Business – Mainline Media News https://www.mainlinemedianews.com Main Line PA News, Sports, Weather, Things to Do Sat, 22 Jun 2024 07:15:21 +0000 en-US hourly 30 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.4 https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/MainLineMediaNews-siteicon.png?w=16 Business – Mainline Media News https://www.mainlinemedianews.com 32 32 196021895 New two-hour parking zone regulations in Narberth begin July 1 https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/2024/06/22/new-two-hour-parking-zone-regulations-in-narberth-begin-july-1/ Sat, 22 Jun 2024 07:15:21 +0000 https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/?p=369247 NARBERTH – Parking changes are coming to Narberth starting next month.

Beginning July 1, changes to the borough’s residential two-hour parking permitting system will be in full effect. The borough will also be migrating to an all-digital parking permitting system, so parking stickers will no longer be needed.

Narberth officials have also divided the borough into three parking neighborhoods to allow flexibility for those eligible for parking permits.

The North zone includes Narbrook Park and areas north of Stuart, Woodbine, and Iona avenues. It then runs along Montgomery Avenue to North Wynnewood Avenue.

The central zone runs along Windsor to Conway and then along Stuart and Woodbine avenues to Iona and Montgomery. It ends at Haverford Road.

The south zone includes the borough south of the SEPTA R5 line and the commercial area south of Haverford Avenue to the borough’s border with Lower Merion at Narberth Avenue.

Residents living along a street identified as a restricted parking zone can park anywhere within each zone. Permits will no longer be assigned to specific streets.

As an example, a vehicle permitted to park within the Central Neighborhood will be allowed to park anywhere within the Central Neighborhood.

No new restricted parking areas have been added to the borough’s streets. The changes to the residential restricted parking do not apply to those NOT located along a restricted parking area or streets with parking meters.

While the changes will go into effect on July 1, 2024, the borough is encouraging residents along two-hour zones to register for a permit today. All residents who currently have a parking sticker will be required to register.

Please follow the link below for a complete summary of the changes and how to register for a permit today!

www.narberthpa.gov/services/parking/parking-permits-visitor-registrations.

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369247 2024-06-22T03:15:21+00:00 2024-06-22T03:15:21+00:00
Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers opening early 2025 in former Bertucci’s location in Montgomeryville https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/2024/06/19/raising-canes-chicken-fingers-opening-early-2025-in-former-bertuccis-location/ Wed, 19 Jun 2024 16:47:48 +0000 https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/?p=369213&preview=true&preview_id=369213 Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers is raising competition with Chick-fil-A in Montgomeryville come 2025.

The Louisiana-born chicken fingers franchise is in process of demolishing and clearing the site of the former Bertucci’s at 860 Bethlehem Pike, also accessible via Montgomery Mall’s loop thoroughfare. There will be no access to the property from Bethlehem Pike.

“We are excited to bring our ONE LOVE – craveable chicken finger meals – to Montgomeryville,” said Hannah Henderson, of Raising Cane’s. “We expect to begin construction in late July and aim to open our doors in early 2025.”

Henderson said the Southern restaurant chain selected the Northeastern United States for expansion.

“We selected the trade area based on sales potential and strong retail, as we continue to building Raising Cane’s in the Philadelphia market,” she said.

Montgomery Township Supervisors approved a preliminary/final land development application in October 2023 in a 4-0 vote.

At that meeting, attorney Amee Farrell, representing Raising Cane’s Restaurant LLC, proposed demolition of the existing building and constructing a new 2,913-square-foot restaurant, including a 1,098-square-foot covered outdoor seating area.

Raising Cane’s will also feature a double lane drive-through and parking.

The parcel is a 59,446-square-foot lease area at the 105.6-acre mall property, according to Farrell.

The development will eliminate one driveway access from the mall’s ring road; there will be modifications to the other two driveways, said Farrell.

Township planning commissioners recommended the board grant approval for the project in October.

Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers menu features chicken fingers and fries combo meals, three-chicken-finger sandwiches, Texas toast, and cole slaw.

At present, it features Ice-T’s iced tea.

Raising Cane’s opened eight restaurants worldwide in April, including Jeddah and Riyadh in Saudi Arabia and one in Deptford, N.J.

In May, the company opened five more restaurants, including in Pleasant Hills, Pa.

Recently, Raising Cane’s announced it was opening its first store in Montgomery County in Willow Grove. Other upcoming restaurants in the region include Hamilton Boulevard in Lower Macungie Township, and Cottman and Roosevelt in Philadelphia. The closest Raising Cane’s to the North Penn area is in Feasterville/Trevose.

This article appears courtesy of a content-sharing agreement between North Penn Now and The Reporter. To read more stories like this, visit www.NorthPennNow.com.

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369213 2024-06-19T12:47:48+00:00 2024-06-20T12:23:20+00:00
Netflix House project moving forward in King of Prussia https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/2024/06/18/netflix-house-project-moving-forward-in-king-of-prussia/ Tue, 18 Jun 2024 21:30:14 +0000 https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/?p=369153&preview=true&preview_id=369153 A Netflix House attraction at the King of Prussia Mall is officially underway.

