Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine, August 2023

PUBLICATION TEAM

PUBLISHER: Bob Blaisse

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER: Lisa Jeffries

CONTENT COORDINATOR: Sheila Turner-Hilliard

DESIGNER: Kim Cesati

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER: Crissy Everhart Photography, www.CrissyEverhart.com

COVER PHOTO STYLISTS: Blush Salon, Michele Quinn & Brittany Naab

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Bob Blaisse, Sheila TurnerHilliard, Holly Stupak, Lisa Jeffries, Doug Humes, Mike Bradley, Andrew Martella, Rick Thompson, Brendan Magee, Michele Quinn, Brittany Naab, John Blosinski

ADVERTISING

Contact Publisher: Bob Blaisse, 610 453 5536

Email: BBlaisse@BestVersionMedia.com

COMMUNITY SUBMISSIONS

Have feedback or questions about how to submit events, updates, ideas for articles, high resolution photos, etc.? We will do our best to include as much community information as space permits. Please contact our Content Coordinator Sheila Turner-Hilliard at STurnerHilliard@BestVersionMedia.com.

CONTENT SUBMISSION DEADLINES

Content Due the 5th of every month.

Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, ratepayers or homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2023 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

ON THE COVER

Celebrating Five Years of Bringing People Together in Newtown Square!

Dear Friends & Neighbors,

This new August issue is an august issue, because this month we are celebrating the 5th Anniversary of Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors. Since our inaugural issue in August 2018, our humble hometown magazine has found its place on the coffee tables and countertops, and in the hearts of Newtown Square residents, by fulfilling our magazine’s mission to be Bringing People Together through our unique brand of social-media-in-print.

Regular readers know in each new issue we spotlight a Newtown Township resident or family on our cover and tell their story. This month we pause that singular custom to put our spotlight back on all 60 of our past covers for this special 5th Anniversary issue. See how many of our past 60 covers you recall, and how many residents you recall being delighted to find on the cover of your hometown magazine.

This month Sheila Turner-Hilliard tells us the story of Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors by recalling her experiences as our lead writer and Content Coordinator, and her insights gained from interviews with our staff, local influencers, families whose stories we published, and several of our advertising Sponsors. (See Sheila’s cover story feature beginning on page 6.)

When asked to share my favorite experience as Publisher of Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors, I told Sheila it has been serving the local business owners I’ve come to know personally, who our readers see advertising on the pages of our magazine. I'm honored to know them because I watched the decision each made, never solely on return on their advertising investment. I witness our advertisers investing in a community that is important to their business success, which they know is made better by having a free monthly magazine.

We all can thank the advertising Sponsors for making our magazine possible. And I must thank our lead writer and Content Coordinator, Sheila Turner-Hilliard, our Graphic Designer, Kim Cesati, Lisa Jeffries, my Executive Assistant, Crissy Everhart, our Cover Photographer, my wife Jean Blaisse, and our local Experts and contributors of features and photos, all of whom combined efforts to get our past 60 issues to the printer, post office, and up online at: www.NewtownSquareMag.com.

On this occasion of our magazine’s 5th Anniversary, I also thank you, as a loyal reader. Your monthly readership and the loyalty you return to our advertising Sponsors, by choosing to do business with them first when possible, has joined you to the Bringing People Together mission of your hometown magazine.

Thank you all. Take a bow. And take this special 5th Anniversary issue with you to the pool or beach this month as you enjoy this last full month of the Summer.

Bob Blaisse Publisher

August 2023

Newtown Square

Bringing People Together Friends & Neighbors

Dear Residents, Hello August! We’ve officially entered the Dog Days of Summer! Are you the type to embrace the heat and humidity, or are you counting down the days until all things pumpkin spice hit the grocery store shelves?

Years

Celebrating Bringing People Together! of

We’ve got lots to celebrate this month! Our Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine is a whole-hand! Yes, we are taking a look back at the last five years of Bringing People Together in our wonderful community. We also have a full recap from the 4th of July parade winners and a special announcement about Pints in the Square Brew Fest. Our Business Profile highlights From the Top Studio of Dance that is joining the party by celebrating 20 years of Quality Dance Education with a Twist of Fun!

We are always looking for more Newtown Square families, individuals and organizations to feature in our magazine. If you’d like to nominate someone, please email me at STurnerHilliard@BestVersionMedia.com.

Sheila Turner-Hilliard Content Coordinator

Accounting & Tax Preparation

Jack Del Pizzo, CPA

Del Pizzo & Associates

2098 W Chester Pike #101, Broomall

610 - 356 - 2590 • JRD@DelPizzo.com

www.DelPizzo.com

Automotive Repairs & Service

Lou Matteo

Edgemont Automotive

5040 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square

610 - 353- 9868

• EdgemontAuto@verizon.net

www.EdgemontAutomotive.com

Commercial & Residential Trash Removal

John Blosinski

J & K Trash Removal, Inc.

Gradyville, PA

610-497-3800

www.JandKTrash.com

CustomerService@JandKTrash.com

Dance Instruction

Kaitlin Battiste

From the Top Dance

3603 Chapel Road, Newtown Square

610 - 353- 2623 • Info@FromTheTopDance.com

www.FromTheTopDance.com

Electric Service, Residential/Commercial

Andrew Martella, Sr.

Martella Electric Company

484 - 498 - 2965

• MartellaElectric@rcn.com

www.MartellaElectric.com

Exterior & Interior Painting

Rick Thompson

Thompson Custom Painting

610 - 359 - 8500 • Office@ThompsonPainting.net

www.ThompsonPainting.net

Family Law Trial Attorney

Deborah M. Truscello, Esq.

Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello

610 - 892- 4940 • DmtofLaw@gmail.com

www.TruscelloLaw.com

Fireplace Products

Scott Magness

Scott’s Fireplace Products

3137 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square 484 - 422- 8334 • SFP@ScottsFireplaceProducts.com

www.ScottsFireplaceProducts.com

Funeral Home

Robert L. D’Anjolell, Jr., F.D.

DANJOLELL Memorial Homes

2811 West Chester Pike, Broomall

610 - 356 - 4200 • RobJr@DANJOLELL .com

www. DANJOLELL .com

Hair Salon

Michele Quinn, Owner

Brittany Naab, Co-Owner

Blush Salon & The Studio by Blush Salon

3515 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square

610 - 325- 3266 • MQuinn@BlushLooks.com

www.BlushLooks.com

Heating & Air Conditioning

Len Sciulli

Signature HVAC Heating & Air Conditioning

11 Wilson Ave, West Chester

484 - 406 - 4485

LSciulli@SignatureHVAC.com

www.SignatureHVAC.com

Investor Coaching

Brendan Magee

Inevitable Wealth Coaching

610- 299- 3969 • Brendan@CoachGee.com

www.CoachGee.com

Landscape Design & Landscaping

TJ Warner

JHL Landscaping

610 - 356 - 4104 • TJ@JHLLlandscaping.com

www.JHLLandscaping.com

Physical Therapy

Mark E. Reitz, PT Penn Therapy Associates

2010 West Chester Pike, #450

610- 853- 0508 • PennTherapy@comcast.net

www.PennTherapy.com

Plumbing Service, Residential / Commercial

Rick Bondurant

R.F. Bondurant Plumbing

610 - 566 - 0288 • RFBPlumbing@comcast.net

www.RFBondurant.com

Private Investigation & Security Services

Jeffrey Stein

ELPS Private Detective Agency

882 South Matlack Street, Suite 206, West Chester

610 - 696 - 7799 • JStein@elpspda.com

www.ELPSpda.com

Real Estate Sales

Sarah Forti, Realtor

Forti Homes with Keller Williams Realty

Office: 610 - 647- 8300 • Direct: 610 - 986 - 7170

Sarah@FortiHomes.com

www.FortiHomes.com

Roofing, Siding & Carpentry

Kevin O’Donnell

O’Donnell Roofing Co.

