Marple Friends & Neighbors magazine, April 2021

Marple

2021 April

FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS

The Wright Family

Raising Them Wright in Marple Cover photo by Sierra Clark Photography www.SierraClarkPhoto.com

Bringing People Together

Marple’s Expert Contributors Accounting & Tax Preparation Jack Del Pizzo, CPA Del Pizzo & Associates 2098 W Chester Pike #101, Broomall 610-356-2590 JRD@DelPizzo.com www.DelPizzo.com

Hair Salon Mary Rosato, Owner Salon Bella 590 Reed Road, Suite 5, Broomall 610-353-9133 SalonBella1@verizon.net www.SalonBellaBroomall.com

Automotive Repairs & Service Jack Crowley, Jr. C&J Automotive Specialists 99 S. Newtown Street Rd, Newtown Square 610-616-2411 JCrowleyJR@CandJAutoRepair.com www.CandJAutoRepair.com

Heating & Air Conditioning Len Sciulli Len Sciulli & Sons Heating & Air Conditioning 500 Abbott Drive, Broomall 610-328-4341 • SciulliAndSons@hotmail.com www.LenAndSons.com

Carpeting & Floor Covering Jim Casar Carpet Warehouse 620 Parkway Dr, Broomall 610-353-1312 CarpetWarehouseOutlet@gmail.com www.CarpetWarehouseCo.com

Painting & General Contracting Services Tom Rafferty Rafferty Painting & General Contracting 610-626-9141 Info@RaffertyPainting.com www.RaffertyPainting.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 www.SpineDr.org

Plumbing Service, Residential / Commercial Ryan Corbett, Master Plumber Dream Team Home Services 3703 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square 610-609-7771 Service@DreamTeamPA.com www.DreamTeamPA.com

Electric Service, Residential/Commercial Andrew Martella, Sr. Martella Electric Company 484-997-3097 MartellaElectric@rcn.com www.MartellaElectric.com

Residential Door Installation Paul Barrett PB Contracting Company, LLC Broomall 484-466-3146 DoorsAndWindows@PBContracting.com www.PBContracting.com

Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Dr. Georges P. Martin, D.M.D. Marple Dental 2004 Sproul Road, Suite 304, Broomall 610-359-8181 Office@MarpleDental.com www.MarpleDental.com

Roofing, Siding & Carpentry Kevin O’Donnell O’Donnell Roofing Co. Havertown 610-449-8188 Office@ODonnellRoofingCo.com www.ODonnellRoofingCo.com

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

Senior Living & Housing Lindsey Poeth, CSA Oasis Senior Advisors – Main Line Malvern 484-947-4266 LPoeth@YourOasisAdvisor.com www.OasisSeniorAdvisors.com/Mainline

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

Veterinary Care & Animal Welfare Donna Dybus, Clinic Director The Spayed Club Veterinary Clinic 800 Chester Pike, Sharon Hill 484-540-8436 Info@TheSpayedClubClinic.org www.TheSpayedClubClinic.org

Glass & Mirror Services David Gura & Lew Gura Bryn Mawr Glass 729 West Chester Pike, Havertown 610-853-2990 BrynMawrGlass@yahoo.com www.BrynMawrGlass.com 2

Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

Waterproofing & Weatherization David Linn Cook Weatherproofing Plus, Inc. Marple Newtown 610-325-0596 Info@Weatherproofing-Plus.com www.Weatherproofing-Plus.com

Dear Friends & Neighbors, Happy Easter, everyone! Spring has sprung and better times are now coming fast. With the April showers we know will bring us May flowers, so it’s time for me to get some mulch from Seth Pancoast, and get outside to be working on my flower beds.

PUBLICATION TEAM

PUBLISHER: Bob Blaisse EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER: Liz Burnett CONTENT COORDINATOR: Holly Stupak DESIGNER: Kim Cesati CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER: Sierra Clark, Sierra Clark Photography, www.SierraClarkPhoto.com COVER PHOTO STYLISTS: Mary Rosato, Salon Bella CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Bob Blaisse, Sheila Turner-Hilliard, Holly Stupak, Liz Burnett, Doug Humes, Chris Stack, Scott Magness, Len Sciulli, David Linn Cook, Jim Casar, Jack Del Pizzo, CPA, Jack Crowley, Jr., Dr. Marc Belitsky and Ryan Corbett 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 information 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, 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. © 2021 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

We all have to be getting out more in 2021. I’m heading out to Veterans Memorial Park (on Lawrence Rd.), on Friday evening April 9th, for Open Air Cinema, hosted by the Marple Civic Youth, whose mission is to support improvements in neighborhood safety, beautification, and social activities. Let’s support this effort of Marple youth by joining them at the park for an outdoor showing of the 1993 classic The Sandlot. (For more information, visit www.Facebook.com/ MarpleCivic and read Holly’s feature about this new civic-minded youth group on page 16.)

And speaking of a classic, we now have a classic craftsman, Paul Barrett of PB Contracting LLC, as our newest Sponsor of our magazine in print and online at www.MarpleMag.com.

Paul is a resident of Marple. He loves our hometown magazine and wanted to be a Sponsor of his hometown community, not only as an advertiser but also as an Expert Contributor of feature articles related to residential doors.

If you’ve ever tried hanging a door, or installing a set of doors, you know it takes skill and expertise. Paul Barrett is one of the most sought-after door installers in all of Delaware County and beyond, but Paul lives here in Broomall. Thanks, Paul, for becoming a Sponsor of your hometown, and for agreeing to share your expertise with us all through our magazine. Look for Paul Barrett’s Expert Contributor features in upcoming issues and look for PB Contracting’s first ad in this month’s issue on page 6.

It’s spring. And summer will be here soon, but swim club memberships will be filled up unless you act now. Don’t miss out. Renew your Splash Surf Club membership now. And if you haven’t joined yet, this is the year to do it. See the Splash Surf Club ad on the back cover this month. It tells of all the new improvements coming to Splash. Don’t get left out of the pool this summer. Get Your Splash On. Enjoy the springtime, everyone, as much as I know you’ll enjoy this latest issue of Marple’s hometown magazine.

Bob Blaisse Publisher

We’re Online! www.MarpleMag.com

Dear Residents,

ON THE COVER The Wright Family at their home in Marple

Marple

2021 April

FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS

ily The Wright Fam in Marple Raising Them Wright

Clark Photography Cover photo by Sierra www.SierraClarkPhoto.com

Happy Spring! As winter has faded away, taking the cold weather with it, we’re looking forward to spending more time outdoors. Our Calendar of Events on page 22 has some fun, family-friendly ideas to be outside, enjoying nature.

This month’s Resident Feature introduces you to Will and Kim Wright and their four young boys. Since moving to Marple in 2017, they’ve found our community to be the perfect fit for their busy and fun family. Our Business Profile features O’Donnell Roofing Company, which has continued to bring their customers outstanding roofing services and solutions for the past 100 years. In this issue you’ll also hear about Marple Civic Association’s Teens Taking Action. This inspiring group of high school students have found creative ways to bring local teens together for support and fun!

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

Bringing People Together

Holly Stupak Content Coordinator

April 2021

/ www.MarpleMag.com

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Expert Contributor Written by Jack Del Pizzo, CPA Del Pizzo & Associates

Highlights of Legislation Impacting Your 2020 Income Taxes

I

ncluded in the massive legislation passed by Congress in 2020, to address the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, were a number of tax breaks that caused taxpayers a great deal of confusion. As the May 17 tax-filing deadline approaches, here’s some Q&A about 2020 tax returns.

Q: What can I do to reduce my 2020 income tax?

A. If you’re eligible for a traditional IRA in 2020, you can make a maximum tax-deductible contribution of $6,000 plus, based upon your age, an extra $1,000 catch-up contribution.

The IRA must be set up and funded by May 17, 2021. Even if only one spouse has wages or self-employment income, both spouses may be eligible for a separate contribution.

Nationally Recognized Accounting & Tax Management Expert HEADQUARTERED IN OUR HOMETOWN!

Del Pizzo & Associates is known throughout the Eastern United States for providing professional expert services which include: u Payroll

Protection Plan (PPP) Advice & Auditing Services u Payroll Management Services u QuickBooks Help & Assistance u Tax Management Services u IRS Representation u Estate/Trust Planning & Tax Preparation u Audits, Reviews, and Compilation u Financial and Retirement Planning u Litigation & Forensic Accounting u Accounting

Jack Del Pizzo Marple Newtown’s Expert CPA

2098 West Chester Pike #101, Broomall

www.DelPizzo.com u 610-356-2590 Contact us TODAY For a FREE CONSULTATION!

