Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors magazine, October 2023

Rafferty Subaru has partnered with Providence Animal Center and found homes for over 250 pets with in-store adoption events and the Rafferty Rescue of the Week!

We ser ve as a community resource that inspires others to embrace the human-animal bond, all supported entirely by private donations.

Family owned since 1977!

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 TurnerHilliard, 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 Barkann Family at their home in Newtown Square

Dear Friends & Neighbors,

We’re falling into the season of wonderful weather and outdoor activities surrounded by beautiful colors quietly signaling the countdown of 2023 coming to an end. But first, it’s football games, flea markets, festivals and of course Halloween, which should scare us straight toward the coming holidays.

As we fall into Autumn, and baseball playoffs towards another World Series, you may notice our cover sporting a familiar face this month, surrounded by favorite fans. The Barkann Family of Newtown Square is our Resident Feature for Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors in print and online at www.TheNEMag.com. You may know the Barkann family as longtime Newtown Township residents, or recognize one face from being on your TV, but you’ll need to keep reading to find out why.

This October issue beings our second year as your (no longer new), hometown magazine. Thank you for all your first-year compliments which our staff and I received from Newtown, Edgmont and Willistown residents like you, and our advertising Sponsors who have agreed to be keeping the lights on at Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors for a few more years.

And a special thanks to one Sponsor, well-known for keeping lights on across Delaware and Chester Counties, Martella Electric. Owner and family-man Andrew Martella has stepped onto the font lines of Bringing People Together. Beginning with this issue, Martella Electric will now serve as the Sponsor of our monthly Resident Feature, which this month introduces The Barkann Family to us on page 8. Thank you Martella Electric.

More than several suggestions came in to tap certain business owners to join the party as a new Sponsor so we can increase our page count to add even more monthly features about people, places, organizations and events in our community. Keep them coming. I’m reviewing them all for our 2024 publication plan. But one suggestion could not wait till the new year.

This month you’ll notice on page 4, within our Expert Contributor directory, showing the names, faces and contact information for our selected “Experts,” that our designer Kim Cesati has added some color around the Experts whose Expert Feature article can be found in this new issue with the page number, which can help you jump to one of your favorite Expert Contributors. What a helpful idea. Thank you.

Keep your ideas coming as you fall for this Fall issue I know you’ll enjoy.

Bob Blaisse Publisher

Dear Residents, October is one of the most beautiful months of the year, filled with rich colors, crisp days and cool nights. It’s a time to stop and smell the pumpkins, from spiced lattes to homemade pies, before all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season kicks in. It is also time to celebrate one year of Bringing People Together in Newtown Edgmont!

This festive fall issue is filled with great stories and community news. First, you will meet The Barkann Family, whose commitment to each other and our community is inspiring. Our Business Profile features RPC Services, LLC: Your Experts in Roofing and Siding. We also take some time to highlight the generous work of our Sponsor, Rafferty Subaru and their partnership with Providence Animal Center and congratulate Media Little League on their trip to Williamsport!

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

Commercial & Residential Trash Removal

John Blosinski

J & K Trash Removal, Inc.

Gradyville, PA

610-497-3800

www.JandKTrash.com

CustomerService@JandKTrash.com

Continuing Care Retirement Community

Kristen Lamanna

Riddle Village

610-891-3700 kristen@riddlevillage.com

www.RiddleVillage.org

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

Expert Article: Pg. 6

Expert Article: Pg. 28

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

Funeral Home

Robert L. D’Anjolell, Jr., F.D.

DAnjolell Memorial Homes

2811 West Chester Pike, Broomall

610-356-4200 • RobJr@DAnjolell.com

www.DAnjolell.com

Glass & Mirror Services

David Gura & Lew Gura

Bryn Mawr Glass

729 West Chester Pike, Havertown

610-853-2990

BrynMawrGlass@yahoo.com

www.BrynMawrGlass.com

Landscape Design & Landscaping

TJ Warner

JHL Landscaping

610-356-4104 • TJ@JHLlandscaping.com

www.JHLLandscaping.com

Plant & Garden

Steve Mostardi

Mostardi Nursery

4033 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square

610-356-8035 • Steve@Mostardi.com

www.Mostardi.com

Plumbing Service, Residential / Commercial

Rick Bondurant

R.F. Bondurant Plumbing Media

610-566-0288 • RFBPlumbing@comcast.net

www.RFBondurant.com

Real Estate Sales

Vince May / Tori Sheridan

BHHS Fox & Roach / Vince May

Team

Media / Glen Mills • 610-662-6859

Vince@VinceMayTeam.com

Tori@VinceMayTeam.com www.VinceMayTeam.com

Retirement & Financial Planning

Charles Welde, CPA, CFP®

The CP Welde Group

610-388-7705

Charles@CPWeldeGroup.com

www.CPWeldeGroup.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 & Weatherization

David Linn Cook and Joe Soster Waterproofing One Marple Newtown Edgmont 800-508-4144

Info@WaterproofingOne.com

www.WaterproofingOne.com

by Kaitlin Battiste

From the Top Dance

Celebrating Dance Teachers on International Teacher’s Day

While teachers deserve to be celebrated every day, the calendar, fortunately, designates a few different holidays dedicated to celebrating their tireless work. One of these days falls on the 5th of this month. While it isn’t a public holiday, each year on October 5th, we observe International Teacher’s Day where we honor the teachers of the world who play a tremendous role in igniting our children’s passions and guiding them through their journey of self-discovery. Established in 1994, it commemorates the signing of a recommendation by the International Labor Organization and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Observing this day each year serves as an important reminder of the profound impact educators have both on our lives and our future.

While students typically spend most of their time in school, recent data from the National Center for Education Statistics highlights that the average student in the US devotes at least five hours per week to participating in extracurricular activities. This illustrates the amount of time students may spend with other teachers and mentors beyond the classroom walls. Every engagement students partake in is crucial to their holistic development, contributing to the diverse paths they take on their journey of self-discovery. Among the inspiring educators

mentioned, dance teachers are instrumental figures when it comes to the trajectory of students’ growth.

