award at Kiddie Academy’s
available onsite and online, and parents can secure a place on
National Convention. The nomination came from her
the waiting list with no money down.
employees, clients and the corporate office. Work not only
With over 10,000 square feet of building space, three
vests time at Kiddie Academy but also sits on the board of
age-appropriate playgrounds and communal garden, there’s
Soroptimist International of Phoenixville, which supports
more than enough at Kiddie Academy to keep your child fit
the growth of women and children, and the Technical
mentally and physically. And, for parents who want to check in
College High School of Pickering Campus. She’s a member
on their child during the work day, they can always sign into a
of Phoenixville Chamber of Commerce and Phoenixville
secure CCTV system online to catch their little ones laughing,
Area Business Association. She credits these organizations
playing or cooking.
with giving her a solid foundation for the business in her
Kiddie Academy is open from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily.
home town of Phoenixville.
For more information, go to http://educationaldaycare.
For parents wondering how Work does it, she has three
kiddieacademy.com/academies/phoenixville online or call
great reasons to keep Kiddie Academy in the top rankings.
610.935.7529 to schedule your free tour today.
Classrooms are
COMMUNITY
REALTY
J
ennifer Daywalt’s name has long been synonymous
with success and overwhelmingly satisfied
customers in the Phoenixville-area Real Estate
Market.
Now she’s created a brilliant plan to take it to the next
level: Jennifer is partnering with Nationally respected
Mega-Force Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate to
open a large modern office in Phoenixville along with
her partner, John Colarusso, whose hard work turned
Petrucci’s Ice Cream & Water Ice into a Phoenixville
institution.
In many ways, it’s a natural evolution.
Jennifer has helped countless people find and purchase
dream homes, and has a sharp eye for getting maximum
advantage in resale value. It’s the kind of reputation that
can be earned only one sale at a time, spending unlimited
hours forging professional relationships that often become
personal friendships. John is a friend and member to many
Phoenixville and surrounding area organizations.
Jennifer recently realized she needed to keep creating
new ways to provide the best possible help and support
for clients – and keep her business moving ahead.
Fortunately, Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate had
the same goals. Their paths crossed and the rest, as they
say, is history.
“It’s a franchise built on a brand that’s been an integral
part of the American home since 1924,” Jennifer said. All
of her clients will benefit from consumer trust that comes
with the Better Homes and Gardens® brand.
Her new Bridge Street office is perfect for walk-in traffic,
Jennifer said, and her full-time staff is qualified and eager
to offer top-notch assistance. She and her team are
actively recruiting Realtors who want a FRESH & EXCITING
office to call home with a tremendous opportunity to
grow their current business.
One advantage to the National affiliation with Better
Homes and Gardens® Real Estate is pooled resources.
“Most of the existing real estate technology is outdated
right now,” Jennifer said. “It’s not keeping up with the
needs of the consumer.”
Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate’s superior
technology is the game-changer.
Working with media giant Meredith Corp., the publisher
of Better Homes and Gardens magazine, provides
industry-exclusive access to valuable consumer channels
and a competitive edge in the Real Estate market.
Customers will be able to refine searches in useful
ways, such as searching property listings based on school
districts.
Bottom line: It will be easier for people considering a
move to find what they’re seeking.
Jennifer has touched many people during her long
and successful career, and she said the new business will
seamlessly provide excellent service to all of her customers
and professional contacts.
The New Bridge Street office, temporarily located at
221 Bridge Street, 2nd Floor in Phoenixville, will serve
Montgomery, Chester, Delaware, Philadelphia and Berks
Counties.
There will be a Grand Opening celebration planned for
Spring 2015 in the New Storefront location on the 200
Block of Bridge Street, but Jennifer’s already running at
full-speed (as usual).
“I will continue to bring excellent service to the
Phoenixville Community,” Jennifer said, “and will be able
to provide them with so much more now! I love selling
homes and now I’m bringing a well-known expert home
giant for 80 years, Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate
to my business!
Becoming part of a National Real Estate giant lends
nationwide credibility, but it still comes down to the
outstanding record, recognized track record and hardearned reputation Jennifer Daywalt has established selling
homes in and around Phoenixville.
Now she has a national mega-partner worthy of her own
accomplishments.
Jennifer can be reached at 610-999-7693 Direct/Text;
Sellinghomesjenn@aol.com, www.JenniferDaywalt.com,
Twitter @JennDaywalt or on Facebook – Phoenixville
Real Estate.
Jennifer Daywalt, CRS Phoenixville’s Hometown Realtor
COMMUNITY
REALTY
610.999.7693 Direct/Text • 610.933.1919 Main Office
www.JenniferDaywalt.com • Sellinghomesjenn@aol.com
• Facebook: Phoenixville Real Estate • Twitter: @JennDaywalt
COMMUNITY
REALTY
Just a Few RECENT REASONS TO HIRE
Jennifer Daywalt as Your Realtor...
310 Virginia Avenue, Phoenixville
SECURED BUYERS
923 Franklin Ave., Pottstown
1083 Chester Springs Road, Phoenixville
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746 Roy Rd., King of Prussia
LISTED & SOLD
249 2nd Avenue, Phoenixville
18 Woodsedge Rd., Audubon
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329 Morris Street, Phoenixville
LISTED & SECURED BUYERS
9 Pageant Dr., Royersford
1101 Hidden Hollow Drive, Phoenixville
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226 Liberty Ave, W. Norriton
LISTED & SOLD
19 Mill Street, Phoenixville
284 Green St., Royersford
LISTED AND SOLD
LISTED & SOLD
217 Stone Ridge Dr., W. Norriton
SECURED BUYER
332 Church St., Phoenixville
312 S. Main St., Spring City
LISTED & SOLD
LISTED & SECURED BUYERS
217 Stoneridge, W. Norriton
SECURED BUYERS
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD
MY CLIENTS ARE TALKING! A FEW OTHER REASONS TO SPEAK WITH
JENNIFER WHEN SELLING OR PURCHASING A HOME!
n 1. Superior knowledge of the area allowing us to get a fair value for our home; 2. Provided great assistance and direction in finding a new home in
the area and negotiated very well for its purchase; 3. Very professional but easy to communicate with her and always available to answer questions
or solve problems, whether big or small
n We worked with Jennifer to buy our house. Throughout the process she was responsive and attentive and looked for our interests, pointing out
potential concerns that we might need to consider. Her knowledge of the area was also helpful. Once we found our home, she helped us get to the
finish line despite a major issue that came up last minute. We would recommend Jennifer to anyone looking to buy a home.
n Jennifer was absolutely wonderful throughout my entire home buying experience. She negotiated things beyond my expectations. Whenever I
needed things, she was always on top of it. She kept me completely organized with dates and when things were due.
n I should have gone with Jennifer FIRST! But hindsight is always 20/20. We felt obligated to use a realtor who was really helpful in showing us new
homes to purchase as the listing agent for our home. 7 Months later and our home was still on the market and only shown twice. We relisted with
Jennifer at the asking price she’d suggested 7 months earlier and within a week our home had more calls and showings than in the 7 months prior.
Our home was sold within about 1 month and Jennifer showed us homes that would fit our needs and budget in our neighborhood. Fast forward
2 months and we have closed on both properties. Everything was extremely smooth between Jennifer and the Mortgage person Jennifer
recommended. There were ‘zero’ surprises and we couldn’t be happier.
n Jennifer was utterly reliable, kind, and on top of things. She handled every detail of selling a house that wasn’t an easy sale and I was free to focus
my own attention on adjusting to a new community and resolving health issues. I’d recommend her to anyone as a pearl beyond price.
n I was with a previous agent who was not handling the sale to my liking! I was referred to Jennifer by a friend and she jumped into action. I am
eager to sell our house and Jennifer had new photos, documentation, and the listing on all the internet media in a week! She is fabulous and
knows her territory. The sale is pending! I would highly recommend this agent to sell your house quickly!
Call Jennifer Daywalt @ 610-999-7693 to be ready for the spring market!
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in
the
LOOP
RAPP’S DAM BRIDGE CLOSED THROUGH WINTER
Covered Bridge was damaged in April.
What’s
news in
Phoenixville
BY BOB BYRNE
Historic Rapp’s Dam Bridge in East
Pikeland Township will remain closed
through the winter. The bridge, which spans
French Creek, is on the National Register
of Historic Places and was originally built
in 1866. It is 106 feet long, 14 feet wide and
has a vehicle height clearance of 10 feet. The
bridge was rehabilitated in 2011 by PennDOT
at the cost of $1.5 million.
The bridge structure was severely damaged
when a tractor trailer was driven through
the bridge in April, splintering much of the
wooden structure’s inside and roof.
The trailer was 13 feet high, according to court
documents. The driver has been charged in
the accident. Prior to the accident the bridge
carried an average of 3,600 vehicles a day.
A temporary covering will be placed over
the bridge for protection from the elements
during the winter months. According to
PennDOT, the permanent restoration project
will begin in March. No timeframe for
completion of the work has been finalized.
Rapp’s Dam Bridge is one of only 15
remaining covered bridges in Chester County.
FUN AND FOOD WITH A PURPOSE:
Phoenixville Community Education Foundation plans dinner and auction.
You can help support the Phoenixville
Community Education Foundation by
attending the organization’s dinner and
auction on Friday, February 27, at the River
Crest Golf Club in Phoenixville. Tickets will
go on sale January 1 at pcefonline.com.
The Phoenixville Community Education
Foundation is a nonprofit organization
dedicated to supporting students of the
Phoenixville Area School District with funds
for everything from helping kids participate
in activities that cost more than they or their
families can afford (such as field trips, club
fees, instrumental rental fees and uniform/
costume costs). The foundation also awards
mini-grants for students, teachers and
principals, summer programs, anti-bullying
initiatives, Destinations with Direction
college classes and many, many more.
One of the highlights of the evening is a
“We Do This” showcase presented by students
who have benefited from PCEF grant
programs.
Learn more about the Phoenixville
Community Education Foundation at
pcefonline.com.
VALLEY FORGE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
BECOMES UNIVERSITY OF VALLEY FORGE
Students and faculty mark historic milestone in Phoenixville.
Valley Forge Christian College is now University of Valley Forge.
The state Department of Education recognized the school’s new name
and made it “official” on September 16.
University President Dr. Dan Meyer led a campus-wide celebration
marking the latest expansion of the school. “As we walk through this
transformational doorway, we acknowledge a new name, but same
mission. A mission to prepare individuals for a life of service and
leadership in the church and in the world,” says Meyer.
The university campus, on the grounds of the old Phoenixville
General Hospital, serves more than 1,000 students. The university
offers 67 undergraduate majors, seven graduate programs and nine
associate programs and has a 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
The school was founded in 1939 as Eastern Bible Institute (EBI),
with a mission to train evangelists, pastors, missionaries, Christian
educators and lay workers. EBI expanded and was renamed Northeast
Bible Institute (NBI). After a fourth year of study was added, NBI
became Northeast Bible College (NBC). In 1976–1977, NBC
moved to its current location in Phoenixville, Pa., and was renamed
Valley Forge Christian College. The name remained from 1976 until
September when it officially became University of Valley Forge. For
more info on the university, visit www.valleyforge.edu/university.
In honor of these Gold Star Families, the Hershel Williams Medal
of Honor Foundation designed a memorial that would allow each
state to share the stories of their fallen sons and daughters, according
to the Freedoms Foundation. “The four-panel monument tells the
compelling and harrowing sacrifice that has and continues to burden
so many Pennsylvania families. A single cutout of a lone serviceperson
saluting is a reminder to us all that a son or daughter, husband or
wife, friend or neighbor will never return home. In honor of the
Pennsylvania fallen, the memorial was made and created by the
labors of local Pennsylvania companies and many Gold Star Family
members,” the foundation explains.
The Freedoms oundation at Valley Forge is located on 85 acres in
Schuylkill Township. This national educational nonprofit organization
welcomes thousands of people each year to participate in programs
to encourage engaged, responsible citizenship based on the Bill of
Responsibilities authored by the Freedoms Foundation in 1985. ■
Photos courtesy of Melissa Farkouh
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Pennsylvania’s Monument is in Schuylkill Township.
Pennsylvania’s Gold Star Family memorial is now open on the
campus of the Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge. Only the second
of its kind in the nation, the memorial pays tribute to the families and
loved ones of members of the armed forces who have died in service
to the country. Organizers hope to erect one Gold Star Monument
in each state. The monument was unveiled and dedicated during a
ceremony on September 21.
John Abell
610-935-9458
808 Valley Forge Road
Phoenixville
johnabell@allstate.com
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113241
GOLD STAR FAMILIES
MEMORIAL UNVEILED
Phoenixville Area | Winter 2014 | in-philly.com 13
PHO E NI X VIL L E A RE A S CH O OL DI S TRIC T NE WS
hoenixville Area School District
A MESSAGE FROM THE
SUPERINTENDENT
The Mission of the Phoenixville Area School District is:
To prepare, inspire, and graduate students to meet the challenges of the
future, while we grow to become the educational hub of the community.
As we collectively work to meet our District Mission, the questions
that arise all relate to the “what” and more importantly the “how” of
what we do.
When Dr. Speaker Palubinsky and I came to the District four years
ago, our collective “how” was to:
Dr. Alan D. Fegley, Phoenixville Area School District
Superintendent.
Support, through quality and varied programing, and encourage,
through the development of a growth mindset, all students achieving to
their fullest potential.
As a community, you have embraced our commitment to growth, as
have the faculty, staff, administration, and Board of School Directors.
The Phoenixville Area School District is unique in its desire to grow,
improve and embrace its rich diversity. There are three primary areas
of focus as we grow to help all students reach their full potential.
Rigorous, targeted, and varied academic opportunities are provided to all students.
During the past four years, the Phoenixville Area School District has
grown its capacity to help all students achieve to their fullest potential by adding rich and diverse opportunities for all students. Some
examples include:
• Providing multiple reading programs to meet the varied learning
styles of students at the elementary and middle school levels
• Providing a challenging elementary mathematics program that will
prepare all students to take and excel in Algebra 1 in 7th grade
• Providing academically talented students, at any grade level, the
ability to move through the District curriculum at their own pace.
For example, if a student comes knowing the content of an Algebra
1 course and they show their knowledge by scoring an 85 or better
on the mid-term and final exams of the Algebra 1 course and they
will be moved to an Algebra 2 course.
• At Phoenixville Area High School, students have the opportunity
to partake in over 35 dual enrollment courses in World Languages,
English, science, mathematics, computer systems, psychology, business, education, and health sciences.
• Capable high school students are also encouraged and supported in
taking over 25 Advance Placement courses as early as their freshman year. In the 2014-15 school year, over, 100 freshmen are taking
an AP course. Across the entire high school student population,
over 49% of all students are taking at least one Advance Placement
course.
14 Phoenixville Area
The third area, which sets us apart, is our rich diversity.
Phoenixville Area School District is rich with diversity. This
diversity allows students the opportunity to learn about the
wider world. To learn how different cultures understand the
world, learn how to interact and be part of a diverse society,
and learn why it is important to not only relate but also
deeply understand another student’s point of view. Quite
simply, a District rich in diversity provides students with the
opportunity to experience and learn from peers who have
other unique and valuable experiences.
The Phoenixville Area School District has been, is, and will
continue to grow to be the best. Our purpose is to help all
students grow to their fullest potential possible. For those
whose children are in the District, please continue to work
with your child’s teacher and principal in the amazing manner you have. For those whose children are not part of the
District, I encourage you to contact us at the District. Come
take a tour. Learn about the possibilities that exist in a District, which focuses on student growth & development.
P HOE N I X VI L L E ARE A SC HOOL DI STRI C T NE WS
intramural sports at the middle level, 25 PIAA sports at
the secondary level, concert band, marching band, multiple choirs, Amnesty International, Art Club, Engineering Club, Physics Club, multiple World Language Clubs,
Green Club, Key Club, Model United Nations, National
Honor Society, Varsity Club, Student Government, and
Yearbook to name a few.
• All elementary students are taught a world language –
Spanish. The long-term District goal is to have all elementary students complete Spanish 1 by the time they enter
6th grade
• For students with special learning needs, the District has a
dedicated and talented staff of educators specially trained
to meet the specific learning needs of these students.
What makes Phoenixville Area School District unique
is our dedication and capacity to integrate and educate
nearly all students in the regular education setting
Further growth is planned:
• At the high school, an Air Force Junior ROTC program
with a focus on aeronautics will begin the spring of 2015
• Continued expansion of the Orchestra Program
• Development of an Early Learning Center for Kindergarten and First Grade students
As a District, we have many educational and extracurricular
opportunities for ALL students to develop a growth mindset. When a student has a growth mindset, they understand
that that their talents and abilities will develop through
effort, good teaching and persistence. The student believes
that they and everyone else can get smarter if they focus
their efforts. A student with a growth mindset understands
that intelligence and talents are not fixed but can be grown
when challenges and difficulties are embraced and solved.
Encouraging all students to take courses that are more rigorous, stretch their imagination and intellect in extracurricular
offerings, and develop their body and mind through sports,
is part of what makes the Phoenixville Area School District
experience unique.
Phoenixville Area School District
• At Phoenixville Area Middle School, students are challenged in STEM courses in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades.
Highly capable 8th grade students are taught the specific
writing style for success in Advance Placement classes and
dual enrollment classes.
• The District realizes that not all students thrive in a purely
comprehensive academic environment. Thus, to help all
students connect and achieve to their fullest potential,
extra-curricular activities are available for all students.
These extracurricular offerings include: Board Games
Club, Chess Club, Builders Club, Envirothon, LEGO
Club, Girls Leadership Club, Science Fair, Spartan Race,
What Makes a Phoenixville Education Unique?
At recent Open Houses in both the Phoenixville Area
Middle School and High School, parents and prospective
students were treated to a first-hand look at the many
opportunities for students to succeed.
X PAHS Math Department Chair, Andy Chiofolo describes the
outstanding Math curriculum during the Fall Open House for
prospective students.
First and foremost, our academic program is designed to
challenge students to reach their highest potential. Resources
are in place to provide support and encouragement to all
students. Our secondary campus increases the opportunities
for middle school students to take accelerated classes if
appropriate. With 25 Advanced Placement (AP) and 35
Dual-Enrollment (college credit) courses offered at the high
school, students are encouraged to take the most rigorous
program possible. Nearly 50% of our high school students
are currently taking at least one AP course, and our scores on
the AP tests are some of the highest in the county.
The broad range of courses offered provides “something
for everyone”…art, music, foreign language, technology,
business and child development are just some of the
electives in the secondary program. An orchestra program
was initiated last year at the elementary level, and this year
was expanded to the middle school. We believe in educating
the “whole child”, and in enabling students to pursue their
passion.
X Checking out the Keyboard Lab during the PAMS Open House
for prospective students.
The strong academic curriculum is matched by an equally
robust activities and athletics program. Phantom Pride is
on display throughout the District, and our teams and clubs
have found great success in competition at the local, regional,
and national levels.
Our students have a deep and lasting connection to the
Phoenixville community. At school events, students
link arms to sing the Phoenixville Alma Mater, and you
know you’re witnessing something very special. We are
Phoenixville, and we couldn’t be prouder.
3.
4.
2.
1.
APPLAUSE, APPLAUSE
Our high school students and faculty continue their history of excellence in the classroom and on the playing field,
and we proudly recognize their accomplishments.
1. PASD is proud to acknowledge our National Merit Scholarship Corporation semifinalist and commended students.
Across the country, there are approximately 50,000 students (of the 1.5 million who applied) who are honored as the
top performers on the PSAT /National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. David Coffman is being recognized as a Semifinalist, representing less than 1% of high school seniors. He will have the opportunity to attain Finalist standing, and
have the opportunity to win a National Merit Scholarship, and earn the Merit Scholar title. We congratulate all of our
students, and wish them continued success in their senior year!
Pictured L to R: David Coffman, Emily Gallina, Chris Fitting, Josh Ziev, David Nascari, & John Lukowski.
2. Three Phoenixville Area High School teachers were recently rewarded by the College Board AP STEM Access Program
for doing what they do best—teaching! Jim Phipps, Karen Davies and Andy Chiofolo recently received $7,600 in funds
for their classrooms. This award recognized the increase in enrollment by underrepresented students (black/African
American, Hispanic/Latino, Native American, female) within the AP STEM classes, and rewarded the teachers for each
student in their classes who received a 3, 4, or 5 on the AP Exam.
3. Thirty-five juniors and seniors were recently inducted into the PAHS National Honor Society. These students have all
achieved high academic success as well as demonstrated an ongoing commitment to serving their community.
4. Congratulations to the PAHS Field Hockey Team for qualifying for the PIAA State Tournament! The girls had an amazing
season, led by Senior Bailey Quinn, who finished the season as one of the Top Ten Scorers in the country!
“Everyone Can Be Great Because Every
X Throughout PASD, community service
is a major focus. From the start,
students learn the importance in
giving back to their community, and we
create opportunities for all students
to participate at whatever level they
can. At the high school level, all
students must complete a “Senior
Project” to graduate. This project
takes many different forms, but must
include a minimum of 15 hours of
community service. This presents a
wonderful opportunity for students
to “give back” to the Phoenixville
community, and every year, our
students rise to the challenge.
X The District was thrilled to once again
be a major part of the “For Pete’s Sake
Paint the Town Pink” efforts to raise
awareness and funds in the battle
against cancer. Our students and staff
were involved from a district-wide PINK
OUT day, to the Play for the Cure Game
& Dunk Tank (featuring some favorite
teachers and principals), and finally the
5K which saw more than 1200 runners
on our secondary campus. Over one
hundred of those runners were part of
a special team honoring a 4th grader
at East Pikeland Elementary who is
currently undergoing treatment for
leukemia. Several of our high school
students volunteered their efforts with
the race, and many of the activities
leading up to the main event, which
raised more than $35,000.
Dr. Sharer from the Phoenixville Hospital Cancer Center accepting a check from Girls Tennis Coach
Ryan Curley, Julia Teter, Sarah Reed, Robin Burgess. The girls ran the annual fall tournament and
organized other fundraising events as part of their Senior Graduation Project.
W This fall, the Phoenixville Borough
requested some help with clean-up
efforts in the community parks. PAHS
Principal Dr. Craig Parkinson decided it
was a perfect time to initiate a “Senior
Community Service Day”, inviting the
entire class to participate. Students
raked leaves, picked up trash, painted,
planted, and helped beautify many of the
borough parks, the entrance to the high
school, and the Freedom Foundation.
Veteran teacher Hank Coyne said the
kids “were fantastic. They felt good
about what they did, and the Borough
really appreciated their efforts.”
W Envirothon Club students at the
Phoenixville Area Middle School
undertook a very special project, as
they worked with the Green Valleys
Watershed Association to install a
bioswale vegetated channel to capture
and direct stormwater runoff from the
school’s cafeteria roof and surrounding
grounds. Not only will it help eliminate
erosion, it also improves the view from
the cafeteria windows!
one Can Serve” – Martin Luther King
Defined STEM:
Connecting the real world with real learning
8th grade students Frankie Reo, Carly Pateski, Maddie Raeburn, and
Isaac Gale show the posters they created for the Farm to Table project.
An 8th grade student works on his sunglass design project.
