Class Listing - by Instructor

Name Biography
Cast, 1812 Productions
N/A
Justin Ahlbach
N/A
Justin Ahlbach has an MA in Literature from Rosemont College, and has taught Composition, Language Arts and American Literature at schools in China and the Philippines.
Frances Alloway
N/A
I have been teaching cooking and nutrition classes for many years as a consultant and employee. As a consultant, I have worked with hospitals, child care sites, senior centers, and libraries including the Free Library of Philadelphia. I have presented programming on Radnor 21 and WGTV television stations that included seasonal food and health topics. As an employee of Penn State Extension and Early Head Start, I co-authored Dining with Diabetes, Totally Veggies, The Mediterranean Cuisine Comes to You curricula and taught hundreds of classes for all age groups. I am a registered dietitian and nutritionist, a certified ServSafe instructor and have child abuse clearances.
I Amalia
amalia@amaliadance.com
As a performer, Amalia has appeared at venues and dance events along the East Coast and in her home state of California. Highlights include performances at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, Queens Theater, and opening for the Belly Dance Superstars Philadephia Show at World Cafe Live. She has taught for the past 15 years throughout the Philadelphia area and coached the belly dance club of Swarthmore College. She is passionate about helping people find confidence, fluidity and ease in their bodies through this beautiful dance form.
Amy Anna
N/A
Amy B Anna is an artist and attorney living in Media, PA. She is a contributing writer for the film website, www.cutprintfilm.com, which is a Philadelphia-based site devoted to all things related to film. Her art-related website and blog can be found at www.amyannaart.com.
Lee Anthony
lkanthony9@gmail.com
Undergraduate degree from Mt. Holyoke, MBA from University of Virginia, grandmother to four spectacular grandkids. Mix that up with experience in hospital administration, Head of a classical Christian school, a pinch of Wall Street and heavy dollop of volunteer work and you have the perfect recipe for an Airbnb superhost. Moral of this story: if I can do it, you can, too, even better. Looking forward to helping you launch into this exciting opportunity.
Kevin Arba
cosmicintegration
Kevin’s spiritual healing journey began in 2012, when after hitting rock bottom he experienced two miracles that transformed his life. The primary focus of his life became healing himself first, then helping others to do the same. He has devoted his life to learning and practicing various approaches to promote transformation at all levels, including meditation, energy healing, shamanism, nutrition, psychological process work, metaphysics, and astrology. Once he began learning astrology, Kevin was blown away by the depth of insight that could be gleaned from the birth chart. He discovered that the horoscope revealed profoundly useful information that could be used for healing on the physical, psychological, relational, and spiritual levels. He also found that it answered many questions about his true nature and life purpose, and gave him a map to fulfilling his soul’s deepest longings and healing his primary wounds. Kevin’s astrology readings and coaching sessions incorporate everything he has learned. His multi-faceted approach gives him the ability to assist his clients with almost any intention.
Deborah Aronson
N/A
DEBORAH ARONSON is a 2001 graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine and worked in general medicine and surgery in small animal clinical hospitals for over 20 years before focusing on her in-home specialty palliative and end of life practice.
Staff, Barnes Arboretum
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Mita Barot
N/A
Mita works at a Main Line School District’s Nutrition Department. She frequently entertains large groups in her home in Chester County introducing her guests to the many healthy dishes of India and has been teaching cooking classes since 2009, most recently in St. Mary’s County, MD. Mita is passionate about healthy cooking, entertaining and loves to laugh and have fun while cooking.
Eric Bell
ericbellwriter@gmail.com
Eric Bell is the author of two juvenile fiction books: Alan Cole Is Not a Coward and its sequel, Alan Cole Doesn't Dance, both published by HarperCollins. Alan Cole Is Not a Coward was nominated for the 2018 ALA Rainbow List of GLBTQ Books for Children & Teens. Eric has experience leading workshops and classes in the Philadelphia area. He is eager to bring his unique blend of writing experience, interactivity, and good humor to Main Line School Night.
Aliza Benjamin
N/A
Aliza M. Benjamin PhD
Lynn Berkowitz
N/A
Lynn Berkowitz, MFA, BFA, with a career in art museums, has developed an array of award-winning gallery tours, experiences, and apps aimed at helping audiences of all ages and abilities engage with a diversity of art ‘isms and approaches.
I Berwyn Squash & Fitness Club
dominic@berwynsquash.com
Staff, Berwyn Squash & Fitness Club
Owen Biddle
owenbiddlephotography
OWEN BIDDLE has been taking pictures for thirty-five years and teaching photography for about thirty years. One thing he loves about teaching is watching his students' unique vision and creativity unfold as they master the how-to's of the camera. He loves challenging his students to see the camera as a tool for creating meaningful images. He also loves studying the masters of photography, and strives to inspire his students to use the lessons that can be learned from those who came before us, both in photography and in art, in general. Owen reports that the whole class has a lot of fun together, following and developing their passion for this wonderful media.
Roslyn Blyn LaDrew
roislindubh@gmail.com
Dr. Roslyn Blyn-LaDrew received her Ph.D. in Folklore and Folklife at the University of Pennsylvania and her B.A. in Celtic Languages and Literature at Harvard University, with study abroad in Ireland (Co. Donegal), Scotland (Stornoway, Isle of Lewis), and Wales (Aberystwyth). She was a columnist for the Irish Edition newspaper for about 25 years, until the paper's final issue. She currently teaches Irish (Gaeilge) at the University of Pennsylvania and also teaches Irish and Welsh online. She is also a musician, singing and playing the fiddle with the group Roz an' the Beaux.
Kent Bottles
kentbottles@gmail.com
Dr. Kent Bottles teaches health policy and payment reform at The Thomas Jefferson University College of Population Health in Philadelphia and regularly consults and presents on population health, health care reform, digital medicine, and the future of the doctor patient relationship. He has been a Professor and Chair of academic medical school pathology departments, a Chief Medical Officer of a state-wide integrated delivery system, a President and CEO and DIO of an educational and research collaborative in Grand Rapids, Michigan, a President and CEO of an evidence-based medicine health care consortium in Minneapolis, and a President and Chief Knowledge Officer of a genomics bio-tech start-up company in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Dr. Bottles has received the following awards and honors: Phi Beta Kappa, The Rodney T. West Literary Achievement Award for the most important article on medical management in 2001 from the American College of Physician Executives, the Resident Teacher of the Year Award from the University of Iowa Department of Pathology, the UC San Francisco Class of 1991 Certificate of Distinction in Teaching for a Major Contribution, the UC San Francisco Class of 1990 Certificate of Distinction in Teaching for a Stimulating Lecture Series, and the Henry J. Kaiser Award for Excellence in Teaching at UC San Francisco for Basic Science.
