Issuu

Preserving, Growing, and Sharing

Investment, by definition, is the act of devoting time, effort, energy or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. And this month’s “Investment ” issue is sure to jumpstart some thinking in many of you.

We can invest in many things such as our community, our relationships, our finances, and our health, with the hope that the effort will have a positive impact. We can invest in our community by supporting our local businesses, schools, and local organizations. We can serve the community through volunteerism and investment in future generations.

We kick off April with Members Wealth CEO, Dane Czaplicki, who provides us with sage advice highlighting that success isn’t just about accumulating wealth— it’s about preserving, growing, enjoying, and passing it on with intention.

Many of you are entrepreneurs or thinking about becoming one. And starting up a new business requires professional guidance to avoid the myriad of challenges. Nathen Wenk, ESQ., of Spengler & Agans, gave us 8 thought-provoking topics to help you on your way.

What investment conversation would be complete without the stock market talk? We hear about the market on the news, and some of us follow it. Others… not so much. But like anything in life, it makes sense to consult a professional to advise and guide us. So we tapped Jimmy Murray of Principal Financial Services to weigh in on this for us.

It’s said that your home is often your biggest investment. Another great example of where a professional can provide valuable insights on the “do’s & don’ts” of selling your home. So check out our 12 Essential Tips to Prepare Your Home for a Successful Sale and Maximize Its Value.

As mentioned, we can also invest in our community by supporting our local nonprofits. This has never been more poignant than now as we enter the 2nd year of Delco Gives, hosted by The Foundation for Delaware County. This community-wide celebration benefits hundreds of nonprofits right here in our community that could benefit from your support.

And finally, while investing in ourselves, relationships, community, and finances can look very different from person to person, the goal is the same. We just wanted to share about some of the ways that we can invest in our community, our finances and with those that we love.

April 2025

PUBLISHER

Scott Davidson | scott.davidson@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Karin Davidson | karin.davidson@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Stephanie Hwang | stephanie.hwang@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Dane Czaplicki, CFA, CEO & CIO Members Wealth LLC | Dane@memberswealthllc.com,

Nathan Wenk, ESQ | nathan@sab.law, Katy Lichtenstein | klichtenstein@delcofoundation.org

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Karin Davidson, Ed Ryder, Hoi Michael Cheung

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

CTO Ajay Krishnan

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

SCOTT DAVIDSON, PUBLISHER

city scene

1-7: Media hosts the annual festival for the Chinese New Year (or The Lunar New Year) featuring the Lion Dance. Lions are symbolic of wisdom and bring fortune in the coming year. Hung Gar Kung Fu Academy continues the Media Lion Dance tradition. Many thanks to our local sponsors: Media Business Authority, Visit Media PA, Media Borough Recreation Board, The Foundation for Delaware County, The Towne House, The Shebeen, The Hometown, Game on State, Artisan Croissanterie, Peking Media Restaurant, and Dim Sum Mania. Photography by Hoi Michael Cheung

Dr. Bob

Dr. Alexa

Dr. Dan

Dr. Jarred

WEALTH Done R.I.T.E.

ARTICLE BY DANE CZAPLICKI, CFA, CEO PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARIN DAVIDSON

Financial success isn't just about accumulating wealth— it’s about preserving, growing, enjoying, and ultimately passing it on with intention. In Media, PA, a region known for its successful professionals and strong community ties, building a solid financial foundation requires a proactive approach across four R.I.T.E. pillars: Risk. Investments. Tax. Estate.

RISK: THE FOUNDATION OF A SOUND PLAN

Risk management is more than insurance—it’s about financial resilience. From asset protection strategies using LLCs and proper asset titling to budgeting and cash flow planning, managing risk means being prepared. Without a plan, individuals may find themselves exposed to lawsuits, market downturns, or unforeseen life events that could significantly impact their future.

The biggest risk is the one you don’t see coming. Proper planning ensures you’re prepared.

