Marple Friends & Neighbors magazine, May 2023

Cover photo by Crissy Everhart Photography

by Lisa Jeffries

Mary O’ Brien

MAY STUDENT OF THE MONTH

The May Casey’s Public House Student of the Month is Mary O’Brien, who is a Senior at Marple Newtown High School (MNHS) and received a Certificate of Achievement and a $25 gift card from Casey’s Public House, our Sponsor of this program.

Mary loves many things, but there’s no doubt that basketball and school are near the top of that list. Basketball has been a huge part of Mary’s life since she was very young. Her accolades include being the starting MNHS Varsity Point Guard for four years, Varsity Captain for two seasons, earning an Honorable Mention in the Central League in 2021and 2022, Central League Second Team in 2023 and All Delco Honorable Mention in 2022. She has also played for the Comets AAU Tournament Team, Fall MNHS basketball and the MNSA Travel Soccer Team. In addition to basketball, Mary has played soccer and lacrosse at MNHS as well.

As a senior at MNHS, Mary is an Honor Roll student and is also a member of the Student Council, Spanish Club, Tiger Guides, Sign Language Club and Mini Thon Club. She and her family are members of St. Anastasia Catholic Church, where she attends Mass.

Mary works hard at everything she does, including babysitting, basketball refereeing at Ellis Preserve and waitressing at Fresco Restaurant in Newtown Square. Next year Mary will attend Temple University, where she’ll major in Nursing. She hopes to eventually become a nurse anesthetist to continue her ongoing goal to help others.

Thank you for sharing your story and accomplishments with us at Newtown Square and Marple Friends & Neighbors magazines, Mary. We’re proud to call you one of our own! M

Nominate the Next Student of the Month!

Any grade 7–12 student who resides within the borders of the Marple Newtown School District (no matter what school they attend, or if they are homeschooled) 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. Email your nomination to 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.

May Casey’s Student of the Month

Mary O’Brien with Casey’s Manager Terry Davis

Photo courtesy of Rosalie McKernan O’Brien

PUBLICATION TEAM

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, Christine DiFilippis, Kevin O’Donnell, Dr. Marc Belitsky

ADVERTISING

Contact Publisher: Bob Blaisse

Email: BBlaisse@BestVersionMedia.com

Phone: 610-453-5536

COMMUNITY SUBMISSIONS

Have feedback or questions about how to submit events, updates, ideas for articles, high resolution photos, etc.? We will do our best to include as much community info. as space permits. Please contact our Content Coordinator Holly Stupak at HStupak@BestVersionMedia.com.

CONTENT SUBMISSION DEADLINES

Content due the 5th of every month.

Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, ratepayers or homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2023 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

ON THE COVER

The Murphy-Costanzos at St. Pius X Church in Broomall

Dear Friends & Neighbors,

May I wish our Marple friends and neighbors who are mothers a very Happy Mother’s Day on May 14th. And the same to our grandmothers, stepmothers, new mothers with a first baby on the way, and all who have the gift of motherhood in their heart. When I think of motherhood, I have to admit, I get to thinking about my own mother just a bit after thinking how wonderful of a mother my four sons have been blessed to have in their life. Happy Mother’s Day Jean!

I want to also offer a rally cheer for our college graduates racing towards the finish line and graduation. For most it has been a sixteen year run that will end with a degree and begin what will be. To The Class of 2023, Congratulations! You did it!

The month of May is almost my favorite month of the year. With May’s weather, outside events, flowers in bloom, leaves on trees and our boys home from college, what month could be better? Maybe June, with even nicer weather? With Father’s Day and my birthday both coming up next month, my loyalties always win out. Loyalties to my family, staff, friends and neighbors, and our advertising Sponsors. So yes, June. I have to be loyal to that first month I saw when I came into this world.

Loyalty is a good thing. It’s like hope and truth coming together to do something good. Loyal to June, yes, but I also must admit I’ve enjoyed every month more since I became the Publisher of your hometown magazine. That’s because I get to watch the year go by one month at a time, in seasons with you as loyal readers of Marple Friends & Neighbors in print and online at www.MarpleMag.com.

Heading toward our sixth year in print, I’m now seeing in nearly every new issue, that the mission of our monthly hometown magazine, reflected in our motto, Bringing People Together, is being fulfilled by inspiring belief in what we share: hometown pride. Our brand of feel-good features we call social-media-in-print, has been Bringing People Together while inspiring loyalty to our community, perhaps more loyalty to our friends and neighbors, and I know for sure, great loyalty to the local businesses that show their loyalty to us as our advertising Sponsors. They make it possible for Marple residents to be mailed a new free monthly issue of our hometown magazine every month. We have them to thank.

I’ll be thinking about that this month and ask that you might also, as you enjoy this new issue of Marple Friends & Neighbors which Holly Stupak has so loyally put together for us again this month, to enjoy during this beautiful month of May.

Bob Blaisse Publisher

Dear Residents, Welcome to May! Let’s hope all of those April showers will bring us May flowers. There are lots of fun events on our calendar on page 6 to get us outside enjoying the spring weather. Happy Mothers Day to all of our Marple Friends & Neighbors!

In this month when we celebrate our moms, we are proud to introduce you to the Murphy-Costanzos. Eileen Murphy is a hard working mom who is supporting her three daughters in pursuing their dreams. Our Business Profile features S. Pancoast Topsoil & Mulches, who have been selling topsoil, mulch and mushroom soil to generations of local residents for almost 50 years. We also congratulate some local winners including the St. Annie’s CYO Lady Spartan Varsity Basketball team and Jacob Forbes, the young winner of a local essay contest.

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

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

Automotive Repairs & Service

Nick Ortiz

C&J Automotive Specialists

99 S. Newtown Street Rd, Newtown Square 610-616-2411

JCrowleyJR@@CandJAutoRepair.com

www.CandJAutoRepair.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

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

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

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

Signature HVAC Heating & Air Conditioning

11 Wilson Ave, West Chester 484-406-4485

LSciulli@SignatureHVAC.com

www.SignatureHVAC.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

Roofing, Siding & Carpentry

Kevin O’Donnell

O’Donnell Roofing Co.

610-624-8112

Office@ODonnellRoofingCo.com

www.ODonnellRoofingCo.com/bvm

Waterproofing & Weatherization

David Linn Cook and Joe Soster

Waterproofing One

Marple Newtown Edgmont

800-508-4144

Info@WaterproofingOne.com

www.WaterproofingOne.com

Tree Care and Inspection

Mike Bradley

Bradley Tree Experts

Broomall

610-325-8600

Mike@BradleyTreeExperts.com

www.BradleyTreeExperts.com

Expert Contributors needed!

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

BBlaisse@BestVersionMedia.com

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

Sleep Hygiene

Do you stay up too late scrolling social media, binge-watching TV or tossing and turning because of anxious thoughts or pain?

It’s important to understand that while a midday nap will probably replenish your energy enough to get you through your day, according to UMass Amherst Sleep Science Researcher Rebecca Spencer, it won’t necessarily negate the health risks that may come with insufficient sleep at night.

