Marple FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS
Photo by Photography by Chelsea Leigh
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
Carpeting & Floor Covering
Eric Fante Fante Flooring
39 South Newtown Street Rd, Newtown Square 610-232-708 • Info@FanteFloors.com FanteFloors.com
Chiropractic Care Rehabilitation
Dr. Marc Belitsky, D.C., D.A.C.R.B.
Broomall Total Health Center 2633 West Chester Pike, Broomall 610-353-2220
BroomallTH@gmail.com SpineDr.org
EXPERT WANTED EXPERT WANTED
Expert Contributors needed!
Dental, Education, Home Health Care, Jewelry, Medical, Pet Services, Physical Therapy, Tree Trimming, Vacations, etc.
Contact: Bob Blaisse: 610-453-5536, or BBlaisse@BestVersionMedia.com
Electric Service, Residential/Commercial
Andrew Martella, Sr.
Martella Electric Company
484-997-3097
MartellaElectric@rcn.com
MartellaElectric.com
Fireplace Products
Scott Magness
Scott’s Fireplace Products 3137 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square 484-422-8334 • SFP@ScottsFireplaceProducts.com
ScottsFireplaceProducts.com
Funeral Home
Robert L. D’Anjolell, Jr., F.D. DANJOLELL Memorial Homes 2811 West Chester Pike, Broomall 610-356-4200 • RobJr@DANJOLELL.com DANJOLELL.com
Retirement & Financial Planning
Charles Welde, CPA, CFP® The CP Welde Group 610-388-7705 • Charles@CPWeldeGroup.com CPWeldeGroup.com
Roofing, Siding & Carpentry
Kevin O’Donnell O’Donnell Roofing Co. 610-624-8112
CustomerService@ODonnellRoofingCo.com ODonnellRoofingCo.com/bvm
Waterproofing & Weatherization
David Linn Cook
Weatherproofing Plus Inc.
Marple / Newtown / Edgmont 610-325-0596
WeatherProofing-Plus.com
PUBLICATION TEAM
PUBLISHER: Bob Blaisse
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER: Lisa Jeffries
CONTENT COORDINATOR: Holly Stupak
DESIGNER: Kim Cesati
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Crissy Everhart CrissyEverhart.com
Photography by Chelsea Leigh
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Bob Blaisse, Holly Stupak, Sheila Turner-Hilliard, Lisa Jeffries, Doug Humes, Rob D’Anjolell, Jr., F.D., Kevin O’Donnell, Jack Del Pizzo
ADVERTISING
Contact Publisher: Bob Blaisse
Email: BBlaisse@BestVersionMedia.com
Phone: 610-453-5536
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 info. as space permits. Please contact our Content Coordinator Holly Stupak at HStupak@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. © 2025 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.
ON THE COVER
The Partridge Family at the Marple Township Little League complex
Marple
Dear Friends & Neighbors,
Top O’ The Month to you all as we March into Spring while seeing, feeling and even smelling the end of Winter and the hope Spring brings. This month many of us will be celebrating Mardi Gras and St. Patrick’s Day, as well as observing the Lenten Season and National Women’s History Month.
In our home, we’ll be mindful of National Irish-American Heritage Month, which includes National Sons Day to honor the sons of the world and those who raise them. My wife Jean and I have four sons, now all in their twenties, who we sometimes call our J-Boys: Johnny, Joey, Jimmy and Jerry. Boys, we’re proud of you guys for the good men you have become.
This first Spring issue is a great month to begin a new monthly feature in Marple Friends & Neighbors, thanks to our newest advertising Sponsor:
Substitute Teacher Service, Inc. (STS), the family-owned and operated business from Delco, has worked closely for over 30 years with our community’s schools to support their teacher staffing needs. STS is happy to talk with readers who are also educational professionals, whether newly graduated teachers, those looking to change their careers or certified retirees looking for part-time work. STS has gratefully agreed to sponsor our new “Excellent Educator” feature highlighting an educator teaching in one of our local schools, beginning with our first, an educator who is truly excellent: Jennifer Walsh (see page 14).
Thank you STS for coming to the Marple Friends & Neighbors party, as a Sponsor whose advertising support allows us to take hometown pride to higher ground. Through this social-media-in-print experience, reading about the rich local history, local quality of life and talented residents of our Marple community, our magazine is Bringing People Together in print, and online at MarpleMag.com.
Winter is ending. Kick-off Spring with a ring to one of our advertising Sponsors, thank them for making this issue of your hometown magazine possible. And then email me to nominate a local resident, student and now a teacher to be featured in an upcoming issue.
Bob Blaisse Publisher
Dear Residents,
March is a fan-favorite among many. This month welcomes spring and, therefore, new beginnings. And, now that the Super Bowl (Go Birds!) is over, sports enthusiasts will be gearing up for March Madness. We’ve also got lots of local events happening to check out this month.
Speaking of sports, our Resident Feature this month is the Partridge Family, a family full of Marple pride. Janeen, Ed and their four boys are ready to hit the ball fields!
Spring is a great time to think about remodeling and Fante Flooring, our Business Profile, has plenty of stylish floors to choose from. We also highlight the Marple Civic Youth’s Memorial Garden.
We are always looking for more Marple families, individuals and organizations to feature in our magazine. If you’d like to nominate someone, please email me at HStupak@BestVersionMedia.com.
Holly Stupak Content Coordinator
by Robert L. D’Anjolell, Jr., F.D.
DANJOLELL Memorial Homes
Unique Ideas for a Life Celebration
Here are some meaningful and creative ways to celebrate the life of a loved one who has passed:
Host a Memorial Open Mic
Give everyone a chance to share by hosting an open mic. Guests can offer stories, readings or memories in a supportive and inclusive setting.
Create a Memorial Stone Jar
Invite everyone to write a memory of your loved one on a small rock. Place all the rocks in a large jar or divide them into smaller jars so everyone can take shared memories home.
