Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine, December 2022

by Crissy Everhart Photography www.CrissyEverhart.com

Cover photo

PUBLICATION TEAM

PUBLISHER: Bob Blaisse

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER: Lisa Jeffries

CONTENT COORDINATOR: Sheila Turner-Hilliard

DESIGNER: Kim Cesati

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER: Crissy Everhart Photography, www.CrissyEverhart.com

COVER PHOTO STYLISTS: Blush Salon, Michele Quinn & Brittany Naab

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Bob Blaisse, Sheila TurnerHilliard, Holly Stupak, Lisa Jeffries, Doug Humes, Rob D’Anjolell, Jr., F.D., Kevin O'Donnell, Jack Del Pizzo, TJ Warner, Sarah Forti, 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, adver tisements 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.

ON THE COVER

The

Dear Friends & Neighbors, December is revealing colder chills, darker days and fall is now falling away to winter. But fear not, people of good cheer, the Holiday Season is here! Dates for holiday parties are getting closer and this year, even the holidays are coming closer together with Hanukkah observed this year at the same time as Christmas.

While the birth of Jesus – on Christmas, December 25th – is celebrated by homes in our neighborhoods that are colorfully lit, the Festival of Lights, cel ebrated with the Jewish observance of Hanukkah, will begin Sunday evening, December 18th through Monday evening, December 26th. The eight-days of Hanukkah commem orates the rededication of the Holy Temple after it was reclaimed by the Jewish people in the second century BCE. While they expected a small amount of oil to light the temple for only a short time, the oil miraculously burned for a full eight nights.

Christmas and Hanukkah are historical observances that are spiritually significant to so many of our friends and neighbors living in Newtown Township. It’s wonderful that our Jewish friends and neighbors celebrate across the eight days of Hanukkah, lighting menorah candles, preparing traditional foods, playing games and sharing gifts, while our Christian friends and neighbors are also joyfully celebrating with families coming together, giving gifts in celebration of Christmas honoring the birth of Jesus Christ.

In 2022, our Content Coordinator/Writer/Editor Sheila Turner-Hilliard, and our magazine designer Kim Cesati, have brought us twelve great issues. Thank you ladies. We look forward to reading twelve new issues in 2023 that will continue to be Bringing People Together in Newtown Square through our unique brand of social media in print.

As the year comes to an end, new beginnings are here too, thanks to our newest advertising Sponsor, Jeffrey Stein, the President and Owner of ELPS Private Detective Agency and PA Digital Surveillance Systems, LLC. Jeff investigated the strong loyalty our readers have for their hometown magazine, and has agreed to be on point for Newtown Square residents as our newest Expert Contributor. Look for Jeff’s first feature article as our new Private Investigation & Security Services Expert in our January issue.

As we head into 2023, I want to thank you for your very kind support of our home town publication, and for your strong loyalty to our advertising Sponsors who make it possible for Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors to be mailed to your home for free each month and to be available online at www.NewtownSquareMag.com. Please add them on your Christmas List this year, just as I’ve put them on my Christmas List that you can read on page 14.

From the staff of your hometown magazine, Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors, to all our Newtown Square friends and neighbors, Happy Hanukkah…, Merry Christmas…, and Happy New Year 2023!

Bob Blaisse Publisher

Newtown Square

Bringing People Together

Friends & Neighbors

The Natale Family: Happy To Be Home In Newtown Square

Dear Residents, It’s the season to celebrate! 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 two years as your Content Coordinator. I have enjoyed sharing your stories and look forward to meeting many more Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors in 2023.

This month features the Natale family, who are happy to call Newtown Square home. Our business profile features School of Rock, Main Line, offer ing performance-based music and voice lessons for all ages and levels. We also share a special holiday sweet treat, welcome our new Norway Spruce tree to St. Albans Circle and share local residents’ hopes and dreams for 2023.

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

Natale family at their home in Newtown Square

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

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

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

Family Law Trial Attorney

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

Fireplace Products

Scott Magness

Scott’s Fireplace Products 3137 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square 484 422 8334 • SFP@ScottsFireplaceProducts.com www.ScottsFireplaceProducts.com

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

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

Landscape Design & Landscaping

TJ Warner

JHL Landscaping

Waterproofing & Weatherization

David Linn Cook

• TJ@JHLLlandscaping.com www.JHLLandscaping.com

610 356 4104

Physical Therapy

Mark E. Reitz, PT

Penn Therapy Associates

2010 West Chester Pike, #450 610.853.0508

PennTherapy@comcast.net www.PennTherapy.com

Plumbing Service, Residential / Commercial

Rick Bondurant

R.F. Bondurant Plumbing 610.566.0288 • RFBPlumbing@comcast.net www.RFBondurant.com

Private Investigation & Security Services

Jeffrey Stein

ELPS Private Detective Agency

882 South Matlack Street, Suite 206, West Chester 610-696-7799 • jstein@elpspda.com www.ELPSpda.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. 610 624 8112

Office@ODonnellRoofingCo.com www.ODonnellRoofingCo.com/bvm

Senior Living & Housing

Lindsey Poeth, CSA®

Oasis Senior Advisors Mainline Malvern 484.947.4266

LPoeth@YourOasisAdvisor.com www.OasisSeniorAdvisors.com/Mainline

Tree Care and Inspection

Mike Bradley Bradley Tree Experts Broomall 610.325.8600 • Mike@BradleyTreeExperts.com www.BradleyTreeExperts.com

Weatherproofing Plus, Inc. Marple Newtown 610 325 0596 • Info@Weatherproofing-Plus.com www.Weatherproofing-Plus.com

Dental,

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

www.TruscelloLaw.com 610-892-4940

The Natale Family : Happy To Be Home In Newtown Square

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

Photos by Crissy Everhart Photography www.CrissyEverhart.com

This month, we are pleased to introduce you to The Natale Family: Jason, Jennifer, Avery, Regan and Chelsea. They’re a family that focuses on fun, family and giving back to their community.

