Marple Friends & Neighbors magazine, August 2022

Marple

2022 August

FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS

The McGee Family

Making More Memories in Marple Cover photo by Crissy Everhart Photography www.CrissyEverhart.com

Bringing People Together

Tuesday evenings through Aug. 23

Wednesday evenings through Sept. 28

Saturdays in Summer

Sizzlin’ Summer Fitness in the Park

Dining Under the Stars

Paper Mill House Museum Tours

@Drexel Lodge Park 4140 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square

@State St, Media

@Paper Mill House 3 Paper Mill Rd, Newtown Square

Experience an outdoor workout that will challenge your aerobic and anaerobic capacity. Classes are taught by Alex Young (Coach AL-X) and Super Star Vonnie of Young Forever Fitness and Nutrition Coach. All fitness levels are welcome.

Time: 6:15–7:15pm Cost: FREE

www.YoungForeverFitness.com

Enjoy al fresco dining in Media all summer long.

Every Wednesday evening through September, the Dining Under the Stars™ event closes State Street from Jackson to Orange. A perfect evening to stroll, shop and dine!

Cost: TBD

610-975-0290 www.NSHistory.org Friday afternoons June–September

Newtown Square Farmers Market Sat. August 27

Havertown Music Festival @Eagle and Darby Rds, Havertown Featuring popular and rising artists, representing various musical genres, from Haverford Township, the greater Philadelphia area, New Jersey, central Pennsylvania and beyond. There will also be great food, beer gardens, activities for the kids and fun for the entire family.

Time: Noon–9pm Cost: FREE

Visit our museum of local history, a place filled with the ghosts and footprints of the millworkers who once lived there.

Time: 1–4pm Cost: FREE (donations accepted!)

@St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 3625 Chapel Rd, Newtown Square On Friday afternoons starting June 3rd, the Newtown Square Farmers Market will feature local growers, producers and artisans. Fresh produce from Urban Roots Farm will be for sale as well as artisan breads, coffee, pickles, flowers, plants and candles.

Time: 3–6pm

Saturdays in Summer

Newtown Railroad Museum @Drexel Lodge 4140 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square Full-size train engines, rolling stock and a museum full of artifacts from the trains and trolleys that once served Newtown Square. Great for children!

Time: 1–4pm Cost: FREE (donations accepted!)

www.NewtownSquareRailroadMuseum.org Saturdays in Summer

Art at The Square Tavern & Arts Center

Weds–Sun evenings mid-June–mid-August

@Goshen & Newtown Street Roads

Delaware County Summer Festival Concerts

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

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

www.NSHistory.org

Beat the Heat with Summer Treats! de or On the patio, poolesibe at th ach!

@Rose Tree Park 1671 N Providence Rd, Media Free concerts in Rose Tree Park's scenic outdoor amphitheater resume this June! The series provides many opportunities to enjoy top-notch entertainment of all kinds. Bring blankets and chairs for seating. Light concessions will be for sale and picnics are welcome. No alcoholic beverages. Pets and smoking must remain outside the amphitheater.

No rain date for any evening concert.

Time: 7:30pm Cost: Free admission and free parking

610-891-4663 (or 610-891-4455 for cancellation updates) www.DelcoPA.gov/departments/parks/summerfestival.html Sat. September 17

Pints in the Square Cookies Mini Pastries Party Trays Sticky Buns Homemade Pies Artisan Breads Custom Cakes and Desserts Famous Cream Filled Donuts

610 - 353 - 2550 2076 Sproul Road, Broomall

www.JacquettesBakery.com 2

Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

Come out to celebrate the return of Pints in the Square! The event kicks off with a 5K run at 11am followed by a Brew Fest featuring unlimited craft beer tastings, live music, and access to purchase food from local vendors. There will be an impressive selection of over 50 craft beers from more than 25 local and regional craft breweries.

Registration is required for the 5K and tickets for the Brew Fest are available online.

Time: 5K at 11am; Brew Fest 12–4pm Cost: 5K only $30; Brew Fest only $50; 5K and Brew Fest $75; Designated Driver Brew Fest only $10, or 5K and Brew Fest $35

www.PintsInTheSquare.com

Dear Friends & Neighbors, Happy Anniversary! This August issue marks the Fourth Anniversary of Marple Friends & Neighbors. Our first issue, August 2018, was truly an augury sign of our mission to be Bringing People Together in print, and online at www.MarpleMag.com.

PUBLICATION TEAM

Fourty-eight issues later, we enter our fifth year of successfully publishing Marple’s hometown magazine, which so many of you have told me for years has become your favorite mail surprise each month.

PUBLISHER: Bob Blaisse EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER: Lisa Jeffries CONTENT COORDINATOR: Holly Stupak DESIGNER: Kim Cesati CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER: Crissy Everhart Photography www.CrissyEverhart.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Bob Blaisse, Holly Stupak, Sheila Turner-Hilliard, Lisa Jeffries, Doug Humes, Mike Bradley, Andrew Martella, Lindsey Poeth, Christine DiFilippis 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.

Here’s how I introduced myself and our new hometown magazine to all of you back in August 2018. Our first issue came in your mail that month unexpectedly, and has continued to arrive every month since thanks to the hometown heroes, our advertising Sponsors who can take all the credit for our success.

Welcome Friends & Neighbors of Marple Township, to the inaugural edition of Marple Friends & Neighbors magazine. As a resident of Marple Newtown for nearly 25 years, I’m honored that Best Version Media has asked me to serve as Publisher of Marple’s new monthly magazine in service to the residents and businesses of Marple Township.

Each month, Marple Friends & Neighbors will introduce you to Broomall residents you may already know. If not, you will by reading their cover story inside your hometown magazine filled with articles of interest and features written by local Expert Contributors. This month, meet “The Conroy Family” on our cover and read their story inside the pages of our magazine. You will also recognize local businesses, whose advertising in our magazine should be rewarded for their sponsorship of our community. Please reach out to thank these businesses for bringing your hometown magazine to you each month. And please, whenever possible, shop local.

It was the Conroy Family that launched us four years ago. Now we ‘Welcome the McGee Family,’ as seen on the cover of this anniversary issue, which Holly Stupak has put together for us to kick off our fourth year. The McGees are making memories in Marple Township and now making history too as they join our continued mission to be Bringing People Together by sharing their story with us, as they did while relaxing at Broomall’s gem, Rose Tree Woods Swim Club. I know you’ll enjoy reading their story. Take this issue to read at your pool or the beach, and enjoy this last full month of summer!

Bob Blaisse Publisher

ON THE COVER

The McGee Family at Rose Tree Woods Swim Club in Broomall.

Marple

2022 August

FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS

The McGee Family

s in Marple

Making More Memorie Everhart Photography Cover photo by Crissy om www.CrissyEverhart.c

Bringing People Together

Dear Residents, Hello August! Before summer comes to an end, make sure to squeeze in a few more beach and pool days and of course, more celebrations with friends and family. Our calendar of events has some fun activities to enjoy these last few weeks before we’re talking about school and pumpkin season!