610 - 624 - 8112

• Office@ODonnellRoofingCo.com

www.ODonnellRoofingCo.com/bvm

Tree Care and Inspection

Mike Bradley

Bradley Tree Experts

Broomall

610- 325- 8600

• Mike@BradleyTreeExperts.com

www.BradleyTreeExperts.com

Waterproofing & Weatherization

David Linn Cook and Joe Soster

Waterproofing One

Marple Newtown Edgmont 800- 508- 4144

Info@WaterproofingOne.com

www.WaterproofingOne.com

Expert Contributors needed!

Dental, Medical, Pet Services, Home Health Care, Education, Vacations, etc. Professionals may contact: Bob Blaisse: 610.453.5536, or BBlaisse@BestVersionMedia.com ◆

Resident Feature

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

5 YearsCelebrating of Bringing People Together!

We’re having a party and you’re invited to celebrate with us! That’s right: Our hometown magazine is turning 5 this month, thanks to our dedicated Publisher Bob Blaisse, who had a vision of Bringing People Together in our hometown. Personally, I am proud to have served as your Content Coordinator for the past three years and am excited to take a look back at how it all began, what we have accomplished over the years and what’s next as we continue on this journey together.

Today Best Version Media (BVM) is one of the fastest growing print and digital media companies in the U.S., delivering local feature content and local advertising and branding of local businesses with local communities all across North America. With more than 1,200 monthly hometown publications (like our Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors,) and managed Google and Facebook ad campaigns delivered into the same zip codes important to our magazine Sponsors, our publishing team is bringing businesses together with buyers while providing local features of interest about people and places in our community both in print and online at at www.NewtownSquareMag.com. And now, with BVM’s recently launched sports web portal, for local sports – Pee-wee to Pro, discovery of our wider community’s local sports stories, also sponsored by our local businesses, can be found daily at www.BVMSports.com.

BVM was launched in 2007 by co-founders Dave Durand, Pete Ericksen and Paul Lubinski. The trio developed a handful of magazines in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area before expanding BVM in 2012. In 2018 our magazine publisher, Bob Blaisse, was then managing another publishing company when he and Dave Durand became aquainted. At that time Durand recruited Bob to join BVM to become Division Manager for Eastern PA. But while doing so, Durand offered wise advice that Bob would be better equipped to manage BVM’s Publishers in Eastern PA if Bob himself had the experience of launching a BVM magazine. And that’s how the Newtown Square community came to find the first August 2018 issues of Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors arriving in the mail, and also why a new issue has followed every month since.

Bob Blaisse and his wife Jean, who is employed by the Marple Newtown School District, came to live in our community after arriving home from their honeymoon in 1994. When asked what led her husband to take on the role of hometown Publisher, Jean Blaisse recalled how she and Bob have lived in the Marple Newtown community their whole married life and raised their four sons here while participating in school and sport teams, Boy Scouts and contributing volunteer service through many local organizations. “Our home is this

community, and when Bob and I saw similar BVM magazines serving other communities in the country, we knew we wanted the same for our Marple Newtown and Edgmont friends and neighbors,” Jean said.

When our hometown Publisher was asked to sum up his experience of the past five years, Bob responded with the same three words that serve as our magazine’s mission and motto: “Bringing People Together.” And then Bob told his staff what we already believed: “The last sixty issues of our magazines have our own unique brand of social media in print that displays the common interests of our friends and neighbors - pride in our local community.”

Hometown pride is important to me as the Content Coordinator for Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors. I have been writing for the magazine for three years now, but I am a lifelong Newtown Square resident and a Newtown Square business owner for the past 20 years. I take great pride in our community and enjoy sharing exciting news and highlighting people who make a difference in our neighborhood. For another view, I asked my magazine staff colleague, Holly Stupak, the Content Coordinator for our sister publication, Marple Friends & Neighbors, to share her thoughts. Holly said, “I’ve lived in Broomall for more than 20 years. What I love most about my role as Content Coordinator is that it has made me feel more connected to this community and the people around me. Interviewing people here with such diverse backgrounds has been a huge perk.”

The success of our hometown magazines takes a team of dedicated individuals who all share the same mission. Executive Assistant to the Publisher, Lisa Jeffries joined just over two years ago. “Bob felt I’d make a good addition to the team. That was one of the luckiest days of my life,” she said. “I love working with this incredible team of talented and dedicated professionals. I also really enjoy working with our Sponsors and Expert Contributors and learning about their amazing stories and wonderful contributions to our community.”

Continued on page 8

Holly Stupak

Lisa Jeffries

Not only do our readers enjoy a variety of feature stories and valuable content from our Experts, they always have wonderful things to say about the look of our magazines. That is thanks to our Designer, Kim Cesati. Kim said, “It’s been great working wih this whole team for the past five years, they make my job easy and enjoyable. I look forward to learning about our Experts every month but I really enjoy reading Doug Humes’ history articles.”

Bob and Jean Blaisse want to thank all their friends and neighbors for the many compliments about the magazine over the past five years. And thank their local magazine staff and contributors of all the feature articles and photos that have now been published in the first sixty issues. But as Bob, Jean and our magazine staff always respond to any kind words about our publications, the credit for Bringing People Together in the hearts and homes of over 12,000 homeowners now for five years, must always first go to our hometown Sponsors.

Sponsors Scott and Ray Magness of Scott’s Fireplace Products understand the importance of our mission. “Supporting our community has always been important to us,” Ray explained. “With so many big business and online retailers available, these magazines remind us about the wonderful things our community has to offer and how we need to work together and support our fellow neighbors and local businesses.” Jack Del Pizzo of Del Pizzo and Associates

“ Supporting our community has always been important to us. ”

~Ray Magness

“ Being part of the magazine’s mission is a privilege that enables us to actively foster connections, promote a sense of togetherness, and ultimately contribute to a thriving community. ”

~Jack Del Pizzo

Kim Cesati

shares the same sentiment. He said, “Being part of the magazine’s mission is a privilege that enables us to actively foster connections, promote a sense of togetherness, and ultimately contribute to a thriving community.”

Our free monthly publication is made possible only by the funding from our advertising Sponsors whose decision to advertise in our hometown magazine reveals to us just how important Newtown Square residents are to the success of that business. We rightfully show our gratitude to our Sponsors by showing our returned loyalty to them, in the way we choose to do business with them first.

David Linn Cook, our weatherization expert for nearly four years, has doubled his firm’s expertise by joining with Weatherproofing One’s owner, Joe Soster, as our Sponsor and Expert Contributors. Dave is also a Marple Newtown resident who said that he and his family enjoy receiving our Friends & Neighbors magazine each month, to read about people around town. Fellow community member and Sponsor Rick Bondurant of R.F. Bondurant Plumbing said, “The magazine truly has a neighborhood feel. I’m a part of the community myself and often know the featured families. It’s no surprise the magazine is celebrating its 5th year and going strong.”

Mark Reitz, PT from Penn Therapy Associates is another Sponsor who appreciates the opportunity to connect with our community. “When Bob first approached me about participating in the Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine, I was a bit skeptical,” he said. “Since becoming a Sponsor, I have discovered that there is inherent value in this magazine, and the readers very much appreciate the information that I have been able to share.”

“ Since becoming a Sponsor, I have discovered that there is INHERENT VALUE IN THIS MAGAZINE , and the readers very much appreciate the information that I have been able to share. ”

~Mark Reitz, PT

“

My family & I enjoy receiving our Friends & Neighbors magazine each month, to read about people in town. ”

~David Linn Cook

“ The magazine truly has a neighborhood feel. ”

~Rick Bondurant

Our Expert Contributor articles offer valuable insight and advice on a wide range of topics. Our Expert Family Law Trial Attorney, Deborah M. Truscello said, “It has been wonderful being part of the magazine’s mission. The entire staff is great to work with, professional, personable and caring. They coordinate with us in an effort to bring practical and helpful information to the readers and their community. I enjoy reading the other Expert’s articles and patiently await each month’s magazine.”

