Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors magazine, January 2023

Edgmont

Friends & Neighbors

The Coyne Family Welcome to the Neighborhood

Bringing People Together

Cover photo by Crissy Everhart Photography www.CrissyEverhart.com

Newtown

PUBLICATION TEAM

PUBLISHER: Bob Blaisse

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER: Lisa Jeffries

CONTENT COORDINATOR: Sheila Turner-Hilliard

DESIGNER: Kim Cesati

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER: Crissy Everhart Photography www.CrissyEverhart.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Bob Blaisse, Sheila Turner-Hilliard, Holly Stupak, Lisa Jeffries, Doug Humes, Kaitlin Battiste, Scott Magness, Deborah M. Truscello, Lou Matteo, Rick Bondurant, Dave Gura, Lew Gura, David Linn Cook, Joe Soster

ADVERTISING

Contact Publisher: Bob Blaisse Email: BBlaisse@BestVersionMedia.com Phone: 610-453-5536

COMMUNITY SUBMISSIONS

Have feedback or questions about how to submit events, updates, ideas for articles, high resolution photos, etc.? We will do our best to include as much community information as space permits. Please contact our Content Coordinator Sheila Turner-Hilliard at STurnerHilliard@BestVersionMedia.com.

CONTENT SUBMISSION DEADLINES

Content due the 5th of every month. Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, ratepayers or homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2023 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

ON THE COVER

The Coyne Family at Ventry at Edgmont Preserve

Dear Friends & Neighbors,

What will be in 2023? We’ll see. Happy New Year everyone, from all of us at Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors, in print and online at: www.TheNEMag.com. Here’s hoping new year happiness continues through to next month when we may be rooting for our Eagles in Super Bowl LVII. That kind of success will push all our teams further, with the Phillies and Union just warming up, the sparks may ignite all our professional sports teams in 2023. We can only hope. Go Eagles!

Throughout 2023 we hope to be announcing some changes, upgrades and new benefits for our readers and advertising Sponsors, whose support makes our “Bringing People Together” mission possible all year long. We like to call it: “Social-Media-in-Print.” What will be in 2023? We will see, and as readers of our hometown magazine you and your friends and neighbors will be a part of it with each new issue, which our Sponsors make possible by choosing to become advertisers in our magazine, because they know how important Newtown Edgmont residents are to the success of their business.

Every week a business owner will ask me, “Does advertising in your magazines really work to help local businesses grow?” When we first launched the Newtown Square and Marple Friends & Neighbors magazines in 2018, I had no way of being sure. But now we know, it does work. We know it works because most of our advertising Sponsors are in their fourth year of continued advertising, and because more than half are Sponsors of all three of our local magazines serving Marple, Newtown Square and Edgmont townships.

David Linn Cook, our Waterproofing & Weatherization Expert Contributor, for the past three years in our other magazines, just renewed his sponsorship by also committing to serve as our Waterproofing Expert and Sponsor for all three of our magazines. Why? Because you returned your loyalty so much so that Dave has now joined forces with another waterproofing expert, Joe Soster, of Waterproofing One. Joe and Dave will now combine to co-author expert features, starting this month. (You know David Linn Cook. Meet Dave’s co-expert now for sharing waterproofing expertise, Joe Soster, through their first combined feature as our new Sponsor, Waterproofing One, on page 15.)

In 2023 we’ll bring on new advertising Sponsors who, as seasoned business owners, have seen these economic times before, and know that it is these very times that make us all thrive. It is through the loyal support of Newtown Edgmont residents like you, that our advertising Sponsors make our hometown magazine possible, delivered to your home every month.

Let’s continue Bringing People Together with this first issue of 2023 that I know you’ll enjoy.

Bob Blaisse Publisher

Dear Residents,

Happy New Year! Here’s hoping your holiday season was filled with much warmth and joy, surrounded by family and friends.

January traditionally has us setting goals and looking ahead, so we asked a few of our Sponsors for their tips on how to make those resolutions last all year long. We are also excited to introduce you to The Coyne Family who kicked off 2023 in their brand-new home in Edgmont. Our Business Profile features Luigi & Giovanni’s in St. Albans Circle. Since 1976, they have been serving our community authentic Italian meats, cheeses, take-home meals, party trays and more.

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

Sheila Turner-Hilliard Content Coordinator

Accounting & Tax Preparation

Jack Del Pizzo, CPA

Del Pizzo & Associates

2098 W Chester Pike #101, Broomall 610.356.2590 • JRD@DelPizzo.com www.DelPizzo.com

Automotive Repairs & Service

Lou Matteo

Edgemont Automotive

5040 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square 610.353.9868 • EdgemontAuto@verizon.net www.EdgemontAutomotive.com

Carpet Cleaning

Luke Anastasio

DriGanic Carpet Cleaning Delaware County 610.888.4539 • Info@DriGanic.com www.DriGanic.com

Carpeting & Floor Covering

Eric Fante Fante Flooring 39 South Newtown Street Road, Newtown Square 610-232-7080 • info@fantefloors.com www.FanteFloors.com

Dance Instruction Kaitlin Battiste

From the Top Dance 3603 Chapel Road, Newtown Square 610.353.2623 • Info@FromTheTopDance.com www.FromTheTopDance.com

Electric Service, Residential/Commercial

Andrew Martella, Sr. Martella Electric Company 484.498.2965 • MartellaElectric@rcn.com www.MartellaElectric.com

Exterior & Interior Painting

Rick Thompson Thompson Custom Painting 610.359.8500 • Office@ThompsonPainting.net www.ThompsonPainting.net

