Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine, December 2023

December 2023

Newtown Square Bringing People Together

Friends & Neighbors

The Martino Family

Making Memories Through Life’s Adventures Cover photo by Crissy Everhart Photography www.CrissyEverhart.com

November 16, 2023 through January 2, 2024

Subaru will donate $250 dollars to a local charity when you purchase or lease a new Subaru

Subaru has earned more IIHS Top Safety Pick+ Awards than any other brand since 2013 as of October 2023

www.RaffertySubaru.com

4700 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square Disclaimer : Subaru will donate $250.00 dollars to ASPCA, Make a Wish Foundation, Meals on Wheels, National Park Foundation or Partners in Outreach when You purchase or lease a new Subaru.

Family owned since 1977!

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2023

Dear Friends & Neighbors, December is here. The end of the year is near. And Fall is falling away with us only being able to warm up to winter from the holiday spirit spinning up around us this time of year. Happy Hanukkah and Merry Christmas Newtown Square friends and neighbors.

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

With the shortest day of daylight coming December 21st, the Winter Solstice may bring the day of shortest daylight, but it arrives in the spotlight of the holidays of Christmas and New Year’s Day. Hailed by all the colorful lights we see on homes and businesses all around Newtown Square, we’re reminded that it’s the season that values Faith, Friends and Family.

Before the year ends, and before all the gift-giving stops and the opportunity for end-of-year tax-advantaged gift-giving comes to an end, I offer this reminder of our Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors of The Year (for 2023.) You’ll recall the honor that our magazine awarded in June, went to The Newtown Square Fire Company, and was highlighted by our cover feature that month.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Bob Blaisse, Sheila TurnerHilliard, Holly Stupak, Lisa Jeffries, Doug Humes, Rob D’Anjolell, Jr., F.D., Kevin O’Donnell, Jack Del Pizzo, TJ Warner, Sarah Forti, Mark Reitz ADVERTISING Contact Publisher: Bob Blaisse, 610.453.5536 Email: BBlaisse@BestVersionMedia.com

The Newtown Square Fire Company (NSFC) has been serving our community for over one hundred years. And we rely on our local, highly trained team of firefighters and fire police to respond quickly.

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.

Allow me to end 2023 by again recognizing our 2023 Friends & Neighbors of The Year: the first responders, elected officers and all the volunteers of the Newtown Square Fire Company who were on guard for us all year, helping keep our homes, businesses and community safe. Before gift-giving ends with family, friends and neighbors, consider putting our Newtown Square heroes on your Christmas List for a gift for faithful service to our community this year.

You can mail Newtown Square Fire Company on the Ellis Preserve at: 2 Charles Ellis Drive, Newtown Square, PA 19073, or visit them online at www.NSFC.org.

Another good year is coming to a close. Thank you everyone for all your support of Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine. And from all of the staff of your hometown magazine, Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 2024.

Bob Blaisse

ON THE COVER The Martino Family at their home in Newtown Square

Publisher December 2023

Newtown Square Together Bring ing People

Fr ie nd s & Ne ig hb

Dear Residents, Happy Holidays! It’s the season to celebrate, and I am especially looking forward to spending the holidays surrounded by friends and family, and I hope you are as well. December is extra special for me because it marks three years as your Content Coordinator. I have enjoyed sharing your stories and look forward to meeting many more Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors in 2024.

or s

This month features The Martino Family, who are happy to call Newtown Square home. Our business profile features Martella Electric, providing service, integrity and excellence for over 68 years. You’ll also enjoy reading about a local family who made the most out of their West Coast vacation, including Dad’s surprise appearance on The Price is Right, and we share some local residents’ hopes and dreams for 2024. mily The Mar tino sFa Through

Making Memorie Life’s Adventures Cover photo by Crissy

Everhart Photography

com

www.CrissyEverhart.

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 @ www.NewtownSquareMag.com

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Accounting & Tax Preparation Expert Article: Pg. 10 Jack Del Pizzo, CPA Del Pizzo & Associates 2098 W Chester Pike #101, Broomall 610-356-2590 • JRD@DelPizzo.com www.DelPizzo.com

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

Automotive Repairs & Service Lou Matteo Edgemont Automotive 5040 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square 610-353-9868 • EdgemontAuto@verizon.net www.EdgemontAutomotive.com

Exterior & Interior Painting Rick Thompson Thompson Custom Painting 610-359-8500 • Office@ThompsonPainting.net www.ThompsonPainting.net

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

Family Law Trial Attorney Deborah M. Truscello, Esq. Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello 610-892-4940 • DmtofLaw@gmail.com www.TruscelloLaw.com

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

Fireplace Products Scott Magness Scott’s Fireplace Products 3137 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square 484-422-8334 • SFP@ScottsFireplaceProducts.com www.ScottsFireplaceProducts.com

Dance Instruction Kaitlin Battiste From the Top Dance 3603 Chapel Road, Newtown Square 610-353-2623 • Info@FromTheTopDance.com www.FromTheTopDance.com

Expert Article: Pg. 18 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

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2023

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

Expert Article: Pg. 22

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

Expert Article: Pg. 30 Landscape Design & Landscaping TJ Warner JHL Landscaping 610-356-4104 • TJ@JHLLlandscaping.com www.JHLLandscaping.com

Expert Article: Pg. 9 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

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

Make it Your New Year’s Resolution to

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 Expert Article: Pg. 31 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

UPDATE YOUR WILL AND PROTECT YOUR ESTATE Call Deborah M. Truscello TODAY! • Personal injury • Family law • Wills & Estates

• Social security disability • Work injury claims • Real estate

You Know the Legal Expert.

Is It Time to Get Expert Legal Advice?

Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello 206 West State Street, Suite 100, Media www.TruscelloLaw.com 610-892-4940

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

Bringing People Together in Print & Online @ www.NewtownSquareMag.com

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Resident Feature

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

The Martino Family: Making Memories Through Life’s Adventures

The holiday season is all about celebrating and spending time with our families. This month, we are pleased to introduce you to The Martino Family: Sean, Vicki, and their three daughters, Ava, Sophia and Lena. Life for this family of five is undoubtedly busy, but their love for each other and commitment to our community is a gift worth sharing.

Sean grew up in Exton with his parents and three sisters, Marie, Jeanne and Lynne, but was sure to point out that his parents have deep Delco roots. “My parents both grew up in Havertown and met each other at Manoa Lanes Bowling Alley,” he said. “Even after we moved to Chester County, we would always make the trip to Alex’s Meat Market for cold cuts, which is the space now occupied by A Cut Above.”

Sean graduated from Owen J Roberts High School in Pottstown, where he played varsity basketball and tennis and was named all-conference and all-county in both sports. After graduation, Sean attended Penn State University, earning his degree in Health Policy and Administration. He played basketball there briefly until a season and career-ending injury.

Sean continued his education at St. Joseph’s University, graduating with an Executive MBA in Pharmaceutical Management.

“I worked for GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) for 23 years in various roles in Market Access and Research and Development,” Sean explained. “I moved from Exton to Conshohocken and then Narberth before purchasing a townhome in West Chester.”

These days, Sean works as an Associate Director, Contract and Business Analytics in Market Access at Jazz Pharmaceuticals. “I manage pre-deal financials for two of the country's three largest Pharmacy Benefit Managers and lead our post-deal analytics.” He enjoys being able to work from home while managing his nationwide accounts. “My role has specific core responsibilities that continually change and evolve. I’m never doing the same thing day after day or week after week.”

Vicki was born and raised in Northeast Philadelphia, where she lived with her parents and sister Shannon. She went to St. Hubert’s Catholic High School for Girls, where she said her main passion was writing. “I was a writer for the school paper, the Tally-Ho, and eventually became editor-in-chief in both my junior and senior years,” Vicki said. “During my senior year, I was chosen to be part of the KYW News studies program that concluded with everyone reporting their story on KYW 1060! My grandfather was so excited to hear my voice on the radio!”

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2023

Vicki and Sean Martino Photo by Crissy Everhart Photography www.CrissyEverhart.com

Vicki went on to study at Temple University in Philadelphia and their campus in Rome, Italy, where she earned her degree in Journalism and Public Relations. She began her career at GSK, mainly working with the Vaccine business unit. “I spent my years doing Contract Development, Market Access Marketing, Contract Strategy and Pricing,” she explained. “I was part of the team that launched the Shingrix vaccine for the prevention of shingles and spent many years working on GSK’s Flu portfolio.”

