Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine, January 2026

Newtown Square Bringing People Together

Friends & Neighbors

2026 January

The Furman Family Celebrating Community & Honoring Heritage

Photo by Crissy Everhart Photography CrissyEverhart.com

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4700 WestChester ChesterPike Pike •• Newtown Newtown Square, 4700 West Square,PAPA 4700 West Chester Pike • Newtown Square, PA Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors January 2026 4700 West Chester Pike • Newtown Square, PA

Dear Friends & Neighbors, The New Year has arrived, ending the first quarter of the 21st Century while starting up the second half of the 2020s. Happy New Year, Everyone!

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 CrissyEverhart.com Veronica Brown Photography VeronicaBrownPhotography.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Bob Blaisse, Sheila TurnerHilliard, Holly Stupak, Lisa Jeffries, Doug Humes, Kaitlin Battiste, Scott and Ray Magness, Lou Matteo, Rick Bondurant 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, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2026 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

Like many, I am one of those who has set a New Year’s goal to lose a few pounds, be more active and definitely be more present in this life I’ve been given. Maybe I’ll squeeze in a vacation or two this year. I’m definitely planning to take Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors to the next level, in print and online at NewtownSquareMag.com.

My 2026 goal for your hometown magazine is simple, but I can’t achieve it without our Reader Leaders. What’s a Reader Leader? It’s someone who looks forward to our magazine arriving in the mail each month; it’s a reader who realizes clearly how Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors is Bringing People Together. But Reader Leaders especially recognize our hometown magazine is only possible because of the business leaders in our community who have agreed to become advertising Sponsors.

This New Year’s issue also delivers my first warm welcome to our first new advertising Sponsor of 2026, Dr. Rich Clark, DMD. That name will sound familiar to local swim club members. Yes, it's Swim Coach Richie Clark, who went to Penn and became an electrical engineer but missed coaching kids, so he returned to Penn to become a dentist. Now, some years later, married with four children of his own, “Dr. Rich Clark” has recently returned to Newtown Square and opened his Mighty Bites Pediatric Dentistry practice in the Springton Pointe Shopping Center. Welcome Home, Dr. Clark! And thank you for becoming a Hometown Sponsor. (See Dr. Clark’s first sponsorship ad on pg. 26, inviting new families to visit Mighty Bite’s Pediatric Dentistry.)

Reader Leaders include advertising Sponsors, readers we hear from or write about, like the Furman Family on our cover this month. Reader Leaders include students and teachers, the “Experts” and contributing writers. How about you? Do you own a business? If not, do you like to write? Would you like to see your feature published? If so, see my Bringing People Together feature on page 16.

If you've been a faithful monthly reader of Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors, you're already a Reader Leader. Lead on. I know you'll enjoy this first issue of 2026.

Bob Blaisse Publisher

ON THE COVER

The Furman Family at Drexel Lodge Park in Newtown Square

Newtown Square Together Bringing People

2026 January

bors Fri ends & Ne igh

ily The Furman Fam ity Celebrating Commun e & Honoring Heritag

Dear Residents, Happy New Year! Here’s hoping your holiday season was filled with much warmth and joy, surrounded by family and friends.

January traditionally has us setting goals and looking ahead, so we asked a few of our notable friends and neighbors for their thoughts on how to make those resolutions last all year long. Our Business Profile features Stratford Friends School: a place where strengths are celebrated, differences are understood and every child is encouraged to grow with confidence and dignity. We are also excited to introduce you to The Furman Family, whose lives are filled with love and laughter, in a home grounded in community and tradition. And if you’re starting to plan your Super Bowl party, we’ve got some fun and creative ideas for you!

rt Photography Photo by Crissy Everha CrissyEverhart.com

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

Bringing People Together in Print & Online @ NewtownSquareMag.com

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Accounting & Tax Preparation Jack Del Pizzo, CPA Del Pizzo & Associates 3650 Winding Way, Ste 200, Newtown Square 610-356-2590 • JRD@DelPizzo.com DelPizzo.com

Electric Service, Commercial & Residential Andrew Martella, Sr. Martella Electric Company 484-498-2965 • MartellaElectric@rcn.com MartellaElectric.com

Expert Article: Pg. 15 Automotive Repairs & Service Lou Matteo Edgemont Automotive 5058 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square 610-353-9868 • EdgemontAuto@verizon.net EdgemontAutomotive.com

Estate Planning Legal Services Steven Gratman, Esquire Gratman Law PLLC 267-968-0569 • Info@GratmanLaw.com GratmanLaw.com

Fireplace Products Expert Article: Pg. 17 Scott & Ray Magness Scott’s Fireplace Products 3137 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square 484-422-8334 SFP@ScottsFireplaceProducts.com ScottsFireplaceProducts.com

Car, Truck, Motorcycle & Boat Detailing Jose Colmenares Nicecars Detail, LLC Newtown Square 484-841-3978 • NiceCarsDetail@gmail.com NiceCarsDetail.com

Carpeting & Floor Covering Eric Fante Fante Flooring 39 South Newtown Street Rd, Newtown Square 610-232-708 • Info@FanteFloors.com FanteFloors.com

Funeral Home Robert L. D’Anjolell, Jr., F.D. DANJOLELL Memorial Homes 2811 West Chester Pike, Broomall 610-356-4200 • RobJr@DANJOLELL.com DANJOLELL.com

Expert Article: Pg. 6 Dance Instruction Kaitlin Battiste From the Top Dance 3603 Chapel Road, Newtown Square 610-353-2623 • Info@FromTheTopDance.com FromTheTopDance.com

Hair Salon & Spa Nick Scamuffa Nicholas Sebastian Salon & Spa 327 N Newtown Street Rd, Newtown Square 610-325-0122 NSSalon.com

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2026

Crissy Everhart

Photography

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om

In-ground Pool Sales & Services David Manjarres Trinity Pools 267-343-8034 • Davidam25@TrinityPools.net Facebook.com/TrinityPoolPros/

Retirement & Financial Planning Charles Welde, CPA, CFP® The CP Welde Group 610-388-7705 • Charles@CPWeldeGroup.com CPWeldeGroup.com

Landscape Design & Landscaping TJ Warner JHL Landscaping 610-356-4104 • TJ@JHLLandscaping.com JHLLandscaping.com

Roofing, Siding & Carpentry Kevin O’Donnell O’Donnell Roofing Co. 610-624-8112 CustomerService@ODonnellRoofingCo.com ODonnellRoofingCo.com

Expert Article: Pg. 30 Plumbing Service, Residential / Commercial Rick Bondurant R.F. Bondurant Plumbing 610-566-0288 • RFBPlumbing@comcast.net RFBondurant.com

Trash Removal, Commercial & Residential John Blosinski J & K Trash Removal, Inc. Gradyville, PA 610-497-3800 • CustomerService@JandKTrash.com JandKTrash.com

EXPERTS WANTED

MARPLE NEWTOWN’S FLOOR COVERING EXPERTS

for 2026 Expert Contributors needed!

Dental, Education, Home Health Care, Jewelry, Medical, Pet Services, Physical Therapy, HVAC, Vacations, etc.

Contact: Bob Blaisse: 610-453-5536, or BBlaisse@BestVersionMedia.com

If you connect me with a new Sponsor of our community, I’ll ask you to suggest a Newtown Square resident or family to be featured in an upcoming issue as our Resident Feature cover story. Text or call me with your Expert Contributor nominations.

Bob Blaisse, Publisher – 610-453-5536

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Providing quality service and products in the tri-state area since 1946 including residential & commercial carpeting, hardwood, tile and laminates.

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Bringing People Together in Print & Online @ NewtownSquareMag.com

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Expert Contributor

by Kaitlin Battiste From the Top Dance

FIND YOUR FLOW:

J

Reigniting Your Energy Through Movement

anuary often brings a sense of possibility: a blank page, a quiet reset and a chance to ease back into routine. While many people may notice their energy levels feel lower this time of year, it can also be an ideal moment to reconnect with activities that awaken presence, creativity and momentum. One powerful way to do that is by tapping into flow—a state of complete immersion and focus in an activity.

The concept of flow was first introduced by Hungarian American psychologist Mihaly Csíkszentmihályi, a researcher whose work reshaped our understanding of creativity, focus and satisfaction.

