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A Newsletter A Baby`s Breath
A Newsletter from Winter 2009 A Baby’s Breath A Baby’s Breath www.ababysbreath.org | 24-HOUR CELL PHONE LINE: 484-571-5540 2118 W. Main Street Jeffersonville, PA 19403 Executive Commitees Advisory Board Father Patrick Sweeney Father John Hagen Msgr. James McDonough Msgr. Cribben James White IV Vincent Arena Anthony Re Corporate Board: Executive Committee Karen Patota, Founder & President Joe Baldassari, Esq., Vice-President Margaret Malloy, Treasurer Jack Toukatly, Secretary John J. Giorgis Dorothy Swedkowski Dorothy Stipa Maryann McDonnell Marybeth O’Connor Maureen Kozak Peggy Rezza John Diesel Maria Diesel Want to make a difference in choosing life? Open Houses for new volunteers at Jeffersonville center, 2118 W. Main Street, Jeffersonville – Tuesday, May 12 7-9 p.m. and Saturday, May 16 10-2 p.m. For more information, please call Paula Manchester at (610) 630-9630. Jeffersonville Division 2118 W. Main St. Jeffersonville, PA 19403 (610) 630-9630 [email protected] Director – Paula Manchester Paula Manchester, Donations Coordinator (acting) Mark DeLuca, General Manager Chris and Betty VanderNeut Mary DeLuca Collegeville Division 78 Second Ave. Collegeville, PA 19426 (610) 489-0083 [email protected] Director –Maryann McDonnell Marybeth O’ Connor, Donations Coordinator Bryn Mawr Division 827 W. Lancaster Ave. Bryn Mawr, PA 19010 [email protected] (610) 520-2227 Director – Jen Volpe Alexis Antoni, Donations Coordinator Dorothy Stipa, General Manager Jack Toukatly, Secretary Rosemary Friedrich, PR Chairman Terry Lochry Choosing Life By Karen Patota As we commemorate 36 years of legalized abortion, we can celebrate having three centers; one in Jeffersonville, Collegeville and Bryn Mawr - places where life can be chosen. Our mission to help a mother to see her child take his/her breath goes well beyond its expectations. Last year we helped over 150 clients see their child take their first breath and then we held their hands and gave them hugs as they try to rebuild their lives. Choosing life is the first step – getting out of crisis is the ultimate goal. Crisis can mean different things to different clients – we help them establish their goals and prioritize them. We offer them resources like food banks and financial subsidies, but ultimately the solutions to their problems are their own. We are the emotional support that is so desperately needed in their time of crisis. Sometimes clients find themselves in a crisis through no fault of their own. One of our clients thought he was being a good dad. He was working as a truck driver sending back his paycheck for his wife and infant son. When he returned from one of his trips, he found his house in foreclosure, his truck sold out from under him and his son was almost taken away. He came to us and we gave him all of the provisions to care for his son. For him, we were a momentary stop on his way to re-building his life. For others, we are there for a longer term. One client was with us through her first crisis pregnancy for about two years. She had been attending the parenting classes learning about budgeting, parenting techniques, and chastity. Her husband was employed only part time, so the items she received from the Baby Store really helped their tight budget. She was in the doctor’s office when she received a call telling her she was the first choice for a job. The doctor then informed her that she was pregnant. She didn’t hesitate in choosing life. Choosing life doesn’t seem like a tough choice unless you listen to some of the situations our clients’ face. They’ve been abandoned, abused, and lied to. Many times, they must get over the loss of a relationship and continue on for the sake of the baby. When our clients get a chance to see their baby’s first breath, the decision to choose life doesn’t seem hard at all. A Baby’s Breath believes that if we had more centers we could save more lives and souls. The goal of the Corporate Board is to establish more A Baby’s Breath centers. God willing, we will have our name well recognized as the place to go when choosing life and beyond. If you would like to make a meaningful contribution to the choice for life, contact the local center nearest you to find out how to get involved and make a difference. God Bless! SERVICES Pregnancy Counseling Bryn Mawr Alexis Antoni Melissa Fordyce Stephanie Taddeo Jennifer Volpe Tim Seiders Rene Sikkema, RN Judi Arena-Ondik, RN Jeffersonville Joanne Day Anita DiLucia Mary Eads Jo-Ann Maguire Paula Manchester Karen Patota PR - Worker Rosemary Friedrich Maya Noronha Elise Italiano Collegeville Marian Fraga Maryann Gullick Nancy Malecki Mary Ann McDonnell Rene Sikkema Cell Phone/On Call Lisa Stoy Kim Granito Mary Byrnes Judi Arena-Ondik Baby Store Jeffersonville Catherine Hauck Chris Baran Kathryn McGill Collegeville Carol DiDonato Post Abortive Support All centers Prenatal Classes Delores Baldassari, RN Anne Marie DeLuca, RN Tutoring Karen Patota Helen Viggiano VOLUNTEER SUPPORT Website Database Designer Mark Hitchcock Bowlathon Committee - 2008 Chris Cusatis Carol DiDonato Marian Fraga John Giorgis David and Maryanne Gullick Mary Ann McDonnell, Chairman Mary Beth O’Connor Karen and John Patota Peggy Rezza Rene Sikkema Bryn Mawr Terry Lochry