Marple Friends & Neighbors magazine, February 2024

Marple

2024 February

FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS

The

Palermo Family Keep Moving Forward

Photo by Crissy Everhart Photography CrissyEverhart.com

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 DelPizzo.com

Heating & Air Conditioning Len Sciulli Signature HVAC Heating & Air Conditioning 11 Wilson Ave, West Chester 484-406-4485 • LSciulli@SignatureHVAC.com SignatureHVAC.com

Expert Article: Pg. 14 Carpeting & Floor Covering Eric Fante Fante Flooring 39 South Newtown Street Rd, Newtown Square 610-232-708 • Info@FanteFloors.com FanteFloors.com

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

Expert Article: Pg. 21 Chiropractic Care Rehabilitation Dr. Marc Belitsky, D.C., D.A.C.R.B. Broomall Total Health Center 2633 West Chester Pike, Broomall 610-353-2220 • BroomallTH@gmail.com SpineDr.org

Expert Article: Pg. 6 Retirement & Financial Planning Charles Welde, CPA, CFP® The CP Welde Group 610-388-7705 • Charles@CPWeldeGroup.com CPWeldeGroup.com

Expert Article: Pg. 4 Electric Service, Residential/Commercial Andrew Martella, Sr. Martella Electric Company 484-997-3097 • MartellaElectric@rcn.com MartellaElectric.com

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

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

Expert Article: Pg. 16 Tree Care and Inspection Mike Bradley Bradley Tree Experts Broomall 610-325-8600 • Mike@BradleyTreeExperts.com BradleyTreeExperts.com

Family Law Trial Attorney Deborah M. Truscello, Esq. Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello 610-892-4940 • DmtofLaw@gmail.com TruscelloLaw.com

Expert Contributors needed!

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

Fireplace Products Scott Magness Scott’s Fireplace Products 3137 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square 484-422-8334 SFP@ScottsFireplaceProducts.com ScottsFireplaceProducts.com Funeral Home Robert L. D’Anjolell, Jr., F.D. DANJOLELL Memorial Homes 2811 West Chester Pike, Broomall 610-356-4200 • RobJr@DANJOLELL.com DANJOLELL.com

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Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

We’re Online MarpleMag.com

PUBLICATION TEAM PUBLISHER: Bob Blaisse EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER: Lisa Jeffries CONTENT COORDINATOR: Holly Stupak DESIGNER: Kim Cesati CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER: Crissy Everhart Photography CrissyEverhart.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Bob Blaisse, Holly Stupak, Sheila Turner-Hilliard, Lisa Jeffries, Doug Humes, Mike Bradley, Andrew Martella, Dr. Marc Belitsky, Charles Welde, Eric Fante ADVERTISING

Contact Publisher: Bob Blaisse Email: BBlaisse@BestVersionMedia.com Phone: 610-453-5536 COMMUNITY SUBMISSIONS Have feedback or questions about how to submit events, updates, ideas for articles, high resolution photos, etc.?

We will do our best to include as much community info. as space permits. Please contact our Content Coordinator Holly Stupak at HStupak@BestVersionMedia.com.

CONTENT SUBMISSION DEADLINES Content due the 5th of every month.

Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves.

BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2024 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

ON THE COVER

Dear Friends & Neighbors, It’s still winter but have no fear, a unique February is here, complete with a Leap Year. Keep thinking warm thoughts and keep active during this cold month by joining in some of the activities listed on our February Calendar of Events on page 19.

We know February is a great month when the first day of February begins with National Get Up Day, followed by Groundhog Day on February 2nd. We find out then if we’ll have another six weeks of winter if Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow, but regardless, this year February brings one extra day of winter guaranteed. That one extra day that only comes every four years – Leap Year Day, February 29th.

Many years ago the Leap Day coming at the end of this month was known as “Ladies Day” or “Sadie Hawkins Day,” allowing for the rarest of accepted exceptions in those old days, when only that day, every four years, a woman could propose marriage to her man. That day is coming soon this year, but according to another bit of Leap Year folklore, in a Leap Year, the weather will always change on Fridays. So if that Sadie Hawkins Day proposal comes out this year, be mindful that the very next day after Leap Year Day is a Friday, and the forecast could change!

Love and marriage for most of us will be celebrated mid-month, on Valentine’s Day, February 14th which also requires some early forecast because this year Valentine’s Day is also Ash Wednesday. So Valentines: this year you might consider celebrating love Mardi Gras style, on Fat Tuesday, which arrives early this year, the day before Valentine’s Day on February 13th.

Certainly, February is a very cool month. Perhaps this year I’ll get around to nominating the day after Valentine’s Day to be a new national day on February 15th – National Bringing People Together Day, to bring attention to the good of Bringing People Together. That is the motto and mission that you are contributing to right now by reading your hometown magazine in print or online at MarpleMag.com.

I know you are warming up to this last full winter month issue of Marple Friends & Neighbors, which our Content Coordinator, Holly Stupak, Designer, Kim Cesati, our Expert Contributors and other guest writers have for you in this new issue, that is Bringing People Together in Marple.

Bob Blaisse Publisher

The Palermo family at Kent Park

Dear Residents, It may be the shortest month of the year, but there are plenty of fun holidays and reasons to celebrate in February. Aside from Valentine's Day we’ve got Presidents Day, Super Bowl Sunday and our Calendar of Events is full of fun winter activities.

We have a lot of special people in the community to celebrate this month. First up is our Resident Feature, the Palermo Family. Nick and his children’s story of loss, love, hope and resilience will inspire readers to live a little more each day. Our Business Profile introduces you to The CP Welde Group. Charles and his team help clients with their financial growth through their tried and true processes. We also celebrate the life of Len Cella, reconnect with the Speer Family and congratulate Coach Merchant and the 2023 MN Boys Lacrosse team on their State Championship win.

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

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Expert Contributor

by Andrew Martella Martella Electric

Blinking/dimming Lights, Breakers Tripping, Something Not Working?

THE DOCTOR IS IN!

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hen a storm is approaching, the lights in your home may flicker, blink or dim. Many times the power nearby has gone out, but even if your power stays on, dimming and flickering may still occur. Plus, there are other reasons why this may happen. 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 can be the cause.

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 with too many lights. This frequently happens in older homes particularly when more than one highpower appliance like a blow dryer is in use. 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 is likely to be an overload on the circuit. Power tools used in combination with lights can trigger the same result, just like when the microwave and coffee pot operate at the same time in the kitchen.

It can be frustrating when what was working yesterday is not working 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 for seemingly 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. All these situations can be puzzling, frustrating and concerning to homeowners.