If you were designing the ideal learning situation for students, you would want the curriculum to
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have lessons that are engaging and relevant
be cross-curricular
focus on 21st century skills
differentiate learning
incorporate non-fiction reading and writing and
provide an authentic assessment of their students understanding
The new Defined STEM courses for all Phoenixville Area Middle School students provide all of this in a challenging
project-based curriculum for students in 6th-8th grade. Throughout the year, students will work on a variety of
different projects, each lasting approximately 5 weeks. Projects are based on real world issues, and provide concrete connections for students with skills they are learning in school and real life careers. Utilizing quality research
sites (identified by the teacher), students will investigate an issue, design a product, create written material and a
multimedia presentation to advertise the product.
Defined STEM combines a number of different content types that accentuate the educational strategies of STEM
education, with plans to expand to elementary school next year. Real-World Videos set the stage for each lesson
by showing the practical application of educational concepts within a company/industry. Performance Tasks built
around the specific job/industry ask the students to apply the knowledge learned in real world, unpredictable
situations. Literacy Tasks ask students to read, synthesize and write informative and/or position papers around the
real world career based topic.
The 8th grade curriculum is being taught by Jonathan Gabb, who says he really “likes seeing the kids connect
everything they are learning in their other classes.” The interdisciplinary approach encourages students to
strengthen all of their skills in a creative format. Dr. Frank Garritano, PAMS Principal, is a strong supporter, and
was instrumental in bringing the program to the District. Even though the program is called Defined STEM, he
emphasized the communication piece is one of the most important components.
Students are embracing the opportunity to combine a creative flair with the Science, Technology, and Math. In
describing the Farm to Table project the 8th grade students completed earlier this fall, students stressed the need
to develop their marketing tools to accompany the scientific research they conducted. One student said it “felt
like we were really working on something REAL, which was very cool.” Exactly.
T Technology plays a key role in the
new Math in Focus program.
This fall, PASD implemented a new K-6 math
curriculum, designed to help students learn
much more than just math facts; it teaches them
to problem solve. Math in Focus: The Singapore
Approach is a highly regarded program with
an emphasis on understanding the “how” and
“why” so students can become stronger mathematical thinkers. Concepts are taught moving
through a sequence of concrete to pictorial to
abstract, challenging students to think much
more deeply about math. Technology, is integrated throughout the curriculum with the use
of eBooks, Interactive Whiteboard activities,
online student activities, online manipulatives,
and a bar modeling application.
Teachers are already seeing a difference in the
way students approach math, as they are given
the tools needed to develop both fluency and
comprehension. A fifth grade teacher shared,
“Students have to become critical thinkers,
tapping into a different part of the brain. We are
not ‘killing and drilling’; students are stepping
up to the challenge of really understanding and
THINKING about math.”
Parents too are noticing changes in their children’s attitudes toward math. In a recent letter
to a 6th grade teacher, a parent described how
her daughter had struggled with math in the
past. The mother went on to tell the teacher her
daughter had come home that night and said,
“For the first time, I think I’m actually going to
like math. My teacher explains everything so I can
understand it.” It really is as simple as that—we
want every child to like and understand what they
are doing in math.
Parents are encouraged to learn more about the
program, and how they can assist their children
through “Parent University”, an online Parent Webinar available on the PASD website (www.pasd.
com). Short videos address specific issues such as
“Learning to Count and How You Can Help” for
kindergarteners, to “Learning How to Solve Word
Problems Involving Multiplication and Division” for the older students. Additional on-line
resources and District-wide parent meetings have
provided added support for parents as they make
this transition with their child.
W Concrete problem solving
using math manipulatives
helps students understand
concepts.
Math In Focus Teaches
Students to THINK
1.
2.
3.
FALL HIGHLIGHTS
Every week there are a myriad of events happening around the District. Here are pictures of just a few
of those events to give you an idea of the MANY activities in which our students are engaged.
1. The Volunteers of the United States Army Field Band brought their amazing music to our students, performing two concerts for the Middle and High
School students. The Volunteers have performed for millions of listeners in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Canada, Mexico, Kuwait, and Iraq. We were proud
to welcome them to Phoenixville! 2. PAHS Art Club students created bowls for the annual PACS (Phoenixville Area Community Services) Empty Bowls
dinner. This event raises funds for members of our community who are needing additional assistance for food and shelter. 3. All of our elementary
schools held Fall Festivities, celebrating the fall season and participating in fun activities. Pictured here are some of our kindergarten students
4.
6.
who were estimating and measuring pumpkins. 4. The Phantom makes an appearance at Schuylkill Elementary to reinforce their positive behavior
program. Looks like the teachers are behaving! 5. PAMS kicked off another year of their award-winning Olweus Anti-Bullying program. Throughout
the year, students are rewarded for “stepping in and stepping up” to ensure every student feels safe in school. 6. Barkley Grandparents & Special
Friends Day: All of our elementary schools invite grandparents and special friends to share a day with students. Our guests are treated to musical
performances and then spend time in the classrooms with their grandchild or special friend. 7. Many of our sports teams do fundraising and special
events in partnership with local agencies. Operation American Pride is an annual event sponsored by the PAHS Football Boosters to honor our military
and local service heroes. 8. East Pikeland Elementary students showed their support for local patients battling cancer, as they raised $871 to donate
to the Phoenixville Hospital Cancer Center.
8.
7.
5.
1.
2.
3.
HOMECOMING 2014
The weather was dreary, but school spirit was high for Homecoming 2014! We were so pleased
to have so many different groups take part in the Phantom Phall Phest, and to welcome
our alumni back for the Sports Hall of Fame and the Homecoming game.
4.
6.
7.
1. The Girls Soccer Team was recognized for their outstanding season, including winning their division of the PAC 10. 2. The Senior Class gets fired
up at the Pep Rally. 3. Mr. Joy had the dubious honor of being voted the teacher students would most like to see get “pied”!! 4. The Phantoms take
the field to battle Methacton. 5. The Phoenixville Community Education Foundation (PCEF) was just one of the many organizations on hand for the
annual Phantom Phall Phest. 6. Queen Lahela Worley and King Tom Hammaker. 7. The new inductees in the Phoenixville Sports Hall of Fame. 8. A new
tradition was born this year for the Homecoming Dance, as PAHS celebrated “Homecoming Under the Stars.”
8.
PHOTO COURTESY OF BARRY TAGLIEBER
PHOTO COURTESY OF BARRY TAGLIEBER
5.
CBAC Committee Members at a recent meeting (not all members present)
Community Volunteers Assist with Budget Process
Creating a budget for the school district is a year-round project. As soon as the budget is approved for the upcoming school year,
the process begins again. The challenges are many—keeping taxes as low as possible while addressing rising costs for healthcare/
transportation/retirement, aging buildings, and providing the best possible education for the students in the Phoenixville Area School
District.
To assist in the budget process, the PASD Board of School Directors solicited community members to serve on a Community Budget
Advisory Committee (CBAC). This 15 member volunteer committee will focus on four specific budget topics: Outsourcing, Funding for
Athletics and Activities, Facility Usage and Rental Revenue, and Adaptive Reuse of Libraries and Technology. From October through
December, the committee will thoroughly examine each topic, exploring all options, and then develop feedback to share with the Board.
The Committee will participate in the Board Budget Committee Meetings as well, beginning in January.
PASD Board President Josh Gould expressed his commitment to the process at the October Board meeting, describing the work the
committee will do as “extremely valuable”, and thanking them in advance for the “good work” we know they will produce.
The full schedule of the Board Budget Committee Meetings is below. All meetings begin at 6:00 PM, and are open to the public. The
community can also view the meetings on Phantom TV and “on demand” on the PASD website (www.pasd.com)
January 13
|
February 5
|
February 17
|
March 17
|
April 21
|
May 21
Music, Music, Music
December will be filled with beautiful
music, as our choral groups, bands, and
orchestras are scheduled to perform
throughout the month. We invite you to
attend any or all!
All concerts will start at 7pm.
December 8
Schuylkill Choir Concert
December 9
East Pikeland Strings, Band & Choir Concert
(@ Phoenixville Area Middle School)
December 10
Barkley Strings, Band and Choir Concert
December 11
Middle School Strings and Band Concert
December 16
PAHS Band & Choir Concert
December 17
Schuylkill Strings & Band Concert
December 18
Middle School Choir Concert
THANK YOU, PCEF!!
At the PCEF 2013 Winter Fundraiser, $17,510 was raised to Fund the Arts across the District. Projects at every level are being
supported, including instruments and music stands, murals, photography equipment, and an All-District Arts Extravaganza.
This is just another example of the way PCEF and our community support so many wonderful programs in PASD.
The students at Schuylkill Elementary had the rare opportunity to see
characters inspired by some of their favorite books come to life outside their
library. Mural artist Carrie Kingsbury completed the project before their eyes,
with students observing and participating during their art classes. All students
will literally have a hand in the final product, as they put their fingerprints along
the vines and trees.
Students in the Art Gifted program at Phoenixville Area Middle
School created a tile mural which incorporates several iconic
symbols of Phoenixville. The mural will find a permanent home in
the middle school hallway upon completion.
We Come From Many Places, But We are One …
Two recent events in the Phoenixville Area School District highlighted the District’s ongoing
efforts to embrace the diversity of our community. On September 27th, the Phoenixville
Multicultural Festival was held in the Phoenixville Area Middle School. As visitors entered the
building, they were met with a mixture of wonderful aromas, as local restaurants shared a wide
variety of ethnic foods. Entertainment throughout the afternoon included a much-enjoyed
performance by Vocal Fusion, an a capella group from Phoenixville Area High School; their
rendition of Ring of Fire was a particularly popular choice. Phoenixville Community Education
funded the children’s activities which included puppet-making, Chinese calligraphy, face
painting, and craft projects . A community group, the Phoenixville Diversity in Action Committee,
organized the event, and PASD was thrilled to partner with them on this first-time (and we hope
annual!) happening.
The following week, an ESL Family Night was held at Barkley Elementary. This District-wide
event welcomed nearly 150 parents and children for a fun-filled evening which included a
pizza dinner, and resource fair. Participants at the Resource Fair included the Phoenixville Public
Library, PAPA (Phoenixville Area Positive Alternatives), Aleanza, the
Phoenixville Clinic, as well as PASD teachers and staff who provided
curricular information. Students in attendance were invited to
select a book of their choice to take home to read later. One of the
ESL teachers commented: “It was heartwarming to see all of the
families come together and socialize. You can see what a tight-knit
community these families are. The kids were so excited about their
new books (provided by the District) and their new toothbrushes
from Health Care Access! I felt that the ESL Family Night was a HUGE
success, and I was very proud to be a part of it.”
We’re Off to See
the Wizards
On October 10th, the Harlem Wizards invaded Phoenixville
– much to the delight of a packed house at the Phoenixville
Area Middle School gymnasium. Taking on a multi-talented
group of PASD teachers and administrators, the Wizards
thoroughly entertained the crowd with some amazing
basketball skills, and lots of comic interludes. The evening
was organized as a fundraiser for Operation F.O.C.U.S., a
parent-run group which organizes the After Prom Party
at the high school. The theme for this year’s party is
VACATIONS ACROSS THE USA. Parents and community
members are invited to join the committee in planning this
important event to keep ALL of our kids safe. Meetings are
at 7PM the second Tuesday of the month in the high school
cafeteria.
If you love movies and video games, then the
Phoenixville Public Library is the place to go!
We offer the hottest new movies on DVD and Blu-ray, as well as series from HBO,
Showtime, Netflix, BBC and much more! The rental fee is only $2 for a week rental.
Check out Two-for-Tuesdays, 2 movies for the price of 1!
This also applies to video games.
We have the latest games for the Wii, XBOX and PlayStation.
Why spend money with OnDemand or Redbox when the Phoenixville Public
Library has all your movie watching and gaming needs… for just $2!
To stay up to date and find out more about the Phoenixville Public Library and all we
have to offer, please visit us at: www.phoenixvillelibrary.org and like us on Facebook.
Library Hours: Mon, Tues & Thurs: 9am – 9pm and Wed, Fri & Sat: 9am – 5pm
SCHOOL SAFETY
Although school bus safety is important year round, the winter
months can be especially dangerous depending on snow and ice
hazards. School bus transportation is the safest mode of transporting children to and from school, but if kids aren’t careful injuries can
occur. All bus companies teach their bus drivers the importance
of safety because it is the most essential part of their jobs. It is also
important to teach school bus safety to children at a young age so
that it becomes a habit even when they are older. Below are some
important tips for parents and students to prevent injuries or fatalities
from occurring at the bus stop.
• Use the hand rail while boarding or exiting the bus to decrease the likelihood of a fall.
Tips for Parents and Students:
• If you leave something on the bus or drop something along the road beside
the bus, never go back to pick it up.
• Arrive at the bus stop 10 minutes early to ensure you are not rushing. Never
run after the bus if it has already left your stop.
• While waiting for the bus, stay away from traffic. Stand at least five giant
steps away from the road.
• Wait until the bus is at a complete stop before boarding or exiting the bus.
• If you need to cross the road to get on or off the bus, never walk behind a
school bus, and walk 10 feet in front of the bus.
• While riding the bus make sure you stay seated, do not play with emergency exits or block the aisle. Always make sure you are not distracting
your driver as they need to be alert to be able to always make safe decisions
while operating the school bus.
• Make sure all drawstrings or other loose objects are secure so that you do
not get caught on something while exiting the bus.
School bus safety is also important for all other drivers to obey school
bus stopping laws while coming to a bus stop to ensure the safety of
our children. Every year children are needlessly injured or killed by
drivers passing school buses. There are annually 1,000 drivers who do
not obey the school bus stopping law.
Pennsylvania’s School Bus Stopping Law
• When you meet or overtake a stopped school bus with red signal lights
flashing and stop arm extended. You MUST STOP.
• When you approach an intersection where a school bus is stopped with red
lights flashing and stop arm extended you MUST STOP.
• You MUST STOP at least (10) feet away from the school bus.
• You MUST STOP until the red lights have stopped flashing and the stop arm
has been withdrawn before moving.
Come help us promote
school bus safety
by becoming a
school bus driver!
(Training provided • Flexibility)
• Perfect for stay-at-home
parents or retirees
• Bring your children to work
• DO NOT MOVE until all children have reached a place of safety.
Know Your Responsibilities
• You MUST STOP on roadways with painted lines.
• You MUST STOP at an intersection, whether it is or is not marked with a
stop sign. All traffic MUST STOP.
• You MUST STOP on roadways with ridged/grooved dividers.
Separate Roadways
• Drivers may proceed on a highway with clearly defined dividing sections or
physical barriers providing separate roadways. This only applies when the
school bus is on the opposite side of the road.
• Physical barriers include concrete median barriers, metal median barriers,
guide rail, etc.
• Clearly indicated dividing sections include shrubs, trees, rocks or boulders,
grass, stream, etc.
If in Doubt, STOP
If convicted of violating Pennsylvania’s School Bus Stopping Law, you
WILL receive all of the following penalties:
Call us @ 610-321-6608 for more information
1. 60 Day Driver’s License suspension
2. Five (5) points on driving record
3. $250 Fine
SPONSORED CONTENT
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
SPONSORED CONTENT
The Eyes Have It
Valley Forge Eye Care keeps the focus on patients!
By Bob Byrne
C
lear vision is something that most of us
take for granted – until there’s a problem.
You’re squinting to see your computer,
your smart phone, and your kid’s tee ball game,
but scheduling your annual eye exam hasn’t
made it to the top of your to-do list.
Preventing and treating eye problems are the
focus of Dr. Shannon Burgess and her team at
Valley Forge Eye Care in Phoenixville. She talked
with In Phoenixville Area Magazine about her
practice.
What would you most like readers to know
about your practice?
“We cater to all ages and do much more
than routine vision exams, glasses and contact
lenses. A large part of our practice are medical
exams for diabetic patients, emergency eye
care for “pink” eye, floaters, and injuries, as well
as treatment for chronic eye conditions like
glaucoma and dry eye. We also co-manage
refractive and cataract surgeries with our
network of experienced surgeons.”
What makes your practice unique?
“I focus holistically on my patients. I work to
not only correct vision problems but also to
enhance the activities that are important to
them. I can help patients who are avid golfers
or sports enthusiasts understand their vision
needs, and then offer guidance and products to
help improve their game.
Many of my patients are constantly on their
computers in the office and at home. I try
to understand their unique needs and offer
products tailored to their environment, helping
them to be more comfortable and productive.
We offer retinal photography, which allows a
more detailed view than conventional methods.
With a retinal photograph, I have a baseline
of the interior of a patient’s eye, allowing me
to quickly notice changes over time, detect
diseases in early stages and, if necessary, share
the photographs with another specialist.”
What got you interested in specializing in
eye care?
“I love that I can have an immediate positive
impact on people’s lives by helping them see
(and look) their best. I guess you could say I
like the instant gratification of it. When you
can’t see well at work or school, it drains a
little of your energy, and no one has energy to
spare these days. I’ve worn glasses and contact
lenses since I was very young, and I had a great
relationship with my family optometrist. I love
getting to know my patients and their families!”
When should parents start bringing
children to the eye doctor?
“The official recommendation of the
American Optometric Association is 12-18
months (this is an ocular health screening),
then at 3 years of age, and every year after age
5. Certainly every kid should have an eye exam
before kindergarten.”
Good eyewear is really an
investment in your health.
What is the most important thing for people
to do to maintain good eye health?
“Get regular eye exams! People tell me all the
time how important good vision is to what they
do, yet they haven’t had an eye exam in over
2 years. Also, take care of your general health
and wear sunglasses! Ultraviolet light affects
the tissues of the eye (and squinting in the sun
contributes to wrinkles).”
What should I do in case of an urgent care
or emergency eye problem?
“As long as it isn’t a true medical emergency
(which means you should go to the ER), you
should call us right away. Any sudden change
in how your eyes see or feel can be scary. We
try to accommodate urgent visits as quickly as
possible in order to resolve patients’ concerns.”
(Dr. Burgess and her family call Phoenixville
home, and she can be at the Valley Forge Eye
Care Office in minutes.)
“My patients can be assured that if an
urgent issue occurs, I make it a priority to
accommodate them. My family and I feel an
important connection to Phoenixville, and this
is a way I can care for the community.”
Why do you recommend buying glasses and
contacts at Valley Forge?
“Good eyewear is really an investment
in your health. Most people who need
them wear them (at least part of ) every
day. My team has over 40 years of collective
experience in helping people find frames that
are appropriately styled for them. Just like
hairstyles, having someone who knows what
will work best for you and fit your prescription
is important. It’s not always the best to blindly
follow the trend.
Our lenses are the best combination of
quality and cost available. We fit our patients
only in lenses and technology that we wear
ourselves. When you’re trying to build loyalty,
there’s no value in selling anything other than
what’s best for each patient. We want to make
sure your glasses are comfortable and look
fantastic. We stand behind our products and
offer free adjustments and a great warranty.”
Tell us a little about the team at Valley Forge
Eye Care?
“Our team is committed to our patients and
community. Whether it’s seeing patients who
have an urgent eye concern outside of normal
office hours, fitting a child’s first pair of glasses
or helping a golfer improve their game through
specialized lenses, we want to make sure our
patients receive exceptional care.”
For Dr. Burgess, good eye care is personal.
She is a 2000 graduate of the Pennsylvania
College of Optometry. During her professional
training, she achieved both academic and
clinical honors and traveled with the Student
Optometric Service to Humanity organization
to Guatemala, where she and her student
colleagues provided vision and eye-health
screenings and dispensed donated eyeglasses
to hundreds of local residents.
To learn more about Dr. Burgess and her
team, or to schedule an appointment at Valley
Forge Eye Care, call 610.917.0700; visit them at
1260 Valley Forge Road, Suite 108, Phoenixville,
PA; or go online at valleyforgeeye.com.
Borough Directory
Mailing Address:
BOR OU GH O F PH O EN I X VI LL E N E WS
orough of Phoenixville
351 Bridge Street, 2nd Floor
Phone 610.933.8801 | Fax: 610.983.0621
Michael J. Speck
James C. Kovaleski
Dana Dugan
Christopher Bauers
Jeremy Dalton
Jon R. Ichter, II
Michael Kuznar
Shai Perednik
Jennifer Mayo
Jennifer Killeen
Elected Officials
Mayor
At-Large
President
West
Vice-President
West
Councilman
North
Councilman
East
Councilman
North
Councilman
Middle
Councilman
East
Councilwoman
Middle
Real Estate Tax Collector
E. Jean Krack
William Mossman
Brian A. Watson
Stephen M. Nease
David Boelker
Melissa Gibbons
Andrew Fabian
Matthew Mullin
Raymond Tanyer
Bobby Nattle
John Buckwalter
Staff
Borough Manager
Chief of Police
Public Works Director
Finance Director
Codes Administrator/Zoning Officer
Recreation Director
Water Plant Superintendent
Wastewater Plant Superintendent
Sanitation/Streets Supervisor
Water Distribution Supervisor
Chief of Fire Department
Office hours: Monday thru Friday
8 a.m. to 4:30pm
484.358.3794
484.921.5093
610.917.8568
610.639.0538
610.802.5159
610.331.4380
610.506.7290
215.804.9208
484.753.2515
610.933.8801 x 219
610.933.8801 x110
610.933.1180
610.933.8801 x 320
610.933.8801 x 110
610.933.8801 x 311
610.933.7728
610.933.8801 x 611
610.933.8801 x 551
610.933.8801 x 511
610.933.8801 x 620
610.933.9717
Meeting Schedules
All meetings are at Borough Hall unless otherwise noted
Borough Council
2nd Tuesday
7pm
Council Committees
HARB
Personnel/Police
Tree Advisory Commission
Beautification Advisory Commission
Parks & Recreation
Planning Commission
Recreation Board
Zoning Hearing Board
Finance
Infrastructure
Economic Development
Policy Committee
32 Phoenixville Area | phoenixville.org
1st Monday
1st Monday
2nd Monday
2nd Monday
2nd Tuesday
2nd Thursday
3rd Monday @ Civic Center
3rd Wednesday
3rd Tuesday
3rd Tuesday
4th Tuesday
4th Tuesday
5:30pm
6pm
6:30pm
6:30pm
6pm
7pm
6:30pm
7pm
6pm
7pm
6pm
7pm
Legislative Directory
Federal
Robert Casey, Jr., U.S. Senator
22 S. Third Street, Suite 6A
Harrisburg, PA 17101
717.231.7540
Patrick Toomey, U.S. Senator
600 Arch Street, Suite 9400
Philadelphia, PA 19106
215.597.7200
James Gerlach, U.S. Rep.,
6th District
111 E. Uwchlan Avenue
Exton, PA 19341
610.594-1415
State
Andrew Dinniman, State Senator,
19th District
One North Church Street
West Chester, PA 19380
610.692.2112
Warren Kampf, State Rep.,
157th District
42 East Lancaster Ave., Unit A
Paoli, PA 19301
610.251.2876
Becky Corbin, State Rep.,
155th District
315 Gordon Drive
Exton, PA 19341
610.524.5595
County
Ryan Costello, Commissioner
Kathi Cozzone, Commissioner
Terence Farrell, Commissioner
313 W. Market Street, Suite 6202
P.O. Box 2748
West Chester, PA 19380-0991
610.344.6100
houses webpage content and provides a user interface for the staff
that posts the content to the site.
The Borough chose Phoenixville based Mindfire Creative to make
the design and develop the new website. They are a Phoenixville
and community based provider and the Borough was able to get
a system that was developed specifically with local government
needs in mind, from the perspective of the staff that use it to
communicate with the public. It also allows us to make specific
enhancements to it in the future while supporting our online
communication goals.