Run for Life 2009 - Norristown Mary Beth O’Connor, Parenting Class Coordinator Race Director Jo-Ann Maguire Joe Baldassari, Esq. - Collegeville John Diesel Judi Arena-Ondik, RN John J. Giorgis - Jeffersonville Karen and John Patota StephanieTaddeoe Peggy Rezza - Bryn Mawr Bud Swedkowski Dorothy Swedkowski, Parenting Class Instructor Race Day Coordinator Delores Baldassari, RN Mary DeLuca Anne Marie DeLuca, RN Claire Martorana 7th Annual Silent Auction By: Peggy Rezza The silent auction was held at the Park Ridge Sheraton Hotel in King of Prussia on November 14, 2008. There were over a hundred items to bid on and the food and atmosphere were wonderful. One of the special features of the evening included the sale of red roses that had a surprise restaurant gift certificate attached to each one. Everyone said that they really enjoyed themselves and there were some very good deals. The event raised $37,500 and will be used toward the rent, utilities and other expenses that are incurred running the three offices. We are so appreciative to all who so generously gave their support to A Baby’s Breath (ABB). Everyone who worked on the committees spent hours getting ready. There were so many helpers on the night of the event, we could not have done it without them. The various committees were headed by Barb Fritz, Maureen Kozak, Vince Arena, Maria Diesel, Marybeth O’Connor, Dorothy and Bud Swedkowski, Sheri Cummins, Karen Patota, Judi Arena-Ondik, Joe Baldassari, Carol DiDonato, Marian Fraga, Rosemary Friedrich, Margaret Malloy, John Giorgis, Terry Lochry, Maryann and Bill McDonnell, Rene Sikkema, Dot Stipa, Jen Volpe, and Peggy and Tony Rezza. We are so grateful for their support. There was a testimonial by Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Vander Neut, former ABB clients. Auction attendees enjoyed the wonderful music of Andrew Neu. Our Gold Sponsors were John and Bonnie Jean Koresko and Tot-Time Child Development Centers. The Silver Sponsor was Brogan Orthodontics, and the Bronze Sponsors were Michele Johnson, Josephine J. Templeton, M.D. and John M. Templeton, Jr., M.D. and James J. White IV. Following the cocktail hour and viewing of the items, dinner was served buffet style followed by dessert. The live auction and raffle followed the silent auction and everyone said good night by 11:00 o’clock. It was a most enjoyable evening. We are all looking forward to our next auction this Fall. Please watch the Newsletter for details and to save the date! LIVING PROOF By: Christopher Vander Neut A Baby’s Breath has been a very important part of both my life and my wife’s. We met in high school and quickly became good friends. After dating for a while, we found out that she was pregnant. At this point, we were both so scared and confused that we did not know what to do. Through a friend, we heard of A Baby’s Breath and what they do. After we scheduled out meeting, we became worried that we would feel uncomfortable or silly. Needless to say, this was not the case. The meeting was very helpful, and not once did we feel like we were bad people. After many more sessions and a lot of education about pregnancy, caring for a baby, and caring for our own relationship, we had a beautiful baby girl. Thanks to A Baby’s Breath, we were able to welcome her into a loving family, and with their help we maintained our relationship so well that we were married last summer. Editors Note: Both Chris and his wife Betty have accepted positions on A Baby’s Breath Board of Directors Thanks to our Many Donors! Shipley, Happy McMonagle, Mary St. Philip of Neri - Lafayette Hill CORPORATE SUPPORT Short, William Pepe, John and Mary Pastor, Rev. Msgr. Charles P. Merck Partnership for Giving Skwirut, Laura Schoen, Roseann Vance Toscani, Sandi Stango, Mary Lou -Koenig, Stephen Toscani, Dominic Kershaw, Sylvia St. Theresa of Avila - Trooper -Lester, Lori Gubicza, Alyssa Pastor, Rev. Msgr. Andrew J. -Borichewski, Michael Main Line Run For Life Sponsors Rezza, Peggy and Tony Golias Gold Level Toscani, Regina -McCullers, William Friedrich, Rosemary Epiphany Respect Life Committee Gimpel Software -Muniz, Lorenzo JJ White Inc. Dierkes Pastor, Rev. Richard J. -Arena, Joseph Silver Level Small, Donald McAndrews -Robertson, Sandra Generation Life Upper Merion CCL Baby Shower For St. Eleanor CRHP Bronze Level Wildemann, Kelly Aetna Foundation - Anonymous Non-monetary Gifts Henkels Foundation Hoopes, Jennifer & Larry Aetna Foundation - Gentleman, Richard Dominic Annelli & Dawn Fiorillo-Hopple, Baby Shower For Kara Antenucci Toscani, Aetna Foundation Inc. Red Rose Level Elaine Cummins, Sean and Sheri Bilotta, Drew and Dee Arditi, Phyllis America’s Charities Christiani, Michael and Nancy Ascension Publishing Cummins, Richard & Donna Boeing Community Fund - Wentzel, Chritopher Capikian, Kenneth and Gina Catholic Health East Gimpel Software Harte, Susan Castagno, Michael 2nd Collection Knights of Columbus Valley Forge Chapter St. Anastasia School Castrigno, Joe St. Anastasia Church - Newtown Sq. Chuffalo, Deborah Student Council Pfizer Foundation Matching Gift Program - Louise, Tulio Pastor, Msgr. Philip Cribben St. Norbert’s Knights of Columbus, Cipollini, Joyce Wachovia Foundation Matching Gifts Program - R. Friedman St. Eleanor’s - Collegeville Cusella, Robert Council 12107 