Dance teachers stand out as guiding lights amidst the important figures in students’ lives. Aside from a dance teacher’s unique ability to mold skilled dancers, their impact goes far beyond technique and choreography. Not only do they play a special part in educating students about the world of dance, they also serve as mentors and role models for students to look up to and turn to for support. Dance teachers pass on lessons that extend past the studio walls and out into the world, such as the values of dedication, teamwork and perseverance so students can blossom into well-rounded individuals. By providing a safe space for self-expression, dance teachers foster creativity, confidence, discipline and a deep love for the art form of dance and self-expression.

As the world collectively pauses on International Teacher’s Day to express our gratitude to every one of the beacons of light in the world of education, it is important to extend this appreciation to the dance teachers who transform our lives through their art and mentorship. Thank you for not only nurturing our children’s dance skills but also their aspirations, confidence, character and lifelong appreciation for the magic of art in motion. E

by Lisa Jeffries

Thomas Smith

OCTOBER STUDENT OF THE MONTH

The October Rey Azteca Student of the Month is Thomas Smith, who is a Senior at Penncrest High School and received a Certificate of Achievement and a $25 gift card from Rey Azteca, our Sponsor of this program.

Thomas's journey as a student has been marked by both challenges and accomplishments. Despite facing learning differences, he has managed to overcome these obstacles and achieve significant personal growth. Through hard work,

Fall forMexican Flavor!

West Chester 484-947-0917

Daily: 11am-9pm 1257 West Chester Pike, West Goshen

Patio & Inside Dining!

Newtown Square

484-427-7803

Sun – Thurs: 11am-9pm Fri & Sat: 11am-10pm

4755 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square

www.ReyAztecaWestChester.com

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determination and effective support, Thomas managed to bridge the gap between his challenges and academic expectations, finding effective learning strategies that align with his unique way of processing information. By approaching his difficulties as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles, Thomas’ mindset significantly contributes to his accomplishments.

Beyond his strides in academics, Thomas is an active member and volunteer with the Edgmont Township Fire Company. He actively participates in responding to fire calls, participates in weekly drill night activities, attends monthly Fire Company meetings and has taken extensive formal training in Fire School.

While attending the Delaware County Intermediate Unit Votech Carpentry Program, Thomas currently works in Commercial and Industrial Concrete Construction for the summer and intends to continue working in the industry while working around school and Fire Company commitments.

Thomas’ long term goals include going into the skilled trades with a focus on being a heavy equipment operator and a future entrepreneur owning his own site excavating company. E

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.Academic or athletic excellence is not required.

Thomas with Rey Azteca Manager Enrique Chavez

Photo courtesy of Brian Smith

MEXICAN RESTAURANT

MEXICAN RESTAURANT

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

Photos by Crissy Everhart Photography www.CrissyEverhart.com

The Barkann

Family: Counting Their Bountiful Blessings

Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors is pleased to introduce you to a family who likely needs no introduction, The Barkann Family: Michael, Ellen, Emily and Matthew. Life for the Barkanns is Philled with Phun, Phamily, and Philadelphia Pride.

Michael Barkann is one of Philadelphia’s best-known sports media personalities. He is a native of East Brunswick, NJ, where he grew up with his parents, younger sister and brother. He was an active kid, participating in basketball, baseball, hockey and track. After high school, Michael attended Syracuse University, where he ran cross country and earned his degree in Broadcast Journalism from Syracuse’s prestigious Newhouse School of Public Communications.

After graduation, Michael began his career as a desk assistant at NBC News in Washington, D.C. From there, he went to New Jersey Network in Trenton, working behind the scenes. But in February 1983, after the area was hit with a big blizzard, the station asked him to fill in as a weather reporter. Though it was Michael’s first time on air, the station allowed him to host

a program called Weather Watch, which led to him doing the weather for their regular broadcast. After a short while, he started doing backup sports for the network.

We would like to thank Martella Electric for sponsoring this month’s Resident Feature

A few months later, Michael moved to KYW-TV in Philadelphia as a sports reporter, where he spent five years, then headed to Boston, where he became sports director at WLVI-TV. However, after five years in Boston, Michael said he received a fantastic opportunity and returned to Philadelphia, beginning his current role as host at NBC Sports Philadelphia, then Comcast SportsNet. Michael’s award-winning career earned him an induction into the Philadelphia Jewish Sports Hall of Fame in 2010.

Although Michael may be known as one of the leading voices of Philadelphia sports, his wife Ellen holds the honor of being a true “Delconian,” born and raised in Havertown. She grew up there with her parents and older brother, just a few blocks from The Haverford Skatium Ice Rink on Manoa Rd. “I remember when the Skatium was built, and my parents would take my brother and me there,” she said. “When I was just six years old, a skating coach noticed me on the ice and asked my mother if she could train me.” Ellen said that from that moment on, she was hooked.

Ellen continued to skate and compete while attending Haverford High School. She passed her U.S. Figure Skating gold figures test at 13, at a much younger age than most

Michael and Ellen Barkann

skaters, and at the age of 16, made the move to national dance competition. Ellen practiced at the Philadelphia Skating Club with renowned skaters like Scott Hamilton, Todd Eldredge, and Kitty and Peter Carruthers at the Skating Club of Wilmington. She was inducted into the Philadelphia Jewish Sports Hall

After high school, Ellen went to Temple University and earned a B.S. in Physical Education and a B.A. in Psychology. Though she was no longer a competitive skater, she continued training, coaching and mentoring young athletes. In fact, she met Michael for the first time while chaperoning a Haverford High School field trip to the Philadelphia Spectrum to take a tour and watch the Flyers warm up before one of their games. “I was at the Spectrum to cover the Flyers vs. Canucks game,” Michael said. “That’s when I saw Ellen with her group of kids. She was standing right outside the Flyers locker room door, and I knew right then that I had to ask her for a date.”

Ellen and Michael laughed when recalling that encounter. “Ellen told me she couldn’t go out on a date because she already had plans,” Michael said. “I asked her if she could change those plans, and she said she could not.” Michael said that while they were talking, Ellen told him her last name and suggested he call the Skatium office to speak with her. “I was persistent and thought maybe I could reach her at her home if I called directory assistance,” he laughed. “Turns out

continued on page 10

Matthew and Emily Barkann

Benji Barkann

I wasn’t used to her Delco accent and kept misspelling her last name, so I never got through.” Michael eventually called the Skatium, spoke with Ellen, and the two agreed to go on a date to the movies.