According to survey data from a 2020 study by the CDC, more than one-third of adults in the United States don’t get the recommended seven hours or more of sleep every night. Lack of sleep can be associated with a range of increased health risks including obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke and mental distress. It can also affect your temperament, mental focus, weight and pain tolerance.

Not only is the length of time you sleep important for health, but also the quality of sleep, in its different stages.

When we sleep throughout the night, we pass through several 90-minute sleep cycles. Each is composed of four stages: The first two are considered light sleep, where your muscles relax, your body temperature drops, and your heart rate and breathing slow as you doze off. The third stage, known as deep sleep, is when your eyes and muscles fully relax and your body does the important work of repairing and building bone, muscle cleansing your brain, boosting your immune system and processing memories. Rapid eye movement (REM) is the last stage of the sleep cycle. It is not as deep as the third stage, but it’s when you’re most likely to dream and is thought to be associated with learning, storing memories and regulating mood.

Even though a few hours of sleep at night and a nap during the day might add up to six or more hours total, it is not the same thing. Short naps of less than 90 minutes typically only include the lighter phases of sleep, not the deep, restorative night sleep.

The upside of napping is that a 20- to 30-minute nap can restore alertness without leaving you groggy or disrupting your sleep the next night.

Naps can also be particularly important for helping to keep those who don’t always work daytime schedules — such as airline pilots, commercial drivers, physicians or other shift workers — alert and sharp. And similarly, they can help older adults if age-related changes such as needing to use the bathroom at night interrupt their sleep.

If you find yourself in need of a nap keep it short — no more than 30 minutes — so it doesn’t interfere with your next night of sleep.

Other sleep tips include:

• Go to bed and wake at the same time every day

• No eating late at night

• Avoid sugars and caffeine after 6 pm

• Journal

• Turn off the blue screen

• Exercise regularly

• Get out of pain

• Try CBD or melatonin products

A chiropractor can help guide you to a better night’s sleep. Sweet dreams! M

BROOMALL TOTAL

Whiplash?

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Wed. April 26 through Sun. June 11

Million Dollar Quartet

@The Media Theatre, 104 E. State St, Media

An extraordinary twist of fate brought Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley together at Sun Records in Memphis for what would be one of the greatest jam sessions ever. Relive the era with the smash-hit sensation featuring an incredible score of rock ‘n’ roll, gospel, R&B and country hits, performed live onstage by world-class actors and musicians.

Times: Wed.– Fri. 7pm; Sat. 2pm and 7pm; Sun. 3pm

Cost: Tickets are $34 – $59 each 610-891-0100 www.MediaTheater.org

Saturdays in May

Art at The Square Tavern

@Goshen & Newtown Street Roads

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

Time: 11am – 5pm

Cost: FREE (donations accepted!)

www.NSHistory.org

Saturdays in May

Paper Mill House & Museum

@3 Paper Mill Road Newtown Square

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

Time: 1 – 4 pm

Cost: FREE (donations accepted!)

www.NSHistory.org

Saturdays in May

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 – 4 pm

Cost: FREE (donations accepted!) www.NSHistory.org

Firearm Education, Sales

Stars & Stripes

• Gun locks, safes, and safety equipment

• We buy/consign estates & collections

May 2023

Sun. May 7

Nature as Healer: A Writing Workshop

@Hildacy Preserve, 1031 Palmers Mill Road, Media

Join Naila Francis, founder of This Hallowed Wilderness, for a writing workshop to explore the restorative power of nature through writing. Walk together through the shady woods and sunny meadows of Hildacy Preserve on this inspiring nature immersion. Bring a notebook and a writing instrument. Registration req. Submit the secure, on-line registration form.

Time: 1 – 3pm

Cost: $5 Natural Lands member; $10 non-member; $2 ACCESS Cardholder. www.NatLands.org

Sun. May 21

Antique Car Show

@Linvilla Orchards, 137 West Knowlton Rd, Media Linvilla Orchards has partnered with The Historical Car Club of Pennsylvania (HCCP) for over three decades to present their annual Spring Meet. More than 250 spectacularly restored and maintained antique, classic and muscle cars take over one of Linvilla’s big fields. Previous highlights have included a 1913 Ford Model T, a 1938 Ford Woody Wagon, a 1958 Chevy Impala and a 1962 Chevy Corvette. Awards will be presented for the best-maintained cars in a variety of classes.

Time: 9am – 3pm

Cost: FREE 610-876-7116 www.Linvilla.com/family-fun

Sun. May 21

Circle at Sundown

@St. Albans Ave, Newtown Square

Gather in St. Albans Circle for a fun evening of entertainment, food, drinks and fun. Celebrate our wonderful community with live music, dance performances and children’s activities. A pop-up beer garden, food trucks, local restaurants and shops will offer sweet treats and savory foods for purchase.

Time: 5:00 – 8:30pm

Cost: FREE admission and free parking www.NewtownTownship.org

The PennDOT Experts!

Over 40 years of experience helping others.

• Transfering a vehicle to/from a family member?

Sun. May 21

Clover Market

@Bryn Mawr Train Station Parking Lot

7 N. Bryn Mawr Ave, Bryn Mawr

Stroll through the market and shop a wide range of handmade and vintage items. In addition, there will be live music, kid’s crafts, food trucks and more.

Time: 10am – 4pm

Cost: FREE

www.TheCloverMarket.com

Friday afternoons June through September

Newtown Square Farmers Market

@St. Alban’s Episcopal Church

3625 Chapel Rd, Newtown Square

On Fridays starting June 2nd, the Newtown Square Farmers Market will feature local growers, producers and artisans. Fresh produce, artisan breads, coffee, pickles, flowers, plants and candles will be for sale.

Time: 3 – 6pm

Sat. June 3

27th Annual Historic Newtown Square Day

@the Square Tavern Museum and Art Center (and @various locations)

Route 252 & Goshen Rd, Newtown Square

This year’s activities at the historic 1742 Square Tavern will take place on the Green at the Tavern, and will include 1st Continental Regiment (Colonial Re-enactors), Lenni Lenape Native Americans, a storyteller, sheep shearing, a beekeeper demonstration and honey, live music, antique cars, children’s activities and more. In addition to opening the Tavern, other historic sites in the community, including the Paper Mill House, the Quaker Meeting House, the Octagonal School, the Newtown Square Railroad Museum, St. David’s Church and the Bartram Covered Bridge will be open with guides who explain the significance of the site to visitors.

Time: 10am – 4pm

Cost: FREE (donations accepted!)

www.NSHistory.org

• We have ammunition in stock

• Importing a vehicle from another country?

• In need of a PA Handicap Parking Tag?

• Need a Notary or FBI Fingerprinting Services?

• Need a Driver’s License Renewed/Replaced? Come in and meet with us. We can figure it all out together!