Pastor, Rev. Patrick Sweeney Davidson, Diane Cunningham, Charles H. MEMORIAL DONATIONS DePaul, Liz Brownell, Nancy R. Kyle Memory of Baby Anthony Joseph DePolo, Jr Bowlathon Sponsors DiDonato, Carol Caruso, Damien and Anna Thompson, Barbara DePaul, David Diesel, John and Amy Grob, Mike In Memory of E. Christopher Rofi - ck#2541 DiMaggio, Linda Taucher, Linda Angel Club - Collegeville Emel, Lee and Pam Way,, John Adam Rofi, Andrea Batten, John Golden, Cristin Ascension Publishing In Memory of Sir Knight Hank Melle Brensinger, Theresa Gourley, Paul Knights of Columbus # 11040 St. Norbert’s Knights of Columbus, Council 12107 Burns, James and Mary Huff, Carmella Chernick, Virginia Kirkland, Diane Main Line Run For Life Donors In Memory of Margaret Garrity DePietro, Adam Kocher, Denise Baldassari, Joe & Delores Schlernitzauer, Mary Finnin, George Kossey, Michele & Jim Conroy - Johnson, Caryl Garrity, Patrick Fisher, Diane Lake, Charlie & Nancy Arata, Mr. & Mrs. Robert Fitzpatrick, Susan Lentz, H. Daly, Lynn In Honor Of Fraga, Marian Livingood, Carol Fritz, Barbara Mr & Mrs Leonard Castrigno, Honor of 40th Anniversary Giorgis, John McArdle, Kevin Hagen, John Castrigno, Joe Hefferon, Christina Mehl, Peg Knights of Columbus Leinbach, Carol Meierdiercks, Connie MDP #14454 SPECIAL COLLECTIONS Pennypacker, Larry Mercurio, Louise Latran, Gregory and Maria Villanovans for Life - Baby Bottle collection Re, Anthony Neiderer, Robyn Lochry, Therese Greg Schettini, President Russo, Dave & Elizabeth Pinchock, Mary Ann Panaro, Marybeth & Mark Sepety, Patricia Schwarz, Teresa Pro-Life Union of S.E. PA St. Monica Church Tarantola, Raymond Taddeo, Stephanie Schmidt, Francis Pastor, Rev. William Trader Wentzel, Christopher Vesci, Cynthia St Matthew Church of Mary Mother of the Redeemer Wilmot, George Volpe, Josephine Toukatly, Jack Yurko, Phillip Pastor, Msgr. Philip Ricci Yurko, Phillip Archbishop Carroll High School Simcisko, Rebecca St Stanislaus Parish Prep Students Angel Club - Jeffersonville Bucher, D.M.D., James A. Pastor, Msgr. Joseph A. Tracy, Nancy Roth, DRE Autry, Mary Jane Early, Constance Play & Learn Daycare Ctr Castrigno, Joseph Gullick, David and Maryanne Chernick, Virginia Mangano, Pat Jill Law, Director DiRado, Sr, Jim St. Helena’s Church Ehasz, Joseph Pastor, Rev. Joseph J. Nicolo Korpel, Peter Larkin, Matthew & Elissa Mother of Divine Providence Respect Life Collection Manchester, Eric Pastor Msgr. John Conway, Patricia Walker, Contact Murray, Kevin St. Titus - Marilyn Breyer’s 4th grade class Patel, Bhupendra & Aruna Pastor, Rev. Thomas Kletzel Patota, Karen and John Peterson, Edward Visitation B.V.M. Church - Angel Gift Giving Program Rodgers, Shirley Pastor Msgr. Thomas Murray, Kathy Sobocinski and Judy Russo, Dave & Elizabeth Tartaglia, Contacts Walsh, Thomas Wilson, Jane We have another organizational announcement to Franciscan Lay Order David Eugard share. Judilyn Arena-Ondik is our new Parenting Angel Club - Main Line Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Ahern, Patti Class Coordinator for Jeffersonville. Judi is a Pastor, Rev. Salvatore Pronesti Castrigno, Joe clinical nurse specialist at Jefferson Hospital in Dougherty, Thomas St. Patrick’s Church - Norristown Kirkland, Diane Philadelphia. She has volunteered for A Baby’s Pastor, Rev. William Murphy, Marie Torrence, Contact Lavallee, Paul Breath for many in various roles such as an Curtis Solutions Network, Inc. Lochry, Therese McLaughlin, Agnes advocate, a pre-natal nurse and a Silent Auction Respect Life collection McMonagle, Mary St. Matthew’s Church - Conshohocken host. Thanks, Judi for all that you continue to do Oswald, Patricia Pastor, Rev. James W. Donlon Scheerer, David and Regina for A Baby’s Breath! New Parenting Class Coordinator At Jeffersonville Run for Life ‘08 - Main Line by Dot Stipa A Baby’s Breath - Main Line held its third annual Run for Life on Sunday morning, September 14, 2008. The 5K/1 mile fun run was held at Wilson Farm Park in Tredyffrin Township and it attracted over 150 participants. The participants included students from Archbishop Carroll, St. Anastasia Youth Group and Conestoga High School. Top winners in each age group were awarded a $50 prize. Each year, the race has grown larger and larger and we are already planning our next race for the Fall. In addition to providing an opportunity to test fitness levels, the race also helps to raise awareness. Each year, the race gives us a chance to tell the community about what we do at “A Baby’s Breath”. It is hoped that all participants keep us in mind if and when they encounter someone who needs our help. Teaching Childhood Injury Protection By: Judilyn Arena-Ondik R.N., Clinical Nurse Specialist Several years ago I volunteered to help as a counselor at A Baby’s Breath but I have never gotten used to the emotional feeling I get when I walk through the doors at 2118 West Main Street. I am moved by seeing so many volunteers at ABB working for such a great cause. I recently offered to teach a parenting class on Childhood Injury Prevention. I was pleasantly surprised to see at least 13 people in the class. Each one of parents listened attentively to the advice I gave them on how they could help prevent injuries to their children. They weren’t just there to earn dollars to shop in the baby store, they