Dining Under the Stars on State Street

LIFE + CULTURE
HONORING MEN IN MEDIA
HOME + DESIGN
BRING NATURE INDOORS WITH HANDMADE FURNITURE
FOOD + BEVERAGE
MAKING A GREAT HOAGIE
SPORTS + RECREATION
PLAYMAZING NEW DESTINATION PLAYGROUND







LIFE + CULTURE
HONORING MEN IN MEDIA
HOME + DESIGN
BRING NATURE INDOORS WITH HANDMADE FURNITURE
FOOD + BEVERAGE
MAKING A GREAT HOAGIE
SPORTS + RECREATION
PLAYMAZING NEW DESTINATION PLAYGROUND
Warm days, lazy nights, the sounds of kids playing ball and the smell of backyard barbecues...it must be June.
June brings us the summer solstice, considered to be the first day of summer, astronomically speaking. Technically it’s June 20-22. Nevertheless, it's the time of year we all tend to slow down just a bit and enjoy everything that our area has to offer.
June is also the month we celebrate Father’s Day, the day that we take the time to show our dads how much we love and appreciate them or just remember them. In recognition of this special holiday, we dedicate our June issue to honoring the special men in our lives and our community.
This month we are highlighting five outstanding gentlemen who give tirelessly of their time and talents to the community. Whether educating, leading, inspiring, protecting, or serving...these men deserve our respect.
Speaking of respect, I have a lot for those who work with their hands. Our story about Meek McCallister of Redirected Wood showcases a man with imagination and talent. All supported by family, faith, and story of helping children in need.
Next we take a trip to Rose Tree park to explore the new PLAYMAZING children’s playground. Complete with a large climbing tower, swing zone, and a spinning zone, making this a destination playground of adventure.
OK, I know everyone has their go-to shop and I’ll probably get a lot of emails about this. But Chris Shimmer of Capriotti’s is legit. Chris shares with us what makes a great sandwich (Hoagie). Founded in Wilmington in 1976, Capriotti’s now serves up Philly classics in 27 states.
Now a readers favorite (and mine), our recipe section really delivers this month. In 1996, my not-yet-wife took me to Havana, Cuba and I had my first Mojito. (Ask me about this story sometime). This refreshing cocktail is my go-to summer drink.
Dining Under the Stars is now in full swing. Shout out to all the great restaurants, Media Business Authority, the Media Borough, and local sponsors for making this weekly summer event a must do.
I’ll see you on State Street!
SCOTT DAVIDSON, PUBLISHER @MEDIACITYLIFESTYLEJune 2023
PUBLISHER
Scott Davidson | scott.davidson@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Karin Davidson | karin.davidson@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Jayne Toohey | jayne@jayne2e.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Karin Davidson, Gabi Persico, Cheyenne Forbes, Kari Tumminia, John Paul Murray
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Jayne Toohey
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
Where neighbors can see and be seen.
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Jeff and Monica Dulemba are bringing School of Rock, the largest music school in the U.S., to Media. School of Rock is a growing, passionate community dedicated to enriching lives through performance-based education. "School of Rock changed our lives. We struggled to find a place for our introverted and awkward son to feel belonging. SOR celebrated his individualism and provided the stage to find his true voice. We are honored for the opportunity to impact other families' lives in this way." schoolofrock.com/locations/delco
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In 1959, Joseph and Philomena Santucci moved to Northeast Philadelphia and opened the very first Santucci’s Original Square Pizza in Juniata Park. Their family recipe for making pizza in a square pan with the sauce on top of the cheese was considered unconventional at first, but quickly became a pizza staple in Philadelphia. Today that tradition continues as Santucci’s recently opened in Media. santuccispizza.com
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Widener officially ushered in the university’s next chapter under new president Stacey Robertson’s stewardship, celebrating a leadership change that has happened only ten times in more than 200 years. Roberston, who joined Widener in 2022, came from SUNY Geneseo, where she was provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, and a professor of history. The milestone event marked the end of inauguration week which offered a series of celebrations on Widener’s Chester, Delaware, and Harrisburg campuses.
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ARTICLE BY CHEYENNE FORBES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEEK MCCALLISTER
The right piece of furniture can be a statement in any room. A side table, chair, or floor lamp can be just the addition to tie a room together. But how do you find the “right” one”? Meek McCallister at Redirected Wood can listen and create the piece for you. From tables to floating shelves and more, Redirected Wood can create a unique piece for your home or office.