Craft Personalized Jewelry
Design memorial jewelry incorporating their name, fingerprint or even cremated remains. Offer affordable options for guests or let them create their own unique pieces.
Bury a Memory Capsule
Gather cherished items like favorite books, clothing or photos
and seal them in an airtight container. Bury it in a special spot and plan a future date to unearth the capsule.
Make a Memorial Quilt
Create a quilt from their old clothes as a group project. Each participant can contribute, and the finished quilt becomes a heartfelt keepsake.
Write Goodbye Letters
Set up a station with paper and envelopes where guests can write letters to your loved one. These can be kept in a memory box, read aloud or burned in a symbolic act of letting go.
Incorporate Live Music into an Event
Invite a musician who was meaningful to your loved one to perform at the memorial. Live music creates a moving tribute, especially if they loved music or were a musician themselves.
Host a Movie Marathon
Screen their favorite films or shows for family and friends.
Honoring The Life of a Loved One
Offering:
DANJOLELL Memorial Home of Broomall 2811 West Chester Pike, Broomall / 610-356-4200 / Robert L. D’Anjolell, Jr. F.D.
DANJOLELL Stigale Memorial Home & Cremation Services, Inc. of Aston 3260 Concord Road, Aston / 610-497-5505 / James Stigale, Supervisor
DANJOLELL Memorial Home & Crematory of Malvern-Frazer 392 Lancaster Avenue, Frazer / 610-296-9555 / John Burdsall, Supervisor
DANJOLELL Barone Memorial Home of Wallingford 908 S. Providence Road, Wallingford / 610-874-7700 / Edward S. Barone, Supervisor
Create Memorial Ornaments
Provide supplies for guests to make ornaments as personal tributes. These keepsakes can be displayed at home or on a memory tree.
Hold a Favorite Things Ceremony
Celebrate your loved one’s favorite foods, hobbies or music in a special ceremony that highlights the simple joys they cherished.
Start a Book Club
Invite family and friends to join a book club, either in person or virtual, in your loved one’s honor and meet up once a month. Read their favorite genres, authors or inspirational books.
Plant a Memorial Garden
Honor your loved one by starting a community vegetable garden or a flower garden. This living tribute can carry on their legacy for years to come.
March2025
Saturdays in March
Art at The Square Tavern
@Goshen & Newtown Street Roads
A variety of rotating art displays by local artists, exhibitions and activities.
Time: 11am–5pm
Cost: FREE (donations accepted!) NSHistory.org
Saturdays in March
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: 12–4 pm
Cost: FREE (donations accepted!) NSHistory.org
Saturdays and Sundays March through April
Devon/Berwyn Antique and Vintage Flea Market
@Valley Fair Shopping Center
270 W. Swedesford Rd, Berwyn
Indoor/Outdoor flea market featuring antiques, collectibles, vintage jewelry and clothing, glassware, artwork, vinyl and more.
Time: 9am–5pm
Cost: FREE admission
215-625-3532 PhilaFleaMarkets.org
Sat. March 1 – Sun. March 23
Winter Wonder
@Longwood Gardens
1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square
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 transport you to another world. Soak up the sun and leave your winter worries at the door. Timed admission tickets are required.
Time: 10am–5pm Wed – Mon; Closed Tuesdays
Cost: Adult $25; Seniors $22; Youth 5–18 years $13 Discounts for Military and College Students
610-388-1000 LongwoodGardens.org
Fri. March 14 – Sun. March 16
Friends of Newtown Public Library
Book Sale
@Newtown Public Library
201 Bishop Hollow Rd, Newtown Square
Join the Friends of Newtown Public Library as they host their Semiannual Book Sale. A variety of nonfiction and fiction books for all ages from science fiction to poetry, biographies to cookbooks, romance to thrillers, DVDs, CDs and much more. The event will be held in the Community Room at the Newtown Township building.
Time: 10am–5pm
Cost: FREE to browse 610-353-1022 NewtownLibrary.org
Mon. March 17
Wed. March 19
Marple Library’s Teen Advisory Board (TAB)
@Marple Library Library
Teens (ages 13 to 18) can join Marple Library’s Teen Advisory Board ( TAB). Earn volunteer time, help with projects, learn of future opportunities, and share ideas of how to make our library even better. Email MaTeen@DelcoLibraries.org for more information and to sign up for future volunteer opportunities. No registration needed.
Time: 7:00–7:45pm
Cost: FREE
Thurs. March 20 – Sat. March 22
Legally Blond The Musical
@MN Performing Arts Center
120 Media Line Rd, Newtown Square
MN Drama is proud to take you on a fun and vibrant journey through one of the twenty-first century’s greatest romantic comedies. Join Elle Woods as she battles her way from UCLA to Harvard Law School.
Times: 3/20 at 7pm; 3/21 at 7pm; 3/22 at 2 & 7pm
Cost: Adults: $14; children and seniors: $12
Sat. March 29
27th Annual CRC Streams Cleanup
@Drexel Lodge Park
4140 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square
It’s so much fun to be in the stream, enjoying nature and making a difference! Join CRC Watersheds Association to help clean our streams. They need volunteers throughout the Chester, Ridley and Crum Watersheds to clean over thirty stream sites! CRC’s programs improve the source of our drinking water and restore & protect our natural resources –benefiting everyone in the three watersheds and beyond!
Time: 9:00–11:30am
Cost: FREE CRCWatersheds.org
Sat. March 29
Grill and Chill Bingo
@Newtown Square Fire Company
2 Charles Ellis Dr, Newtown Square
This is an evening of fun, camaraderie and the chance to win valuable prizes. 100% of the net proceeds directly benefit the Newtown Square Fire Company, a 501(c)3 organization. There will be eight rounds of Bingo and two special bonus rounds. This is a bring-your-own food and beverage event.
