Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine, December 2021

2021 December

Newtown Square Bringing People Together

Friends & Neighbors

The Catania Family

Four Generations of Family in Newtown Square

Cover photo by Katie Borsuk Photography www.KatieBorsuk.com

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2021

Dear Friends & Neighbors, Here we go! December is here, and 2021 is on its way out. But first, the Holiday Season, perhaps more celebratory this year than the past two years due to the pandemic. Celebrate safely with family and friends for sure, but celebrate! This is the Holy Season of Joy and Gratitude for The Reason for the Season.

PUBLICATION TEAM PUBLISHER: Bob Blaisse EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER: Liz Burnett CONTENT COORDINATOR: Sheila Turner-Hilliard PUBLISHER ASSISTANT: Lisa Jeffries DESIGNER: Kim Cesati CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER: Katie Borsuk Photography, www.KatieBorsuk.com COVER PHOTO STYLISTS: Blush Salon, Michele Quinn & Brittany Naab CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Bob Blaisse, Sheila TurnerHilliard, Holly Stupak, Lisa Jeffries, Doug Humes, Lindsey Poeth, Kevin O'Donnell, Jack Del Pizzo, Robert L. D’Anjolell, Jr., F.D., Sarah Forti, TJ Warner, Michele Quinn & Brittany Naab, Luke Anastasio and Mark Reitz ADVERTISING Contact Publisher: Bob Blaisse, 610.453.5536 Email: BBlaisse@BestVersionMedia.com 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. © 2021 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

ON THE COVER The Catania Family at their home in Newtown Square 2021 December

Newtown Square Together Bringing People

bors Fri ends & Ne igh

At Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors, Newtown Square’s monthly magazine in print and online at www.NewtownSquareMag.com, we are celebrating a great year that saw our page count go up and soon will go up again with the addition of our coming Sports Section. All thanks goes to our readers and our advertising Sponsors who make it all possible and make it to my Christmas List every year. (See my Christmas List on page 14.)

Our last new hometown Sponsor of 2021 may be our biggest news. But first, special thanks to Sproul Lanes, which every reader knows has served us well as our Student of the Month Sponsor. With such social distancing requirements during the harshest days of the pandemic, Sproul Lanes always was in our lane with a new Student of the Month every month. Thank you Sproul Lanes!

Sponsorship of our Student of the Month feature now passes to our new Sponsor and newest Expert Contributor, Toscana Modern Italian Steakhouse, the premier restaurant opening soon in our area, in the site of the former Trattoria Giuseppe, next to the Regal Edgmont Square 10 Movie Theater.

Restaurateur Frank Fusaro’s vision of old-world Italian cuisine is Toscana, which no doubt will be a destination location for friends and neighbors in Newtown Square. Frank’s vision not only includes Toscana bringing excellent Italian cuisine to our community. In the coming months, Frank Fusaro will also be bringing his Food & Beverage expertise to us, through his Expert Contributor feature articles regularly in Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors in print and online at www.

NewtownSquareMag.com. And this month, see Toscana’s first ad and first sponsorship of their new monthly Toscana Student of the Month on page 22.

Welcome Toscana Modern Italian Steakhouse! You’re now “at the party” that is Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors, and what a holiday gift you are bringing to kick off 2022.

To all our advertising Sponsors and all our readers, I know you will enjoy this final issue of 2021. Thank you for your support. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Bob Blaisse Publisher

Dear Residents, It’s the season to celebrate! This year, I am especially looking forward to spending the holidays surrounded by friends and family, and I hope you are as well. December is extra special for me because it marks one year as your Content Coordinator. I have enjoyed sharing your stories and look forward to meeting many more Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors in 2022.

This month features the Catania family, who began their lives here in Newtown Square in 1959. Five children, 21 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren later, they are proud to have four generations living, working and playing in Newtown Square. Our business profile features Newtown Square’s much-anticipated Toscana Modern Italian Steakhouse. We also share a special holiday sweet treat, and shine a light on the “J” Foundation, whose mission is to help local terminally ill children and their families.

ly The Catania Fami

town Square s of Family in New Four Generation Cover photo by

raphy Katie Borsuk Photog www.KatieBorsuk.com

We are always looking for more Newtown Square 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

Bringing People Together in Print & Online @ www.NewtownSquareMag.com

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Expert Contributors 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

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

Automotive Repairs & Service Lou Matteo Edgemont Automotive 5040 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square 610.353.9868 • EdgemontAuto@verizon.net www.EdgemontAutomotive.com

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

Carpeting & Floor Covering Jim Casar Carpet Warehouse 620 Parkway Drive, Broomall 610.353.1312 • CarpetWarehouseOutlet@gmail.com www.CarpetWarehouseCo.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

Wishing Our Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors a Very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Martella Electric Company is a team of courteous, professional, and highly trained electricians. Our priority is to deliver superior customer service backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

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Facial & Skin Treatments Sandra Cannon Corinthian on The Square Salon & Spa 3543 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square 610.356.6062 CorinthianSalon3543@gmail.com www.CorinthianSalonAndSpa.com Family Law Trial Attorney Deborah M. Truscello, Esq. Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello 610.892.4940 • DmtofLaw@gmail.com www.TruscelloLaw.com

Food & Beverage Frank Fusaro Toscana Modern Italian Steakhouse 4799 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square 610.550.8000 • Frank@ToscanaModernSteakhouse.com www.ToscanaModernSteakhouse.com

Fireplace Products Scott Magness Scott’s Fireplace Products 3137 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square 484.422.8334 • SFP@ScottsFireplaceProducts.com www.ScottsFireplaceProducts.com

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2021

Expert Contributors 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

Plumbing Service, Residential / Commercial Rick Bondurant R.F. Bondurant Plumbing 610.566.0288 • RFBPlumbing@comcast.net www.RFBondurant.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 Hair Salon Michele Quinn, Owner Brittany Naab, Co-Owner Blush Salon & The Studio by Blush Salon 3515 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square 610.325.3266 • MQuinn@BlushLooks.com www.BlushLooks.com Heating & Air Conditioning Len Sciulli Len Sciulli & Sons Heating & Air Conditioning 500 Abbott Drive, Broomall 610.328.4341 • SciulliAndSons@hotmail.com www.LenAndSons.com Investor Coaching Brendan Magee Inevitable Wealth Coaching 610.299.3969 • Brendan@CoachGee.com www.CoachGee.com

Real Estate Sales Sarah Forti, Realtor Forti Homes with Keller Williams Realty Office: 610.647.8300 • Direct: 610.986.7170 Sarah@FortiHomes.com www.FortiHomes.com

Roofing, Siding & Carpentry Kevin O’Donnell O’Donnell Roofing Co. 610.449.8188 • Office@ODonnellRoofingCo.com www.ODonnellRoofingCo.com

Senior Living & Housing Lindsey Poeth, CSA® Oasis Senior Advisors Mainline Malvern 484.947.4266 LPoeth@YourOasisAdvisor.com www.OasisSeniorAdvisors.com/Mainline

Septic, Sewer & Storm Services TJ Dell’Arciprete & David DiGregorio Delaware Valley Septic, Sewer & Storm 504 Eagle Road, Suite B, Springfield 610.947.4800 • Info@4DelVal.com www.4DelVal.com

Landscape Design & Landscaping TJ Warner JHL Landscaping 610.356.4104 • TJ@JHLLlandscaping.com www.JHLLandscaping.com

Waterproofing & Weatherization David Linn Cook Weatherproofing Plus, Inc. Marple Newtown 610.325.0596 • Info@Weatherproofing-Plus.com www.Weatherproofing-Plus.com

Personal Training & Fitness Luigi Truono, LMT, Owner Retro Fitness Newtown Square 4847 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square 484.420.4935 / EdgmontSqPA@RetroFitness.net www.RetroFitness.com/EdgmontSquarePA

Expert Contributors needed!

Dental, Medical, Pet Services, Home Health Care, Law, Education, Vacations, etc. Professionals may contact: Bob Blaisse: 610.453.5536, or BBlaisse@BestVersionMedia.com

Physical Therapy Mark E. Reitz, PT Penn Therapy Associates 2010 West Chester Pike, #450 610.853.0508 PennTherapy@comcast.net www.PennTherapy.com

Share Our Magazine! www.NewtownSquareMag.com Bringing People Together in Print & Online @ www.NewtownSquareMag.com

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Resident Feature

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard Photos by Katie Borsuk Photography www.KatieBorsuk.com

The Catania Family Four Generations of Family in Newtown Square We would like to thank

for sponsoring this month’s Resident Feature.

The holiday season is all about celebrating and spending time with our families, and for the Catanias, that means a full house, full bellies and four generations of unconditional love right here in Newtown Square.

Meet Jim and Ann Catania. Jim grew up in Norristown, and Ann in Narberth. Their love story began in 1950, during a chance encounter at a swim club not far from where Jim lived. Ann was there to celebrate her niece’s 13th birthday, and Jim happened to be hanging out with friends that day. “I noticed Ann right away,” Jim said. “I made my way over and asked her name and where she was from.” Ann said that Jim really must have wanted to make a big splash because after she answered him, he dramatically fell into the pool.

After the party, Ann went back to Narberth. But little did she know that Jim was determined to see her again. Ann explained that back then, the place for young adults to see and be seen on the weekends was the Ardmore dance. Jim took a chance and went there the following weekend, hoping to find Ann. Unfortunately, she wasn’t there, but he asked around and found one of Ann’s friends, who told Jim that Ann worked at the local rug company and suggested he stop there the next day.