What drew Meek to wood was its unique colors, patterns, and texture. “We can build two tables from the same wood species in the same style,” said Meek, “and each table will still be a unique one-of-a-kind piece because of the variation of these natural features.”
Before Redirected Wood, Meek, along with his wife Brittany, were licensed counselors at an adoption agency and specialized in working with children experiencing trauma and neglect. The two came across a profile of an
older child from Ethiopia who needed a family and home. “As we felt God call us into that process, I started building furniture and other items as a way to raise money for the adoption,” said Meek. They hosted a silent auction and sold several items including a farm table that “sparked a bidding war”. Soon, requests for the farm table began to pour in. The table was so popular that Meek turned the idea into a business.
Redirected Wood has been operating since January of 2018 and takes pride in working with the challenges creating custom furniture can present, producing incredibly distinct furniture. It can take 16 to 24 labor hours to build a simple table while something more intricate often takes longer. Questions about customizing the perfect piece?
Visit
What drew Meek to wood was its unique colors, patterns, and texture. “We can build two tables from the same wood species in the same style,” said Meek, “and each table will still be a unique one-of-a-kind piece because of the variation of these natural features.”
We all know that Media has no shortage of outstanding, accomplished individuals that help make this special town great, so we, at Media City Lifestyle, wanted to take this opportunity to honor five men who are community champions. These men are inspired visionaries who have worked diligently, selflessly and exceptionally to better the lives of people in and around Media, adding to the growing, diverse tapestry that makes everybody’s hometown a wonderful place to live and work. Here are some of our local heroes – we know you’ll be inspired by these men.
ARTICLE BY KARI TUMMINIA PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAYNE TOOHEYIn 2013, after 25 years of serving in the United States Army, Michael Rounds accepted the position as the 13th President of Williamson College of the Trades and has never left. Among his military awards are the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal with oak leaf cluster, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Meritorious Service Medal with 4 oak leaf clusters, Airborne Wings, Air Assault Wings, and the Army Ranger Tab.
President Rounds is committed to the values of Faith, Integrity, Diligence, Excellence, and Service that are markers of the Williamson way. Students here are immersed in a community that focuses on training them to be responsible, accountable, and to lead by example. The combination of excellent trade skills combined with character, work ethic, and leadership is what sets Williamson graduates apart and is the reason they are in such high demand. They are proud to provide a full scholarship that covers tuition, room and board for every student.
Rounds wants more people to know how unique Williamson is. “This is a really special community that goes back to the history of the area. There is no other school like it, and yet there should be. We need schools like this all over the country. The more Williamson men we can put out in the community, the better for the community.”
www.williamson.edu
Paul Mickle started working with Media Food Bank at 10 years old. He was mentored by his mother's friend Juley Moberg who ran the food Bank until she left in November 2007. Paul naturally became responsible for distribution.
In 2012, Paul was honored with the Young Volunteer Award by the Pennsylvania Parks and Forest Foundation. Over a decade later, he continues to dedicate himself to the Friends Group at Ridley Creek and, since 1998, the Media Food Bank. When asked about Media, Paul shared, “Media has always been a fun town to grow up in and watch evolve over the decades. It is quite unique how it can go through changes and adapt through the years but at the same time keep the same distinct charm.” And, with such a young start in the community, Paul says that Media chose him.
One of his most significant contributions has been helping to grow the food bank through the COVID-19 pandemic. Although it has always been a community staple, the food bank took on a life of its own during the pandemic. That need continues to rise. Paul encourages both those with the ability to continue to support the Media Food Bank, and those who need help to seek it out. He would love to eradicate the stigma that’s often associated with getting help. Media Food Bank at 444-442-0033.
Jarrod Grant, co-founder of the Unlimited Tennis Academy, makes an impact in the community through tennis and what it teaches. In Jarrod’s words, “It's learning how to win and lose, its goal setting, the grit and determination, and the emotional growth. It's imparting those lessons and skills to students that impact their lives.” Stressing the value of life lessons through sport, the Academy now serves 130 full-time students with six tennis coaches and three trainers. Their goal is to make better players, better athletes, and, most importantly, better people.
Jarrod started playing tennis at age 11 and was coached by famed coach Eric Riley. Riley gave Jarrod the opportunity to train alongside Grand Slam Champions Lisa Raymond and Pam Shriver. He became a highly-ranked junior and went on to receive an NCAA Division I tennis scholarship.
Jarrod soon realized how much the game of tennis helped him off the court with discipline, character, sportsmanship, problem-solving, emotional intelligence and much more. So he decided to dedicate his life to the game, not to make great tennis players, but to make great people.