INVESTMENTS: STRUCTURING WEALTH FOR LONG-TERM GROWTH

A well-structured investment strategy starts with an Investment Policy Statement (IPS) and a coordinated financial plan. While cash, stocks, bonds, and real estate all play a role, aligning investments with personal goals and risk tolerance is key. The most successful investors don’t chase returns—they follow a disciplined strategy that withstands market cycles.

The key to building wealth isn’t timing the market—it’s time in the market. A longterm, disciplined approach pays dividends over decades.

TAX: WHAT YOU KEEP MATTERS MORE THAN WHAT YOU MAKE

Tax efficiency overlaps with investing and estate planning, influencing investment types, capital gains strategies, and charitable giving. Proper planning ensures wealth isn’t lost to unnecessary taxes but is preserved for future goals. The decisions you make today determine how much wealth you keep tomorrow—and how much flexibility you have in the future.

ESTATE: LEGACY BEYOND WEALTH

Estate planning is more than drafting a will—though a will is a great start. It’s about creating a roadmap for generational success, ensuring your family’s legacy is preserved and passed down with intention. Beyond legal documents like Powers of Attorney, Medical Directives, and Trusts, a truly effective estate plan reflects your values and prepares future generations to manage wealth responsibly.

With TJCA estate tax laws set to change in 2026, now is the time to solidify your plan. More than just transferring assets, estate planning is about preparing your next generation—who may not need the money but should be equipped to steward it wisely. Family education meetings and open conversations about values, financial literacy, and legacy promote wealth as a tool for empowerment, not entitlement, ensuring your impact lasts for generations.

GIVING AND COMMUNITY IMPACT: A CORE PART OF ESTATE PLANNING

Estate planning is about making a lasting impact. For many, financial success brings the desire to give back, whether by supporting charitable causes, funding educational initiatives, or strengthening local communities. Thoughtful philanthropy can be woven into an estate plan through donor-advised funds, charitable trusts, or direct gifts, ensuring your legacy reflects your values and priorities.

True impact is about intentional giving that aligns with your long-term vision. Charitable planning strategies can maximize tax efficiency while directing wealth to causes that matter most. Whether it’s

“THE DECISIONS YOU MAKE TODAY DETERMINE HOW MUCH WEALTH YOU KEEP TOMORROW - AND HOW MUCH FLEXIBILITY YOU HAVE IN THE FUTURE.”

- Dane Czaplicki, CFA, CEO & CIO Members’ Wealth LLC

establishing a family foundation, creating scholarships, or endowing a nonprofit, strategic philanthropy ensures your wealth continues to work for good, even after you are gone.

On a local level, Delaware County offers meaningful ways to make a difference. The Foundation for Delaware County provides valuable resources for integrating charitable giving into estate plans. Additionally, DELCO Gives Day (May 8-9) highlights opportunities for philanthropy, encouraging residents to leave a legacy that benefits future generations.

By planning with purpose, you can sustain your success in creating positive change—both globally and right here in our community.

IMPLEMENTATION & EXECUTION: THE MISSING LINK

A financial plan without execution is just a collection of ideas. Many successful professionals manage their wealth independently— until they realize they’re not making the progress they intended. As wealth grows, so does complexity. Managing investments, taxes, estate planning, and risk becomes an interconnected puzzle where each decision affects the others.

What starts as pride in doing it yourself can turn into frustration, second-guessing, or stalled momentum.

Dane Czaplicki, Members Wealth LLC

Dane and Timothy Macarak, CFP

AM I OPTIMIZING MY WEALTH? DO I HAVE A COHESIVE STRATEGY? IS MY FAMILY PREPARED?

Maybe you’re a loving couple with differing risk tolerances, conflicting views on family finances, or concerns about what your wealth will mean for your children. Or perhaps a business sale, retirement, or inheritance has reshaped your financial landscape in a significant way, introducing more uncertainty.

The weight of these decisions can be overwhelming, pulling focus from what truly matters: family, business, and personal fulfillment.