Jim’s persistence paid off. Ann was certainly surprised when she saw Jim after her shift that day. “I had to give him a lot of credit for his determination,” Ann laughed. The two began dating and were married just a few years later, in 1952. Jim worked as a Union Carpenter and Ann worked at Delaware Valley HMO. They moved into Ann’s parents’ home in Narberth, to begin their life together and to care for Ann’s ailing father.

“My mother needed to work while my father was ill, so having Jim and I there helped tremendously,” explained Ann. 6

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2021

Jim and Ann Catania

As the years added up, so did Jim and Ann’s family. “We found ourselves outgrowing our tiny home in Narberth,” Jim said. “By 1959, Ann and I had three little ones along with Ann’s parents, so we began looking for a larger place.” They tried to find something in Narberth, but the homes were just too small. Neither Jim nor Ann had ever considered moving outside of that area until Ann’s brother moved to Broomall.

“When my brother moved to Broomall, I thought there was no way we were going that far,” said Ann. “Jim and I were both from walkable towns, so living in an area that was just being developed didn’t appeal to us.” That was until her brother told them about new homes being built in the St. Albans section of Newtown Square. Ann and Jim made the drive out to the suburbs and fell in love with the developer’s plans. They chose a home with plenty of space on a beautiful lot and officially became Newtown Square residents in 1959.

The Catania family was one of the first to live in the St. Albans area, but it soon became a neighborhood full of families with young children. As Jim and Ann settled into suburban life, they welcomed two more kids to their bunch. “We loved the neighborhood! One of our favorite things to do was to walk down to St. Albans Swim Club,” said Ann. “We were inaugural members when they opened in 1959, and we spent every summer there.”

Ann and Jim still live in the home they built 62 years ago, and three of their five children live in Newtown Square as well.

Even more impressive is that four of their grandchildren are now raising their families here, too. When you do the math, it adds up to nine households and four generations of Catanias in Newtown Square!

Jim and Ann’s oldest son, Joe, said he never considered living anywhere else. “The positive influences of growing up here with family, friends, baseball, schools and community made me want to raise my family here,” he explained. Joe’s wife Maureen, who’s from Bucks County, agreed. “Newtown Square is a special place,” she said. “It’s one of those towns that is quaint and intimate but also affords the ability to retreat and enjoy our family time.”

Joe went to St. Anastasia’s and Cardinal O’Hara. He played for Newtown Edgmont Little League (NELL) when, in 1967, his team played in the Little League World Series. He has since coached at NELL for over 30 years, primarily for the Challenger Division for players with special needs. Joe recently started an adult league where two of his special needs sons play every Sunday. Joe has also served on Newtown Township’s Zoning Board and the Board of Supervisors, and he’s currently Newtown Township Solicitor.

Joe and Maureen have four sons: Joey, Jimmy, Matt and Luke, all of whom continue to live here in Newtown Square. Joey and his wife, Sarah, bought a home near St. Anastasia, and enjoy life with their five rescue cats. Joey is a restaurant manager in Philadelphia, and Sarah is an EMT for Marple Township.

Jimmy is a fitness fanatic and works out at Paul Bunyan Fitness in Newtown Square. He loves it so much that he also works there. He’s also the Assistant Coach for the NELL Kings in the Challenger Division for players with special needs, and is the catcher for the adult league baseball team started by his father.

Joe and Maureen Catania with their family

Matt and his wife, Kelsey, are raising their three children nearby in Echo Valley. Matt and Kelsey met at law school in Naples, Florida. When it came time to settle down, Matt said that Kelsey fell in love with Newtown Square. “It was an easy sell,” he said. “She loved the change of seasons, the community Continued on page 8

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Resident Feature

miles of each other. Their daughter Ann Marie and her husband Steve recently welcomed their first son, Steven, who’s now 11 months old. Ann Marie said, “I have so many fond memories of family get-togethers at my grandparents’ house, and I’m very excited to see these traditions continue as the family grows!”

John and Mary Beth’s daughter Kelly Ann and her husband Kyle are just beginning their lives together. “We got married at the Ballroom at Ellis Preserve, bought our first home here and just welcomed our baby girl, Natalie,” Kelly Ann said. “We have met so many great families in our neighborhood and couldn’t ask for a better community for our daughter to grow up in.”

John and Mary Beth’s twins, Julie and John Jr., loved growing up so close to their grandparents. Julie is currently living in Florida but comes back to spend time with the family during the holidays.

John and Mary Beth Catania with their family

feel and the comfort of knowing we would be surrounded by family." Their son Jack now plays tee-ball at NELL. Their daughter Eloise dances at From the Top, and they just welcomed their son Henry in July.

Luke is the youngest of Joe and Maureen’s children. Like his brother, Jimmy, Luke enjoys working out at Paul Bunyan Fitness.

He also practices Karate at Level Up Black Belt Academy and has earned his black belt. Luke takes pride in his work at Woofies in Media, where he makes dog biscuits for animal shelters.

Ann and Jim’s son John and his wife, Mary Beth, have enjoyed raising their four children in Newtown Square. They love that three of their four grown kids are raising their own families within

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John Jr. said that he and his wife, Colleen, decided to live in Newtown Square because they wanted their kids to grow up surrounded by their cousins, grandparents and great-grandparents. John Jr. is also a local business owner (Catania Masonry), and Colleen is a nurse at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). Together, they recently started a fundraising campaign after the loss of their infant son, James, this past summer.

“We have raised over $15,000 in honor of our James,” John Jr. said. “We are happy to be able to provide other families with resources that brought us so much comfort.”

Jim and Ann’s youngest is Jennifer. She and her husband, Otto, are raising their 16-year-old triplets here in Newtown Square.

Ava, Otto Jr. and Allie are currently Juniors at Marple Newtown High School. Jennifer said that they moved back to Newtown Square from Ohio, to be closer to her family. She taught CCD at St. Anastasia for six years, and currently works in the Athletic Department at Villanova University. Her husband, Otto, must truly understand the importance of family because he wins the prize for the longest commute to work: He works for GM and travels to Ohio every single week!

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

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we celebrate by taking turns at each other’s houses.” But no matter where they celebrate, the feast wouldn’t be complete without Ann’s homemade crespelle (Italian crêpes) and her fried stuffed olives. Joe’s wife, Maureen, said that the stuffed olives are so delicious that when Ann makes them, she has to hide them until everyone arrives.

Spending time with the Catania family was an absolute pleasure. The genuine love that surrounds them is undeniable and impressive. “Just look at my family,” Jim said as we stood there chatting. “I am just so incredibly proud.”

Jim, Ann and the entire Catania family: On behalf of your Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors, we thank you for sharing your story and wish you all a happy, healthy holiday season. Now if we only knew where Ann hid the olives!

Do you know a Newtown Square 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 TurnerHilliard at STurnerHilliard@BestVersionMedia.com. N S

Jennifer Catania with her husband Otto and their triplets

As you can imagine, the holiday season is a busy one for the Catanias. Although Jim and Ann’s daughter Deborah and their son James don’t live in Newtown Square, they are raising their families in nearby towns and are always there to celebrate the holidays. “It’s crowded but we love it!” said Ann. “Besides our own five children and their spouses, we have 21 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren!”

Everyone agreed that gathering for the traditional Feast of the Seven Fishes on Christmas Eve is incredibly special. “We used to have a sit-down dinner, but as the family grew, we ran out of table space,” laughed Ann. “Now each family brings a dish and

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Expert Contributor

by Lindsey Poeth, CSA® Oasis Senior Advisors Mainline

Choosing Care for Older Loved Ones As seniors age, day-to-day tasks like shopping for groceries, cooking meals, going up and down stairs or showering often become increasingly difficult. Without assistance, individuals can get themselves into dangerous situations, like a slip and fall that requires medical attention. There are two primary options available for seniors in this scenario: staying home with in-home care or moving to a senior living community.

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Some benefits to this approach: • This allows the senior to stay in their home and in a familiar environment (a very common request for older adults).

• It’s less likely to disrupt daily routines.

• It can be cost effective, especially if the senior requires minimal care.

Some drawbacks: • Private companies typically require 3–4 hours of minimum aid care, even if the senior only requires minimal care.

• If the caregiver is unable to work, the family may be left to fill in the role of caregiver, which is often one of the reasons for hiring the aide in the first place.

MOVING TO A SENIOR COMMUNITY • A transition to a community providing Assisted Living/ Personal Care or Memory Care can be anxiety inducing for both the senior who needs care and for their adult children.

For those who have made the move, it can be a new chapter that allows the senior to experience life on their terms in a safe and welcoming environment.

Here are a few benefits of transitioning into a senior living community: • The community will create a personalized care plan for the individual, a plan that changes as the level of needed assistance changes.

• A higher level of engagement and socialization with their peers is possible. Often times, seniors can become isolated in their home, which can contribute to cognitive decline.

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2021

• All meals, housekeeping, utilities, engagement programming and local excursions are covered in the monthly pricing.

• You’ll have overall peace of mind knowing your loved one is cared for in a safe and welcoming environment.

Each option provides great benefits to the senior and their family, who can often find themselves in the caregiving role.

To help understand more about each option and to help assess which option may be best for your specific situation, contact an organization that specifically helps guide you through these decisions.