When asked what he loves about Media, Jarrod points to the fantastic community that he and his family have had the opportunity to watch grow over the last decade. Describing Media as “welcoming and inclusive”, he most appreciates the activities and opportunities for his children and family to connect with the community.
Jarrod’s ongoing goals include enhancing the available activities for kids, “One of our goals at the academy is to provide training for multiple sports, including football, lacrosse, soccer, basketball, baseball as well as tennis. Youth sports, done well, can have an incredibly positive impact on a child's overall development.”
And the many inspiring stories you can find on the Unlimited Tennis Academy website (unltdtennis.com) demonstrate exactly that. There, you’ll find stories of children building confidence, refining motor skills, discovering gifts and talents they didn’t know they had, and, most importantly, having fun.
Don Vymazal has always enjoyed public service and has dedicated over 15 years helping Pennsylvania residents resolve statewide concerns. He learned that attending to municipal-level issues was the most gratifying and fulfilling. Don believes that working with members of the community to create improvements, improve the delivery of township service, and craft innovative solutions to complex problems has always been rewarding. He obtained a Master’s in Public Administration degree in order to continue his career as a municipal manager. Vynazal points out, "I was well aware of the exceptional reputation of Upper Providence Township and was honored to accept the position of Township Manager."
He greatly appreciates community-driven initiatives and making innovative ideas a reality. He comments, "Successful efforts are only possible due to the dedicated and professional township staff. We have an amazing team here in Upper Providence Township."
Last year, the township organized and hosted its first Community Day in Rose Tree Park. Don says that the community response was fantastic! Several thousand attended - from members of Council in the dunk tank, to local non-profit and community vendors - good food and great music. The next annual Community Day is September 23, 2023.
Don is also a member of the Rotary International Southeastern PA Eco Club and enjoys volunteering with local community events, such as the CRC annual stream clean-up.
You might not realize it, but in the 1970’s and 80’s, Media had some of the highest crime rates in Pennsylvania. When Chief Matthew Egan joined the police force in Media, crime was still a significant issue. Chief says over the years, he has had the honor of being a part of the team of men and women who have contributed to the significant reduction of serious crime in Media. He says, “Media Borough is now one the most desired towns to live in and I am happy to lead the next generation of officers to keep Media a safe and enjoyable hometown and destination.”
Matt Egan has been the Borough's Chief for under a year but he's been a Police Officer in Media for over 32 years. Egan was a patrol officer for over 10 years, then promoted to Sargent and Shift Supervisor for 21 years, then Lieutenant for 8 months and then to Chief.
When asked why he chose Media, he said, “I wanted to work in a town where I could interact with the residents and feel as if I could make a difference.” Chief Egan wanted to get to know the people he was helping– and he’s never regretted choosing Media.
Shortly after becoming chief, Egan helped the Media Police Department begin the process of Accreditation. This is an exhaustive process where every policy is reviewed by an outside agency and confirmed to be in line with Federal and State laws. This ensures that the police station and equipment along with officers training are all up to or exceed Pennsylvania State standards.
Chief Egan shared that his desire is for the residents of Media to have “the assurance that the Media Police Department is a professional organization that follows best practice standards and has well trained and equipped officers. We are here for you 24/7, 365 days a year.”
Kids of all ages love playgrounds - fueling their imagination, releasing pent-up energy, creating new adventures, increasing social skills, and trying out new ideas. Playing improves cognitive function, increases self-confidence, lowers stress, and is just plan FUN!
According to the Mayo Clinic, play strengthens bones, muscles, lungs and the heart, and can help reduce obesity, diabetes and high cholesterol. It’s also important for their emotional and mental development.
A playground allows parents to spend positive time with their children or simply sit in sun or under a tree while watching their children develop mind and body skills sets. A child always loves it when Mommy or Daddy says, “Good Job!”
When beginning, the Delaware County Planning Department gathered feedback from county residents on the draft designs and concepts in October 2021.
Changes were made to the design utilizing suggestions and comments from the public including increased accessibility and inclusivity.
• The playground has different areas for different age groups:
• It includes a large climbing tower for children ages 5 to 12.
• There's a swing zone, a spinning zone, and an area for children ages 2-5.
Other park features include:
• An expansion of the pedestrian mall which provides an improved setting for festivals and special events.
• New walkways connect the Amphitheater and rear parking lot.
• New landscaping and stormwater management.
“The County’s capital improvement program includes $9M for parks, trails and open space projects - including this one,“ said Delaware County Council Vice Chair Elaine Paul Schaefer. The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources provided a grant in the amount of $200,000 to support the design and construction of the new playground.