TURNING COMPLEXITY INTO CLARITY

Success is about assembling the right team to align, simplify, and execute your vision. With the right professionals in place, you can transform uncertainty into confidence, hesitancy into action, and complexity into clarity—freeing you to focus on what matters most.

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF IT IS TIME TO ELEVATE YOUR FINANCIAL PLAN TO A COORDINATED PROFESSIONAL TEAM?

1. Is your financial life a collection of ideas—or a coordinated plan?

You may have investments, tax strategies, and estate plans, but are they working together? A professional team aligns and proactively manages each piece toward your goals.

2. Are you managing wealth—or is it managing you?

As financial complexity grows, so does decision fatigue. If you’re delaying important choices or unsure about risk, taxes, or legacy planning, guidance helps.

3. Are you responsible for everything – or do you have a team?

Many feel confident managing wealth—until they consider what would happen if they could not. A professional team brings continuity to your family.

4. Do you have a fiduciary partner—or just a collection of service providers?

A tax preparer, investment advisor, and insurance agent may not be enough. A fiduciary wealth manager coordinates across tax, estate, investment, and insurance strategies.

5. Are you making financial decisions based on opportunity— or anxiety?

Big transitions—business sales, retirement, or inheritance—bring complexity. The right team helps you move forward with confidence.

About the author:

Dane Czaplicki is the co-founder of Members’ Wealth in Media. Dane has a background in Biology, a CFA charter, an MBA from Wharton, and extensive industry expertise. Known for his authentic character, he fosters trust and long-lasting partnerships, helping clients achieve financial peace of mind while balancing wealth preservation with life’s adventures.

MembersWealthLLC.com

Marie Feindt, JD

Working for Clients

Looking to Sell Your Home?

Essential Tips to Prepare Your Home for a Successful Sale and Maximize Its Value

DEPERSONALIZING

Depersonalizing allows buyers to imagine the house as their own. Remove personal items like family photos, trophies, anf personal knickknacks. Even decorative elements like "Bless this House" should be removed, so it doesn’t interfere with visualizing their own style.

CLUTTER REMOVAL

Buyers will open cabinets, drawers, closets and more. To make the home look more inviting, you'll want to reduce excess. Consider clearing out your kitchen, pantry, and cupboards. Remove any hidden trash or items that don't contribute to the home’s overall appeal. Clean your appliances or even replace them. Box up extra clothes, shoes, and accessories that haven’t been used in a while. Not only will this help your closets appear larger, but it also shows that your home has ample storage space. Reducing the amount of furniture in rooms can make the space look bigger and more open. Visit model homes for ideas of how to place pieces to make the most of the room.

Clean and organized storage areas such as basements, attics, garages, and sheds can significantly enhance your home’s appeal.

PLUMBING AND FIXTURES

Inspect all plumbing fixtures to ensure they function properly. Check faucets for leaks, and make sure they turn easily. Check pipes underneath sinks for leaks or signs of water damage. Polish the fixtures to make them shine.

ARTICLE BY REBECCA DIAMOND, BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES FOX & ROACH REALTORS

WALLS, CEILINGS, AND PAINTING

Inspect the walls and ceilings for any stains or imperfections. Old leaks might still have marks even after repairs. Be sure to address issues before listing the home. Light switches can accumulate grime, so give them a good cleaning with a toothbrush. One of the most cost-effective ways to refresh your home is by applying a new coat of paint. Neutral colors like beige, cream, or ivory work best, as they allow potential buyers to imagine their own color schemes. Avoid using stark white, as it can sometimes appear too cold and impersonal. Gray is trendy, but difficult to get the right shade.

CARPET AND FLOORING

Your carpets should be cleaned thoroughly to remove dirt and odors. If the carpet is visibly worn or outdated, replace it. Choose an affordable, neutral color. One trick to make inexpensive carpet feel more luxurious is to invest in a high-quality, thick carpet pad.

If your home has hardwood floors, make necessary repairs and polish them to restore their natural shine. Carbona makes a great “floor polish” product for this.