Often referred to as the father of flow and one of the founders of positive psychology, Csíkszentmihályi spent decades studying what makes life feel meaningful and deeply engaging. His early research in 2009 led him to the conclusion that “Happiness is not something that happens,” nor is it simply luck or circumstance. Instead, we can cultivate it by taking intentional control of our inner experiences. When people are fully absorbed in what they’re doing—so immersed that time feels different and self-consciousness fades—they enter a state beyond the ordinary. This complete engagement, he argued, unlocks some of the most fulfilling moments available to us as human beings.

increased motivation, improved emotional regulation, relief from stress and rumination, heightened creativity and a greater sense of overall life satisfaction. There are many pathways into flow, and the best activity is one that aligns with your interests and skill level. Creative pursuits like painting, playing an instrument or writing can cultivate the energy of flow. Physical activities— dancing, running or yoga—often create a natural rhythm that supports focus. Skill-based tasks such as cooking, crafting, coding or gardening also provide structure, clear goals and immediate feedback, all of which foster flow. Even strategy games, puzzles or certain video games can offer a surprising pathway into that same feeling of engagement.

Flow is more than just focus. It’s an energized presence, effortless concentration and deep enjoyment all at once.

Psychologically, flow is associated with

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2026

While traditional New Year routines such as strict goals, productivity hacks or intense workout schedules can feel rigid, dance offers a more intuitive entry point into flow. Movement to music naturally draws attention into the body, creating space for curiosity, expression and presence rather than pressure. As the year begins, embracing flow provides a gentle, sustainable way to reconnect with mind, body and creativity. Whether you’re stepping into a studio or simply swaying in your living room, allowing yourself to drop into movement can reignite clarity, energy and inspiration that last well beyond the winter months. It’s a reminder that momentum doesn’t always come from pushing harder; sometimes it begins with giving ourselves permission to move through creative or energetic blocks.

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Student of the Month

by Lisa Jeffries

John Matthews JANUARY STUDENT OF THE MONTH John with Casey’s Manager, Kelly Pezzotti Photo courtesy of Sarah Matthews

This month, we are proud to recognize John Matthews as Casey’s Student of the Month for January. John is a dedicated and highly engaged senior at Marple Newtown High School, where he excels both academically and athletically.

A standout three-sport athlete, John competes on the Varsity Soccer, Basketball and Baseball teams. His achievements include being named Offensive Player of the Year for the 2025 Varsity baseball season and earning MVP honors as a sophomore during the 2024 JV baseball season.

SINCE 1976

Where The New Year Brings In New Friends!

I www.CaseysNS.com

Congratulations, John! We wish you continued success—you are truly a rising star. N S

543 Lancaster Avenue, Berwyn

610-644-5086

I www.CaseysBerwyn.com

I Fri. & Sat. 11am - 11pm I Sun. 11am - 9pm

YOU GET TO CHOOSE! Who is our next Student of the Month?

You’ve seen them featured in our magazine — now it’s your chance to decide who’s next!

We’re looking for students in grades 7–12 who make a difference in their schools, communities, among friends or through local organizations. Nominees must live in Marple, Newtown Square or Edgmont, no matter which school they attend — or if they’re homeschooled. Email Lisa at LJeffries@BestVersionMedia.com.

We’re celebrating character, not just credentials, so academic or athletic accomplishments are not required.

I Ch oos e…

Mon. - Thurs. 11am - 10pm

Beyond school, John’s passion for sports extends to travel soccer and baseball. He also gives generously of his time through athletics-related service, including counseling at MNHS basketball and baseball camps and volunteering with the Little Dribblers Club and Challenger Cup. Through NHS and SNHS, John has contributed over 50 hours of community service, supporting events such as the Culbertson Pumpkin Fest, the Eco Club, and tutoring. For the past two summers, he has also worked at the Rose Tree Woods Swim Club snack bar.

John has applied to several colleges and is eagerly awaiting additional decisions. He has already been accepted to the University of Pittsburgh Honors College and Penn State. His dream is to pursue a career as a sports statistician.

3529 W. Chester Pike, Newtown Square 610-353-1212

John’s academic accomplishments are equally impressive. He is a committed scholar and an active member of the National Honor Society (NHS), World Language Honor Society (WLHS) and the Science National Honor Society (SNHS), where he currently serves as Treasurer. He is also part of the STEM Academy and has earned recognition as an AP Scholar with Distinction.

Bringing People Together in Print & Online @ NewtownSquareMag.com

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Resident Feature

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

The Furman Family

Celebrating Community and Honoring Heritage

N

Cate and Kevin Furman

ewtown Square Friends & Neighbors is pleased to introduce you to the Furman Family: Kevin, Cate, Gerard, Everett and Willa. Life for this active family of five is filled with love and laughter, in a home grounded in community and tradition.

Photo by Crissy Everhart Photography CrissyEverhart.com

Kevin’s early years unfolded right here in Newtown Square with his parents, his sister, Melissa and his brother, Frank.

He attended Culbertson Elementary School and Paxon Hollow Middle School, forming life-long friendships and discovering a love for sports.

Baseball, soccer and wrestling filled much of his time and created some of his fondest childhood memories. He was especially active at NELL during his younger years, a place he still holds close to his heart. After graduating from Marple Newtown High School in 2005, Kevin continued his athletic journey by playing baseball at Ursinus College, where he studied exercise science.

His path eventually led him into law enforcement, beginning with the Philadelphia Police Department before ultimately bringing him back home to serve with the Newtown Township Police Department. “Working in the same community where I grew up adds a special meaning to my service,” Kevin said. “When your work is also your home, you are really invested in making it the best community it can be.”

Cate grew up not far from Kevin, though their paths would not cross until years later. She lived in Springfield alongside her older sister, Clare, and spent her school years at Scenic Hills Elementary, E.T. Richardson Middle School and Springfield High School.

She was active in student government and dedicated herself to competitive Irish dancing. After high school, she attended the University of Scranton, graduating in 2009 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Sciences. Her time at Scranton was jampacked! In addition to her studies, Cate played club rugby, joined student government, participated in international and domestic service trips and was active in campus ministry.

Recognizing her calling to work in health care, Cate stayed an additional year to complete the university’s five-year program and earned her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy in 2010. Today, Cate works in adult neuro rehabilitation and serves as adjunct faculty in a local graduate OT program. “My work truly feels like a calling,” Cate explained. “It’s amazing to be able to use my knowledge to help people after a catastrophic injury or illness. I am constantly marveling at the resilience of the people and families I work with.”

Although Kevin and Cate grew up near each other, it was mutual friends who brought them together in early 2012.

After college, both were living with friends in Conshohocken. They were recruited separately to join a recreational dodgeball team, and while neither expected anything unusual to come from a casual league, the connection between them formed quickly. Dodgeball led to kickball, and soon conversations and shared experiences built something neither expected at the time.

By the time they became engaged in October of 2014, they had created a relationship built on trust, humor and genuine companionship. “We were enjoying life, living in the Fairmont section of Philadelphia, and Kevin proposed to me in our living room,” Cate recalled. One year later, on October 10, 2015, they were married at St. Norbert’s, followed by a reception at Springton Manor Farm. They still laugh about choosing such an easy-to-remember date because Cate wanted to make sure Kevin would never forget it. They began their married life in Fairmount, enjoying the perks of walking to work, exploring restaurants and making the most of city life. Cate particularly loved her daily walk to work, which became a peaceful and cherished part of her routine.

When Cate became pregnant with their first child, the couple knew they wanted a different environment to raise their family.

We would like to thank FINLEY CATERING for sponsoring this month’s Resident Feature.

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2026

Kevin had accepted a position with the Newtown Township Police Department, and the idea of living in the same community where he served sounded like a very special opportunity. They began looking for homes, and in August 2017, they moved to the Florida Park neighborhood of Newtown Square. Cate had grown up in Springfield, and Kevin’s family remained in the area, so the move brought them closer to relatives as well as to the sense of community they hoped to build for their children.

Today, the Furman home is filled with the lively energy of three uniquely spirited children. Gerard, who is eight and attends Culbertson Elementary School, blends a love of sports with a passion for the arts. He has participated in NELL baseball, MNSA soccer, Marple Jr. Tigers wrestling and Gaelic Football with the Donegal Philadelphia GAA team. He is a Scout in Pack 315 and is part of this year’s wolf den. But his greatest joy comes from creative pursuits. “Gerard is constantly drawing, sculpting with clay, folding origami or writing and illustrating his own books,” Cate said. “He also loves playing piano and composing his own music.”