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

Cases like this first require a DIAGNOSIS, much like going to your doctor when you have an ailment. Many times, the diagnosis can take longer to complete than the actual repair, replacement or procedure. However, the diagnosis is crucial to fixing the issue, followed by the RECOMMENDED REPAIR, just like when your doctor prescribes medication and/or a procedure after the diagnosis is made. M

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Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

Student of the Month

by Lisa Jeffries

Carolyn Meehan FEBRUARY STUDENT OF THE MONTH Carolyn with Casey’s Manager Steve Jordan Photo courtesy of Megan Meehan

The February Casey’s Public House Student of the Month is Carolyn Meehan, who is a Senior at the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur, and also received a Certificate of Achievement and a $25 gift card from Casey’s Public House, our Sponsor of this program.

Carolyn relieves stress by playing sports and being active in her community. She is a Team Leader in her school’s volunteering and fundraising efforts for Cradles to Crayons, which helps underprivileged children, and also acts as the liaison between her school and Cradles to Crayons in Philadelphia. A life-long active member of St. Anastasia Church, Carolyn was also selected as one of five Student Ministers in the campus ministry at the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur.

Carolyn is on both the Varsity Volleyball and Varsity Softball teams, and last year she was awarded the most improved Junior on her Varsity Softball team. She is a member of the National Honor Society and Spanish Club.

Never one to slow down, Carolyn works at both Splash Swim Club and Delco Steaks, as well as babysitting and baking. Her family’s love of travel has definitely rubbed off on Carolyn, who plans to travel to Ireland this summer to see one of her

many cousins. She is grandchild number 26 and her father is one of 10 children!

Carolyn was accepted and plans to attend Penn State University’s main campus in the Fall of 2024, with an undecided major, as of yet. She wants to get a feel before deciding on anything permanent but is wavering between business and health care. We can’t wait to see where your story goes next Carolyn. Thanks for sharing a little bit of your life with us! M

Know a terrific teen who should be our next Student of the Month?

Here’s what we look for - Students from grades 7 to 12 who demonstrate excellence in service to school, friendship, community or area groups, and reside within the geographical borders of the Marple, Newtown Square or Edgmont (no matter what school they attend, or if they are homeschooled).

Submit your nomination, highlighting what makes them so amazing, to LJeffries@ BestVersionMedia.com. Academic or athletic excellence is not required.

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Expert Contributor

by Charles Welde The CP Welde Group

Add The Bucket Plan® to Your Bucket List

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hat is The Bucket Plan®?

The Bucket Plan® is a holistic financial planning process that incorporates all your assets into one comprehensive financial plan. It categorizes assets based on income, time horizon and tax qualifications. The key to a successful bucket plan is strategically positioning your assets into three distinct buckets: NOW, SOON and LATER. NOW Bucket This is the safe and liquid money that you keep in a checking, savings or money market account. The NOW bucket contains easily accessible funds for both planned and unexpected expenses, such as an auto purchase, home repairs and an emergency fund. This bucket achieves minimal returns that likely will not keep pace with inflation. You don’t want to have more money than necessary in your NOW bucket.

SOON Bucket The SOON bucket contains the money you will use sooner rather than later so it should be invested for conservative growth. This bucket helps address two of your biggest risks in retirement: inflation and short-term market volatility. By investing conservatively, you avoid the risk of taking out money at a market low. The SOON bucket should not be exposed to extreme market fluctuations.

LATER Bucket The LATER bucket is designed for long-term growth. Since we have strategically positioned money conservatively in the SOON bucket, we now have the confidence to invest in longterm, growth-oriented investments in your LATER bucket.

This bucket also provides opportunities to address long-term care, tax management and legacy planning.

A common misconception is that legacy planning is “just for the kids.” However, legacy planning is critical for a surviving spouse. Going from married to single tax brackets, having your standard deduction cut in half, losing one of two Social Security checks, with a potential decrease in pension benefits, could result in taxes going up and income going down for a surviving spouse.

The Bucket Plan® is a way to holistically structure your assets to tackle today’s market challenges while meeting your current, short-term and long-term goals. Why not make it your New Year’s resolution to add The Bucket Plan® to your bucket list? M

The Bucket Plan

®

Now

Soon

Later

$

$

$

Conservative & Income

Long-term Growth & Legacy Planning

Safe & Liquid

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Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

Real Estate

Homes Recently Sold in Marple Address

Sold Price

Beds

Baths

Sq. Ft.

Acres

40 Evergreen Avenue . . . . . . $490,000 . . . . 3 . . . . 4 . . . . . 1,496 . . . . 0.14 24 N New Ardmore Avenue . . . $505,000 . . . . 3 . . . . 2.5 . . . . 1,942 . . . . 0.18 2610 Kirk Avenue . . . . . . . . . $500,000 . . . . 3 . . . . 1.5 . . . . 1,540 . . . . 0.20 2211 Mary Lane . . . . . . . . . . $315,000 . . . . 3 . . . . 2 . . . . . 1,734 . . . . 0.41 2820 Dogwood Lane . . . . . . . $602,500 . . . . 4 . . . . 3 . . . . 2,948 . . . 1.47 92 2nd Avenue . . . . . . . . . . $436,000 . . . . 4 . . . . 3 . . . . .1,860 . . . 0.10 907 Cedar Grove Road . . . . . . $550,000 . . . . 4 . . . . 3 . . . . .2,336 . . . 0.48 101 Thomas Avenue . . . . . . . $540,000 . . . . 3 . . . . 3 . . . . .1,803 . . . . 0.46 4 Dorset Drive . . . . . . . . . . $349,125 . . . . 3 . . . . 2 . . . . . 1,520 . . . . 0.20 2999 Line Road . . . . . . . . . . $525,000 . . . . 4 . . . . 2 . . . . 2,408 . . . 0.29 224 N Central Boulevard . . . . $520,000 . . . . 3 . . . . 2 . . . . . 1,320 . . . . 0.19 2502 Derwyn Avenue . . . . . . $200,000 . . . . 3 . . . . .1 . . . . . 1,310 . . . . 0.14 1006 Richmond Road . . . . . . $600,000 . . . 3 . . . . 2 . . . . . 2,114 . . . . 0.69 2999 Pennview Avenue . . . . . $525,000 . . . . 5 . . . . 4 . . . . 2,408 . . . 0.29 208 2nd Avenue . . . . . . . . . $525,000 . . . . 4 . . . . 2 . . . . . 1,778 . . . . 0.20 2153 Kingswood Lane . . . . . . $425,000 . . . . 3 . . . . 1.5 . . . . 1,600 . . . 0.50 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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Business Profile

by Holly Stupak Photos courtesy of Charles Welde

Helping Clients Reach Their Financial Goals

M

ost of us could benefit from financial guidance.

