Marple Friends & Neighbors magazine, March 2022

Marple

2022 March

FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS

The Topakbashian Family Living Life to the Fullest Cover photo by Micduff Photography www.Micduff.com

Bringing People Together

Things To Do

MARCH Calendar of Events Daily in March

Daily through March 27

Saturdays in Spring

Flight on Ice

Winter Wonder

Art at The Square Tavern & Arts Center

@4901 West Chester Pk, Newtown Square

@Longwood Gardens 1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square

@Goshen & Newtown Street Roads

Flight on Ice is Newtown Square’s first pop-up outdoor ice-skating rink and offers fun for the entire family. This winter wonderland features a 60' x 100' full-size outdoor skating rink, a heated hospitality tent with food, drinks and merchandise. Special events and live music are on the schedule to keep you entertained this winter.

Time: Mon. – Fri. 3 – 10pm; Sat. 11am – 10pm; Sun. 11am – 8pm Cost: Check their website for current Season Pass, Family Pass and Individual Ticket pricing.

610 - 627-2100 www.FlightOnIce.com Daily through March 27

Fore! The Planet Indoor Mini Golf @Linvilla Orchards 137 W Knowlton Rd, Media

This winter, experience a warm, colorful oasis in our grand Conservatory. Vibrant Streptocarpus ‘Concord Blue’ baskets float above, pink and purple Saintpaulia (African-violets) delight and tall Clerodendrum schmidtii (chains-of-glory) stun.

From beds of coral Cymbidium to a dedicated area showcasing highlights from our vast collection, find hundreds of orchids in spectacular bloom. Outside, stroll 400 acres of winter’s beauty. Winter at Longwood… the best of both worlds. Visiting guidelines are in accordance with state and local regulations. Timed admission tickets are required.

Time: Visit website for times and tickets.

Cost: $16 – $30

610 -388-1000 www.LongwoodGardens.org

Linvilla Orchard’s Fore! The Planet is a highly interactive and playful museum exhibit created by the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia. This exhibition pairs important environmental issues with the fun of miniature golf. Enjoy 18 unique educational holes exploring butterfly metamorphosis, a tropical rainforest, evolution, dinosaur extinction, food chains and more. Perfect for kids of all ages, your entire family will enjoy playing miniature golf while learning about our environment!

Time: 9am – 5pm Cost: Advance online tickets $7 each or $8 each at the door. Limited tickets available.

Thurs., March 10 – Sun., March 12

@Cardinal O’Hara High School 1701 South Sproul Rd, Springfield Come see Cardinal O’Hara High School’s production of Disney’s Camp Rock: The Musical, a combination of The Disney Channel’s “Camp Rock” and “Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam.” Based on the hit Disney Channel movies, two bands battle it out in a rockin' summer they will never forget.

Times: Visit website for showtimes Cost: TBD

Sun., April 3

Marple Newtown High School Drama presents the story of Matilda, an extraordinary little girl with extraordinary powers.

Times: Visit website for showtimes Cost: Adults: $12; Seniors and Children: $10

Tues., March 15

Book Trip Tuesday with Miss Mel @Marple Public Library 2599 Sproul Rd, Broomall

484-320 -8380 www.PhilaFleaMarkets.org

Disney’s Camp Rock: The Musical

www.COHS.com

Saturdays and Sundays in March

Indoor/Outdoor flea market featuring antiques, collectibles, vintage jewelry and clothing, glassware, artwork, vinyl and more.

Time: 9am – 4pm Cost: FREE admission

Thurs., March 17 – Sun., March 20

@Marple Newtown High School Performing Arts Center 120 Media Line Rd, Newtown Square

www.MNDrama.com

@Valley Fair Shopping Center 260 W. Swedesford Rd, Berwyn

www.NSHistory.org

Matilda The Musical

610 -876 -7116 www.Linvilla.com

Devon/Berwyn Antique and Vintage Flea Market

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

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

Have the most wonderful time together by taking a trip around the children’s department to find all the books you want to take home! During our traditional book treks, we will continue to learn about all the sections of the children’s department and where to find our favorite books. Recommended for children of all ages accompanied by parent(s) and/or guardian. No Registration Required.

Time: 10am – 12pm Cost: FREE

Marple Moms Meet 8th Annual Easter Egg Hunt @New Ardmore Park New Ardmore Rd, Broomall Come out to New Ardmore Park for food and ice cream trucks, vendors, firetruck, police, character visit, an egg hunt and the Easter Bunny. Please bring at least 20 stuffed eggs and sign up on the MMM Facebook page to bring a treat or supplies. Ages 0 - 4 area, ages 5 & up area.

Time: 10:30am – 1pm

610 -356 -1510 www.MarpleLibrary.org

PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS, Call Deborah M. Truscello!

• Family law • Wills & Estates • Personal injury • Social security disability

• Criminal defense • Work injury claims • Real estate • Orphan’s court/elderly

You Know the Legal Expert. Is It Time to Get Expert Legal Advice?

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

Voted Best Lawyer 7 years in a row, Daily Times Readers Choice

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Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

Dear Friends & Neighbors, It’s that time, the March into Spring time.

Bring it on! I am ready to be done with the snow and cold and all else that’s been holding us back. Just as I see the flower bulbs breaking through the ground now, it’s time to break through to a new normal now.

PUBLICATION TEAM

PUBLISHER: Bob Blaisse EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER: Liz Burnett CONTENT COORDINATOR: Holly Stupak PUBLISHER ASSISTANT: Lisa Jeffries DESIGNER: Kim Cesati COVER PHOTOGRAPHER: Michael Duff, Micduff Photography 610-359-1569, www.Micduff.com CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER: Katie Borsuk Photography www.KatieBorsuk.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Bob Blaisse, Holly Stupak, Sheila Turner-Hilliard, Lisa Jeffries, Doug Humes, Robert L. D’Anjolell, Jr., F.D., Jack Del Pizzo, Kevin O’Donnell, Lindsey Poeth, Dr. Georges P. Martin, DMD, Paul Barrett 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. © 2022 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

ON THE COVER The Topakbashian Family at their home in Broomall

Marple

2022 March

FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS

Broomall is now breaking through as the cold weather of winter and the necessary social distancing of the pandemic slide further away from us with every day. The signs of Spring and social gatherings are returning, to put a spring in our step with more confidence to be stepping out into Spring activities than we’ve experienced in a few years.

I’m looking forward to Little League and Petticoat League seasons being back to normal. I want to see Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts having fun in service to our community. And who does not look forward to our school graduates gaining the memorable experiences of proms and closing ceremonies they deserve this Spring. Most of all, I’m looking forward to seeing local stores fill back up with local shoppers getting out again even more this Spring.

With March weather, as the saying goes, coming in like a lion, and out like a lamb, I know it will be the opposite when it comes to calls and emails coming into Marple Friends & Neighbors this month. This is when we know the number of our Readers Leaders has grown even more, with so many sending in ideas they held onto all winter. It sure puts a spring into our step every Spring. Send us your suggestions for Broomall residents to be featured on our cover, news of what’s happening in your organizations, or your ideas for stories about seniors or youth. Maybe even write the feature yourself and put your feature, with your byline in print, and online at www.MarpleMag.com.

Join the Reader Leaders of your hometown magazine by sending us your suggestions. And with a spring in your step, march into one of our advertising Sponsors who make our hometown magazine possible, to thank them for Bringing People Together in Marple Township through this new March issue of Marple Friends & Neighbors, which Holly has put together for us and which I know you’ll enjoy.

Bob Blaisse Publisher

Dear Residents, Welcome to March! While Mother Nature may be slow to bring us true spring weather, it's no illusion that we are all sensing that spring is on the horizon. Our calendar of events this month on page 2 has plenty of fun events to get us out of winter hibernation.

If you’ve got a case of spring fever, take a break from the cleaning by making easy and fun crafts to celebrate National Crafting Month. Music will fill the air this month as Marple Newtown High School presents Matilda the Musical. In this issue, we introduce you to the Topakbashian family who are living life to the fullest here in Marple.