After 22 successful years at GSK, Vicki is now an Associate Director of Pricing Strategy at Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine (previously Janssen Pharmaceuticals). “I have the privilege of working on J&J’s first retina /gene therapy,” she explained.

“My role is quite interesting. Being in a new market, there are a

lot of unknowns, but there are plenty of opportunities to utilize innovative contracting strategies and various pricing models.”

Vicki said that although the retina/gene therapy space is still relatively new to her, she enjoys learning new things each day through her meaningful work.

If you’ve been paying attention thus far, you’ll probably be able to figure out where Sean and Vicki crossed paths. “My best friend, Cristina, worked with me at GSK, and her boss, Maureen, was a good friend of Sean,” Vicki said. “Maureen told Cristina that Sean noticed me in the hallways and thought I was cute.” For weeks, Vicki walked the floors at GSK, trying to get a glimpse of Sean.

“Eventually, Vicki and I ended up in an elevator together,” Sean recalled. “I then followed up with an email introducing myself.”

Maureen learned of their brief elevator encounter and organized a happy hour where they finally met outside of the office. “We kept our relationship at work a secret because we didn’t want to be the talk of the office,” Vicki said. “It was quite funny when we eventually got engaged a few years later, and people had no clue we were even dating!”

ride from Philly to Newtown Square was so far!”

By the time they moved to Newtown Square in 2015, Sean and Vicki had three young girls – three-year-old twins Ava and Sophia and one-year-old Lena. “We love Newtown Square,” Vicki said.

“Everyone has been incredibly welcoming since the day we moved in.” Sean added that they feel so fortunate to have the best neighbors on a cul-de-sac filled with kids.

Vicki and Sean’s oldest is Ava. She’s an active sixth-grade student at Paxon Hollow Middle School who loves to play lacrosse and just completed her first year running as part of the Paxon Hollow cross-country team. She is also a Marple Junior Tigers (MJT) Cheerleader for football and is now part of the Yearbook Committee at school.

“Ava is a very happy and competitive child,” Vicki said. “She may be petite, but she is a die-hard thrill seeker!” Ava looks forward to the family’s end-of-summer vacation in Ocean City, NJ, and riding the upside-down roller-coaster Gale Force as many times as her parents will let her. She says she wants to be an Interior Designer on HGTV someday.

Sophia is next, but just one minute younger than her twin sister Ava. She is also a sixth-grade student at Paxon Hollow who plays lacrosse and runs on the school’s cross-country team. She loves to Continued on page 8

Wishing You a Happy, Healthy Holiday Season!

The Martino girls, Sophia, Ava and Lena Photo by Crissy Everhart Photography www.CrissyEverhart.com

The happy couple married in October 2009 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in the Bella Vista section of Philadelphia and celebrated with family and friends at their reception at the National Constitution Center. “We honeymooned in Hawaii the same time the Phillies were playing in the World Series,” Sean said. “It was funny because everywhere we went to watch a game, someone there claimed to be Shane Victorino’s cousin.”

When the newlyweds returned from The Aloha State, they settled down in Sean’s townhome in West Chester. That arrangement worked for a while, but they eventually decided they wanted a shorter commute to the city and a larger home to raise their growing family. They started looking in Newtown Square, where Vicki had some roots. “I am related to the owners of Gentile’s Fruit & Produce,” she explained. “Joe and Mary Gentile were my Great Aunt and Uncle.” Vicki said her family used to make the trip every summer for a family get-together. “I used to think the

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Resident Feature Scout Troop at Culbertson,” she explained. “This is my third year being a Troop leader, and I love every minute of it. Now that the troop is in fourth grade, I plan to involve them in more volunteer opportunities and community events where they can help give back to our wonderful community.”

Culbertson has been a special place for the Martino family, who regularly volunteer their time and talents to their fundraising events and socials. Sean was most recently one of Culbertson’s Dancing Dads in the annual talent show, and Vicki chairs the Yearbook Committee. “The students all know me and often ask me to take their pictures at events,” she said. “I like to think of myself as the Culbertson Mamarazzi!”

Managing three kids and their various activities and working fulltime jobs takes up a lot of Sean and Vicki’s time. Vicki said that when Ava and Sophia began first grade at Culbertson, they met Ellen Carson, a long-time Newtown Square resident who started helping with the girls. “Ellen has become part of our family, and we are forever grateful for all she does for us.”

The Martino Family supporting the Newtown Square Fire Company at the Pints in the Square 5k Photo courtesy of Vicki Martino

cheer with her friends for Marple Junior Tigers and enjoys being a part of Paxon Hollow’s Yearbook Committee.

“Sophia has a serious sweet tooth, so when we go to the shore every summer, she tries to increase the number of times she eats Kohr Bros® ice cream on the boardwalk,” laughed Sean. Vicki added that Sophia is such a caring and compassionate child. “She always makes sure that everyone around her has a great day!” Sophia also wants to be an Interior Designer when she gets older.

Nine-year-old Lena is the youngest of the Martino girls. She is in fourth grade at Culbertson Elementary. “Lena has played softball for the Newtown Square Petticoat League since she was five, and she recently made the NSPL Rebels travel team,” said Sean. Like her older sisters, Lena cheers for MJT and enjoys their annual vacation to Ocean City, NJ. She also enjoys making pottery and has taken classes at the Wayne Arts Center.

Vicki said that Lena is both strong-willed and yet very shy at times.

“She is hands down the comedian of our family,” Vicki remarked.

“Lena will often just say the most hilarious things out of the blue but hits the mark!” Sean pointed out that Lena is now taller than her older twin sisters and loves to remind them of it every opportunity she gets. In the future, Lena wants to be an Author.

All three Martino girls have been active Girl Scouts since grade school, and Vicki has been encouraging their participation. “I currently Co-Lead my youngest daughter, Lena’s, 4th Grade Girl 8

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2023

When Vicki and Sean do manage to find some spare time, they like to spend it working out at the gym and running. Vicki has been an avid runner since 2004 and has completed many races, including half marathons and the Philadelphia and Chicago Marathons. This past year, Vicki, Sean, Ava and Sophia all ran in the Pints in the Square 5k, with Ava and Sophia placing 1st and 2nd in their age group.

Spending time with family and friends is very important to Sean and Vicki. “We live on a cul de sac, so we often hang out with our neighbors while the kids play or ride bikes,” Sean said. “We occasionally have firepit Fridays where we rotate backyards and do s’mores for the kids and drinks for the adults.” Their home is close to the NSPL softball fields, so there is always a lot of excitement in the spring and fall. Vicki added, “We enjoy hearing all the spectators cheering and listening to the teams cheering on their teammates.”

The Martinos are grateful to call Newtown Square home for the holidays. On behalf of your Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors, we thank you for sharing your story and wish you all a happy, healthy holiday season!

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. NS

Expert Contributor

by Mark E. Reitz, PT Penn Therapy Associates

Physical Therapy for Dementia Dementia is a group of conditions that affect the brain, causing problems with memory, thinking, communication and behavior.

Dementia has many forms, including Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia and more. According to the WHO, it’s the seventh leading cause of death worldwide and one of the major causes of disability among older people. While there is no cure for dementia, there are ways to manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for people living with this condition.

Physical activity is one common recommendation. Most studies do show that exercise can help delay or reduce symptoms like depression or apathy. Some studies also show a benefit in delaying or reducing cognitive declines. When your heart pumps harder during exercise, it increases blood flow throughout your body, including to your brain.

The physical therapist will monitor the person’s progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed. Physical therapy is a safe and effective way to help people with dementia improve their physical and mental health, as well as their quality of life. Physical therapy can also provide support and guidance to people with dementia and their caregivers, helping them cope and adapt to the changes and challenges that come with this condition.

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Does Any Type of Exercise Work?

Studies have shown that the type of exercise, duration and frequency all make a difference. For example, one study showed that people with dementia who engaged in dance movement therapy had less depression and better physical function. A second group who performed other types of exercise at the same intensity did not see those benefits. This is where a physical therapist can be incredibly beneficial.

Physical therapy for dementia is tailored to each individual’s needs, goals, abilities and preferences. The physical therapist will conduct a thorough evaluation of the person’s medical history, physical condition, cognitive status, functional level and personal interests. Based on this information, the physical therapist will design a personalized treatment plan that includes specific exercises and activities that target the areas that need improvement.

The treatment plan may include: • Aerobic exercises to improve cardiovascular health, oxygen delivery to the brain, mood, energy levels and cognitive function.

• Strength exercises to build muscle strength and power.

• Balance exercises to challenge the person’s ability to maintain equilibrium and prevent falls.