Donna Boyle
donnaboyledisco@aol.com
Donna has been competing and performing as a dancer for 30 years. She was the regional dance champion on the national TV show "Dance Fever" and has numerous TV credits. She teaches dance throughout the Philadelphia region and is the proprietor of Party Pros Entertainment & Disco America.
Jennifer Brandt
jbrandt@cozen.com
JENNIFER BRANDT has been practicing family law for more than 17 years. She is licensed both in Pennsylvania and New Jersey and is currently a partner at Cozen O’Connor. She also appears frequently as a legal expert on local and national television such as CNN, CNN Headline News, and Fox News. Jennifer received her law degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School. You can view her complete bio at www.cozen.com.
Dotty Brown
dotty.brown@gmail.com
Dotty Brown is a former reporter and editor at The Philadelphia Inquirer. During her newspaper career, she edited numerous award-winning projects, including one that won a Pulitzer Prize. She is a graduate of Wellesley College (where she did not learn to row despite its historic crew program) and the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism (where she did learn to report and write). She came to rowing as part of the surging wave of masters rowers and is a member of the Vesper Boat Club, on Boathouse Row in Philadelphia.
Judy Buxton
dentjlb@aol.com
Judy L. Buxton, Creative Cook
Bradford Carmichael
BCarmichaelEnterpris
A multi-disciplinary Philadelphia area artist and freelance designer, Brad has exhibited in the region for the past 15 years. He holds a BFA in painting and drawing from Tyler School of Art and an MFA from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. https://BradDesign.net.
Tasha Carson
N/A
Tasha is a fitness enthusiast with over 25 years of experience. She is an avid hiker, enjoys biking, camping and kayaking. Tasha is the proud mom of 3 active boys and has been a lifetime resident of the Main Line. She has been teaching fitness classes for a little over 25 years and is certified to teach Yoga (all types), Body Pump, Barre, Pilates, step aerobics, weight training.
Michael Castillo
michaelcastilloskit
Owner, Michael Castillo's Kitchen
Maria Ceferatti
mcef869@gmail.com
Maria Ceferatti is a published writer of short stories, essays and poetry, and earned her MFA in Creative Writing from Rosemont College. She is a writing instructor and music teacher in the Philadelphia area.
Staff Chanticleer
N/A
Staff, Experienced Chanticleer Tour Guide
Margie Cherry
margiebcherry@gmail.com
Margie Cherry’s multiple professional identities include Associate Director of Alumni Career Services at Lafayette College, career coach, professional speaker, and former long-running cartoonist and short-term stand-up comic. Margie is the author and illustrator of "Mom's Comedy Coloring Book", published by Humor Outcasts Press, and her work has appeared in numerous humor anthologies and publications including "The Best of the Best American Humor"; and "The Best Contemporary Women's Humor".
Stephanie Cirillo
N/A
Stephanie Cirillo is a Digital Marketing Specialist and MLSN’s own Social Media Strategist & photographer. Stephanie has a degree in Marketing and Communications from MMC in NYC, is a Main Line native and a MLSN enthusiast!
Pam Coath
pamrose777@gmail.com
Pam Coath is a rose exhibitor, a Horticulture Judge for the American Rose Society, a member of the "Top Gun" club and specializes in propagating roses. She has worked in rose gardens for several large estates on the Main Line. Her article on rose propagation for the American Rose Society won a Certificate of Merit. She holds a degree in Landscape Design from Temple University.
Elizabeth Cochran
etclizard@gmail.com
ELIZABETH COCHRAN plays the Double Bass and received an AB from Bryn Mawr College. She also received a Diploma in Music from the New School of Music in Philadelphia, where she was a student of Michael Shahan. Elizabeth performs with numerous symphonic and chamber ensembles in the Philadelphia region, including the Delaware Symphony, Pennsylvania Ballet and the Philly Pops. In addition to her work as a bassist, she is the organist at Central Baptist Church in Wayne.
Mary Coe
N/A
Mary Coe, Hike Leader, Willows Park Preserve
Jeffrey Cohen
N/A
Jeffrey A Cohen, PhD, Chair, Growth & Structure of Cities Department, Bryn Mawr College
Jennifer Colucciello
jenilyn77@msn.com
Jennifer Colucciello is the Director of Compliance for Rothman Orthopaedics with over thirty years in healthcare, including clinical and operational management and education, and over a decade in healthcare compliance. Jeni specializes in Healthcare Compliance, working hard to ensure that all regulations are met as effectively as possible for the benefit of patients and the organization. A strong believer in continued growth and a team approach to meeting these goals, she regularly works with team members to ensure to increase knowledge across the Practice, with an educational instead of punitive approach. Her clinical knowledge and operational background help achieve a seamless integration between the functional and regulatory aspects of the organization. In her free time, Jeni enjoys cooking, rock climbing, and reading.
Marebeth Conard
N/A
Marebeth Conard, Experienced Games Teacher
Maria Ann Conelli
N/A
Maria Ann Conelli is a Professor of Art History and was the founding dean of the School of Visual, Media and Performing Arts at Brooklyn College, City University of New York (2011-2022). Her area of specialty is Renaissance and Baroque Art and Architecture in Italy and France. She was previously the executive director of the American Folk Art Museum and oversaw the landmark red and white quilt exhibition at the Park Avenue Armory. Conelli has served as dean of the School of Graduate Studies and acting dean of the School of Art & Design at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and, prior to that, as chair of the Smithsonian Institution’s graduate programs in the History of Decorative Arts in New York and Washington, D.C. Conelli holds a Ph.D. in architectural history from Columbia University, a master’s degree from the Institute of Fine Arts, New York University and a bachelor’s degree from Brooklyn College in Art History. She has been the recipient of numerous awards, including the J. Paul Getty Postdoctoral Fellowship in the History of Art and the Humanities, and is a fellow of the American Academy in Rome. Conelli has taught in the United States and in Europe; organized exhibitions, lectured and published on sixteenth- and seventeenth-century art, architecture and landscape design. She served on the College Art Association’s Executive Committee as a Vice President for External Affairs, and is on the Board of Director’s Forum, and Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts at Brooklyn College.
Roberta Cooks
robertacooks87@gmail.com
Roberta Cooks, MD, Gokhale Method® teacher, trained as a physician at New York University School of Medicine. Dr. Cooks has been a Gokhale Method®Teacher for ten years, guiding hundreds of people of all ages away from back, neck and musculoskeletal pain through teaching healthy ways to perform our daily movements of life. Dr. Cooks is also an avid Argentine Tango dancer and Qigong Medicine practitioner.