The site is designed so that further down the road, the Borough
can incorporate a Constituent Relationship Management (CRM)
tool that will serve as a customer service portal. Users will be able
to go to site to ask questions, look up FAQs and submit requests
for services like pothole repair, graffiti response, code enforcement,
damaged Borough trees and much more.
During the redesign effort, the Borough also endeavored to
clean up its content from the old site. As a result, the Borough
eliminated outdated and inaccurate or duplicate information
and now hosts a trimmed up site that users of any medium can
navigate.
Beautification Advisory Commission
by Lou Beccaria, BAC Chairperson
The Beautification Advisory Commission
(BAC) has been active and on-the-move
over the past several months. First, the new
Phoenixville Garden Club, which the BAC
helped to establish, had a very successful
home garden tour this past Summer. This
project was led by Ann Caulfield and Shanlee
Fisher, two private citizens who have been
very active with the work of the BAC since its
beginning.
Another project undertaken was the
painting of the fence surrounding the
Reeves statue in Reeves Park. At the request
of the BAC this work was done by the
local Phoenixville Boy Scout group in early
September. The BAC thanks Sherwin-Williams
paint store in Phoenixville for its donation of
the black paint for this project. An important
project completed in August was the
weeding and cutting of shrubs surrounding
the 2nd Avenue gazebo in Reeves Park. This
was done as a community service effort
by the boys and girls of the respective
Phoenixville Area High School lacrosse teams
under the leadership of boys’ lacrosse coach,
Grady Wise.
Murals have been another focus of the
BAC. Through the volunteer work of private
citizen mural artist, Cynthia Oswald and the
BAC itself, as well as the cooperation of home
owners Matt and Karen Roman, on whose
property the wall sits, the white wall at the
intersection of Rt. 113 and Dayton Street on
the North Side has been patched, and readied
for painting. In a few short weeks this white
wall will be nicely and artistically decorated
and proudly announce “PHOENIXVILLE” on the
wall. Some landscaping will also be evident
in the small plot of ground in front of the
wall thanks to the generous contribution of
BAC member, Eric Schmidt, owner of Colonial
Gardens Nursery.
These are just a small highlight of the work
going on the BAC. In the next issue we will
give you, our fellow Borough citizens, another
update. We would like to hear from you if
you have any ideas for future projects, if you
would like to make a financial contribution
to the BAC’s work, or if you might like to
volunteer in some way. All you need to do is
to call Lou Beccaria, the BAC Chairperson, at
610-917-9890.
B OR OU GH OF P HOE N I X VI L L E N E WS
The Borough of Phoenixville has launched a new website at
Phoenixville.org. The site includes a new layout and design as well
as several features aimed at making it easier for users to access
government services and information. The last time the Borough
launched a new site design was in 2008. Key to the new site is its
responsive design, which means the site is resizable for any screen,
including any mobile device.
It’s a new era for Phoenixville. The Borough began getting
comments from residents and business owners that not only
did our website need to have an updated look, it also needed to
accommodate mobile web users. It’s a fact that more and more people
are accessing Internet content from mobile devices, leaving designs
based on desktop screen widths a thing of the past.
The Borough’s site also features more photos and videos throughout
its pages. Navigational options featured on the new home page were
selected based on hit and search data as well as topic timeliness.
The new website services include a secure online access of
important documents for employees, Borough Council and various
boards, committees, and commissions.
As part of the redesign effort, the Borough chose to switch to a new
content management system, the database-driven application that
Borough of Phoenixville
Borough Launches New Website
Borough Codes
Winter Weather Advisory
With winter upon us, please remember your responsibility
as a property owner or occupant:
1. Snow Removal - Sidewalks must be cleared of snow
and ice within 24 hours of the last snow fall or ice form.
For everyone’s sake, please take care of each other. If you
are able-bodied, please offer your help to your neighbors.
If you are not, please ask for help from your neighbors,
neighborhood kids, friends, relatives, etc. Snow removal is
required, enforced, a good practice and last, but not least,
the neighborly thing to do for all those people who use the
pedestrian sidewalks frequently!
2. Parking Spaces – For properties that only have on-street
parking, please remember, the streets of Phoenixville are
open to all the public, in any location. Clearing a spot does
not legally give any one person the right to “reserve” that
spot with the various forms of reservation methods seen in
Apartment or
Commercial Recycling
All properties, including commercial
buildings and apartment buildings in
Phoenixville are required by state, county
and Borough law to recycle. The Borough
will collect recycling at any rental
apartment building with 4 dwelling units
or less. If you live in an apartment of 5
dwelling units or more and your landlord
does not offer recycling, please request
that your landlord provide that service.
If recycling is still not provided please
contact the Borough Code Enforcement
Department.
Noise Disturbances
The purpose of controls upon noise is
to protect the citizens of the Borough
from noise disturbances. Although it is
recognized that in today’s society certain
amounts of noise are unavoidable, the
citizens of the Borough are entitled to be
protected from unnecessary disturbance,
annoyance or injury from sound.
There are a wide variety of noise types
that have differing time constraints and
definitions. One of the most common
occurrences is the disturbance created
from animals. The code regarding this
specific noise disturbance is as follows:
It shall be illegal within the Borough for
any person or persons to own, possess,
harbor or control any animal or bird
the past, typically lawn chairs, tables, buckets, trash cans, and other
various household items. Any items found in the streets are regarded
as refuse, and will be disposed of each and every time it is witnessed
by the Codes Department personnel.
which makes any noise continuously and/
or incessantly for a period of 10 minutes or
makes such noise intermittently for 1/2 hour
or more to the disturbance of any person any
time of the day or night regardless of whether
the animal or bird is physically situated in
or upon private property, said noise being
a nuisance; provided, that at the time the
animal or bird is making such noise no person
is trespassing or threatening to trespass upon
private property in or upon which the animal
or bird is situated nor is there any other
legitimate cause which justifiably provoked
the animal or bird.
Depending on the type of noise disturbance,
and the hour it is occurring, will determine
whether the Code Enforcement or Police
Department will handle calls of noise
complaints. If you have any questions about
this, please feel free to call in at any time for
clarification by contacting the department at
610-933-8801 x310.
Simply, the following projects are subject to
the design regulations in the ordinance:
1. Projects that cumulatively add 1,000 square
feet of impervious surface (an addition,
driveway, and shed)
2. Projects that create 5,000 square feet of earth
disturbance.
What is stormwater and why is it a problem?
Stormwater is rainfall that runs off of roofs,
driveways, lawns, roads, parking lots,
sidewalks, farm fields, and other surfaces
created or disturbed by manmade activities.
This runoff picks up pollutants (such as
dirt, oil, litter, pesticides, fertilizer, etc.) as it
flows across these surfaces, and eventually
enters local streams. While rainfall is natural,
stormwater is manmade.
The updated standards require new
development and redevelopment projects
(large and small) to be constructed in a way
that maintains or reduces the amount of
On September 9, 2014 the Borough of
stormwater that leaves the site; this will help
Phoenixville adopted a new Stormwater
reduce the cumulative impacts of flooding
Management Ordinance to minimize the
and erosion on downgradient properties
impacts of new development, redevelopment and streams. It will also help keep our waters
and other earth disturbance activities to
clean that serve as a critical source of public
protect, sustain and enhance the quality
drinking water.
and quantity of all water resources to insure
Chester County has created a concise
the health, safety and welfare of the citizens
Homeowner Small Projects Worksheet to help
and preserve the diverse natural resources
explain this in more detail.
and aesthetic and recreational assets of
http://pa-chestercounty.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/
Phoenixville Borough, Chester County and
View/20276
the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Stormwater Management
In the Know with Mayor Mike
Perspectives and
the Police Department
A
n interesting part of human interactions we all share is
“perspective.” Several people can witness the exact same
behavior at the exact same time and report various perspectives
of their observations. For the purpose of this article rather than
stating a perspective is right or wrong let us view perspectives as
clear or uncertain as it relates to Police activity and interactions.
The following article was written by the Upper Darby Police
Department and posted to their Facebook page on July 14, 2014.
We sometimes receive complaints in regards to how a police
officer spoke to a citizen. The feelings of anger or frustration
towards police are understood. We want you to have a positive
experience that fosters a trusting relationship with police. But,
being realistic, that is not always going to happen.
Citizens across the country encounter police officers on a daily
basis. Most times with positive results. There are times, however,
when citizens feel we are being harsh or even excessive. We
understand that there are times you don’t like us. We want the
public to support us, but please know that there are valid reasons
why we take some of the actions we take.
I want you to read this with Officer Melvin Santiago of the
Jersey City Police Department in mind. Officer Santiago was
ambushed and murdered this weekend when he came in contact
with a person who had a plan. A plan to kill a cop. Further
investigation will reveal how organized the plan was, but it was a
plan.
When we encounter you, we don’t know what your plan is. We
could probably assume that you don’t wish us any harm but that
could have disastrous results. You see, what kills police officers
is the unknown. Unfortunately every call we go on, every car we
stop, every citizen encounter has an unknown component. The
citizen we encounter may have woken up this morning with a plan
to murder. We don’t know that.
Training helps. We train to see certain cues… body language,
the thousand yard stare, erratic behavior. However if we intercede
too quickly, we are bullies. Too late, and someone could get hurt.
Officer Santiago was a victim of the unknown. Yes, he had some
information about a situation in a drug store, but he did not know
that his murderer would engage him prior to him even exiting his
patrol vehicle. Yet another scenario that cops now must plan for on
every call.
So, you see, cops have to take control of a situation before it
spirals out of control. This may mean your feelings may get hurt.
We are sorry. Police have to maintain a command presence to
enhance their safety and sometimes that trumps your sensitivities.
Keep in mind that we are in no way rationalizing police
misconduct or inappropriate behavior. Officers should be in
control of their emotions and not part of the problem. However
in an effort to manage an event of some type, we have to quickly
take the lead. Sometimes in an aggressive manner. You probably
won’t like it but think about it. Police are always on a crash course
towards the unknown and death rides shotgun. RIP Officer
Melvin Santiago. ( UDPD FB post July 14 ).
All of us here at the Phoenixville Police Department value and
hold true to our Mission Statement “To Protect and Serve With
Pride”. Perhaps with a better understanding of Police interactions
and taking the time to get to know the Officers the public's
perceptions can become clearer.
Semper Fi,
Visit us on social media at our Facebook page, “Phoenixville
Police”
Mayor Michael J . Speck
Identity Theft
Did you know that all residents of the US have
the right to obtain one free credit report from
each of the three credit reporting bureaus
per year? Since we are heading into the
holiday season, this is the perfect time to take
advantage of this benefit. With the tightening
credit standards of today, your credit score
has never been more important.
Scams
continued on page 38
You must be careful however, although you
may see commercials offering free credit
reports, many of them actually charge you
a fee, or make you sign up for some other
service to qualify for the free report.
Your best bet is to go to www.
annualcreditreport.com to obtain your free
credit report. This free report will provide you
with your credit history. This way you can
keep tabs on the accuracy of the information
in your report. If you want to know your
The Police Department wants to
remind you all to beware of scams.
There are several scams that seem to
be prevalent today. Although there
are minor variations, the basic scam
is the same. The most common are as
follows:
The Craig’s List Scam- basically it goes
something like this; you place an ad
on Craig’s List to sell something at a
given price. A buyer sends you a check
for an amount that was more than
the listed asking price. You contact
them to advise them of the mistake
and they tell you to deposit the check
anyway and to just send them a check
for the difference along with the
merchandise. They may even tell you
to keep a portion of the overpayment
Vehicle Theft
Our region has experienced a rash of vehicle
thefts as well as the theft of items taken from
unlocked vehicles. The majority of this activity
took place between August and October.
From 08/06/14 until 10/08/14, Phoenixville
Police received fourteen (14) stolen vehicle
reports. To date, thirteen (13) of those vehicles
have been recovered. Nine (9) of the stolen
vehicles were recovered in the Borough of
Phoenixville, one (1) in Berks County, one (1)
in Norristown and two (2) in Philadelphia. In
the same time frame, Phoenixville Police also
recovered four (4) stolen vehicles for other
agencies. One (1) for Pottstown Police, one
(1) for PSP Skippack, one (1) for West Norriton
and one (1) for East Pikeland. Through the
joint efforts of Phoenixville Police and the
Pennsylvania State Police (Skippack), a
suspect was developed from surveillance
footage and items recovered from the
What You Should Know to Protect Yourself
Vehicle Theft from page 37
vehicles. This man was arrested and
charged with stealing several of the
above listed vehicles.
On 10/08/14, Phoenixville Police
recovered a stolen vehicle being
operated by a 23 y/o male. Shortly
after he was taken into custody,
another stolen vehicle was recovered.
Evidence recovered from those two
vehicles positively linked him to both
of those vehicles and also to a third
stolen vehicle. Additionally, property
was recovered from one of the stolen
vehicles which linked him to multiple
thefts from unlocked vehicles. Some of
the items recovered were a handgun,
several iPod’s, computer equipment,
electronics and jewelry. These two men
along with another accomplice are
believed to have committed most, if not
all of these thefts. Since their arrests, no
other vehicles have been reported stolen
in the borough and thefts from unlocked
vehicles have dropped dramatically.
Of the fourteen (14) vehicles reported
stolen, only one (1) has yet to be
recovered (2003 Buell motorcycle was
reported stolen on 08/26/14). It should
be noted that all of the vehicles were
stolen by utilizing the vehicle’s keys.
In some cases the keys were left in
the vehicle. In other cases a spare key (to
the stolen vehicle) was found in another
unlocked vehicle on the same property and
used to steal it. Sometimes an unlocked
vehicle in the driveway had a garage door
opener that was utilized to gain access to the
otherwise secured garage and in there a key
was found and used to steal the vehicle. 99%
of all vehicles that were rummaged through
and had items stolen were left unlocked. The
very few vehicles that had windows broken
to gain access to the interior had property
setting in plain sight which proved too great
a temptation to walk by. An opportunist
walking by a vehicle that has a laptop
computer or woman’s pocketbook setting
in plain view may be tempted to break the
window, grab the item, and run away. Had
they not seen the computer setting on the
seat, they most likely would have walked on
by it, especially if it were locked. There are
some people who walk around trying car
doors and when one opens, they rummage
through the contents looking for things to
steal and pawn or trade. They routinely take
change, currency, GPS units, expensive sun
glasses, and clothing; anything they carry
away and sell.
What we know from the information above is
that 100% of the vehicles stolen were taken
with their own keys (not hotwired or towed
away), that 99% of vehicles that were opened
up and had property taken were left unlocked
and the other 1% of the vehicles that were
forcibly broken into (windows smashed out)
had expensive items setting in plain sight.
This tells us that as citizens we can protect
ourselves and our property by locking our
vehicles when they are left unattended (even
in the “good” neighborhoods) and even when
they are parked in our driveways (because
many have garage door openers that can be
used to access the interior of or homes). We
should not leave property in the vehicle in
plain sight because that item may present
too great a temptation for an opportunist to
simply walk on by. Lock it in the trunk, or take
it in the house.
We are about to enter the holiday season.
If you are going from shop to shop, or from
work to dinner or the mall, the time to place
property in the trunk is when you are leaving.
You don’t want to arrive at your destination
and then be seen in the parking lot “hiding”
your property in the trunk, or under some
covering. That draws attention and alerts
thieves that there is valuable property in the
vehicle. Put the items in the trunk before you
leave for your next destination so that when
you arrive, you simply exit your vehicle and
walk away. This is much less likely to draw
attention.
Borough Energizes New Electric
Vehicle Charging Station
The Borough of Phoenixville has a new
double-unit electric vehicle charging station
The Borough’s electric vehicle charging station
opened to the public in October 2014 at Borough
Hall, 351 Bridge Street. The new station, which can
handle two cars at once, is located in the Borough Hall
parking lot right off of Bridge Street. The two spots are
specifically dedicated for use by electric vehicle owners
only. The electric vehicle charging station offers residents and visitors the ability to charge their vehicle while enjoying the myriad of
activities the Borough has to offer.
The Borough is pleased to introduce this infrastructure for the transition to electric vehicles. With the introduction of this new
technology, the Borough is taking a leadership role in environmental sustainability, and as such, we intend to encourage each new
development project to employ this technology in the scope of their project.
Currently, there is no charge to electric car owners. Hooked up to the “Level II” charging station, most current electric vehicles can top
off their batteries from half full in the time it takes to dine out in Phoenixville.
The Borough hopes that this charging station will help raise public awareness about electric vehicles and their potential as a primary
mode of transportation for the public.
For more information, visit the Borough’s website at www.phoenixville.org.
With growing financial stress comes
increasing instances of identity theft and
fraud. Identity theft comes from many
different sources. To help reduce the odds of
becoming a victim, the Phoenixville Police
Department recommends that you monitor
you accounts and balances on-line and obtain
a free copy of your credit report from the
credit reporting bureaus listed above. We also
strongly urge you to:
People whose identities have been stolen
can spend months or years, and thousands of
dollars cleaning up the mess that the thieves
have made of their good name and credit
record.
1. Place a fraud alert on your credit reports
and review your credit reports. This can help
prevent an identity thief from opening any
more accounts in your name.
2. Close the accounts that you know, or
believe have been tampered with or opened
fraudulently.
3. File a report with your local police or the
police in the community where the identity
theft took place.
4. File a complaint with the Federal Trade
Commission. Sharing your identity theft
information may help law enforcement
officials across the nation track down
identity thieves and stop them.
Don’t become a victim of identity theft.
Follow the precautions stated above.
Monitor your credit report. Protect you
Pin, account information and personal
information. Immediately cancel your
MAC transaction and leave if you detect
suspicious activity. Immediately call your
bank, credit card companies and police if
you suspect that you have become a victim
of identity theft or fraud.
Resources:
www.phoenixvillepolice.org, The Phoenixville Police Department
www.equifax.com Equifax: 1-800-525-6285, Credit Reporting Bureau
www.experian.com Experian: 1-888-397-3742, Credit Reporting Bureau
www.transunion.com TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289, Credit reporting Bureau
www.itacsentinel.com ITAC Sentinel (Identity Theft Assistance Center)
www.identitytheftactionplan.com Additional Resource
Protect your wallet or purse/pocketbook.
One of the leading causes of identity theft is lost or
stolen belongings containing personal information.
SAFETY TIPS
When applying for any type of credit, your
clean credit history can help save you
hundreds if not thousands of dollars in
interest each year.
If you become the victim of identity theft,
take the following four steps as soon as
possible, and keep a record with the details
of your conversations and copies of all
correspondence.
Minimize the number of credit cards and other items with
personal information printed on them that you carry.
Guard your PIN when using your debit card. Look for
suspicious activity, like someone standing behind you.
Always guard your PIN and transaction amount, and
immediately cancel your transaction and leave
if you see something suspicious.
Protect your PIN and account numbers. Treat online
unsolicited offers over the internet with suspicion.
Never disclose your PIN or account password
to any online merchant for any reason.
Don’t volunteer personal information when you use
your credit card. It is standard practice to be asked to
display a personal ID as requested by a merchant to verify
your identity. Do not give personal information such as
your mother’s maiden name or your date of birth.
Shop smart on-line. Keep your anti-virus software
updated. Shop only at sites that are safe and secure and
look for websites that display a closed padlock at the
bottom of your browser window.
Shred all documents containing personal information
before you place them in the trash. Identity thieves will
rummage through or take your trash looking for personal
information that they can use to open credit card, bank,
cell phone and utility accounts in your name.
Don’t leave personal and account information lying
around in your home, or in your office. This
information must be protected from prying eyes.
Your children’s friends, your cleaning or cable repair
person, exterminator, landscaper, home remodeler and
their helpers are all potential sources for identity theft.
actual credit score, you will have to pay an
add-on service fee.
Remember, you are entitled to receive only
one free report from each of the three credit
reporting bureaus per year. To utilize this
service to your best advantage, consider
staggering the times that you request these
reports throughout the year. For instance,
you may want to note on your calendar to
order a report from Equifax in April, one from
TransUnion in August and one from Experian
in December.
Identity Theft from page 37
Scams from page 37
for your trouble. So you deposit their
check and then send them a check of
your own for the difference. You later
find out that their check was bogus and
that they got away with your money and
maybe even the merchandise (if you sent
it to them).
So to recap; you place an ad on
Craig’s List (or some other similar
advertisement) to sell a lap top
computer (or any piece of merchandise)
and you ask $600 for it. A buyer sends
you a check for $1,600 “by mistake”. You
contact the buyer and tell them that the
check was made out for $1,600 instead
of the agreed upon price of $600. The
buyer tells you that it was a typo and
Don’t be enticed
by the prospect
of making more
money than an
object is worth.
This will cloud
your judgment
and override your
common sense.
to just deposit the $1,600 check and to
send them a check back for the $1,000
difference when you ship the lap top.
They may even tell you to keep an
additional $250 for your trouble (they are
betting on your greed). So you deposit
the bogus check (which could take up
to ten days to clear) and you send them
a good check on your account for $750
along with the lap top. Your check clears
of course and they get $750 plus your lap
top. A week later you find out the $1,600
check was bogus and you have been
scammed. If the seller was really trusting
or gullible, they may have sent the whole
$1,000 reimbursement check. If the seller
is skeptical, the buyer will tell them to
keep a portion of the overpayment “for
their trouble”. They are betting on basic
human greed. By keeping an additional
$250 the seller may be getting more
for the lap top ($600 + $250= $850)
than they actually paid for it in the first
place. What a great deal. Until you find
out that you’ve been scammed. Anyone
who is willing to pay you more for a
used object than they would have paid
for a new one is scamming you. Don’t
be taken in by greed. Remember the rule…
if it is too good to be true, it probably is. You
can protect yourself from this type of scam
by recognizing it right off. Don’t send any
merchandise until after the check has cleared.
Don’t be enticed by the prospect of making
more money than an object is worth. This
will cloud your judgment and override your
common sense.
Another common scam (typically perpetrated
upon the elderly) involves calling the victim
and telling them that their grandson has
been incarcerated for some crime and
needs bail money right away to get out of
jail. Sometimes the caller will even pose as
the grandson himself to add further drama
and a sense of urgency. These phone calls
typically take place late at night (when the
victim is more disoriented and confused
after being woken from a sound sleep) with
an urgent plea from their relative for help.
The caller will ask for credit card or banking
information to use for bail. Never give this
type of information over the phone. Don’t be
rushed into taking any action by the urgent
plea over the phone. Check out the story
first. Hang up and call a relative who would
know if the grandson had been arrested.
Try to call the grandson himself (if you have
one). The caller won’t want you to hang up
and confirm the story. They are going to
want to keep you on the phone. If you do
stay on the phone, ask the caller questions
that only your real grandson would know the
answers to. Listen to his voice; the caller is
hoping that you haven’t seen your grandson
in a while and might not recognize his voice
over the phone. They are going to want to
rush you and pressure you. They are betting
that your love for your grandson will override
your common sense. If your grandson really
is in prison, he isn’t going anywhere soon
and he is being supervised and is safe. Don’t
give any information over the phone. Tell
him that you are going to call the prison to
find out what arrangements must be made
for his release. If your intention were to bail
him out, you would have to do it anyway. He
couldn’t do it from within prison even if he
had your banking information. Don’t give any
information over the phone. Check it out first.
A new scam that is emerging is directed
mainly toward businesses. A person will call
the business phone and inform the receiver
that they are from PECO and are going to
turn off the power to the business due to
delinquent or overdue non-payment of bills.
