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Author: Lisa Dukart

  • Peek inside a Villanova estate for sale for $9.9M | Inquirer Lower Merion

    Peek inside a Villanova estate for sale for $9.9M | Inquirer Lower Merion

    Hi, Lower Merion! 👋

    In the market for not one, but two multimillion dollar homes? We take a look at a Villanova property for sale for nearly $10 million. Also this week, a pair of Bala Cynwyd natives are expanding their bagel shop with a Montgomery Avenue outpost, Rosemont College has been asked to submit reports to its accrediting body ahead of its closure, plus there are a dozen other restaurant openings we’re keeping tabs on.

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    This two-home Villanova estate could be yours for $9.9M

    The listing includes the main fieldstone house, which spans over 11,000 square feet.

    A 3.85-acre Villanova estate featuring a sprawling century-old, seven-bedroom home and a more modern carriage house have hit the market for a combined $9.9 million.

    Located on Creighton Road, which the listing agent says has become known as the “estate street,” the properties are being sold together or separately, but with one caveat: If a buyer doesn’t want both, then the main home must sell first before the owners will entertain offers on the carriage house.

    The main fieldstone house spans over 11,000 square feet and has a commercial kitchen, a solarium, a wine cellar, a movie room, and a gym, while the carriage house spans just over 1,000 square feet and has a heated saltwater pool.

    Take a peek inside.

    Bart’s Bagels is Bala Cynwyd bound

    Bart’s Bagels specializes in kettle-boiled bagels.

    Bala Cynwyd brothers Brett and Kyle Frankel are coming home. Sort of. The duo behind West and South Philadelphia shop Bart’s Bagels is expanding to a third location, this time in their hometown of Bala Cynwyd.

    The new shop is planned to open this summer at 273 Montgomery Ave. There, the Lower Merion High School alums will dish up kettle-boiled bagels — which patrons can watch being made — along with smoked meats, egg sandwiches, and unique schmears.

    Read more about the Frankels and their latest bagel shop.

    💡 Community News

    • In case you missed it, design firm Haldon House is partnering with billionaire Jeff Yass and his wife Janine on a proposal reimagining part of downtown Gladwyne. Last week, Haldon House unveiled plans to redevelop a half-dozen properties with historic architecture, green spaces, and new businesses.
    • A Montgomery County office that one commissioner described as a less controversial version of the Department of Government Efficiency has helped save the county $14 million since its founding last February.
    • The Middle States Commission on Higher Education has asked Rosemont College to provide information on its student records and finances and policies as the liberal arts school winds down ahead of its closure in 2028. It’s unclear what prompted the request, but the school has until Tuesday to comply.
    • Barbara Thomas, 46, was sentenced this week in Montgomery County Court for her role in a $1.76 million Medicaid fraud scheme at Bala Cynwyd-based ComfortZone Home Health Care. From 2020 to 2023, when Thomas was the office manager and a case manager, the home care agency allegedly submitted fabricated Medicaid reimbursement claims. Thomas has been sentenced to serve nine to 23 months in prison and ordered to pay $1.39 million in restitution in part with her co-defendants. So far, 18 people have pleaded guilty to involvement in the scheme.
    • Good news for Regional Rail riders: SEPTA last week restored 24 express trips, including on the Paoli/Thorndale line, which had previously been operating as local services.
    • The final phase of Ardmore’s Suburban Square redevelopment is set to open later this month. Developers spent $100 million to create Coulter Place, which has 131 apartments and 20,000 square feet of retail space that has been leased to New Balance, Rhone, Sugared + Bronzed, Skin Laundry, and Barry’s. Two retail spaces remain. Rent for a one-bedroom unit in the five-story building, which has a fitness center and pool deck for residents, starts at around $3,000 per month. (Philadelphia Business Journal)
    • Heads up for drivers and pedestrians: With work underway on the mixed-use Piazza development in Ardmore, there will be sidewalk closures on Lancaster Avenue between Greenfield and Ardmore Avenues through its completion, which is projected for early 2028.
    • Part of Lancaster Avenue, between Indian Creek Lane and Woodcircle Drive, will also have a weekday lane closure in both directions from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. as PennDot installs new lane departure signage. Installation will begin tomorrow and run through next Friday.
    • Part of Elmwood and South Narberth Avenues in Narberth will be closed to traffic starting Monday for bridge construction. Pedestrians and cyclists will have designated access.
    • Thinking about a home renovation? Inquirer contributor Terri Akman recently spoke with couples who overhauled parts of their home for tips on protecting their relationships through what can be a stressful process. Wynnewood couple Jena and Brandon Fisher, who updated all of their home’s bathrooms, recognized their different approaches to decision-making up front. Here’s how other couples approached renovations.
    • Speaking of home renovations, the founders of Gladwyne interior design firm Bergman Vass recently launched a new minimalist furniture collection. The duo is planning to open a showroom in Philadelphia’s Navy Yard early this year where buyers can see the items in person. (Philadelphia Magazine)
    • Ever have a question about the township you can’t answer? Submit it to Curious Lower Merion and one of our reporters might try to track down the answer.

    đŸ« Schools Briefing

    • In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the school district is hosting a “Junior Afternoon of Service” today from 4 to 6 p.m., when students and their families can help with various community projects.
    • The district is closed Monday for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. There are several concerts today and tonight and Black Rock eighth graders will pose for their class photo tomorrow. Tuesday begins the midyear experience for Lower Merion and Harriton High students. See the district’s full calendar here.
    • After new Pennsylvania School Code requirements went into effect at the start of the year, LMSD is reminding families about how it will communicate about weapons found on school property, offering a three-tiered approach. See it here.

    đŸœïž On our Plate

    • Lower Merion’s restaurant scene is set to boom in 2026, with nearly a dozen openings in the coming months, including Dim Sum Factory, EMei, and Malooga. A little further along the Main Line, Salt Korean Barbecue Steakhouse/Yugo is planning a late summer opening in Devon, while Testa Rossa, from the team behind White Dog Cafe, is slated to open in Radnor this spring. The Inquirer’s Michael Klein has rounded up the region’s anticipated openings. With so many new restaurants on the way, the Main Line has landed among Klein’s “hot neighborhoods” for dining this year.
    • Speaking of openings, Love & Honey Fried Chicken, which opened last month at 1111 W. Lancaster Ave., is hosting a grand opening for its Bryn Mawr location on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be giveaways, discounted food, a ribbon cutting, and music.
    • And with openings come some closings. Belmont Hills BYOB Core de Roma, which specialized in Roman cuisine, has closed after five years. In a note on its website, the team behind the restaurant said it had decided not to buy the space or extend its lease at 201 Jefferson St. In September, the real estate hit the market with an asking price of $599,000.

    🎳 Things to Do

    🎾 The Ledbetters: Hear the Pearl Jam tribute perform some of the band’s biggest hits. ⏰ Friday, Jan. 16, 8 p.m. đŸ’” $33.38 📍 Ardmore Music Hall

    🧾 Paddington 2: Catch a screening of the sequel to the beloved children’s movie. There’s another screening on Jan. 31. ⏰ Saturday, Jan. 17, 11 a.m. đŸ’” $6.75-$7.75 📍 Bryn Mawr Film Institute

    đŸč Wallace Dry Goods x Home Appetit Moms Night Out: Geared toward moms, including those who are pregnant or nursing, sample non-alcoholic beverages and light bites. Registration is required. ⏰ Wednesday, Jan. 21, 5-7 p.m. đŸ’” Free 📍 Wallace Dry Goods

    đŸȘŽ Herbal Teas, Salves and Tinctures Workshop: Learn to create your own blends during this guided class. ⏰ Wednesday, Jan. 21, 6-8 p.m. đŸ’” $45 📍 Plant4Good

    🏡 On the Market

    A five-bedroom 1900s Colonial with a separate studio

    The stone Colonial dates back to 1900.

    Built in 1900, this Ardmore Colonial blends classic design elements — like dormers and a portico — with modern living. There are a number of fireplaces throughout, including in the living room, dining room, and a bedroom. The five-bedroom home features original woodwork and crown moldings, has a sunroom leading to the patio, and a kitchen with granite countertops, including a large island. Its five bedrooms are spread across the second and third floors, including the second-floor primary suite which has a walk-in closet, a standalone tub, and a fireplace. Other features include a partially finished basement and a detached two-car garage with a studio apartment. There’s an open house Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m.