Steve Mostardi of Mostardi’s Nursery always enjoys sharing information on how to make gardens and plants as beautiful, and as healthy, as they can be, but he also appreciates the advice of his fellow Experts. “I’ve found extra value in the feature articles by the

various Experts, because even though I may not have need of their services at that particular time, their wisdom is always worthwhile.”

In addition to featuring our Sponsors and Expert Contributors, Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors also takes great pride in spotlighting local families, individuals, entrepreneurs, authors and volunteers. We love to hear from you about how much you enjoy our cover stories and features. We enjoy sharing them with you just as much as you love to read them. Every month, you’ll also find local events and the latest news on what’s happening around Newtown Square.

found extra value in the feature articles by the various Experts, because even though I may not have need of their services at that particular time, their wisdom is always worthwhile.

“ It has been wonderful being part of the magazine’s mission. The entire staff is great to work with, professional, personable and caring.”

~Deb Truscello

“

I’ve

~Steve Mostardi

For the Thiruselvam family, being featured in our February 2021 issue was fun. Gira, David and the kids were excited to see their story in print. “We thought we were boring,” Gira laughed, “until we read the article that proved our lives are a lot more interesting than we had considered.”

Gira said they really enjoy reading the magazine each month. “We are friends with a few of the families who have been on the cover, but we love getting to know more about other families in our wonderful community,” she said. If you recall their story, the Thiruselvums love to travel the world, and in the past two years, have taken trips to Turkey, Greece, Africa and England!

Over the years, we have introduced you to H. Eugene Vickers, who was a WWII Navy Lieutenant and a resident of Newtown Square for 67 years. He was featured in our Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine several times as a centenarian with his birthday falling on Veteran's Day, November 11 and he was featured on the cover of the magazine in November 2019 to celebrate his 104th birthday. His daughter Barbara said, “We are grateful for the acknowledgment of my father from the community, who supported him at the local Veteran’s Day parades and the celebration of his birthdays with hundreds of cards sent in the mail before his passing in July of 2022 at age 106.”

Mr. Vickers surrounded by the many birthday cards he received

Photo courtesy of the Vickers family

Arizona to play Low A for the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes. His success on the field continued and after just a short time, was brought up to Hi A where he is playing for the Great Lakes Loons. There is no doubt that Chris has a bright future because luck didn’t get him to where he is today – hard work did.

So, what lies ahead for our hometown magazine? As we move into our sixth year of fulfilling our Bringing People Together mission, we look forward to sharing more of your stories so please keep the nominations coming. We also are excited to offer you more Expert content and feature families, individuals and organizations that are making a difference in our community. On behalf of our entire team, thank you for your kind words, appreciation and support of our Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine. Cheers to 5 Years!

Do you know a Newtown Square family, individual or nonprofit group who should become known by our community? Make your nominations for upcoming feature articles by emailing your ideas to Sheila Turner-Hilliard at STurnerHilliard@BestVersionMedia.com. N S

And one of our standout Newtown Edgmont Little League players has been busy making some major-league moves since he was featured in our September 2021 issue. At the time, Chris Newell was making news as a standout baseball player at the University of Virginia whose team made it all the way to the College World Series in Omaha, NE.

When we asked Chris to give some advice for the younger generation of ballplayers who dream of making it to the big leagues he said, “Growing up, I wasn’t the best player on my team, but I worked hard to become one. Study the game, listen to your coaches and stay hungry.”

Chris’ advice is proof that childhood dreams can come true if you put in the work because in 2022, Chris was drafted by the L.A. Dodgers organization. He packed his bags and headed to

Chris Newell with his father, John after Chris signed with the Dodgers

Photo courtesy of John Newell

Student of the Month

by Lisa Jeffries

Daniel Lain

AUGUST STUDENT OF THE MONTH

The August Casey’s Public House Student of the Month is Daniel Lain, who is a rising Senior at Marple Newtown High School (MNHS). Daniel enjoys a very well-rounded high school experience and received a Certificate of Achievement and a $25 gift card from Casey’s Public House , our Sponsor of this program.

Dan is an Honor Student who is enrolled in multiple AP and college level courses, plus he’s a member of the National Honor Society in Science, English and Social Studies.

According to those who know Dan, they describe him as a very personable, affable person with a positive outlook on life. This is evidenced by the fact that Dan is the recipient of the ‘Positive on People Award,’ which is given to students who are nominated by staff members for being positive role models for other students.

Taking part in various activities is important to Dan. He is a member of Best Buddies, the Math Club, Interact and the Fellowship Club. He also enjoys taking part in several sports teams at MNHS, including cross country and track.

Dan is a graduate of St. Anastasia’s, where he was an altar server and frequent volunteer. He currently works at Fresco Pizza Grill in Newtown Square and is always happy to see friends and relatives come in for a great meal. He greets everyone with a smile and loves meeting new people.

Recently Dan built his own desktop computer from scratch, which is amazing when you consider he’s just 17 years old! He’s looking forward to attending college after graduation and is considering a career in Engineering.

Thanks so much Dan for being the light in the lives of so many. Casey’s is thrilled to have Dan featured as their Student of the Month, and everyone here at Newtown Square and Marple Friends & Neighbors sends our congratulations to Dan for this special award. N S

Nominate the Next Student of the Month!

Any grade 7 –12 student who resides within the borders of the Marple Newtown School District (no matter what school they attend, or if they are homeschooled) may be nominated by a parent, teacher or other adult who submits in writing some ways the student demonstrates Excellence in Service to friendship, school or other local communities. Academic or athletic excellence is not required. Email your nomination to LJeffries@ BestVersionMedia.com. The selected nominee will be featured in a future issue and will also receive a Certificate of Achievement and a $25 Casey’s Public House gift card.

Daniel Lain with Casey’s Manager Penny Repici

Photo courtesy of Mary Catherine Lain

by Lisa Jeffries

Celebrating 20 Years of Quality Dance Education with a Twist of Fun!

Learning to dance takes time, interest and effort. It can be hard work, but when that work is FUN, it can feel like PLAY! Newtown Square is blessed with a devoted dance teacher and community advocate, Sheila Turner, whose studio makes sure fun is part of every class.

A lifelong Newtown Square resident and one of five kids, Sheila started dancing at age 3, at a local studio owned and operated by a former Radio City Music Hall Rockette. Sheila was one of that studio’s dancers who performed at the annual Saint Albans Circle Tree Lighting Ceremony. She especially loved the trips to New York City that the studio’s owner took her on, to take classes with legendary dancers and choreographers.

After Sheila graduated from Marple Newtown High School (MNHS), she attended Kutztown University. The self-confidence and comfort level being in front of people she gained from dancing motivated her to pursue a degree in Speech Communications with a minor in Public Relations. While in college, Sheila was involved in the school’s dance program and also taught dance. After graduating from Kutztown in 1994, she worked for 10 years in downtown Philly, in a sales and marketing position.

In 2004, Sheila fulfilled her lifelong dream of having her own dance studio. While trying to think of a unique name for it, she thought about how, when practicing dance routines, dance instructors and choreographers always say “Let’s take it from the top!” The phrase “From the Top” popped into her head. Over the past 20 years, From the Top Studio of Dance (FTT) has steadily grown from one

small studio space to one big space with three studios! In addition to “Miss Sheila,” FTT has a full staff of professional and trained Instructors, many of whom are also lifelong area residents. Because the supportive and encouraging studio she grew up in and its owner had meant so much to Sheila, her studio continues that same mission and vision: To teach dancers of all ages and abilities the fundamentals, techniques and performance of dance with the utmost regard for each student's individuality. “I had felt so safe and comfortable as a student in that dance studio, with all the other students, whether they were competitive or recreational dancers,” Sheila explained. “At a very formative time in my life, it was very helpful to have such an outlet to be able to express myself.”