Time: 6pm (doors open at 5pm)
Cost: $40/individual ticket; $320/table of eight NSFC.org
Sun. April 6
Hillview Spring Forward Festival
@Hillview Nursery School
219 Parkview Dr, Broomall
Celebrate Spring with Hillview Nursery School! Bring your family and friends to Hillview’s Spring Forward Festival on April 6 for a day full of laughter, games and fun. Raindate is April 13.
Time: 10am–2pm
Cost: FREE admission
by Holly Stupak
The Partridge Family: Hometown Pride
Spring is coming and for this month’s Resident Feature family that means one thing: baseball! Janeen, Ed and their four boys are ready to hit the fields! Being part of our community’s sports teams brings a sense of Marple pride to the Partridge family.
Ed spent his childhood in Drexel Hill before his family moved to Newtown Square when he was in fifth grade. He attended St. Anastasia School and then graduated in 2000 from Cardinal O’Hara where he was a pitcher on the school’s baseball team for four years.
After high school, Ed furthered his education at Penn State University. What added to his college experience was joining the Fiji fraternity with a group of his friends from Cardinal O’Hara. “Going to a huge school with a group of friends from high school made my college years really special,” Ed recalled fondly.
In 2004 Ed earned a BS in Marketing and then began a career in the insurance business in sales/business development and underwriting. Over the past 20 years, he’s worked for companies such as State Farm, USLI, The Philadelphia Contributionship and NSM Insurance Group. Today, Ed works for PartnerRe, managing insurance programs and underwriting deals that come in from MGAs and Program Managers and providing them capital to support products. Ed is responsible for onboarding new clients and managing their production and profitability during their partnership. What Ed likes most about his job is meeting new people and helping to find solutions to their business needs. “Developing relationships and learning about others is something I really enjoy,” he added.
Janeen moved from Southwest Philadelphia to Delaware County in 1992. She attended Our Lady of Fatima for grade school and later Cardinal O’Hara where she graduated in 1998. After high school Janeen studied at West Chester University and during that time she earned an Internship at Disney World. Janeen recalled the experience fondly where she had the opportunity to live with five other young women and work at the Space Mountain ride. “It was such a unique experience and it had a lot of perks!” Janeen said.
When Janeen’s internship was finished she shifted gears and transferred to Temple University where she earned a degree in Hospitality Management. After college Janeen began working as a conference and event planner and later pivoted to a career in HR, working for Harrah’s Philadelphia Casino in its early years. She also earned a master’s degree from Villanova University in Human Resource Management. For the past 10 years Janeen has worked for the Marple Newtown School
Ed and Janeen Patridge
Photography by Chelsea Leigh
District in their HR department. As a mom of children in the district, Janeen has been able to form relationships with people in the district like principals and staff. “I’m proud each fall when we start the school year,” she said. “It’s comforting to know our schools are properly staffed with great people!”
If you’re a frequent reader of Friends & Neighbors magazines, you may have noticed that many couples we’ve featured have met in Sea Isle City, NJ. You can add Janeen and Ed to that list! Although they both graduated from Cardinal O’Hara, their paths didn’t cross in high school. In 2006, they met at a mutual friend’s home in Sea Isle. “I was actually supposed to go home that night but my girlfriends convinced me to stay down the shore,” Janeen recalled. “Had I gone home, Ed and I would have never met!”
Ed and Janeen married in 2010 in a ceremony at Our Lady of Fatima followed by a reception in Old City Philadelphia and a honeymoon in Jamaica. The couple wasn’t married long before they welcomed their first child, Eddie, in 2011. Then two years later they had three kids in diapers. “The beginning of our marriage went by really fast because we were so busy,” said Janeen. “But we have great memories.”
Now, with four boys, Eddie, twins Jax and Billy and their youngest Max, the Partridges are busier than ever. Their oldest, Eddie is an eighth grader at Paxon Hollow Middle School and is active in soccer and track and enjoys video games. His parents describe him as easy going and kind. “He doesn’t have a mean bone in his body and never gives us trouble or complains,” Ed and Janeen remarked. A driven student, Eddie would love to be an attorney someday.
continued on page 8
(L-R) Billy, Eddie, Max, and Jax Partridge Photography by Chelsea Leigh
Twins Jackson (Jax) and Billy were born in 2013. Born two months early at just four and two pounds respectively, they spent a month in the NICU. “They’re both fighters and very resilient!” said Janeen. And although they are fraternal twins, everyone thinks they’re identical. “They now have different haircuts so people have an easier time telling them apart,” she added. “Before that teachers and coaches usually told them apart by their different shoes.”
The twins’ parents said they are similar in the fact that they’re both driven and competitive. Jax is like his dad with an analytical way of thinking. He’s got a sharp sense of awareness about his surroundings. “He’s also conscientious and thinks through his words and actions,” said Janeen. “But he’s got a poker face, especially when playing sports!”
Billy is more like his mom in the sense he doesn’t think or worry about things until they are right in front of him or has to. His parents said that Billy is more likely to let his feelings be
known (also like his mom). “He has matured since his eightyear-old MTLL tournament days in the sense he can hold himself together better. But, Billy has yet to meet an umpire or ref he is especially fond of,” his parents told us. Billy and Jax keep their parents busy with sports and play basketball, baseball and football.
Four-year-old Max is the youngest Partridge. Born in March of 2020, Janeen had one week of maternity leave then the world shut down during the pandemic. “He pretty much only saw our five faces for the first six months of his life,” she said. For Max, his big brothers are his world. “Max wants to do anything they do. Whether it’s playing with his brothers or cousins, he loves hanging with the boys in the basement when his brothers have friends over. He tries to fit right in,” she added. “All the kids know Max and are very nice to him.” Max loves any sporting activity and his latest favorite is flag football.