    See more photos of the home here.

    Price: $1.595M | Size: 3,699 SF | Acreage: 0.33

    đŸ—žïž What other Lower Merion residents are reading this week:

    By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

    This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirer’s high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.

  • 8 Media restaurants with happy hour deals | Inquirer Greater Media

    8 Media restaurants with happy hour deals | Inquirer Greater Media

    Hi, Greater Media! 👋

    Looking for a great happy hour spot? We’ve rounded up eight to try right now. Also this week, demonstrators protested ICE actions outside the Delaware County Courthouse, Kate Winslet teased the return of Mare of Easttown, plus a Nordstrom Rack is opening at the Promenade at Granite Run.

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    8 Media happy hours to try right now

    There are plenty of spots to enjoy happy hour in Media this winter.

    Looking for a spot to grab a light bite or drink during happy hour this winter? Media has plenty of options to choose from — and with special pricing — whether you’re looking for a classic cocktail, a specialty sip, or shareable bites like tandoori chicken dumplings, buck-a-shuck oysters, or arancini.

    The Inquirer’s Denali Sagner has rounded up eight spots in Media with happy hour offerings, including relative newcomers like Departure or Maris Mediterranean and longtime favorites like Spasso Italian Grill or Stephen’s on State.

    See what’s on the menu at these eight happy hours.

    💡 Community News

    • Scores of demonstrators protesting the killing of Renee Good by an ICE officer gathered across the region over the weekend, including in Media. Protesters ranging in age chanted “United we stand, divided we fall” outside the Delaware County Courthouse on Sunday, while some children carried crayon-drawn signs with messages like “ICE Cream, not ICE.” One Wallingford woman brought her 8-year-old daughter and said she came out because “I want to show them it’s important to stand up to a bully.”
    • Could popular HBO series Mare of Easttown return for a second season? Kate Winslet seems to be ready for the Delaware County-set show, created by Berwyn native Brad Ingelsby, to return, and recently indicated filming could start as early as 2027. While the award-winning actor is on board, nothing official has been announced yet.
    • The offerings at the Promenade at Granite Run are growing. Retailer Nordstrom Rack plans to open a 30,000-square-foot shop there this fall, and SweatHouz, which specializes in contrast therapy, opened yesterday. Located in the ground floor retail section of apartment building eleven33, SweatHouz offers infrared sauna and cold plunge therapy in private suites. The Promenade is also adding a small-format Ikea this year and recently welcomed food hall Wonder.
    • Good news for Regional Rail riders: SEPTA last week restored 24 express trips, including on the Media/Wawa line, which had previously been operating as local services.
    • Riddle Hospital’s emergency medical service, Riddle EMS, has been rebranded as Main Line Health EMS in an effort to better align it with the wider health system. It serves all four of the system’s hospitals, including Riddle.
    • Media Borough has been awarded nearly $600,000 in state grants to support the purchase of a new ambulance, pedestrian enhancements, and the Barrall Park Field and tennis courts project.
    • Heart & Soul’d, the nonprofit thrift store that supports foster care and adoption services, is now open at its new location at 407 Dartmouth Ave. in Swarthmore. It moved there from its previous home at 14 Park Ave., also in Swarthmore.
    • Kandy Kids Toys and Gifts, located at 5 S. Chester Rd. in Swarthmore, announced last week that it will close at the end of February after 10 years in business.
    • The GameStop at Marple Cross Roads in Springfield shuttered last week as part of a mass closure by the gaming retail store.
    • The rehab hospital at the site of the former Concordville Inn in Glen Mills is getting closer to opening. Encompass Health plans to open the 50-bed inpatient facility in May. It will offer care to patients recovering from strokes, brain and spinal cord injuries, amputations, and other orthopedic conditions. (Philadelphia Business Journal)
    • Jonathan Prichard IV, a longtime Swarthmore resident who lives on one of his family’s original homesteads, told 6abc he was shocked to learn about robberies of human remains from a cemetery straddling Philadelphia and Yeadon Borough where his great-great-grandfather was buried. Last week, a Lancaster County man was charged with stealing more than 100 pieces of human remains from the site. Investigators are also looking into whether the man tried to sell them on social media.
    • Certified Laughter Yoga Master Trainer Alexa Fong Drubay is helping area residents discover a lesser-known form of yoga that is intended to help with stress relief. Based in Media, Fong Drubay offers individual and group classes on laughter yoga, which focuses on poses that hone in on yogic breathing. Laughter yoga is credited to a doctor in India, who started it in 1995. “Don’t we all deserve a little bit more laughter in our life?” Fong Drubay told 6abc in a recent segment.

    đŸ« Schools Briefing

    • There are no classes tomorrow for Wallingford-Swarthmore School District, which has a teacher in-service day. The district is then closed Monday for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. See the full calendar here.
    • Rose Tree Media School District is closed Monday for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. There’s a winter talent show tomorrow evening, and next week is Springton Lake’s spirit week. See the district’s full calendar here.

    đŸœïž On our Plate

    • Terrain Cafe, which has a location in Glen Mills, is hosting a “bonus restaurant week” from Jan. 26 through Feb. 8, featuring prix fixe brunch and dinner menus for $30 and $45 per person, respectively. Both meals include a starter, half salad, and an entrĂ©e.

    🎳 Things to Do

    đŸ©° Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty: Tickets are going fast for this ballet performance of the classic fairytale, where dancers will wear glow-in-the-dark costumes. ⏰ Friday, Jan. 16, 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. đŸ’” $44-$69 📍The Media Theatre

    đŸŽ” A Proud Monkey: Hear tunes from the Dave Matthews Band tribute. ⏰ Saturday, Jan. 17, 8-11:30 p.m. đŸ’” Pay as you go 📍Shere-E-Punjab, Media

    đŸ„Ÿ Martin Luther King Jr. Day Mini-Adventure Camp: Kids in kindergarten through third grade will explore the arboretum, go hiking, play games, and make crafts. ⏰ Monday, Jan. 19, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. đŸ’” $30-$113 📍Tyler Arboretum

    🎭 Draw the Circle: This one-person show by Mashuq Mushtaq Deen explores the courage it takes to live as your authentic self. ⏰ Wednesday, Jan. 21-Sunday, Feb. 1, times vary đŸ’” $20-$35 📍Hedgerow Theatre, Rose Valley

    🏡 On the Market

    A century-old Dutch Colonial with ample outdoor living space

    The home was built in the Dutch Colonial style and sits on a hill.

    This stately and historic home is just a short walk to the heart of downtown Media. Built in 1926, the Dutch Colonial has an updated interior, including living, dining, and family rooms, as well as a kitchen with granite countertops, an island, and double wall ovens. There are three bedrooms, including a primary suite with a walk-in closet on the second floor, and a fourth ensuite bedroom on the third floor. There’s plenty of living space outside, too, thanks to a covered side porch and a slate patio with a stone fireplace and built-in pizza oven.

    See more photos of the home here.

    Price: $970,000 | Size: 3,351 SF | Acreage: 0.69

    đŸ—žïž What other Greater Media residents are reading this week:

    By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

    This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirer’s high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.

  • Get ready for an artsy new restaurant and cocktail bar | Inquirer Chester County

    Get ready for an artsy new restaurant and cocktail bar | Inquirer Chester County

    Hi, Chester County! 👋

    The group helping to revitalize Kennett Square’s Birch Street has two new projects in the works, including a restaurant and cocktail lounge. Also this week, a vacant office building in Exton has been converted to a new use, a Coatesville native is appearing on the new season of a reality TV show alongside Donna Kelce, plus why The Inquirer’s Craig LaBan says this West Chester restaurant is one to watch.

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    A new restaurant and cocktail lounge is opening in Kennett Square

    A rendering depicts the proposed exterior of Opus, a new restaurant and cocktail lounge slated to open in the summer.

    A new restaurant and cocktail lounge is coming to Kennett Square this summer. Opus will take over the two-story space at 201 Birch St., which is adjoined to 14-room boutique hotel Artelo. The restaurant space was most recently occupied by Hank’s Place while the Chadds Ford institution rebuilt its longtime home, which was flooded by Hurricane Ida in 2021.