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Expert Contributor

by TJ Warner JHL Landscaping Photos courtesy of JHL Landscaping

Winter Lawn Care Tips Hopefully you have already aerated and fertilized your lawn before the first frost. Aeration prevents compacting of the soil, which greatly affects your lawn’s ability to grow. One of the most important things you can do to care for your lawn in winter is to keep foot and any other traffic on your lawn to a bare minimum. Along those same lines, only mow your lawn if it is absolutely necessary. For instance, avoid cutting your grass if there is frost on it or even just rain in the cooler months.

Keep the grass height a little longer than you usually do in the warmer months, to give your lawn a healthy head start in the spring.

Another school of thought advises that starting in September, slowly lower your mower blade as winter approaches, so that your lawn is fairly short during the winter, to prevent moles and other rodents from using it as a shelter. Choose which process works best for your lawn, depending on whether rodents or general lawn health is a major concern. Also, winter is the perfect time to get your mower serviced.

It is also crucial to remove any toys or lawn furniture from the grass during the winter, to give those areas a rest and a chance to grow. Branches, leaves and other yard debris may continue to fall onto your grass in the winter, so it is very important to remain diligent in terms of removing everything that falls, whether it’s organic or inorganic. That weight sitting on your grass for longer than a few days could prevent it from breathing and resting, which is what you want it to do during the colder months.

Salting sidewalks and driveways during ice and snow can be a lifesaver, preventing slips and falls. However, salt is the opposite of a lifesaver for your grass because it can undo so much of the hard work you’ve put into having a beautiful lawn. Don’t shovel or plow snow and ice that’s full of salt onto your lawn.

If and when you absolutely must salt your hard surfaces, use calcium chloride-based mixtures, which are less harmful to your grass.

Your lawn requires much less upkeep during the winter, no mowing or weeding, so it is even more important to take these few simple steps to help your lawn live, grow and be beautiful and lush in the spring!

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2021

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Expert Contributor

by Luke Anastasio DriGanic Carpet Cleaning

Protecting Your Floors from Winter As we enter the winter and holiday season, weather changes will inevitably follow. On November 1st, we all got our first taste of the cool mornings yet beautiful afternoons. Surely, the daylight will continue to dwindle and the frost will soon move in.

So it is of utmost importance this time of year to protect your floors — especially your carpets — from precipitation, dirt and leaves that foot traffic and pets will track in.

Vacuuming on a regular basis is the best way to clean, protect and extend the life of carpeting. However, it is not recommended that you vacuum a wet surface. So how can you protect your carpets when they continually get wet? Protect your entrances and exit doors with either a throw rug, runner or even a moving blanket. Yes, you read that correctly, a moving blanket (sometimes called furniture padding).

Experts recommend that you use moving blankets in front of high-traffic entrances, as well as in front of doggie doors.

Why you may ask? First, they are thick and durable, so dogs and excessive use won’t easily destroy them. Second, they are

inexpensive and replaceable. You can purchase a 4' x 6' moving blanket for as little as $4.99 at area hardware stores. Third, they are washable, so when they get heavily soiled, you can just pop them in the washer and they’re good to go, like new!

Placing moving blankets or runners in high-traffic areas — particularly those leading to and from the outdoors — will drastically reduce the soil that is tracked into your home. This will greatly improve the life of your carpet. Of course, you can use this same method to protect your hard surfaces from unnecessary exposure to moisture, such as tile (along with its easily discolored grout), vinyl flooring and wood.

It’s always a great idea to protect these entrances from the elements, but don’t be afraid at this time of year to protect your decorative throw rugs by using an inexpensive yet functional option like moving blankets.

Best wishes to everyone for a great holiday season and a spectacular 2022!

NS

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13

Bringing People Together

by Bob Blaisse Publisher

Bringing People Together

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

Bob’s Annual Christmas List for Our Sponsors Do We Realize How Blessed We Are

By Those Who Are Bringing People Together?

Around the holidays, parents are quick to find simple gifts for their children to give to their Teachers. And people of goodwill remember their Letter Carriers and Trash Collectors with tips for their faithful service all year. Most of us will make end-of-year gifts to our churches, synagogues and charities we support. Some even give extra tips to restaurant staff who have served them all year long. It’s right. Those who serve, deserve our thanks. So this year, let’s also remember our hometown Sponsors.

Think about our advertising Sponsors of Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors. Imagine one of them saying to me, “This business supports my family, and we are blessed by the loyalty of our customers.” And then imagine that same business owner asking me, “How can I thank our customers? What gift can I give them to show them how important they are to the success of our business all year long?”

If I was asked that question by an advertising Sponsor, I would tell them, “Your customers already know you value them, and you have been giving them a gift all year long: their hometown magazine, Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors, which they love receiving in the mail every month for free, thanks to you.” It’s true. The gift of hometown pride and Bringing People Together, through our special brand of social media in print, is only possible by the annual support of all the businesses that you see every month advertising on these pages. Maybe we should be thinking about a gift for those hometown heroes.

Our Sponsors are on my Christmas List, and I am asking you to put them on yours too. Pick out a few. Find their ad in our magazine and make the effort, visit them, or call them to tell them, “Thank you for making our hometown magazine possible.” And consider, as your personal show of gratitude, gifting them with your business before this year ends. Buy an item, or buy a gift card or gift certificate for goods or services offered by some Sponsor of this magazine, which you enjoy receiving in the mail every month for free.

Pick a few Sponsors listed on this page, add them to your Christmas List, and Shop Local for a Christmas gift this year for someone. Do it with hometown pride, knowing that your purchase makes our hometown magazine possible for another year.

Stop By…And Make a Purchase! When they say Thank you for your business, tell our Sponsors: No…, Thank You… for sponsoring our hometown.

NS

Bob Blaisse

Publisher, Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors 14

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2021

Alpha Century Security Blush Salon Broomall Eye Care Bryn Mawr Glass Carpet Warehouse Casey's Public House Corinthian on The Square Salon & Spa Countywide Generators LLC D&K Appliances DANJOLELL Memorial Homes Del Pizzo & Associates Delaware Valley Septic, Sewer & Storm Dream Team Home Services DriGanic Carpet Cleaning Edgemont Automotive ES Excavation Fante Flooring Firepoint Grill / Paxos Restaurants Forti Homes with Keller Williams Realty From the Top Dance Inevitable Wealth Coaching JHL Landscaping Katie Borsuk Photography Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello Len Sciulli & Sons Luigi & Giovanni Specialty Foods Martella Electric Mostardi Nursery Niemeyers O’Donnell Roofing Co. Oasis Senior Advisors Mainline Penn Therapy Associates Porsche of The Main Line Premier Eurocars R.F. Bondurant Plumbing Rafferty Subaru Retro Fitness Newtown Square Rey Azteca Robert J. Kleinberg Landscape Design Ryan Tree Care S. Pancoast Topsoil & Mulches School of Rock Main Line Scott's Fireplace Products Stars & Stripes Tactical Thompson Custom Painting Toscana Modern Italian Steakhouse Weatherproofing Plus, Inc. Weinrich’s Bakery Weinstein Bath & Kitchen Showroom

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15

Expert Contributor

by Michele Quinn & Brittany Naab Blush Salon Photos courtesy of Blush Salon

Hand-Tied Hair Extensions Do you want longer, fuller hair?

Does your hair take forever to grow?

Is your hair thin and you’ve always wanted thicker hair?

If you answered yes to any of these, there’s great news! One of the hottest trends in hair extensions: Habit hand-tied extensions is not only the healthiest extension method for your hair, but it is also the most natural looking method on the market. You’ll feel your best self by adding in hand-tied extensions to your hair.

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2021

So what are hand-tied extensions?

Hand-tied extensions are sewn-in extensions. First, you apply a row of beads connected by a string, and the extension wefts are then sewn onto the string and your natural hair, making them secure to your head. They don’t pull on your hair, like some other methods, so they cause less tension on your hair, which prevents breakage.

Why should you get hand-tied extensions?

They can be customized to your hair color, length and hair goals.

You may need to get two to three rows depending on your desired look and your current hair. But the greatest part about hand-tied extensions is that if you want more hair, you can add more rows. Not only can you add length to your hair with these extensions, but you can also add volume and fullness.

They come in all different lengths and colors, and these extensions last a long time! With proper maintenance, the hair itself can last for up to a year. Once you get the extensions put in, they last 8–10 weeks before needing to be moved up. When you get this method done you can also wear your hair in any style without seeing the extension tracks. You can even wear your hair in a high pony or bun, unlike with other extensions.

They are also matched to your hair color so they blend seamlessly. With these extensions you can still color your hair as you normally would, so if you want to change up your look you can.

NS

Expert Contributor

Honoring Your Loved One with a Graveside Service

by Robert L. D’Anjolell, Jr., F.D. DANJOLELL Memorial Homes

Funerals are a final significant milestone in people’s lives.

Whether it’s a traditional funeral, a memorial celebration or a graveside service, they are all opportunities to pay last respects to a loved one. You may want to consider a graveside service if you’d rather celebrate your loved one’s life outdoors, or if there is no specific religious affiliation.

Although in the past, a graveside service has taken place immediately after the funeral service, it can be a stand-alone event.

In some cases, it’s an intimate ceremony only for family and close friends, but others may be open to more guests or even as an event for the community. Although they’re typically held when the deceased is interred in a casket, you can also have a graveside service if the deceased is cremated.

The graveside service is typically held at the deceased’s final resting place — usually a cemetery or private burial ground near a mausoleum or columbarium niche. If the deceased was cremated, a graveside service may involve burying or scattering their ashes in a special place.