Family Law Trial Attorney

Deborah M. Truscello, Esq. Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello 610.892.4940 • DmtofLaw@gmail.com www.TruscelloLaw.com

Fireplace Products

Scott Magness

Scott’s Fireplace Products

3137 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square 484.422.8334 • SFP@ScottsFireplaceProducts.com www.ScottsFireplaceProducts.com

Firearm Safety, Training & Sales

Shawn Brown

Stars & Stripes Tactical 1313 West Chester Pike, West Chester 610-556-0223

Shawn@StarsNStripesTactical.com www.StarsNStripesTactical.com

Roofing & Siding

Rob Coughlin RPC Services Edgmont 484-428-3504 • Info@ServicesByRPC.com www.ServicesByRPC.com

Tree Trimming & Removal

Dan Flynn Flynn Tree Services Newtown Square 610-850-2848 • Sales@Flynn-Landscaping.com www.FlynnTreeServices.com Waterproofing

Expert Contributors needed! Dentist, Mortgages, Remediation, Hair & Beauty, HVAC, Chiropractic, Home Care, Financial Planning, Sewer & Septic, Insurance, etc. Professionals may contact: Bob Blaisse: 610-453-5536 or BBlaisse@BestVersionMedia.com

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

Photos courtesy of Luigi & Giovanni’s

Lou (Luigi) Lemme and John (Giovanni) D’Alessandro

Almost Family!

Welcome to Our Family

Luigi & Giovanni Specialty Foods has been a staple in our community since 1976. From its beginnings as an oldworld butcher shop and deli to the fast-paced present, Luigi & Giovanni’s has remained an important and delicious part of Newtown Square.

Owners Lou Lemme and John D’Alessandro started their Italian specialty store after opening the Colonial Village meat market in Newtown Square 47 years ago. They became widely known for their whole-roasted pigs, lambs, and specialty turkeys, which are still top sellers at the store. Both John and Lou’s roots stem from Italy’s Abruzzo region, and they developed a passion for the food business as young men, working in delis and meat stores.

As the 1970s turned into the ’80s and the ’90s, John and Lou realized that meat markets weren’t as viable as they had been in earlier years as American diets moved away from heavy meat consumption. They then took their business in a different direction, evolving with their customers’ needs and requests. “We always talk to our customers and find out what they want,” explained John. “We didn’t change our original market completely, but we enhanced it in many ways.”

Listening to the suggestions of their customers, the business partners blended their old-world traditional-style butcher shop with the modern world’s need for convenience and freshly prepared carryout meals. “If you don’t evolve with your customers’ lifestyles, you will soon find yourself out of business,” added Lou. So, they decided it was time to combine Old World with New World.

Today, Luigi & Giovanni’s continues to keep the traditional flair of Italian specialty foods but also carries an impressive selection of made-to-order meals, Italian-American groceries, aisles of cooked entrees and cured meats. All meat is freshly

carved and packaged, just as in any old-fashioned butcher shop. Additionally, the shop is known for its international cheese selection, offering hundreds of varieties of all ages, as well as ten varieties of Italian salami, 11 varieties of prosciutto and a wide assortment of other cured Italian meats. The shop also carries a delicious selection of breads, olives and peppers, including its signature long hots, stuffed with sausage, breadcrumbs or ricotta cheese.

“Sixty percent of our business is now prepared carryout food,” John said. “People are in a hurry and don’t have time to cook.” He said that families want to attend their kids’ sports games and other activities. Lou added, “Customers appreciate being able to pick up freshly prepared dinners for their families, made from scratch, just like their parents and grandparents used to make. They can eat well, despite their hectic lives.”

Whatever you’re looking for, chances are that Luigi & Giovanni’s selection will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. From made-to-order sandwiches, and grab-and-go entrees for individuals and entire families, to pizzas and other meals, all their food is prepared freshly in the store. There’s hardly a time when their parking lot isn’t packed, and customers are shuffling in all day long to pick up everything from stuffed artichokes, antipasto trays and veal or eggplant parmigiano to tomato pie, fresh fish, salads and a huge variety of pasta dishes. Even the desserts are homemade and include the popular ricotta pie and homemade cannoli.

On Saturdays and Sundays, their outdoor patio is packed with customers ordering roast pork sandwiches, chicken parmesan, stuffed Italian peppers or meatballs; all served with Abruzzesestyle New York bread. It is the perfect spot to stop to grab some food for game day or in between running the kids to and from their weekend activities. “We’re also excited to announce that we now carry an impressive selection of Italian wines,” John said. “Our wines have been carefully selected from Cantina Casetto Winery in Verona, Italy.”

Need to pick up party trays and wine? No problem! Their catering offers a variety of menus, including Philly-themed menus, barbecued and cocktail party menus. Private party planners can also pick up party platters and other catered dishes at the store.

Luigi & Giovanni’s has also offered catering for private and corporate occasions in our area for decades. Its deluxe specialty menu of over 700 options is available at preferred venues or for any private party for weddings, baby and bridal showers, birthday and anniversary parties, graduations and other occasions. Lou said that 30 years ago, the typical cost for catering was $12-$15 per person. “Menus were simple then,” he said. “Customers today want more variety and we will customize our packages to fit any budget.”

But no matter how busy the store gets, you’ll find John and Lou working hard and greeting their customers by name. They can be found behind the counter on any given day, working diligently alongside their friendly and dedicated staff, many of whom

have been working there for years. Often, the owners’ families can also be found helping, especially during the holidays.