Today’s financial landscape demands a smarter approach to wealth management beyond simply “investing wisely.” In a world that is market-focused and performance-driven, a holistic financial plan could help you retire with confidence and leave a legacy to heirs.

Charles Welde

The CP Welde Group provides the following services to ensure each aspect of your wealth is organized: retirement planning, portfolio management, asset protection and legacy planning.

Charles Welde grew up in Havertown in a twin home with his parents and 10 brothers and sisters. “We were a competitive set of siblings,” said Charles. “With only one bathroom for 13 people, a competitive spirit was bred early on!” He graduated from Cardinal O’HaraOwner, whereLou heMatteo played in varsity the shop basketball and baseball before earning his accounting degree from Villanova University.

After spending 15 years working 60-hour weeks as a Certified Public Accountant, Charles fell in love with financial planning in the mid-90s. This transition was entirely organic as he was solid with numbers and great with people. In 2001, he became a Certified Financial Planner.

CP Welde Group in Chadds Ford, PA

Having a rewarding professional career would not have been possible without the support of his wife, Peg. “I'm grateful for Peg who never stopped believing in me,” he said. Peg and Charles raised three beautiful daughters in Edgmont, he fondly refers to them as “Charlie’s Angels.” Two identical twin granddaughters and a grandson complete the Welde Clan.

Retired or Planning to Retire?

What We Do…

• Retirement Income Planning • Portfolio Investment Management • Advanced Tax and Insurance Solutions

How We Do It…

• The Bucket Plan Process® • Personalized Action Plan • The Tax Management Journey®

Charles Welde, CPA, CFP® 30+ Year Marple Newtown Edgmont Resident

Our Focus...

We create tax-efficient financial plans that help you retire with confidence.

www.CPWeldeGroup.com • Charles@CPWeldeGroup.com • 610-388-7705 Investment Advisory Services offered through Prosperity Capital Advisors, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor.

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Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

The CP Welde Group team has over 40 years of experience providing tax and wealth management services. Team members include Charles (Lead Advisor), Marian Thomas (Director of Operations), daughter Tara (Client Service Associate), niece Alex Boate (Paraplanner), brother John (Insurance Advisor) and Peter Scarani (Tax Advisor). “We are fortunate to have a team of excellent professionals,” said Charles. “They are passionate about what they do. You can’t teach passion!”

What sets The CP Welde Group apart from other financial firms are two proven processes: The Bucket Plan® strategically categorizes assets into three distinct buckets: now, soon and later based on income, time horizon and tax qualifications. The Tax Management Journey® strategically allocates investments into three distinct funnels: pre-tax, post-tax and tax advantaged.

Tax management can be far more valuable than tax preparation or tax planning since not all money is taxed the same.

Charles believes one of the greatest gifts delivered by his profession is the opportunity it gives him for a lifetime of learning.

“Learning is cumulative and what accumulates is wisdom,” he said. In 2012, he became a member of an exclusive Mastermind Group, composed of 300 competitive, like-minded professionals. He’s also an Ed Slott Master Elite IRA Advisor and a Lifetime member of the Million Dollar Round Table.

Charles and a team member reviewing a client's financial plan

STREAMLINE YOUR As a sponsor of our Friends & Neighbors magazines, Charles ROUTINEtakes INpride STYLE in sharing his knowledge and expertise through

his expert Contributor articles. Visit CPWeldeGroup.com for more information. M

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Resident Feature

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

The Palermo Family: Family: Keep Moving Foward

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arple Friends & Neighbors is pleased to introduce you to The Palermo Family: Nick, Dante, Gabe, Nico and Mia. Their family’s story is one of loss, love, hope, resilience and a deep appreciation for family.

Nick was born and raised in the Overbrook Park section of West Philadelphia. He grew up with his loving parents and younger sister, Maria. Nick attended St. Donato School and graduated from West Catholic High School, where he played baseball and hockey.

After graduation, Nick learned the trade of Heating and Air Conditioning at Philadelphia Wireless and became a certified technician. “I’m a worker,” he explained. “I have had various jobs since I was 13 years old, from bricklaying to landscaping to total room remodels; I’ve done it all.” Nick said that he has always had a lot of energy, and channeling that into all types of hands-on craftsmanship has served him well.

Today, you’ll find Nick at Beatty Lumber and Millwork Company, where he is in the outside sales department, helping contractors, customers, builders and homeowners with their construction, renovation and addition projects. “I began as a yard worker in 1997 and worked my way up through the company,” Nick said. “I love what I do and look forward to growing as a sales professional and serving my customers in the lumber and millwork industry.”

Nick said that he and Marisa met in 1994, moved to Broomall in 1999, and married in October 2000. “Marisa grew up in Broomall with her parents, brother and five sisters,” he said.

“She came from a very close-knit family, and she wanted to raise her own children in Broomall, surrounded by grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins.” They were happy to find the perfect home, and over the course of 11 years, Marisa and Nick welcomed four beautiful children into their family.

Sadly, Marisa passed away unexpectedly in January 2014. “I didn’t just love Marisa,” Nick said. “I absolutely adored her.”

He described Marisa as a beautiful, kind, loving and caring mother to Dante, Gabe, Nico and Mia. She was also fiercely loyal to her family, friends and St. Anastasia's church family.

She was a beloved cheerleading coach and devoted friend.

January 29th marked ten years since Marisa passed. “It is so hard to believe that the kids and I have made it to this point,” Nick said. “It’s a surreal feeling. I am proud of how far we have come and will forever be grateful to our families and friends who have never wavered in their love and support.”

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Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

Nick and Marisa with their children in 2013 Photo courtesy of Nick Palermo

Nick said that every year on the anniversary of her death, he and the kids visit Marisa’s gravesite, bring donuts, send a balloon to heaven and recall fond memories of their mom.

Dante is Nick and Marisa’s oldest son. He was 11 years old when he lost his mom. Life may have thrown Dante a major curveball, but he has handled the adversity with grit and grace. “I cannot tell you how proud I am of Dante,” remarked Nick. “He will be graduating from West Chester University this spring with a degree in Marketing and a minor in Digital Marketing.” Dante plans to begin a career in sales after graduation and hopes to start his own company someday.

Nick described Dante as conscientious and disciplined, his right-hand man and the G.O.A.T. (greatest of all time). He has been an incredible role model to his brothers and his sister and works hard every day, not just in school but on his physical and mental well-being. Dante enjoys working out at the gym, playing golf and doing offshore fishing with his dad in Ocean City, MD. Gabe and Nico are Marisa and Nick’s twin boys who are active seventh graders at St. Anastasia. Gabe was quick to point out that he is older than Nico by a minute and a half, and Nico was happy to report that although he may be younger, he’s taller than his brother!

