Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine, January 2022 by bestversionmedia2

2022 January

Newtown Square Bringing People Together

Friends & Neighbors

The Sofield Family Team Grit and Grace Cover photo by Katie Borsuk Photography www.KatieBorsuk.com

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2022

Dear Friends & Neighbors, January’s cold holds warm memories of holidays now past, and hope for new beginnings ahead. This will be a year of new beginnings and Bringing People Together in new ways for Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors, in print and online at www.NewtownSquareMag.com.

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 Turner-Hilliard, Holly Stupak, Lisa Jeffries, Doug Humes, Len Sciulli, David Linn Cook, Scott Magness, Luigi Truono, Kaitlin Battiste, Lou Matteo, Rick Bondurant, Deborah M. Truscello, Esq. 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. © 2022 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

We’ll soon launch a Sports Section in your hometown magazine, and upload many local sports features to BVM Sports, the #1 place online — www.BVMSports.com — for the latest in local, college and pro sports coverage. To do that, we need Reader Leaders with an interest in Sports — pee wee to pros. (See Sheila’s feature on page 36.) Another new beginning for our magazine is a new beginning on the Ellis Preserve. AmeriHealth Caritas has just moved its new corporate headquarters to Newtown Square and has already begun sponsoring their new hometown as our Inside Back Cover Sponsor. (See AmeriHealth Caritas’ first ad on page 39.) AmeriHealth Caritas and its affiliates comprise the largest family of Medicaid managed care plans in the United States. With that worthy mission now headquartered in our town, I’m proud, on behalf of our Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors readers, to welcome AmeriHealth Caritas. Their sponsorship will help our hometown magazine grow in page count, to serve Newtown Square residents even more in 2022. This month’s new beginnings will include New Year’s Resolutions. Mine is to sneak off for more “Bob Time” at my secret spot in Newtown Square that won’t be a secret much longer as I welcome another new Sponsor, which is also found on the Ellis Preserve: Bright Spot Cafe. They serve breakfast and lunch to employees working in businesses on the Ellis Preserve. But husband-and-wife owners Tom and Shannon Maria Brower, and their partner, former NFL player Brandon Noble, also serve cafe visitors and cater private events at this spacious, high-ceiling cafe. I love their menu, their Sunday Brunch and their fair prices. Bright Spot Cafe is located at 3811 West Chester Pike. Finding them may require looking for the yellow lawn signs on the Ellis Preserve. Look for Bright Spot Cafe’s first ad on page 9. Thanks Tom, Shannon Maria, and Brandon. My secret is out. Happy New Year, Everyone! And we hope you enjoy this first issue of 2022.

Bob Blaisse

ON THE COVER The Sofield Family at Flight on Ice Skating Rink in Newtown Square

Publisher

Dear Residents, 2022 January

Newtown Square Together Bringing People

bors Fri ends & Ne igh

Happy New Year! Here’s hoping your holiday season was filled with much warmth and joy, surrounded by family and friends once again. January traditionally has us setting goals and looking ahead, so we asked a few of our Sponsors for their tips on how to make those resolutions last all year long. And speaking of resolutions, you will meet the Sofield family, whose story will inspire you to make health and wellness a priority. Our Business Profile features Forti Homes with Keller Williams Realty. Realtor and Expert Contributor Sarah Forti knows how special Newtown Square is because this is where she calls home. We are also excited to highlight Newtown Square’s new pop-up winter wonderland, Flight on Ice. ®

ld Family The Sofie ce m Grit and Gra Tea

Borsuk Photography Cover photo by Katie 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

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

LET OUR EXPERTISE HELP YOU TO KEEP YOUR RESOLUTION TO

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Family Law Trial Attorney Deborah M. Truscello, Esq. Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello 610.892.4940 • DmtofLaw@gmail.com www.TruscelloLaw.com

Chronic pain in your neck, back, shoulders, hips, knees or feet? Fearing Shin Splints, Carpal Tunnel or Plantar Fasciitis? Want to Return to Your Healthy and Active Lifestyle?

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

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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

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2022

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

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, 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

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

The Sofield Family Team Grit and Grace We would like to thank

for sponsoring this month’s Resident Feature. Jenn and Shannon Sofield

Meet The Sofield Family: Shannon, Jenn, twins Reagan and Peyton, and Julian. They lead by example and live their lives with passion, dedication and a commitment to family, fitness and fun! Shannon grew up in Voorhees, New Jersey, with his parents and two older brothers. He attended Eastern High School where he was a member of the wrestling team. Shannon went on to further his education at Rider University, where he studied Finance and earned both his undergraduate degree and his MBA. While in graduate school, Shannon coached Division 1 Wrestling at Princeton University, and helped produce four NCAA National Tournament qualifiers, something that had not been accomplished in the previous 10 years of Princeton’s program. After college, Shannon began working in website development and online services. He started his own company, which was one of the first to develop an online platform that enabled users to convert compact discs (CDs) to mp3 files. It was a pay-to-download product that earned him numerous awards and recognition. 6

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

These days, you’ll find Shannon helping other companies maximize their online businesses through Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), a licensing model that allows access to software on a subscription basis using external servers. SaaS allows each user to access programs through the Internet instead of having to install the software on the user’s computer. “I love my job!” Shannon explained. “I enjoy seeing businesses grow directly through my skills and expertise.” Jenn is originally from Havertown, where she grew up with her parents and two brothers. She graduated from Haverford High School and was a member of the Haverford Fords Cheerleading team. A self-described lover of warm weather and sunshine, Jenn headed west for college: Arizona State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications. Jenn’s work has varied over the years, from gym software sales to sales management to most recently a Realtor® with Compass Real Estate. “I have an affinity for helping people in all aspects of their lives,” she said. “Helping my clients January 2022

find homes is very rewarding work for me.” In addition to her time spent house-hunting, Jenn also works on the account management team for Wodify, a well-known gym management software company. Shannon and Jenn met in the summer of 2005 in Avalon, NJ. Mutual friends introduced them at the Princeton Bar & Grill. They soon realized that they shared many loves including the sun, the surf and the sand. They also learned that they share the same July birthday! That’s not the kind of compatibility you find every day, so after a few years of dating, Jenn and Shannon tied the knot in Riviera Maya, Mexico, surrounded by family and friends on — you guessed it — their birthday! The newlyweds began their married life in Philadelphia, but soon after decided to move to the suburbs. They wanted to start a family and to give their Rhodesian Ridgeback pup, Aspen, room to run. “As soon as we saw Newtown Square, we loved it,” said Jenn. “We found a home on a cul-de-sac in a quiet neighborhood with fantastic neighbors.” Shannon

remarked that their neighbors are not only wonderful, but they have also become such close friends that Jenn and Shannon asked them to be the godparents to their son. Now meet Jenn and Shannon’s twins. Their oldest by only one minute daughter, Reagan, is a fun, sociable 2nd-grade student at Culbertson Elementary. She loves being creative and playing sports. Jenn said, “Reagan enjoys making crafts, practicing gymnastics and playing with her siblings.” And although Reagan is just 60 seconds older than her twin sister Peyton, she acts as though she’s much older. Peyton is also in 2nd grade at Culbertson. Shannon said that even though they’re twins, Peyton and Reagan are very independent. “Peyton is friendly and outgoing, but she also likes her alone time,” said Jenn. “She loves gymnastics and sports, but one of her favorite activities is making TikTok videos.” Shannon and Jenn’s son Julian is six years old, and is in Kindergarten at

Reagan, Peyton and Julian Sofield

Culbertson. “Julian is a sweetheart,” said Jenn. “He is responsible, polite and kind. He loves playing with his sisters but is also very active in sports.” Julian plays soccer, flag football, basketball and recently started wrestling.