Often referred to as a “direct burial,” a graveside ceremony gives loved ones the opportunity to grieve, in lieu of a traditional service. Graveside services typically last about 30

minutes, but can be any length in time, depending on the family’s preferences, as can the actual program followed.

The most deciding factor when choosing a celebrant is whether or not the ceremony will be religious. You may choose a loved one’s spiritual leader, or if you prefer that the graveside service has no religious undertones, ask your funeral director for a recommendation or you can ask a family member or friend.

Traditionally, the celebrant may choose to gather information about the deceased individual’s personality and other details, to incorporate into the talk or sermon. Typically, the service will have a moment of silence or prayer reflection, often followed by some type of music. The most important aspect of the ceremony is that it provides comfort and closure to the deceased individual’s loved ones.

When planning a funeral or graveside service, let a professional funeral director guide your way. Not only can they walk you through the process, but they are compassionate and empathetic to those who are grieving.

NS

Honoring The Life of a Loved One

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DANJOLELL Memorial Home of Broomall 2811 West Chester Pike Broomall, PA 19008 610-356-4200 Robert L. D’Anjolell, Jr. F.D.

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17

Recent Newtown Township Home Sales

Real Estate

Address

Sold Price

Bedrooms

Bathrooms

Sq. Ft.

Acres

4 Richards Ridge . . . . . . . . $800,000 . . . 5 . . . . . 3.5 . . . 3,779 . .0.81 1105 Pritchard Place . . . . . . $275,000 . . . 2 . . . . . . 2 . . . 1,184 . . n/a 2406 Westfield Court . . . . . . $355,000 . . . 3 . . . . . 2.5 . . . 1,678 . .0.04 42 Hunters Run . . . . . . . . . $439,900 . . . 3 . . . . . 2.5 . . . 1,892 . .0.03 124 Camelot Lane . . . . . . . $672,000 . . . 3 . . . . . 3.5 . . . 3,896 148.44 12 Castle Rock Road . . . . . . $400,000 . . . 4 . . . . . 2.5 . . . 2,017 . .0.67 291 Aronimink Drive. . . . . . . $530,000 . . . 5 . . . . . 2.5 . . . 3,520 . .0.76 812 Milmar Road . . . . . . . . $969,000 . . . 4 . . . . . 2.5+ . . 3,016 . .0.93 4 Bradford Terrace . . . . . . . $860,000 . . . 4 . . . . . 3.5+ . . 3,400 . .0.79 3910 Lewis Run Road . . . . . . $1,350,000 . . . 4 . . . . . 3.5 . . . 4,632 . .0.41 180 E Kenilworth Circle . . . . . $270,000 . . . 2 . . . . . . 2 . . . 1,450 . .0.03 955 Garrett Mill Road . . . . . . $375,000 . . . 4 . . . . . . 1 . . . 1,826 . .2.65 628 N Newtown Street Road . . $705,000 . . . 4 . . . . . . 3 . . . 3,279 . .0.95 702 Pritchard Place. . . . . . . $218,000 . . . 2 . . . . . . 2 . . . 1,135 . . n/a 1015 Cedar Knoll Lane . . . . . $650,000 . . . 4 . . . . . 2.5+ . . 2,386 . .2.77 15 Greenbriar Lane . . . . . . . $430,000 . . . 3 . . . . . 1.5+ . . 1,764 . .0.30 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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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2021

Expert Contributor

The Benefits of Light vs. Dark Roofing

Homeowners frequently ask whether a specific shingle color is best when purchasing a new roof. Shingles come in a full range of colors, but are commonly categorized as light or dark. When recommending a shingle color, geography, climate and building type should be primary considerations.

The U.S. is home to several different climates. In states like Arizona, where the temperature rarely drops below freezing, white or reflective roofs are advised. For areas that tend to be mostly hot or warm, white or light-colored asphalt shingles that have higher Energy-Star ratings are recommended as an affordable roofing option.

These days, “cool” roofing materials are, of course, another choice for warmer climates. They come in both light and dark colors, both of which not only reflect the sun’s UV rays but also have a high thermal emittance quality, which quickly dissipates the absorbed heat. If you choose a “cool” roofing system,

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temperatures could be 50% cooler than with other roofing materials, and that could add up to a savings of 10–15% on cooling costs!

Here in Pennsylvania, climates are more evenly split between hot and cold. On large industrial and commercial buildings, or any building with a large roof covering, the reflective nature and energy efficiency of a white roof makes sense. For typical residential and even light commercial settings, there are good reasons why darker roofs will look and perform better.

One consideration in the cooler parts of our state or around the U.S. is that because dark-colored roofs warm up quickly, ice and snow melt faster. If you live in an area where snow and ice can sit on a roof for prolonged periods of time, shingles that don’t encourage faster ice and snow melt leave you susceptible to leaks or even more severe damage. This is especially true on the north-facing side of a home or areas with less sunlight, where the roof is even more susceptible to condensation and ice damming. Of course, ventilation plays the main role in roof performance; however, a darker roof improves your chances that snow and ice will be eliminated faster because the roof is typically warmer.

Keep in mind that all modern asphalt shingles — even those with algae-resistant qualities and mildewcides — are composed of more organic fillers than ever before, and they will eventually streak and stain. Again, darker shingles outperform lighter ones because they hide that discoloration better, and it takes several years longer for the staining to become noticeable.

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In general, when you consider that asphalt shingle roofs are designed to last for 30 years or more in the northeast U.S. climate, the better choice to ensure that your roof (and home) will last and look good longer would be to choose darker color shingles for your roof.

NS

Bringing People Together in Print & Online @ www.NewtownSquareMag.com

19

Business Profile

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard Photos courtesy of Frank Fusaro

Opening Soon!!

Paola and Frank Fusaro

Welcome to Toscana: Newtown Square’s newest restaurant that blends authentic Italian cuisine with world-class wines, dry-aged steaks, brick-oven pizzas, fresh seafood and a classic Italian raw bar.

I don’t know,” he explained. “I knew in order to make this a success, I needed a strong teammate with a proven record of success in operations.” Frank said there was no doubt that Alfredo Giannaccari was the right man to bring his vision to life.

The highly anticipated opening of Toscana (former site of Trattoria Giuseppe) has arrived after a complete renovation of the former restaurant. Co-owner Frank Fusaro said that the idea to open Toscana came to him this year, in January. “I loved the location and the space,” he said. Frank’s vision was to create a place where folks would gather to enjoy a fantastic meal with family and friends and to provide our friends & neighbors with a “go-to” spot for happy hours and special events.

Alfredo, a native of Naples, Italy, is the driving force behind two thriving West Chester restaurants: Greystone Oyster Bar and Mercato Ristorante and Bar. Visitors to Alfredo’s restaurants know that Alfredo serves only the most authentic dishes using the highest-quality ingredients. He works closely with his chefs, to ensure quality and consistency, and offers menus that honor their Italian heritage.

But before he could sign on the dotted line, he needed to convince his wife Paola. “I needed Paola to believe in my vision,” he said. Frank knew that Newtown Square needed a restaurant that could not only serve families, but also host happy hours, cater luncheons and hold weddings and receptions. “So, after countless discussions and a bit of encouraging, Paola agreed and the Toscana dream was born.”

Frank immediately went to work building the team. “My experience and expertise are in the financial arena, specifically in restaurant management,” explained Frank. He has known from past experience that you need a diverse “team” to be successful. “I know what I know. But more importantly, I know what

After Alfredo agreed to bring Toscana to fruition, he and Frank turned their focus to the culinary piece. This team member would be the game-changer and their decision was easy.

The only chef to be the centerpiece in Toscana’s kitchen is Giusseppe Cardillo. Giusseppe hails from Naples, Italy and brings over 30 years of experience to the restaurant. Both Frank and Alfredo know that Giusseppe will bring not only his culinary expertise, but that he will run Toscana’s kitchen in the most professional and efficient manner. Giusseppe is excited to bring you a menu full of homemade, traditional delicious meals, small plates, pizzas and a raw bar that will have you coming back for more.

When Toscana’s doors open, you will be greeted by a friendly and familiar face. General Manager Alessandro Ferrante is excited to welcome you all to experience Newtown Square’s Modern Italian Steakhouse. Toscana is a perfect place for any size gathering, even large parties and events. The Villas at Toscana is their ballroom space, which welcomes corporate events, fundraisers, large group luncheons and wedding receptions. They’ve thought of everything — even a newly added bridal suite.

The final piece to the Toscana team is Ann Kolenick. Ann brings over 15 years of restaurant experience, specifically private party, wedding and special event operations. Ann is a seasoned event planner and the owner of The Gables at Chadds Ford Restaurant and Bar. From start to finish, Ann will be there to guide you through every detail, to ensure a seamless event with superior service and delicious food in a gorgeous gathering space.

20

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2021

One step in the front door and you will be amazed not only by the total transformation of the space but the spectacular 45-seat bar that is the focal point of Toscana. Specialty cocktails, premium wines, craft beers and top-shelf liquor are all on the menu. Looks like Happy Hour just got a lot Happier! The open-concept kitchen and dining area design creates a space that has you feeling like you’re part of the Familia – because you are! “There is something for everyone at Toscana,” said Frank. “Whether you want to come for happy hour, bring the family for pizza, or have a dinner out with friends, Toscana is the place to be.”

Frank said that although the renovations have taken longer than expected due to how the pandemic has disrupted the supply chain, he’s confident that you will all agree that Toscana was well worth the wait. He said, “We look forward to serving you the finest food and drinks in a friendly, relaxed and comfortable setting.”