We’ve Helped Thousands.

We Can Help You Too! 4

Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

If you claim a standard deduction instead of itemizing deductions, you’re eligible to deduct $300 in charitable contributions you made during 2020. If you itemize deductions, your cash contributions to most charities during 2020 are deductible up to 100% of your income. (The previous limitation was 60% of your income.)

If you have business or rental income from a sole proprietorship or a pass-through entity such as a partnership, an LLC or an S corporation, remember to claim the qualified income deduction of 20%.

Q: Is there any special tax relief if I took a distribution from my traditional IRA? A. Normally, distributions from traditional IRAs are taxed in the year received plus a 10% penalty if you are under 59½.

During 2020, if you hadn’t reached age 59½ when you took a distribution from a retirement plan or traditional IRA due to COVID-19, the normal 10% penalty for a premature distribution is waived on distributions up to $100,000. The distribution is still taxable but you can elect to pay that tax over three years.

On the other hand, amounts re-contributed within three years will not be taxable.

Q: Is there any special tax relief if my business had a loss in 2020?

A. If your sole proprietorship or pass-through entity incurred a loss in 2020, you may be eligible to receive a cash refund by carrying the loss against the taxable income reported on your 2015 through 2019 income tax returns. While you have three years to amend prior year returns by filing IRS Form 1040X, you may be able to receive a “quick refund” by filing Form IRS 1045, but it must be filed by December 31, 2021.

Q: Is the stimulus money I received taxable?

A. Stimulus checks paid to individuals are not taxable income.

They are advance payments of a refundable tax credit that must be reconciled on your IRS Form 1040. PPP loans to businesses that are spent on payroll and other eligible expenses are not taxable income when forgiven. The initial IRS ruling — that expenses paid with the forgiven PPP loans were not deductible — created an unexpected tax liability for borrowers. Congress solved that dilemma by mandating that expenses paid with the forgiven PPP loans are deductible. Pennsylvania has adopted the same treatment as the federal government. M

Student of the Month

s n o i t a l u C ongrat April Sproul Lanes Student of the Month Gabrielle Kaplan, April Sproul Lanes Student of the Month Photo courtesy of Lisa Kaplan

Written by Liz Burnett

Gabrielle Kaplan!

Nominate the Next Student of the Month!

Any student in grades 7 –12 who resides within the borders of the Marple Newtown School District can be nominated by a parent, teacher or themself. Send an email to SOTM@SproulLanes.com explaining several reasons why the student excels in Service to friendship, school or other local communities. Academic or athletic excellence may be considered but is not required. The Winner will be featured in next month's magazine and will also receive a Sproul Lanes Pizza Bowl Gift Certificate good for 2 hours of bowling for up to 10 people plus pizza, sodas, snacks and free shoe rental. M

The April Sproul Lanes Student of the Month is Gabrielle Kaplan, a Senior at Marple Newtown High School! Gabrielle received a Certificate of Achievement, and a “Pizza Bowl” gift certificate courtesy of Sproul Lanes, our Sponsor of this program.

A Student Council member for four years, Gabrielle (“Gab”) currently serves as Senior Vice President on the Student Council's Executive Board. As a four-year member of For the Kids (FTK), she has helped raise money to find a cure for childhood cancer. And since her sophomore year, Gab has given back to the local community as a member of her school's Feeding Fellow Americans Club, which prepares food packages for distribution by Philabundance, the area's largest hunger relief organization.

Gab also serves as a member on several sports teams. Since age 5, she has played softball, first in the Newtown Square Petticoat League (NSPL), and all four years at MNHS. Since freshman year, she has also been on the Indoor Track and Tennis teams. Gab’s tennis skill and team leadership earned her the role of Tennis team Captain in her junior and senior years.

Gabrielle also excels academically, and is a member of the National Honor Society, the English Honor Society and the Social Studies Honor Society. And as a member of the World Language Honor Society, she enjoys studying the culture of Spanish- and French-speaking countries and participating in charity drives to benefit needy people in those countries.

Gab’s college major may be Environmental Studies because she’s “super-passionate about preserving the environment and renewable energy sources.” She’s also considering studying Business Marketing, to prepare for a career in sports marketing or management.

Your Friends & Neighbors in the Marple Newtown community congratulate you on this award, Gabrielle! Thank you for your service and leadership, and we wish you much success and fulfillment wherever and however you choose to serve in the future!

Limited Spring Leagues Forming NOW! Every other lane is open, allowing for social distancing.

We sanitize and clean throughout the day and conduct a deep cleaning every day we’re closed.

Bowler areas, house bowling balls, keypads, seating, and shoes, etc., are all disinfected between groups.

Please be aware that face masks are required to enter, and must be worn at all times.

www.SproulLanes.com Facemasks Required at All Times!

• Family Fun • Fundraising

Events

while social distancing

Reserve Your Lane Today!

610-544-4524 April 2021

/ www.MarpleMag.com

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Bringing People Together Written by Bob Blaisse, Publisher

Bringing People Together Marple Friends & Neighbors

Bringing People Together Is Not Trivial!

Especially in These Times, Our Sponsors Are Sure of That.

Y

ou may recall I once shared how I enjoy trivia, and why, with mention of how many years ago, when I first began my career in radio, I hosted a Philadelphia talk radio program and wrote newspaper features, which often included Philadelphia area and Delaware County trivia questions. A few years ago, in this magazine, I offered some cryptic trivia questions about the Sponsors of Marple Friends & Neighbors. This month, I thought I’d share some more. It’s two years later, so put on your thinking cap, and see how many you can figure out before turning pages to find the answers to this next round of trivia questions about our hometown Sponsors.

Delaware County’s Expert Door Installer Big enough to service your needs.

Small enough to do it with care.

We treat your home like it’s our own!

• Interior Pre-hung & Slab Door Installation • Transom/Sidelight Installation (with Entry) • Entry & Patio Door Installation • Storm & Security Door Installation • Door Capping and Repair Services • Door Lock Installation

484 - 466 -3221 Call TODAY for a FREE Estimate!

• 15 Years Experience • Competitive Pricing • Fully Licensed & Insured

www.PBContracting.com 6

Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

You know these businesses. They’re the business leaders of our community who dedicate a portion of their limited marketing budgets to show us how much they value Marple through their sponsorship of our community, which makes our hometown magazine possible. And that’s not a trivial thing. Our advertising Sponsors deserve all the credit for Bringing People Together through our hometown magazine delivered to your door for free each month.

Here’s how we’ll play: 10 trivia questions, and the answer to each question includes a cryptic hint. But the answers will not be given, only the page number in this month’s magazine issue.

That should be enough to land on the answer if you can’t come up with the answer first, before turning pages. The answer will always be one of our hometown heroes, a name of one of our advertising Sponsors whose ad can be found on the page number given in the hint.

You already know our Sponsors, so try to guess the answer first before turning to the page number to discover the answer.

Good Luck!

1. The light bulb will go on over your head when you realize you know the name of this Sponsor.

(For the answer, see pg. 21.)

2. This Sponsor, known for class, is always a first choice for Marple residents.

(For the answer, see pg. 23.)

3. Which of our Sponsors helps us to love what we already have even more?

(For the answer, see pg. 22.)

4. Business has been a sweet success for these TWO Sponsors located next door to each other in Marple.

(For the answers, see pg. 11 and pg. 17.)

5. When you have that sinking feeling, this Sponsor can help keep your head above water.

(For the answer, see pg. 24.)

6. It was probably a week back when you needed this Sponsor.

(For the answer, see pg. 26.)

7. Life customers of this Sponsor are driving their success.

(For the answer, see pg. 31.)

8. This Sponsor empowers us to be powering on in dark times.

(For the answer, see pg. 28.)

Affordable, High Quality Veterinary Care

9. Marple residents smile upon this Sponsor for a mouthful of reasons.

(For the answer, see pg. 20.)

Veterinary Examination for Dog or Cat – $40

10. This Sponsor is heard always saying “I Care” but for reasons you have to see.

(For the answer, see pg. 9.)