• Functional exercises that mimic or practice daily activities that are important or meaningful to the person, such as climbing stairs, getting in and out of bed or a car, or using utensils.

• Coordination exercises or more complex movements like dance or tai chi.

• Dual-task or cognitive exercises like combining walking with doing math out loud, or solving puzzles while on a stationary bike or treadmill can have an effect on dementia symptoms.

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Expert Contributor

by Jack Del Pizzo, CPA Del Pizzo & Associates

Preparing for Filing Season This is the time of year when you should be collecting and organizing all your financial information for the 2023 tax year in preparation for filing. Generally, you should receive 1099s and W-2s from employers, investment brokers, banks and any organizations that made payments to you throughout the year by the end of January 2024. Some tax documents arrive later. For example, if you sold your home in 2023, the 1099-S form that shows the selling price will be sent to you by February 15th 2024.

Retirement Account Contributions Be sure that you max out your 2023 contributions for your 401(k) and IRA. 401(k) contributions have to be made before December 31, 2023, but you have until April 15, 2024 to contribute to an IRA. The maximum contribution to a 401(k) is $22,500 ($30,000 if age 50 or older). The maximum contribution to an IRA is $6,500 ($7,500 if age 50 or older).

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Contact us TODAY For a FREE CONSULTATION! 2098 West Chester Pike #101, Broomall

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2023

Student Loan Interest Deduction With student loan payments resuming this year, many taxpayers will be able to deduct student loan interest on their returns.

The maximum deduction is $2,500, which will begin to phase out based on income. For single taxpayers, the phase-out begins at $80,000 of adjusted gross income. For married taxpayers filing jointly, the phase-out begins at $165,000 of adjusted gross income.

Harvesting Tax Losses Capital losses can offset capital gains to reduce your tax bill.

Before December 31st, you can save on taxes by triggering capital losses in your investment portfolio to offset capital gains, plus $3,000 of capital losses to deduct against other income. Unused capital losses can be carried forward for future use.

Business Asset Depreciation If your business needs to purchase equipment or make interior improvements to real property, consider doing so and placing the asset in service before the year’s end. The bonus depreciation rules allow 80% of the cost of vehicles, equipment, furniture and fixtures, and machinery with useful lives of 20 years or less placed in service in 2023 to be expensed. The bonus depreciation figure reduces to 60% of the cost of the asset in 2024, so delaying the acquisitions until 2024 could substantially reduce your current year’s depreciation expense.

Working From Home?

You may qualify for significant deductions. The surge in hybrid and remote work’s popularity has triggered many questions among those working from home regarding their eligibility to claim work-related expenses. The key factor is your employment status, employee or independent contractor. Employees do not qualify to deduct any work-related expenses resulting from at-home work.

However, independent contractors can deduct expenses based on the percentage of their home being used regularly and exclusively for business in addition to the ordinary and necessary costs of doing business.

It is imperative that you keep accurate records and receipts of any expense you wish to claim. Consult with your tax advisor on how to optimize the business use of your home to maximize your tax savings.

NS

Student of the Month

by Lisa Jeffries

Zoe Levine DECEMBER STUDENT OF THE MONTH Casey's Manager Steve Jordan with Zoe Photo courtesy of Alice Levine

The December Casey’s Public House Student of the Month is Zoe Levine, who is a Senior at The Baldwin School, and also received a Certificate of Achievement and a $25 gift card from Casey’s Public House, our Sponsor of this program.

This year, Zoe is proud to be the captain of Baldwin’s soccer team, which she's been a member of for the past five years.

She is also on the Model Congress Team and a club leader of her school’s Gay Straight Alliance (GSA), as well as a senior head of Baldwin’s Service League where they work with the student body and administration to implement service projects.

In service to the community, Zoe volunteers at the Patrician Society of Central Norristown (an emergency food pantry) and the Mitzvah Circle where the focus is on feeding families and providing clothing to those in need.

Zoe has faced serious health challenges during her high school years, because she battles with a chronic pain disorder called Amplified Musculoskeletal Pain Syndrome (AMPS). In her freshman year, she started to experience extreme pain in her lower extremities and a heightened reaction to temperature and physical pressure. She was treated during the summer of her sophomore year at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and has been making amazing strides in improvement since then.

In all of her extracurricular activities, she focuses on creating a safe and equitable environment. Her community service work has become her strongest passion and is what has inspired her interest in law and social justice. “I believe service is a combination of what I value and love, and it is something I can wake up and continue to do for the rest of my life,” shared Zoe. Zoe aspires to go to college for social work and become either a strong leader of a nonprofit or continue her education to become an attorney. You are an inspiration to all of us, Zoe! N S

Know a terrific teen who should be our next Student of the Month?

Here’s what we look for - Students from grades 7 to 12 who demonstrate excellence in service to school, friendship, community or area groups, and reside within the geographical borders of the Marple, Newtown Square or Edgmont (no matter what school they attend, or if they are homeschooled).

Submit your nomination, highlighting what makes them so amazing, to LJeffries@ BestVersionMedia.com. Academic or athletic excellence is not required.

Celebrate the Holidays with Family & Friends at Sun. 11am - 9pm Fri. & Sat. 11am - 11pm Mon. - Thurs. 11am - 10pm

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11

Business Profile

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard Photos courtesy of Andrew Martella, Sr.

Service, Integrity and Excellence When it comes to hiring an electrician, it's essential to find a professional who not only is an expert in the field, but offers customers professionalism and integrity. The Martella Electric Company has been helping customers for more than 68 years and believes that success is serving others.

Carmen grew a business that served South Philadelphia, Delaware County as well as Lower Merion. Living through the depression influenced Carmen’s strong work ethic, which he passed on to his son.

“While some kids were playing at the park, (L to R):Andrew Martella, Sr. I was making money with his son Andrew Martella, Jr., helping my dad on elecand his father Carmen Martella trical jobs,” said Andrew.

“Electrical work was really in my blood. The family business was all I knew.”

A Delaware County resident since 1961, Andrew graduated from Monsignor Bonner High School, where he enrolled in their electrical Vo-Tech program. During high school, he also took courses outside of school in blueprint reading and house wiring. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Science in Technology at Spring Garden College in Chestnut Hill. As an electrician, Andrew found the hands-on work very rewarding. “There’s a real satisfaction in solving electrical issues and making a customer feel happy and safe in their home.”

Owner Andrew Martella, Sr., had wanted to be an electrician for as long as he can remember. His father, Carmen, started Carmen Martella Electrical Service in 1955, and Andrew was tagging along on his jobs by the age of nine. By 8th grade, he knew he would eventually follow in his dad’s footsteps. When asked to write his future vision in his school’s yearbook that year, he wrote: “Become an electrical contractor with my dad.”

In 1989, Andrew Sr. and his brother Richard went into a threeway partnership with their father to form Martella Electric Company, where they worked together for 17 years. Andrew and Richard eventually purchased the business from their dad.

In 2015, Richard retired, so Andrew runs the business now. His team includes his son, Andrew Jr., who learned and mastered his electrical expertise by helping his dad while growing up. After he graduated from Penn College with a degree in Automotive Technologies in 2012, he joined his dad’s team of electricians.

Andrew Sr.’s wife of 40 years, Susan, is also an integral part of the success of Martella Electric. “I wouldn’t be here without her knowledge and contributions to the company,” Andrew said fondly.

Back in Philadelphia in 1955, Carmen Martella was one of the first electricians in his area with his name painted on his truck. Simply by advertising with his truck and word of mouth,

The Martella Team also includes Administrative Assistant Kathy Strahan and seven service technicians. “We’re always encouraging our team members to keep learning, and we offer ongoing

Andrew Martella, Sr.

12

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2023

rescue pets find their forever homes. A former Boy Scout, Andrew Sr. is also proud to support the Boy Scouts of America through the Wood Badge Program that trains adults. “My brothers and I and my son were all Boy Scouts, so I really enjoy giving back to them,” said Andrew.

Whether you’re having an electrical emergency or are looking to make electrical upgrades and improvements to your home, these Newtown Square electricians are genuinely concerned with your safety and comfort. Martella Electric (www.MartellaElectric.com) always listens to their customers’ unique needs to solve electrical issues and is dedicated to providing 100% satisfaction. Call 484997-3097 to schedule your service with this family-owned and professionally trained team.

Carmen Martella and his son Andrew Martella, Sr

NS

training in the latest technologies,” said Andrew, Sr. “I really enjoy watching my employees become better at their trade and be the best versions of themselves that they can be.”