On behalf of your Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors, we welcome Toscana to the neighborhood, wish you much success and look forward to sharing a meal with you. Mangia!

Toscana is located at 4799 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square. For more information or to make a reservation, call 610-550-8000. You can also follow Toscana on Facebook and visit their website: www.ToscanaModernSteakhouse.com.

NS

Something for Everyone at the Table

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TOSCANA Sharing Expertise and Honoring Youth Excellence Toscana Restaurateur, Frank Fusaro Food & Beverage Expert Contributor The visionary behind the new destination location for family, friends and neighbors to come together within a gorgeous atmosphere of food and beverage expertise, offering oldworld Italian culinary cuisine within a Modern Italian Steakhouse, is restaurateur Frank Fusaro, Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors’ newest Sponsor, and our newest Expert Contributor. Look for Frank’s Food & Beverage feature articles coming to these pages in the months ahead.

Not only is Toscana and restaurateur Frank Fusaro a new Sponsor of our Newtown Square community and new Expert Contributor to our magazine, Frank Fusaro’s belief in dining excellence extends to his belief in honoring excellence too. And so this month, join us in welcoming Toscana Modern Italian Steakhouse as our new Student of the Month Sponsor.

Beginning this month, Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors’ monthly profile of a middle school or high school student is now the Toscana Student of the Month, honoring a youth deserving of recognition and award for their excellence in friendship or service to their school community or hometown.

See the first Toscana Student of the Month and the first Toscana ad on the following page.

December Toscana Student of the Month Audrey Ciarmoli

Nominate the Next Student of the Month!

Any student in grades 7–12 who resides within the borders of the Marple Newtown School District can be nominated by a parent, teacher or other adult who’s familiar with the student. Send an email to LJeffries@BestVersionMedia.com explaining several reasons why the student excels in Service to friendship, school or other local communities. Academic or athletic excellence may be considered but is not required. The Winner will be featured in next month’s magazine and will also receive a Toscana Modern Italian Steakhouse Gift Certificate. N S

www.CountywideGenerators.com

Thank you for supporting a locally owned business!

Bringing People Together in Print & Online @ www.NewtownSquareMag.com

21

Now Taking Reservations for Private Parties in January!

on o S g n i Com

Student of the Month

by Lisa Jeffries

Audrey Ciarmoli DECEMBER

TOSCANA

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

Delaware Valley’s New AuthenticItalian Cuisine Restaurant Old world classic Italian for the modern world: - Pasta Specialties - Dry-Aged Steaks - Fresh Seafood - World-Class Wines - Brick-Oven Pizzas - Classic Italian Raw Bar Something for everyone at Toscana: - Family dining or large parties - Gorgeous 45-seat bar serving specialty cocktails, premium wines, craft beers and top-shelf liquor - The Villas at Toscana Ballroom - Wedding receptions with bridal suite - Fundraisers, luncheons, and corporate events

Audrey Ciarmoli, December Student of the Month Photo courtesy of Jen Ciarmoli

The December Student of the Month is Audrey Ciarmoli, a 7thgrade student at the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur. Audrey received a Certificate of Achievement and a gift certificate from Toscana Modern Italian Steakhouse, our Sponsor of this program.

When people who know Audrey think of her, the first word that probably comes to mind is dance! She started dance at age 6, and has been taking dance lessons at From the Top Dance Studio in Newtown Square. That is where she found her true love for all types of dance. Besides enjoying herself so much that it doesn’t even seem like hard work, Audrey also has a natural ability for dance, which really shows when she performs at competitions with her dance studio’s team.

Audrey takes jazz, lyrical, hip-hop, tap, modern and ballet classes, and she also volunteers to help with two other classes that are offered: the class for ages 6–8 and the special needs class, for children of all abilities, which she finds the most rewarding. Audrey also loves taking part in dance at her school, where she is a part of the Notre Dame Middle School Dance Company.

In fact, according to her mom, sometimes Audrey doesn’t get home from the studio until 9 o’clock at night, but she gets right to work on her homework before going to bed. That kind of dedication to her studies is evident when you learn that Audrey is a member of the National Junior Honor Society. She is also a member of the Student Council at her school.

610-550-8000 www.ToscanaModernSteakhouse.com 4799 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square The completely renovated site of the former Trattoria Giuseppe (next to the Regal Edgemont Square 10 Movie Theater) 22

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2021

Audrey also helps out at her church, St. John Neumann. She's a volunteer at the Parish Religious Education Program (PREP) camp, which welcomes children of all abilities, including those with developmental, intellectual, sensory, physical or behavioral disabilities.

Audrey, your Marple Newtown Friends & Neighbors congratulate you on this award! Thanks for your excellence in service to those of all abilities, who look up to you and learn from you! N S

TOSCANA MODERN ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE

Expert Contributor

by Jack Del Pizzo, CPA Del Pizzo & Associates

Year-End Tax-Planning Opportunities for Individuals and Businesses Congress is working on a spending bill that would be funded by major tax changes. If enacted, 2021 year-end tax planning could be affected. However, until changes occur, we can only base our 2021 planning on current tax laws.

Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) to qualified retirement plan participants and traditional IRA owners must begin at age 72. For 2020, RMDs were waived, but for 2021, RMDs must be made by December 31.

If you claim the standard deduction for 2021, you can also deduct up to $300 ($600 on a joint return) of cash contributions to charity. On the other hand, if you itemize deductions, you can deduct cash contributions to most charities equal to 100% of your income. An individual who is at least age 70½ can make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) from a traditional IRA to a charity, in an amount up to $100,000. Unlike normal IRA distributions, a QCD is not taxable to the IRA owner.

If you have a business loss from a sole proprietorship in 2018, 2019 or 2020, partnership, LLC or S Corporation, you may be able to receive cash refunds by carrying the loss back five years.

Under prior law, loss carrybacks were prohibited, which meant you could only receive tax relief in the future, if ever. If you had a business loss in 2020, you should speak to your tax advisor about filing IRS Form 1045 by December 31, 2021, to receive a “Quick Refund” of taxes paid in 2015 through 2019.

For 2021, the maximum contribution to qualified retirement plans remains $19,500 for 401(k), 403(b) and 457 plans plus an extra $6,500 catch-up contribution if you are at least age 50. $13,500 plus an extra $3,500 catch up for SIMPLE Plans; and $6,000 plus an extra $1,000 catch up for a traditional IRA. Contributions to retirement plans and IRAs are subject to phase-outs based upon your income and to various complicated limitations.

For 2021, a Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction of 20% is allowed for income from a sole proprietorship, partnership, S Corporation and LLC. For example, a business reports $100,000 of income after expenses but only pays tax on $80,000 after the QBI deduction.

Traditional IRA owners with earned income can make contributions regardless of their age. Prior to 2020, the maximum age for contributions was 70½.

Wondering if it is better to file a joint or separate return with a spouse? Generally, it’s more expensive tax-wise to file separately, but in certain limited situations, it may be advantageous.

You should speak to your tax advisor about your specific situation regarding all of these new tax deductions and rules.

NS

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23

Our Community

ChristmasPrism App: Marple Grad Helps Bring Joy to the Neighborhood

by Holly Stupak Photos courtesy of Mike Kane

Mike, a professional coder, decided to take matters into his own hands and created the ChristmasPrism app, which helps users find houses with the best holiday lights. He spent three weekends in a row perfecting the app, which launched in early December 2020. The app is user-generated, so anyone with an elaborate light display can upload a photo of their house with a title, brief description and location. For people looking for light displays, the app’s built-in map shows where these homes are. Just tap an icon and the information pops right up. The app also allows visitors to “like” the display and even add comments.

It’s hard not to find yourself in a festive mood when you’re driving through town looking at the homes decorated for the Christmas season. For many of us, it’s a tradition for the whole family to pile into the car, listen to Christmas music The ChristmasPrism App and look at the houses decorated with the best light displays. But what if you’re not sure where to find all of the extravagant houses or want to explore homes in other towns? Thanks to Marple Newtown High School graduate Mike Kane, there’s an app for that!

Although the number of users was small at first, the app really took off after Mike was featured in Philly Mag, 6ABC, NBC10 and Fox29. By mid-December 2020 they received well over 800 downloads. And while at first most of the homes were in the Delaware County area, they now have 2,000 houses and 70,000 users in all 50 states.

With last year’s holiday season happening in the height of the pandemic, Mike said the app was a great way for people to come together during a dark time. “With all the social distancing measures in place, going out for a drive to look for lights was a fun and safe activity for families to do,” said Mike. “People enjoyed being able to show off their homes, and it brought many people joy!”

Mike said it’s a family tradition at his house to drive around and look at neighborhood light displays during the Christmas season. Last November, he was trying to get into the holiday spirit with his two young sons early in the season, but he wasn’t finding enough houses to entertain them. “My two-year-old son was crying because he wanted to find more houses with lights,” explained Mike. “My wife and I checked local Facebook groups and the Nextdoor app, but we weren’t able to find out where all of the best local displays were.”

A self-taught coder, Mike graduated from Marple in 2003 and then entered a two-year informational technology program.

But at the age of 21, he developed CIDP (chronic inflammatory

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his experience and skills to develop apps, including one called Speedify, a channel bonding VPN made for streamers that combines all available internet connections for speed, reliability, and security.

demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy), a rare autoimmune disorder of the peripheral nerves that left him nearly paralyzed. For almost 10 years he was confined to his home, unable to work, and he said he spent a lot of time playing video games. By age 30, his CIDP was under control and his doctor gave him the all-clear to work again.