At From the Top Studio of Dance, students ages 2 and up can learn many dance styles: Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Broadway Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Modern, Lyrical, and Pointe. The instruction schedule runs from September through May. Students select one class per week, an hour that focuses on one dance style. Younger students take “combination classes,” and in each class, they’re introduced to several different dance styles. All students participate in the annual recital in early June.

FTT is a special needs inclusive studio. They offer daytime special needs classes for five Delaware County organizations. Sheila also teaches students in the MNHS Life Skills Program and the Father

Photos courtesy of Sheila Turner-Hilliard

Sheila Turner-Hilliard receiving her Rose for Toni award with her husband Jeff Hilliard, daughter Eve Turner and mother Kathy Clement

From the Top Studio of Dance’s Teachers and Staff at their holiday party

Bill Atkinson Service Corps and has been recognized for her work in the special needs community. In November 2019, Sheila received the “Rose for Toni” award sponsored by AALIVE, an organization that offers adults with autism opportunities for socialization and awareness. She was also the recipient of Marple Newtown High School’s PEPPER award for her positive influence and commitment to her students in the Marple Newtown School District.

“We welcome dancers of all abilities into all of our dance classes at the studio,” said Sheila, “but I learned there was a need and a desire from groups of special needs teens and adults who attend day programs.”

Those groups include students with a wide range of physical and intellectual challenges. “I have dancers with Down Syndrome and Autism, but I also teach students with Cerebral Palsy, traumatic brain injuries and a host of other challenges,” she explained.

FTT also offers Dance Birthday Parties (many themes) and annual Summer Dance Camps for girls and boys ages 4-14. Dance Camps are fun week-long full-day or half-day programs that include dancing, games, crafts, and making friends through team-oriented activities. For each of the 6 weeks, there’s a different theme and final-day show.

Sheila and her husband Jeff Hilliard live in Newtown Square. Their son Kyle graduated from Temple University, daughter Eve is a Junior at the University of Tampa and teaches at the studio during the summer, and their daughter Nicole is entering fourth grade at Culbertson Elementary. Sheila also keeps tabs on her many other “kids” (her dance students). “I want to make sure they’re on the right path,” she says. “They know we’re a safe place to be, and we want them to use dance as a healthy outlet for whatever’s going on in their life.”

From the Top dance students perform at the annual NS Tree Lighting ceremony, the Circle at Sundown and recitals, and take classes that help them learn many dance styles and gain selfconfidence and self-esteem through performing arts. Sheila also gets great satisfaction knowing she’s helping HER dance students create those wonderful memories and life skills for themselves.

From the Top Studio of Dance is located at 3603 Chapel Rd, Newtown Square. For more information, call 610-353-2623 or visit their website at www.FromTheTopDance.com. N S

From the Top’s Level 2 competition team with Miss Samara Byrd

Miss Sheila’s dance class at the Haverford CREC

Bringing People Together

by Bob Blaisse Publisher

Bringing People Together

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

5Celebrating Years of Bringing People Together in Newtown Square.

Business Owners Who Value

Newtown Square Residents Made it Possible!

If you’ve been a loyal reader of Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors since our August 2018 issue surprised you in your mail, then the mission of our hometown magazine is being fulfilled, and the reason our mission is also our magazine motto: Bringing People Together. It happens while reading and usually experiencing only one or two degrees of social separation between yourself and nearly everything read on nearly every page of any new issue of Newtown Square’s monthly hometown magazine. We call it social-media-in-print.

Ever since a printing press could publish a hometown newspaper, farther back than even the founding of our country (which includes our Newtown Township, founded in 1682), printed newspapers were published media, with the mission to inform readers of recent or coming events and items of interest about local issues, people and places. That mission was and is the same in any print publication: to inform, for social lifestyle benefit, awareness and pride of community.

With that historical consideration, our description of this magazine’s brand of local publishing as social-media-in-print, is not then some new kind of commodity delivered into a community, although it might suggest the old has become new again.

For the past thirty years and more, the fast paced growth and acceptance of what is summarized as “social media,” available to anyone with internet access, has redefined what it means to be connected. The internet allows us to connect with information, people and places all over our planet for our business and social benefit, but now within the global commerce and social community.

The benefits of digitally published information, some with two-way communition, is the new way of life. Certainly so if business or social satisfaction, or two-way communication, is needed on a global, national or regional scale. But not as much locally? People still desire to walk locally when they could ride. Why? Because within the hierarchy of human needs is the need to feel connected within a human community. And we know the most real human connectedness does not come to us digitally, or event in print. But they do come to us by living in a real community with other humans, some we’ve interacted with in our local community for years. Others we know only to see around our local community. And many who we would like

to come to know, simply because they live among us in the same real community because as humans, we seek to feel socially connected to the community in which we live.

Social-media-in-print was nearly lost in our Newtown Square community. But after five years, and 60 monthly issues, Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine has again arrived in your mail, without cost, to serve you and our Bringing People Together mission, thanks to the hometown Sponsors you see advertising on the pages of your hometown magazine.

Our Sponsors of Newtown Square residents are the business owners who have agreed to use a portion of their limited marketing budgets to fund the cost of our hometown magazine by placing their business advertising on our pages. They do so not just to advertise their business, but also because they believe our Bringing People Together mission is a good thing for residents of Newtown Square who they recognize are important to the success of their local business.

As I write this month’s Bringing People Together feature for our 5th Anniversary issue of Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors in print and online at www.NewtownSquareMag.com, I’m also mindful that today my wife Jean and I are celebrating our 29th Wedding Anniversary, and the same number of years living in Newtown Square. With similar pride and passion for what is so very important to me, thank you for your loyal readership of our hometown magazine throughout our first five years of publication, and for your support of our advertising Sponsors who make it all possible.

In gratitude for the demonstrated loyalty of our hometown Sponsors, who make our hometown magazine possible, please join me in returning our Newtown Square resident loyalties to our advertising Sponsors whenever possible, by always choosing to give our business to them first. And on behalf of our advertising Sponsors and magazine staff, thank you for your loyalty to our social-media-in-print hometown magazine and the Bringing People Together mission of Newtown Square Freinds & Neighbors for the past five years. N S

Bob Blaisse Publisher

Newtown

Square Friends & Neighbors

by Andrew Martella Martella Electric

Get a Jump on Setting Up Your Holiday Display

Today the choices for lights, ornaments, animated characters and holiday displays are endless and can satisfy any curiosity and desire for holiday cheer. Whether you are just starting out with your first display or you are a long-time display artist, always check the products for the UL listing.

Follow all safety instructions carefully, making sure not to overload the sets of lights and the receptacle you are plugging them into. Be sure that your outdoor receptacles are GFCI protected. Test all GFI receptacles for proper operation by pressing the test button and the reset button. If you don't have an outdoor receptacle accessible for your lighting project, it may be time to call in a professional.

Never run cords through windows for any type of lighting display. If the GFI receptacle fails to reset, don’t use that receptacle and contact a professional. You need to ensure that all of your exterior receptacles have a weatherproof “bubble-style” cover that closes when the cord is installed and plugged in, to keep water away from the outlet.

If the exterior receptacle does not have a weatherproof “bubble-style” cover, contact a professional to install one or more. When using extension cords for your holiday lighting, be sure they are weather-rated and safe from tears, cracks and breaks. Don’t use plastic bags, plastic tape, rubber tape, duct tape or any kind of tape as a temporary repair to extension cords. Discard and replace with new safe cords.

Electrical timers are a great added feature to your holiday lighting system. Many home stores have weatherproof timer setups included with their weatherproof cords and plugs. Timers are a great feature to keep you from having to go out into the bad weather to turn lights on and off.