Our Business Profile features Dream Team Home Services, which provides a one-stop shop for all your plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling needs.

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.

ily The Topakbashiant Fam Living Life to the Fulles Cover photo by Micduff www.Micduff.com

Photography

Bringing People Together

Holly Stupak Content Coordinator

March 2022

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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

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

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

Body Image & Fitness Christine DeFilippis Pop Fit Studio 1305 West Chester Pike (above Applebee’s) 484-453-8533 info@PopFitStudio.com www.PopFitStudio.com

Electric Service, Residential/Commercial Andrew Martella, Sr. Martella Electric Company 484-997-3097 MartellaElectric@rcn.com www.MartellaElectric.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 Family Law Trial Attorney Deborah M. Truscello, Esq. Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello 610-892-4940 DmtofLaw@gmail.com www.TruscelloLaw.com Fireplace Products Scott Magness Scott’s Fireplace Products 3137 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square 484-422-8334 SFP@ScottsFireplaceProducts.com www.ScottsFireplaceProducts.com

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 3137 West Chester Pike Newtown Square, PA 4

484-422-8334

www.ScottsFireplaceProducts.com

Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

Food & Beverage Frank Fusaro Toscana Modern Italian Steakhouse 4799 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square 610-550-8000 Frank@ToscanaModernSteakhouse.com www.ToscanaModernSteakhouse.com

Roofing, Siding & Carpentry Kevin O’Donnell O’Donnell Roofing Co. 610-624-8112 Office@ODonnellRoofingCo.com www.ODonnellRoofingCo.com/bvm

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tree Care and Inspection Mike Bradley Bradley Tree Experts Broomall 610-325-8600 Mike@BradleyTreeExperts.com www.BradleyTreeExperts.com

Residential Door Installation Paul Barrett PB Contracting Company, LLC Broomall 484-466-3221 DoorsAndWindows@PBContracting.com www.PBContracting.com

Expert Contributors needed!

Medical, Catering, Real Estate, Vacations, Public Adjuster, Education, Landscaping, Home Health Care, Mortgages, Financial Planning, etc. Professionals may contact: Bob Blaisse: 610-453-5536 or BBlaisse@BestVersionMedia.com

We’re Online! www.MarpleMag.com

Stop Hiding Your Basement. Make It Your Other Family Room!

Before

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After

David Linn Cook 30 Year MN Resident Weatherization Expert Fully Licensed & Insured

610- 325- 0596

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FREE Estimates

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www.WeatherProofing-Plus.com March 2022

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Business Profile Written by Holly Stupak Photos courtesy of Emily Speer

Teaching Water Safety and Self-Confidence

A

s a mom of five young children, Emily Speer knows firsthand the importance of water safety. And she understands that a successful swim program teaches swim safety while also building a child’s confidence. “I learned with my own children that each one needed a different approach,” said Emily, the owner of Speer Swim School, LLC, “and that’s what we do for our clients.”

Emily Speer giving a swim lesson

Since 2017, Speer Swim School, serving Delaware County and the Main Line, has offered personalized lessons in your own backyard pool. Emily has partnered with Splash Swim Club in Marple, to also give lessons there five days a week, even for non-members. Individual and small group lessons are available for beginner, novice, intermediate, and expert swimmers. Lessons start with safety swimming skills before moving to a learn-to-swim curriculum teaching proper technique. The curriculum is based on over 25 years of swim instruction experience, and all of their instructors are highly trained in this swim method. Emily likes to meet the child and their parents, to get to know them before starting lessons. “It’s so important 6

Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

Emily Speer, Owner of Speer Swim School, LLC

that the student trusts the instructor to build confidence,” said Emily. “I want them to be successful, of course, but also to have fun!”

Emily has always loved working with children and being near the water. At age 13, she began teaching children how to swim. She grew up in the West Chester area and attended West Chester East High School. While she was in middle school, a family friend who went to the Olympic swimming trials encouraged her to teach swim lessons at Malvern Prep.

She enjoyed it so much that she continued teaching lessons throughout high school and college. While pursuing her degree at Penn State University in Elementary Education, she taught swim lessons there, to children of faculty and staff, using her own curriculum.

After graduating from Penn State in 2004, Emily moved back to the area and became a math teacher at Paxon Hollow Middle School. She also earned a Master’s Degree in Instructional Technology at Arcadia University, and her doctorate in Educational Leadership. She was able to continue teaching swim lessons in the summer by offering to teach children in their backyard pools. It was through word of mouth and social media that Emily was able to grow her client base. Now, in its fifth year, Speer Swim School has 18 swim instructors, and last year taught over 7,000 lessons to 682 students. Last year, Emily’s two oldest children graduated from the program, and she's now focused on getting our 3 and 5 year olds to swim.

Next summer her youngest will be 2 and a half and ready to start the swim program.

After Emily’s second child was born, she decided to resign from her teaching position, to stay home with the children. It was after the birth of her third child in 2017 that she started Speer Swim School, which is fully licensed and insured. “After having my own kids, swim safety became a huge mission for me,” Emily said. “I’m even more passionate after having my kids in swim lessons and learning what is needed in the swim world.”

She wants her children to learn how to be safe around water, which means her older children need to be independent so that she can focus on her younger ones.

To give back to the community, Emily has partnered with the Hope Floats Foundation, which offers free or low-cost swim lessons to members of our community who cannot afford the cost themselves. All donations received go toward scholarships. Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death in children 5 and under and Speer Swim School wants to do their part to educate families on keeping their kids safe. “Every child in our community needs to be safe around the water,” said Emily. “We can’t afford to lose a single child because they did not know how to swim.”

Emily and her husband Ed live in Broomall with their children Beatrix (9), Eddie (7), Daphne (5), Richie (3) and Winnie (1), and two friendly cats. Emily enjoys being a dance mom for her daughter Beatrix, watching her children play sports and being a homeroom mom at St Anastasia’s, where her children attend.

The Speer Family loves being outdoors, especially hiking, camping, or spending time at the beach or pool.

For Emily, the best part of her job is seeing students succeed.

“I love getting texts from parents who say their child is swimming independently, passed their swim test, or made the swim team,” she said. And what makes Emily’s work day fun? “It’s always fun to be in the pool!” To learn more about Hope Floats Scholarships and Speer Swim School, visit www.SpeerSwimSchool.com. M

“As a mother of five young children, I know the importance of swim safety, and how challenging it can be to find a good swim school that fits lessons into busy schedules so children learn to love swimming.” ~ Emily Speer, Owner, Broomall Resident and 25-year Swim Instructor

Introducing the Speer Swim School difference…

Lessons designed by a Mom and educator.

Personalized lessons to push each student to their highest potential while giving them the love and care they need to gain confidence and be successful.

Contact Emily TODAY for a FREE CONSULTATION!

www.SpeerSwimSchool.com/GetStarted Support@SpeerSwimSchool.com

LEGACIES START HERE. WE WANT TO HEAR YOUR STORY! ● Tell your kid’s story with BVM Sports – the #1 place for the latest in local, college and pro sports coverage. ● Share your story with one of the most trusted names in local sports news. ● See your story published across all BVM Sports media platforms!

Follow the latest in sports news with our podcast, CHALK TALK – streaming on YouTube.

Interested in sharing? Go to www.BVMSports.com and click “Submit A Story”.

FREE, EASY, & FAST • NO ACCOUNT NEEDED! LIKE | COMMENT | SHARE | FOLLOW March 2022

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Bringing People Together Written by Bob Blaisse, Publisher

Bringing People Together Marple Friends & Neighbors

Business Leaders & Reader Leaders: What a Great Partnership in Marple Township!

In April 2018, several Marple Township Business Leaders and I met to discuss Broomall hometown pride and our hope that residents would “Buy Local” whenever possible. I told them how those two concepts can go together. Thankfully, many Business Leaders agreed.

We now know that Buying Local is strongly related to hometown pride because readers of Marple Friends & Neighbors magazine have proven it, while forming a partnership with local business leaders who make receiving this hometown magazine possible.

