Issuu

MARPLE TOWNSHIP

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

Ward 1

Joseph A. Rufo, President 610-291-8389 jrufo@marpletwp.com

Ward 2

Robert Knapp

610-353-1835 rknapp@marpletwp.com Ward 3

Robert Fortebuono, Vice President 610-353-5457 rfortebuono@marpletwp.com

Summer 2026

NEWS

Inside This Issue Township Directory.......................................3 Township Manager’s Message.....................4 Finance Department......................................4 Marple Township Ambulance Corps............6 Police Department Message.........................6 Paxon Hollow Celebrates 100 Years............8 School District News .............................10-14

Library News...........................................18-19 Pool Safety Tips ..........................................22 Stormwater Management............................24 Marple Tree Commission............................26 Solarize For The Environment ...................28 Voting Topics ...............................................30

Ward 4

John J. Lucas

jlucas@marpletwp.com

JOHN BYRNE

Ward 5

George J. Downs, III

Gdowns@marpletwp.com Ward 6

SEE THE DIFFERENCE!

Michael K. Molinaro

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Ward 7

Interior & Exterior Painting Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing Wallcoverings SEE AD ON PAGE 13

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Michael J. May Jr.

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BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

TOWNSHIP DIRECTORY TOWNSHIP STAFF Ward 1

Joseph A. Rufo, President 610-291-8389 jrufo@marpletwp.com

Ward 2

Robert Knapp

610-353-1835 rknapp@marpletwp.com Ward 3

Lawrence J. Gentile,

Township Manager 610-356-4040 x503 Lgentile@marpletwp.com

Sharon L. Angelaccio,

Township Secretary 610-356-4040 x504 sangelaccio@marpletwp.com

McMenamin, Robert Fortebuono, Vice President Christine Finance Director 610-353-5457 rfortebuono@marpletwp.com Ward 4

John J. Lucas

jlucas@marpletwp.com Ward 5

George J. Downs, III

Gdowns@marpletwp.com Ward 6

Michael K. Molinaro

610-353-4710 mmolinaro@marpletwp.com Ward 7

Michael J. May Jr.

484-470-6725 mmay@marpletwp.com

610-356-4040 x507 cmcmenamin@marpletwp.com

Joseph Celia,

Director of Codes & Assistant Township Manager 610-356-4040 x511 jcelin@marpletwp.com

William Creighton,

Director of Public Works 610-356-4040 bcreighton@marpletwp.com

Brandon M. Graeff,

Superintendent of Police 610-356-1500 graeff@marplepolice.com

Therese Staquet, Treasurer

IMPORTANT CONTACT INFORMATION Township Administration Building 227 S. Sproul Road Broomall, PA 19008-2391 610-356-4040 www.marpletwp.com

Township Police

1001 Sussex Boulevard Broomall, PA 19008 Emergency and Police call 911 www.marplepolice.com

Marple Newtown School District 610-359-4200 www.mnsd.org

Paxon Hollow Country Club 850 Paxon Hollow Road Dan Malley, Golf Pro 610-325-4833 www.paxonhollowgolf.com

Anthony's at Paxon

Township Public Works Garage

446 Marpit Road Broomall, PA 19008

Restaurant & Banquets 610-353-0220 www.anthonysatpaxon.com

Marple Public Library

District Justice David Lang, Esq.

2599 Sproul Road Broomall, PA 19008 610-356-1510 www.marplelibrary.org

(All Wards) 796 Parkway Blvd. Broomall, PA 19008 610-338-2550

Broomall Fire Company

Non-Emergency 610-353-5225 www.broomallfirecompany.com

Marple Ambulance Corps.

Non-Emergency 610-356-1639 www.marpleems.com

Leisure Services/Recreation

20 Media Line Road Newtown Sq., PA 19073 610-353-2326 www.mnrecreation.org

610-356-4040 x552

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MARPLE NEWS · SUMMER 2026

TOWNSHIP MANAGER’S MESSAGE

Summer is Here! Enjoy the outdoors at our Township Community Parks! From the Desk of the Township Manager

As we move into the summer season, I am pleased to share several exciting updates and accomplishments here in Marple Township. Over the past few months, the Township has continued to make meaningful progress in enhancing the quality of life for our residents, with a particular focus on expanding and improving recreational resources throughout the community. One recent highlight is the installation of new shade structures over park benches, made possible through the generous donation of the Broomall Rotary Club. These improvements provide added comfort for residents and families enjoying our parks during the warmer months and reflect the strong community partnerships that help make Marple Township such a special place.

