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December 2023 PUBLISHER

Scott Davidson | scott.davidson@citylifestyle.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

EDITOR

Dear Santa, I can explain...

Karin Davidson | karin.davidson@citylifestyle.com

The holidays are here and as the spirit of the season is among us, we often try to replicate what made the season feel so magical to us in our youth. The traditions we set for our own families often mirror some of what we experienced as a child whether it is the smells, the sounds, the lights, the holiday activities or a combination of it all that reflects that best. My holiday memories return to growing up in rural South Carolina. The ubiquitous Claxton fruit cake at every holiday gathering (along with my Aunt Delores' green Jello mold salad), the Christmas trees that were cut from the nearby forest that were never bought from a tree lot. Most years my letters to Santa started with "Dear Santa, I can explain...", but every year, the jolly old elf let me off the hook. I recall one year he gave me an emerald green Huffy Spyder bike with a 5-speed shifter and matching glitter banana seat (best year ever!), another year it was a Daisy lever-action BB rifle. And no…I did not shoot my eye out. My only sad memory was my plea for a mini bike from the 1969 Sears Christmas Wish Book never came to fruition (tragic.) This month, we wanted to highlight the magic of the season and what Media has to offer that helps spread holiday cheer. We’ve compiled a gift guide to make your shopping easier and that also supports our local businesses. We also shared what our area has to offer this holiday season for entertainment (see events page), shared how to catch a holiday train (with Santa on-board,) and ways to give back like Toys-for-Tots (local businesses have collection boxes.) Another big part of the holiday season is family. Dr. Robert Spennato and his daughter, Dr. Alexa, are a wonderful story of love, support, family pride and commitment to our community While this season can be beautiful for some, it can be painful and lonely for others, especially those who have recently lost a loved one. In the true spirit of the season, let’s take care of those in our community that need assistance or who are alone. My hope for you this season is that you feel love and peace and that we all remember to take care of each other through extending grace, empathy and love. The Warmest of Holiday Wishes from all of us to all of you!

STAFF PHOTOGR APHER

SCOT T DAVIDSON, PUBLISHER K ARIN DAVIDSON, EDITOR @MEDIACIT YLIFEST YLE

CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Cheyenne Forbes | cheyenneforbes108@gmail.com Christina Cheser | ccheser97@gmail.com Kari Tumminia | KariTumminia@gmail.com Karin Davidson | karin.davidson@citylifestyle.com

Jayne Toohey | Jayne@jayne2e.com CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Jayne Toohey, Karin Davidson, Jim McKay

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“ BUSINESSES ARE THE HEART OF A GREAT COMMUNITY.” Dating back to 1927, when it opened with a screening of The Jazz Singer, the Media Theatre was renovated and restored in 1994. A few years later, it began a new life under the auspices of the Society for the Performing Arts, and it endures by bringing Broadway-caliber productions to Media.

DANE CZAPLICKI, CFA Chief Executive Off icer & Chief Investment Off icer

Does your business have financial staying power? MEMBERS’ WEALTH, LLC can help you plan for today and for tomorrow. Our team of professionals in investment strategy, financial and estate planning, taxation, and law work together to shape a comprehensive solution for asset preservation, cash management, retirement planning, deferred compensation plans, and buy/sell agreements. Take advantage of our decades of experience in all aspects of financial planning. As long-time Delaware County residents, we’re focused on helping our community’s individuals, families, and institutions thrive.

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Independent Fiduciary A Proud Sponsor of the Media 5-Miler COPYRIGHT © 202 3 MEMBERS' WEALTH LLC CS Planning Corp., doing business as, Members’ Wealth LLC provides investment advisory, wealth management, and other services to individuals, families, and institutional clients. Advisory services are offered through CS Planning Corp., an SEC registered investment advisor. Member’s Wealth does not provide legal, accounting or tax advice. Please consult your tax or legal advisors before taking any action that may have tax consequences.