Playground equipment was provided and installed by Kompan, a national leader in playground design and the general site construction was by Foresite Concepts Inc. in Newtown Square.
Delaware County Council, the Department of Parks and Recreation and the Department of Public Works have all worked diligently to ensure a safe playground system that residents of all ages can enjoy.
Want to make the perfect sandwich? Capprioti’s was founded in Wilmington, Delaware in 1976 and has grown to over 100 shops in 27 states. In our area, try one of four Capriotti’s Sandwich Shops - owned by Chris Shimer.
Shimer always knew he wanted to be an entrepreneur. Before getting involved with Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop, Chris had a job near one of his now four locations. This is where he first found his love for the Sandwich Shop. After moving job locations, Chris would still take the thirty-minute drive to a Capriotti’s for lunch because their sandwiches were so irresistible.
Shimer and his staff take many different qualities into account when providing the perfect sandwich.
They specialize in using prime ingredients, roasting whole Butterball turkeys every night, and hand pulling them in the morning, delivering fresh, high-quality every day.
Sandwiches are portable, easy-to-eat, and can be customized the way YOU want and you don’t have to stick to the basics at Capprioti’s. For example, there’s a Thanksgiving leftover sandwich! They take all our favorite Thanksgiving dishes and wrap them up into a sandwich. Named “The Bobbie®,” it was voted “The Greatest Sandwich in America”. If you haven’t tried a Bobbie® yet, get ready for slow-roasted turkey topped with cranberry sauce, handmade stuffing and mayo. Then there’s one of the fan favorites, the Capastrami®. This classic is filled with hot pastrami, melting Swiss cheese, fresh crunchy
ARTICLE BY GABI PERSICO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAYNE TOOHEY
cole slaw and Russian dressing. Capriotti’s also includes a selection of vegetarian sandwiches, Vegetarian Cole Turkey®, Impossible™ Cheese Steak and salad options, providing a delicious alternative.
Capriotti’s meats are carefully selected; home-made slow-roasted turkey, American Wagyu beef, homemade meatballs, italian sausage, home-made tuna salad, freshly sliced deli meats, chicken steak and a variety of cheeses are all available for your choosing.
Capriotti’s has a wide selection of cheeses and will make your sandwich, hoagie, cheesesteak and more with any cheese in stock. Extra cheese? No problem. An important step to making the perfect sandwich is to acquire the perfect bread. At Capriotti’s the bread has the right balance of crunchy and soft. Attention is also paid towards the balance of meat to bread to toppings. And there are 4 sizes of hoagies available, small, medium, large and extra large. The correct amount of meat, paired with the correct amount of toppings, and the perfect bread are what make Capriotti’s different from the rest. Chris’ staff has been committed to providing care, effort, attention and time into every sandwich they make, to ensure the perfect sandwich happiness for their customers. Because of this attention to quality, there are now four Capriotti’s locations in the Shimer group. “We wouldn’t have made it this far without customer feedback. We are always looking for input and new ways to improve for our customers” according to Shimer. Capprioti’s Sandwich Shop is ready to make you a great sandwich in Springfield, Glen Mills, Royersford and North Wales order.capriottis.com
Axe-throwing venues are still going strong across the country. Make an evening of it and practice your throwing skills!
What do you buy for the man who has everything? Perhaps an experience oriented around what dads value most— time together —is just what he needs. Fathers and father figures are invaluable in our lives. They help shape and mold us. They’re there for us and support us. If you haven’t already planned something special, take a look at our list of ideas and circle your favorites. If you have kids, let them join in the fun too!
Whether you decide to spend a day at home or enjoy a day on the town, these innovative celebration ideas will include fun for the whole family and make Dad feel loved. Whatever activity or surprise you land on to show your dad, husband, brother or father figure your appreciation for all they do, the most important thing is that you all get to spend some quality time together.
If some of Dad’s role models include Gordon Ramsay and Bobby Flay, consider thinking outside the box and create a meal with something you wouldn’t usually go for like bison burgers or grilled octopus tentacles. Tackling a complex recipe may seem challenging but the memories and the meal will be worth it.
Find a local trail you haven’t tried before, load up the bikes and set out for a day of riding. Finish off the day with a nice meal out after all your hard work.
Dig a hole in your backyard and have Dad help the kids gather items around the house (like a current newspaper or flyers) and put them in a waterproof bag.
