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
Carpeting & Floor Covering
Eric Fante Fante Flooring
39 South Newtown Street Rd, Newtown Square 610-232-708 • Info@FanteFloors.com FanteFloors.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 SpineDr.org
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Electric Service, Residential/Commercial
Andrew Martella, Sr. Martella Electric Company 484-997-3097 MartellaElectric@rcn.com 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 MarpleDental.com
Family Law Trial Attorney
Deborah M. Truscello, Esq. Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello 610-892-4940 • DmtofLaw@gmail.com TruscelloLaw.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
Retirement & Financial Planning
Charles Welde, CPA, CFP® The CP Welde Group 610-388-7705 • Charles@CPWeldeGroup.com CPWeldeGroup.com
Kevin O’Donnell O’Donnell Roofing Co. 610-624-8112
WeatherProofing-Plus.com ◆
Roofing, Siding & Carpentry
CustomerService@ODonnellRoofingCo.com ODonnellRoofingCo.com/bvm
Waterproofing & Weatherization
David Linn Cook
Weatherproofing Plus Inc.
Marple / Newtown / Edgmont 610-325-0596
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, Scott Magness, Deborah M. Truscello, David Linn Cook
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
The Noll Family at their home in Broomall
Dear Friends & Neighbors,
Oh my, it’s July! The second half of 2024 is running now, just as the running “feat” of the The Broomall Rotary’s 5K Firecracker Run on July 4th has us cheering on our friends and neighbors before the start of the Marple Newtown 4th of July Parade, the largest July 4th parade in Delaware County, and always the biggest annual gathering of Marple Newtown residents.
I’ll be at the July 4th Parade again, at my spot near the St. Anastasia Church sign, to loudly encourage the runners and walkers, cheer for veterans and first responders, and applaud the musicians and contenders for parade honors. And when I’m asked again “Why are you not running or walking in the 5K or parade,” I’ll reply again with that quote from Will Rogers: “We can’t all be heroes because somebody has to sit on the sidelines to clap as they go by.”
We must thank all the business Sponsors who fund our hometown July 4th traditions that bring us together to remind us how great it is to be living freely in an American hometown like Marple Township, and to be able to celebrate our freedom openly, thanks to local businesses whose sponsorship make our celebrations possible, many of which are also Sponsors of Marple Friends & Neighbors magazine.
The contribution of businesses that sponsor our Marple Newtown July 4th Parade, honored with ads in the parade’s souvenir book, and The Broomall Rotary 5K Firecracker Run, as seen on the backs of the Broomall Rotary’s 5K Run / Walk T-shirts, make July 4th special in our community. And this month we should reward those businesses with our business, just as you reward our Sponsors of Marple Friends & Neighbors who make it possible for a new monthly issue of your free hometown magazine to arrive in your mail every month and also published online at MarpleMag. com. Hometown heroes all.
Now let’s get on with this second half of 2024, with this first full month of Summer, and this new July issue of Marple Friends & Neighbors Holly Stupak, our Content Coordinator, Kim Cesati our Graphic Designer, and our guest writers have come together to give us a fun summertime read of social-media-in-print.
Bob Blaisse Publisher
Marple
Dear Residents,
As if summer weather and vacations weren't good enough reasons to love July, there are many ways to have fun each day. With Independence Day, backyard barbecues and trips to the shore, you can really get out and party this month.
Our Resident Feature family this month is the Noll Family: Jen, Jason and Lianna. All three of the Nolls are passionate about education, music and supporting the arts here in our community. Our Business Profile this month is Steve Di Tomo of Countywide Generators. With strong storms and power outages common in the summer, find out how a whole-house generator can give you peace of mind. We’re also highlighting some of the many childcare facilities in our area as well our local Swim Clubs that are keeping everyone cool this summer.
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
Photo by Crissy Everhart Photography CrissyEverhart.com
Expert Contributor
by Deborah M. Truscello, Esq.
Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello
Surviving the Legal Shuffle
oing through legal issues in or out of court can be emotionally and mentally draining, not to mention stressful. Here are a few things you can do on your end to get through the stress and anxiety you may feel as a result of these issues.
1. When you have an appointment with your attorney or are going to court, eat lightly. A cup of coffee with a bowl of oatmeal or cereal, strawberries or blueberries for breakfast and a salad for lunch is just enough. This helps with keeping alert and clear minded.
2. Family therapy and/or individual counseling is a great avenue to pursue. The importance of therapy/counseling is learning the tools to use to deal with stress. Sometimes the
Considering Taking Some Legal Action?
therapist/counselor suggests different ways to eliminate or deal with stress that you may not have thought about. One of the best resources to find a professional to help you deal with stress is through BuildingBridgesMedia.com located in Media. This organization offers a host of psychologists who can help with most if not all of your needs to survive the legal shuffle.
3. At least five days before an appointment with your attorney, prepare a list of questions you might have and then bring it to the meeting. As your appointment progresses you will probably hear answers to many of your questions. Toward the latter part of your meeting, ask for time to check your list for any questions that might not have been answered yet.
4. Massage therapy, chiropractic care and/or a reflexologist are also good avenues to pursue to handle the stress as a result of legal issues. Look up each of these disciplines to see what they are about, how they can help you and if you have these options in your area. Ask your primary care physician about these options as well, and ask for their opinion regarding what would best suit you.
The bottom line is that it is very important to take care of yourself and your health in order to survive the stressors of legal issues. So be sure to carve out some time in your schedule for you. M
by Lisa Jeffries
Gage Grace
JULY STUDENT OF THE MONTH
The July Casey’s Student of the Month is Gage Grace, who is a rising Senior at Marple Newtown High School (MNHS) and received a Certificate of Achievement to recognize how he demonstrates Excellence in Service to many communities,
Celebrate
along with a Gift Card from Casey’s Public House, the Sponsor of this program.
Summer at
Gage is very active in MNHS’s music and arts department. He has been an active member of the MN Drama department since the 4th grade and he has participated in every production since. Recently, Gage starred in MN Drama’s production of Puffs. He is President of the Choir Board and also runs a Unity Night to bring students together. Gage is the go-to person in the MN Drama department for every single class to help with lines or a listening ear.
Gage also has a passion for video production and editing and loves to learn as much as he can on the subject. Gage is currently looking at colleges to attend in the Fall of 2025 and is hoping for a career in engineering or computer sciences. He also hopes to someday be a voice actor.