At Martella Electric, safety is a top priority. “Not only are we in the customer service business, we are in the safety business,” Andrew said. “We make sure our professionally trained technicians are drug-tested and background-checked before they join our team.” What sets Martella’s team apart from other companies are their values: Service, Integrity and Excellence. “Our customers and their homes are very important to us,” explained Andrew, “and we always treat them with the utmost respect.”

The team at Martella Electric supports the local community through several organizations. For more than 15 years, they’ve been helping a family through the Vincent DePaul Society, by providing them with Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. They also donate to the Providence Animal Center and often run promotions where a percentage of invoices goes toward helping

Andrew Martella, Sr. and his family

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13

Our Community

by Holly Stupak

MN Drama Presents Puffs!

Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic With its ‘90s references, special effects and a positive message about being unique, audiences of all ages will be entertained by MN Drama’s production of Puffs. Opening December 14th, Puffs is a hilarious parody of a certain book series by a certain English author (that shall not be named) and offers a new perspective about a familiar story. It’s not about a certain boy wizard who went to a certain wizard school. This is a story about three potential heroes who simply want to learn how to be wizards.

An original play written by New York playwright Matt Cox, Puffs debuted in 2015 Off-Broadway and received rave reviews. The New York Times called it “a fast-paced romp through the Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic.”

MN Drama’s production of Puffs is directed by Brian Walsh and produced by Tiffany Caprice and features more than 80 Marple Newtown High School (MNHS) students as actors and stage crew members.

Brian explained what is unique about the production is that the actors get to play several roles. “It’s a great learning opportunity for the students to learn how to quickly switch from one comedic role to another,” he said. Brian has been directing Marple Newtown students since 2015. A fifth-grade teacher in the Upper Darby School district, he is currently working towards earning his Principal certificate at West Chester University. Brian is a Drexel Hill native, and he’s been actively involved in Upper Darby Summer Stage for many years as a director, working with elementary-aged students.

Executive Producer Tiffany Caprice has previously worked with MNHS students on their productions of Dracula, Matilda, Clue and the Addams Family. A 2006 graduate of MNHS, she was active in the drama program as a member of the stage crew, and she especially loved producing one-act plays. After high school, Tiffany gained extensive experience working in Los Angeles in the film and advertising industries. She is currently an executive producer with WTP Pictures, a production company that merges entertainment with advertising.

What drew Brian and Tiffany to Puffs was not just the quirky characters but the message it brings to the audience. “It’s a story about going to school and trying to make friends,” explained Brian. “It’s a heartfelt story that everyone can relate to.” Puffs takes place in the 1990s, and those of us who grew up in that era will appreciate the references to AOL, NSync and Free Willy.

Freshman Kayden Braegger plays the role of Wayne, a regular boy who finds out he’s a wizard. Sound familiar? But Wayne is a Puff and he and the other Puffs just want to learn how to be wizards and not be attacked by evil wizards. The show follows them through seven years of puberty, anxiety, school exams and other challenges of being teenage wizards. Kayden, who has performed in plays such as Shrek, The Descendants and High School Musical, said that it has been fun to play the hero. “Wayne is really an upbeat character,” he said. “It’s a great experience to play a character who loves being the center of attention.”

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2023

Oliver, one of Wayne’s best friends, is played by Gage Grace. Gage has had roles in several MN Drama productions including Peter and the Starcatcher, Clue and the Addams Family. As for the role of Oliver, Gage said he found the character very relatable. “He’s very awkward, which makes him fun to play,” he said. “But the best part is playing someone who gets to goof around and just have fun with his friends!”

During the production of all of their shows, Brian and Tiffany always want to teach and inspire the students. Members of MN Drama are able to meet professional actors, attend workshops and work with dialect coaches. This year, they were given the opportunity to meet and speak with Puff’s writer, Matt Cox. “We really want to give the Marple drama students a bigger, better and memorable experience,” Tiffany said.

MN Drama hosts two productions a year on the main stage as well as a “dinner theater” style show in the school cafeteria each year. Students in grades 9-12 are welcome to audition for these productions or to sign up to be part of one of the technical crews, assistant positions or the live pit orchestra.

Giving the cast and crew these memorable experiences would not be possible without the help of the MN Parents Guild, who are instrumental in fundraising for the MN Drama Program. The guild’s primary goal is to promote, support and elevate theatrical experiences through workshops and production enhancements.

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The annual Murder Mystery Brunch held in November serves as a fundraiser through ticket sales and raffles. Last month audiences enjoyed Poof: A Deadly Disappearance while enjoying breakfast.

“The Murder Mystery not only raises money so the students can have these unique learning experiences, it’s also a chance for students to practice their acting skills,” said Brian.

MN Drama’s 2023-2024 season is underway, and they look forward to welcoming audiences to Puffs! No matter what your relationship to the Harry Potter series, there is something for everyone. Aside from wizard and non-wizard-related jokes, Puffs is full of heart. Performances begin December 14 and run through Saturday, December 16. Visit MNDrama.org for show times and ticket information.

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15

Bringing People Together

by Bob Blaisse Publisher

Bringing People Together

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

Consider Adding Our Sponsors To Your Christmas List For Bringing People Together All Year The Christmas Season is the perfect time to express gratitude to the Sponsors of Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine in print and online at www.NewtownSquareMag.com.

What fuels the attitude of gratitude we see at Christmas? Why do we give gifts? We do so because we’re grateful for those we value for simply being in our lives, or for having been a gift to us through their kindness or service to us throughout the year. That’s why the holiday season is the perfect time to express our gratitude for our community, and the local businesses that make it possible for each new monthly issue of Newtown Square’s hometown magazine to be mailed to your home monthly and be available online to increase the hometown pride of living in Newtown Township.

Purchase from Sponsors: Give the gift of buying from our advertising Sponsors by making a purchase or obtaining a gift card for goods or services they offer. You might even give away what you buy as a gift to someone else on your Christmas List.

Spread the Word: Share your awareness of our advertising Sponsors to encourage others in our community to recognize our advertising Sponsors as a local business that supports our community.

Social Media Shoutouts: Use your local social media platforms to thank and acknowledge our advertising Sponsors publicly.

Tag them in posts and share your positive experiences to raise greater awareness about their contribution, that is Bringing People Together through our hometown magazine.

Have you enjoyed reading Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors this year? Do you feel a bit more hometown pride with each new issue? If so, you may be recognizing an increased attitude of gratitude for the social-media-in-print pleasure that is Bringing People Together through hometown pride of living in the Newtown Square community. If so, consider adding to your Christmas List this year, the local business owners who are the faithful advertising Sponsors of Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors. They fund our Bringing People Together mission all year as a monthly gift to our community. And because they do, here are a few suggestions for a gift you might consider giving to those local business owners who have kindly funded the cost of Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine this year as a free monthly gift to our community.

Include Our Sponsors in Your Community Events: Invite our Sponsors to your community events or gatherings because they’re already hometown heroes. The pull-through recognition you work to bring to them will also add to their greater community awareness that sponsorship of our community not only makes a difference in the community but can make a difference to their business as well.

Visit or Call: Take the time to personally visit or call one of our Sponsors that you see advertising on our pages, to share your appreciation for their financial support that makes our hometown magazine possible every month, and let them know how much you value it.

Bob Blaisse

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2023

There’s no better time than the holiday season to express appreciation to those who make a difference in our lives and in our community, particularly local businesses. And especially those local businesses I have on my Christmas List this year for Bringing People Together through Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine throughout the year.

NS

Publisher, Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

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GIFT LIST OF LOCAL BU SINESSES THAT MAKE OUR FREE HOMETOWN MAGAZINE POSSIBLE

Blush Salon Bradley Tree Experts Broomall Eye Care Casey’s Public House Countywide Generato rs LLC Crissy Everhart Photog raphy D&K Appliances DANJOLELL Memor ial Homes Del Pizzo & Associates Edgemont Automotive ELPS Private Detective Agency Exterior Specialists LL C Fante Flooring Forti Homes with Keller Williams Realty From the Top Studio of Dance Inevitable Wealth Co aching J&K Trash Removal In c JHL Landscaping Law Offi ce of Debora h M. Truscello Luigi & Giovanni Spec ialty Foods Martella Electric

Mostardi Nursery The Niemeyer Corpor ation O’Donnell Roofi ng Co .

