This publication is an effort to keep the community informed with what is actually happening in your area. For future editions, I welcome your thoughts on topics that affect the community I'd be happy to publish your opinions on any relevant topics.
Do you have an event that you'd like to publicize? Let me know , and I'll do my best to incorporate your event into the newsletter.
This is your community. This is your home. Use this publication to share your thoughts and ideas with your neighbors. Are you ready to get involved in your community?
TOWNSHIP DIRECTORY
TOWNSHIP ADMINISTRATION
BUILDING
75 East Lancaster Avenue Ardmore, PA 19003-2323
www.lowermerion.org
610-649-4000
Mon - Fri 8:15 am to 4:30 pm
Township Manager...........610-645-6102
Township Secretary...........610-645-6145
Building & Planning ........610-645-6200
Finance Department.........610-645-6160
Human Resources.............610-645-6120
Information Technology...610-645-6180
Parking Services...............610-645-6230
Parks and Recreation.......610-645-6220
Public Information ...........610-645-6199
Public Works.....................610-645-6150
FIRE DEPARTMENTS
Emergency Phone: 9-1-1
Main : 610-645-6190
21 - Penn Wynne 1440 Manoa Road Wynnewood, PA 19096 610-642-9688
22 - Belmont Hills 4 S. Washington Avenue Belmont Hills, PA 19004 610-664-9185
23 - Bryn Mawr 107 West Chester Pike Havertown, PA 19083 610-446-9870
24 - Gladwyne 1044 Black Rock Road Gladwyne, PA 19035 610-642-9586
26 - Narberth 100 Conway Avenue Narberth, PA 19072 610-664-9278
28 - Union (Bala Cynwyd) 149 Montgomery Avenue Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004 610-664-9112
301 East Montgomery Ave Ardmore, PA 19003
610.645.1800 lmsd.org
746 Panmure Road Havertford, PA 19041 610-525-0272
www.mainlineart.org
LOWER MERION SCHOOL DISTRICT MAIN LINE ART CENTER HOLIDAY CLOSURES
New Year's Day
Martin Luther King, Jr's Birthday
Presidents' Day
Good Friday Memorial Day
Juneteenth
Independence Day
Labor Day
Thanksgiving Day
Christmas Day
SCAM ALERTS
The Check is NOT in the Mail
Why thieves want your checks and how you could stop them.
Have you ever sent a check that was cashed, but the recipient said it never arrived? You may be the victim of check washing. Check washing scams involve changing the payee names and often the dollar amounts on checks and fraudulently depositing them. Occasionally, these checks are stolen from mailboxes and washed in chemicals to remove the ink. Some scammers will even use copiers or scanners to print fake copies of a check. In fact, Postal Inspectors recover more than $1 billion in counterfeit checks and money orders every year, but you can take steps to protect yourself.
1. Pay your bills online.
As long as you're not on a public WiFi connection, paying bills online is safer than a check through the mail, since your bank account and the payment systems for your bills are encrypted.
2. Deliver your mail to a post office.
Don't leave envelopes containing checks in your own mailbox or in outdoor USPS collection boxes after the last pickup time. Instead, take your letter to the nearest post office during business hours and either hand it to a clerk or slide it through the outgoing mail slot inside the building.
3. Use a pen with blue or black non-erasable gel ink. Gel ink soaks into paper and may be more difficult to remove than ballpoint pen ink, according to authorities.
4. Don't let delivered mail sit in your mailbox. Grab your mail every day, as close to the delivery time as possible. If you'll be away, ask a trusted friend to collect it or have the post office hold it until you're back home.
5. Monitor your bank account.
Don't wait for your monthly statement. Go online every few days to review account balances and look at checks drawn against them.
6. Report incidents quickly.
Contact your bank as soon as possible after suspicious activity; banks are generally required to replace funds stolen via fraudulent checks, but only if the scam is reported within 30 days of the date of your bank statement. Also, contact the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and credit reporting agencies.