WINDOWS AND DOORS

Ensure that all windows, doors, and drawers are functioning smoothly. Apply a bit of WD-40 to squeaky hinges, and check for cracked or broken windowpanes. A clean set of windows not only enhances your home’s curb appeal but also lets in more natural light, making the space, feels brighter and more inviting.

ODOR CONTROL

If you smoke indoors, limit smoking while the house is on the market. You may need to use specialized odor-removal products such as ozone spray to eliminate any lingering smells. Pet odors, which you may be accustomed to, can be very noticeable to others - keep pet areas clean. Use carpet fresheners to keep things smelling fresh. Additionally, avoid cooking odors like garlic, seafood, or cabbage.

EXTERIOR CURB APPEAL

The first impression of your home comes from the exterior. Take a walk across the street to get an objective view of your home’s appearance. Compare it to neighboring properties; you want your house to stand out for the right reasons.

LANDSCAPING

Your outdoors should be neat and well-maintained. If possible, plant blooming colorful flowers. Your lawn should be evenly cut, freshly edged, well-watered, and free of brown spots. Problems with your lawn? Take care of them first, because certain areas may need to be re-sod, grow and blend in. Give fertilizer enough time to be effective. Always rake up loose leaves and grass cuttings.

HOUSE EXTERIOR

When looking at your home from the street, consider whether it looks faded or tired. A fresh coat of paint is a wise investment, as it can dramatically improve the home’s appeal. Choose a color that fits with the surrounding homes - yellow tones often receive positive reactions from buyers, whether as the main color or in trim. Inspect the roof and be honest about its condition.

If it's old or damaged, replacing it before listing is often the best option. If you don’t, you are going to have to disclose it. Get a pre-listing inspection so you have an idea of the roof’s status and can disclose that to your potential buyers. This advice alone can save you thousands!

BACKYARD AND OUTDOOR SPACES

The backyard and any terraces should be clean and neat, with any outdoor furniture looking well-maintained. If you have a pool or spa, make sure it’s properly cleaned and maintained. Dog owners should be diligent about picking up after their pets and keeping the yard clear of any mess.

FRONT DOOR AND ENTRYWAY

Your front door is the invitation into the house. Repaint if needed. Bold colors like black or red are often seen as welcoming and inviting. Polish the door’s fixtures. Remove personal items like plaques, nameplates, or doormats, as they can detract from the home’s universal appeal. When a homebuyer comes to visit your home, the agent uses the key from the lock box to unlock the door. Make sure the lock works easily.

AUTHOR’S ADVICE

The key is to be thorough and focused. Take it one room at a time and don't hesitate to seek professional help, Don’t just clean up—be ruthless in your approach to ensure your home is as appealing as possible to potential buyers.

Rebecca Diamond has been the leading local realtor for decades, and she specializes in high-value luxury homes. “She negotiated like a pit bull, was extraordinarily quick to respond, knew the market inside and out, and kept us informed throughout. We are positively ecstatic.” – Cecilia Mackenzie

Rebecca Diamond consistently ranks in the top 7% across the Delaware Valley

Ice On State

FAMILIES, BUSINESSES, AND VISITORS EMBRACE ICY FUN AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT IN DOWNTOWN MEDIA

ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HWANG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ED RYDER

Media was aglow with icy brilliance on January 25-26 for the third annual Ice On State, hosted by the Media Business Authority and presented by Visit Delco. The event drew over 6,000 visitors to enjoy dozens of stunning ice sculptures, music, and live ice carvings.

Artists from Ice Sculpture Philly amazed spectators by crafting intricate sculptures, sponsored by local businesses. Interactive sculptures included Ice Cornhole game, an Ice Sliding Board, and an Ice Throne. Artists did a live carving of a DJ booth from solid ice before music took over the evening. Families and friends posed for photos with icy frames, and adults sipped on specialty cocktails served through ice luges.