Anyone who knows the Sofields knows that health, wellness and physical fitness are their top priorities. Jenn enjoys coaching the kids’ soccer and basketball teams, and Shannon has recently Continued on page 8

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Resident Feature started assisting with Julian’s wrestling team. Jenn and Shannon both agree that while it’s great to be involved in the kids’ activities, it is equally important to carve out time for their own health and wellness. “Both Shannon and I work out at CrossFit, and I have recently started to practice Muay Thai, which is often referred to as Thai Boxing,” explained Jenn. “And Shannon is a Judo Black Belt, an expert in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and he loves to surf and snowboard,” Jenn added.

where online to find inspiration to come up with new and engaging workouts. Then she began posting her own workouts on social media.

Their commitment to health and wellness is so strong that when all the gyms shut down due to the pandemic, they converted their garage to a workout room. “We had some equipment at home, but our CrossFit gym allowed us to rent weights and barbells,” Jenn explained. “I never in a million years thought I’d be motivated to work out at home, but when I had no other choice, I made it happen.” She said she searched every-

Team Grit and Grace The Sofield’s Rhodesian Ridgeback, Aspen

“I started getting messages from friends thanking me for the extra motivation,” she said. “Knowing that someone might need an extra boost ended up motivating me to keep going.”

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January 2022

“It’s important to make yourself a priority,” Shannon said. “The hardest part is just getting started.” When asked how they stay motivated to work out every day, they both agreed that doing so not only improves their physical health but also makes an enormous difference in their mental health. “We also want to be good examples for our kids,” said Jenn. “Our family motto is that when life knocks you down, push yourself back up and make it a burpee workout!”

reconstructive surgery happened a few months later in September. Shannon explained how they worked through this experience as a family. “We were open and honest with the kids, and we are very proud of that,” he said. Jenn considers herself very fortunate to be on the other side of her breast cancer journey. She knows that many others may not have a successful outcome, and that fuels her even more to take care of and to listen to her body.

Jenn certainly knows a thing or two about being knocked down. “In May of 2020, I discovered a lump in my breast,” she said. “I had missed my mammogram because of the pandemic, and I just happened to find the lump on my own.” She admitted that at first, she didn’t think much of it and thought it was probably just a cyst. But after she had a mammogram, ultrasound and biopsy, she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

The Sofields like to call themselves Team Grit and Grace. “We are determined to teach our children by setting good examples,” Jenn said. “We strive to show our kids that hard work will always pay off, and if you aren’t good at something, just put in the effort and you will get better.” Hmmm… Jenn: Does that also apply to burpee workouts?

Jenn considered her options and chose to undergo a full mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. The first operation took place in July 2020, and her

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 Turner-Hilliard at STurnerHilliard@BestVersionMedia.com. N S

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

Student of the Month by Lisa Jeffries

Jenna Coary JANUARY TOSCANA STUDENT OF THE MONTH Jenna Coary, January Toscana Student of the Month Photo courtesy of Leigh Ann Coary

The January Toscana Student of the Month is Jenna Coary, a senior at Marple Newtown High School (MNHS). Jenna received a Certificate of Achievement and a Gift Certificate from Toscana Modern Italian Steakhouse, our Sponsor of this program. Jenna loves helping others, especially as a member of her school’s Best Buddies program. This club is all about inclusion, and club members work with students in the school’s Life Skills program as they regularly participate in social and community outreach activities, work on art projects and even have lunch together in the cafeteria.

Jenna loves playing basketball and volleyball. She’s one of four Captains of the MNHS Varsity Volleyball team, and she even won Player of the Game against Radnor, one of their toughest rivals. Since she was 5 years old, she has played softball for the Newtown Square Petticoat League. She has loved having her dad as her coach each year. As a member of the National Honor Society and also the Science and English National Honor Societies, Jenna loves taking part in their many outreach activities. Her favorite was when they filled shoeboxes full of toys, to send to children in other countries who otherwise wouldn’t get any gifts at holiday time.

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2022

As a young child, Jenna got very interested in the field of ophthalmology when she started wearing glasses and found the whole process fascinating. That experience has her now considering nursing programs at several colleges, after which she might continue her education in med school, in preparation for a possible career as an eye doctor. Jenna, your Marple Newtown Friends & Neighbors congratulate you on this award, and thank you for sharing your caring spirit to help so many others. NS

Nominate the Next Student of the Month!

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Any grade 7–12 student who resides within the borders of the Marple Newtown School District may be nominated by a parent, teacher or other adult who submits in writing some ways the student demonstrates Excellence in Service to friendship, school or other local communities. Academic or athletic excellence is not required. The Winner will be featured in a future issue and will also receive a Toscana Modern Italian Steakhouse Gift Certificate. Email your nomination to Lisa Jeffries at LJeffries@BestVersionMedia.com.

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

Expert Contributor by Scott Magness Scott’s Fireplace Products

A Comparison of Gas-Log and Wood-Burning Fireplaces Gas fireplaces first came about as an alternative to wood-burning fireplaces, not as a means to replace them. However, gas fireplaces have become increasingly popular as convenience has become a major factor for consumers. While gas fireplaces cannot mimic the natural crackling and popping attributes of a wood-burning fireplace, a gas fireplace provides an easier, safer and cleaner way to enjoy a fire. The first element of a wood fire is the kindling, which must be gathered and then lit. Next comes positioning the wood logs on the grate and waiting for them to catch fire from the kindling. Most people do not want to get involved in that process and this is why a lot of wood-burning fireplaces sit dormant. Though there may be a general belief that gas fireplaces don’t compare to wood-burning in terms of appearance, that isn’t always true. Gas fireplaces offer a level of ambiance and realism comparable to wood. The hand-painted ceramic logs give an authentic feel of real wood, and with the amber glow it looks as if they are actually on fire. In fact, some gas fireplaces have been known to be mistaken for wood-burning fireplaces. Gas fireplaces also offer more heat output and flexibility than burning wood. Most gas fireplaces produce a warm radiant heat, like the heat from a wood-burning fireplace, but more of it. Some gas fireplaces can even supplement the heat needed

for your home. The temperature and flame appearance can easily be adjusted as well. Instantly increase or decrease the flame height to keep the room at a comfortable temperature while still enjoying the ambiance and atmosphere created from the gas fire. Also, gas fireplaces open up the doors to endless possibilities and styles. Whether a home is traditional, contemporary or an in-between transitional décor, there is a gas fireplace to complement any style. Even if a home does not have an existing wood fireplace, a gas fireplace can easily be added because no chimney is required. Lastly, gas fires burn clean. They do not give off smoke, and they don’t require an annual chimney cleaning or leave behind ashes to sweep up like wood-burning fireplaces do. Most gas fireplaces have remote options to control temperatures and set timers. Best of all, there is no waiting for the flames to die down. The simple push of a button on a remote or wall switch turns the fireplace off. So the next time you’re about to go outside and collect logs to start your fire, think about all the advantages a gas fireplace gives you. Chopping wood and gathering kindling will become a thing of the past. NS

Value, at the end of the day, is what bridges the gap between low price desires and the premium products we offer at Scott’s Fireplace Products.

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3137 West Chester Pike Newtown Square, PA 12

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2022

Expert Contributor by Len Sciulli Len Sciulli & Sons

HVAC Zoning: What Are Your Options? Most homes use one thermostat that serves the entire house. As simple and easy as this system is to set up and maintain, it results in uncomfortable areas of your home. Wherever the thermostat is, there too will be your comfort. If you’re tired of shivering in one room while another remains too warm, here are some ways to introduce zone control into your home. DAMPERS IN DUCTWORK In most furnace systems, one thermostat controls the furnace and the air is distributed throughout the ductwork without any variations in airflow to suit the needs of individual spaces. Adding dampers to branches and having each damper open and close according to the needs of each zone thermostat will allow for greater control in each area. Depending on your ductwork, you can have one damper serving each floor of your home.