Our Resident Feature family is certainly enjoying these last few weeks of summer cooling off at Rose Tree Woods Swim Club! Dana, Luke and their four children love making memories at the pool and in our community. We also have a full recap from the 4th of July parade winners and Dr. Marc Belitsky gives us the inside scoop on this year’s U.S. Senior Open. Our Business Profile highlights C&J Automotive Specialists.

Although they’ve made physical changes, one thing remains the same: They put your family first!

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

Holly Stupak Content Coordinator

August 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

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

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

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

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

We’re Online! www.MarpleMag.com

POWER ON…

All Summer Long!

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We proudly provide: • The highest standard of service • Excellent customer satisfaction • Safe & proper installation • Emergency assistance, 7 days/week

Your Local Generac Dealer! ®

Call TODAY for a FREE Estimate!

Ask About LOWCOST Financing!

610-955-4397

www.CountywideGenerators.com Thank you for supporting a locally owned business!

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Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Before

• • • • • •

Basement Waterproofing Waterproofing Coatings Foundation & Crack Repair Sump Pump Install /Service Mold Remediation Humidity Control Management

After

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

610- 325- 0596

•

FREE Estimates

•

www.WeatherProofing-Plus.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

484-422-8334

www.ScottsFireplaceProducts.com

3137 West Chester Pike Newtown Square, PA August 2022

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

Senior Living:

How Much Is It and Who Pays for It?

R

etirement communities and senior housing can be an expensive proposition – often more expensive than expected.

Who pays for what? How much do they each cost?

Short-Term Rehab: After a hospitalization, one may require a stay at a short-term rehab facility for physical, occupational and speech therapy in order to be better prepared to return back home. This stay is covered by Medicare up to a specific number of days, which can vary, and after that point, there may be a co-payment.

COST: Covered by Medicare Independent Living (IL): This type of community includes many amenities, often including meals, utilities, transportation and activities. But any personal care assistance would require the individual to hire a private-duty aide/home care aide.

COST: ~$2,500 – $5,000 / month (this varies by size of residence)

Assisted Living (AL) / Personal Care (PC): While this varies by state, in Pennsylvania, AL/PC communities are privately paid for, meaning they are not covered by Medicare or Medicaid but rather by savings, the proceeds of a home sale, retirement accounts and pensions. Long-Term Care policies can also be used to help defer the costs, though they are less common.

COST: ~$4,500 – $7,000 / month (this varies based on care needs and size of residence) Memory Care (MC): Paid for privately, as described previously for AL/PC. COST: ~$6,000 – $8,500 / month (this varies based on care needs and size of residence) Long-Term Skilled Nursing / Nursing Home: Nursing homes are the most expensive of the options given the level of care they provide and type of staff in the facility. This is also the only environment that can be covered by Medicaid, though not every Nursing Home accepts Medicaid.

COST: ~$11,000 – $15,000 / month (paying privately or spending down* to qualify for Medicaid) *Spending down is when subtracting medical expenses and cost sharing lowers a person's income to a level that qualifies them for Medicaid.

Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC): This community has all of the different levels of care on site, from Independent Living through Skilled Nursing. Their cost structure typically requires a large upfront buy-in in addition to a monthly cost. The buy-in can act like an Insurance policy, covering the resident through all levels of care.

COST: Buy-Ins range widely based on community, from $90,000 – $1,000,000 and up

When it’s a parent, you’ll know how to make confident senior care decisions.

The Oasis Process:

• No-obligation Consultation • Identify Your Lifestyle Needs • Help Reduce Your Monthly Costs • Personalized List of Housing Options • Set Up Tours of Each Community

www.OasisSeniorAdvisors.com/Mainline 484-947-4266 • LPoeth@YourOasisAdvisor.com 6

Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

Senior living is an expensive proposition that requires planning to ensure there are no surprises down the road. A Certified Senior Advisor® (CSA) can offer a thorough review of options available in your area to alleviate the anxiety that can come with such a move. M

History Spotlight

The West Chester Trolley Written by Doug Humes Photos courtesy of Marple Historical Society

W

est Chester Pike has been a witness to the history of transportation in Delaware County. From its first creation in the 1790’s, the road saw foot traffic, horse and wagons, a “plank road” turnpike, regular stagecoach service and finally in 1895, a horse-drawn and later motorized trolley line that eventually connected the 69th Street Terminal with West Chester.

The Philadelphia and West Chester Traction Company built the trolley line to Newtown Square in 1895 – running nine miles from 63rd and Baltimore Avenue in Philadelphia to Newtown Square. The fare was 10 cents. The line was assured of initial financial success in 1896, when the US Post Office hired it to carry the mail to towns along the way: Manoa, Adele, Broomall and Newtown Square. More income would come in 1899 when the Castle Rock amusement park opened.

Initial passenger service was provided beginning in August 1895 with “steam dummies” before trolley cars powered by electricity were put into service. The trolley helped provide for access and growth to the western suburbs. The city could easily visit the country, and vice versa. Workers could look for jobs a little further from home when they did not have to walk to get there. Amusement and recreation destinations were created to lure the city dwellers out into the country. Broomall Grove offered live music and dancing. Castle Rock offered picnicking and rides.

Above: Early “steam dummy” stopped in front of Drove Tavern, circa 1905.

Right: The sign that marked the stops along the line when it was operated as a Red Arrow line.

In the mid 1930s, the line was consolidated with other lines that were part of the Philadelphia Suburban Transportation Company, all converging on the beautiful new 69th Street Terminal building in Upper Darby, which opened on October 26, 1936. However, the postwar suburban boom and the rise of the private automobile led to the widening of West Chester Pike, leaving no room for the trolley tracks. The trolley line was abandoned in June of 1954, to be replaced by the next technology – the bus, which is still running today as Route 104!

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.

Check on Facebook or at the website for more details. M A June 28, 1898 ad announcing the opening of “Broomall Grove Park” in Broomall, offering live music and dancing.

Come See Trolley headed east at intersection of West Chester Pike and Sproul Road, circa 1953.

Years of legal wrangling delayed the extension of the line the 11 additional miles to West Chester, but on New Year’s Eve of 1898, the first trolley left 63rd and Market Streets at 1:00pm and arrived at West Chester at 2:20pm, after a run of 20 miles.

The first cars carried company President John N.M. Shimer along with other company officials and stockholders. They were greeted on their arrival by local officials, at which time they all made their way to the Green Tree Hotel for speeches and libations.

Your Summer Fun is in Clear View!