Personal Safety Tips
Don't leave your wallet or purse in your car at any time—it's too tempting a target for thieves
Don't leave a purse or bag unattended in a market—secure bag handles in the child seat with the seatbelt, but don't walk away from your cart
Keep cars locked even in your own driveway—unlocked cars are being entered in driveways
Advise your alarm company of your cell phone number as well as your home number; if you're on vacation, they'll be able to reach you as well as reach the police or fire department
Metropolitan Veterinary Associates Offers Complete Care for Pets
For more than 35 years, Metropolitan Veterinary Associates (MVA) has provided advanced, compassionate veterinary medicine to families across the region. Today, with both our main hospital in Norristown and our Urgent Care & Specialty Center (MVUCS) in Wayne, our network makes it easier than ever for your pets to receive the care they need, from urgent or emergency visits to advanced specialty care.
Emergency & Critical Care at MVA
When every second counts, our Norristown hospital is open 24/7/365 for emergencies. Our doctors and specialists are trained to handle life-threatening conditions like trauma, toxins, breathing difficulties, or sudden collapse. With round-the-clock availability and state-of-the-art equipment, we provide immediate, expert care when it matters most.
Urgent Care at MVUCS
Some problems don't require a trip to the ER but can't wait for a regular appointment. For these times, MVUCS in Wayne is here daily from 2:00 pm to 12:00 am. Our urgent care doctors treat issues like limping, vomiting, ear infections, minor wounds, and allergic reactions, all in a calm and efficient setting.
“Metropolitan Vet Urgent Care. EXCELLENT experience. It's the compassionate care from the receptionist to the Nurse Carrie to the Vet Dr. Hyman. All were kind understanding, and I never felt rushed. I have always found the Vets at Metropolitan to have excellent clinical knowledge and skills. Thank you to the ENTIRE STAFF.”
Barrie E.
Advanced Surgery Across Our Network
When pets need surgery, they deserve the highest level of skill and safety. Our boardcertified surgeons perform a wide range of procedures — from orthopedic and soft tissue surgeries to minimally invasive techniques.
• At MVA in Norristown, we handle the most advanced and complex surgical cases, supported by full specialty and critical care teams.
• At MVUCS in Wayne, our surgeons also perform select procedures, giving families access to expert care closer to home.
No matter the location, every surgery is supported by specialized anesthesia, advanced technology, and a dedicated recovery team focused on your pet's comfort.
One Network. One Commitment.
At Metropolitan, your pets are family and we're here to care for them every step of the way.
MVA is located at: 2626 Van Buren Avenue in Norristown, PA. 610.666.1050
MVUCS is located at: 997 Old Eagle School Road in Wayne, PA. 610.615.7609
For more information please visit: www.metro-vet.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Amy's Journey To Sobriety: A Story Of Resilience And Renewal
Before walking through the doors of Mirmont Treatment Center, part of Main Line Health, Amy Legath had already faced numerous battles. For years, she tried to manage her alcoholism through outpatient treatments and abstinence, but nothing seemed to stick.
Alcohol had become her coping mechanism a way to suppress the pain of past traumas and life's overwhelming challenges. As a new mother, she struggled with mental health and the demands of raising her son, who was diagnosed with autism at just 18 months old. The weight of abusive relationships, lossand unprocessed grief left her feeling unworthy of happiness or sobriety
“I let myself go,” Amy admits. “I didn't think I deserved sobriety or happiness. My addiction was taking a toll on my marriage, my relationship with my son and, most importantly, my own sense of self.”
But even in the darkness, Amy held onto a glimmer of hope. She realized that alcohol was robbing her family of the wife and mother they deserved. She made the courageous decision to seek help at Mirmont Treatment Center
The turning point
For Amy, the turning point came when she saw the toll her addiction was taking on her health and her family
“I was losing their trust and love,” she recalls. “I had to get my life back. But more importantly, I had to get myself back.”