Luigi & Giovanni’s friendly staff and delicious food can be found at numerous community events, including the Delaware County Italian American Heritage Festival in Rose Tree Park. They are also generous sponsors to our local sports teams and schools. “The community is good to us, and we feel it’s important to show our appreciation by giving back,” explained John. “We are a big family here in Newtown Square supporting each other so we can continue growing together.”

Luigi & Giovanni’s is located at 3601 Chapel Rd, Newtown Square, and is open seven days a week. Their hours are Mon.–Fri. 7am–7pm; Sat. 7am–6pm and Sun. 8am–5pm. For more information, visit www.LuigiandGiovanniCaterers.com or call 610-353-4014. To reach catering, call 610-353-2080 or email LGFoods@gmail.com. E

The Coyne Family: Welcome to the Neighborhood

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

Photos by Crissy Everhart Photography www.CrissyEverhart.com

Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors is happy to usher in 2023 by introducing you to The Coyne Family: Fran, Erin, Keegan, Miles and Oliver. The Coynes certainly know how to celebrate in style by kicking off the new year as one of our newest Newtown Edgmont neighbors!

Fran is originally from Upper Darby and attended St. Alice Grade School through 5th grade. He, his parents and two brothers then moved to Springfield, where Fran finished grade school at St. Francis of Assisi. He then graduated from Monsignor Bonner High School, where he ran cross country and was a member of the school’s track team all four years.

After high school, Fran went to Temple University to earn his degree in Finance and Real Estate. In addition to running, Fran stayed active as a defenseman on Temple’s Roller Hockey Club and served as the club President.

Currently, Fran is a commercial real estate broker at JLL, which helps buy, build, occupy and invest in various assets, including industrial, commercial, retail, residential and hotel real estate. “I have always worked in commercial real estate,” Fran explained. “I spent my first four years out of college on the ownership side working for a pension fund advisor where I would invest pension funds into real estate and manage those investments.”

Fran said he has spent the past 11 years on the brokerage side, focusing on investment sales advisory and equity placement for multi-housing buildings. “I love what I do and the competitive nature of this business,” Fran said. “My team has had a dominant market share in the region for the past six years, and I plan to continue working hard to continue that momentum.”

Fran’s competitive nature crosses over to his interests outside of work. He has been running competitively since 2008 and has completed multiple marathons in cities including Boston, NYC and Philadelphia. Fran said that while his family and career are a priority now, he still manages to run daily and looks forward to entering more races in the future. “I also love to play golf at Llanarch Country Club,” he said. “It’s great because I now

have the opportunity to share that love of the game with my sons now that they’re a little older.”

Erin was born and raised in Springfield, where she lived with her parents and two older brothers. She went to St. Kevin’s for grade school and graduated from Cardinal O’Hara, where she played on the volleyball team. After graduation, Erin continued her studies at Gwynedd Mercy University, earning her Associate Degree of Science in Nursing (ASN). She then earned her Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Immaculata University; at the same time, she was working as a registered nurse at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP).

But Erin wasn’t finished yet. She then earned her Master’s Degree of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the University of Pennsylvania. “Since 2015, I have been a pediatric nurse practitioner at Nemours Children’s Hospital in Delaware in the Nemours Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders,” Erin

Fran and Erin Coyne

explained. “I specialize in sickle cell disease, which is the most prevalent genetic disease in the United States, yet its research is significantly underfunded, and its victims underserved.”

Recently, Erin has made a work-life transition to a part-time, more flexible role that allows her to spend more time with her boys. “Today, I am working more on the research end, and I am helping to develop tools within our electronic data to improve patient outcomes,” she explained. “I also get to organize meaningful campaigns to help affected families through the holidays, which is very rewarding.”

In her spare time, Erin enjoys writing poetry. It’s a gift that she got from her mother. “My mom always enjoyed writing poetry,” she said. “When I was a young girl, she would read me some of the things she had written in a little book and would write my brothers and me poems as well.” Erin said that one of the things she loves to do is include personalized poems with her gifts to family and friends.

Like many of our Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors, Fran and Erin’s love story began and continues in Delaware County. “We were high school sweethearts,” said Erin. “We met during our sophomore year at the O’Hara Fair in the spring of 2002.” And if you’re from Delaware County, you’ll appreciate this – their first date was at the Sbarro pizza shop in the Springfield Mall. Fran and Erin said that the rest is history! Yep, that’s all we need to know!

The couple got engaged in 2011 at Fairmont Water Works in Philadelphia. Fran said he chose that iconic location because he loved running by there every day when he lived in the city. They married in 2012 at St. Patrick’s Church in Rittenhouse Square and honeymooned in Mexico. Their first home was in the Graduate Hospital section of Philadelphia, where they welcomed their first son, Keegan. “Although we loved our home and planned on living there for a few more years, I quickly realized that living 45 minutes from our parents for help wasn’t going to work,” Erin laughed. “So, we packed up and moved to Broomall. Who would have thought we’d be so excited to have our very own driveway and garage and that our parents were right around the corner?”

Life was good (and busy) for Erin and Fran, who soon welcomed two more boys to their family. “We loved living in Broomall, but we always wanted to build a larger home of our own,” Fran said. “The opportunity presented itself last year and we jumped on it.” That opportunity was at Ventry, home of the former Edgmont Country Club that served as a private 18-hole golf club for 52 years. Erin said, “We knew it was meant to be when each of the boys found a golf ball on our first trip to check out the lot where we now live.”

Keegan is Erin and Fran’s oldest boy who is in third grade at St. Anastasia. Like his dad, Keegan loves to play golf. He takes lessons every week and wants to play on the golf team when he gets older. He also loves baseball and is looking forward to playing at NELL this spring.