Both boys love sports and playing video games, but they also have separate interests. “Gabe is very artistic, and Nico loves all kinds of music,” Nick said. When asked what they want to do when they are older, Gabe said he would like to attend art school, while Nico has his sights set on a point guard position in the NBA. 10-year-old Mia is Marisa and Nick’s youngest. She is in fourth grade at St. Anastasia and loves cheerleading, gymnastics and

softball. Mia said she also likes to draw and especially loves to draw sunsets. Her favorite subjects in school are math, reading and social studies.

“Mia is courageous, resilient and warm,” Nick said. “She and I often spend time taking walks together with our puppy.” Mia has a good heart and has a soft spot for animals. In fact, she said that someday she would like to be a veterinarian.

Perhaps Mia’s love for animals was spurred on by the addition of the newest member of the Palermo family: Xena. “The kids begged me for the longest time to get a puppy, but I had my reservations,” Nick laughed. “We’ve had her for a little over a year now, and it’s funny, I can’t imagine life without her!”

Xena is a very energetic German Short-Haired Pointer who keeps Nick and the kids on their toes. “Like all puppies, Xena needed to be trained, and Mia took that job very seriously,” Nick said. “Now I’ve come to realize that Xena feeds off the energy in our home, and knowing that helps me calm my boundless energy and lower my voice. I can’t help it. I’m Italian!”

Gabe, Dante, Mia and Nico Photo by Crissy Everhart Photography CrissyEverhart.com

Delaware County’s Expert Door Installer Broomall Resident and Family Man, Paul Barrett Nick and his late wife, Marisa Palermo Photo courtesy of Nick Palermo

And speaking of being Italian, Nick said that being surrounded by so many family members has made all the difference in their lives. “My sister Maria and her family live close by and my mother-in-law, Mamma Jean, lives within walking distance,” he said. Nick and the kids are also surrounded by Marisa’s siblings and their families. “My sisters-in-law, Amy, Natalie, Elaina, Carla and Sara, and my brother-in-law, Lou, are also nearby and have always been there for me and my children.”

The Palermo’s have a family motto: Keep moving forward. “The kids and I have been through a lot together,” Nick said. “We miss Marisa terribly, but we make the commitment every day to continue moving forward with gratitude for what we have, which is a loving family and a tremendous support system.” continued on page 12

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Resident Feature Nick also extended his gratitude to our wonderful community, his boss at Beatty Lumber and Millwork, Eric Tucker and his colleagues. He said that when Marisa passed away, friends, family and even strangers gathered in support and held a fundraiser for him and the kids, and his employer generously allowed Nick the opportunity to get back on his feet. “I will never be able to thank everyone enough for their support and generosity,” he said. “It will always be appreciated and remembered.”

Thank you, Nick, Dante, Gabe, Nico and Mia, for sharing your story. May you “Keep Moving Forward” and continue to inspire us all to love, laugh and live a little more each day.

Nick, Mia, Nico, Gabe and Dante Palermo Photo by Crissy Everhart Photography CrissyEverhart.com

Do you know a Marple family, individual or nonprofit group who should become known by our community? Make your nominations

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Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

for upcoming feature articles by emailing your ideas to Holly Stupak at HStupak@BestVersionMedia.com. M

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

In Memoriam

by Holly Stupak

In Memoriam: Marple’s Own

LEN CELLA

An Original Content Creator Just before the new year, Marple lost a bit of a local celebrity.

On December 24, Len Cella passed away at the age of 86 from injuries sustained in a traffic accident. Many residents knew Len as he was a Marple Newtown High School (MNHS) graduate and even one of the school’s Hall of Fame athletes. But what some may not have known was that Len was an original content creator, creating short sketches in 1983. Len’s creative mind led him to make these short films, which he called “Moron Movies” and he became a nightly feature on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson.

Len grew up in Broomall and graduated from MNHS in 1955.

He was very athletic and excelled at sports, playing football, baseball and basketball. In his 60s he took up tennis, and according to Len, he was better than the other people he played with. He was also an avid golfer and even held a course record at Springfield Country Club for a time.

After high school, Len joined the Army and spent 18 months stationed in Japan. When he returned home, Len attended Villanova University and later the University of Pennsylvania to study architecture. For many years, he worked as a sports writer for the News of Delaware County, and then in the advertising field until he eventually started his own painting business.

It was during the 1980s that Len discovered a hobby that he loved: making movies. He was way ahead of his time when he started creating these sketches about everything including “How to protect yourself” and “Man with the thumb stuck in a bowling ball,” which essentially followed the format of TikToks. Len used a Canon camera to create his Moron Movies and he was the director, producer and star of all of his movies.

Eventually, he began screening them for friends and family, but he wanted a bigger audience.

Len placed ads in some local newspapers, which first caught the attention of a reporter from the Philadelphia Daily News and later Johnny Carson, whose TV show was the most popular at the time. From 1983–1985, Moron Movies were a regular feature on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.

Moron Movies even made Variety’s list of top-grossing films in 1985 despite playing in only one New York theater. After The Tonight Show run, Len’s work was also featured on Dick Clark’s TV Bloopers and Practical Jokes, although to Len’s

disappointment, they changed the name of his movies to “Len Cella’s Silly Cinemas.”

Len’s videos have been described as both “absurd” and “hilarious.” Fans also remark how Len was way ahead of his time by creating and sharing viral video content, which is now more than a huge trend. One of Len’s videos, posted to YouTube in 2005 is “Me at the Zoo,” which now has 163 million views.

“Len was definitely a unique individual and was very talented with an odd sense of humor,” recalled Seth Pancoast III, who knew Len through his dad, Seth Pancoast Jr. “Having known Len for so long, it's interesting to look back at his Moron Movies and see what has changed as many of the movies were filmed in or around our properties. There are so many stories among those of us that knew him. He'll be missed by many.”

You can still find and watch Len’s Moron Movies on YouTube and there is even a Facebook page dedicated to Len called Moron Movies/Len Cella Appreciation. When we asked Len in 2022 how he accounted for the longevity of his videos, his answer was simple: “Because they make people laugh!”

Len will be missed by his friends here in Marple. A longtime resident of Marple, Len was often seen walking around town and was still creating movies and original songs into his 80s.

Marple Friends & Neighbors sends our deepest sympathies and thoughts to his family. M

Come See

Bring life into focus!

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

Dr. Michael Allodoli, OD

www.BroomallEyeCare.com

610 -325-7688

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

February 2024

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MarpleMag.com

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Expert Contributor

by Eric Fante Fante Flooring

Lower Cost, Less Time Flooring Upgrades

I

f you’re looking to upgrade your flooring on a budget and with minimal time investment, there are several cost-effective options that can make a significant difference in the look and feel of your space. Here are some suggestions: 1. Area Rugs: Large area rugs can add warmth, color and texture to a room without the need for a full flooring overhaul.