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

Dr. Michael Allodoli, OD

www.BroomallEyeCare.com

•

610 -325-7688

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

August 2022

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Bringing People Together Written by Bob Blaisse, Publisher

Bringing People Together Marple Friends & Neighbors

Bringing People Together

for Four years and counting…

T

his month begins the fifth year of our ongoing mission to be Bringing People Together in Marple Township through our unique brand of social-media-in-print which is Marple’s hometown magazine, Marple Friends & Neighbors. While our mission continues, thanks to the support of our advertising Sponsors who make it possible for our monthly hometown magazine to be printed and mailed to you for free each month. That investment our Sponsors make to benefit Marple residents, also allows the history we have created in Bringing People Together for the past forty-eight issues, to live forever on the Internet. Celebrate the Fourth Anniversary of Marple’s hometown magazine by taking a stroll down Marple’s memory lane at www.MarpleMag.com. M

Bob Blaisse

Publisher Marple Friends & Neighbors

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Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

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Honoring The Life of a Loved One

DANJOLELL

MEMORIAL HOMES

AND CREMATORY

Flower Selection • Candlelight Ceremony • Butterfly Releases • Memory Tables • Bookmarks with Seeds Dove Release • Picture Boards • Remembrance Jewelry • Online Remembrance • 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

s r a e Y

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

www.MarpleMag.com August 2022

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Business Profile Written by Holly Stupak Photos courtesy of C&J Automotive Specialists

New Look, Same Friendly Service

C

&J Automotive Specialists has been providing its customers with professional and friendly service since their first auto shop opened in 1988. When owner Jack Crowley Jr. took over most of the business from his dad in 2019, he made sure that his customers would get the same C&J experience that he grew up with. “My dad always taught me to be appreciative, truthful and grateful,” said Jack. “And that’s how I treat everyone.” And although C&J is rooted in old school service, their automotive shops feature new school technology.

Jack Jr.’s father, Jack Sr. opened C&J Automotive Specialists in Berwyn, PA when Jack was a young boy. Over the past 34 years, this father and son have made a great team in the industry. Jack Jr. worked in the shop during high school and after he graduated. He knew he would likely be running his dad’s business someday. He studied Business Management and Geographical Information Systems at West Chester University and found that the courses really helped prepare him for running an auto service business. But it wasn’t just the coursework that taught Jack how to be a great business owner. “My dad also taught me to put other people first,” he said. “That’s C&J’s motto and it’s the reason why we have so many repeat customers, some of whom have been with us since my dad opened up the first location. We value building long relationships with everyone who visits our shop.”

Owner of C&J Automotive Specialists, Jack Crowley, Jr.

Shortly after Jack Jr. graduated from college, he worked with Jack Sr. to open their second location on Newtown Street Rd. in Newtown Square. Then in 2019 Jack Jr. bought both shops from his dad. However Jack Sr. just couldn’t stay out on retirement and now co-owns one of C&J’s newest shops located in Hammonton, NJ. “It’s a true testament to who my dad is,” said Jack. “Helping people and their cars is just who he is!”

2021 was a busy year for C&J Automotive Specialists. In addition to the new location in Hammonton, Jack Jr. also opened new automotive shops in Lansdale and Upper Chichester, both co-opened with long-standing employees, now owner-operators. “We're extremely excited to grow with our employees who are like family,” said Jack.

The new Gulf gas pumps at C&J’s Newtown Square location 10 Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

A typical day for Jack involves traveling between the various locations, to ensure that every customer gets the C&J experience that he grew up with. But with growing operations, he's also enlisted the help of the Newtown Square shop’s manager Aaron Brechbiel, who has since been promoted to Director of Operations. Although headquartered in Newtown Square, Aaron also bounces around to help with everything from making sure each shop has what it needs to serve their customers to ensuring their digital reports and communications with customers are running smoothly. C&J also welcomed

This past year, all of C&J’s facilities were updated inside and out with a look that is both retro and modern. “Customers often come in and say, ‘you don’t get service like this anymore.’” Jack explained. “We redesigned our shops with old school shops in mind, like the one you may stumble upon on a long road trip down Route 66, while still keeping it clean, modern and welcoming!” In addition to the inside/waiting area changes, they’ve also updated their Gulf gas pumps with new concrete pads at the pump islands, all new underground lines, high speed dispensers and tap to pay features at the pump. Customers will also like the fact that C&J can now accept all forms of payment and they support all retail fuel needs including fleet accounts.

C&J Automotive Specialists’ new look at the Newtown Square location

Nick Ortiz and Mike McGeary to the team this year. Thanks to their years of experience in the industry they’re able to hold down the fort at the Newtown Square location. “Our goal is to hire talented people and see that they keep moving up,” Jack said. “We want them to have room to grow and hopefully be a partner in one of our shops in the future.”

YOUR FAMILY is our First priority.

“ ”

Customers Often Come In and Say, ‘You Don’t Get Service Like This Anymore’

C&J also rebranded and updated their logo. Even with all these changes this past year, their business philosophy and tagline for their auto shop remains the same: Let Our Family Put Your Family First. Whether it’s a yearly PA State Inspection, a routine oil change, new tires or other vehicle needs, visit C&J Automotive Specialists and you can be assured that Jack and his team will Put Your Family First! M

Proudly providing state-of-the-art dental care with the highest priority on patient safety and comfort.

We Offer: Cosmetic and preventive dentistry, smile whitening, Implant restoration, tooth replacement and denture solutions to meet the needs of your entire family.

www.MarpleDental.com 2004 Sproul Road, Suite 304, Broomall office@MarpleDental.com • 610 -359 -8181 Dr. Georges P. Martin, D.M.D.

August 2022

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Resident Feature

The McGee Family: Making More Memories in Marple Written by Holly Stupak Photos by Crissy Everhart Photography www.CrissyEverhart.com

T

his month we are pleased to introduce you to the McGee Family. Luke and Dana both grew up here in Broomall and have fond memories of nights at the local ball fields and summers at Rose Tree Woods Swim Club (RTW). Now they get to relive these memories with their own four children, showing them just what makes Marple so special.

Luke was born in Sharon Hill, but moved to Broomall when he was in elementary school. Although the transition was tough at first, he eventually made lifelong friends at Loomis Elementary School, Paxon Hollow Middle School and Marple Newtown High School. During high school Luke ran track and played soccer. He was already thinking about his next steps, and one summer during high school he got a job working at an oil refinery. He knew then what he wanted to do, so after he graduated from Marple he went through the steamfitters apprenticeship program, completing his apprenticeship in 2007.

Since 2007 Luke has been a steamfitter in Local Union 420.

“The interesting part of my job is that I get to work at many different places in and around Philly,” said Luke. “I started as a steamfitter at the age of 18 and still enjoy the work that I do to this day.”

Dana was born in Seoul, Korea. Her parents adopted her when she was four months old and raised Dana and her two older brothers here in Broomall. She attended St. Anastasia School up until eighth grade and graduated from the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur in Villanova in 2001. From the age of six she was a competitive swimmer, starting with the RTW team and eventually swimming for Notre Dame’s team. Always active in sports, she played softball for the Newtown Square Petticoat League (NSPL) from T-ball age to her teen years and also played basketball and field hockey.

After high school Dana went on to Muhlenberg College. Her older brother Christian had gone there and she always liked its idyllic small setting and beautiful campus. Although she had originally planned to study Computer Science, a job at the school’s radio station changed all that. “Music has always been a big part of my life,” said Dana. “After the opportunity to host several radio shows at Muhlenberg, I realized I was meant to be in the Communications field.” She graduated in 2005 12 Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

The McGee Family at Rose Tree Woods Swim Club

with a B.A. in Communications and after college worked as a promotions coordinator and associate producer for NBC10.