    The 6,000-square-foot building will have a two-story terrace with outdoor dining and serve New American cuisine.

    Opus is the latest development from Square Roots Collective, which has been helping to revitalize Birch Street for the past decade, including through projects like The Creamery, the former dairy turned family-friendly beer garden. Another of its nearby projects, The Francis, is set to open this year. The boutique hotel at 205 S. Union St., also in Kennett Square, will have eight rooms in a reimagined 18th-century home.

    Read more about Opus and The Francis.

    📍 Countywide News

    • Scores of demonstrators protesting the killing of Renee Good by an ICE officer gathered across the region over the weekend, including a rally in West Chester on Sunday that drew about 1,000 attendees. (Daily Local News)
    • County officials are reviewing findings from an investigation into an error that excluded independent voters from poll books during the November election. Officials said they will develop a plan following their review so that similar errors don’t happen again. The county will present findings and its response at the Board of Elections meeting on Jan. 27 at 7 p.m.
    • PennDot is hosting two public meetings in the next week regarding plans for what it’s dubbed the U.S. 30 Eastern Project Area, which includes alternative routes for the Route 30 mainline and the Reeceville Road, Route 340, and Route 322 interchanges, as well as revised alternatives for the Norwood Road and Route 113 interchanges. The construction is part of a larger project to upgrade 14.5 miles of the Coatesville-Downingtown Bypass to reduce traffic congestion, improve safety, and accommodate future development. The first meeting will be held virtually tomorrow at 6 p.m. There’s a second in-person meeting on Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Pope John Paul II Regional Catholic Elementary School in West Brandywine Township.
    • Good news for Regional Rail riders: SEPTA last week restored 24 express trips, including on the Paoli/Thorndale line, which had previously been operating as local services.

    💡 Community News

    • Four police officers were injured last week when responding to a call on the 400 block of Main Street in Atglen Borough. The officers detained Jon Marcos Muniz, who allegedly fired a handgun into two occupied apartments and barricaded his front door. No other injuries were reported. Muniz is facing a number of felony and misdemeanor charges.
    • M. Patricia Muller was selected as chair of Kennett Township’s Board of Supervisors last week, making her the first woman in the township’s history to hold the role.
    • West Vincent Township’s Board of Supervisors voted last week to pass an ordinance increasing membership on its Open Space Review Board from five to seven members. It also added a trails subcommittee.
    • Heads up for drivers: Newark Road in West Marlborough Township will be closed Monday through Friday next week from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for tree removal. Norwood Road in East Caln Township will be operating as a single lane with flaggers next Monday through Friday for sewer line work. Peco will be doing electrical work along Happy Creek Lane and Copeland School Road in West Bradford Township as part of a $450,000 infrastructure project to improve reliability and reduce outages, including from storms. Work is scheduled to take place January through April and will impact both roads and some residential yards.
    • A vacant office building at 319 N. Pottstown Pike in Exton has been transformed into “hotel-apartments” with 24 studio and eight one-bedroom units. The group behind it plans to market The Flats On 100 to consultants and visitors of nearby employers, such as Vanguard and QVC, and sees it as a potential model for the region’s empty office buildings.
    • Also in Exton, retailer Nordstrom Rack plans to open a 30,000-square-foot shop at Main Street at Exton this fall.
    • Could popular HBO series Mare of Easttown return for a second season? Kate Winslet seems to be ready for the Delaware County-set show, created by Berwyn native Brad Ingelsby, to return, and recently indicated filming could start as early as 2027. While the award-winning actor is on board, nothing official has been announced yet.
    • Coatesville native and figure skating icon Johnny Weir made his debut on the fourth season of Peacock reality TV show The Traitors last week. Weir is joined on this season of challenge-meets-eliminations-style show — hosted by Alan Cumming at his castle in Scotland — by Donna Kelce, Tara Lipinski, and a slew of reality TV personalities. The first three episodes dropped last week. Catch up on what happened here. (Warning: Spoilers!)
    • Phoenixville residents may have recently spotted an unusual sight on phone poles: Fliers that read “Seeking: Experienced Witch to Curse My Ex.” The Inquirer’s Brooke Schultz delves into how they came to be.
    • The GameStop at 1115 West Chester Pike in West Chester shuttered last week as part of a mass closure by the gaming retailer.

    đŸ« Schools Briefing

    • Reminder for families: There are no classes Monday for Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
    • Avon Grove School District is considering adopting a new textbook, myPerspectives, from Savvas Learning Company for sixth through eighth grade English Language Arts students next school year. The public can review the textbook, which was put to the school’s education committee for consideration earlier this month, and provide feedback during a 30-day period through early February. The proposed change comes as part of the district’s regular curriculum review cycle, said Jason Kotch, assistant superintendent for teaching and learning.
    • Tredyffrin/Easttown School District has released its 2026-27 preliminary budget proposal, which includes a $14.9 million operational deficit. The district’s board and administration say they plan to close the gap through “a combination of increases in the property tax rate, expenditure reductions, or the use of existing reserves.” It will host budget workshops on March 9 and April 13, with plans to adopt the budget in June. The board will not vote on a tax rate before June 8. See the preliminary budget here. The district is also hosting a special school board meeting tomorrow at 6:30 p.m. at Conestoga High School to discuss the school board director vacancy. And from Jan. 20 to 26, there will be an open registration period for all new kindergarten and first grade students planning to start school in September.
    • Octorara Area School District is hosting a “kindergarten readiness” event tomorrow from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Octorara Primary Learning Center in Atglen for families with children eligible for kindergarten next school year.
    • West Chester Area School District student registration for the 2026-27 school year is open.

    đŸœïž On our Plate

    🎳 Things to Do

    👭 Steel Magnolias: Tickets are going fast for this adaptation of the popular 1989 film taking center stage for its monthlong run at People’s Light. ⏰ Wednesday, Jan. 14-Sunday, Feb. 15, days and times vary đŸ’” Prices vary 📍 People’s Light, Malvern

    🍔 Taste of Phoenixville: Now in its 24th year, the annual fundraiser will bring together over 20 food and drink vendors. There will also be live music and a silent auction. ⏰ Thursday, Jan. 15, 6 p.m. đŸ’” $150 📍 Franklin Commons, Phoenixville

    🌿 Winter Wonder: While Christmas may get most of the attention, Longwood Gardens’ conservatories will be filled with colorful plants throughout the remainder of winter. The gardens are open daily except Tuesdays. ⏰ Friday, Jan. 16-Sunday, March 22 đŸ’” $17-$32 for non-members, free to members 📍 Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square

    🎭 Broadway at the Colonial Theatre: Several Broadway stars, including area native Amanda Jane Cooper, who played Glinda in the North American tour of Wicked, will perform. ⏰ Sunday, Jan. 18, 7 p.m. đŸ’” $30-$65 📍 The Colonial Theatre, Phoenixville

    🏡 On the Market

    A West Chester Colonial accessed via a covered bridge

    The front of the home has a covered porch.

    Situated in a wooded stretch of East Goshen, this Colonial, along with several others in its cul-de-sac, has a unique access point: Locksley Covered Bridge, which was erected in the 1960s. The four-bedroom, two-and-half-bath home features a family room, living room, dining room, and eat-in kitchen, which has granite countertops and a wood-burning fireplace. There’s a screened-in porch off the dining room, with skylights and brick flooring, which leads to the backyard, where there’s a patio and play set.

    See more photos of the property here.

    Price: $764,000 | Size: 3,137 SF | Acreage: 1

    đŸ—žïž What other Chester County residents are reading this week:

    By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

    This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirer’s high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.

  • Where does South Jersey start anyway? | Inquirer Cherry Hill

    Where does South Jersey start anyway? | Inquirer Cherry Hill

    Hello, Cherry Hill! 👋

    It’s the great debate: Where does South Jersey start, and is there even a Central Jersey? Let us know what you think by marking South Jersey on our interactive map. Also this week, a high-end gym is opening in Ellisburg Shopping Center, plus a Tony Award-winning Broadway show currently at the Academy of Music has surprisingly local ties.

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    Where does South Jersey actually start?