The streaming company announced Tuesday that King of Prussia is one of two Netflix House locations expected to open in 2025. The second is in Dallas, Texas.

At the King of Prussia Mall, the Netflix House fan fever dream will be a two-level venue comprised of about 120,000 square feet in the former Lord & Taylor store.

The experiential Netflix House concept builds on the Netflix live experiences for “Bridgerton,” “Money Heist,” “Stranger Things,” “Squid Game” and “Netflix Bites,” according to a press release.

“We’ve launched more than 50 experiences in 25 cities, and Netflix House represents the next generation of our distinctive offerings. The venues will bring our beloved stories to life in new, ever-changing and unexpected ways,” Marian Lee, Netflix’s chief marketing officer, said in a statement.

The venue will let fans experience their favorite shows and movies in real life through rotating immersive games, exclusive merchandise and restaurants with food options inspired by Netflix shows, according to information on the Netflix House website.

Netflix officials said King of Prussia was chosen as one of the first locations for the new entertainment venues because it is one of the most iconic shopping destinations in the nation and among the top five largest malls in America.

In an emailed response to questions, Netflix said it’s a perfect location because of its high foot traffic, diverse mix of stores and proximity to Philadelphia and other cities.

Mike Bowman, president and CEO of the Valley Forge Tourism and Convention Board said it is always encouraging to have large, high-profile brands choose King of Prussia and Montgomery County.

“The addition only adds to the already incredible experience at the mall and in King of Prussia, not to mention enhances our ability to keep attracting visitors to our area with such a long list of entertaining things to do, especially leading up to the country’s semiquincentennial in 2026, and the anticipated increase in visitation to this area then. This is beyond great for Valley Forge and Montco,” he said in a statement.

Eric Goldstein, president & CEO, King of Prussia District said he is pleased Netflix chose King of Prussia for one of its first brick and mortar locations.

“Netflix adds to the growing entertainment offerings in KOP that are in very high demand. We fully anticipate that the project will be a huge success,” he said in a statement.

“Netflix House will join a thriving and ever-growing community of entertainment venues, diverse dining options, and of course, world-class shopping,” Rachel Ammon, marketing and communications director, King of Prussia District said in a statement.

In addition to the immersive experiences, visitors will be treated to some eye-popping sculptures and a mural mash-up of characters from their favorite Netflix titles, the release stated.

 

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369153 2024-06-18T17:30:14+00:00 2024-06-18T17:30:23+00:00
Historic Pughtown Agway has changed hands https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/2024/06/17/historic-pughtown-agway-has-changed-hands/ Mon, 17 Jun 2024 10:00:28 +0000 https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/?p=368983&preview=true&preview_id=368983 SOUTH COVENTRY — It’s the start of a new era for the historic Pughtown Agway in Chester County.

The business, which has a more than 100-year history in South Coventry Township, changed ownership at the beginning of April.

However, its legacy as a community store serving the community continues due to the commitment of long-time co-owner Anna Magazzeni.

Anna and her husband Aldo Magazzeni bought the property in 1987 and have owned and operated the Pughtown Agway since 1988, with Anna taking the lead on day-to-day operations since 1993.

This photo shows the oldest section of the Pughtown Agway, which has been serving the community for more than 100 years. (Donna Rovins - MediaNews Group)
This photo shows the oldest section of the Pughtown Agway, which has been serving the community for more than 100 years. (Donna Rovins – MediaNews Group)

At the beginning of April, the business was sold to Gary Hoover, a lifelong Chester County farmer and owner of Hougar Farms, which supplies hay and feed to area farmers.

Anna Magazzeni’s personal history with the property goes back to when she was growing up in the area — on a farm about a mile away — visiting the business with her father from the time she was about 6 years old.

When the couple started to talk about retiring and what would come next, they talked about selling.

“Aldo and I had been talking about getting out for a while, just because we have so many demands up at our (Perkiomenville) farm, and it was just time to pass it on,” said Anna Magazzeni.

The couple has been approached about selling over the years, but Aldo said Anna was clear that she wouldn’t sell to a developer.

“Anna said ‘if the right person comes along and wants to keep it as a farm store, then I’ll know I am ready,’ and low and behold this family came to us,” he said.

Anna Magazzeni, left with Gary Hoover, right, the new owner of the Pughtown Agway in South Coventry Township. Hoover purchased the historic property in April from Magazzeni and her husband Aldo, who had owned and operated the store and garden center since 1987. (Donna Rovins - MediaNewsGroup)
Anna Magazzeni, left with Gary Hoover, right, the new owner of the Pughtown Agway in South Coventry Township. Hoover purchased the historic property in April from Magazzeni and her husband Aldo, who had owned and operated the store and garden center since 1987. (Donna Rovins – MediaNewsGroup)

The right person, according to the couple was Hoover. He first paid the Magazzenis a visit in April 2023, and according to Aldo Magazzeni, they all hit it off right from the start. Once the sale was finalized, Anna stayed on to help with the transition — first working full-time, then a couple of days a week, before winding up her time at the business.

