Media, PA December 2025

Unwrap The Magic of the Holidays

ARTS + CULTURE

UNIQUELY LOCAL, PERFECTLY PERSONAL GIFTS

COMFORT AND COMMUNITY: RIDDLE VILLAGE'S WELCOMING NEW LOBBY

THE EAGLE HAS LANDED IN MEDIA

A Season of Comfort and Connection

There’s something about this time of year in Media that feels timeless. Maybe it’s the glow of lights strung along State Street or the sound of carolers drifting through the crisp night air. Perhaps it’s the familiar faces gathering for the Santa Parade, the laughter over kettle corn and hot chocolate, or the sparkle of children’s eyes as they take in the wonder of it all. Whatever it is, our little town seems to come alive with a warmth that could make Norman Rockwell himself reach for his paintbrush.

This month, we share stories that reflect that same sense of comfort and community. We visit with Riddle Village President & CEO, Kim Roguszewski, to see how their newly redesigned lobby has become more than just a space; it’s a welcoming hearth for residents, families, and guests alike.

If you’ve spotted the iconic Philadelphia Eagles helmet cart zipping through local parades, you’ll enjoy learning the story behind this Philly sports treasure and how it found a home in our community thanks to Dean Keyes.

Of course, no holiday season is complete without the joy and occasional challenge of finding the perfect gift. To make things a little easier, we’ve gathered a list of nine local shops filled with thoughtful ideas for everyone on your list.

The season also invites us to create with our hands and hearts. From holiday craft workshops to DIY decorations, there are so many ways to add a personal touch to your celebrations - just a little glue, a dash of glitter, and a lot of love.

We also shine a light on local writer and poet Hannah Rosenberg, whose newest book, Same: Poems, captures the quiet beauty of connection and the rhythm of everyday life.

And to toast it all, we’re sharing a few holiday cocktail recipes sure to bring a bit of cheer to your gatherings.

From our Media City Lifestyle family to yours, may this season bring you moments of joy, nostalgia, and togetherness - the kind that remind us what community truly means.

Wishing you the warmest of holiday seasons,

SCOTT DAVIDSON, PUBLISHER

PUBLISHER

Scott Davidson | scott.davidson@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Karin Davidson | karin.davidson@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Stephanie Hwang | stephanie.hwang@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Ed Ryder

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

December 2025 Visit our Instagram

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

1: The Rotary Club of Media hosted the Multi Cultural Music of Media’s Fall Fest. mediarotary.org 2: Thousands of locals enjoy the Media Fall Fest lining State Street. 3: The D.A.P. lollipop stand was a big hit. dapdc.org 4: Kids enjoy treats from Owls Water Ice & Treats. owlswatericeandtreats.com

5: Delaware County Institute of Science volunteer R. Robert Quay as Ulysses S. Grant. delcoscience.org 6: Pennsylvania Veterans Museum out in force at Media Fall Fest. paveteransmuseum.org 7: Lions Club of Media with hot dogs at the ready for festival goers. medialionsclub.org

Photography by Ed Ryder

1: Edgmont Township’s Historical Society trolley entry in Downhill Derby. 2: Jesse Gennett and Dom Glisson of Greatest Hits, Records & Books with a quick start. 3: With a little “help” from a friend named “Herman,” the race is on! 4: Brothers Mario and Luigi along with the Mushroom are off to the races. 5: Carts at the ready in the first annual Delaware County Historical Society Downhill Derby. 6: Racers Juliane Smith and Valerie Giocobbe from Three Potato Four play to the crowd. 7: Racers compete against the clock in time trials at the First Annual Downhill Derby. padelcohistory.org Photography by Scott Davidson

business monthly

PhillyBite Magazine - "La Padella...Standout Authentic Italian Cuisine"

La Padella Italian Dining brings the warmth and flavor of Italy to Upper Providence. Featuring classic dishes like risotto, frutti di mare, and eggplant parmigiana alongside steak and seafood favorites. PhillyBite Magazine hails it as “a standout for authentic Italian cuisine and exceptional hospitality.” With a curated wine list and full-service bar, La Padella has become local’s go-to destination for Italian dining. lapadellamedia.com