See our website for a list of services and transparent pricing.

www.TheSpayedClubClinic.org

Well, how many Sponsor Trivia Questions did you know the answer to before turning any pages to find your answers? Get to know our Sponsors, please. And whenever possible, choose to give your business to our Sponsors of Marple, whose advertising expense is Bringing People Together in Marple through Marple Friends & Neighbors magazine in print and online at www.MarpleMag.com. M

Bob Blaisse

Publisher, Marple Friends & Neighbors

484-540-8436 800 Chester Pike, Sharon Hill, PA 19079 Conveniently located 9 short miles from Marple!

The Mission of The Spayed Club Clinic Eliminate unnecessary dog & cat euthanasia through affordable veterinary care and spay/neuter surgeries.

The Spayed Club is a 501 (c)3 non-profit charity organization.

Honoring The Life of a Loved One

DANJOLELL

MEMORIAL HOMES

AND CREMATORY

Butterfly Releases • Memory Tables • Bookmarks with Seeds • Flower Selection • Dove Release Picture Boards • Remembrance Jewelry • Online Remembrance • Candlelight Ceremony • And more Visit www.DANJOLELL.com to learn how we honor the life of a loved one.

DANJOLELL Memorial Home of Broomall 2811 West Chester Pike Broomall, PA 19008 610-356-4200 Robert L. D’Anjolell, Jr. F.D.

DANJOLELL Stigale DANJOLELL Memorial Home & Cremation Memorial Home & Crematory Services, Inc. of Aston of Malvern-Frazer 3260 Concord Road 392 Lancaster Avenue Aston, PA 19014 Frazer, PA 19355 610-497-5505 610-296-9555 James Stigale, Supervisor Anthony F. Romano, Supervisor

DANJOLELL Barone Memorial Home of Wallingford 908 S. Providence Road Wallingford, PA 19086 610-874-7700 Edward S. Barone, Supervisor

April 2021

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Resident Feature

The Wright Family:

Raising Them Wright in Marple Written by Holly Stupak Kim and Will Wright Photo by Sierra Clark Photography www.SierraClarkPhoto.com

T

his month we are excited to introduce you to The Wrights: Kim, William and their four sons. Kim and William have lived in several different states including Hawaii, Texas, Oregon and Maryland, and they’re the proud owners of two successful businesses. In 2017, they found their forever home here in Marple and are raising their boys the “Wright” way--by teaching them that life is full of adventure and passing on their entrepreneurial spirit.

Kim is a Texas native who attended Ursuline Academy, an all-girls Catholic high school in Dallas. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. In her 20s Kim lived in Hawaii, where she worked a day job, tended bar in the evenings and during her free time enjoyed horseback riding and scuba diving.

Growing up, William (Will) lived in a few different places in Pennsylvania including the Main Line and center city Philadelphia. He graduated from Penn Charter High School, where he played soccer, sang in the choir and performed in musicals. After high school, he studied music and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts at Pacific University in Oregon.

In his late 20s, Will headed out to Hawaii to start fresh in a new place. He worked in the HVAC industry and became a bartender at night to earn some extra money.

In 2002, Kim and Will met at bartending school and really hit it off. Will impressed Kim with his musical talents of playing the piano and singing. “In our early dating days, Will would pick me up from the beachfront bar where I worked and play piano for me on the public plaza,” said Kim. When things started getting serious, Kim and Will decided to move back to Texas, to be closer to Kim’s family. In 2006, they were married on Kim’s dad’s ranch, which he built himself and included a finished back patio that they turned into a dance floor. After their wedding, Kim and Will lived in Texas for a few years, but eventually moved to Pennsylvania in 2010 so that Will could be closer to and help care for his dad who was suffering from Parkinson’s disease.

Kim and Will lived in center city Philly for a few years, eventually moving to the East Falls section of Philadelphia. Kim and Will said they enjoyed being in the city and fell in love with 8

Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

Philadelphia, taking advantage of everything it had to offer, especially its art museums and restaurants. But after starting a family, they realized they would need more space, and that need eventually brought them to Marple.

When they had moved back to Pennsylvania, Will started his own business, Wright Commissioning, which specializes in testing and documenting that a building’s systems all function effectively and according to the designer’s intent. Will’s firm, which also helps building owners achieve energy savings and improve operations, is the Philadelphia area’s only completely independent commissioning firm. “I’m proud to have built Wright Commissioning from nothing to what it is today,” said Will. “I’ve been able to be a part of some special projects, including at some of Philadelphia’s most recognizable buildings.”

For several years, Kim worked along with Will at Wright Commissioning. Then in 2018, the couple started discussing opening another business and were interested in buying a franchise. “I was familiar with Nothing Bundt Cakes from our time in Texas,” said Kim. “I always loved their cheerful environment, their cakes and their values. and it was a great opportunity to bring a bit of something I loved from Texas to Pennsylvania.”

The Wright family at Nothing Bundt Cakes Photo courtesy of Kim Wright

With over 400 bakeries in the United States, Nothing Bundt Cakes is a successful, niche bakery concept with a “Mom and Pop” feel. Each bakery location has the warmth and nostalgia of a home-kitchen serving an old family favorite – the Bundt cake. Each cake features fun and contemporary cake decorations that can be personalized for any occasion.

The Wrights are now the owners of Nothing Bundt Cakes (NothingBundtCakes.com) in three locations: Springfield, Ardmore/Wynnewood and King of Prussia/Wayne. “The unexpected thing I love about being a small business owner is being able to provide a healthy work environment for young people,” said Kim. “I hope to be able to give them skills they can use

for life. I treat them as I would want my own children to be treated at their first job.” Will said he plans on continuing to grow Wright Commissioning, but in the future, he may take on a larger role at Nothing Bundt Cakes. “Of course, that’s if Kim lets me,” he added jokingly.

Through Nothing Bundt Cakes, the Wrights have also been involved in many community activities including fundraising events or donations for school groups and friends and neighbors. “I love being able to donate or get involved in an event that we’re personally connected to,” said Kim. “That makes it extra special!” continued on page 10

Come See

Auto Service

Bringing Spring Into Focus!

Optician on staff Diagnosing/treating eye conditions • Eye exams (glasses & contacts) • Fashion eyewear • Lab on site • •

Dr. Michael Allodoli, OD

2109 S. Sproul Road, Broomall, PA 19008 www.FritschsLibertyBroomall.com I 610-356-1845

www.BroomallEyeCare.com

•

610 -325-7688

Lawrence Park Business Center, 580 Reed Road, Ste A5-6 Broomall (Behind the Lawrence Park Shopping Center)

April 2021

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Resident Feature

The Wright family on the ice

The Wright boys at the beach Photos courtesy of Kim Wright

If you think the Wrights aren’t busy enough running three bakeries and a commissioning business, they also have four young boys. Their oldest son Aidan, born in 2009, is a 6th-grader at Paxon Hollow Middle School. Kim said they call “Aidan their miracle boy” because she was told that for medical reasons, she only had a “one in a million chance” of becoming pregnant. But Aidan came along with no medical assistance. He’s a responsible, reserved and rule-following young man. He loves rubik’s cubes, puzzles, trivia and juggling, and is also part of a Ukulele Club.

Next in the family are identical twin boys Brady and Jack. To tell them apart when they were babies (and even now occasionally), Kim and Will dressed Brady in blue and Jack in green.

Now 10 years old and 4th-graders at Loomis Elementary, the boys are very outgoing and always the life of a party. “They’ve never met a stranger,” said Kim. “Together or apart, they take the fun with them wherever they go.”

Their youngest son, Charlie, was the Wright family’s surprise.

Described by his mom as fierce and demanding, Charlie is a joyful four-year-old who attends Pre-K at Temple Sholom in Broomall and loves Paw Patrol and Legos.

The three oldest boys play ice hockey on club teams and through the Marple Newtown Ice Hockey Club, where Kim

Special Moments Captured Sierra Clark Photography

Sierra Clark Photography www.SierraClarkPhoto.com • 610 - 772 - 3740 10

Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

serves as the club’s Elementary School Vice President. “We are a major hockey family,” said Kim. “We also have season tickets to the Philadelphia Flyers, so when we aren’t playing hockey, we’re watching hockey!”

Although the Wright’s businesses and boys’ activities keep them busy, they love hockey weekends where they get to travel to places like Hershey, PA, and Toronto, Canada. One of their favorite trips was to Lake Placid, New York, where the boys got to play ice hockey on the frozen lake and the family got to ride on an Olympic bobsled. In summertime the Wrights can be found at their happy place, Ocean View Resort and Campground, where they own a trailer and get to spend plenty of time at the beach.