Marple Newtown’s Carpeting & Floor Covering Expert

I’ve lived in Marple Newtown for 28 years. My wife, Jean, and I have raised four sons here. We’re proud of our town, the people of our town, and the businesses of Broomall who, like us, get involved in local organizations. But here’s what I have come to know since becoming the Publisher of our hometown magazine: The businesses of our community had vision early on, even while seeing what’s happening with online buying and big box stores, but they never stopped believing in the benefit of bringing us together.

The advertising Sponsors of Marple’s hometown magazine are business owners whose years of experience tell them advertising

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All Spring and Summer!

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We Proudy Offer…

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Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

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only occasionally, even quarterly, is not as effective as needed to achieve their goal of Bringing People Together, which is our magazine’s motto. Local businesses need to be remembered every month to remain in business long term. That’s why they sponsor us with interest in being recognized by us every month for bringing us together through our free hometown magazine in print and online at www.MarpleMag.com.

The hard part is over. The cold winter months are gone.

It’s Springtime now, a time to take notice of what has been made possible for us by our local business leaders. Will you thank them with me? Will you reward their commitment to Broomall? Call them. Stop in to see them. Tell them how much

you enjoy receiving Marple Friends & Neighbors magazine.

Give our advertising Sponsors, who all took a bet on us, a win by choosing their businesses first over others whenever possible, and then tell them why!

If you like how your monthly magazine is increasing Broomall pride with each new monthly edition, be a “Reader Leader” and partner with local Business Leaders who make it possible now for us all to be “Bringing People Together” as Marple Friends & Neighbors. M

Bob Blaisse

Publisher, Marple Friends & Neighbors

Reader Leaders: Be Featured in an Upc oming Edition

for Growing You

r Magazine! ident to appear on the cover of an upc om ing edi tion.

Three easy steps to becoming a Rea der Leader…

2 3

L

MAGAZINE RS

1

& NEIGH DS BO EN

MARPLE F RI

Then name a Marple Township res

Send an email to any business owner, reccommending If the business owner Marple Friends & Neighbors ma gazine as the best way that you connect with Marple a business can become known and rewarded by Marple Friends & Neighbors magazine Township residents for Sponso ring your hometown magazine . becomes an advertising spo nsor of Use your email to introduce the business owner to Bob Blaisse, our community, you’ll be named a Marple Publisher of Marple Friends & Friends & Neighbors magazine Neighbors magazine, by “Reader Leader.” also copying Bob (BBlaisse@ BestVersionMedia.com).

Reader Leaders helping to grow Marple’s monthly magazine will be featured in Just let your magazine Publish an upcoming edition, for their er and your business contact reader leadership, and asked do the rest. to nominate a Marple Townsh ip resident or family to appear on the cover of an upcoming edition of Marple Friends & Ne ighbors magazine.

Help grow your town’s mo nthly magazine for the ben efit of all readers…

Become a Reader Leader of Ma rple Friends &

R

Neighbors Magazine!

Stars & Stripes TACTICAL

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We Only Sell The Highest Quality Screened Topsoil/Mushroom Soil Bark & Root Mulches

“Spectacular products and an extremely knowledgeable man running the business!” www.TopsoilBroomall.com 610-356-1090 /610-356-1818

2635 West Chester Pike (Rear), Broomall, PA

SHOP LOCAL - PICKUP OR DELIVERY

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Firearm Education, Sales & Service Offering 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 • •

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March 2022

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Resident Feature

The Topakbashian Family Living Life to the Fullest Written by Holly Stupak Photos by Micduff Photography www.Micduff.com

M

eet the Topakbashians: Alexis, Alex and their three children who live life to the fullest and do all they can to make the most out of life. If there is one thing their Armenian heritage has taught them, it is, don’t just survive—thrive. Whether it’s at work, at their church or in the Broomall community, that philosophy has inspired them to make a positive impact on everything they do.

Alexis grew up in Doylestown with two sisters and a brother and was the first of her family to move West — to Delaware County that is. Back when she was a student at Central Bucks East High School she was involved in the National Honors Society, the Key Club (a club that performs acts of service in their communities), student government, theater and sports. She chose Boston University for college after going on some college tours with her older sister. “I was along for the ride and I realized how much I liked the city of Boston,” Alexis said. “When we toured Boston University I felt right at home there. I was also looking to study television and film and they had a great program.”

After graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Film and Television Production, she pursued her dream of living in New York City for a few years and worked in the film industry.

Although she enjoyed the city and the social scene, she ultimately wanted to move back to Pennsylvania to be closer to her family. Then in 2006, she started working as a consultant for Gap International, Inc., a global performance consulting company headquartered in Philadelphia. The company’s mission is to close the gap between where an organization is and where its leaders want to be. As a Vice President at Gap International, Alexis partners with senior executives around the world to impact innovation, execution, alignment, culture, leadership and overall growth. “My company has expertise in 10 Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

Alexis and Alex Topakbashian

having people work together in a unified and aligned way that affects performance and fulfills the purpose of the company.“ Alexis explained. “The best part of my job is working with clients in diverse businesses all over the world and helping them fulfill their purpose.”

Although she has no plans to quit her day job she also loves doing what she calls “circular economy” — reselling clothes, toys and furniture through different online platforms and outlets. “I get a lot of joy knowing that someone else can use items that our family no longer needs,” she added. In her spare time she also loves reading, getting together with her book club and taking long walks with her dog around her Broomall neighborhood.

Meanwhile Alex grew up in Delaware County and spent most of his life in Broomall. When Alex was 10 he, his brother and his parents moved to Broomall from Upper Darby. He attended Paxon Hollow Middle School and then Marple Newtown High School, where he played football and basketball. When it came time to choose a college, Alex said it was a no brainer. “Growing up we drove by Villanova University so often that I just assumed that was where I was supposed

“

Don’t Just Survive – Thrive!

”

to go,” Alex joked. He ended up liking it so much that after earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration he furthered his education there, earning an MBA and then a Master of Science in Analytics. After finishing his degrees, he continued to give back to Villanova by advising students in the MBA program with their capstone projects. These projects allow students to partner with corporations and nonprofits and assist them in exploring possible solutions to market issues they are currently facing.

When Alex was an undergraduate at Villanova, he interned at Gap International, Inc. and was eventually hired to work there full-time. Now as Vice President, what he loves most about his job is the opportunity it’s given him to travel around the world.

His job has taken him to places like Australia, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia and Africa, just to name a few. Outside of his work life Alex keeps busy playing and coaching basketball, building and repairing things around the house and inventing new grill and marinade recipes.

sports trips together. Years of building a friendship and a connection led to a romance in their twenties. They married in 2005 at St. Sahag and St. Mesrob Armenian Apostolic Church in Wynnewood. The wedding ceremony was followed by a reception at the Sheraton Society Hill in Philadelphia with lots of family and friends and plenty of traditional Armenian music. Both Alex and Alexis love to travel, and aside from the many places their careers have taken them, they’ve also had the opportunity to visit Jerusalem and Armenia for pleasure.

Two years after their wedding the couple settled in the Old Marple Estates section of Broomall, on a secluded, quiet street with lots of friendly neighbors. “It’s a perfect location,” said Alexis. “We’re close to the Main Line and to the city. And I love that going to my parents house is just a quick trip up the Blue route.” Alexis also has her sisters close by. As luck would have it, shortly after Alexis moved west of Doylestown, her sisters followed suit and live just down the road in Bryn Mawr and Westtown.