Penn Therapy Associ ates Philadelphia Baseball Training, LL C Porsche of The Main Line R.F. Bondurant Raff erty Subaru Rey Azteca Robert J. Kleinberg Landscape Design RPC Services LLC S. Pancoast Topsoil & Mulches School of Rock Main Line Scott’s Fireplace Prod ucts Signature HVAC Stars & Stripes Tactic al The CP Welde Group Thompson Custom Pa inting Waterproofi ng One Weinrich’s Bakery Weinstein Supply

Our Sponsors Make Our Magazine Possible Please Gift Our Sponsors With Your Loyalty

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Bringing People Together in Print & Online @ www.NewtownSquareMag.com

17

Expert Contributor

by Robert L. D’Anjolell, Jr., F.D.

Helping to Grieve During the Holidays

DANJOLELL Memorial Homes

Grieving during the holidays can be an especially challenging time for individuals who have experienced loss. Here are some ways to help those who are grieving during the holiday season: Offer Your Presence: Sometimes, the most important thing you can do is simply be there for the person who is grieving. Let them know you are available to listen or spend time with them, even if they don’t feel like talking.

Memorialize and Remember: Encourage them to honor their loved one’s memory by setting up a memorial or sharing stories.

Lighting a candle or creating a scrapbook in their memory can be therapeutic.

Provide Practical Support: Grief can be physically and emotionally draining. Offer to help with practical tasks such as cooking, cleaning or shopping so they have more time to grieve.

Acknowledge Their Feelings: It’s essential to acknowledge their grief and not try to push them to be festive or cheerful if they are not ready. Let them express their feelings without judgment.

Send a Thoughtful Card or Gift: A heartfelt card or small gift can show that you are thinking of them and care about their well-being.

Respect Their Choices: Everyone grieves differently. Some may want to participate in holiday traditions, while others may prefer to skip them altogether. Respect their choices and don’t pressure them to do anything they are not comfortable with.

Offer to Attend Support Groups: Suggest attending support groups or therapy together. Sometimes, talking to others who are experiencing similar grief can be comforting.

Create New Traditions: Suggest creating new traditions or modifying existing ones to accommodate their feelings. This can help make the holiday season more manageable and meaningful.

Avoid Making Assumptions: Don’t assume you know what they need. Ask them how you can support them and be flexible in your approach.

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2023

Help with Children: If they have children, offer to help with childcare or activities to give them some space to grieve.

Share Positive Memories: Share positive memories of their loved one, focusing on the joy and love they brought into their life.

Remember that everyone’s grief is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. The most important thing is to be compassionate, understanding and willing to adapt your support to their needs during this difficult time.

NS

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Be Patient: Grieving is a long process, and it doesn’t follow a set timeline. Be patient and understanding, and don't expect them to “get over it” quickly.

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Check-In Regularly: Continue to check in on them after the holidays. Grief doesn’t disappear after the season ends, and they may still need support in the weeks and months that follow.

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Bringing People Together in Print & Online @ www.NewtownSquareMag.com

19

People In Places

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard Photos courtesy of Josh Kaplan

From a Family Vacation to the Front Row! When Josh and Lisa Kaplan of Newtown Square realized they were about to become “empty nesters,” they set out to plan an epic West Coast summer family vacation. Their daughter, Gabrielle, was headed back for her junior year at Vanderbilt University in the fall, and their son, Jared, was about to begin his freshman year at The University of Maryland.

“We took the trip to California in August,” Josh said. “We had the best time visiting the La Brea Tar Pits, the Griffin Observatory and Disney Land.” They packed a lot more into their week-long vacation with a tour of the Warner Bros. Studios and Sequoia National Park and checked out the sights, sounds, and streets of Hollywood.

As if that was not enough to fill the family scrapbook, on the last day of their trip, the Kaplans found themselves at a live taping of The Price is Right game show. Josh said he got the tickets on a whim. “I remember when I was young, my parents got us tickets

Josh representing our Beloved Birds on Contestant’s Row

to a live taping of the show Kate & Allie,” he laughed. “I wanted my kids to experience something similar, but because we were there during the writer’s strike, the only tickets I could get were for game shows.”

Josh did admit that he was pretty excited about scoring seats to The Price is Right. “When I was a kid, I may have pretended to be sick from time to time to stay home from school to watch The Price is Right and Let’s Make a Deal.” But Josh said that he had no idea how involved the process was from the minute they showed up to the time they took their seats. “We were one of the last ones in line, so we had to wait a while to get in the doors,” he explained. “Then we all had to fill out information forms, turn in our cell phones and answer interview questions.”

Josh said that initially, it seemed as though the interviewers were asking his daughter Gabrielle more questions than the rest of the group, so he thought there was a chance that she would be called to “Come On Down,” but when they asked her why she was there, Gabrielle said it was because her dad really wanted to go. “I think the kicker was after that, they asked her what she thought of the game show, and she told them that she had never watched it,” he laughed.

Josh’s second spin got him to $1.00 and a $1,000 prize

Josh, Lisa and the kids took their seats in the audience of about 250 people. They described the room as smaller than expected, very bright and extremely loud. In fact, it was so loud that they barely heard the show’s host, Drew Carey, call Joshua Kaplan to be the next contestant on The Price is Right! Josh jumped up from his seat

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2023

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and ran down the aisle, donning his finest Philadelphia Eagles t-shirt.

He took his place on Contestants Row, and the bidding began, but Josh kept losing. Then, when it came time for the final round of bidding, where in order to win, the contestant needed to be closest to the price without going over, Josh pulled the infamous $1.00 bid price on a set of power tools. Every other contestant bid too high, so Josh made his way to the stage.

products.” Josh said he had to rely on instinct and help from the audience, who make price suggestions using their hands. “I looked at my wife Lisa, and she was holding up two fingers and then seven fingers, suggesting I bid around $27,000,” he explained. “I had an idea of the price on the trip and the living room set, but I had no idea how much a Harley Davidson cost.”

When it came time to make his bid, Josh said $32,300. His opponent, Bridgette, bid an even $30,000 for her showcase package.

Drew Carey revealed the actual cost of Bridgette’s showcase first at $36,688 – a difference of $6,688. He then moved on to Josh, whose showcase package was valued at $29,789. Although his bid was closer to the actual price, he went over and lost the final round.

“Overall, it was a great experience for me and my family,” Josh remarked. “We had an amazing vacation that ended with a fun and memorable experience on the show.” When asked if there

The next round for Josh was a game called 2 for the price of 1. He needed to guess the price of a pair of foot massagers to win them as well as a six-night trip to Montreal. “I thought it was going to be easy for me because I happen to have a foot massage machine at home,” he said. “What I didn’t account for was Hollywood prices.

I guessed $390. Turns out I was about $400 too low!”.

Josh’s luck took a turn for the better when it came time to spin the big wheel to make it to the final showcase round. “Wow, that wheel is heavy,” he chuckled. “I was more concerned with throwing out my back than winning anything at that point.” In a game where the player to advance must come closest to $1.00, his first spin landed on $.50. Josh had to decide if he would take a second spin or stay put and hope that the other two contestants either scored lower or went over $1.00.

Not only did he not throw out his back, Josh’s second spin landed on $.50 again, earning him a $1,000 cash prize and a spot in the final showcase. The first showcase package included a trip to Germany, a living room set with an 85” Smart TV and a Harley Davidson Motorcycle. The second showcase featured an Apple watch, a trip to Hilton Head and a Mitsubishi Outlander SUV. Josh was called to bid on the first showcase.

“Being on that stage is a lot different than watching it from your couch,” he said. “The audience is so loud that it’s hard to hear the prize descriptions, and the cameras often block your view of the

Time to bid on Showcase #1

were anything he would have done differently, he laughed and said, “If I had listened to my wife, I’d be riding around Newtown Square on my Harley right now!”

Publishers Note: Josh, you may not have won the showcase but you made your hometown proud by getting to the final round of the game show we all love. Forget the Harley lost. Your bigger win is letting Sheila quote you about the lesson you learned - to always listen to your wife Lisa. Smart man! With a smart wife! No wonder you’re the parents of Jared, our Student of The Month last February, and Gabrielle who was our Student of The Month in April 2021. Smart Family!

NS

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

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39 S Newtown Street Rd, Newtown Square Across From Gentile’s Farm Market Bringing People Together in Print & Online @ www.NewtownSquareMag.com

21

Expert Contributor

by Kevin O’Donnell

Experience a Successful Winter Siding Transformation

O’Donnell Roofing Co.

If you’re itching to give your home a fresh new look, don’t be too quick to dismiss the idea just because winter is knocking at your door. While it may not be the season you typically associate with exterior renovations, we're here to reveal the secrets to a successful winter siding transformation.