Holiday light displays can be very festive and increase holiday cheer. Being safe and smart with your lighting systems is an important thing to remember, in order to keep the holiday safe and cheerful. It’s never too early to start your planning and purchasing process. The holidays will be here before we know it! N S

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

The Return of Pints in the Square

The annual Pints in the Square Craft Brew Fest and 5K will be here soon! The “Pints” committee of the Newtown Square Fire Company is excited to announce that the 6th annual celebration of local craft brewing, food vendors and live music will happen on Saturday, September 16th at Delaware County Veterans Memorial, 4599 West Chester Pike Newtown Square.

Pints in the Square was co-founded by Rick Thompson, Sponsor of Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine and owner of Thompson Custom Painting. The idea for this event occurred to him after he attended a beer festival in a neighboring town. He pitched the idea to some friends, and they got to work. Rick’s wife Bridget, a runner, loved the idea, too, and suggested including a 5K to start the day.

It didn’t take long for Pints in the Square to become the talk of the town. In its first year alone, the festival drew over 500 attendees. It had been determined that this yearly event would benefit the volunteer Newtown Square Fire Company, a 501(c)3 organization. Between ticket sales, vendors and event sponsorships, they raised an impressive $25,000 in donations. The amount of money raised and visitors attending this year’s Brew Fest is expected to keep multiplying just as the 2023 event committee has grown to 15+ dedicated members from the fire company and beyond.

The event kicks off at 11am with a chip-timed 5K run that is open to all ages. Registration is required. Those who engage in the event will receive a participation medal. Participants who register by the deadline will receive an event T-shirt. No bikes or rollerblades will

Photos courtesy of Pints in the Square committee The festivities begin with a

be permitted along the route. Everyone will need to sign a waiver, and anyone under the age of 18 must have a parent/guardian sign. The celebration at the finish line continues when you head over to the Brew Fest from 12 – 4pm. This portion of the afternoon is an age 21+ event, and everyone entering will be required to present a valid government-issued ID. All Brew Fest participants will receive a tasting glass, entrance to the festival with unlimited tastings, live music, and access to purchase food from local vendors. There will be an impressive selection of over 50 craft beers from a wide range of local and regional craft breweries.

You can register for the 5k and get your tickets for the Brew Fest online at www.PintsInTheSquare.com. Tickets can either be for the 5K and the Brew Fest ($80); for the 5K only ($35); or for the Brew Fest only ($55). This year, designated drivers can purchase discounted tickets to the Brew Fest for just $10 or for the 5K and Brew Fest for $40. Pints in the Square is a rain-or-shine event, so keep an eye on the weather and plan accordingly.

The “Pints” committee eagerly welcomes event volunteers and event sponsors. If interested in volunteering, send an email to Info@PintsInTheSquare.com. For businesses and individuals who would like to help sponsor the event, send an email to Sponsors@ PintsInTheSquare.com. And for the latest information, visit their website at www.PintsInTheSquare.com and follow Pints in the Square on Instagram and Facebook. N S

in the Square features over 50 beer selections from many local craft

by Michele Quinn & Brittany Naab Blush Salon

Letting Color Flow

Want to try something new, unique and trendy that will make you look like you just stepped off a Hollywood set? Instead of doing the usual, conventional hair color, try balayage! The word “balayage” is derived from a French word, meaning “to sweep.” This technique applies color to the hair in a sweeping motion, applying it only to the surface of the section of hair, and not saturating the hair completely in order to prevent harsh looking streaks of color. The beauty of balayage is that it is completely customizable –tailored to fit the perfect shade for you, offering a look that’s unique, stylish and fun.

The subtle shimmer created by balayage adds dimension and texture to any hairstyle, making it a great choice for those looking for something glamorous yet subtle. It is especially flattering on longer hair as it makes it appear fuller and thicker. The two-tone effect helps create depth while keeping things low-key at the same time.

Balayage requires little maintenance, far less than traditional hair coloring, since it grows out beautifully and without lines showing new growth hair color. That also allows for a longer period between colorings and creates a soft blended look, for a transition from dark to light. Balayage is suitable for all types and lengths of hair, whether your hair is straight, wavy or curly, the color will still work and look great. And since regrowth is less noticeable, balayage is a great alternative for those who desire low maintenance hair styles. Balayage has been in high demand for years and its popularity continues to grow.

Balayage can be used to create a variety of stunning looks that will make heads turn – from classic ombre styles to popular rose gold hues, caramel browns and cool gray tones. Let your creativity run wild with balayage hairstyles. Your stylist can discuss your hair color goal with you and schedule treatments ahead of time, to ensure that your hair is healthy, and ready to be balayaged with a more natural, flowing and sun-kissed look and appeal. N S

by Brendan Magee Inevitable Wealth Coaching

How Much Do Investors Really Know About The Companies They Invest In?

There is a natural tendency for people to invest their money in companies they are familiar with. Human beings draw comfort, security and give credibility to things with which they are familiar. It is something known as familiarity bias, and the problem is, without people realizing it, the bias puts dangerous blinders on investors. This applies to companies we see delivering packages every day in our neighborhood, companies with locations in every town, who sponsor all the sporting events and TV shows we watch every night, and the companies whose clothes we wear every day. It can even apply to companies we have worked with for a very long time. Since we see these companies every day, we can easily become seduced into believing we really know a lot about the companies we invest in, when in fact we know next to nothing.

Ask yourself, among the companies you have ever invested in, have you ever met the company’s CEO or CFO? Have they ever shared with you what their plans are for the company? How about the board of directors, do you know who they are and what their qualifications are to sit on that board? Do you know their Director of Research and Development? Do you have any idea about the new products they are working on? Have you ever met the Director of Marketing and have they shared with you the advertising campaigns they are considering? Is their strategy on the verge of offending half their customer base?

The answer to these questions, for most investors, is no. Investors who take comfort from investing in companies they believe they know, are at the mercy of forces they are powerless against.

So, what is it that investors are ultimately investing in? It is a brand they identify with and certain principles and values they merely perceive the brand embodies. At best, they have an image or illusion in their heads that’s driving their investing decisions, nothing scientific. Investing through this or any other bias, leaves blind spots that do not allow investors to see if they are making good or disastrous decisions. The bias does not allow investors to see that everything they and everyone else already know and believe about the companies they are investing in, is already factored into the current price of stocks. It is only unknowable and unpredictable news and information that will move the price of stocks, and when they make investing decisions in that way they are gambling and speculating, not investing. N S

by Rick Thompson Thompson Custom Painting

Painting the High Traffic Areas in Your Home

Are you tired of constantly touching up the paint in high-traffic areas of your home? Areas that receive a lot of foot traffic such as entryways, kitchens, stairways and bathrooms are susceptible to wear and tear, which showcases imperfections such as chips, dirt, scratches and scuffs – especially if the improper color or paint finish is used.

Maintaining high-traffic areas in your home can be challenging, so you’ll want to go with a color and finish that stays durable. Here are some that will withstand wear and tear caused by kids, pets and guests.

Add Some Spice

Warm colors like burnt orange, yellow, brown and spicy reds are great because they can be uplifting while at the same time providing a cozy and relaxing atmosphere. Colors in this palette will also look fresh due to their ability to conceal imperfections and signs of wear and tear.

Warm spice tones often go well in kitchens, bathrooms or other multi-functional family spaces such as living rooms.

Shades of Gray

Choosing a shade of gray can easily hide or camouflage dirt and stains, which is why it’s great for highly-used areas of your home such as entryways, hallways and other transition areas. Colors in this family also complement bold colors such as red or navy. Not only are colors in this palette practical, but they also do a great job at defining a space.

Warm and Purple

Warm shades of purple or violet can be a great choice for busy areas such as the kid’s bedroom or office. Not only is it a fun color, but it’ll keep up with the mess that’s guaranteed to come with little ones. Shades of purple are also known to produce feelings of calm, serenity and inner peace, making it a perfect color for workspaces, or even an adult bedroom! Make sure to choose softer shades without too much of a black tint.