Since 2017, the Wrights have lived on a cul-de-sac in Beatty Woods, where coincidentally they have neighbors who are from Dallas, Texas. “We have the best neighbors!” said Kim. “Every year, we do a cul-de-sac Easter Egg hunt for the kids, and we try to get together on the 4th of July, too!”

“ ” We have the best neighbors!

The Wrights love being part of the Marple community and finding out about groups or causes important to their neighbors. “Nothing Bundt Cakes is always looking for ways to connect to the local community,” said Kim. “And we appreciate how much they’ve supported us. Since moving here, we’ve learned that folks in Delco are fiercely loyal to their neighbors.

We lived in many different places, but this is our forever home.

Our family just fits here!”

Do you know a Broomall Resident or Family who should become known by our community? Make your nominations for upcoming magazine features about Broomall residents, families, youth, seniors or nonprofit groups by emailing your ideas to Holly Stupak at HStupak@BestVersionMedia.com. M

Where Are We?

Can You Spot It From the Air? Hint:

This “park way” intersection, in either Newtown Township or Marple Township, has parking nearby and signs to “reed.”

Can You Spot It From The Air? The answer can be found on Page 25

Photo Courtesy of FAA-Certified Drone Pilot Chris Stack (NewPigeonImaging@gmail.com)

HOW CAN YOU MAKE A VISIT TO FREDDY’S

Even Sweeter?

Schedule a Freddy’s Fundraiser!

Visit one of our locations for more details.

www.FreddysUSA.com

BROOMALL 2084 Sproul Rd

WEST CHESTER 1302 Wilmington Pike

BROOKHAVEN 5051 Edgmont Ave

April 2021

EXTON 221 Eagleview Blvd

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Real Estate

Homes Recently Sold In Marple Township Address

Sold Price

Beds

Baths

Sq. Ft.

Acres

2964 Dorman Avenue . . . . . . $385,000 . . . 3 . . . . 2 . . . . 1,983 . . . 0.28 520 W Pkwy Way . . . . . . . . . $520,000 . . . 3 . . . 2.5 . . . . 2,285 . . . 0.24 356 Marple Road . . . . . . . . $500,000 . . . 3 . . . 2.5 . . . . 2,778 . . . 0.64 58 Delia Drive . . . . . . . . . . $444,900 . . . 3 . . . . 2 . . . . 1,308 . . . 0.22 118 Beechtree Drive . . . . . . . $370,000 . . . 3 . . . . 2 . . . . 2,213 . . . 0.61 18 Summit Avenue . . . . . . . . $410,000 . . . 3 . . . 2.5 . . . . 1,664 . . . 0.15 38 Hillside Road . . . . . . . . . $340,000 . . . 3 . . . . 1 . . . . 1,475 . . . 0.33 29 Schoolhouse Lane . . . . . . $444,000 . . . 4 . . . . 2 . . . . 1,592 . . . 0.14 20 Kimberly Way . . . . . . . . . $685,000 . . . 5 . . . 3.5+ . . . 6,204 . . . 0.50 205 Foxcroft Road . . . . . . . . $505,200 . . . 3 . . . . 2 . . . . 1,607 . . . 0.46 6 Hibberds Place . . . . . . . . . $540,000 . . . 4 . . . 3.5 . . . . 3,192 . . . 0.47 2605 Highland Avenue . . . . . . $410,000 . . . 3 . . . 1.5+ . . . 1,864 . . . 0.27 665 Barclay Lane . . . . . . . . . $651,000 . . . 4 . . . 2.5 . . . . 3,300 . . . 0.26 405 Sunny Hill Lane . . . . . . . . $450,000 . . . 3 . . . 1.5 . . . . 1,828 . . . 0.22 2701 N Kent Road . . . . . . . . $602,500 . . . 3 . . . 2.5 . . . . 2,764 . . . 1.64 2625 Sunset Boulevard . . . . . . $375,000 . . . 3 . . . 2.5 . . . . 2,033 . . . 0.19 Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.

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12

Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

Expert Contributor Written by Len Sciulli Len Sciulli & Sons

Optimizing Your A/C for Working from Home

B

ack in the old days, when we spent workdays at the office, commercial HVAC systems would be optimized for employee performance. Since working from home has become the norm, we’re left to our own devices to make sure we have the best conditions for performing at our best.

Besides the right workstation ergonomics, you need to ensure that the air quality is suitable for the hours you spend working.

Here are some HVAC tips for optimizing your work-fromhome performance.

VENTILATION A poorly ventilated space results in a buildup of carbon dioxide, volatile organic compounds and pathogens, each of which can make you sick. Even without actually getting sick, you’ll find yourself getting headaches, feeling tired and otherwise unable to perform at your best.

HUMIDITY Humidity issues range from mold growth in your home to dry mucus membranes. Your health is affected by humidity issues that can affect your performance. Something as simple as dry skin can be a distraction even if you don’t have more severe humidity issues in your home. Consider adding a humidifier to your home’s HVAC system with proper humidity control so that you’re not faced with humidity that’s too high or low, especially during cold weather.

Now is the time to get your home’s air-conditioning system working at its best so you can work at your best! M

Maintain Your HVAC System During Every Season

The human body needs fresh air for good health, which affects your ability to work from home. Rather than deal with the difficulties of low energy and struggle through each day, make simple upgrades to your HVAC system, to introduce more ventilation.

At a minimum, ensure that you have exhaust fans that work and operate regularly. Ideally, add a whole-house ventilation system with an energy recovery ventilator so you minimize your energy consumption while boosting your work efficiency.

TEMPERATURE Temperatures too high can make you drowsy. (It’s probably not the work. Well, perhaps partly, but that’s another story).

A hot workspace will cause you to lose electrolytes and reduce your brain’s ability to process information. On the other hand, a room that’s too cold will also prevent you from concentrating enough to get your work done. Shivering is distracting at the very least, and any level of ongoing discomfort while working will affect your ability to work.

Have your furnace tuned and make modifications as necessary to keep your space at the right temperature so you can perform at your peak.

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April 2021

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13

Business Profile

100 Years and Four Generations of Entrepreneurial Spirit

by Holly Stupak

N

earing the 100th anniversary of the company, O’Donnell Roofing has experienced a long history of change, growth and adaptation. Current Owner Kevin O’Donnell is proud to be part of the history of O’Donnell Roofing, which spans four generations of his family.

In the first generation, a roof could cost $28 and a repair could cost $.60. For a time, the company signs read ‘C.A. O’Donnell II’ with no mention of roofing. C.A. was Kevin’s great-grandfather, Clement Aloysius O’Donnell. Clement started the company in West Philadelphia in 1924, and provided a number of services to the community. Instead of focusing only on roofing, C.A. O’Donnell II serviced coal burners in the winter when the demand for roofing quieted down. He owned a sheet metal shop where they would fabricate roofing and heating materials. There were no big box-stores down the street to buy materials for putting a roof and gutters on a house. Everything was custom.

Since the 1920s, the roofing industry has changed drastically, and so has the company’s service line, but the O’Donnell name still stands strong. The family business has combined

Owner Kevin O’Donnell Photo by Dan Hall, Prestige Photography

innovation with adaptation, to remain relevant and hold on to the traditional local charm that started almost 100 years ago.

Kevin O’Donnell has managed the company since 2012, when his father, Laurence, stepped away from his executive management role. Laurence had started with the company at age 19, and by 29, he took over the head role from his father (Kevin’s grandfather) Clement Jr. Under Laurence’s influence, the company expanded and changed quite a bit, by moving into different roofing product lines and customer types. Laurence started doing roof restorations and custom roofs including slate, cedar and copper. His work became the premier standard for custom metal and restoration roofing in the area, and he was even hired to restore the R5 Line Train Station roofs.

“My dad is now a consultant for a lot of companies because of his extensive experience,” Kevin said proudly. “He’s one of the best in the area and in his field.”

Kevin and his dad Laurence were always close and loved spending weekends together at the shore in Ventnor. Kevin savored the chance to spend time with his dad when he was younger, and attributes his time working with his father from age 12 as a huge part of his work ethic. “I was a determined young kid,” Kevin said. “Whatever I did, it was entrepreneurial.”

After graduating from Haverford High School, Kevin went to college in Vermont, through a work-study program. In between his classes, he kept himself busy by running a deli. The lifestyle was fun and fast. Kevin also enjoyed snowboarding in Burlington 100 days out of the year while he was there. With that said, it wasn’t “home” and it wasn’t what Kevin really wanted to do. “I realized up there what I was always destined to do,” Kevin explained.