They are also easily interchangeable if you want to update the look periodically.

2. Vinyl Peel-and-Stick Flooring: Vinyl tiles that adhere to the existing floor are a quick and affordable way to change the

MARPLE NEWTOWN’S FLOOR COVERING EXPERTS

flooring. They come in various styles, including wood and tile patterns, and are relatively easy to install.

3. Laminate Flooring: Laminate flooring is an affordable alternative to hardwood and can be installed as a floating floor, which means it doesn’t need to be glued or nailed down. Some laminate options mimic the look of natural wood or stone.

4. Painted Floors: If you have wooden floors, consider painting them for a fresh look. You can use stencils to create patterns or go for a solid color. Make sure to use floor-specific paint and finish with a protective sealer.

5. Peel-and-Stick Carpet Tiles: Similar to vinyl tiles, carpet tiles are easy to install and can be a great solution for adding warmth and comfort to a room. They come in various colors and patterns.

6. Refinish Hardwood Floors: If you already have hardwood floors, consider refinishing them instead of replacing them.

Sanding and applying a new stain or finish can give your floors a brand-new appearance.

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7. Epoxy Coating for Concrete Floors: If you have concrete floors, epoxy coatings can transform them into a sleek and durable surface. Epoxy is resistant to stains, easy to clean and comes in various colors and finishes.

8. Cork Flooring: Cork is an eco-friendly and budget-friendly flooring option. It’s soft underfoot, has natural insulation properties and comes in a variety of styles and colors.

9. Self-Adhesive Floor Tiles: These tiles are easy to install and can be used in various rooms, such as the kitchen or bathroom.

They come in different patterns and mimic the look of more expensive materials.

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Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

10. DIY Stenciled Concrete: If you have a concrete floor, you can use stencils and paint to create patterns or designs. This is a cost-effective way to add visual interest to your floors.

Before starting any flooring project, make sure to properly prepare the existing surface and follow installation instructions for the chosen material. Always consider your specific needs, preferences and the functionality of the space when selecting a flooring upgrade. M

History Spotlight

Clovercroft Chronicles

by Doug Humes Photos courtesy of Marple Historical Society This past fall, I led a hike into the 200 acres of woods behind Don Guanella that are our newest Delaware County Park. The woods were working farms, an active tannery and whetstone factories and quarries from the first settlements in Marple in the 1680s until about 1960 when the Archdiocese stopped leasing the land to a local farmer and demolished several old farmhouses on the tract. Since that time, Mother Nature has reclaimed the tract and it is now entirely wooded. There are remains of what once was, concrete slabs with hooks, stone piles that were once a farmhouse and a large stone retaining wall, but much of their history is now a mystery.

A woman who grew up at the Rhoads home on the property, Mary Rhoads Haines (1819-1905), wrote a memoir, Clovercroft Chronicles, with details of that Marple farming community that breathes life into the ruins remaining in these woods. Historian Samuel Fitch Hotchkins summarizes a portion as follows: “In Clovercroft Chronicles … one may see how simply the industrious country people of Pennsylvania lived in earlier days.

An old German woman spins flax in a sunny kitchen. and a spinning-wheel makes music while the flies sing a chorus. and a child makes knotty threads on a small implement given her for a plaything.” Colored refugees, who had come above Mason and Dixon’s line. were often employed as good workers. The early morning brought rural charms of birds and light. as the stars melted away before the rising sun. while a country maiden made her cakes in the porch. under a shady sycamore, with a Carolina rose on a whitewashed smoke-house to complete the picture, and wheat-fields in sight promising a good harvest. The spring-house was attractively picturesque, and its luscious cream

Title page to Clovercroft Chronicles

1960’s view of what is described as 1855 kitchen in Rhoads house, quite likely the site of the domestic scenes described in Clovercroft Chronicles

refreshed the body. Farm work kept the men busy in springtime when machines were unknown. April showers and cherry blossoms, and pleasant family meals brightened the day, and evening brought cheerful conversations, and news, and Scripture Psalms to introduce the night. Winter had its own charms; and work-baskets showed industrious and useful toil, while poetry, travel, and general literature enlivened the old Marple homestead of the Rhoads family on the Springfield Road, which seems to long for the old times to come again so well described in Clovercroft Chronicles.”

Search for her Chronicles at the free Internet Archive. Chapters 15 and 16 contain the Marple memories.

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: MarpleHistoricalSociety.org. M

Rhoads home across from current Home Depot, circa 1960

Looking north towards Rhoads farmhouse with Lawrence Park Shopping Center behind and housing to the right, circa 1960

February 2024

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MarpleMag.com

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Expert Contributor

by Mike Bradley Bradley Tree Experts

Keep Your Home Safe This Winter…

Call Your Hometown Tree Expert!

Tree Inspection and Maintenance

T

rees make a true statement when placed at key areas around the home. The question many homeowners ask — especially if they’ve inherited a yard with many and various types of trees — is when is it time to perform tree maintenance, and what are specific ways to maintain particular types of trees? To get those answers, first ask yourself these basic questions: • Do the trees on my property present broken limbs that could be dead or diseased?

• Do my trees encroach on my house, on my neighbor’s prop erty or house, on power lines, or on sidewalk areas?

• Are my trees misshapen from overgrowth?

• Do my trees reduce the aesthetic value of my property?

Firewood sold by the full, ½ and ¼ cord!

610-325-8600 289 Langford Rd, Broomall www.BradleyTreeExperts.com 16

Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

If the answers to these questions are mostly YES, it is time for the most common form of tree maintenance: tree pruning, which is selectively removing branches from a tree to improve its structure and promote overall healthy new growth. Pruning for tree health focuses on removing dead or dying branches, removing branches that may rub together or removing any branch stubs so the tree will continue to grow healthy for years to come. Dead or dying branches can be removed anytime and in any season throughout the year.

Thinning out a tree’s canopy (the branches and leaves at its top) will let light and air circulate in and around its branches, allowing for increased foliage and a decreased chance of disease. As trees age, they may grow suckers (more branches at their trunk base or above). Most suckers should be removed because they can weaken the wood and take nutrients from the main tree.

Helping each tree establish one main trunk or dominant stem

is key to the growth process, to ensure the tree can withstand winter storms and high winds.

When is the best time to prune most trees?

The answer is simple: Winter, or more precisely, mid to late winter. That means right now!

Trees that benefit the most from winter pruning are evergreens, shade trees like oaks and maples, and most shrubs.

Why is winter the best time for pruning?

Trees are less susceptible to disease and insect infestation in winter because they are dormant in the winter. In worstcase scenarios, a tree may have to come down. Winter is the optimal time to get that service completed because if a service provider requires access to a grassy area to complete the job, turf damage will be minimal when temperatures are low or the ground is frozen. M

“Your Family’s safety and smiles are our priorities.” ~Dr. Georges P. Martin, D.M.D.