“I am so thrilled it will continue as a feed store — a community store. I knew everybody that walked in that door and to keep it in that tradition is going to be wonderful, I think,” she said.

Under New Ownership

Hoover is the third generation of his family to farm. Hougar Farms has two locations — in Coatesville and in Gilbertsville — and is known for its hay, seed and animal feed. Pughtown Agway is located halfway between the two farms, so Hoover said it made sense to purchase the property.

“We had already been selling stuff to farms in the area,” he said, adding that the sale seemed to be the next step. “It was kind of a natural fit. We started talking. We thought it would be a good fit because it’s more of a retail presence.”

With the storefront, Hoover said that in addition to the feed, he can offer a full range of items — things like brooms, vitamin supplements for animals, and treats for animals. “It’s more of a one-stop shop.”

Purchasing the business has expanded the reach in terms of what Hougar Farms can offer, he added. It has become the retail center for the farms.

“We’re trying to make it easy for our customers,” Hoover said, adding that two strong points of Hougar Farms are customer service and knowledge.

“We are strong on the knowledge — able to set you up for success. … We want to help customers be successful,” he added.

The Pughtown Agway in South Coventry Township, Chester County is now the retail center for Hougar Farms, after being purchased by Gary Hoover in April. (Donna Rovins - MediaNews Group)
The Pughtown Agway in South Coventry Township, Chester County is now the retail center for Hougar Farms, after being purchased by Gary Hoover in April. (Donna Rovins – MediaNews Group)

Hoover said he wanted to keep the old-fashioned feel to the business — while providing modern convenience and service.

He said he looks to make more hay available at the Agway and is increasing the feed for sale from three lines to seven. In addition, he plans to bring in additional things — like pasture seeds — that the store hasn’t carried.

Making the Transition

Hoover brought his manager from the Gilbertsville location — Kenny Casey — to be the day-to-day manager at the Pughtown Agway. He added that most of the part-time employees have been brought on as full-time employees. He has also hired two additional employees for the garden center.

The transition, he said, has gone well.

And — he appreciates Anna Magazzeni’s involvement throughout the transition.

“If you step back and look at it — it’s kind of ironic or meant to be. What are the odds of finding someone passionate about farming and wanting to keep it alive and has the knowledge,” he said. “She carried the torch for a long time.”

A Lifetime of Involvement

Anna Magazzeni’s history with the business goes back to the late 1950s.

“My dad and I used to go in there. We had sheep, chickens and horses when I was a kid growing up and my dad would take me to the Agway for our feed,” she said. When she and Aldo got married in 1973, they moved onto her family farm where they had some animals, and continued shopping at the Agway.

“It has been my lifelong place of first shopping and then working.”

History

The historic property has been in operation since the 1880s, originally a functioning mill. It then began supplying animal feed in the early 1900s and served as a farm bureau. Later, it became an Agway store.

In 1987, the Magazzenis bought the property from long-time owners Jack and Dorothy Sharp, while Agway continued to own the business. A year later, the couple bought the franchise from Agway, and hired managers to run the business. After buying a vacant piece of land next door in 1990, they began to develop the garden center.

The garden center at Pughtown Agway in South Coventry Township Chester County. (Donna Rovins - MediaNews Group)
The garden center at Pughtown Agway in South Coventry Township Chester County. (Donna Rovins – MediaNews Group)

Anna Magazzeni said she never really thought of working at the store until “years” after their daughter Elizabeth was born in 1977.

In about 1993, Anna became more involved and decided she would manage the business.

The rest, they say, is history.

  • Anna Magazzeni, right, former owner of the Pughtown Agway in...

    Anna Magazzeni, right, former owner of the Pughtown Agway in South Coventry Township with from left to right, Julie Martin; Kenny Casey, manager; and new owner Gary Hoover of Hougar Farms. (Donna Rovins – MediaNews Group)

  • Gary Hoover, right, the new owner of the Pughtown Agway...

    Gary Hoover, right, the new owner of the Pughtown Agway in South Coventry Township, with former owner Anna Magazzeni. (Donna Rovins – MediaNews Group)

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Anna Magazzeni plans to spend time on her own farm and spend more time with her granddaughters Ella,11 and Ava, 9. Her daughter Elizabeth Rinehart is an art therapist, and didn’t want to take over the business, Aldo Magazzeni said. However, her husband, Mark Rinehart, works for the company.

As Hoover begins to write the next chapter of the historic property, he wants people to know he is passionate about agriculture and the future of farming.

“I would love to help others succeed in that pursuit. With the community store here, I am hoping it will be a place of knowledge and good quality products to help others,” he said, adding he looks forward to growing the business.

Pughtown Agway is located at 819 Pughtown Road in South Coventry Township. For information visit Pughtown Agway’s Facebook page.