The caller will instruct the manager to go to
a pharmacy or some other retail store that
sells green-dot (pre-paid cards) cards and
put some specified amount of money on the
card and then call them back at the number
provided with the pin information to access
the money on the card. If they do this within a
set amount of time (usually 30 minutes or so),
the power will not be cut off. The scammer
will usually give the victim a short amount
of time to complete this task because they
don’t want the victim to have enough time to
actually contact PECO (or the business owner)
to check it out. They know that if the power
were shut off to the business, the business
would have to close and they would lose a lot
of money. They are hoping that the urgency
they place on the business will get them to
purchase the card and make the payment
even if they are reasonably certain that the
energy bills are up to date. The thought being
that the business will do what it has to do to
stay open and follow-up with PECO later for a
reimbursement when the error is discovered.
Of course, when they do follow up with PECO,
they will find out that this was a scam. PECO
does not call over the phone and have you
purchase a prepaid card from a retailer and
then have you tell them what the access
information is for an immediate payment.
Again, it comes down to greed and pressure.
The business wants to stay open to make
money. Many times the person answering the
phone isn’t the business owner. It’s a manager
or employee who doesn’t know if the electric
bill was paid or not. They don’t want to be
responsible for the electric getting shut off
in a half hour so they rush out and make the
payment. If the phone number that they call
back to provide the access information is a
spoofed number, there will be no way for
the police to trace it later. The best way to
beat this scam is to resist being pressured
into running out and buying these pre-paid
cards. First, call PECO or the business owner
to determine if the call was legitimate or not.
Don’t allow the urgency of the call to override
your commonsense. You know that this is not
how PECO (or any other legitimate utility)
does business.
Another scam involving these green-dot
cards is a more serious scam where the callers
inform the person answering the phone
that there is a bomb in the store or near-by
which they will detonate if the victim doesn’t
activate a certain amount of green-dot cards
totaling a given amount of money, and then
give the caller the information to access
the funds on the cards. So far this scam has
only occurred in stores (namely pharmacies)
that sell these cards since it most likely
wouldn’t work if the employee could leave
the store and travel to a different location to
purchase the cards. The scammer needs a
captive audience. The scammer won’t allow
Or, you may be contacted via e-mail from
England or Spain notifying you that you
The same goes for the long lost relative.
Somehow this relative that you never even
knew existed left everything he had to you.
Of course he lived in a different country
and in order for you to get his millions you
have to pay up front for certain lawyer’s fees,
processing fees, transfer fees, etc.
All these scams rely on greed to override
your commonsense. Does it make sense that
a prince from an African country is going to
randomly pick you through the internet to
entrust his millions? Does it make sense that
you won a lottery in a foreign country that
you never even entered, or that a relative that
you’ve never heard of picked you to leave
his fortune? Of course not, but the
thought of becoming instantly rich is a
powerful lure. All you have to do is pay
some nominal fee to get your millions.
If you do pay this fee, you will soon be
contacted and informed that there were
additional fees and some problems, but
not big ones. You are assured that when
they get this straightened out, you will
get your money. This cycle will continue
until you are out of money of figure out
the scam. Some people can tolerate the
loss a few hundred dollars so they aren’t
that concerned given their promised
return. But once these scammers have
won your confidence, they will continue
to nickel and dime you until you’re
broke.
Whenever you are randomly contacted
by anyone regarding money issues,
remember to use your common
sense. Don’t be rushed. If any money
is legitimately yours, it will be there
tomorrow. Check it out. Do not provide
personal information or banking
information over the phone. Discuss this
with family members, trusted friends,
your bank, or the police. Remember, if
it’s too good to be true…
Lastly, we’ll discuss a long established scam
that never seems to get old. There are several
variations, but the premise is usually the
same. It’s called the Nigerian Scam. You are
contacted, usually through an e-mail, that
some rich businessman or prince from a
country in Africa has millions of dollars that
he wants to get to America for safe keeping.
He doesn’t want to utilize the normal
channels because he doesn’t trust them. But
he trusts you (who he has never met) with
millions of dollars. He needs your help to get
his money to the U.S. and you can receive a
large portion for your share if you help. All
you have to do is to send him some “nominal”
amount of money to show your “good faith”
and in return, you will get thousands or
millions of dollars after his money is safely in
the U.S.
have won a lottery (that you know you never
entered) and that thousands or millions of
dollars are awaiting you. All they need from
you is a confirmation that you want the
money, some banking information, and some
personal information to make sure the money
gets to you and into your bank account. Oh…
and by the way, you will have to pay some
“nominal” fees upfront for the processing and
transferring of this money. But you are happy
to send them a couple hundred dollars or
maybe even a thousand because you know
that you are getting tens of thousands or
millions back.
the person to get off the phone so the cards
have to be available on location. So far, every
incident of this nature has been a scam to get
money. No such bombs were ever placed. This
is a difficult scam to combat and businesses
that sell these cards should establish a
protocol for their employees to follow should
such an incident occur.
Phoenixville Fire Department
Is the Fire in You, to Serve Your Community?
Join Our Team!
Our Volunteers, teamed-up with our Career Personnel combine to form a dedicated force to support and serve the fire protection
needs of Phoenixville and surrounding communities. We are always looking for additional help from our community to expand
this team; be a Firefighter, Fire Police Officer or help with Administration & Fundraising. We are looking for volunteers in all of the
following areas.
Responders
The term “firefighter” generally covers all of the responders in our department, however some of our responders have specific roles
such as Engineer/Operator – those who drive and operate the fire trucks, Emergency Medical Technician – those who render medical
aid to injured persons, Fire Officers – those who supervise and direct our responders, Fire Police Officers – those who help direct and
detour traffic around emergency scenes and also assist with crowd control, and of course the Firefighters who extinguish fires and
mitigate other emergencies. The Fire Academies offer courses for all of these roles. The Department also holds in-house training drills
several times each month.
Administration & Fundraising
There is a lot of work behind the scenes to keep the organization functioning. Starting with a Board of Directors which meets
monthly to decide the business activities of the organization. The Board is comprised of firefighters and community members
alike. Several Committees comprised of Board members and non-board members meet periodically to research topics and provide
recommendations to the Board. Some members help solely with fundraising activities such as weekly bingo, craft shows, or our
annual Night at the Races.
Junior Firefighters
� Are you a Teenager or Parent of a Teenager looking for:
� An activity that will provide discipline and life experiences?
� Something that may provide a boost to a resume?
� Something that may be a springboard to a career?
� Additional social interaction?
Our Junior Firefighter program allows teenagers age 16 & 17 to become a volunteer firefighter in a learning role. Junior Firefighters
can do many of the things Firefighters do, with some limitations for additional safety and well-being as outlined by PA Child Labor
Laws. Junior Firefighters may begin attending fire academy classes to become certified as a Firefighter or EMT. They may also respond
on emergency calls, participate in in-house training, attend meetings, serve on committees, and help keep the firehouse and fire
trucks ready for action.
Most of our current firefighters began as Junior Firefighters, some over 40 years ago. In fact, all but one of our current Fire Officers
began as Junior Firefighters in Phoenixville or surrounding areas. Several decided on life-long careers that directly related to their
experience while a teenager, such as Career Firefighters, EMTs, Fire Marshals, and even a Flight Nurse on an Air-Medical Helicopter.
Recruitment Incentive Program
Since time spent training is the biggest commitment a new firefighter will make, we are offering an incentive program for new
firefighters. The initial Fire Academy Certification Course a new recruit will be required to complete is Entry-Level Firefighter Training
(Fire1), which is a 176-hour course. Upon successful completion of this course, a recruit will be given a $500 training stipend to offset
the time spent attending and studying for this course. Opportunities for this incentive program are limited. This incentive program is
funded through a Staffing for Adequate Fire & Emergency Response Grant provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Whether leaving bed at 3AM to respond to activation of a fire alarm at a local business, attending weekly training drills, repairing a
broken piece of equipment, or planning our next fundraiser, volunteers are working every day to operate the organization. If you
have questions or would like to offer your time and talent to your Phoenixville Fire Department, please stop by the fire station at 177
Church Street, message us on Facebook, or call our Administrative Phone Number (610) 933-9717.
www.Facebook.com/PFD65
www.PhoenixvilleFire.com
DISCOUNT TICKETS
Youth
Gingerbread House Preschool
Movie Tickets
The Phoenixville Recreation Department is now
offering Discount Movie Tickets!! These tickets are
$8.00 and are honored at all Regal Entertainment
Group locations (Regal Cinemas, United Artists
Theatres, and Edwards Theatres) - valid for all show
times. There may be a $1.50 surcharge for the first
12 days of select films or a $2.50 surcharge for IMAX
Giant Screen Theatres. Discount ticket sales are
Cash or Check Only.
Special Events
Family Night Out is a night full of fun for the
entire family! Come out, bring your family, enjoy
the night having fun, and help us honor the Father
and Youth of the Month each month. For more info,
contact Dolores at (610) 933-7728, Ext 1.
Upcoming Family Night Out Activities
Gingerbread House Workshop: Fri., December 12,
2014 at 7:00 pm @ Civic Center.
We’ll construct our houses with graham crackers
and homemade icing, and then decorate them with
tons of goodies! Of course… the best part is taking
your delightful creation home to eat!!! CTC Makes
“Cents” admission: Your pocket change to support
Communities that Care Fundraising efforts.
Family Zumba: Friday, January 30, 2015 at 6:30pm
@ Civic Center
Zumba Fitness – Moving the world to a new beat,
with En Familia and Aliazas. Are you ready to party
yourself into shape? That’s exactly what the Zumba
program is all about. It’s an exhilarating, effective,
easy-to-follow, Latin-inspired, calorie-burning
Dance fitness-party that’s moving millions of
people toward joy and health.
Admission: Your pocket change to support
Communities That Care fundraising efforts.
Love Your Heart: Friday, February 20 at 7:00 pm @
Civic Center
Sponsored by Phoenixville Hospital Community
Health Education & Outreach, Phoenixville
Communities that Care and the Phoenixville
Recreation Department. Come Join us for a night
of fun exercises to keep your heart healthy. Dinner
will be provided and the Father of the month will
be honored.
An academic preschool program for 3 and 4 year
old children held at the Civic Center. We offer a fun
learning environment with a caring staff. We keep
our class size small to help promote socialization
and allow for more one on one attention with
teacher and student. Our program includes many
hands on learning and playtime activities as well
as monthly field trips. A great, affordable way to
start your child’s school career! Call today for more
information or to schedule a visit: 610-933-7728
Ext. 412.
Boxing
Boxing provides youth with an outlet for
aggression, while building self-esteem and
confidence. The PAL boxing program is offered
year round at the Phoenixville Civic Center to
boys and girls between the ages of 10 and 21
under the guidance of professional trainers. PAL’s
training regime conditions youth both physically
and mentally and instills a sense of commitment,
self-worth, responsibility and discipline. For
information, contact Jim Deoria at 610-917-3735.
Dates: Wednesdays, Jan. 14 – Feb. 18
Time: 5:00 - 6:00 pm
Location: 123 Main Street, Phoenixville, PA
Fee: $65 (includes team tee shirt)
Register at www.jumpstartsports.com or
at the Civic Center. For more information,
contact Mike Stefani at (267) 587-7154 or
Email: MStefani@jumpstartsports.com.
Phoenixville Little Hoop Stars
(Grades Pre-K-K)
Professional coaches from Jump Start
Sports will run this instructional and
recreational basketball program for children
in Pre-K and Kindergarten (must be 4).
Players are taught the basics of dribbling,
passing, shooting, positioning, defense, and
rebounding and then apply what they have
learned in fun, non-competitive games.
Parents are welcome to assist in coaching,
but Jump Start Sports instructors will run
classes.
Dates: Saturdays, Jan. 10 – Feb. 14
Time: 8:00-9:00am
19460
Fee: $65 (includes NBA team tee shirt)
Phoenixville Hoop Stars
(Grades 1-2)
Phoenixville Boys Middle School
Volleyball, Grades 6-8
Players learn the basics of serving, passing,
spiking, and defense from 2011 NCAA Volleyball
National Championship winner from The Ohio State
University. Sessions are one hour long, one day per
week, and include all instruction and game play in
one outing. Sessions are geared towards helping
players gain an edge when trying out for their High
School teams.
Dates: Tuesdays, Jan. 13 – Feb. 17
Time: 5:15 – 6:15pm
Location: 123 Main Street, Phoenixville, PA 19460
Fee: $65 (includes Jump Start Tee-Shirt
Register at www.jumpstartsports.com or at
the Civic Center. For more information, contact
Mike Stefani at (267) 587-7154 or email MStefani@
jumpstartsports.com.
Phoenixville Hummingbirds
Indoor Soccer, Ages 3-6
Boys and girls ages 3 – 6 years old have fun
and learn the basics of soccer: dribbling, passing,
trapping, shooting, and positioning. Each session
consists of instruction in each aspect of the game,
participation in fun, age appropriate drills that
are designed to teach skills, and low-key, noncompetitive game.
Professional coaches from Jump Start
Sports will run this instructional and
recreational basketball program for children
in first and second grade. Players are taught
the basics of dribbling, passing, shooting,
positioning, defense, and rebounding
and then apply what they have learned in
fun, non-competitive games. Parents are
welcome to assist in coaching, but Jump
Start Sports instructors will run classes.
Dates: Saturdays, Jan. 10 – Feb. 14
Time: 9:00-10:00am
19460
Fee: $65 (includes NBA team tee shirt
Winter Robotics After-School
Program by Computer Explorers
The children will build Robots with motors
and sensors and use software to teach their
Robots to respond to their instructions. Will
their alligator snap its mouth shut? Their
duck quack and move? The propellers of
continued on next page
The Parks and Recreation Committee welcomes volunteers to help with its various projects. The public is
encouraged to attend our meetings, which are held at the Civic Center on the third Monday of each month at 7pm.
Phoenixville Parks and Recreation Programs and Events
continued from page 43
their plane change speeds? Their soccer goalie
stop a shot? The children will have fun and
success as the Robots follow their commands.
Ages: 6-8
Dates: Wednesdays, Jan. 14-Feb 18th
Times: 4:30pm to 5:30pm
Location: Phoenixville Middle School
Fee: $95
Register: www.computerexplorers.com or call
the Recreation Department at (610) 933-7728
KITCHEN WIZARDS
Learn Candy Making
Love working in the kitchen? Love
chocolate? This program is for you! Kitchen
Wizards presents this mouth-watering 5-week
program. Each week, you’ll learn to make
several delicious candies. Recipes and samples
provided.
Ages: 10-14
Dates: Fridays, Jan. 9th-Feb 6th
Fee: $85
Register: kathysjustdesserts.com or Call the
Recreation Department at (610) 933-7728
For more info, Contact the Recreation Dept.,
610-933-7728 or kw@kathysjustdesserts.com
KITCHEN WIZARDS: Cupcake Decorating!
Want to become the next Cake Boss? You
might have a chance after this program,
presented by Kitchen Wizards. You will learn
to bake cupcakes, tint frosting, fill pastry bags,
and decorate, using a variety of tips. Practice
makes perfect, so there will be plenty of time
to perfect your masterpieces. We will provide
copies of recipes and boxes for you to take
home your cupcakes.
Ages: 10-14
Dates: Fridays, Feb 20th – March 20th
Fee: $85
Register: http://kathysjustdesserts.com/ or
call the Recreation Department at (610) 9337728
For more information, Contact the
Recreation Dept. at (610) 933-7728 or email
kw@kathysjustdesserts.com
After School Programs
Robotics Engineers
Provides a progressive introduction into
the world of robotics for the current LEGO
builder. Students will build models with
LEGO techniques and convert them to
programmable function using drop and drag
programming to learn to use sensors and
create program strings. Then we’ll work on
fun team challenges to create our own functional
robots! Challenges will vary according to our
student progress. One of the first challenges will
be: Minifig Camfire Battles! Minfigs are too little
to roast marshmallows–but they love to spend
their camping days launching them at each other!
In this fun-filled challenge we’ll be creating a
marshmallow launcher and practicing developing
our launchers to gain the best height, distance
and accuracy! We’ll use LEGO motors and sensors,
program them using our computer programs, and
then sit back and watch the sticky action! So don’t
delay! Join us for this exciting twist on developing
your child’s robotic engineering–the Bricks4Kidz
Way!
Ages: 10-14
Dates: Tuesdays, Jan. 13th – Feb 17th
Location: Phoenixville Area Middle School
Fee: $125
Register: http://www.bricks4kidz.com/ or contact
the Civic Center at (610) 933-7728
LEGO Model Designer
How do LEGO model-designers come up with
their ideas? Where do they begin, and how do
the ideas go from concept to completion? This
workshop will explore the creative process of
model design. Students will learn the function of
important LEGO components and discover how
those components can work together to create all
kinds of solid structures and moving parts. We will
build models to discover the secrets to gear speed,
gear direction, gear ratio, pulleys and driver and
follower gears. Each child will have the opportunity
to create and present his or her own model design!
Grades: K-8th
Dates: Thursdays, Jan. 15th – Feb 26th
Location: Phoenixville Area Middle School
Fee: $100
Register: http://www.bricks4kidz.com/ or contact
the Civic Center at (610) 933-7728
Adult
The program runs Monday evenings from 7:30
pm - 8:30 pm (except for the first session which will
run from 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm). For more information,
contact the Civic Center at 610-933-7728, Ext 1 or
Sue Huot-Singer, MSN, RN at 610-213-7797, or visit
www.weightlossphilly.com. Register at the Civic
Center, (Cash or Check payable to Sue Huot-Singer)
Where: Civic Center, 123 Main Street, Phoenixville
Cost: $200 (10-week program includes a 1-hour
private session)
Dates: Mondays, January 5, 2015 – March 16, 2015
Time: 7:30pm – 8:30pm *
* The first session will run from 7:30pm until 9pm.
Sports-N-Fun!!!
Co-ed 5 v 5 Indoor Soccer
& Co-ed Volleyball
These are not leagues, they are pick-up games.
Come play, meet new people, have fun and get
some exercise! For more information go to www.
sportsnfun.info To attend please sign up as a
member with the Valley Forge Sports, Recreation
and Fun group at www.meetup.com/SportsNFun/
events
When: Friday Nights 7pm – 9pm
Where: Phoenixville Civic Center at 123 Main St,
Phoenixville, Pa
Cost: $5.00 per person for Gym rental
Latin-Inspired dance-fitness cardio based
workout that will tone the entire body top to
bottom. Zumba takes you on an international
journey through dance and rhythms including
Salsa, Reggaeton, Mambo, Cha-Cha, Merengue,
Cumbia and much more. You will have so much
fun listening to the music, learning the steps
and moving your body, you will forget you are
exercising.
When: Monday & Wednesday nights from 6:00 pm
to 7:00 pm
Where: Phoenixville Civic Center at 123 Main St.,
Phoenixville, PA
Cost: $5.00 per class. (Cash only, please).
New Beginnings
Holistic Health & Weight Loss
Healthy Weight Loss You Can Achieve. Have
you given up on yourself and your weight? Do you
feel as if you can’t dig yourself out of a hole? Well
you are not alone. Learn from someone who has
been there. This holistic program looks at the mind,
body and soul. Success can be achieved through
education, the right tools, techniques, motivation
and support. This ten-week program will challenge
you to look at things differently and tap into your
strengths. One size does not fit all, so included in
this program is a one-hour, one-on-one session to
help you fit healthy living into your lifestyle. Aren’t
you worth $20 a week? Are you ready to take on the
challenge? Beware, positive results are addictive!
Badminton
Come learn badminton skills!! All ages and all
levels welcome. Saturday mornings from 10:30am
to 12:30pm. The cost is $5.00 per person for
Residents and $6.00 for Non Residents. Bring
your own shuttles and racquet. To register go to
www.sportsnfun.info.
All are welcome! Pickleball is a fun game that
is played on a badminton court with the net
lowered to 34 inches at the center. It is played with
a perforated plastic baseball (similar to a whiffle
ball) and wood or composite paddles. It is easy for
beginners to learn, but can develop into a quick,
fast-paced, competitive game for experienced
players.
To register go to www.sportsnfun.info.
When: Wednesday nights from 7pm to 9pm and
Saturday afternoon from 1pm to 3pm
Where: Phoenixville Civic Center at 123 Main St.,
Phoenixville, PA
Cost: $5.00 per person
The Civic Center is offering an 8-week women’s
self-defense class to instruct how to avoid and
defend against various real-world attacks.
Learn to defend yourself from assaults: This
course covers front, side and rear attacks as well as
attacks with weapons and techniques for breaking
free once you are grounded by an attack. Students
come away empowered and confident. The
instructors are John and Sherry Connor. Both are
certified 2nd degree black belts in Kempo Karate
and have combined 20 years of experience in the
field. For information, email: jconnor395@aol.com
or mgibbons@phoenixville.org;
Call (610) 933-7728; or www.phoenixville.org
Location: Civic Center, 123 Main St., Phoenixville
Dates: TBA (Visit www.phoenixville.org/living-here)
Time: 7:15 pm – 8:15 pm
Cost: $80.00
Visit www.leaguelineup.com/phxvlvolleyball.
Games are played on Monday and Wednesday
nights at Schuylkill Elementary and Civic Center. For
more info, call 610-933-7728.
Women’s Competitive Volleyball League
Games are played on Tuesday and Thursday
nights at the Civic Center. Sign up as a team or as an
individual looking to get on a team. For more info,
call 610-933-7728.
Women’s Basketball
Visit www.leaguelineup.com/phxvlbasketball.
Games are played on Monday and Wednesday
nights at the Phoenixville High School. Sign ups
start in Nov. League begins in Jan.
Men’s Basketball
FitBody Personal Training, LLC is offering
“Cardio Blast” - a 45-minute energetic workout
designed to get your body moving before work!
Come join us Tuesday mornings at 5:30 am at the
Civic Center for a fun filled workout that will help
improve your body and give you lasting energy.
Register and sign up now space is limited at
www.fitbodyforeverybody.com
These 6 week sessions run continuously. See
details on web site, www.fitbodyforeverybody.com.
Sponsored by Communities That Care
and Phoenixville Recreation Department.
Facilitator: Ken Winston
Foundations of Fatherhood is a 12-week
workshop for all Dads. The Workshop will
begin on February 5th and will be held
Thurs. evenings from 5:30pm to 7pm at
the Phoenixville Civic Center. Some of the
topics to be covered are “Character of a Man,”
“Improving Communication,” “Healthy Adult
Relationships,” “My Anger: Friend or Foe,” and
“Stages of Child Development.” Dinner will
be provided. For info contact Dolores at 610933-7728 Ext. 1 or e-mail phxctc@yahoo.com
Healthy New You Series
for Parents and Teens
Recreational Volleyball League
Women’s SELF DEFENSE
Foundations of Fatherhood (FREE)
Come join Cindy Seigafuse (Penn State
Extension) in preparing delicious and
nutritious meals. This program is a series of
cooking lessons and activities on various
topics to help you care for and feed your
family a HEALTHY DIET ON A LIMITED
BUDGET. Learn to prepare low-cost quick
meals, develop new cooking and food
safety skills, try new nutritious foods and
find ways to increase your family’s physical
activity level. At the end of the series you
will receive a Certificate of Completion from
Penn State and several gifts! Cost is only $5
at registration and you will be refunded if
you attend all 5 classes. Call Dolores Winston
at 610-933-7728 to register. Sponsored by
Penn State Extension, Phoenixville CTC &
Phoenixville Recreation Department
Ages: 12 and up, no exceptions.
Dates: Tuesdays, Jan. 6 – Feb. 10, 2015
Time: 5:30pm – 7pm
Location: Civic Center at 123 Main Street,
Phoenixville
Rentals
Anyone interested in renting the gym at
the Civic Center for a birthday party or event
should contact the Civic Center at 610-9337728.