According to Gage’s mom Mary, “Gage is a great kid with a giant heart. He is a born leader through and through. He is dependable and a great student. He enjoys games with his family and bonfires. But he truly shines when he is on stage!” 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.
Gage with his Certificate of Achievement
Photo courtesy of Mary Grace
by Holly Stupak
The Noll Family: Committed to Music and Arts in Our Community
This month Marple Friends & Neighbors proudly introduces you to the Noll Family: Jen, Jason and Lianna Noll. Life for the Nolls is full of music, passion for education and a commitment to supporting the arts in the Marple Newtown community.
Jen grew up in Allentown with her parents and her younger sister. For as far back as she can remember, Jen wanted to be a teacher. It started with playing “school” as a young girl and then helping her mom with the daycare center she ran out of their home. Although Jen also considered the idea of being a nurse, after high school she went on to Kutztown University where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Speech and Language Therapy followed by a Master’s in Education from Gratz College. Jen later earned a Certificate in Special Education from Immaculata College.
For 24 years Jen has worked for the Delaware County Intermediate Unit (DCIU) as both a speech language therapist and a language classroom teacher. Today, she is a service coordinator for the DCIU. Jen’s current role entails helping develop Individualized Education Plans, writing evaluation reports and coordinating services between the DCIU, families and contracted service providers.
As the liaison between the special education teams and the parents, Jen is able to help parents of children between the ages of three and five years of age navigate what can often be a complicated special education process. “I really enjoy helping parents,” she said. “My job is never boring and I learn something new every day.”
Jason grew up with his parents and brother in Waynesboro, a small rural town in South Central PA. As a student at Waynesboro Area Senior High School he was involved in both instrumental and choral programs as well as musical theater. Jason said his love of music began at a young age when he heard the organ playing at his church. Originally interested in playing the pipe organ, Jason was encouraged to learn piano first for its versatility and he began taking lessons at age six. A diligent student, Jason continued studying piano twice a day; he learned to play the trumpet in 4th grade and then learned to play the organ in 7th grade.
In high school Jason had the opportunity to attend a Drum Major camp at West Chester University. It was during that time that Jason fell in love with the area and decided to pursue his college education at West Chester. While studying there he was a member of various ensembles and he worked right
here in our community as the church organist and choir director at Christ United Methodist in Broomall. He also taught piano lessons at Dragonetti’s Music in Newtown Square. After earning his Bachelor's of Science degree in Music Education in 1998, he furthered his education at Temple University with a Master’s in Music Education in 2007.
For more than 20 years, Jason has been an elementary/ middle school music teacher in the Ridley School District. “I love watching the students grow musically, academically and socially,” said Jason. “With 22 years in the same district, I enjoy seeing and hearing about former students in the community who have become productive and successful adults.” From 2001-2003 Jason was also the Director of Music/Organist at Marple Presbyterian and he is currently the Director of Music and the organist at First Presbyterian Church of Lansdowne, where he, Jen and Lianna are members.
Jen and Jason’s story began when Jen had finished college and Jason was finishing up his senior year. He and his roommates were desperately looking for a fifth roommate mid-summer. It just so happened that his roommate’s cousin Jen had just started a job in the West Chester area and was looking for a place to live. The guys said they didn’t mind a female roommate and Jen didn’t mind living with a few college guys. In
Photo by Crissy Everhart Photography CrissyEverhart.com
fact, she got the biggest room in the house. After she moved in, she and Jason ended up hitting it off. What started off as a friendship led to romance and the couple married in 2000 at the church in Downingtown where Jason was then serving as a church organist.
It’s no surprise their wedding day was filled with music. First, the choir sang and musicians played music for a half hour before the wedding ceremony followed by the ceremony itself with lots of music. After the wedding, Jen and Jason took off for a fantastic honeymoon in Italy where they explored Rome, Venice, Florence and a few small towns in between.
Shortly after they were married, Jen and Jason were still living in West Chester, but looking to find a home that was more centrally located to their jobs. They both loved the Broomall area and found an ad for a home in a local paper. It turned out to be the perfect fixer upper where they lived for nearly fifteen years before moving to their current home in the Foxcroft neighborhood. Jen laughed when she explained that their second home ended up being a bit of a fixer upper too. “We found ourselves doing some of the same renovations we had to do in our first home!” Jen said. Lucky for the couple, Jason is extremely handy, a trait he learned from his dad while growing up. As a teenager, Jason worked with his parents fixing up a home adjacent to his dad’s childhood home. The renovations were quite impressive and even led to the home being featured in an issue of This Old House magazine!
Step outside of Jen and Jason’s house and you’ll see they have extensive knowledge of plants and flowers, as evidenced by their backyard oasis. “Our only problem has been learning what the deer won’t eat,” said Jen. Their home is also filled with animals, which Jason likes to refer to as his “small zoo.” Aside from their two adopted dogs, Ginger and Snowflake, continued on page 8
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Lianna Noll practicing with the Marple Newtown High School Marching Band Photos courtesy of Jen Noll
Lianna Noll lifeguarding at Rose Tree Woods Swim Club
they also care for their tropical fish, leopard gecko, crested gecko and dart frogs.
The Noll’s home in Marple has been the perfect place to raise their daughter Lianna, now a senior at Marple Newtown High School (MNHS). An organized, conscientious, hard working student, Lianna is part of several honor societies including National Honor Society, English Honor Society, World Language Honor Society and Tri-M (the music honor society). This past Spring Lianna was honored with a 2nd place award for her poem entitled “Spring” in the Annual Young Poets of Delaware County Poetry Contest, hosted by the Delaware County Libraries.
Aside from her academic achievements, Lianna is also involved in nearly every music program at MNHS. Since she was a fourth grader at Russell Elementary, she’s been playing the trumpet and she now also plays the mellophone and French horn and sings in the school choir. A member of concert band, jazz band, indoor color guard and Marching Band, she’s looking forward to serving as the 2024-25 Drum Major. The best part of the band for Lianna has been the friends she’s made along the way. “I also love seeing how the whole production comes together,” she said. “This year’s show “Under Pressure” will be especially fun as I get to direct part of the show that features Taylor Swift’s music.”