“I loved working at NBC10,” said Dana. “I got to work with some amazing people and even got a chance to shoot a commercial for the Philadelphia Flyers.”

Although they both grew up here in Broomall, Dana and Luke didn’t meet until they were in their twenties. It was actually a connection to RTW that brought the two together. As a member of the swim club, Dana met a lot of friends from different schools when she was growing up. One of those friends who went to Marple happened to be a friend of Luke’s. The two were introduced at a group outing to see a friend’s band play, which led to a romance for Luke and Dana. After dating for a few years, the couple was ready to buy a home together.

Deciding where to live was a no brainer. “Marple was an easy choice,” said Luke. “We didn’t even consider anywhere else!”

They even found a home around the corner from Dana’s childhood home. “We can see my parents’ house from ours,” Dana added. “Family means a lot to me. I’m super close with my parents and having them live so close to me means the world to me.”

When the house settlement day arrived, Dana had no idea that Luke had a special surprise for her. Members of both of their families were gathered around the table at the Realtor’s office.

“I thought they came because they were just excited about the house,” Dana said. So it was quite a surprise when Luke proposed to Dana right then and there. “We love joking about how we signed our lives away that day,” she added, laughing.

Dana and Luke married in May 2009 at St. Margaret Parish in Narberth, which was followed by a beautiful reception at Merion Tribute House in Merion Station. Being kids at heart, they chose Disney World for their honeymoon and stayed in the park at a hotel in the Animal Kingdom.

In 2010, the couple welcomed their first child, Gianna. A rising 6th grader at Paxon Hollow Middle School, Gianna plays the piano and loves reading, cooking and art. As a young girl she competed in gymnastics, winning first place in many of her competitions. She’s a member of RTW’s dive team in the summer, plays softball for NSPL in the spring and in the fall and winter she plays basketball for the Marple Newtown Basketball Association (MNBA). Her parents describe her as sweet, caring, considerate and kind to everyone she meets. She’s also a bit of a daredevil, especially when it comes to amusement park rides.

Gianna’s younger sister Darcy was born in 2012. She’ll be a 5th grader at Worrall Elementary School this fall. A lover of music, Darcy plays guitar and hopes to be in a band someday.

(L-R) Max, Gianna, Quinn and Darcy McGee

Her other hobbies include reading and acting, and she’s been in several children’s plays at The Media Theater. Like her older sister, she plays basketball for MBNA, dives for RTW and has plans to play for NSPL. Kind hearted and sensitive, Darcy makes friends easily.

In 2015, Dana and Luke were pleasantly surprised to learn that they were about to become a family of six. “When I was told I was having twins, I laughed and cried at the same time,” said continued on page 14

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Resident Feature Dana. Quinn and Max came early at 31 weeks and were just five and four pounds, respectively. They are now six years old and headed to first grade at Worrall this fall.

Quinn loves legos, math and art. Dana described Quinn as a funny and happy kid. “He loves playing outside and dancing,” she said. A baseball player for the Marple Township Little League (MTLL), he’s also looking forward to playing flag football in the fall.

Like his brother, Max loves legos and math and he also likes anything to do with computers. Max also enjoys playing baseball for MTLL, and can’t wait to play flag football alongside Quinn in the fall. “Max is really funny,” said his mom. “He can be shy, but loves to tell stories and is very inquisitive.”

Dana enjoys being a stay-at-home mom to her four children.

“I am so grateful for the opportunity to be home with my kids because this allows me to be involved in their activities both at school and at home,” she said.

As the Board Secretary, Chair of Personnel and Co-Chair of the snack bar at RTW, Dana said she loves being part of the decision making process that impacts so many families in our community. And as a former lifeguard at RTW, Dana wanted to make sure that the members are being watched over by capable kids and managed by some really responsible and hardworking people who care about the pool as much as she

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The McGee children enjoying a beautiful day at Rose Tree Woods

does. “Rose Tree Woods means a lot to me since I’ve spent so many summers there as a kid,” she said. “Volunteering there has also given me the chance to give back to a place that was such a big part of my life growing up.”

Not only is Dana active at RTW, Dana gets to relive her old softball days by being an assistant coach for Gianna’s NSPL team. Luke also enjoys being involved in the kids’ sports teams and served as an assistant coach for MTLL and the Marple Newtown Soccer Association, where the boys have played for the past few years.

When the McGees need a change of scenery or to reset, they spend summer weekends in Ocean City, NJ. “We also cherish all the times we can attend Philadelphia sporting events like Phillies and Flyers games,” said Dana.

Back here in Broomall, Luke and Dana love being a part of our community because it feels like a family. “Our community has so much to offer our kids and we especially love the great schools that surround us,” said Luke. Dana agreed. “We love everything about Marple Newtown and look forward to making more wonderful memories that we will cherish forever!”

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

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Expert Contributor

6 Steps to

Written by Christine DeFilippis Pop Fit Studio

Your Summer Body

T

he summer is more than half over, have you been enjoying the warmer weather and summer activities? Maybe the thought of summer wear has you longing for the chill of wintertime. If you are like most people, you have struggled with the way your body looks. Summertime and the thought of wearing summer clothes, in particular a bathing suit, can bring anxiety about your body to a new high.

Instead of avoiding activities and hiding, take these six steps to achieve that illusive “summer body” and confidently enjoy the rest of your summer and beyond.

1. First recognize that there is no such thing as the perfect summer body. It’s a marketing term created by a billion-dollar industry. It’s a cruel attempt to make you more self conscious, feeling so bad about your body that you buy their products or programs that offer unrealistic promises. Bodies come in all shapes and sizes.

2. Embrace your “flaws!” We all have them – cellulite, stretch marks and body fat are present in almost all bodies. So stop comparing yourself to photoshopped images in magazines, TV and social media.

3. Buy clothes that fit versus trying to fit into clothes. There is nothing worse than being uncomfortable in your clothes or looking at a closet full of clothes that don’t fit. Smaller clothes are not motivation, just a distraction that can negatively affect your body image. So instead buy clothes that fit and that are comfortable to wear so you can enjoy summer activities.

more than how you look.

5. Feeling stressed before going out? Take a few minutes and meditate. Even a 10-20 second meditation to quiet the noise can help relieve stress and anxiety and increase your confidence before going out. If you hear that negative self-talk starting, pause and meditate.

6. Do a different detox. While you don’t need to fast, juice or detox your body with supplements that cost a fortune, what you might need is a detox for your mind. Take a look at your social media and expose yourself to a variety of bodies that reflect the diverse beauty in the world.

If you have been working on your perfect “summer body” and feeling frustrated, remember what Glenda from the Wizard of Oz shared with Dorothy (regarding her power), “You had it all along,” and so do you. Now go out there and enjoy the rest of the summer with the amazing summer body that is you! M

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4. Celebrate what your body can do versus the way it looks.