wanted to learn. They shared stories, asked important questions, and even took literature for others. In addition, on the night of the class there were several Visitation BVM students who were babysitting and working in the Store to obtain service hours. The work that is being done at A Baby’s Breath is truly remarkable. The parents who come to ABB for assistance can actually obtain the much needed items and counseling because of Karen’s vision and the numerous volunteers like Joanne and Chris who make it all possible. You are all to be commended, for your generous gifts of your time, talents and treasures! Please know that many a child’s life is saved in one way or another because of you! Newsletter Updates Sandy McDonnell has graciously agreed to be the Editor for the Baby’s Breath newsletter. Please send her any comments, suggestions or newsworthy information to her at: [email protected] New Director At The Jeffersonville Center Paula Manchester has graciously accepted the position of Director of Jeffersonville. Paula is a full time employee of Merck. She came to us through her friendship with a classmate from the Catholic Leadership Institute - Joanne Day. She will be transitioning to her new responsibilities over the next couple of months. Thanks, Paula! You are a life-saver!! With the Paula taking over for the Jeffersonville Center we now need a Donations Coordinator. For anyone interested in this position - it is a Board position. Some of the responsibilities of the position include writing thank you letters, entering donations into the data base, paying bills, entering bills/ donations into QuickBooks. Ideally, the position is best suited for someone coming into the center once a week. If you have any interest or know of someone who might be a good candidate, please contact Karen Patota. Run for Life ‘09 - Norristown The ‘09 RFL at the Norristown Farm Park is scheduled for Saturday, April 18th. See the newsletter insert for the upcoming RFL details and registration information. & HeatingMark & Mary Mueller Charlie's Pizzeria P.J. Ryan's Pub Rev. Msgr. Thomas Murray Byers' Choice Cock & Bull at Peddler's Village Hotel Fiesole Chic-Fil-A Owen Jones Facenda Whitaker Bowing Center Knights of Columbus Pope John Sharon Barboni Creed's Seafood & Steaks A Baby's Breath Silent Auction Genuardi's 11/14/2008 ParkAuction Ridge A Baby’s Breath Silent We would like to thank our Financial Sponsors for supporting A Baby’s Breath Gold Sponsors John and Bonnie Jean Koresko Tot-Time Child Development Centers Brogan Orthodontics Bronze Sponsors Houlihan's Restaurant Chris Ermer Golfdom Inn The Gardens B&B The Wooden Duck Mr & Mrs Joe & Delores Baldassari 11/14/2008 Sheraton Park Ridge Patricia Oswald The Inn at Jim Thorpe Parc Bistro River Country Moles Flower GiftJohn ShopDoman Jr Mrand & Mrs Pizza Stop Family Restaurant Tom's Pet Outlet We would like to thank the following Donors for making our auction a success Reading Phillies Applebee's - The Rose Group Rene Sikkema PhiladelphiaMrs. 76ers Reading Phillies Angela Lawton Plaza Flowers Day Seven StarsJoanne Inn Rivercrest Golf Club Skippack Golf Course Philadelphia Zoo Golden Sea Restaurant The CatholicNancy Shop R. Kyle Brownell Applebee's Flanigan's Boat House Starbucks, Audubon Villanova University G & J Nails Trinacria Restorante Dr. & Mrs.Italiano James Delaplane Mr. & Mrs. Vincent Arena Serendipity Spa Services Skippack Stylekrafters John William Penn Inn Seehousen Talutto's Italian Outlet Michael O'Rourke Mrs. Joyce Cipollini Mrs. Barbara Fritz Grandma Brenna's Bakery & Casual Dining Ms. Kim Granito Caramanico Ms. Sandra Tom Giangiullio Blockbuster Inc. Ms Sue Howarth Laurie Vanmeter Ms. Kay Hohlfeld Kids N Clay John and Josie Kutterbach Walt Disney World Co A Baby's Breath Silent Auc Cherry-Crest Farm, LLC Pepper's Itailan Restaurant Pond Restaurant 11/14/2008 Park Ridge Scoogi's Classic Italian Restaurant Dr. & Mrs. Casimir A. Janicki SMC Inc. Grace Opdyke Kohl's Time Child Development Centers Mrs. Jessie Tot Laspina Dave & Elizabeth Russo John H. Ansley Photographer Silver Sponsor A Baby's Breath Silent Auction Sharon Bellitto Peggy and Tony Rezza Michele Johnson John M. Templeton, Jr., M.D. JJ White Inc. Paul I Council #7565 Constance Cleary Franklin Institute Science Museum Comedy Drs. Robert Helium and Sarah BentzClub Bryan Mr. & Mrs. John Giorgis Satisfying Suppers Viggiano's Italian Restaurant Inc. Academy ofKimmel Natural Center, Sciences James A Michener Art Museum Bud and Dorothy KarenSwedkowski and John Patota Eileen & Bryan Mahady ACME Markets 11/14/2008 Park Ridge Roxanne Tuturice People's Light Theatre LA &Fitness Brogan Orthodontics Tokyo Japanese Restaurant We would like to thank the following Donors for making Villanova Men's Basketball (Wildcats) The Great Harvest Bread Learning Express Jack Frost/Big Boulder Ski Resorts Sight & Sound Theatre Maggiano's Marriott Philadelphia West Kitchen Kettle VillageStudio M Foods Garden GolfAsher's & Go Karts Florist & Gift Shoppe Spring Mountain Ski Panera's Bay Pony Inn Resort We would alsolike like thank our Dinner Financial Sponsors for supporting A Baby's Breath We would to to thank theRainbow Theatre Bernard Kozikowski Plumbing A Friend of ABB Ro Peters Body Serene Day Spa following for their supportFrancesco & Giovanni & Heating