With that resolve, Amy entered Mirmont's inpatient treatment program and began a journey that would change her life.
The first days were daunting. The stigma of rehab weighed on her, and she felt guilt about being away from her family
“The first night, I just sat on the edge of my bed, telling myself to get through the night and start fresh in the morning,” she shares.
But as she met others in treatment, Amy found support in unexpected places. Friendly faces welcomed her with open arms, and she began to realize she wasn't alone.
“It was comforting to know it was okay to be scared,” Amy says. “I just needed to open up and let the program help me.”
The path to healing
Throughout her treatment, Amy leaned on Mirmont's traumafocused groups — especially the Core and Phoenix groups — which became her lifeline.
“Facing my trauma head-on brought me back to life,” she reflects. In addition to group therapy, Amy built deep connections with her counselor and fellow patients.
“Having a close-knit group made all the difference,” she explains. “I still stay in touch with some of them to this day.”
Amy's recovery continued after inpatient care. She transitioned to intensive outpatient therapy at Mirmont Outpatient Center in Exton and remains engaged in outpatient therapy today. She also finds strength in the Mirmont Alumni group, which provides ongoing community and support.
A new chapter
Amy recently celebrated one year of sobriety — a milestone she cherishes. Her life has transformed in ways she never imagined. She's thriving in a new healthcare role, surrounded by a supportive team.
Most importantly, her relationships have blossomed. Her son is thriving, and she treasures being present for his growth. Her marriage is healing as she and her husband rebuild trust. Even her long-strained relationship with her mother has been renewed — the two recently took a cruise to Alaska together, an experience Amy fully enjoyed while sober.
Staying the course
Every day, Amy recommits to her recovery.
“I've realized I'm stronger than I gave myself credit for,” she says. “I took my life back, and now I'm living in a way I never thought I could.”
Her advice to others on the journey to sobriety is simple but powerful: “You have to want it for yourself. It's not easy, but if you give yourself grace and take it one day at a time, you can do it. Don't be afraid to ask for help — there's no shame in it. We all need help sometimes.”
Amy is optimistic about the future. Her primary goal remains staying sober and making herself proud each day. She hopes to give back by staying active with Mirmont's Alumni group and serving others through Alcoholics Anonymous.
“I may not know exactly what life has in store for me,” she says, “but knowing I'll face it sober makes it that much more exciting.”
Amy's story is a testament to the power of resilience, the strength in vulnerability, and the life-changing impact of seeking help. Her journey reminds us that recovery is possible and a brighter future is always within reach.
Recovery is possible.
If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use or mental health, Mirmont Treatment Center is here to help.
To learn more, call 1.888.227.3898 or visit mainlinehealth.org/recovery.
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
How Trees Aid in Stormwater Management
by Amber Atwood Levy and Anne Murphy
Trees and forested areas play a critical role in preserving the ecological health, character, natural beauty, and historic heritage of our Townships. Many of the original drainage channels have been encroached upon by historical development which preceded existing stormwater, steep slope, and floodplain regulations. While many Townships work on trying to mitigate the effects of some of this past development through stormwater remediation projects, restoration and protection of our existing natural landscape including maintaining current tree canopy levels is key to keeping our precious, native soils in place, mitigating stormwater flows, and recharging our groundwater
Trees are important to stormwater because they capture and reuse large amounts of water. In particular, trees with trunk diameters of 30” or greater make the most significant contributions to runoff control. A single large, mature oak tree can capture 40,000 gallons of rainfall per year (source: https://www.usgs.gov/specialtopic/water-science-school/ science/evapotranspiration-andwater-cycle). Conifers also intercept a lot of stormwater due to their year-round needle-leaf coverage.