Jason grew up in Flemington, NJ, with his parents and older brother. He attended Robert Hunter Elementary School, Reading-Fleming Middle School and graduated from Hunterdon Central Regional High School, where he played baseball and hockey recreationally. After graduation, Jason went to Springfield College, earning a degree in Sports Medicine. He then spent one year at Boston University before switching to Temple University because he found that Temple’s master’s degree in Education Kinesiology program met more of his needs.

Jason moved to Manayunk and began working for the Philadelphia Eagles and the Minnesota Vikings on their sports medicine staff. These days, Jason is a Regional Manager in sales for Stryker, one of the world’s leading medical technology companies offering innovative products and services. “After several years in sales, I enjoy coaching, mentoring and supporting my sales team,” said Jason. “My work is gratifying when I see them achieve their goals and know I have positively influenced their careers.”

Jennifer also grew up in Flemington, NJ, with her parents and two younger brothers. She went to Robert Hunter Elementary School, Reading-Fleming Middle School and also graduated from Hunterdon Central Regional High School. Jennifer was very active in high school, participating in field hockey, soccer and softball. She was also a member of the school choir and served as Vice President of her graduating class.

Jennifer earned her undergraduate degree in Public Affairs from American University in Washington D.C., then made her way across the country to UCLA in California, where she received her Master of Public Health (MPH) in Healthcare Management. While at UCLA, Jennifer decided that she wanted to come back east once she finished school. She applied for a position with

Jefferson in Philadelphia and got the call to interview. That same day, Jennifer was offered a job in Healthcare Administration and planned her move to Philadelphia.

Her career with Jefferson and consulting opportunities with other healthcare providers led Jennifer to start her own company in early 2019. “The time was right for me to go out on my own,” she said. “I have proven myself as an expert in my field and continue to work with my previous employers, but now I do so on my own terms and am free to take on more clients.”

One would think that Jennifer and Jason’s love story began back in their hometown, but their paths never crossed until after college. “We did go to the same schools, but there was enough of an age difference that we didn’t know each other,” Jennifer explained. “We finally met at my friend Melanie’s graduation party. Jason happened to be there because he was friends with Melanie’s older brother, Jim.”

Jennifer said that she and Jason hit it off that day, but he was living in Philadelphia, and Jennifer was about to move to California for grad school. Although the timing wasn’t right, the two kept in touch regularly. They eventually had their first date when Jennifer flew home for the holidays. A few months later, Jason visited

Jennifer and Jason Natale

Jennifer at UCLA, and soon after, Jennifer got the job offer at Jefferson. “I moved to my own apartment in Manayunk,” she said. “We continued to date until we decided to make things official.”

Jason proposed to Jennifer, and the happy couple moved to Chestnut Hill, where they married in 2010. After honeymoon ing in Punta Cana, they purchased their first home in Havertown, where they lived for five years. “Jennifer and I knew that eventu ally, we wanted a larger home to raise our kids,” he said. “We hired an agent who encouraged us to look in Newtown Square.”

They found a home and moved to the Echo Valley neighborhood seven years ago. “The real estate agent we worked with told us that it was an excellent neighborhood,” Jennifer recalled. “He said that the houses sell fast, so we would have to act quickly, and we’re so glad we did.” Jason and Jennifer said that over the years, they have made wonderful friends who are there for each other and love to have fun hosting neighborhood socials.

Jason and Jennifer had two young girls when they moved to the neighborhood, so finding other families with young kids was very important to them. They said that within weeks, the girls had formed friendships that they know will last a lifetime.

Jennifer and Jason’s oldest daughter is Avery. She is a fifth-grade student at Culbertson Elementary School who enjoys playing softball for Newtown Square Petticoat League (NSPL) and the Rebels Travel Softball Team. Avery is also a member of the dis trict choir, plays the piano and takes gymnastics classes. “Avery is

fun to be around, a natural-born leader and an aspiring entrepre neur,” said Jennifer. “We also like to call her Jenny Jr because she takes after me.”

Avery’s younger sister, Regan, is a third-grade student at Culbertson Elementary. “Regan is fun-loving, a great friend and very caring,” Jason said. “She is always thinking about taking care of her family

The girls excited for Santa’s arrival (L to R): Regan, Avery and Chelsea Natale

and friends.” Like Avery, Regan loves playing softball for NSPL, takes gymnastics lessons and plays piano, but she is also a red/ brown belt in karate and a member of the Girl Scouts.

Rounding out the bunch is four-year-old Chelsea, who attends Pre-K at Garretts Way in Newtown Square. “Chelsea’s our wild child,” laughed Jennifer. “We call her the Natale family mascot because everyone knows her!” Aside from tagging along to her big sisters’ softball games, Chelsea takes dance and gymnastics lessons and plays soccer.

The Natales have two dogs. Tigre is their 12-year-old Jack Russell Terrier who loves to cuddle and snuggle with the girls, and nineyear-old Piper, a mixed-breed rescue who wants nothing more than to play fetch all day long. So, what happens when you take two working professionals and add three active kids and two pups? A busy life that one would think doesn’t leave time for much else, right? Well, nothing could be further from the truth when talking about the Natales. Both Jennifer and Jason are committed to giving back to the com munity and setting good examples for their girls. “Jason and I watched our parents volunteer in our hometown,” Jennifer said. “They stressed the importance of helping others, either financially or with our time.”