That date turned into the first of many and eventually to a proposal back where it all began, right outside the Flyers locker room door. The happy couple married in September 1992 at White Manor Country Club and enjoyed a brief honeymoon in Bermuda. “We originally planned to honeymoon in Hawaii, but Michael’s work schedule changed, so we had to cancel that trip,” Ellen said. “We rebooked it for a later date, but his work schedule changed once again.” This time, though, Michael was asked to travel to Albertville, France, to cover the 1992 Winter Olympic Games, so Ellen went with him, and they enjoyed time in Europe as newlyweds.

Back home was Boston until Michael was offered the job hosting pre-game and post-game live shows for the Phillies, Eagles and Sixers. “When we returned to the Philadelphia area, we decided to build a home in Glen Mills,” Ellen said. “We thought it would be our forever home, but Michael’s commute to and from the sports complex was longer than we thought it would be.” She said that after about 18 months, they decided to find something closer to the city. Ellen said that after a lot of looking around, they decided to build a home in Newtown Square. “We live in a wonderful neighborhood that has been good to us and our family,” Michael said. “It didn’t hurt that I could shave off a good 30 minutes off my commute, too!”

Michael and Ellen recently celebrated 24 years in their home and said it was the perfect place to raise their two children, Emily and Matthew.

Emily is now 27 years old and lives in Philadelphia. She graduated from William Penn Charter School, where she was Captain of the tennis team. Like her father, Emily earned her degree in Broadcast Journalism from Syracuse University (SU) where she was also a member of SU’s nationally-ranked crew team. She went

to work for NFL Films, where she won an Emmy Award, but unfortunately, when the pandemic hit, the industry shut down. Not to be deterred, she was accepted to Villanova University and earned her master’s degree in Political Science online. Today, Emily is in her second year of law school at Drexel University.

“Emily is strong, ambitious, smart and compassionate,” Ellen said. “She has a funny and silly side, too, just like her father.” Michael added that when Emily was young, anytime she would be upset or have a little tantrum, all he had to do was take his phone out and pretend that he was recording her. “She immediately would flip a switch and start smiling for the camera!”

Ellen and Michael’s son Matthew just turned 23 years old. He graduated from William Penn Charter School, where he was Captain of the track team and a golf team member. He then earned his Urban Studies and Real Estate degree from The Wharton School of The University of Pennsylvania (PENN). Matthew now works in real estate brokerage and resides in

Always having fun! (L to R): Emily, Ellen, Michael, Matthew with their pup, Benji Havertown. “Matthew actually lives in my childhood home,” Ellen explained. “After my mother passed away, my father moved in with us, and Matthew now spends his free time working on the home to make it his own. It’s really special.”

Michael said that Matthew is very much like Ellen. “He’s calm, quiet and easygoing.” Ellen explained that when Matthew was young, though, he was a curious kid who had a hard time sitting still. “When Matthew was in elementary school, I would get daily calls from his teachers,” she laughed. “He was the kid who always got caught. It was never anything terrible, but if all the kids were doing something, Matthew was the one who got called out.” Ellen said that every time she would talk to Matthew about it, he would assure her that once he got to high school, he would turn things around, and he did.

These days, even though Ellen and Michael are empty nesters, they are busier than ever. Ellen is the Co-Owner of LaurEllen Productions. “I am currently producing a docu-series about the collaboration between the Black community and the Jewish community in music, sports and culture against the backdrop of the Civil Rights period in the United States,” she explained. “It has been a very rewarding experience, and I am excited to see the film released in the coming year.” Michael continues to host the pre and post-game shows for the Phillies, Eagles, Flyers and Sixers and serves as Master of Ceremonies for the Philadelphia Jewish Sports Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremonies.

The Barkanns also run a foundation that grants money to local families who have suffered a tragedy to help them get back on their feet. Through special events, private donations and contributing sponsors, The Barkann Family Healing Hearts Foundation provides support to ease the immediate financial burden for local families. Ellen serves as the foundation’s President. She explained, “It all began when my good friend, Mark Maggi, and I started running a golf outing to raise funds for various charities. After a few successful years, we decided it was time to form our own non-profit to assist the families living and working in our community directly.”

The foundation has grown far beyond the annual golf outing. The Healing Hearts Foundation now hosts special events like Touch a Truck, a day filled with fun family activities and the opportunity for kids to learn and explore public works and emergency vehicles as well as construction and farming

apparatus. “And we begin our Holiday Hearts program every October,” Ellen explained. “It’s a fundraising effort to provide families in need with gifts for everyone and the chance to celebrate the season by attending a fun holiday party hosted by the foundation.” For more information on how you can help, visit www.TheBarkannFoundation.org.

Thank you, Michael and Ellen, for sharing your family’s story with your Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors. Your love for each other and commitment to caring for others is inspiring and admirable. Here’s wishing you all the best this upcoming holiday season and Go Birds!

Do you know a Newtown Edgmont family, individual or nonprofit group 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

by Scott Magness Scott‘s Fireplace Products

Ensure that Your Gas Fireplace is Ready for Winter

Preparing your gas fireplace for the winter can help ensure its efficiency, safety and optimal performance during the colder months. Here are some tips to make your gas fireplace winter-ready:

Inspection and Maintenance

• Schedule a professional inspection: It’s recommended to have a certified technician inspect your gas fireplace before the winter season. They can identify any potential issues and ensure that the fireplace is in proper working condition.

• Clean the interior: Clear out any debris, dust, or cobwebs from the firebox and burner assembly. This helps prevent blockages that can affect the flame and combustion.

Ventilation and Chimney

• Check the chimney and vents: Make sure the chimney and vents are clear of any obstructions, such as bird nests or debris. Proper ventilation is crucial for safe operation.

• Ensure proper draft: A well-functioning chimney will help maintain a proper draft and prevent backdrafts or poor combustion.

Pilot Light and Thermocouple

• Test the pilot light: Make sure the pilot light is lit and staying lit. If it keeps going out, it could indicate a problem with the thermocouple or other components.

Gas Supply and Connections

• Verify gas connections: Check for any gas leaks or loose connections. If you suspect a gas leak, turn off the gas supply and contact a professional immediately.

• Test ignition: Test the ignition system to ensure it’s lighting the burner properly. If you encounter any issues, have a technician address them.