Owner Kevin O’Donnell with his dad Laurence Photo by Dan Hall, Prestige Photography 14

Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

After four years in Vermont, Kevin returned home in the early 2000s, and began working for his dad again. “I was surrounded by 30-year-olds but I didn’t care. My whole philosophy was “Show me once, and I won’t forget it,” Kevin said proudly about his younger self.

In the past 10 years, Kevin O’Donnell has taken over the company and focused on growth. He dove headfirst into the business side. Laurence stepped aside after leading the company for over 30 years, but continued to help Kevin by maintaining clients and continuing to provide the customer service and work ethic that O’Donnell Roofing is known for. By 2012, Kevin had taken the lead and the company began growing rapidly.

Since 2008, the crew has grown from 5 employees to about 50, and Kevin makes it a priority to treat every employee with time and respect. “They rely on me for work every day, and I worked hard to build these relationships and honor that,” Kevin said.

In the past seven years, Kevin began servicing commercial clients, a new branch of work that he has nurtured since taking over the company and one that he considers the first innovation he can claim as his own. The new employees and the professional growth of the company under his management have been something he takes pride in and focuses time, effort and resources on building.

Kevin’s family has also grown these past seven years. He married his wife Lisa in 2014, and they now have two children: six-year-old son Ryan and two-year-old daughter Kaitlyn.

Kevin O’Donnell with his wife Lisa and their children Kaitlyn and Ryan Photo by Courtney Ay Photography, www.Facebook.com/CourtneyAyPhotography

Through quality workmanship and 100 years of experience, O’Donnell Roofing (www.ODonnellRoofingCo.com) continues to provide outstanding roofing services and solutions to their customers. Kevin has the same entrepreneurial spirit

and commitment to honesty and integrity that runs through his bloodline. And the O’Donnell Roofing team has the skills, training and expertise to make every roofing project a success from start to finish. M

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15

Our Community

The Marple Civic Association’s New Youth Board:

Teens Taking Action

by Holly Stupak Photos courtesy of Demetra D’Ambrosio

T

he past year of social distancing and quarantining has been hard on everyone, especially high school students.

So many typical activities that students looked forward to like parties and proms, music and academic competitions, and sporting events were canceled. One group of local teens has found a way to offer safe, fun and all inclusive ways to hang out with friends. Through the Marple Civic Association Youth Board, also known as Teens Taking Action, teens can plan positive activities and make a difference in their community.

with friends,” said Marissa. “I wanted to find a way that teens could come together and have a safe place to get involved, get out of the house and meet people.” Because the Marple Civic Association had already been established in 2020, they were a perfect fit for the Youth Board, who pitched the idea to Marple Civic in January.

Steve Reynolds, Executive Director for the Marple Civic Association (MCA), said Marple Civic was already talking about getting youth involved in their organization when the group of students approached them. “It’s really a perfect fit,” said Steve. “I was so impressed with these young men and women who want to get involved and help out the community.”

The Marple Civic Youth Board with the Advisors Top row: Steve Reynolds, Leighann Cirillo, Mike Grassi, Demetra D’Ambrosio Seated: Dom Carafa (Community Service & Politics Chair, Carly Maclaughlin (Vice-President & Photography Chair) Christian Sessa (Publicity & Social Media Chair), Joe Downs (Fundraising Chair) Marissa D’Ambrosio (President)

Marissa D’Ambrosio, a junior at MNHS, had the idea to establish a youth group in Marple. “Since the pandemic started, a lot of high school students are having trouble staying connected Ask about OUR NEW Cleaning & Surface Protection!

In addition to Marissa, who will serve as Youth Board President, the Youth Board includes MNHS high school students Carly MacLaughlin (Vice-President and Photography Chair), Dom Carafa (Community Service and Politics Chair), Christian Sessa (Publicity and Social Media Chair), and Joe Downs (Fundraising Chair).

The group will also have two parent moderators, Demetra D’Ambrosio and Leighann Cirillo. “This past year, many of our children have experienced a fundamental loss. They’ve really had to grieve for some of the opportunities they’ve missed,” said Demetra. “But instead of complaining, this group of students took initiative and figured out how they can bring other kids together in a safe and fun environment.”

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Hunger, and an Open Air Cinema night. They’re also planning an end of the school year bonfire. Through guest speakers and webinars, they’ll support teens by covering topics like antistress, mindfulness, wellness and nutrition. “The pandemic has affected teens in so many ways,” said Demetra. “They don’t have the same amount of interaction with teachers and coaches that they used to. The Youth Board can also be a support system by providing resources that can help their overall well being.” They already launched their first nutritional video in a bi-weekly series called Kitchen Chemistry: Table Talk with Terry, hosted by registered dietitian Terry Crossan, to give teens ideas for healthy recipes.

The Marple Civic Youth Board

“I’m really happy to be able to help the teens in our community to have better access to community service opportunities as well as safe social events during the pandemic,” added Leighann. “We’re also looking forward to extending the youth program to middle school children!”

Marple Civic Board Member Mike Grassi also plans to oversee the youth board and looks forward to initiating a job-mentoring program. “We’d really like to work with high school students who are planning on an alternative to college,” said Mike. “We have several MCA board members who own their own business or work in one of the trade industries. We can use our experiences to show high school students what types of careers are available after high school.”

While adults will provide guidance, direction and program supervision, it is the youth who will ultimately define and lead it. "This is a great opportunity for high school students to take on leadership roles,” explained Demetra. “They’ve already proven themselves to be innovative and productive, and are savvy when it comes to communication.”

This spring the Youth Board organized a “Make your Easter Egg-cellent” event, meal-packing events at Kids Against

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Youth Board Fundraising Chair, and President of the MNHS junior class, Joe Downs, has new ideas for teens to get involved in community service. “We are already planning on reaching out to senior citizens in the community who may need help.

Our idea is that we would be able to shop and provide other services to the elderly who may not be able to leave their homes,” Joe said.

Any high school or middle school students or parents who live in Marple Newtown who want to volunteer can reach out by direct messaging the Civic Youth on Instagram (@marplecivicyouth) and Facebook. To find out how to become a sponsor, please visit the Marple Civic Association website (www.MarpleCivic.org).

“We are really excited to bring people together!” said Marissa.

“It’s a great opportunity to get involved and meet new people.” M

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17

Expert Contributor Written by David Linn Cook Weatherproofing Plus Inc.

Yes, a Dry and Carpeted Basement IS Possible!

D

oes your home have a basement that’s going unused because it’s damp and smelly? Is your basement floor often too wet to feel good about putting down nice carpeting over a thick pad? It’s definitely possible to transform your basement into a clean, dry, fully usable, carpeted and inviting space — if that makeover is done the right way, as a two-phase project.

PHASE 1: Proper Waterproofing, Ventilation and Weatherproofing Too much humidity or moisture in your basement can cause the walls to sweat, show visible mold, or even “weep” (water

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Properly waterproofing the walls requires more than simply sealing wall cracks and painting the walls with a waterproof paint. Basement windows may need to be repaired, replaced or installed, to provide adequate ventilation so humid air can escape and fresh air can come in. And your home must be properly weatherproofed: Gutters, downspouts and landscaping around your home must make rain and melted snow and ice drain away from your home’s foundation so that moisture can’t leak back in through the basement walls.

If your basement floor floods after it rains, or you don’t want to risk flooding if your washing machine or water heater malfunctions, a french drain and a sump pump will effectively keep water off the floor and also pump the water outside.

PHASE 2: Clean and Seal the Floor After the floor and walls have been properly waterproofed and the french drain has fully cured, the basement’s concrete floor must be thoroughly cleaned, using basic soap and water. (No harsh chemicals are needed. “Green” solutions work.) Remove all the dirt and residue by hosing down the floor with the spray nozzle at full volume. The slop will flow into the french drain, and the sump pump will push it outside.

• Basement Waterproofing • Waterproofing Coatings • Foundation & Crack Repair • Sump Pump Install /Service • Mold Remediation • Humidity Control Management David Linn Cook 30 Year MN Resident Weatherization Expert

runs down the walls) after it rains. For humid and smelly basements, the recommended “solution” is often to run several dehumidifiers. That’s ineffective and noisy, and the electricity required is expensive.

Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

When the floor is thoroughly cleaned and dry, hand-paint the floor using a high-gloss enamel sealing paint. That type of floor paint will stick and shine for a very long time. It will also reduce the humidity that could come up through the floor.

But Wait...There’s More: PHASE 3!

Now, you get to enjoy and feel confident about finishing the walls with drywall and/or installing wall-to-wall carpeting over a nice thick pad! The carpeted basement floor will no longer be the coldest spot in your house. Now, it will provide insulation and warmth in the winter, acoustic soundproofing, and a comfortable playing area for the kids. Your home’s air-conditioning system will manage the basement’s summer humidity, and all occupants in your home will benefit from the basement’s clean, non-humid air and energy-efficient functionality. M

Expert Contributor Written by Ryan Corbett, Master Plumber Dream Team Home Services

Replacing Your Water Heater Sometime Soon?

O

ne of the most common home improvement projects is replacing the hot water heater. Why? Because 8 - 12 years is the typical lifespan of a standard tankstyle electric or gas water heater before it starts to leak and fail. Some homeowners may get some warning signs, but many water heaters fail with no warning signs, and such failure is simply due to age.

The effects of the tank leaking range from minimal to quite damaging. For example, if the water heater is in an unfinished basement and near a sump pump, damage would probably be minimal because the leaked water might be handled by the sump pump. But if the water heater is in a finished basement or in some other part of your home, a water leak could result in a LOT of damage. In such cases, it’s recommended that you replace the unit based strictly on its age, to avoid the risk of damage that could require costly repairs. Two other reasons to consider replacement are if you can see rust or corrosion on the piping or tank, or if your “hot” water is only lukewarm or cold.

Leak detection devices are now popular. Those devices give you the option of having the water heater set in a pan that can be capped if there’s no way to drain the leaked water into a pipe or other collection bucket. The leak detector sits in the pan, and if

water is detected in the pan, the device automatically shuts off the water to the tank.

Plumbing code now requires that each new installed water heater must also include a thermal expansion tank. When water gets heated, it expands. If there’s nowhere for that expansion to go, the tank and the plumbing system experiences that expansion as pressure that can build up and cause the temperature and pressure relief valve to drip or blow off. Even a minimal amount of unusual pressure due to tank expansion can cause unnecessary stress to the tank and the plumbing system.

Has the number of people living in your household increased, creating the need for more hot water? Has your bathroom been remodeled and now includes a deep soaking tub? A larger water heater may be necessary. Water heaters come in several sizes, so before getting a new one, seriously consider whether it’s time to get one that’s larger than what you’ll replace.

Did you know that about 25% of the energy your home uses goes toward heating your water? Tankless water heaters are energy-efficient; can save on space; and can last 15 - 20 years.

One of the best features of a tankless water heater is endless hot water. To maximize the life of your tankless water heater, have it serviced and flushed annually. M

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19

History Spotlight

The 1956 Marple-Newtown High School Fire Written by Doug Humes Photos courtesy of the Marple Historical Society

The original 1914 school building

O

n April 9, 1956, just past Noon, the Marple-Newtown High School custodian, George Earle, was eating lunch in a basement room. He smelled smoke, opened the door to an adjacent storage room, and found it in flames. At the same time, teacher Anne Campbell saw smoke and instructed her class to leave the building. The fire alarm sounded. A contemporary news article noted that 750 pupils and 38 teachers filed out in two minutes, in orderly fashion.

The fire alarm was supposed to alert the nearby fire companies, but someone noticed that the phone wires from the building had burned. Two students jumped in their cars and raced to the Newtown and Marple firehouses, to give the alarm. When teacher Harry Harvey ran to his room to get records and money from a safe, he found himself trapped by the fire. Several students grabbed a nearby ladder and put it up to Harry’s room window, and he climbed down. Students and teachers worked

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In the fall of 1956, the 10th - 12th grade students had classes every morning in the old high school’s intact portion, and 8thand 9th-graders had classes there afternoons 12:00 - 4:15pm.

Double sessions continued that way until January 1958, when the new high school (grades 10 - 12) opened and the renovated old building became the new junior high (grades 7 - 9).

Firemen responding to the fire at the high school

together to try to rescue records, musical instruments and furniture from the building. Eric McGillicuddy, great grandson of Hall of Fame Philadelphia Athletics' Manager Connie Mack, was hit in the arm by a chair, and was taken to the hospital for treatment.

The firemen who responded from 13 local fire companies sprayed water on the fire, and several suffered smoke inhalation, including Marple Chief Newt Kerber. At 3:05pm, Newtown Chief George Mackey declared the fire under control.

The fire destroyed the original 1914 portion of the building, causing $500,000 worth of damage. The silver lining? The million-dollar addition then under construction, largely escaped damage. Classes were suspended that week while the school board met to devise a plan for getting students back to the classroom. (At that time, the high school included students in grades 7 - 12.)

Aerial photo of new MNHS campus in 1960 Photo courtesy of MNHS 1960 Yearbook

For more on the history of Marple, visit the Marple Historical Society website and Facebook page, and join the Society to keep up to date on coming events: www.MarpleHistoricalSociety.org. M

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Cleaning up the debris from the fire

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The Haverford Junior High building had been recently closed for renovations. Haverford offered that building for use, so students in grades 8 - 10 temporarily went there. Students in grades 11 and 12 were relocated to the incomplete new addition while work continued all around them. And 7th-grade students were split up: Some attended classes at Garrett Williamson Lodge, others at the Marple grade school.

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April 2021

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21

Calendar

As an Essential Business

April Calendar of Events

We’re OPEN & AVAILABLE!

LIVE LOCAL EVENTS

e Give Your Hom

a Beautiful New Look!

Fri. April 9

Open Air Cinema @Veterans Memorial Park 354 Lawrence Rd, Broomall Bring a lawn chair and a blanket, and enjoy this night out under the stars with family and friends while social distancing and watching the 1993 classic movie The Sandlot. Hosted by Marple Civic Youth. All proceeds benefit the Marple Civic Association. Tickets must be ordered online in advance using the Google form at www.Facebook.com/ MarpleCivic.

Time: Doors open 7:30pm; movie starts 8:15pm Cost: Adults $10, Kids $5 (Venmo pay only)

Sun. April 18

Sunday Story Time @Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation 3900 N Sandy Flash Dr, Newtown Square Sunday Story Time is new this year! We will be reading from the children's book, How a Shirt Grew in the Field. Children will then do a hands-on activity, go on a behind-the-scenes farm tour, and then all are welcome to picnic in our grove.

Children will also receive an activity book to take home! Member reservations and tickets may be purchased on the website.

Time: 12 - 2pm Cost: Children ages 4 - 12 $6; under 4 FREE

610-566-1725 www.ColonialPlantation.org Fridays, April 9, 16 & 23

Weekend Warm-Up Hikes @Tyler Arboretum 515 Painter Rd, Media

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Start your day off right with a brisk, one-hour hike through Tyler’s gardens and out onto the trails. Each week, explore a different part of the Arboretum. The Weekend Warm-Up Hikes will introduce you to Tyler’s hiking trails while providing a moderate cardio workout. Routes will start in front of the Barn, and cover a mix of asphalt, gravel and natural surfaces.

Time: 8:15 - 9:15am Cost: Members, FREE (sign-in for discount) Non-Members, $15pp (daily admission)

www.TylerArboretum.org Sundays, April 11 – May 9

Thurs. April 22

Pulling Together: Earth Day Invasive Species Hike @Ridley Creek State Park 1023 Sycamore Mills Rd, Media Celebrate EARTH DAY by joining your DCNR Park Naturalist for a hands-on nature hike to identify local native and invasive plants along park trails and learn how we can help protect and enhance wildlife habitat. Participants are welcome to bring work gloves and clippers for some actual hands-on experience. Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, participants are limited to 25 at a time with masks and 6-ft social distancing.

Time: 9am - 12pm Cost: FREE

www.DCNR.org

Healthy Kids Running Series @Gauntlett Community Center 20 Media Line Rd, Broomall The Healthy Kids Running Series is a five-week running program in the spring and fall for kids pre-K–8th grade. Each HKRS series takes place once a week and offers age appropriate running events including the 50- and 75-yard dashes, the 1/4 mile, the 1/2 mile and the 1-mile run.