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368983 2024-06-17T06:00:28+00:00 2024-06-17T06:01:00+00:00
General Counsel Brian Corbett retires after three decades with Main Line Health https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/2024/06/14/general-counsel-brian-corbett-retires-after-three-decades-with-main-line-health/ Fri, 14 Jun 2024 12:37:46 +0000 https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/?p=368859 LOWER MERION — Brian Corbett, Esq., senior vice president and general counsel, who has served as legal counsel to Main Line Health for more than 30 years, is retiring November 1.

Corbett will be succeeded by his longtime colleague Della Payne, Esq., who currently serves as Vice President and Deputy General Counsel. Payne has been with Main Line Health’s Legal Department since 2003. Her appointment will be effective September 1, allowing for a 60-day formal transition period.

Corbett leaves behind an impressive legacy of strategic guidance and thoughtful direction. He is highly regarded by his colleagues as a trusted adviser, working behind the scenes to offer creative solutions to problems. He has offered legal advice and approaches to matters that advance the strategic interests of Main Line Health while remaining mindful of how decisions and solutions impact employees, patients and the community.

Corbett first joined Main Line Health in 1994 as Associate General Counsel after a successful 10-year career as a transactional and regulatory health care lawyer. He progressed to Vice President and then Senior Vice President and General Counsel in 2001.

“Brian has left a permanent mark on Main Line Health that will be impactful for generations to come,” said Jack Lynch, FACHE, President and CEO. “And I know that I can speak for his executive colleagues and the system Board of Governors when I say Brian has been an incredible asset to the System.”

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368859 2024-06-14T08:37:46+00:00 2024-06-17T13:21:20+00:00
Looming expansion of Montgomery County chemical plant near school worries residents https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/2024/06/13/looming-expansion-of-limerick-township-chemical-plant-near-school-worries-residents/ Thu, 13 Jun 2024 19:43:24 +0000 https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/?p=368832&preview=true&preview_id=368832 LIMERICK — A company off Airport Road has applied for a zoning special exception to allow it to expand and produce a chemical used in pools and road salt, which has some nearby residents worried about the impacts it could have on them and the elementary school located within a mile of the facility.

The company is called Buckman Enterprises LLC and, according to the application it filed with the township, it currently manufactures pool chemicals and stores ski equipment.

According to the company website, Buckman’s Inc. is “one of the largest ice melt suppliers and ice melt distributors on the East Coast, shipping to over 38 U.S. states and Canada.” The site also notes: “We are a top supplier and distributor of ice melt products such as bagged and bulk rock salt, magnesium chloride (flake and pellets), as well as calcium chloride (flake and pellets).”

Additionally, Buckman’s is “a top supplier and distributor of water treatment chemicals such as sodium hypochlorite, hydrochloric acid (muriatic acid), soda ash, sodium thiosulfate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium chloride, diatomaceous earth (DE), hydrogen peroxide, and sodium hydroxide (caustic soda)….”

According to the application filed on April 11, the company is seeking a special exception to allow for “bulk storage of hazardous chemicals or substances.”

The company “currently operates a hypochlorite processing plant on the property. To increase production and storage capacity and improve efficiency,” the company seeks to construct “a second 54,400-square-foot hypochlorite manufacturing plant, a 30,000-square-foot storage area and a 10,000-square-foot building for the storage of salt.”

Hypochlorite is a chemical name for bleach and bleach-related substances.

The application also notes that “the proposed use involves the bulk storage or bulk manufacturing of highly hazardous chemicals,” adding it will comply with all of the requirements of the zoning ordinance. The 72-acre site at 105 Airport Road where this is proposed to be built is in Limerick’s “office/limited industrial” zone.

The zoning hearing on the project was held on May 22 and the next zoning board meeting is scheduled for June 26 at 6:30 p.m.

This proposal is concerning some of the 82 residents of the area officially notified about the proposal due to their proximity, and they have brought their concerns to both the Limerick Township Supervisors and to the Spring-Ford Area School Board.

At the May 28 school board meeting, Bayberry Drive resident Debbie Cancro said “I wanted to let the board know of the community’s concerns and that Limerick Township, we feel, is not protecting the children or the residents from potential harm.”

Heather Glen resident Debbie Cancro addresses the Spring-Ford School Board about her concerns regarding a proposed expansion of a chemical manufacturing facility on Airport Road. (Image via Spring-Ford School District)
Heather Glen resident Debbie Cancro addresses the Spring-Ford School Board about her concerns regarding a proposed expansion of a chemical manufacturing facility on Airport Road. (Image via Spring-Ford School District)

Beth Studt, also a resident of Bayberry Drive, told the school board that at the May 22 zoning hearing “there were no experts, no EPA, no studies presented about how this could affect our kids.”

Ted Studt said “as someone being trained in public health, I’m really concerned about information available to the public and accessibility, and the way this is currently being processed by Buckman’s LLC and the zoning board, it is not accessible to the public, to residents or to parents.”