Looking ahead, we are happy to report that the new trail expansion at Veterans Memorial Park is scheduled to begin in late September or early October. This project will be another valuable addition to our growing network of recreational amenities and will provide additional opportunities for walking, exercise, and outdoor enjoyment. Veterans Memorial Park is already one of the Township's established park facilities, and this expansion will further build on that asset. Marple Township is also proud to share that the New Ardmore playground will be renamed in honor of the Honorable Barry C. Dozor. This is more than a change in signage. It is a statement about who we are as a community, about the people we choose to lift up as examples for our children, and about the legacy we want to preserve here in Marple Township. Barry C. Dozor was, first and foremost, a dedicated public servant. Public sources describe him as a longtime Marple Township commissioner who also served in other municipal legal and judicial roles, with a reputation for community service and public leadership. For many years, he brought energy, competence, and heart to the work of local government. He understood that the decisions made by elected officials affect real families on real streets, and he took that responsibility seriously.

We have also expanded our adult exercise area, creating even more opportunities for residents to stay active and enjoy the outdoors.

Barry did not simply cast votes. He listened, he asked thoughtful questions, and he worked to find solutions that reflected the values and needs of the people of Marple

Township. Renaming this playground in his honor recognizes a legacy of service and ensures that future generations will be reminded of the importance of civic commitment, character, and community leadership. Importantly, these recreational improvements and additions have been funded through grants that were successfully secured by the Township. This funding has allowed Marple Township to continue investing in high-quality amenities while remaining mindful of fiscal responsibility. The Township remains committed to building on this momentum and delivering projects that benefit the entire community. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of these enhancements and enjoy everything Marple Township has to offer this summer. Respectfully, Larry Gentile Township Manager

FINANCE DEPARTMENT A reminder to residents that your sewer and refuse fees are not paid by your mortgage company. These fees for service are billed separately from your municipal real estate tax bill and must be paid directly by the homeowner to Marple Township. If you are unsure if you have paid your sewer and refuse fee, please contact the Township office at 610-356-4040, X-518.

To receive the 20% discount from Marple Township, you must take the following steps: • Pay your sewer & refuse bill in full.

In addition, all delinquent sewer and refuse bills for the years 2025 and prior with an overdue balance of $500.00 and greater will be turned over to our third-party debt collector, Portnoff Law Associates, by May 31. Please attempt to pay your bill promptly as Portnoff fees and liens can significantly increase the amount owed.

• Submit property tax/rent rebate form to the state of PA. You may obtain a copy of the form from your state rep's office, and their office will also assist you with completing the rebate form. You may also file your application online via the Department of Revenue's myPath portal at myPath.pa.gov.

WWW.MARPLETWP.COM · SUMMER 2026

Marple Township seniors can receive a 20% discount on refuse bills and a 20% discount on sewer bills if they qualify for the Pennsylvania Property Tax/Rent rebate.

• Once you are approved by the Commonwealth of PA, bring a copy of your bank statement showing the direct deposit of your rebate or a copy of your rebate checkto the finance department. Once this documentation is received, we will issue you a check equal to 20% of your original bill.

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MARPLE NEWS · SUMMER 2026

MARPLE TOWNSHIP AMBULANCE CORPS

Answer the call: Become a Volunteer EMT in your community!

Have you ever wanted to make a real difference when it matters most? The Marple Township Ambulance Corps is currently seeking dedicated volunteers to join our team as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT's) No prior experience? No problem. If you're not already an EMT, we'll provide the training and send you to school to get certified. All you need is the motivation to serve and the willingness to learn. As a volunteer, you'll play a vital role in helping your neighbors during emergencies, providing critical care, and offering comfort in difficult moments. It's a unique opportunity to give back, build valuable skills, and be part of a supportive, mission-driven team. Not sure if it's for you? Come see what we are all about. We invite you to schedule a ride along and experience firsthand the rewarding work we do every day.