Jim Paradis Appointed President of Riddle Hospital

Riddle Hospital welcomes Jim Paradis as President. A veteran healthcare leader, Paradis joined Main Line Health in 2003, serving as Chief Transformation Officer and President of Paoli Hospital. He now provides operational leadership, guiding strategies with senior leadership, medical staff, and the Foundation Board. Paradis holds a B.S. from Cornell University and an MBA from Wharton, University of Pennsylvania, bringing decades of experience and system-wide perspective to Riddle Hospital.  mainlinehealth.org

Delaware County Courthouse Welcomes Inclusive Coffee Stand

The Delaware County Courthouse now features Common Grounds, a coffee stand employing neurodiverse adults and individuals with disabilities. Operated by nonprofit Aneway, the stand gives many their first public-facing job, fostering independence and inclusion. Employees like Lexi Febert, who is autistic, and Liam MacCurtin, who has Down Syndrome, greet customers and serve drinks, gaining valuable work experience. Aneway founder Amiee Rubin emphasizes focusing on abilities, not limitations, in all workplaces.  anewayforpurpose.org

RIDDLE VILLAGE’S NEW LOBBY BLENDS COMFORT

AND STYLE

A bright, inviting space redesigned with residents’ needs and happiness in mind.

For more than three decades, Riddle Village has been an esteemed single-site luxury retirement community in Media that offers comfort and connection. When visitors walk through the doors, the redesigned lobby blends convenience with the warmth of home.

President and CEO Kim Roguszewski explained the redesign of the lobby. “In our original lobby, our concierge desk sat a little bit back from the entrance. This led to some confusion as to where to go for our guests. We are such a welcoming community and wanted to make sure that was felt the moment you walk through our doors.”

Moving the concierge desk closer to the entrance was both practical and thoughtful. “It helped not only with that greeting, but also with an increased sense of security,”, she explained, “guests can now check into the community as soon as they walk in.”

This helps us become familiar with guests and visitors and guide them easily.

Some changes were about adapting to modern needs. “We needed more space for packages because when I first started here, the only time packages were an issue was at Christmas,” Roguszewski said. “Now we live in the world of Amazon.”

Design was just as important as functionality. “We also have these beautiful, huge windows that look out into our gorgeous courtyard. Before renovations, the windows were draped with heavy curtains. And so we knew that we needed to change that space,” she said. A committee of residents and staff helped guide the redesign. “When you have over 400 residents, getting them all to agree on something is close to impossible. But since there was so much excitement about the project… it was nearly unanimous.”

Beyond the new lobby, in 2021 the Thoroughbred Lounge opened featuring a new restaurant, full-service bar, and fireplace room, where many residents socialize every day. This space has windows looking out onto the courtyard that features a putting green, bocce court, firepit and more!

Opposite RIght Bottom: President and CEO Kim Roguszewski

“Since the renovations over the past few years, we have noticed an increase in friends and family being invited in to enjoy the bar, restaurant and new lobby space,” she added. “It’s great to see them out there, enjoying each other and enjoying their families and proud to share their home here at Riddle Village.”

Roguszewski has been a part of Riddle Village for over 30 years. She started as a staff accountant shortly out of college, moved up to the accounting supervisor, the director of accounting, the controller, the CFO, and then the executive vice president. During the pandemic, she took over operations and officially became CEO in 2021. Her background in finance helps in her leadership. She said, “My years of experience at Riddle Village allows me to be confident in the decisions I make for the organization to be well positioned now and in the future while maintaining our financial strength.”

Riddle Village is a single-site community,” Roguszewski said. “We are very successful in knowing what we provide and how to provide it, focusing on the important things that are meaningful to our community, and giving those things to our residents and to our staff.” That structure builds close bonds, “it really is a family,” she shared.   riddlevillage.com

in Class For Over 30 Years

“If you are looking for trustworthy, efficient and professional contractors, The Tradesmen is it! Working in real estate we are constantly referring clients for various repairs, upgrades and improvements – Chris and his team are our go-to guys! Their reliability and top notch customer ser vice sets them apart from anyone else we have used or recommended. Make them your first call the next time you’re in need of contracting ser vices.”

Kaylin

Kriznuski,

Media PA

Christopher D. Chelo, Sr Managing Member/President

of 1994

ARTICLE BY KARIN DAVIDSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT DAVIDSON

Downtown Shopping

THOUGHTFUL GIFTS FROM NINE LOCAL SHOPS THAT MAKE GIVING AS JOYFUL AS RECEIVING.