School Board President Erica Hermans said “this is the first time that I am hearing about it and yeah, personally I do find it concerning. It wouldn’t be the first time that Limerick Township has gone forward with something — we have a vape shop next to our high school.”

Some of the same residents addressed those same concerns to the Limerick Township Supervisors at the June 4 meeting, and were told the matter currently rests with the zoning board, which is independent of the supervisors. Township officials said they would get the residents the information they need.

The supervisors do not get involved in such issues until the land development process, when the site plan has been reviewed by the planning commission but after the question of use has already been decided by the zoning board.

The may decision may be announced soon.

David Allebach, attorney for Buckman’s, replied to a query from MediaNews Group by writing, “the application for a special exception was heard by the zoning hearing board on May 22, the record was closed, and a decision is expected on June 26. Although several residents expressed some concern about the operation, no one actually entered their appearance and provided evidence that the proposal did not meet the standards for the granting of the special exception. There is already a manufacturing plant on the property which received prior approval by the zoning hearing board based on the same criteria being considered for the current application. The current plant has been operating since approximately 2010 without any incidents or violations.”

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368832 2024-06-13T15:43:24+00:00 2024-06-14T20:12:21+00:00
Citadel presents Heart of Learning Awards to 3 grand prize winners https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/2024/06/13/citadel-presents-heart-of-learning-awards-to-3-grand-prize-winners-2/ Thu, 13 Jun 2024 10:00:43 +0000 https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/?p=368819&preview=true&preview_id=368819 Citadel Credit Union recently announced the three grand prize winners in its annual Heart of Learning Awards program — one from Chester County, one from Delaware County and one from Philadelphia. The awards recognize local teachers for going above and beyond and truly “building strength in education.”

The three grand prize winners were among 35 teachers named as finalists for this year’s awards — selected from nominated teachers from across the Greater Philadelphia region, including Berks, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lancaster, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties.

The Citadel Heart of Learning Awards, established in 2001, honor exceptional teachers who inspire their students and make a significant impact on their communities. Each year, students, parents, and colleagues nominate thousands of teachers, with a select group of winners chosen based on their dedication, innovation, and commitment to education.

Since the Heart of Learning Awards program was launched, the company has recognized more than 400 area teachers, chosen from among thousands of nominees. More than $500,000 in grants have been awarded, enabling the teachers to enhance their classrooms with new resources aimed at fostering educational excellence, according to a press release.

One grand prize was presented in each award category this year — elementary, middle and high school.

The 2024 Heart of Learning grand prize winners are:

• Elizabeth Pandosh, kindergarten teacher, Kings Highway Elementary School, West Caln Township, Chester County

• Travis Lick, math teacher, G.W. Carver Middle School of Engineering and Science, Philadelphia

• Chassidy King, marketing teacher, Chester High School, Delaware County

Pandosh, Lick and King each received a prize of $10,000 — $5,000 for them and $5,000 for their schools. The other teachers who were finalists were presented with $1,000 to spend in their classrooms, as well as gift cards and prizes.

Each winner also received the Glass Heart Award. This year’s prizes totaled $60,000 in grants and prizes.

“We are immensely proud of the Citadel Heart of Learning Awards and the incredible educators it celebrates,” Bill Brown, president and CEO of Citadel Credit Union, said in a statement. “Reaching the half-million-dollar mark in donations underscores our long-term commitment to supporting teachers who are shaping the future through their passion and dedication.

“These teachers not only educate but also inspire and uplift their students, often going above and beyond their call of duty. It is our honor to recognize their extraordinary efforts and provide them with the resources they need to continue their invaluable work.”

Chassidy King (Photo Courtesy Citadel Credit Union)
Chassidy King (Photo Courtesy Citadel Credit Union)

King was nominated for the Citadel Heart of Learning Award for her exceptional dedication. In one of Pennsylvania’s lowest-performing districts, she initiated Clipper’s Closet for free hygiene products and started an after-school girls’ group, according to the release. She teaches financial literacy, marketing, and more, and serves as senior class and DECA Advisor.

Travis Lick (Photo Courtesy Citadel Credit Union)
Travis Lick (Photo Courtesy Citadel Credit Union)

Lick has significantly contributed to the academic success of 7th-grade math and 8th-grade algebra students. Under his guidance, STAR growth scores improved from 43% to 63% at or above grade level, with a nearly 60-point average increase, marking one year of academic growth, according to the release. This achievement places his students at the top of their Learning Network.

Elizabeth Pandosh (Photo Courtesy Citadel Credit Union)
Elizabeth Pandosh (Photo Courtesy Citadel Credit Union)

Pandosh is a dedicated teacher at Kings Highway who goes above and beyond to make families and students feel welcome in the Coatesville community, according to the release. She engages with every family and creates a close-knit classroom environment. As a teacher of reading, math, and science, she finds ways to engage and challenge each student, including those who already have advanced skills.

Citadel coordinated with each of this year’s winning teachers’ schools to coordinate a surprise presentation of their awards. The announcement of the grand prize winners was held until all the winning teachers had been notified and presented with their awards, according to an emailed response to questions.