Step up. Serve your community. Make a difference.

MARPLE TOWNSHIP Ambulance Corps — Delaware County, PA Marple Township Ambulance Corps • Your Emergency Is Our Mission

MARPLE TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT With the recreational season upon us, here is a valuable reminder about the laws governing e-devices such as scooters and bikes: An electric scooter (e-scooter) cannot be legally operated on public roads or sidewalks. It is only permitted on private property, so your driveway, yard, or someone else's whose permission you obtained is pretty much it. Pennsylvania law considers it a vehicle, specifically a motordriven cycle, which means it falls under the same PennDOT registration requirements and equipment standards (headlights, turn signals, mirrors, etc.) as your car, truck, or SUV. An electric bike (e-bike) weighing less than 100 lbs or with a motor not more than 750 watts is considered a pedalcycle (commonly known as a bicycle) with electric assist (any device over that weight or wattage is no longer a pedalcycle). An operator must be at least 16 years of age. There is no helmet requirement, but lights are required when operated between sunset and sunrise. It may be operated on the sidewalk but only with the use of old-fashioned human power no electric assist and must yield to pedestrians. (Note: In Pennsylvania, all cyclists under 12 years of age must wear a helmet). Help us spread the word so that parents know they are supported when they tell their child “No” to an electric scooter or bike and are less likely to receive that dreadful phone call. Follow us social media @marplepolice and get more information on our website www.marplepolice.com. 6

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MARPLE NEWS · SUMMER 2026

PAXON HOLLOW

Paxon Hollow Country Club Celebrates 100 Years as a Marple Township Treasure this year, Marple Township is proud to recognize a very special milestone in our community: the 100th anniversary of Paxon Hollow Country Club. For a century, Paxon Hollow has been more than a golf course. It has been a gathering place, a source of community pride, a preserved open space, and one of the Township's most recognizable landmarks. The history of Paxon Hollow dates back to the fall of 1926, when the original Paxon Hollow Country Club was formed. The first nine holes opened for play the following summer, and the back nine was completed soon after. The course was designed with the help of Francis Warner, then secretary of the Golf Association of Philadelphia, and built by J. Franklin Meehan, who had experience working on several respected courses in the Philadelphia region. One interesting piece of local history is that the name “Paxon Hollow” was selected over “Trout Run,” a name suggested because of the stream that runs through the property. According to the club's history, “Paxon Hollow” won by just one vote. One hundred years later, it is hard to imagine the course being known by any other name. Through the years, Paxon Hollow has seen several chapters in its history. It began as a private club, later operated under different ownership, and eventually became a public golf course. In 1967, Marple Township purchased the property, preserving it for public use and ensuring that this beautiful and historic course would remain an important part of the community. That decision has benefited generations of Township residents.

WWW.MARPLETWP.COM · SUMMER 2026

Paxon Hollow has also played a meaningful role in the broader golf history of the Philadelphia area. The course hosted the 1932 Philadelphia Open and has been the site of many professional and amateur tournaments. Notable golfers including Walter Hagen, Art Wall, and Ed Dudley have been associated with the course's long history. These connections remind us that Paxon Hollow is not only a local treasure, but also part of the rich golf tradition of southeastern Pennsylvania. For Marple Township residents, however, Paxon Hollow's importance goes far beyond scorecards and tournaments. The course represents open space, recreation, and community identity. Its fairways and landscape provide a scenic and welcoming setting in the heart of the Township. For many residents, Paxon Hollow is a familiar place tied to family outings, golf leagues, special events, summer afternoons, and memories shared across generations. As a publicly accessible course, Paxon Hollow has helped make the game of golf available to residents and visitors in a way that many private clubs cannot. It offers a place for experienced golfers, beginners, seniors, young players, families, and friends to enjoy the outdoors together. That accessibility is one of the reasons Paxon Hollow continues to hold such an important place in the life of the Township. The preservation of Paxon Hollow also reflects the value Marple Township places on recreation and community assets. In an area where open space is increasingly important, the continued public ownership of Paxon Hollow helps maintain a balance between development, recreation, and quality of

life. It stands as a reminder that thoughtful decisions made decades ago can continue to serve residents well into the future. As Paxon Hollow Country Club celebrates 100 years, Marple Township extends appreciation to all those who have contributed to its success over the decades, including Township officials, employees, golf professionals, course staff, patrons, and residents who have supported and enjoyed the course. Their care and commitment have helped Paxon Hollow remain a place of pride for the entire community. Congratulations to Paxon Hollow Country Club on 100 years of history, tradition, and service to Marple Township. We look forward to many more years of recreation, friendship, and community memories at one of our Township's most cherished landmarks.