During the pandemic, Janeen and Ed said that Max provided them a lot of entertainment. ”When we look back at the time we were in quarantine, it’s funny but we actually have very special memories,” said Janeen. “We got to see Max come to life, step by step in his first few months. I think it’s had a big impact on how strong the bond each of the boys has with Max, each in a different way.”
Raising four boys can certainly take a village and Ed and Janeen are also lucky to be surrounded by their families. Ed’s dad and step-mother are just down the road in Newtown Square and his brother and his family live in Broomall. Janeen’s family lives close by in Ridley Township. “We are fortunate to have family nearby. The boys’ grandparents are a huge part of their lives,” said Janeen. “We are definitely aware of how lucky we are!”
Most days of the week, especially in the Spring, aka Baseball season, you’ll find the Partridges on a field or in a gym. Ed serves as Vice President for the Marple Township Little League
The Partridge family on a recent trip to New York City
Photo courtesy of Janeen Partridge
(MTLL). He also coaches Jax and Billy’s baseball team as well as Max’s team and has been the tournament team coach for the rising 12-year-old team since the twins were eight. For Ed, being part of the MTLL board has been a great way to be plugged into the Marple community. “I’ve met many so many great people,” he said. “I also love coaching and seeing the kids build relationships while learning how to play baseball.” Last season, Eddie got involved in MTLL too, by helping out at the snack bars at both fields. “It’s truly a family affair,” said Janeen.
What the Partridges love about being involved in Marple is the people they’ve met along the way. “We have met so many great people who we can consider good friends through Marple Newtown and this community,” Ed and Janeen said. “Marple Newtown is our common ground. Some of us grew up in Marple, some in Delco but some beyond. Your kids grow up together, you spend time in hotels together, you feel the pain of losing and joys of winning together.”
Janeen said she’s really been able to lean on the women she’s become friends with through the kids whether it’s sharing memes, doing girls nights or getting advice. “Momming is hard and the people I’ve become friends with because of the community we live in, have helped me push through it. And we really know how to have fun together!”
The Partridges chose to raise their family in Marple for the sense of community and belonging that it gives them. They purchased their first home here in 2009 and then in 2019, when they found out they were pregnant with baby number four, they knew they’d need a bigger house. It was also important to keep the boys at Worrall Elementary and not having to change schools was a deciding factor.
As luck would have it, they found a For Sale By Owner home thanks to a tip from a friend and moved to the perfect neighborhood. Although, Janeen said she did need some convincing as it was a complete renovation project, top to bottom. “Ed knew it was something we could make special and our own,” she explained. Time wise, the Partridges were very fortunate. “We made settlement in November and Ed had contractors there
that same day. We moved in December right before Christmas and our kitchen was finished by February. Just in time for Max to be born and before the pandemic hit.”
What’s great about the Partridge’s home is its location. Walking distance to Worrall Elementary, the high school and Rosetree Woods Swim Club, it makes life easy, especially in the summertime.
From the schools to their friends and neighbors, Ed and Janeen love the sense of community and belonging that Marple Newtown gives them. They said: “It really creates a sense of pride that makes you happy!”
Do you know a Marple family, individual or nonprofit group who should become known by our community? Make your nominations for upcoming feature articles by emailing your ideas to Holly Stupak at HStupak@BestVersionMedia.com. M
• Optician
• Diagnosing/treating eye
• Eye exams (glasses & contacts)
• Fashion eyewear
• Lab on
Ed Partridge coaching his sons’ 11u MTLL Tournament Team
Photo courtesy of Janeen Partridge
Expert Contributor
by Jack Del Pizzo, CPA Del Pizzo & Associates
AVOID This Retirement Savings Mistake
Over the past 25 years, most employers stopped offering defined-benefit retirement plans that were funded solely by the employer. Meanwhile, the number of defined-contribution workplace plans funded primarily by workers exploded. As a result, many workers are now responsible for some or all of their retirement savings.
A 401(k) is currently a very popular employer-sponsored defined-contribution plan. It can be a “traditional” or a “Roth” 401(k) plan. A major boost to retirement savings is the fact that plan contributions and earnings in either type of plan grow tax-free as long as they remain in the plan. In addition, a traditional 401(k) allows an upfront tax break because contributions reduce the employee's taxable salary. However, distributions from a traditional 401(k) are taxable at ordinary income tax rates in the year received. Conversely, contributions to a Roth 401(k) do not reduce the employee’s taxable salary but plan distributions are generally tax-free, which creates the opportunity for huge retirement tax savings.
While financial planners generally encourage employees to contribute as much as possible to a 401(k), keep in mind that the annual contribution is limited. For 2025, the maximum employee contribution is limited to $23,500. Generally, an employee age 50 or older can contribute an additional $7,500, for a total of $31,000. But starting in 2025, an employee age 60 to 63 can contribute an additional $11,250, for a total of $34,750.
Changing jobs during the year can cause an employee to exceed the annual contribution limits, which exposes the employee to penalties and adverse tax consequences. For example, say an employee earning $300,000 a year changes employers on July
1, 2025. The employee elects to contribute 10% to each company’s traditional 401(k). In prior years, the employer would stop 401(k) withholding when the employee reached the $23,500 maximum. However, in 2025, the new employer does not know how much the employee contributed to the prior plan. Each employer withholds 10% of the wages it pays, and a total of $30,000 is contributed for the employee in 2025.
It is the employee’s responsibility to notify the new employer of the excess contribution so corrective action can be taken. Failure to do so will subject the employee to penalties and potential double taxation of the excess contribution. Such adverse consequences can be avoided if as soon as employment with the second company commences, the employee notifies the new employer of the amount contributed to the prior 401(k) plan. M
by Lisa Jeffries
Gianna Marziano
MARCH STUDENT OF THE MONTH
The March Casey’s Student of the Month is Gianna Marziano, who is a hard-working Junior at Marple Newtown High School (MNHS). Gianna has been honored with a Certificate of Achievement and a Gift Card from Casey’s Public House, the Sponsor of this award.