Jennifer serves as the Treasurer in the Echo Valley Community, is the Girl Scout Cookie Mom to two troops and was recently elected as Culbertson Elementary’s PTO President. Jason volun teers his time coaching his girls’ softball teams at NSPL and serves

as a mentor for MedTechVets, a nonprofit organization serving Veterans during their career transitions. He supports Veterans by helping them find roles in the Medical Device Industry. And when they’re not working or volunteering, Jason and Jennifer love to hit the road with the family. They spend time on the beach in Sea Isle with Jason’s parents and on the lake in Central PA at Jennifer’s family cabin. The Natales also like to explore fun spots in Florida and vacation time with friends on the Chesapeake in Maryland. More locally, their home away from home is White Manor Country Club, where Jason plays golf regularly and Jennifer likes to spend time at the pool with the girls in the summertime. But no matter how far they travel to explore and enjoy, Newtown Square is where they love to call home. “We feel so fortunate to live here,” Jennifer and Jason agreed. “We are committed to doing all we can to preserve our community. It’s a special place, and we want it to stay that way.”

Thank you, Jason, Jennifer and the girls for sharing your inspiring story. On behalf of your Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors, we wish you a happy and healthy holiday season.

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

The Natale Family with their pups, Piper and Tigre

Smart Home Improvement Projects To Do in Winter

by Sarah Forti Forti Homes with Keller Williams Realty

Seasonality is often the biggest factor when planning home improvement projects. But there are some projects that you can plan and execute in the “off season” to help you save big.

Decks, Patios and Fencing

Outdoor living spaces are in demand more than ever. If you’re con sidering a deck addition or remodel, perhaps a large patio with built-in seating and a wood-burning oven, or a roof covered outdoor living room, now is the time to plan. Contractors may not be as backed up as in the Spring when everyone else just starts thinking about doing their outdoor projects. By then, the contractor’s waiting list will be much longer and the cost of materials could be higher.

During the colder months, contractors who specialize in these proj ects are slower and willing to work with you on price. Not only that, they will have more time to spend helping you create your dream project. This is also true about fencing projects. Saving 5-10% on your outdoor project could save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars. Put that towards lighting and an outdoor heater, and start enjoying your beautiful new deck or patio right away!

Air Conditioning

Colder temps and winter jackets don’t exactly have us thinking about the first inevitable heat wave of 2023. If you plan to install A/C, installing it now can save you thousands. In the off-season, manufacturers tend to offer material discounts on their cooling systems. And your contractor will (1) help you find those deals; (2) thank you for not having to work in extreme heat when installing the system; and (3) be more inclined to loosen up on labor costs, to keep their crew and business rolling during the slower season.

Interior

Remodeling: Painting, Bathrooms, Kitchens

Generally, contractors are slower during the winter and suppliers offer discounts on paint and other building materials. Planning your kitchen, bathroom or basement renovation could easily take 2 3 hmonths, so use this time wisely! Work with your contrac tor to plan and purchase materials now. This will save you time and money. When you’ve stocked up on what you need and your

plan is in place, your contractor will be ready to execute efficiently without the pressure of other jobs waiting right behind yours. Then, voila! Your new kitchen is ready by Spring when other folks are just getting started and spending full price on materials.

by Lisa Jeffries

Bella Dreger

The December Casey’s Public House Student of the Month is Isabella (Bella) Dreger, a Distinguished Honor Roll 12th grade student at Marple Newtown High School (MNHS), who received a Certificate of Achievement and a $25 gift card from Casey’s Public House, our Sponsor of this program.

Bella enjoys and takes a huge role in a multitude of activities at MNHS. She is a member of the Student Government Executive Board, a Renaissance Black Card holder and class leader, a Tiger guide and the President of Marple Civic Youth, with over 100 hours of community service. She is a member of Rho Kappa Honor Society and the World Language Honor Society, as well as a National Chemistry Olympiad nominee and Junior Initiative Excellence winner.

Bella is a dual sports athlete who is a current varsity starter for both MNHS’s field hockey and Lacrosse teams. She’s the recip ient of the Meghan Taylor Award and the All-American PASLA Award. As the fundraising and decorations chair of For the Kids! (FTK), Bella has played a major role in organizing the FTK Mini-Thon, among other activities. As if all that didn’t keep her busy enough, Bella is also the publicist and social media chair of the Student Union Government.

“As my last year in Marple Civic Youth, I plan to finish out strong and continue to serve my community,” shared Bella. “A goal of mine is to achieve the President’s Volunteer Service Award

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

as an honor for the organization.” Although Bella hasn’t made her final decision on what college to attend next fall, she knows that she wants to become a dentist, and has applied to the pre-dental or chemistry programs at several schools in hopes of pursuing her occupational dreams.

We would like to congratulate you on your numerous accom plishments and continued service to our community, Bella. We know you’ll be doing great things for the remainder of the school year and beyond. N S

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. Email your nomination to Lisa Jeffries at LJeffries@BestVersionMedia. com. The selected nominee will be fea tured in a future issue and will also receive a Certificate of Achievement and a $25 Casey’s Public House gift card.

December Casey’s Student of the Month Bella Dreger with Casey's Public House Owner Pete Crisanti Photo courtesy of Molly Dreger

DECEMBER

by Jack Del Pizzo, CPA Del Pizzo & Associates

Personal tax returns (1040) are due on April 18, 2023 (usually April 15th), with Partnerships (1065) and S Corporations (1120 S) both being required to file by March 15th. These dates can be auto matically extended for six months. Filing for a federal extension automatically extends the Pennsylvania return due date as well.

First, review your 2021 tax return to see what income and deduc tions you reported previously, to get a better idea of what you need to complete your returns this year. The most common doc uments for individual filers are as follows:

Form W 2: A report of salary and withholdings from your employer

Form 1099: Payments made to you during the year for services

Form 1099 B: Investing or trading accounts, including cryptocurrency, will need a report of capital gains from sales and any interest or dividends. Most investment firms will mail you a Form 1099 Consolidated that will have all the needed information.

Form 1098-T: If you’re a parent, you may have tax documents for tuition payments and interest, or scholarships payments received in 2022.