Citadel also coordinated with the Chester County Intermediate Unit — which co-founded the program with Citadel 23 years ago — to recognize six additional district-level winners from Chester County who received the Glass Heart Award and a surprise ceremony from the CCIU.

Originally focused on Chester County teachers, the program was expanded several years ago to include the full Greater Philadelphia region.

Among the other finalists were one teacher from Bucks, one teacher from Berks, 17 teachers from Chester, two teachers from Delaware, three teachers from Lancaster, four teachers from Montgomery and two teachers from Philadelphia counties.

To see the full list of finalists, visit https://www.citadelbanking.com/giving-back/citadel-heart-of-learning

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368819 2024-06-13T06:00:43+00:00 2024-06-13T06:01:07+00:00
Startup partners with Berks LaunchBox to offer pregnancy and postpartum services https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/2024/06/11/startup-partners-with-berks-launchbox-to-offer-pregnancy-and-postpartum-services/ Tue, 11 Jun 2024 10:00:35 +0000 https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/?p=368722&preview=true&preview_id=368722 For many women, the weeks after pregnancy, or the “fourth trimester,” can be an especially vulnerable time, physically and emotionally.

Talonda Rogers knows firsthand what it’s like to deal with postpartum health issues, and her goal is to ensure women in similar positions receive the right care at the right time.

To that end, Rogers teamed up Penn State’s Berks LaunchBox to create The Fourth Trimester MAHMEE — a nonprofit startup that advocates for pregnant and postpartum women with the help of support services. MAHMEE is an acronym for — Maternal Advocates Helping Magnify Education & Empowerment.

Berks LaunchBox, located in the Goggleworks Center for the Arts in Reading, is an innovation hub that connects local early-stage entrepreneurs to the support, resources, and facilities that they need to build businesses.

Working alongside Berks LaunchBox staff, Rogers created a prototype product and developed a website showcasing Fourth Trimester MAHMEE’s services, including physical and mental health assessments, yoga and exercise classes, maternal education, and “MAHMEE Mood Rooms” for relaxation.

Rogers’ journey toward advocacy began 23 years ago, when she was expecting her first child.

She suddenly began experiencing blurred vision, excessive thirst and decreased fetal movement, Rogers said in a press release from Penn State Berks.

Concerned, Rogers told her doctors, but her worries were dismissed.

Her son, Brandon, was stillborn, and Rogers faced further complications from a C-section that left her with paralyzed lungs and intestinal muscles, and a near diabetic coma.

That trauma led Rogers to pursue a career in nursing.

Rogers earned her licensed practical nursing certification, then associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing, the release said.

After working as a bedside nurse for 11 years, she switched to working as a nurse educator.

As a teacher, Rogers came face to face with statistics outlining the mortality rates disproportionately affecting Black women in childbirth compared to other groups in the United States.

“It’s concerning to note that Black and Indigenous People of Color are experiencing a three- to four-times higher mortality rate than others in the United States, and this gap is growing rapidly,” Rogers said in the release. “The high number of maternal deaths during the postpartum period highlights the historical neglect of postpartum care. What’s even more distressing is that 84% of these deaths could have been prevented. This emphasizes the critical need for widespread systemic changes.”

Learning those grim statistics motivated Rogers to start The Fourth Trimester MAHMEE.

Working with Berks LaunchBox

Rogers was referred to Berks LaunchBox in 2021, where she worked with Michelle Hnath, LaunchBox coordinator and entrepreneurial adviser, to undertake LaunchBox’s Idea TestLab accelerator program, which offers a six-week customer discovery course to prove an idea, culminating in a final pitch event.

Rogers took first place in the pitch event and earned $1,500 in funding.

She then teamed up with Berks LaunchBox’s Makerspace engineer, Jim Hong, to create a prototype product — a talking stuffed animal, designed to empower women to advocate for themselves during and after pregnancy.

“(The stuffed animal) is designed to provide comfort and important health information to expecting and new mothers,” Rogers said in the release. “This new product aims to help women ask their health care providers important questions when they experience symptoms. It also aims to offer support for those facing postpartum mental health challenges.

She said Hong played a crucial role in finalizing the design and functionality of her prototype.

“When the animal’s paws, ears, belly and heart are pressed, it delivers audio information to support and uplift women during this significant phase of their lives,” Rogers said.

Rogers also worked with LaunchBox to create a company brochure and website.

“Embarking on my journey with the Berks LaunchBox was transformative,” Rogers said in the release. “I have been supported in crafting a compelling pitch, building a great website, creating a professional brochure and, with the help of the LaunchBox’s Jim Hong, building my first fully working electronic prototype. Their hands-on support from pitch rehearsals to website development not only nurtured my business, but also connected me with a vibrant community of entrepreneurs, opening doors I never imagined.”

Since starting with Berks LaunchBox, Rogers has also received a $3,000 I-corps mini-grant and two $500 “Grow Your Startup” grants, which provide funding support for entrepreneurs engaged in Berks LaunchBox programs.