Another perk to living here is that Alex’s parents and his brother live right here in Broomall. “Because I grew up here, I love the fact that I get to see familiar faces and I get to watch my children become Marple Tigers,” said Alex. “We are fortunate to have my parents nearby to help with the kids and dog Alex and Alexis’ paths crossed back when they were both and we’ve also got cousins in the Marple Newtown area,” said members of their church youth groups. Although they belonged Alex. “Our kids love spending time with family, especially their Now and available in a classic design, grandparents who dotefarmhouse on them!” to two different churches, they frequently went on retreats

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Resident Feature The Topakbashians have three children; Jacob, Jemma and Joseph. Alexis said that thanks to their oldest son Jacob, a kind and funny 14-year-old, they’re able to keep things in the house running smoothly. “He started making his own lunches back in fourth grade and is happy to help out with laundry and dishes,” said Alexis proudly. “He’s definitely my right-hand man.” Jacob enjoys playing soccer and basketball, watching movies and writing and making YouTube videos. As a young boy, he attended Camp Future Stars at the Academy of Notre Dame and now works as a counselor in training there. After attending Armenian Sisters Academy in Radnor for elementary and middle school, Jacob is now a freshman at Marple Newtown High School where he enjoys English, history and video production, and plays on the soccer team.

Jemma was born in 2009 and is a creative and artistic seventh grader at Armenian Sisters Academy. She enjoys dancing, performing, 90s movies, fashion and listening to music. She and her dad have always had similar taste in music and attended a Paramour concert together in New York City when she was just five years old. As a dedicated dancer and member of a local competition dance team, she travels to competitions throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. On the rare nights she’s home, she organizes family movie and trivia nights. Her

parents say when it comes to school and dance, she’s hardworking and dedicated. “Jemma notices all the little details,” said Alexis. “She’s committed to excellence!”

The youngest Topakbashian, Joseph (Joey), is a funny, sweet and sensitive third grader who also attends Armenian Sisters Academy. He loves spending time with friends and playing video games and sports with his dad. “Joey wants to be happy and wants everyone around him to be happy, too,” said Alexis.

An athletic boy, he takes after his dad and gravitates toward any sport that involves a ball. He plays travel soccer for Marple, basketball for the Malvern League and baseball for the Marple Township Little League. Some of his teammates and coaches even call him “Topak,” which was Alex’s nickname growing up in Marple Newtown.

In August of 2020 the Topakbashians added a dog to their family. The very same day that Alex and Alexis adopted Gracie, Alex’s parents decided to adopt Gracie’s sister, Cookie. Gracie is a bit shy, but loves playing with her sister and taking long walks around the neighborhood.

The Topakbashians take great pride in their Armenian heritage and are active in their church as well as in the Armenian community. “We are committed to having our children stay

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connected to their Armenian culture and heritage,” said Alexis.

“It helps them to learn the language, music and traditions of our culture. There are so few Armenian schools in the United States, given that Armenian Sisters Academy is so close to home, we had to take advantage and send our children there.”

Alex serves as the Chairman of the Parish Council at St. Sahag and St. Mesrob Armenian Apostolic Church and he’s also on the diocesan council of the Armenian Church of America.

Alexis enjoys the volunteer work she does through the church.

Last year, she and some of the other members helped senior citizens find appointments for the COVID-19 vaccine when it first became available.

Whether it’s volunteering, sports, dancing, school or work, all five of the Topakbashians always go all in. “We try to make the most out of everything we do,” said Alexis. “That’s how you make the most out of life. Live it to the fullest!” added Alex.

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

Jacob, Jemma and Joseph Topakbashian

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Student of the Month Written by Lisa Jeffries

Liza Lee

MARCH TOSCANA STUDENT OF THE MONTH Liza Lee, March Toscana Student of the Month Photo courtesy of Diana Lee

The March Toscana Student of the Month is Liza Lee, a Senior at Delaware County Christian School (DCCS).

Liza received a Certificate of Achievement and a Gift Certificate from Toscana Modern Italian Steakhouse, our Sponsor of this program.

choosing team members to work as attorneys, who then present the case to the mock judge and jury. This year, Liza is thrilled to be a defense attorney for the first time, so she’ll get to do both direct and cross examination of the defendant and witnesses.

Liza has many varied interests that keep her both busy and motivated. One thing Liza loves participating in each year is her school’s Mock Trial team. After the team gets the case they’re to work on, the defense and prosecution teams are formed. This includes

As a member of her school's cross country track team, Liza finds that running long distances helps her think.

And having played the flute for her school's band since 4th grade, she is now a Section Leader. As a DCCS Student Ambassador, she enjoys welcoming

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14 Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

and giving tours to prospective and new students. She also loves participating in her school's Christmas Child project. Each year for the holidays, students each fill a shoebox full of toys and other fun things, to send to children who otherwise wouldn’t get any presents.

Liza also volunteers at her church, to help care for toddlers while their parents attend church services or activities. She also helps out with the planning and implementation of the church’s annual One Meal, which helps feed the homeless and food insecure in the Delaware County area.

Liza's big plans for her future include majoring in Biology in college, and following in the footsteps of other family members who work in the sciences.

Liza, your Marple Newtown Friends & Neighbors congratulate you on this award, and thank you for all that you do to bring joy to others. We wish you well in all your future endeavors! M

Nominate the Next Student of the Month!

Any grade 7–12 student who resides within the borders of the Marple Newtown School District may be nominated by a parent, teacher or other adult who submits in writing some ways the student demonstrates Excellence in Service to friendship, school or other local communities. Academic or athletic excellence is not required.

The Winner will be featured in a future issue and will also receive a Toscana Modern Italian Steakhouse Gift Certificate. Email your nomination to Lisa Jeffries at LJeffries@BestVersionMedia.com.

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www.MarpleMag.com 15

Business Profile Written by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

Don’t Stress, Hire The Best!

(L-R) Co-Owners Gareth Kelly and Ryan Corbett Photo courtesy of Abby Steele

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ream Team Home Services, with offices in Newtown Square, Media and Havertown, is a locally owned and operated company that brings expert heating and cooling (HVAC) technicians, electricians and plumbers together so you can take care of your home’s heating, cooling, electrical and plumbing systems with just one phone call.

Over the past few years, you may have noticed Dream Team’s colorful and eye-catching trucks driving around town, or perhaps the prominent signage and monthly decorative window displays at their location on the corner of Rte 252 and West Chester Pike in Newtown Square. What many assumed was a new business in town was actually the merger of two highly successful businesses, each operated by two local friends who decided to combine their skills and experience into a onestop shop for HVAC, plumbing and electrical services.

Co-owners Gareth Kelly and Ryan Corbett each have over 20 years of experience providing these services to Delaware County homeowners. Gareth, a Master Electrician, previously

owned Kelly Electric, Inc., and Ryan, a Master Plumber and Heating Mechanic, owned Antrim Plumbing. The two met and became friends when they found themselves working on the same new home construction sites. Ryan explained that he and Gareth not only worked very well together but also discovered that they shared the same Irish roots. “Both Gareth and I are originally from Ireland,” he said. “When we met here in the United States, we realized that we were born and raised in Ireland just about an hour away from each other.”

As the two continued to operate separate businesses for several years, their friendship grew, as did the idea to build their new business. They both credit their Irish heritage for instilling in them an incredibly strong work ethic and a fierce dedication to customer satisfaction. Gareth said that it made sense for him and Ryan to combine their time, talents and resources to reach more residents and offer more services. So, in 2018, Dream Team Home Services became a reality.

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Merging two successful businesses opened up the opportunity to hit the ground running, and that’s exactly what happened.

“Within one month of launching Dream Team Home Services, we had 12 service trucks in operation,” Ryan said. “We definitely created a buzz around town, and our business has been steadily growing ever since.”

Ryan and Gareth explained that although their impressive fleet of vehicles and number of highly trained technicians can rival the “big” companies, what sets them apart is their commitment to treating every customer like family. “We live, work and raise our own families right here,” said Gareth. “Our customers know that our entire staff — from the technicians and

situation and inform you of the current condition of the existing plumbing, electrical or HVAC system. From there, the technician will advise you of repairs or maintenance that should be addressed.

Customers will experience an added sense of comfort knowing that before the technician begins to work, they will be presented with upfront pricing, multiple repair and/or replacement options and available financing opportunities. Once the work is complete, the technician will walk you through the work that was done, answer any questions and make sure that you are completely satisfied before they leave your home.