There’s no place like Downtown Media for gift shopping. From one-of-a-kind artisan finds to timeless keepsakes, our local small businesses make it easy to find the perfect gift for everyone on your holiday shopping list. City Lifestyle’s publisher Scott Davidson joined the fun at Three Potato Four, a must-visit store for officially licensed Peanuts gifts, and snapped a photo with a larger-than-life Snoopy. Celebrate the season by supporting local shops and spreading holiday joy close to home!

The Eagle Has Landed In Media!

Long before it became a fan-favorite fixture, the Philadelphia Eagles helmet cart was just a quirky sideline vehicle, until one Media family turned it into a piece of NFL history.

It started in 1981, when Dean Keyes, then a recent founder of Keyes Towing, volunteered to transport the original helmet cart to Super Bowl XV in New Orleans for free. That simple gesture began a decades-long relationship with the Eagles. A few years later, when the Eagles’ injury cart was damaged, Dean repaired it and offered to store the carts between games. The Eagles owner Norman Braman decided that, if Dean brought the cart to every home game, it would be his. And he did, faithfully, for years.

Fans came to know the oversized helmet as part of the gameday spectacle. After every touchdown at Veterans Stadium, Dean would climb in and drive the cart around the field in celebration. It was a symbol of Philadelphia pride.

The cart’s game-day run ended in 2003 when the Eagles moved to Lincoln Financial Field, where its smaller field dimensions couldn’t accommodate the cart. Since then, Dean rebuilt and

reinvented the helmet carts. He eventually had three, including one originally from Washington (a Redskins helmet that was repainted to a green Eagles helmet) and a road-ready Kubota version created in 2017. That model even made a cheeky appearance on the Dallas Cowboys’ midfield star during a trip to Texas.

One of Dean’s most favorite, biggest, and proudest moments with the carts was when he brought it to Super Bowl XXXIX in Jacksonville in 2005. In Jacksonville, he not only joined in the festivities, but he also helped with charity projects for underprivileged children. Crystal, his daughter, fondly remembers how he practically shut down the business for the week and even had some of the drivers in his towing company drive things down in preparation of the game and the charity projects. Over the years, he used the cart to rally at countless community events, from “Dining Under the Stars” to Elwyn parades and Media’s Christmas celebration.

When Dean was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2021, Crystal Keyes took over Keyes Towing in 2022 and continues the family’s

mission, keeping the helmet cart rolling through local pep rallies, holiday parades, and Eagles celebrations. Even Dean’s grandson, Ryan, is eager to carry the torch as the next generation. Crystal says, “What I love most is being able to carry on what my dad has done and how much he’s helped the community.”

Today, Media is the legendary helmet carts’ final home, where the Keyes family’s love and devotion for the Eagles help unite the town. The sight of the iconic Kubota carrying its green helmet down State Street has become a tradition integral to Media’s charm.

About Keyes Towing

Keyes Towing was established in 1977 in Media by Dean Keyes and is now in its second generation of family ownership. Crystal Keyes carries forward her father’s legacy of dependable service and community dedication.  tinyurl.com/KeyesTowing

ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HWANG

The Gift of Creativity

AROUND TOWN - THE CHANCE TO SLOW DOWN AND CRAFT

HolidayFocaccia Art Workshop

Chosen Tweed Dec. 3, 6:30-8:30 PM

Create a stunning edible centerpiece in this holiday focaccia art class. Using seasonal vegetables and fresh herbs, you’ll design and bake a show-stopping masterpiece. $55

ft a Vintage Holid

Painting with a Twist

Dec. 27, 1-3pm

End the season with a creative flourish. Paint a wintry polar bear scene under the northern lights in this fun, guided class. Bring friends, snacks, and drinks for an artsy and relaxing afternoon. $40

Nimble Craft & Homesewn Dec. 10, 6-8pm

Learn the retro art of Bargello needlepoint and craft a vintage-style ornament with a whimsical diorama twist. BYOB, bring a friend, and enjoy an evening filled with snacks and Christmas spirit. $55 ($90 for 2)