Lawrence Gentile Township Manager

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MARPLE NEWS · SUMMER 2026

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MARPLE NEWS · SUMMER 2026

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MARPLE NEWS · SUMMER 2026

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Devereux Pennsylvania Children's Services operates six Approved Private Schools throughout Chester and Montgomery Counties that offer high-quality, innovative special education programming for students who need care, compassion and support to succeed and thrive. All schools are licensed by the PA State Board of Private Academic Schools and accept 4010 placements. Children, adolescents and young adults may come to Devereux as day students, or as a part of residential treatment. Each student has an Individualized Educational Plan, which outlines goals for skill development and the best strategies by which the student can reach his/her goals. A multi-disciplinary team, including the individual's parent(s) or guardian, regularly reviews the plan to discuss challenges, progress and adjustments to goals as appropriate.

CARES (CENTER FOR AUTISM RESEARCH & EDUCATION SERVICES)

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The School for Integrated Learning

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Day Academy — Audubon

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Day Academy — Landenberg

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Brandywine School

390 E. Boot Road West Chester, PA 19383 Full-time emotional support placement (day/residential): Co-ed youth, grades 6-12, with learning disabilities and emotional disturbances.

Mapleton School

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MARPLE NEWS · SUMMER 2026

LIBRARY NEWS

Marple Library and our Community

register is July 2. Children ages 0 to 18 will be able to reach reading goals and earn books and prizes thanks to and from local businesses. Families can join us all summer for Storytimes, teen hosted programs, the return of our Movie Matinee and much more.

Marple Library is ready for a great summer. We'll be celebrating America's 250 Anniversary with American History Lecturers, 250 America Reading Challenge Bingo and a program where children can create fun items to take to the Marple Newtown 4th of July Parade. Adults, join us for our patriotic themed Friday Flicks and programs all summer. Families, we'll start off our Children's Summer Reading Club at the Marple Sports Arena with a Kick-Off Party. Registration can be done at the Kick-Off on June 16 or at the Library beginning June 1. The deadline to

18 WWW.MARPLETWP.COM · SUMMER 2026

At Marple Library we strive to have something for all ages and interests. We look forward to having you join us online or in person. Stop by to check out our Library of Things items like amini projector and outdoor games, Kindles loaded with highly sought titles, engaging programs for all ages, and of course BOOKS! We can offer favorite programs and create

new ones thanks to the generosity of our donors and sponsors. Each donation and sponsorship is appreciated and allows us keep the bar high on what we can provide our community.For more information on the Legacy Tree, Sponsorships, or for other ideas on how you or your business can partner with Marple Library, please contact Christina at mamarketing@delcolibraries.org or text/call 610-883-1882.

Please continue to check in for updates about programs, services and ways you can support our Library on Facebook, X, Instagram and our website, marplelibrary.org. See you soon.

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LIBRARY NEWS

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MARPLE NEWS · SUMMER 2026

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MARPLE NEWS · SUMMER 2026

POOL SAFETY TIPS

reduces a child's risk of drowning 83% compared to three-sided property-line fencing.

Home Pool Safety

69% of young children who drown were not expected to be in or near water — learn how to reduce the risks.

•

Top Things to Know… • • •

•

Secure your pool with appropriate barriers. Designate a water watcher…and stay in arm's reach of young children. Install anti-entrapment drain covers and safety release systems to protect against drain entrapment. If a child is missing, check the water first.

How to Create a Safer Home Pool… Secure Your Pool When Not in Use •

•

Completely surround your pool with four-sided isolation fencing with a selfclosing and self-latching gate that is out of the reach of a child. A four-sided isolation fence (separating the pool area from the house and yard)

22 WWW.MARPLETWP.COM · SUMMER 2026

For above-ground pools, secure, lock or remove steps, ladders and anything that can be used for access (such as outdoor furniture and toys) whenever the pool is not being actively supervised by an adult. Install a secondary barrier, such as: Door alarms and locks that are out of the reach of a child on all doors and windows with direct access to the pool or spa area.

watcher. •

Swim sober.