Whether you can run a 5k or walk four blocks after dinner every evening, your body is capable of amazing things. Your body isn’t just an ornament to be looked at, it’s a vehicle for the incredible life you’re living. Playing with your kids, enjoying time with loved ones and finding activities that bring you joy and happiness, these are the moments you’ll cherish so much

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www.MarpleMag.com 15

Student of the Month Written by Lisa Jeffries

Chloe Hand AUGUST STUDENT OF THE MONTH Chloe Hand, Casey’s August Student of the Month with Casey’s manager, Mel Waters Photo courtesy of Colleen Hand

The August Casey’s Public House Student of the Month is Chloe Hand, who received a Certificate of Achievement and a $25 gift card from Casey’s Public House, our Sponsor of this program. Chloe will be a Senior at Marple Newtown High School (MNHS) in September. Some of her favorite classes have been U.S. History, Psychology and AP Language and Composition.

has time to be a Leader for the Renaissance Program which encourages its members to get involved, keep their grades up and have good attendance. Add to that the fact that Chloe also takes part in the high school’s Hospitality Committee Mini-thon, which raises funds for pediatric cancer research, and it’s easy to see what makes Chloe such an outstanding Student of the Month!

Chloe enjoys taking on a large role in numerous MNHS clubs, including being the President of the History Honor Society and Treasurer of the English Honor Society and a member of the Science Honor Society, not to mention being a member of the National Honor Society since Sophomore year. In her Senior year, she hopes to improve upon her already high GPA of 4.2.

While Chloe isn’t quite sure which college she’ll call home a year from now, she’s leaning towards majoring in Clinical Psychology, and hopes to participate in the study abroad program and to travel as much as possible.

As Vice President of the MNHS Class of 2023 and also the Student Council, it’s hard to imagine when Chloe

Nominate the Next 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

16 Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

Chloe, your Marple Newtown Friends & Neighbors congratulate you on receiving this award, and for taking such a leading role in MNHS’s Class of 2023 clubs and government! M

Student of the Month! is not required. Email your nomination to Lisa Jeffries at LJeffries@BestVersionMedia.com. The selected nominee will be featured in a future issue and will also receive a Certificate of Achievement and a $25 Casey’s Public House gift card.

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Expert Contributor Written by Andrew Martella Martella Electric

Your Home, Safe and Welcoming With Exterior Lighting

L

ighting around your home’s exterior can provide safety, security, and a sense of pride and enjoyment in daylight and especially at night.

and fixtures ranges from plug-and-play like what the “big box” stores sell with little or no warranty, to bronze fixtures that have a lifetime warranty.

Landscape lighting around your home can range from a simple wall light to a spectacular scene. Today, light fixtures and light bulbs are available in a seemingly endless variety of sizes, shapes, designs and colors. And the quality of lighting systems

With advances in wireless bluetooth technology, the internet and WiFi, lights can be controlled from your handheld device, desktop computer, laptop computer and so on. The ability to turn lights on and off at any time of day and even to adjust light levels are all in your control, depending on how sophisticated you want to be.

When choosing landscape lighting fixtures, your choices are plentiful. A few of the many applications are path lights, up lights, flood lights, lights that wash light on walls, lamp post lights, and lighting in masonry walls along paths and around pool decks.

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18 Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

A lighting system doesn’t need to be elaborate to be effective.

Path lighting that’s pleasing to look at in the daylight becomes a practical safety feature at night. Most times, just a few simple lights strategically placed can make your home quite pleasant to look at. For a more dramatic effect at night, use up lighting that washes your home’s features, trees and shrubs in light.

Some home security lighting systems can even easily integrate with your home’s landscape lighting plan, flood lights and your video doorbell/camera system.

When considering starting a new lighting plan, upgrading what you have or just repairing your home’s current light fixtures and bulbs, take a look around. Go to the internet and have fun searching products, systems and accessories. You might also take a drive at night, to observe other homes’ lighting effects and get ideas for what might be best for your home.

Whatever you decide your security and landscape lighting needs are, be safe in what you do. If you’re a do-it-yourself type of person, have a blast. But if you’re not confident or skilled with electrical projects, you should consult a professional.

Electricity is our friend when used safely and wisely. M

Real Estate

Homes Recently Sold in Marple Address

Sold Price

Beds

Baths

Sq. Ft.

Acres

631 S Central Boulevard . . . . $526,000 . . . 3 . . . 2.5 . . . 2,300 . . . 0.18 613 Warren Boulevard . . . . .

$435,000 . . . 3 . . . 2.5 . . . 1,520 . . . 0.18

180 Sussex Boulevard . . . . .

$395,000 . . . 3 . . . 1.5 . . . 1,320 . . . 0.20

75 3rd Avenue . . . . . . . . . $668,000 . . . 4 . . . 2.5+ . . . 4,262 . . . 0.14 47 S Malin Road . . . . . . . . $450,000 . . . 3 . . . . 2 . . . . 1,624 . . . 0.16 414 Warren Boulevard . . . . .

$438,500 . . . 3 . . . 1.5 . . . 1,520 . . . 0.20

2129 Maclarie Lane . . . . . .

$405,000 . . . 3 . . . . 2 . . . . 1,827 . . . 0.30

2648 Springfield Road . . . . . $535,000 . . . 5 . . . . 2 . . . . 2,542 . . . 0.28 19 Oakland Road . . . . . . .

$355,000 . . . 5 . . . . 2 . . . . 2,102 . . . 0.20

24 Sterner Avenue . . . . . . . $365,000 . . . 3 . . . 1.5 . . . 1,332 . . . 0.08 210 1st Avenue . . . . . . . . . $875,000 . . . 4 . . . . 2 . . . . 1,645 . . . 0.20 610 Crum Creek Road . . . . . $385,000 . . . 3 . . . . 2 . . . . 2,240 . . . 0.72 2409 N Greenhill Road . . . . . $420,000 . . . 2 . . . 1.5+ . . . 1,648 . . . 0.16 2607 Harding Avenue . . . . .

$470,000 . . . 2 . . . . 1 . . . . 1,379 . . . 0.16

109 Brookthorpe Terrace . . . . $602,000 . . . 4 . . . 2.5 . . . 1,964 . . . 0.27 698 Barclay Lane . . . . . . . . $769,000 . . . 3 . . . 2.5 . . . 3,222 . . . 0.77 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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People In Places

Our Local Expert Chiropracror

Dr. Marc Belitsky: Helping Golfers Improve Their Game Written by Holly Stupak Photos courtesy of Dr. Marc Belitsky

Dr. Marc Belitsky with the U.S. Senior Open Championship trophy

T

his past June, more than 150 golfers gathered at Saucon Valley Country Club in Bethlehem, PA, for the 42nd U.S. Senior Open Championship.

Marple’s friend, neighbor and sponsor, Dr. Marc Belitsky, chiropractor and owner of Broomall Total Health Center, was there too, helping golfers stay at the top of their game. Dr. Belitsky not only had the chance to treat golfers and caddies, but it was an opportunity to enjoy watching this prestigious golf championship and mingle with many of the best golfers in the world.