Glass and Exterior

• Clean the glass: If your fireplace has glass doors or panels, clean them to remove any soot or residue. Use a suitable glass cleaner and a soft cloth.

• Inspect the exterior: Check the exterior of the fireplace for any signs of damage, rust, or wear. Address any issues promptly to prevent further deterioration.

Gas Fireplace Accessories

• Stock up on gas logs or stones: If your gas fireplace uses decorative logs or stones, ensure they are properly arranged for an appealing appearance.

• Check remote control and thermostat: If your fireplace has remote control or thermostat features, test them to ensure they are working correctly.

Use and Maintenance Guidelines

• Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines: Always refer to your fireplace’s user manual for specific maintenance and usage instructions.

• Regular cleaning: Throughout the winter, periodically clean the glass, exterior, and surrounding area to keep your fireplace looking and performing its best.

Remember, safety is a top priority when dealing with gas appliances. If you’re unsure about any aspect of preparing your gas fireplace for winter, it’s best to consult a profes-

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

Photos courtesy of Adela Steinberg

Congratulations, Media Little League: The Road to the Little League World Series

Your Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors would like to congratulate the players, coaches, families and friends of Media Little League on their trip to the Little League World Series.

It began with exciting and dominating performances during the Pennsylvania State Championship tournament in July. Our own Newtown Edgmont Little League hosted the event that ended with Media’s impressive 12-1 win over East Side Little League from West Chester.

The team then headed to the Mid-Atlantic Regionals in Bristol, CT where they won their first game easily, setting the stage for a final game that punched their ticket to Williamsport to compete against the best teams in the International World Series.

The team lost their first game against the South West Region team 2 - 1, then went on to win 5 - 3 over New England before losing their final game 7 - 2 to the Metro Region team. Coach Tom Bradley reflected on the experience. “Making it to the Little League World series was a great experience as a coach, but to be able to coach with my son made it even more special,” he said. “We both felt that all the hard work the kids put in would pay off and it sure did!”

Although we were all hoping to see Media Little League bring home the series championship, we are so proud of the players, coaches and parents who gave us all such a memorable experience. Great job, boys! E

Congratulations, Media Little League!

Post game meeting on the field after Media’s win against New England on August 18th

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

Honest, Reliable Service for Your Family’s Home

When it comes time to repair or replace your home’s roof or siding, hiring the right company for the job is critical. After all, your home is more than just bricks and mortar; it’s a place of safety, comfort and family. You want to ensure your hiring team is honest, reliable and provides quality work. That is precisely what you receive when you hire RPC Services, LLC.

Owner Rob Coughlin has always had a passion for the construction industry. “I started working in construction while I was in college,” Rob explained. “I worked full-time during the day and attended Villanova University full-time at night.” He said that from that early age, he knew that a career in the trades was where he was meant to be, so he continued to work and learn from the best mentors in the industry.

Over the years, Rob became skilled in many areas of construction, including roofing, siding, masonry, weatherproofing and carpentry. “When I was the young guy on the job, I watched and learned from the seasoned professionals,” he said. “They not only taught me how to be better at my craft, but I also

gained valuable life lessons on how to operate a business and how to treat clients.”

What Rob found to be the most valuable life lesson after working for numerous companies over the course of 30 years was simple, and it is something he practices every day as a business owner. That philosophy is to do the right thing for your family, your customers and your team. “I have seen too many companies lose track of what is important, and, in the end, they sacrifice their integrity,” he remarked. “I am incredibly proud of RPC’s commitment to customer satisfaction because that mindset has been the key to quality referrals and repeat business.”

When asked what made him decide to open RPC Services, LLC after a 30-year career in the industry, Rob said that it was a combination of factors. “I realized along the way that as I was working for companies that focused on the bottom line, I really missed what I loved most about my job – the satisfaction I would get by making my customer happy.” Rob said that even his wife and kids noticed that it bothered him and encouraged him to make a change.

“I am happy to say that after deciding to go out on my own, I have never been more satisfied with my career,” Rob said. “I am doing what I love to do, having a phenomenal team by my side and enjoying my work, family and life.” He passionately believes that every business must demonstrate unfailing integrity and contribute to the community in which they do business.

RPC Services is more than just a roofing company in the Newtown Edgmont community. While they have a

Photos courtesy of Rob Coughlin

Rob Coughlin with his wife Karen, daughter Rachel and son Jason

Roof replacement underway

specialized team of roofing contractors, they also offer a variety of other services. RPC Services provides all services with quality and care. With years of working in the industry under different capacities, their team of professional builders and roofers come together at their roofing company located in Edgmont Township in order to provide their clients with the building services they need for their home or commercial space.

“You can trust RPC Services for quality service and craftsmanship,” Rob said. “We know how difficult it can be for homeowners to ensure every facet of the home is properly maintained. Owning a home is your investment, and you have put in a lot of dollars and effort to make sure it is always in its best possible shape. We take that into account to give you our best construction effort possible with top-tier materials and work.”

by Bob Blaisse, Publisher

Bringing People Together

Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors

You know our advertising Sponsors make our Bringing People Together mission possible by their sponsorship decision to fund the cost of Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors in print and online at www.TheNEMag. com. That contribution from local business owners sets up our ability to get the paper and get working with our writers and graphic designers, and to get thousands of copies of each issue of your hometown magazine printed, mailed and put online.

With all that funded by our Sponsors, who we reward with advertisements taking up some of that paper, what about all the other pages of each new monthly issue? How do we find the subjects for our feature articles we publish to fill the pages of each monthly issue that leads with the story of a

Newtown, Edgmont or Willistown resident, couple or family as our cover story?

Each new monthly issue of Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors includes several recurring features including our monthly Student of the Month, Calendar of Events, Doug Humes’ History Spotlight, a local Business Profile, several features authored by our Expert Contributors, and a new list of homes recently sold in Newtown, Edgmont or Willistown townships. But each new issue funded by our advertising Sponsors also includes several other unique feature articles that may be related to the season, some local event, organization or a Newtown, Edgmont or Willistown resident. And that’s where you come in as more than just a loyal reader.

Often our most loyal readers, like you, lead us toward new ideas for unique monthly feature articles. Our magazine staff calls you “Reader Leaders,” and depend on your ideas to keep coming. What’s the requirement for a good feature suggestion? Most important is that the subject of the feature article is connected to the Newtown, Edgmont or Willistown community. (After all, we are the hometown magazine.)