The Dream Team Home Services team Photo courtesy of Possible Zone Marketing

management to the customer service team — truly cares. Our goal is to keep our friends and neighbors safe and comfortable in their homes.”

When the important parts and systems of your home break down, it puts a significant burden on you, your family and how your home functions. Dream Team’s scope of services eliminates the need to call in multiple experts for a problem or a home project. From plumbing needs to sewer drain inspections, to electrical repairs and installation and heating and cooling repairs and replacements, Dream Team Home Services provides fast, reliable and expert work backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Quality service is paramount, and the process is simple.

From the initial phone call, a Dream Team customer service representative will determine what you need and schedule a technician to meet you at your home. For your peace of mind, all Dream Team technicians are drug-tested and background-checked. They’re also required to wear floorsaver shoe protectors and use drop cloths to keep the work area tidy. When the technician arrives, they will evaluate the

Giving back to the communities they serve is an important goal of Dream Team Home Services. They are proud to sponsor our area schools’ football, basketball and cheerleading teams as well as the Delaware County Gaels Gaelic football team.

You’ll also see Dream Team Home Services represented at the annual Media Halloween Parade and the Santa Stroll. Dream Team’s offices serve as drop-off locations for Toys for Tots, and they help raise money for Providence Animal Shelter and the Delaware County Veterans Legacy.

Gareth, Ryan and their entire Dream Team Home Services team are confident that once you experience the Dream Team difference, you will appreciate the on-time arrival by honest, friendly and respectful technicians who deliver quality service, maintenance and installation. They are licensed, insured and certified, and their work is always backed by the Dream Team Home Services 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Dream Team Home Services’ Newtown Square location is located at 3703 West Chester Pike. If you would like to schedule service or need repairs, call 610-609-7771. To learn more, visit www.DreamTeamPA.com. M March 2022

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www.MarpleMag.com 17

Expert Contributor Written by Georges P. Martin, DMD Marple Dental, Inc.

When the Masks Come Off

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ost people would agree that there is nothing more important in life than good health. Maintaining good health requires self-care that includes a healthy diet, regular exercise, good physical and dental hygiene, as well as professional care, with timely visits to your physician, dentist, optometrist, etc.

Nationally, across all health professions, there has been a dramatic decline in routine healthcare visits, and an increase in the severity of illness due to deferred treatment. This is particularly true with respect to making regular visits to your healthcare professionals for preventive checkups.

The old saying “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is as true for your overall physical well being as it is for your dental health. When circumstances prevent you from maintaining yourself in the preventive phase of dental care, you will eventually need to seek professional help for the treatment phase. The two most powerful motivators to seek dental treatment are discomfort and embarrassment.

Embarrassment: While important social events such as weddings or job hunting may eventually motivate patients to seek treatment, many people intentionally hide visible dental problems by growing concealing facial hair or using their hand to cover their mouths when talking and laughing.

Mask wearing in public settings has played an unexpected role in patients deferring dental treatment due to the ability to conceal visible dental problems. The phrase “Thankfully, you can’t see it with my mask on” is heard with alarming regularity. Just as loose winter clothing can help hide unwanted weight gain, face coverings can hide embarrassing dental issues such as lost or broken teeth or bad breath from untreated cavities or gum disease. As we all know, hiding a problem does not make it go away, and the longer you wait, the worse it will get.

Eventually though, as life returns to normal, the need for masking will pass. So the best advice is to keep those teeth healthy: brush, floss and see your dentist twice a year so that when the masks come off, you’ll be ready to face the world. M

Discomfort: Pain or discomfort when eating is typically the result of long-term problems, and is a powerful motivator to seek dental care.

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18 Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

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

Good Reasons to File Early indicates it expects to issue most 2021 tax year refunds within 21 days despite the massive pandemic-related delays, lack of manpower and aging technology. The IRS recently announced a backlog of 8.3 million unprocessed 2020 returns, more than 2 million unprocessed employer payroll returns and about 5 million unanswered taxpayer correspondence dating back to April.

The time to receive your refund is typically shorter if you file electronically and choose to receive the refund by direct deposit into a bank account. Direct deposits also avoid the possibility that a refund check could be lost, stolen, returned to the IRS as undeliverable or caught in mail delays.

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here’s more than one valid reason for getting your tax return submitted well before this year’s April 18 deadline.

Prevent Identity Theft: In one tax identity theft scheme, a thief uses a taxpayer’s personal information early in the filing season to file a fraudulent tax return and claim a bogus refund. The taxpayer discovers the fraud when they file a return, which is rejected by the IRS because a return with the same Social Security number has already been processed.

While the taxpayer should ultimately be able to prove their return is the legitimate one, tax identity theft is a hassle to straighten out and significantly delays a refund. Filing early may be your best defense.

Get a Potentially Earlier Refund: Another reason to file early is to put yourself closer to the front of the line. The IRS website

Look for Your Documents: To file your tax return, you need your Form W - 2s, Form 1099s (if you’ve worked as an independent contractor or “gig worker”) and Form 1099 - Bs for brokerage transactions. January 31 is the deadline for employers to issue 2021 W - 2s to employees and for businesses to issue 1099s to recipients of any 2021 interest, dividend, stock sales or reportable miscellaneous income payments.

If you haven’t received your W - 2 or 1099, first contact the entity that should have issued it. If that doesn’t work, you can contact the IRS for assistance.

Don’t Wait: Some people on social media suggest not filing your 2021 income tax return until you receive your 2020 refund. That is NOT a good idea because failing to file your 2021 return will only lead to bigger headaches later, possibly even penalties. Plus, if you’re owed a 2021 refund, you may receive that money before your 2020 refund. But the only way to get it is to file! M

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www.MarpleMag.com 19

History Spotlight

George Brooke Lindsay Written by Doug Humes Photos courtesy of the Marple Historical Society

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y daily commute takes me to the traffic light at Sproul and Marple Roads, where I have time to ponder the residents of the Presbyterian Church Cemetery. A very prominent gravestone, one of the largest in the cemetery, always caught my attention: George Brooke Lindsay. I would wonder “Who was this man?” So one day I went off to find out.

George Brooke Lindsay was born in 1852 at the Lindsay family home in Haverford, and then the family moved to a farm in Nether Providence. He went to public school and then studied law in the office of Ward and Broomall in Chester.

The partners there were John M. Broomall (for whom the town is named) and William Ward, who were both elected to Congress. George went on to have a successful career as a Delaware County lawyer. He was George Brooke Lindsay – politically active, serving as solicitor from a newspaper article for the borough of North and South Chester, and President of the Chester Veteran Republican Club. He also was a director of the Chester National Bank, the Chester Union Railway Company and the Chester and Media Electric Railway Company, Secretary of the Chester Free Library, and Treasurer of the Law Library Association of the Delaware County Bar. His interest in libraries continued after his death in 1918. He left an estate of about $200,000 that he asked to be used to build a law library to be called the Lindsay Law Library. That

Historic market at Marple Presbyterian Cemetery

library was built in Chester, and for years was affiliated with what is now Widener University. The Lindsay Law Library survived until 2009, when the Widener Wolfgram Library was converted to a more contemporary electronic delivery model.

Why is George buried in Marple? His ancestors, the Brookes and Lindsays, were locals, and are well represented in the cemetery. George was the great-grandson of a Revolutionary War ancestor, William Brooke, who lived in a home still standing Gravestone for George Brooke Lindsay to this day, on Darby Road along the Ithan Creek. During the Revolution, the Hessians raided that home and “Saw a splendid mahogany chest of drawers, known as a high boy,” and one of them forced open the top drawer with a bayonet, in the belief that the chest contained treasure.

This damaged chest of drawers remained in Captain Brooke’s possession until his death in 1829, when it passed into the possession of his son Thomas Brooke. It then was passed down to his son, George Brooke, Esq. Where is that chest today?