There were several significant tax changes for 2022. For those focused on saving for retirement, the maximum contribu tion limits for your 401(k) increased from $19,500 to $20,500.

Investors over 50 years of age can take advantage of the increase in “catch-up” contributions, allowing for up to an additional $6,500 into their 401(k). The maximum deduction to an IRA remains at $6,000, plus a $1,000 “catch up.” Remember, IRA contributions must be made by April 18, 2023. Keep these amounts in mind when deciding where to allocate funds for retirement.

If you're looking to make capital expenditures for your business or real estate, the clock on utilizing the 100% bonus depreciation benefits from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act has begun to tick; 2022 is the last year in which qualified improvements can be fully expensed in a single year. Starting in 2023, the 100% deduction of the cost of a qualified improvement is being reduced to 80%. In each following year, the special depreciation deduction will be reduced by 20% until it is phased out completely. Although accelerated depreciation will still be around thanks to Section 179, there are some key differences to bonus deprecia tion that make it attractive. A Section 179 deduction can't exceed the amount of annual income for a business, meaning excess losses cannot be deducted or carried forward. Bonus depreciation however is not restricted by business income and can be carried forward as a tax deduction for future years. So if you are planning an expansion and want to take accelerated depreciation, there will not be a better time than now. N S

by Mark E. Reitz, PT Penn Therapy Associates

Arthritis is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the joints. It can cause pain, stiffness and swelling. The hips, knees, hands and spine are the most commonly affected joints. Arthritis is not a single disease, but an umbrella term that includes a variety of different types. Some of the more common examples are osteo arthritis (the most common form), rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.

While physical therapy might not be the first treatment you think of for arthritis, it probably should be. A lot of people with arthri tis choose to use medication to manage their pain, stop activities that hurt and wait for things to get bad enough to have a joint replacement. But this isn’t such a great plan. All medications have

side effects, even over the counter ones. Reducing activity leads to muscle atrophy and even stiffer joints. Despite the advancement in joint replacements, these procedures are still major surgery and come with their own set of risks and painful recovery.

Physical therapy has been extensively researched as a treatment for arthritis and demonstrates good outcomes. Physical therapists typically start with exercise as the basis for arthritis treatment. Exercise helps to regain lost joint motion, relieves stiffness and strengthens muscles that support arthritic joints. What surprises many people is that exercise has been shown to be as effective as medication for pain relief in many types of arthritis without any side effects.

Physical therapy has more to offer people with arthritis than just exercise however. Education helps people understand their con dition, what to expect and how to manage their symptoms. As experts in human movement, PT’s are especially good at helping people modify the way they perform certain tasks or activities to reduce strain on joints affected by arthritis. They can also suggest ways to modify the environment at work or home to reduce pain and improve function. They may also suggest things like braces or other devices that can help maintain mobility and reduce pain. On top of all of that, PT has also been proven to be the most cost effective treatment for arthritis.

Hopefully you now have a better understanding of what PT can do for you and you will think of PT when you think about how to treat your arthritic symptoms.

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 cus tomers.” 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 were asked that question by an advertising Sponsors, 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 mag azine 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 Sponsors of this magazine, which you enjoy receiving in the mail every month for free.

Pick a few Sponsors listed on the facing 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 pur chase 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 sponsor ing our hometown. N S

Blaisse Publisher, Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

Bob

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard Photos courtesy of David Marsh

Cultivating Confident, Gifted Musicians

For over 15 years, School of Rock Main Line has been offering performance-based music lessons for guitar, drums, vocals, bass and keyboards to students of all ages and skill levels. They have established themselves as leaders in performance-based music education by combining one-on-one lessons with group practices and live performances.

Dave Marsh, owner and general manager, said that he was inspired to open the main line location because of the impact School of Rock had on his own kids. “When my kids were younger, they attended School of Rock in Fort Washington,” he explained. “I watched them not only learn how to play their instruments, but I saw their confidence grow into something that was far beyond the music itself.”

Dave, with the help of School of Rock’s Ft. Washington’s owner, Steve Zack, worked together to find the perfect location on Lancaster Ave in Berwyn. “I am thankful for Steve’s friendship and help in getting the main line location started,” said Dave. “I have to say that the most rewarding part of owning School of Rock Main Line is hearing the parents of my students tell me how our program has given their children skills and confidence beyond what they ever thought possible.”

Their programs, camps and workshops for kids, teens and adults make learning to play music fun and create great communities of musicians. Students learn to play music from day one and put on live performances at local venues. Their experienced instructors are local musicians themselves who combine the performance-based School of Rock Method and programs with individual music lessons resulting in a well-rounded student and bandmate.

Rik Alison is a part-owner and serves as the school’s Musical Director. He has over 20 years of professional performing experi ence and has been teaching for over 15 years. From traveling the Midwest in a road cover band, to playing his own music in some of the top venues on the eastern seaboard, Rik has played thousands of gigs and brings this real-world experience to the classroom.

Rik is a graduate of Berklee College of Music in Boston, where he majored in Performance and Music Education. Through his experiences, Rik has devised a program to solidify students’ under standing of harmony, arranging and ear training as it pertains to their instruments and the music they love.

School of Rock Main Line is proud to offer lessons in guitar, drums, bass guitar, keyboard, vocals and piano, taught by a team of prac ticing, passionate musicians. Dave said that as their students progress, they can refine their skills in popular local styles, such as pop, and then go on to perform at live music venues in the area, such as Ardmore Music Hall. “Our students grow as indi viduals by taking the stage with others,” he explained. “While

Performance-based music education helps build confidence

School of Rock Main Line students taking the stage

our students learn to work with their bandmates, they also learn broader life skills like collaboration, compromise and courage.” What sets School of Rock Main Line apart from traditional music and vocal lessons is their revolutionary approach to music edu cation called The School of Rock Method™. Their course builds musical proficiency through their proprietary Method App and Method Book collection. Their integrated SongFirst® approach teaches students techniques and theory while also helping them apply those skills when performing with other musi cians. This award-winning method makes their teaching system one-of-a-kind.