Although the ChristmasPrism app originally was only for iPhones, Mike has since created a version for Android users. He’s also partnering with PECO this year for their Holiday Madness Tournament, where PECO customers who decorate their houses in festive holiday lights can enter the contest to win prizes.

That year, he got himself into good physical shape, took up photography and began teaching himself coding.

“I wanted to prove to myself that I could try something new, even if it was hard,” said Mike. He spent every So whether you’re the neighborhood’s day for a year studying and practicClark Griswold or you’re just looking ing coding. During that time Mike also to drive around to get into the holiday Stephanie and Mike Kane reconnected with Stephanie, a fellow with their children Michael and Kyle spirit, Mike says the ChristmasPrism Marple graduate. They first became app is the perfect community-driven Facebook friends, exchanging messages for several months place for people to show off their lights and for others to enjoy before finally meeting up in person. After that first date, they’ve them. “Every single decorated home is amazing in its own never been apart and married in 2018. He and Stephanie lived way,” said Mike. “Each house is basically a representation of the in Broomall with their two sons Michael and Kyle for a few owners, and each one brings me, and many others, so much years before moving out to West Chester last year. joy!” ChristmasPrism is available on www.ChristmasPrism.com Since April 2015 Mike has worked as a software engineer at Connectify, a Philadelphia tech firm. At his job, Mike uses

and free in your phone’s app store.

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Happy Holidays, From Our Families to Yours!

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25

Expert Contributor

by Sarah Forti Forti Homes with Keller Williams Realty

2021 Newtown Square Real Estate Recap The past 20 months have been a real estate roller coaster.

In March 2020, COVID-19 put a screeching halt to what was already gearing up to be one of the best ever years in real estate sales. Record-low interest rates, rising prices due to low inventory, a strong economy, and low unemployment numbers fueled solid activity and strong market projections.

When the pandemic shutdown occurred in March of 2020, the market came to a halt. What happened next was incredible to witness. While the world sat in their homes and waited to see where things would go from here, many Americans looked around and reconsidered if their current living situation worked for them. This spurred a flurry of activity as people decided they needed more space, less space, to be closer to family or to combine generations under one roof.

All of that activity created an incredible surge in sales, causing extraordinary demand and the lowest inventory of homes for sale in recent history. At the same time, due to pandemicrelated material production and delivery delays related to the pandemic, the lack of available lumber halted an already slow-moving new construction industry.

Entering 2021, there were still not enough homes to keep up with the demand. Home builders and flippers tightened their

margins and increased their initial investments in order to keep their work going. Their financial actions increased home prices even further. Home flippers who had been willing to pay up to $250,000 on a particular property were now willing to pay $275,000 and also take less of a profit, to keep their business and their workers moving forward. Such changes resulted in higher home values, and also increased competition among the first-time homebuyer sector.

What did that mean for Newtown Square real estate? Let’s recap. In 2021, 325 homes had sold as of the time this article was written, with another 62 scheduled to close by end of year.

Of those 387 homes sold, 9% were new construction. For the resale properties, the median Days on Market was only 7, and the median home sold for 100% of the asking price, while 116 of the 325 home sales sold for OVER the asking price. The highest sale price was $5 million and the lowest price was $105,000.

There are several commercial and residential new construction development projects underway in Newtown Square, creating even more reasons for people to choose our wonderful Newtown Square as their place to call home. If you are interested in learning more about property and land development projects in our area, you can read the Planning Commission meeting minutes on the Newtown township website.

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Wishing you and yours a happy and healthy holiday season and a Happy New Year!

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Things To Do

DECEMBER Calendar of Events Saturdays December 4, 11 & 18

Daily, December 1 – 20

Sat. December 4 – Fri. December 24

Art at The Square Tavern

Boy Scouts Christmas Tree Sale

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Jr.

@Goshen & Newtown Street Roads A variety of rotating art displays by local artists, exhibitions and activities. Holiday decorations, Newtown Square Village train display, handcrafted toys, gift shop, refreshments.

@St. Pius X Church parking lot 2004 Lawrence Rd, Broomall Boy Scout Troop 468 Broomall and Boy Scout Troop 315 Newtown Square are combining their efforts, to help you Be Prepared for Christmas! Come out and support the Boy Scouts. 100% of all proceeds benefit scouting youth activities.

@The Media Theatre 104 E State St, Media The holiday classic soars off the screen in this 60-minute musical adaptation of the beloved television special. Filled with holiday hits like "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" and "A Holly Jolly Christmas," Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ JR. features all of your favorite characters including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and, of course, Rudolph. It’s an adventure that teaches us that what makes you different can be what makes you special.

Time: 11am – 5pm Cost: FREE (donations accepted!)

www.NSHistory.org

Time: Weeknights 5:00 – 9:30pm; Sat. & Sun. 9:30am – 9:30pm Cost: Varies by tree size

Fri. November 19 – Sun. January 9

A Longwood Christmas @Longwood Gardens 1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square Visit A Longwood Christmas as they showcase the dramatically beautiful contrast of fire and ice. Inside, set your spirits ablaze with towering trees adorned in amber to fiery red tones, flickering flame lanterns, and an inviting mountain retreat, complemented by icy-hued plantings, a “frozen” succulent fountain and a refreshing alpine waterway that is the ultimate winter wonderland. Outdoors, cozy up to inviting fire pits, cool off with a stroll through lights that dazzle and delight and relish in the splendor of the season.

Timed admission tickets are required.

Time: 10am – 11pm Daily Cost: Adult $30; Seniors $27; Youth 5-18 years $16; Discounts for Military and College Students

610-388-1000 www.LongwoodGardens.org

Daily December 3 – January 2

The Festival of Lights @Rose Tree Park 1671 N Providence Rd, Media Rose Tree Park sparkles at night with its annual Festival of Lights display. Dozens of illuminated trees and lit displays draw visitors back every year to walk in the winter wonderland and linger in the festive atmosphere. A treasured Delco tradition for more than four decades, The Festival of Lights provides a perfect opportunity to get in the holiday spirit with friends and family or take a sweetheart stroll after dinner. The 2021 Festival of Lights opens with a brief Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, December 3, at 5:00 PM. Time: 5 – 10pm Cost: FREE

Time: 11am, 11:30am or 12pm (varies by date) Cost: Kids $17; Adults $22

610-891-0100 www.MediaTheatre.org Sat. December 4 & Sat. December 18

Holiday Readings @The Square Tavern Goshen & Newtown Street Roads Actress Ceil Mann will present favorite holiday stories at the Square Tavern. Email info@nshistory.org to reserve a seat, as space is limited.

Time: 2pm Cost: FREE

info@nshistory.org Sat. December 4

Marple Tree Lighting @Veterans Park Broomall Come out to Veterans Memorial Park for hot chocolate, cookies, music and dance performances and an early evening tree lighting. Children may also bring their letters for Santa who will arrive on a Broomall Fire Company fire truck.

Time: 6pm Cost: FREE

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@St. Albans Circle, Newtown Square Kick off the Christmas season with hot chocolate, Christmas carolers, candy canes for kids and dance performances. New this year will be sweet and savory treats and select local stores will be open for holiday shopping.

Donate non-perishable food items for St. Alban’s Episcopal Church’s food drive and unwrapped new children's toy donations for Toys for Tots.

Santa Claus will arrive on a Newtown Township Volunteer Fire Company fire truck at 6:50pm for the tree lighting.

@Anthony's at Paxon Hollow Country Club The Newtown Square Rotary Club wants you to win expensive designer bags during an evening of bingo also honoring Newtown Township Supervisor, Leonard B. Altieri, III, for his dedicated service to our community.

All proceeds benefiting local community needs.

Time: 7 – 10pm Cost: $40 in advance. Table groups of 8–10 possible.

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Marple Newtown High School Winter Concert @MNHS Performing Arts Center 120 Media Line Rd, Newtown Square The Marple Newtown High School music department presents the 2021 Winter Concert featuring the MNHS concert choir, string orchestra, concert band and percussion ensemble. A musical treat for the whole family!

Time: 7 – 10pm Cost: FREE

Time: 5:30 – 7:30pm Cost: FREE

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@4899 West Chester Pk, Newtown Square Flight on Ice is Newtown Square’s first pop-up outdoor ice-skating rink and offers fun for the entire family. This winter wonderland features a 60’ x 100’ full-size outdoor skating rink, a heated hospitality tent with food, drinks and merchandise. Special holiday events and live music are on the schedule to keep you in the holiday spirit.

Time: Mon. – Fri. 3-10pm; Sat. 10am – 10pm; Sunday 10am – 8pm Cost: Check website for current Season Pass, Family Pass and Individual Ticket pricing.

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History Spotlight

Portrait of the Artist: Carl Lindborg

by Doug Humes Photos courtesy of Newtown Square Historical Society

If you have had reason to go to the 2nd floor of the Newtown Township offices in the last few years, you would be hard-pressed to miss these two colorful paintings: Across the Line at the top of the staircase and Les Danseurs at the bottom. The Newtown Square Historical Society had these two paintings in its “attic” at the Paper Mill House, where they had languished for years. An inquiry about them led to the effort to exhibit them, and Township Manager Steve Nease found a place for them when the new Township building opened.

Across the Line, an early football scene

Why show off these paintings in Newtown Square? The paintings were done by Carl Lindborg, who, with his wife Alice, were a force for good in the township for years. Both Lindborgs were artists, educators and historians.