THE IVY AT ELLIS PRESERVE

Gerard, Willa and Everett Furman Photo by Crissy Everhart Photography CrissyEverhart.com

Everett, age six, also attends Culbertson and shares his brother’s love of sports but expresses it with unmistakable intensity. He plays NELL baseball, MNSA soccer, Marple Jr. Tigers wrestling, and Gaelic Football with Donegal Philadelphia GAA. Everett is also part of the tiger den in Pack 315 and approaches every challenge with enthusiasm and grit. He has boundless energy, often found climbing something or tossing a baseball into the air in the yard. “Everett is a committed fan of Philadelphia sports teams,” Kevin said. “At just six years old, he’s already your typical Philly sports guy - completely devastated when they lose and absolutely euphoric when they win!”

Continued on page 10

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Bringing People Together in Print & Online @ NewtownSquareMag.com

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Resident Feature

Four-year-old Willa brings her own bright presence to the family.

She attends Newtown Square Presbyterian Church preschool and fills her schedule with dance at From the Top, gymnastics, soccer and Gaelic Football in the summer. “She began talking VERY early and has not slowed down since!” laughed Cate. “She is outgoing, joyful and incredibly funny.” Willa loves supporting her big brothers and often insists on wearing their team colors to cheer them on.

The Furmans do not currently have any pets, much to the disappointment of their children, though the activity level in the home already matches that of a household with a few furry companions. What they do have is a neighborhood they treasure. Florida Park is a close-knit community where children ride bikes around the loop, neighbors watch out for one another and spontaneous conversations take place every day. Cate and Kevin appreciate the support, warmth and genuine connections that fill their street.

Their neighbors welcome their children into their yards and sometimes into their homes, and the friendships that have grown there feel like an extension of their family.

Extended family remains an important part of their lives as well.

Kevin’s parents still live in the home where he grew up, his brother lives in Malvern with his family, and his sister lives with her husband and children in Silver Spring, Maryland. Cate’s parents live in Exton and Elverson, and her sister lives in Fishtown with her husband and two sons. The extended Furman family travels to the Outer Banks together every summer, creating memories that span generations.

Newtown Township Officer Kevin Furman enjoys serving his hometown Photo courtesy of Cate Furman

This past summer the family traveled to Ireland with Cate’s father and her sister’s family. Cate’s dad was born and raised in Northern Ireland and moved to the United States in 1982, but his extended family still lives there. The trip allowed Gerard, Everett and Willa to meet relatives, explore the landscape that shaped their grandfather’s childhood and experience Irish culture firsthand. “Being Irish is a huge part of our family’s culture,” explained Cate. “It was really special to see our kids make that real-world connection.”

The trip was a meaningful journey that deepened their understanding of their heritage and created memories that they will always treasure.

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2026

At home, the Furmans live by a motto that comes up often in their conversations. “We remind our kids that we are all on the same team,” Kevin and Cate explained. “We encourage our kids to be each other’s loudest cheerleaders for an accomplishment and biggest supporter in harder times.” The phrase Teamwork Makes the Furman Dream Work, is heard frequently around their home.

They also teach their children to value process over outcome, believing that resilience, effort and a positive mindset will carry them farther than any trophy or a big win.

The Furmans traveled to Ireland this summer to visit family Photo courtesy of Cate Furman

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The Furman family Photo by Crissy Everhart Photography CrissyEverhart.com

Cate and Kevin’s story is one of connection, community and enduring values. They built their foundation slowly and intentionally, shaped by childhoods in nearby towns, a chance meeting through friends and a shared vision for the kind of family they hoped to create. Today, those hopes shine brightly in their home in Newtown Square, where their roots continue to deepen and their story continues to grow.

Make Your 2026 Pool Resolution to Meet The Hometown Pool Experts You Can Depend on: • To plan for a new in-ground pool in 2026 • To properly open your in-ground pool in the Spring • To schedule repairs for less cost before Spring • To replace your vinyl pool liner for 2025 rates

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Newtown Square Bringing People Together

Friends & Neig hbor

Know a Newtown Square family, individual or group who should be better known by everyone in our community?

2026 January

s

The Furman Family

Celebrating Commu nity & Honoring Heritage

TrinityPoolPros

Make your nominations for upcoming feature articles by emailing your ideas to Sheila Turner-Hilliard at STurnerHilliard@BestVersionMedia.com.

Photo by Crissy Everhart

Photography CrissyEverhart.com

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“Living in our Marple Newtown Community, I want to help answer the questions my local friends and neighbors have to get the most from their in-ground pool, for the least expense.”

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Bringing People Together in Print & Online @ NewtownSquareMag.com

11

Our Community

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

ng i t a r b Cele

Our Nation’s 250th Birthday

P

hiladelphia will turn 250 years old in 2026, and this major milestone offers our Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors an opportunity to celebrate the region’s shared history in meaningful and community-centered ways. Although the national spotlight will focus on the city where the Declaration of Independence was signed, the semiquincentennial belongs to every town and neighborhood that has grown alongside Philadelphia.

Newtown Square residents have a chance to reflect, participate and take pride in the role our area has played in the broader American story.

One of the most enjoyable ways for local families to celebrate is by exploring the historic sites that have shaped our region.

Many residents typically visit Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell when entertaining out-of-town guests, but the anniversary offers a reason to experience these landmarks with fresh appreciation. A short trip into the city can be combined with lesser-known locations that deepen the story, such as Washington Square, the Museum of the American Revolution or the homes and meeting places of early Philadelphians whose contributions often go overlooked. Making these visits as a community, whether through school field trips, neighborhood groups or family outings, adds an extra layer of connection.

If you want to get swept up in the triumph of leaving it all on the field and in the stands, visit Philadelphia in 2026 — home to the FIFA World Cup 26, NCAA March Madness, the MLB AllStar Game and the PGA Championship, right here at Aronimink Golf Club. For Aronimink, the championship is both a nod to the past and a promise for the future. It underscores the club’s commitment to hosting the game’s biggest moments while honoring

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2026

its roots. For golf fans, it will be a chance to witness history in the making—on the course and in the larger story of America’s 250th year.

This is the second time Aronimink Golf Club will host the PGA Championship. The first was back in 1962 when Gary Player claimed the first of his two PGA Championship titles. 2026 PGA Championship Director Ryan Ogle is looking forward to the event. He said, “Bringing the PGA Championship to Aronimink Golf Club and Newtown Square this May is more than just hosting a Major. It’s a chance to celebrate a region that lives and breathes sports. With the world’s best players competing on one of golf ’s most premier courses, the 2026 PGA Championship will be a once-in-a-generation moment during our semiquincentennial year for spectators, the community and the game itself.”

Newtown Square, itself, holds its own historical significance that deserves attention during this celebration year. Local historical societies, including the Newtown Square Historical Society and Edgmont Township Historical Society, will expand programming as the anniversary approaches. Residents can explore preserved buildings, take guided tours or attend lectures that illuminate what life in this area looked like when the new nation was taking shape. In many cases, these organizations rely on volunteers, and the semiquincentennial provides a perfect opportunity for residents to lend a hand by helping with events, assisting with archives or simply spreading the word.

Our trusted local historian and author of our History Spotlight’s, Doug Humes shared his thoughts about the significance of 2026 and it’s impact on our community and our future.

“Philadelphia hosted the Centennial Exhibition in 1876, the Sesquicentennial Exhibition in 1926 and the Bicentennial in 1976. In 2026, we celebrate the Semiquincentennial. Across America, we will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. In the Philadelphia area, we have a closer bond to that event and the subsequent celebrations, because they all occurred here. Philadelphia isn’t just a host city — it’s the keeper of America’s memory. Generations of our families have been involved with those past events. Philadelphia Freedom is something to celebrate - and in doing so, we hope to do what past presidents have urged us to do - pass the torch to the next generation so that there is a new birth of freedom and so that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.

As we honor our past, let’s also reaffirm the duty of each succeeding generation — to build a future worthy of the America our ancestors envisioned.”

Another meaningful way Newtown Square can participate is by embracing the spirit of civic engagement that defined Philadelphia’s early years. Hosting voter education events, organizing town discussions about the future of our community or encouraging volunteerism among residents of all ages can all serve as modern expressions of the ideals that shaped the nation in 1776. When friends and neighbors gather to serve a shared purpose, they mirror the collaboration and commitment that represented Philadelphia’s earliest milestones.

Community events will no doubt play a large role as well. The Fourth of July celebrations in 2026 are expected to be especially vibrant across the region. Our beloved Marple Newtown 4th of July Parade Committee is hard at work planning an extra special event lineup for the 250th anniversary celebration. Residents can support these efforts by attending local events, volunteering to help them run smoothly or organizing small gatherings in their own neighborhoods to keep the sense of festivities close to home.