Readers Leaders: We need your reader leadership that serves up suggestions for future feature articles for Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors. Think, the subjects are all around you as your friends and neighbors, in your past memories, serving you at local businesses, playing on or coaching local sports teams, or attending or teaching at local schools. Perhaps someone you know in Newtown, Edgmont or Willistown is a first-time author, was once on a reality or game show, has invented something or has a unique hobby or job? Or maybe you know a Newtown Edgmont resident who once had a bit of national fame many years ago, will soon be turning 100, once participated in the Olympics or has visited all 50 states or 50 countries.

Think about it. Your idea for an upcoming feature article published in an upcoming issue of Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors, will be bringing together your friends and neighbors in Newtown Edgmont. Email your feature article suggestions to your hometown publisher at: BBlaisse@BestVersionMedia.com and watch me do what I do for Reader Leaders like you. E

Bob Blaisse Publisher Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors

Saturdays in Fall

Newtown Railroad Museum

@Drexel Lodge

4140 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square

Full size train engines, rolling stock and a museum full of artifacts from the trains and trolleys that once served Newtown Square. Great for children!

Time: 1–4 pm

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

Saturdays in Fall

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 Fall Paper Mill House & Museum

@3 Paper Mill Road, Newtown Square

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

Time: 1–4 pm

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

October 1 – November 5

Pumpkinland and Farm Market

@Linvilla Orchards, 137 W Knowlton Rd, Media

Larger than life figures and scarecrows illustrate the legends and lore of the harvest season. Choose from piles of pumpkins in all colors, shapes and sizes — over 100 tons on display! Find a huge selection of straw bales, corn shocks, toys and fall decorations of all kinds. Tickets required for daytime activities as well as the evening Autumn Moon, Harvest, and Witch's Hayrides to help better accommodate the number of visitors throughout the day. Tickets are required for ages 1 and older.

Time: Sun.–Thurs. 8am–8pm; Fri.–Sat. 8am–9pm

Cost: See website for info. on prices for activities www.Linvilla.com/family-fun/pumpkinland

Sun. October 8 (Rain Date: Sun. October 15)

Media Fall Festival

@State Street

The Media Business Authority (MBA) is happy to announce that it will be hosting a Fall Festival. State Street in downtown Media will be alive with a mix of food, music, artists, crafters, nonprofits and family fun.

Time: 11am–5pm

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Sat. October 14

Annual Fall Extravaganza

@White Horse Village

535 Gradyville Rd, Newtown Square

The active residents at White Horse Village will host the 32nd annual Octofair. This free event brings together community and creativity for a day of fun festivities for the entire family. All proceeds benefit the Residents Association, a nonprofit organization that supports programs to enhance the living experience for residents. New this year, representatives and furry guests from All For Paws Rescue, a nonprofit, foster-based, no-kill animal rescue based in Malvern, will attend the event.

Time: 9:00am - 2:30pm

Cost: FREE admission www.WhiteHorseVillage.org/octofair

Sat. October 14 (Rain Date: Sun. October 15)

Harvest Festival

@Garrett Williamson

395 Bishop Hollow Rd, Newtown Square

Fun for the whole family! Enjoy hayrides, pumpkin decorating, barn tours, children’s activities, garden tours, nature hikes and select seasonal vendors.

Time: 11am–3pm

Cost: $30 per vehicle. Food/drinks and the cost of a pumpkin for decorating are additional and hayrides are $5 per person. 610-353-7690 www.GarrettWilliamson.org

Sat. October 21

Run-A-Muck

@On Point Farm

6114 Goshen Rd, Newtown Square

Run the 5K or muck (walk) the cross-country trail over Crum Creek and through the woods. Enjoy food, beer, wine, bonfire and live music. Leashed dogs welcome! T-shirts, lawn games, mechanical bull rides, face painting, prizes and more. Proceeds sup port the preservation of the Willistown countryside.

5K $45 for ages 16+; $20 for ages 3–15;

Sat. October 21

Bark in the Park 5k and Fall Festival

@Rose Tree Park

1671 N Providence Rd, Media

Walk or run in this unique dog-friendly 5K with your four-legged best friend or a shelter dog. Dogs are welcome but not required. Proceeds support Providence Animal Center. After the walk, enjoy a Fall Festival that includes a vaccine & microchipping clinic, dog contests, food trucks, pet portraits, local business vendors, raffle baskets, music and more!

Time: 5K at 10am; registration at 9am.

1-mile walk at 11am; registration at 10am.

Cost: Walker $25; Walker w. dog $30; Runner $35; Runner with dog $40; Virtual $25 610-566-4575 www.ProvidenceAC.org

Sat. October 28

Monster Dash 5K

@Arasapha Farms

1835 Middletown Rd, Glen Mills

Join us for the inaugural family-friendly Monster Dash 5K at The Bates Motel. All proceeds benefit the Edgmont Township Fire

by Rick Bondurant R.F. Bondurant Plumbing

Avoiding Septic, Sewer and Stormwater Problems

Fall leaves are beautiful but they must eventually be cleaned up, just like your home’s exterior must be prepared to withstand freezing temperatures, snow and ice. Unfortunately, out-of-sight, out-of-mind can easily become the approach we take to what’s going on outside underground. It’s important to realize that over time, everything requires some sort of maintenance and care, including your home’s septic, sewer and stormwater management systems.

Septic

Your septic system needs to be pumped out at least every one to three years, depending on the number of people regularly living in your home. You should also have the entire septic system inspected every few years to make sure everything is still functioning as intended. Following these two maintenance tips alone can significantly increase your septic system’s life, maybe by as much as decades.

Sewer

Homes with sewer lines need to keep in mind that all waste water and liquids from the home travel out and down a 4-inch diameter pipe. That includes cooking grease, soap products and other liquids and semi-solids that can, over time, build up on the interior of that pipe. Also, sewer lines that are located near trees, often end up with the tree roots growing into the sewer

lines. Many homes have cast iron or terracotta piping underground. Over time, debris can build up inside this type of sewer line piping, significantly reducing its flow-through diameter. Most times, throwing some drain-clearing product down the pipe will not clear the conditions inside the pipes, which require something more powerful and thorough. Water-jetting, which removes all the build-up inside the pipe, clears out the debris, and restores the pipe’s full diameter so everything can flow as it should.