Jack Covington
Premier.performances@g
Dr. Covington is an Oxford-educated historian and classically trained stage actor and lecturer. He is also the Creative Director of “Characters-on-Call” – 1 st person living history biographies. He presents dynamic first-person historical impersonations of famous literary and historical personages from the pages of history – in authentic period costume – history brought to life! He is a refreshingly innovative, enlightening, and engagingly dynamic educator, actor, and entertainer of the most creative kind – one who loves both his craft and his audience – who consistently delivers a lecture in true “that’s entertainment” style. He deliberately steps outside the proverbial box, breaking down barriers and successfully injecting spontaneity, wit, and warmth into his lecture ‘performances’. He has lectured and performed for many historical museums and cultural organizations. Performance topics he has presented are listed on his website, www.PerformancesParExcellence.com. Dr. Covington is also a world traveler, adventurer, and a former avid mountaineer. His ability to incorporate his first-hand experiences into his lecture performances serves to both enlighten and enthrall his audiences. He delights in the opportunity to share his unique concept of combining lifelong learning with entertainment that will educate, stimulate, and inspire his audiences today and tomorrow!
I Creative Voice Development Gro
N/A
For more than 30 years Voice Coaches has provided voice over production, recording, and communication coaching to clients including Netflix, Discovery, HGTV, Disney, Lifetime, Nickelodeon, Universal, The New York State Governors Office, Department of Health, Transportation, Tourism, and numerous others. In addition to being actively involved in industry organizations, we provide internships to college students in recording, production, and entertainment business. Voice Coaches is proud to be a 16-year, A+ Member of The Better Business Bureau.
Lori Lorraine Crook
lorraine.crook1@gmail.com
A social worker and artist, Lori teaches alcohol ink at multiple venues in the region. Her abstract florals are sold as notecards at Valley Forge Flowers and elsewhere. She is a mentor with Expressive Paths.
Eileen Cunniffe
eileenmcunniffe@gmail.com.
Eileen Cunniffe writes nonfiction that explores identity and experience, most often through the lenses of family and travel. Her first book, Mischief & Metaphors: Essaying a Life, was published in 2023 by Shanti Arts Publishing and includes several travel essays. Her writing has appeared in literary journals and anthologies, and her travel essays have been recognized with four Travelers’ Tales Solas Awards and the Emrys Journal 2013 Linda Julian Creative Nonfiction Award.
Antonella De Carlo Aoli
N/A
Antonella De Carlo Aloi is a former attorney and fundraiser, turned Entrepreneur who is passionate about healthy Italian cooking, enjoys sharing recipes and empowering people to learn how to cook easy meals, for healthy dinners. She's in the process of starting her own business, where she creates custom ordered sauces and fresh pasta for her clients.
Kenneth DeMarco
N/A
Kenneth F DeMarco, MS, JD
Becky Libourel Diamond
N/A
Becky Libourel Diamond is a food writer, librarian, and research historian. Her latest book, The Gilded Age Cookbook, blends Gilded Age details and celebrity stories with historic menus and recipes updated for modern kitchens. She is also the author of The Thousand Dollar Dinner and Mrs. Goodfellow: The Story of America’s First Cooking School. She lives in Yardley, Pennsylvania.
Valerie Dickman
N/A
Erin Downey
N/A
Anthony Durkin
delvalchessclub@gmail.com
Anthony Durkin is a certified United States Chess Federation Chess Coach and Tournament Director. He founded the Delaware Valley Chess Club and has taught young people and adults throughout the region chess for the past 15 years.
Buntzie Ellis Churchill
N/A
Buntzie Ellis Churchill led the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia as president for almost a quarter century and built a national reputation for the organization. She moderated the Council's daily radio show on WFLN-FM for a decade, has conducted educational trips to more than 60 countries and now lectures frequently. She has been a member of the Council on Foreign Relations in New York, a trustee of Drexel University, and a director of the Union League of Philadelphia. Awarded several honorary doctorates she has received numerous awards for her contributions to the community. Buntzie has coauthored two books with Princeton professor, emeritus, Bernard Lewis -- "Islam: the Religion and the People" and “Notes on a Century: Reflections of a Middle East Historian”. Mrs. Churchill was graduated with honors from the University of Pennsylvania in political science and international relations.
Staff, Elmwood Park Zoo
N/A
Nina Epstein
N/A
Nina Epstein is known as the Digital Diva and has been an information technology instructor and consultant for over 25 years, helping individuals and small business owners use technology and solve their computing problems. Nina has been teaching technology courses in local communities for over 15 years.
Elanur Eroglu Williams
elanureroglu@icloud.com
I have a M.S.Ed. in Reading/Writing/Literacy from University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education (2022). Additionally, I hold a Master of Philosophy in Children's Literature from Trinity College Dublin (2021), and a Bachelor of Arts from Concordia University Montreal, in English, Creative Writing, and Sustainability Studies (2020).
Charo Evangelista
charo.freespirityoga@g
CHARO EVANGELISTA CABELLO, ESSENTRICS® Level 1 Instructor, Certified Hatha Yoga Instructor, Reiki Master and Wellness Advocate, is certified as a TriYoga instructor. She is a meditation instructor, Reiki Master, Director of Inkalight and is a primary teacher at Free Spirit Yoga. Her personal teaching style focuses on expressiveness and derives from the different disciplines she's practiced throughout the years. Charo has been teaching yoga to children, adults and seniors for the past 19 years. In her classes you will experience the kundalini-inspired sequenced flow of postures synchronized with rhythmic breath (Pranayama) and mudra (focus), which will increase your energy and bring mental clarity. Her website is www.inkalight.com.
Nicole Eyer
N/A
T.N. Eyer graduated from Yale College and Yale Law School. She practiced corporate law in London and in Los Angeles before happily transitioning to writing fiction full time. Her first novel, Finding Meaning in the Age of Immortality, was published by Stillhouse Press in November. Her short fiction has appeared in a number of literary magazines, among them december, Hayden's Ferry Review, and Water~Stone Review, and in two anthologies: Heresy Press's Nothing Sacred and Coolest American Stories 2024. Her story "Date of Death" was listed as a Distinguished Story in Best American Short Stories 2022. She is an avid reader, hiker, and traveler. She has gone caving in Vietnam, horseback riding in Mongolia, and sand sledding in Namibia, but when she's home she gets most of her exercise playing Dance Dance Revolution in her garage. She lives in Pittsburgh with her husband and daughter.