Newtown, Edgmont and Willistown Friends & Neighbors:

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Above all, the upcoming 250th anniversary offers a chance for reflection. Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors can consider how the area has changed, what values have carried through generations and what hopes they have for the future. Sharing stories across generations can help younger residents understand the significance of the moment, while older residents may find it meaningful to recall earlier celebrations and community traditions.

Philadelphia’s semiquincentennial is a national milestone, but it is also a personal one for everyone who calls the Greater Philadelphia region home. As our community prepares to join in the celebration, the most important contribution we can make is to participate with curiosity, pride and a sense of community.

Whether through historic exploration, creative projects, volunteering, festive gatherings or simple conversations about the meaning of the anniversary, every effort adds to this once-in-alifetime moment.

NS

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13

Excellent Educator

by Lisa Jeffries

Excellent Educator

of The Month

Christopher Penney

Christopher loves teaching because every day presents a new challenge and a new opportunity to learn and grow. His teaching philosophy centers on educating the whole child and reinforcing the idea that character truly counts. He strives to reach students on a deeper level so they understand the value of becoming good people—not just strong students or athletes.

Congratulations Christopher!

School: Health and PE Teacher: Worrall Elementary School/ Marple Newtown School District

Recently, Chris experienced an unexpected “aha” moment during the school’s annual Boosterthon. Each year, he leads a problem-solving challenge called “Quicksand,” a cooperative game that uses mats, a few simple props and teamwork to move students across the gym without touching the floor. In all his years facilitating the activity, no group had ever advanced beyond level four.

Education: Delaware Valley University and West Chester University

That changed just a few weeks ago when a pair of fifth graders successfully completed the entire challenge. The moment was especially meaningful because Chris remembered one of the students from kindergarten—a once-shy, quiet child who had clearly grown in confidence and ability. Watching the two students accomplish what had always seemed impossible reaffirmed Chris’s belief in the power of character, teamwork and steady personal growth. NS

Who inspired you to become an educator?

Dr. Frank Frye

We gratefully thank Substitute Teacher Service, Inc., for sponsoring our Excellent Educator of The Month.

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2026

Years Teaching: 22.5 Favorite Subject as a student?

Gym class (elementary school) College: Adventure-Based Education

Favorite Book/Movie?

Tuesdays with Morrie / Rudy Something that may surprise people?

I was once a shy, quiet kid in school.

Expert Contributor

by Lou Matteo Edgemont Automotive

Current Trends That Will Affect Auto Shops in 2026

T

he automotive repair industry is undergoing major changes, driven by shifting consumer expectations, workforce challenges and rapid advancements in technology.

As shops prepare for 2026, several key trends are shaping how successful businesses will operate in the years ahead.

1. Digital Convenience is Driving Consumer Choice Today’s customers expect online convenience in every interaction—and auto repair is no exception. More than 70% of consumers now look for features like digital communication and transparent service updates before choosing a shop. Businesses that offer a seamless digital experience are seeing higher retention rates, stronger customer satisfaction and increased car counts.

2. Labor Shortages Continue to Challenge Growth The technician shortage remains one of the industry’s biggest obstacles. With fewer qualified applicants entering the trade, shops are shifting their focus toward efficiency and optimization.

Automation and smarter workflows allow teams to operate effectively with limited staff.

Tools that reduce manual tasks—like AI-driven follow-ups and digital approvals—help maintain productivity even when staffing is tight.

3. Increased Focus on Customer Retention As marketing costs rise, acquiring new customers is becoming more expensive. Leading shops are prioritizing retention through personalized communication and value-driven service. New platforms make it easier to manage loyalty programs, send automated reminders and track customer history.

Proactive engagement and consistent follow-ups significantly boost long-term profitability.

4. Growth of EV and Hybrid Services Electric and hybrid vehicles continue to gain market share. While this shift presents new opportunities, many independent shops face challenges related to training, equipment and certification.

Shops prepared to handle EV maintenance—alongside traditional vehicles—have a clear advantage.

5. Automation and AI Integration AI-powered tools are becoming standard in diagnostics, marketing and customer service. Tools that enable AI-driven communication

and follow-up result in better workflow efficiency and improved customer experience.

Embracing automation and AI is no longer optional—it’s essential for staying competitive.

The auto repair landscape in 2026 is defined by digital transformation, efficiency and customer-focused strategies. Shops that invest in technology, adapt to modern consumer expectations and prioritize retention will be best positioned to thrive in an evolving industry.

NS

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BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER Newtown Square Frie nds & Ne igh

by Bob Blaisse, Founding Publisher of Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

bor s

Bringing People Together

Bringing People Together Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

H

ave you ever dreamed of becoming a published writer?

Now’s your chance! We’re inviting community members to contribute engaging, uplifting and uniquely local stories that celebrate the spirit of Newtown Square. Whether you’re an experienced writer or just dipping your toes in, this is your moment to see your own byline in print—and share something meaningful with your neighbors.

Scouting News – Badges earned, adventures taken, service projects completed.

Here are a few sparks to help ignite your creativity:

History Spotlight – Explore moments, buildings and figures from the town’s past.

Pet Corner – Heartwarming pet stories, training tips or local animal heroes.

“I Remember When…” – Nostalgic reflections on how Newtown Square used to be.

Did You Know…? – Fun facts, hidden gems or surprising bits of local lore.

Residents Doing Amazing Things – Everyday people with extraordinary stories.

Firehouse Updates – Safety tips, community events or fire fighter features.

More article ideas to inspire you: Seasonal guides (gardening, winter prep, holiday lights, etc.)

“Day in the Life” pieces featuring teachers, coaches or small-business owners Hidden hiking trails or outdoor adventures

Local Legends & Fascinating Neighbors – Shine a spotlight on someone doing something remarkable close to home.

Local arts & culture features — musicians, makers or upcoming shows

Charity or Volunteer Spotlight – Feature organizations making a difference.

Neighborhood traditions worth sharing

Kids’ Corner – Artwork, short stories, interviews or youth perspectives.

Try This Recipe – Share a favorite family dish, holiday treat or quick weeknight go-to.

Local Sports – Athlete profiles, team updates, exciting game recaps.

School Highlights – Achievements, programs and standout student moments.

Tips for living greener in Newtown Square The possibilities truly are endless! Have an idea brewing? Send it our way—and you might just see your name in print as Newtown Square’s next published writer. Email me at BBlaisse@ BestVersionMedia.com.

NS

Bob Blaisse

Publisher Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

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January 2026

Expert Contributor

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Efficient and Stylish Heating Options for Any Home

hen it comes to keeping your home warm, traditional central forced-air systems often fall short. They can waste energy by heating the entire house—even spaces you aren’t using—and may struggle to deliver consistent comfort.

Fortunately, today’s direct-vent and vent-free stove options offer an environmentally friendly, cost-effective alternative that provides heat exactly where and when you need it.

Direct-Vent Stoves Valor’s line of freestanding fireplaces is an excellent solution for homeowners seeking efficient, targeted warmth. These stoves deliver steady radiant heat without relying on electricity, making them both dependable and energy-smart.

One standout model is the Madrona Freestanding Stove, designed for convenience, control and year-round comfort. Its ValorStat Plus hand-held remote lets you easily adjust flame levels and even includes a light/shut-off pilot feature for added efficiency. The Madrona’s impressive low turndown of 6,500 BTUs ensures consistent warmth without overheating a room.

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A key advantage of this unit is its no-power-needed operation—perfect for maintaining heat during outages. Additional energy-saving features include a 6-Hour Automatic Turn-Down, which returns the stove to pilot mode if no flame adjustments are made, and a 5-Day Shutdown feature that turns the system off completely after several inactive days. A convenient clip-on safety barrier screen enhances peace of mind without compromising style.

Vent-Free Stoves For maximum installation flexibility, vent-free stoves from Empire Comfort Systems offer the charm of a traditional cast-iron stove without the need for venting or a mantle. This makes them an ideal choice for basements, additions, cabins or any room where venting a gas appliance is difficult or impractical.

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Inside, the stove’s contour burner produces realistic yellow flames with glowing embers, creating the ambiance of a traditional fire.

With heating capabilities ranging from 17,500 to 25,000 BTUs, these stoves supply substantial warmth for chilly spaces without the complexity of a vented installation.

Whether you choose a direct-vent option with advanced efficiency features or a vent-free cast-iron model that offers unmatched installation freedom, today’s gas stoves provide comfortable, consistent heat with style and reliability.