•

Supervise others sober and without distractions, such as reading or talking on or using a cell phone.

Take These Water Safety Step •

Employ layers of protection including barriers to prevent access to water, life jackets, and close supervision of children to prevent drowning.

•

Ensure every member of your family learns to swim so they at least achieve skills of water competency: able to enter the water, get a breath, stay afloat, change position, swim a distance then get out of the water safely.

•

Know what to do in a water emergency—including how to help someone in trouble in the water safely, call for emergency help and CPR.

Lockable covers.

Establish and Enforce Rules and Safe Behaviors… •

Do not enter head first unless in a pool that has a safe diving area.

•

Stay away from drains and other openings that cause suction.

•

Swim with a buddy.

•

Only swim when supervised by a water

Information from the American Red Cross…for more information go to www.redcross.org

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MARPLE NEWS · SUMMER 2026

STORMWATER MANAGEMENT

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MARPLE NEWS · SUMMER 2026

MARPLE TREE COMMISSION

SO YOU JUST PLANTED A TREE…. NOW WHAT? A newly planted sapling is not yet the sturdy, self-sufficient tree it will one day become. In its first one to three years, it is vulnerable—its root system is small, its bark is thin, and it has not yet learned to find water on its own. With a little attention during this critical period, however, you can help it establish itself as a lasting part of your home and our local ecosystem. The effort you put in now pays dividends for decades.

will die. There are two separate approaches to these problems; both are often used at the same time. To protect from browsing, use a wire cage made from welded wire fencing set off the trunk, forming a ring 2-3 feet in diameter around the tree. The cage should be at least 4-5 feet tall, as deer can reach higher than most people expect. This keeps deer from accessing foliage and branch tips entirely. To protect from antler, or buck rub, which occurs mainly from September through December during rut season, use a closefitting rigid spiral plastic tree guard or a short cylinder of ¼-inch hardware cloth placed directly around the trunk to protect the bark surface itself.

1. Staking — Support When Needed Staking is often done when it is not needed and for too long. Research from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) consistently shows that trees allowed to move slightly in the wind develop stronger trunk wood and root systems than rigidly staked trees. Stake only if the tree cannot stand upright on its own or if the root ball rocks in the soil. If staking is needed, use two stakes placed outside the root ball, connected to the trunk with a loose, flexible tie. Position ties at the lowest point on the trunk that keeps the tree upright. Remove all stakes and ties at 12 months. Ties left too long girdle the bark, cutting off the flow of water and nutrients, and can kill an otherwise healthy tree.

Check and adjust both each spring as the tree grows. Chemical deer repellents can supplement these physical barriers but must be reapplied frequently after rain and are not reliable as a stand-alone strategy.

Extend the mulch ring outside the stakes at least a 3-feet diameter circle to reduce grass/weed competition and remind weed whackers not to get too close. Mechanical contact from trimmers is a leading cause of tree death in residential landscapes.

Reference: Penn State Extension, "Mulching Landscape Trees" (available at extension.psu.edu)

3. Deer Protection — A Real Threat in Marple Township White-tailed deer are abundant in Delaware County and cause significant damage to young trees in two ways: browsing (eating leaves and twigs) and antler rubbing, which strips bark in the fall and winter. A tree stripped of bark around its entire circumference — a process called girdling — 26 WWW.MARPLETWP.COM · SUMMER 2026

Reference: U.S. Forest Service, “How to Plant and Care for Your Tree”

If you aren't sure about your soil, you can have your soil tested before adding any fertilizer (Penn State Extension offers lowcost soil testing kits). After the first two to three years, a well-mulched tree in reasonable soil typically needs little or no supplemental fertilization. Members and volunteers with the Marple Tree Commission (Kathleen Cannon, Noah Zaltz, Rick Ray) and the Marple Civic Youth Assoc. (Luca Ricciardi, Aubrey Goldblatt) planting a tree for Arbor Day in Veteran's Park, April 24, 2026

4. Rabbits and Voles Protection — Small Animals, Real Damage Rabbits gnaw bark at the base of young trees, especially in winter when other food is scarce. A simple hardware cloth cylinder (the same material you use for deer to prevent rubbing) placed around the trunk and anchored loosely in the soil will stop rabbits effectively. Remove it in the spring to prevent it from constricting growth and store it for reuse.