Choosing the Right Paint Finish

Choosing paint doesn’t just end with picking a color, you must consider the type of finish that will keep your paint job looking fresh. The general rule is, the glossier the finish, the more washable and durable your paint job will be. On the other hand, a flatter paint finish is not only less washable, but can be prone to discoloration or even to coming off when washed.

When it comes to choosing the right color for high-traffic areas in your home, it’s best to go with a paint job you know will last for a long time. If you’re ready to transform your high-traffic areas with a fresh coat of paint, contact a well-respected, professional painting company to make sure it’s done right. Together, we’ll breathe new life into your home. N S

Recent Newtown Township Home Sales

Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent's ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.

by Mike Bradley Bradley Tree Experts

Fall is right around the corner, so it’s time to think about fall pruning and stocking up on wood for the cooler temps.

Fall Pruning

Timing - Aim to prune your trees and shrubs during late fall or early winter, after they have entered dormancy. This timing helps minimize stress on the plants and promotes healthy growth in the following spring.

Tool Preparation - Ensure your pruning tools, such as shears, loppers and saws, are clean and sharp. Dull tools can cause damage to the plants and make pruning less effective.

Remove Dead and Diseased Branches - Begin by removing any dead, damaged or diseased branches. This helps prevent the spread of diseases and encourages the plant’s overall health.

Prune for Structure - Evaluate the shape and structure of the plant, and prune to improve its form. Remove any crossing or rubbing branches and those that compete for space. Create a balanced framework by maintaining a central leader or main trunk.

Thinning and Reduction - If needed, selectively thin out excessive growth to improve airflow and light penetration. Additionally, you can reduce the height or width of the plant by cutting back certain branches.

Research - Different plants have specific pruning requirements. Familiarize yourself with the pruning techniques and considerations for the specific trees or shrubs you have in your garden. Some plants may require minimal pruning, while others may need more extensive care.

Stocking Up on Firewood

Choose the Right Wood - Opt for hardwoods like oak, maple or ash, as they provide longer-lasting and more efficient fires compared to softwoods. Hardwoods generally burn slower and produce more heat. Proper Storage - Find a dry and well-ventilated location to store your firewood. A woodshed or a covered area with raised flooring is ideal for protecting the wood from rain, snow and ground moisture. Stack the wood loosely to encourage air circulation.

Check for Dryness - Before using the firewood, check its dryness by inspecting the ends of the logs. Dry wood will exhibit cracks and splits, while green or wet wood will appear smoother and contain more moisture.

Quantity - Estimate the amount of firewood you’ll need for the season based on your usage and heating requirements. It’s better to have slightly more than you need to ensure you won't run out during colder months.

Stay safe, follow best practices and enjoy the benefits of well-maintained trees and a cozy fire during the fall and winter seasons.

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by John Blosinski J&K Trash Removal, Inc.

Food For Thought

The United States discards more food than any other country in the world: nearly 60 million tons — 120 billion pounds — every year, which is estimated to be about 40 percent of the entire US Food supply. In fact, food is the single largest component taking up space inside landfills, making up 22 percent of municipal solid waste. The consequence of this decaying food is nitrogen pollution, which causes algae blooms and dead zones. Additionally, the water and energy used to produce all of this food is squandered. We all can take small steps toward reducing the amount of food that is disposed of. Here are some tips that could help you reduce food waste in your household.

• Composting is an obvious option. There are new devices available that allow consumers to compost right on their kitchen counter with little to no effort.

• Save bacon grease. While it may seem odd to us, birds can benefit greatly from bacon grease. You can solidify it in a can in your fridge and then mix with suet, bird feed or seeds to attract some beautiful and fascinating birds.

• Mound used coffee grounds in a ring around garden plants to keep ants and slugs away.

• Don’t toss the ends of bread loaves; they deserve love too. Let them dry out and then turn them into breadcrumbs in your food processor (store in the refrigerator).

• Make potato crisps from potato peels in the oven. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite spices for a crispy healthy snack!

• Juice unused lemon halves into a container that you can keep adding to in your freezer. You’ll find it handy when you need a little fresh juice and you are out of lemons or limes.

• Infuse olive oil with leftover herbs. Rosemary, thyme and oregano make delicious gourmet oils that you can even consider giving as gifts.

• Store vegetable “waste” in a gallon-size freezer bag. Once it’s full empty into a pot with salt, pepper, and a bay leaf. Simmer 2 - 3 hours, strain and you have homemade vegetable stock! One of the best ways to reduce food waste is to not have any. Consider making a weekly menu plan and shop only for those items. Freeze food that can be consumed at a later date and bring your leftovers to work for lunch. Your wallet will thank you for making more deliberate food purchases. N S

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Let Freedom Ring!

Congratulations to All Winners

In the 4th of July Parade!

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

The 2023 Marple Newtown 4th of July Parade was one for the record books! The weather was perfect, the streets were packed with patriotic spectators, and the excitement in the air was electric.

Praise and thanks to the Parade Committee flooded their Facebook page just minutes after the conclusion. Words used to describe the event were “spectacular,” “amazing,” “so much fun,” and “absolutely perfect.”

This year’s parade Grand Marshal was The Broomall Fire Company which celebrated 100 years of volunteer service on January 8, 2023. Fire Company President Jim Capuzzi rode in the Grand Marshal convertible along the parade route, followed by the fire company’s dedicated members who marched in full dress uniform with the Brian Boru Irish Bagpipes and Drums Band.

The parade would also not be possible without generous sponsors who place ads in the parade book and those who make direct donations. The committee would like to recognize the following Star Spangled Donors: Republic Bank, The Original Thunderbird Steakhouse and Catering and a donation in memory of Larry and Dee Spillman, long-time Newtown Square residents who loved spending the 4th of July holiday along the parade route with their daughters, Lori Martin and Kristine Adams and their families.

Spectators were entertained by marching bands such as Mersey-British Rock Invasion and the Spirit of Slim 76. And returning to the parade this year was The Marching Cobras Drumline and Danceline from New York. The Eagle Prep Band got the crowd up on their feet and our community marching bands, fire companies and first responders joined in the fun.

Photos courtesy of the 4th of July Parade Committee

Best of Parade winner Newtown Township Republican Party

The Broomall Fire Company served as the parade’s Grand Marshal

Place Commercial Float, Charming Star Playroom

Our Community

Local businesses, community clubs and neighborhood residents did not disappoint with their decorated floats and marching groups. But it was the little ones who stole the show with their creative and festively decorated strollers, wagons, hand-drawn floats and bikes. The award for Best of Parade was Newtown Township Republican Party whose decorated float earned them the largest trophy of the day.

The parade ended with a celebration of our great country. Volunteers were on hand to serve pretzels and water. The crowd gathered to listen to The Marple Newtown Community Band play our National Anthem, after which the awards ceremony began. Medals and trophies were given to the top three entries in each division, and their names and photos will be featured in the 2024 parade commemorative book.

Congratulations to All of the Winners!