DECEMBER 2023

inside the issue The Holidays & Giving Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

12 Holiday Warmth: A Family Team

Lifestyle Letter

Dr. Robert Spennato and his daughter Dr. Alexa Spennato happily team up at

City Scene

Williamsburg Dental

Business Monthly

Local Limelight HEA LT H + W E L L N E SS

Pet Friendly S HO PPI NG

Road Trip T R AV EL

Gift Guide S HO PPI NG

Giving Back PR O FES S I O NA L SE RV IC E S

Culinary Creations FO O D + B E V E R AG E

Inspired By LI FE + C U LT U R E

Events

Chef ’s Selection FO O D + B EV E R AG E

18 Fuzzy Friends: Hand-Painted Christmas Ornaments

Exceptional and Captivating Artwork Created with Heart and Talent

22 Family Holiday Train Adventures

An hour from Media, a Christmas tradition for nearly 65 years continues at Strasburg Railroad

24 Unique Gifts Around Media Support our hometown businesses - shop local!

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Karin Davidson Custom Cookies by the Cupcake Sisters in Glen Mills. Starting in 2014, sisters Nan and Tina began baking as a home business. They opened their first retail shop in 2022. cupcakesistersbakery.com Cover stylist: Karin Davidson

TRUMPET LESSONS 30+ Years Experience with San Diego Symphony, Philadelphia Orchestra, and Symphony Orchestra of Turin, Italy. Professor of Trumpet at UCLA. Soloist for countless Mo on Picture and Television Shows. Performed with Barbra Streisand, Doc Severinsen, Celine Dion, Linda Ronstadt, The Backstreet Boys, Pavaro , and Bocelli.

LISTED IN

Trumpet Greats

A Biographical Dictionary

Whether You’re a Beginner or Just Need to Up Your Game...Learn from the Master Now Accep ng Students for Private Lessons Trumpet Lessons Expert Evalua on College Audi on Prep

Range & Endurance Sound and Intona on Beginning Piano Lessons

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DECEMBER 2023

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

6 2

1: In front of Earth and State - Robert Deane masterfully works with clay on a pottery wheel. earthandstate.com 2: Jaco - The servers and workers at Jaco (like juice and taco). jacojuiceandtaco.com 3: Eszter Toth – Baby Photographer - takes a break from her Media Studio for fun painting. esztertothphotography.com 4: Pennsylvania Veteran’s Museum - WWII Veteran Ed Buffman (front) with supporting veterans and museum staff. paveteransmuseum.org 5: Ariano - Oven-baked pizza in a mobile pizza oven right on State St. arianomedia.com 6: Bath Kafé - Kristen Chew creates self-made soaps and body butters by hand. Photography by Karin Davidson

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @mediacitylifestyle

C I T Y SC E N E

Dr. Jarred

Dr. Alexa

Dr. Bob

Dr. Dan

DECEMBER 2023

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses. Free Photos with Santa at Rigby, Harting & Hagan's Everyone loves Holiday pictures with Santa. So the Hagan family has put together “Photos with Santa” at 15 E 4th St, Media on Sunday, Dec. 3rd, 11am-1pm. At no cost, you can take your own photos of your kid(s) with Santa, surrounded by holiday decorations. Mike Hagan and Maureen Mattero, who both have children, wanted to provide a community-based holiday photo opportunity for free. Candy handouts available for the kids and light refreshments for the adults. haganfuneralhome.com

Scan to read more.

Media Welcomes New Children's Clothing Shop - Bizzy’s Baby Boutique The Morris Brothers knew that Media needed retail. Friend Liz Sullivan suggested children’s clothing and became General Manager. Liz explained, “We want to be an easy, fun stop for fine children’s clothing yet include affordable outfits. We order from two Paris brands and more.” Bizzy’s Baby offers brands like Kissy Kissy, Coco Moon, Tartine, Magnetic Me, Pehr, Mud Pie and offers complimentary gift wrapping . Photo: Maureen Hayes and sons James and Liam in matching Coco Moon. bizzysbabyboutique.com

Photography Courtesy Liz Sullivan

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DiFabio’s Opens New “Sky Bar” and Introduces "Culinaria" Cooking Demonstrations DiFabio's Sky Bar is now open on the newly constructed 2nd floor offering a large, beautiful bar and seating outside on the intimate patio. Enjoy a chic drink and a tasty bite in elegant surroundings. Open Tues- Thurs 4pm-11pm, Fri-Sat 11:30pm-Midnight, Sun 11:30pm-8pm. In addition, the "Culinaria", an all new cooking demonstration event room will offer wine sampling and demonstrate recipes to take home. difabiosevents.com

Photography Courtesy Delco Chamber of Commerce

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Holiday Warmth: A Family Te am

Dr. Robert Spennato and his daughter Dr. Alexa Spennato happily team up at Williamsburg Dental ARTICLE BY KARI TUMMINIA PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAYNE TOOHEY, KARIN DAVIDSON AND COURTESY WILLIAMSBURG DENTAL In the world of dentistry, Williamsburg Dental stands out as a practice that cares for its patients' oral health and has a deep-rooted commitment to family and community. What makes Williamsburg Dental unique is its family-oriented approach. The team is committed to serving patients of all ages, from 3 years old to patients in their 90s. As Dr. Robert puts it, "We're a family practice, and we are proud of that.”