Oliver, Keegan and Miles Coyne

When it comes to loving every sport imaginable, Miles takes the cake! He is an active kindergarten student at St. Anastasia, whose favorite Phillies player is Bryce Harper. Miles is also the first in the family to take an interest in lacrosse.

Rounding out the Coyne boys is Oliver, who attends preschool at St. Anastasia. Fran and Erin describe Oliver as strong, enthusiastic and always happy. He loves everything related to construction and asked Santa for his own tool bench this Christmas.

Last but certainly not least is the Coyne’s ten-year-old Boxer, Bodhi. Fran said they got Bodhi just two months after he and Erin were married, and she was their first taste of responsibility. “Bodhi is the second mama to our boys,” said Erin. “She is incredibly loving and patient as long as you’re not driving a delivery truck!”

The Coyne household is vibrant and bustling with three little guys, two successful careers and self-proclaimed second mama pup, Bodhi. Even still, they make sure they take time for family fun. “We love our Saturday night dance parties in the living room,” laughed Erin. “We rock out to anything and everything from old-school house music to silly kid’s songs like It’s Raining Tacos.”

Fun in the sun and the city are absolute priorities for Fran, Erin and the boys, too. They love to spend time in Ocean City, NJ with their extended family and make sure they take time to visit Erin’s brother, who lives in St. Petersburg, FL. Most recently, they took a trip to visit Fran’s brother in Brooklyn, NY, where they took the subway to Manhattan and visited the Museum of Natural History and Brooklyn Bridge Park. But no matter how far they travel, Newtown Edgmont will always be home for the Coyne Family. “We love where we live, and we couldn’t imagine living anywhere else.”

Do you know a family, individual or nonprofit goup in Newtown, Edgmont or Willistown Towsnhip who should become known by our community? Make your nominations for upcoming feature articles by emailing your ideas to Sheila Turner-Hilliard at STurnerHilliard@ BestVersionMedia.com. E

The Coyne Family (L to R): Miles, Erin, Oliver, Fran and Keegan

by Kaitlin Battiste

From the Top Dance

As you step into the new year, it’s time to reflect on what you’ve learned, and make plans for the year ahead. While January is a time when people start new projects or work toward new goals, it can be difficult at times to stick with the goals that are set at the beginning of the year. If you feel like this happens to you, don’t be discouraged. New Year’s resolutions can be effective if you take the right approach.

Resolutions shouldn’t feel like a chore. If you want them to serve as motivation for change, they should be realistic and fun. Start by identifying the right resolution to improve your life, and create a plan on how to attain it. You can achieve your goals!

Utilizing the acronym ‘SMART’ to set your goals can be an immense help. The term ‘SMART goals’ was coined in the early 80s and is still a common tool frequently used to help people set goals and develop a plan to attain them. The original definition, coined by George T. Doran, ties into five criteria:

Specific: Target a specific area for improvement

Measurable: Quantity, suggesting an indicator of progress

Assignable: Specifies who will do it (You!)

Realistic: State results that can realistically be achieved given available resources

Time-related: When can the result realistically be achieved

If one of your resolutions is to be more physically active in the New Year, and to improve physical fitness, how do you measure physical fitness? What are the steps you will take to work toward your goal? Physical fitness is also tied with mental and emotional health, as is any goal you set. Crushing goals requires taking care of your mind by being kind and patient with yourself, and making your journey more enjoyable. Instead of forcing yourself to engage in activities you may not enjoy, switch things up a bit. Try a dance class to get your body moving, roll out your yoga mat, play your favorite music while you run or get outside in nature. Find a routine that works for YOU.

Setting resolutions can have many benefits. It sets forth a personal challenge that helps us grow in some way, and shows determination to make the changes to improve our lives. Remember that results will not be immediate - goals take time! Allow yourself enough time to accomplish what you set out to do, and enjoy the process. Which area of your life will you choose to spend more time on in 2023? Whatever you choose, make it SMART. E

by Bob Blaisse, Publisher

Bringing People Together

Newtown

Edgmont Friends & Neighbors

Bringing People Together is a Partnership of Hometown Pride and Loyalty Which Includes You

After launching Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors last October, my New Year’s Resolution is to grow our partnerships with local business leaders who are becoming our advertising Sponsors of the residents of Edgmont Township and Newtown Township, like you. We call the advertisers in our magazine “Sponsors” because the role they play in publishing our hometown monthly magazine includes You!

If you’re reading this fourth issue of Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors that has again arrived in your mail for free (or if reading our latest issue also online at www.TheNEMag.com), by now you’ve likely come to recognize that our free, feel-good, community magazine is fulfilling its promised mission to be a catalyst for “Bringing People Together,” through what we call “Social-Mediain-Print.” That’s what you are experiencing as a reader every month. And that makes you an important part of our Bringing People Together partnership with our advertising Sponsors.

You have the fun part, the feel-good part and the easiest part of our Bringing People Together partnership because, as most of us experience, hometown pride and showing loyalty to those who have been loyal to us is a social instinct we enjoy.

Since launching Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors three months ago, readers have told me how they enjoy reading the

local features in our magazine and how it’s like meeting new neighbors in their community, including local business leaders, who they now recognize by seeing their community sponsorship on every page. Those local business owners have also told me how our readers are rewarding the decision they made to use their marketing budgets to assist Newtown and Edgmont Township residents in having their own hometown monthly magazine. Not just because they are important to the success of their business, but also because they see the uniqueness of our magazine and how it truly is Bringing People Together –readers with other readers, friends and neighbors, and business owners with their current customers and new customers, which are needed to keep local businesses in business.