Dancing and musical theater are also a big part of Lianna’s life. For many years she studied ballet at Kristina Pulcini Ballet Academy in Havertown, she takes voice lessons and she’s performed in numerous plays including MN Drama’s recent productions of Mamma Mia and The Addams Family.
This summer, Lianna will perform with Upper Darby Summer Stage where she will have a part in their production of Frog and Toad. When she’s not performing on stage or with the band, you’ll find her lifeguarding at Rose Tree Woods Swim Club, where the Nolls have been members for nearly 10 years. “What I love about being a lifeguard is working with so many great people,” Lianna said. “I’ve known many of them for years through the pool and the swim team, so it’s a lot of fun.”
After high school, Lianna said that her plans are to continue music, which includes studying Music Education, Music Therapy and playing in a college marching band. Perhaps following in her dad’s footsteps at West Chester University?
Jen and Jason love supporting Lianna in her many endeavors. It’s evident by their dedication to the MNHS Marching band and the drama program. You will find the Nolls supporting the band at Friday night football games and weekly competitions, as well as helping organize numerous fundraisers and parades. Jason also lent his musical talents to the Orchestra Pit in MN Drama’s Mamma Mia this past Spring as well as The Addams Family in 2023.
Jen is currently the President of the Marple Newtown Band Parents Association. “Not only did Lianna find her people when she joined the band in 9th grade, so did I,” said Jen. “My closest friends are band parents. We not only spend time together at band events but we choose to spend time together outside of band.”
Thank you Jen, Jason and Lianna for sharing your commitment to the music and arts programs in our community and for being a great example of Bringing People Together! M
The Noll’s beloved dogs Snowflake and Ginger
Photo courtesy of Jen Noll
by David Linn Cook
Weatherproofing Plus
Budget Solutions to Humidity Problems
Here are several examples of successful “green” (ecofriendly) waterproofing and weatherization projects, all of which use cost-effective, chemical-free solutions that don’t harm shrubbery or nearby streams.
Better Indoor Air Quality
Some homes suffer from poor indoor air quality. Instead of resorting to air filtration and additional HVAC solutions, the property can be regraded with sand, stone and perimeter grass. This natural approach significantly reduces basement humidity, allowing formerly wet, moldy walls to be sealed and encapsulated. Additionally, installing a fresh air vent and repairing the downspouts can improve the home's indoor air quality dramatically.
Some homes seem to struggle for decades to achieve clean, healthy indoor air. In one case, multiple failed attempts and an oversized commercial dehumidifier had not resolved the issue. The eco-friendly solution involved installing window vents, correctly pitched aluminum rain gutters and self-cleaning gutter guards. This approach significantly improved indoor air quality.
Your Home’s Basement Can Finally Be Usable
Homeowners often resign their basements to storage due to persistent moisture issues. With the use of both a sump pump and a cost-effective mini French drain, you can be on your way to a useable basement. This will also add increased living space, enhanced home value and improved home health. The result is a healthy, clean space, achieved within a reasonable budget.
A Top-Down Solution
In one home, the upper attic required upgraded insulation to prevent condensation and nail rust, which had caused loose shingles and moisture penetration. Cellulose fiber, which is fire-resistant and denser than glass fiber, was blown over the original fiberglass insulation. This encapsulation stopped heat loss at the joist and reduced contamination in the lower attic. The home is now quieter with less condensation, thanks to this recycled newspaper solution.
A Whiff of Fresh, Clean Air
Sinkholes, clogged downspouts and decomposing mulch around a property can generate greenhouse gases and unpleasant odors around the home and even inside when the windows were open. The green solution involves installing new rain gutters and properly grading the property for effective water management. The result – a dry, sweet-smelling basement and home, free of greenhouse gas emissions.
These examples showcase how sustainable, eco-friendly methods can effectively solve waterproofing and weatherization challenges without harming the environment. M
by Holly Stupak
GENER ATORS
Giving Their Customers Peace of Mind
Let’s face it, when our power is disrupted, our life is disrupted. For the past several years, changing weather patterns and overworked power grids have led to frequent and long power outages in our area. Luckily, whole house generators can give us peace of mind when power outages occur.
Steve Di Tomo, owner of Countywide Generators, LLC said the best way to keep from getting frustrated from these power outages is to “get generated!” A licensed electrician for more than 40 years, Steve has the knowledge and experience to help his customers get through even the worst of power outages.
Steve has been an electrician since 1973. He grew up in Philadelphia and in 1970 he graduated from Dobbins Technical High School, a historic vocational school located in north Philadelphia. After high school he joined the Air Force and he learned electronics and electrical skills by working on fighter and cargo aircrafts. When he completed his military service, he worked as an electronics apprentice and eventually a supervisor at the Navy Yard in Philadelphia until it closed in 1996.
After it closed, Steve wasn’t quite ready to retire and had to decide what to do next in his career. “I followed the philosophy of do what you know!” he said. For Steve, that meant taking electrical code courses at Delaware County Community College and earning his electrical license in Philadelphia.
While Steve was working as an electrician, he installed numerous generators in homes over the years. Not only did he want to make sure his customers got the full advantage of owning a whole-house generator, but he wanted to gain more expertise in generator maintenance. As the owner of Countywide Generators for the past five years, Steve said that he’s proud of his team who not only dispatch technicians quickly when customers have issues, they are also equipped to resolve most repairs right then and there, even if the customer is not home.
Countywide Generators installs generators from Generac, the industry leader. Because Generac generators come right off the assembly line, they’re brand new with all of the latest updates. The company’s dealer relationship with Generac and being connected to their mainframe allows them to quickly troubleshoot any issues. “What sets us apart from hiring an electrician or other company is that when we install a generator, we deal with Generac directly so that customers don’t have to and we handle any warranty issues,” he explained. “Another advantage for our customers is that we have up-to-date maintenance records.”
Like a central air-conditioning unit, Generac generators sit outside your home delivering power directly to the home’s electrical system in the event of a power outage. It runs on natural gas or liquid propane fuel and when the power goes out, the generator starts up automatically and supplies electricity until the local power utility restores service. By using the Generac’s Mobile Link™ app, customers can monitor the status of their
Photos courtesy of Steve Di Tomo
Steve Di Tomo, owner of Countywide Generators
generator from anywhere in the world using a smartphone, tablet or computer.