Stormwater

Your home’s stormwater management systems — gutters and downspouts — may go underground and lead to or have sediment traps underground, with inverts, culverts or inlets blocked or packed with debris. If regular maintenance is not done, those systems can build up with sediment, leaves and other things that find their way down a drain or gutter. Your stormwater management drains will serve you well over the years if they’re regularly cleaned out and all the piping is water-jetted. E

“I was very pleased with the responsiveness and professionalism of this company. They arrived when they said they would, they did the work, cleaned up and were very pleasant as well. I was very pleased with my entire experience! I would highly recommend RF Bondurant Plumbing. JUDITH HIRSH ”

Expert Contributor

by David Gura & Lew Gura Bryn Mawr Glass

Easy Updates with Glass and Mirrors

These days, it’s pretty easy to find decorating ideas and suggestions by watching TV shows about renovating or flipping houses, or by using a more targeted approach like searching the internet using specific parameters to get ideas on your exact decorating concept. If you’re currently interested in considering ideas using decorative glass and mirrors, this is your lucky day.

Utilizing custom-cut mirrors as decor can be something extravagant like designing a wall mirror installation. It can also be something that simply adds depth and dimension by using a mirrored backsplash in the kitchen. The sky’s the limit on this type of decorating.

One very popular trend is to install a “larger than life” mirror in your foyer where you greet guests and family as they enter your home. That mirror helps your guests do a quick selfcheck to make sure everything is in place upon arrival. For even more impact, you could frame a behemoth-sized mirror with a beveled mirrored frame.

Mirrors in the bathroom are a given, but some of the newest trends and inspirations include a half-wall-sized, tri-fold mirror that lets you see from multiple angles.

One style idea that’s extremely popular right now is filling your wall with a collage of pretty and eclectic smaller framed mirrors of just about any size or shape. These will stand out as more a piece of art than the typical simple mirrored wall. Another clever way of making mirrors a central decor theme within your home is to create a fun or dramatic interplay between two

mirrors, both positioned to highlight the view of a special art piece or family treasure.

If cost is not an issue when considering adding decorative glass as a style aspect to your home, today’s designers go beyond the traditional stained glass window, to adding etched designs that can exhibit a modern frame to some interesting piece of glass, to using a repeating pattern of an etched design throughout, making it glass artwork.

Frames can make an incredible design statement. Depending on what type of frame you choose, mirrors can be modern or traditional. An antique mirror will have a totally different effect on a room than a simple wood frame will. You can also use custom-cut mirrors to create modern art on a blank wall. For example, have a glass company cut a series of uniform blocks for you to hang in a unique pattern. Try introducing other shapes to your mirror wall art such as a round mirror, which has a calming, eye-catching shape. They also provide balance if a room is full of other geometric elements.

Decorative glass and mirrors as style elements within your home can be unique, one-of-a-kind displays that show true artistic prowess and give your guests something very special to look at. E

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard Photos courtesy of Providence Animal Center

and

Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors is always proud to support and recognize meaningful community connections that promote our magazine’s mission of Bringing People Together. This month, we are pleased to highlight one of our loyal Sponsors, Rafferty Subaru, and their community partnership with Providence Animal Center.

Providence Animal Center (PAC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit located in Media, serves our community by offering exceptional, affordable and lifeaffirming rescue, adoption, medical care and training of companion animals. They re-

cently celebrated their 10th year as a lifesaving organization serving as a community resource, inspiring others to embrace the human-animal bond.

Kevin Rafferty, Owner of Rafferty Subaru partnership came to be. “Our team at consistently been committed to supporting local schools and organizations for the past 46 years,” he said. “We are always looking for ways to help promote worthy causes.” Kevin said that he likes to keep it local while searching for partnerships. “65% of our Subaru sales come from the residents of Delaware County, so we knew that is where we needed to focus.”

The perfect opportunity presented itself in 2017 when the folks from PAC approached Rafferty Subaru in the hopes of forging connections that might qualify them for national grants from Subaru. Kevin said that while considering the partnership, they discovered that over half of Subaru owners also owned dogs. “It was a perfect match,” he explained.

Robyn Schnieders is PAC’s Chief Advancement Officer. “In 2018, PAC and Rafferty Subaru formalized their relationship and began working together to advocate for homeless pets and pet adoption programs,” she said. “Little did we realize then that this collaboration would evolve into one of our most impactful corporate partnerships on both the local and national levels.”

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Robyn explained that the support from Rafferty Subaru has been instrumental in championing PAC’s mission and vision to ensure that all animals have a home with the love and quality care they deserve. Kevin and his team regularly host animal adoption events at Rafferty Subaru’s showroom in Edgmont and sponsor and promote the Rafferty Rescue Pet of the Week. That campaign has been running for close to five years and has a 100% success rate in finding these pets their forever homes. “We work together to pinpoint what PAC needs most and do our best to provide that,” Kevin said. “I am very proud that Rafferty Subaru was also able to donate a Subaru Outback (The Rafferty Rescue Vehicle) to this deserving organization.”

Family

Kevin O’Kane handles Rafferty Subaru’s advertising and marketing efforts. He works directly with the team at PAC to organize and manage these special pet adoption events. “It really is a seamless partnership,” he remarked. “I cannot say enough about how well we work together and how the folks at PAC are organized, professional and passionate about what they do.” During these adoption events, many of the animals find their forever homes and bring our community together in the spirit of volunteerism. That includes WMMR radio, which has joined its efforts to promote the events and make special appearances during the events.

Kevin Rafferty said that many staff members have adopted a pet, and he and his family have as well. “Our five-yearold rescue pup, Layla, has been a wonderful addition to our family,” he said. “Volunteering our time and resources has given us all much more joy than we ever expected.”

On a national level, Robyn explained that Kevin and his team have integrated PAC into the ASPCA/Subaru collaboration. “We have received national visibility through commercials, Super Bowl Sunday’s Puppy Bowl, and impactful

grant opportunities,” she said. “And our affiliation with Subaru and the Philadelphia Union further exemplifies Kevin and Rafferty Subaru’s commitment to positioning PAC as a significant change-maker in the community and advancing our lifesaving cause.”