Trees help reduce flooding through infiltration, interception, evaporation, and foliar (leaf) transpiration (see diagram). Interception and evapotranspiration also decrease runoff volume with larger trees providing exponentially more benefit than smaller trees. An average sized mature tree with a 25-foot diameter canopy can manage the 1-inch rainfall from 2,400 square feet of impervious surface,the footprint of a typical single-family home (EPA, Stormwater Trees Technical Report, 2017.) The absorption and interception of rainwater by large canopy trees as well as evergreens reduces volume and peak flow during storms. Many of us have experienced rainfall slowly dripping from large trees during a downpour. Tree canopy reduces rainfall intensity by 20%, increasing lag time by up to three hours, reducing flooding by allowing both natural and township systems to manage and infiltrate stormwater more effectively. (Eric Kuehler, USDA Forest Service, “Give Me the Numbers: How Trees and Urban Forests Really Effect Stormwater Runoff”)
Infiltration of stormwater recharges our underground aquifers which keeps our streams flowing during dry periods, helping to keep trees healthy, but also reducing flooding. Research has found that infiltration is on average 8X greater under tree canopies. (Eric Kuehler et al, USDA). This recharging of rainfall to groundwater is a natural form of stormwater control which trees do through their extensive root and leaf area systems. It helps maintain a more consistent base flow in streams during dry periods and helps reduce severe and rapid “out of bank” flooding during downpours. Clearing even relatively small numbers of trees from a property can increase runoff to downstream neighbors, and aggravate downstream erosion. Once heavy rains are in direct contact with compacted lawn or eroded topsoil, the capacity of the soil to absorb and retain at least some of the stormwater is significantly impaired. Preservation of woodland remnants whenever possible is also important since
native forest soils may have taken hundreds of years to develop and are not readily replaced.
According to the Nature Conservancy “A Green Path to a Stable Climate”, trees help moderate climate extremes and can help reduce the reoccurrence of extreme storms and cloudbursts, both locally and regionally. The evaporation and transpiration of moisture drawn up by trees from the ground restores moisture to the atmosphere where it can create a cooling effect and more gradual, regular rainfall, instead of violent cloudbursts.
In conclusion, preventing or slowing tree loss and replacing what is being lost whenever possible is one important tool Townships and residents can utilize to slow and offset future increases in stormwater flows while protecting our Township's natural heritage, beauty, and quality of life.
Rainfall interception by leaves and bark
Evaporation, transpiration
Stored water
Stem
Precipitation
VOTING INFORMATION
Contention in Retention
To understand the contention for the retention elections in Pennsylvania this year, you need to understand a bit about our Commonwealth's history
In 1969, Pennsylvania revised its Constitution, and the process for judicial elections was changed. Initially, all judicial candidates are affiliated with a party and are elected through a partisan contest. This political process continues for all judges at the magisterial level who run in competitive elections every six years. However, a merit retention provision was adopted that allows all appellate judges to be retained for additional ten-year terms by a simple “yes” or “no” vote. Only the name of each judge appears on the ballot without reference to any political party. This change was designed both to remove senior judges from the pressures of party politics and to promote decisions based solely on the merits. Each judge may serve an unlimited number of terms until they reach the mandatory retirement age of 75.
Judicial elections occur in odd numbered years. Thus, this November, we will be voting both in competitive elections for judges in the lower courts and in retention elections for judges in the Court of Common Pleas as well the Commonwealth, Superior, and Supreme Courts. A simple majority of the votes cast must be YES to retain a judge.
What happens if a judge fails to meet the 50 per-cent threshold or must retire before the end of his or her term? This creates a vacancy that is filled by appointment of the Governor. These selections are reviewed by the Senate Judiciary Committee and then confirmed by a majority vote of the Senate. Can a judge be removed from office for other reasons? Under the PA Constitution, the Code of Judicial Conduct in the Pennsylvania Rules of Court, the Rules Governing Standards of Conduct of
Magisterial District Judges, and other court rules and orders set by Pennsylvania's Supreme Court, a judge may be removed from office, suspended, or disciplined for misconduct in office.