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Description from 1888 passport application

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. No events or activities due to COVID. We hope to have an announcement soon about resuming open houses at the Massey House. For more details, check our Facebook page or our website. M

Expert Contributor Written by Paul Barrett PB Contracting Company, LLC

Does Your Door Stand Up to the Winter Weather?

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he bitter cold of winter can be brutal, causing everyone to wish for the warmth of spring and summer. What makes it worse is when your doors aren’t living up to your expectations during the winter months.

Cold drafts, sticking doors and chilly air all indicate an improvement or upgrade may be needed for your doors.

Feeling a draft at the bottom of the door?

If you feel cold air at the bottom of your door, you may have an issue with the seal at your threshold. If you have an older-style door that does not have an aluminum threshold, you may want to think about an upgrade. If you have an aluminum threshold, run a high-quality caulk on the outside along the bottom, to help keep out the air.

Another cause of a draft along the bottom of the door may be inefficient weather stripping. You can purchase new weather stripping at your local hardware store.

Installing a better-grade weather stripping may help with this problem.

Is your door cold to the touch, or do you feel air in various places?

Fiberglass doors are the most energyefficient doors, followed by steel and then wood. If you have an older-style door on

your home, chances are it is time for an upgrade. Wood is the least energy-efficient material and can cause multiple issues in the winter, like sticking and being very hard to open. Consider upgrading to a fiberglass or steel door, which will provide a better efficiency rating as well as giving your home the facelift it may need.

If you have a newer entry door and are still having air draft issues, your installation may need a few adjustments. When getting a new entry door installed, be sure to ask your contractor what type of insulation product they are using.

A spray foam insulation that’s specifically made for windows and doors is recommended, to seal all spaces when installing a new door.

Does a storm door help prevent cold air from getting through?

Yes! Although storm doors are not 100% airtight, they provide a barrier to the outside elements, which in turn reduces the amount of air that can enter your home.

Are your interior doors sticking when you try to open them?

Cold air causes wood to swell. Your interior doors may need to be planed or shaved to accommodate the space, so the doors will easily open and close. M

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Expert Contributor Written by Lindsey Poeth, CSA® Oasis Senior Advisors Mainline

Caregiver Burnout: A Very Real Problem

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hile many assume the natural progression of aging will include providing care to a loved one, it can be an overwhelming development in the life of those caregivers. Here are some points to consider, courtesy of the CDC 2015-16 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Data.

Caregiving is widespread: 1 in 5 adults are caregivers, and 1 in 6 non-caregivers expect to take on that role in the next 2 years.

Caregiving is lengthy: 50% provide care for at least 2 years.

Caregiving is intense: 30% provide care for at least 20 hours a week.

While caregiving can be a solution for some families, it can also be a thankless role with a large negative impact on the caregiver across many facets of their life.

Physical Duress: Caregiving can be a largely physical role especially for those with higher assistance needs like bathing and transferring. Many caregivers don’t have any formal caregiving training, so over time, they end up hurting themselves making the repeated movements that they weren’t trained to do. Self-care among caregivers tends to wane as they focus their attention on others rather than themselves.

Emotional Duress: When a relative takes on the role of caregiver, the relationship invariably shifts. Many caregivers report a lack of boundaries between their role as caregiver and that of spouse or child. This can be very challenging, resulting in depression and emotional stress.

Social Impacts: Caregivers may find themselves struggling to find a break in their role, as few have a backup plan in place.

Many will not ask for additional help, so as not to add burden on others’ shoulders. The focus on caregiving often comes at a sacrifice of other commitments like family, friends and work.

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Many caregivers are initially reluctant to reach out for help, either through a sense of duty or by setting unrealistic expectations for themselves. Many senior living communities offer a solution through a short-term respite stay, which can go a long way in alleviating some of the stress involved in caregiving.

This way, the senior gets the appropriate care in a social setting among their peers, so they can be as active and engaged as they’d like. While the senior is getting respite care, the caregiver gets a break and opportunity for self-care and revitalization, which is so critical. So it’s a win for all involved.

A respite stay can vary in length, but typically lasts 30 – 60 days. Apartments come fully furnished and pricing includes all care, meals, laundry and activities. Family and friends can still visit, and the senior can come and go as they please. The family can have peace of mind that their relative is getting all the care they need. M

Family Fun

Spring Is for Cleaning AND Crafting!

Written by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

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pring is on the way! Can you feel it? Soon it will be time to open the windows and feel the fresh air rush in. Flowers will bloom, our days will get longer and our moods a little lighter. Spring is the season of new beginnings, and we are all ready for that!

On plain paper, cut out an outline of a four-leaf clover.

(You can find plenty of four-leaf clover templates online.)

Cut a piece of clear contact paper that’s larger than your outline. Lay it on the table sticky side up, and place your clover outline on top of it.

Spring is also when we dust off those winter blues by cleaning our homes. As we welcome the new season on Sunday March 20th, let’s also recognize March as National Crafting Month, which was established in 1994 by the Craft and Hobby Association (now the National Arts Materials Trade Association), to encourage people to explore creative outlets as a way of reducing anxiety and stress. For many, crafting has become a healthy outlet and a relaxing and rewarding hobby, so let’s get creative by making some of our own fun, fresh and new spring home decorations.

Help the kids place the tissue paper squares inside the outline, alternating the colors and overlapping the pieces slightly. The tissue paper will stick to the clear contact paper. Once finished, cut another piece of clear contact paper and place it sticky side down on top of the tissue paper. Smooth out the contact paper and trim it to match the outline of the four-leaf clover.

Homemade Planter Box with Mason Jars This is an easy project that looks great at your front door, on a windowsill or even on your dining room table. All you need is a planter box, a few glass or plastic mason jars, your choice of color chalk paint, paintbrushes, letter stencils, and either fresh or artificial flowers. All these items are easy to find at your local craft store.

Starting with the planter box, decide on what you would like your message to be and trace the letters with your stencils. You can then either use chalk paint or a permanent marker to fill in the color.

Next, remove the lids from your mason jars, place the jars on some newspaper to protect your surface, grab your paintbrush and apply the color. If you’re using chalk paint, you may need to apply 2 – 3 coats, depending on its thickness.

Once the jars are dry, place them in the planter box and add your flowers. You may want to spray some expanding floral foam filler inside the mason jars first, to keep the stems in place, especially if you’re using artificial flowers.

After you use the hole punch to make a small hole at the top of the clover, hang the clover in a window, using some string or ribbon. This type of project can be repeated all year long using different design templates like tulips, rainbows, the sun and other fun seasonal themes.

How can we celebrate National Crafting Month?

Well, you can certainly start with the projects we’ve discussed here, or perhaps try your hand at scrapbooking, jewelry making, knitting, sculpting or candle making. If you’re not sure where to start, there are unlimited ideas and tutorials online, or you can make a trip to your local craft store or nearest craft fair for inspiration.

The beauty of crafting is that there are endless possibilities for creating and for stepping outside your comfort zone.

Who knows? It could very well lead to some amazing creations on your part. You never know unless you try! M

Spring floral planter box

Lucky Shamrock Felt Pin or Hair Clip Grab the kids, some green felt, scissors, a needle and thread, and either a hair clip or pin back. Cut four leaves in the shape shown in the photo. Each piece should measure about ¾-inch tall and 1-inch wide. Sew the leaves together, then tie the threads together lightly at the ends.

Sew or hot-glue the shamrock to a hair clip or a pin back for your little lucky charms!

Four-Leaf Clover Sun Catcher This easy craft is fun for the kids, and makes great window decorations for the family to enjoy. All you need is a few pieces of paper, clear contact paper, 1" squares of light green, white and dark-green tissue paper, a hole punch and some string or ribbon for hanging.

Lucky charm clover hair clips

March 2022

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www.MarpleMag.com 23

Expert Contributor Written by Robert L. D’Anjolell, Jr., F.D. DANJOLELL Memorial Homes

A

Preplanning – The Ultimate Gift

s the new year is underway, many people are rethinking their New Year’s resolutions, and instead thinking of creating a solid plan for the future. Some people set long-term goals such as going back to school or working toward a promotion or job change, while others set short-term goals like losing weight or working out more with a new exercise routine.