BOOSTED AIR CIRCULATION If some areas of your home are susceptible to air stratification — where hot air stays at the top near the ceiling and cooler air sinks, giving you the chills — you may benefit from improved air circulation to take care of this zone. Rather than modify your entire home’s system to improve comfort in this problem area, a targeted solution will give proper control and comfort throughout your home. NS

Maintain Your HVAC System During Every Season

For hot water heating systems, each radiator can have a control valve that opens and closes when the space thermostat calls for heat. You can also group radiators in a given space and connect them to a thermostat that serves that common area. SUPPLEMENTAL HEAT IN CRITICAL ROOMS If dampers aren’t practical for your home’s system (due to duct design, for example), adding supplemental heat to a space that typically doesn’t get enough might be the best solution. You may have a situation where one room or area is colder while the rest of your home remains comfortable. Adding another source of heat in this one space will allow you to only use what you need, so you don’t have to overheat the rest of your home to stay comfortable. MULTIPLE SMALLER UNITS A decentralized system allows for control in each zone, with individual thermostats controlling each piece of equipment. For example, multiple heat pumps serving separate rooms or groups of rooms will run as needed to serve each zone. This is not a common system but you can discuss it with a professional to see if it works for you.

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

Bringing People Together by Bob Blaisse Publisher

Bringing People Together

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

Is There a National Day for Bringing People Together? Martin Luther King Day is ahead on January 17th. Next month, we’ll celebrate Valentine’s Day. Some days are holidays celebrated by many; some even by an Act of Congress. Other days carry traditional awareness, curiously honored, like Groundhog Day. But what about all those other awareness days we learn about in news and entertainment media? They’re promoted as being on a national calendar but are far from our awareness until we’re reminded to observe some special day to hope for some cure or practice for better health or to honor relationships, places or good food. Some announced national days aim our mindfulness toward serious matters, while other national days declared with the same authority appear to intentionally ignite a joyful chuckle over the inanity of such intended observance even for one day. There seems to be a National “Whatever” Day for everything. In just the first week of January 2022 alone comes National… Drinking Straw Day, Spaghetti Day, Trivia Day, Whipped Cream Day, Cuddle Up Day and Bobblehead Day. And that’s just half of the declared National Days for just the first week of the first month of 2022. How can this be?!? Everyone has heard that they can name a star after someone, or that buying land on the moon is possible. Really? It’s also possible to buy recognition for national mindfulness, by nominating a National Day of Awareness on the National Day

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Calendar. Not by contacting a federal agency, but by contacting just a website co-founded by Marlo Anderson in 2013. Since then, that website (www.NationalDayCalendar.com) has registered more than 2,000 National Days, National Weeks and National Months by registration (and fee paid) by companies and organizations seeking to market the National Day they originated. What about a National Bringing People Together Day? Why not a Bringing People Together Month? No need. Because every day of every month, Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors is Bringing People Together through our unique brand of social-media-in-print, through our magazine delivered monthly into Newtown Square homes, and online at www.NewtownSquareMag.com. There may be no declared National Bringing People Together Day by some fee paid to land it on the National Day Calendar. There’s no need. The fees are paid every month by our business Sponsors, who show us just how much Bringing People Together is important to them, and how important Newtown Square residents are to the success of their business. Each one of our advertising Sponsors has chosen to use a portion of their limited marketing budget to serve us in Bringing People Together in Newtown Square by making our free hometown magazine possible.

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In this new year, whenever you read or hear about some National “Whatever” Day, let your first thought be that every day for Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors is a Bringing People Together Day because of the contribution to our community made by the businesses seen advertising on the pages of your hometown magazine. Whenever possible, with strong intention, choose to do business with them first, to honor their service to our community. It’s the kind of service you’ll never see coming from e-commerce websites and big-box stores.

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Expert Contributor by Luigi Truono Retro Fitness Newtown Square

How to be Successful at Your Healthy New Year’s Resolution

So many of us make New Year’s Resolutions year after year, to go on a diet or lose weight, to start an exercise program or join a gym, or in some way change the behavior that is negatively affecting our health. We make plans, buy products and set ourselves up to succeed. But then it seems that come February or March, we’re right back to our old ways and unhealthy habits. If you’re asking yourself “How can this year be different?” consider this: A change in your behavior is not always easy to do. But it must always begin with a change in your consciousness. Here are some tips to help you maintain a more positive mindset and begin to make a healthy change to your consciousness.

timeframe will only lead to failure. Achieving your goals will be easier if you establish a routine and stick to it. But be aware that it takes less than 10 seconds to get distracted and decide to pass on your routine so you can do something else. Most people fail to achieve their goals only because they give up. Go easy on yourself. If you splurge one day or you neglect your exercise routine for a few days, don’t dwell on it. You are in this for a total transformation, so it’s ongoing progress that counts. Remember, you have only one body and you want it to last a lot longer. Pledge to improve your health by changing your consciousness and you’ll be amazed at how much you can change. NS

Try practicing positive mind and body affirmations every day as part of your routine. Some uplifting affirmations include: I am beautiful, I am strong, I am blessed. You can do these in conjunction with meditation and/or breathing exercises, or while you exercise. Many people swear by affirmations, and they can’t hurt. Give them a try. Maybe they’ll help build your confidence, and maybe they’ll change your life. Next, enlist the help of a partner, friend or coach. Sharing your exercise and diet routines makes it much easier to accomplish your goals when you’re accountable to someone other than just yourself. Tracking your progress can be an incredible motivator. Whether your goal is weight loss, weight gain, building muscle or trimming down, tracking your progress by logging your daily routine helps you see the big picture much better. You’ll be amazed when you look back to where you were last week, last month or last year. Set fitness goals that are manageable and attainable. Setting goals that are almost impossible to achieve within a short

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January 2022

Expert Contributor by Kaitlin Battiste From the Top Dance Photo courtesy of From the Top Dance

It serves as a healthy outlet for self-expression for all ages, it’s a fun and effective form of cardiovascular exercise, and it can aid in sharpening one’s memory. Not to mention… it makes you happy! Tap dancing has been around for a long time. It emerged in the southern United States in the 1700s, but started out as a fusion of British and West African musical and step-dance. There are various styles of tap dance, including rhythm jazz, classical, Broadway and post-modern. What makes tap stand out among other styles of dance is its ability to produce sound. It is a unique art form because it creates a distinctive way for children and adults to express themselves while developing their sense of rhythm and musicality. For children, tap gives them permission to get up and make noise in a productive way. This can be a cathartic experience and a healthy way to expel energy. For adults who are seeking more exercise in their busy days, tap is a fun way to move their bodies while riffing along to upbeat music, or even without music. This is known as acapella tap dancing.

The Benefits of Tap Whether you’re a dancer or not, surely you’ve seen or heard of Bill “Bojangles” Robinson and his adorable tap dancing partner, Shirley Temple in their performance in the 1935 film The Little Colonel. Maybe you’re familiar with Bing Crosby’s work, such as his iconic performance with Fred Astaire in the 1942 film Holiday Inn, or in the classic 1954 film White Christmas alongside Danny Kaye. If none of those are ringing a bell, you have some homework to do! Tap dance is much more than an art form — it’s good for the body and the soul.