Bear and Northe

Nimble Craft Dec. 4, 11, 18, 6-8 PM

Perfection is overrated. Embrace creativity without pressure at these lighthearted, adults-only craft nights. Make delightfully imperfect art and enjoy a laid-back, judgment-free atmosphere. BYOB. $20+

Intro to Weavin

Homesewn Dec. 13, 6-8pm

Discover the art of weaving with fiber artist Linda Ruggiero. Learn essential techniques, use a lap loom, and craft a unique wall hanging. Tools and starter materials are provided. $125

FDA Approved

Reduces Appetite

Decreases appetite & food cravings

Slows Digestion

Promotes Significant

Weight Loss

Improves Metabolic Health

Non-stimulant

Improves Insulin Resistance

Complements

Lifestyle Changes

Convenient Treatment Options

Long-Term Weight Loss

Hannah Rosenberg Unveils Newest Book

"SAME: POEMS" - INTUITIVE INSIGHTS AND WISDOM FOR ALL STAGES OF LIFE

We got nothing done and the weekend was perfect

By Monday morning, we’ve barely made a dent in our weekend tasks... Each weekend, we make a list and check off boxes until the human instinct to enjoy kicks in - we relax.  At the end, we’re full and happy and left with a long list, a lingering lie that maybe we should have delayed living until work was done. Only, we never do. And what a beautiful thing... To be so human that despite responsibility and often logic, we reach so desperately for joy.

Local author, Hannah Rosenberg.is introducing her new book —  Same: Poems Now on sale Rosenberg’s work celebrates connection, friendship, and the universality of being seen. Same offers intuitive insights and wisdom for all stages of life. Rosenberg’s verse is a balm during difficult times, a companion for quiet moments alone, and a special message to share with a loved one.

Rosenberg had written poetry privately for years but it wasn’t until 2020 that she began sharing it on Instagram at @hannahrowrites. Readers flocked to her work, responding to the honest and vulnerable truths Rosenberg offered about family, selfhood, body image, and more. In poems like “At my wedding I did not feel my most beautiful ,” “Magic disguised as ordinary life,” “Sisters on the telephone,” and “I took my thighs to the beach,” Rosenberg focuses in on small moments that add up to a meaningful life.  Same offers a reminder that not only are we not alone, but we’re also all in this together.

WINTER in a glass

HOLIDAY COCKTAILS & COZY CREATIONS

SPICED CINNAMON RUM FLIP

A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz dark or spiced rum

• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup

• 1 oz heavy cream

• 1 whole egg

• Dash of ground nutmeg

• Dash of vanilla extract

Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon

Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:

Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge.

Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon. Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.

FESTIVE CRANBERRY GIN FIZZ

A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.

INSTRUCTIONS:

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz gin

• 1 oz cranberry juice

• 3/4 oz lemon juice

• 1/2 oz simple syrup

• 1 egg white

Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda

Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.

BOURBON VANILLA

BEAN HOT CHOCOLATE

An ultra-creamy, chocolatey holiday drink with a hit of warm bourbon and a vanilla bean twist.

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 cup high-quality dark chocolate (chopped or chips)

• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tbsp sugar or maple syrup

• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

• Pinch of sea salt

• 2 oz bourbon

Topping: 4 large marshmallows

Optional garnish: grated dark chocolate, whipped cream, cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until smooth and heated through. Add chopped dark chocolate and stir constantly until melted and silky. Lower heat if needed to avoid scorching. Remove from heat, then stir in bourbon. Taste and adjust sweetness or strength to your liking. Top with marshmallows. Add whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and shaved chocolate.

Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne for spicy depth.

Kid-friendly version: Omit bourbon and add peppermint extract or caramel syrup instead.

HOLIDAY SPICED GINGERBREAD LATTE

A warm, frothy, and festively spiced drink perfect for winter nights.

INGREDIENTS:

For the latte:

• 1 shot of espresso (or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee)

• 3/4 cup milk

• 2 tbsp gingerbread syrup

• Whipped cream

For the gingerbread syrup:

• 1/2 cup water

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1 tbsp molasses

• 1/2 tsp ground ginger

• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

• 1/8 tsp ground cloves

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Optional toppings:

• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for dusting

• Marshmallow

• Crushed gingerbread cookie around the rim or on top

INSTRUCTIONS:

Make the gingerbread syrup:

In a small saucepan, combine water, brown sugar, molasses, and spices. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Prepare the drink:

Brew your espresso or strong coffee. Heat and froth your milk. In your glass, add 2 tablespoons of the gingerbread syrup. Pour in the espresso, then the steamed milk, stirring gently to combine. Spoon frothed milk or whipped cream on top. Dust with cinnamon or nutmeg.