Along with this year’s team of professionals that included physical therapists, massage therapists, chiropractors and athletic trainers, Dr. Belitsky was on hand for chiropractic care for the U.S. Senior Open athletes as well as their caddies. The Performance and Recovery team worked in shifts, consulting with clients to ensure they got the specific treatment they needed. With golfers and caddies often suffering from neck, shoulder and lower-back injuries, they were grateful for Dr. Belitsky’s services at the Open. The team treated everything from sprained ankles to neck and back pain. Dr. Belitsky explained how chiropractic care allows the whole body to perform optimally. “Swinging a golf club takes a lot of coordination between several body parts,” he said. “If one area of the body or one muscle is unable to perform at its optimal level, it can cause other parts of your body to overcompensate, which leads to a breakdown and eventually pain.”

Dr. Belitsky in front of the recovery tent, ready to treat golfers at the U.S. Senior Open Championship

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Thanks to Dr. Belitsky and his colleagues, many golfers who initially came to the recovery tent due to pain and issues with their golf swing, left excited to be rid of their pain. “It’s very rewarding to alleviate someone’s pain who then can go on to play better golf,” he said proudly. “Even if a golfer isn’t in pain, chiropractic adjustments can improve posture, increase flexibility and allow for full range of motion. In many cases, it even extends their careers.”

During his 30+ years as a chiropractor, Dr. Belitsky has treated all types of professional and amateur athletes, including runners, tennis players and local high school football players, for various sports-related injuries. A Board-Certified Chiropractic Rehabilitation doctor, he has been the Clinical Director of Broomall Total Health Center (BTHC; www.

SpineDr.org) since 1989. He opened up his practice after graduating from the Pennsylvania College of Chiropractic in 1988 and has since completed advanced studies with a Master’s certification in the diagnosis and treatment of cervical injuries (whiplash) and associated TMJ dysfunction.

Through his practice, Dr. Belitsky has had the opportunity to treat many local golfers. “I also play a lot of golf myself and understand the mechanics of a golf swing,” he said. Prior to the U.S. Senior Open this year, he offered chiropractic care to golfers at the 42nd Curtis Cup, held at Merion Golf Club in early June. The match, held every other year, featured international competition between the top female amateur golfers in the United States against those from Great Britain and Ireland.

Dr. Belitsky has been part of the USGA’s Performance and Recovery team since 2013 with this year being his first time at the U.S. Senior Open and fifth time with the U.S. Open. One of the five major championships in senior golf, administered by the United States Golf Association (USGA), the U.S. Senior Open is recognized as a major championship by both the PGA Tour Champions and the European Senior Tour. Established in 1980 due to remarkable growth in professional and amateur senior golf, the U.S. Senior Open is for golfers 50 and older. “To have this opportunity to help golfers be at peak performance at one of the most prestigious tournaments and to represent my local community is really special,” Dr. Belitsky added.

This year’s tournament included some of the best golfers in the world. Padraig Harrington of Ireland won the Open in a close final round of the championship. Fans lucky enough to be one of up to 20,000 daily spectators this year got to walk the course and watch big names like Jim Furyk, Olin Browne, Roger Chapman, Fred Funk, Bernhard Langer, Jeff Maggert, Colin Montgomerie, Gene Sauers, Steve Stricker and David Toms.

Although Dr. Belitsky can’t say the names of those who came to the Performance and Recovery tent, the team treated over 190 golfers and caddies, including many golfers whom he has admired for years. “For a golf enthusiast like me, it’s a lot of fun to not only meet the players but get a behind-the-scenes look at the Open,” said Dr. Belitsky. “It’s a really exciting event to be a part of, especially when you’ve had an impact on a golfer’s success.” M

Dr. Belitsky with U.S. Senior Open Player Tony Aguilar

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Our Community

Let Freedom Ring Congratulations to All Winners In the 4th of July Parade!

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard Photos courtesy of the 4th of July Parade Committee

T

he reviews are in: The 2022 Marple Newtown 4th of July Parade was one for the record books! The weather was perfect, the streets were packed with people, and the excitement in the air was electric.

Praise and thanks to the Parade Committee flooded their Facebook page just minutes after the conclusion. Words used to describe the event were “spectacular,” “the best one yet,” and “absolutely perfect.”

This year’s parade Grand Marshall was William (Bill) Greco Jr. Bill is the co-owner of The Original Thunderbird Steakhouse which was founded in 1956 by his grandfather, Salvatore and his father, William Sr. Bill and his brother Tom are proud to be part of our community and continually support our Marple Newtown 4th of July Parade as well as charitable causes to help those in need throughout Marple Newtown.

Best of Parade winner Newtown Square Presbyterian Church

Spectators were entertained by marching bands such as Mersey-British Rock Invasion and the Spirit of Slim 76. And returning to the parade this year was The Marching Cobras Drumline and Danceline from New York. South Philly’s WhoaPhat Brass Band and the Bushwackers Drum and Bugle Corps from New Jersey got the crowd up on their feet and our community marching bands, fire companies and first responders joined in the fun.

Local businesses, community clubs and neighborhood residents did not disappoint with their decorated floats and marching groups. But it was the little ones who stole the show with their creative and festively decorated strollers, wagons, hand-drawn floats and bikes. The award for Best of Parade was Newtown Square Presbyterian Church whose decorated float earned them the largest trophy of the day.

Tom Greco, co-owner of The Original Thunderbird Steakhouse with his brother, Bill Greco who was the Grand Marshall of the parade

The parade ended with a celebration of our great country. Volunteers were on hand to serve pretzels, ice pops and water. The crowd gathered to listen to The Marple Newtown Community Band play our National Anthem, after which the awards ceremony began. Medals and trophies were given to the top three entries in each division, and their names and photos will be featured in the 2023 parade commemorative book.

Congratulations to All of the Winners!

SMALL FLOAT 1st: Newtown Township Republican Party; 2nd: Generation Quinn; 3rd: Newtown Edgmont Little League.

MEDIUM FLOAT 1st: Newtown Square Presbyterian Church; 2nd: Marple Newtown Democratic Party; 3rd: Operation Christmas Child.

LARGE FLOAT 1st: Boy Scouts Troop 122; 2nd: Marple Township Little League; 3rd: Marple Republican Party.

COMMERCIAL FLOAT 1st: The Giant Company; 2nd: Charming Star Playroom; 3rd: Rose Tree Woods Swim Club.

MARCHING GROUP 1st: Art in Motion Dance Studio; 2nd: From the Top Studio of Dance; 3rd: Marple Civic Youth Association

Winner of the Most Spectacular Red, White and YOU! decorating contest

BIKE BRIGADE (Group) 1st: Evak Family. (Individual) 3 & Under 1st: Evan Oelkers; 2nd: Daniel Johnson; 3rd: Rose Spiro. Age 4 1st: Juliette Tripp; 2nd: Daviana Long. Age 5 1st: Beckett Kern; 2nd: Laura Vergara. Age 6 1st: Taylor McDonald; 2nd: Eleanor Spiro; 3rd: Aidan Shiel. Age 7 1st: Riley Messick; 2nd: Jackson Kroll;

22 Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

Honorable Mentions: Newtown Square: 300 3rd Ave, 402 1st Ave, 25 Surrey Rd, 39 Northwood Rd, 6 Martins Rd, and Casey’s Public House. Broomall: 24 Summit Rd, 307 Beechtree Rd, 2623 Springfield Rd, and 58 Ann Rd.