If you’re feeling the effects of the winter blues, give tap dance a try! A study done by Harvard Medical School has shown that dance, like any other form of physical exercise, not only offers physical benefits but mental and cognitive benefits as well. It helps reduce stress by increasing levels of serotonin, which is known as the “feel-good” hormone. Memorizing choreography and connecting the brain with body movement is also extremely beneficial for developing new neural connections. Dancers use the regions of the brain responsible for executive function, long-term memory and spatial recognition. Focusing on choreography can also be a nice distraction from negative thoughts and can lift you to a better mood because it requires so much focus and concentration. Tap has so much to offer, and is a gift to all of those who encounter it. So get up and tap your troubles away! NS

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Recent Newtown Township Home Sales

Real Estate

Address

Sold Price

Bedrooms

Bathrooms

2 Aronwold Lane . . . . . . . . $1,022,000 . . . . 6 . . . .

Sq. Ft.

Acres

4.5+ . . .6,120 . . 2.64

1004 Arbor Way . . . . . . . . . $560,000 . . . . 4 . . . . . 2.5 . . . 3,381 . . 0.16 16 Woolman Drive . . . . . . . . $565,000 . . . . 3 . . . . . 2.5 . . . 2,169 . . 1.17 1004 Brick House Farm Lane . . $1,950,000 . . . . 6 . . . .

7.5+ . . .9,720 . . 0.86

506 Whispering Brooke Drive . . . $500,000 . . . . 3 . . . . . 3.5 . . . 2,492 . . 0.03 1234 Pony Trail Drive . . . . . . $1,299,000 . . . . 4 . . . . . 3.5 . . . 5,507 . . 1.50 21 Chestnut Street . . . . . . . . $435,000 . . . . 4 . . . . .

2 . . . .2,194 . . 0.22

505 Sill Overlook Lot 102 . . . . . $928,772 . . . . 3 . . . . . 2.5 . . . 2,790 . . 0.05 403 Old Liseter Road . . . . . . $1,250,000 . . . . 3 . . . . . 2.5 . . . 3,348 . . 0.34 119 Longview Lane . . . . . . . $440,000 . . . . 3 . . . . . 2.5 . . . 2,768 . . 0.02 1003 Wharton Court . . . . . . . $375,000 . . . . 2 . . . . .

2 . . . .2,380 . . 0.03

513 Guinevere Drive . . . . . . . $675,000 . . . . 3 . . . . . 3.5 . . . 3,477 . . 0.02 3881 Gradyville Road . . . . . . $555,000 . . . . 4 . . . . .

4 . . . .2,657 . . 1.41

2404 Westfield Court . . . . . . . $339,500 . . . . 3 . . . . . 2.5 . . . 1,540 . . 0.03 3798 Dartmouth Road . . . . . . $325,000 . . . . 2 . . . . .

2 . . . .1,743 . . 0.04

507 Sill Overlook Lot 101 . . . . . $798,169 . . . . 3 . . . . . 2.5 . . . 2,780 . . 0.05 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

January 2022

Our Community

Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. A Day to Serve Others by Holly Stupak Photos courtesy of Heather Griesser-Lapierre Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” MLK’s birthday, observed on January 17th this year, is a day dedicated to service, when Americans are encouraged to heed Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s words. It's the only federal holiday that is designated as a day of service to encourage all Americans to volunteer. On this day we are called to step up to make our community more equitable and to build a community of Dr. King’s dreams. Whether it’s cleaning up a public space, mentoring someone, or helping the hungry or those in need, you can make a difference. So how can we as Newtown Square residents honor the legacy of Dr. King? There are plenty of opportunities right here in our neighborhood as well as in Delaware County and the Philadelphia area.

day this year. Bring a friend, your team or your organization. Visit www.KAHPhilaBox.org for more information and to sign up. Media Fellowship House The Media Fellowship House located at 302 S. Jackson St, Media, is holding their 4th Annual Toiletry Drive on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. This drive benefits local women's shelters. They are asking for the following items: body soap, hand soap, detergent, hand sanitizer, lip balm, deodorant, feminine products, baby wipes, diapers, shampoo and conditioner. Donations can be dropped off between 1 – 3pm on Monday, January 17th and they are also looking for volunteers. Call 610-809-1487 or visit www.MediaFellowshipHouse.org for more information. MLK 2022 Community Day of Service at Penn State Brandywine The Center for Ethics and Civic Engagement at Penn State Brandywine is hosting a morning of service to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life and legacy. The public is invited to join their students, faculty and staff with a variety of service projects as well as crafts and educational activities. All ages are welcome for this family friendly event. Visit www.Engage.BW.PSU.edu.

Volunteers with Kids Against Hunger

Helping to provide fully nutritious food to impoverished children and families around the world and locally

Kids Against Hunger Pack meals with Kids Against Hunger (KAH)! KAH is a nonprofit humanitarian organization whose mission is to provide fully nutritious food to impoverished children and families around the world and locally. The meals provide a stable nutritional base by which recipient families can move their families from starvation or food insecurity to self-sufficiency. KAH Philadelphia, which is run by Marple Newtown resident Heather Griesser-Lapierre, is conveniently located at 1101 Sussex Blvd in Broomall. Each week thousands of volunteers pack meals at this location and they will be packing meals on MLK

MLK Day of Service in Wissahickon Valley Park By volunteering here on MLK day, you can give back to the park, the creek and the plants and animals. The Friends of the Wissahickon (www.FOW.org) is sponsoring this litter clean-up. Lincoln Drive will be closed that day so groups can help make this well-traveled section of the park cleaner. To register, visit www.Volunteer.GlobalCitizen365.org. For more volunteer opportunities in the Philadelphia region, visit the AmeriCorps website at www.AmeriCorps.gov. For the past 25 years, AmeriCorps has been leading the volunteer effort and can help you find an opportunity near you by using their VolunteerMatch feature, which can help you find volunteer opportunities with organizations such as Just Serve, Mentor, the National Park Service and more. No matter how you choose to honor Dr. King’s legacy on this day, remember his words: “Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve.” NS

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

Business Profile by Sheila Turner-Hilliard Photos courtesy of Sarah Forti

Forti

Homes

w it h

Homes

Sarah Forti

It’s no secret that real estate is like a roller coaster with never-ending ups and downs and twists and turns. Some are predictable, and some we never see coming. But one thing is for sure: No engineer on this planet could have designed the roller coaster we’ve been on since 2020! “I’ve been a REALTOR for over 15 years, and I’ve never seen anything like it,” said Sarah Forti of Forti Homes with Keller Williams Realty. “I started my career shortly before the 2006 economic crash. I have walked with clients through an economic downturn and come out on the other side.” But as REALTORS across the country agree, recent market conditions have challenged even the most seasoned professionals. ®

Sarah explained that the shortage of new homes being built sparked the unprecedented inventory shortage long before 2020. From there, a domino effect created a shortage of existing homes as well, and as home buyers’ demand continued to grow, the real estate market became a frenzy. In 2020 and 2021, buyers competed against multiple offers, competitive bids included people waiving inspection and financing contingencies, and time was of the essence. Seeing a home within the first few hours of it being on the market could mean the difference between owning that home or continuing your home search. Meanwhile, mortgage interest rates remained at an all-time low, creating a win-win for sellers and buyers: Sellers are setting home prices quite high, but they’re

still affordable because such low interest rates enable buyers to finance more than they could previously afford. “Buyers and sellers in today’s market need a seasoned agent more than ever,” Sarah explained. “They all need expert guidance for how to prepare and position themselves for success.” She said that even though it is clearly a “seller’s market,” having professional guidance to navigate and execute the pricing, home staging, high-level marketing and offer and negotiation process is invaluable. Having an experienced REALTOR on your side can easily net you 10% or more on your home sale. And on the buying side, your real estate professional can position you for success in an ultra-competitive market. ®

Sarah suggests that buyers and sellers interview at least two agents before entering the market, to ensure finding the right fit. She said that a qualified agent will help educate clients on the market research necessary to make informed decisions. She also said that sellers should choose an agent who has a solid network of professionals who can help them prepare their home before it gets listed. The agent’s extensive network can also help buyers with home repairs or renovations. Extensive knowledge of the area is an absolute must, and Sarah is proud to call Newtown Square home. Sarah grew up here, and attended Sacred Heart Academy Bryn Mawr. From a young age, she loved exploring different areas. “Private schools draw students from a variety of local areas,” she explained.