Steve explained that to get the maximum benefit from your generator, it’s important to get the required maintenance as soon as an issue arises. Some common issues include dead batteries, a natural gas or propane fuel supply issue, a faulty circuit board, clogged lines or leaking coolant. Most importantly, it’s crucial to hire a generator expert. Hiring a non-factory certified expert who doesn’t install your generator correctly will lead to problems in the future. “For your generator to operate when you need it proper maintenance is the key," said Steve.
Countywide Generators’ staff includes highly trained technicians and installers. Steve and his team of expert professionals will ensure safe and proper operation, meet warranty conditions and provide emergency assistance every day of the week. Michelle Saraceni is the Office Manager and she handles everything from payroll to monitoring customers’ generators online. When a customer has an issue with their generator, Michelle gets an alert, and one of their technicians is sent out to do any repairs.
From TV/WiFi, cooking, lighting, cooling, etc., generators can create enough power to meet all of a customer’s electric needs all at the same time. Now more than ever, with people
DANJOLELL
Memorial Home of Broomall
2811 West Chester Pike Broomall, PA 19008
610-356-4200
Robert L. D’Anjolell, Jr. F.D.
teleworking and many relying on electricity to monitor a home security system, to store medication or to operate medical equipment, a permanently installed generator gives homeowners peace of mind. “For our customers who rely on electricity for medical issues, power outages are more than just an inconvenience,” said Steve. “A whole-house generator can eliminate that stress for them.”
Having a whole house generator can also save homeowners money down the line in appliance repairs and pipe replacements, as well as preventing having to replace spoiled food or staying somewhere else while you wait for your power to be restored. “Many people think they can't afford a generator and therefore must endure power outages caused by storms or downed power lines,” said Steve. “When they learn that the monthly cost can be spread out over many years, they realize what a sensible and practical decision it is.”
Countywide Generators is located in Broomall, where Steve and his wife Kate have lived for 17 years. They enjoy spending as much time as they can with their five children and 13 grandchildren. Steve is also the owner of STD/Maintenance Company, Inc. To learn more about Generac generators, Mobile Link™ and flexible financing options, visit CountyWideGenerators.com or call 610-955-4397 for a free estimate. M
DANJOLELL Stigale
Memorial Home & Cremation Services, Inc. of Aston 3260 Concord Road Aston, PA 19014
610-497-5505
James Stigale, Supervisor
DANJOLELL
Memorial Home & Crematory of Malvern-Frazer 392 Lancaster Avenue Frazer, PA 19355
610-296-9555
Anthony F. Romano, Supervisor
DANJOLELL Barone
Memorial Home of Wallingford 908 S. Providence Road Wallingford, PA 19086
610-874-7700
Edward S. Barone, Supervisor
Our Community
by Holly Stupak
Caring For Our Future
Child care workers and teachers are indeed much more than babysitters. Most have received specific training or education and work in programs that are specifically designed to promote the optimal growth, education and development of young children. Each day we entrust these people with our most precious resource, our future. Below are some of the many options in the Marple community that offer unique approaches to early childhood education.
Hillview Nursery School
Hillview Nursery School is a unique non-profit preschool established as a school community in 1957. Operated by a parent-governed Board of Directors, its mission is to build a strong foundation and love of learning. By presenting an educationally stimulating, safe, nurturing and creative environment, they hope to inspire their students to develop positive social relationships and prepare them for elementary school.
One of Hillview’s many rewarding features is that it’s a cooperative school, which gives parents the opportunity to contribute to the quality of their child's preschool experiences. From serving on the school board, fundraising activities, classroom enrichment and field trips, there many ways in which families can add value to the school.
Gina Scholz, the current president of Hillview’s parent board explained that this co-op model helps keep costs as low as possible while allowing our parents to enjoy a continual presence in the classroom. “We have a lot of community events that bring our kids together outside of school, which gives them a feeling of belonging,” said Gina. “For parents who are not on the board there are various ways to volunteer and support our students and teachers.”
Gina and her husband said they chose Hillview because of the small community. “We’ve developed so many friendships since my daughter attended a few years ago. She’s now a second grader and still remains close with her Hillview friends. It was also a great opportunity to meet many families who we may not have met otherwise.”
Located at 219 Parkview Drive in Broomall, Hillview Nursery School offers AM classes from two to five days a week for children between two years-seven months and four years old. Children ages four and five who are pre kindergarten can attend afternoon classes four or five days per week. For more information, visit Hillview at HillviewNurserySchool.com.
Miss Annette’s Creative Nursery School
Founded in 1955 by the artist/educator Annette Barnett, this school was based on her perception that there was a growing need for creative choices in early childhood education. The Barnetts purchased the Atwater Kent Farm with a two story barn, a farmhouse and several small buildings. Since 1955 thousands of children have enrolled and shared Miss Annette’s innovative, evolving philosophies of early childhood education.
In 2002 Chrystine, a BSN prepared registered nurse, and her husband Linn Carpenter, who has a Master’s in Early Childhood Education, purchased the school from Annette. Ever since, it has been the Carpenter’s mission to keep the traditions alive that Annette started back in the 1950s. “We’re proud to sustain a traditional nursery school that offers a warm, nurturing environment,” said Chrystine.
Chrystine explained that the reason why many families keep their children there for many years, aside from the environment, is the flexibility they offer. “Our hours are 6am-6pm, but we understand that many professionals have unique schedules and we can work with families for their specific needs.” The school offers a discount to nurses and physicians as well as a generous sibling discount across the board.”
Miss Annette's offers year-round partial or full-day options for children from birth to six. For 11 weeks this summer, Miss Annette’s will be running a camp that will include various themes and offer a petting zoo, Soccer Shots, bee keeping and more!
Located at 801 Paxon Hollow Road, Miss Annette’s sits on more than an acre of child-friendly space for both indoor and outdoor activities. For more information, visit MissAnnettes.com
Hillview Nursery School alumni enjoying time outside
Photos courtesy of Gina Scholz
Miss Annette’s Creative Nursery
Photo courtesy of Chrystine Carpenter
Cornerstone Learning Center
Cornerstone Learning Center (CLC), located at 2275 West Chester Pike in Broomall, is a Christian School and a Ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church that serves children one-five years old. They provide exceptional care and education that every child deserves.
CLC facilitates every child’s growth in all areas of development: social, cognitive, emotional and physical. Their school teaches Christian values while nurturing and cherishing every child’s curiosity and creativity. “We have a staff who really love the children,” said Deepa Jeyapaul, administrator for the school. “Our staff understand the importance of communication with the parents. We are one big family.” Visit CornerstoneLoveandLearning.org for more information.