$150 Hassle-Free Headshots

20 minute session, online proofing, and one retouched, high-resolution digital photo. Discounts for groups of 3 or more subjects, with the option to take the photos in your workplace to minimize time out of the office. Quick delivery, satisfaction guaranteed. www.crissyeverhart.com

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard Photos courtesy of Gather in the Circle

Circle at Sundown: Fun for Everyone

Tucked away from all of Newtown Square’s noisy roadwork and never-ending construction is a little slice of hometown pride called St. Albans Circle. This hidden gem is home to many diverse local businesses, charming historic buildings and nearby walkable neighborhoods. It’s also the perfect place to gather this month and celebrate our community, support our local businesses and enjoy an evening of live entertainment, delicious food and drinks and fun for the whole family.

The Gather in the Circle committee, in partnership with Newtown Township and the Newtown Square Business Association, is pleased to host the 2nd annual Circle at Sundown, happening on Sunday, May 21st, from 5:00 –8:30pm. The circle will be closed to traffic and the event is free to attend, with food and beverages available for purchase. In addition, donations of canned goods and full-sized toiletries will be collected for the St. Alban’s Episcopal Church food collection ministry.

of sweet treats. The entertainment lineup will include local dance studio performances, live bands, children’s activities, lawn games, interactive chalk art displays, yoga demonstrations and local groups working hard to make Newtown Square and its surrounding communities more liveable.

The Circle at Sundown is dedicated to promoting sustainability and minimizing its impact on the environment. Linda McIsaac, Founder and Chair of Gather in the Circle said that the organizers are taking several steps to make the event as eco-friendly as possible. “We are encouraging the use of compostable serving materials and reusing repurposed materials in the festival design,” she explained. “In addition, the festival will showcase local sustainability initiatives and organizations that are making a difference in the community.”

Attendees are encouraged to join in the celebration of a more sustainable future! The fun kicks off at 5pm. Be sure to follow @GatherintheCircle on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date. We’ll see you in The Circle! M

Considering the success of the first Circle at Sundown event and valuable feedback from residents and vendors, the committee went to work on planning an even bigger and better experience while maintaining its commitment to “keeping it local.”

Newtown Square Business Association President Paul Seligson said, “The turnout exceeded all of our expectations, and it was incredibly heartening to see our community come together in celebration. The energy and enthusiasm were truly infectious.”

This year, the Circle at Sundown will feature an expanded beer garden, local food trucks, area restaurant menu items and lots

Newtown Square Township Supervisors invite you to join them on May 21st (L to R): Leonard Altieri, Tina Roberts-Lightcap, Mike Russo 39

by Holly Stupak

S. PANCOAST Topsoil & Mulches

For the Deepest Roots in Marple Newtown!

When it comes to caring for your garden, timing is everything and mulching in the spring will reap many benefits. Another important factor? Good quality topsoil and mulch, which contribute to a healthy garden. For the past 45 years, generations of local residents have been able to purchase the finest topsoils, mulches and mushroom soil right here in Broomall from S. Pancoast Topsoil & Mulches.

Located conveniently on West Chester Pike in Broomall, Seth Pancoast III is now running the business that his father, Seth Ellsworth Pancoast Jr. opened in 1975. Sadly, Seth Jr. passed away in October of 2021, but his legacy and that of the Pancoast family lives on.

The Pancoast family has been operating various businesses at the site of S. Pancoast Topsoil & Mulches since 1894. The first Seth Pancoast arrived in Marple Township in the early 1700s, and made fine furnishings for local residents, including a highboy that has found a permanent home at Winterthur!

In 1894, Seth Jr.’s grandfather, Samuel Levis Pancoast, bought the property where the business now operates, between the new firehouse and Broomall Avenue. Samuel was a blacksmith, and in the era before cars and hardware stores, he kept busy making horseshoes, shoeing horses, and making tools and hardware for businesses and households.

Samuel died in 1935, and his oldest son, Samuel Franklin Pancoast, took over the property, but did not continue the business of blacksmithing, by then a dying trade in a modern community. He opened up the Samuel Pancoast Riding Academy on that property along

West Chester Pike, where he offered instruction in riding. A show ring was built to accommodate horse shows, and for several years Samuel hosted the annual Broomall Horse Show, with more than 100 horses and riders competing.

The property changed hands again in 1953, when it was subdivided into 4 separate parcels. Samuel’s brother, Seth Ellsworth Pancoast, Sr. bought the parcel with an existing house and the old blacksmith shop. He opened up a garden center, Pancoast Gardens, which operated from 1959 through 1975.

Seth Jr. was running his own dry-cleaning business in Broomall, and then would help out his father with the garden center at night. He later sold the dry-cleaning business, and when the garden center closed, Seth Jr. began a topsoil and mulch business. Seth III said that what his dad loved about the business is that he loved working outdoors and being his own boss. Seth’s daughter Claudia said her father literally played in dirt for his entire life. “For 67 years he made it his business. It brought him joy!” she recalled fondly. “He was also very connected to the Pancoast family members who operated from that same site,” added Seth III. “ And he had a lot of fun!”

Seth III and Claudia were raised by their dad and mom Linda here in Broomall on Cynwyd Ave. Seth III and his wife Christine later purchased that home on Cynwyd Ave shortly after they were married in 1996. They’ve lived there ever since with their children Abigail (22) and Seth IV (15). “It’s a wonderful neighborhood,” said Seth III. “Some of the neighbors I grew up with are still living here. I love the familiarity.”

Seth and his daughter Claudia

Photo courtesy of the Pancoast Family

Above: Seth III and his dad, Seth Jr.

Photo courtesy of the Pancoast Family

1848 map of Marple showing landowners, including Samuel Pancoast (bottom right)

Photo courtesy of Marple Historical Society

Seth III shares the same love that his dad had for his family history and that of Marple Township. “I love the history here and I especially enjoy looking at old photos,” Seth III said. “When I meet people who are new to the area, I love being able to tell them about the town’s history!”

Seth III also shared Seth Jr’s interest in the topsoil and mulch business and he spent many years helping his dad on nights and weekends. Since his dad’s passing, he has continued to meet the needs of their customers and they continue to sell top-quality products at fair prices.

S. Pancoast Topsoil & Mulches gets their inventory from a variety of local sources – and they use only top-quality products. Due to its popularity, they recently started selling black mulch. Seth III said mulch can add visual interest to landscapes, adding to aesthetic natural beauty. “Mulch can also protect the soil from erosion, keep soil-borne diseases at bay and keep soil temperatures consistent,” he explained.

Now is a great time to buy mulch and topsoil for your summer garden. Visit S. Pancoast Topsoil & Mulches, 2635 West Chester Pike, Broomall. Phone 610-356-1090. For hours, location, product descriptions and inquiries, visit www.TopsoilBroomall.com. M

S. PANCOAST Topsoil & Mulches

Seth Pancoast Jr.

Photo courtesy of the Pancoast Family

by Holly Stupak

The Murphy-Costanzos: Pursuing Their Dreams

This month we are pleased to introduce you to the Murphy-Costanzos: Olivia, Alexis, Avery and their mom, Eileen Murphy. Not only is Eileen a single mom, but she’s a cancer survivor and the Principal of one of our local high schools. She’s been teaching her daughters how to build each other up and support each other’s dreams. There is plenty of female empowerment going on in the Murphy-Costanzo house!