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Forti

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744 W. Lancaster Avenue, Suite 125, Wayne, PA 20

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2022

about our area,” she said. “I know it like the back of my hand because I’ve lived here my entire life.” Sarah said that many of her relocation buyers have become good friends and they now refer their family and friends to her. She now works with buyers, sellers and investors throughout the tri-county area, and has a thriving referral network of clients. Newtown Square is very special to Sarah and her family. She, her husband, Dom, and their four boys live in Echo Valley, right down the street from her childhood home. “Being a REALTOR these days in this hectic market requires a total family team effort,” she said. “I am fortunate to have a very supportive husband who can take over when I am out on appointments.” She also said she loves that her sons are showing an interest in real estate and have come with her on appointments since they were babies. Now, they help with mailers, clean signs, and discuss housing features with her like pros. ®

Sarah and Dom Forti with their sons Noah, Carter, Leo and Alex

“I had friends who lived all over the place from Malvern to Philadelphia.” Sarah loved visiting her friends and learning about where they called home. She also used to take the train from Bryn Mawr to Philadelphia, to spend time downtown and become acquainted with the city. After high school, Sarah attended Villanova University, to play field hockey and pursue a degree in Communications with a French minor. She loved living on the Main Line, and discovered that one of her favorite pastimes was looking for apartment rentals for herself and her college friends. “I enjoyed the whole process of finding a new place,” she said. “From touring the apartments to drawing up the leases, real estate soon became my passion.” After college, Sarah started working in education and nonprofit fundraising, and was also coaching field hockey, but the urge to pursue her passion grew stronger. She decided to take the leap by enrolling in real estate school. She began her career working with a broker in Wayne. “I like Wayne because it’s centrally located between Delaware, Chester and Montgomery counties,” Sarah explained. At first, she worked with buyers who were relocating to our area. Sarah said it was a perfect way to blend her teaching experience with her real estate knowledge. “I love educating people

In addition to support at home, Sarah has a team of professionals who make the buying and selling process seamless for her clients. Her Operations Manager oversees regular communications of all parties involved in the real estate process, handles transactional details, and manages the schedules and event planning. Social media engagement and analysis are done by her Marketing Manager, who also prepares property marketing materials. Rounding out the team is Sarah’s Showing Specialist, who plays a crucial role in today’s busy market. If Sarah is in a settlement or showing properties to another buyer, her Showing Specialist steps in to show properties to Sarah’s other clients. “It’s never too early to start planning your next move,” Sarah emphasized. “Even if you’re just thinking about home buying or selling, take the time to do your research and connect with a local REALTOR who knows the area, understands your needs, and is committed to helping you find the perfect place to call home.” With Sarah’s large national and international network of REALTORS , she can connect you to the right agent for the job, wherever you plan on buying or selling. ®

Publisher’s Note: How wonderful it is to to have long-time Newtown Square resident Sarah Forti as our Residential Real Estate Expert Contributor! If you're considering selling or buying a home, contact Sarah at 610-647-8300, or email her (Sarah@FortiHomes.com), or visit her website: www.FortiHomes.com. N S

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Expert Contributor by David Linn Cook Weatherproofing Plus, Inc.

How a Home’s History Caused Its Basement Water and Humidity Problems Many area homeowners have basement, waterproofing and humidity-related problems even though they may already have a functioning sump pump with a French drain. The sump pumps were working hard during this past September's rude entry into fall, with some local areas getting 5 – 8 inches of rain in a 12-hour period. There was no way the sump pumps could keep up with that much rain! What separated the dry homes from the wet homes was simply preparation. Regular property maintenance, fall rakeouts, spring lawn cutting, and of course roof and gutter guard sweeping all play a key role in that preparation. One local homeowner had been experiencing water and humidity build-up in his basement even though he had it waterproofed just nine years ago. His basement issues had continued despite having a dehumidifier, water-tight windows and a backup sump pump. Upon closer inspection, it appeared that the screen vent had never been opened, which would have helped significantly to reduce and control humidity in the basement. Another cause of this homeowner’s basement moisture problems was that this 1940s depression-era home was built by a local mason who had coated the foundation walls with a homemade parging (similar to stucco) that was a mixture of clay, mud, sand and lime. Now, some 80 years later, that mixture was disintegrating into dust. A third defect was the rather “thrifty”

roof design: short roof joists that created zero overhang at the roof eaves. Every heavy rain resulted in water overflowing down the walls and causing ongoing damage to the basement’s original stone walls. Home weatherization and waterproofing companies are among the very few contractors who encourage homeowners to do some DIY. Reputable contractors will often suggest that the homeowner make a few minor fixes on their own, such as correcting the exterior perimeter grading. In this way, the contractor can help the homeowner save some money. If the fix is beyond what the homeowner can do on their own, that’s where weatherization and waterproofing experts come in to work their magic. Proper correction of water problems is essential in order to have a safe and healthy home and basement. It begins with a thorough inspection and taking a complete history of the home and its maintenance. This way, the contractor or homeowner will know exactly what direction to take. Remember, it’s important to make significant upgrades and fixes before the storms arrive! NS

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Our Community

Celebrating Our Sponsors at Our Friends & Neighbors Christmas and Holiday Party

(Top-to-Bottom) Designer Kim Cesati MF&N Content Coordinator Holly Stupak Publisher Bob Blaisse

by Bob Blaisse Photos courtesy of Tom Brower

NSF&N Content Coordinator Sheila Turner-Hilliard Publisher’s Executive Assistant Liz Burnett

Many Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors Sponsors attended our Friends & Neighbors Christmas and Holiday Party last month, to get an early start in celebrating this joyous season.

(Editorial Assistant Lisa Jeffries was unable to attend but sends Regards to All!)

Guests enjoyed live musical entertainment, a delicious catered dinner, and festive beverages while they mixed and mingled with fellow Sponsors, Community Leaders and our magazine’s Publication Team. A jolly good time was had by all!

The festivities took place at Newtown Square’s best-kept secret in the Ellis Preserve and our newest Sponsor, Bright Spot Cafe (3811 West Chester Pike). From the party planning and presentation to the top-notch service, beautiful atmosphere and mouth-watering food, that fun and memorable experience will definitely have us coming back for more. Cheers to All in the New Year!

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Our Community

Flight on Ice Skating Rink: A Community Partnership to Benefit Our Veterans by Sheila Turner-Hilliard Shake off those winter-weather blues, grab your skates and hit the ice for some fun, now through the end of February, at Flight on Ice’s Energy Transfer Veterans Memorial Rink. This pop-up winter wonderland right in our own backyard features a full-size (60’x100’) outdoor skating rink, skate rentals, festive lighting, delicious food and beverages catered from DiFabio’s restaurant, heated hospitality tents, cozy firepit seating, special events and entertainment for the whole family. The buzz surrounding the rink’s opening in early December was undeniably electric, and the reviews since then have been spectacular. Season passes, family 4-packs and individual online ticket sales have been as brisk as the weather, as many of our Friends & Neighbors gathered in good cheer to enjoy the rink and all its splendor over the holiday season. But just because the holidays are over doesn’t mean the ice is melting yet! Oh no, the Flight on Ice team is just getting started! January and February feature a jam-packed lineup of special events and party opportunities. You don’t have to wait for the weekend to enjoy a night out with friends, take your special someone on a date or make family memories. Weeknight specials include Memorial Mondays, Taco Tuesdays, Family Night Wednesdays and Skating Under the Stars Thursdays. In addition, the team at Flight on Ice is excited to fill your calendar with special events for Super Bowl Sunday, Valentine’s Day and President’s Day weekend. Save the date and get ready for a heat wave on Friday, January 21st, when the temperature climbs to a steamy 98°. The word on the street is that Nick Lachey from the popular 1990s boy-band 98° may be making a special appearance at the rink while he is in town to perform a concert at The Drexelbrook Events Center in Drexel Hill.