Temple Sholom
The Etta Natalie Rosenblatt Preschool is at Temple Sholom in Broomall (TSB), the only Reform congregation in Delaware County. Their mission is to provide a strong foundation in both Jewish and secular early childhood education in a safe, nurturing environment, where children are free to grow and develop. The preschool also promotes inclusivity by welcoming families from diverse Jewish and other backgrounds and fostering an environment of respect and understanding.
programs, every aspect of the preschool experience is crafted with careful consideration for promoting holistic growth. Weekly specials include music, Israeli dancing, children’s fitness and science exploration. TSB also offers a fun and exciting summer through Camp Menschy.
For the past seven years, Lori-An Penchansky has served as the Early Childhood Director at Temple-Sholom. Lori-An explained that central to the spirit of TSB is the belief in fostering a sense of belonging and community among students, parents and staff alike. “Families are welcomed into a supportive environment where they can actively participate in their child's educational journey,” she said. For more information about registration, tuition and the various classes they offer, visit Temple-Sholom.org.
Lawrence Park KinderCare
STREAMLINE YOUR ROUTINE IN STYLE
TSB accepts children ages three months through five years of age and offers small class sizes in a nurturing and stimulating environment with a lot of flexibility of class schedules. From stimulating academic lessons to creative arts and music
Although not open yet, Lawrence Park KinderCare is a new childcare facility coming soon to our community. Located nationwide, KinderCare programs serve children from six weeks to six years of age. Through a dedicated Education team that builds their own research-based curriculum, they can meet the needs of any little learner. Their classrooms are designed by experts to help prepare children for success in school and beyond.
Kristen Meo, who has a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education, will serve as the Center Director at Lawrence Park KinderCare, located at 1991 Sproul Rd. For more information, visit KinderCare.com. M STAYS CLEAN 5X LONGER*
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Learn more about the complete Crue kitchen faucet collection at KOHLER.com or at your local Weinstein Bath & Kitchen Showroom
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Abbott Dr
Pennsylvania 19008 610-544-3977
BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER
by Bob Blaisse, Founding Publisher of Marple Friends & Neighbors
We Should Thank Local Business Owners Who Are Bringing People Together
This month begins with festive salutes to American Freedom through 4th of July celebrations recalling the birth of our nation. We, living in the Land of the Free, have much to be grateful for.
This July also brings to an end our sixth year of publishing Marple Friends & Neighbors in print and online at MarpleMag. com. It is hard for me to believe you’re holding our 72nd issue in your hands! Can you recall the first time Marple’s hometown magazine arrived in your mail? (Go online at MarpleMag.com to see how many families on the past 72 covers you know.)
Since the first issue of Marple Friends & Neighbors arrived in your mail back in August 2018, have you come to look forward to each new issue? Most importantly, have you come to understand our magazine’s motto: Bringing People Together?
When launching our first monthly magazine issue, 72 issues ago, I never imagined how our magazine would be Bringing People Together in so many ways. And yet, I am often thanked for our publication’s feel-good features, which circulate what we have in common: our hometown pride of living in Marple. That’s how we bring people together, through this social-media-in-print, which is our hometown magazine made possible by our advertising Sponsors of Marple.
Regular readers know I always give all the credit for the success of our magazine to the advertising Sponsors seen on these pages. But that sentiment must be shared with you now looking across the past six years.
Local business owners can always say no to a request for local hometown sponsorship. Some never say yes because they can advertise their business in any number of ways. But the businesses you see advertising on these pages know their advertising is supporting Marple residents who they know are important to the success of their business. And so they choose to use a portion of their limited marketing budgets to Sponsor our community through our publication. In doing so, it is those local businesses that are making it possible for your hometown magazine to be mailed to your home for free each month and also be published online.
Our Sponsors had the freedom to say no but they said yes. And we also have the freedom to say yes. Let’s say yes to the businesses that clearly demonstrate how important Marple residents are to the success of their businesses. Let’s use our freedom to buy local, and whenever possible, to choose with strong intention to do business first with the businesses advertising in our hometown magazine. Their freedom to advertise (or not), is Bringing People Together by the social-mediain-print you’ve come to enjoy each month. That makes our advertising Sponsors heroes we should thank, and choose to do business with first, for their contribution to our community. M
Bob Blaisse Publisher Marple Friends & Neighbors
July 2024
Saturdays in July
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!) NSHistory.org
Saturdays in July
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: 1–4 pm
Cost: FREE (donations accepted!) NSHistory.org
Saturdays in July
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!) NSHistory.org
Weds. July through September
Dining Under the Stars
@State St, Media
Every Wednesday, the Media Borough closes State Street to vehicular traffic from 5–11pm. This allows Media’s great restaurants and shops to set up outside (right across the trolley tracks!) for the biggest, most fun, alfresco shopping and dining event around.
Weds–Sun evenings mid-July–mid-August
Delaware County Summer Festival Concerts
@Rose Tree Park, 1671 N Providence Rd, Media
Free concerts in Rose Tree Park's scenic outdoor amphitheater resume this June! The series provides many opportunities to enjoy top-notch entertainment of all kinds. Bring blankets and chairs for seating. Light concessions will be for sale and picnics are welcome. No alcoholic beverages. Pets and smoking must remain outside the amphitheater. No rain date for any evening concert.
Time: 7:30pm
Cost: FREE admission and free parking
610-891-4663 (610-891-4455 for cancellation updates) DelcoPA.gov/departments/parks/summerfestival.html
Wednesdays July 3–July 17
Summer Yoga in the Park
@Drexel Lodge Park
4140 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square
Newtown Township Parks and Recreation is hosting free community yoga classes brought to you by Yoga in the Circle.
Time: 6pm
Cost: FREE YogaInTheCircle.com
July 1 to August 3
Marple Library's Summer Bingo for Adults Adults, join Marple Library for their Summer Bingo. Complete one row to win a book. Complete two or more rows and be entered into the Grand Prize Raffle. Thanks to Volunteer and Sponsor Matt Illich, Realtor, the grand prize is a Summer Adventure Bag. It will include current bestselling books, gift cards for gas and snacks and more. Cards are located at the library. Deadline to submit cards is August 3rd.