JUNE 10TH
JASPER STREET MUNICIPAL LOT, 26 E. JASPER ST., MEDIA, PA 19063 | 11:00 AM
MAC’s Summer Block Party! National and local bands, food trucks, and beer garden! It's fun for the entire family. Feel free to bring a lawn chair. You’ll have a blast and we’ll see you there! Enter at MAC on 11 E. State St. $15 General Admission (Children 13 and under are free.) mediaartscouncil.org
JUNE 16TH
BOROUGH OF MEDIA, MEDIA, PA 19063 | 7:00 PM
The 2.5 mile course is a challenge, with twists and turns, the short and steep and long rising hills brings out the beast in runners. Participants have included former Olympians, university and high school athletes, seasoned teams, and runners of all levels. The run is certified by the USATF. Event proceeds support health, education and local non-profits serving Media. media5milerace.com
JUNE 17TH
LINVILLA ORCHARD, 137 W. KNOWLTON RD., MEDIA, PA 19063
Linvilla is partnering with local food trucks to bring a food-tastic event! Along with delicious treats from the trucks make sure you grab a brew in the Ship Bottom Brewery Beer Garden! The atmosphere will be filled with music and fun for the whole family. You won't want to miss it! linvilla.com
Not sure what design? Let us work with you to create a one-of-a-kind piece that’s the perfect style, color, and size for you.
JUNE 24TH
ROSE TREE PARK, 1671 N. PROVIDENCE RD., MEDIA, PA 19063 | 7:30 PM
Running June through August, free concerts in Rose Tree Park’s scenic outdoor amphitheater have been a popular Delco tradition for more than four decades! Take in top-notch entertainment of all kinds, from Classical to Cajun, Motown to Broadway, Doo Wop to Rock & Pop, tribute shows and everything in between. Showtime is 7:30 PM on Wednesday through Sunday unless otherwise noted. delcopa.gov/departments/ parks/summerfestival.html
ROSE TREE PARK, 1671 N. PROVIDENCE RD., MEDIA, PA 19063 | 10:00 AM
Calling all car enthusiasts! Discover some of the Delco’s finest classic, cruisers, and collectable cars. Come out and mingle, enjoy food vendor, music, and a 50/50 raffle. Awards presented for People Choice and Best in Show entries. Admission is free to the public. $20 Registration fee to show cars. delcocruisers.org
JUNE 25TH
MEDIA VFW POST 3460, 11 HILLTOP AVE., MEDIA, PA 19063 | 8:00 AM
The last Sunday of each month, the Media VFW hosts a breakfast buffet open to the public - featuring classic breakfast items like french toast, home fries, and made to order omelettes. Support our vets and enjoy a hearty breakfast. Bring your family and friends. 8:00 till 11:00am. $12.00 for Adults and $5.00 for children 12 and under. vfw3460.com
EASY-TO-MAKE, VERSATILE, AND OH SO GOOD! MAKE A PITCHER FOR FUN WITH FRIENDS.
This drink is one of the most refreshing, easy-to-make drinks you can include in your repertoire.
ingredients:
Recipe for one serving:
• Limes
• 4 sprigs of Fresh Mint (10 leaves with one sprig for garnish)
• Simple Syrup (or sugar)
• White Rum (or any clear alcoholno alcohol is great too!)
• club soda (or any lemon-lime soda)
• a muddler
• a sturdy glass
directions:
1. Put 10 mint leaves (without the stems) into the glass.
2. Cut limes into quarters. Some recipes call for a 1/2 lime (I use at least 2 limes depending on the size of the glass.)
3. Put 2 quarters of the lime into the glass and muddle to release and combine the mint oils and lime juice. Add more quarters and muddle. Save 2 quarters whole for decoration in the glass and one for garnish.
4. Add 2 tablespoons sugar or one ounce of simple syrup to taste and muddle.
5. Add 1 saved wedge and fill glass with ice.
Karin Davidson: Karin Davidson began bartending at 21 years old. Her specialty was creating drinks by asking a few questions and making up cocktails for patrons. She also was a Cayman Islands TV Producer and learned many tropical recipes.
6. Add rum until the glass is 3/4 full. (You can use less) and stir. Or shake in a shaker and return to glass.
7. Top with club soda, stir, add the mint spring and lime garnish and enjoy!
With new experiences and worry-free living, moving to Riddle Village is just the beginning of an amazing future.
With amenities and services that include weekly housekeeping, home maintenance, a dining plan that gives you access to four restaurants and a full-service bar, state-of-the-art fitness center, transportation, our Lifecare contract and so much more; the lifestyle at Riddle Village opens up your world so you can focus your energy on doing what you love.
Reach out today to learn more about our apartment renovation program and how we can have you living your best life in just 60 days.