Salon through monetary Mr & Mrs Joe & Delores Baldassari Byers' Choice donations as well as Mrs. Mary Ann Chic-Fil-A McDonnell goods and services Designs by Brenda Creed's Seafood & Steaks Sheraton Park Ridge Mr. Bill McDonnell Gravity Charlie's Pizzeria Janet Elizabeth Fleming Flocco's Discount Shoes Cock & Bull at Peddler's Village Lederach Tea RoomCarol DiDonato Shear Waves Facenda Whitaker Bowing Center Spa Le Jardin Coll's Custom Framing Genuardi's Maureen and Joe Kozak Head over Heels Spamps Dave & Buster's of Plymouth Meeting JJ White Inc. Designs by Brenda Mrs. Marti Cunningham Franklin Institute Science Museum Mrs. Mary Beth O'Connor Houlihan's Restaurant Four Seasons Hotel Longwood Gardens Chiaro's Pizza and Italian Restaurant Mr. & Mrs. James Morozzi Mrs ThereseGolfdom Lochry Waterloo Gardens The Inn at Jim Thorpe Inn The Gardens B&B Campground Skippack Pharmacy Hershey Highmeadow Yolanda Fazzini Parc Bistro Phillies Phestival - 2008 Mr. & Mrs. Kevin McArdle Jared Patota Harleysville Hotel Mr. James Rembisz Moles Flower and Gift Shop Dave & Elizabeth Russo Philadelphia 76ers Club Pizza Stop Family Restaurant Ken & Ginny Taub Rivercrest Golf Golden SeaReading Restaurant Phillies ABB Silent Auction 2008 Ms. Irene Tarloski Plaza Flowers Eagles Carnival Ms. Patricia Walker Seven Stars Inn Rev. Msgr. John Conway The Catholic Shop Serendipity Spa ServicesZoo Philadelphia Corner Bakery and Cafe Grandma Brenna's Bakery Villanova University Fulton Theatre Ms. Jeanne Davison Trinacria Restorante Italiano Dunkin Donuts Rev. John Gaylo William Penn Inn Maria Diesel Law Offices of Wusinich, Mrs. Joyce Cipollini Richard Frattone Ms. Fran Salamone Kay Bolger Ms. Sandra Giangiullio P.J. Ryan's Pub Ms. Kay Hohlfeld Hotel Fiesole 11/14/2008 Park Ridge Mrs. Jessie Laspina Elaine Fee Mr. Jerry Robbins Peggy and Tony Rezza Chris Ermer 11/14/20 Robert Friedman Bud and Dorothy Swedkowski The Wooden Duck Roxanne Tuturice Satisfying Suppers ould like to thank the following Donors for making our auction aKitchen success Brogan Orthodontics Eileen & Bryan Mahady Kettle Village of Natural Sciences Academy Mary Grace Tighe People's Light & Theatre Tom's Pet Outlet Curtis Solutions Network, Inc. Sight & Sound Theatre Mr. & Mrs. Jack Morasco Garden Golf & Go Karts A Friend Studio M Foods Applebee's - The Rose Groupof ABB Flocco's Discount Shoes Panera's Spring Mountain Ski Resort The Great Harvest Bread Lederach Tea RoRoom Peters Francesco & Giovanni Salon Coll's Custom Framing Janet Elizabeth Fleming Answering Service Dispatch Mr & Mrs Joe & Delores Baldassari Head over Heels Carol DiDonato Mr James Martin Esq Mrs. Mary Ann McDonnell Gregory Kaupp Designs by Brenda Michele Johnson Mrs. Mary Beth O'Connor Stanley Cywinski Mrs Therese Lochry Mrs. Michele Ballod Waterloo Gardens Helium Comedy Club David and Maryanne Gullick ACME Markets Kimmel Center, Inc. Marie & Rich Raquet Learning Express Maggiano's Ms. Theresa J. Rohr Marriott Philadelphia West Bay Pony Inn Linda Taucher Bernard Kozikowski Plumbing Body Serene Day Spa & Heating Mark & Mary Mueller Charlie's Pizzeria Byers' ChoiceRev. Msgr. Thomas Murray Cock & Bull at Peddler's Village Chic-Fil-A Facenda Whitaker Bowing Center Owen Jones Creed's Seafood & Steaks Sharon Barboni Genuardi's Franklin Institute ScienceCleary Museum Constance Houlihan's Restaurant Golfdom Inn The Gardens B&B Mr & Mrs Joe & Delores Baldassari Villanova Men's Basketball (W Jack Frost/Big Boulder Ski Res Talamore Country Club Sheraton Park Ridge Olympia Pizzeria & Restaurant Pranzo Mr. Bill McDonnell Gravity Mrs Elizabeth Howarth Shear Waves Dr and Mrs Carl Schultheis Radnor Hotel Amelia's Market Street Financial GroupAccents for Home & S Home Sweet Home Chiaro's Pizza and Italian Rest We would like to thank the following Donors for making our auction a LA Fitness Glen Sosnader Asher's FloristPatty & Gift& Shoppe Tokyo Japanese Restaurant Pure Spa Dave & Buster's of Plymouth M Elaine Annelli & Dawn Fiorillo-Hopple 11/14/2008 Park Ridge Spamps Rainbow Dinner Theatre Lisa Bell Mr. & Mrs. John Giorgis Eden Resort Inn A Baby's Breath Silent Auction Dr. John Templeton Mr.Patota & Mrs. Edward J. Finn Karen and John Pond Restaurant John and Bonnie Jean Koresko McCloskey FinancialScoogi's Group Classic Italian Restau Brogan Orthodontics Harleysville ACE We would like toHardware thank the followin James A Michener Art Museum Drs. Robert and Sarah Bentz River Country Walt Disney World Co Cherry-Crest Farm, LLC Brasserie 73 Bistro Wine Bar Road House Grille Pepper's Itailan Restaurant John H. Ansley JohnPhotographer and Josie Kutterbach Knights of ColumbusBryan Pope JohnGrace Opdyke Viggiano's Italian Dave Restaurant & Elizabeth Russo Paul I Council #7565 Starbucks, Audubon Meadowlands Country Club G & J Nails Arrowhead Golf Course A Baby's Bre & Mrs. Vincent Arena & Casual Mr. Dining Blockbuster Mrs. Inc. Barbara Fritz Dr. & Mrs. Casimir A. Janicki A Baby's Breath Silent Auction Flanigan's Boat House Skippack Stylekrafters Family Wellness Center Talutto's Italian Outlet Mr. & Mrs. Ray Palladino Shady Maple MarketKids N Clay Ms. Kim Granito Kohl's Ms Sue Howarth A Baby's Breath Silent Auction Brogran & Stanzione Applebee's Skippack Golf Course Amelia's Accents for Home & Self Four Seasons Hotel Spa Le Jardin Skippack Pharmacy Maureen and