Time: 12pm & 1pm Cost: $40

www.RunSignUp.com/Race/PA/Broomall/ HKRSMarpleNewtown Friday, April 16 – Sun. April 18

Greater Philadelphia Spring Home Show @Valley Forge Casino Resort 1160 First Ave, King of Prussia At the Home Show, our goal is simple: To inspire, motivate and excite you for your upcoming home improvement, whether it's a minor renovation or a major remodel.

This event will feature a wide selection of home improvement professionals in a fun, interactive environment. Advance tickets are required, and face coverings must be worn.

Time: Fri. 11am - 8pm; Sat. 10am - 8pm; Sun. 10am - 5pm Cost: FREE

www.GreaterPhillyHomeShows-vf.com/free-pass 22 Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

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Education, Sales and Service • Gunsmithing & firearm appraisals • Firearm consulting & training • Woman led & novice classes

• We buy and consign estates & collections

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Mon. - Fri.: 10am - 6pm Saturday by appointment Sunday Closed

610-556-0223

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“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” ~ Nelson Mandela

VIRTUAL EVENTS & ACTIVITIES Sat. April 10

Virtual Safe Sitter: Babysitter Training Course Main Line Health This course is designed for students ages 11-14 who want to become safe babysitters.

Pre-registration with payment is required 2 weeks in advance. A book will be mailed to your home and a link will be emailed to you after registration.

Time: 10am - 1pm Cost: $40

866-225-5654 to register Thurs. April 15

Kendall-Jackson Virtual Cooking Class: Paella!

Our Kendall-Jackson Chefs bring you an amazing and delicious virtual cooking class featuring Chicken, Chorizo and Seafood Paella. Download the recipes to cook along, or simply pour a glass of wine, invite a friend and enjoy! This is a virtual event that will be conducted via Zoom.

Advance registration is required. Prior to the event, all registered participants will be emailed a Zoom link and password.

Time: 7pm Cost: FREE

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Earth Day 2021 Virtual Stage A full line-up of speakers and presentations will explore issues like green living, sustainable business and community-building around environmental issues.

We’ll feature prominent climate activists, scientists, celebrities, community leaders, performers and public officials in an interactive line-up of panels and discussions.

Time: 12 - 8pm Cost: FREE

www.EarthDayInitiative.org/2021-events

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April 2021

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23

Our Community

Re-Leaf Marple: Plant a Tree This Spring Written by Holly Stupak

Photos courtesy of the Marple Tree Commission

L

ooking to add a touch of beautiful nature to your property this spring? Planting a tree is not only a great way to improve the aesthetics of your home, it also gives a gift to the environment and to our community.

Did you know that as a resident of Marple, the Marple Tree Commission will come to your home to plant a tree in your yard? Re-Leaf Marple is a program of the Marple Tree Commission through which Marple Township residents can purchase trees for their properties at nominal cost.

Each spring, approximately 50 trees ranging from small (height of 20') to very large (height of 80') are available for purchase. Small flowering trees have been the most popular. Since 2012, the Marple Tree Commission has planted 537 trees in Marple Township.

When you purchase a tree through the Re-Leaf Marple program, a Marple Tree Commission member will assist you in

The Marple Tree Commission celebrating Arbor Day

planting, mulching and staking the tree. They will also install protection from string trimmers (weedwackers) and deer.

As a volunteer for the Marple Tree Commission, Marple resident Janis Egan has been planting trees in Broomall since the program started. “I’ve enjoyed going to people’s homes, to help them plant a tree in their yard and educate them on how to care for it,” said Janis. “Trees can give a place a unique character and beauty.”

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www.SpeerSwimSchool.com/GetStarted EmilySpeer@SpeerSwimSchool.com 24 Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

Lindsey Poeth, CSA

Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)®

The tree commission also plants trees throughout the Marple community. Although the pandemic forced them to postpone their usual Arbor Day tree planting last April, they were able to reschedule their Arbor Day plans in November 2020, planting trees at the Broomall Fire Company, the Thomas Massey House and in several Broomall parks.

If any Marple resident is interested in purchasing a tree for their yard, contact Janis at 610-356-5046 or send an email to Marianne.F.Price@gmail.com. The list of trees changes from year to year. A new list is posted on the website (www.MarpleTreeCommission.com), and trees are planted in the spring and early summer. M

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Members of the Marple Tree Commission tubing a tree

From the Air Answer (pg. 11): The “park way” intersection near signs to “reed” is the intersection of “Parkway” and “Reed Rd” in Marple Township, at the entrance of the Lawrence Park Industrial Park.

April 2021

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Expert Contributor Written by Marc Belitsky, D.C., D.A.C.R.B. Broomall Total Health Center

Purge Spinal Pain from Your Career

F

or over a year, many people have been working from their home “office” in an environment that’s not ergonomically designed for sitting at a computer. With so much time spent in our virtual world, our bodies — especially our necks and backs — are suffering from real-world diseases such as migraine headaches and chronic pain due to the habitual bad postures we hold while using our electronic devices for so many hours each day.

Years ago, the unhealthiest people were often those who had careers that required hard, repetitive physical labor, or traveling long distances in a low sitting position in an auto or truck.

Those job requirements were usually the largest contributors to poor health, more so than auto accidents, as might be expected.

The digital age now rules many careers, and our time sitting in poor postures has more than tripled. This has caused an increase in health problems ranging from neck pain, back pain,

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headaches, carpal tunnel syndrome and sciatica to the onset of many disease processes including obesity. For many people, it unfortunately takes being diagnosed with a life-threatening disease or being inconvenienced by acute symptoms before they realize that’s their body’s way of saying, “To return to full health, you must make some changes!”

A study in The American Journal of Epidemiology reported that sitting for long stretches (more than six hours a day) can make someone at least 18% more likely to die from diabetes, heart disease or obesity compared to people who sit less than three hours a day. And a study done by Physiologist Marc Hamilton discovered that when lab mice were prevented from standing up, an enzyme that burns fat got turned off, which led to the mice gaining weight.

Computers, cell phones and our virtual world are obviously here to stay. To reduce the pain and stop the degenerative physical changes caused by using those devices so much, “unplug yourself” for a while every day. Prioritize creating a healthy lifestyle by making some or all of these recommended behavioral changes:

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2. Attach a separate monitor, keyboard and mouse to your laptop.

4. After your evening meal, don’t immediately go and sit or lounge on the sofa or in a recliner. Instead, stand, stretch or walk for 10 minutes or more.

5. Get regular exercise.

6. Get regular chiropractic adjustments, to keep your spine, neck, back, hips and legs properly aligned.

By making positive changes to your posture, you’ll experience many real-world — not virtual! — physical benefits including reduced pain and increased energy! M

Expert Contributor Written by Jim Casar Carpet Warehouse

Spring Cleaning? Don’t Forget Your Carpets!

H

as winter snow and ice gotten tracked into your house, causing your carpets to look dirty and spotted? It’s hard to keep carpets looking clean during the winter. But now that spring is here, it's important to remove from your carpets all the mud and salts that came in on wet shoes and boots.

One of the most important things you can do all year long is vacuum your carpets. Regular vacuuming helps keep them looking good by keeping the carpet pile raised, not looking dull and flat, which is what happens when dirt breaks down the carpet fibers. But vacuuming alone can’t get all the dirt out of your carpets.

If you really want to get to “the bottom of things” by removing all the dirt and restoring your carpets to like-new conditions, you have to bring in a professional. The money spent on professional carpet cleaning will protect your investment and help your carpet look better longer. Sure, carpet shampooers and steam-cleaning machines do a modest job, but they’re not designed to remove deep-down dirt. They simply don’t pack enough punch to properly handle the job.

The carpet’s fibers and backing are prematurely destroyed when dirt remains in the carpet for an extended period of time.

In order to loosen and extract all the dirt completely — all the way down to the backing — a professional-grade carpet-cleaning machine must be used.

If you have had new carpet installed in the past, you know that usually includes a manufacturer’s warranty. Bringing in a certified specialist to clean your carpet every 12 to 18 months, and following the manufacturer’s other maintenance requirements, will ensure that your warranty will be honored. Just don’t forget to keep those receipts that prove regular deep cleaning was done.

It’s time to open those windows and get ready for fresh air and flowers! Everything in your home should look and feel new in springtime. As you take the time to spruce up your home,

add professional carpet cleaning to your list. Hire a certified professional carpet cleaning company and you’ll immediately notice the difference. Dirty, dingy winter-worn carpets will look brighter and feel and smell cleaner. M

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27

Our Community

Supporting Those Who Support Our Community

by Holly Stupak Photo courtesy of Scott McCoy

W

hen Broomall resident Scott McCoy was growing up, he and his cousin Brian Staley idolized their grandfather, Sergeant John J. Kelly, a World War II hero who went on to join the police force. They always wanted to find a way to pay back veterans and other frontline heroes, including their wives Jackie and Melinda, both healthcare workers.