Our community connection is the reason Media is the place for seasonal local fun. Visit Delco says “They say Delco is a lot, and they’re right,” and Ice On State proved how much heart and warmth lives here.

“We were thrilled to host the third annual Ice On State event, presented by Visit Delco and featuring the extraordinary carvings by the talented team at Ice Sculpture Philly. Media’s residents and visitors look forward to this mid-winter event and the small businesses in the State Street District certainly appreciate the wonderful support from the community.” - Dave Fairman, Executive Director, Media Business Authority

“Participating in Ice On State was an incredible way to bring awareness to our one-on-one therapy company and concurrently support our community. It was a “cool” approach to getting our name out.” - Kristen Wilson, PT, DPT, GCS, Action Potential One on One Physical Therapy Co-Owner

This page, top: Action Potential One-On-One Physical Therapy botttom : The Throne Picture Time!

3rd

4th

5th

Thinking of Starting a Business?

KEY FACTORS TO CONSIDER - INCLUDING FUNDING AND MANAGING RESOURCES

ARTICLE BY NATHAN WENK, ESQ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARIN DAVIDSON

While every business opportunity is different, here are eight considerations to keep in mind.

1. Entity Formation. Whether you form a Pennsylvania or Delaware LLC or Corporation corporation depends a lot on your end goals. LLCs work well when your goal is primarily just to run your own business. On the other hand, a corporation is ideal for higher growth companies that may take on investors at various points in the growth cycle. LLCs are the right answer for most people, whether for a rental property, a coffee shop, or a consulting company.

2. Funding. Typical sources include your own savings, taking on outside investors, and a loan from the Small Business Administration (SBA). Using your own savings (or credit cards or a HELOC) means that you have the most control over how the funds are used, but also increase your risk (because no one else’s money is at stake). Taking on investors can help spread the risk to other parties, though the investors usually want a voice for important company decisions. SBA loans are available for certain types of businesses and allow you to retain control of the business while not putting all of your own money at risk. However, SBA loans require a personal guarantee from the borrower, again increasing your risk.

3. Insurance. Obtaining commercial general liability insurance can be a great way to decrease your financial risk, though it comes at a monthly cost. An experienced and qualified insurance broker can provide recommendations for the types and limits of coverage.

4. Commercial Contracts. Drafting and negotiating your company’s key legal contracts can be confusing and complicated endeavor. Having a form agreement for your customers and employees can be a good way to make sure all of the pieces are in place to protect your business/assets. If your employees handle confidential information or create any technology or inventions, a “Proprietary Information and Invention Assignment Agreement” will help ensure confidentiality and that your business owns their work product.

Customer agreements are a way to set out the terms of the engagement and limit your own liability in the process. Many of these provisions are complex (i.e., indemnification and limitations of liability) and greatly benefit from being drafted by an attorney. Starting out, however, you may be forced to use the counterparty’s form of agreement, in which case it is even more important to have an attorney review its provisions. Finally, you may need space to operate your business, which requires signing a commercial lease. Typically, landlords have the bulk of the negotiating power, so picking your battles is key to getting the deal done.

5. Franchising. Opening a franchise can be an easy way to hit the ground running with help from an established brand. However, franchise agreements (like commercial leases) can be some of the most one-sided agreements you will see (and not in your favor!). Further, most franchise agreements require a personal guarantee that limits your ability to get out before the end of the term. Opening a franchise is a big commitment and should be evaluated carefully.

6. Accounting and Taxes. Talking with a qualified CPA before you need them is critical to keeping your books straight and preparing for tax season. CPAs can assist with financial management, tax planning and provide strategic advice.

7. Budget. Simple financial modeling can help create guidelines for running your business. Consider onetime costs (e.g., trademark filing) as well as recurring monthly expenses (e.g., rent/utilities, labor). Consider how long it will take you to start receiving revenue and keep this in mind when evaluating funding sources and how much you can pay yourself.