One thing that many people often hesitate to think about until someone close to them passes is what a big difference preplanning their own end-of-life arrangements would make for their family’s future and well-being. Preplanning allows you to leave your loved ones — and yourself — with much-needed peace of mind. Those interested in preplanning can schedule a meeting either in person or online with a professional, to review well informed decisions and options. Such confidential, thorough and thoughtful preplanning services and sessions are readily available from the best funeral homes, at your convenience.

At the heart of every funeral service there should be a true celebration of life, and by making the arrangements ahead of time, your loved ones can focus on your life celebration instead of on making sometimes difficult decisions or wondering if you would have agreed with their decisions.

Still, even knowing what a burden would be lifted from your loved ones, most people would rather avoid thinking or talking about the end of their life, or helping a loved one do so, but the truth is that the end is an inevitable part of everyone’s journey.

If you take the time to put your preferences into writing now, you could save your loved ones from unnecessary stress and worrying about what you would have wanted, at what is bound to be one of the most difficult times of their lives.

Imagine the relief your children or spouse would feel when they learn or are reminded that the planning and decisions are already done. This will allow them to focus on healing during an unimaginably difficult time.

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24 Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

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Preplanning your final arrangements gives your loved ones the ultimate gift — peace of mind.

Publisher’s Note: Thanks to Robert D’Anjolell, Jr. and DANJOLELL Memorial Homes for guiding us and our families toward preplanning for their final arrangements. As our “Expert” funeral provider, DANJOLELL is available to our magazine Readers, to discuss and confirm their choices by phone or even virtually, in the comfort of their homes, to make informed decisions before the need arises. M

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March 2022

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www.MarpleMag.com 25

Expert Contributor Written by Kevin O’Donnell O’Donnell Roofing Co.

Spring Roof Inspection

N

aturally, thoughts of spring cleaning and yard work are at the top of many homeowners’ TO-DO lists this time of year. However, did you know that one of the most important areas for your home’s outdoor maintenance — your roof — is also one of the most often forgotten?

As your roof recovers from everything that winter dumps on it – snow, ice, increased darkness (think mold), an unending cycle of the sun’s heat and bitter cold nights, not to mention wet, windy, freezing conditions for months — you need to help your roof prepare for spring. Make sure you give it the TLC it deserves, in terms of regular maintenance, to help it shine.

Gutters Spring weather means rain, wind and thunderstorms, as well as lots of sun. So this is the time to make sure that your gutters are ready for all of that before torrential rains move in.

Survey the Shingles After winter’s brutal assault on your roof, now is the time to look for any shingles that are missing, curling or worn down, as well as any with cracks, missing edges or loose nails. Regularly inspecting your roof for damage in every season will help keep it in great shape for years to come.

Mold or Algae Growth Moisture collects on your roof’s shingles throughout the winter.

Moisture combined with increased darkness just happens to be mold and algae’s perfect conditions for growth. While some mold and algae growth is normal because of the makeup of shingles these days, be on the lookout for numerous individual instances or large patches of mold growth.

Document Any Damage If you do find missing, cracked or broken shingles, mold growth or any other issues with your roof, document each issue with photos. Homeowner’s insurance will probably cover some roof damage, especially after a big storm, but insurance companies usually require documentation.

Get a Professional Inspection An experienced, licensed roofer can determine if there is any damage to be concerned about, the extent of any damage found, and whether it only needs a simple patch, a more extensive repair or a whole new roof. Your roof protects your home from simple leaks to substantial damage, so it is worth the investment to have a professional take a look at it periodically, just for peace of mind if nothing else. M

26 Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

Real Estate

Homes Recently Sold in Marple Address

Sold Price

Beds

Baths

Sq. Ft.

Acres

111 Morton Avenue . . . . . .

$590,000 . . . 5 . . . 3.5 . . . 2,740 . . . 0.23

102 Langford Road Unit 18 . . . $550,488 . . . 4 . . . 3.5 . . . 2,300 . . . 0.09 41 Ferguson Avenue . . . . . . $610,000 . . . 5 . . . 2.5+ . . . 2,300 . . . 0.19 346 Langford Road Unit 17 . . . $568,614 . . . 3 . . . 2.5 . . . 2,459 . . . 0.09 2 Paxon Circle . . . . . . . . . $605,000 . . . 5 . . . 2.5 . . . 3,019 . . . 0.32 1011 Lee Drive . . . . . . . . . $480,000 . . . 3 . . . . 3 . . . . 1,556 . . . 0.69 101 S Sproul Road . . . . . . . $350,000 . . . 4 . . . 2.5 . . . 1,800 . . . 0.10 728 Winchester Road . . . . .

$440,000 . . . 3 . . . . 2 . . . . 1,671 . . . 4.53

30 Lincoln Lane . . . . . . . .

$360,000 . . . 5 . . . 2.5 . . . 3,074 . . . 0.40

2511 Selwyn Drive . . . . . . .

$530,000 . . . 4 . . . 2.5 . . . 2,412 . . . 0.31

212 Croftridge Drive . . . . . . $575,000 . . . 4 . . . 2.5 . . . 2,628 . . . 0.45 38 Fairview Road . . . . . . . . $316,000 . . . 2 . . . . 1 . . . . 1,287 . . . 0.17 726 Cedar Grove Road . . . .

$522,500 . . . 4 . . . . 3 . . . . 1,820 . . . 0.60

124 Lori Lane . . . . . . . . . . $612,000 . . . 4 . . . 2.5 . . . 2,464 . . . 0.43 2985 Highland Avenue . . . . . $825,000 . . . 6 . . . 3.5 . . . 5,533 . . . 0.47 19 N Manor Road . . . . . . .

$300,000 . . . 4 . . . . 2 . . . . 1,786 . . . 0.08

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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www.MarpleMag.com 27

Our Community

Marple Township Unveils Veterans Memorial Park’s New All-Abilities Playground Written by Holly Stupak Photos courtesy of Marple Township

The original playground at Veterans Memorial Park

Modeled after the local accessible playgrounds like Haverford’s Freedom Playground and Smiles in the Playground in Aston, the township worked with our Parks and Recreation Board and the Pennoni Engineering firm to create what Larry said is a spectacular upgrade. The new playground includes an extensive variety of activities that promote social interaction, gross motor skills, fine motor skills, and sensory integration.

A zipline, a wheelchair accessible carousel as well as a sensory dome are just some of the new features. The dome is filled with stimulating sensory play activities and designed with a large amount and variety of ground level activities. Made by Kompan, a leading playground manufacturer, the dome is the first of its kind in the United States and serves to benefit children of all ages and abilities in cross-coordination, balance and spatial awareness.

C

hildren of all ages and abilities can now enjoy a beautiful, state-of-the-art all-inclusive playground right here in Marple. This spring, Veterans Memorial Park will welcome visitors to a new inclusive playground and a multi-generational gathering space for community enjoyment, socialization and imaginative fun.

Located on Lawrence Road in Broomall, Veterans Memorial Park has been attracting visitors since it opened more than 20 years ago. When the 25-acre park was developed back in 1997, the goal was to provide a multi-generational recreation area with an emphasis on conservation and preservation.

Marple residents have continued to flock to the park daily for its walking track, playground and bocce ball and horseshoe courts. Rotary Field, which the Broomall Rotary Club helped establish, provides an area for both active and passive recreation activities and is used for organized soccer games. The gazebo in the park has always been a focal point, making it the perfect setting and stage for local outdoor events like the Marple Christmas Tree Lighting and Easter Egg Hunts.

Although the playground equipment at the park was still in decent condition, Marple Township manager Larry Gentile said it was time to add more modern play equipment and make the park accessible to children of all abilities. “Playgrounds are a safe place for all children to come together and have fun.

No matter where they come from or their circumstances, they should have equal access to them,” said Larry. “I’m not only talking about the essentials, but playground features that make children feel right at home at their playground.”