Only once in recent history has a retention election created a commotion. In 2005, the Supreme Court and its justices became caught up in a pay raise controversy at the same time that two of its judges were up for retention. One was retained with 54 percent of the vote while the other was removed with only 49 per-cent voting to keep him in office. This contention had nothing to do with their judicial opinions but rather with the lack of transparency in the proposed salary increases that eventually were passed as a package along with raises for other government officials. Public sentiment was swayed when reimbursement for judicial expenses was revealed that, in addition to salary, included such items as pricey transportation costs and $100 to $400 meals. Twenty years ago, that seemed extravagant!
Historically, low voter interest and turnout have been the pattern for retention elections when there are no “big offices” or “important names” on the ballot. This year may be different as there is growing interest in the retention of our Supreme Court judges. Although the elections are nonpartisan, there is concern that the politicization of the courts may undermine the impartiality and rule of law. Further, the need to fund these campaigns can result in a conflict of interest, especially when contributions may come from those who appear before the judges.
Retention elections in Pennsylvania were designed to ensure accountability while preserving judicial independence. A simple Yes or No vote for the retention of three of the seven Pennsylvania Supreme Court justices is likely to make a difference in your future and that of our Commonwealth.
It's a Nonpartisan Process
No political affiliation will be listed on the ballot.
It's Unique to Pennsylvania
Unlike federal judges with lifetime appointments, the voters of Pennsylvania determine whether judges remain on the bench.
To help you become informed, the Pennsylvania Bar Association has done your homework. Based on diligent scrutiny of the judges, their opinions, and credentials, fellow lawyers have rated candidates as either highly recommended or recommended. Become informed by their Judicial Evaluation Committee (JEC) before you vote. Go to pavotesmart.org
COMMUNITY CONNECTION
Tribute to Jim Murray, 1938-2025
What I enjoy most about being a producer/host at MLTV21, one of the leading public access TV stations in the TriState area, is the opportunity to interview so many interesting people, many of whom are extraordinary human beings whose lives are especially inspirational. None more so than Jim Murray, who passed away August 25th at age 87.
by Rick Anthony, Main Line Network Producer/Host
Soon after, his prayers were answered. He contacted McDonald's and asked for a percentage of Shamrock Shake sales to buy the house for the families of sick children. McDonald's stepped up and donated all Shamrock Shake sales proceeds. The only condition was that Jim name it the Ronald McDonald House. No one could imagine what would happen next.
Jim was general manager of the Philadelphia Eagles for 14 seasons. To his credit, he hired Dick Vermeil and helped guide the team to the NFC Championship in 1981. He proudly wore his Super Bowl ring and had endless tales about the team and its players. Not bad for a kid from a West Philadelphia row house.
However, Jim's greatest achievemen being of service to other people. When the child of Fred Hill, an Eagles' tight end, was diagnosed with leukemia, Jim helped launch a highly successful charity called Eagles Fly for Leukemia. As a result, Jim wan know more about leukemia. His research led him to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, where he met Dr. Audrey Evans, the head oncologist. He re offered to make a donation to help the hospital. What Dr. Evans said in response to Jim's offer changed Jim's life and the liv thousands of sick children and their parents.
“You know what else we need?” Dr said. “When I tell a family their child has leukemia, I've changed their family's life forever. So I'd like to get a room in a YMCA where they could stay while their child's being treated.”
Jim's quick reply: “You need a house.
Jim wasn't sure what to do next, so he did what he always did - he prayed for guidance.
With Jim's guidance, the first Ronald McDonald House opened its doors on October 15, 1974, not far from where he was born and raised. He called it, “the “McMiracle.” The Ronald McDonald House now provides affordable lodgings for
families of sick children in more than 64 countries and has saved the families an estimated $932.6 million. It is truly a McMiracle.