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

Schedule your appointment TODAY! 610 -359-8181 office@MarpleDental.com

Offering: Cleanings, Whitening, Cosmetic dentistry, Implant restoration, Denture care, Tooth replacement, and more.

www.MarpleDental.com 2004 Sproul Road, Suite 304, Broomall

Firearm Education, Sales & Service

Stars & Stripes TACTICAL

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• Gun locks, safes, and safety equipment • We buy/consign estates & collections • Gunsmithing & firearm appraisals • Firearm consulting and training • New gun owner training

• We have ammunition in stock

“I only sell firearms to those who accept that training in firearm use and safety becomes their duty when choosing to exercise their 2nd Amendment right to own a firearm.” ~Shawn Brown, Owner Stars & Stripes Tactical

Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm • 610-556-0223 www.StarsNStripesTactical.com

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Over 40 years of experience helping others.

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Come in and meet with us.

We can figure it all out together!

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Hassle-Free Headshots & On-Site Corporate Photos w w w. c r i s s y e v e r h a r t . c o m February 2024

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MarpleMag.com

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Back In the Spotlight

by Holly Stupak

Recalling the Issue: January 2020

Catching Up With the Speer Family

O

ver the past five years, Marple Friends & Neighbors has featured many inspirational individuals and families who make a difference in our community.

This month, we are excited to check back in with the Speer Family. Although it’s only been four years since they were on our January 2020 cover, much has changed for Emily, Ed and their kids. For one thing, they are now a family of seven since Winnie was born in September 2020. Emily’s business, Speer Swim School, has seen tremendous growth and although Ed is still with the Philadelphia Phillies organization, he’s recently taken on a new role there.

The Speers have lived in Broomall for 14 years. Ed and Emily found their forever home here in 2010 shortly after they got married. Originally from West Chester, they are both West Chester East High School graduates. Although they graduated from the same school, they didn’t actually meet until after high school when they were introduced by Ed’s older sister, a friend of Emily’s. They quickly realized they had a lot in common that included a love of sports and the outdoors. Ed played football, basketball and lacrosse in high school and basketball and lacrosse in college and Emily taught swimming lessons since she was just 13 years old. “Things just clicked for Ed and me right away!” Emily recalled fondly.

When we featured the Speer family in 2020, Ed was working for the FRIENDS & Phillies organization in NEIGHBORS ly their Operations DeThe Speer Fami Lovers of the Outdoorsorts partment, where he and All Things Sp worked since 2007.

What started as an internship while he was a junior at St. Joseph’s University led to a permanent position. Although Ed earned his degree in Marketing with an gether Bringing People To emphasis on Sports and Entertainment Marketing, he ultimately found that his niche was in operations. Today, Ed serves as the organization’s Director, Facility Operations. The job has given him the opportunity to travel with the team and he even received a 2008 World Series Ring and a 2022 NL Championship ring! “It’s truly a dream job,” said Ed.

Marple

2020 January

raphy Sierra Clark Photog Cover photo by: oto.com www.SierraClarkPh

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Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

The Speer Family on a recent trip to Pittsburgh

Photo courtesy of Emily Speer

Since 2017, Emily has been the owner and manager of Speer Swim School, which continues to grow and thrive. Last year they served 746 students and now have 36 employees that include swim instructors and pool managers. In addition to offering lessons in clients’ backyards, Emily and her team also began providing lessons at Marple Newtown High School (MNHS) where they also offer a two-week summer camp. Speer Swim School also partners with Villa Maria Academy for after-school swim lessons.

Emily started teaching swim lessons when she was just 13 years old and she continued developing her skills as a swimming instructor over the next several years. “I love knowing that we’re giving children the ability to be safe in and near the water, and giving parents the peace of mind that their children have skills to help them enjoy the water,” Emily said proudly.

Emily has a degree in Elementary Education from Penn State, an MA from Arcadia University and in 2013 she earned a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from Neumann University. Prior to starting her swim school business, Emily taught 7th grade at Paxon Hollow Middle School.

Emily and Ed make a great team parenting their five children all under the age of 12. When we met the Speers back in 2020, their youngest, Winnie, had not been born yet. Winnie is now an active three-year-old who loves to keep up with her older siblings. Emily said Winnie always has a smile on her face and everyone in Marple knows her as the tag-along-kid who loves going anywhere and everywhere with her brothers and sisters.

The oldest of the Speers, Beatrix, is now 11 years old. A fifth grader at St. Anastasia School, Beatrix has been involved in school plays as well as the Reading Olympics team. Outside of school, Beatrix is passionate about dancing and is a member of From the Top’s pre-competition dance team. Her parents say she has a motherly personality and she’s already enrolled in babysitting classes.

Eddie, now nine, still loves sports. He plays CYO flag football in the fall, baseball at NELL, lacrosse with Marple Newtown Lacrosse and basketball for St. Annies, where he’s a fourth grader. Emily said Eddie has a friendly personality and loves to play with anyone.

Little sister Daphne is described by her parents as a “classic middle child.” Now seven, Emily said Daphne is always smiling and happy. She’s also taken an interest in sports and plays for the Marple Newtown Soccer Association and for the Newtown Square Petticoat League.

The Speers are still embracing life here in Marple and they love connecting with the community. Emily works out with local mom Donna Gicking at Empowered Fitness at MNHS three times a week and Ed enjoys playing pickup men's basketball at some of the local schools.

The last time we met the Speers, Richie was just a toddler and the baby of the family. Today, he’s five and into monster trucks and sports. A baseball player for NELL, Richie is already an impressive hitter and they can’t wait to see how he does this season.

Whether it’s in their neighborhood, on one of the local sports fields or in the pool, Emily and Ed love meeting and connecting with people in the community. “We love it here,” said Emily.

“It’s more than just connecting. It’s being a part of such an amazing tight-knit community.” M

FEBRUARY 2024 Saturdays

Thurs. February 29, and Fri., Sat. March 1, 2

@Goshen & Newtown Street Roads A variety of rotating art displays by local artists, exhibitions and activities.

@Anthony’s At Paxon Hollow Golf Course Marple’s own professional comedian, Pat House returns to his hometown with his comical friends for three nights of laughter at Anthony’s At Paxon.

Art at The Square Tavern

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

NSHistory.org Saturdays

Paper Mill House & Museum

@3 Paper Mill Rd, Newtown Square Visit this museum of local history, a place filled with the ghosts and footprints of the millworkers who once lived there.