Allison Farcus
allison@sauteandsoiree.com
Allison Farcus was born and raised in Miami Beach and moved to the Main Line in 2019. Since her twenties, she’s enjoyed hosting dinner and cocktail parties. She created SAUTE and SOIREE to create opportunities for people to connect over food and cooking. Having studied abroad, Allison has a deep appreciation for other cultures, and believes that food brings people together and creates a space for creativity, conversation, and inclusion. www.sauteandsoiree.com
Chris Fehlhaber
N/A
Chris Fehlhaber is an assistant horticulturist at Chanticleer Garden. His goal is to raise the public’s consciousness and appreciation of enriching, progressive horticulture. He believes we may all lead better lives by making the world a more beautiful place. Chris holds degrees in Landscape Architecture-Natural Resources and Environmental Studies from the University of Wisconsin.
Ariadna Fink
ariadnafink4@gmail.com
Ariadna Fink holds a Masters In Hispanic Literature from Villanova University. Since then, she has been teaching Spanish to high school and to College and private adult classes. Teaching Spanish through literature, culture, and art has become Ariadna's passion. Recently, she decided to embark on an Asthanga yoga teacher training. She enjoys practicing yoga and focuses on the ancient philosophy of Buddhist and Hinduism meditation with their applications in the modern world. She loves to share topics related to spirituality. Some examples of this are: Yoga philosophy and ancient texts. Living a yogic lifestyle following principles such as dharma, karma, and ahimsa. Ethics for strong and healthy communications skills or selfless service to others. Learn how to set priorities and boundaries
Michelle Francl
N/A
PhD, Frank B Mallory Professor of Chemistry, Bryn Mawr College; Adjunct Scholar, Vatican Observatory; author of Steeped: The Chemistry of Tea.
Anita Friday
ayfriday@gmail.com
Anita Cason Friday is the founder of Open Hearts: A Path for Racial Healing. She is a skilled facilitator and has developed lectures, workshops and curriculum which address issues of America's painful relationship with race. She has also served as a panelist at events with topics including criminal justice, racial justice, educational justice and prison reform. Anita is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and Georgetown Law Center. She lives with her family in Berwyn, PA. Ultimately, participants in her workshops are asked: What will you do to dismantle racism?
Nancy Gabel
N/A
NANCY GABEL taught high school French at the Wallingford-Swarthmore School District for thirty-five years where she also headed the Foreign Language Program for the district. After retiring from public education, she taught at The Agnes Irwin School, The Baldwin School and The Episcopal Academy. She was a founder and President of the Board of the French International School in Bala Cynwyd, as well as Board Member and President of Main Line School Night. She is thrilled to be teaching adults at MLSN, where she has offered a variety of courses.
Carla Gambescia
N/A
Carla Gambescia is the author of the acclaimed bookLa Dolce Vita University: An Unconventional Guide to Italian Culture from A-to-Z, a rousing tribute to Italy, Italians and a culture that has contributed so much to the world. A native of Philadelphia, Carla is also a marketing executive, former restaurateur and avid traveler; she co-created the Giro del Gelato bike tour which won OUTSIDE Magazine’s Best Trip in Western Europe.
Bruce Gill
N/A
Bruce Gill, Beekeeper and Blacksmith
Esther Gordon
thegordon7@gmail.com
Esther taught French at Harriton High School for her entire career, learned Mah Jongg years ago and has enjoyed teaching it in recent years.
Wayne Grafton
N/A
Wayne W. Grafton retired following a successful career in Land Use Planning and Zoning. He received his undergraduate and Master’s degree from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. His postgraduate studies included the University of London, University of Gothenburg and University of Moscow. He has served as Chairman and CEO of both DHSCF, Inc and the Foundation for five years. Wayne is involved on a day to day basis for all aspects of operations, finance and facilities. He has been a Boxholder for more than forty five years and was a member of the Hospitality Committee for thirty years. Wayne and his wife Marjorie are also competitors in the Coaching Division. Wayne Grafton resides in Unionville where he maintains several farms and raises horses. Wayne is also the President of the Philadelphia Four in Hand Club and Past President of Ludwig’s Corner Horse Show and Board member of the Laurels at Landhope Combined Driving. He is active in many community organizations, including Bryn Mawr Hospital Foundation where he serves on the Board of Trustees. The Grafton’s have one daughter and two granddaughters who all enjoy spending time at the show.
David Grauel
dgrauel99@gmail.com
DAVID GRAUEL comes to MLSN by way of New York City where he was a Technical Support and Training Specialist in Microsoft Office products for such companies as Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley. David teaches classes on a variety of Microsoft products and looks forward to sharing his knowledge and experience with others.
Wendy Greenfield
N/A
Wendy Greenfield, MLSN Executive Director. An experienced non-profit and marketing professional, Wendy Greenfield joined Main Line School Night as Executive Director in September, 2016 following an eighteen-year career as Executive Director of the Alumnae Association of Bryn Mawr College. Prior to Bryn Mawr, Wendy was a marketing and communications executive in New York. An avid hiking enthusiast, Wendy enjoys hiking with her red Lab Rhett on local trails.
Heather Gustafson
N/A
Heather is a licensed wellness practitioner and educator with over 25 years experience. She is the founder of Reset Relief which incorporates Integrated Positional Therapy (IPT), yoga, and meditation. IPT is groundbreaking work in pain relief developed by author and neuromuscular therapist Lee Albert (Heather's mentor) to address the root cause of pain. Heather is Lee's teaching assistant and Lee's work has been featured on PBS! Credentials Certified Integrated Positional Therapist (endorsed by Lee Albert, Founder) Insight Yoga 500 Hour Teacher Certification (Yin, Mindfulness Meditation) Kripalu Yoga 500 hour Teacher Certification (includes Meditation certification) Wholistic Yoga 200 Hour Certification, Our Lady of Lourdes Institute MBA with specialization in Health Administration, St. Joseph’s University Licensed Registered Nurse in the state of PA since 1988 Bachelors of Science in Nursing, Bloomsburg University Registered with Yoga Alliance E-RYT500 Member ABMP
Tim Haas
N/A
Andrea Hallmark
andreahallmark@yahoo.com
ANDREA HALLMARK is a Landscape Architect who has designed and installed hundreds of gardens in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Florida, Texas and Mexico. She currently teaches Design Communication at Temple University. She has taught garden and design courses at the University of Pennsylvania, School of General Studies, The Barnes Foundation, Longwood Gardens, and The Morris Arboretum. Ms. Hallmark started as a fine artist and painted at The Penn Academy Of Fine Art and continues fine art as a hobby. She also does Jewelry Design. www.andreahallmark.com
Pat Halsey
patsjewelryandteach@gma
Pat Halsey, Member, PA Guild of Craftsmen
I Hawk Mountain
N/A
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary (HMS) was established in 1938 as the world's first refuge for birds of prey in Berks County, PA. An internationally known leader in raptor conservation and education, HMS covers 2,600 acres and serves over 60,000 visitors annually.