According to a New York Times article following Jim's death, he said founding the Ronald McDonald Charity was just “putting people together that can hold hands, hold hearts and say, you know what, we're on defense, but you can't win without a good offense.”
Despite his celebrity, Jim was one of the most unassuming, humble people you'd ever meet. I used to see Jim at Mass. One day, about seven years ago, I asked him if he would be a guest on my show to talk about his book, “Life is an Audible: The Jim Murray Story,” The book was written by a mutual friend, Steve McWilliams, who also wrote “Green Bananas; the Wisdom of Father Bil Atkinson,” the first paraplegic to be ordained a Catholic priest.
My May 28, 2019 30-minute interview with Jim was a vivid reflection of the man - a quick Irish wit, an engaging storyteller, a philanthropic entrepreneur, a selfless man who received great joy from helping others. A life well lived, for which he is now receiving his eternal reward.
Rest in peace, Jim.
The May 28, 2019 MLTV21 interview with Jim Murray can be seen on YouTube at https://youtu.be/bjaK4kt9saA
Jim Murray with former Eagles coach Dick Vermeil (left)
Jim Murray on set for an interview at Radnor Studio 21 in 2019.
ARTS & CREATIVITY
The Gift of Great Teaching
In America, education at every level is suddenly in the crosshairs. Politics aside, I suspect that the vast majority of we-the-people value our schools and the individuals who work tirelessly in them. And we all have stories to tell about our best and worst experiences. Send me yours!
Thinking about the best, we might agree that great teachers love to teach and that they also love to learn. They have a special ability to respond to their students' individual needs and encourage them to think, experiment and grow. Here is one of my heroes in the art world:
After some research, I found Kassem Amoudi at Wayne Art Center. I had been exhibiting my more realistic work for a few years and had taken a couple of Abstract Art classes
By Laurie Lamont Murray
with Moe Brooker before he retired. But I wasn't there yet…Abstract is well, abstract. It is very challenging because there is nothing in front of you but a blank canvas. Nothing to copy. Tabula rasa.
Kassem's credentials impressed me. A Jordanian American, he had studied and exhibited internationally before coming to the U.S. He is a faculty member at PAFA, Woodmere and the Perkins Center as well as Wayne Art Center. But what captivated me was his ability to look thoughtfully at each of his students' work and offer suggestions for ways to improve it.
Kassem speaks frankly about his preference for abstract art, pointing to the continual surprises and places of interest one can find looking at an abstract piece. He will
recommend underpainting to create history in a painting, and will point out that there needs to be a balance in areas of busy and calm. He will encourage varying values and line weights to achieve mystery, and will suggest work by well known (and some lesser known) artists whose work has something in common with the direction a student is headed. As a lifelong student of art, Kassem says that
looking and seeing are not the same thing. As artists develop their eye, painting becomes easier and more interesting. He begins each class with a discussion of work by an artist who has grappled with and successfully met some of the challenges his students are facing. He likes to see how the masters have modified their work in progress. Next, Kassem reviews everyone's progress individually. His critiques are encouraging and always on target.
Kassem's own rather prolific body of work has evolved considerably in the time I have known him. He speaks of forcing himself to try things he hasn't done before. His doors and windows, favorite symbols and connecting lines have given way to more flowing movement. It is the process, not the final results that interest him. The things that happen in the life of the canvas, the editing out with a dominant color have led him to work that is more beautiful and interesting than ever before. He points out that abstract art doesn't have the traditional depth of field that realism has. Instead, modern artists respected the twodimensionality of the canvas. Kassem notes that the most distant part of a painting is the canvas itself. Everything is popping at you. Space, even paper thin space, is of utmost importance. Working with contrasts — larger vs small, thick vs thin, dark vs light — maintains the two dimensional integrity of the canvas. For Kassem Amoudi, the canvas is a living thing and "I am a tool for something that guides me through it."
Kassem Amoudi with student Susie Maguire at Woodmere Art Museum