The bike brigade was ready to ride

Please join us in thanking our Marple Newtown 4th of July Parade Committee and all the volunteers for their hard work and dedication. We could not have asked for a better parade. Thank you for Bringing People Together to celebrate our freedom! M

3rd: Evelyn Gelkers. Age 8 1st: Tyler Nefferdorf; 2nd: Henry Spiro; 3rd: (tie) Ava Tripiciano and Aubrey Cianelli. Age 9 1st: Ella Pinto; 2nd: Carter Evak; 3rd: Chloe Maier. Age 10 & Over 1st: Jameson Kroll; 2nd: Austin Heffer; 3rd: (tie) Alexa Nefferdorf and Kaden Kowalko.

STROLLERS AND WAGONS 1st: Chase Jillard; 2nd: Anastasia Cox; 3rd: Ricky Cathcart.

HAND-DRAWN FLOATS 1st: Reese Armstrong; 2nd: Tesla 2023; 3rd: Kayden Ludwick.

Back when the 2020 parade was canceled due to the pandemic, the committee launched a Red, White and YOU! decorating contest for area residents and businesses. The turnout has been so successful over the past two years that they decided to continue the tradition. Judges toured the area and awarded prizes such as “Best Window,” “Most Patriotic” and “Most Spectacular.”

There were over 40 entries from Broomall and Newtown Square. Judging took place June 30 and July 1, and winners were greeted by a caravan of judges, complete with Uncle Sam and Lady Liberty and a congratulatory lawn sign. All entries received a participation certificate.

Marple Township Little League paid tribute to the late Seth Pancoast, Jr.

Best Residence: 250 Sussex Boulevard, Broomall Best Business: From the Top Studio of Dance, Chapel Road, Newtown Square Most Patriotic: Marple Presbyterian Church, Broomall Most Creative: 309 S Parkway, Apt 111, Broomall Best Window: Mad Hatter Boutique, W Chester Pike, Broomall Best Use of Red, White and Blue: 308 Media Line Road, Newtown Square Most Fun: 19A St. Albans Avenue, Newtown Square Best at Night: 2946 Dorman Road, Broomall Star-tastic: 117 Hearth Road, Broomall

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Our Community

PROSTHETIC INNOVATIONS: Broomall Natives Change Lives Through Prosthetics

by Holly Stupak Photos courtesy of Tim Rayer

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fter Broomall native Tim Rayer graduated from Marple Newtown High School in 1989, he was all set to pursue a degree in Physical Therapy. He had already been working at one of Pat Croce’s local Physical Therapy offices and was studying Exercise and Sports Science at Penn State Brandywine. Tim was also on PSU Brandywine’s basketball team and when his teammate lost a leg due to Osteosarcoma (a type of bone cancer), Tim’s career took a different turn. “Seeing my friend’s artificial limb had a huge impact on me,” said Tim. “I was fascinated.”

Tim was so intrigued by the prosthetic that he shifted gears and decided to become a Certified Prosthetist. “Back in the 1990s, there wasn’t as much popularity in the area of prosthetics,” Tim explained. But Tim found an apprenticeship in a prosthetics practice and eventually completed his graduate work in Prosthetics at Newington Children’s Hospital and the University of Connecticut Medical School.

Meanwhile Tim’s older brother Mike had earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Virginia in 1993. The brothers shared an apartment together in Newtown Square and Tim began bringing some of his prosthetic limbs home to show Mike. “I could see Mike's mind spinning,” said Tim. “He was really interested in the mechanics and the technology of it.”

Tim Rayer with Army Sgt. Miles Kamson

With Mike’s interest now sparked in prosthetics too, he began coming into work with Tim to learn more. Ultimately, he completed his graduate education at the University of Connecticut Medical School and Newington Children’s Hospital and also became a Certified Prosthetist.

The Rayer brothers honed their skills in prosthetics for a few years and eventually opened up Prosthetics Innovations, Inc. in 2006. Located in Eddystone, the company works with amputees in 30 states and nine countries, many of whom are military veterans. Their company provides innovative prosthetic care to amputees with permanent physical loss, specializing in highlevel below-knee (BK) and above-knee (AK), hip disarticulation, hemipelvectomy, above-elbow and shoulder disarticulation.

Mike’s focus is upper extremity prosthetics, while Tim specializes in the design and fit of complex polytrauma patients including trans-femoral (AK), hemipelvectomy, hip disarticulation and running prosthetics. Mike also pioneers the program Team PROLIMB, which is dedicated to supporting amputees’ desire to resume their pre-injury activity level. Members compete in rigorous activities, including rock climbing, skiing and triathlons. Not only does this program provide encouragement, it also provides them with the mindset that there is a lifetime of opportunity.

Mike Rayer with an upper extremity client 24 Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

Chris Dalmass, a third partner in the practice, is the clinical expert with pediatric clients, as well as difficult trans-femoral clients. Tim originally connected with Chris when he was

with a competing prosthetic company in Philadelphia. “I was so impressed with his work and he really aligned with our philosophy,” said Tim. The Prosthetic Innovations team also includes prosthetic technicians and insurance specialists, as well as other administrative staff. They have also partnered with Drexel University’s cooperative education program. “These students are some of the best and brightest and bring a great energy to our practice,” said Tim. He also said he’d be remiss if he didn’t mention that his dad Tom also works part-time for the company. “As a Vietnam Vet, he’s an asset to have and shows support and understanding to the veterans that we work with,” he added.

What sets Prosthetic Innovations apart from competitors and large healthcare facilities is the fact that their staff sees the ‘big picture.’ “For us, simply following the ‘industry standard’ is not enough,” he said. “We have the capability to develop the absolute best possible prosthetic solution for each and every client. The goal for our clients is to return to a healthy and successful life.” For some clients that means they design activity-specific prosthetics. “When we first meet with clients we ask questions about what they want to do. Ride a bike? Swim?

Walk down the aisle?” he explained. “Then we work as a team with doctors and therapists to set functional goals and formulate a plan for success.”

(L-R) Tom Rayer with Veterans Lou Namm and John O’Brien

Prosthetic Innovations is also known for their willingness to work with cutting-edge technology. Their engineers use 3-D printing and other state-of-the-art technologies to perfect the socket devices that connect amputated limbs to prosthetics.

Their laboratory is in-house, which allows them to expedite the fit process, offer timely adjustments and do repairs when needed.

Tim and Mike grew up in Broomall with their parents and older brother. While Tim was a student at MNHS he played on the basketball team. Mike graduated from Germantown Academy, where he excelled in swimming, eventually competing in the Olympic Trials in 1988. The Rayer brothers were both drawn to the prosthetic profession for the same reason: the immediate impact on patients. “The true reward is helping people. That’s all we want to do!” said Tim. For more information about Prosthetic Innovations visit www.ProLimb.com. M

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Expert Contributor Written by Mike Bradley Bradley Tree Experts

Wood Splitting 101

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n the 1950s, the new Lickity 8-horsepower log splitter became a popular gas-powered machine that professional tree experts often used to recycle into firewood the wood from trees they had cut down on recent jobs. Some of those machines are still in operation today.