Ann Hazan
N/A
Ann Hazan is a food consultant and instructor and the co-author of 'The Original Philadelphia Neighborhood Cookbook,' 'The Original Baltimore Neighborhood Cookbook,' and 'The Reading Terminal Market Cookbook.' She holds a degree in Food and Nutrition from Drexel University. Ann emphasizes healthy foods and cooking in all her work, as well as in her home.
David Heaton
N/A
An avid hiker, David Heaton is now semi-retired, after having created and managed two non-profit volunteer organizations that helped repair inner city row houses for twenty-five years before merging with Habitat.
Allen Heffler
N/A
For 30 years, Allen Heffler CLU, ChFC, President of MyMedicareAdvisor, has helped thousands of people with their Medicare plans. The entire Medicare process can be complex and confusing. Our Mission is to educate consumers about Medicare and their Medicare options in a clear, concise & honest way that allows those consumers to make informed decisions. Allen Heffler and MyMedicareAdvisor- We Make Your Medicare Decision Easy. www.MyMedicareAdvisor.com, email: mymedadvisor@gmail.com
Matt Hendricks
info@twentyonepips.com
Gina Henry
N/A
Gina Henry, owner of GoGlobal, has traveled to over 80 countries and states. She takes free vacations three months every year. Check out www.goglobalinc.com for more instructor information. Gina Henry also has been a professional mystery shopper for over twenty years and wrote the digital book "Mystery Shopping - Get Paid to Shop.”
Andrew Herron
N/A
Andrew Herron and Kevin Manning are CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERS™ and the founding members of Stone Pine Financial Partners located in Media, PA. They have over 30 years of combined experience helping individuals and families transition to retirement. Andrew and Kevin are experts in retirement distribution planning and have created a system called The Flight Path™ to help bring clarity to the complexities of the retirement distribution phase. They also specialize in Social Security planning and are passionate about educating people on how to best take advantage of this retirement benefit. They’ve previously taught classes and seminars on retirement planning and Social Security at local universities and they sponsor community financial education throughout the year.
Robert Hicks
N/A
Previous bio: Robert D. Hicks, Ph.D., has edited a recent book about and including the diary of a physician, Civil War Medicine: A Surgeon’s Experience (University of Indiana Press, 2019). The book includes essays by distinguished Civil War scholars that illuminate the surgeon's (Fulton) experience. No comparable book about the medical Civil War exists for the general reader, despite the huge literature on the Civil War. Dr. Hicks is the Senior Consulting Scholar and William Maul Measey Chair for the History of Medicine (former Director, Mütter Museum/Historical Medical Library), The College of Physicians of Philadelphia Dr. Hicks' career path has included criminal justice, the Navy, and he has worked with museum-based education and exhibits for over three decades, primarily as a consultant to historic sites and museums. He holds a doctorate in maritime history from the University of Exeter, United Kingdom, and degrees in anthropology and archaeology from the University of Arizona.
Sue Hilger
sue.hilger@gmail.com
SUE HILGER has been teaching knitting at Main Line School Night for nearly thirty years and, more recently, crochet. She was the owner of EWE and I, a knitting and needlepoint store located in Bryn Mawr for nineteen years and is currently working as a freelance designer in both knitting and crochet for the Plymouth Yarn Co.
Kristofer Hodge
N/A
Kristofer Hodge is a comedian from the Philadelphia area who has been performing and teaching improv, sketch and stand-up comedy since 2015. Kristofer has performed on multiple Philly Improv Theater house teams such as “Swan Year” (improv), “In Space”(improv), “Finders Keepers” (improv), "Brought To You By" (sketch writer/performer), and “Fezziwig” (sketch writer/performer). n addition to teaching improv at Philly Improv Theater, Kristofer has also taught improv workshops at Neumann University and has independently taught improv, sketch and stand-up, as well as coached several independent teams in and around Philadelphia.
Amy Hunt
amy@grapewoodflorals.com
Amy received her Floral Design Certificate from Longwood Gardens and has been in the floral industry for over 20 years. She is the owner of Grapewood Florals,LLC and specializes in weddings.
I JKST Inc
narberthtennis@jkst.com
Teaching Professionals, Julian Krinsky School of Tennis
Brannon Johnson
N/A
Brannon Johnson is the head coach and owner of BLJ Community Rowing, one of the most diverse community rowing programs in the Philadelphia metro area. After beginning to row at the age of 15, Brannon received a full athletic scholarship to attend the University of Texas, where she rowed at the Division I varsity level all 4 years. In 2003, she competed as a single sculler in the Henley Royal Regatta, one of the most prestigious regattas held on the Thames River in England. She has been rowing, teaching and coaching over the past 15+ years, having taught and coached 80 classes and roughly 700 Philadelphia area residents, ranging from ages 18 to 65.
Barnett Kamen
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Barnett Kamen, is a retired teacher of Bible, Literature, and Philosophy at the Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy. He has an MA in Biblical Literature and was a PhD. candidate
Larry Kaufman
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Larry Kaufman started learning and doing Improv 22 years ago in 2000, through Temple University's Community Outreach Program, which lasted about ten years until 2010 when Temple cancelled the entire outreach program. We were known as Full Circle Theatre. It was educational in nature and we performed for schools, religious institutions, senior living facilities, corporations, on such topics as, anti smoking, anti bullying, wellness, work place harassment. After Temple shut the program down, we, the improv troupe, went out on our own, as 2nd Circle Improv Players. We continue to meet to this day to learn and practice improv. I was the Director of 2nd Circle Improv Players from 2013 to 2019. My duties included hiring improv teachers, scheduling our practices, advertising our group as we are open to the public to learn with us and join our group. I began to teach my own classes around 2015 through, HTAS Haverford Township Adult School, which lasted a few years. I also started teaching through Chester County Night School around the same time, which has recently become Chester County Lifelong Learning. I have now been teaching improv at mainline school night for three years.
Joanna Kenty
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Joanna Kenty earned her PhD in Classical Studies from the University of Pennsylvania in 2014 and taught in higher ed programs around the world until 2020, when she shifted gears to work in civic education and curriculum design for The Citizens Campaign. Her book Cicero's Political Personae was published by Cambridge University Press in 2020, and she wrote essays for Eidolon and Medium on topics related to inclusive teaching, connecting ancient and modern ideas, and political rhetoric.