NS

Bringing People Together in Print & Online @ NewtownSquareMag.com

17

Business Profile

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard The Stratford Friends School

Photos courtesy of Stratford Friends School

Offering a Holistic Approach to Education for Neurodiverse Students Across Our Region

S

tratford Friends School stands quietly around the bend on Bishop Hollow Road near West Chester Pike, yet its impact on the lives of neurodiverse learners throughout our region is significant. Rooted in Quaker values and guided by a commitment to meeting children exactly where they are, this small Kindergarten through 10th grade community has become a haven for students who thrive with individualized support, compassionate teaching and a holistic approach to learning. Families who arrive at Stratford Friends School quickly discover a place where strengths are celebrated, differences are understood and every child is encouraged to grow with confidence and dignity.

Stratford Friends was founded in 1976 by Dorothy Flanagan and Sandy Howze, in Lansdowne, PA, and settled into its current location at 2 Bishop Hollow Road in 2009. The school campus has a rich history in serving our community youth, as it was the home to two other schools over the years, Delaware County Christian School and the Alice Grim School. The Alice Grim School was part of the local school district and named after local resident and retired principal, Alice Grim, back in 1951, as a gift from her community for her dedication and years of service in education.

Stratford Friends’ founders have been celebrated for their unique approach to education and for forming the first Friends School for students with learning differences. Dorothy stated, “It was one of those times when you take a leap of faith and know that certainly here was something that needed to be done. We wanted to give whatever teaching gifts we had to students who were falling through the cracks. It was also very important to us that this be a Friends

Stratford Friends School Founders Sandy Howze and Dorothy Flanagan

school, a Quaker school, because the spiritual side of children and adults is equally important.” Back in 1976, Stratford Friends opened its doors to four students. Today, under the leadership of Head of School Jill Dougherty, Stratford Friends currently serves 79 students with plans to expand the Upper School to include 12th grade by 2027.

What makes Stratford Friends School unique?

Stratford Friends serves and celebrates neurodiverse learners.

Stratford student profiles may include a diagnosis of autism, ADHD, dyslexia, receptive and expressive language delays, auditory processing issues, executive functioning challenges and/ or working memory issues, which make it difficult for them to learn in typical classroom environments. Stratford Friends offers research-based academic programs and a holistic approach that integrates speech and language and occupational therapies, and social-emotional support, so students develop the tools to thrive.

Class sizes are intentionally small, averaging 6:1 student-toteacher ratio, which allows dedicated and qualified teachers to meet the unique needs of each student.

Teacher (Tr.) Alex, a 6th-grade teacher at Stratford Friends School, explained that they use what is called The Orton Gillingham approach: a direct, explicit, multisensory, structured, sequential, diagnostic and prescriptive way to teach literacy when reading, writing and spelling do not come easily to individuals, such as those with dyslexia. “Applying this approach at Stratford Friends provides intensive, prescriptive instruction in small groups.

18

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2026

Teachers can tailor lessons to the specific needs of each student in the small groups, which allows for close progress monitoring.”

In the words of a current Stratford Friend parent Laura, “My son’s experience with Stratford Friends School has been nothing short of life changing. He is now being taught exactly how he needs to be taught, doesn’t shy away from educational challenges and does it with a smile. I never thought this would be his schooling experience.” Shanna, a current parent of a 10th grader in the new Upper School program, expressed that, “Over the past ten years, we’ve watched our daughter grow in confidence, strength, and joy. This school has been a place where she has felt safe, understood and encouraged every single day. We are deeply grateful for the love and dedication of her amazing teachers and the staff who helped her grow in ways that we could never have imagined. As the longest-standing student at Stratford Friends, our daughter has been shaped by kindness, patience and unwavering belief in her. This community gave her not only an education, but a safe space to become her best self.”

Stratford Friends School is a small yet mighty school for neurodiverse students. They not only teach core academics, meeting each student’s individual needs, but also offer a holistic approach to education, incorporating speech and language, occupational and behavioral therapy. In addition to these services, students take Art, Music, Physical Education and Social Emotional classes, which further support their mission of creating a safe and caring learning environment that celebrates students’ strengths, builds self-esteem and develops self-advocacy.

Stratford Friends School is located at 2 Bishop Hollow Road, Newtown Square. For more information, give them a call at 610-355-9580 or visit their website at StratfordFriends.org.

NS

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19

Charity Spotlight

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard Photos provided by Newtown Square Fire Company

Bringing People Together In Support of Our Newtown Square Volunteer Fire Company

O

ver the past five years, I have had the opportunity to interview families, individuals and groups, sharing stories in our Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine about where they came from, what brought them to Newtown Square and why they love to live and work here. It truly is a special town filled with history, heritage and generosity.

Giving back to our community is important, especially when giving back to the people who selflessly volunteer their time, talents and resources to keep us safe. This past December, our community gathered once again at our favorite hometown spot, Casey’s, for a guest bartending event to celebrate the holiday season and raise funds for our Newtown Square Volunteer Fire Company.

This was the second year for the fundraiser, which was a huge success in its inaugural year. The idea originally began when our Chairman of the Board of Supervisors, Leonard Alteri, and I attended a Newtown Square Business Association (NSBA) happy hour networking event. Being that the two of us are lifelong Newtown Square residents and I serve as the President of the NSBA, it’s safe to say that we know a lot of people.

We got to talking about fun ways to network and raise funds, and I suggested we work as guest bartenders for a night. Mind you, neither one of us had ever stepped foot behind a bar, so the idea was a bit far-fetched. At the very least, we figured we would get a few laughs out of it. Leonard and I agreed that if we were

to have such an event, the only place we would want to serve up drinks would be at our favorite hometown bar, Casey’s, and that the money raised would go directly to the fire company.

We arranged a meeting with Casey’s owner, Pete Crisanti, and after a friendly discussion over the best French Onion soup this side of the Blue Route, the plan was in place. Not surprisingly, Pete graciously agreed to donate 30% of all beverage sales that night toward our cause, but what was surprising was that he was okay with putting us two rookies behind the bar, as long as we were accompanied by three of his best bartenders, of course!

The first event was an enormous success, raising over $8,000 for our first responders, thanks to the generosity of our friends, family, community members and a very generous local resident who matched our proceeds, dollar-for-dollar. And much to our surprise, these two bartending rookies worked hard to serve a packed house for three solid hours!

The folks at the fire company must have been impressed with our skills, so they asked us to do it all again on Tuesday, December 16th and once again, we had the support of our generous friend who pledged to match our earnings in exchange for two reserved seats at the bar. We may not be able to make a martini, but we’re really good at saving seats!

The fundraiser began promptly at 6pm, when Traci, Karen, and Cassidy, a.k.a. Casey’s Dream Team, called us back behind the bar.

It was time to get to work, and boy, did we work! By 6:15, the

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2026

bar was packed, and the drinks were flowing. The crowd continued to grow with each passing hour. We enjoyed great tunes and holiday cheer while folks from the fire company worked the room, collecting additional cash donations.

To say our 2nd annual event was a success is an understatement. It exceeded our expectations not just in the amount of money we raised but in the overwhelming amount of support and positive energy from our community. Below is the message from our Newtown Square Fire Company announcing the results: “Thank you to everyone who came out to Casey’s this past Tuesday night. With your support and very generous donor matching dollar-for-dollar,, we were able to raise close to $10,000! Fundraisers like these are crucial for supporting our volunteers, who rely on community donations to maintain equipment, training, and emergency response capabilities. The money raised will help ensure that the Newtown Square Fire Company can continue to provide essential services and keep the community safe. It’s wonderful to see local businesses and community members come together for such an important cause.”

Leonard also shared a message to all who showed up that night: “To everyone who came to the guest bartending on Tuesday, Sheila and I want to say thank you! Because of your generosity and the extremely generous dollar-for-dollar match by Joanne Berwind, nearly $10,000 was raised for our Newtown Square Fire Company! I thank Sheila Turner-Hilliard, President of the Newtown Square Business Association, for coming up with the idea behind this event. To Pete Crisanti and the Casey’s Newtown Square crew, including Traci, Karen and Cassidy, thank you for allowing us to do this event for our community. To the members of this amazing community, many of whom just came to drop money in the donation jar, thank you for supporting the Newtown Square Fire Company. And lastly, to everyone who drank a drink that Sheila and I completely butchered, and pretended it was correct, we thank you for allowing our egos not to be bruised.”