The Family of Williamsburg Dental: A Father-Daughter Duo Prior to graduating with honors and completing a prestigious residency, Alexa had plans to become a Physician’s Assistant. In her own words, “For a long time, I didn't want to be a dentist. I wanted to help people in some way…But I didn’t really know what I wanted to do and I had grown up seeing pictures that my dad would bring home.” Dr. Robert admitted he knew she had an interest in both science and art since

childhood; so, he brought home pictures of the cosmetic work he did and left them on the table. After one summer working as a medical assistant, Alexa knew she wanted a different direction. “It wasn’t hands-on enough for me,” she shared. “I really had always loved art…and working with my hands and I realized that dentistry was a really nice blend of science and medicine, but also [had] the artistic and creative part. And I had watched my dad love his career for 25+ years, so it kind of pushed me that dentistry was the direction I wanted to go.” “Williamsburg Dental has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember,” Dr. Alexa explained. “My dad has been there since I was little and I’ve known a lot of the employees in the office since I was a little kid...So, I couldn’t give up the opportunity to work with my dad and learn from him.” Dr. Robert was thrilled to have her join. Dr. Alexa and her fiance have recently purchased a home in Media. “We loved being in Philly while we were in dental school and being able to walk around downtown to restaurants. Media is close to my office, and also a great town that has a lot to do.” Dr. Alexa is already contributing significantly to the practice, expanding the services they offer and reigniting the practice’s commitment to the most comfortable and effective dental treatments–from

Father and Daughter Collaborate at Williamsburg Dental Dr. Robert Spennato, managing partner, and his daughter and fellow dentist, Dr. Alexa, share thoughts about the practice's journey, the importance of family, and achieving the long list of high-quality services they offer.

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HEA LTH + W E LLNE S S

T O P : Dr. Dan Tibbetts works with a patient L E F T: Dr. Robert Spennato and Dr. Jarred Gettes wear fun holiday spirited clothing for their patients to enjoy R I G H T: Drs. Spennato work together for a patient

CONTINUED >

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / M E D I A

standard procedures to cosmetic work. The father-daughter duo brings a unique blend of experience and fresh perspectives to Williamsburg Dental. Dr. Robert's enthusiasm for dentistry took on a new level when he began mentoring the younger dentists, including his daughter. He believes that his practice's next generation is in capable hands and looks forward to the positive changes and innovations they will bring.

Commitment to the Community Dr. Robert, recognized in 2023 by both Philadelphia Magazine and Main Line Today Magazine as a top cosmetic dentist and top general dentist, specializes in making patients look and feel their best. And the entire team is committed to top-notch service with the most cutting-edge technology. He emphasized something that most practices seem to miss, the distinct benefit of staying small. “Our tagline is, ‘Dentistry is our passion, service is our obsession.’ And…bigger is not always better in terms of [what] we pride ourselves on – high tech and high touch. And if you get too big, you can lose that high touch. For example, every one of our patients gets a call every night after treatment to see how they're doing.”

T O P : Drs. Spennato discuss a CBCT X-Ray B O T T O M : Williamsburg Dental Front Desk with Jeanne Vaughn (LEFT) and Marie Sharkey (RIGHT)

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HEA LTH + W E LLNE S S

The doctors work with each patient’s needs and feelings beyond post-treatment check-ins. They pride themselves on truly personalized experiences, from partnering with each patient on their unique goals to providing caring solutions for high-anxiety patients. Dr. Robert even shared that most of his patients have his personal cell phone number! The practice also actively supports various foundations and engages in charitable work such as sponsoring local events and non-profits.

Looking Ahead

T O P : Dr. Robert Spennato works with a patient R I G H T: Dr. Alexa consults with a patient B O T T O M : Dr. Jerred works with a patient

As Williamsburg Dental continues to serve its community, their commitment to family values remains at the core of their practice. With a young and dynamic team and experienced leadership, the practice is poised for a bright future, ensuring the best dental healthcare. Where dentistry can often be intimidating, Williamsburg Dental shines as a beacon of family-oriented, community-focused dentistry. The smiles they create extend far beyond their dental chairs. CONTINUED >

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / M E D I A

T O P : Dr. Alexa works with a patient

B O T T O M : Williamsburg Dental loves our sports teams

“Our tagline is, ‘Dentistry is our passion, service is our obsession.’ And…bigger is not always better in terms of [what] we pride ourselves on – high tech and high touch.”