8. Testing the Waters. Before quitting your job and pursuing your dream, dipping your toe in the “self-employed” water may be a safer way to test the market. Many people keep their day job and start an LLC for the side hustle they pursue on nights and weekends. sab.law/nathan-wenk

Simple financial modeling can help create guidelines for running your business.

Are Stock Investments Right for You?

Successful Investing Often Depends on Diversification

Investing in stocks can be an excellent way to grow wealth, but for beginners, it can present as both an opportunity and a challenge. Jim Murray, a financial advisor with over 23 years of experience, breaks down the basics of investing and how to get started.

“When you invest in stocks, bonds, or mutual funds, you’re buying a stake in publicly traded companies,” Murray explains. “These businesses use the influx of capital to grow, and as they do, so does the value of your investment.” However, the financial markets are inherently volatile.

“The most challenging aspect for investors is volatility,” he notes. “Some days the market will be up, other days it will be down. If you’re not real comfortable with the fluctuations of the markets, then stocks are typically not a good investment for you. If you can stomach the volatility, it’s a great place as a long-term investor to make excellent returns.”

Successful investing often depends on diversification. “You don’t want all your eggs in one basket,” Murray says. Owning a mix of stocks and bonds can help soften market volatility. Stocks can provide strong returns, while bonds offer more stability. Murray advises, “For instance, a $1,000 investment in a 5% bond

yields a guaranteed return over its duration. So that can be a safer place to invest.”

For beginners, professional guidance is highly recommended. “If you lack investment expertise, consulting a financial professional can help you navigate the rough waters,” Murray states. “Day traders who go out and try and pick and make moves with their own stocks… that’s a glorified form of gambling.”

Getting started in investing is surprisingly accessible. “You can begin with as little as $50 or $100,” Murray says. “If I’m taking on a new client, typically, we’re going to sit down and learn a little bit about you to see where your risk tolerance falls in your time horizon. Every investor has a different threshold for market fluctuations. They may have short-term goals, or want long-term financial security.”

While stocks can historically deliver impressive returns, they are not suitable for shortterm investing. For investments needed within a year, Murray recommends more conservative options like CDs or other guaranteed-return vehicles. However, for those planning five, ten, or even twenty years ahead - particularly for retirement - stocks can be an essential tool for building long-term wealth.

Jim Murray

Jim Murray, AIF®, RICP®

INDULGE IN Elegance

USDA PRIME CUT BEEF SEASONED TO PERFECTION WITH A SIGNATURE BLEND OF SPICES BY OUR CHEF ED TIETJEN

ARTICLE BY STEPHENSONSTATEST@GMAIL.COM AND STEPHANIE HWANG

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARIN DAVIDSON

SPICE-ENCRUSTED NEW YORK STRIP STEAK

This is a perfect pairing of prime steak with two upscale cocktails. Each steak is expertly seared to your liking, promising a crust that’s delightfully crisp and aromatic, while the inside remains succulently tender. This mouthwatering steak is accompanied by creamy garlic shallot butter mashed potatoes and crisp, fresh green beans.

USDA Prime is the highest grade of beef that the U.S. Department of Agriculture awards. It’s known for being juicy, tender, and flavorful, with the highest level of marbling.

New York strip steak is a popular cut because of its bold flavor and satisfying texture. While not as buttery soft as a filet mignon, it has a well-balanced combination of tenderness and chew. The rich marbling makes it a go-to choice for those seeking a high-end yet affordable luxury.

The New York Strip comes from a section near the cow’s spine where the muscle remains tender. It’s a cut that has both sophistication and satisfying bite in every mouthful. The short loin also yields the porterhouse, T-bone, and segments of the tenderloin.