Games are played on Tuesday and Thursday
nights at the Phoenixville High School. Signups
start in Nov and league begins in Jan.
Community Service
SENIORS Card Games
New Pinochle players or Bridge groups are
welcome. Games are played at 12:45 pm every
Thursday at the Civic Center. (Sponsored by AARP)
Applications for community service are
available at the Civic Center located at 123
Main Street, Phoenixville, PA.
Pickleball
FitBody Personal Training, LLC is offering
Carolyn’s Boot Camp in Phoenixville.
These classes will wake up your metabolism.
Your body will burn fat during and after your Boot
Camp experience. This fun but intense workout is
designed to reshape your body and mind.
So, get your body in better condition, with
Carolyn’s Boot Camp!
Saturday @7:45am at Civic Center and Sunday
@8:30am at Civic Center
Late fall classes begin in the Civic Center and
run continuously in 6 week sessions through March.
Register and sign up sign up now at
Details and descripton website,
COMMUNITIES
THAT CARE
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
INEVENTS
Halloween Parade on Bridge Street
Hundreds cheer on ghosts, goblins, princesses and more.
By Bob Byrne
Science fiction came to life along with ghosts, goblins, superheroes
and just plain adorable costumes of all shapes and sizes for the annual
Phoenixville Halloween Parade on October 25.
For the first time ever the parade had an official theme. Student
members of the Phoenixville Area High School Theater Guild selected
“Science Fiction” as the theme and costumed high school students
helped marshal the crowds as floats and fire engines rolled down the
street spreading smiles and sharing candy.
Hundreds of people dressed up to bring the family and watch the parade, which ran from Borough Hall to the opposite end of Bridge Street
at Church Alley. Photos by Bob Byrne.
SPONSORED CONTENT
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
SPONSORED CONTENT
Where Stars are Born and Trained
Phoenixville’s Facetime Theatre is Something to Cheer About
S
hakespeare famously penned the line “All the
world’s a stage, and all the men and women
merely players: they have their exits and their
entrances.” Since 2007, Phoenixville’s Facetime
Theatre has been helping students both young
and old learn how to make memorable entrances
and exits while having a great time performing
and learning life skills that extend and apply well
beyond the stage.
Facetime is a nonprofit theatre group created
to stimulate, promote, teach and develop interest
in the dramatic arts; to focus on the development
of high-quality performing arts programs for area
youth; and to advance the general level of culture
in the field of dramatic arts by producing plays,
musicals, and other types of live performance of
the highest standard.
Facetime Theatre offers classes at its studio
space at Franklin Commons in Phoenixville, in
the Phoenixville Area School District’s elementary
schools and Kindergarten Center, at Rosemont
School of the Holy Child, at the Philadelphia
Skating Club and Humane Society and at several
area preschools.
Facetime also produces a variety adult theatrical
productions, performed at the Kaleidoscope
Center at Ursinus College.
For parents of young actors looking for an
amazing summer experience, Facetime offers
summer camps at its studio location in Franklin
Commons and two three-week Summer Stage
programs at Ursinus College.
This is much more than a standard school or
community theater experience. “Facetime’s vision,
as a theatre, is a unique one.” explains Founder and
Executive Director Lisa Starczewski. “Facetime
started as an educational organization and has
grown into a full-service theatrical organization.
Facetime is deeply committed to providing
opportunities of the highest quality to students
and performers. Our motto is “Excellence in
Performance” because we want students, parents,
performers and audience members to experience
the best that theatre has to offer. Our goal is to
exceed expectations and if our experience to date
is any indicator, we are consistently accomplishing
that goal!”
Starczewski brings years of teaching and
theatrical experience to Facetime. She was the
spring musical director at Phoenixville Area High
school for many years. Throughout her time there
she was constantly asked by parents and students
where to go to take high-quality classes in musical
theatre. “This was a tough question to answer
because no one offered classes that combined
instruction in both acting and vocal performance,”
she says. So Starczewski decided to start a studio
at Franklin Commons in Phoenixville to offer that
type of performing arts education.
Facetime Studio (which is now part of Facetime
Theatre) opened its doors in 2007 and has been
offering high-quality educational programming for
students of all ages ever since. Facetime Theatre
was established in 2009 and ran its first Summer
Stage Program in the Summer of 2012. The classes
were popular and successful from the very start.
As time went by, the decision was made to create
a nonprofit theatre that could offer additional
programming and productions.
Lisa Starczewski, Kate Nice, Jessica Potts, and
Katie Romano now bring extensive experience
in performance, direction and education to their
positions with Facetime. Facetime also “has
a number of additional, very talented board
members and teachers who contribute their time
and effort to helping Facetime reach its goals and
maintain its vision,” Starczewski says.
Performance and Volunteer Opportunities
Parents can find a wide variety of classes,
workshops and camps for their children. Student
and adult performers can audition for the theatre’s
productions. In addition anyone wanting to help
with any aspect of production or with business
development/fundraising is always welcome.
Getting involved can mean getting ahead.
Starczewski points out that “studies consistently
show that involvement in the performing arts
has a significant impact on the developmental
growth of every child. Theatrical production builds
relationship and community.”
“There are many ways in which individuals and
businesses can help us, financially, to continue
offering programming as well as scholarships. Of
course,” Starczewski says. “one of the best ways that
the community can support us is to come out and
see our shows! Both our summer stage and main
stage productions offer a wonderful opportunity
for a night out.”
Facetime will present Stephen Sondheim’s
Broadway musical Company January 9-17 and
Footloose May 29- June 6 at Ursinus College.
Auditions for Footloose will be held in February
(check factimetheatre.org for details in January).
There may be cold winds blowing and wintry
weather now, but summer is coming up quickly.
2015’s Summer Stage productions will be Children
of Eden and Oklahoma! Registration begins
February 4th. Spots fill up very quickly so watch
the website at facetimetheatre.org for details.
Facetime’s Summer Stage has quickly become
one of the region’s premiere summer theater
opportunities for students. Starczewski points out
that “Tina Fey, who grew up doing Summer Stage
in Upper Darby, is a supporter of Facetime Theatre.
In addition to filming an endorsement video
for us (which is on our website) and donating
toward our annual fundraiser, she came to see our
production of Music Man and spoke to the entire
cast afterward.”
For students looking for perhaps a bigger
future on stage, Facetime offers an impressive
list of success stories. “Students who have taken
our classes and audition workshops have had
tremendous success landing roles in school,
community and professional productions,”
Starczewski is proud to point out. “Our students
have landed roles in national commercials and
significant parts in professional productions,
including Mary Poppins at the Walnut Street
Theatre in Philadelphia!”
Read more about Facetime Theatre and its
upcoming productions at facetimetheatre.org.
INEVENTS
Auction Goes to the Dogs
Main Line Animal Rescue’s “Bark-O-Lounge” helps save
animals.
By Bob Byrne
Hundreds of supporters packed into a huge tent-turned-auction
house for Main Line Animal Rescue’s Bark-O-Lounge themed
Silent Auction and Dinner on September 27.
MLAR is considered one of the premier animal rescue and
advocacy charities in the nation. Founded 16 years ago, it is staffed
by more than 400 volunteers who help thousands of animals each
year in what the organization describes as “a state-of-the-art veterinary clinic, innovative training and educational programs, and
almost 60 acres of fenced pastures and walking trails.”
To learn more about Main Line Animal Rescue or to find out
about becoming a volunteer visit MLAR.org.
Photos by Bob Byrne.
Fresh Cut Christmas Trees
*
$25.00
Douglas, Fraser, and Concolor Fir
*Buy a 6-8 ft. tree for $40, return it for recycling by
1/20/2015 and receive a $15 Gift Certificate good on
any item in store until 6/30/2015.
Visit our Christmas Shop
• Fresh roping, wreaths, greens
• Grave decorations
• Poinsettas - large selection
• Christmas gift shop
Don’t Miss Moonlight Madness
December 4th, 5-9pm
25% OFF everything in store
Excludes all trees.
Get your business
noticed in all the
best locations.
We can guarantee
you the best
placement available –
right in your
customer’s home.
Find out how our
direct-mailed,
community-sponsored
quarterly magazine
can help grow your
business.
Colonial Gardens
745 Schuykill Rd., Phoenixville • 610-948-9755
www.colonialgardenspa.com
Serving all of your personal and business needs
for over 100 years!
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*Minimum deposit required to open is only $25. Bank rules and regulations apply.
Other fees such as non-sufficient funds, unavailable funds, sustained overdraft, dormancy fees, etc. may apply. See fee schedule for details.
INPERSON
A Very Phoenixville Toy Story
A Phoenixville native
with a passion for
children is bringing
imagination back.
Story and Photos by Bob Byrne
T
ry to imagine a world where Christmas morning sees children tearing
open their presents to squeals of delight for what they find inside the wrapping
paper. Imagine the week between Christmas
and New Year’s, or snow-bound winter
weekends when your children are engaged
in playing with toys that spark their imaginations and light up their creativity? Can you
imagine all of this happening without a huge
HD monitor or small handheld screen?
Sue Meadows can. Every day she is on a
mission to help parents, grandparents, aunts,
uncles, friends and children themselves
imagine. She crusades for the benefits of
children playing with toys and books that are
powered by their own imaginations and not
batteries, joysticks or video screens.
If that sounds like an old-fashioned notion,
it is. It is a commitment to families based on
a life-long love of children and more than a
quarter of a century observing children up
close as a pediatric nurse in Phoenixville.
“Basically my mindset is pediatrics,” Meadows explains. “My education, my background
is children, development, psychology, everything that goes along with the growth of
children. I was a very hands-on mom. I was
very much into creativity, crafts and making
things with my kids. I went to Kimberton
Farm School for seven years and really its
basis of education is creative thinking.”
“I really feel that children need to play, and
they learn through play and they develop
through play and they need to have creative
thinking and imagination. So many toys out
there today do it for them. You push a button
and it talks to you. You push a button and
you’re shooting at things and they’re flashing
at you,” Meadows says about her one-woman quest to bring thinking (and the fun that
goes with it) back to children’s play.
Meadows is Waging the
Campaign from the Phoenixville
Storefront Where She Grew Up
Like many modern grandparents Sue Meadows grew up in an era before video games
and computers ruled the toy world. She
spent days hanging out at her grandfather’s
drug store on Main Street. “I grew up here
as a little girl playing here and all but playing in the street back in the ’50s when you
could run around on the sidewalks and play
outside and you were safe.”
Today as the owner of Generations Toy
Store at 113 Main Street she welcomes
children and families to come explore, and
play with, the toys she sells from the same
building where her grandfather had his drug
store back in the ’40s, ’50s and ’60s.
Going it alone in the toy business is both
challenging and freeing. For example,
Meadows stocks a made-in-the-USA crayon
product made for little hands. “This is the
coolest thing since sliced bread. They’re
called Crayon Rocks. They’re made in rural
Kentucky. There’s something called tripod
development for children, which is basically
using your three fingers to learn to draw
and to hold things. Crayon Rocks are very
comfortable for a toddler, for a young child
to hold. They’re made out of soy wax made
from soy beans that are grown in the U.S.”
“I pretty much hand pick everything I sell
in the store. Obviously since I’m not a chain,
nobody tells me what to sell and not to sell.
So it’s me,” Meadows says. “My younger son,
when people ask him what I sell, says, ‘stuff
she likes,’” Meadows quips.
Meadows does not have a buyer. She’s it.
“When I go on vacation I go to the toy stores.
I went to toy stores in Cape Cod, I’ve been to
toy stores in New Orleans. Wherever we go I
make sure I visit a toy store!”
She doesn’t pay for focus groups. She has
one of her own, ready-made. “I took the
demo of one toy home and took it to a family
vacation at the beach. My grandchildren at
the time were probably seven, six, four and
two. They were all upstairs playing quietly
with this stuff for hours. That tells me something. They liked it and they told me, ‘You
need to buy that!’ And that’s what parents
want too, to have something that kids will be
entertained and interested in and learn from,
and be engaged in.”
When it comes to giving toys as gifts Meadows has been there as a parent, is still there
as a grandmother and, when asked what is
the highest compliment someone could give
her about the toys she sells, she says “That
their children love them and play with them,
that they love what they’ve gotten and they
will play with it for hours.”
Everything Old is New Again
Meadows says that many parents are hungry
for toys that engage their children in a different, time-tested kind of play. “I have seen
that the younger generations of parents want
this kind of toy. They’re getting back to the
basics. They want something that engages
their child or they want something they grew
up with. They grew up with Corduroy or
they grew up with Bristle Blocks. The grandparents grew up with Erector Sets. We have
a product called Girders and Panels, which
was very popular in the ’50s. My husband
grew up playing with Girders and Panels. A
lot of architects cut their teeth on it because
it’s beams and roads and it teaches cantilevering. It teaches you how to build.”
A Very Phoenixville Family Story
Sue Meadows and her husband Dave met
when they were teenagers. Sue was thirsty;
Dave was a soda jerk at Gateway Pharmacy.
The rest is history. They’ve been together
ever since.
In addition to helping set up the train set in
the front window of Generations Toy Store,
Dave is an engineer and a long-time volunteer with the Phoenixville Fire Department.
They live just a few blocks from the store, in
a house where members of five generations
of Sue’s family have lived at one time or
another.
On getting into the retail business Meadows
says, “The long and the short of it is that I
was a pediatric nurse for 27 years. My mother became ill and she had a shop in Kimberton, Kimber Hall, which sold antiques
and gifts and collectibles. It became evident
when she became ill that I was either going
to have to sell her business or (quit nursing
and run the store). I couldn’t continue to do
both. I couldn’t continue to do nursing and
I just decided I didn’t want to look back and
say ‘Why didn’t I try that?’”
Moving to Main Street
Within a few years, Meadows recalls,
“Phoenixville was starting to get a little more
revitalized, not nearly like it is now, but I
bit the bullet and we decided to move back
in here. And this is home. It feels good. We
moved back to the borough last year into the
house that my great-grandfather built. The
kids were the fifth generation to live there.
That’s why it’s called Generations. I’m the
third generation to work here. It was Lengel’s
Drug Store.”
Since Meadows’ grandfather died in 1964
the building has been home to several stores.
“It was the yarn and gift shop for eight years.
Then All Things Good and Natural followed.
It was really the precursor to health food
stores.” Charmingly, “Linda’s” was a consignment store before Generations opened.
Meadows opened Generations Toy Store
on Black Friday, 2007. Display cases from
the original Lengle’s Drug Store and vestiges
of the old soda fountain make it more than
a toy store. It’s really a piece of Phoenixville
history captured in a store packed with everything from current, nearly-impossible-tofind toys and books including a current Fun
with Dick and Jane reader collection of all
the learn-to-read books, to Aaron’s Thinking
Putty which is made in Phoenixville.
The front window Christmas displays
feature model trains, a Santa statue, and the
wooden sled that Sue Meadows inherited
from her grandmother as a child. This year
the windows are ringed by brand-new LED
lights that perfectly frame the old and new
that awaits visitors inside the front door.
“You can get something from $1.99 to a
train table that’s $150,” Meadows says about
the price range of the items she carries. “You
can get gifts in a decent price range and be
happy with what you spent. And most of the
time you can try it out and find out if you
like it or not.”
“Kids love to come in. I get people who
come in just because they’re bored. They
bring the kids in to play.” And that’s what
makes generations of Phoenixville families
smile.
Find out more about the toys, holiday
hours, and directions to Generations Toy
Store at generationsonmain.com. ■
Bye Bye Birdie!
Phoenixville Firebird Festival is a seasonal sensation.
I
t rises 30 feet above Friendship
Field. Wooden, proud and ready
to be burned to the ground.
When it’s all said and danced
and done, there will be almost
nothing behind but a surprisingly
small pile of ashes, roasted nails
and scorched screws.
Henrik Stubbe Teglbjaerg
Volunteer carpenters started to build the
firebird for the 2014 Phoenixville Firebird
Festival back in mid-September. That was
long before the online Indiegogo campaign
reached its fundraising goal of $5,000 to
support the all-volunteer, privately staged
festival.
The year 2014 marks the 11th year since organizer Henrik Stubbe Teglbjaerg picked up
a hammer to help build the first big wooden
bird. “I was part of an arts and entertainment
committee. We worked on trying to make
murals in town and we also worked on the
Children’s Plaza. It was a citizens committee
of six people. Len Miller came up with the
concept of the firebird and we all thought it
was a great idea and then we got a few more
people on board.”
Over the years the faces and locations have
changed. The festival, which culminates with
the torching of a wooden firebird, started
in an empty lot behind Molly McGuires at
the corner of Bridge and Main streets. It was
eventually moved to the other end of Bridge
Street to the lot where Phoenixville Borough Hall now stands. In 2013 the festival
moved to its current home at Friendship
Field overlooking the valley and downtown
Phoenixville.
Since the first Firebird Festival in 2003, it
has become the biggest annual event that
draws crowds to the Borough of Phoenixville. In 2013, a heavy winter storm on the
day of the festival kept crowds to the lowest
level in memory. Despite a bitter, snowy and
ice-slicked night, about 2,000 people still
came out to watch the bird burn. “We have
no rain date because we have too much and
too many people involved to try to change
it,” Henrik Stubbe Teglbjaerg explains.
While many of the faces behind the festival
have changed over the past decade, Henrik
has been a constant. He is quick to give
credit for the festival’s growth to the community. “Over the years the rest of the (original
organizers) have fallen away and eventually
it just became me but when I say it’s just me,
it’s not just me at all. It’s the whole community. I’m just the organizer. The whole community creates it. I couldn’t do it without the
community.”
For the first time ever Henrik designed
the bird. Until now other designers have
conceived the design plans for the bird.
The 2014 bird was built on weekends from
mid-September through October. When
completed it measured 30 feet high, 30 feet
wide and 30 feet from beak to tail. Its support structure is made of purchased lumber.
The skin and feathers are made from wood
pallets that are donated by local businesses,
pulled apart and then attached to the bird by
volunteers.
Maureen Anello from Devon drove to the
park to volunteer to pry apart wood pallets
on a sun-soaked October Sunday. “I just
think it’s a wonderful festival and I want to
support it. I think this is a great idea and a
way to meet new people. I just think it’s a lot
of fun,” Anello said.
“This is my first time doing it. My friend
Kelly told me about it. She comes every year.
She’s been living in Phoenixville for about 15
years. It’s great to be out and volunteer and
support them.”
Darrin Smith of Phoenixville was also
volunteering that day, along with his young
sons who were totally into taking things
apart with hammers. “This is the first time
we’ve come to help construct it. We heard
about it from our friends. We attend every
year so we figured we’d come up and check it
out and see what it’s all about, and help out
a little bit.”
For Henrik Stubbe Teglbjaerg that’s the
key to the success of the Firebird Festival. “I
find that we humans are capable of so much
and it’s fun to create with others. Building
something like this bird, it’s exciting and I
sense that excitement in other people that
we, together, did it!”
When the bird is literally torched on Festival Day the man behind it is also happy. “It’s
fun to create something and really marvel at
it but in our culture, we hold on to so much,
so it’s nice to just build something and really fall in love with it and then let go of it.
There’s no holding on to it at all.”
There are always some souvenirs. Artists
can pay a small fee to have their handmade
clay firebirds kiln-fired inside the big bird as
it burns to the ground. The fire is lit at 8:15
and finally smolders into the last ashes in the
early morning hours. “It’s actually amazing
how little ash is left but there are a lot of nails
and screws. So I pick up buckets’ worth of
them afterwards which we recycle as scrap
metal,” Henrik explained. Last year the scrap
metal was sold for $15.
Mythical Roots
The festival and the firebird itself bring
mythology to life in what organizers say is a
perfect metaphor for Phoenixville. According to the festival’s official story, “In 1813,
Lewis Wernwag, the owner of the first
iron company built on the confluence of
the French Creek and the Schuylkill River
— known at the time as the French Creek
Works — was looking at his furnaces one
evening from a nearby hillside and saw a
Phoenix in the flames. This vision inspired
him to rename his company Phoenix Works.
When the community that grew up around
the iron works became incorporated in 1849
the name Phoenixville was a natural choice
for the new borough.”
“This name has special symbolic relevance
for the borough today. With the closing of
Phoenix Iron and Steel in the early 1980s the
town lost its principal industry, and subse-
quently went through a 20-year period of
stagnation and decline. Since the turn of the
new century Phoenixville has been enjoying a rebirth; with the opening of new shops
and restaurants, a visitors center in the old
Foundry Building, the continued renovation of the Colonial Theatre, the renewal
of Bridge Street, and much more. Like its
mythic namesake it is truly rising from its
own ashes,” organizers explain.
It’s Never too Late to Get Involved
Planning for the 2015 festival starts in
December and new ideas and volunteers are
always welcome. “As soon as the festival is
over we start meeting to see what can we do
for next year,” Henrik says.
“The day of the festival is a party. But the
core of the whole thing is the building and all
these people getting involved. My idea is to
involve people in community creations and
it works because there are so many aspects
that can be added to it. So if any people have
an idea to add to the festival they can always
contact us on the website.”
It’s never too early to get involved. To learn
more about the Firebird Festival and how to
get involved visit firebirdfestival.com. ■
SPONSORED CONTENT
DINING OUT
SPONSORED CONTENT
Welcome to Valley Forge
Trattoria & Lounge
Whether in the new lounge,
dining room or enclosed patio it’s like
sharing a meal with great friends
(who also happen to be amazing chefs).
You might walk into Valley Forge Trattoria for the first time as a new
It’s not just fine dinner dining that attracts such a loyal fan base.
customer but you will leave as a friend ready to plan your next visit.
Casual and take-out options are equally delicious. Famous for pizza
Warm and inviting are two words that sum up the atmosphere and
and cheesesteaks, it only takes one bite to discover why. Of course,
the mood of one of Schuylkill Township’s favorites for lunch, dinner,
stopping at one savory bit is going to be tough as you’ll love what you
and carry out.
are tasting!
Whether you are stopping in for lunch, enjoying dinner or relaxing
When it comes to pizza, you name it and you’ll find it at Valley
into the late night over drinks Valley Forge Trattoria has the ambience, Forge Trattoria. It was voted best Pizza in the Philadelphia region
and the menu to satisfy almost any appetite.
by City Search. If you don’t see exactly what you want on the menu,
A new lounge was added about a year ago to provide a warm and
you can order it just the way you like with as many ingredients and
cozy place for conversations with friends around the fireplace, at the
any combination from a list of toppings that includes: Anchovies,
bar, or while watching the big game in a space
Broccoli, Chopped Beef, Extra Cheese, Extra
that offers an Italian casual style oasis but which
Sauce, Feta Cheese, Green Peppers, Ham, Hot
fits in with the feel of the restaurant that has
Peppers, Mushroom, Olives, Onion, Pepperoni,
been a local favorite for nearly twenty years.
Pineapple, Roasted Peppers, Sausage, Spinach,
On the other side of the restaurant is an
Sweet Peppers.
enclosed patio dining room which offers big
If you’re in the mood for a sandwich you’ll
windows, a warm hearth/fireplace and for the
find it here. From burgers to panini-style
When you go:
big games a big screen TV. In the center of the
to clubs, wraps and tortilla grinders, if you
Valley Forge Trattoria & Lounge
restaurant is a classic dining room with tables,
can imagine it they can make it, with fresh
comfortable booths, walls with painted scenes
ingredients to your order. They probably have
www.valleyforgepizza.com
from the Mediterranean and an open kitchen
some suggestions you’ve never even considered.