Fourth Trimester MAHMEE

According to the website, Fourth Trimester MAHMEE offers a suite of services for women in Berks and Chester counties, which can be requested via a link and submission form.

The process starts when Fourth Trimester MAHMEE receives a referral from the family, or a health care provider.

The mom is then visited within two weeks of postpartum to asses her and the baby’s progress. A mental and physical assessment is performed, and the mom receives access to education, other services, personal care supplies, and referrals as needed.

For the assessment, the company acts as a liaison between patients and doctors to provide a comprehensive physical and mental health checkup before a 6-week postpartum follow-up, to proactively address concerning signs and symptoms in a timely manner, according to the website.

Fourth Trimester MAHMEE also offers therapeutic massages and yoga and low impact exercise classes, which aim to stave off postpartum and pregnancy related health issues by reducing stress and improving blood pressure regulation and circulation.

Other services include child loss support groups, one-on-one mental health support, lactation support, a rentable space for baby showers, and classes on family planning, nutrition, CPR, and maternal warning signs, as well as partnerships with childcare providers, healthcare facilities, community organizations, schools, individuals, businesses, and other non-profits, according to the website.

The company’s partners include Maternal and Child Health Consortium, Black Women of Chester County in Action, Alvernia University, Breadth of Hope, The Fund for Women and Girls, and Taylormade Behavioral Health Solutions.

For more information, visit www.4tmahmee.org.

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368722 2024-06-11T06:00:35+00:00 2024-06-11T06:00:52+00:00
BUILDING INSIGHTS: Why government regulations prolong the land development process https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/2024/06/11/building-insights-why-government-regulations-prolong-the-land-development-process/ Tue, 11 Jun 2024 09:15:47 +0000 https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/?p=368718&preview=true&preview_id=368718 Government regulations play a crucial role in ensuring public safety, environmental protection, and community development and they can also significantly prolong the land development process. Land development is a very complex and time-consuming process involving various stages from planning and zoning to construction and permitting.

A major concern in various construction sectors is that government regulations are negatively impacting strategically planned smart development. The regulations are driving up the costs of building residential, commercial and industrial projects and causing some worthwhile and needed smart positive economic development to be canceled or paused. This could result in developers investing in projects in another state that is more friendly to smart development.

Here are five of the major reasons why government regulations prolong the land development process.

Complex Permitting Requirements

The intricate permitting requirements imposed by various government agencies are one of the primary reasons for the lengthy land development process. Numerous permits must be obtained from different regulatory bodies, including environmental agencies, health departments, and building departments. Each permit application requires extensive documentation and may take weeks or even months to be processed. And with some permit processes, it may take multiple years to secure a permit.

Lengthy Review Processes

The permit review processes also extend the land development timeline. Government agencies often have multiple layers of review within their organizations or even between different agencies. For example, a large-scale commercial project may require approval from multiple municipal planning commissions, boards of supervisors and commissioners, state transportation and environmental agencies, and federal regulatory bodies like the Army Corps of Engineers.

Compliance with Environmental Regulations

Compliance with environmental regulations is essential for any land development project, but can add considerable time to the process. Developers must adhere to federal and state environmental laws such as the Clean Water Act and Endangered Species Act. This may involve conducting extensive surveys for endangered species or implementing measures to mitigate potential impacts on wetlands or water quality begin.

Public Participation

Public involvement is essential for transparency and community engagement. Public participation in the land development process is another factor contributing to increasing the timeline. Many governments require developers to hold public hearings or provide opportunities for public comment during various stages of a project. This activity can add significant time to the approval process as developers must address resident and interest group concerns.

Financial Constraints

Financial constraints at various levels of government can lead to delays in processing applications and issuing permits for land development projects. Reduced budgets for regulatory agencies mean fewer staff members available to review applications efficiently or longer wait times for necessary approvals due to backlogs in processing applications ultimately prolonging the overall land development timeline

Closing Thought

The goal of proposed land development regulations is to encourage efficient land use, flexibility, and a reduction of potential negative impacts. It is also important to recognize and understand the impacts of the regulations that significantly contribute to extending the duration of land development projects.

Glenn Ebersole is a registered professional engineer and Business Development Manager at PM Design Group, a nationally licensed A&E firm in West Chester, with 14 offices across the U.S. He can be contacted at gebersole@pmdginc.com or 717-575-8572.

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368718 2024-06-11T05:15:47+00:00 2024-06-11T05:15:59+00:00
Main Line Chamber Foundation Awards $50,000 in scholarships to Emergency Responders at Hometown Heroes Event https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/2024/06/09/main-line-chamber-foundation-awards-50000-in-scholarships-to-emergency-responders-at-hometown-heroes-event/ Sun, 09 Jun 2024 07:44:09 +0000 https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/?p=368501 LOWER MERION — The Main Line Chamber Foundation awarded $50,000 in scholarships to 32 volunteer firefighters and emergency medical technicians during its annual Celebration of Hometown Heroes at the Lower Merion Township building.