Now, their families are on a mission to support frontline workers in what they call the “Frontline way.” What started as a “pipe dream” recently became the Frontline Food Company (www.FrontlineFoodCo.com), a food trailer co-owned by the McCoys and Staleys, that specializes in organizing events to raise funds for frontline workers.

After graduating from Marple Newtown High School, Scott worked in the construction industry for many years and also considered himself a “foodie.” He and his wife Jackie are

raising their two young children in Broomall. They also run a successful party supply rental business. After the pandemic hit last spring, Scott was seeing changes in the construction business as well as the impact on frontline workers. He began thinking about the concept of a business that could give back to the community.

Wanting to do something in food service, Scott discussed the idea with his cousin Brian, a successful local chef who lives with his family in nearby Ridley Park. Together, they brainstormed how they could combine their skills and talents. “Brian and I discussed ideas for how to bring the community together to enjoy food and also raise funds for essential workers,” said Scott. “We wanted to come up with a way to pay people back for their service. What better way than donating part of the proceeds of an event to local heroes?”

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Getting the trailer ready for business became the cousins’ winter project. Scott built it from scratch, including the propane work, the 6-ft exhaust hood system and plumbing for the sink. He also added a handmade concession window. It also has a chalkboard, to feature the name of the organization that proceeds are going to for a particular event. The army salute logo on the truck is a nod to Scott and Brian’s grandfather. “That’s our way of saluting those who support us,” said Scott.

After having worked as a head chef at several local restaurants, Brian said he’s enjoyed coming up with an innovative menu.

“I’m doing what I love,” he said. “Not only do I get to be creative with food, but I get to say thanks and give back to the community!”

Co-owners of Frontline Food Company Brian Staley and Scott McCoy with their company trailer

Frontline Food Company can cater small to large events and can customize any menu. Brian said he likes to be able to get creative, too and change things up. They offer several different menus, including a football themed menu that was popular for Super Bowl Sunday.

Since the pandemic has wreaked havoc on the restaurant industry, Scott and Brian knew that a traditional restaurant setting may not work in these times. But food trucks and trailers by their very nature have more flexibility to continue to operate. “The idea of the food trailer worked really well for this concept,” said Scott, “and it’s the perfect way to safely serve food at local outdoor events and bring people together.”

After successful spring events like the Marple Moms Easter Egg Hunt, a Trout Fishing Tournament and neighborhood block parties, Frontline Food Company is already booking events for late spring and early summer. “We’re all about connecting with people over good food,” said Scott. “Whether it’s firefighters, law enforcement, teachers or other frontline heroes, we can’t wait to bring the community together to support them!” M

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April 2021

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www.MarpleMag.com 29

Expert Contributor Written by Scott Magness Scott’s Fireplace Products

Keeping Your Gas Fireplace In Tip-Top Shape

S

unny spring days and beautiful blooming flowers help us quickly forget winter’s cold weather. After being cooped up inside all winter, we eagerly get outside for landscaping, gardening and other outdoor activities. These enjoyable seasonal changes make it easy to also forget about our gas fireplaces… until it gets cold again.

When you’re ready again for the ambiance or heat your gas fireplace provides, you may find it won’t function properly because it had such a long “vacation.” Fall’s cooler temps can come early, and a non-functioning gas fireplace won’t do its usual great job of quickly taking the chill off and making your home warm and cozy.

Many homeowners don’t think about calling for a service or maintenance appointment for their gas fireplace until they discover it won’t turn on or it won’t work properly. If a gas fireplace is not properly maintained, such malfunctions always

seem to happen in the middle of winter or during a power outage. When homeowners call for a service appointment during those times, they’re often disappointed to learn there’s an extreme backlog and they will have to wait several weeks before a specialist can come to diagnose and fix the problem.

You can avoid those uncomfortable long waits and ensure your gas fireplace is always ready when you need it by scheduling preventive maintenance for your gas fireplace. How often your gas fireplace should be serviced depends on the manufacturer and model and also whether it’s vented or ventless. It’s easy and quick to schedule preventive maintenance during the spring or summer. When the specialist arrives, they will thoroughly clean the gas fireplace, check to be sure the logs are all properly positioned and aligned, and ensure that your gas fireplace operates as effectively as it should.

So enjoy the warm weather and sunny days ahead but do not completely forget about your gas fireplaces. Yes, they deserve a vacation after working so well during the winter. But get them serviced before fall or winter so you can avoid a potential operation lapse or a long and frustrating wait for service during the cold weather months. M

Value, at the end of the day, is what bridges the gap between low price desires and the premium products we offer at Scott’s Fireplace Products.

Direct Vent Inserts & Fireplaces Contemporary & Electric Fireplaces Glass Doors, Grates and Log Rings Vented & Vent-Free Gas Logs Gas Stoves & Accessories Outdoor Living Fire Pits

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3137 West Chester Pike Newtown Square, PA 30 Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

Expert Contributor Written by Jack Crowley, Jr. C&J Automotive Specialists

What It Does: A coolant flush removes all of the old coolant, which could turn acidic and start to clump. Other contaminants like rust and scale deposits that have built-up are also removed.

New coolant is added, to help the engine run smoothly again.

When to Get One: Every two years or 40,000 miles.

Don’t Forget to SpringClean Your Car’s Fluids!

S

pring cleaning isn’t just for your house; it should also be for your car! But don’t clean off just the salt from this past winter. You should also regularly clean out your car’s fluids with flushes.

What Is a Flush? Technically, an oil change is a fluid flush.

However, there are several different fluids that help your car do its job. When you bring your car in for an oil change, most mechanics will check and top-up your fluids for you. But a top-up is no replacement for a flush.

BRAKE FLUID FLUSH Why It’s Important: Your brake fluid is highly susceptible to gathering dirt and grime. Brake fluid is also hygroscopic, which means it pulls in moisture. If not regularly serviced, it can lead to inefficient or ineffective brakes — yikes!

What It Does: Your mechanic will use a brake-flushing machine to flush your brake hydraulic system of old brake fluid before replacing it with new fluid. A brake flush will also remove any water that may have built up in your brake lines due to condensation.

When to Get One: Every two to three years or every 25,000 to 35,000 miles. M

Here are three types of fluid flushes you should know about and their generally suggested intervals of when to get them.

TRANSMISSION FLUSH Why It’s Important: Over time, your transmission oil picks up dirt and grime that can coagulate on your friction clutches and cause clogs that can lead to severe damage to your transmission, which is one of your vehicle’s most expensive components.

What It Does: A transmission flush replaces 100% of your transmission fluid. By doing a 1-for-1 transfer of fluid, it allows for a purging of accumulated particles and deposits from the entire transmission with a specialized, cooler line flushing machine or pump inlet. A 1-for-1 transfer of fluid is done using a specialized cooler line flushing machine or pump inlet.

During this fluids transfer, the entire transmission is purged of accumulated particles and deposits.

When to Get One: Every two years or 30,000 miles.

COOLANT FLUSH Why It’s Important: Your engine’s coolant (also known as antifreeze) includes ethylene glycol, a chemical compound that regulates the engine’s temperature and prevents it from overheating or freezing. As your coolant ages, the ethylene glycol breaks down and loses its ability to regulate temperature, which increases the risk of your engine overheating or freezing. Chemical buildups could clog your radiator or heater core and cause your car to overheat. Old coolant also loses its antiacidic properties, which can lead to corrosion of engine parts.

April 2021

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www.MarpleMag.com 31

Bringing People Together

Marple 2988

FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS

Marple Civic Youth Presents Open Air Cinema to enjoy this night out under the stars offering the social distance advantage of the Veterans Memorial Park (354 Lawrence Rd, Broomall).

Adults $10, Kids $5. Tickets must be ordered online in advance using the Google form at www.Facebook.com/MarpleCivic (Venmo pay only).

The Youth Board of the Marple Civic Association (see pg. 16) will host its first event for Marple residents: Open Air Cinema, Friday, April 9th at 8:15pm (doors open at 7:30pm), with an open air showing of the 1993 classic The Sandlot. Bring a blanket and lawn chair and come out with family and friends

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