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

NSHistory.org

Daily through Sun. February 25

Flight On Ice

@4901 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square Newtown Square’s pop-up outdoor ice-skating rink is back and offers fun for the entire family. This winter wonderland features a 60’ x 100’ full-size outdoor skating rink, a heated hospitality tent with food, drinks and merchandise. Special events and live music are on the schedule to keep you entertained this winter.

Time: Wed. and Thurs. 4–8pm; Fri. 4–10pm; Sat. 11am–10pm; Sunday 11am–8pm Cost: Check their website for current Season Pass, Family Pass and Individual Ticket pricing.

610-627-2100 FlightOnIce.com

Daily through Thurs. February 29

Black History Month Ancestral Art Exhibit

@Newtown Public Library 201 Bishop Hollow Rd, Newtown Square Celebrate Black History Month with the Ancestral Art of Dr. Anita Foeman and Brooklyn McTavish. Dr. Foeman is a scholar of intercultural and organizational communication and is founder of the DNA Discussion Project and artist who selects stones, eggs and ornaments, and decorates them with elaborate designs and patterns. Her 3-dimensional art enhances our appreciation for intercultural awareness and historical identities. Brooklyn McTavish, an extraordinary portrait photographer and social psychologist, also utilizes DNA tests to help his clients discover their past genetic links and then creates a series of portraits that reflect the subject’s various ancestors.

Time: Mon.–Thurs. 10am–7pm; Fri.–Sat. 10am–5pm Cost: FREE

610-353-1022 NewtownLibrary.org

A Comedian In The House - Pat House

Hammerstein’s Cinderella was the most widely viewed program in the history of the medium. As adapted for the stage, with great warmth and more than a touch of hilarity, this enthralling fairy tale still warms the hearts of children and adults alike.

Time: 8pm Comedy Show Separate From Dinner At Paxon

Time: Shows are Saturdays and Sundays.

Check the website for show times.

Cost: $19–$24

Call For Reservations 610-353-0220

610-891-0100 MediaTheatre.org

Saturdays and Sundays February through April

Wed. February 14

@Valley Fair Shopping Center 270 W. Swedesford Rd, Berwyn Indoor/Outdoor flea market featuring antiques, collectibles, vintage jewelry and clothing, glassware, artwork, vinyl and more.

@Board & Brush 210 S Newtown Street Rd, Newtown Square Join our most popular DIY workshop with your best friend or loved one! Create your own unique wood signs when selecting a wood project from our gallery. We provide all the materials and instructions to create a beautiful piece for your home or for a gift. Choose from a variety of paint and wood stain colors in the workshop.

Devon/Berwyn Antique and Vintage Flea Market

Time: 9am–4pm Cost: FREE admission

215-625-3532 PhilaFleaMarkets.org Sat. February 10

Lunar New Year Celebration

@Plum Street Mall on State Street, Media Celebrate the Year of the Dragon with live music and a Lion Dance performance by Hung Gar Kung Fu Academy.

Time: 2pm Cost: FREE

VisitMediaPA.com Sun. February 11

16th Annual Feel the Love 5K

@Wilson Farm Park, 1601 Darby Rd, Wayne There is no other race like this! Scoring for the race will consist of a couple’s COMBINED final times. This is a unique and motivational race where it takes two to do well! With four couple categories to choose rom, there is something for everyone! INDIVIDUALS ARE WELCOME TO RACE. A virtual race option is also available. Proceeds benefit the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation at Jefferson Hospital and the Bryn Mawr Running Club.

Time: 11am Cost: $40

RunSignUp.com/Race/PA/Wayne/FeeltheLove5K Sat. February 17 – Sun. February 25

Cinderella: Youth Edition

@Media Theatre, 104 E. State St, Media The timeless enchantment of a magical fairy tale is reborn with the Rodgers & Hammerstein hallmarks of originality, charm and elegance. Originally presented on television in 1957 starring Julie Andrews, Rodgers &

Valentine’s Day Pick Your Project Workshop

Time: 6:30–9:30pm Cost: $73 each or 2 for $120. Use the discount code VDAY24 when placing 2 bookings of a $73 value on the same transaction. Must place 2 bookingsone project per person in order to get the discount. Pre-registration is required.

610-883-2679 BoardAndBrush.com Thurs. February 22

Harmonious Wail

@Lansdowne Folk Club 84 S. Lansdowne Ave, Lansdowne The members of Harmonious Wail are purveyors of Americana-infused Gypsy Jazz, who take their listeners on a ride via the music of the Hot Club sounds of Parisian cafes, the deepest blues of the Memphis Delta and the heartfelt folk scenes across every-town-America.

Time: 7:30pm Cost: $20 when purchased in advance online or with an advanced phone reservation and $25 at the door

484-466-6213 FolkClub.org Sat. March 2

1st Annual NELL Trivia Night

@Newtown Edgmont Little League Flanigan Center 323 Bishop Hollow Rd, Newtown Square The first-ever spring season kickoff event. Ten rounds of trivia, live scoring, great prizes, raffles and auction items. Open to the entire community. Have fun and raise funds to benefit the players and outfit the Flanigan Center. BYOB drinks and food. Must be 21 to play.

Time: 6:30pm Cost: TBD

NellBaseball.com

February 2024

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MarpleMag.com 19

Bringing People Together

by Bob Blaisse, Publisher

Bringing People Together Marple Friends & Neighbors

J

Valentine’s Day Is Bringing People Together.

But Reader Leaders Are Doing That Every Day!

ean, Be My Valentine again this Valentine’s Day. And thank you for letting me be your Valentine these many years.

But like those early grade school years, when we gave out Valentine’s Day cards to our classmates, and held out the cards we thought nicest, for those we wanted to really show our appreciation of, I have to tell our Reader Leaders just how special they are to us.

Who are our Reader Leaders? What is a Reader Leader? It all started when we launched Marple Friends & Neighbors in print and online at MarpleMag.com over five years ago. A Reader Leader started out simply as any reader who let us know they looked forward to receiving our new hometown magazine in the mail each month. They talked it up to friends and neighbors, and they knew well that our advertising Sponsors made it all possible. But after a few years of impact in our community, Reader Leaders got to another level. They fully understood how our unique brand of social media in print was truly Bringing People Together in Marple Township. And with bold loyal gratitude for their hometown magazine, Reader Leaders happily voted with their wallets to show outright favoritism for businesses whose ads are seen on these pages. They still do because they clearly recognize why the advertising Sponsors have invested in our community to make our hometown magazine possible. And our Sponsors do it to show us just how important Marple Township residents are to the success of their business. Reader Leaders return that loyalty.

Now in our sixth year of publication, Reader Leaders are too many to count among our Broomall friends and neighbors and

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20 Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

loyal readers with pride of living in Marple Township. And this month, Reader Leaders are our Valentines. We truly appreciate you. We value your support every month, and your contribution to every new issue of your hometown magazine.