First, preheat the oven to 400°F. Rub the steak with oil and spices and let rest for an hour. For the perfect sear, start with a cast-iron skillet or a heavy pan capable of retaining high heat. Use an oil with a high smoke point to prevent burning. Once the pan is sizzling hot, place the well-seasoned steak in and let it sear undisturbed for 1-2 minutes per side. Transfer to the oven. Check the internal temp after 3-5 minutes with a meat thermometer and allow more time in the oven as desired. For the perfect steak, a meat thermometer works wonders:

• Rare: 120°F to 125°F

• Medium-Rare: 125°F to 130°F

• Medium: 135°F to 140°F

• Medium-Well: 145°F to 150°F

• Well-Done: 155°F and above

Pair it with Stephen’s On State’s signature cocktails, and you have a meal worthy of any special occasion—or simply a well-deserved indulgence.

DIRTY BLUE MARTINI

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz Grey Goose Vodka

• 1 oz Olive Juice: adjust to taste

• 2-3 Hand-Stuffed Blue Cheese Olives: for garnish

PREPARATION

1. Chill Glass: Freeze a martini glass or fill with ice water to quick-chill.

2. Mix: Stir Grey Goose vodka and olive juice for 30 seconds in a mixing glass halfway filled with ice. Stirring is traditionally used for martinis to prevent the vodka from bruising, keeping the drink smooth.

3. Serve: Strain into the chilled glass, garnish with skewered hand-stuffed blue cheese olives. (Editor’s note: the olives are amazing.)

Recipe by Ron Kennedy Stephen’s On State stephensonstate.com

RASPBERRY LEMON DROP MARTINI

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz Stolichnaya Razberi Vodka

• 1 oz Fresh Lemonade

• Fresh Raspberries: for muddling and garnish

• Sugar: for rimming the glass

PREPARATION

1. Rim Glass: Rub a lemon slice on the rim of a chilled martini glass, then dip in sugar.

2. Muddle Raspberries: In a shaker, muddle a handful of fresh raspberries to release their juice.

3. Mix: Add vodka, lemonade, and muddled raspberries, then fill with ice. Shake well.

4. Strain and Serve: Strain into the glass, garnish with raspberries on a skewer or floating on top.

Recipe by Ron Kennedy

Raspberry Lemon Drop Martini

Dirty Blue Martini

WEIGHT LOS S JUST G OT EASIER

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MARCH 12TH – APRIL 6TH

Nora: A Doll’s House

“ I l o s t 4 2 p o u n d s i n 1 2 w e e k s ,

I c o u l d ’ n t h a v e d o n e i t w i t h o u t

y o u ! I h a v e t r i e d t o d o t h i s o n

m y o w n w i t h n o r e a l s u c c e s s .

I t w a s e a s i e r t h a n I t h o u g h t a n d

I w o u l d r e c o m m e n d t o a n y o n e

l o o k i n g t o l o s e w e i g h t c a l l D r.

J a s o n a t D i s c o v e r. ”

Jim N. - Aston PA Actual Discover Optimal Healthcare Patient

exp 05/30/25

FDA Approved

Reduces Appetite Decreases appetite & food cravings

Slows Digestion

Promotes Signiﬁcant Weight Loss

Improves Metabolic Health Non-stimulant

Improves Insulin Resistance Complements

Lifestyle Changes

Convenient Treatment Options Long-Term Weight Loss

HEDGEROW THEATRE, 64 ROSE VALLEY RD., MEDIA, PA 19063

Nora is the perfect wife and mother. She is dutiful, beautiful, and everything is always in its right place. But when a secret from her past comes back to haunt her, her life rapidly unravels. Over the course of three days, Nora must fight to protect herself and her family or risk losing everything. hedgerowtheatre.org

APRIL 5TH

2025 Tyler Arboretum 10K Trail Run

TYLER ARBORETUM, 515 PAINTER RD, MEDIA, PA 19063 | 9:00 AM

A must-do race in DELCO, made special by the opportunity to race through the gorgeous, historic grounds of Tyler Arboretum. This unique trail race is a rare off-road event and is the ONLY race held in this beautiful setting. It’s also part of the 2025 USATF Mid-Atlantic Off-Road Grand Prix Series. A fantastic opportunity for runners of all levels to test their endurance while supporting a good cause. tylerarboretum.org