Scholarship recipients came from firehouses and ambulance services from Chester, Montgomery and Delaware counties, and were selected for their exemplary service to the community.

With these latest awards, The Main Line Chamber Foundation has awarded nearly $700,000 in scholarships to local volunteer emergency responders, the vast majority of whom attend local colleges and universities.

The Celebration of Hometown Heroes was created to draw attention to and show appreciation for the volunteer firefighters and emergency medical technicians who selflessly serve the Main Line and surrounding areas.

The event marked the third presentation of the WSFS Cares Foundation Leaders of Tomorrow Award, which recognizes an individual who exhibits leadership qualities within the volunteer firefighter/EMT community. The recipient of this $5,000 scholarship was Lindsay Baker from the Llanerch Fire Company.

A tradition that began in 2011 was continued as three Thomas J. Hays Memorial Scholarships were presented in honor of a young firefighter with the Merion Fire Company who died in the hours following going out on a call.

The three $5,000 memorial scholarships were awarded to Weena Doyle from Narberth Ambulance, Matthew Hand from the Brookline Fire Company, and Preston Tyrrell from the Newtown Square Fire Company.

“We are so thankful for our volunteer emergency responders, who are often the first to arrive during a crisis,” said Maureen McAleer, chair of The Main Line Chamber Foundation Board of Directors. “Everyone at the Main Line Chamber Foundation is honored to celebrate their service and distribute scholarship awards that will enable these deserving recipients to pursue their academic goals.”

The 2024 scholarship recipients, listed alphabetically by last name, are:

• Lindsay Baker, Llanerch Fire Company, Havertown

• Matthew Becket, Bryn Mawr Fire Company, Bryn Mawr

• Sean Boyer, Brookline Fire Company, Havertown

• Elizabeth Brown, Radnor Fire Company, Wayne

• Margaret Mary Cooper, Upper Darby Fire Company, Upper Darby

• Brooke Cutler, Berwyn Fire Company, Berwyn

• Katie Denney, Aston Township Fire Department, Aston

• Levi Dentel, Paoli Fire Company, Paoli

• Matthew Gabriel Dobbins, Broomall Fire Company, Broomall

• Weena Doyle, Narberth Ambulance, Ardmore

• Matthew Hand, Brookline Fire Company, Havertown

• Sophia Hartley, Good Will Fire Company, West Chester

• James Philip Heller, Gladwyne Fire Company, Gladwyne

• Madison Jones, West Whiteland Fire Company, Exton

• Chandeep Kaur, Llanerch Fire Company, Havertown

• Kenneth M. Keagy, Merion Fire Company of Ardmore, Ardmore

• Michaela Kent, Bon Air Fire Company, Havertown

• Olivia Klara, Good Will Fire Company, West Chester

• Megan Kozar, Narberth Ambulance, Ardmore

• Tiffany Lan, Narberth Ambulance, Ardmore

• Jordan Lichy, Berwyn Fire Company, Berwyn

• David Marein-Efron, Narberth Ambulance, Ardmore

• Ryan Marsh, Merion Fire Company of Ardmore, Ardmore

• Alexis M. McElhone, Bon Air Fire Company, Havertown

• Kevin Mitchell, Jr., Bon Air Fire Company, Havertown

• Jack Francis Nudy, Berwyn Fire Company, Berwyn

• Andrew Payne, Manoa Fire Company, Havertown

• Marcie Romberger, Berwyn Fire Company, Berwyn

• Ethan Tartaglio, Berwyn Fire Company, Berwyn

• Preston A. Tyrrell, Newtown Square Fire Company, Newtown Square

• Luke Willette, Narberth Ambulance, Ardmore

• Noelle Zeller, Narberth Ambulance, Ardmore

A majority of the scholarships were presented by members of the foundation’s directors, who are themselves volunteers. Foundation board members represent a variety of businesses that are members of The Main Line Chamber of Commerce, which houses and staffs the foundation.

“The Hometown Heroes event shines a light on the contributions of all our volunteer emergency responders. Through these scholarships, the business community and residents come together to honor and thank men and women who show up to help their fellow human beings in times of need,” said Bernard Dagenais, president and CEO, The Main Line Chamber of Commerce. “We are proud to support these dedicated individuals.”

The primary source of scholarship funds is the annual Main Line Run/Walk, a 5-kilometer run and a popular 1.5-mile walk, which opens up the event to non-runners and family participation. The course passes through the streets of Wayne. Lancaster Avenue and neighborhood streets are temporarily closed for safety.

The 2024 Main Line Run/Walk, presented by the Haverford Trust Company, will be held on Sunday, Sept. 8. Registration for the event is open at www.mainlinerun.org. Sponsorships for the Run/Walk and donations to The Main Line Chamber Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, are welcome and are now being accepted. Visit www.mlcc.org/your-chamber/chamber-foundation for more information.

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368501 2024-06-09T03:44:09+00:00 2024-06-10T14:15:00+00:00