They married in 1939 and moved to Newtown Square, buying a historic farmhouse where they lived and worked into the 1990s. Carl taught art in the Marple

Newtown School District, at Eastern College and at Pennsylvania Military College (now Widener). His paintings have been exhibited in high places such as the Whitney Museum in New York and the Corcoran Gallery in Washington, DC. In mid-life, he took up sculpture, and produced the William Penn statue at Pennsbury Manor, Revolutionary War scenes on the Fort Mercer Monument,

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Bust of Alice Lindborg by husband Carl The Lindborgs at their Bishop Hollow Road home, circa 1983

Alice was an accomplished pianist, a landscape artist and a full partner with her husband in their Newtown Township history work, and in the affairs of the American Swedish Historical Museum, including planning the program for Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf ’s 1976 visit to Governor Printz Park.

the bust of John Hanson at Old Swedes Church in Philadelphia and the 7-foot tall statue of Governor Printz at his namesake park, the site of the Swedish settlement on the Delaware River. Carl’s bust of his wife Alice is on display at the Paper Mill House Museum.

In their spare time, the Lindborgs were two of the founding members of the Newtown Square Historical Society, and the primary editors of the 1984 book The History of Newtown Township, spearheading an effort by a variety of residents and writers to research and publish a comprehensive 300-year history of Newtown Township.

The next time you visit the Newtown Township building, take time to appreciate these paintings, and remember and celebrate the Lindborgs, examples of people who gave back to their community.

For more history on Newtown Square, Delaware County, and Newtown Square Historical Society ( NSHS ) membership information and events, please visit: www.NSHistory.org.

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Expert Contributor

by Mark E. Reitz, PT Penn Therapy Associates

From Winter Activities to Cold Weather Injuries:

Your PT to the Rescue

Hopefully you survived your fall chores without any significant injury. The leaves are raked, gutters cleaned and outdoor furniture is all stored away, and you are still in one piece. Congratulations! Now you just have to get through winter’s challenges.

As the holidays approach, the calories and pounds tend to add up, which makes staying in shape even harder, just as snow shoveling season is approaching. Maybe you have a ski trip planned or are sharpening up your skates. Your Physical Therapist (PT) can help you prepare for all of those winter activities and help keep you in shape over the holidays and through the winter months.

Shoveling snow is responsible for more than just heart attacks.

Thousands of back injuries occur or are aggravated every year due to snow removal done wrong. Your PT can teach you how to protect your back by doing specific exercises that build your

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2021

core strength and improve the flexibility and strength of your hips and legs. PT’s are also the experts in teaching proper body mechanics to prevent injury. In fact, only one or two visits are often enough to teach you the proper exercises or techniques you need to know. And remember, in most cases you can see a PT for up to 30 days without a physician referral.

If skiing, skating or snowshoeing are more up your alley, heading out without properly preparing your body is a recipe for injury. Winter sports require very specific use of your leg and trunk muscles. Once again, it’s a PT you should seek to teach you the exercises and techniques you need to follow in order to enjoy your winter sport activities without injury.

If you should unfortunately suffer an injury, however, physical therapy is your ticket to a speedy recovery. PTs treat everything from back strains to ACL tears and everything you can imagine in between. They are also an excellent triage source to refer you to the medical specialist you may need if you are not sure where to start after an injury.

Preventative medicine is much less expensive and less painful than post-injury treatment. So as winter approaches, give your PT a call and discuss your specific needs. If you don’t already see a PT on a regular basis, do some research to find the best local PT who fits your needs. No other medical specialist combines the amount of medical knowledge and exercise expertise as a PT does. Have a happy and healthy holiday and winter season!

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About Our Photographer

’Tis the Season for Self Care

Aveda gifts made with pure flower and plant aromas.

Gift certificates are the perfect stocking stuffer for any Corinthian Spa service.

Katie Borsuk Photography

by Bob Blaisse

Katie Borsuk is not only our Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine photographer, she is a friend, a neighbor, a wife and mom to two loveable pups: Macie, a German Shepherd, and Mason, a Labrador. She is also mom of one super-sassy Tuxedo cat named Oliver.

Katie, a life-long resident of Newtown Square, has always had a passion for the arts. Professionally, she is an experienced Graphic Designer and Photographer. Katie attended Rosemont College where she received a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts.

Her portfolio includes print design, digital design and website development. Katie is also a natural light photographer who thoroughly enjoys capturing portraits that her clients can treasure and hold close to their hearts for a lifetime. As a fellow Newtown Square resident, Katie is looking forward to sharing her creativity through the photographs she takes throughout the community.

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Whether you need special moments captured at a family party, an intimate wedding and reception, a bridal or baby shower, religious celebration, an engagement moment or a company event, Katie Borsuk’s photography skills are available to the readers of Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors at very reasonable rates, and available for review at www.KatieBorsuk.com.

To capture those special moments, contact Katie at 610-906-0553 or KatieBorsuk@gmail.com.

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33

Charity Spotlight

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard Photos courtesy of Jenna O’Toole

During this season of good cheer and generosity, we like to feature folks in our area who give their time, talents, energy and resources to those in need. And our community is certainly filled with generous people who expect nothing in return other than knowing they make a difference in someone’s life.

For over 20 years, the folks at the “J” Foundation have been providing assistance to local families with terminally ill children. What began as a kind gesture by one man to help a critically ill young boy and his family has grown into a team of board members and volunteers dedicated to providing families in need with financial support, adaptive equipment, counseling services and celebration of life events.

The “J” Foundation was founded by Jamie Panetta and named in memory of Joseph (Joey) Novelli, a six-year-old boy with

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2021

“J” Foundation Board Members front row (L to R): Alicia Cabrelli, Lisa Panetta, Jenna O'Toole; back row (L to R): Neale Boyle, Joe Amicone, Steve D’Antonio, Jeanne Curran; Not pictured Tim Wallace, Sue Carroll, Tom Millison

an inoperable brain tumor. Jamie worked with Joey’s mother, Patty, who was caring for Joey and his two siblings. Jamie saw how Patty struggled to manage her job, her household and mounting medical bills while caring for her sick child. He knew he needed to do something to help.

Jamie, a Havertown native, Cardinal O’Hara High School graduate and Executive Chef, rallied his friends and family to serve up the first annual Joseph Novelli benefit dinner. The fundraiser was a big success! Although there was nothing they could have done to save Joey’s life, the donations from the dinner allowed Joey’s family to spend quality time with him, free from financial stress.

Unfortunately, Joey passed away in his mother’s arms shortly after that first benefit event, but Jamie was determined to keep raising money for other families with terminally ill children. For a few years following Joey’s passing, Jamie and his team hosted the annual Joseph Novelli benefit dinner, and proceeds were donated to the American Cancer Society and the palliative care program at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP).

But Jamie wasn’t finished just yet. While helping families with terminally ill children, he learned that very few government resources were available to financially support these families.

He recognized that more needed to be done, so in 2002, Jamie formally established the “J” Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, in memory of the little boy who had made a big difference in his life. Since that time, the “J” Foundation has provided close to $1 million in assistance to hundreds of local families with terminally ill children.

Jamie Panetta was dedicated to helping others. All the love and kindness he gave over the years was returned to him when he faced his own terminal cancer diagnosis in 2016. Jamie passed away in June of that year, surrounded by his family and friends. They remain committed to continuing Jamie’s vision and legacy, by providing the best quality of life for children who are facing life-limiting illness and their families.

Jamie’s wife Lisa said that it feels good to continue the work that Jamie was so passionate about. “Our entire team is 100%

Runners at the start of the annual “J” Foundation 5k

Enjoying a Phillies game with families in need

volunteer,” she said. “That allows us the opportunity to not only help families in need but to also contribute to other causes.”

Lisa explained that the foundation recently donated to Brave Gowns, an organization that provides bright, fun and lively patterned hospital gowns to kids who have been diagnosed with cancer. She is also proud of their recent collaboration with St. Christopher’s Hospital, to build a Neonatal “Relaxation Room” for new parents and their babies.

As the “J” Foundation grew, so did the opportunities for others to join their mission. One event in particular really knocked it out of the park. Jake Arrieta, a pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies, heard about the “J” Foundation and invited them to his luxury club box for a home game. Jake covered the cost of the tickets, food and drinks and Jenna said that they were able to invite two families in need. “It was a great night!” she said. “We all enjoyed the relaxing and fun atmosphere, which helped us get better acquainted with the families we help.”

Jenna O’Toole is the “J” Foundation’s Communications Director.

She is also Jamie and Lisa’s niece. “What I love about our foundation is that we are able to help these kids and families who live right here in our community,” she explained. “We recently donated an iPad to a child with renal disease so he could stay connected with his school teacher, classmates and friends during his treatments. And we also provided a little girl suffering from seizures a special chair called a tomato sitter, which allowed her to safely sit at the dinner table with her family.” The foundation also partners with CHOP’s palliative care team to provide parents and siblings with unique necklaces engraved with their loved one’s thumbprint or handwriting.

Jenna said that to qualify for financial assistance, the child and their family must reside in Pennsylvania, New Jersey or Delaware. They must also be referred by a social worker, nurse, caseworker or healthcare professional who's currently familiar with the child and their family. And the family must be experiencing financial difficulty as a result of expenses related to the life-limiting illness.