APRIL 6TH

Media Borough

SPRING YARD SALE

MEDIA BOROUGH, 301 N. JACKSON ST., MEDIA, PA 19063 | 9:00 AM

Start this Spring with a clean closet or garage. The Media Recreation Board is hosting it’s annual Spring Yard Sale. Online registrations must be submitted by March 30th to be included in the online map. This is a Media Borough resident event. Contact the Recreation Department with any questions: jmetzger@mediaborough.com. mediaborough.com

APRIL 6TH

P.I.T. 2025 Designer Bag Bingo

PENNSYLVANIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, 800 MANCHESTER AVE., MEDIA, PA 19063 | 2:00 PM

Play Bingo for a chance to win an amazing designer handbag from designers like Michael Kors, Kate Spade, Dooney & Bourke, and Radley of London. No ink daubers needed. Tickets include a chance for a door prize! Additional raffle tickets, a 50/50 and extra bingo cards are available for purchase. Light snacks are included. All proceeds benefit P.I.T.’s scholarship programs. pit.edu/events/2025bingo

APRIL 11TH – 26TH

Rock of Ages - A Classic Rock Jukebox Musical

PLAYERS CLUB OF SWARTHMORE, 614 FAIRVIEW Rd., SWARTHMORE, PA 19081

Set on L.A.’s famous Sunset Strip in 1987, Rock of Ages tells the story of Drew, a city boy from South Detroit, and Sherrie, a small-town girl, who have both traveled to L.A. to chase their dreams of making it big and falling in love. Rock of Ages is a jukebox musical built around classic rock songs from the 1980s, especially from the famous glam metal bands of that decade. pcstheater.org

APRIL 26TH – 28TH

SPRING BOOK SALE:

MEDIA-UPPER PROVIDENCE FREE LIBRARY, 1 E. FRONT ST., MEDIA, PA 19063

A great community event that comes only twice a year offering 1000’s of gently used books, CDs, DVDs vinyl records, games, puzzles and more at incredibly low prices. Come and shop early. All proceeds benefit the Media-Upper Providence Free Library. mediauplibrary.org

Delco Gives Returns on May 8-9, 2025

DELAWARE COUNTY IS GEARING UP FOR THE BIG CHARITY EVENT

ARTICLE BY KATY LICHTENSTEIN

Delco Gives, hosted by The Foundation for Delaware County, is a community-wide celebration that benefits hundreds of nonprofits. Last year, nearly 10,000 donors visited delcogives.org. The result: over 280 Delco nonprofits received $1.7 million for their critical services including after-school and childcare programs, animal shelters, art programs, and more. The Foundation is hoping for another successful year in 2025 – with your help.

GIVING IS EASY AND MAKES AN IMPACT

Several nonprofit organizations, including the Media Arts Council, Media-Upper Providence Free Library, and the Media Food Bank, have signed up.

Last year, the median donation was only $30. All proceeds will go directly to participating nonprofits. Every donation will be matched with bonus funding from the Foundation and generous sponsors. Additional cash prizes sponsored by local businesses are also given out.

A DAY OF FESTIVITIES

The excitement doesn’t end with online donations. We’ll all get a chance to be part of Delco Gives at a series of community events across the county, including a celebration at Rose Tree Park in Media on May 9 at 5:00 p.m.

HOW CAN BUSINESSES GET INVOLVED?

Delco Gives wouldn’t be successful without the generous support of local businesses, including Presenting Sponsor Power Home Remodeling. These sponsorships encourage participation and help raise even more money for participating nonprofits. There are opportunities for every size business to be involved. Your organization can sponsor a prize for a nonprofit(s) for $1,000 or more. To learn more about how you can sponsor Delco Gives, reach out to Laura Sindoni: lsindoni@delcofoundation.org

LOOKING AHEAD

View the participating nonprofits and a schedule of events at delcogives.org

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL CHEUNG

Temwa Wright and The Phillie Fanatic

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