The opening ceremony celebrating local veterans and the Flight on Ice team Photo courtesy of Jon Schaffer

It’s hard to believe that what was an empty lot just a few short months ago has been transformed into such a fun, vibrant winter wonderland for all ages. But the Flight on Ice folks and Edgmont Township officials worked hard together to make it happen. This rink is the fourth location for Flight Entertainment President and Managing Partner, Jon Schaffer, and his business partner, Colby Cohen, who is a former NHL hockey player and current Chicago Blackhawks Content Analyst. Combining Jon’s expertise in the entertainment industry with Colby’s background in hockey rinks results in a high-quality constructed site with an unbeatable entertainment experience. Flight on Ice’s location and its mission were made possible through a partnership between those two partners and the Delaware County Veterans Memorial Association (DCVMA). Jon Schaffer said that the mission of Flight on Ice is to donate a significant portion of their proceeds to that worthy organization and other similar organizations that support veterans. “We want to help shine a light on our veterans,” Jon explained. “Through our donations and our new community-partnering educational program, we want to help teach younger generations what it means to serve our country.” Jon and his team worked with the deBotton family of National Realty Corp. and Steve Byrne, Executive Director of Visit Delco, to create Skip and Skate, an initiative that helps students, businesses and members of the general community get acquainted with the DCVMA. The program includes tours of

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the Delaware County Veterans Memorial site and presentations by local veterans of all ages. There is a lot of fun packed into the program! Skip and Skate school programs provide students and teachers the opportunity to skip school for this state-accredited educational seminar, then enjoy a 90-minute skating session with skate rentals, food, drinks, giveaways, great music and more. Jon said that local businesses are welcome to sponsor a Skip and Skate event, to show their support and commitment to educating our youth. Interested community leaders, business owners and individuals should contact Flight on Ice for more information on how to become a sponsor. The Energy Transfer Veterans Memorial Rink is located at 4901 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square. It’s open every day, and hours are Mondays – Thursdays 3 – 9pm; Fridays 3 – 10pm; Saturdays 11am – 10pm; and Sundays 11am – 8pm. For their current events calendar and for any weather-related closings, check their website and social media pages (Flight on Ice). For more

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Expert Contributor by Rick Bondurant R.F. Bondurant Plumbing

Drain Cleaning 101 Clogged drains can be a real annoyance, especially around the holidays with so much extra usage from visiting family and friends. There are usually two types of clogs that occur in the house: One is a branch line clog that feeds a specific fixture like a shower or sink; the other is a clog affecting the main sewer lateral, the pipe that transports wastewater from all of the drains in your home to the public sewer main. Clogged sewer laterals outside of the home can be particularly troubling because the result can be a backup at the lowest point in the house, and that could cause water damage. Do not ignore the warning signs, which include a foul or general sewage-type odor, gurgling in the pipes and faucets, or a slow-running drain. Often the best solution is to do regular maintenance before the problem becomes an emergency. Another good solution for treating a clogged drain is to run a drain-cleaning machine with specific cable heads. Properties that have older, mature trees can have issues with tree roots getting into the sewer line. Again, it’s preventive maintenance that can save you the headache here, by having the line cleaned out with a root-cutting head once a year. There’s also equipment available that takes out some of the guesswork. High-definition cameras can be sent down the sewer line, to see exactly what the problem is. This can help

• Any & All Plumbing Repairs • High Efficiency Boilers • Backflow Protection (Installation & Testing) • Sewer/Drain Cleaning & Repairs

locate a break, separation, root intrusion or a belly in the sewer line (a sag or low spots). A locator that picks up a frequency sent by the end of the camera head is used here, and it will let you know the exact location of a problem. It can also help determine the depth of the pipe. As for over-the-counter liquid drain cleaners, they’re fine if they work, but if they don’t work, they can end up just sitting in the pipe and causing even more damage. Or sometimes they will harden up like a rock due to just sitting in the pipe. That will lead to a more expensive repair, which will involve cutting out and replacing the pipe. It’s always best to consult a professional when it comes to drain cleaning. Doing so can actually end up saving money in the long run and avoiding emergencies at the worst time.

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2022

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Our Community

New Year, New Goals: Secrets for Making Those Resolutions Stick by Sheila Turner-Hilliard Ringing in a new year always carries something magical about it. It’s a bittersweet time, when we say goodbye to the past and optimistically look forward to our future. As 2021 changes to 2022, we’re motivated by opportunities to restart, set goals, accomplish tasks, and sometimes, completely start over. We all make New Year’s Resolutions, planning in this new year to do everything better than we did last year. We pledge to do things differently. We resolve to save more money or go to the gym consistently. We’ll keep in touch with family more often or we’ll finally check an important item off our bucket list. Some of the most common New Year’s Resolutions are to exercise more, lose weight, practice self-care, get organized, learn a new skill or hobby, save more money and spend more time with family and friends. But did you know that less than half of those New Year’s Resolutions actually stick? Sure, we may start out strong, but studies — and our own personal experiences — prove that those pledges to do better wither away within the first two months. No matter what you are resolving to do, there are a few ways you can set yourself up for success in 2022. It’s going to take some extra effort on your end, but it will be worth it. Set Meaningful Goals Be sure that the goal you are striving for is for reasons that are internal to yourself and not put upon you by others. Ask yourself WHY you want to reach your goal. If it’s truly something YOU want, then you are much more likely to succeed. Make a Plan Abstract resolutions are harder to execute than ones that describe specific ways you will work towards your goals. Sit down and write down HOW you will make this the year you

finally achieve what you want. Your plan should also include detailed steps about how you will get back on track if you start to lose your way. Tell Someone Your resolutions are more likely to fade away if no one knows about them. Find someone you trust and someone who will be supportive and tell them about your goals and your plan. Sharing your why and your how is a crucial component, and doing so will make you more resolute and persistent. Celebrate the Little Wins Goals aren’t achieved overnight, which is why you’re much more likely to succeed if you reward yourself for the steps you take along the way. This should be part of your overall plan, so be specific about how and when you will reward yourself. Just be sure your reward isn’t allowing yourself to perform the habit you are trying to overcome!

CORINTHIAN

On The Square Salon & Spa We checked in with some of our Sponsors for tips and advice on great ways to start and what to focus on. First up is Expert Contributor Sandra Cannon of Corinthian on The Square Salon & Spa. Sandra said that if one of your resolutions is to spend more time caring for your skin, the best way to start is from the inside. “The most important skincare tip, especially in the winter months, is keeping your body hydrated,” she said. “You need to be sure to drink 8–10 8-ounce glasses of water each day.” Sandra also said that adding healthy fats like avocado to your diet will naturally moisturize your skin.

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2022

a detailed plan. You’re much more likely to succeed and be consistent if you consider every step in the process and plan on how to incorporate each step into your daily life.