How to Make It Happen 1. Find the perfect pro: A winter siding installation requires a little more finesse than normal. Colder temperatures require materials to be handled differently. An experienced and manufacturer-certified installer will know how to get it done right.

2. Ask about warranties: Look for contractors who offer strong warranties for both materials and labor. This provides peace of mind and can transfer to the next homeowner if you sell.

According to the Small Business Association, 96% of contractors fail within the first five years. A company with a long legacy is more likely to cover your warranty.

3. Act promptly: Winter can be harsh, with its freeze-thaw cycles and moisture-laden snow, so it’s crucial to act fast. Replacing failing siding in a timely manner is your shield against winter’s assaults.

4. Consider your windows: Your windows play a pivotal role in your home’s energy efficiency. In fact, up to 25% of heating

22

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2023

and cooling costs can slip through the cracks. Upgrading to new windows when you update your siding can save you thousands in energy bills.

Here’s What to Expect 1. Warmth, Not Worry: Worried that your home will feel freezing during the process? Instead of stripping the entire house at once, work will be done in sections at a time. Each section will be swiftly covered with weather-resistant materials after stripping, mitigating heat loss. Furthermore, adding exterior thermal insulation beneath your siding will make your home warmer and more comfortable in the long run, providing a toasty ending to the winter season.

2. Durability in the Cold: You can rest assured that siding materials will not crack in the cold. Today’s siding materials such as fiber cement and vinyl are engineered to be far more durable and can withstand colder temperatures.

A quality contractor knows how to navigate winter’s challenges and may even be able to secure your project sooner than you think during an off-peak season. Don’t let the cold deter you; embrace it as a unique opportunity to turn your home makeover dreams into a reality.

NS

Recent Newtown Township Home Sales Address

Sold Price

Bedrooms

Bathrooms

Sq. Ft.

Real Estate

Acres

15 Muirfield Court . . . . . . . $438,500 . . . . 3 . . . . . 2.5 . . . 1,898 . . 0.12 300 4th Avenue . . . . . . . . . $350,000 . . . . 3 . . . . . . 2 . . . . 1,320 . . 0.14 1071 Tyler Drive . . . . . . . . .$1,285,000 . . .

5 . . . . . 3.5 . . . 6,547 . . 1.01

177 E Kenilworth Circle . . . . . $375,000 . . . . 3 . . . . . . 2 . . . . 1,780 . . 0.03 3707 Parris Boulevard . . . . . $905,000 . . . . 3 . . . . . 2.5 . . . 2,872 . . 0.30 306 Media Line Road . . . . . $455,000 . . . . 4 . . . . . . 2 . . . . 2,468 . . 0.19 3206 Hartford Court . . . . . . $502,500 . . . . 3 . . . . . 2.5 . . . 1,776 . . 0.03 258 Charles Ellis Drive . . . . . $574,000 . . . . 3 . . . . . 2.5 . . . 1,735 . . 0.03 114 Oxley Court . . . . . . . . $335,000 . . . . 2 . . . . . 1.5 . . . 1,350 . . 0.03 19 Valley View Lane . . . . . . $583,000 . . . . 4 . . . . . 2.5 . . . 2,198 . . 0.18 302 Begonia Circle . . . . . . .$2,161,926 . . .

4 . . . . . 4.5 . . . 5,618 . . 0.92

442 Cornerstone Drive . . . . .$1,010,000 . . .

3 . . . . . 3.5 . . . 3,700 . . 0.05

210 E Chelsea Circle . . . . . . $395,000 . . . . 3 . . . . . . 2 . . . . 1,780 . . 0.04 309 Sunny Brook Lane . . . . .$1,355,000 . . .

3 . . . . . 3.5 . . . 5,270 . . 0.16

141 Parkview Way Lot 21 . . . $1,705,000 . . .

5 . . . . . 4.5 . . . 5,924 . . 0.95

140 Aaron Court . . . . . . . .$1,085,242 . . .

3 . . . . . 2.5 . . . 2,790 . . 0.16

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.

Happy Holidays!

Thank you to everyone who helped fill our trucks with toys for the Sassy Massey Toy Drive!

We are grateful for our customers and to be celebrating 100 years in business in the new year.

We hope you enjoy your home for the holidays.

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23

Our Community

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

Asking Around Town: Forward Vision for 2024 Each new year brings hopes, goals, resolutions and visions for the future. And as our clocks tick down to those final seconds in 2023, we will all surely come together to raise a glass welcoming 2024 with open arms.

What are your goals and dreams for this new year? We set out to ask a few local residents and business owners about their vision for 2024.

Paul Seligson, NSBA President Paul has been serving as President of the Newtown Square Business Association for the past seven years. “What I will appreciate most in 2024 is finalizing Newtown Square’s ‘look’ with the near completion of Ellis Preserve and finishing West Chester Pike roadwork.”

Paul and the members of the NSBA celebrated being named Delaware County Chamber of Commerce’s 2023 Best Business Association, and he and the Board are looking forward to making our community even better in 2024. “I am excited to be a part of the synergy of working with our township’s volunteer committees to offer exciting events and community improvements.”

Chris Malone, Award-Winning Author Chris is the Founder and Managing Partner of Fidelum Partners as well as a Co-Author of The HUMAN Brand: How We Relate to People, Products and Companies. Chris lives in Newtown Square with his wife and three boys in a home they have shared for the past 21 years. “I’m looking forward to enjoying more time with the Newtown Square friends and families we’ve grown so close to,” he said. “I especially enjoy playing basketball at

the Gauntlett Recreation Center on Sundays with my son and his friends. I’m so proud of the young men they have each become.”

Chris said that in 2024 he is hoping for more surfing at the Jersey Shore, as well as more steamed crabs and beer at home.

“Professionally, I’m aiming to extend my Humanizing Healthcare podcast into my next book, which will share insights and stories about bringing the principles of The HUMAN Brand to healthcare.”

Cathy Cavalier-Gach, President of the Newtown Square Historical Society Cathy was born and raised in Newtown Square, and she considers herself very lucky to have found a way to celebrate the community she loves. “I believe a sense of ‘place’ is very important to people,” she said. “If we can continue the Newtown Square Historical Society’s mission to preserve the past and make it relevant to our community through education, art and outreach, that’s all I could ask for in 2024.”

JohnNewell, Newtown Township Police Captain For John, brighter days ahead are what he’s looking forward to, literally! “I absolutely despise the dark days of winter and cannot wait for spring and summer to be here!”.

Despite his distaste for long, cold nights, John said that he would like to spend more time and effort appreciating life and not focus on the negatives in 2024. “I am very lucky to have great family, friends and co-workers in my life,” he said. “It’s easy to get sucked down the rabbit hole of being “Eeyore”, so rather than focus on what I don’t have, I want to put the effort in to appreciate what I do have.”

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2023

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Thank you to our Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors for sharing your hopes for this new year. Whatever your dream is for 2024, here’s to hoping it happens— and in a big way!

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25

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Saturdays in December

Fri. November 17 – Sun. January 7

Fri. November 24 – Sun. December 31

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

@Longwood Gardens 1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square This holiday season, experience a riot of retro, a bevy of bright, and numerous nostalgic moments. Marvel at playful trees draped in throwback baubles to shimmering tinsel to childhood-favorite toys. Stroll through a festive holiday party scene decked out in mid-century magic. Reminisce amid a vintage Christmas street scene, make new merry memories amid dazzling, vibrant light displays and revel in the radiance of retro at every turn. Timed admission tickets are required.

@Devon Horse Show and Country Fairgrounds 23 Dorset Rd, Devon Come together to enjoy the area’s premier festival of holiday events, lights, rides and concerts. Featuring 30 days of live music, a curated food & beverage market, and family-friendly activities. Yuletide at Devon is a celebration of all that’s merry and bright.

Art at The Square Tavern

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

www.NSHistory.org

Saturdays in December

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

Daily in December (While Supplies Last)

Boy Scouts Christmas Tree Sale

@St. Pius X Church parking lot 2004 Lawrence Rd, Broomall Boy Scout Troop 468 Broomall and Boy Scout Troop 315 Newtown Square are combining their efforts, to help you Be Prepared for Christmas!

Come out and support the Boy Scouts. 100% of all proceeds benefit scouting youth activities.

Time: Weeknights 5:00–8:00pm Sat. & Sun. 9:30am–8:00pm Cost: Varies by tree size

A Very Retro Christmas

Time: 10am–11pm Daily Cost: Adult $30; Seniors $27; Youth 5–18 years $16; Discounts for Military and College Students

Yuletide at Devon

Time: Wed. – Fri. 3–10pm; Sat. – Sun. 12–10pm Cost: Adult $34.99; Children 3–8 $22.99; Under 3, FREE. See website for season pass pricing.