Gloria Kingcade
dancesing4fitnes@aol.com
GLORIA KINGCADE started instructing line dancing in October 1998. She is a Certified Primary Aerobic Instructor AAAI & ISMA (AAAI-American Aerobic Association International, ISMA-International Sports Medicine Association). In January 2001 Gloria founded “D.A.S.H.E.R.S. Entertainment Network” (Dancing and Singing Help Everyone Relieve Stress). The Dancing is R&B or Soul Line Dancing and the Singing is Karaoke. For more information, contact her at (215) 232-6232 or e-mail DANCESING4FITNES@aol.com or www.leathaslinedancing.com/D.A.S.H.E.R.S.html.
Franmar Kopko
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Franmar Kopko, RPh., has been a registered pharmacist for over 19 years and has worked in retail, managed care and now in the medical cannabis industry. Franmar has been counseling patients at a local dispensary on the use of medical cannabis for their specific medical issues and providing insight on the numerous products available.
Lisa Kramer
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Lisa Kramer MSW, PCC is the founder and president of Leading with Intention http://www.leadingwithintention.com. Since transitioning to full time coaching in 2002, Lisa has successfully coached business leaders and managers, and she has served as a mentor-coach and coach trainer for hundreds of coaches worldwide. More recently, Lisa has pivoted to retirement coaching to assist individuals and couples to design their next chapter. Lisa’s passion for coaching emerged from a successful career in clinical social work and social work education. Lisa served on the faculty of Widener University’s School of Human Service Professions and the University of Texas at Dallas Master’s Program in Organizational Behavior and Executive Coaching. She is currently a leadership coach at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Lisa received her master’s degree in social work from the University of Pennsylvania and her coaching certification from the Co-Active Training Institute. She is also a certified Kripalu yoga instructor, an avid cyclist, and she loves all kinds of dancing.
Joshua Krasna
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Joshua Krasna is a 2023 Templeton Fellow and Senior Fellow in the Foreign Policy Research Institute’s Middle East Program. Dr. Krasna is also an analyst specializing in Middle East political and regional developments and forecasting, as well as in international strategic issues. He retired in 2017 after 30 years of service in Israel to include postings as an Israeli diplomat in Jordan and Canada. His last assignment before retirement was as an Instructor at the Israel National Defense College. He has published numerous articles, and is proficient in Hebrew and Arabic. Dr. Krasna holds a PhD from Bar Ilan University and is a graduate of Columbia University and the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies. He teaches at NYU’s Center for Global Affairs, and is a Research Fellow at the Moshe Dayan Center in Tel Aviv University.
Katie Kriner
info@thebeethebear.com
Katie Kriner, Author, Fibert Artist, Shop Owner The Bee & The Bear
I LL Bean Staff
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Staff, L.L. Bean
Tuscarora Lapidary Society
hansensm@gmail.com
Staff, Tuscarora Lapidary Society
Sue Laskin
suelaskin@comcast.net
Sue Laskin, Experienced Canasta Teacher
Olive Ledlie
N/A
Olive Ledlie, PhD, Former Chair English Department, The Baldwin School
Susanne Lennon
susannelennon@verizon.net
Experienced bridge player and instructor; chair of Philadelphia Country Club Bridge. Previous math teacher.
R. Barry Levis
levis@rollins.edu
R. Barry Levis, PhD, Professor Emeritus, History, Rollins College (ret 2013); Director, Humanities Program, Hamilton Holt School of Rollins College, 1981-2012; Director, Graduate Program, Liberal Studies, Rollins College (1990-2000)
Jessica Liddell Gorlin
N/A
Jessica Liddell is a professional artist known around the region for her architectural mosaic and fused glass installations. She has been commissioned to create artwork for parks, hospitals and corporations throughout the country. Jessica has also facilitated many community projects with schools and non profit organizations. She is enthusiastic about her craft and has taught at the Main Line Art Center, MALT and Fleisher Art Memorial. She owns Bella Mosaic Art, a studio in the Mount Airy neighborhood of Philadelphia.
Myriah Lipke
info@stonepinefinancial.c
Carol Livingood
clivingood@timoneyknox.com
Carol Ryan Livingood, Esq., Timoney Knox Carol joined Timoney Knox as a Partner in 2022 in the Wills, Trusts and Estates Department. She focuses her practice on all aspects of estate planning and estate administration. Carol previously was the managing partner of Davis Bennett Spiess & Livingood – a firm which had been serving individuals, families and businesses on Philadelphia’s Main Line since 1930. Along with the support of Timoney Knox, Carol continues to bring large firm services with a focus on building long-standing relationships and innovative legal solutions to the community of Wayne. Carol has represented clients in all aspects of estate and tax planning and estate administration for over two decades. Her clients include individuals and families with small to extremely sizable estates who appreciate her keen eye in trying to preserve their wealth for their intended beneficiaries while minimizing the tax liabilities. A graduate of Brown University, Carol received her law degree from Widener University School of Law. After law school, she was awarded an Estate Planning Certificate from Temple University James E. Beasley School of Law. Prior to being in private practice, she served for seven years as a Deputy Attorney General in the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General’s Charitable Trusts and Organizations Section. Carol is admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar and is a member of the Delaware County Bar Association and the Delaware County Estate Planning Council. Carol has been named to the Pennsylvania Super Lawyers list in Estate & Probate Law since 2022. Each year no more than 2.5% of the lawyers in the state are selected by Super Lawyers to receive this Honor. Carol grew up in Wayne and is a graduate of the Academy of Notre Dame, where she formerly served as a member of the Board of Trustees.
Michael Lizzio
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Michael Lizzio, Certified Pool Instructor
David Low
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David Low has a Masters in Community Counseling, received his doctorate in Religious Studies from Temple University in 1998 and is also completing an interfaith ministry doctoral program with The New Seminary. After being a small-circus juggler for a couple of years out of college, he worked as a technical writer and substance abuse counselor before teaching religion courses for 10 years as an adjunct professor at Rutgers-Camden, Rowan, and LaSalle Universities. He is the author of a spirituality textbook (Universal Spiritual Philosophy and Practice) and is currently working on a volume on the teachings of the great Dutch philosopher, Baruch Spinoza. A lifelong interest in anthropology led David to study shamanism and other indigenous practices. He has presented at IASD conferences (International Association for the Study of Dreams), and has travelled extensively and visited different Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Sufi, Jewish, Christian and Muslim groups. David maintains a private counseling practice in Mt. Airy in which he does dreamwork and teaches meditation. See more about David at davidlowmsphd.com. For two years out of college David was a professional small-circus performer, doing mostly juggling. He's done occasional charity gigs ever since with balls, clubs, rings, devil sticks, cigar boxes and other juggling props.