DA Del Pizzo & Associates A PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION Certified Public Accountants

On the outside, Sandra said to wash your face with cool water and exfoliate every week. “It is incredibly important to maintain a healthy skin cell membrane for softer and more supple skin, so you should also use a water-based moisturizer.” Finally, she said that keeping active will boost your circulation and keep your skin young and radiant. Sandra’s expert advice gives you a multi-faceted approach to taking better care of your skin, and it’s an example of how a simple, general resolution requires a systematic approach and

If getting your finances in better shape is your priority in 2022, then it’s best to listen to professional advice from Expert Contributor Jack Del Pizzo, CPA of Del Pizzo & Associates. “My advice is to save money for retirement,” recommended Jack. “It doesn’t matter how young or how old you are, you should be saving for a secure future.” Jack said that people often get overwhelmed with the thought of saving a significant amount of money so they never get started. He said, “Your investment journey starts with a single step, and you have to be willing to take it.” By implementing the strategies offered here and heeding the advice of our Expert Contributors, you will be well on your way to finally reaching those goals on your TO-DO list. Make 2022 your year to resolve to crush those resolutions. You don’t need luck; you just need the right plan! NS

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History Spotlight

The Old Newtown Square Hotel Bar – Lost and Found by Doug Humes Photos courtesy of Newtown Square Historical Society

In 1968, Newtown Square suffered a heart-breaking loss, when the Newtown Square Hotel was demolished… for a bank branch! A hotel and tavern had been at that site since 1788. It was a gathering place for political discussion, voting, dinners and socializing. But in 1968, it was torn down, and a simple brick building was erected on the site. Close to 200 years of Newtown Square history was reduced to rubble and carted away. Not a trace remained… or so I thought until recently.

Bartender Frank E. Coyne poses at the new bar with his staff

In 1903, a red brick Victorian hotel replaced the original stone and stucco hotel, at a cost of $10,000. The bar area was the last affected, and it remained open through the construction. The new hotel had as its centerpiece a beautiful 40’ mahogany bar, complete with brass rail and a mahogany back bar with mirrors. In 1913, the bartender, Frank E. Coyne, proudly posed with his staff behind that bar.

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2022

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In 1917, Harry Henry bought the hotel – not knowing that on January 17, 1920, Prohibition would go into effect. By January of 1921, Henry had been arrested three times for violating The National Prohibition Act. The strain was too much: He died suddenly at the hotel, in April 1921. His estate sold the hotel to Dr. Edgar Powell in the early 1930s. Shortly thereafter, Prohibition ended. The bar and fixtures became valuable again. The estate sued to get the beautiful mahogany bar back, claiming it was personal property rather than a bar fixture. But a jury awarded the bar to Powell, and it continued in place until 1968.

Kassie Wilkinson, Sarah Welsh and Jen Hamilton are ready to serve you at the old Newtown Square Hotel bar, now at the Inn at St. Peters Village Photo courtesy of Doug Humes

a ringer for our old hotel friend. We are now forming a posse to do a road trip to check it out. Join the Newtown Square Historical Society and join us on that mission in 2022. Dirty work, but someone has to do it! For more history on Newtown Square, Delaware County, and Newtown Square Historical Society (NSHS) membership information and events, please visit www.NSHistory.org.

The 1903 version of the Newtown Square Hotel

1968 advertisement for auction of hotel contents

Saturdays during the winter 11am - 5pm Art at The Square Tavern

The hotel was sold off in pieces. William P. Mangan, who owned the Drexel Ale House, bought the liquor license, to open up a café in the Newtown Square Shopping Center. The Newtown Square Ale House continues in business today with that license. The hotel’s bar fixtures were sold at auction, and the mahogany bar disappeared into history. It resurfaced on my radar last month, when a Facebook visitor mentioned that she had just seen the bar at St. Peters Village Inn in St. Peters, PA. Another sharp-eyed sleuth provided a photo of that bar – and it seemed

Goshen & Newtown Street Roads

A variety of rotating art displays by local artists, exhibitions and activities. FREE (donations accepted!) www.NSHistory.org

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Expert Contributor by Lou Matteo Edgemont Automotive

Timing Is Everything We have all felt the pain of the supply chain crisis. The stores we rely on to get our basic essentials have bare shelves more often now than in recent history. This is also affecting the service industries. Not only are parts hard to get, they are increasing in cost on a daily basis. Schedule services early, if at all possible, even a simple oil change could result in longer than usual wait times due to low inventory levels. The state of Pennsylvania gives motorists the opportunity to have a vehicle safety inspection performed up to three months prior to the sticker expiration date. Use this time to have your vehicle evaluated and parts ordered. There is no grace period after the sticker expiration. Even the most common parts could take hours or even days to receive. Keeping your vehicle’s maintenance up to date is a great way to help predict upcoming repairs. While having your maintenance done, make sure your service provider performs a comprehensive multi-point inspection. If anything is in the marginal range

“

Of course, the sudden breakdown of a vehicle or machine is nearly impossible to predict, but when an odd noise or feeling occurs, be sure to address the issue as soon as possible. With fuel prices soaring, here are a few tips to get the most miles per gallon: - Check tire pressure regularly. - Make sure you have a clean air filter. - If your vehicle has performance settings, be sure to use the economy setting. - Avoid extended idle times, use an ice scraper instead of the defrosters. - Use the auto start/stop function if equipped. (Some manufacturers give the driver the ability to turn this off.) - Avoid heavy acceleration conditions. Have a safe and happy New Year!!

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or getting close to the end of its useful life, order the parts! Even the most common wearable items like tires, belts, hoses, brake pads, etc. could take some time to get.

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2022

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

How to Best Help Your Attorney: Communication and Preparation Upon engaging an attorney to represent you, the two most important things for YOU to do are (1) communicate with your attorney, and (2) help your attorney prepare your case. You know the facts. It’s important to tell your attorney all that you remember and know. Most people aren’t aware of the amount of work that they personally need to do to help their attorney to prepare their case. Communication: When you remember a detail about your case, write it down. Convey the details to your attorney. Always provide a clear and concise Subject line for each email you send. Recalling facts about the case can often cause unpleasantness such as reliving the trauma. Such feelings can result in you writing long emails that contain so much emotion that the original details get lost. Try to stay focused and provide only the important details. Your attorney will let you know where and what he or she needs you to expand upon. Let your attorney determine what details are important and which are not. Your attorney knows what elements need to be proven, and will let you know what details are less relevant or are not relevant at all. Keep an open channel of communication with your attorney. Make sure they always have your current postal mailing address, email address and phone number. Preparation: Your attorney needs your help in preparing the case. After you have communicated all the facts, your attorney will master them. Your attorney will guide you on what they need to prepare the case. They may do what many attorneys do: Ask you to start a calendar or diary in which you will record a chronological account of the relevant events of your case. Go back in time and write down what you remember exactly as you remember it. You never know when you’ll remember something, so keep a notepad handy. Taking pictures when the event occurs or soon thereafter can also be very important because those photos could become evidence in your case. Gathering documentation such as bank statements takes time, so if they’re required, begin gathering them as soon as possible. Just remember that the quality of the information is far

more important than the quantity. Your attorney will guide you about what to retrieve, and will examine and categorize what you provide. Last but not least, create your own file on the case by making a copy of everything you send or give to your attorney. Remember, the better prepared you and your attorney are, the better your chance of success. NS

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Things To Do

JANUARY Calendar of Events Daily, January through February

Sun. January 2 – Sun. January 16

Tuesdays in January

Flight on Ice

MAMMA MIA!

Book Trip Tuesdays with Miss Mel

@4901 West Chester Pike, 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 events and live music are on the schedule to keep you entertained this winter.

@Media Theatre 104 E. State St, Media ABBA’s hits tell the hilarious story of a young woman’s search for her birth father. This sunny and funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter's quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother's past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago. The story-telling magic of ABBA's timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship, creating an unforgettable show.

@Marple Public Library 2599 Sproul Rd, Broomall Have the most wonderful time together by taking a trip around the children's department to find all the books you want to take home! During our traditional book treks, we will continue to learn about all the sections of the children's department and where to find our favorite books. Recommended for children of all ages accompanied by parent(s) and/or guardian. No Registration Required.