Rock 101 is one of School of Rock Main Line’s top programs for kids and beginners ages 8-13. The Performance Program is their hall mark music program for students ages 8-18. Their Songwriting Program for kids and teens teaches the fundamentals of songwrit ing, arrangement and music theory and helps students compose original works.

School of Rock Main Line’s Adult Program is for students over 18 years old looking to improve their musical proficiency or pick up an instrument with no prior musical experience.

In addition, the House Band music program gives students under 18 the opportunity to join a gigging band composed of fellow musicians from their school, and The School of Rock All-Stars Tour takes the very best students from around the world and sends them on a nationwide summer tour across the United States.

Dave said that no matter what age or skill level, he and his tal ented team of instructors are there to help every student grow into confident, gifted musicians. He encourages anyone interested in learning more to contact them for a tour and free trial lesson.

School of Rock Main Line is located at 511 Old Lancaster Rd, Berwyn (behind Casey’s Pour House). Their hours are Mon. – Thu. 3:30 8:00pm; Fri. 4 6pm; Sat. 12 6pm and Sun. 12 8pm. For more information or to schedule a tour and trial lesson, call them at 610 647 2900, visit their website at www.SchoolOfRock.com/locations/mainline and follow them on Facebook and Instagram. N S

Why is Newtown Square in Delaware County? The Battle of Turks Head

by Doug Humes

Following the American Revolution, a civil war took place in Chester County. The county seat was the town of Chester, on the Delaware River, equally inconvenient to everyone in the huge county other than the locals. Court was held there, and voting was done there – a long trip before cars and trains. As the popu lation moved west, a movement formed to “remove” the county seat to a more convenient location: Turks Head. What was Turk’s Head? A village with a crossroads tavern by that name that one

opponent called “that elegant and notorious place vulgarly called the Turk’s Head, a place as unfit for the general convenience, and much more so, than any one spot that might be pointed out…”

The two factions battled back and forth in the legislature. One law authorized the “removal,” and the removalists began construct ing a new courthouse near the tavern in late 1784. Walls were built before winter halted construction. Meanwhile, the forces of Chester, the “anti-removalists” had the legislature pass a new

Chester County as it existed during the American Revolution (outlined in yellow).

Marple Historical Society

The Turks Head Inn at High and Market streets. Public Domain Postcard

An ad in the Pennsylvania Gazette of July 22, 1789, giving notice of the petition seeking the creation of Delaware County.

Head – stopping at the Greentree Tavern for the night for refresh ments. Meanwhile, at Turks Head, the leaders put out word for men to come to the defense of the town. “Grog and rations were freely distributed, and a pretty respectable force was soon upon the ground.”

The Chester boys marched into town and assembled in battle line near the Quaker Meeting House. The defenders had boarded up the windows of the courthouse walls, leaving holes from which their muskets poked out at the attackers. For several hours they faced off, neither side wanting to fire the first shot. Cooler heads prevailed – some “pacific” locals negotiated a truce – the Chester attackers would be allowed inside to inspect the new building, provided they then agreed to go home peacefully. The cannon that had pointed towards the walls was turned around and fired off to celebrate the peace treaty.

The legislature fixed the issue permanently – in 1789 the eastern townships were given their own county – Delaware County – and the western townships remained in Chester County, giving their county seat a more respectable name: “West Chester.”

For more history on Newtown Square, Delaware County, and mem bership information, please visit our website a www.NSHistory.org. N S

Typical tavern signs of the type that would have hung outside the building.

Wikipedia –public domain

law in March, forbidding removal. “The people generally in the neighborhood of Chester, had been violently opposed from the beginning to the projected removal, and a number now resolved to demolish the walls already erected.” The Chester lads assem bled with arms and a small cannon, and began marching to Turks

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Come See

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Public Domain Newspaper www.RFBondurant.com

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

The Many Services Funeral Directors Provide

Most people know the basics when it comes to the services that a funeral home provides in their time of grief, but there may be more services available to you and your loved ones, before, during and after the loss.

Funeral with Burial

A traditional cemetery interment is the most common choice when someone loses a loved one. A funeral director will oversee as much or as little of the necessary details on your behalf. From the transportation and preparation of the body, the planning of the viewing and/or prayer services to the entombment, funeral direc tors handle every aspect with respect and dignity.

Cremation

Cremation has been increasing in popularity over the past several decades, because it provides options that a traditional burial does not. Whether the deceased had a desire to have their ashes scat tered in a beloved place, or the family wants to keep their loved one’s remains at home, funeral directors provide families with a variety of options to meet their needs and preferences.

Military Honors

Funeral directors work with all branches of the armed services to coordinate special military honors, flag presentation, salute and other respected traditions. A funeral home works with every facet

of the process to ensure that former members of the armed forces receive their well deserved honors.

Memorial Services

When a traditional burial is not an option or a cremation has already been completed, a memorial service is often an appropri ate and respectful choice. Memorial services are frequently held in the funeral home or in a church, however other locations that have significance to the family may also be arranged.

International

Funeral homes work on behalf of the family to make arrange ments for transport and other matters, when a loved one has died outside of the US, or in the case where a family wishes to send their loved one overseas for burial. Funeral directors work with the appropriate government officials to arrange timely transport and respectable handling of their loved one’s remains.

Preplanning

For those who are interested in planning their own parting services, funeral directors are available to meet and discuss arrangements with the individual and/or family. This can be an effective way to reduce your family's emotional burden, make your wishes known and often ease the financial impact. Even individuals and families who choose not to pre-fund the cost of the funeral can put together their preplanning wishes, with the help of a funeral director. N S

by Kevin O’Donnell O’Donnell Roofing Co.