Will we do it again? I’d say it’s likely we’ll be back for a three-peat! Stay tuned, and who knows? Maybe we’ll surprise you all by honing our mixology skills. Cocktail anyone?

NS

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21

Our Community

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

E

Asking Around Town: Vision for 2026

ach new year brings hopes, goals, resolutions and visions for the future. And as our clocks ticked down to the final seconds of 2025, we all surely came together to raise a glass and welcomed 2026 with open arms.

that require persistence—the times that test courage and hope— because those are the moments that shape who we become and remind us that real progress rarely happens all at once. It happens when we choose to try, try, and try again.

What are your goals and dreams for this new year? We set out to ask a few notable residents what they will most appreciate, what they want to do more of and how their 2026 resolutions will differ from years past.

In 2026, I want to focus more on pursuing projects that spark joy and foster growth. Starting a podcast has shown me the value of diving into something new, even without having all the answers.

I’ve discovered that the act of beginning—learning as you go, experimenting and refining along the way—can be incredibly rewarding. This year, I want to lean into that approach even more: embracing curiosity, staying open to learning and trusting that progress comes with practice and patience.

Cheryl Grosso Newly Elected Supervisor for Newtown Township In 2026, I’ll most appreciate the lessons that come from not giving up. There’s something powerful about continuing to show up—even when the outcome is uncertain or the path feels steep.

Over time, I’ve learned that each setback builds resilience, and every effort, even the ones that fall short, helps lay the foundation for future success. I’ll appreciate the moments

My approach to New Year’s resolutions in 2026 feels different from past years because this year I want to focus on making room for more joy and moments that make life feel lighter. I want to laugh more, find humor in the everyday and notice the little moments that bring a smile… and maybe even learn how to crochet something more ambitious than a scarf.

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

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Michael Barkann Sports Host and Anchor for NBC Sports Philadelphia

Leonard B. Altieri, III, Esquire Chairman of the Newtown Township Board of Supervisors

Michael Barkann is one of Philadelphia’s best-known sports media personalities and a long-time Newtown Square resident. He and his family were featured in our magazine in October 2023, where we learned that life for the Barkanns is Philled with Phun, Phamily, and Philadelphia Pride.

In 2026, I think I’ll most appreciate the people around me — my family who keep me grounded, and a community that keeps me inspired. As Chairman of the Board of Supervisors, I’ll appreciate every step forward we make together… and fewer late-night meetings. As a husband and father, I’ll appreciate any year that includes a few quiet weekends and maybe even a completed household project. Mostly, I’ll appreciate the chance to keep serving, and the progress we make as a community when we look out for one another, all while still being the guy my family counts on at home, and that everyone else simply knows as just ‘Leonard.’

What do you think you’ll most appreciate in 2026 and why?

My daughter, Emily, is getting married in April. I am really looking forward to celebrating!

What do you think you’ll try to do more of in 2026?

Exercise! I’ll be running the New York City Marathon.

(I’m actually not, but it’s a nice thought, isn’t it?)

How are your New Year’s Resolutions for 2026 different from those of past years?

I won’t break even one resolution in 2026. Why? Because I’m not making any!

This year, I want to spend more time with my family, catch up with the people I don’t see nearly enough and say ‘yes’ to more of the fun, spontaneous moments. And maybe even finish a project or two without starting three more, I’ll call that a major win.

My New Year’s resolutions for 2026 are different because I’m keeping them simple and fun. In past years, I’d come up with a whole list and aim ridiculously high and then wonder by February why I thought I suddenly had superpowers. This year, it’s more about enjoying the moments and being a little more present.

Thank you to our Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors for sharing your hopes for this new year. Whatever your dream is for 2026, here’s to hoping it happens—and in a big way!

NS

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23

History Spotlight

by Doug Humes Photos courtesy of the Newtown Square Historical Society

A

Randal Pratt, Quaker Farmer and Springton Farm

Randal Pratt signature from book

few years ago, I was given an old book on Quaker history.

Inside was the signature of the book’s owner, Randal Pratt.

I immediately thought “Who was Randal Pratt?” Today, with a laptop and the internet, the answer is usually literally close at hand. So off I went, in search of Randal Pratt.

He was born in 1801 on his family’s farm, the 10th of 11 children of David Pratt and Lydia Hoopes, near Goshen Friends Meeting, still standing by the intersection of Rte 352 and Paoli Pike. He no doubt visited his grandfather Pratt’s farm, which is still welcoming visitors today, at the Colonial Plantation at Ridley Creek State Park.

The Pratts moved to Newtown, where Randal’s mother died in 1836. That event cast a pall over Randal’s marriage to Mary G. Lewis of Newtown in 1837, at the Quaker Meeting House.

Randal brought his bride back to a 750-acre farm along Crum Creek, in the northwest corner of Marple Township, where they raised eight children. Randal was industrious: In addition to operating the farm and an adjacent mill, and reading Quaker history (over 900 pages!), he came up with an improvement to a horse rake and patented it in 1856.

Randal died in 1866, at age 64. He is buried near his parents at Newtown Square Friends Meeting. His farmhouse, described in 1920 as “one of Delaware County’s historic homes,” was knocked down in 1931 when a dam was erected on Crum Creek, flooding the entire Pratt farm, to create Springton Reservoir.

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Pratt family on porch at farm 1848 map showing Pratt farm

Randal, a man of learning, would probably be delighted to know that every time the local residents turn their faucets on, out comes pure fresh water from the reservoir named after his family’s old property, “Springton Farm.”

NS

For more history on Newtown Square, Delaware County, and membership information, please visit NSHistory.org.

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Peter (PJ) Yannatelli, owner

VISIT THE MOUNTAIN

5153 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square Commercial and Residential

610-522-8801

www.aamendt.com | service@aamendt.com 24

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

crissy everhart p

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www.crissyeverhart.com indoor/outdoor photography studio

(Ridley Creek Plaza – Across from Ridley Creek State Park)

at historic sugar town in malvern

DutchMountainArmory@gmail.com 484-422-8086 • DutchMountainArmory.com Sun. 10-5 • Tues. -Thurs. 10-6 • Fri. & Sat. 10-7

por traits • he adshots • eve nts

January 2026

January Events Saturdays in January

Wed. January 14

@Goshen & Newtown Street Roads A variety of rotating art displays by local artists, exhibitions and activities.

@Newtown Public Library 201 Bishop Hollow Rd, Newtown Square Do you love to cook and explore new recipes?

Then this new club is for you! Each month, we select a cookbook then you select a recipe, prepare it and bring it to share with the group.

Stop by the Reference Desk to look at the cookbooks, make a selection and get a free copy of your chosen recipe. Space is limited. Register today.

Art at The Square Tavern

Time: 11am–5pm Cost: FREE (donations accepted!)

NSHistory.org

Saturdays in January

Paper Mill House & Museum

Cookbook Club

@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: 6–7:30pm Cost: FREE

Time: 12–4 pm Cost: FREE (donations accepted!)

Winter Wonder

NSHistory.org

Thurs. January 1 – Sun. February 1

Flight On Ice

@Energy Transfer Park 4901 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square Enjoy convenient on-site free parking, festive music, lighting and decor, a large LED TV, delicious food and drinks, spacious heated party tents, cozy fire pits and the One Stop Party Shop Kids Zone. Come skate for a great cause at Delco’s #1 Outdoor Winter Attraction! A portion of the proceeds every year is donated in support of our local veterans.

Time: Thurs. 4–8pm; Fri. 4–9pm; Sat. 12–9pm; Sun 12–6pm Cost: Check their website for current Season Pass, Family Pass and Individual Ticket pricing.

610-627-2100 FlightOnIce.com Thurs. January 1 – Sun. January 11

A Longwood Christmas

@Longwood Gardens 1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square This holiday season, our Gardens are transformed into a living jewel box as radiant as the jewels and gems that inspired it. Nature and elegance intertwine as twinkling lights dance, hues of emerald green to ruby red to bold sapphire shimmer, and every path leads to a new treasure to behold. All that glitters is here, waiting to be discovered. Timed admission tickets are required.

NewtownLibrary.org Fri. January 16 – Sun. March 22 @Longwood Gardens 1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square Escape the chill and bask in the warmth of our beautiful new West Conservatory as it begins its peak flowering season. Relax amid lush, tropical gardens. Unwind as the soothing sounds of water.

Soak up the sun and leave your winter worries at the door. Timed admission tickets are required.