Time: Shows are Sundays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Check the website for showtimes. Cost: $34 – $59

610-356-1510 www.MarpleLibrary.org

Time: Mon. – Fri. 3-10pm; Sat. 11am – 10pm; Sunday 11am – 8pm Cost: Check their website for current Season Pass, Family Pass and Individual Ticket pricing.

610-627-2100 www.FlightOnIce.com Saturdays in Winter

Art at The Square Tavern @Goshen & Newtown Street Roads A variety of rotating art displays by local artists, exhibitions and activities.

Time: 10am – 12pm Cost: FREE

610-891-0100 www.MediaTheatre.org

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

www.NSHistory.org

Winter Warning On The Way Do You Have Your Generator!

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Thank you for supporting a locally owned business! 34

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2022

Bring Home

Mon. January 17

4th Annual Media Fellowship House Toiletry Drive

Newtown Square’s

@Media Fellowship House 302 S. Jackson St, Media Honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by participating in this toiletry drive to benefit local women’s shelters. Items needed: Soap, detergent, lotions, feminine products, lip balm, diapers, baby wipes, shampoo, conditioner and hand sanitizer. Donations and volunteers needed.

Your Ultimate Team to Prepare Your Home for Winter!

Time: 1 – 3pm

610-809-1487 www.MediaFellowshipHouse.org

SERVICES

Sun. January 29 – Sun. February 6

49th Annual Notre Dame Fine Art Show & Sale with Featured Artist Gretchen Fuss

PLUMBING • Repairs, maintenance & installations

@The Mansion at the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur 560 Sproul Rd, Villanova The Annual Fine Art Show & Sale features nearly 100 regional fine artists and their professional works in a variety of mediums, including oils, watercolors, acrylics, ceramics, metals, and glass.

ELECTRIC • Repairs, maintenance & installations

• Faucets, toilets, french drains & water heaters • Drain cleaning • Sewer services

• Panels, knob & tube wiring & ceiling fans • Electric car chargers • Outlets & switches • Lighting & audio

Time: Weeknights 4 – 6pm; Sat. & Sun. 12 – 4pm Cost: FREE Admission; Special Event Preview Party on January 28th - $100 per guest.

610-687-0650 www.NDArtShow.com

HEATING • Heater & furnace tune-up, repairs & installations

• Ductless HVAC systems • Heat pumps

COOLING • AC tune-up, repairs & Installations Chilly winter mornings call for some Warm Sweetness!

• Indoor air quality • Ductless mini-split HVAC systems

Pick up some of our Miniature Danish and Miniature Sticky Cinnamon Buns for breakfast on a cold wintry day delicious with hot cocoa, coffee or tea.

AND MUCH MORE…

s h c ’ i r ein

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BAKERY

Treating the Community Since 1961

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Our Community

Sports Section Coming to Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

Reader Leaders and New Sponsors Helping to Make It Happen by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

Best Version Media (BVM), the company that publishes Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors, has launched a new sports web portal that is like nothing that has ever been done before. This BVM Sports website delivers all-encompassing coverage of sports at every level — from pee wee to pros — conveniently all in one place. From scores and news to profiles and human-interest stories, BVM Sports — www.BVMSports.com — will be the new home for all things Sports. BVM Sports is a media entity dedicated to providing local, national and international sports coverage. Setting BVM Sports apart from any other sports outlet is their professional reporting of athletes, coaches and teams on a national scale.

Calling All Newtown Square Parents, Fans, Athletes and Coaches! Is your favorite athlete or team not getting the media coverage they deserve? BVM Sports now provides our local sports community the platform needed to highlight these local stars, by allowing you to write and submit the stories that matter to YOU! We want to hear about how NELL is gearing up to host the 2023 PA State Little League Tournament, or how the Marple Newtown Basketball Team won their last game in overtime. Your local sports stories are waiting to be told. Your features — with your bylines — could end up running in our new Sports Section of an upcoming issue of Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine. What kind of features are we looking

LEGACIES START HERE. WE WANT TO HEAR YOUR STORY! ● Tell your kid’s story with BVM Sports – the #1 place for the latest in local, college and pro sports coverage. ● Share your story with one of the most trusted names in local sports news. ● See your story published across all BVM Sports media platforms! Follow the latest in sports news with our podcast, CHALK TALK – streaming on YouTube.

Interested in sharing? Go to www.BVMSports.com and click “Submit A Story”.

FREE, EASY, & FAST • NO ACCOUNT NEEDED! LIKE | COMMENT | SHARE | FOLLOW 36

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2022

to publish? You can submit stories that highlight your favorite team, recap game highlights or share stories about athletes overcoming adversity. We would also love to hear about teamled charity events, fundraisers, achievements off the field or court, and coaches who made a difference. Publisher Bob Blaisse is excited about this new venture. “Our hometown magazine enjoys Bringing People Together through our local features, and we know there are so many children, teenagers, adults and even seniors who are on sports teams or are involved in sports-related activities,” Bob said. “Newtown Square has so many thriving sports organizations and residents who are passionate about sports that we decided to bring more of those stories to our pages.”

But we need your help. For our Sports Section to develop and grow larger each month, we need new Sports Expert Contributors to agree to become advertising Sponsors of Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine, in print and online at www.NewtownSquareMag.com. Becoming an Expert Contributor to our magazine is a great way to showcase our community story submissions while sharing your sports-related business expertise, and informing readers through advertising your products and services. Look for Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors to be a bit more “sporty” in the months ahead, and if you want to join our sports team of writers and advertising Sponsors, contact Publisher Bob Blaisse at BBlaisse@BestVersionMedia.com. NS

Make Your Yard a Joy to Come Home to! Light up your Home Entrances, Steps, Walkways, Patios, and other Outdoor Areas For Evening and Nighttime Entertaining or just relaxing with the family. Retroﬁt your current home lighting with LED lights for less monthly expense and with new technology and smartphone control. LIGHT UP YOUR HOME WITHOUT OBLIGATION! Request a FREE, No obligation demonstration TODAY! (Before You Invest)

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Our Community

Mr. Vickers Thanks Us All for His 106 th Birthday Greetings by Bob Blaisse

Photos courtesy of Publisher Bob Blaisse, taken from his birthday visit with our Hometown Hero, 106-year-old WWII Veteran Mr. Eugene Vickers, who wants all his Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors to know how thankful he is for all your birthday cards and kind words.

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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

January 2022

AMERIHEALTH CARITAS IS EXCITED TO JOIN THE

NEWTOWN SQUARE COMMUNITY AmeriHealth Caritas is a national leader in health care solutions for those in need, helping individuals and families onto the pathway to prosperity and maximum independence. We are excited to join the Newtown Square community — bringing people and opportunities together.

Locally born, nationally grown From our humble beginnings in 1983 in a West Philadelphia hospital, we’ve become one of the largest Medicaid managed care organizations. Today, we serve approximately 5 million members in 12 states and the District of Columbia with quality, award-winning managed care health plans and services. To learn more about our vision, services, and career opportunities, visit us at www.amerihealthcaritas.com.

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

Newtown Square Bringing People Together

2987

Friends & Neighbors

2021

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine, January 2022

Articles inside

Drain Cleaning 101

The Old Newtown Square Hotel Bar –Lost and Found

Timing Is Everything

The Benefits of Tap

How to be Successful at Your Healthy New Year’s Resolution

Mr. Vickers Thanks Us All for His 106th Birthday Greetings

New Year, New Goals: Secrets for Making Those Resolutions Stick

Forti Homes with Keller Williams Realty

How a Home’s History Caused Its Basement Water and Humidity Problems

HVAC Zoning: What Are Your Options?

The Sofield Family; Team Grit and Grace