(you can order on line for pickup)
where you can watch your meal being prepared.
No matter what you’re in the mood for, it’s hard
610-935-7579
Born and raised in northern Greece, founder
to go wrong with the fresh, overstuffed delights
130 Valley Forge Road
Chronis Sapalidis hails from a long line of
that Chef Theodore and Chronis Sapalidis have
restaurateurs. His family has been in the food
imagined at prices that will leave you smiling.
Mon-Thu: 10am-10:30pm
(BYOB option available)
service industry for over 35 years. He sets
When it comes to pasta, the Philadelphia
Fri-Sat: 10am-11pm
the mood for friends new and old who come
Inquirer has recognized Valley Forge Trattoria
(No BYOB & lounge remains open later)
to enjoy a regular menu and daily specialty
as the best in Chester County. Made fresh and
Sun: 10am-10:30pm
items that rival the best Italian, Greek and Old
served with seafood, chicken, cheeses and
Reservations are suggested
World European restaurants anywhere in the
fresh-baked garlic knots that are light, bursting
for weekend dinners
Northeast.
with flavor and worth the trip from anywhere.
While atmosphere and staff are crucial parts
And the homemade marinara sauce? There isn’t
of any restaurant experience, it’s the food that ultimately keeps you
enough space do it justice. It is flavorful, but light. Make sure you order
coming back for more. Once you’ve enjoyed a meal at Valley Forge
something that comes with it or you’ll be missing out.
Trattoria, chances are you’ll be back again, and again, and again. Chef
“There’s nothing like this in Phoenixville,” Sapalidis points out.
Theodore is a culinary school graduate who brings more than a decade He’s right about that. For quality, variety and atmosphere you’d
of fine dining experience to the open kitchen. A native of the island of
be hard-pressed to find a better experience in either Phoenixville,
Crete, Chef Theodore brings out the subtle and savory flavors in every
Center City Philadelphia or the entire region. Located on the edge of
dish that he and his accomplished staff create.
Valley Forge National Historical Park at 1130 Valley Forge Road the
Seafood is one of the stars of this menu which mixes Mediterranean
restaurant is a short, easy drive from Phoenixville, Tredyffrin and King
dining and cafe style ambiance. Daily specials offer something new
of Prussia. It is worth the drive from anywhere. Free parking at the
every day. Salmon that melts in your mouth, crab cakes and the
front door is another bonus that can be hard to find with this kind of
owner’s favorite, Bronzino, are among the Chef Theodore’s creations.
dining in many places.
54 1.800.558.0940, ext. 202 | Phoenixville Area
Mediterranean Dining & Cafe Style Ambiance
©The Wood
Real
Estate
& Insurance
Serving the Area Since 1923
Sales Staff
R. Andrew Coffman
Patricia Giampietro
Tom Fortmann
Stacie Wise
Andrew Coffman
Stephanie Umbach
Anne Kurtz
Theresa Twarogowski
We Invite You to Join Us
for Fine Food, Drinks
& Entertainment!
Richard A. Coffman, Broker
204 Village at Eland, Rt. 113, Phoenixville, PA
610-933-8891 • alcoffman.com
Award-winning
pastas and
pizza made with
our proprietary
sauces.
Ask
About
Our BYOB
nights.
Visit Our Elegant New
Lounge for the Best in
Phoenixville Night Life!
Stop by
anytime to
enjoy our
gourmet coffees
& desserts.
Our Chefs use the
finest ingredients
made fresh in
our theatre-style
open kitchen.
1130 Valley Forge Rd. • Phoenixville, PA • 610-935-7579
www.valleyforgepizza.com
Mon-Thu 10am-10:30pm, Fri-Sat 10am-11pm, Sun 10am-10:30pm
Personal Training
in the Comfort
of Your Home…
SPECIAL:
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$15.00 OFF
2 per customer. Offer good
from 11/15/14 to 2/15/15.
Crossfiber Corrective
Muscle Therapy
Go to www.fitbodyforeverybody.com or
call 610-209-8047 for more information about
personal training services, boot camp locations and
activities, pricing, gift certificates and what FitBody
can do for you. Free consultations available.
In-Home
Personal Training
Carolyn Grashof
A.C.E. Certified Personal Trainer
SPINNING Cert. Instructor
Senior Fitness Cert. Instructor
American Red Cross Cert.
AAAI Pilates Cert. Mat 1 and Mat 2 Instructor
Small Group Training
Pilates & Core Training
Carolyn’s Boot Camp
6-Week Cycles
Equestrian Boot Camp
 Neck/Low Back Pain
 Arthritis
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Pregnancy Massage
Hot Stone Massage
Cancer Massage
Deep Muscle Therapy Group, Inc.
Linda J. Kulp, LMT
PA Lic #MSG001429
601 Main Street
(4th & Main Streets)
610-933-7002 • dmtg601@yahoo.com
www.deepmuscletherapygroup.com
Schuylkill Township
111 Valley Park Road, Phoenixville PA 19460 | Ph: 610.933.5843 Fx: 610.933.4428 | www.schuylkilltwp.org
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
PUBLIC SAFETY
supervisors@schuylkilltwp.org
SCHUYLKILL TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT
police@schuylkilltwp.org
Administration Hours: 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Monday - Friday
111 Valley Park Road, Phoenixville PA 19460
Ph: 610.933-5820 | Fx: 610.917.0346
Fred Parry – Chair
Barbara Cohen – Vice Chair
Martha Majewski – Treasurer
Kevin Handforth
Jim Morrisson
ADMINISTRATION
admin@schuylkilltwp.org
Hours: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday - Friday
Mary Bird – Township Manager
Madeline Harbison – Township Secretary
SC H UYL KIL L TOWN SH I P NE WS
chuylkill Township
ROADS DEPARTMENT
Nick Cinciripino – Roadmaster
Steve Mihalchik – Assistant Roadmaster
BUILDING/ZONING
zoning@schuylkilltwp.org
Hours: 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday - Thursday
7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Friday
Kimberly Yocom – Zoning Administration Officer
Township Meetings
1st Wednesday 7:30 p.m.
ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COUNCIL
4th Tuesday 7:30 p.m.
HISTORICAL COMMISSION
3rd Monday 7 p.m.
PLANNING COMMISSION
3rd Wednesday 8 p.m.
OPEN SPACE COMMISSION
Last Monday 7:30 p.m.
ZONING HEARING BOARD
2nd Monday (as needed) 7:30 p.m.
REGIONAL PLANNING COMMITTEE
Last Wednesday 7:30 p.m.
James R. Fetterman – Chief of Police
William L. Fitzsimmons – Lieutenant
Patricia Tuscai – Police Secretary
AFTER HOURS
NON-EMERGENCY CALLS: 610.935.2440
EMERGENCY CALL 9-1-1
VALLEY FORGE VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY
station68@valleyforgefireco.com
630 Valley Park Road, PO Box 62
Valley Forge, PA 19481-0062
Ph: 610.933.3388 | Fx: 610.935.1550
Jason Cole – Fire Chief / Fire Marshall
Evan Taylor – Deputy Chief / Deputy Fire Marshall
A Note to Schuylkill
Township Residents
Welcome to the second issue of our new quarterly InCommunity
Magazine! We hope you are enjoying getting to know our surrounding
communities, as well as keeping up to date with your own. We are
pleased with the results, and after working out a few minor editing
and timeline glitches, we are looking forward to a great information
filled community magazine! This magazine (at no cost to taxpayers)
is being distributed to every residence within the Phoenixville Area
School District, almost 15,000 homes! Extra copies are available at
each municipality if you would like to pick one up for a friend.
This is YOUR newsletter. Please feel free to contact the Township Office
with any comments, constructive criticism, concerns, ideas, or questions
you have about this newsletter or future events.
Kim Yocom Garcia
PPL: (800) 342-5775
www.pplelectric.com/my-account/outage-center/report-an-outage.aspx
MetEd: (888) 544-4877
www.firstenergycorp.com/content/customer/outages_help/Report_Power_
Outages.html
Staying Safe During
Cold Weather
Autumn
Maintenance Tips
For Your Home
It’s no secret that last year was a doozey of a winter; we had snow, ice, power outages, and
extended road closures. Everyone learned a few lessons about preparedness. So how about a
little preseason refresher?
Home Heating
Every house has a few cooler than normal areas when the temperature goes down and
many of us supplement home heating with a second source. Space heaters and wood or pellet
stoves top the list. However, according to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA),
reports, home heating equipment accounted for 14% of home fires and was associated with
well over 1,000 injuries and 400 deaths in 2011. When using your auxiliary heaters, here are a
few tips to keep you safe:
1. Keep all combustible items (blankets, paper, clothing, etc) at least three feet from the space
heater. Keep children away from heaters.
2. Use a space heater equipped with an automatic shut off. These heaters will shut off if
accidentally knocked over.
3. Turn off the heater when you leave the room or go to bed. A few extra blankets can warm
you just as well with a lot less risk.
4. Ensure the electrical circuit you’re using is designed to work with the amount of electricity
the heater uses and NEVER use it with an extension cord.
5. Have your heater & chimney cleaned by a qualified professional.
6. Use a sturdy screen to stop sparks from popping out of the fire place or stove.
7. Always make sure you have working smoke alarms & carbon monoxide detectors
throughout the house. Have a fire extinguisher handy as well.
Power Outages
Typically, many of our power outages are brief. But as we found out last year, we also need
to be prepared for the worst case. There are now many new generators in the township, please
see the article on Generator Safety in this newsletter for important tips.
If you or a family member will require assistance in excess of that provided to the general
public in a time of disaster, be sure to register with the Special Needs Registry at
www.specialneedspa.org.
During a winter storm emergency, check Chester County Emergency Services’ website
(www.chesco.org) for information on shelters, warming centers, PECO Customer
Information centers and more.
While many of these items may seem silly or based in common sense, remember that for
many people desperate times may call for desperate actions. Make sure you have emergency
supplies on hand and be prepared to use them. Pull those extra blankets from the attic.
Double check the batteries in the flash lights. And don’t forget to keep those necessary
electronics charged.
Last season, 20 people were affected in Chester County by carbon monoxide during
weather related outages, and four house fires were caused by improper generator usage.
Hundreds of other residents chose to utilize the local public shelters to keep warm.
Think smart and stay safe. For more information on what you can do to be better prepared
visit www.nfpa.org, www.redcross.org and www.readypa.org.
As the hot Summer is dwindling down, the
cool crisp autumn air is a welcome change.
Along with the changing of the seasons, there
are several changes that you should make
around your home for a smooth transition to
the colder weather.
Take a look at the windows of your home,
make sure they are properly sealed/caulked
so cold air doesn’t seep in. If you have an
older home and have drafty windows, you
can purchase window sealing kits that are
inexpensive and very easy to apply. This will
help keep the heat in and the drafts out.
While out inspecting the windows, make
sure all gutters are secured, and the roof is in
good condition. Make sure the gutters are free
from leaves and other debris. If gutters aren’t
clear, water can spill over, going onto the
ground next to the foundation of your home,
which over time can cause damage to the
foundation.
Disconnect any garden hoses or outdoor
plumbing and drain the water from the pipes
leading to the outside faucets to prevent any
freezing which can damage the pipes.
Have your fireplace checked by a chimney
sweep to make sure there are no blockages
that could create a chimney fire. Most chimney
sweeps recommend an annual sweeping.
Have your heating system checked by
a certified HVAC contractor to ensure it is
running efficiently before the cold weather
begins. Stock up now on air filters for the
winter and change them every month.
Having a programmable thermostat will
help lower your energy costs. If you don’t have
one, it may be worth looking into.
You should also install a carbon monoxide
detector if you do not have one already. This
is a very simple and inexpensive thing that you
can do yourself.
Check the batteries in your smoke
detectors and review your fire evacuation plan
with your family. If you don’t have a plan, now
is the time to make one.
Wishing you a happy, healthy & safe Autumn!
SC HU YL KI L L TOW N SHI P N E WS
PECO: (800) 841-4141
www.peco.com/CustomerService/OutageCenter/Pages/ReportanOutage.aspx
Schuylkill Township
For Emergencies call 9-1-1
For Power Outages call:
Don’t Become A Statistic
Snow Thrower Safety Tips
chuylkill Township
A snow thrower is a valuable asset in a winter with snowfall measured in feet. But while a snow thrower may look simple
to use, keep in mind that it is a powerful tool and should be used with caution.
A few simple precautions can avoid a trip to the emergency room:
❉
Read the user manual that came with your snow thrower.
❉
Have your machine inspected and serviced prior to the start of the snow season.
Check online for any product recalls or updates involving your snow thrower since
last winter. The Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website at www.cpsc.gov
is a good place to start.
❉
Many snow thrower injuries are from operators attempting to clear clogged snow
from the auger shaft and blades. NEVER try this with your hands! Newer snow
thrower models come with a clearing tool; if you do not have one, use a broomstick or other long stick. Always keep your hands and feet away from the moving
parts.
❉
Always start your snow thrower outdoors. These machines emit large amounts of carbon dioxide. Add fuel
to the tank before starting the machine, not while it is running or hot.
❉
Long scarves and jacket drawstrings can get caught in the snow thrower. Dress appropriately.
❉
Never leave the machine unattended. Ensure children and pets are at a safe distance.
❉
If you have an electric snow thrower, use only outdoor-rated power cords and a ground fault interrupting
protected outlet and be aware of the where the power cord is at all times.
❉
Do not blow snow onto fire hydrants, streets, sidewalks or other areas that must be kept clear.
Ahh, winter...
Hot chocolate in front of the fire; homemade soup bubbling on the stove... and salt in the environment. Although salt is
delicious on food, it’s less than delicious for the soil and water, plants and pets. Become a savvy shopper and check de-icer
ingredients carefully.
❖
Avoid or minimize the use of sodium chloride (rock salt).
❖
Magnesium chloride is less toxic than rock salt. It is also more effective than sodium
chloride, so less is required to do the same job. Be sensitive about using it around steel
and aluminum, since it can corrode metals.
❖
Some “green” products also contain the fertilizer urea. While this might seem like a good
thing, too much fertilizer can also pollute the water supply.
❖
Calcium magnesium acetate breaks down the ice a bit, and then the ice needs to be
shoveled.
❖
While many swear by spreading kitty litter, sand, or ashes on the driveway, these only
give a modest amount of help with traction on snowy days. If you use cat litter, make
sure the type you use is natural and biodegradable. Covering smaller key areas with
plastic before a storm, and removing it before it has a chance to freeze in place is a
good preventative measure that is certainly a more environmentally sensitive option.
❖
The number one environmentally sound choice is to clear snow and ice before it compacts or pay someone to do it.
Also, wear footwear designed for the snow or modify existing shoes with strap-on cleats or spikes to walk safely on
snowy driveways. Install hand rails on steep slopes, and take it slow.
Cleopatra lived closer to the
invention of the iPhone
than she did to the building
of the Great pyramid.
✧✧✧
Saudi Arabia imports
camels from Australia.
✧✧✧
In an emergency, portable electric generators offer lifesaving benefits when
outages affect your home or business. They can safely power important electrical equipment such as portable heating units, computers, water pumps, freezers,
refrigerators and lighting. However, portable generator use can also be very
hazardous. If you plan on using an emergency generator, it’s essential that you
take precautions for your safety and the safety of those working to restore power.
The most effective way to avoid portable generator mishaps is to make sure you
fully understand the proper operating procedures. Read and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines before operating or maintaining your generator – and don’t
forget to use common sense.
Follow these tips for safe portable generator use:
Cookie Monster’s
real name is Sid.
✧✧✧
Oxford University is older
than the Aztec Empire.
✧✧✧
A million seconds is
about 11 days.
✧✧✧
� Always read and follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions before running
generator
You can’t hum while
holding your nose.
� Maintain your generator according to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule
for peak performance and safety.
✧✧✧
� Engines emit carbon monoxide. Never use a generator inside your home, garage,
crawl space, or other enclosed areas. Fatal fumes can build up, that neither a fan
nor open doors and windows can provide enough fresh air.
� Only use your generator outdoors, away from open windows, vents, or doors.
Keep portable generators as far away as possible from work areas and gathering
spaces.
It rains diamonds on
Saturn and Jupiter.
✧✧✧
Nutella was invented during
WWII when an Italian pastry
maker mixed hazelnuts
into chocolate to extend
his chocolate ration.
� Keep children and pets away from the generator.
� Use a battery-powered carbon monoxide detector in the area you’re running a
generator.
✧✧✧
� Gasoline and its vapors are extremely flammable. Allow the generator engine to
cool at least 2 minutes before refueling and always use fresh gasoline. If you do
not plan to use your generator in 30 days, don’t forget to stabilize the gas with
fuel stabilizer. Keep fuel containers away from flame producing and heat generating devices (such as the generator itself, water heaters, cigarettes, lighters, and
matches). Do not smoke around fuel containers.
There are only 5 countries
that still use Fahrenheit
to measure temperature:
Bahamas, Belize,
Cayman Islands, Palau
& The United States.
� Never operate the generator near combustible materials.
� If you have to use extension cords, be sure they are of the grounded type and are
rated for the application. Coiled cords can get extremely hot; always uncoil cords
and lay them in flat open locations. Do not overload a generator; this can lead to
overheating which can create a fire hazard.
� Never plug your generator directly into your home outlet. If you are connecting
a generator into your home electrical system, have a qualified electrician install a
Power Transfer Switch.
� Generators produce powerful voltage — Never operate under wet conditions.
Take precautions to protect your generator from exposure to rain and snow.
Information and recommendations are compiled
from sources believed to be reliable. The National
Safety Council makes no guarantee as to and
assumes no responsibility for the correctness,
sufficiency or completeness of such information
or recommendations. Other or additional
safety measures may be required under under
particular circumstances. Last Revised: 04/09
SC HU YL KI L L TOW N SHI P N E WS
Fun Facts:
Schuylkill Township
Generator Safety
Falling Waters of the Schuylkill
When: Monday, December 15, 2014 (7pm-9pm)
Where: Molly Maguire’s (197 Bridge Street, Phoenixville, PA)
Sponsored By: Fairmount Water Works (215-685-0723 for more info)
chuylkill Township
Join us for a lively slide show as local photographer Sandy Sorlien compares historic and contemporary images of
four local Schuylkill River dams and their canals. We’ll connect these important sites with the Phoenixville urban
water cycle and industry, the 19th century Schuylkill Navigation System, and Philadelphia’s landmark water system.
You’ll see your river through a whole new lens!
Don’t forget to come out and enjoy the Tree Lighting ceremony at the Valley Forge Volunteer Fire Company on
Fri., December 12, 2014, at 7pm. This event takes place at our Main Station, 630 Valley Park Rd., Phoenixville, PA.
For more information, please contact the Fire Company at 610-933-3388 or www.valleyforgefire.com.
The Schuylkill Township
Leaf Yard is Back!!!
The Township’s leaf compost yard will re-open
on November 3, 2014.
Township residents may drop off leaves only
between 7am and 2pm, Mon. through Fri. by
Appointment Only. Call the Township Office
at 610-933-5843 to arrange your leaf drop-off.
The compost yard is located on the Valley Forge
Sewer Authority Complex at 333 Pawling Rd.,
Phoenixville. The Township does NOT do roadside leaf pick up.
The Township is no longer accepting yard
waste (grass clippings/weeds) or branches.
We can only accept BIODEGRADABLE PAPER
BAGS ONLY. We do have some available at the
township building for purchase.
The Township compost yard will not accept
Construction Materials (dirt, stone, concrete,
plywood, blacktop, treated or painted wood,
etc.)
The Township has the right to reject any or all
material brought to the leaf compost yard.
Help Habitat for Humanity
Chester County AND
Help De-clutter Your Home!
Are you looking to dispose of a large
household item? Planning on a kitchen or
bathroom renovation? Want to change your
furniture style but don’t want your old sofa
ending up in a landfill? Recycle your old
items and help us build affordable housing
in Chester County!
If you have a large item or items (furniture,
appliances, cabinets and more) that are in
good condition or working order, please
contact Habitat for Humanity of Chester
County to arrange a pick-up. (Items can be
picked up from the first floor or garage level
of your home.) Visit www.hfhcc.org or call
610-466-1890 for more information or to
schedule a pick-up. Donated items will be
sold in one of the ReStores. Proceeds from
the ReStores help us to build affordable
housing throughout Chester County.
There are many proven benefits of volunteering to
you and your community. Studies have shown that
volunteering can increase happiness, self confidence
and physical health. Volunteering can also increase
job experience and teach new job skills. Last year
volunteers working with Chester County residents
age 60 and older provided countless hours of
service. These volunteers completed tasks ranging
from assisting with clean up following the 2013-14
winter storms to providing a wellness telephone call
or visit to someone living alone. Regardless of how
intense the job or how much time was spent with
an individual, Chester County volunteers had a positive impact on the lives of all they served. There are
numerous volunteer opportunities to assist residents
age 60 and older throughout Chester County. If you
are looking for a volunteer opportunity for yourself
or your agency, Chester County Department of Aging
Services and/or one of our community partners has
a place for you. Contact Janice Soster at jsoster@
chesco.org or 610-344-6350 for more information.
Sandy Murphy
Director, Chester County Department of Aging Services
SPONSORED CONTENT
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
SPONSORED CONTENT
Healthy Happens at the Phoenixville Y this New Year!
Here’s Y!
T
his New Year is a time for new beginnings and for setting personal goals that
strengthen one’s spirit, mind and body, yet millions of people make resolutions that
often fizzle by February.
Weight loss is a common resolution and the number one reason why people join a
fitness center. Each year, health seekers search for a place where they can develop a successful fitness routine with a commitment that continues beyond the holiday season.
Despite this simple promise, many people fall short of meeting their goals by failing to
develop a fitness plan and/or a support system.
Resolutions that involve fitness goals are most often about making changes in behavior
and adopting a new lifestyle. As a community-based organization, the Phoenixville Y
provides a solution that no other organization can offer.
The Y has more programs, activities, events and amenities designed to accommodate
people of all ages and abilities - - from the advanced fitness mom and the novice swimmer, to the beginner gymnast or the grandmother who finished her first marathon. For
more than 50 years, the Phoenixville Y has provided something for everyone.
“The Phoenixville Y offers a variety of programs and healthy New Year tips that support family time,” says Deirdre Wood, Executive Director, Phoenixville YMCA. “Families
are a large focus and we are committed to helping individuals remain connected and
engaged to support all their resolution goals.”
The Phoenixville Y offers some of the most popular land and water fitness classes that
are free to families who work out together. From abdominal, cardio and belly dancing
to Zumba, Les Mills classes, gymnastics, Pilates and yoga, the Y offers a wide variety of
classes for every level.
Learn Something New in 2015
Members who are most successful get connected in more ways than just exercising.
They connect with other members who share a common goal. They get involved in
additional activities and make it fun for themselves. Book clubs, instructional sports,
health workshops and social events are among hundreds of options available to individuals and families with shared interests.
“Stepping out of your comfort zone helps individuals grow,” explains Donna Burns,
Member Services Director. “The Y is much more than a gym – the Y is a resource to
explore personal interests.” Classes and activities are not limited to the gym or pool.
Youth and Adult sports leagues, music lessons, Martial Arts and ballet are some of the
programs held regularly that engage individuals of any age while having fun.