Eileen grew up in Broomall with her parents and older brother and sister. Both her parents are from Southwest Philadelphia and they eventually made their way to Delaware County, first settling in Glenolden. When Eileen was six years old they moved to Broomall and she began attending St. Anastasia School. Eileen is also a Cardinal O’Hara High School alum. Back then, if she wasn’t spending time with friends or reading, she was actively involved in her school’s activities like the yearbook, student council and the band.

For as far back as she can remember she wanted to be a teacher. Many of her summers were spent as a camp counselor including at local camps like Arrowhead and ESF. “I always loved working with kids!” Eileen explained. After high school she pursued a degree in English and secondary education at St. Joseph’s University.

Eileen didn’t start teaching right away. Her early professional career was in Project Management, but she soon realized she wanted to pursue her passion, which was education. So, she returned to school to earn a Master’s in Education from Cabrini College and then a certificate in School Management and Leadership from the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Eileen’s first job in the education field was as an Instructor at Computer Learning Centers Inc. And for several years she was also an adjunct professor in West Chester University’s Department of Professional and Secondary Education. Later she became the high school Principal of 21st Century Cyber Charter School in Downingtown, PA, an experience that prepared her well for the virtual learning brought on by the pandemic.

For the past eight years, Eileen has been the Principal of her alma mater, Cardinal O’Hara High School. Eileen said that she loves working with the students and staff there. “There is something really special about being the Principal where you went to school,” said Eileen. “And many of the staff are even O’Hara grads.”

Although being a Principal is a 24-7 job, Eileen said that she loves supporting her three daughters in following their dreams, and she can even do so through her office window. All three of

The Murphy-Costanzo Family

Photo by Crissy Everhart Photography, www.CrissyEverhart.com

her daughters were active in the Catholic Community Choir (CCC), which operates out of Cardinal O’Hara. Her twin daughters Olivia and Alexis worked at CCC’s camp for seven years and her youngest daughter Avery has participated in CCC’s theater program for over 10 years.

Olivia (Liv) and Alexis (Lexi) are currently seniors at Penn State University (PSU). Eileen says Liv is funny, supportive and just fun to be around. She is studying corporate innovation and planning to move to the Washington D.C. area after she graduates from PSU this Spring. Her hard-working, generous and kind twin sister Lexi is earning her degree in Psychology. After graduation, she plans to earn her Master’s in Social Work at the University of Pennsylvania.

Both girls are Marple Newtown High School grads, where they started the school’s first mini-THON, a dance marathon to raise money for pediatric cancer. Their decision to start THON there was a personal one as they’d already had two friends who had been diagnosed with cancer. When they were seniors, cancer hit close to home when Eileen was diagnosed with breast cancer.

“Getting involved with THON was one of the main reasons the girls chose Penn State,” said Eileen. During their time there Lexi served as the Communications Director and Liv was the rules and regulations Fundraising Director. “Being a THON member really changed my college experience,” said Lexi. “It connected me with other students with a similar mission.”

This past year’s THON raised $219 million and Eileen got to be there to experience it and see her girls in action. “Avery and I attended THON this year and were blown away by the passion of the PSU students,” said Eileen, proudly. “Obviously, we are big fans of Liv and Lexi already, but seeing them accomplish so much in the fight against pediatric cancer was awe-inspiring.”

continued on page 12

Avery with her sisters at Matilda Jr.

Photo courtesy of Eileen Murphy

The twin’s younger sister Avery is a loyal, funny and kind 15-year-old. A freshman at Cardinal O’Hara, she loves musical theater, playing guitar and piano and Harry Styles. She’s been actively involved in choir and theater since she was young and has been in 32 theatrical performances in eight years. This past year, Avery got her dream role in Catholic Community Choir’s Matilda Jr, where she got to play Ms. Honey. She also serves as a Lion Ambassador at O’Hara, which entails volunteering in the Admissions and Advancement Offices to represent the school. Lion Ambassadors provide tours, coordinate events and assist with social media and photography, as well as write articles.

When it comes to their service to others and their ability to pursue their dreams, Liv, Lexi and Avery credit Eileen. “Our mom has inspired us since we were young, by consistently overcoming

every challenge she faced,” said Olivia. “We are astounded by the woman she is and hope to grow up to be like her someday.”

For the past 13 years, Eileen and her daughters have lived in the Langford Hills neighborhood. “Our neighbors are the best,” said Eileen. “It’s a peaceful neighborhood and so close to everything in our community. We are so lucky!” They’ve also got plenty of family nearby. Both of Eileen’s siblings and their families live in Broomall and her parents live just down the road in Newtown Square. Eileen said that her daughters are also lucky to be part of the Media community, where their dad and step-mom and step-sisters live.

For Eileen and the girls, what is so special about the Marple community is that they really support each other, no matter what your situation. She learned that firsthand when she was diagnosed with cancer four years ago. “I was so grateful to have the support of my family and wonderful friends from the O’Hara, Marple, St. Pius X Parish and Broomall communities,” said Eileen. Four years later Eileen is cancer free and will not forget the way people came together for her. “The generosity was overwhelming!”

As a single mom, Eileen said it’s nice to know there is always someone looking out for you. “In my neighborhood, there is always someone offering to help with just about everything,” she said. “There is a population of single women here who are so inclusive. Although I’ve always been lucky to have my family around, it’s nice to be around something so special.”

As Lexi and Liv get ready to graduate from college this spring and start the next phase of their lives, Eileen says she cherishes the time they spend together. This summer they’ll likely spend time in Sea Isle City, where her brother Joe owns a home. Here in Broomall, they’ll hit their favorite local spots like Mrs. Marty’s Deli or P.J. Whelihans. “It doesn’t really matter what we’re doing when the girls and I are together,” said Eileen. “We’re always having fun!”

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

Lexi, Avery and Liv Murphy-Costanzo

Photo by Crissy Everhart Photography, www.CrissyEverhart.com

Liv and Lexi Murphy-Costanzo at Penn State University

Photo courtesy of Eileen Murphy

by Andrew Martella Martella Electric

Is Your Electrical System Glitchy?

In your home, are you experiencing blinking or dimming lights? Are circuit breakers tripping? Is something electrical not working the “normal” way or as you should expect it to?

When a storm is approaching, the lights in your home may flicker, blink or dim. Many times, the power nearby has gone out and, even if your power stays on, your lights may flicker or dim. There are other causes for why your lights dim or blink, such as surges in your electrical system from appliances and equipment inside your home like refrigerators, sump pumps, hair dryers, washing machines, vacuum cleaners and heating and AC systems.

Occasional events are somewhat normal. However, persistent and consistent dimming and blinking can be a signal that trouble might be brewing in your home’s electrical system.