Joe Kozak Dairy Queen of EastPhillies NorritonPhestival - 2008 A Baby's Breath Silent Auction Gino's Ristorante & Pizzeria Ken & GinnyHershey Taub Highmeadow Campground Wayne Geoghehan Jared Patota Harleysville Longwood Hotel Gardens ABB Silent Auction Yolanda2008 Fazzini Pranzo Eagles Carnival Corner Bakery and Cafe Mrs Elizabeth Howarth Fulton Theatre Dr and Mrs Carl Schultheis Dunkin Donuts Elaine Annelli & Dawn Fiorillo-Hopple Maria Diesel Radnor Hotel Shady Maple Market Market Street Financial Group P.J. Ryan's Pub Home Sweet Home Hotel Fiesole Dairy Queen of East Norriton Knights of Columbus Pope John Gino's Ristorante & Pizzeria Paul I Council #7565 Wayne Geoghehan Chris Ermer Hullabaloo Party Supplies The Wooden Duck The Inn at JimPatricia ThorpeOswald Parc Bistro River Country Moles Flower Mr and&Gift MrsShop John Doman Jr Pizza Stop Family Restaurant Tom's Pet Outlet Philadelphia 76ers Mrs. Rene Sikkema Reading Phillies Applebee's - The Rose Group Plaza FlowersAngela Lawton Skippack Golf Course Seven Stars Inn Joanne Day Philadelphia Zoo Meadowlands Country Club Hullabaloo Party Supplies Arrowhead Golf Course Bella Boutique Family Wellness Center LaProvence Mr. & Mrs. Ray Palladino Longacre Pottery Mr. Jerry Robbins Steven & Annette Breeding Brasserie 73 Bistro Wine Bar East Coast Cycle Center Road House Grille Beautimarq Spa and Salon John and Bonnie Jean Koresko P.J. Whelihan's Pub & Restaurant McCloskey Financial Group Diana Perese Harleysville ACE Hardware Build-a-Bear Workshop Eden Resort Inn The Great Frame Up, Bluebell Pure Spa Talamore Country Club Olympia Pizzeria & Restaurant SERVICES Pregnancy Counseling Bryn Mawr Alexis Antoni Melissa Fordyce Stephanie Taddeo Jennifer Volpe Tim Seiders Rene Sikkema, RN Judi Arena-Ondik, RN Jeffersonville Joanne Day Anita DiLucia Mary Eads Jo-Ann Maguire Paula Manchester Karen Patota PR - Worker Rosemary Friedrich Maya Noronha Elise Italiano Collegeville Marian Fraga Maryann Gullick Nancy Malecki Mary Ann McDonnell Rene Sikkema Cell Phone/On Call Lisa Stoy Kim Granito Mary Byrnes Judi Arena-Ondik Baby Store Jeffersonville Catherine Hauck Chris Baran Kathryn McGill Collegeville Carol DiDonato Post Abortive Support All centers Prenatal Classes Delores Baldassari, RN Anne Marie DeLuca, RN Tutoring Karen Patota Helen Viggiano VOLUNTEER SUPPORT Website Database Designer Mark Hitchcock Bowlathon Committee - 2008 Chris Cusatis Carol DiDonato Marian Fraga John Giorgis David and Maryanne Gullick Mary Ann McDonnell, Chairman Mary Beth O’Connor Karen and John Patota Peggy Rezza Rene Sikkema Bryn Mawr Terry Lochry Run for Life 2009 - Norristown Mary Beth O’Connor, Parenting Class Coordinator Race Director Jo-Ann Maguire Joe Baldassari, Esq. - Collegeville John Diesel Judi Arena-Ondik, RN John J. Giorgis - Jeffersonville Karen and John Patota StephanieTaddeoe Peggy Rezza - Bryn Mawr Bud Swedkowski Dorothy Swedkowski, Parenting Class Instructor Race Day Coordinator Delores Baldassari, RN Mary DeLuca Anne Marie DeLuca, RN Claire Martorana 7th Annual Silent Auction By: Peggy Rezza The silent auction was held at the Park Ridge Sheraton Hotel in King of Prussia on November 14, 2008. There were over a hundred items to bid on and the food and atmosphere were wonderful. One of the special features of the evening included the sale of red roses that had a surprise restaurant gift certificate attached to each one. Everyone said that they really enjoyed themselves and there were some very good deals. The event raised $37,500 and will be used toward the rent, utilities and other expenses that are incurred running the three offices. We are so appreciative to all who so generously gave their support to A Baby’s Breath (ABB). Everyone who worked on the committees spent hours getting ready. There were so many helpers on the night of the event, we could not have done it without them. The various committees were headed by Barb Fritz, Maureen Kozak, Vince Arena, Maria Diesel, Marybeth O’Connor, Dorothy and Bud Swedkowski, Sheri Cummins, Karen Patota, Judi Arena-Ondik, Joe Baldassari, Carol DiDonato, Marian Fraga, Rosemary Friedrich, Margaret Malloy, John Giorgis, Terry Lochry, Maryann and Bill McDonnell, Rene Sikkema, Dot Stipa, Jen Volpe, and Peggy and Tony Rezza. We are so grateful for their support. There was a testimonial by Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Vander Neut, former ABB clients. Auction attendees enjoyed the wonderful music of Andrew Neu. Our Gold Sponsors were John and Bonnie Jean Koresko and Tot-Time Child Development Centers. The Silver Sponsor was Brogan Orthodontics, and the Bronze Sponsors were Michele Johnson, Josephine J. Templeton, M.D. and John M. Templeton, Jr., M.D. and James J. White IV. Following the cocktail hour and viewing of the items, dinner was served buffet style followed by dessert. The live auction and raffle followed the silent auction and everyone said good night by 11:00 o’clock. It was a most enjoyable evening. We are all looking forward to our next auction this Fall. Please watch the Newsletter for details and to save the date! LIVING PROOF By: Christopher Vander Neut A Baby’s Breath has been a very important part of both my life and my wife’s. We met in high school and quickly became good friends. After dating for a while, we found out that she was