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Asking Around Town: Local Vision for 2024

Marple Friends & Neighbors, December 2023

Each new year brings hopes and visions for the future. And as our clocks tick down to those final seconds in 2023, we will all surely raise a glass to welcome 2024 with open arms.

What are your goals and dreams for this new year? We set out to ask a few local residents about their vision for 2024.

Scott Noye, Chef Dad’s Table
Scott is a longtime Broomall resident and father of three. His culinary training led him to develop cooking and baking classes for children and in 2020 he started Chef Dad’s Table, which provides hands-on Vocational and Food Service Skills Training as well as Family and Consumer Science education for children and adults. When looking ahead to 2024, Scott said that in the current situation, the world is in today, he can’t help but wish for Peace on Earth. “Realistically, I know this isn’t going to happen, at least not any time soon,” he said. “I hope that people can at least try to find peace within themselves, internally, and I also hope they can find peace externally, in their relationships with others. This certainly would be a step in the right direction on the path towards world peace.” Scott also said that next year he is going to strive for more balance in his life. “I need to re-balance my work and home life relationship,” he added. “And of course, I am going to try to eat better and exercise more, too! My best wishes to everyone for
a Happy, Healthy, and Rewarding Holiday Season and 2024!”

Heather Griesser LaPierre, Founder and Director, Kids Against Hunger United
Heather Griesser LaPierre has been a full time Realtor in Marple Newtown for over 20 years and is also the Founder and Executive Director for Kids Against Hunger United located in Broomall. “When I look back on 2023 one of the things I will appreciate the most is the number of individuals and families that have food on their tables because of the combined efforts of KAH United,” Heather said. “This most definitely is a community-based organization and there is no way we could do all that we do without the support of our amazing community. I hope to reflect on 2024 with gratitude for all the new volunteers and donors that have joined our mission to alleviate hunger not only within our community but way beyond that as well.” This coming year Heather and her team have big plans for growth within KAH United. They plan to increase their fundraising efforts to have more open packing nights for the community as well as expand the reach of their community food pantry. “In these past few years, I’ve learned just how short life can be and that things can change in an instant,” she said. “Unlike past resolutions where I was focused on growth of both businesses, this year my resolution is more simplified. It’s to appreciate each day and continue to give it my best even when things are hard, there is still so much to be grateful for.” This coming year Heather’s goal is to continue to mesh her two passions together; selling real estate and feeding the hungry. KAH United loves welcoming the community to volunteer. When you hear of someone struggling to put food on the table or someone looking for service hours or a fun place to volunteer or even any real estate needs, KAH wants to be top of mind. “We want to be a resource for our neighbors in need!”

Patrizia Rizzi, Owner, Sweet Spot, Gelato, Candy & Soda Pop Shop
Patrizia and her husband Paolo along with their three children are the owners of a truly unique, retro inspired store with a modern flair. It was their passion to bring a happy place for all to enjoy treats to their Broomall neighborhood. These are exciting times for Patrizia, Paolo and their family as they will be opening Sweet Spot Gelato, Candy & Soda Pop Shop in St. Alban’s Circle in Newtown Square in the Spring of 2024. “The new location will offer a larger selection of imported candy and chocolate, novelty and retro selections, a larger soda wall along with a larger selection of imported gelato flavors, hand dipped ice cream including Sugar Free selections, a dessert case, unique gifts, gift baskets and much more!” said Patrizia. To top it off there will be a larger party room, offering not only their famous cake decorating parties, but will also offer special classes for all ages, such as mommy and me, girls night out etc. The possibilities are endless. “We are truly excited to be joining the Newtown Square community, which has already shown us a large amount of support and have welcomed us to their neighborhood with open arms!”