Common causes for a circuit breaker to trip or a fuse to blow are hair dryers running when too many lights are on. This frequently happens in older homes, particularly when there’s more than one hair dryer being used. When the outlet for the holiday lights turns off, this can be due to an overload or faulty lights. When using the vacuum and the lights go out, there’s likely to be an overload on the circuit. Power tools used in combination with lights can

trigger the same result. When the microwave oven and the coffee pot operate at the same time, the kitchen outlets can all lose power.

What was working yesterday may not work today. The electrical system in your home is a spider web maze of wires, boxes, switches, outlets and lights, any of which can fail at any time, and seemingly for no apparent reason.

You may have one light in a group that simply doesn’t come on. The dimmer switch for a chandelier doesn’t dim the light anymore. The exterior light on the front door will not turn off.

The sump pump trips the breaker or pops a fuse. Sometimes the switch or outlet makes a sizzling sound. Sometimes the plug doesn’t fit tightly into the wall socket. Sometimes it seems like half of the house doesn’t have power. All these situations can be puzzling, frustrating and concerning to homeowners.

The electrical systems in our homes are, for the most part, safe and reliable, but they can be quite complicated. When the conditions described above present themselves, calling on a licensed professional electrical contractor to investigate can make a difference in keeping you, your family and your home safe, secure and comfortable.

The Cardinal and the Saint

by Doug Humes

There are two men whose names are familiar to us. Though most know nothing about them, their lives are worth remembering.

Luigi Guanella was born in Italy in 1842 and entered the seminary at age 12. Ordained in 1866, he earned the honorific title of “Don.” One of his first assignments was the care of homeless children. That led him to his calling – ministering to boys and girls “abandoned and rejected by society because of their physical and mental disabilities.” Over his life, he gathered in his arms these “good children,” and fought to have their lives valued, and for their proper housing and education. He founded the Servants of Charity for like-minded priests to care for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through his efforts, specialized residential schools were opened in Italy for his “good children.” He toured the United States, spreading his personal gospel, and on his return, he sent members of the Daughters of St. Mary of Providence to Chicago to work with girls with intellectual disabilities. Luigi Guanella died in 1915, but his ideas lived on. He was proclaimed a Saint in 2011.

John Francis O’Hara was born in Michigan in 1888, raised in Indiana, and then Uruguay, and became fluent in Spanish while studying at the Catholic University there. Returning to the U.S., he studied at Notre Dame University, and then did graduate work at Holy Cross, Catholic University and the

Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Rising through the ranks of Catholic education, he served as President of his alma mater, Notre Dame, where he enlarged their graduate programs and added campus buildings. In 1945, he was named Bishop of Buffalo, and in that role expanded Catholic education in the city, and eliminated racial segregation in local schools and churches. He returned to Philadelphia in 1951, was elevated to Archbishop, and continued his commitment to education, opening 61 new schools. In 1958, named a Cardinal, he invited the Servants of Charity to open a new residential school for people with intellectual disabilities. The Don Guanella School was opened in Marple in 1960, housing 250 boys, with dormitories, classrooms, a gym, various shops, a dining room and a chapel.

Bringing Spring Into Focus!

John O’Hara died in 1960 shortly before the school was opened. Three years later, a new high school was built adjacent to Don Guanella School. Its name? Cardinal O’Hara High School.

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

Photos courtesy of the Marple Historical Society

Cardinal O’Hara High School – its mailing address is in Springfield, but its location is in Marple Township.

Cardinal John Francis O’Hara (August 1,1888 – August 28, 1960)

Saint Luigi Guanella, granted sainthood in 2011, after a relic of his was said to have healed the head injuries of a boy who fell off his skateboard on Baltimore Pike.

Datestone for the 1960 opening of the Don Guanella School in Marple

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

Dr. Michael Allodoli, OD

by Mike Bradley Bradley Tree Experts

FROM PRUNING TO POLLARDING

Spring into summer is the perfect time to take care of the pruning and thinning of your trees. Pruning is the removal or reduction of problematic branches, limbs and stems from trees and shrubs. It removes dead or diseased branches, and eliminates those that chafe and could create an access point for insects and disease. Trees and shrubs also benefit from pruning because it helps manage their growth and structure, and encourages the development of new growth, keeping trees and shrubs healthy, strong and more disease resistant.

Here are some basic pruning techniques and what they are used for:

Dead Pruning: Eliminating dead, dying or diseased branches.

Crown Thinning: Removing smaller, weaker limbs from the canopy to allow more light to reach through to the center branches and to improve air circulation reducing weight and strengthening the trees overall stability.

Elevating: Cutting back low lying branches, needed for clearance or aesthetic purposes.

Reduction: Cutting back to lateral growth to control tree size. Removing small branches that are attached to the larger, heavier branches so that your trees don’t become too top-heavy.

Pollarding: Removing most of the branches (done only when a tree is dormant, usually in the winter or very early spring) so that all that remains are the secondary branches and the main trunk or stem, to produce dense new growth.

Less is definitely more when it comes to pruning. Excess pruning can shorten a tree’s life, affect its natural growth and can cause trauma that will not heal properly. As a general rule, it’s usually best to cut no more than 25% of the foliage.

It’s advisable to limit the amount of pruning done in late summer, as new growth may be encouraged on some plants. This growth may not have sufficient time to solidify or become hardy before cold weather arrives, resulting in cold damage or winter kill. M

by Bob Blaisse, Publisher

Bringing People Together

Marple Friends & Neighbors

Sponsors Bringing People Together Is A Puzzle With Answers Easy To Find.

Last month in this feature, I suggested how readers of Marple Friends & Neighbors become “Reader Leaders.” It’s when loyal readers of our publication find they are beginning to easily remember the names of local businesses and have come to appreciate how those advertising Sponsors of our community make it possible for a new monthly issue of our hometown magazine to be mailed to your home for free and be available online at www.MarpleMag.com.

Even if you’re still becoming a Reader Leader, you likely recognize that the title of my monthly feature is also our magazine motto: Bringing People Together. This motto is the mission of our publication intended to deliver hometown pride that brings people together as a local community.

The habit of reading each new issue of our magazine is rooted in Bringing People Together, by the simple pleasure of reading about friends and neighbors, some you know, and others you come to know by reading about them. The feel-good features also bring us together by learning about our local history, local places and organizations. Those insights show us where we are setting our roots, always deeper, with hometown pride. And the feature articles offering pearls of wisdom from our Expert Contributors bring us together with our friends in the business, willing to share their particular expertise with us for free, because they understand how important the residents of Marple Township are to the success of their local business.

In last month’s Bringing People Together feature, I shared how finding new advertising Sponsors can be puzzling at times, even for Reader Leaders. I shared how different it is, when a local business owner comes to understand just how much and how many homeowners truly enjoy regularly reading their hometown magazine, they then become more inclined to reward the Sponsors with their business. That’s when the puzzle of finding new advertising Sponsors is solved.

I must tell you however, I did take a little heat last month for including in this feature, the Word Find Puzzle which did not include an answer key to the cryptic “Hints” I provided to help readers decipher the names of

some local area businesses (every reader would know), whose business names were hidden in the Word Find Puzzle. They were some of the local businesses we know would make great new advertising Sponsors to help grow our magazine page count so we can continue to increase the number of feature articles we publish in each new monthly issue.