    It’s a longstanding question: Where does South Jersey start? Is the dividing line the same as where Eagles fans stop and Giants fans begin? Is it based on your area code? Is there some other sign that you’ve crossed from the North to the South?

    The Inquirer is posing that very question to readers, along with one other hotly debated item: Is there such a thing as Central Jersey?

    Readers can weigh in on both and see how others responded here.

    💡 Community News

    • A high-end gym is taking over the former Buy Buy Baby space in the Ellisburg Shopping Center. Club Studio Fitness is expected to open a 30,240-square-foot gym in spring 2027. Club Studio Fitness, the boutique-style gym from parent company LA Fitness, is known for its premium amenities like cryotherapy and red-light therapy, a juice bar, stretch stations, and locker rooms, in addition to its fitness and wellness offerings. Memberships at Club Studio Fitness’ only other New Jersey location, in Edgewater, range from $189 to $249 per month.
    • In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the township is hosting two service events in the coming week. On Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m., volunteers will help with trail maintenance throughout Croft Farm. And on Monday, kids 11 to 17 can participate in a youth leadership workshop with the police department. Advanced registration is required.
    • Two Cherry Hill residents are among the 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Medal recipients, awarded by Camden County. Artist Giselle Brown and Col. Ted Gallagher, director of veterans affairs for Camden County, will be recognized alongside nine other recipients next Wednesday. Brown is a 17-year-old whose work has been recognized at the local, state, and national level, and Gallagher is a decorated 28-year military veteran who went on to work at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services before joining the county.
    • Broadway show Suffs is currently in town and has two South Jersey connections, one far less obvious than the other. The touring musical, which is at the Academy of Music through Sunday, was created by playwright, composer, and actor Shaina Taub, whose mother is a Cherry Hill native. It follows the suffrage movement and centers on South Jersey Quaker activist Alice Paul, who was born in Mount Laurel. The Inquirer’s Rosa Cartagena dives into what inspired the Tony Award-winning production.
    • Washington, D.C.-based Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies has named a new principal to its Cherry Hill office. Braxton Plummer will help grow the government relations firm’s practice throughout New Jersey and the region.
    • Park Royal Orthodontics recently opened at 921 Haddonfield Rd. at Towne Place at Garden State Park. The practice offers orthodontic care for all ages.
    • A clarification: We noted in last week’s newsletter that Appliances Outlet will be moving into the space occupied by Whole Hog Cafe and Wine Legend. Appliances Outlet will only take over part of the space, and neither of the current businesses are slated to close.

    đŸ« Schools Briefing

    đŸœïž On our Plate

    • Chick’s Deli got a shout-out from BestofNJ.com as one of the best sandwich shops in New Jersey. The website noted specialty sandwiches like the chicken cheesesteak with broccoli rabe and sharp provolone “really shine.” It also suggested trying the mushroom cheesesteak.

    🎳 Things to Do

    ♒ Napkin Wars: Battle of the Zodiac!: Represent your zodiac sign during this fun “napkin war” party, where three DJs will spin tunes. ⏰ Saturday, Jan. 17, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. đŸ’” $19.03 📍 Vera

    đŸ‘©â€âš•ïž Game Plan for Wellness: Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital’s community health expo will include wellness stations and tables, healthcare screenings, cooking and exercise demos, and more. ⏰ Sunday, Jan. 18, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. đŸ’” Free 📍 Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital

    🧁 Valentine’s Day Cupcake Decorating: Registration opens tomorrow for this event geared toward kids in sixth through 12th grade. ⏰ Sunday, Feb. 8, 2-3:30 p.m. đŸ’” Free 📍 Cherry Hill Public Library

    🏡 On the Market

    A four-bedroom Olde Springs home with an eye-catching kitchen

    The kitchen island has cabinetry which contrasts with the slate-gray cabinets throughout the rest of the space.

    Located in the Olde Springs neighborhood, this four-bedroom, three-and-a-half bathroom home blends classic and modern design elements. Its first floor features include a dining room, a multipurpose room with a tiled fireplace, a laundry and mudroom, and an open-concept kitchen and living room. The kitchen has a large island with white cabinetry that contrasts with the slate-gray cabinets throughout the rest of the space and matches the subway tile backsplash. It opens into a two-story living room. The bedrooms are upstairs, including a primary suite with a double vanity and soaking tub.

    See more photos of the home here.

    Price: $800,000 | Size: 4,053 SF | Acreage: 0.41

    đŸ—žïž What other Cherry Hill residents are reading this week:

    By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

    This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirer’s high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.

  • Meet the township’s five new commissioners | Inquirer Lower Merion

    Meet the township’s five new commissioners | Inquirer Lower Merion

    Hi, Lower Merion! 👋

    Welcome to the first full week of 2026. To kick off the year, we get to know the township’s five new commissioners, who were sworn in Monday. Also this week, a popular Manayunk bakery specializing in gluten-free breads and pastries is moving to Bryn Mawr, plus construction on The Piazza is underway.

    We want your feedback! Tell us what you think of the newsletter by taking our survey or emailing us at lowermerion@inquirer.com.

    If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here.

    Get to know Lower Merion’s five new commissioners

    Lower Merion has five new commissioners.

    Five new Lower Merion commissioners were sworn in Monday evening: Michael Daly, Charles Gregory, Christine McGuire, Craig Timberlake, and Shelby Sparrow. Each replaces a township official who chose not to seek reelection.

    The new commissioners come from across the township and have varied backgrounds, including local government, law, forensic psychology, business, and community organizing.

    With its new members now in place, the board will make some big decisions in the year ahead, including negotiating collective bargaining agreements, overseeing Main Line Health’s redevelopment of the St. Charles Borromeo Seminary property, and addressing township finances, The Inquirer’s Denali Sagner reports.

    Learn more about the new commissioners and what’s on the docket for 2026.

    A popular gluten-free bakery is moving to Bryn Mawr

    Lila Colello is bringing her popular gluten-free bakery Flakely to Bryn Mawr.

    Popular Manayunk bakery Flakely is relocating to Bryn Mawr in February, where it will take over a former hookah lounge at 1007 W. Lancaster Ave.

    Flakely is known for its gluten-free breads and pastries and is the brainchild of Lila Colello, who’s worked for the Ritz Carlton and Wolfgang Puck Catering. She came up with the business after being diagnosed with Celiac disease.

    The new location, which will be takeout only, will offer everything from fresh baguettes to browned butter chocolate chip cookies, as well as frozen take-and-bake doughs, The Inquirer’s Beatrice Forman reports.

    Read more about Flakely’s new Main Line location here.

    💡 Community News

    đŸ« Schools Briefing

    • Harriton High School is hosting its winter one act plays today through Saturday, and a number of other schools will have concerts next week. There are evening conferences at both high schools tonight and school board committee meetings Monday, in addition to an education association council meeting. See the district’s full calendar here.

    đŸœïž On our Plate

    🎳 Things to Do

    đŸŽ¶ Unforgettable Fire: Tickets are going fast for the U2 tribute band which will perform some of the Irish outfit’s best-known songs. ⏰ Friday, Jan. 9, 8 p.m. đŸ’” $33.38 📍 Ardmore Music Hall

    🍿 Paddington: See the film adaptation of the beloved children’s series on the big screen. Bryn Mawr Film Institute will have another screening on Jan. 24, plus screenings of the sequel on Jan. 17 and Jan. 31. ⏰ Saturday, Jan. 10, 11 a.m. đŸ’” $6.75-$7.75 📍 Bryn Mawr Film Institute

    đŸŒč Create Beautiful Paper Poppies: Add a little color to your winter by learning to make paper versions of these flowers. ⏰ Tuesday, Jan. 13, 6-8 p.m. đŸ’” $40 📍 Plant 4 Good

    🏡 On the Market

    A century-old stone Colonial in Merion Station

    The stone colonial was built in 1925.

    Built in 1925, this classic five-bedroom stone Colonial mixes modern amenities with classic charm. Its features include a living room with a fireplace, a family room, a dining room, and a modern kitchen with exposed wood beams and white cabinetry.

    See more photos of the property here.

    Price: $1.3M | Size: 3,110 SF | Acreage: 0.32

    đŸ—žïž What other Lower Merion residents are reading this week:

    By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

    This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirer’s high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.