Time: 10am–5pm Wed–Mon; Closed Tues Cost: Adult $32; Seniors $28; Youth 5–18 years $17; Discounts for Military and College Students

610-388-1000 LongwoodGardens.org Sat. February 21

Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation’s Winter Masquerade

@Radnor Hunt Club, 826 Providence Rd, Malvern Celebrate history in style! As we honor 50 years of the Farmstead and 250 years of American history, we invite you to the return of our signature celebration, Winter Masquerade. Enjoy an evening of colonial music and dance, local libations, decadent fare, and a silent auction. Ticket includes a sit-down dinner and open bar. This is a 21+ event and attire can be semi-formal, colonial or masquerade.

Time: 5–9pm Cost: $150 for members; $175 for non-members

ColonialPlantation.org

Happy New Year!

Children’s Learning at its Best!

Time: 10am–11pm Daily Cost: Adult $45; Youth 5–18 years $25; Discounts for Military and College Students

610-388-1000 LongwoodGardens.org Fri. January 9th

We The People Party - The Delaware County Kick-Off Celebration of The U.S. Semiquincentennial @Valley Forge Military College One night only, within the gates of the storied Historic Valley Forge Military College, a festive evening of discovery and an exclusive sneak peek sampler of the coming 2026 Delaware County events and programs celebrating the U.S. Semiquincentennial. Consider this exclusive first look contribution to kick off your patriot celebration of this coming milestone in American History.

Time: 6–9pm Reservations Required Cost: $150 General Admission, $250 VIP Ticket

America250PADelco.org

Kids STEM Programs, Robotics Classes & More At Snapology classes, camps, events and programs, kids ages 5 -11 explore STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) through fun, hands-on activities that spark creativity, curiosity, and a love of learning!

OH, SNAP! DON’T TELL THEM IT’S EDUCATIONAL! Now booking birthday parties, special events, after school programs and field trips for the winter & spring.

856-266-5410

Newtown-Square.Snapology.com Info@SnapologyNewtownSquare.com

Bringing People Together in Print & Online @ NewtownSquareMag.com

25

Community Sports

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

Celebrating Super Bowl Sunday Bringing Friends & Neighbors Together

T

he countdown to Super Bowl LX (60) is on! Whether you tune in for the game, the commercials or the halftime show, this year’s celebration calls for friends, fun and “fan”tastic food.

To host or not to host? That’s a good question!

If you’re planning to host your own Super Bowl party, we’ve got some great ideas for scoring a touchdown with your guests. All it takes is a little creativity and some ideas from our Sponsors.

The game, in which the National Football Conference (NFC) champion will face the American Football Conference (AFL) winner, will be played on Sunday, February 8th, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, CA, home of the San Francisco 49ers. The stadium is located approximately 40 miles south of San Francisco. It is named after Levi Strauss & Co., which purchased naming rights in 2013 and has a capacity of 75,000.

When you think of a Super Bowl party, the first thing that comes to mind is food. There’s just something about gathering around the big screen with a plate full of wings, nachos and chips, right?

Lucky for us, we have one of the best places to pick up freshly prepared foods right around the corner at Luigi & Giovanni’s. Owner John D’Alessandro said business is booming on game day, so it’s best to call a few days ahead and pre-order your selections. “We sell a lot of our homemade strombolis that, when sliced thin, make a great game-time snack,” John said. “We have your traditional Italian meat stromboli as well as cheesesteak, chicken cheesesteak, pepperoni and cheese, buffalo chicken and vegetable strombolis.”

The game will air live on NBC and Telemundo, but can also be streamed live through subscription services like Peacock and NFL+. Pop singer Charlie Puth will sing the National Anthem, accompanied by American Sign Language performer Fred Beam; Americana singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile will sing America the Beautiful, accompanied by sign language performer Julian Ortiz; and R&B singer and daughter of former NFL player Mike Jones, Coco Jones, will sing Lift Every Voice and Sing. The featured performer for the halftime show, sponsored by Apple Music and Roc Nation, is Puerto Rican rapper and singer Bad Bunny. This will be Bad Bunny's second appearance, as he had previously performed as a guest in the Super Bowl LIV halftime show headlined by Shakira and Jennifer Lopez.

The entertainment continues with a line-up of some of the best and most-watched commercials from seasoned advertisers such as Toyota, Doritos, Dunkin’ and TurboTax. Super Bowl 60 commercials will feature brands like Homes.com, Ritz and Novartis returning to advertise, alongside first-time advertisers Duracell and Angel Soft.

Chilly winter mornings call for some Warm Sweetness!

Pick up some of our Miniature Danish and Miniature Sticky Cinnamon Buns for breakfast on a cold wintry day delicious with hot cocoa, coffee or tea.

h’s c i r n ei

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BAKERY

Treating the Community Since 1961

3545 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square 610-356-9918 www.WeinrichGermanBakery.com 26

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2026

Other fun foods to serve on game day are cheesesteak egg rolls, tomato pie and nachos. If you’re looking for some healthier alternatives, include fruit and vegetable trays along with some grilled chicken skewers and dipping sauces. For the low-carb lovers out there, a quick online search for low-carb Super Bowl recipes yields hundreds of mouth-watering results.

Just like the two teams competing for the Lombardi Trophy should be evenly matched, so should your savory and sweet selections for your guests. Our friends at Weinrich’s Bakery not only have a wide selection of sweet treats like mini cheesecakes, cookies and lemon bars, but they also make their own German Bavarian Pretzels, which are perfect for pleasing a crowd.

How about stepping up your game this year with a Super Bowl Sundae ice cream bar? Another fun idea is to dip pretzel rods in chocolate and decorate them with white icing lines that look like

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yard markers on a football field. Football-shaped decorated cakes and cinnamon churro chips with chocolate dip are more fun ideas to consider.

If your party plans include the little ones, why not create a kids’ zone with games and crafts? A simple do-it-yourself game is to pin the football on the goalpost. Draw a goalpost on a large poster board. Using either felt or construction paper, cut out some football shapes and attach the double-sided tape to one side. You’ll also need a bandana as a blindfold and a few prizes on hand for the winners.

While many of our friends and neighbors prefer hosting or heading to a friend’s house, some enjoy watching the game surrounded by big screens and bustling crowds. If that’s your idea of celebrating the Super Bowl, then you’ve got lots of nearby options.

Whether you’re hosting or heading out to watch the game, the commercials or the halftime show, Super Bowl Sunday is a great way to celebrate with our friends and neighbors. Of course, it’s a bonus if your favorite team is on the field. Fingers crossed!

NS

Play Ball!

NELL and NSPL are Ready for Spring!

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

W

e can’t wait for baseball and softball season to begin! It might be hard to imagine the sweet sounds of spring right now, but they’ll be here before we know it. The birds will be chirping, kids will be playing outside and bats will be cracking over at Newtown Edgmont Little League (NELL) and Newtown Square Petticoat League (NSPL).

Boys and girls from all over town are eager to return to the fields.

It’s a long winter of waiting, and players and their families can’t wait to come back to the place they call their second home. NELL and NSPL are truly special spots where kids ages 4 through 12 of all playing abilities learn to develop their love of the game. From Tee Ball

to competitive tournament teams, our top-notch community programs offer an ideal environment for players to excel and for families to enjoy their time at the fields.

Player registrations for both programs are wrapping up this month, and plans are underway for player evaluations, team assignments, opening-day parades and family-fun special events.

Save the date for NELL’s 3rd annual trivia night on Saturday, February 28th, and NSPL’s opening day parade, which is scheduled for Saturday, April 11th. The season will begin in early April and continue through June.

For more information about signing up to play, volunteer and sponsor, be sure to check out Newtown Square Petticoat League’s website, NSPLSoftball.com and like their Facebook page @NSPL. More information and updates about Newtown Edgmont Little League’s schedule can be found by following @NELLBaseball on Facebook or visiting their website, NELLBaseball.com.

NS

Bringing People Together in Print & Online @ NewtownSquareMag.com

27

Our Community

by Holly Stupak Photos courtesy of MN Band Parent Association

MNHS Marching Band Takes First Place at USBands IIIA Championships

T

he Marple Newtown High School Marching Band marched into the spotlight this season with a championship-winning performance at the USBands IIIA Championships, earning an outstanding score of 93.5. Their show, Hunting Wabbits, delighted audiences with a playful and masterful blend of “You’ve Got a Friend in Me,” “Hunting Wabbits,” and the iconic “William Tell Overture.” Beyond securing the title, the Tigers earned Best Overall Effect, Best Visual, Best Color Guard and Best Percussion.