Refresh the layer each spring and let leaf litter accumulate naturally in the fall rather than bagging it; decomposing leaves return nutrients to the soil and shelter beneficial insects.

General guideline: Apply approximately 10 gallons of water per inch of trunk diameter, once or twice per week during dry periods (less than 1 inch of rainfall per week). A slow drip from a garden hose laid at the base for 30-45 minutes is more effective than a quick spray. Reduce watering in fall to help the tree harden off for winter. Overwatering is as harmful as underwatering — waterlogged soil suffocates roots.

6. Fertilizing — Less May Be More Healthy, organically active soil — supported by mulch and leaf litter — generally provides adequate nutrition for newly planted trees. Fertilizing too aggressively in the first year can actually stimulate lush top growth before the root system is large enough to support it, making the tree more vulnerable to stress.

2. Mulch — The Rule of 3's A 3-inch deep layer of organic mulch (wood chips, shredded bark, or leaf litter) spread in a wide ring around the tree is one of the most important steps to helping a new tree get established. Mulch moderates soil temperature, retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and feeds soil organisms as it decomposes. Keep mulch 3-inches away from the trunk. The "mulch volcano" piled against the bark is one of the most common tree-care mistakes. It holds moisture against the bark, promotes rot, and invites rodents that gnaw the trunk.

5. Watering — Deep and Regular Newly planted trees need supplemental water for at least the first two growing seasons — longer for larger trees. The goal is to water deeply and infrequently rather than lightly and often. Deep watering encourages roots to grow downward and outward; shallow, frequent watering keeps roots near the surface where they are vulnerable to drought and temperature extremes.

Voles are a separate and often overlooked threat. These small mouse-like rodents tunnel just below the soil surface and gnaw bark at and below the ground line frequently under the cover of mulch or snow, where the damage goes unnoticed until spring. To stop voles, the same ¼-inch hardware cloth cylinder must be buried 2-3 inches below the soil surface and kept slightly away from the trunk.

Reference: Penn State Extension Soil Testing Lab: soiltest.psu.edu

A Final Word on Patience Most newly planted trees spend their first year or two putting energy into root establishment rather than visible aboveground growth. This is normal and healthy. If your tree leafs out, holds its leaves through summer, and shows no signs of disease or pest damage, it is doing what it should. With good soil contact, consistent water, protective mulch, and protection from browsing animals, the odds are strongly in the tree's favor, and we will all benefit from the tree as it grows! Resources: • Penn State Extension: extension.psu.edu • International Society of Arboriculture: treesaregood.org • Delaware County Conservation District: delcocd.org • U.S. Forest Service Urban Forest Research: fs.usda.gov/urban Marple Tree Commission — Caring for Our Community's Urban Forest To learn more: Marple Tree Commission (treecommission.com)

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SOLARIZE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

Ready to Stop Climate Change?

Battle climate change and get pay back in both cash and the satisfaction of knowing that you and thousands of your neighbors, businesses and Towns throughout the Delaware Valley are getting the job done! Some steps require no investment and some do. ALL can save you money. Web sites like https://haverfordclimateaction.org/ provide a one-stop shop for information on things you can do, upcoming webinars, videos and more. The biggest savings in energy is to use less; please consider an energy assessment if you have not had one done. PECO offers this for $49. For a limited time, PECO is offering Solarize Delco participants a special $10 discount for any home energy assessment. Please use the special promo code SOLARDEL on the website or call 888.573.2672 to schedule your appointment.

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Low Income Grants and Leasing Options: Income qualified

homeowners can apply for a grant (up to $5,000) while funds last or take advantage of partnerships with vetted leasing firms that can reduce monthly bills by a combination of Solar PV and weatherization. Solarize Delco can help you decide what is best for you.