  • Meet this Media biochemist-turned-artist | Inquirer Greater Media

    Meet this Media biochemist-turned-artist | Inquirer Greater Media

    Hi, Greater Media! 👋

    Welcome to the first full week of 2026. To kick off the new year, get to know a Media artist who blends folk art from her native India with scenes from the area. Also this week, the new mayors of Media and Swarthmore have been sworn in, along with county officials, including the new district attorney.

    We want your feedback! Tell us what you think of the newsletter by taking our survey or emailing us at greatermedia@inquirer.com.

    If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here.

    How a Media artist blends Indian folk art with local imagery

    Rinal Parikh poses in her Media studio with a few of her paintings.

    It’s not every day that you come across a biochemist who is also an artist, but that’s the case for Rinal Parikh.

    Born in India, Parikh has lived in the U.S. for 20 years, and from her home in Media blends several traditional styles of Indian art, drawing on observations from her own backyard.

    The 43-year-old delved into art after her son was born with health complications, stepping away from the lab to focus on him. She soon found inspiration and an artistic community, including at the Creative Living Room in Swarthmore, The Inquirer’s Denali Sagner reports.

    Today, her work, which spans the traditional Indian folk forms Warli, Madhubani, and Kalamkari, adorns her family’s home and has been exhibited throughout the region.

    Read more about what inspires Parikh’s works here.

    💡 Community News

    • This week marked a new era for a number of municipal and countywide roles, as recently elected officials took office. On Monday evening, Joi Washington was sworn in as the new mayor of Media, making her the first woman and first person of color to hold the office. And in Swarthmore, Conlen Booth was sworn in as mayor, succeeding Marty Spiegel. Booth is Swarthmore fire chief and previously worked for Crozer-Keystone Health System and its successor, Crozer Health. (The Swarthmorean)
    • Delaware County has a new district attorney. Tanner Rouse was sworn in Monday, taking over for Jack Stollsteimer. The Inquirer’s Vinny Vella spoke with Rouse about his goals, including continuing to reduce violent crime and the possibility of reciprocity agreements with his counterparts in other collar counties.
    • Also at the county level, Siddiq Kamara has been sworn in as sheriff. Just 30 years old, Kamara is the youngest sheriff in the U.S., according to the county, and the first Liberian-American to hold the office in Delco. (NBC10)
    • Pennsylvania State Police are investigating a sexual assault that was reported last month on the Chester Creek Trail in Middletown Township. A 24-year-old woman from Chester was allegedly raped shortly after midnight on Dec. 5. No additional details have been released. See the report on Page 8 here.
    • Have a Christmas tree to dispose of? Middletown Township is collecting them through Jan. 16. Trees should be placed curbside by 8 a.m. Swarthmore Borough will conduct a final round of curbside pickups next week. See your schedule here. Media will collect trees wherever you put your trash out throughout the month. And Nether Providence township is collecting trees curbside through Jan. 30.

    đŸ« Schools Briefing

    • Rose Tree Media has a school board work session tonight at 6:30 p.m. at Springton Lake Middle School. See the district’s full calendar here.
    • In Wallingford-Swarthmore, there’s a Strath Haven High School Home and School Association meeting tonight at 6:30 p.m. and parent-teacher organization meetings for Wallingford and Nether Providence Elementary Schools on Tuesday evening. See the district’s full calendar here.

    đŸœïž On our Plate

    • In case you missed it, The Inquirer’s Michael Klein reflected on the most notable restaurant openings of 2025. Among them is Maris, LoĂŻc Barnieu’s Mediterranean eatery on West State Street in Media that opened late last year. See the full list here.
    • Santucci’s Original Square Pizza, which has a location in Media, is among the best takeout pizza spots in the Philadelphia suburbs, according to The Keystone, which noted the plain pie is served with cheese on the bottom and a generous coating of garlicky sauce on top.

    🎳 Things to Do

    ❄ Snowy Songs, Stories & Sparkly Art: In this month’s Second Saturday Family Fun Series, kids ages 18 months to 5 years old can explore music, art, and stories with their caregivers. Registration is recommended. ⏰ Saturday, Jan. 10, 10:30-11:30 a.m. đŸ’” Free 📍Park Avenue Community Center, Swarthmore

    đŸŒ± Winter Gardening: Seed Starting for Pollinators: It’s never too early to start preparing for spring. Learn how and what seeds you can start sowing now. ⏰ Sunday, Jan. 11, 1-2:30 p.m. đŸ’” $21.25 for members, $25 for non-members 📍Tyler Arboretum, Media

    đŸ–Œïž January 2026 Artists Reception: Explore the latest artwork on display at the Community Arts Center, including pieces from Carolyn Kline-Coyle and Jennifer Domal. ⏰ Monday, Jan. 12, 2-4 p.m. đŸ’” Free 📍Community Arts Center, Wallingford

    🏡 On the Market

    A charming five-bedroom Colonial in Rose Valley

    The Rose Valley home spans over 3,600 square feet.

    Built in 1937, this five-bedroom Colonial in Rose Valley exudes charm thanks to a covered front porch, dormers, and exposed stone along the front façade. Some of its features include a living room that has an ornate fireplace with handmade inlays; a dining room with a large brick fireplace; an updated kitchen; and a family room with another fireplace. The primary suite has its own bathroom as well as built-in wardrobes.

    See more photos of the home here.

    Price: $975,000 | Size: 3,641 SF | Acreage: 0.58

    đŸ—žïž What other Greater Media residents are reading this week:

    By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

    This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirer’s high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.

  • A Malvern teen is launching free art classes for kids | Inquirer Chester County

    A Malvern teen is launching free art classes for kids | Inquirer Chester County

    Hi, Chester County! 👋

    Welcome to the first full week of 2026. We’re kicking off the new year with the story of a Malvern teen who’s helping kids find joy in art. Also this week, four new county officials have been sworn in, West Bradford Township’s property taxes are being slashed, plus the search is on for a new tenant at the former Iron Hill in West Chester.

    We want your feedback! Tell us what you think of the newsletter by taking our survey or emailing us at chestercounty@inquirer.com.

    If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here.

    A 15-year-old’s nonprofit looks to spread the joy of art

    Faridah Ismaila launched nonprofit A Paint-full of Promise to connect younger students with free monthly art classes.

    A Great Valley High School sophomore will soon be bringing her passion for art to young students in the district.

    Inspired by the phrase “Do what makes you happy,” Faridah Ismaila recently launched nonprofit A Paint-full of Promise to provide free monthly art classes for kindergarteners through sixth graders, The Inquirer’s Brooke Schultz reports.

    The program is slated to kick off this month with a winter wonderland-themed class. Ismaila is working with district educators to offer the workshops where students can learn new skills and express themselves.

    Read more about what inspired A Paint-full of Promise.