The Y. So Much MoreTM
Nestled in the roots of hundreds of Phoenixville-area neighborhoods, the Y is an outlet
to more than 13,000 children, adults and seniors of all abilities. This Y is more than a fitness center, a swimming pool or it’s bricks and mortar. The Phoenixville Y is the foundation of the community, providing more opportunities to develop new relationships and
connect with neighbors.
The Phoenixville Y is a leading non-profit and one of 19 YMCA’s among the Philadelphia
Freedom Valley YMCA family. Through the support and generosity of local donors, the Y
is available to all regardless of age, race or income level.
This season, make the Y part of your family’s New Year’s resolution. Consider the Y a
place to stay active and healthy, develop new hobbies and give back to your neighbors
with a donation of time, talent or treasure. For more information, contact the Welcome
Center at 610-933-5861 or visit us online at philaymca.org.
1158 Rapps Dam Road
P.O. Box 58
Kimberton, PA 19442
E AST PI KE LA ND TOWNS H IP N E WS
ast Pikeland Township
Meets every 1st Tuesday of each
month at 7:00 p.m.
Ronald M. Graham - Chairman
Russell L. Strauss - Vice Chairman
J. Benson Campbell - Supervisor
TOWNSHIP
ADMINISTRATION
Kimberly Moretti - Manager
Kisha Tyler - Zoning Officer
Stephanie Nattle - Secretary
EAST PIKELAND TOWNSHIP
POLICE DEPARTMENT
610.935.0606
Chief James Franciscus
PUBLIC WORKS
DEPARTMENT
Al Cushman - Director
ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY
COUNCIL
Meets 4th Thursday of each
month at 7:00 p.m.
HISTORICAL COMMISSION
Meets 3rd Wednesday of each
month at 7:00 p.m.
OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE
Meets 3rd Tuesday of each
month at 7:00 p.m.
PARK & RECREATION BOARD
Meets 3rd Thursday of each
month at 7:00 p.m.
PLANNING COMMISSION
Meets 2nd Monday of each
month at 7:00 p.m.
ZONING HEARING BOARD
Hearings are scheduled as
applications are received
Hours: Monday - Friday / 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
www.eastpikeland.org
Phone: 610.933.1770 - Fax: 610.933.0919
Manager’s Messages
Kim Moretti, Township Manager
� I hope that East Pikeland Township residents enjoyed the first issue
of In Community Phoenixville magazine this fall. This quarterly
magazine will replace the township’s bi-annual newsletter and will
provide you with information not only about East Pikeland Township,
but the surrounding communities as well.
� It has been over a decade since an East Pikeland Township resident served on the
Phoenixville Area School District School Board. Isn’t it time for our community
to be represented? If you are interested in serving on the School Board, it will
require you to be elected in the November 2015 election. Contact Chester County
Voter Services Department (610-344-6410) for election details and deadlines.
� Chrisman’s Mill, more commonly known as the Kimberton Post Office, has been
memorialized through a pen and ink drawing by local artist Ann Bedrick. The
sketch is now available on a holiday ornament, the 3rd in the series of historic
structures in the township. Snyder’s Mill and Rapps Dam Covered Bridge
ornaments are also available – all for $5 each. Contact the township office to make
your purchase.
� Congratulations to Corporal Ben Martin who has been chosen to participate in
the Chester County Major Case Shadowing Program where he will work alongside
Chester County detectives at major crime scenes and investigations occurring
throughout the County. This program will allow Corporal Martin an opportunity to
practice major case investigation skills.
� Volunteer Vacancies… East Pikeland Township greatly appreciates all the residents
who volunteer on our committees and commissions, including the Planning
Commission, Park & Recreation Board, Historical Commission, Open Space
Committee and the Environmental Advisory Council (EAC). We currently have open
volunteer vacancies on the EAC and Historical Commission. If you are interested in
volunteering, visit our website and click on VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES under the
Boards and Personnel tab on the home page.
� This publication is made possible by the advertisers and I would encourage you
to support them and let them know that you saw their ad in the In Community
Phoenixville magazine.
Snyder’s Mill
Rapps Dam Covered Bridge
Chrisman’s Mill
Each Ornament $5.00 (1st & 2nd are sold together for $10.00)
Chrisman’s Mill is located on the southeast corner of Kimberton and Hare’s
Hill Roads. George Chrisman built the mill in 1796. Chrisman also ran an Inn
and hired a miller to run the mill. Chrisman died in 1812, leaving sons, John
and Jacob as executors. They sold it to John Snyder, who kept the inn and sold
the mill to Enoch Walker and Thomas George in 1815. Walker and George
conveyed it to Emmor Kimber in 1817. Although Kimber was not a miller, he
kept the mill running. By 1821, Kimber was having financial problems, and
put the mill up for sale. In 1830, John Thomas bought the mill and 17 acres.
Afterward it changed hands several times. Grinding was stopped in 1938 and
it operated as a feed store in 1939, closing completely in 1943. Chrisman Mill’s
was especially well located. It enjoyed a good fall of water for its wheel from
Royal Spring Creek, and by sharing the intersection with the boarding school,
inn, and general store, it enabled clients to take care of other errands and needs
while their grain was being milled. This market pattern of mill, store, and
tavern serving fundamentally local needs was well established by 1820 and
didn’t change much for the next half-century. Today the mill building is home
to the Kimberton Post Office and other professional offices.
Snyder’s Mill or Rapps Dam Bridge
Signed Prints
12”x18” print / $35.00
Notecards
Pack of 12 / $10.00 each
Beverage Glass
16 oz. Glass
$6.00 each / 2 for $10.00
E AST P I KE L AN D TOW N SHI P N E WS
Holiday Ornament Series
East Pikeland Township
East Pikeland Township Memorabilia
Rainwater Collection Activity
Fact: 1" of rainfall on a 1000 sq. ft. roof will produce 600 gallons of rainwater. To
calculate the square footage of your house, you can measure the outside area of
the exterior walls. To find area, multiply Length times Width. Using an example of a
house that is 50' in length by 35' in width, we would multiply 50' x 35' to equal 1750
sq. ft. Move the decimal point over 3 places to the left to continue the equation.
Since 1" of rain yields 600 gallons on a 1000 sq. ft. roof, we will multiply 600 x 1.75 to
determine the quantity of run-off from our example roof. 600 x 1.75 = 1050 gallons.
For every one inch of rainfall, then, approximately 1050 gallons will drain off of the
roof.
To determine an annual rooftop yield for a 1000 sq. ft. roof, take the average rainfall,
determined to be 44.35" according to weather.com, and multiply by 600 gallons.
44.35 x 600 = 26,610 gallons of rainfall annually.
How much rainwater can be collected from your roof? Can you think of ways to
collect/recycle rainwater rather than allowing it to seep back into the ground or
flow into storm drains?
Regal Entertainment
Super Saver Movie Tickets
$8.00 per ticket - Cash or Check Only
Tickets are redeemable at Regal Entertainment Group theatres nationwide,
including Regal Cinemas, United Artist Theatres and Edwards Theatres.
Tickets are available at the Township Office year-round and do not expire.
Visit www.REGmovies.com for participating theatres & show times.
Leaf & Grass Clippings ONLY
LOCATION A
Monday thru Friday - 7am - dusk
Saturday & Sunday - 10am - dusk
Branches, Brush, Tree
Trimmings, Ornamental Grass,
Garden Waste & Weeds
LOCATION B
Monday thru Friday - 7am - 3pm
Township residents can order
a delivery of Mulch for only
$25.00, ½ the normal cost!
Each truckload is 2 ½ to
3 yards of mulch.
Call the Township to
schedule a delivery:
610-933-1770
This sale price is
only available until
the end of 2014.
Pick-up of mulch is still
free for residents.
CLOSED SATURDAYS
November 29, 2014 thru April 5, 2015
Branches must be 6 inches or less in
diameter. No logs, lumber, paneling or
pressure treated wood is accepted.
Christmas Tree Recycling
January 4 thru January 30
For East Pikeland Residents
Residents have 2 choices for recycling their Christmas tree:
1. Between Jan. 4 and Jan. 30, the Township Public Works Crew will
conduct a curbside pick-up of trees.
(Mon. thru Fri.)
2. Drop the tree off yourself behind the Township Building at the Yard
Waste Recycling Center, Location B, Mon. - Fri., 7am-3pm.
Whether you participate in the drop-off or curbside tree recycling
program PLEASE FOLLOW THESE GUIDELINES:
• Strip tree of all ornaments and tinsel.
• Do not wrap the tree in plastic.
DEAD
DEER
HOTLINE
Who should you call
when you see a dead deer
on the side of the road?
State Roads
Call PennDOT 484-340-3201
(Rt 724, Rt 23, Rt 113 & Coldstream,
Hares Hill & Merlin Roads)
Township Roads
Call PA Game Commission:
610-926-3136
(it will not be picked up)
• Do not place the tree at the curbside WITH your trash. Your trash
hauler will take it and it will not be recycled.
EAST PIKELAND
TOWNSHIP
YARD WASTE
RECYCLING
DROP-OFF HOURS
MULCH SALE
The A-B-C’s of Building, Code Enforcement & Zoning
By Kisha Tyler, Zoning Officer
Building Permit Requirements
Building and zoning permits are required for all construction and most renovation projects. If the
project is structural or involves plumbing, electrical or mechanical work, you must obtain a permit:
this includes new home construction, residential additions and renovations, a detached garage, deck,
swimming pools, etc. You do not need a permit for routine property maintenance such as re-shingling
a roof, replacing windows, doors or siding. Construction or renovation of any commercial, industrial,
educational or other non-residential building including roof projects ALWAYS require a permit.
Processing takes approximately 3 weeks (if the plan meets code requirements), so plan your project
accordingly. A shed under 500 sq. ft. requires a Zoning Permit, and must be setback 15 feet from the side
and rear property lines. Sheds, pole barns, detached garages over 500 sq. ft. require a Building Permit
and must be setback a minimum distance equal to the height of the structure (but not less than 15
feet from the property line). The minimum distance between the principal building and the accessory
structure is 10 feet.
Burning is PROHIBITED!
East Pikeland Township Ordinance No. 136 prohibits outdoor burning for purposes of disposing of any
municipal waste, leaf waste, yard waste or recyclable materials. An outdoor fireplace, a patio or lawn fire
pit, a small campfire for recreational purposes, and any outdoor wood burning unit for home heating
are allowed as long as they are used for their intended purpose. For farm use properties over 5-acres,
controlled burning is permitted for agricultural purposes.
COMPOST & MULCH
Generators
An emergency generator can come in handy during a power outage. Portable generators do not require
a permit; permanent generators DO. Placement of these gas-powered units must be 5 feet from any
building AND 5 feet from any door, window, vent or other opening (includes basement windows).
Information on generator safety can be found online on various websites.
Heating Unit Repair or Replacement
Repair or replacement of your residential heating unit does not require a permit. Conversion of your
heating type from electric to gas, propane, etc. does require a mechanical permit. Replacement of
units in any commercial, industrial, educational or other non-residential building ALWAYS requires a
mechanical permit.
Advertising Signs
East Pikeland Township has very strict sign regulations, and small portable signs used to advertise
businesses and services are not permitted. We understand that these small signs are economical for
business promotion unfortunately they are not allowed. Contractor signs are permitted only on the
premises where the work is occurring. Real estate signs are permitted on the site to be sold, rented, or
developed. No off-site real estate directional signs are permitted. Political signs and those of religious
ideology are exempt. Special event signs are limited to 4 off-site, two weeks prior to the event. Section
1900 of the Zoning Ordinance pertains to signs and is available online.
ALL ORDINANCES, FORMS AND PERMIT APPLICATIONS CAN BE FOUND
ON OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.EASTPIKELAND.ORG
Cutler Subdivision
This project was first proposed in 2004 as a 250
single-family home subdivision with access off of
Snyder Avenue and Township Line Road. The stagnated
economy postponed construction of the development
and last year the township approached the developer
about redesigning the plans to create a new boulevard
access off of Route 724 at the location of the PennDOT
right-of-way historically known as the “422 Spur”. It
is anticipated that the new boulevard will improve
traffic conditions along the Route 724/23 corridor.
The revised concept plan for the development, which
will include 168 single-family homes and 164 agerestricted homes, has been approved by the Board of
Supervisors and PennDOT. The project is currently in
the engineering phase.
Hrivnak and Gappa Properties
Longview Development is working on plans for a
commercial/residential project at the two properties
located at Rapps Dam Road and Route 23. Concept
plans indicate the project will include apartment
buildings toward the rear of the properties and
commercial/retail uses along the road frontage.
The project will also include improvement of the
Route 23/Rapps Dam/Mowere Road intersection
and traffic signal. The project is currently in the
engineering phase.
Revitalization (REV) Overlay District
The REV overlay district was established to
encourage redevelopment and revitalization of
blighted, deteriorated and underused properties
and to promote a mix of commercial and residential
uses in a neighborhood type environment through
a Unified Master Plan. The newly established REV
District is located on Route 23 at Rapps Dam Road.
Ordinance No. 161, adopted April 1, 2014, outlines
the regulations of the REV Overlay District.
Subdivision,
Land Development
& Planning Update
Kimberton Village
On September 2, 2014 the Board of Supervisors
enacted Ordinance No. 162 establishing the KVC
Overlay District within Kimberton Village. As a
component of the Walkable Kimberton concept,
the overlay incorporates a central plaza designed
for pedestrian interaction and provides safe walking
opportunities through the Village with sidewalks and
trails. The Township anticipates submission of several
land development projects consistent with the unique
character of historic Kimberton Village.
Route 724 Corridor
The Planning Commission is wrapping up months of
work with the township land planner on new provisions
to the Mixed Use (MU) and Commercial (C) zoning
districts. The new provisions focus on ways to encourage
development and revitalization of the Route 724 and
Route 23 corridor. Theurkauf Design & Planning
will develop amendments to the zoning and land
development ordinances with regard to bulk and density
standards, design standards, revitalization standards,
complete streets and multi-modal accessibility.
Keep updated on these and other projects by visiting “TOWNSHIP NEWS”
on the East Pikeland Township website at www.eastpikeland.org.
News from East Pikeland Police Department
All East Pikeland Police Officers are trained and certified by the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and are constantly attending training
courses, educational classes and mandatory updates, which allow them to
be the best officers they can be. With the assistance of the Kimberton Gun
Range, the officers are able to practice and remain proficient with their
firearms. The success of this department is dependent upon the township
residents, so please do not hesitate to approach us with comments and/or
concerns.
Police Department
1158 Rapps Dam Road
P.O. Box 298
Kimberton, PA 19442
Non-Emergency Phone:
610-935-0606
Chief James Franciscus
Sgt. Susette Wilson
Corporal Bernard Martin
Ofc. Joseph Heyman
Ofc Richard Fagley
Ofc. Kenneth Smith
Ofc. Patrick Ehmann
Ofc. Daniel Corbo
Ofc. James Robb
Ofc. Paul Kingsbury
Protect Your Family from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
✦ Have your home heating systems (including chimneys and vents) inspected and serviced
annually by a trained service technician.
✦ Never use portable generators inside homes or garages, even if doors and windows are
open. Use generators outside only, far away from the home.
✦ Never bring a charcoal grill into the house for heating or cooking. Do not barbeque in the
garage.
✦ Never use a gas range or oven for heating.
✦ Open the fireplace damper before lighting a fire and keep it open until the ashes are cool.
An open damper may help prevent build-up of poisonous gases inside the home.
✦ Install battery-operated CO alarms or CO alarms with battery backup in your home outside
separate bedrooms.
✦ Know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning: headache, dizziness, weakness,
nausea, vomiting, sleepiness, and confusion. If you suspect CO poisoning, get outside to
fresh air immediately, and then call 911.
Visit our website
www.eastpikeland.org
PROJECT LIFESAVER
East Pikeland Police Department is
partnered with Project Lifesaver. Project
Lifesaver provides the department with
comprehensive equipment and training
to quickly locate and rescue individuals
with cognitive disorders who are at risk of
wandering, such as those with Alzheimer’s disease, Autism and Down syndrome.
Project Lifesaver provides the department with in-depth training on the use
of specialized electronic search and
rescue equipment, technology and
procedures as well as teaching rescuers
how to communicate with people
afflicted with cognitive conditions.
If you have any questions regarding this
program, please contact: Sergeant Wilson
or Officer Smith at 610-935-0606.
Traffic and Speed Limit Concerns
Traffic continues to be a concern for the traveling public and the East Pikeland Township Police
Department. We perform stationary patrols in areas where a high amount of accidents have
been reported. We deploy our traffic counter to track the speed of vehicles and the time of
day of the highest volume of traffic. To ensure that people are complying with the speed limit,
speed boxes are rotated throughout the township to notify drivers the speed they are traveling.
Please join the East Pikeland Police in keeping our roadways safe - OBEY ALL TRAFFIC LAWS!
2013 Officer of the Year
Officer Joe Heyman
At a Board of Supervisors meeting earlier this year,
Officer Joe Heyman was awarded Police Officer
of the Year for 2013. This award was given by his
peers for his dedication and assistance to his fellow
officers. Officer Heyman is a 18 year veteran of the
EPPD. Congratulations Officer Heyman!
GOING ON
VACATION?
If your trip is just a weekend, a week,
or more… our Police Department
will watch your house. Please fill out
a vacation request form and drop
it off to us. The form can be found
on our website or at the township
office. We make it a priority to keep
an extra eye on your property while
you are away.
INDUSTRY INSIGHT
YOUR DENTAL HEALTH
SPONSORED CONTENT
Time to Schedule
Your Dental Visit!
I
t’s August already – September’s right around the corner – so many
preparations for a busy fall season!
Your oral health is an important part of your overall health – and that
of your family! Whether you’re due for a cleaning and check-up or you have
mouth issues that have developed over time, we’re here to get you on track –
your health depends on it.
Alarmingly, an increasing number of people are turning to hospital
emergency departments for dental treatment. Proper, comprehensive dentistry
can only be provided in a dentist’s office. Establishing a relationship with your
general dentist and recommended specialists is the best way to have your oral
needs met. A network of caring professionals works together to provide optimal
dental care and education for every member of your family; your general dentist
is the quarterback of that team.
Research shows that healthy teeth and gums are related to heart health, and
decrease problems associated with other diseases such as diabetes. Your dentist
can provide resources for you such as MouthHealthy.org, and will work with
your medical doctor when needed.
Prevention of dental problems is our primary goal. Many people are not
aware that dental treatment is safe and recommended during pregnancy – bad
bacteria can be passed from mother to child, even before birth. So, it’s very
important that Mom’s mouth is as healthy as possible! Regular dental care and
good nutrition are foundations for optimal health for the entire family.
Providing anticipatory guidance at the age 1 dental exam ensures the oral
health of our youngest patients. We enjoy getting to know our patients at this
young age – so we can start them on their way to great oral health from the
beginning. Most of the first visit is spent sharing information with the child’s
parents – we discuss mouth care, including best feeding practices to limit tooth
contact with sugars, tooth brushing and fluoride use, pacifier/thumb sucking,
and use of bottles/sippy cups.
Then we perform a quick oral exam, cleaning if possible, and application
of fluoride varnish. We also check to see how the mouth is developing. As
patients grow, we constantly monitor growth and development – referring to
orthodontists and oral surgeons based on what we see in the mouth and on
x-rays. A lot can change in six months!
At each visit we review good nutrition and habits for all patients. Acids in
many foods as well as reflux/GERD cause tooth damage, as can “dry mouth,”
often caused by medications. Your dental team will prescribe oral care regimens
to prevent problems.
A treatment plan to provide the best mouth health for each individual
patient is made based on patient needs and desires. We realize that schedules
and finances impact dental treatment; we work hard to accommodate these
realities.
Treatment can
be performed in
phases. Evaluation
of tooth health, position,
habits, and periodontal/gum
health is done at each recall cleaning
appointment. It’s very important to maintain a regular recall/cleaning schedule,
especially when seeing dental specialists like orthodontists, so that any
problems/cavities can be found when they are small. Maintenance intervals are
set for each individual.
Our team is very involved in the dental community – we participate in
continuing education classes as well as being active members of organized
dentistry. We participate with the Dental Lifeline Network program, are major
organizers of Chester County and Delaware County Give Kids A Smile days and
volunteer for Mission of Mercy events in our state. We give to our community
as well as provide excellent dental care and education for our patients.
Dr. Bernadette Logan graduated with a B.S. in Biochemistry from the University
of Maryland, College Park in 1986. She earned her D.D.S.
degree from the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery in
1991, graduating magna cum laude. Dr. Logan received
further training during her general practice residency
through West Virginia University’s School of Dentistry in
Charleston, WV.
In 1994, Dr. Logan moved to Paoli, Pa. Since that time
she has been Dr. Gary L. Riggs’ associate and also has
been involved with The Children’s Dental Clinic. Dr. Logan
has served as co-chair of her local society’s Give Kids A Smile program since its
inception in 2003, and is an active member of her local, district and Pennsylvania
Dental Association’s access to oral health committees, having served as chair at
all three levels. She is currently a member of the American Dental Association’s
Council on Access, Prevention, and Interprofessional Relations.
Dr. Logan stays active in her community. When not at the office, you’ll find
her volunteering at her son and daughter’s schools, cheering on their sports teams
and giving back through local nonprofit T & E Care.
Gary L. Riggs, D.D.S. Assoc.
72 Paoli Pike, Paoli PA 19301
610.647.1666
www.riggsdds.com
Quick Tips: How Homeowners Can Conserve Water
Did you know that less than 1% of water in the world can be used by people? The rest is saltwater. The increase in
world population means that more people are trying to gain access to and use this limited resource. To conserve
the water supply, there are several simple adjustments that residents can make in their daily usage of water.
Keep showers to five minutes or less in length. A five-minute shower uses 10 to 25 gallons of water.
Keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator. You won’t have to run tap water to cool it.
Use a broom to sweep your driveway, garage, or sidewalk instead of using water.
Use a bucket of water to wash your bike or the family car, and rinse quickly with a hose.
Do not water your garden continuously throughout the day. Consistent hydration is wasteful and not effective for
plant growth. Plants that are watered during the hottest part of the day lose water due to evaporation. Also, water
your lawn in the evening or in the early morning to avoid this problem. Be careful to water only the lawn, and not the
sidewalk or street.
� Check household faucets for leaks. A leaky faucet dripping 15 times per minute equals almost three gallons of water wasted per day,
65 gallons wasted per month, and 788 gallons wasted per year!
� Use water only when you need it. Don’t leave water running; be sure to turn it off when you are finished.
�
�
�
�
�
Why should you consider this advice?
�
It saves water. The average person usually spends 2-3 minutes twice a day brushing his/her teeth. In that span of time, a person uses
roughly 12 gallons of water. Turning the water off when performing tasks such as brushing teeth saves 12,600 gallons per person per
year. That’s a lot of water!
� It is more cost effective if you turn off the water, you can save about $40 per year.
� It increases the life span of household appliances. Conserving water means that your house will use less gas/electric to heat the water,
meaning less wear and tear on your home’s plumbing systems.
Source: EPA Water Science and Technology
COM MU N IT Y NE WS
ommunity
Chester County’s Community Alert
System - ReadyNotifyPA
When an incident or emergency occurs, emergency service providers
can instantly notify you using the ReadyNotify System. ReadyNotifyPA is
your personal connection to real-time updates on emergency situations with
instructions on where to go, what to do, or what not to do, who to contact
and other important information.