When the news of the day brings fears over the economy or political debate, we all find ourselves at risk of failing to remain happy, and feeling good about all that we do have, with hope in a very Happy New Year ahead. Our “Bringing People Together” mission brings this back through recollection of hometown pride found on our pages, in our feel-good feature articles that drive loyalty to our community, friends and neighbors and our local businesses.

In this new year, let hometown pride drive your loyalty to our advertising Sponsors whose products and services you need. Let’s make a New Year’s Resolution together: to commit to being even more loyal to our friends and neighbors, and to the businesses and organizations we recognize are benefiting our local community. And please, especially reward those businesses who make it possible for Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors magazine to arrive for free in your mail every month and be available for reading and downloading online at www.TheNEMag.com

Whenever possible in 2023, Shop Local. Return the loyalty you see demonstrated by our advertising Sponsors who are showing us the pride they have in Newtown and Edgmont Township residents, who they depend on to succeed in business. In that way you will be contributing to the mission which is the motto of your hometown magazine in the partnership we have to be Bringing People Together. E

Bob Blaisse Publisher

Newtown

Edgmont Friends & Neighbors

Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors

New Year, New Goals: Secrets for Making Those Resolutions Stick

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

Ringing in a new year always carries something magical about it. It’s a bittersweet time, when we say goodbye to the past and optimistically look forward to our future. As 2022 changes to 2023, we’re motivated by opportunities to restart, set goals, accomplish tasks, and sometimes, completely start over.

We all make New Year Resolutions, planning in this new year to do everything better than we did last year. We pledge to do things differently. We resolve to save more money or go to the gym consistently. We’ll keep in touch with family more often or we’ll finally check an important item off our bucket list. Some of the most common New Year Resolutions are to exercise more, lose weight, practice self-care, get organized, learn a new skill or hobby, save more money and spend more time with family and friends.

But did you know that less than half of those New Year Resolutions actually stick? Sure, we may start out strong, but studies — and our own personal experiences — prove that those pledges to do better wither away within the first two months. No matter what you are resolving to do, there are a few ways you can set yourself up for success in 2023. It’s going to take some extra effort on your end, but it will be worth it.

Set Meaningful Goals

Be sure that the goal you are striving for is for reasons that are internal to yourself and not put upon you by others. Ask yourself WHY you want to reach your goal. If it’s truly something YOU want, then you are much more likely to succeed.

Make a Plan

Abstract resolutions are harder to execute than ones that describe specific ways you will work towards your goals. Sit down and write down HOW you will make this the year you finally achieve what you want. Your plan should also include detailed steps about how you will get back on track if you start to lose your way.

Tell Someone

Your resolutions are more likely to fade away if no one knows about them. Find someone you trust and someone who will be supportive and tell them about your goals and your plan. Sharing your why and your how is a crucial component, and doing so will make you more resolute and persistent.

Celebrate the Little Wins

Goals aren’t achieved overnight, which is why you’re much more likely to succeed if you reward yourself for the steps you take along the way. This should be part of your overall plan, so be specific about how and when you will reward yourself. Just be sure your reward isn’t allowing yourself to perform the habit you are trying to overcome!

We checked in with some of our Sponsors for tips and advice on great ways to start and what to focus on. First up is Tori Sheridan, Realtor with The Vince May Team at BHHS Fox & Roach. Tori offers advice to buyers and sellers who are looking to make a move in 2023.

Tori said that for buyers, “The best thing you can do as a home buyer to better position yourself in today’s market is to get pre-approved. Take the time to review loan options, rates and know what you’re willing to spend in monthly payments. Nice homes sell fast and you don’t want to lose the home of your dreams while you’re scrambling to get pre-approved.”

For sellers looking to get top dollar for their home, she said, “As a former home staging consultant, I can’t stress enough the power of home staging. At the end of the day, home buying is an emotional experience and you want buyers to envision themselves living in your home the moment they walk through the door.” She suggests taking down family pictures, religious themed decor and collectibles. “Next, cozy the house up by turning on the fireplace, setting fresh cut flowers on the table and putting a fuzzy throw blanket on the sofa.” Tori said that a simple online search will yield plenty of articles with tips on home staging, and most real estate professionals will work with home stagers to get the job done.

Del Pizzo & Associates

A PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION

If getting your finances in better shape is your priority in 2023, then it’s best to listen to professional advice from Jack Del Pizzo, CPA of Del Pizzo & Associates. “My advice is to save money for retirement,” explained Jack. “It doesn’t matter how young or how old you are, you should be saving for a secure future.” Jack said that people often get overwhelmed with the thought of saving a significant amount of money so they never get started. He said, “Your retirement journey starts with a single step, and you have to be willing to take it.”

By implementing the strategies listed here and heeding the advice of our Experts, you will be well on your way to finally reaching those goals on your TO-DO list. Make 2023 your year to resolve to crush those resolutions. You don’t need luck; you just need the right plan! E

Certified Public Accountants

by Rick Bondurant R.F. Bondurant Plumbing

Is It Time to Repipe Your Home?

Eventually every homeowner is going to need to repipe their home. Repiping is one of the services that plumbers receive the most questions about, understandably. It’s a big task to take on. That’s why you want to be sure that your home is completely ready for the job when it’s necessary. There are several signs to look for, letting you know that you should invest in repiping services for your home. If you notice one or more of these signs, then it’s time to contact a professional to discuss potential repiping services.

Do You Live in an Older Home?