    📍 Countywide News

    💡 Community News

    • Erica Deuso was sworn in Monday as mayor of Downingtown, making her the first openly transgender mayor in the state.
    • A person on a trail on Warwick Furnace Road in Warwick Township was recently injured by a coyote, prompting the Chester County Health Department to look for the animal. It’s unknown if the coyote is rabid.
    • Residents of West Bradford Township will see a decrease in their property taxes this year, bucking a trend in the region. The 50% reduction is due in part to a mix of savings during the pandemic and more revenue from long-term leases.
    • The community is mourning the death of photographer, filmmaker, and Kennett Square resident Robert Caputo, who died Dec. 18 at a voluntary assisted dying center in Switzerland. Throughout his career, Mr. Caputo traveled the world, producing stories, films, and photographs for National Geographic magazine, Time, PBS, and TNT. The 76-year-old was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease last year.
    • A Malvern office building at 52 Swedesford Rd. is poised for demolition to make way for a mixed-use development with 250 apartments and retail space, including a market and cafe. (Philadelphia Business Journal)
    • The 33,000-square-foot Acme-anchored shopping center at 785 Starr St. in Phoenixville recently sold for nearly $7.4 million. The sale didn’t include Acme’s space.
    • The state’s Department of Environmental Protection is expected to evaluate surface and well water at the Bishop Tube HSCA Site in East Whiteland Township this month for contaminants such as PFAS, volatile organic compounds, and inorganics, as well as fluoride.
    • The Paoli Memorial Association in Malvern has been awarded a $325,000 grant, which will help fund construction of the Paoli-Malvern Heritage Center. The center, which will be adjacent to the Paoli Battlefield, will preserve an 1817 obelisk and offer interpretive exhibits.
    • Several Chester County communities have received funding from the state’s Green Light-Go Program aimed at improving traffic safety and mobility. Upper Uwchlan Township has been awarded over $920,000 to upgrade detection and controller equipment at Route 100 and Graphite Mine Road. West Whiteland Township is getting nearly $390,000 to upgrade multiple intersections along Route 100 and Commerce Drive. And East Whiteland Township will get almost $192,000 to modernize Lancaster Avenue and Conestoga Road.
    • Heads up for drivers: Asplundh will be pruning trees along Goshen Road between Pottstown Pike and Hillside Drive in West Chester throughout the first quarter of 2026.
    • Paoli Hospital is among Forbes Top Hospitals for 2026 and is the sole Chester County institution on the list.
    • Two new gyms are now open: CrossFit Reckoning opened this week at 199 Reeceville Rd. in Coatesville and Planet Fitness has opened at 270 Swedesford Rd. in Berwyn.
    • On Monday, Coatesville-based Presence Bank became part of Norwood Financial Corp.’s Wayne Bank after being acquired for $54.9 million. Presence has two Chester County branches, in Coatesville and Oxford.
    • Kennett Area Senior Center, the nonprofit helping older adults, took on a new name at the start of the year. It’s now known as The Gathering Place at Kennett.
    • Looking to dispose of your Christmas tree? Upper Uwchlan will collect trees curbside on Jan. 15; Spring City residents can place trees curbside daily through Jan. 30 for pickup; East Pikeland residents can place trees curbside on Wednesdays in January or drop them off at the township yard waste recycling facility; West Vincent residents can drop them off at the township building through Jan. 23; and Phoenixville residents can place them curbside with trash through Feb. 28. Trees can also be dropped off at the compost site at 18 S. 2nd Ave.
    • It’s the last chance for residents in Easttown (through Jan. 12) and Upper Uwchlan (through Jan. 15) to recycle old holiday lights.

    đŸ« Schools Briefing

    • Tredyffrin/Easttown School District is hosting its elementary new student registration window for next school year from Jan. 20-26. Learn more here.
    • West Chester Area School District has an opening on its school board following Alex Christy’s resignation ahead of his term’s expiration next December. Applications to fill the vacancy are open until noon on Jan. 21.
    • Coatesville offensive lineman Maxwell Hiller was named to Sporting News’ 2025 High School Football All-America Team. The junior is rated the top interior offensive line in his class.

    đŸœïž On our Plate

    • The search is on for someone to take over the former Iron Hill Brewery in West Chester. Over the holidays, building owner John Barry acquired the liquor license and all assets inside the space, which he said will help him “to get a better tenant in there.”
    • In case you missed it, The Inquirer’s Michael Klein reflected on the most notable restaurant openings of 2025. They include Bao Nine in Malvern, The Borough in Downingtown, Jolene’s in West Chester, L’Olivo Trattoria in Exton, The Local in Phoenixville, and Stubborn Goat Brewing in West Grove. See the full list here. The Borough also made Klein’s roundup of the best new pizza restaurants to open in the region last year.
    • As for the best things Inquirer food writers ate last year, the Caramelia at Longwood Gardens’ 1906 restaurant was up there. Paying homage to Kennett Square’s mushroom industry, the red-topped mushroom-shaped dessert features chocolate mousse with espresso and caramel flavors.

    🎳 Things to Do

    🎹 An Ancestral Journey: Moore College of Art grad Roe Murray’s works will be on display for the next few weeks. She will also participate in an artist talk on Jan. 28. ⏰ Thursday, Jan. 8-Thursday, Jan. 29, times vary đŸ’” Free 📍 Chester County Art Association West Chester Galleries

    đŸŽ¶ A Grand Night For Singing: This rendition will celebrate the wide-ranging works of Rodgers & Hammerstein with singing, dancing, and a live orchestra. ⏰ Friday, Jan. 9-Sunday, Jan. 18, select days and times đŸ’” $31.60-$36.70 📍 SALT Performing Arts, Chester Springs

    🧁 Pinkalicious the Musical: The musical adaptation of the book follows a pink-loving heroine who inadvertently turns herself into her favorite color by eating too many cupcakes. ⏰ Friday, Jan. 9-Sunday, Jan. 18, select days and times đŸ’” $21-$30 📍 Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center, West Chester

    🏡 On the Market

    An airy four-bedroom Kennett Square carriage home

    The carriage home has a two-car garage and a screened-in porch that leads to a deck.

    Located in the Villages at Northridge, this Kennett Square carriage home is just a few years old. The great room, which has a fireplace, opens to the kitchen, where there’s two-toned cabinetry, an island with a farmhouse sink, a pantry, and a dining area with a built-in beverage station complete with a bar refrigerator and ice maker. The great room also has access to the screened-in porch, which leads to the deck. There are three bedrooms upstairs, including a primary suite with a walk-in closet and a bathroom with a double sink vanity. The finished lower level walk-out has another bedroom, a full bathroom, and a living room.

    See more photos of the property here.

    Price: $975,000 | Size: 3,544 SF | Acreage: 0.06

    đŸ—žïž What other Chester County residents are reading this week:

    By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

    This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirer’s high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.

  • The story behind a colonial-era Woodcrest cemetery | Inquirer Cherry Hill

    The story behind a colonial-era Woodcrest cemetery | Inquirer Cherry Hill

    Hello, Cherry Hill! 👋

    Did you know one of South Jersey’s first colonial families is laid to rest in Woodcrest? Learn more about the cemetery tucked into a residential part of town. Also this week, a new Inquirer analysis shows how Cherry Hill voters shifted toward Democrats in the last election, plus work is still underway to update H Mart.

    We want your feedback! Tell us what you think about the newsletter by taking our survey or emailing us at cherryhill@inquirer.com.

    If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here.

    The story behind a colonial-era gravesite in Woodcrest

    The Matlack Family Cemetery is located at 535 Balsam Rd.

    The residential street of Balsam Road in Woodcrest is an unlikely spot for a gravesite, but tucked among the houses and sassafras trees, there’s a small cemetery that dates back nearly 300 years.

    The site is the final resting place for the Matlacks, one of South Jersey’s first colonial families, as well as an unknown number of servants and enslaved people.

    A township resident, curious about how the gravesite came to be, posed his question to Curious Cherry Hill. The Inquirer’s Denali Sagner set out to learn more about the family and its patriarch, who moved to New Jersey in 1677 from England as an indentured servant and ultimately began one of the largest colonial-era families in the region.

    Here’s what she uncovered.

    Have a question about town you want answered? Submit it to Curious Cherry Hill here.

    💡 Community News

    • There was a 3.9% shift among Cherry Hill voters to Democrats in 2024-25, with about 68% voting for Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill in November’s election. The Inquirer recently analyzed Sherrill’s path to victory, finding that the largest shift within Cherry Hill took place in District 10, encompassing Brookfield, where there was a 10.3% shift, followed by District 8 (9.4%), which includes Kenilworth, and District 2 (8.2%), which spans Cooper Park Village, Kingsway Village, and Waterford Park. See a map of how districts shifted.
    • Cherry Hill Township Council held its reorganization meeting on Monday night, where William Carter was reelected council president and Michele Golkow was elected vice president.
    • The new season of King of Collectibles began streaming late last month on Netflix, where Cherry Hill native Ken Goldin takes viewers inside his South Jersey auction house. One of the highlights of Season 3 is a jersey used by soccer legend Lionel Messi when he was a child. In a video by The Inquirer, Goldin gives viewers a glimpse. He also shows off some of the Philly sports gems in his possession.
    • The Eagles are heading into the NFC Wild Card playoffs as the No. 3 seed, taking on the 49ers at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday. As the team gears up for the postseason, the Road to Victory Bus Tour is stopping in town Thursday, where you can shop for gear and enter for a chance to score playoff game tickets. It’ll be at the P.J. Whelihan’s on Marlton Pike from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
    • Work is still underway to overhaul the H Mart on Route 70. The popular chain Asian grocery store closed in July for renovations, including an expansion of the second floor and the addition of an open-concept food court. The Cherry Hill location, which was expected to reopen in October, remains closed as work on the entire complex continues. (42 Freeway)
    • Some retail shakeups are happening around town. The New Balance at Tuscany Marketplace closed its doors indefinitely on Dec. 27. At the mall, plus-size women’s apparel brand Torrid is closing on Jan. 19, athleisure brand Lululemon Athletica is relocating to a larger space, and jeweler Pandora is expanding next door. And on Route 70, Appliances Outlet will be taking over the space occupied by Whole Hog Cafe and part of Wine Legend. (A View From Evesham)
    • Fox29’s Bob Kelly recently dropped by D&Q Skate, Snow, and Surf shop in Cherry Hill to chat about trending gear for those heading to the slopes. Catch the segment here starting around the 5-minute mark.