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unbiased information and an easier path to putting solar on your home, business or house of worship. We can help Houses of Worship and other non-profits find sources of funding as well. More info at www.solarizedelco.org. Search Solarize Philly and Solarize SE PA for programs outside of DelCo. Did you see us on the news? https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pTQWiWcb08phBYT4PGKoQUJ027d5lbA/view

In Delaware County, PA fill out a form on www.solarizedelco.org or Email us at solarizedelco@gmail.com with your name, address and phone number and we can help you assess whether the Solarize Delco program with a selected vendor and a significant discount over market rates is right for you. In Bucks, Chester, and Montgomery County - Email solarizesepa@gmail.com.

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MARPLE NEWS · SUMMER 2026

VOTING TOPICS FREEDOM OF THE PRESS national security purposes, criminalized free speech and opinion while the U.S. was at war. Both were repealed within five years, but national security remained a concern with extensive media coverage of politics. A well-known Supreme Court ruling concerned the so-called “Pentagon Papers”. In 1971, both the New York Times and the Washington Post had accessed classified information about the country's involvement in the Vietnam War. The court ruled in favor of the press, stating that it would be a violation of the First Amendment to prohibit the publication of these documents.

“Weaponization” is a popular word in today's world. It often describes the way in which laws and regulations can be used to attack rights and freedoms through governmental power, intimidation, and/or judicial action. Whether it is used for revenge, for distraction, or security, many are concerned. As we celebrate America 250, our forefathers were keenly aware of potential threats to individuals, groups, and institutions to become silenced, punished, or restricted. Thus, the First Amendment to the Constitution was their initial priority when they drafted the Bill of Rights.

Over time, the Supreme Court has ruled to limit freedom of the press. As early as 1812, in the case United States v. Hudson & Goodwin (1812) and again in 1964 with New York Times Co. v. Sullivan, the Supreme Court affirmed the ability of the government to prosecute libel, or the defamation of a person or company by publishing a knowingly false statement.

• Use the Sunshine Law to advocate for accountability and openness in municipal, county, state, and federal government. • Learn about the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), and submit a request if appropriate.

In 1786, Thomas Jefferson noted, “Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost.”

This right, however, is a double-edged sword. Social change, such as that embodied in the civil rights and suffrage movements, have wielded this liberty as a weapon in fights for respect, power, and the further expansion of the Constitution. What can we learn from history? In 1798, just five years after the adoption of the Bill of Rights, the Sedition Act was passed during the presidency of John Adams. This law allowed for the journalists to be punished who criticized the acts of the government which at this time was engaged in an undeclared war with France. During the Act's three-year lifespan, more than fifteen journalists, including Benjamin Franklin's grandson, were fined or arrested. While only a few individuals were punished, many newspapers softened their dissent. The then- opposition Democrat-Republican Party was silenced as the Federalists described the opposing perspective as “misinformation.”

30 WWW.MARPLETWP.COM · SUMMER 2026

• Support local newspapers, journalists, and public broadcasting outlets.

• Promote strong legislation for “Shield Laws” to protect journalists and their sources of information.

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

In the past 200 years, debate over the freedom of the press has continued. In 1917, the Espionage Act was passed by Congress, followed a year later by a new Sedition Act. These acts, designed for

defamation and national security issues, freedom of the press is not guaranteed. However, its ultimate goal — to seek the truth and shine a light on the goings-on in government — is vital to our democracy. We cannot afford to take the freedoms provided by the First Amendment for granted, nor should we allow our government to erode them. The League of Women Voters declared a Constitutional Crisis in April of 2025 and currently promotes actions to help you make a difference:

With the advent of social media and the isolation created by COVID-19, polarization has become more prevalent and misinformation more commonplace. Policies and directives are increasingly playing a role in placing guardrails around press freedom. For example, to combat earlier pressure placed on social media by the Biden administration to prevent the spread of disinformation regarding COVID19, Executive Order 14149, signed by President Trump on the first day of his second term, was called “Restoring Freedom of Speech and Ending Federal Censorship.” On the other hand, the White House currently determines which reporters can and cannot attend certain events. This, in turn, creates conditions for unequal coverage of political affairs by diverse media outlets where evaluating sources and journalistic ethics are vital.

Some two centuries later, the renowned and trusted journalist Walter Cronkite (19162009) said, “Freedom of the press is not just important to democracy; it is democracy.”

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