Cost: FREE MarpleLibrary.org
Thurs. July 4
Marple Newtown 4th of July Parade
@St. Albans Ave, Newtown Square
Celebrate our great country with the residents of Marple Newtown and surrounding areas. The parade starts at St. Albans Ave and travels eastbound on West Chester Pike to the Broomall Fire Company on Malin Rd.
Time: 10am
Cost: FREE
MarpleNewtownParade.com
Mon. July 8
Annual Reading of the Declaration of Independence
@1724 Chester Courthouse
412 Avenue of the States, Chester
Chester Historical Preservation Committee invites you to listen to its annual reading of the Declaration of Independence. On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress voted to approve the Declaration of Independence inside the Pennsylvania State House. Four days later, on July 8, 1776, the citizens of Philadelphia were summoned to the State House Yard by the bells of the city. The 1724 Courthouse bell rang loudly to gather the Chester residents to hear the Declaration of Independence read on July 8, 1776.
Time: 12pm
Cost: FREE
Sat. July 13
Linvilla Orchards Annual Blueberry Festival
@Linvilla Orchards, 137 W Knowlton Rd, Media
Blueberries are back and ready for picking! Bring your friends and family to celebrate our annual Blueberry Festival. Come hungry for delicious blueberries and a fun blueberry pie-eating contest. The winners of each age bracket will earn the Champion title and receive a prize! Hosted by the one and only Silly Joe, who will entertain the crowd.
Time: 8am–6pm
Cost: $11 per person for blueberry picking 610-876-7116 www.Linvilla.com
Mon. July 15
Newtown Public Library’s
50th Anniversary Party
@Newtown Public Library
201 Bishop Hollow Rd, Newtown Square
Join us for a day-long celebration! Enjoy a host of exciting activities and events for all ages, including refreshments, library tours, a new photo exhibit, photo booth, oral history booth, scavenger hunt, library history trivia contest, library card sign-up drive including a special gift and raffle drawings. Other scheduled events include our Read Aloud Marathon, the ribbon cutting of our new meeting space and library-themed Storytimes throughout the day.
Time: 10am–5pm
Cost: FREE NewtownLibrary.org
Tues. July 23
Marple Library's Teen Advisory Board (TAB)
Teens (ages 13 to 18) can join Marple Library's Teen Volunteer Board (TAB). Earn volunteer time, help with projects, learn about future opportunities, and share ideas of how to make our library even better. Email mateen@delcolibraries.org for more information and to be signed up for future volunteer opportunities.
Time: 2–3pm
Cost: FREE MarpleLibrary.org
Sun. August 4
5th Annual Car, Truck, Tractor, Big Rig & Motorcycle Show
@Arasapha Farms, 1835 Middletown Rd, Glen Mills
A fun-filled day with fun family activities, food trucks, vendors, music, flea market and lots of cars, trucks, tractors, big rigs and motorcycles! Prizes awarded and a 50/50 raffle.
Time: 10am–3pm
Cost: FREE for spectators
ArasaphaFarm.com
Our Community
by Holly Stupak
Dive In! Beat the Heat This Summer at the Pool
Another hot summer is underway, and what better way to beat the heat than to head to one of our local swim clubs? The Marple Newtown area is home to several pools and Marple residents have been flocking to these swim clubs to take a refreshing dip in the water or simply curl up poolside with a good book. We asked some of our friends and neighbors what they love about their swim clubs.
Lawrence Park Swim Club
Sanny and Justin Freid have belonged to Lawrence Park Swim Club (LPSC) since 2019. “What we love most about it is the convenient location and friendly atmosphere,” said Sanny. The Freids love the snack bar too, “It gives us the option to stay for lunch or dinner,” she added.
Andrea Sheehan and her family joined LPSC a few years ago and said that it has been their oasis. “We love how low key it is,” she said. “It has families with little ones, seniors who have been members for over 50 years and everything in between.” Andrea said there are lots of fun activities planned throughout the summer, including Flick and Float nights, Christmas in July, pre-teen nights, Family Day and there is an active swim team. “And since they put in pool heaters a few years ago, we benefit from an extra long season,” she added.
Liz Bianco is a long time member of the club and has been a board member for the past five years. “It’s a great place to spend your summers,” said Liz, who has fond memories of going to the club with her brother as kids. “It’s family oriented and we are proud to offer so many activities throughout the season.”
LPSC is tucked away at 293 Langford Road in Broomall offers, a 6-lane 25m outdoor pool, a 12-ft diving well with diving board and a water slide. Young children can enjoy the gated toddler pool and attached playground. Guests can picnic outdoors or
enjoy kid-friendly food and frozen treats in their snack bar. The pools are also heated, which allows the club to open earlier in the season and it stays open through September. LPSC is also the home of the Dolphins, a competitive swim team with members ages 4-18. For more info visit LPSwimClub.org.
Rose Tree Woods Swim Club
Dana McGee is not only the current President of Rose Tree Woods Swim Club (RTW), she is a longtime member. “Rose Tree Woods means a lot to me since I’ve spent so many summers there as a kid,” she said. “Volunteering there has also given me the chance to give back to a place that was such a big part of my life growing up.”
As the President of RTW, Dana said she loves being part of the decision-making process that impacts so many families in our community. And as a former lifeguard at RTW, Dana wanted to make sure that the members are being watched over by capable kids and managed by some really responsible and hardworking people who care about the pool as much as she does.
Prior to this season, RTW renovated their snack bar area, installed hand dryers in the bathrooms and rerouted how they backwash the pool water. “Our board is committed to making the swim club environmentally safe,” Dana explained. Dana also said that the club wouldn’t be what it is without all the work that the board of directors does. “The board is 100% volunteer,” she added. “They are so dedicated and work so hard to have such a nice club.”
Established in 1956, RTW has three pools: a pool for swimming laps, a large “T” pool with a huge water slide (a member favorite!) and dual diving wells. There is also a children’s splash pool with a large mushroom waterfall perfect for the little ones. RTW also offers a competitive swim and dive team,
James Sheehan at LPSC
Photo courtesy of Andrea Sheehan
(L-R): Max, Gianna, Quinn and Darcy McGee at RTW
Photo courtesy of Dana McGee
which is part of the Suburban Swim League. The RTW team introduces swimmers and divers to competition while creating an atmosphere of fun and enjoyment.