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FUR RY FR IENDS: H A N D -PA I N T E D C HRISTM AS

ORNA MENTS CAPTI VATI N G

HA N D -PAIN TE D

ARTWORK

CR E ATED W ITH HE ART AN D TAL E N T

Jim painting a Christmas ornament from a pet photo

‘Tis the season for merriment and good cheer! The familiar smell of spiced baked goods wafting through the cold air means that Christmas is soon approaching. It’s time to deck the halls in the usual tinsel and holly. However, if you’re looking to take your holiday decorations to the next level, why not try custom Christmas ornaments of your favorite furry companion(s)? James Thomas McKay, the mind and creative force behind Artwork by JTM, paints portraits of animals onto a matte-finish Christmas ornament. Dogs, cats, birds -- no matter the pet, James will hand paint them meticulously. “You have to get the eyes right,” said James when speaking about his process. “You have to capture their spirit through their soul, which is the way they look at you.” James, who began his journey as an artist from the day he could pick up a pencil and pad of paper, knew that he wanted to create art that he thought people needed. Before he found his niche, James started off working on Christmas Ornaments, inspired by prints of wildlife art. It had been the perfect source of inspiration as he did not feel set in his works; he would sell the occasional original painting but he did not have prints and was looking for another way to produce art that was less expensive. So he created his own Christmas Ornaments with wildlife motifs as it felt like a way to paint something not only meaningful to the people but could also turn a profit. With this inexpensive but original craft, James found himself creating this type of art for over 30 years. A firm believer in the importance of teaching and showing others, James never wants to keep a “secret trick” hidden from those who want to learn his techniques. He created and maintained friendships with others by observing artists he admired, and asking how they created their artwork. James is always more than happy to share the knowledge he has accumulated. Whether it's for other people or for the sake of art itself, James paints with heart. “It makes me feel good to be able to give that to people and it makes me feel good to be able to create that and have it flow through me,” he said, reflecting on the work he does for others. Many of his commissions are done in memory of people’s pets, so James works to keep the pet’s memory alive. artworkbyjtm.com

ARTICLE BY CHEYENNE FORBES AND CHRISTINA CHESER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARIN DAVIDSON AND JIM MCKAY

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5:00 is a donation to Media Food Bank or unwrapped gift for kids in need. (Vet Square) 4:00 Holiday Costume Contest Costume Winners ride in the Parade! 4:15 Fun Walk/Run

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Family Holiday Train Adventures

ARTICLE BY KARIN DAVIDSON PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF STRASBURG RAILROAD

ONLY AN HOUR FROM MEDIA, A CHRISTMAS TRADITION FOR NEARLY 65 YEARS CONTINUES AT THE HISTORIC STRASBURG RAIL ROAD Santa's Here!

Visiting with Santa

Night Before Christmas Seen in 20th Century Fox's Hello Dolly

Bring the kids or book a group. Santa’s Paradise Express (45min) with Santa, Mrs. Claus, carolers and musicians, Night Before Christmas Train (1hr) a performance train with a professional actor/singer in each car, Santa Claus Limited (45min) with a brief, personal Santa visit, or the Christmas Tree Train (1.5hr) an authentic steam train to Leaman Place Grove. Choose a pre-cut Frasier Fir tree delivered back to the station. strasburgrailroad.com/christmas-train

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ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARIN DAVIDSON

UNIQUE GIFTS AROUND MEDIA

SUPPORT OUR HOMETOWN BUSINESSES - SHOP LOCAL!