Gianna spent four exciting years as a competitive cheerleader before starting her high school journey. Once she joined MNHS, she became an active member of the school’s theater
community by contributing her time and energy to the stage crew. Her hard work and dedication have been instrumental in bringing productions like Mamma Mia! to life, where she worked behind the scenes to ensure everything ran smoothly.
Outside of school, Gianna juggles a part-time job at Casey’s in Newtown Square, where she works as a hostess and waitress. Balancing her responsibilities between academics, extracurriculars and work, she dedicates her weekends and after-school hours to providing excellent service to customers while building valuable skills in teamwork and communication.
Looking ahead to her future, Gianna has expressed a strong interest in pursuing a career in cosmetology and/or attending mortuary school after graduating from high school. She is passionate about exploring these fields and excited about the possibilities they hold for her.
Since the age of six, Gianna has been lovingly raised by her grandparents, who have been a constant source of support and guidance in her life. Through their encouragement, she has grown into a remarkable young woman. Gianna is known for her beauty, both inside and out, as well as her hardworking nature, unwavering determination and ability to be a loyal and caring friend. What a pleasure it’s been to get to know a little about you Gianna! M
You see them grace the pages of our magazines each month, now it’s your turn to choose! We are looking for students in grades 7 through 12 who excel in serving their school, community, friends or local organizations. Eligible students must reside within the Newtown Edgmont area, regardless of the school they attend or if they are homeschooled. To nominate an outstanding student, email LJeffries@BestVersionMedia.com and share what makes them exceptional. Academic or athletic achievements are not required.
Gianna with Casey’s Manager Bobby Guerrieri Photo courtesy of Peter Marziano
BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER
by Bob Blaisse, Founding Publisher of Marple Friends & Neighbors
Bringing People Together While Making a Bit of Local History
March is Women’s History Month. We’ll be learning about the contributions of women to events in history. But this annually declared tribute is intended to also shine a spotlight on women who make contributions to our contemporary society.
I know of many women who have recently contributed to our contemporary society in Marple by Bringing People Together. They’re business owners who are among our advertising Sponsors who make it possible for Marple Friends & Neighbors magazine to be mailed to you each month for free.
Personalized Swim Lessons
Designed by a Mom and Educator!
Spring Registration is OPEN NOW!
• Spring lessons at Marple Newtown HS through June.
• Summer lessons at Splash Club, in your backyard pool or during our two weeks of camp at MNHS.
“As a mother of five young children with 30 years of instruction experience, I know the importance of swim safety. Our lessons push students to their highest potential while giving them the care they need to gain confidence and be successful.”
Emily Speer, Owner, Broomall Resident
You may recognize their names, and the names of their businesses, but there’s something you may not know.
The business leaders of our community who choose to use their limited marketing budgets for something more than business advertising should all be recognized and rewarded. They chose to sponsor us, as residents of Marple, by becoming Advertising Sponsors of Marple’s monthly magazine. Among our Sponsors, for their contributions to “our contemporary society,” we have these ladies to thank:
Karen Farrelly: D&K Appliances (See Pg 8)
Lisa Allodoli: Broomall Eye Care (See Pg 9)
Lisa O’Donnell / Lindsey Pierangeli: O’Donnell Roofing Co. (See Pg 23)
Michelle McFadden: First Class Auto Tags (See Pg 19)
Emily Speer: Speer Swim School (See Left)
Chelsea Leigh: Photography by Chelsea Leigh (See Pg 10)
Ladies, you are making history in Marple by Bringing People Together through our hometown magazine as an advertising Sponsor. Thank you. M
Bob Blaisse Publisher Marple Friends & Neighbors
Bringing People Together
Marple
FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS
Our Community
by Holly Stupak
Photos courtesy of Hillview Nursery School
Celebrate Spring with Hillview’s Spring Forward Festival
Celebrate Spring with Hillview Nursery School! Bring your family and friends to Hillview's Spring Forward Festival on April 6 for a day full of laughter, games and fun. Enjoy face painting, arts and crafts, a bouncy house and delicious treats — all while supporting their amazing nursery school community. Whether you're making memories with your little ones or connecting with friends, it's the perfect way to welcome Spring.
Hillview Nursery School has been a staple in the Marple community for more than 60 years. Established as a school community in 1957, it is a unique non-profit preschool operated by a parent-governed Board of Directors. Its mission is to build a strong foundation and love of learning. Gina Scholz, the current president of Hillview’s parent board, said the Spring Forward Festival is modeled after the Pumpkin Festival, which was a Hillview tradition for many decades. “This year’s fundraiser will feature a variety of activities for families to enjoy, while raising much-needed funds for classroom materials, playground and building upgrades and other programs,” Gina explained.
The event will take place at Hillview on Sunday, April 6, from 10am to 2pm (the rain date is April 13), and is open to all families in the community. Highlights include raffle baskets, a fun-filled outdoor carnival with games, face painting, and crafts and a moon bounce. Activities are geared toward preschool age children 2-5 years old. The nursery school’s talented teachers and parents are looking forward to a lively atmosphere for all to enjoy! For more information about Hillview Nursery School, visit HillviewNurserySchool.com. M
Martella Electric Company is a team of courteous, professional, and highly trained electricians. Our priority is to deliver superior customer service backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
•(EV) Electric Vehicle Charging
•Circuit Breaker Panels
•Fireguard Circuit Breakers
•Surge Protection
•LED Under Cabinet Lighting
•LED Recessed Lighting
•LED Lighting Anywhere
•Exhaust Fans
•Security Lighting
•Landscape Lighting
Excellent Educator
by Holly Stupak
Excellent Educator of The Month Jennifer Walsh!