Hali MacLaren
hali@hkmjewelry.com
Hali MacLaren, HKM Jewelry Owner and Maker, creates handmade jewelry that is inspired by the sea, to spread awareness about its importance and beauty. She holds a BFA in Jewelry and a minor in Photography from The University of the Arts. She teaches classes and workshops Main Line Art Center, Wayne Art Center, ArtFusion in Pottstown and at her studio in West Chester. https://hkmjewelry.com/
Joanie Mackie
N/A
Daniel Malley
paxonpro@comcast.net
Dan Malley, Paxon Hollow Country Club
Staff, Manatawny Still Works
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Kevin Manning
N/A
Andrew Herron and Kevin Manning are CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERS™ and the founding members of Stone Pine Financial Partners located in Media, PA. They have over 30 years of combined experience helping individuals and families transition to retirement. Andrew and Kevin are experts in retirement distribution planning and have created a system called The Flight Path™ to help bring clarity to the complexities of the retirement distribution phase. They also specialize in Social Security planning and are passionate about educating people on how to best take advantage of this retirement benefit. They’ve previously taught classes and seminars on retirement planning and Social Security at local universities and they sponsor community financial education throughout the year.
Gail Marsella
N/A
I taught Chemistry at Muhlenberg College in Allentown, PA for over 20 years, now retired. Occasionally they let me off the leash to teach something different, including a seminar on science fiction (SF) that was well-received. I'm a life-long reader not only of SF, but also SF criticism (in the literary sense). I think it will be really interesting to rethink and retool that concept for an adult audience who have much more in-depth life experience than my first year students.
Scott Mason
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Former Haiku description: Scott Mason is one of today’s leading poets writing haiku in English. Since 2003 his poems have placed first in more than two dozen international competitions including those sponsored by the national haiku organizations of America, Canada (3x), Great Britain (5x), Ireland (2x) and New Zealand. In 2009 he was flown to Japan to accept the top award in the International “Kusamakura” Haiku Competition, and in November 2014 he served as a literary artist-in-residence at the Studios of Key West. Scott’s book The Wonder Code: Discover the Way of Haiku and See the World with New Eyes (2017) received the Kirkus Star from Kirkus Reviews, the Touchstone Distinguished Books Award from The Haiku Foundation, and a Merit Book Award (Best Prose) from the Haiku Society of America. His Gratitude in the Time of COVID-19: The Haiku Hecameron (2020) also received a Merit Book Award (Best Anthology). From 2011-2021 Scott served as an editor with the online haiku journal The Heron’s Nest and today he is on the board of The Haiku Foundation as Director of Strategy. He also serves as an executive committee member of the Katonah Poetry Series, now in its sixth decade, near his home in Westchester County, New York. Scott is pleased to return to Main Line School Night.
Staff, Masonic Temple
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W. Barksdale Maynard
barksdalemaynard@gmail.com
Author, Lecturer, Art History, University of Delaware
Tilar Mazzeo
N/A
Last name pronounced Met say.
Jill McCracken
historytchr@hotmail.com
Jill A. McCracken is a retired teacher of History, International Relations and AP Psychology from Holmdel High School, Holmdel, NJ. where she taught for 30 years. As an AP Psychology teacher for over a decade, her students regularly scored a 4.4 average on the 5 point AP Psychology exam. Her program on Forensic Psychology was based on the research by the FBI profilers, ending with students creating a profile for the Zodiac killer. She also taught terrorism as part of the International Relations program she created. Jill is a Mandel Fellow with the US Holocaust Memorial Museum and a fellow with the U.S. Institute of Peace, both Washington, D.C. and completed an internship at the US Mission to the United Nations in NYC. She was a member of the Board of Directors at the Center for Holocaust, Human Rights and Genocide Studies (CHHanGE) at Brookdale Community college for over two decades. From 2000-2006, she has worked with reconciling Albanian and Serbian teenagers in Kosovo after ethnic cleansing. She is a co-author Learning from the Challenges of Our Times: Global Security, Terrorism and 9/11 curriculum, developed by the N.J. Commission on Holocaust Education, the Liberty Science Center and Families of 9/11. For this work, Jill received the 9/11 Tribute Center Educator’s Award. She is received the NJ State Holocaust Commission’s Maud Dahme Award for Moral Courage. Ms. McCracken received her B.A. in History Education from the College of New Jersey, her MA in Education from Seton Hall University and her MA in Diplomacy and International Conflict Management from Norwich University. She is married to Daniel, and has two daughters. She has conducted election observation missions with OSCE-ODIHR across Europe and Central Asia
Eva Mergen
creativefibers@gmail.com
Eva Mergen has taught handwork at several historic sites in the region. Her topics include spinning, basket weaving, broom making, embroidery and more. She particularly enjoys introducing beginners to a new craft.
Vicki Miller
vicki@vinocityevents.com
Vicki Miller is the founder of Vinocity. Although Vicki has been a practicing attorney in Philadelphia for more than 15 years, she also has been a long-time student in formal wine study. Over the years Vicki has been asked to speak on wine and has developed numerous wine events for a variety of institutions, non-profits and various businesses. Vicki developed the Art and Wine event program for a corporate sponsor of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Wine and Literature event for the Raven Society of the Free Library of Philadelphia. Vinocity was born because Vicki realized that wine courses are highly information-filled, but are not socially engaging. Traditional wine tastings, while offering more social interaction, don't provide the kind of useful information to make an informed wine selection. A Vinocity event combines the best of both worlds, as Vicki weaves the facts, figures and scientific aspects of winemaking into interesting short stories and anecdotes about wine history and culture.
Dianne Moore
diannemoore@moorebett
Dianne Moore, MSW, MS, CHC, CNE, FNLP founder & owner of MooreBetterFood is a Functional Nutrition Coach focusing on Nutrition and Lifestyle Wellness. Certified through the Functional Nutrition Alliance, Institute of Integrative Nutrition and the Academy of Culinary Nutrition, she also holds a Master of Social work from Temple University and a Master of Science degree from the University of Pennsylvania.