The application process is easy. Lisa explained that healthcare professionals refer patients and their families to the foundation by completing an online application. “Unlike many larger organizations, requests made to the “J” Foundation are generally processed within 24 to 72 hours,” said Lisa. “This quick response could not be possible without our Chairman of the Board Steve D'Antonio and our President Alicia Cabrelli’s tireless work to ensure these families get the help they need when they need it most.” Once the application is approved, funds are sent directly to the specific type of need, whether to the mortgage company, landlord, contractor for medically necessary home improvements, funeral home, or paid towards transportation costs.

In recent years, the folks at the “J” Foundation have held golf outings and family fun runs to raise money. “We just hosted our 6th Annual Jamie Panetta Golf Outing,” said Jenna. “It’s held every year at Paxon Hollow Golf Club, and this year’s event was another huge success.” Last year, the pandemic did derail their plans for their annual 5K, but they are planning to lace up again this coming spring.

Both Lisa and Jenna said that they are always looking for volunteers to help with their events and to help spread the word about the “J” Foundation. For more information on getting involved, visit their website — www.JFoundationInc.org — or like their Facebook page @TheJFoundation.

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Our Community

Home for the Holidays: Sharing Special Traditions

Amy Pasnak and her mom Suzy Furlong

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard Photos courtesy of Amy Pasnak From traditional family gatherings to surviving long shopping mall lines, this holiday season is shaping up to be one reminiscent of years gone by. Our hearts are filled with joy and good cheer, and the magic — or madness — of the season has returned!

Many of us are looking forward to inviting family and friends back into our homes. And if this holiday season seems extra special to you, you’re not alone. Knowing how it felt to be separated from our loved ones last year makes this year’s gatherings even more memorable. It’s time to dust off those decorations, holiday traditions and family recipes. ’Tis the season to celebrate, and of course, indulge.

Welcome to Amy’s kitchen! Amy Pasnak has lived in Newtown Square for the past 12 years with her husband Erik and their two daughters, Emma and Sophie. Amy says she loves this area because it’s not only family friendly and inclusive, it’s super convenient to Center City Philly where they enjoy seeing shows and going to dinner.

Amy loves family traditions, especially during the holidays. Amy said that some of her fondest memories was the time she spent in the kitchen with her mom. “I was my mom’s “sous chef,” helping her cook for holidays,” she said. “We had so much fun laughing, singing and cooking, and I still make a lot of the same recipes from all those years ago.” Amy’s mom still loves to cook, and she spends a lot of time in the kitchen with her granddaughters Emma and Sophie. She even created an In the Kitchen with Mimi cookbook for them, complete with recipes and pictures of them cooking together.

Sufganiyot are a traditional sweet treat served during Hanukkah

Today, Amy shares a recipe that has become a tradition for her family for both Hanukkah and Christmas. “I am Jewish and Erik is Catholic,” she explained. “Our girls are being raised Jewish, but in our home, we are lucky to celebrate both holidays.”

Sufganiyot is a fried, round jelly-filled doughnut, eaten in Israel and around the world during Hanukkah. Foods fried in oil hold special meaning because they symbolize the miracle of when oil enough to burn for only one night burned for eight nights in the ancient Holy Temple in Jerusalem.

A cross between a beignet and a jelly doughnut, sufganiyot are traditionally filled with jelly or jam, but the filling options are limitless: custard, pudding, pumpkin butter, apple butter, or dulce de leche are all great options. Sufganiyot are also delicious plain. Amy said that on Christmas morning, her family enjoys sufganiyot filled with vanilla pudding and drizzled with chocolate.

Happy Holidays!

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2021

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• 2 tablespoons active dry yeast • ½ cup warm water (100–110 degrees) • ¼ cup plus 1 teaspoon sugar, plus more for rolling • 2½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting • 2 large eggs • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature • ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg • 2 teaspoons salt • 3 cups vegetable oil, plus more for bowl • 1 cup seedless raspberry jam

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Directions In a small bowl, combine yeast, warm water and 1 teaspoon sugar. Set aside until foamy, about 10 minutes.

Place flour in a large bowl. Make a well in the center. Add eggs, yeast mixture, 1/4 cup sugar, butter, nutmeg and salt. Using a wooden spoon, stir until a sticky dough forms. On a well-floured work surface, knead until dough is smooth, soft, and bounces back when poked with a finger (about 8 minutes). Add more flour if necessary. Place in an oiled bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Set in a warm place to rise until doubled (1 to 1+1/2 hours).

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On a lightly floured work surface, roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Using a 2+1/2-inch-round cutter or drinking glass, cut 20 rounds. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for 15 minutes.

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, heat oil until a deep-frying thermometer registers 370 degrees. Using a slotted spoon, carefully slip 4 rounds into the oil. Fry until golden (about 40 seconds). Turn doughnuts over; fry until golden on the other side (another 40 seconds). Using a slotted spoon, transfer doughnuts to a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Roll in sugar while warm. Fry all remaining dough, and roll in sugar.

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Fill a pastry bag fitted with a #4 tip with jam or your choice of filling. Using a wooden skewer or toothpick, make a hole in the side of each doughnut. Fit the pastry tip into the hole, then pipe about 2 teaspoons of filling into the doughnut. Repeat with remaining doughnuts.

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If you’re not the most creative in the kitchen, don’t fret.

Remember that there are plenty of restaurants that are happy to do the cooking for you. Many of our locally owned shops and restaurants offer complete catering packages to feed your family and guests. Those shop owners and their employees are also looking forward to a happy, healthy and busy holiday season.

Wishing you all a magical holiday season filled with warmth, love, joy...and LOTS of good food!

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Our Community

by Chris Stasen Photos courtesy of Chris Stasen

Communication Boards in Our Parks Children with speech impairment and special needs often need help communicating with others, including while at play in our township parks. “At this time, Newtown Township and Marple Township are the only two townships in Delaware County to offer Playground Communication Boards that offer every child the ability to communicate at the playground,” explained Julie Long, Speech Pathologist with the Marple Newtown School District.

With a passion for Alternative Augmentative Communication (AAC) and a mission for children with speech development challenges, Ms. Long contacted Newtown Township Supervisor Leonard Altieri, III, who agreed that there was a need. Leonard rallied fellow Supervisors to approve funding for the creation and installation of Communications Boards at three Newtown Township parks, now installed thanks to a future Eagle Scout’s leadership initiative among his peers of Boy Scout Troop 315, chartered by St. Anastasia Church.

Jerome (“Jerry”) Blaisse, a 17-year-old from Newtown Square and son of Bob and Jean Blaisse, grew up on the same street as Leonard. Leonard knew that Jerry was an Eagle Scout Candidate in need of a project to earn his Eagle Rank. “Getting

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

December 2021

Eagle Scout Candidate Jerry Blaisse

the Communication Boards funded and made was easy, but getting them in the ground and informing township residents would take some work,” Leonard said. “I knew Jerry could bring his fellow Scouts up to the task.” By demonstrating his leadership abilities through his Eagle Scout Project — Be Prepared To Know — Jerry and his Boy Scout Troop 315 have aided in the effort to include those who may have communication challenges such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Apraxia of Speech or speech impairment. Leonard said, “I am proud of these Scouts and our township is better for it.”

Communication Boards installed by Jerry Blaisse’s team of a dozen Boy Scouts from Troop 315 will now enable youth and their accompanying family or friends to communicate more easily by pointing to icons of the most frequently used vocabulary images that now facilitate ease of communication while at play.

These large Communication Boards show icons representing actions, feelings and objects using core vocabulary words and sentence structuring words. Newtown Square’s three Communication Boards are now installed at Gable Park, Drexel Lodge Park and Brookside Park, all displayed at a child’s height and tailored to the specifics of each park playground.

On hand to lend support to the October 23rd Eagle Scout Project were Newtown Township Supervisors Leonard Altieri, III, Tina Roberts-Lightcap, Michael Russo and Kathy Chandless, along with Newtown Township Parks and Recreation Director Wade Pollock. “This brought back memories of my days as a Boy Scout,” said Michael Russo. “Scouting probably influenced my own interest in public service. and I’ll bet we have a future Supervisor among these Scouts.”

The icons on the Communication Boards are color-coded: actions are blue, feelings and playground items are white, questions are purple, and distressing feelings are red. The boards allow for simple sentences to be formed with the user pointing from one square section on the board to the next, to form basic sentences such as “I like slide” or “Where is the bathroom?” Kathy Chandless, mother of five, thanked the future Eagle Scout saying, “These boards are such a great tool to enable children of all abilities to communicate with each

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other while enjoying the playgrounds.” That same sentiment was affirmed by residents as Jerry’s Scout team installed each board at the three township parks.

These sturdy boards will hopefully serve the community for a long time, as many Eagle Scout Projects have in the past. The Trail to Eagle is a long path achieved by only about 8% of all Scouts, and it requires a leadership service project in which the Eagle Scout Candidate must lead fellow Scouts and volunteers to complete. Jerry Blaisse hopes to achieve his Eagle Scout rank for his leadership that has helped his Newtown Township community Be Prepared To Know.

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Friends & Neighbors

Will You Be Scouting for a Christmas Tree?

by Bob Blaisse

Again this year, Boy Scout Troop 468 Broomall, and Boy Scout Troop 315 Newtown Square are combining their efforts, to help you Be Prepared for Christmas!

Friday Nov. 26 – Monday Dec. 20 @St. Pius X Church parking lot (2004 Lawrence Rd, Broomall) Weeknights 5 – 9:30pm; Sat. & Sun. 9:30am – 9:30pm.

Cost varies by tree size. Please come out and support the Boy Scouts.

100% of all proceeds benefit scouting youth activities. Thank you!"

2021