Teachers are not only educators; they’re mentors and role models. Our new monthly feature, Excellent Educator, celebrates teachers in our community whose impact leaves a lasting legacy of inspiration. This month’s Excellent Educator is Russell Elementary School’s Jennifer Walsh.
Jennifer earned a BS in Elementary and Special Education and an MS in Special Education from St. Joseph’s University. A certified Reading Specialist, Wilson Dyslexia Practitioner and English as a Second Language Specialist, Jennifer brings a wealth of knowledge to the classroom as a Gifted Support Teacher, and in 2023 earned the Teacher of Excellence Award.
“As a gifted support teacher, I enjoy creating a learning environment where students feel challenged, understood and inspired to reach their full potential,” she said. One of her most unforgettable teaching experiences is the STEM competition the Delaware County Intermediate Unit holds annually. “It takes our students three months of work to complete and I’m proud of my students’ wins and seeing it all come together,” she added. Jennifer Walsh surely is an A+ Excellent Educator! M
We gratefully thank Substitute Teacher Service, Inc., for sponsoring our Excellent Educator of The Month.
Congratulations Jennifer Walsh!
School: Russell Elementary School
Education: Saint Joseph’s University; B.S Elem-Special Ed.; M.S. Special Ed Years Teaching: 24
Favorite Subject as a student? English
Who inspired you to become an educator?
My 2nd Grade Teacher, Ms. Thompson
Best Part of Being a Teacher?
Creating lessons that develop unique student talents
Favorite Book? Nightingale by Kristin Hannah Favorite Movie? Wicked
If not a teacher, what career? Interior Design
Something that may surprise people?
My career has been fully at Russell Elementary
Keep messes over the sink and off the faucet with a KOHLER ® touchless kitchen faucet. Its accurate sensor responds instantly to the wave of your hand or other object under the spout, so you don’t have to touch the handle.
Learn more about our complete line of KOHLER touchless kitchen faucets at Kohler.com
by Sheila Turner-Hilliard
Photos courtesy of Eric Fante
Our Local Flooring Experts
Choosing a floor can seem overwhelming when faced with all the materials and designs you must choose from. Luckily, Fante Flooring in Newtown Square has you covered. Not only do they have a wide selection of flooring you won’t find anywhere else, but owner Eric Fante and his team also take immense pride in seeing the finished products in their customers’ homes.
From decorator fine hardwoods, the latest carpeting or tile and a vast array of modern engineered solutions, Fante Flooring offers a variety of flooring types that can turn houses into dream homes. Eric said he created Fante’s expansive 4,200 square-foot showroom so that customers can see the best and widest variety of flooring types all in one place.
Eric opened Fante Flooring’s Newtown Square location in 2016, but the company’s roots started long before that in South Philadelphia. “My great-grandfather, Thomas Fante, came to the United States from Italy in 1901, where he opened up and ran a successful furniture business,” Eric explained. “My grandfather, Dominic, worked alongside his father and was particularly interested in and knowledgeable about flooring. They opened Fante Flooring in 1946. The business grew, and by the 1970s, Dominic had turned the store into a beautiful showroom.
Eric grew up in South Philadelphia in the 1970s and spent much of his childhood helping his dad, Ron, and grandfather in the family business. Eric remembers being a young boy and learning the many aspects of running a flooring business from both his father and grandfather. “I started as a young kid putting tools away and sweeping the floors,” explained Eric. “Then, as a teenager and young adult, I took on more responsibilities and learned how to take measurements and install floors. They showed me how important it is to be a helper.”
Eventually, Eric took over running the business, and since 2001, he has owned and operated Fante Flooring. His father passed away in 2011, but Eric said Ron’s legacy
Fante Flooring in Newtown Square
is in great hands. His family’s traditions and techniques are what helped him run the store successfully. “My dad taught me everything in both business and life,” said Eric. “From him, I learned the business from the ground up and how important it is to pay attention to all the little details. They are the most important aspects of being a business owner.”
Over the years, as the business grew, Eric was serving more customers outside of the city. Traveling frequently to the Philadelphia suburbs and the Mainline prompted Eric to move the location to Newtown Square in 2016. Located where Route 3 and 252 intersect, the showroom has a large selection of designer floors that aren’t always found in large retail stores.
Eric spends his days in the showroom talking with his customers and walking them through the process of selecting, designing and installing high-quality beautiful floors.
For customers who can’t come into the showroom, Fante offers a showroom on wheels. Eric can bring the floor samples directly to customers' homes so they can look at flooring under their own lighting to decide what works.
“There is a growing demand for warmth in interior spaces that have led to an increased interest in wood-inspired flooring, where natural shades like oak, maple and walnut dominate,” Eric said. “These warmer tones create a sense of intimacy and comfort, making spaces feel more homey.” He added that these natural hues often come with more pronounced grain patterns and textures that add depth and character to a room.
Wide-plank wood floors and wood-look vinyl are especially popular, as they combine the rustic beauty of natural wood with modern durability and ease of maintenance. These materials offer homeowners the chance to create cozy environments that still feel luxurious and timeless. Other recent trends include bold colors and patterns, textured finishes and soft flooring with dynamic designs.
What sets Fante Flooring apart from the big box stores is Eric’s approach and attention to detail, which he takes very seriously. “I sleep better knowing a job went smoothly,” said Eric. “Many customers become friends, so I’m elated to see them happy with the finished product.” Eric also employs
sub-contractors who have worked for him for over 15 years. “I thank them every day because they help keep my business alive,” he said proudly.