Held on Sunday, November 9th at J. Birney Crum Stadium in Allentown, Marple Newtown delivered a show that won over both the judges and the audience. “We really wanted to create a show that the audience could really follow and that the students could have fun with,” said band director Dr. Jake Olimpi, who is also an MNHS alumnus. “A lot of bands perform shows that are very serious or metaphorical; we wanted something that was more playful.”

Inspired by the Bugs Bunny cartoon, Hunting Wabbits included voice-overs, cartoon-like trees and bunny ears and tails as part of the band uniform. “The band members really bought into the idea and had fun with it,” added Dr. Olimpi. “We have a lot of fun personalities in the band,” said assistant director Ben Fastman. “It really showcased these students, not just as musicians, but as performers.”

Jacob Lutz, the band’s Drum Major and a senior at MNHS, enjoyed the playful and silly aspect of the show. “It was a really fun show to be a part of,” he said. “I think the storyline and the light-heartedness of it really resonated with the crowd.”

The color guard also played a vital role in bringing the Tiger marching band’s performance to life, transforming the music into a vivid visual story with their coordinated flag and rifle work.

“The music was really fun to choreograph,” said MNHS Color Guard instructor Rebekah Silar. “The band members really connected with it and the color guard really got into character.” “This year’s theme really allowed us to show different sides of ourselves,

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The MNHS Marching Band after their winning performance at Champs

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2026

MN Marching Band performed their show Hunting Wabbits in 2025

which was really fun,” added Emilia Murphy, one of the color guard captains. “We could be more silly and goofy. And our choreography really assisted in telling the story.”

Dr. Olimpi explained that planning a marching band performance takes nearly a year of planning and rehearsals. A show comes to life through a thoughtful, multi-stage creative process. Each season begins with a fresh concept, a story or theme that is carefully chosen to engage audiences and showcase the students’ talents.

From there, the staff crafts original musical arrangements, writes detailed drill formations, and plans the visual elements that make each show memorable, including props, color guard features and coordinated costumes. For this year’s show, Dr. Olimpi

The 2025 MNHS Marching Band

put our all into the show,” she explained. “It’s fun to see how much progress we made from those early days at band camp.”

The success of the show would also not be possible without parents working behind the scenes. “Parents pitched in and came together early on,” said Kristi Schaub, president of the MN Band Parents Association. “From painting the sets to fundraising, they really answered the call to action.” You could also see the parents beaming with pride all season as they cheered from the stands, decked out in bunny ears. “There is a lot of camaraderie, not just among the band members, but the parents too!” she added.

Director Jake Olimpi and Assistant Director Ben Fastman with their winning trophy

was inspired by Looney Tunes cartoons he enjoyed while he was growing up. “I knew this would make a great theme and the musical scores were pieces I loved and knew our students would enjoy performing. It all came together really well,” he said.

Throughout summer band camp and weekly fall rehearsals, students dedicated hours to mastering fundamentals, perfecting musical passages, learning field movements and finally integrating every layer. By the time they stepped onto the field this fall, the Tiger Marching Band delivered a performance that reflected their dedication and hard work. For Emily Dobbins, a junior at MNHS and this year’s band President, finishing in first was so rewarding after the hard work they put in all season. “We really

The MNHS Marching Band has been competing since the late 60s. For the past several years, they’ve been a part of USBands, an organization that supports the development of scholastic performing ensembles and includes thousands of bands in more than 150 marching band, indoor and concert band events nationwide.

Each band is judged based on a comprehensive system that evaluates various aspects of a band's performance, including music performance, visual performance and overall effect. “Winning first place was really special this year,” said Dr. Olimpi. “We’ve really worked hard to develop the music program over these past five years, so it was exciting to be recognized for all that hard work.”

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors congratulates the MNHS Marching Band on their award-winning season! Your commitment to excellence, both on and off the field, brings pride to the entire Marple Newtown community.

NS

Bringing People Together in Print & Online @ NewtownSquareMag.com

29

Expert Contributor

by Rick Bondurant R.F. Bondurant Plumbing

Top Tips for Keeping Your Water Heater Running Smoothly

I

magine stepping into the shower on a frigid winter morning, expecting soothing warmth—only to be met with ice-cold water. Nothing reminds you of the importance of your water heater quite like that kind of shock.

Your water heater quietly supports nearly every part of your daily routine: cooking, cleaning, laundry and bathing. Despite its constant workload, it’s one of the most overlooked systems in the home. When maintenance is neglected, efficiency drops, utility bills climb and the unit’s lifespan shortens. Even if you’ve just invested in a new system, it won’t last long without proper care.

The better you maintain it, the longer it will serve you—and the more you’ll save in the long run.

1. Give It Routine Checkups Start with simple visual inspections. Look for corrosion, leaks or anything that seems out of the ordinary. Spotting small issues early can prevent major repairs. If something looks off, it’s wise to reach out to a trusted plumber.

2. Don’t Skip the Annual Flush Sediment naturally collects inside the tank over time. Draining it once a year washes away buildup and allows your unit to operate more efficiently, ultimately extending its lifespan.

3. Add a Layer of Insulation Wrapping your water heater with insulation helps trap heat, reducing how hard the unit has to work and lowering your energy bill. Insulation also helps safeguard surrounding pipes from freezing during extremely cold weather.

4. Adjust the Temperature Settings Most homes function perfectly with water temperatures at 120°F or lower. Setting it higher not only wastes energy but also increases the risk of burns. This simple adjustment can make your system safer and more economical.

5. Keep the Air Intake Filter Clean (Tankless Units) Tankless models rely heavily on proper airflow. Their filters collect dust and debris over time, so replacing them regularly keeps the system performing at its best.

Know When to Call the Pros If your water heater is acting up—or if you find yourself dreading cold showers—professional service is your best bet. A skilled plumber can diagnose issues, perform routine maintenance and help keep your system in top condition.

Your water heater is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home. With consistent care, it will operate more efficiently, last longer and keep those winter showers comfortably warm.

NS

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CALL 610-566-0288 24 Hour Emergency Service 30

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2026

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Recent Newtown Township Home Sales Address

Sold Price

Bedrooms Bathrooms Sq. Ft.

Acres

870 Goshen Road . . . . . . . . $1,270,000 . . . . 4 . . . . . . 4 . . . . 2,926 . . 0.51 813 Hunt Road . . . . . . . . . . $1,480,000 . . . . 5 . . . . . . 4 . . . . 3,269 . . 0.80 3917 Woodland Drive . . . . . . $2,030,000 . . . . 8 . . . . . . 8 . . . . 8,192 . . 0.49 710 Pritchard Place . . . . . . . . $365,000 . . . . 2 . . . . . . 2 . . . . 1,135 . . n/a 3519 Muirwood Drive . . . . . . . $750,000 . . . . 4 . . . . . . 4 . . . . 3,617 . . 0.08 107 Bryn Mawr Avenue . . . . . . $670,000 . . . . 5 . . . . . . 3 . . . . 2,658 . . 0.64 210 Main Street . . . . . . . . . . $925,000 . . . . 5 . . . . . . 4 . . . . 4,210 . . 0.34 1100 Nicole Drive . . . . . . . . $1,130,000 . . . . 4 . . . . . . 3 . . . . 3,150 . . 1.38 663 Andover Road . . . . . . . . $1,450,000 . . . . 4 . . . . . . 3 . . . . 3,750 . . 2.39 242 Clermont Drive . . . . . . . . $682,500 . . . . 4 . . . . . . 4 . . . . 3,280 . . 0.06 353 Horseshoe Trail . . . . . . . . $1,200,000 . . . . 3 . . . . . . 4 . . . . 2,500 . . n/a 310 Pritchard Place . . . . . . . . $240,000 . . . . 2 . . . . . . 2 . . . . 1,408 . . n/a 650 Sawmill Road . . . . . . . . $1,370,000 . . . . 5 . . . . . . 4 . . . . 3,337 . . 0.82 3705 Wyola Farm Road . . . . . $1,400,000 . . . . 4 . . . . . . 3 . . . . 3,856 . . 0.30 300 French Road . . . . . . . . . $2,730,000 . . . . 5 . . . . . . 5 . . . . 4,900 . . 0.88 204 French Road . . . . . . . . . $1,200,000 . . . . 4 . . . . . . 4 . . . . 3,634 . . 0.99 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.

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31

Newtown Square Bringing People Together

2987

Friends & Neighbors

Jan 19, 2026

Serving Families Like Yours Since 1963 Honoring The Life of a Loved One

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