Small, local shops work diligently to continue serving you in Media. Shopping local for yourself and especially for gifts is not only close by, the businesses offer a wide variety of interesting and distinctive products. The publisher and I chose popular and lesser-known offerings in Media to find the perfect Holiday Gifts. Media is very appreciated and loved. We urge you to buy in Everybody’s Hometown. In no particular order of preference: 1. NIGHTORBS: Distinctive hand-blown glass sphere lighting adding a unique look and mood to any landscape environment, patio, water feature or room. Water and hanging globes also available. Online - nightorbs.com 2. TEN THOUSAND VILLAGES: A global movement to shop with intention for ethically-sourced wares including jewelry, holiday best sellers, kitchen accessories and other items for home. 101 West State St. - tenthousandvillages.com/a/store-locator/ media.html 3. SILVER MOON STUDIO ANTIQUES: Antiques, accessories, and women’s clothing. 5 E State St yelp.com/biz/ silver-moon-studio-antiques-media-2

G IF T GU ID E | SHOPPIN G

4. WEST END FRAME SHOP: Offering custom framing services at a fair price for over 26 years. 10 S Orange St. yelp.com/biz/ west-end-frame-shop-media 5. BEARDSLEY JEWELERS: 50 years family owned and operated – offering and creating custom handcrafted, artisan jewelery. 19 S. Jackson St. beardsleyjewelers.com 6. EARTH AND STATE: Unique, fairtrade items from all around the world including hand-made pottery, crafts & cool stuff from Earth. 3 W State St. earthandstate.com 7. WHIDDEN’S WOODSHOP: Family-owned, hand-crafted, local woodwork and gifts including hand-crafted pens, jewelry, monograms and more. Online - whiddenswoodshop.com/collections/ 8. BRYN MAWR RUNNING COMPANY: Sporting goods and offering specialized fitting and lots of events throughout the year. 1 W Front St. brynmawrrunningco.com 9. SEVEN STONES GALLERY: Artsy boutique featuring traditional and Native American jewelry, artwork, crafts, and musical albums & instruments. 212 W State St. sevenstonesgallery.com 10. THREE POTATO FOUR: Favorite vintage-inspired gifts and accessories since 2007 including sourcing and custom products. 7 E State St. threepotatofour.com

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / M E D I A

Helping Underprivileged Children ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARIN DAVIDSON

Local Drop-offs (unwrapped, new toys): Edward Jones - Bryan Messick 10/01/2023 - 12/11/2023, 9-4 323 W State St, Media 610-480-5116

Giovanni’s Media Barber Shop 10/01/2023 - 12/11/2023, M-F 9-8, Sat 8-4, Sun 9-4 18 S Olive St, Media 610-228-0363

Edward Jones - Andy Hunt 09/25/2023 - 12/11/2023, 9-4 325 W State St, Media 610-627-4667

Upper Providence Township 11/01/2023 - 12/11/2023, 8:30-4:30 935 N Providence Road, Media 610-565-4944

Long and Foster 10/24/2023 - 12/11/2023, 9-5 1109 West Baltimore Pk Suite E, Media 610-892-8332 Bryan Messick and his daughter Reagan accepting donations

Local businesses sponsor Toys For Tots collections in Media Founded in 1947, Toys for Tots has been collecting toys and donating them to generations of less fortunate children. Today, there are nearly 40,000 Marines, Marine Corps League members, veteran Marines, and volunteers involved in annual campaigns. The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation helps less fortunate children throughout the USA experience the joy of Christmas. They are committed to playing an active role in the development of one of our nation’s most valuable resources – our children. For three months during the annual toy collection and distribution campaign, the effort unites all members of local communities in a common cause every year, and they hope to continue contributing to the improvement of communities in the future.

G IV IN G B AC K | PR OFESSI ONAL S E RVI CE S

Springton Tennis Club 11/10/2023 - 12/11/2023, 8-8 625 S Newtown Street Rd, Media 610-356-2003

PetSmart 10/02/2023-12/11/2023, 9-9 2940 Springfield Rd, Broomall 610-353-4446

Anthony’s at Paxon Hollow 11/20/2023 - 12/11/2023, 12-8 850 Paxon Hollow Rd, Broomall 610-639-8837

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ARTICLE BY KARIN DAVIDSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAYNE TOOHEY AND ELENA

Chocolaty Hot Buttered Rum A WELCOME TWIST ON A CLASSIC, SATISFYING, AND TASTY HOT BEVERAGE

When Rum distilleries first began opening on Staten Island around 1664, settlers started adding rum to beverages. Hot Buttered Rum became a classic.

Why Dark Rum? • White/light rum does not have the depth that dark rum has. • Dark rum is aged longer than white rum. It has a dark color and a developed flavor with brown sugar, caramel, and vanilla accents. • White/Light rum is clearer and sweeter than dark rum - used more in tropical type drinks.