Optional: Rim the glass with crushed gingerbread cookie crumbs for extra flair.

Scott turned a magazine into community.

City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?

Media City Lifestyle

events

NOVEMBER 26TH – DECEMBER 28TH

Little Women

HEDGEROW THEATRE, 64 ROSE VALLEY ROAD, MEDIA PA 19063

Hedgerow presents the regional premiere of Katie Hamill’s fresh adaptation of Little Women. Journey with the March sisters—Jo, Meg, Amy, and Beth—as they navigate dreams, loss, and love during the Civil War. With live musical accompaniment, this holiday production celebrates family, friendship, and resilience in Louisa May Alcott’s beloved classic. Gather loved ones for a timeless tale of unity.  hedgerowtheatre.org

NOVEMBER 28TH - DECEMBER 28TH

Media Theatre presents ANNIE!

MEDIA THEATRE, 104 E. STATE ST., MEDIA, PA 19063

“The Little Orphan Who Could” brings Annie’s inspiring story to life! Rescued from cruel Miss Hannigan’s orphanage, Annie finds hope and warmth at billionaire Oliver Warbucks’ mansion. As she captures hearts, a quest begins to reunite her with her parents. But Miss Hannigan, Rooster, and Lily hatch schemes of their own in this heartfelt, music-filled adventure for all ages.  mediatheatre.org

NOVEMBER 30TH

Media’s Annual Santa Holiday Parade, Block Party & Fun Run/Walk

MEDIA BUSINESS DISTRICT, STATE ST., MEDIA, PA 19063 | 2:30 PM

Festivities kick off 2:30pm with a FREE Block Party – guests are encouraged to bring non-perishable items for the Media Food Bank or an unwrapped gift benefiting Toys for Tots. The Holiday Costume Contest’s at 4pm, followed by the Fun Run/Walk at 4:15pm. The Santa Parade, featuring musical acts, Mummers, decorated floats, and lots of surprises, begins at 5pm!  SantaParade.media

DECEMBER 4TH – JANUARY 3RD

50th Annual Rose Tree Park “Festival of Lights”

ROSE TREE PARK, 1671 N. PROVIDENCE RD., MEDIA, PA 19063

A treasured Delco tradition for more than four decades, 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.  Opening tree lighting ceremony Dec. 4th and Delco Fare & Flair nights: 4, 6, 7. 13 & 14!  tinyurl.com/RoseTreeLights

DECEMBER 21ST

Lights Out: A Very Valli Holiday

MEDIA THEATRE, 104 E. STATE ST., MEDIA, PA 19063 | 7:00 PM

Being hailed as "The Nation's #1 Tribute to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, "LIGHTS OUT" brings a high energy show, tight harmonies, soaring falsettos, comedy, audience participation, engaging personality, a "Journey through Musical Time" with music that inspired Frankie Valli and that this musical icon inspired, and a fully choreographed show that keeps audiences captivated.  mediatheatre.org

DECEMBER 31ST

Media’s Annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

MEDIA BUSINESS DISTRICT, STATE ST., MEDIA, PA 19063

Ring in the New Year in the heart of Media! Join your neighbors on State and Jackson Streets at 11:30 PM as a live DJ kicks off the countdown. Watch Delaware County’s glowing orb drop 100 feet above Spasso’s Italian Grill. sine downtown, celebrate together, and usher in 2026 in style.  VisitMediaPA.org

Riddle Village offers a comprehensive Lifecare contract, so our residents can embrace retirement living with confidence. With predictable costs for future long-term care, our community provides a plan for your future, allowing you to focus on living life to the fullest every day. Enjoy luxury amenities and services, such as, weekly housekeeping, indoor garage parking, flexible dining plan with access to four unique restaurants and full-service bar, nine-hole putting green, 24/7 fitness center, indoor swimming pool and so much more.

Life at Riddle Village is a hole in one!