“It’s a win-win,” Kevin said. “We look forward to many more years of partnership with PAC and encourage our local community to learn more and get involved.” Robyn said that she and her team at PAC are equally grateful. “PAC is grateful for the support, collaboration and friendship of Rafferty Subaru and their dedication to advocating for homeless pets in search of their forever homes,” she said. “Their unwavering commitment to our organization is appreciated, and we eagerly anticipate the ongoing development of this partnership.”

Providence Animal Center is located at 555 Sandy Bank Rd, Media. To learn more about Providence Animal Center and Rafferty Subaru’s Adoption Events and the Rafferty Rescue of the Week, visit PAC’s website at www.ProvidenceAC.org or call 610-566-4575. E

The Rafferty Rescue Vehicle donated by Rafferty Subaru

The Rafferty family's beloved rescue pup, Layla

by Doug Humes

Third in the World, First in Our Hearts

This summer, a Media baseball team became just the 3rd team from Delaware County to make it to the Little League championship since the first one was played in 1947. In Newtown and Edgmont there are still many people who fondly remember the last time a Delco team got that far.

Little League for pre-teen boys started to catch on after World War II. In Newtown, Sun Oil – gave land to be used for Little League fields in the early 1950s. The explosion in suburban population had not yet occurred then, and so Newtown Township with a population of 3518, threw in with neighboring Edgmont Township, population 1048, to form the Newtown Edgmont Little League, and began play around 1953.

The Newtown Edgmont Little League (NELL) had an amazing team in 1967 that bulldozed their opponents on the way to Williamsport. In July an all-star team was selected to compete in regional playoffs. The NELL team had everything – pitchers who threw no-hitters, batters who launched balls over the fences, and fielders who could catch and throw. They were coached by local fathers Jack Daly and Ken Johnson. And they were dominant – one newspaper article referred to their “Murderers Row” that mauled a Chester County team 12-2 to win the District 19 title. No-hitters by Neil Powers and Mike Allen took them to the Pennsylvania state championship, and the same pitchers then threw one-hitters with Powers adding

The 1967 NELL All-Stars team photo, taken at Williamsport when they arrived to play in the World Series.

Photo courtesy of Mike Allen

The Boys of Summer – the 1967 NELL team – returned to their home field in 2017 for the 50th anniversary of their championship year.

Photo courtesy of the Catania Family

a home run in a 1-0 victory in the Eastern Regionals that sent them to the 8-team World Series playoffs, the first Delaware County team since Upper Darby in 1956.

NELL won their first game against Tampa, before falling by 4-1 to eventual champion West Tokyo. In the consolation game, they beat Linares, Mexico 2-1 to claim 3rd place – in the world! All of the teams then flew to Montreal to visit the Expo ’67 World’s Fair, and then the NELL boys flew home to a heroes’ welcome: 200 people met them at the airport, and then a 40-car caravan (supplied by supporter Frank Videon) brought them home to Newtown with a police escort the whole way. At Media Line Road, the high school band and the fire department joined the parade to the Newtown Square shopping center. During the festivities, with 3,000 residents present, a helicopter descended from the sky to the median strip, and a representative from the Governor read a proclamation celebrating their achievements.

What amazing experiences for 10-12-year-old boys, who then found themselves back in school the following week. But with memories and relationships that would last a lifetime. On the 50th anniversary of that championship season, the players gathered again at their field of dreams in Newtown Square, bonded for life by what they had done together as boys.

For more history on Newtown Square, Delaware County, and membership info, visit our website at www.NSHistory.org. E

Joe Catania, the NELL first baseman, went on to serve as Chairman of the Newtown Township Board of Supervisors.

Photo courtesy of Anthony Tuccillo, Sr.

Fun in the dormitory between games at the 1967 Little League World Series in Williamsport.

Photo courtesy of Anthony Tuccillo, Sr.

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

You’re Going to Need an Attorney

At some point, as time goes on, you may be faced with a major or minor legal issue. Early on, it can be difficult to determine on your own just how serious a given situation is. No one knows how an issue is going to develop and what the possible ramifications or impact will be on their lives. That’s why it’s important to consult with an attorney immediately. Don’t assume you know what the law requires or even that the law is dictated by common sense. The law can be very complicated.

It can be imperative to have a legal consultation right away to afford yourself the time needed to deal with a developing situation properly and with the benefit of counsel moving forward. Avoid procrastination about seeing a lawyer. A quick consult can save you a lot of heartache, time and money in the long run. Innocent or seemingly innocuous mistakes can be avoided. The chances for a more successful outcome increase significantly when you have the benefit of legal counsel. Sometimes attorneys can’t go back in time and correct unknowing mistakes. This is a time when common-sense thinking about a situation may not be enough. There’s a danger in not knowing the proper procedure or what is required under the law and what should or should not be done.

For example, the initial application for social security disability benefits is done without legal counsel. Here’s an example - when you apply for Social Security benefits, legal counsel doesn’t become applicable unless benefits are denied and an appeal needs to be taken. You have 60 days from the date on the letter from social security to file an appeal. If you consult with an attorney before the initial application, you will be better prepared to handle the application and have a better chance of success. The attorney will advise you to include all medical conditions as well as perhaps vision, hearing, weight and other medical conditions that you may not realize are included. Initial applications are, however, sometimes denied.

If you had consulted with an attorney who handles social security disability cases before the initial application, that same attorney would be prepared to handle the appeal. The consultation with an attorney does increase your chances for a successful initial application.

The moral of the story is to consult with an attorney sooner rather than later. Chances are it could save you time and money in the long run. E

Homes Recently Sold in Newtown Edgmont

Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.

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by Lou Matteo Edgemont Automotive

Prepare for the Salt-Assault

There’s no way around it, winter is on its way. Fall’s cooler temperatures are a welcome relief after summer’s scorching heat, and while it’s a great time to rediscover cooler-weather outdoor activities, it’s also the right time to prepare your vehicle for the cold weather and inevitable salt assault!

Preparing your vehicle today is much easier than it was years ago. With today’s advanced fluids, changing your antifreeze is no longer needed before the first cold snap. The key is to make sure all your maintenance is caught up. If the fluids have been changed or checked at the scheduled mileage, then just be certain that they are full, and you may want to have a little extra washer fluid on hand, salted roads can make a mess of your windshield. Fall and early winter is a perfect time to change wiper blades.