People often ask me how we choose our resident cover feature, or who will be our Student of the Month, or how we came by that feel-good story that cannot be easily forgotten after reading it in the hometown magazine. I tell those who ask that it all comes from Readers Leaders, through their emails. That’s the start of it, and results in a feature ending up in print and online in a new issue that serves to be Bringing People Together in Marple Township.

And after several years now, some Reader Leaders have lasting impact. Their reader leadership has gone even one step further: They help us add new advertising Sponsors whose financial support helps us grow our page count while those businesses invited to become an advertising Sponsor gain greater hometown awareness of their support for Marple Township and in turn, new gratitude and loyalty of the residents of Broomall.

Be a Reader Leader! Nominate residents from our community and community organizations to be featured in your hometown magazine. And use your influence with the business leaders you know well and do business with often, to help grow our magazine page count so we can publish even more feature articles each month by having more pages supported by businesses that will sponsor our hometown. And if a business you introduce me to does become a new Sponsor of Marple Township, I will personally contact you and ask you to personally recommend a Broomall resident of your choosing to soon be featured in our hometown magazine and on the cover in an upcoming issue. M

Bob Blaisse

Publisher, Marple Friends & Neighbors

Expert Contributor

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

How Are You Managing Stress?

A

re you managing stress or just living with it? Stress comes in three types: emotional, chemical and physical.

It’s important to be able to understand the relationship that they have with one another as well as individually.

Emotional stress may come from life experiences such as financial or relationship issues. Many potential interventions are effective, including (but not limited to) physical exercise, breathing exercises, better nutrition and mental health counseling.

Chemical stress may be hormonal, drug/alcohol, inflammation or toxicity-related. Chemical stress such as diabetes needs to be managed with nutrition and proper medication.

Physical stress involves muscles nerves, joints and bones and how they function. Physical stress needs to be managed by either correcting the mechanical dysfunction or addressing a weak muscle or damaged nerve.

When any of these stresses go beyond the body's ability to manage, one will eventually experience a symptom or a sign.

It is similar to having the light go on the dashboard of your car. When it comes to your body, please pay attention. Don't ignore the lights on the dashboard.

We need to take care of ourselves and understand the underlying cause that is manifesting in the body which it can no longer manage without help. Stress can present itself in many ways and these symptoms may appear as headaches, insomnia, sinus/ allergy issues, neck and back pain, digestive issues and others.

When understanding the underlying stressor, one has a better ability to manage an intervention. For instance, if it is a physical condition, it would require a physical correction. If it is a chemical condition, it would require more of a chemical solution (eliminating certain foods, using supplements or medication). Results are much better when sticking to this belief and not crossing over. Chemicals such as medications cannot fix all physical or emotional conditions. It’s important to address the main issue. Currently, emotional stress is reaching epidemic proportions.

Emotions may aggravate your digestive system or lower your immune system causing you more potential infections. Learn to read the signs and symptoms of your body and use appropriate

means to address not just the symptom but the cause of the underlying condition.

Chiropractic care can help you determine if this is a physical or chemical issue. If it is a physical issue, chiropractic care can correct the malfunction and help restore your body to optimum health naturally without medication. As you learn to listen to your body, please make good decisions to live a long, healthy and enjoyable life. M

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Our Community

by Holly Stupak Photos courtesy of Kevin Merchant

Congrats Coach Kevin Merchant!

MNHS Boys Lacrosse Coach Honored as PIAA Coach of the Year

N

ot only did the boys' Lacrosse team have a perfect ending to their 2023 season with a State Championship win, but their coach also received the honor of being the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) Coach of the Year. For head coach Kevin Merchant, a Marple native and former Marple Newtown High School (MNHS) lacrosse player, the award was humbling. “It’s truly a collective award,” said Kevin. “I share it with the rest of the coaching staff and the players. They’re a phenomenal group of men.”

In June 2023, Kevin led the Tigers lacrosse team to their first state championship in school history, winning the PIAA Class 2A title. The game ended with an exciting 11-10 overtime win over Mars Area High School at Penn State’s Panzer Stadium.

Kevin grew up in Marple with two brothers and attended Russell Elementary and Paxon Hollow Middle School before going to MNHS. Kevin said the Merchants were pretty much a soccer family before he picked up a lacrosse stick in seventh grade. “I was looking for something more fast-paced and a neighbor suggested lacrosse,” Kevin recalled. “Once you play, you’re hooked.”

At Marple, Kevin played for coach Tom Hannum, the winningest coach in Marple's lacrosse history. “Tom always instilled in us a great work ethic and a winning culture,” he said. “We knew if we put the work in, we’d reap the rewards.”

About 10 years ago, Kevin was looking to introduce more youth in our area to the sport of lacrosse.

So he and his friend and fellow Marple alum Jim Kostack started a Native Lacrosse Club. “It started as wanting a club for my own son (now a high school freshman) to play lacrosse in a fun and competitive environment,” said Kevin. “It gives kids a chance to try the sport of lacrosse at a young age and teaches them fundamentals. And, when kids try it, it’s hard not to fall in love with the sport.”

Kevin took over as the MNHS head lacrosse coach in 2019 with a plan to build a team with local coaches and to work with the community. His coaching staff includes an impressive group of Marple alumni, including offense coaches Joe Kostack and Tyler Kostack, defense coaches Steve Viola and Kyle Barroni, faceoff and transition Jake Huey and Jim Small, who works with the team on strength and conditioning. “Our staff all have the same mentality,” said Kevin. “We love watching the players work hard and succeed both on and off the field.”

The 2023 MNHS Boys Lacrosse Team after winning the State Championship 22 Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together

Kevin Merchant coaching the MNHS Boys Lacrosse Team

Kevin said that the successful 2023 season was due to the team’s dedication and teamwork. “We came in that season with a lot of younger players and not that many seniors,” he explained. “We certainly went through some rough spots and growing pains. But that was what made the ending to the season much more special.” Kevin said that what was even more unique about the team itself was the collaboration between the freshman and senior players. “Over the season they were really able to figure out what roles they could play,” he said.

The State Championship game could not have been a better and more exciting game with Ryan Gorman, an MNHS senior at the time, scoring with 2 seconds left to win it. During the game, the Marple Tigers had rallied dramatically, after falling behind 5-0 and 6-1 through the first quarter. Many of the underclassmen also played key roles. “Having core principles of commitment, discipline, respect, loyalty and hard work sets the team and players in a position to grow and improve every time they step on the field,” Kevin added.

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Marple Friends & Neighbors congratulates Kevin, his coaching staff and his players on their PA State Championship win!

We look forward to watching the team this year, which will no doubt be a force to be reckoned with. M

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