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Daily December 1 – January 1

The Festival of Lights

610-388-1000 www.LongwoodGardens.org

@Rose Tree Park 1671 N Providence Rd, Media Rose Tree Park sparkles at night with its annual Festival of Lights display. Dozens of illuminated trees and lit displays draw visitors back every year to walk in the winter wonderland and linger in the festive atmosphere. A treasured Delco tradition for more than four decades, The Festival of Lights provides a perfect opportunity to get in the holiday spirit with friends and family.

Fri. November 24 – Sun. February 25

Flight On Ice

@4901 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square Newtown Square’s pop-up outdoor ice-skating rink is back and offers fun for everyone. This winter wonderland features a full-size outdoor skating rink, a heated hospitality tent with food, drinks and merchandise.

Special events and live music to keep you entertained.

Time: Wed. and Thurs. 4–8pm; Fri. 4–10pm; Sat. 11am–10pm; Sunday 11am–8pm Cost: Check their website for current Season Pass, Family Pass and Individual Ticket pricing.

Time: 5–10pm Cost: FREE

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2023

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DECEMBER 2023 Sat. December 2 (rain date December 3)

Sat. December 9

Tree Lighting and Marple Mistletoe Marketplace

@Veterans Memorial Park, Broomall You’re invited for some holiday cheer to celebrate this special time of year. There will be local vendors, photos with Santa, lights, games, crafts and food.

Bring a letter for Santa. Christmas Tree Lighting will be December 2 at dusk and fireworks will end the evening!

Time: Marketplace 4–8pm (December 3, 8-10, 15-17,22, 23, 29-31) Cost: FREE

Sun. December 3

St. Albans Circle Tree Lighting

@St. Albans Circle, Newtown Square Kick off the Christmas season with hot chocolate, Christmas carolers, candy canes and dancers.

Enjoy treats and select local stores will be open for holiday shopping. Donate non-perishable food items for St. Alban’s Episcopal Church’s food drive and unwrapped new children’s toy for Toys for Tots. Santa Claus will arrive at 6pm on a Newtown Township fire truck for the tree lighting.

Time: 5–7pm Cost: FREE

Stars & Stripes TACTICAL

Third Annual Tattooed Santa Event

@Runic Tattoo 3553 Rhoads Ave, Newtown Square Come on out with the family to enjoy photos with Santa, complimentary food and drinks from our local sponsors, and hang out with WMMR’s Casey Boy! Bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate and you’ll have a chance to win a special Runic Tattoo prize!

Time: 4-7pm Cost: FREE

Minutes away in nearby East Goshen

Come See the Gifts In Store

• Offering gun locks, safes, and

Sat. Dec 16 – Sun. Jan 14

Disney’s Finding Nemo JR.

@The Media Theatre 104 E State St, Media A musical adaptation of the beloved Pixar movie Finding Nemo. Marlin, an anxious and overprotective clownfish, lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his kid Nemo, who longs to explore the world beyond their anemone home. But when Nemo is captured and taken to Sydney, Marlin faces his fears and sets off on an epic adventure across the ocean. With the help of their friends, Dory, Crush and the Tank Gang, Marlin and Nemo both overcome challenges on their journey to find each other and themselves.

Time: 11am Cost: Kids $19; Adults $24

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27

Our Community

by Holly Stupak Photos courtesy of Barb Mealmaker

Marple Newtown High School Class of 1973 Celebrates 50 Years For the Marple Newtown High School (MNHS) class of 1973, their 50th reunion was more than just a few hours of mingling with former classmates. It was a weekend packed with activities that kicked off with a Friday night gathering at Springfield Ale House. It ended with a nostalgic breakfast at the Country Squire Diner, the popular hangout back in 1973. The reunion brought more than 150 members of the Class of ‘73 together and was filled with smiles, laughter and a flood of memories.

MNHS Class of 1973 St. Anastasia graduates

Barb (Dash) Mealmaker, along with co-chair John Dutton, have been planning the class of 1973 reunions since they held their ten-year in 1983. “Back then we used the phone book to invite people to come,” Barb recalled. Since then, they’ve held a reunion every five years, including their 45th, which was held at the Hall of Fame Club at Citizens Bank Park. “The MN 73ers are an exceptional class,” she added. “Ever since high school, we’ve always connected.”

For the 50th, Barb assembled a great committee that helped plan every detail from outreach and events to gift bags with a copy of the June 1973 Senior edition of The Mar News, the school’s newspaper. The group created a Facebook page to gather interest, but what made it more personal was that the reunion committee reached out by phone to individually invite former classmates. “It’s really that personal touch that made people even more excited about coming,” Barb explained.

Members of the MNHS Class of 1973 who attended Culbertson Elementary

Reunion festivities began on October 20, with classmates meeting up at the Springfield Ale House, an establishment owned by fellow 1973 grad Frank White. Some headed to MNHS to watch the Marple Tigers play Garnet Valley under the Friday night lights. On Saturday, dozens of classmates met in front

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2023

of MNHS for coffee and donut tailgate. Thanks to help from Athletic Director Chris Gicking and Principal John Beltrante, the group was then led on a guided tour of the school by current MNHS students Kyria Brennan and Margo Gebey. “It was neat to see the significant changes since we graduated in 1973,” said Barb. Fellow committee member Dave Robbins said he enjoyed seeing all the changes, especially the Performing Arts Center. “As a former MNHS Class of 1973 Save actor and member of the stage the Date, designed by Marie Wolfington Jones crew, the quality of new facilities and equipment now available to the students is really impressive,” said Dave.

The main event of the reunion weekend was a reception at the Hilton Garden Inn in Newtown Square, with more than 200 people in attendance. “There were Marple Tigers everywhere,” said Barb, referring to both the people and the decorations designed by classmate Marie Wolfington Jones. “The best part was the excitement on everyone’s faces as they arrived.” MNHS grad and committee member Nancy Gross said that seeing a copy of the school’s newspaper from 1973 brought tears to her eyes.

“As editor of The Mar News, our senior year, I became flooded with the memories of so many good times and gratitude for our newspaper sponsor and my mentor, teacher Miriam Bedein, who influenced my career choice as a journalist.”

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During the evening, guests were treated& to a video montage of OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT REPAIRS photos as well as live music from Joe Grasso, the son-in-law of alumna Andrea (Suny) Szczepkowski. Barb said that not only did Joe and his wife, Grace Szczepkowski, treat guests to an amazing

rendition of Forever Young and Lady Gaga’s Shallow, but he also served as the event’s photographer.

Groups gathered for photos of various elementary schools that existed back then, including Alice Grimm, Ru s s e l l , L o o m i s , Culbertson, Worrall, Marple Elementary, St. Pius X and St. Anastasia School.

MNHS alumnus Michael Kitt Classmates came from enjoyed touring the high school all over the country; one traveled from Alaska. For members of the class who weren’t able to come in person, they were able to attend the party via Zoom®. Surprise guests included Russell Elementary School teacher Mr. Ollie Rhine and MNHS teachers Mitchell Itzko and Bill Scott. “These teachers cared deeply about students and their education, and many of our children had them as teachers,” said Barb. “To reconnect with them was heartwarming.”

For the class of 1973, the reunion was more than just reminiscing and nostalgia, it was also about the future. “What was unique about celebrating 50 years is that there are no preconceived notions,” said Nancy. “We’re all on a level playing field. Now it’s all about making connections. Even if we didn’t know someone in high school, now we are making a point to get to know each other. Many classmates are making plans to get together.” Barb agreed. She said that as soon as the reunion was over, the most popular question was: “When are we getting together again?” The committee is already planning the 55th!

NS

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29

Expert Contributor

by TJ Warner JHL Landscaping

Decorating Your Landscaping for the Holidays Creating a festive holiday look in your landscaping can be a fun and beautiful way to celebrate the season. Here are some landscaping ideas to make your outdoor space feel festive:

Holiday Scents - Incorporate aromatic plants like rosemary, lavender or other fragrant herbs in your landscaping to create a wonderful aroma as guests walk by.

Holiday Lighting - Wrap lights around trees and shrubs, line pathways and drape them on your outdoor structures. Use colors that match the holiday you’re celebrating.

Outdoor Fireplace or Fire Pit - If your climate allows, a cozy outdoor fire feature can be a great addition. Decorate the area with warm blankets, holiday-themed pillows and a hot cocoa station.