28 Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

The new all-abilities playground at Veterans Memorial Park

In addition to the new playground equipment, the renovation also includes 52 new parking spaces as well as a newly renovated comfort station with restrooms and a baby changing area. A pavilion area has also been added for moms, dads and other caregivers to enjoy while watching their children play.

And scattered around the area will be park benches so caregivers can relax while keeping a close eye on their little ones.

This $1.5 million overhaul was a collaborative effort of Marple’s Board of Commissioners, the Parks and Recreation department, and the Broomall Rotary Club (BRC) and would never have happened without the support of Marple residents. To help with funding, the township received $425,000 in grants from Delco Greenways Grant Program, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and Greenways Trails & Recreation Program. Generous donations were also received from the Marple Township Parks and Recreation fund and the BRC. The BRC has been dedicated to projects that support their Broomall neighbors for more than fifty years and the group has been instrumental in helping to develop and improve Veterans Memorial Park. Back in the 1990s when the park was being developed, the BRC raised funds through groups like the Foxcroft Estates, a group of residents from the Foxcroft neighborhood. The donors plaque at the entrance to the Broomall Rotary Field honors them for the generous donation they made to add athletic fields to Veterans Memorial Park.

Presidents of the club in the mid1990s like Lou Spano and Carl Brenner, as well as prominent local business owners like Frank Videon of Videon Funeral homes had a vested interest in the park and saw a need for soccer fields in the township. They were able to raise $50,000 dollars towards building the park back in 1997.

Twenty years after the park was built, the BRC once again was able to support the township’s efforts to improve the park. In 2020, Marple resident and business owner Lou Pace served as president of the club and he took a special interest in revamping the playground. Lisa Miller began working with Lou on the project; she made it her mission to follow through on Lou’s legacy project after she became president of the club in 2021.

Over the past few years, the BRC held several fundraisers and, despite facing difficult challenges during the pandemic, Lisa and Lou were able to present the township commissioners with $17,800 towards the new playground.

Larry said he cannot wait to welcome children to the park this spring, especially his own grandchildren. “It will definitely be the gem of the neighborhood!,” he said. “We know our residents will enjoy using this space and we look forward to seeing children of all abilities and all ages playing here together.” Stay tuned for more information about the playground’s grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony coming later this month.

Visit the Veterans Memorial Park and Broomall Rotary Club Facebook pages for updates and www.MarpleTwp.com for information about all of Broomall’s local parks. M

1/1/22 thru 6/30/22

The new pavilion and playground at Veterans Memorial Park March 2022

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www.MarpleMag.com 29

Our Community

Marple Newtown High School Presents Matilda the Musical Written by Holly Stupak Photos by James Mergliano

F

ull of catchy songs, high-energy dance numbers and special effects, Marple Newtown High School’s production of Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical opens March 10th and is sure to please both children and adults alike.

Storytelling and music are woven together in this story about a young girl with a sharp mind and a vivid imagination.

Based on the 1988 children's novel of the same name by Roald Dahl, Matilda the Musical debuted on Broadway in 2013 and won a Tony award that year. It’s been described by critics as "wise, wicked, glorious fun.”

Directed by veteran director Brian Walsh and produced by Marple Newtown graduate Tiffany Caprice, MNHS’s production of Matilda the Musical features more than 100 of Marple Newtown School District’s students of all ages as actors, dancers, stage crew members and musicians.

The story follows Matilda, a child who is unloved by her cruel parents and tormented by her school’s headmistress. Finding her escape in books and a bit of mischief, she takes a stand to change her destiny. Musical numbers like “Naughty” and “Revolting Children” help convey the show's message that anyone has the power to change their own story.

The promotional poster for MNHS’s production of Matilda the Musical

Senior Lucy DeFrancesco plays the title role of the clever and courageous Matilda. “What I loved about the role of Matilda is that I could really relate to her,” said Lucy. “I’ve always felt a little eccentric, and at times like I didn't fit in.

It’s fun to play a character where you can see yourself in them.”

The show has plenty of other colorful characters, including Matilda’s parents, the greedy Mr. and Mrs. Wormwood, and Miss Honey, a gentle young school teacher who is impressed by Matilda’s precociousness and academic ability. The most detestable character is Miss Trunchbull, who instills fear and loathing in her students.

Senior Peter Pilko plays the role of Miss Trunchbull, a principal who hates children and enjoys thinking up new punishments for those who don't abide by her rules. “I like the show's message of standing up for yourself,” said Peter, who is making his acting debut. “But I enjoy playing such a diabolical character. It’s fun being the villain!”

Actors Arianna Berryman and Peter Pilko exchange laughs in between takes

Working behind the scenes and at the heart of any successful theater production, is the stage crew. Matilda’s crew of 30 MNHS students are responsible for everything from lighting, sound and props to set design. Senior and President of the Drama Club Tim Fitzpatrick is the Head Designer and Director of Lighting.

“Before joining the stage crew my sophomore year I didn’t notice all the little details that go into making a stage production run smoothly,” Tim explained.

“After being part of the stage crew I now know how vital it is to the success of the show.” Tim oversees all of the various production crews, which includes a Special Effects committee to create some of the Matilda magic. “I love helping run the shows,” Tim added. “And on opening night it is so rewarding to see the whole production come together.”

30 Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

Working on blocking during rehearsal while stage crew works hard

Parents are also a vital part of any high school theater production. “It takes a village to put on a high school musical,” said Brian. “From sewing costumes and providing props to helping create special effects, we could not do this without the parents who donate their time and talents.”

Matilda the Musical is MNHS’s third musical based on one of Dahl’s books. “I think the theme of the show is something high school students can relate to,” said Brian, who also directed Marple’s productions of James and the Giant Peach.

“Stories like these remind us how important it is to be true to your creative and unique self.”

Brian, a fifth grade teacher in the Upper Darby School district, began directing Marple Newtown students back in 2015. A Delaware County native, he grew up in Drexel Hill and graduated from Upper Darby High School and Kutztown University. His love of theater began in kindergarten and growing up he was actively involved in the Upper Darby Summer Stage program as both an actor and later as a director. “What’s really special to me about the spring musical is that it brings students from all ages together. This year is particularly special because the first group of elementary students I directed in 2015 are now sophomores.”

Producer Tiffany Caprice has also previously worked with MNHS students when she produced the school’s production of Bram Stoker’s Dracula in 2010. But her connection to Marple goes back even further. A 2006 graduate of MNHS, she was active in the drama program as a member of stage crew, and she especially loved producing one act plays. For several years, Tiffany worked in Los Angeles where she gained extensive experience working in the film and advertising industries.

Recently Tiffany became an executive producer with the We The People Company (www.WeThePeople.tv), a production company that merges entertainment with advertising. Her professional work has brought her back to the area and gave her the opportunity to work at her alma mater again. “What I love about the Marple drama program both as a student and a producer is the amount of valuable skills it teaches you,” said Tiffany. “From people skills to time management to building confidence, it’s much more than acting and learning lines.”

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Brian and Tiffany not only wanted to put together a great show this year, but they wanted to teach and inspire the students. During production, the cast and crew were able to meet professional actors, attend workshops and work with dialect coaches. “We really wanted to give the Marple drama students a bigger, better and memorable experience,” she added.

The audience is in for a memorable experience too! You don’t want to miss this inspiring and entertaining musical. Performances start Thursday, March 10th and run through Sunday, March 12th. Visit www.MNDrama.org for showtimes and ticket information. M

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FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS

Think Spring PLAY BALL!

It’s Time to Register for Little League Baseball Written by Bob Blaisse

Think Spring because it’s time now to register boys and girls, ages 4-12, for Little League Baseball in Marple Township, which is blessed to have two Little Leagues. Each league requires certain township residency or attendance at a school within the league borders and within Marple Township. Registration is Now Open.

Late registration fees apply so be sure to check registration rules for each of Marple’s Little Leagues.

South Marple Little League Marple Township Little League Baseball www. SouthMarpleLittleLeague.org www.MTLL.org

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