Makes 4 Mugs of Chocolaty Hot Butter Rum: Ingredients • 2 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional) • 1/8 teaspoon Sea/Kosher salt • 3/4 cup dark rum • 2 1/2 cups water or apple cider • Mini Marshmallows & freshly grated nutmeg (for topping) Instructions 1. On low heat, melt butter and chocolate in a double boiler (water shouldn’t touch upper bowl), stir until melted. Remove from heat and whisk in cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt.

Karin Davidson is our editor and began bartending at 21 years old. She elevates taste-buds by offering fresh ingredients and different flavors. In winter months, Karin creates warming specialty drinks with and without alcohol.

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

2. Bring the water/cider to a boil. Remove from heat and whisk in the chocolate mixture and rum. 3. Divide into mugs and top with marshmallows and nutmeg as desired.

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Wishing joy and peace to everyone in the Media community this holiday season.

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The City Lifestyle

Giving Campaign

2023 30

I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE

“

This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

The annual City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is in its 4th year. Last holiday season we gave away over $300,000 to help 116 individuals and families in need, but we need your help to make it happen again this year. With nominations flooding in from community members and leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you, we were able to reach people who might otherwise go unnoticed. Perhaps you know of a single parent struggling to provide for their family, an elderly person who has experienced loss, someone enduring a health issue, a co-worker suffering a sudden, unexpected tragedy or a neighbor with a financial hardship who has fallen between the cracks of getting assistance. Chances are you know someone with a specific need, even if no one else does. “We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them during this holiday season.” “We believe God has blessed our company with continued success, so we in turn want to be a blessing to others,” Matthew Perry, President of City Lifestyle adds. City Lifestyle has also enacted an internal giving program whereby every employee in the company receives $100 to give away to someone in the community. “The idea is to encourage our employees to keep giving on their own,” Steven says. “Taking care of one another and blessing others is truly rewarding and it perpetuates a cycle of giving. It’s extremely important to me as a person and as a company to foster a culture of generosity.”

Scan Code to

Nominate Nominations accepted Nov. 27 – Dec. 10, 2023

Follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram for reminders! To submit a nomination, follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. All entries will be read, and because this is not a raffle, there is no need to nominate someone more than once. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need. All nominations and recipients will be kept confidential. D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / M E D I A

DECEMBER 2023

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area. NOVE M BE R 2 2 N D - D EC E M BE R 7 T H

D E C E M BE R 1 ST - 3 1 ST

D EC E M BE R 5T H JA NUA RY 1 4 T H

Hedgerow Theatre Presents "A Christmas Carol Comedy"

H EDG EROW THEATRE, 64 ROS E VA L L E Y R D., ME DI A , PA 1 9 0 6 3 Back by popular demand, A Christmas Carol Comedy returns to Hedgerow this holiday season! Delaware County’s classic holiday tradition continues with a fun and festive adaptation featuring two actors as Scrooge and "everybody else." A spectacle for all. Leamen's "refreshing twist" on Dickens' tale makes for 70 minutes of pure joy and hilarity!" —Theatre Philadelphia Barrymore Award Nominating Committee hedgerowtheatre.org

Rose Tree Park "Festival of Lights" and Holiday Village

ROS E TREE PAR K, 1671 N . PR OV I DE NC E R D., ME DI A , PA 1 9 0 6 3 (Holiday Village DEC. 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, & 16) For over 40 years, “Festival of Lights” has offered dozens of illuminated trees and displays to enjoy the holiday spirit every night in December. Admission and parking are free. The pedestrian mall is handicapped accessible. Well-behaved, leashed canine companions are welcome. After a successful second season, local small businesses comprise the Holiday Village for the third time in conjunction to the Festival. holidayvillagedelco.com

Mary Poppins Visits the Media Theatre

MEDIA THEATR E, 104 E. STATE ST., ME DI A , PA 1 9 0 6 3 For the Holidays, we have the incredible and familiar tale of Disney’s MARY POPPINS that audiences worldwide have come to know and love. Come watch and enjoy the magic unfold before your very eyes as this legendary nanny operates her duties with joy & glee on stage. “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.” Check website for times and dates: mediatheatre.org