If you want to take a break from swimming, RTW has many other activities including a 9-hole miniature golf course, a basketball court, Gaga Ball, shuffleboard, a playground and Ping Pong. Guests can also enjoy delicious food from vendor Bright Spot Cafe which has a full service grill and snack bar, and both shaded and sunny eating areas. The club will also be offering special events throughout the season including youth socials, Phillies days, arts and crafts, an adult social and Membership Appreciation Day.
RTW member Michelle Hsia said that her family chose the club eight years ago because of the atmosphere with three pools that can grow with their children over time as well as the general “feel” there. “We love it there!” said Michelle. “My children have been on the swim team for several years now, and have so much fun meeting new friends. We have made friends over the years that we look forward to seeing every year!”
For more information about the club and the RTW Swim and Dive Team, visit their website at RoseTreeWoods.org.
Splash Club Marple
Sitting under a cabana, listening to reggae music and watching your children splash around the pool with friends, you might think you’re on a tropical island vacation. For the past six summers, Splash Marple has been the go-to seasonal staycation for locals. Since they opened back in 2019, they’ve added even more amenities for their members to relax and escape their busy lives.
The Piercy family chose Splash because it was less than a mile down the road from their home, no bond and most importantly, their friends recommended it. “We have been members for over five years and each year they find a way to add to the experience,” said Danielle Piercy. “If we don’t want to be in one of the five pools, we are enjoying the food, playground, games and even a little library.”
Children under age 18 can join the Splash Surfers swim team to learn about the sport; become strong, competitive swimmers; and have fun swimming against other swim clubs. Splash also partners with Speer Swim School, which offers lessons designed by mom and educator Emily Speer.
Continued on page 18
Dylan Piercy at Splash
Photo courtesy of Danielle Piercy
Claire and Matthew Hsia at RTW
Photo courtesy of Michelle Hsia
Our Community
When guests need to take a break from swimming, they can dine at The Wave Restaurant and cool off at the Wave Cave, an air-conditioned ice cream room. New this season, Splash partnered with East Eagle Yoga and offered poolside yoga classes for its members.
Located at 2705 Sunset Blvd, Broomall, Splash offers uninterrupted relaxation, unbeatable scenery and delicious cuisine. For more information visit SplashClubMarple.com.
Drexel Swim Club
Marple residents Jeff and Amy Pecsi joined Drexel Swim Club in 2022 and have found it to be the perfect place to bring their
twin boys. “It has such a family friendly and welcoming vibe,” said Jeff. As members, the Pecsi family said they’ve been happy to volunteer their time to make updates to the club. “Each year it gets better and better,” said Amy. ”We saw how much potential it had when we first joined and are excited to see what it can be for the community.”
Drexel Swim Club’s central location in Broomall’s Industrial Park makes it easily accessible from surrounding neighborhoods and communities. The club is home to the Drexel Dolphin Swim team and boasts top-tier facilities designed to meet the needs of swimmers at every level. An Olympic-sized pool, meticulously maintained and equipped with the latest technology, provides the perfect setting for training, competition and leisurely laps alike.
This past June, Drexel marked 63 years with a celebration at the pool for its members. President Nick Voight, the club’s board and volunteer members have been working tirelessly to make updates to the club to make it even better and more enjoyable. This past Spring, they renovated the snack bar and added more efficient pumps to the pool.
Nick said members can look forward to many family friendly events this summer. “We have lots of things planned to make members feel welcome,” he explained. From adult and youth splash parties, Bingo, to dinner and movies around the pool, people of all ages can get in on the fun. There will even be a flag raising by local Veterans and a moment of silence on the Fourth of July. “We did this last year on Memorial Day and the feedback from members was that it was very moving,” he added.
Drexel Swim Club will be hosting two open houses this summer on July 14 and August 11. Anyone interested in joining can come check it out for FREE from 12-4pm on those dates. For more information about the club and the swim team, visit DrexelSwimClub.net.
Joining one of our local swim clubs is a fantastic way to beat the heat and make the most of the summer season. Whether you're seeking cool relief, exercise, family fun, social interaction or a safe environment to swim, a pool offers it all. Visit our local pools to see which one meets your family’s needs. It’s not too late for some August memberships or too early to start planning for next summer! M
Jake and Brayden Pecsi at Drexel Swim Club
Photo courtesy of Jeff Pecsi
History Spotlight
“She’s Really Most Sincerely Dead”
by Doug Humes
Photos courtesy of the Marple Historical Society
In 1939, a house fell out of the sky, killing the Wicked Witch of the East. The local Coroner was called to the scene and announced:
As coroner, I must aver, I thoroughly examined her. And she’s not only merely dead, She’s really most sincerely dead.
Meinhardt Raabe and Judy Garland on the set of “The Wizard of Oz”.
Meinhardt continued to appear in character as the Coroner at Wizard of Oz gatherings
The actor playing the Coroner, Meinhardt Raabe, was a Marple resident for 32 years, living at 21 Hillside Road from 1954-1986. He had another familiar role, as Little Oscar, driving the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile around the country for over 30 years. He started that job near his home town of Watertown, Wisconsin, and it eventually brought him east to the Philadelphia area with wife, Marie.
While life had dealt him a difficult hand, he made the most of it. He attended college and then graduate school at the University of Wisconsin. In the 1930’s, a lot of different cities had World’s Fairs, and they all created “Midget Cities” staffed by little people like Meinhardt. While steady work, he later admitted that though enjoyable, he never cared to earn his livelihood by going on exhibition. He started work for Oscar
Mayer as a bookkeeper, but the role as Little Oscar offered a chance to travel and interact with people. In 1939, he was one of over 100 little people cast as Munchkins in the Wizard of Oz. Only nine of them had speaking parts; the college-educated Meinhardt was chosen because of his clear enunciation. He later recalled working with Judy Garland as “the single most exciting thing in my life.”
During WW II, he offered to serve but was rejected. So he took flying lessons, became the second smallest pilot in the country, and then helped the war effort by instructing in piloting and navigation in the Air Force Auxiliary. Living in Broomall, he obtained an M.B.A. degree from Drexel University. Fluent in German, he volunteered at the high school as a language tutor.
I heard this story from a long-time resident. Her son had come home from school raving about Mr. Raabe’s cookies. She told him to ask for the recipe. The son brought the recipe home. I
asked, “Do you still have it?” She smiled, went to her recipe box and pulled it out. My wife made the cookies for the May program hosted by the Historical Society. Delicious!