If you are ready to upgrade one or more rooms throughout your home, Fante Flooring has you covered. Visit their website at FanteFloors.com, call them at 610-232-7080 or visit the showroom at 39 South Newtown Street Road (PA Rt 252) in Newtown Square. The showroom is open Monday–Friday 9:30am–6:00pm and Saturday 10am–4pm. After-hour appointments are also available by request. M
NEWTOWN SQUARE’S FLOOR COVERING EXPERTS
The First Church in Marple
by Doug Humes
Photos courtesy of the Marple Historical Society
Marple Township did not have a church building for its first 150 years. Early settlers were Quakers, who could journey to Springfield Friends Meeting, right over the Marple border, a relatively short commute by horse and wagon, or Newtown Square Meeting, also relatively close. Church of England worshippers found their way to St. David Church near Radnor. Church attendance in those early years was one of the principal forms of socializing and entertainment in the sparsely settled farm community, and so a long wagon or carriage ride on Sunday morning would have been a highly anticipated event, well worth the travel time.
When Scotch-Irish settlers began arriving, they brought their religion, Presbyterianism. The 1720 Middletown Presbyterian Church in Lima was their nearest option. Tired of that ride, in all kinds of weather, Marple farmer John Cragi offered up land at a convenient corner intersection, while Howell Jones agreed to provide building stone from his farm along Darby Creek. In August of 1834, the cornerstone was laid for Marple Presbyterian Church. Volunteers constructed the first small church, which
opened its doors in May 1835. The original building had a 50x42 feet interior with box pews, which were rented to parishioners for $15/year. Ten pews were rented in the first year, with the new minister paid $150.
The first mention of the church in newspapers concerned the meeting of the Delaware County Temperance Society and its call for the friends of the Temperance Cause to meet at the church on August 5, 1841 “for the purpose of devising and adopting some means of
inducing the Legislature of this State to exert its lawful and appropriate influence in diminishing and mitigating the miseries entailed upon Society by the Vending and Drinking of Intoxicating Liquors.”
By 1870, the church had 70 members, in a township of only 858. The following year, a young doctor fresh from Civil War service and then medical school, Dr. John G. Thomas, put down roots in the community and joined the church. He volunteered as superintendent of the Sunday School, serving for 50 years, and
A photo, circa 1920, shows the church with its 1867 vestibule in front, the 1915 addition for Sunday School at the rear, and the adjacent cemetery, along today’s Sproul Road
A sketch shows the original church building, opened in 1835
also served as treasurer for 51 years. Dr. Thomas died in 1939 at age 95 and is buried in the front row of the church cemetery along Sproul Road.
The church expanded as it grew, adding a vestibule in 1867, various additions over the years, and constructing a new modern church dedicated on September 27, 1953, with three of the six then-living former ministers in attendance, and greetings sent by the others. The Church continues as a vital member of the community, offering Sunday services, Sunday School, youth groups, choir, a thrift shop and its annual Strawberry Festival in June.
• Transferring a vehicle to/from a family member?
• Importing a vehicle from another country?
• In need of a PA Handicap Parking Tag?
• Need a Notary or FBI Fingerprinting Services?
• Need a Driver’s License Renewed/Replaced? Come in and meet with us. We can figure it all out together!
• Gun locks, safes, and safety equipment
• We buy/consign estates & collections
• Gunsmithing & firearm appraisals
• Firearm consulting and training
• New gun owner training
• We have ammunition in stock
“I only sell firearms to those who accept that training in firearm use and safety becomes their duty when choosing to exercise their 2nd Amendment right to own a firearm.”
Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm • 610-556-0223 www.StarsNStripesTactical.com 1313 West Chester Pike, West Chester (ONLY A TEN-MINUTE DRIVE to East Goshen)
Our Community
by Sheila Turner-Hilliard
Marple Civic Youth’s Children’s Memorial Rose Garden
Our Marple Friends & Neighbors magazine is always honored to feature folks in our area who give their time, talents, energy and resources to those in need. Our community is undoubtedly filled with generous people who expect nothing in return other than knowing they make a difference in someone’s life.
Our Marple Civic Youth (MCY) has proven time and time again that teens have the power to make a difference. Not only do they organize numerous successful community events, they learn valuable skills in the process. Most recently, this group of dedicated volunteers created, implemented and dedicated a beautiful Children’s Memorial Rose Garden, located at Veterans Memorial Park, and the Adult Legacy Tree Project— leaving a lasting mark on our community.
The project was the vision of Rachel D’Ambrosio, who serves as MCY’s Vice President. Rachel also took on the role of the group’s President of the Sustainability Committee, and her commitment to sustainability allowed her to think about ways to support not only our environment but our relationships within the community.
Rachel’s mom, Demetra, is one of MCY’s parent advisors and explained how the idea for the garden came to be. “It began last February when our community was coming together to support
the Petransky family after the sudden passing of their little boy, Benny,” she said. “The town was going Blue for Benny, which sparked a conversation about how amazing it is that our friends and neighbors always show such strong support for families that have suffered losses.”
It also led Rachel to start thinking about how to come up with a project that could combine tangible sustainability practices while fostering a lasting legacy of community connection. “My vision for the Chil-dren’s Rose Garden was to create a dedicated space for families to honor and remember their child,” Rachel explained. “I wanted it to be a positive place where we could gather to remember our loved ones and celebrate them by continuing to say their names.”
With the plan in place, MCY’s Sustainable Committee got to work. There were meetings with township officials to select the location, develop and submit building plans and secure approvals and permits. The committee then had to raise enough funds to build the garden and continue to work on plans to secure funds for future improvements, repairs and maintenance. They asked community members and local businesses for donations of time and money, which was well received.
“We have a lot of folks to thank for their generosity,” Demetra noted. “Marple Township donated their labor to build the garden’s wooden frame and bridge, Home Depot donated the lumber and Martino Signs donated the wooden sign at the entrance and the plaques for each child.” MCY also received generous donations from Luciano’s Light Foundation, Matthew’s Moonlight Foundation and many families and businesses that wanted to show their support.