The heat I took was from puzzle people who got puzzled by my cryptic hints, believing they found answers to some of the hidden business names, but without assurance since I provided no answer key. Well, I share that frustration often, but I know sometimes there is no way to learn why some businesses choose not to become advertising Sponsors of our community until they understand the strong loyalty our readers have to their hometown magazine.

Thankfully, we can always easily find the names of those local business owners which have agreed to become our Sponsors, who we can thank with our loyalty returned to them for making our hometown magazine possible, even when only a cryptic hint is given about them, because the answers for which local businesses are supporting our local community are always within reach. Let me prove it.

Each cryptic hint on the next page will point you towards an answer that will be the name of one of our hometown Sponsors whose ad can be found on the pages of this issue of Marple Friends & Neighbors. The hint should be enough to help you land on the answer, but if you can’t come up with the Sponsor’s name from the hint provided, the answer is still in your hands because after each hint you’ll find the page number of this issue, where you’ll find that Sponsor of our community and get to know them by taking the time to read their ad we reward them with for their investment in our community.

Reader Leadership. You’ve come to know the names of our advertising Sponsors from reading Marple Friends & Neighbors every month. See if you can come up with the answer from just the hint given before turning to the page number to be sure. And please, when doing business, turn first to your friends in the businesses you know, the local businesses which make your hometown magazine possible.

HERE WE GO! Ten questions with ten cryptic hints. If you know the business names of more than five of the advertising Sponsors for which a hint is provided, without turning to the answer page, then you are a “Reader Leader” of Marple Friends & Neighbors.

1. Thousands of our friends and neighbors have been to this Sponsor’s home in Broomall, recalling a lifetime of memories while there. (For the answer, see page 21.)

2. The name of this Sponsor suggests only one expert for the money, but look, you get two for the show. (For the answer, see page 18.)

3. Come in the door to see this Sponsor and you’ll see more going out than you did coming in. (For the answer, see page 14.)

4. This Sponsor has many fans in Marple Newtown, which is not surprising since they a “fan” in their name. (For the answer, see page 7.)

5. April showers may bring May Flowers, but what this Sponsor sells hugs May Flowers for more than just hours. (For the answer, see page 9.)

6. Like most Marple residents, this Sponsor lives here too, and like you, has worked hard to put a roof over his head, but if asked, would help do the same for you. (For the answer, see page 25.)

7. The light bulb will go on over your head when you “tell-a” person the name of this Sponsor. (For the answer, see page 13.)

8. This Sponsor can legally stop bad things from happening. No typo here. It’s tru. (For the answer, see page 23.)

9. Many Marple residents would say they were just thinking about a week, and know they need to visit this Sponsor again soon. (For the answer, see page 5.)

10. While this Sponsor’s business may suggest it would be your pop’s first choice, probably not, but his daughters and lady friends would definitely fit right in. (For the answer, see page 27.)

So, how many names of our advertising Sponsors did you know from just the hints provided, before needing to turn to the page number provided to see the Sponsors ad? Did you learn more about our hometown heroes from reading their ads? It’s not a trivial question. Whenever possible, please consider giving your business to those who support our community by Bringing People Together through Marple Friends & Neighbors magazine in print and online at www.MarpleMag.com. M

Bob Blaisse Publisher, Marple Friends & Neighbors

WANTED:

Local Purpose-Driven Business Owners interested in supporting positive social impact for the benefit of Marple residents as a Sponsor of Marple Friends & Neighbors magazine, with advertising benefit that assists page count growth leading to a greater number of monthly feature articles about Marple history, residents, organizations and businesses. Contact Bob Blaisse at 610 -453-5536 or email at: BBlaisse@BestVersionMedia.com.

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

Let’s Celebrate!

Marple Newtown’s Independence Day Parade Preparations are Underway

Time to get your lawn chairs and American flags ready because the Marple Newtown 4th of July Parade will be here before we know it! Celebrating the birth of our nation is one of America's favorite holidays filled with traditional family picnics, barbecues and fireworks. Here in Marple Newtown, a Fourth of July celebration would not be complete without our annual parade of fantastic bands, decorated floats, first responders and much more. It’s the perfect way to celebrate our Country and our Freedom!

The fun will begin on Tuesday, July 4th at St. Albans Circle, and continue eastbound on West Chester Pike to the Broomall Fire Company’s facility on Malin Rd. A rain date is scheduled for Saturday, July 8th. For individuals sensitive to loud sounds, there will be a quiet zone, where sirens and blowing air horns are prohibited, that will stretch a short distance along West Chester Pike from Evergreen Ave to Ann Rd in Broomall. “We want as many people as possible to enjoy the parade,” said Jan Ceton, Chairman of the Parade committee.

Spectators this year will be entertained by marching bands such as Mersey-British Rock Invasion, the Eagles Pep Band and the Marching Cobras. Our local marching bands, fire companies and first responders will join in the fun. Local businesses, community clubs and neighborhood residents will impress you with their decorated floats, marching groups and costumed individuals. But the little ones often steal the show with their creative and festive decorated strollers, wagons, hand-drawn floats and bikes. The parade ends with an awards ceremony, where medals and trophies are given to the top three entries in each division, and their names and photos are featured in the following year’s commemorative book.

What started as a way to unite the communities during the COVID-19 pandemic has become a fun tradition for residents and businesses to show off their patriotic spirit. They launched a Red, White and YOU! decorating contest for area residents and businesses. The turnout was overwhelming and a caravan of judges toured the area awarding prizes such as “Best Window,” “Most Patriotic” and “Most Spectacular.”

Merrie Staurowsky, Parade Committee Vice Chair, announced, “We have been thrilled with the amazing support and feedback from our Red, White and YOU! decorating contest and cannot wait to see this year’s entries.” The deadline to register for the decorating contest is June 29th with judging starting on June 30th. Merrie said, “We encourage all residents and businesses to join the fun and decorate. We award displays big and small and even have a 14 and under category.”

To offset the cost of the parade, the committee relies on donations from the bucket brigade as well as fundraisers and t-shirt sales throughout the year. “It’s because of the generosity of

Photos courtesy of Merrie Staurowsky

Marple Newtown residents, sponsors and grants that we are able to provide the community with a spectacular parade,” said Jan. The committee was especially grateful to Thunderbird Pizza, who held an “Eat Pizza to Support the 4th Pizza Fundraiser” this past April. Not only was it a fun evening and a great opportunity to sell this year’s custom parade t-shirts, but Thunderbird Pizza also generously donated proceeds from the pizza sales to the 2023 parade.

Another source of funding is the commemorative booklet that is distributed to over 4,000 residents and businesses. Long-time Broomall resident and committee member Leigh Ann Coary heads up the advertising initiative. “This fabulous parade is funded entirely by the families and businesses in our community,” Leigh Ann explained. “Local businesses, civic organizations, clubs and individuals have the opportunity to place an ad to show their community support.” The deadline to reserve your advertisement space is May 30th and those interested can download the necessary forms from the parade website.