    đŸ« Schools Briefing

    • There’s a board of education meeting Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.
    • Teachers in Cherry Hill Public Schools made a median salary of $102,148 last school year, according to an NJ.com analysis. It is one of 30 districts statewide with a median salary greater than $100,000. The district’s median salary last year marked a 4.1% increase over the previous year and was nearly $20,000 higher than the statewide median.

    đŸœïž On our Plate

    🎳 Things to Do

    😂 All Laughs, No Hate: Latin comedy and culture take center stage during this comedy night. ⏰ Friday, Jan. 9, 6:30-8:30 p.m. đŸ’” $36.09 📍Vera

    đŸŒ± Winter Sowing: This workshop will teach you how to get a jump on your spring gardening. ⏰ Saturday, Jan. 10, 10 a.m.-noon đŸ’” $15 📍Camden County Environmental Center

    💡 Panoply: Test your knowledge of pop culture, sports, music, history, and more in this out-of-the-box game night. The event is 21 and older. ⏰ Saturday, Jan. 10, 7-9:45 p.m. đŸ’” $36 📍Katz JCC

    đŸ· January Wine Down Wednesday: Sip five, two-ounce pours and enjoy appetizers at this event. ⏰ Wednesday, Jan. 14, reservations available from 6 to 8 p.m. đŸ’” $25 📍Randall’s Restaurant

    🏡 On the Market

    An updated five-bedroom Woodcrest ranch

    The home has an open-concept living and dining room.

    This Woodcrest ranch was recently remodeled to give its interior and exterior a modern makeover. It features an open-concept dining and living room, a sunroom, and an eat-in kitchen with quartz countertops and a gray-and-white herringbone backsplash. It has five bedrooms and three bathrooms, including a primary suite with a walk-in closet and its own bathroom. There’s also a finished basement.

    See more photos of the property here.

    Price: $759,900 | Size: 2,592 SF | Acreage: 0.29

    đŸ—žïž What other Cherry Hill residents are reading this week:

    By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

    This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirer’s high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.

  • Property taxes are going up next year | Inquirer Lower Merion

    Property taxes are going up next year | Inquirer Lower Merion

    Hi, Lower Merion! 👋

    Township commissioners recently passed the 2026 budget, which includes a tax hike. Here’s what you need to know. And with the new year just over a week away, we’ve rounded up nearly a dozen ways to celebrate 2026 in and around town.

    This is our final Inquirer Lower Merion newsletter of 2025, but we’ll be back in your inboxes on Jan. 8. Thanks for reading and happy new year!

    If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here.

    Lower Merion Township property taxes will jump 8% in 2026

    Lower Merion officials recently approved a tax hike for 2026.

    Lower Merion residents can expect to see their property taxes go up in 2026 after the township’s board of commissioners approved an 8% increase in the upcoming budget.

    Commissioners said the increase was necessary following 13 years of stagnant tax revenue from 2011 to 2024, when there were no increases. Property taxes went up 6.5% in 2025 and commissioners acknowledged next year’s increase comes with some “sticker shock,” The Inquirer’s Denali Sagner reports.

    Still, it’s not as high as an initially proposed 9.5% hike. The township taxes will come on top of a 4% tax increase recently passed by Montgomery County officials.

    Read more about the tax increases here.

    Where to ring in the new year around town

    Ardmore cocktail bar Izzy’s will have a special menu and champagne toast to ring in the new year.

    The countdown to 2026 is on and there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the end of one year and the start of another.

    We’ve rounded up 11 celebrations in and around Lower Merion, including noontime events for kids, specialty and buffet dinners, plus concerts for kids and adults.

    Check out the events happening here.

    💡 Community News

    • Trash and recycling dates will have altered schedules due to Christmas and New Year’s Day. See how your household is impacted here. The township also released its 2026 collection schedule, which you can see here.
    • Narberth passed its 2026 budget last week, which includes a higher earned income tax. The EIT will jump from 0.75% this year to 1% next year and is aimed at improving the borough’s capital fund. The new budget also adjusts solid waste fees so that condos and apartments pay a flat $250 per living unit. Sewer fees are also set to rise from $5.25 to $6 per 1,000 gallons. See the full budget here.
    • Narberth council has also voted to make permanent the no-parking zone pilot at the intersection of Price and Essex Avenues. Signage is expected to be installed in January and February, with painting set for spring.
    • What does $390,000 get you? In Lower Merion, a budget that size can buy a two-bedroom, two-bathroom unit along Haverford’s “golden mile” of condominiums. See how that compares to neighboring areas, including Northeast Philadelphia and South Jersey.
    • Bryn Mawr Hospital is among the quietest hospitals in the region at night, according to newly released federal data. Patients from October 2023 to September 2024 reported Bryn Mawr being “always quiet” overnight 61% of the time, “usually quiet” 29% of the time, and “sometimes or never quiet” 10% of the time. See how Bryn Mawr compares to other regional hospitals.
    • Speaking of hospitals, Lankenau Medical Center made the Forbes Top Hospitals list for 2026.
    • Woman’s World Magazine recently caught up with Bryn Mawr native Kat Dennings to chat about her newest project, Shifting Gears, as well as her early roles and sitcom success.
    • A Bala Cynwyd dad launched a program in 2024 after seeing demand for Cub Scout activities on non-Sabbath days. Philadelphia Jewish Exponent recently profiled Michael Kopinsky about his inspiration and how the program quickly gained popularity among Orthodox and Sabbath-observant Jewish families.

    đŸ« Schools Briefing

    • Winter break is officially here, with students and staff returning Jan. 5. The school district’s offices will be closed Dec. 24-26 and Jan. 1-2 during the break. Lower Merion High School’s pool will be closed those same days, as well as on Dec. 31.
    • Lower Merion High School skating duo Justin and Suri Lue took home third place in the regional level of the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Nevada last month, and sixth place nationally in the intermediate division.

    đŸœïž On our Plate

    🎳 Things to Do

    đŸŽ€ Start Making Sense: Hear the seven-piece Talking Heads tribute band perform. ⏰ Friday, Dec. 26, 8 p.m. đŸ’” $33.38 📍 Ardmore Music Hall

    🐑 Meet the Menagerie: Meet some of Harriton House’s farmstead animals. There will also be hot chocolate and s’mores available for purchase. ⏰ Tuesday, Dec. 30, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. đŸ’” Free 📍 Harriton House

    🏡 On the Market

    A castle-like Merion Station home

    The home spans nearly 6,700 square feet and has a distinctive turret.

    This Merion Station property, built in 1888, is reminiscent of a castle. The home has a modern interior while paying homage to its roots by way of exposed stone walls, fireplaces, millwork, and stained glass windows. Some of its features include a curved tower, a formal dining room, and an eat-in kitchen with a large island. It also has seven bedrooms spread across the second and third floors. Outside, there’s an in-ground saltwater pool, a basketball court, multiple covered sitting areas, and a deck with a built-in kitchen.

    See more photos of the home here.

    Price: $2.196M | Size: 6,694 SF | Acreage: 0.92

    đŸ—žïž What other Lower Merion residents are reading this week:

    By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

    This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirer’s high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.

  • Local business openings and closings to know | Inquirer Chester County

    Local business openings and closings to know | Inquirer Chester County

    Hi, Chester County! 👋

    Small businesses continue to shape the county. We take a look at recent openings and closures. And with the new year just over a week away, we’ve rounded up more than a dozen ways to celebrate 2026 nearby.