Meinhardt Raabe retired to Florida in 1986, dying in 2010 at age 94. Truly a life well lived.
For the MUNCHKIN COOKIE RECIPE and 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
Meinhardt and the Wienermobile in 1955
Meinhardt married Marie Hartline in 1946. They met when he visited her hometown in the Wienermobile
NEWTOWN SQUARE’S FLOOR COVERING EXPERTS
by Sheila Turner-Hilliard
Honoring the Service of PFC Clifford Douglas Murray, Jr.
Our community gathered on Sunday, June 9th, to honor the memory of Private First Class Clifford Douglas Murray, Jr., at a flag-raising ceremony at the Veterans Memorial in Newtown Square.
You’ll recall that Private Murray was posthumously named our 2024 Marple Friend & Neighbor of The Year in our June issue. Clifford went ashore with the first wave of invasion forces to Omaha Beach in Normandy on June 6th, 1944. He survived that horrific day, and eight more days to follow. On June 15th, Clifford and three others were sent in a Jeep to try to make contact with another battalion near La Chapelle. On the return trip, they were strafed by aircraft; two were wounded, and Clifford was killed. He was buried in the cemetery that was hastily created to bury the American and German dead as the invasion swept forward. After the war, these American troops were re-interred in the beautiful Normandy American Cemetery overlooking the beach where Clifford first came ashore.
Clifford was awarded the Purple Heart, and the flag that covered his coffin when he was reburied at Normandy was shipped back to his family in Newtown Square. The box containing the flag, along with pictures of Clifford serving overseas in Africa and Italy, newspaper accounts of his death, and the deaths of other area boys, were put in a box, which rested undisturbed until we met with Clifford’s family for last month’s feature.
After meeting with Clifford’s niece Marion Short and his greatniece Karen Short, our History Spotlight Expert Doug Humes suggested that the Veterans Association might be able to arrange for the flag that once covered Clifford’s coffin to be raised in a formal ceremony to further honor his service and sacrifice.
The ceremony began promptly at 5pm under bright blue skies. Clifford’s great-niece, Karen Short was in attendance along with her sister, Debbie Peters, Debbie’s husband, retired USMC Caption, Chris Peters and Debbie’s son, Sean Thistlewood. The evening was made even more special because Sue and Bob Catlett, the couple who put Clifford’s story in motion, made the trip from Souderton to meet Karen and her family.
“This has been such an amazing experience,” Karen said. “To see my great-uncle’s flag flying high and to have his service and sacrifice recognized means everything to us.” Karen’s nephew, Sean, was selected to raise and lower the flag and take part in the flag folding ceremony, where each of the 13 folds represents the principles on which our country was originally founded. Sean also addressed the crowd, explaining that his family knew very little about Clifford before last month’s article. He thanked everyone for their support and expressed how much the community and the ceremony meant to his family.
Clifford’s family with the flag that covered his coffin.
(L to R): Chris Peters, Sean Thistlewood, Debbie Peters and Karen Short
Sue and Bob Catlett were there to show their support
Our History Spotlight Expert, Doug Humes, shared his thoughts on the ceremony. “I was so proud to be part of the events surrounding yesterday’s ceremony to remember and honor Clifford Murray. To stand next to his family members and see the flag that last saw the light of day on his burial in Normandy be raised, to hear his name and know that he is being remembered in his hometown, was a thrill,” he recalled. “I was reminded of the closing scene in Saving Private Ryan, when Ryan stood at the grave in Normandy of his captain, killed in the war, and tells him, ‘I’ve tried to live my life the best that I could. I hope that, at least in your eyes, I’ve earned all that you have done for me.’ We should all ask that when we remember the sacrifices made by our soldiers that allow us to lead the lives we lead.”
PFC Clifford Douglas Murray, Jr. was remembered once again during our Marple Newtown 4th of July parade when our friends and neighbors brought copies of our hometown magazine honoring Clifford as our 2024 Marple Friend & Neighbor of The Year to the celebration.
On a day when we join together to celebrate our freedom and thank all members of our military, including PFC Clifford Douglas Murray, Jr., in our annual parade, furthered our community’s and magazine’s mission of Bringing People Together. M
by Scott Magness Scott‘s Fireplace Products
Summer Back Yard Fun!
As July arrives and summer is in full swing, people’s thoughts often turn to the quintessential activities and experiences that define the season. For sports enthusiasts, summer means baseball. Whether it’s watching major league games, attending minor league matches or participating in local leagues, baseball is a staple of summer entertainment.
As are 4th of July Celebrations! Independence Day is a highlight of the summer, with thoughts of fireworks, parades and best of all, barbecues, picnics and gatherings with friends and family to celebrate. These gatherings are a time for enjoying good food, conversation and the warm weather.
Outdoor Movie Nights combined with Fire Pit Evenings can bring an all new ambiance to your back yard summer activities. Set up a projector and screen or simply hang a white sheet, provide blankets, pillows and popcorn for a cozy experience. Gather around a gas fire pit for a smoke-free experience. Make s’mores, tell stories or just enjoy the flickering flames.
When it comes to grilling, many people prefer gas grills over charcoal grills for their convenience and ease of use. Here are some reasons why gas grills are favored:
Ease of Starting: Gas grills ignite with the push of a button, eliminating the need for lighter fluid or matches.
Temperature Control: Gas grills offer precise temperature control with adjustable knobs, making it easy to create different cooking zones for various foods.
disposal.
Similarly, gas fire pits are a popular choice for outdoor gatherings, offering several advantages over traditional wood fire pits:
Easy Ignition: Gas fire pits start with the push of a button, requiring no kindling or wood chopping.
Adjustable Flame: The flame height and heat output can be easily adjusted with a control knob.
Smoke-Free: Gas fire pits produce no smoke, making them more comfortable and enjoyable.
Low Maintenance: With no ash or wood remnants to clean up, gas fire pits are virtually mess-free. Just turn off the gas when you’re done.
Both gas grills and gas fire pits enhance summer experiences by making outdoor cooking and gatherings more convenient, enjoyable and hassle-free. M
Quick Shut Down: After grilling, gas grills can be turned off immediately, whereas charcoal grills require time for the coals to cool down before
Homes Recently Sold in Marple