“Marple Newtown is able to continue this tradition year after year thanks to these individuals and businesses,” said Leigh Ann. “As new and younger families move to Broomall and Newtown Square, I’m proud that the parade is such a big part of this community and will continue for years to come!”

For more info. visit www.MarpleNewtownParade.com and like their Facebook page at @MarpleNewtownFourthOfJulyParade. M

Festive floats on the parade route

Cheering on the bike brigade

Red, White and YOU! contest entry

by Holly Stupak

Pampering Mom on Mother ’ s Day

Making our mothers feel loved is so much easier than we could imagine. So why do we often find ourselves at a loss as to what to do for her or what gift to give?

To show the special mom in your life how much you love her and how grateful you are for all she does, we’ve got a few ideas to pamper her in a special way.

Give Her the Gift of Time - Off!

That’s right. Give mom the gift she gives you every day by helping around the house. Make Mother’s Day a no cleaning, no cooking and no chores kind of day. Don’t let her do a single second of work because you’ve got that covered!

STREAMLINE YOUR ROUTINE IN STYLE

Now available in a classic farmhouse design, the chef-inspired Riverby sink features a range of accessories that makes quick work of prepping, cooking, and cleanup.

STAYS CLEAN 5X LONGER*

Visit weinsteinbath-kitchen.com to learn more.

Combining an innovative toilet bowl cleaner system and a powerful 360-degree swirl flush, ContinuousClean and Revolution 360 ® technologies deliver our cleanest flush ever .

kohler.com/Corbelle

Learn more about the complete Crue kitchen faucet collection at KOHLER.com or at your local Weinstein Bath & Kitchen Showroom

Learn more about the complete Crue kitchen faucet collection at KOHLER.com or at your local Weinstein Bath & Kitchen Showroom .

*Compared to KOHLER toilet without ContinuousClean and based on consumer perception study and bacterial counts.

650 Abbott Dr Broomall, Pennsylvania 19008

650 Abbott Dr, Broomall, Pennsylvania

650 Abbott Dr Broomall, Pennsylvania 19008

610-544-3977

650 Abbott Dr Broomall, Pennsylvania 19008

610-544-3977

610-544-3977

610-544-3977

weinsteinbath-kitchen.com

weinsteinbath-kitchen.com

Book Mother’s Day Brunch

Her first meal of the day shouldn’t be anything less than scrumptious! Make reservations at the most delicious places in town. Many of our local restaurants are offering special Mother’s Day brunch, lunch and dinner menus. A fantastic meal is a perfect way to pamper mom (and you)! Look for Mother’s Day Brunch specials at Casey’s Public House or be sure to pick up baked goodies from Jacquette’s Bakery to treat her to breakfast in bed.

activity or simply giving her time to go to the gym by herself, the whole family should be on board to make the day exactly what she wants.

Gift Time

An Afternoon for Her

Once your stomachs are full, it’s time for the real fun! Does your mom dream of going to that great spa in town but doesn’t have the time? Does your mom want to go out shopping for those shoes she’s had her eye on? Or has she been asking for the family to join her on a nature hike? Whether it’s a group

Honoring

Just like on your birthday, there comes a special time of the day when you can expect to be showered with gifts. Why not give her that special moment on Mother’s Day as well? For the stylish mom, try giving her a new tote bag or a piece of jewelry with her children’s birthstones. Remember that moms also love homemade gifts like cards, drawings and homemade treats! Spa and salon gift cards are always a good option, so head on over to one of our local salons here in Broomall and let mom choose the service that will make her happy. Other ideas are gift cards to her favorite nail salon, restaurant, shopping destination or her favorite place to have a girls’ night out.

Let’s face it: We owe a lot to our moms, and Mother’s Day is the perfect day of the year to show her how much you appreciate her and how much you care. A pampered mom is a happy mom — trust us! M

by Holly Stupak

Congrats to the St. Anastasia Lady Spartans! Back-to-Back State Champions

For the second year in a row, the St. Anastasia CYO Girls’ Varsity Basketball team can call themselves State Champions. On March 12, 2023, the St. Annie’s Lady Spartans faced the same team they beat in 2022, Holy Trinity Catholic playing in Altoona. They came out on top again, this time with a final score of 48-30.

Head coach Pat Doogan said the championship game was a challenge considering it was hosted by Holy Trinity Catholic School and Bishop Guilfoyle High School. “It was essentially a home game for Holy Trinity,” said Pat. “But our team was composed and resilient. We really rose to the occasion to finish the game strong.”

The Spartans held a modest lead for the first half into the 3rd quarter of the game. Late in the third quarter, Holy Trinity tied it up at 24, but 3-pointers

from eighth graders Maddie DeFronzo and Brigidanne Donohue pushed the lead to 33-24 heading into the fourth quarter. St. Annie’s made 11 free throws in the fourth quarter to prevent any comeback. “It was amazing to be on the court with my four best friends and winning it with them and the team,” said forward Cate Schumacher, who played in the 2022 State Championship. “There was such excitement in the crowd. And since many of us had played in the 2022 game, we knew what to expect as far as pressure.”

Going into the state tournament the Spartans had a record of 34-1. Despite losing to their rival team St. Francis early in the season, they went on to win their final 32 games. Late in the season, they faced St. Francis again in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia Championship but this time they beat them 38-34, advancing them to states.

This year’s team of Lady Spartans included five 8th graders and eight 7th graders. Eighth-grade starters Maddie DeFronzo, Brigidanne Donohue, Marley Lapella, Riley McDonnell and Cate Schumacher made history as being the only class to ever win the AOP and State championships as 7th and 8th graders. “The five of us have been playing together since 3rd grade so we have great chemistry,” said Cate. “One of our coaches calls it magic!”

What made this group of players special was that they all played as a team. “They were completely unselfish and were only interested in winning as a team,” Pat said. “Although Maddie, Cate and Brigidanne were the leading scorers, the team did whatever was needed to win on any given day.”

Photos courtesy of Pat Doogan

The 2023 St. Anastasia CYO Girls Varsity Basketball team

The 7th graders on the team are an impressive group as well. “They were the JV Region 25 champions when they were in sixth-grade and they were fantastic when given the chance this season,” he explained.

To celebrate the championship win, the girls were escorted home by the Broomall and Newtown Square fire departments and greeted by a large group of fans when they returned to St. Anastasia Parish.

“Not only were there a good number of our fans in the stands and at the church lot waiting for us, but the game was streamed live on Facebook and had nearly a thousand views in just a couple days,” said Pat. “The community response was amazing.”

Pat’s been coaching the team for the past two years and he and his family have lived in Broomall since 2007. Other coaching staff includes Nate Andrisani, Carmel McDonnell and Mike Schumacher, all of whom have been coaching together the past two seasons. “We all have daughters who love basketball,” said Pat. “And we are all passionate about basketball.”