pregnant. At this point, we were both so scared and confused that we did not know what to do. Through a friend, we heard of A Baby’s Breath and what they do. After we scheduled out meeting, we became worried that we would feel uncomfortable or silly. Needless to say, this was not the case. The meeting was very helpful, and not once did we feel like we were bad people. After many more sessions and a lot of education about pregnancy, caring for a baby, and caring for our own relationship, we had a beautiful baby girl. Thanks to A Baby’s Breath, we were able to welcome her into a loving family, and with their help we maintained our relationship so well that we were married last summer. Editors Note: Both Chris and his wife Betty have accepted positions on A Baby’s Breath Board of Directors Thanks to our Many Donors! Shipley, Happy McMonagle, Mary St. Philip of Neri - Lafayette Hill CORPORATE SUPPORT Short, William Pepe, John and Mary Pastor, Rev. Msgr. Charles P. Merck Partnership for Giving Skwirut, Laura Schoen, Roseann Vance Toscani, Sandi Stango, Mary Lou -Koenig, Stephen Toscani, Dominic Kershaw, Sylvia St. Theresa of Avila - Trooper -Lester, Lori Gubicza, Alyssa Pastor, Rev. Msgr. Andrew J. -Borichewski, Michael Main Line Run For Life Sponsors Rezza, Peggy and Tony Golias Gold Level Toscani, Regina -McCullers, William Friedrich, Rosemary Epiphany Respect Life Committee Gimpel Software -Muniz, Lorenzo JJ White Inc. Dierkes Pastor, Rev. Richard J. -Arena, Joseph Silver Level Small, Donald McAndrews -Robertson, Sandra Generation Life Upper Merion CCL Baby Shower For St. Eleanor CRHP Bronze Level Wildemann, Kelly Aetna Foundation - Anonymous Non-monetary Gifts Henkels Foundation Hoopes, Jennifer & Larry Aetna Foundation - Gentleman, Richard Dominic Annelli & Dawn Fiorillo-Hopple, Baby Shower For Kara Antenucci Toscani, Aetna Foundation Inc. Red Rose Level Elaine Cummins, Sean and Sheri Bilotta, Drew and Dee Arditi, Phyllis America’s Charities Christiani, Michael and Nancy Ascension Publishing Cummins, Richard & Donna Boeing Community Fund - Wentzel, Chritopher Capikian, Kenneth and Gina Catholic Health East Gimpel Software Harte, Susan Castagno, Michael 2nd Collection Knights of Columbus Valley Forge Chapter St. Anastasia School Castrigno, Joe St. Anastasia Church - Newtown Sq. Chuffalo, Deborah Student Council Pfizer Foundation Matching Gift Program - Louise, Tulio Pastor, Msgr. Philip Cribben St. Norbert’s Knights of Columbus, Cipollini, Joyce Wachovia Foundation Matching Gifts Program - R. Friedman St. Eleanor’s - Collegeville Cusella, Robert Council 12107 Pastor, Rev. Patrick Sweeney Davidson, Diane Cunningham, Charles H. MEMORIAL DONATIONS DePaul, Liz Brownell, Nancy R. Kyle Memory of Baby Anthony Joseph DePolo, Jr Bowlathon Sponsors DiDonato, Carol Caruso, Damien and Anna Thompson, Barbara DePaul, David Diesel, John and Amy Grob, Mike In Memory of E. Christopher Rofi - ck#2541 DiMaggio, Linda Taucher, Linda Angel Club - Collegeville Emel, Lee and Pam Way,, John Adam Rofi, Andrea Batten, John Golden, Cristin Ascension Publishing In Memory of Sir Knight Hank Melle Brensinger, Theresa Gourley, Paul Knights of Columbus # 11040 St. Norbert’s Knights of Columbus, Council 12107 Burns, James and Mary Huff, Carmella Chernick, Virginia Kirkland, Diane Main Line Run For Life Donors In Memory of Margaret Garrity DePietro, Adam Kocher, Denise Baldassari, Joe & Delores Schlernitzauer, Mary Finnin, George Kossey, Michele & Jim Conroy - Johnson, Caryl Garrity, Patrick Fisher, Diane Lake, Charlie & Nancy Arata, Mr. & Mrs. Robert Fitzpatrick, Susan Lentz, H. Daly, Lynn In Honor Of Fraga, Marian Livingood, Carol Fritz, Barbara Mr & Mrs Leonard Castrigno, Honor of 40th Anniversary Giorgis, John McArdle, Kevin Hagen, John Castrigno, Joe Hefferon, Christina Mehl, Peg Knights of Columbus Leinbach, Carol Meierdiercks, Connie MDP #14454 SPECIAL COLLECTIONS Pennypacker, Larry Mercurio, Louise Latran, Gregory and Maria Villanovans for Life - Baby Bottle collection Re, Anthony Neiderer, Robyn Lochry, Therese Greg Schettini, President Russo, Dave & Elizabeth Pinchock, Mary Ann Panaro, Marybeth & Mark Sepety, Patricia Schwarz, Teresa Pro-Life Union of S.E. PA St. Monica Church Tarantola, Raymond Taddeo, Stephanie Schmidt, Francis Pastor, Rev. William Trader Wentzel, Christopher Vesci, Cynthia St Matthew Church of Mary Mother of the Redeemer Wilmot, George Volpe, Josephine Toukatly, Jack Yurko, Phillip Pastor, Msgr. Philip Ricci Yurko, Phillip Archbishop Carroll High School Simcisko, Rebecca St Stanislaus Parish Prep Students Angel Club - Jeffersonville Bucher, D.M.D., James A. Pastor, Msgr. Joseph A. Tracy, Nancy Roth, DRE Autry, Mary Jane Early, Constance Play & Learn Daycare Ctr Castrigno, Joseph Gullick, David and Maryanne Chernick, Virginia Mangano, Pat Jill Law, Director DiRado, Sr, Jim St. Helena’s Church Ehasz, Joseph Pastor, Rev. Joseph J. Nicolo Korpel, Peter Larkin, Matthew & Elissa Mother of Divine Providence Respect Life Collection Manchester, Eric Pastor Msgr. John Conway, Patricia Walker, Contact Murray, Kevin St. Titus - Marilyn Breyer’s 4th grade class Patel, Bhupendra & Aruna Pastor, Rev. Thomas Kletzel Patota, Karen and John Peterson, Edward Visitation B.V.M. Church - Angel Gift Giving Program Rodgers, Shirley Pastor Msgr. Thomas Murray, Kathy