One of the biggest signs that it may be time to repipe is age. If your home was built more than 50 years ago, it may be time. Older pipes can give way to more issues. On top of this, older pipes were made from outdated materials and can actually pose a threat to the health of your home. It’s always wise to repipe if this is your circumstance.

Have You Had Multiple Plumbing Leaks?

Have you noticed that you’re dealing with multiple plumbing leaks recently? If leaks are springing up more often than they ever have before, then you’re a good candidate for repiping services. Multiple plumbing leaks are an issue, and you should address them with the care that’s going to address the problem at its core rather than treat the symptoms on a continual basis.

Have You Noticed Unusual Plumbing Noises?

Are you noticing that your home is noisier than ever? Your plumbing shouldn’t make your home noisy. If you’re hearing lots of clanging, banging or any other strange noises, then it’s time for you to consider upgrading your plumbing system.

Is Your Water Discolored?

Your water should always be clear and translucent. If you’re noticing that your water is tinged red, brown or any other color, or if you notice any debris, then it’s time to get your home’s water in better condition. Discolored water means that your plumbing is in such a state of disrepair that it’s going to start directly affecting you.

Do You Have Persistent Low Water Pressure?

If you’re always frustrated with the water flow in your home, then you should address this with repiping. If no amount of cleaning is helping you get more flow from your plumbing, then low water pressure is the culprit. A certified plumber can help you bypass these low water pressure issues with ease. E

When basement waterproofing installation jumpstarts a new utility storage room and/or a basement den/office, humidity control and air quality ventilation are key factors. This must be maintained to assure continued full utilization of the new “third floor.”

A senior couple's home had recently flooded due to a lack of ongoing maintenance and job detailing. This became an even bigger issue since they started babysitting their very first grandchild five days a week!

Their lawn, leaf raking, mulching and snow removal was done by local individuals, so it wasn’t always adequately maintained. Walking around the home’s exterior was not easy and in places was even impossible, especially with baby pick-ups and drop-offs, two senior dogs needing to be walked, and an active home with family and neighbors visiting and checking in on the couple.

The water and mold prevention crew removed wet carpets and the lower sheetrock walls, but the main source of where the water emanated from was still a mystery. Quickly replacing a mud filled section of a 20 year old French drain system helped, but the partial replacement and sump pump/well upgrade was still insufficient to prevent another flash flood disaster.

This simple question remained – how do we eliminate water entering the basement? Another question being why, after two decades plus, did everything fail? A thorough exterior inspection quickly revealed the reasons why. The downspouts were all backed up so the window wells were completely filled with mud, leaves and debris. On top of that, most if not all of the sump pump discharge was circling back into the basement, with lots of silt clogging mud.

The solution – proper basement window well vents were opened up for the first time in many years, the sump discharge was changed and the gutter spouts were extended away from the exterior perimeter. After cleaning out the sump pump closet and coating the mold free walls, the basement could then be restored with new flooring and paint.

You can’t do “clean laundry” in the dirtiest room in the home. With the dry storage area compromised and leaky HVAC ducts spreading moldy/moist air to the floors above, the answer is yes, it matters that seasonal maintenance is done correctly to maintain a truly waterproofed basement year round. Composting mulch with closed window vents, prevents water run-off and provides sweet smelling, fresh air intake. Problem solved with accurate diagnosis and detailing by a local Waterproofing expert. E

by Deborah M. Truscello, Esq. Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello

The holidays, such a wonderful time of year, came and went by so quickly this year. While we were busy decorating, shopping and cooking, hopefully we all enjoyed true peace of mind. Now that it’s the New Year, here are a few practices you can adapt into your everyday life that can allow you to be at ease in 2023 and beyond.

In Custody Situations - Parents are encouraged to make phone calls to each other to discuss upcoming plans in a timely manner. If there is a custody order in place, keep it on hand for reference. Custody orders often outline specific days, times and vacation time for each parent to adhere to as best they can. Wonderful plans can be made around the outlined custodial periods which makes it less stressful for everyone. Turns can

be taken for visiting family, getting together with friends and attending special events so that everyone benefits. Treat others the way you want to be treated.

Engaging a Contractor - Before hiring a contractor of any type and giving them a deposit, check out reviews on Angi, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau and Google, as well as any other applicable sources. Check with your municipality and the state’s website to see if they have information about the contractor. Insurance information and certifications should be on file, so request a copy of them from the contractor.

Shopping Online - Always delete the internet history after each purchase, and do the same thing when banking online. Hackers love to get your information from your internet history. You will know if you are ordering from a secure site when there is a picture of a lock or it states in the browser that it is a secured website. Make a list of your purchases to make sure you receive everything ordered.

Shopping at Stores - When you go shopping, make sure the area is well lit, take a friend along, park as close to the doors as you can and keep your eyes open and on your mirrors for any approaching strangers. Secure your packages in your car before responding to anyone asking for help. If you feel that perhaps you’re being followed or targeted, go straight to the police station instead of going home.

Enjoy the New Year, and remember that when you smile, people will smile back. E

With today’s supply chain problems, repairing or replacing a vehicle can be a very difficult decision. New vehicle choices are limited and used vehicles are very expensive. Repairs can also be expensive, so here are some tips to determine which option is right for you.

Have your vehicle evaluated by a certified state safety inspection facility before making extensive repairs. Rust and rot are extremely important in the decision-making process on whether to keep investing in an aging vehicle or to look at something new or used. We have seen an increase in undercarriage and frame rot in recent years, most likely due to the use of brine to treat winter roads. Rust and rot can usually be identified before the failure point during regular inspections. If your service professional approves the undercarriage for safety, then maintenance is the best policy.