The coaching staff also encourages the team to make contributions to the community. For the past several years they’ve been raising money for the MakeA-Wish foundation. Organized by assistant coach Nate Andrisani, the girls were able to raise money by singing Christmas Carols outside of St. Anastasia’s between masses during the Christmas season.

Coach Nate also organized a Make-A-Wish dance at the St. Anastasia Parish Hall in December. Thanks to all of these efforts, the team was able to raise over $31K for Make-A-Wish. “Being able to do this is really a testament to Coach Nate, the girls and to the St. Anastasia community,” said Pat proudly.

Congrats to the Lady Spartans on your back-to-back State Championship wins! Your contributions on and off the court are an inspiration to your Marple Newtown Friends & Neighbors! M

by Kevin O’Donnell O’Donnell Roofing Co.

April Showers Bring May Flowers… And Possibly Damaged Roofs

While spring and summer in this area can mean warm sunny days, they can also deliver storms with strong winds and soaking rain. When turbulent weather does hit, it can cause significant roof damage, compromising its integrity. It’s important to remember that your roof may actually appear unscathed to the average eye, but there is plenty of damage that a roofing professional could spot, that you may not be able to see.

A professional roofer might easily be able to spot obvious issues like:

• Misplaced roof granules - Shingle granules provide weather protection to your roof and when winds cause those shingle granules to be misplaced or damaged, it severely shortens the life of your roof. When the roof granules begin to fall off of the fiberglass backing of roof shingles, they may look shiny or silver when the sun hits them. They need to be replaced.

• Dents on shingles - If a storm has bombarded your roof with hail or other debris, it can cause dents in your shingles, which then need to be replaced.

• Cracked, damaged or missing shingles - Severe winds can

cause your roof shingles to become cracked, curled or damaged, and in some instances to blow away.

• Small holes in the roof - Having a hole in your roof, even a tiny one, can cause serious damage to your home unless you get it fixed immediately. Just a few drops of water penetration can damage the surrounding roofing materials, causing the hole to get bigger, and cause water to leak into your home.

• Damaged flashing - The flashing on your roof plays an important role in reducing the risk of water damage to both your roof and home. The flashing around your chimney is particularly vulnerable.

• Bent gutters - Faulty gutters caused by storm damage can weaken your home's foundation. A roofing expert will know what to look for, and how it can be repaired

Storms can also inundate your roof with so much rain that it can potentially become saturated. This can cause serious problems by absorbing the moisture and causing damage to the plywood layer under the roof. If you suspect that there’s even the possibility of storm damage to your roof, you owe it to your home and your family to have a professional roofing agent check it out. M

Homes Recently Sold in Marple

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.

by Holly Stupak

Congrats Jacob Forbes! Loomis

Student Wins

American History Essay Contest

Jacob Forbes is the type of student who is always up for a challenge. A fifth grader and Gifted Support student at Loomis Elementary School, he seizes the opportunity to participate in STEM competitions and other schoolwide contests. This school year he challenged himself to enter a local contest and was awarded the prize for the best 5th-grade essay.

The American History essay contest was hosted by the Delaware County Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR or DAR), a non-profit, non-political volunteer women’s service organization founded in 1890 by a small group of patriotic women. Dedicated to promoting patriotism and preserving American history, the DAR’s mission is to secure America's future through better education

for children. Each year the National chapter chooses an essay topic for the contest that is open to 5th-8th graders as well as high school students.

For this year’s essay prompt, students were asked to imagine that they were a delegate at the 1775-1776 Second Continental Congress. Nicole Kelly, the Delco DAR’s historian, judged the contest and said that Jaocb’s essay was by far the best of all the entries they received. Essay entries were received from schools across Delaware County and were judged based on historical accuracy, originality, organization and grammar. “Jacob did a phenomenal job,” said Nicole. “He made it a personal story and connected it to the historical event. It was a great read!”

Jacob wrote his essay as a journal entry as if he were a delegate from Massachusetts. In it, he described what it was like to fight alongside the Minutemen in the Revolutionary War. When crafting his essay, Jacob said he conducted his research online and was able to include information he learned in his social studies class.

Gifted Support teacher Mrs. Denise King has known Jacob since he was a second grader and supported him in writing the essay. “Jacob is a model student because he likes to challenge himself and doesn’t get discouraged,” said Mrs. King. It’s not just his academics that set Jacob apart though. “He’s polite and positive and a role model for the other students.” Outside of school, Jacob is active in many sports and he plays the saxophone. Next year, he’ll be attending Paxon Hollow Middle School where he looks forward to joining the music program as well as the LEGO and French Clubs.

To celebrate Jacob and the 6th-8th grade and high school winners of the essay contest, the DAR hosted a special ceremony at the Middletown Community Center on Martin Luther King Day. During the ceremony, Jacob had the opportunity to read his essay and received a $50 gift card as well as a goody bag filled with items to encourage students to keep writing and learning about history.

Congratulations, Jacob! Your Marple Friends & Neighbors wish you the best of luck and look forward to hearing about your future accomplishments at Paxon Hollow! M

Photo courtesy of Denise King

Jacob Forbes with former Delaware County DAR Regent Barb Shaw

by Christine DeFilippis Pop Fit Studio

Breaking Down the Barriers to Fitness

Are you struggling to make exercise a regular part of your life? Do you find yourself making excuses and letting things get in the way of getting in a workout? If so, you’re not alone. Many people struggle with inactivity and find it challenging to establish a consistent fitness routine. But the good news is, with a little determination and some helpful tips, you can overcome those barriers and make exercise a regular part of your life.

First, it’s essential to identify the barriers that are holding you back. Common barriers to exercise include lack of time, motivation, and/or knowledge. But don’t let these obstacles discourage you! There are ways to overcome them.

If you’re struggling with a lack of time, try to find small pockets of time throughout the day to squeeze in some exercise. This could mean taking a quick walk during your lunch break or doing a 10-minute workout in the morning before you start your day. The key is to be consistent and make exercise a priority.

If motivation is your issue, try finding an exercise buddy or signing up for a fitness class. Having someone to hold you accountable and provide encouragement can make a huge difference in sticking with a fitness routine. This could mean joining a fitness group, finding a workout buddy, or even just talking to friends and family members about your goals. Having others cheer you on and provide encouragement can be incredibly motivating. And, of course, finding an exercise that you enjoy can help to increase your motivation. It's also important to find ways to make exercise enjoyable. If you dread going to the gym or hate running, don’t force yourself to do those things. Instead, experiment with different types of exercise until you find something you enjoy. The more you enjoy the activity, the more likely you are to stick with it.

Finally, if you’re feeling overwhelmed and don't know where to start, consider seeking guidance from a personal trainer or fitness coach. They can help you develop a personalized plan that fits your needs and goals. Remember, the most important thing is to start where you are and make progress at your own pace. You don’t need to be an athlete or a fitness guru to make exercise a regular part of your life. Every small step you take towards being more active is a step in the right direction.

So, what are you waiting for? Take the first step today and start removing the barriers to fitness. With a little determination and some helpful tips, you can go from inactivity to a regular exercise routine and enjoy all the physical and mental health benefits that come with it. M