Have your battery and charging system checked. Batteries hate extreme temperature changes. Perform a visual inspection as well as a load test before winter and again before summer. Wet vent caps and corroded terminals are signs of acid leakage and potential problems. Up to 5 years of reliable service is about the best you can expect from a quality battery.

Have your tires checked! Tire pressure is a great start, but overall tire condition is critical. Safety inspection requires a minimum of 2/32 of an inch of tread to pass, but in winter weather, that is not enough space to clear slush from under the tire so it contacts the road as designed. 3/32 - 4/32 of an inch is the ideal tread for winter months. Look at the sidewalls; if you see cracks, let a professional check the tires, sidewall damage can be a safety issue.

The brine and salt used to clear our roads are hazardous to the underside of our vehicles. To help prevent rust and rot it is best to have the underside of your vehicle rinsed down with at least

a garden hose every spring. Repairing rotted floor pans, brake and fuel lines can get expensive. E

Lou Matteo Edgemont Automotive

by David Linn Cook and Joe Soster Waterproofing One

Autumn -

Time for Preparation

It’s time to open up those windows and vents and let the fresh air in. Roofers know that gable ridge and soffit venting are needed, not just to control attic temperature, but also the humidity levels in winter. Condensation causes nails to rust and shingles to loosen up from the roof surface.

Humidity control in the basement should be managed mostly in the fall and spring when the outside temps are more moderate outside. This is a multi-step process that includes having functional rain gutters, that are clean and pitched correctly, with self-cleaning gutter guards. Stainless steel mesh “leaf blaster” gutter guards are the highest performing when it comes to downpours and extended windy/leaf-falling rainy days.

Underground spout extensions to ensure downhill water run-off and sloping soil away from the foundation at all exposed walls will also keep your basement walls dry. If the foundation is severely cracked or bowed inward, toward the basement, then an

exterior dig to apply a rubber wall membrane and exterior footing drain to ensure long term structural integrity of the home may be necessary.

Whether it’s water-tight glass-block windows with tilt-in vents, or an EZ Breathe automatic air exchange for the home, the moderate temps in autumn make it an ideal time to have a passive or mechanical venting process completed at your home. Exhaust fans for steamy showers and hot kitchens are helpful but have little impact on basement mold. Professional EZ Breathe basement floor ventilators are often the finishing step to a “Dry-Aired” basement den project.

For the interior, the time-tested method of French drains and sump pump exterior discharge assures that the basement is less likely to be damaged during frequent downpours. If the home has no electrical backup, then a hydro water main backup sump pump would be part of the defensive plan.

A finished, water-protected lower-level basement/den will add approximately 30% to the home’s size, all without breaking ground or raising the roof for far more expensive additional square footage. Quiet, warm and dry dens are now an essential part of modern home construction.

Use all of your home’s available square footage by ensuring proper long-term humidity control and flood protection are part of your home’s plan. Home offices, dens and exercise rooms in a clean, dry basement are a must-have with everyone working, exercising, relaxing and just living at home, sweet home! E

• Crack & Foundation Repair

• Exterior Waterproofing

• Mold Remediation

• French Drains

• Sump Pumps

• Humidity Control

• Lawn Drainage & Grading

• Radon Services

• Wall & Floor Coatings

• Basement Windows Plus…

Gutters Cleaned and Guards Installed! WE DO IT ALL!

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

Celebrating the Magic, Mystery and History of Halloween

If you’re a frequent reader of Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors magazine, you know we love a good party!

From our magazine’s 5-year anniversary to the 4th of July festivities, we’re your source for finding an excuse to celebrate every month of the year!

October brings falling leaves, crisp air, long nights and grocery store shelves filled with plentiful pumpkin-spiced products. While it’s a month that many consider a time to recover from the back-to-school chaos and recharge before the hectic holiday season, others see an opportunity to celebrate the spooky season all month long.

Halloween has always been a holiday filled with mystery, magic and plenty of superstition. It began as a Celtic endof-summer festival of Samhain (pronounced sow-in), who celebrated their new year on November 1st — that day marked the end of summer and the beginning of winter, a season that the Celts associated with human death.

They believed that on the night before the new year, the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead

became obscured. So, on the night of October 31, they celebrated Samhain, when it was believed that the ghosts of the dead returned to earth. Celts set places at the dinner table to celebrate the spirits, left treats on doorsteps and lit candles to help loved ones find their way back to the spirit world.

October 31st was also a day that Celtic priests (Druids) felt that the presence of these spirits made it easier to make predictions about the future. They built large sacred bonfires to celebrate the event and wore costumes of animal heads and skins while telling each other’s fortunes. As this tradition evolved and spread to other lands and religions, the holiday became known as Halloween.

During colonial times in the US, the beliefs and customs of different European ethnic groups and the American Indians combined, and an American version of Halloween emerged. The first celebrations were public events held to celebrate the harvest. Neighbors would share stories of the dead, tell each other’s fortunes, dance and sing. However, the celebration of Halloween was very limited in

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colonial New England because of the strict Protestant belief systems. Halloween was much more common in the southern colonies.

Halloween had become a national tradition during the second half of the 19th century, and Americans began dressing up in costumes, going house to house, asking for money or food. By the 1930s, Halloween had evolved into a community-centered holiday with parades and parties. Then, in the 1950s, with the surge in young children during the baby boom, Halloween became a holiday primarily focused on the children, and candy, of course!

Did you know that one-quarter of all the candy sold annually in the U.S. is purchased for Halloween? Today, Americans spend an estimated $6 billion annually on Halloween, making it our second-largest commercial holiday after Christmas.

Halloween will be celebrated this year on Tuesday, October 31st, but for many of our friends and neighbors, the festivities begin early in the month. And for a few of our passionate pumpkin-loving neighbors, the ghosts, goblins and spiderwebs appear right after Labor Day.

How you celebrate is up to you. Our community always offers plenty of opportunities to dress up and gather at trunk-or-treats, neighborhood parties and school parades. There are also some great family friendly Halloween movies, including Hocus Pocus, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Beetlejuice and It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown. And if you’re wondering who will be trick or treating this year, we’re willing to bet the most popular people paying you a visit will be Barbie and Ken, Taylor Swift, Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach and Wednesday Addams to name a few. Just be sure to grab your candy early so you can give out the good stuff! E