With the winter season approaching, there’s no time like the present to prepare your home’s exterior to endure the cold, snow and ice. Here are five tips to find and fix exterior problems so your home is comfortable, safe and energy efficient over the winter months.

1. Make Sure Your Attic is Properly Ventilated

Check your attic to ensure you have the appropriate vents and fans in place so there are equal levels of incoming and outgo ing air. You will know if it needs to be looked at if you see any signs of mold, mildew or past leaks you weren’t aware of. Consider calling a roofing contractor for a professional inspection. They know even the minor signs to look for in your attic, which can extend the life of your roof.

2. Check Gutters and Downspouts

Make sure all gutters and downspouts are running clear and flowing. If old gutters aren’t maintained, often they will develop leaks from freezing and refreezing of water blocked by debris in the coldest temps. Many homeowners aren’t aware that the cost of new gutters is usually more manageable than spending money trying to fix existing damaged or malfunctioning gutters.

3. Remove Overhanging Limbs and Branches

Tree limbs and branches that hang over your roof can be a danger to your home, especially when snow and ice start to pile up on

it. The added weight can cause these overhanging limbs to snap, which could mean big problems for your roof. You may want to hire a professional to trim any tree branches that are less than three feet away from the roof.

4. Look For Roof Damage

Even minor damage can lead to big problems if it goes unad dressed. Before the next snowfall occurs, take the time to carefully examine all shingles, flashing and vents, and identify any loose or missing shingles. You should also consider hiring a professional to:

• Inspect the roof for ponding water, depressions, nail pops and any evidence of mold

• Re-seal all flashing and any exposed fasteners

• Repair or replace shingles as needed

5. Get a Professional Roof Inspection

Your roof is too important to take a chance on. If it was installed 10+ years ago, a simple and free roof inspection will give you a better sense of the condition it’s in, and possibly prevent any future damage. Schedule a professional roof inspection now. It could help your roof last longer and improve the efficiency of your home. N S

Recent Newtown Township Home Sales

Street

Court

Road

0.64

0.04

0.48

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.

The History and Mystery Behind Our ZIP Code

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

Have you ever stopped to wonder why the 19073 ZIP Code isn’t just for Newtown Township? Perhaps you haven’t thought about it, or maybe you already know. You could live in Radnor Township, Edgmont Township, Marple Township and even Chester County and use the 19073 in your mailing address. Let’s take a few minutes to explore the history behind how ZIP Codes came to be, what the sequence of numbers means and why there are so many towns that use the same five-digit ZIP Code. First, we need to go back to the early 1960s. As many postal service workers went off to war, post offices were left strug gling with the significant increase in the number of letters, advertisements and bills being sent to households across the country. The sudden increase in volume was because companies had begun using computers to send automated mailings and billing statements. Recognizing a need to improve the speed and accuracy of mail delivery, the Postal Service created the Zone Improvement

Plan (ZIP) in 1963. The ZIP was intro duced on July 1, 1963 as part of a larger plan called the Nationwide Improved Mail Service (NIMS) that included a new, less time-consuming mechanical sorting system.

ZIP Codes were determined by break ing the five digits into sections. The first digit, (0-9) identified one of ten areas of the country, the second 2 digits indicated either the State, a portion of a heavily populated State, or two or more less-pop ulated States. The fourth and fifth digits identified the smaller city post office that delivered mail to your address.

A nationwide print and television cam paign was launched to make the public aware of the new ZIP Code system and to encourage them to start using ZIP Codes to speed up mail delivery. Two of the most popular campaigns were the cre ation of the cartoon character, Mr. Zip and a catchy tune performed by the popular singing group, The Swingin’ Six.

“You know you’ve got to have a ZIP Code on the envelope, a ZIP Code so you won’t just have to hope. A ZIP Code morning, noon and night and everything will be alright.”

So, what do our area ZIP Codes mean? Pennsylvania, Delaware and New York all share the number 1 as the first digit in their ZIP Codes, whereas folks living in Illinois, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska share the number 6 as the first number in their ZIP Codes. The next two digits in our area (90) represents the larger sorting station area and, depending on which post office is delivering your mail, your ZIP Code ends in 73 (Newtown Square) or 08 (Broomall).

Our Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors Resident Feature story this

month highlights Chip Miller whose family has deep roots in Edgmont Township. Chip explained that, “Within Edgmont town ship, there are three rural delivery post offices; Media, Newtown Square and Glen Mills.” He then explained that the lesser known 19028 is for residents with a Post Office Box in the Edgemont Post Office, and 19039 for Post Office Boxes in the Village of Gradyville Post Office. Those in Radnor and Marple Townships and Chester County who use the 19073 ZIP Code rely on the Newtown Square Post Office to deliver their mail.

When ZIP Codes overlap townships and counties, things can get confusing, and it’s not just when ordering pizza delivery. “There are many streets in Newtown Township and

Edgmont Township that share the same name like Chestnut, Walnut and Locust Streets,” Chip explained. “It’s important to remember that if you have to call 911 in an emergency you tell the dispatcher which township you live in, otherwise help may be directed to the wrong house.”

Just like advancements in technology, our ZIP Codes are evolving. In 1983, the USPS expanded ZIP Codes further by introducing the ZIP + 4 system. This nine-digit system added four numbers to everyone’s ZIP Code, identifying the side of the street for an address or, in the case of some very large buildings, the part of the

building where the addressee is located. This allowed more detailed sorting, so postal carriers could get your mail to you more quickly. These days, ZIP Codes are being used to create Geocodes to pin point an exact location that can be used for deliveries, data analytics and more tar geted marketing campaigns.