Decorative Planters - Add festive flair to your landscape with decorative planters filled with holiday greenery like pine branches, holly and poinsettias. Choose pots in holiday colors or add ribbon and bows for a finishing touch.

Outdoor Dining Area - Create a festive dining area in your backyard with holiday-themed tablecloths, centerpieces and outdoor dinnerware. String lights overhead to set the mood.

Wreaths and Garland - Hang wreaths on your front door and wrap garland around porch railings or columns. These classic holiday decorations instantly add a festive touch to your landscape.

Outdoor Ornaments - Large, shatterproof ornaments in various holiday colors can be placed around your garden. You can also hang them from tree branches or place them in decorative containers.

Holiday-Themed Topiaries - Trim evergreen shrubs or trees into holiday shapes, such as stars or candy canes. Topiaries can be placed near the entrance or along walkways.

Festive Pathway Markers - Line your pathways with luminaries or festive pathway markers. You can use lanterns, candle bags or even holiday-themed stakes to create a magical walkway.

Winter Flowers - Plant winter-blooming flowers like pansies, winter jasmine or camellias to add a pop of color to your landscape even in the cold months.

Snow Decor - If you live in a snowy area, make use of the natural elements. Build snowmen, create snow sculptures and place twinkling lights on the snowbanks.

Seasonal Garden Flags - Swap out your regular garden flags for holiday-themed ones. These are an easy and inexpensive way to add a festive touch.

DIY Crafts - Get creative with DIY holiday craft projects. You can make your own wreaths, ornaments or signs to personalize your landscape.

Remember the upcoming weather conditions when planning your holiday landscaping and choose materials that can withstand the seasonal elements. Don’t forget to consider safety, such as proper lighting and clear pathways, especially if you have guests over during the holidays.

NS

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2023

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Expert Contributor

by Sarah Forti Forti Homes with Keller Williams Realty

Home Buying 101 You don’t necessarily need to have 20% of the purchase price as a down payment to buy a home. While putting 20% down can help you qualify for the lowest interest rates and fees, there are various mortgage programs available with lower down payment requirements, including: • Conventional Loan: The minimum down payment on a conventional loan can be as low as 3%.

• FHA Loan: The minimum down payment for an FHA loan is 3.5%.

• VA Loan: If you are eligible for a VA loan, you may be able to purchase a home with a 0% down payment.

• USDA Loan: The USDA loan program also offers a 0% down payment option for eligible properties in rural areas.

The specific down payment requirements and eligibility criteria may vary depending on the loan program, your credit score and other factors. It’s essential to consult with a local mortgage lender to determine the best loan options for your unique situation.

Regarding credit scores…

While having an excellent credit score (740+) can help you qualify for the lowest rates and fees, it is possible to buy a home with a lower credit score. Lenders may offer different loan options for individuals with credit scores in the “fair” or “poor” range, such as FHA, VA or USDA programs. Keep in mind that lower credit scores may result in higher interest rates and potentially stricter loan terms.

Offering less than the asking price…

You can consider making offers on properties that have been on the market for a while for less than the asking price. Sellers may be more willing to negotiate on the price or other terms if their property has not sold quickly. Working with a skilled real estate agent can help you navigate the negotiation process and potentially secure a better deal.

Steps to the home buying process…

• Reach out to a reputable real estate agent or mortgage broker who can guide you through the home-buying process.

• Talk to these professionals about your budget, desired location and your goals for the purchase. Be clear about what you’re looking for in a home.

• It’s a good idea to get pre-approved for a mortgage so you have a clear understanding of your budget and can make competitive offers when you find a property you like.

• Once you find a property you like, your Realtor will help you make an offer, negotiate terms and work with the seller to finalize the deal.

• After your offer is accepted, you will go through the closing process, which includes inspections, appraisals, and finalizing the mortgage.

Once all the necessary steps are completed, you’ll become the proud owner of your new home. Remember that the home buying process can be complex, so working with experienced professionals like a Realtor and a mortgage broker can be incredibly helpful.

NS

Bringing People Together in Print & Online @ www.NewtownSquareMag.com

31

History Spotlight

Notorious Fitz Captured

by Doug Humes Photos courtesy of the Newtown Square Historical Society

A voice from the grave, and a research notebook from preeminent Delaware County historian Hilda Lucas, came into my hands last week and sent me to several sources for the particular details of the last days of James Fitzpatrick, alias Sandy Flash.

Fitzpatrick, a local farm boy, eagerly joined Washington’s army during the Revolution. After being whipped for some minor infraction, he deserted, became a wanted man, and so embarked on a career as a highwayman. A poem captured the character of Captain Fitz: “Some he did rob, then let them go free Bold Captain McGowan he tied to a tree Some he did whip, and some he did spare He caught Captain McGowan and cut off his hair.”

The Pennsylvania Packet from 1778 told the rest of the tale: July 13: “... Fitzpatrick … doth infest the highway from this city to Lancaster, committing robbery on the good subjects of this

Castle Rock Farm, circa 1911, showing the existing buildings, including the farmhouse where Captain Fitz was captured

State … a reward of ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS be paid to the person who shall secure the said Fitzpatrick …”

August 25: “A gentlemen of character informs us … he saw the noted robber James Fitzpatrick, … brought in pinioned and secured in the country gaol there … this terrible man was taken by one Mr. McAfee of Edgmont Township.”

August 29: McAfee told how he captured the prisoner. Fitzpatrick entered the McAfee home in Edgmont, moved McAfee, his parents and servant Rachel Walker to an upstairs bedroom. Fitz intended to steal McAfee’s boots and put his pistol and sword

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2023

down to try them on. McAfee and the others seized the moment, tackled Fitzpatrick, wrestled the pistol from him, and were able to secure him till help came.

Sept. 15: Fitz convicted on his own confession of burglary and larceny at court in Chester and sentenced to “be hanged by the neck till he be dead.”

Sept. 26: Fitz was hung “at the usual place of execution”, the intersection of Providence and Edgmont roads in Chester.

Highwayman in flight – depictions like this led to the creation of the fictional Sandy Flash

Highwayman at work. Captain Fitz’s career only lasted a few months

Nov. 6: McAfee and Walker appeared before the Supreme Executive Council in Philadelphia to lay claim to the $1,000 reward. They each

The original farmhouse where Captain Fitz barged in with pistol and sword, planning to steal the family’s valuables, only to be captured due to his inattention

recounted what had occurred, and the Council did what King Solomon would have done, and awarded each $500.

The McAfee home, witness to these events, became known as Castle Rock Farm, and stood for another 200+ years until around 1995 when it was demolished to make way for the Edgmont Shopping Center.

For more history on Newtown Square, Delaware County, and membership info, visit our website at www.NSHistory.org.

NS

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2023

Our Community

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard Photo courtesy of Paul Seligson

Helping Hands This Holiday The Newtown Square Business Association has had an exciting year! They were named 2023’s Best Business Association by the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, have successfully partnered with Gather in the Circle to host community events and have steadily increased their membership by offering monthly networking gatherings and special guest speakers.

One of the most significant initiatives recently has been their Shop the Square campaign. President Paul Seligson explained that in recent years, the association has been focused on ways to keep our small businesses thriving. “We wanted to make an impactful statement that would encourage our residents, and those who drive through our town, to stop and shop here,” he said. “We came up with a Shop the Square banner campaign that has been extremely successful.”

Newtown Square resident and Graphic Designer Pam Purser has been creating the eye-catching banner designs. “Ever since I worked with the NSBA Board to design the first set of street banners in Newtown Square, the Shop the Square campaign has taken on a life of its own,” she explained. Pam is excited to extend the street banners concept into rotating seasonal banners.

The new banners you see around town are the first in a series to be installed. Paul explained that the association raised the funds to create and print the banners, but needed some help with the installation costs. “We have 80 banners to hang, and changing them out every few months is very costly,” he said.

“Thankfully, we received a very generous offer from Tim Ryan, owner of Ryan Tree Care, to install them for free!” This is not the first time Tim has offered his services to our community. He also donates his time and resources to installing the flower baskets along Rt 252 and West Chester Pike.

Tim is a lifelong resident of Newtown Square who graduated from Marple Newtown High School and has worked at many of our local small businesses over the years. Today, he is the owner of two local businesses, Ryan Tree Care and Providence Pizza, where you will find Tim’s mom, Kathy, working as the Pizzeria’s General Manager. Tim said that having grown up in the community and raising his family here, he is proud to give back to his hometown. Thank you, Tim and the team at Ryan Tree Care. Happy Holidays to you all!

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Newtown Square Bringing People Together

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