SMALL FLOAT

1st: Newtown Township Republican Party

2nd: Foreman Family Float

3rd: Generation Quinn

MEDIUM FLOAT

1st: Operation Christmas Child

2nd: MNHS Boys Soccer

3rd: Marple Newtown Democratic Party

LARGE FLOAT

1st: Newtown Edgmont Little League

2nd: MN Ice Hockey Club

3rd: Vannicolo Family Fun on Fourth

COMMERCIAL FLOAT

1st: Charming Star Playroom

2nd: Rose Tree Place

3rd: The Giant Company

MARCHING GROUP

1st: Art in Motion Dance Studio

2nd: Marple Civic Youth Association

3rd: Yankee Doodle Twirl

West Chester I 484-947-0917

BIKE BRIGADE

(Group)

1st: Aguirre Family – Land that We Love

2nd: Shul Family – Flags of USA

(Individual) 3 & Under

1st: Brynn Kozak

2nd: Evan Oelkers

3rd: Kyle Hood

(Individual) Age 4

1st: Jayson Hood

2nd: Rose Spiro

3rd: Daniel Johnson

(Individual) Age 5

1st: Emily Rennix

2nd: Stella Gambone

3rd: Rocco Gambone

(Individual) Age 6

1st: Nova Evak

2nd: Oona Heron

3rd: Eileen Heron and Alora Kudle (tie)

(Individual) Age 7

1st: Casey Marohn

2nd: Vivian Rennix

3rd: Taylor McDonald

(Individual) Age 8

1st: Riley Messick

2nd: Evelyn Oelkers

3rd: Kieran Hickey

(Individual) Age 9

1st: Reese Armstrong

2nd: Abigail Barfield

3rd: Maria Miller

(Individual) Age 10 & Over

1st: Austin Heffer

2nd: Chloe Maier

3rd: Phoenix McFetridge

STROLLERS & WAGONS

1st: Ryder Scanlon

2nd: Anastasia Cox

3rd: Kayden Ludwick

HAND-DRAWN FLOATS

1st: Chase Jillard

2nd: USS Delco

3rd: Lorelai Taggert

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Winner of the Most Patriotic Red, White and YOU! decorating contest

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Back when the 2020 parade was canceled due to the pandemic, the committee launched a Red, White and YOU! decorating contest for area residents and businesses. The turnout has been so successful over the past three years that they decided to continue the tradition. Judges toured the area and awarded prizes such as “Best Window,” “Most Patriotic” and “Most Spectacular.”

There were over 40 entries from Broomall and Newtown Square. Judging took place June 30 and July 1, and winners were greeted by a caravan of judges, complete with Uncle Sam and Lady Liberty and a congratulatory lawn sign. All entries received a participation certificate.

Best Residence: 309 S Parkway 111, Broomall

Best Business: From the Top Studio of Dance, Chapel Rd, Newtown Square

Most Patriotic: 19A St Albans Ave, Newtown Square

Most Creative: 117 Hearth Rd, Broomall

Best Window: The Running Place, West Chester Pike, Newtown Square

Best Use of Red, White and Blue: 49 S Malin Rd, Broomall

Most Fun: 58 Ann Rd, Newtown Square

Best at Night: 402 1st Ave, Newtown Square

Star-tastic: 307 Beechtree Dr, Broomall

Best Under 14: 3 Elliot Rd, Broomall

Most Traditional: 66 S Sproul Rd, Broomall

Best Balcony: 309 S Parkway Apt 105, Broomall

Party in the USA: 2946 Dorman Ave, Broomall

Most Spectacular: 301 4th Ave, Newtown Square

Best Block: 3rd and 4th Ave, Newtown Square

American Spirit: 105 N Sproul Rd, Broomall

FLAG-nificent: 250 Sussex Blvd, Broomall

Honorable Mentions: Newtown Square: 116 Ridgefield Rd, 39 Northwood Rd, and 300 3rd Ave

Broomall: Flag & Sign Place, 2215 Clover Dr, 7 Allison Dr, 20 James Rd, 403 Briar Dr, and 210 Canford Rd Media: 133 Overlook Dr

Please join us in thanking our Marple Newtown 4th of July Parade Committee and all the volunteers for their hard work and dedication.We could not have asked for a better parade. Thank you for Bringing People Together to celebrate our freedom!

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The bike brigade was ready to ride!

August Is National Golf Month

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

Summertime calls for celebrations, and our Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors certainly know how to do that! July was sizzling, from the 4th of July Parade to firing up your grills for National Grilling Month!

We’re keeping the party outdoors this August by celebrating National Golf Month. As if avid golfers need another excuse to hit the links, players this month are encouraged to introduce new golfers to the game by sharing their experiences and advice.

National Golf Month was started in 1993 by The Professional Golfers’ Association of America (PGA), in an effort to make the sport more diverse, equitable and inclusive. This month-long initiative stems from the PGA’s own annual charity event that promotes golf as a sport that is accessible to all genders and ages, no matter their skill level.

So, what can we do to celebrate and share our love of the greens? For starters, take a trip over to Valley View Golf. This former

Olde

with a focus on fun for the whole family. The grounds include a 9-hole golf course, a 42-bay driving range, an 18-hole miniature golf course, a pro shop and a snack bar.

Owners Pam Mariani and Brian Robinson said that Valley View Golf offers many ways to introduce new players to the game. “We host many corporate team-building events, women’s clinics, group lessons with our golf pros and junior clinics,” said Pam. Brian added that they offer kids birthday parties and sell gift certificates, which is a great way to share the love.

We are fortunate to have many options for both new and seasoned players. Just a short golf cart trip from Valley View Golf is M Golf

Masters Golf Course has been renovated

Driving Range and Learning Facility. The complex is tucked away from the West Chester Pike traffic and allows players to work on their short and long games. They have a 35-mat hitting station, a 6,000-square-foot putting and chipping green and a pro shop. Visitors and members can also sign up for individual lessons or group clinics with former tour professional Stu Ingraham. Over at Aronimink Golf Club, members are not only celebrating National Golf Month, they’re basking in the glow of being recently ranked among the best by the Platinum Club of America and Platinum Club of the World. The course was evaluated on universal recognition, a respected membership, excellence in amenities and facilities, exceptional service standards, adapting to

changing times, management and operations and overall experience. They are currently #30 of the Top 100 Platinum Golf & Country Clubs of the World and #8 in the top 50 Golf Clubs in America.

Aronimink, often referred to as one of the finest and most challenging courses in the United States, is no stranger to the spotlight. They have a long history of hosting major golf events, including the 2020 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship and the 2018 BMW Championship. And they’ll welcome the 108th PGA Championship in 2026.

How you celebrate National Golf Month is up to you! Whether you head to the driving range, practice greens, mini-golf or play a round of 18 holes, many places offer discounts during the month of August so you can take advantage of the deals.

There you have it. Consider this your official permission slip to take the day off, grab some friends and hit the course. Spread your love for the game even further by capturing the moment using #NationalGolfMonth to share on social media.

Publisher’s Note: Sheila, your feature surfaced fond memories of teaching my sons to mini golf, swing a club, two-putt to the hole, and be gentlemen at the ranges and on the courses we're fortunate to have close to home. Valley View Golf is located at 4600 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square. For more information, call 610-356-1810 or visit their website: www.ValleyView. golf. Aronimink Golf Club is a private club located at 3600 St. Davids Rd, Newtown Square. For membership information, call 610-356-8000 or visit their website: www.Aronimink.org. M Golf is located at 4000 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square. For more information, call 610-356-6400 or visit their website: www.MGolfRange.com. N S

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Newtown High School

by Doug Humes Photos courtesy of the Newtown Square Historical Society

A long-time Marple resident donated several old high school diplomas to the Historical Society last week, one for a Marple school and one for Newtown High School. Neither of the schools was a “Marple-Newtown” school because that idea was realized several years later.

Edna May Dickinson graduated from Newtown High School on June 1, 1911. Commencement was held in Newtown Hall, the community gathering spot for social affairs from 1868 until 1955 when it was demolished to make room for a wider West Chester Pike. Town Hall was at the southeast corner of Rt. 252 and West Chester Pike. The school that served as the elementary school and high school was just a few blocks south on Rt. 252 – and that school building remains, though unrecognizable as the 1896 red brick school. In that building of three rooms, three teachers taught ten grades, including a two-year high school curriculum.

Edna May had completed the prescribed studies in orthography, reading, penmanship, arithmetic, geography, history, grammar, physiology and hygiene. She was one of several speakers at commencement, and chose as her topic “Some Needed Inventions.” Her speech did not get handed down with her diploma, and so we are left to wonder what new inventions Edna dreamed of and

Newtown Hall as it looked in 1911 when graduation exercises were held there

The diploma that Edna May Dickinson was given at commencement exercises on June 1, 1911

Photo by Ed Cunicelli

Newtown in the

news – the description of the commencement activities on June 1,

proposed to her fellow graduates. She was a class officer, the secretary, and after graduation secured a job as a stenographer in Media. The family moved to Media, and Edna lived out her days at a house on N. Jackson Street in Media with her brother Thomas. Neither of them married, and both died in 1965.