But the more things change, the more they stay the same. Just listen to Ethel Merman who sang it best to the tune of Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah…

“Welcome to ZIP Codes, learn it today. Send your mail out the five-digit way.” N S

By Lexi Breunig

1. Combine all clay ingredients into a pan and place on the stove on medium. 2. Stir continuously and watch to make sure the clay doesn’t burn. Once it’s the consistency of mashed potatoes, remove from heat. 3. Place the clay onto parchment paper and cover it with a damp paper towel so it doesn’t dry out as it cools. 4. Once cooled, use a rolling pin to roll out the clay. Use cookie cutters to cut out your ornament shapes. 5. Place ornaments on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to make a hole at the top of each ornament for the string/ornament hanger to go through. 6. Bake at 200 degrees fahrenheit for 40 minutes. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t brown. 7. Once fully baked, allow them time to cool. Then, get creative! Paint them, add glitter, whatever you want. 8. To finish the ornaments off, add string or ornament hangers.

Interest to

Winter Landscaping

Even when winter’s cold and snowy weather has taken over, a beautiful landscape is still possible. Here are some ideas on how to highlight winter's quiet, special beauty in your yard.

Four-Season Perennials

Many perennials feature year-round, attractive foliage, making them a great option for winter landscaping. Even here in the colder northeast, perennials such as black-eyed Susan and tall sedum offer attractive seed heads that can add visual interest to your winter landscape, provided you leave them alone until spring.

Boxes, Baskets and Containers

Wintertime is the perfect time to dress up window boxes, hanging baskets and containers with cold weather plants, decorations and sprigs such as spruce, broadleaf evergreen shrubs, holly boughs and rhododendron. These live plants need to be watered even though it’s winter. Just avoid watering them when it’s below freezing.

Bark is Beautiful

Because deciduous trees shed their leaves for winter, their branches and trunks can become a beautiful work of art. Many smaller deciduous trees and shrubs are easier to find spots for in your landscape. Some favorites include dogwoods and birch trees, which offer outstanding winter color and texture.

Think Berries

Holly bushes with their shiny green leaves and red berries are a natural choice for winter and holiday color. But there are many other trees and shrubs that have berries that remain through out the fall and winter as well. In fact, Crabapple trees make a

by TJ Warner JHL Landscaping

great addition to your winter landscape, since most of their fruit remains throughout the winter.

Ever Popular Evergreens

Did you know that evergreens, the quintessential winter choice for landscaping, come in colors other than green. There are some that are a beautiful yellow with green, and others like the Blue Spruce is blue, like the name says.

Your Hardscape Can Be Your Focus

In many cases, the solution to enhancing your winter landscaping may not be plant related at all. This is the best time to think about your hardscaping options. Consider adding an arbor, a garden bench or even a sculpture. Or perhaps something even bigger like

Forward Thinking: Local Vision for 2023

by Sheila Turner-Hilliard

Each new year brings hopes and visions for the future. And as our clocks tick down to those final seconds in 2022, we will all surely raise a glass to welcome 2023 with open arms.

Paul Seligson, President

Newtown Square Business Association “Working with the Board of the Newtown Square Business Association, I am constantly amazed and in awe of all the wonderful ideas which the group percolates up. I am looking forward to hearing from our new members in 2023 and can only imagine how many more great ideas are out there. Let’s let the idea stream bubble over!”

What are your goals and dreams for this new year? We set out to ask a few local residents and business owners about their vision for 2023.

John D’Alessandro

Luigi & Giovanni’s

John says he doesn’t make resolutions; he sets goals, and plans to do the same this year. One thing he will try to do more of in 2023 is support the community, area churches and fellow local businesses because he says, “We need to continue to support each other to keep Newtown Square’s small businesses thriving.”

The Falcon Family

For Joe, Laurie, Lillie, Emilia ad Maren, this new year will be filled with family, friends, travel and new beginnings. “2023, please slow down,” Laurie laughed. “I am looking forward to making new memories as my girls get older and get closer to branching out of their own. And, we are excited to plan a family trip to Europe!” Joe can’t wait for warmer weather and spending sunny days on the beach with family and good friends. Their oldest daughter, Lillie said, “2023 means I only have one year left before high school graduation. I can’t wait to apply and choose a college.” Emilia is counting the days until softball season starts. “I’ll be playing softball this spring and will hopefully start looking for colleges to commit to.” Joe and Laurie’s youngest daughter, Maren said, “I am really looking forward to dance, dance and more dance! Oh, and a summer spent swimming in the ocean.”

Sarah Forti

Forti Homes

with Keller Williams Realty

“Our growing team at Forti Homes with Keller Williams Realty looks forward to achieving our goal of helping 60 fam ilies buy and sell real estate in 2023,” Sarah said. The team is planning more

face-to-face meetings and events than ever before in an effort to create meaningful connections, deepen their business relation ships, and share their market knowledge with others. “We want to create a real estate experience people rave about to their friends and family. On a personal note, I'm looking forward to an excit ing year ahead with my husband, Domenic, and our four sons, filled with travel and quality time with friends and family.”

Thank you to our Friends & Neighbors for sharing your hopes for this new year. Whatever your dream is for 2023, here’s to hoping it happens—and in a big way! N S

Home for the Holidays: Sharing Special Recipes

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! ’Tis the season to celebrate, and of course, indulge.

Welcome to Kathy’s kitchen! Kathy Clement is a longtime Newtown Square resident who loves to host holiday gatherings for her family. Kathy says she loves

by

this area because it’s not only family friendly, it serves as a central point to her extended family traveling from other areas of the state.

Today, Kathy is sharing a recipe that has become a favorite for her family around Christmas Time. She said these Cherry Coconut Bars are the perfect sweet treat that can be enjoyed at breakfast with a nice, hot cup of coffee or tea or as the perfect ending to a nice, big holiday dinner.