    This is our final Inquirer Chester County newsletter of 2025, but we’ll be back in your inboxes on Jan. 7. Thanks for reading and happy new year!

    If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here.

    Recent small business openings and closings to know about

    West Chester saw changes to its small businesses late this year.

    The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in Chester County, with the county’s economic development council noting that it’s provided service to a number of “Main Street mom-and-pop businesses” in 2025, The Inquirer’s Brooke Schultz reports.

    Among this year’s openings: Stubborn Goat Brewing in West Grove, eateries The Local and Our Deli & Cafe, both in Phoenixville, and charcuterie board business Olive & Meadow in West Chester.

    While new businesses opened, some also closed their doors.

    Read more about the county’s small business changes here.

    18 ways to celebrate the new year

    A giant lighted mushroom will be dropped in Kennett Square on New Year’s Eve.

    The countdown to 2026 is on and there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the end of one year and the start of another.

    We’ve rounded up over a dozen celebrations throughout Chester County, including noontime events for kids, DJ parties, and the iconic mushroom drop in Kennett Square.

    Check out the events happening around Chester County here.

    📍 Countywide News

    • Fallout from a longtime Coatesville VA Medical Center chaplain’s sermon last year led to a battle over religion at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Last year, Russell “Rusty” Trubey included a reading that denounced same-sex marriage, leading some congregants to walk out and the chaplain to be temporarily pulled from his assignment. The Inquirer’s Fallon Roth delves into how the incident and its aftermath helped inspire an “Anti-Christian Bias Task Force.”

    💡 Community News

    • With the year coming to a close, area townships are adopting their 2026 operating budgets, with some notable changes. Kennett Township’s board of supervisors approved a 2.8% increase on real estate taxes. West Whiteland Township residents face a trash and recycling base fee hike from $89 to $223, as well as a per-bag fee. The township expects the average household to spend $353 annually. Refuse fees are set to rise next year in Downingtown to $360 from $240. Residents in West Vincent Township won’t see a tax increase next year. The township’s new budget, adopted last week, notably allocates nearly three times the funds for EMS services than it did this year, and over $1 million for open space preservation. In Tredyffrin Township, the 2026 real estate millage will be 2.811 mills, 0.657 for stormwater, and 0.845 for fire and EMS, for a combined millage of 4.313. That’s up slightly from 2025, when the township mill rate was 4.162.
    • Last week, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court unanimously voted to reverse a Commonwealth Court decision. The reversal allows the state’s Public Utility Commission to approve East Whiteland Township’s sale of its public sewer system to Aqua Pennsylvania.
    • Municipalities throughout the county have been awarded $2.1 million in state funding for a number of projects. Shamona Peck Park in Uwchlan Township will get a new nature playground, while Uwchlan Ambulance Corps will get funds to purchase two ambulances and four new heart monitors. Funding will also go toward Downingtown’s flood mitigation strategy, the purchase of two electric vehicles in Caln Township, and traffic signal improvements in Upper Uwchlan Township. The borough of West Chester has received a separate grant of more than $800,000 to replace an old fire truck. And parts of the Brandywine Battlefield Heritage Interpretation Area, which straddle Chester and Delaware Counties, will get three new digital kiosks and 64 interpretive wayfinding kiosks at historically significant sites.
    • In case you missed it last week, East Vincent Township’s board of supervisors scrapped a draft ordinance that would impose restrictions on data center developments. The decision comes after community pushback over a proposed data center at the Pennhurst State School and Hospital site, an application for which will now go through a months-long review process.
    • West Vincent Township will hold a Board of Supervisors meeting on Jan. 5 to consider an ordinance that would grow its Open Space Review Board from five members to seven members and create a trails subcommittee.
    • The Malvern man who brought guns to the “No Kings” protest in West Chester earlier this year pleaded guilty Thursday in federal court to possessing an unregistered firearm or explosive device. Kevin Krebs, 32, is scheduled for sentencing in March and faces a maximum of 10 years in prison.
    • Valentin Lubinski, 26, of Malvern, was sentenced last week to 20 years in prison and $28,000 in restitution for the online sexual exploitation of minor girls and child pornography offenses.
    • Margaret Curran, 40, of Honey Brook, has been charged with arson and other offenses after allegedly starting a fire at Green Meadows Rehabilitation Center in Paoli, where she was a resident. (NBC10 Philadelphia)
    • A former West Chester University men’s basketball assistant volunteer coach placed nearly 500 bets on professional and collegiate games in 2022 amounting to over $176,000, a new NCAA report found. Khalif Wyatt has been suspended from 15% of the regular season during the first season of his employment if he’s hired by any other NCAA school. He currently works in the NBA’s G League.
    • There are updates on three roadwork projects in the county. Last week, PennDot completed its more than $2.6 million safety improvement project along the High Street corridor in West Chester and West Goshen Township, which includes new traffic lights at the University Avenue and Sharpless Street intersection, as well as pedestrian countdown timers, curb extensions, high-visibility crosswalks, and roadway resurfacing nearby. The department also completed repair work to the bridge on Swan Road over Officers Run in West Sadsbury Township, which had been closed since mid-October after damage from a crash. And Pennsylvania Turnpike has selected a contractor to widen the road, including between Valley Forge Road in Tredyffrin Township past Howells Road and into East Whiteland Township. Work to add one lane in each direction is expected to begin in late January or early February and will last about four years.
    • Was 2025 the year of the Philly crime show? The Inquirer’s Stephanie Farr makes the case that it was, thanks in part to HBO series, Task, which was created by Berwyn native Brad Ingelsby. The drama has been picked up for a second season.
    • It’s become increasingly difficult to score holiday tickets for Longwood Gardens. Can’t get into the Kennett Square mainstay? We’ve rounded up other holiday displays throughout the Philadelphia area.
    • Have dead strands of holiday lights? Several townships will recycle them, including Easttown (through Jan. 12), Upper Uwchlan (through Jan. 15), and West Whiteland (through Jan. 20).
    • As for Christmas tree recycling, East Pikeland Township residents can leave them curbside on Wednesdays in January or drop them off at the township yard waste recycling facility. Spring City residents can place trees curbside daily through Jan. 30 for pickup. West Vincent Township will recycle trees at the township building from Dec. 26 through Jan. 23.
    • Looking to join a “First Day” hike on Jan. 1? French Creek State Park in Elverson and White Clay Creek Preserve in Landenberg are among the state parks with guided options.

    đŸ« Schools Briefing

    • Coatesville Area School District opened a new STEM center at Rainbow Elementary School last week. The new center was funded through a partnership between the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation and Peco.

    đŸœïž On our Plate

    🎳 Things to Do

    đŸŽ€ Dan and Dan: The acoustic duo will perform tunes at The Creamery. ⏰ Saturday, Dec. 27, 7-10 p.m. đŸ’” Free 📍 The Creamery, Kennett Square

    đŸ· Chocolate Truffle Pairing: This tasting pairs Swiss chocolates with local wines. ⏰ Sunday, Dec. 28, 1 p.m. đŸ’” $25 📍 Harvest Ridge Winery, Toughkenamon

    đŸȘ„ Brandywine School Wizard Camp: Kids ages 6 to 15 can spend the day making a wand, learning to cast spells, and playing quadball. ⏰ Tuesday, Dec. 30, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. đŸ’” $107 📍 West Chester Municipal Building

    🏡 On the Market

    A five-bedroom home with a pool near Radnor Hunt

    The home, which sits on 4.2 acres, has ample privacy.

    Situated across from Radnor Hunt and on 4.2 acres, this sprawling stone and stucco Malvern estate has ample privacy. The five-bedroom, four-and-a-half bathroom gated home has a two-story foyer, a sunken living room with a fireplace, a formal dining room, an office with vaulted ceilings, a two-story family room with a stone fireplace, and an eat-in kitchen with high-end appliances. The first-floor primary suite has its own fireplace and deck access, as well as dual walk-in closets and a jetted tub. Other features include a finished walk-out basement, a screened-in porch, and a pool.

    See more photos of the property here.

    Price: $1.975M | Size: 6,278 SF | Acreage: 4.2

    đŸ—žïž What other Chester County residents are reading this week:

    By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

    This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirer’s high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.