The whole graduating class of 1911 may have been those students named in the newspaper article that chronicled the event. And it was an event – in a small farming community, the high school graduation was a celebration – the children of Newtown had been educated and were being sent off to do great things with their lives. Local dignitaries were in attendance, including Dr. John G. Thomas, who a few years later offered his land on West Chester Pike for the erection of a new building to be used by Newtown and Marple townships as a joint school, the Marple Newtown High School. The current Gauntlet Center property was the Thomas farm, but in 1914 the

first Marple Newtown High School was built there and welcomed the high school-aged students from both communities. We’ve been together ever since.

610-853-0508 I www.PennTherapy.com Regain Your Stength!

Chronic pain in your neck, back, shoulders, hips, knees or feet?

Thurs-Sun through August

Tired Hands Brewing Company Beer Park

@4901 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square

Bring your family, friends and leashed pups to enjoy our Beer Park and 15-acre property. 12 beers ON-TAP, house made wine and Kombucha by the glass. Tons of N/A options too! Rotating food trucks every day, walking trails and a four-hole disc golf course.

Time: Thurs-Fri 4 – 9 pm; Sat-Sun 12 – 9 pm www.TiredHands.com

Saturdays in Summer

Newtown Railroad Museum

@Drexel Lodge

4140 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square

Full size train engines, rolling stock and a museum full of artifacts from the trains and trolleys that once served Newtown Square. Great for children!

Time: 1 – 4 pm

Cost: FREE (donations accepted!)

www.NSHistory.org

Saturdays in Summer

Art at The Square Tavern

@Goshen & Newtown Street Roads

A variety of rotating art displays by local artists, exhibitions and activities.

Time: 11am – 5pm

Cost: FREE (donations accepted!)

www.NSHistory.org

$150 Hassle-Free Headshots

20 minute session, online proofing, and one retouched, high-resolution digital photo. Discounts for groups of 3 or more subjects, with the option to take the photos in your workplace to minimize time out of the office. Quick delivery, satisfaction guaranteed.

Saturdays in Summer

Paper Mill House & Museum

@3 Paper Mill Rd, Newtown Square

Visit this museum of local history, a place filled with the ghosts and footprints of the millworkers who once lived there.

Time: 1 – 4 pm

Cost: FREE (donations accepted!)

www.NSHistory.org

Friday afternoons August through September

Newtown Square Farmers Market

@St. Alban’s Episcopal Church

3625 Chapel Rd, Newtown Square

On Friday afternoons the Newtown Square Farmers Market features local growers, producers and artisans. Fresh produce will be for sale as well as artisan breads, coffee, pickles, flowers, plants and candles. Live music and local community groups will be on hand as well.

Time: 3 – 6pm

Wed. Aug 2 through Wed. September 27

Dining Under the Stars

@State St, Media

Every Wednesday, the Media Borough closes State Street to vehicular traffic from 5 – 11pm. This allows Media’s great restaurants and shops to set up outside (right across the trolley tracks!) for the biggest, most fun, alfresco shopping and dining event around.

Weds–Sun evenings through mid-August

Delaware County Summer Festival Concerts

@Rose Tree Park

1671 N Providence Rd, Media

Free concerts in Rose Tree Park's scenic outdoor amphitheater! The series provides many opportunities to enjoy top-notch entertainment of all kinds. Bring blankets and chairs for seating. Light concessions will be for sale and picnics are welcome. No alcoholic beverages. Pets and smoking must remain outside the amphitheater. No rain date for any evening concert.

Time: 7:30pm

Cost: Free admission and free parking

610-891-4663 (or 610-891-4455 for cancellation updates)

www.DelcoPA.gov/departments/parks/summerfestival.html

Tues. August 1

National Night Out

@Cardinal O’Hara High School

1701 Sproul Rd, Springfield

Members of the community can interact with local first responders, watch a vehicle rescue demonstration, see the Philadelphia Police Department helicopter and hear a performance from the Uptown String Band.

Time: 5 – 8pm

Cost: FREE

HOME OF THE BELL RINGERS

Experience

• Gun locks, safes, and safety equipment

• We buy/consign estates & collections

• Gunsmithing & firearm appraisals

• Firearm consulting and training

• New gun owner training

• We have ammunition in stock

“I only sell firearms to those who accept that training in firearm use and safety becomes their duty when choosing to exercise their 2nd Amendment right to own a firearm.”

~Shawn Brown, Owner Stars & Stripes Tactical

Private Baseball Instruction For All Ages

• Make playing little league a success

• Batting & pitching lessons

• Development of travel team skills

• Team training, camps, and clinics

• Play on the “Bell Ringers travel team”

Wed. August 2

Battle of the Badges Blood Drive

@Stratford Friends School

2 Bishop Hollow Rd, Newtown Square

Stop by Stratford Friends School on August 2

to donate blood for the third annual Battle of the Badges blood drive. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are accepted. For more information contact the Red Cross at 1-800-red-cross.

Time: 9am – 7pm

Sat. August 5

Peach and Sunflower Festival

@Linvilla Orchards

137 W Knowlton Rd, Media

Join us as we celebrate Linvilla’s annual Peach and Sunflower Festival! Enjoy the beauty of acres of sunflower fields and the sweetness of peak peach season all in one day! A Pick-Your-Own ticket includes a hayride to and from the field. The Linvilla Grill will be serving peach apple cider slushies, chicken sandwiches with peach-poblano chutney and much more!

Time: 8am – 6pm

Cost: $11 per person

610-876-7116 www.Linvilla.com

Tues. August 8

Author Visit: Janis Daly

@Marple Library

2599 Sproul Rd, Broomall

Author Janis Daly was inspired to write her debut novel The Unlocked Path when she discovered her great-grandfather William Peirce, Esquire played an active role in founding the Women’s Medical College in Philadelphia. Set in Philadelphia in 1897, the book tells the story of a “New Woman” of the 20th century. Copies of the book will be available for purchase. Please register at MarpleLibrary.org

Time: 6:30pm

Cost: FREE www.MarpleLibrary.org

Sat. September 9

Edgmont Community Day

@Arasapha Farms

1835 Middletown Rd, Glen Mills

Gather your family and friends for the 2nd annual Edgmont Community Day. Hosted by our friends at Arasapha Farms, visitors will enjoy music, games, visiting the animals at the petting zoo, face painting, axe throwing and pony rides. Food trucks will be selling a variety of menu items and vendors will be on hand selling their goods.

Time: 11am – 5pm

Cost: FREE entrance www.Edgmont.org

Thu. September 14

Community in the Courtyard

@Lawrence Park Shopping Center

Stop by for face painting, balloons, crafts for kids and more. Plus, we’ll be giving away free school supplies to children (12 and under while supplies last) with their families – sponsored by Kumon!

Time: 4 – 6pm

Cost: FREE

Sat. September 16

Pints in the Square

@Delaware County Veterans Memorial

4599 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square

Come out to celebrate the return of Pints in the Square! The event kicks off with a 5K run at 11am followed by a Brew Fest featuring unlimited craft beer tastings, live music, and access to purchase food from local vendors. There will be an impressive selection of over 50 craft beers from more than 25 local and regional craft breweries. Registration is required for the 5K and tickets for the Brew Fest are available online.

Time: 5K at 11am; Brew Fest 12 – 4pm

Cost: 5K only $35; Brew Fest only $55; 5K and Brew Fest $80; Designated Driver Brew Fest only $10, or 5K and Brew Fest $40 www.PintsInTheSquare.com