The response from the community was overwhelming, not just from generous donors but from families who requested their loved one be included. “We had always intended for the garden to memorialize children, so we had to come up with another plan for the families who wanted their adult loved ones remembered,” Rachel said. “We decided to expand our sustainability initiative beyond Marple Newtown by purchasing legacy trees that are planted in our national forests.” Each family that has a tree planted in their loved one’s memory receives a keepsake certificate.
Each child has a memorial plaque with a special quote
Remembering our children gone too soon
Photos courtesy of Marple Civic Youth
The garden was completed this past fall, and a remembrance ceremony was held on October 20th. It was a beautiful day when families and friends gathered to honor those we’ve lost and to offer comfort, hope and healing to grieving families. The program included words of remembrance from family members, meaningful music and songs, a memorial photo wall and a balloon release.
The O’Malley family was there to remember their Sweet Melissa, who passed away in April. “To be honest, as the day of the dedication was approaching, I was feeling hesitant,” explained Melissa’s mom, Missy. “However, the day was perfect, and the garden is in the most beautiful spot in Veterans Park. As I watched these kids who organized the garden and this ceremony, my hesitation changed into an amazing sense of hope. These kids were in it with us. They had tears. They empathized. We were all connected in that moment.” Missy added that being in Veterans Park was so perfect because many of the children being remembered grew up playing there. “Their laughter lived there, and now we have a space for all to remember them,” she said. “I can’t help but believe that the goodness in our children was reflected back to us that day in such a giving way. We are grateful.”
Tara Gallo’s son, Lucas has a memorial plaque in the garden. “When I saw the Children’s Memorial Garden project being posted about back in the summer, it felt like fate. This year marks 10 years since we lost our son Lucas, and I had been looking for a way to honor him,” she said. “The MCY group thought of everything—the plaque, the quotes, the ceremony—it was all a beautiful tribute to our children.”
Tara and her husband, Mike, said that one of the hardest parts of Lucas being stillborn is the isolation, feeling like you are the only ones who knew your child. This memorial garden was a way for this group of young people to honor their son and know that their family was not alone. “This park is where my family and other children, Lucas’s brother and sister, feel connected,” Tara added. “I am profoundly grateful to this group for giving us this opportunity to remember and honor Lucas.”
Melissa Shelly lost her son, Andrew in August 2017. She and her family attended the ceremony as well. “When any parent loses their child, one of our greatest fears is that people will forget about our son or daughter,” she explained. “As the years go by, people stop saying their names and avoid bringing them up, thinking it will cause us pain. It is exactly the opposite; we want to hear their names and share memories of our children.” Melissa feels that having this memorial garden in our community is such a gift because when people gather in the playground, walk the track or relax by the gazebo, they can enjoy this beautiful garden and see the children’s names. “I am so grateful that these young adults from the Marple Civic Youth Association took their time and energy to honor my son, Andrew, and all of the other local family’s children.”
A Holiday Service was held on the afternoon of December 22nd. It was open to Marple Newtown residents, and all were invited to participate by sharing the names of their loved ones so they could be honored during the service. The MCY members put up a beautiful tree in the garden, complete with ornaments provided by the committee.
Thank you, Marple Civic Youth, for this beautiful rose garden and for your steadfast commitment to honoring our loved ones for many years to come. May they never be forgotten, and may we always say their names. For more information on volunteering with Marple Civic Youth, reach out by directly messaging the Civic Youth on Instagram (@MarpleCivicYouth) and Facebook. M
The Marple Civic Youth Committee
Expert Contributor
by Kevin O’Donnell O’Donnell Roofing Co.
Roof Math: Understanding the Long-Term Costs of Your Roofing Choices
When replacing your roof, it’s important to think beyond the upfront cost. What will your total investment look like over 30, 50 or even 100 years? The right choice depends on your long-term goals. If you’re in your forever home, avoiding the hassle and expense of multiple roof replacements may be worth the initial investment in a longer-lasting material. But if you plan to move in the next decade, a lower upfront cost might make more sense. Let’s break down the numbers.
The True Cost of an Asphalt Roof
Suppose an asphalt shingle roof costs $15,000. The standard lifespan is 20 to 30 years, but it drops to 10 to 15 years with poor installation. Assuming quality workmanship and 2% annual inflation, your next roof replacement in 25 years would cost approximately $24,500, bringing the total 30-year cost to $39,500.
Over a 100-year period, if we assume that 50% of the installations were subpar, the total cost for five replacements would be approximately $186,000 – and that’s for a base-level shingle every time.
Metal Roofing: A Middle Ground
A metal roof lasts around 50 years, and on the same roof, it would cost $38,000 to install. If you plan to stay in your home over 30 years, you might never need another replacement. By comparison, the two asphalt roofs over 30 years costing $39,500 make metal a competitive option.
Over 100 years, you’d likely need one replacement, bringing the total cost to $140,000 with inflation—cheaper than asphalt but still requiring one full reroofing.
Slate Roofing: The Lifetime Investment
Installing slate on the same roof would cost $82,000, but it’s a one-time investment that lasts 100+ years. Even with occasional repairs, the long-term cost remains lower than replacing an asphalt roof multiple times. It’s clear that slate is the best long-term economic investment in roofing. Spending five to six times the money upfront will save significant money long term.
What’s the Right Choice for You?
Ultimately, your decision comes down to your goals and how long you plan to stay in your home. Most people won’t live in the same house for 100 years, but these numbers are still worth considering. Some homes stay in the same family for generations, which could make a longer-lasting roof the smarter investment. Plus, choosing a material that lasts longer isn’t just about cost, it’s about reducing waste. Every time an asphalt roof is replaced, it adds to landfills, while slate and metal reduce the frequency of tear-offs.
If you’re planning a roof replacement, thinking beyond just the next 20 years could help you make the best decision for your home, your finances and the environment. M
Homes Recently Sold in Marple