Sobocinski and Judy Russo, Dave & Elizabeth Tartaglia, Contacts Walsh, Thomas Wilson, Jane We have another organizational announcement to Franciscan Lay Order David Eugard share. Judilyn Arena-Ondik is our new Parenting Angel Club - Main Line Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Ahern, Patti Class Coordinator for Jeffersonville. Judi is a Pastor, Rev. Salvatore Pronesti Castrigno, Joe clinical nurse specialist at Jefferson Hospital in Dougherty, Thomas St. Patrick’s Church - Norristown Kirkland, Diane Philadelphia. She has volunteered for A Baby’s Pastor, Rev. William Murphy, Marie Torrence, Contact Lavallee, Paul Breath for many in various roles such as an Curtis Solutions Network, Inc. Lochry, Therese McLaughlin, Agnes advocate, a pre-natal nurse and a Silent Auction Respect Life collection McMonagle, Mary St. Matthew’s Church - Conshohocken host. Thanks, Judi for all that you continue to do Oswald, Patricia Pastor, Rev. James W. Donlon Scheerer, David and Regina for A Baby’s Breath! New Parenting Class Coordinator At Jeffersonville A Newsletter from Winter 2009 A Baby’s Breath A Baby’s Breath www.ababysbreath.org | 24-HOUR CELL PHONE LINE: 484-571-5540 2118 W. Main Street Jeffersonville, PA 19403 Executive Commitees Advisory Board Father Patrick Sweeney Father John Hagen Msgr. James McDonough Msgr. Cribben James White IV Vincent Arena Anthony Re Corporate Board: Executive Committee Karen Patota, Founder & President Joe Baldassari, Esq., Vice-President Margaret Malloy, Treasurer Jack Toukatly, Secretary John J. Giorgis Dorothy Swedkowski Dorothy Stipa Maryann McDonnell Marybeth O’Connor Maureen Kozak Peggy Rezza John Diesel Maria Diesel Want to make a difference in choosing life? Open Houses for new volunteers at Jeffersonville center, 2118 W. Main Street, Jeffersonville – Tuesday, May 12 7-9 p.m. and Saturday, May 16 10-2 p.m. For more information, please call Paula Manchester at (610) 630-9630. Jeffersonville Division 2118 W. Main St. Jeffersonville, PA 19403 (610) 630-9630 [email protected] Director – Paula Manchester Paula Manchester, Donations Coordinator (acting) Mark DeLuca, General Manager Chris and Betty VanderNeut Mary DeLuca Collegeville Division 78 Second Ave. Collegeville, PA 19426 (610) 489-0083 [email protected] Director –Maryann McDonnell Marybeth O’ Connor, Donations Coordinator Bryn Mawr Division 827 W. Lancaster Ave. Bryn Mawr, PA 19010 [email protected] (610) 520-2227 Director – Jen Volpe Alexis Antoni, Donations Coordinator Dorothy Stipa, General Manager Jack Toukatly, Secretary Rosemary Friedrich, PR Chairman Terry Lochry Choosing Life By Karen Patota As we commemorate 36 years of legalized abortion, we can celebrate having three centers; one in Jeffersonville, Collegeville and Bryn Mawr - places where life can be chosen. Our mission to help a mother to see her child take his/her breath goes well beyond its expectations. Last year we helped over 150 clients see their child take their first breath and then we held their hands and gave them hugs as they try to rebuild their lives. Choosing life is the first step – getting out of crisis is the ultimate goal. Crisis can mean different things to different clients – we help them establish their goals and prioritize them. We offer them resources like food banks and financial subsidies, but ultimately the solutions to their problems are their own. We are the emotional support that is so desperately needed in their time of crisis. Sometimes clients find themselves in a crisis through no fault of their own. One of our clients thought he was being a good dad. He was working as a truck driver sending back his paycheck for his wife and infant son. When he returned from one of his trips, he found his house in foreclosure, his truck sold out from under him and his son was almost taken away. He came to us and we gave him all of the provisions to care for his son. For him, we were a momentary stop on his way to re-building his life. For others, we are there for a longer term. One client was with us through her first crisis pregnancy for about two years. She had been attending the parenting classes learning about budgeting, parenting techniques, and chastity. Her husband was employed only part time, so the items she received from the Baby Store really helped their tight budget. She was in the doctor’s office when she received a call telling her she was the first choice for a job. The doctor then informed her that she was pregnant. She didn’t hesitate in choosing life. Choosing life doesn’t seem like a tough choice unless you listen to some of the situations our clients’ face. They’ve been abandoned, abused, and lied to. Many times, they must get over the loss of a relationship and continue on for the sake of the baby. When our clients get a chance to see their baby’s first breath, the decision to choose life doesn’t seem hard at all. A Baby’s Breath believes that if we had more centers we could save more lives and souls. The goal of the Corporate Board is to establish more A Baby’s Breath centers. God willing, we will have our name well recognized as the place to go when choosing life and beyond. If you would like to make a meaningful contribution to the choice for life, contact the local center nearest you to find out how to get involved and make a difference. God Bless!