It is free to sign up for Chester County ReadyNotifyPA, and you can
choose the types of alerts you want to get. ReadyNotifyPA uses the Roam
Secure Alert Network to immediately contact you during a major crisis
or emergency. ReadyNotifyPA delivers important emergency alerts,
notifications and updates to you on all your devices:
• Email account (work, home, other)
• Cell phone
• Pager
• Smartphone/PDA
Your wireless carrier may charge you a fee to get messages on your cell
phone or wireless device. Contact your carrier to find out how much these
messages may cost you with your current plan. You can choose to stop
getting messages at any time.
To register for ReadyNotifyPA go to http://chesco.alertpa.org.
Habitat for Humanity
of Chester County
Looking to dispose of a large
household item?
Recycle your item and help build
affordable housing in Chester County!
If you have a large item or items
(furniture, appliances, cabinets and
more) that are in good condition or
working order, please contact Habitat
for Humanity of Chester County to
arrange a pick-up.
Items can be picked up from the first
floor or garage level of your home.
Donated items will be sold in one of
our ReStores.
Proceeds from the ReStores help us to
build affordable housing throughout
Chester County.
Visit www.hfhcc.org or call
610.466.1890 for more information
or to schedule a pick-up.
COMMU N I T Y N E WS
Community
Some call it a “Snowageddon,” others refer to it as “Blizzard-Mania,” but
no matter how snow-verwhelmed you are, there are some things you
can agree on. You may know your table manners and how to behave in
front of company, but what are the do’s and don’ts in a snowstorm of this
proportion?
1.
Plain and simple: keep up with shoveling your sidewalks if you live in or near a
downtown area. Shoveling small amounts frequently is easier than waiting for the
end to shovel mounds of snow.
2.
Follow the old rule: do unto others as you would have them do unto you. (Don’t
steal your neighbor’s parking spot after he/she dug it out.)
3.
Clear out the area aroung fire hydrants on your street. It makes it a whole lot easier
for crews to help in the event of an emergency.
4.
When clearing off your car, make sure to clear the top off. It’s not only less
dangerous for people who are driving behind you, but it is the law.
5.
Once you’re on the roads, go slow. The mounds of snow on the sides of the street
make it hard to see other cars coming or the pedestrians who are out and about.
6.
Shovel your driveway. But don’t put the extra snow on the roads.
7.
If possible, do not park your car on the street when heavy snow is forecasted. Clear
streets are much easier to plow.
8.
Stay off the roads, if possible, until they’re cleared. Take the extra time to sit back,
enjoy a warm cup of hot cocoa, and catch up on your favorite TV shows, or finally
finish that book you started last winter.
‘Tis the Season
for Giving
As the Holiday Season approaches, we tend to get
caught up in the hustle and bustle of things. While most of us
enjoy the holiday cheer, there are the few who enjoy the bags
of freshly purchased gifts that you left in the back seat of your
unlocked car. Don’t let a Grinch ruin your day. Remember to keep
valuables out of sight and your vehicles locked, even while parked
in your own driveway. It only takes seconds for those valuables to
disappear. The same goes for your home; always keep doors and
windows locked. By having lights on outdoors and lights that are
activated by timers while you’re away indoors, it may help deter
potential burglars from targeting your home.
Unfortunately, it’s also the
season for scams and fraudulent
collections to inundate our
mailboxes. Always verify that the
charity you may choose to donate
to is legitimate. It’s best to reach out
to local organizations, rather than
fall victim to a random phone call,
form letter, or spam email. Don’t fall
victim to the “You’ve won a million
dollars in a foreign country’s lottery”
letter, the “You’ve got unclaimed
millions from a long lost relative”
letter, or “All you need to do is pay
the tax of $1,000 and $100,000 is
yours!” type of offers. If it seems too
good to be true, it probably is. Any
get-rich-quick scheme that requires
money or personal information to
be provided upfront is something
to steer clear of. Also, be wary of
phone calls you may receive from
someone claiming to be from
your bank or credit card company
stating that your card has been
compromised and asking you to
provide your account information,
Social Security number, etc. Even
though the caller ID may match
the company name or number,
there are many ways people can
“spoof” the number to trick you
into thinking it’s legitimate. Always
ask for a phone number to call
back, or hang up and contact your
bank/card holder directly with the
number provided on your card.
Solicitors and Strangers at Your Door
Schuylkill Township, East Pikeland, and Phoenixville Borough require any and all
solicitors to apply for a Solicitors Permit from their municipality. All applications
are carefully reviewed and specific ID requirements are obtained prior to approval.
Upon approval, a Solicitors Permit is provided to the solicitor with restrictions on
times and days that solicitation can occur. All solicitors are advised to respect our
residents and if any negative activity regarding the solicitor is reported, a determination may be made to revoke the permit based on information received. Contact
your municipality for further information regarding specific solicitation times.
Use Caution
If someone knocks at your door, acknowledge you are home. Talk through the door
without opening it. You should not feel obligated to open the door to anyone.
Always verify ID before opening doors to strangers. Diversionary home invasions
do occur when one subject will distract you at the front door and others will enter
into your residence to commit a crime generally through the unlocked back door. It
is always safer to have doors and windows locked at all times.
Service technicians should have appointments and should never show up
unexpectedly at your door. Ask to see ID and contact the company to verify it has a
technician out there.
 If you do not know the person or are unsure of
his/her identity, DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR.
COM MU N IT Y NE WS
ommunity
 Call 911 if the person at the door is requesting
assistance due to an accident or other
emergency situation. Advise the individual
that you are requesting assistance. Usually
when the request is legitimate, he/she will
wait for help. Otherwise, the person will
probably leave immediately.
 Contacting 911 or the Chester County Radio
Room at 610.935.2440 is the most expeditious
way to have an officer dispatched to your
location. Provide your address, information,
and a description of the person or persons. If
a vehicle is involved, provide the description
and license plate number to the dispatch
person.
Do not doubt your suspicions and uncertainty.
Your police department will respond and verify
all information for you.
SPONSORED CONTENT
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
SPONSORED CONTENT
Reshaping Nutrition
What’s in your mind is as important as what’s on your plate
s the cold days of winter seem to get longer and the hours
of sunlight are shorter, it’s a perfect time to start working on
getting re-shaped from your menu to your mind, according to
Rachel Stevenson. Stevenson is the founder and creator of Reshaping
Nutrition in Phoenixville. As a motivational speaker and nutrition
counselor Stevenson knows that the best time to start a program for
reaching your weight, nutrition and lifestyle goals is right now.
Stevenson knows the struggles first hand. She’s been there. She lost
120 pounds. Actually, as she explains it, she’s lost much more than
that over the years. “ I have always struggled with my weight. I was a
chubby kid, overweight teenager and obese adult. I have lost hundreds
of pounds over the course of my life but had never successfully lost the
weight and kept it off until now.”
In Stevenson’s case she got several weight loss “wake up calls” close
to home. “Both of my parents, my older sister, and my first cousin have
Diabetes. My grandparents died early of heart disease and cancer, and
they too struggled with weight. I knew it wouldn’t be long before my
fate caught up with me. When my first cousin was diagnosed with
Diabetes at the age of 30 (he and I are the same age), I realized how
serious my weight issue was and how likely I was to develop diabetes if
I didn’t make some changes.” Before she began developing the system that works for her and her
clients, Stevenson says she went with a popular weight loss program.
“I also taught myself how to cook, found ways to make my weight loss
journey fun, and focused less on point counting and more on eating
real food. On March 8, 2011, after only 18 months, I was 120 pounds
lighter!”
Stevenson was not only lighter, she was inspired, and driven. “After
going back to school, to earn a degree in Nutrition & Dietetics at West
Chester University, I decided to open my own nutrition company to
help others during their weight loss and wellness journeys. Through
this experience I learned weight loss is more than just a number on the
scale. It’s a lifestyle change: my life changed, my friends changed, my
relationships changed, and I changed… all for the better. I also learned
that I am capable of anything I set my mind to.”
Reshaping Nutrition creates individualized plans for each client.
“Everyone is different. I have clients that are extremely motivated
already and just need a few basic nutrition questions answered. I have
clients that have no motivation at all and need to figure out how to get
motivated first. Most clients are somewhere in between. The nutrition
is somewhat generalized and basic, because I want people to focus
on simply learning to balance their own food choices. I help counsel
clients through that process. My goal is to help clients lose weight or
eat healthier without ever feeling like they are “dieting.” Reshaping recipes can be a big part of that change in thinking. “My
favorite dishes to make include lots of vegetables. So many of us are
used to eating veggies in a certain way. I have clients that grew up on
wilted over-cooked asparagus, or steamed Brussels sprouts, never
experiencing these veggies in roasted form. Different cooking methods
create different flavors. The roasted brussels sprouts I make are a
perfect example of this. They are addictive.”
If a particular recipe isn’t quite your cup of tea, don’t panic.
Stevenson works with clients to teach them ways to cook that are both
healthy and catered to individual tastes.
The real secret to success is not just in the food. “Motivation and
positive mindset are the keys to success, “ she says. “That’s what I work
on with my clients.” She also can help motivate your group or work
force to reshape their nutrition and their lives.
“I offer corporate programs as well, including motivational speaking,
group classes, cooking demos, and workshops. I also offer wellness
event-planning services and consult on wellness initiatives. Reshaping
Nutrition offered an 8-week weight loss class at the Phoenixville Civic
Center in the fall and hopes to begin a few more classes in the new year
in various locations around the Phoenixville area.”
In terms of cost Stevenson says “if you can afford to eat at a nice
restaurant once a week, you can afford to do this.” A better question
may be can you afford not to do this?
Stevenson knows what works and what doesn’t. After all, she’s been
there. In November she was awarded the 2014 Lifestyle Change Award
by the American Heart Association
To find out more about classes and how Reshaping Nutrition can
help reshape your body and your life, follow Reshaping Nutrition on
Facebook and visit reshapingnutrition.com or call 484.447.0089.
MANDY KEEP PHOTOGRAPHY
A
By Bob Byrne
H E A LT H A N D W E L L N E S S
It’s Cold (Season)
Out There!
Some relief for the common cold.
By Bob Byrne
W
ith winter comes cold weather and colds & flu. While there is still no cure for the common cold, there
are some things you can do to prepare and fight symptoms. Knowledge is power and while we can’t write
you a prescription, we can arm you with information.
Flu Shots
Doctor’s offices, clinics, and many pharmacies are among the places that the flu vaccine is available.
The Chester County Department of Health also offers a flu vaccine clinic in West Chester. The vaccine
is free or available at a reduced cost for uninsured or under-insured families.Vaccine can be paid for by
personal check, cash,VISA, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express (service fees apply for credit card
payments).
Flu vaccine is available by appointment for adults and children over the age of 6 months at these hours:
• Tuesdays 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
• Wednesdays 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
• Fridays 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Medicare Part B and Railroad clients must bring a copy of their Medicare and secondary insurance
cards, and either a driver’s license or photo ID. Clients with an HMO as their secondary insurance will be
required to pay by one of the payment methods listed above.
• Injectable ages 6 months and older: $25
• FluMist ages 2-49: $25
• High dose vaccine ages 65 and older: $35
• Flublok vaccine ages 18-49 with egg allergy: $45 (call for availability)
For children under age 18, either a parent or legal guardian must accompany the child to the clinic. If it is a
legal guardian, documentation must be presented.
The health department is not able to administer flu vaccine to anyone with:
• Severe allergy to eggs or other vaccine components such as Gelatin and Gentamicin
• Acute illness, with or without fever
• Adverse reaction to prior influenza immunization
• Children under 6 months of age
• History of Guillain-Barrè Syndrome following influenza vaccination.
For complete information about the flu vaccine and the Chester County Health Clinic visit chesco.org or call
610.344.6000.
What causes colds?
According to the U.S Centers for Disease Control (CDC), more than 200 viruses can cause the common
cold. The rhinovirus is the most common. A cold usually includes a runny nose, sore throat, sneezing and
coughing. These symptoms can last for up to two weeks.
When should you go to the doctor?
According to the CDC, you should see a health care provider if you or your child has:
• Temperature higher than 100.4° F
• Symptoms that last more than 10 days
• Symptoms that are not relieved by over-the-counter medicines
When do you need antibiotics?
The CDC cautions that “antibiotics are needed only if your health care provider tells you that you or your
child has a bacterial infection.Your health care provider may prescribe other medicine or give tips to help
with a cold’s symptoms, but antibiotics are not needed to treat a cold or runny nose.”
When should you NOT use antibiotics?
Since the common cold is caused by a virus, antibiotics will not help it get better. According to the CDC,
a runny nose or cold almost always gets better on its own, so it is better to wait and take antibiotics only
when they are needed. Taking antibiotics when they are not needed can be harmful, and may lead to unwanted side effects like diarrhea, rashes, nausea, and stomach pain. More severe side effects may rarely occur,
including life-threatening allergic reactions, kidney toxicity, and severe skin reactions.
Each time you or your child takes an antibiotic, the bacteria that normally live in your body (on the skin, in
the intestine, in the mouth and nose, etc.) are more likely to become resistant to antibiotics. Common antibiotics cannot kill infections caused by these resistant germs.
For upper respiratory infections, such as sore throats, ear and sinus infections, colds, and bronchitis:
• Avoid smoking, second-hand smoke, and other pollutants (airborne chemicals or irritants)
• Take acetaminophen, ibuprofen or naproxen to relieve pain or fever
• Use a clean humidifier or cool mist vaporizer
• Get plenty of rest
• Drink plenty of fluids
Special Care for Children
The CDC offers this cold-relief guidance to parents:
What pain relievers can I give my child?
For babies six months of age or younger, parents
should only give acetaminophen for pain relief. For a
child six months of age or older, either acetaminophen
or ibuprofen can be given for pain relief. Be sure to ask
your child’s health care provider for the right dosage
for your child’s age and size. Do not give aspirin to
your child because of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but very
serious illness that harms the liver and brain.
Should parents give cough and cold medicines
to children over age 4?
Cough and cold symptoms usually go away without
treatment after a certain amount of time. Over-thecounter cough and cold medicines will not cure the
common cold, but may give some temporary relief of
symptoms. Parents should consult their child’s health
care provider if they have any concerns or questions
about giving their child a medication. Parents should
always tell their child’s health care provider about all
prescription and over-the-counter medicines they are
giving their child. ■
RETIREMENT MYTHS
Debunking Five Popular
Retirement Myths
By Frederick E. Hubler, Jr. MBA CWS®
Generalizations about income and retirement linger. Some have been around for decades,
and some new clichés have recently joined their ranks. Let’s examine a few.
1. “When I’m retired, I won’t really have to invest anymore.” Many
people see retirement as an end instead of a beginning – a finish line for
a career. In reality, retirement can be the start of a new and promising
phase of life that could last a few decades. If you stop investing entirely,
even moderate inflation can devalue the dollars you’ve saved.1
2. “I’ll live on less when I’m retired.” We all have the cliché in our
minds of a retired couple in their seventies or eighties living modestly,
hardly eating out and asking about senior discounts. In the later phase
of retirement, couples often choose to live on less, sometimes out of
necessity. The initial phase of retirement may be a different story. For
many, the first few years of retirement mean traveling, new adventures,
and “living it up” a little – all of which may mean new retirees may
actually spend more out of the retirement gate.
3. “My taxes will be lower when I retire.” You may earn less, and that
could put you in a lower tax bracket. On the other hand, you may end
up waving goodbye to some of the deductions and exemptions you
enjoyed while working, and state and local taxes will almost certainly
rise with time. So while your earned income may decrease, you may
end up losing a comparatively larger percentage of it to taxes after you
retire.1
4. “I started saving too late, I have no hope of retiring” If your nest egg
is less than six figures, working longer may be the best thing you can
do; you can keep earning a salary, and your savings can compound
longer. Don’t lose hope: remember that you can make larger, catch-up
contributions to IRAs after 50. If you are 50 or older this year, you
can put as much as $23,000 into a 401(k) plan. Some participants
in 403(b) or 457(b) plans are also allowed that privilege. You can
downsize, reduce debts and expenses, and stay invested to effectively
give you more retirement money.1,2
5. “I should help my kids with college costs before I retire.” That’s a
nice thought but remember, there is no retiree “financial aid.” Your
student has decades ahead to pay back any loans. You can’t go to the
bank and get a “retirement loan.” So putting your financial needs above
theirs is fair and smart as you approach retirement.
There is no “generic” retirement experience, and therefore, there
is no one-size-fits-all retirement plan. Each individual, couple, or
family needs a strategy tailored to their particular money situation
and life and financial objectives. It is never too late to speak with a
financial professional to create, review, or get a second opinion on your
retirement plan.
Visit www.CCWMG.com and download your complimentary
Retirement Readiness Kit including our Retirement Readiness Quiz
that will help you determine how prepared you are to make your
retirement income last a lifetime.
** Frederick E. Hubler, Jr. is the President of Creative Capital Wealth Management
Group in Phoenixville. He holds an MBA and the Certified Wealth Strategist®
designation. Mr. Hubler has been nationally cited in the Wall Street Journal,
American Banker, Christian Science Monitor, and Kiplinger’s. **
1. tiaa-cref.org/public/advice-guidance/education/financial-ed/empowering_women/
retirement-myths [8/29/14]
2. 401k.fidelity.com/public/content/401k/Home/HowmuchcanIcontrib [8/29/14]
Securities offered through First Allied Securities, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer, Member
FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through First Allied Advisory Services, Inc., a Registered
Investment Advisor.
Pennypacker Florist
Caring Personal Service Since 1891
601 South Main St., Phoenixville PA 19460
610-933-8831 • www.pennypackerflorist.com
INDUSTRY INSIGHT
SENIOR CARE
SPONSORED CONTENT
SarahCare of Malvern
DAYTIME ADULT SERVICES
AND ACTIVITIES
P
ennsylvania has the fourth highest
percentage of elderly in the nation with over 2.7
million residents over 60, and more than 300,000 over the age
of 85. We often read about concerns about funding of Social Security
and Medicare for this aging population, but the real crisis of the
growing numbers of frail elderly or cognitively impaired seniors is a
crisis of caregiving.
How can older spouses or adult children with jobs and children
of their own manage the daily care of an older adult with physical
or cognitive impairments? Families committed to keeping their
loved ones at home look for affordable alternatives to long-term care
placement. Many turn to non-medical home care agencies to provide
personal care and companionship in the family home but there is
another more affordable option available – adult day services.
Adult Day Centers (also called Daytime Senior Care) are licensed
and provide not only health related services – including personal
LOOKING FOR
affordable care
during the day
FOR A LOVED ONE?
Quality Care at
SarahCare®
Costs Less.
SarahCare® of Malvern
For the cost of 3 hours of home care, you
can receive 11 hours of nursing services,
delicious meals and social activities at our
SarahCare® DayCenter.
FOR A FREE TRIAL DAY, CALL ROMAN AT
610.251.0801
425 Technology Drive, Malvern, PA 19355
care,
bathing, nutritious
meals, nursing care and medication
management – but also allow seniors to get out in the community
and interact socially with their peers while giving their families a
break from managing care at home.
Adult Day Centers differ from senior centers by offering
extra personal support and a directed day that is supervised by
professional staff. Clients are guided to enjoyable activities and
programs that use their strengths to enhance both their physical and
mental well-being. With caregiving coordinated by a professional
staff, an adult day center is uniquely designed to give families
the support they need while allowing older adults the security of
knowing they will be going home each night. Many families are not
aware that this attractive option is often covered by long-term care
insurance, county waiver programs or Veteran’s benefits.
SarahCare of Malvern’s Adult Day Center provides a bright and
cheerful community of staff and clients who become part of our
family. Our program director, a therapeutic recreation major, and
our registered nurse, a certified dementia practitioner and geriatric
resource nurse, use family input and professional assessments to plan
programming based on each participant’s strengths and interests.
Our activity assistants are trained about each client’s interests
and preferences. We encourage clients to engage with peers of
similar strengths and interests, creating a sense of community at
our center. SarahCare of Malvern also helps our participants stay
connected to their local community with weekly entertainers, artists,
intergenerational programming, service projects and seasonal events
and outings.
Families have true peace of mind knowing that their loved one
is in a safe and secure environment, cared for by a team of specially
trained and compassionate full-time staff. We care for people with
a wide range of conditions including diabetes, advanced arthritis,
Parkinson’s disease, COPD, Alzheimer’s and related dementias, and
those recovering from stroke or surgery.
Enhanced caregiver and family support is offered via monthly
meetings and free workshops featuring expert presenters.
This Industry Insight was written by Carolyn Brandow, RN.
Owners Roman and Francina Ustayev (pictured with their
baby, Valentina) bring their dedication to family closeness
into every aspect of this family-owned business.
Why wait?
Start the fun now!
girlscouts.org/join
INTHE KNOW
One Wall,
Eight Stories
What you didn’t know from just driving
past the Phoenixville Mural.
I
f you have ever driven through the
intersection of Main and Bridge streets in
the heart of Phoenixville’s business district
you have driven past the Phoenixville Mural.
Thousands of people drive and walk right past it
every day. Have you have stopped to take a closer
look?
According to the Schuylkill River Heritage
Center, the three-story high mural was created in
1994 by Michael Webb and Meg Fish Seligman.
The artists met with area residents who shared
their stories and interests, helping to decide
what the imagery presented on the mural should
be. According to the center, “The mural design
reflects Phoenixville’s iron and steel history and
its location on the Schuylkill River. It was the
first major revitalization project undertaken for
the borough by the Phoenixville Area Economic
Development Corporation.”
The mural actually tells eight stories about
Phoenixville. Panel A shows the Griffen Cannon
which was invented in 1854 by John Griffen,
the superintendent of the Phoenix Iron Works.
About 1,400 of the cannons were produced for
the Union Army during the Civil War. Panel
C in the lower left depicts a flag with a map of
the area as it appeared in 1829. The area on the
map would eventually become the Borough of
Phoenixville. Panel E is the large centerpiece
of the mural. It depicts a huge ladle of molten
steel at one of Phoenix Steel’s six open-hearth
furnaces. Panel G is in the upper right corner
of the mural and depicts the region’s earliest
Native American inhabitants, the Lenni Lenapes.
Other panels in the mural pay tribute to the
Phoenix Column invented by the president of the
Phoenix Iron Company, the original Phoenixville
Hospital, the region’s multi-cultural history, and
Etruscan Majolica, a highly durable earthenware
that was an outgrowth of the fire bricks created
for the iron company’s furnaces.
You can read more about the history of the
mural on a large bronze plaque that sits in front
of the mural, which is now in its third decade on
the side of the Steel City building. ■
The promise of
being in expert hands.
Surgery can be scary, for a child and the whole family.
So it’s good to know our pediatric fellowship-trained
anesthesiologists and surgeons are experts in procedures
from ENT to orthopedics and more. As the only surgery
center on the Main Line dedicated to children, our doctors
and nurses understand the unique physical, emotional
and social needs of children.
And in our family-friendly outpatient surgery center,
parents can go with their child into surgery until their
child is asleep. Pediatric experts combined with familycentered care – it’s part of our promise to help more
children grow up healthy. And give families peace of mind.
The Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children Surgery Center, Bryn Mawr
located within Nemours duPont Pediatrics, Bryn Mawr
Bryn Mawr Medical Arts Pavilion
825 Old Lancaster Road, Suite 250, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Accredited by the Joint Commission.
Learn more at NemoursduPont.org
Appointments and information: (610) 542-3300
Your child. Our promise.
603 East McMurray Road, McMurray, PA 15317
1.800.558.0940, ext. 202
in-philly.com
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE
PAID
PITTSBURGH, PA
PERMIT NO. 887

GIVING BACK - the Borough of Phoenixville

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