Using the Lickity log splitter requires a lot of manual intervention. Each log must first be cut into wood rounds. Then each wood round must be loaded by hand onto the splitting machine, which uses a motorized arm to push the wood into a wedge cutter, thus splitting the wood. This process is repeated again and again until you have a pile of wedges that are the desired size (18 – 22" is standard fireplace length). Splitting a cord of wood (4x4x8 or 128 cubic feet) can take several hours depending on how many people are doing the splitting.

Over the years, upgrades in equipment have made firewood processing much more efficient. The cord of wood that used to take hours to split can now be done in a matter of minutes.

Nowadays, Timberwolf splitters, skid steers, grapple trucks, conveyors, tumblers and the Cord King processor are all things that make a wood splitting operation run smoothly.

Seasoned firewood is split one year ahead, to allow for a low moisture content. Under 20% moisture is ideal. Ash, oak, maple, cherry and beech are the most common hardwoods split for firewood, with oak being the premium cut because it burns hotter and longer than the others. Never use pine for indoor burning because it’s the wood that produces the most unhealthy creosote due to its high sap content, which makes it very smokey.

Ordering firewood early in the season (late summer to early fall) is a smart thing to do because you’ll get the driest, most aesthetically attractive wood because it has been on the top of the wood pile bathing in the summer sun.

Burning firewood to heat your home is much more cost effective, especially in our present economy. Depending on how many gallons your oil tank holds, you could be spending over $2500 to fill your tank for the winter months. Heating with wood is probably around ¼ of that cost. A local tree expert can help you accurately calculate potential savings based on the square footage in your home that you may be considering heating with wood. M

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Our Community

Summer Movies For the Family

by Holly Stupak

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emember spending those hot, stormy summer days at the movies with the kids or as a kid yourself? We’re happy to say those dog days of summer have arrived, the theater is cool, the popcorn is hot, and the lineup of new and discounted family-friendly movies is exciting. Summer movies on the big screen are back! Check out AMC Marple Theater’s list of new releases: Lightyear (in theaters now) T-Minus 5, 4, 3, 2, 1…Disney and Pixar are at it again! This time, they tell the story of the real Buzz Lightyear’s adventures to infinity and beyond. The film follows the adventures of the popular Space Ranger from his early days as an astronaut in training to becoming an intergalactic hero. It’s a trip around the galaxy that might have kids begging for their very own Buzz Lightyear action figure. (rated PG) Minions: The Rise of Gru (in theaters now) Minions fans, your wait is over! Illumination films is taking you back to where it all began in the 1970s. Gru is growing up in the suburbs when he discovers the Vicious 6, a popular supervillain group looking for the next big villain. Gru is intrigued, and devises a plan to become evil enough to join them. He succeeds in proving his evilness by stealing a Vicious 6 prized possession. Together with his friends the Minions, Gru gets some backup as the Vicious 6 attempt to take back what belongs to them and teach Gru a lesson. (rated PG) Marcel the Shell with Shoes On (in theaters now) We first met Marcel the Shell back in 2010, through a stop-motion animated short film. Marcel is a loveable little one-inch-tall shell who lives with his grandmother Connie and their pet lint, Alan. This time, he’s back in a full-length movie about his search to find a community of shells after his family was separated in an unfortunate event. Marcel embarks on this journey after a documentary filmmaker finds Marcel and begins to post his story online, gaining national attention and renewing Marcel’s hope of finding new friends and his long-lost family. (rated PG) Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank (in theaters now) This animated adventure tells the story of Hank, a hard-onhis-luck hound who finds himself in a town full of cats in need of help. They need a hero because there’s a ruthless, evil group

of feline villains plotting to destroy their town. With help from a reluctant former samurai teacher (voiced

by Samuel L. Jackson) to train him, Hank the underdog must become the town’s new samurai and team up with the village of felines to save the day. (rated PG) DC League of Super-Pets (in theaters now) The Justice League of Superheroes is back, but this time, they’re in trouble! Superman and the rest of the Justice League have been kidnapped and it’s up to Superman’s dog, Krypto, to save them.

The problem is that Krypto’s own superpowers alone can’t get the job done. He needs to enlist the help of an unusual lineup of animal friends – Ace the hound, PB the potbellied pig, Merton the turtle and Chip the squirrel – to grant them their own superpowers and teach them how to use them to set the Justice League free. (rated PG) If you’re looking for fun, budget-friendly movies for the kids, head down the road to Regal Edgmont Square on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for their $2 Summer Movie Express. Showtimes are at 10am and 11am both days. All the movies in this series are rated G and PG, and are just $2 per person.

A portion of Regal’s proceeds from the Summer Movie Express benefit The Will Rogers Institute, which funds research toward understanding, treating and curing pulmonary diseases and disorders.

The August Summer Movie Express schedules are packed with movies like Trolls, How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World, Scoob! and The Boss Baby: Family Business. Two movies are featured each week, so be sure to check out the full 2022 Summer Movie Express schedule under the Promos tab at www.RegMovies.com.

So please: Silence your cell phones, sit back, relax and enjoy the show! M August 2022

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Bringing People Together

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FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS

In Memoriam: Navy Lt. H. Eugene Vickers, Newtown Square’s Oldest Veteran

by Bob Blaisse Photo by Shannon Lynn Photography, www.ShannonLynnPhotography.com

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avy Lt. H. Eugene Vickers passed away peacefully in the early morning hours on Friday, July 15. He was 106 years old and is survived by four daughters, 11 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

Mr. Vickers was born on November 11, 1915. He married his childhood sweetheart, Betty, in 1944, and just two months later, he left to serve his country in World War II. Mr. Vickers entered the Navy as a Lieutenant, and was sent to Harvard for training required to serve as a Communications Officer. He was also assigned to serve as Chaplain and later as a Signal Officer on the USS Panamint AGC-13, performing assaults, capturing Okinawa and Le Shima Islands and fighting in the battles of Iwo ima and New Guinea.

Perhaps you recognize Mr. Vickers. Many considered him a local celebrity after he was honored on Veterans Day with an impressive parade to celebrate his 105th birthday. Military Personnel, Police Officers, First Responders, Veterans, friends and families joined in the celebration that began at the Delaware County Veterans Memorial and continued to his home on Overbrook Drive.

Mr. Vickers’s service to our country and his incredible life story garnered the attention of local television stations, newspapers and our very own Marple Friends & Neighbors magazine.

Over the past few years, we asked you to join us in wishing Mr. Vickers a happy birthday and thanking him for his service.

Mr. Vickers’ daughter Barbara said that he received hundreds of cards and each one meant so much to him.

Call OOnnbehalf Theof your Dream Team Marple Friends & Neighbors, we would like to extend our deepest condolences to the Vickers family.

FOr The hOme aDvanTage

In 1946, he returned to our area and built a home with his wife Betty in Newtown Square, where they raised their four daughters: Betty Jean, Barbara, Brenda and Beverly.

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