INGEREDIENTS:

Crust:

• 1 cup flour

• ½ cup butter

• 3 Tbsp. confectioners sugar or powdered sugar alternative

Topping:

• 2 eggs, slightly beaten

• 1 cup granulated sugar or granulated sugar alternative

• ¼ cup flour

• ½ tsp. baking powder

• ¼ tsp. salt

• 1 tsp. vanilla

• ¾ cup chopped nuts (optional)

• ½ cup shredded coconut

• ¾ cup quartered maraschino cherries

DIRECTIONS:

Crust:

• Preheat oven to 350°

• For the crust, mix flour, butter and confectioners sugar with hands, until smooth.

• Spread dough with fingers in an ungreased 8x8 pan until smooth.

• Bake for 20 minutes.

• Combine the remaining ingredients into the slightly beaten eggs.

• Spread over the top of the baked crust.

• Bake for 25 minutes.

• Allow to cool then cut into bars.

Cherry Coconut Bars Enjoy!

Sheila Turner-Hilliard Photo courtesy of Kathy Clement

If you’re not the most creative in the kitchen, don’t fret. Remember that there are plenty of bakeries and restaurants that are happy to do the cooking for you. It’s easy to find recipes galore online, but if you would rather leave the holiday preparation to the professionals, visit our Sponsor, Weinrich’s Bakery, for delicious baked goods. Cynthia Weinrich said that their shelves are stocked with plenty of delicious festive treats.

Saturdays in Winter

Art at The Square Tavern & Arts Center

@Goshen & Newtown Street Roads

A variety of rotating art displays by local artists, exhibitions and activities. Time: 11am–5pm

Cost: FREE (donations accepted!) www.NSHistory.org

Fri. November 18 – Mon. February 27

Flight On Ice

@4901 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square Newtown Square’s pop-up outdoor ice-skating rink is back 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.

Time: Wed. and Thurs. 4–8pm; Fri. 4–10pm; 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

Fri. November 18 – Sun. January 8

A Longwood Christmas @Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square Visit A Longwood Christmas to celebrate botanical splendor in all its forms as they showcase the beauty and bounty of the natural world. Stroll amid floating floral de signs, marvel at festive trees dressed in gilded garland to bold blooms and step into an extravagant floral shop complete with an exquisite window display. Outside, gaze upon botanically inspired light displays, explore enchanting treehouses and find new features that are sure to delight. 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

Fri. November 25 – December (While Supplies Last)

Boy Scouts Christmas Tree Sale

@St. Pius X Church parking lot, 2004 Lawrence Rd, Broomall Marple Newtown Scouts 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.

Time: Weeknights 5:00–8:00pm; Sat. & Sun. 9:30am–8:00pm Cost: Varies by tree size

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 2022 Festival of Lights opens with a brief Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, December 2, at 5:00 PM.

Time: 5–10pm

Cost: FREE

Sun. December 4 – Mon. December 12

Annual Holiday Lights Contest

@Broomall

The Marple Civic Youth and Marple Public House are sponsoring the 2nd Annual Holiday Lights Contest. Decorate your home for the holidays to win cash prizes: 1st place = $200; 2nd place = $100; 3rd place = $50. Register to enter the contest on the Marple Civic Youth Facebook and Instagram pages. Judging begins on December 12th.

Cost: $20

Sat. December 3

Marple Tree Lighting

@Veterans Memorial Park

Bring a letter for Santa when he arrives at the park on a Broomall Fire Company Fire Truck. There will also be hot chocolate, Christmas carolers, candy canes for kids, songs by the Marple Newtown High School Choir and dance performances by Art In Motion Dance Studio. Time: 6pm

Cost: FREE

Sun. December 4

St. Albans Circle Tree Lighting

@St. Albans Circle, Newtown Square

Kick off the Christmas season with hot chocolate, Christmas carolers, candy canes for kids and dance performances. 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 for Toys for Tots. Santa Claus will arrive on a Newtown Township Volunteer Fire Company fire truck for the tree lighting.

Time: 5–7pm Cost: FREE

Wed. January 18

Documentary on Ellis School @209 Bishop Hollow Rd, Newtown Township Bldg. Documentary on Ellis School with producer/director Louise Miller. Time: 7:00 pm

Cost: FREE (donations accepted!) www.NSHistory.org

St. Albans Circle Gets a New Holiday Tree

By Sheila Turner-Hilliard Photos courtesy of Leonard Altieri

Our Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors already know how much we value our traditions, and our annual tree-lighting ceremony is no exception. For more than 50 years, folks have gathered around St. Albans Circle to ring in the Christmas holidays with dancing, hot chocolate, carols and, of course, Santa on the firetruck.

The original tree that our local Girl Scouts had planted was removed in 2018 because it was no longer thriving and became a safety concern. In its place, the township installed a pole and strung lights in the shape of a tree for the next few years until a new tree could be selected and planted.

Well, the wait is over! On Monday, November 7th, the new Newtown Township Holiday Tree was planted, and it’s a beauty! The weather certainly cooperated as well, with bright, sunny skies and temperatures in the mid-70s.

Last month, the Newtown Township Board of Supervisors authorized the pur chase of our new 20' Norway Spruce, and our Public Works crew quickly got to work preparing the site and installing a new electrical box and wires.

The Norway Spruce is the fastest growing of the spruces and develops strong branches that are covered with dark green needles. It will grow to a height of 40 60' and a spread of 25 30' at maturity. Its growth rate is considered a medium to fast rate, with height increases of anywhere from 13" to more than 24" per year.

Thank you to all who helped make this possible. We look forward to enjoying the twinkling lights this Christmas and for many years to come! N S

AMERIHEALTH CARITAS IS EXCITED TO JOIN THE

NEWTOWN SQUARE COMMUNITY

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.

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.

Christmas Tree?

by Bob Blaisse

Again this year, Boy Scouts from Marple and Newtown Townships are combining their efforts, to help you Be Prepared for Christmas!

Friday Nov. 25 – Monday Dec. 19