D E C E M BE R 15T H - 3 0 T H

Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein

D E C E M BE R 16T H - 2 3 RD

Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol Dramatic Reading

SWARTHMORE PLAYER S CLUB , 6 1 4 FA I RV I E W R D., S WA RT H MO R E , PA 1 9 0 8 1 Grandson of the infamous Victor Frankenstein, Frederick Frankenstein (pronounced “Fronk-en-steen”) inherits his family’s estate in Transylvania. With the help of a hunchbacked sidekick, Igor (pronounced “Eye-gore”), and a leggy lab assistant, Inga, Frederick finds himself in the mad scientist shoes of his ancestors.“It’s alive!” he exclaims as he brings to life a creature to rival his grandfather’s. pcstheater.org

MEDIA ARTS COUN CL, 11 E. STAT E ST., ME DI A , PA 1 9 0 6 3 | 7 :30 P M Join Jared Reed in the third annual candlelit reading of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol with original music. Jared has crafted the piece from the version enacted by Dickens himself. "For a live performance, Reed's can't be beat. Reed's expressive yet soothing voice provides existential chills and spiritual thrills." - Mark Coffa, Broad Street Review. mediaartscouncil.org/calendar

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Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Media

EVE N TS

Happy Holidays! Thank you to everyone who helped fill our trucks with toys for the Sassy Massey Toy Drive! We are grateful for our customers and to be celebrating 100 years in business in the new year. We hope you enjoy your home for the holidays.

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SFENJ - FOR HANUKKAH OR ANYTIME MAKE DOUGH THE NIGHT BEFORE...FRY THE NEXT DAY

ARTICLE BY JAMIE GELLER PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY JAMIE GELLER Sfenj, pronounced “sfinge,” have burst onto the Jewish culinary scene for the Festival of Lights, Hanukkah. Sfenj aren’t just your typical Hanukkah doughnut; they’re the Moroccan gems you’ll want to savor all year round. Unlike the traditionally filled sufganiyot/doughnuts, Sfenj is more rustic, a ball of dough, a hole in the center, and a dip in hot, bubbling oil. Creating the dough is a breeze. You can prepare it the night before and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours to rise, then remove and let rest for 30 minutes. INGREDIENTS (12 servings) • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast • 1 tablespoon sugar • 1 ½ cups lukewarm water • 4 cups all-purpose flour • 1 teaspoon kosher salt • Extra virgin olive oil, for frying • 1 cup sugar (garnish) PREPARATION 1. Mix yeast, 1 tbsp. sugar and ¾ cup water. Set aside in a warm spot for 15 minutes to allow yeast to activate - small bubbles will appear on the surface. 2. Using a bowl or standing mixer, stir together flour, salt, yeast mixture and remaining ¾ cup water. Knead for 10 minutes using the dough hook attachment or by hand on a floured work surface. 3. The mixture will be sticky. The more you knead the smoother the mixture. Do not add more flour. 4. Cover with plastic wrap and allow to rise for 3 to 4 hours mixture triples in size. 5. In a heavy bottom pot, heat 2-inches oil over medium-high heat to 350°F. 6. Divide dough roughly into the size of a small peach. (Sfenj is not meant to be perfect.) Poke a hole in the center of the ball of dough and roll to resemble a rustic bagel. 7. Fry for 3 minutes, flip and fry for 2 minutes more, until golden brown and puffed. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. 8. Dip warm sfenj into sugar.

C HE F ’S SE LE CT ION | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

Jamie Geller A u t hor, B lo g ge r, P ro duc e r Jamie Geller is an 8-time best-selling author and the Founder and CEO of Kosher Network international (KNi), the #1 Global Kosher Food Media Company, home to @jamiegeller and JamieGeller.com and the viral @jewlishbyjamie how-to vieos.

These doughnuts are not overly sweet. Instead, they're coated with sugar. Add cinnamon or a sprinkle of coffee to the sugar. Whether it's Hanukkah or any ordinary day, you'll be ready to indulge in Sfenj, the Moroccan doughnuts that have found their way into the hearts of food enthusiasts everywhere. Enjoy the process of making them, sharing them, and savoring every bite!

LIFESTYLE

You’ve Waited For!

Education, business meetings, maintaining a home, raising a family, making sacriﬁces…you spent a lifetime doing it all to get where you are today.

Now it’s time to think about your future! With amenities and services that include weekly housekeeping, home maintenance, a dining plan that gives you access to four restaurants and a full-service bar, state-of-the-art ﬁtness center, transportation, our Lifecare contract and so much more; Riddle Village may be the perfect ﬁt for your next chapter in life.

You give us 60 days; we give you the future you deserve! Reach out today to learn more about our apartment renovation program and how we can have you living your best life in just 60 days.

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