The dash warning lights are no longer “idiot” lights. Sometimes the lights can indicate a very small, inexpensive problem like low fluids or tire pressure. But sometimes they can indicate a more complex, expensive problem even if the vehicle seems to run well. Address these warnings in a timely manner.

Check fluids often. Engines use thin, efficient oils today which can lead to a low fluid condition before the oil change interval, even in newer vehicles. Use fluids approved by the manufacturer only, this can keep warranties intact. Check lights periodically. If the headlights are not as bright as they once were, consider polishing before replacement. This can save a considerable amount of money. Keep the tire pressure up and air filters clean to get the best fuel economy.

Since labor costs can be high, many people employ the help of handy friends and neighbors for small repairs, and there is nothing wrong with that in most cases. Having the correct tools and information is extremely important, however. Expensive diagnostic tools may be required to perform jobs that were never needed before, to avoid costly mistakes. Torque specifications are the most overlooked step in any repair – tight is no longer good enough.

Think environmentally, and please dispose of any parts or fluids responsibly! Some parts are required to be returned to the store they came from because a deposit was left. Bring any

fluids to your local repair facility and they will dispose of them in a responsible manner.

Keeping a vehicle clean is almost as important as keeping it maintained. Vehicles come with a clear coat to protect the paint. Chips from road debris and even bird droppings can deteriorate this protection, causing rust spots to form and costly repairs to follow. A monthly wash will not only make your vehicle look good but help it last longer. Happy New Year Neighbors! E

by Scott Magness Scott‘s Fireplace Products

Current Trends in Fireplaces

Direct Vent Gas Fireplace Inserts

With their ability to keep you warmer, improve indoor air quality and save money, direct vent gas fireplace inserts are all the rage on home renovation shows. Traditional open-flue fireplaces draw air from inside your home for combustion, however direct vent gas fireplace inserts take air from outside of your home. They are sealed to stop cold drafts and to prevent warm air from escaping.

Gas Flames That Look Just Like Wood Flames

With advancements in gas burner technology, you can now enjoy the clean convenience of natural gas flames that dance and flicker just like real wood burning flames. Head over to your local fireplace products store to learn more about how you can have a gas fireplace that would look as beautiful as the real thing.

High Efficiency Heat

You can lower your monthly home heating bill with a high efficiency fireplace insert. Most fireplace inserts cut the chilly draft from the chimney, but superior gas fireplace inserts are

engineered to keep you warmer for less. The improvements include ceramic radiant heating technology, multi-speed blowers, programmable heat controls and multi-room heat distribution kits.

Smart Gas Fireplace Inserts

It’s common to use a remote to turn on your gas fireplace, but now with wifi and bluetooth technology, gas fireplace inserts can be programmed to turn on and off at specific times, or program temperatures you want to maintain at specific times of the day or night.

Small Gas Fireplace Inserts

Smaller gas fireplace inserts are perfect for heating cozy spaces, such as a small bedroom, bathroom or home office. It’s best to pick a gas insert that fits the size of your room, but sometimes that’s not possible. If your existing fireplace opening is too narrow or shallow to fit a medium or large insert, a small insert may be your only option. Keep in mind that if you need to heat a large space with a small insert, it’s important to choose one that has a built-in blower. E

Homes

in

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . $420,000 . . . . . 3 . . . . 2.5+ . . . . 2,788 . . . . 0.04 4002 Tall Oaks Lane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $500,000 . . . . . 3 . . . . 2.5 . . . . . 2,305 . . . . 0.05 327 Horseshoe Trail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $848,032 . . . . . 3 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 2,200 . . . . 0.02 1 Lakeview Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,050,000 . . . . .4 . . . . 3.5+ . . . . 4,008 . . . . 1.18 404 Berlo Lane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,135,000 . . . . . 3 . . . . 3.5 . . . . . 3,583 . . . . 0.16 633 Howe Court #158 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $969,990 . . . . . 3 . . . . 2.5 . . . . . 3,036 . . . . 0.10 9 Fly Way Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $420,000 . . . . .4 . . . . . 3 . . . . . 2,654 . . . . 0.36

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.

The President Tavern

by Doug Humes

After Delaware County was split off from Chester County in 1789, a new road was needed to take travelers west from Newtown Square to the new county seat of West Chester, and so the West Chester Turnpike was laid out. As the new road gained travelers, several new inns appeared along the road, including Beaumont’s Tavern in Newtown Square around 1792. In 1806, the President Tavern, at the intersection of the new Turnpike and Providence Road in Edgmont was opened.

The President Tavern was located in a log house that Joseph Griffith had built at that intersection in 1798. James Jeffries saw the opportunity provided by the new road, and so he rented the house and applied for a tavern license. An 1806 datestone was added to the large stone building that was constructed to accommodate expected travelers. Jeffries’ business instincts

Olde Tavern sign (artist’s conception) Photo courtesy of Doug Humes

President Tavern building in early 1900’s Photo courtesy of Newtown Square Historical Society

Ad for entertainment at the Edgmont Inn in 1968

Photo courtesy of Newtown Square Historical Society

were good – the tavern continued to serve thirsty travelers under a variety of keepers up until 1863, after which by one account, “the President ceased to be kept as a public house.”

The President Inn disappeared from the pages of history until after Prohibition, when by 1936 the Edgmont Inn opened in the historic old building, offering floor shows and a live orchestra. The Edgmont Inn had a good run for about 40 years, and was referred to as a country and western hangout in the 1960’s when operated by Walter Haly as Haly’s Edgmont Inn. The old Inn miraculously survived a 1966 fire-bombing, when a regular patron, disgruntled at being thrown out of the bar so often, convinced an accomplice to break a side window and throw home-made Molotov cocktails into the building. The old inn survived.

In 1975, Bill Daley, who had been partners at the Lamplighter Tavern in Havertown, bought the building, and after renovations re-opened it as “Bill Daley’s Olde Country Tavern,” and ran it for about 20 years. In 1994, Bob Palumbo took over and changed the name back to the Edgmont Inn for several years. In 1997, Mary Lou and Joe Moro took over, and made extensive renovations to give the old country tavern an Italian flavor. They named the restaurant “La Locanda”, Italian for “inn.”

The weary traveler from 1806 would recognize the old building at the same intersection, but would be amazed at the Italian cuisine that continues to be served there today, more than two hundred years later.

For more history on Newtown Square, Delaware County, and membership information, please visit our website a www.NSHistory.org. E

Firearm Safety Begins with Firearm Education.

Artist Nick Santoleri’s “Evening at Edgmont”

Photo courtesy of Nick Santoleri

The President Tavern building today – now La Locanda

Photo courtesy of La Locanda

by David Gura & Lew Gura Bryn Mawr Glass

Bring Your Bathroom to Life with Glass and Mirrors

There’s nothing like the exciting project of remodeling a bathroom to give you that great feeling of making a house “your own.” But because there’s so many decor and style options to discover and consider, it can be challenging to choose what will look best to create the modern look and comfortable feel you’ll want long term.

Whether you’re planning a few updates or a full renovation, here are some great ideas featuring glass and mirrors that will bring your bathroom to life.

One upgrade option that’s timeless and adds an upscale look to any bathroom is a frameless glass shower enclosure. This usually features a large glass door and panel(s) with very little hardware. It’s amazing how this chic design creates the illusion of a more spacious room! Besides looking very sleek, this type of shower enclosure provides many other benefits. Over time, the glass holds up well in function as well as style. Glass shower enclosures have fewer grooves and crevices, thus reducing soap and other buildup and making care and cleaning much easier. Real glass is easy to maintain and will really shine for a very long time.

If you’re remodeling or upgrading a smaller bathroom, glass shower enclosures and mirrors can help to make the space seem and feel larger. The transparent glass in the shower allows for the space to extend beyond a typical shower curtain or door.

A glass shower enclosure also makes the most of another common shower upgrade: tiling. The countless tile colors, patterns and designs available allow you to get really creative and even create a one-of-a-kind look. With a glass shower enclosure, you get to enjoy seeing the beautiful tiled shower walls. Mirrors also reflect those beautiful tiled walls while also creating an opened-up feeling in any size bathroom. For a modern look, consider installing a mirror with integrated lights. Large mirrors with a backsplash are also stylish and will help expand the feel of a smaller bathroom.

Bathrooms can seem boring until you consider the many updates you can do. Remodeling and upgrade projects can be fun if they start with exploring the many design styles that will fit your budget. You and your family will get to enjoy your upgraded bathroom, and if done right, it will increase the market value of your home. A glass and mirrors professional can provide the information, advice and installation services necessary for you to design and create the bathroom you’ll love for a very long time.

Daily, January through February

Flight On Ice

@4901 West Chester Pk, 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 scheduled 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 www.FlightOnIce.com

Saturdays in Winter

Art at The Square Tavern @Goshen & Newtown Street Roads

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

Time: 11am–5pm

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

Saturdays in Winter

Paper Mill House & Museum

@3 Paper Mill Road, Newtown Square Visit Newtown Square’s 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!) www.NSHistory.org

Thu. January 12

Documentary on Ellis School

@209 Bishop Hollow Rd, Newtown Township Bldg. Ellis College documentary film: filmmaker Louise Miller explores the history of Newtown Square’s Charles E Ellis School through the eyes of thirty-four alumnae spanning 1940-1977. Time: 7:00 pm Cost: FREE (donations accepted!) www.NSHistory.org

Mon. January 16

4th Annual Media Fellowship House Toiletry Drive

@Media Fellowship House, 302 S. Jackson St, Media Honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by participating in this toiletry drive to benefit local women’s shelters. Items needed: Soap, detergent, lotions, feminine products, lip balm, diapers, baby wipes, shampoo, conditioner and hand sanitizer. Donations and volunteers needed.

Time: 1–3pm 610-809-1487 www.MediaFellowshipHouse.org

Sat. January 28

Groundhog Day Celebration

@John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge At Tinicum 8601 Lindbergh Ave, Philadelphia

Will Tinicum Tim come out of his burrow and see his shadow? There will be a family friendly walk at 10am with a ranger to learn more about winter wildlife. For a fun surprise, enjoy the Groundhog Shadow Reveal at 10:50am! Afterwards, head to the Heron Room to meet some live local animals at 11am! Free snacks and activities.

Time: 10am–12pm

Cost: FREE

Sat. January 28 – Sun. February 5

50th Annual Notre Dame Fine Art Show & Sale

@The Mansion at the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur, 560 Sproul Rd, Villanova

The Annual Fine Art Show & Sale features over 100 regional fine artists and their professional works in a variety of mediums, including oils, watercolors, acrylics, ceramics, metals, and glass.

Time: Weekdays by appointment only: 2–5pm; Sat. & Sun. 10am–4pm

Cost: FREE Admission; Special Event Preview Party on January 27th - $100 per guest. 610-687-0650 www.NDArtShow.com

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