Staff, Mother Compost
gwenn@mothercompost.com
Gwenn Nolan is the owner & operator of Mother Compost, a local food scraps/household waste collection service, which provides pick-ups for residents and businesses interested in composting on the Main Line. Gwenn began composting over four years ago at home and started Mother Compost after arriving at the conclusion that everyone should compost but not everyone has the time or space to do so. Familiar with composting both in the backyard and on commercial scale, Gwenn can discuss the differences between home & commercial processing. Gwenn grew up in the area and went to college at Penn State, where she studied Public Relations & Spanish. She currently lives in Wynnewood with her husband and 3 children. Information on Gwenn’s company can be found here www.mothercompost.com
Staff, Natural Lands
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Natural Lands is a non-profit that saves open space, cares for nature, and connects people to the outdoors in eastern PA and southern NJ. The preserves are great places to hike, recharge, and get outside.
McKaig Nature Center
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Vytas Masalaitis, McKaig Park Ranger, VP KoP Historical Society (Ret.)
Neal Newman
nealnewman@gmail.com
Over the past 40 years, Neal Newman has directed extensively in classical, Shakespeare, modern theater, musicals, and opera. He trained as an actor at California State University, and trained in Shakespeare at ACT of San Francisco, where he directed A CRY OF PLAYERS, and THE CRITIC, and acted the title role in RICHARD II. He trained as a director at Carnegie Mellon, and the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis. He directed many Off-Broadway productions in New York (DANCE ON A COUNTRY GRAVE, CRADLE WILL ROCK, ORPHEUS IN THE UNDERWORLD); ran a summer stock company, (ROBBER BRIDEGROOM, TAMING OF THE SHREW); and directed five seasons of Shakespeare in the Park in Philadelphia, (MIDSUMMER NIGHTS DREAM, HAMLET, HENRY IV). Opera productions include many by Gilbert & Sullivan, BOHEME, and CARMEN. He was a New York Critic for Show Business Magazine for 7 years, and continues as a record producer. He has taught and directed at The Walnut Street Theater, Fordham University (CABARET, FIGARO); University of the Arts (SEAGULL, CRUCIBLE); Cabrini College (MISS JULIE, 2 GENTLEMEN OF VERONA); and the University Of Pennsylvania, (MIKADO). At Steel River Playhouse he directed RAGTIME, MIRACLE WORKER, CHRISTMAS CAROL, BLITHE SPIRIT and TOYS IN THE ATTIC. As an actor, Neal has appeared at Steel River in THE CRUCIBLE, (Danforth) and PIPPIN, (Charlemange). He was co author of GOLDILOCKS AND THE DOWN HOME BEARS presented at Steel River, and will soon present a reading of the new musical LITTLE PRINCESS. Neal recently presented BIRTH OF A NATION, AND THE FOUNDING OF WHITE SUPREMACY at MLSN.
Eliot Niles
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Eliot Niles, Licensed NYC Guide, Member of GNYC
Ronald Nimitz
rlnsailor@comcast.net
Ronald Nimitz, Certified International Federation of Fly Fishers Instructor (FFI)
Char Nolan
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Char Nolan has been plant-based for ten years. She is a certified plant-based chef with a certificate in plant-based nutrition from é-Cornell. She teaches nutrition and plant-based cooking throughout the Philadelphia region. She is a contributor to "Veg World Magazine," and many of her recipes also appear at PAeat.com, The Engine 2 Cookbook, and more.
Tara Nurin
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Veteran freelance journalist Tara Nurin trains her eyes, ears and typing fingers on the places where food and beverage intersects with business, culture, history, sustainability and identity. Often using liquid lubricants as her mirror to reflect broader societal trends, the former Forbes beer and spirits contributor files her stories from some of the world’s most colorful breweries, bars and boardrooms and appears as a frequent presenter on broadcasts and live panels hosted by entities like the Smithsonian and Colonial Williamsburg. Passionate about promoting women’s challenges and achievements, the former TV news reporter published her first book, a history of women in beer entitled A Woman’s Place Is in the Brewhouse: A Forgotten History of Alewives, Brewsters, Witches, and CEOs, in September 2021. It won first prize from the North American Guild of Beer Writers. She has volunteered with the Pink Boots Society non-profit for women in the alcoholic beverage industry for more than a decade and founded Beer for Babes, New Jersey’s original beer education group for women. In addition to public speaking and writing for media outlets like USA Today and Food Network, Nurin is a certified beer judge, designs and teaches for-credit beer and spirits courses for Wilmington University (DE) and provides marketing consulting services for a client roster that includes Visit Philly and NZ Hops, Ltd. She is frequently quoted as a beverage expert in publications such as Wine Enthusiast and Food & Wine. After spending her first 26 winter holidays in Puerto Rico and residing in 11 states and countries, the trilingual Nurin has chosen to live as an urban pioneer on Camden, NJ’s, riverfront.
Deborah Nye
dnye43@yahoo.com
First an investor then an agent, designer Deborah Nye bought her first investment property during the crash in 2008. The property was a small 2BR row house that needed total renovation. After completing it pretty quickly with few problems, and renting it with few problems, Deborah was hooked. She has gone on to purchase and renovate single family homes as well as commercial and multi-unit properties, the most recent in Texas! Deborah is active in a real estate investment group where she lends her expertise in teaching others how to invest. She is now offering her no-nonsense approach and dynamic personality to anyone interested in getting started in real Real Estate investing.
Judy Okun
judyokun1@gmail.com
Judy Okun has taught college geography courses for the last 18 years. She currently teaches at West Chester University in Pennsylvania and Rowan University in New Jersey and leads history and geography workshops for adult groups throughout the Philadelphia region and across the U.S. She has extensive Zoom teaching experience. Judy has led lifelong learning classes at the Katz JCC of Cherry Hill, NJ for 15-plus years and absolutely loves working with the amazing adult learners in the community! She holds master’s degrees in history from Villanova University and environmental conservation from New York University. In 2020, Judy received West Chester University Honor Program's Outstanding Faculty Award. Her primary research interests are the Great Ice Age, the American West, the Age of Exploration, world geography, the Spice and Silk Roads, and the Lewis and Clark expedition. She has been serving on the Board of Directors for the Geographical Society of Philadelphia and is the vice president of the Lewis and Clark Trail Heritage Foundation’s Northeast group. A mom of two girls, Cherry Hill transplant from NYC, and avid traveler, Judy loves spending her summers exploring the wonders of the American West.
Michelle Oosterbaan
mjo3132@gmail.com
Michelle Oosterbaan’s drawings, wall paintings, and installations describe relationships between motion/stasis, and investigate ideas of cartography, memory and the idea of place, in an ever-evolving notion of the sublime landscape. Oosterbaan has exhibited internationally including the Weatherspoon Art Museum, The Drawing Center, The Delaware Art Museum, The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art and Museum, The Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, MO. Recent public art projects include the Democratic National Convention and the Mural Arts Philadelphia. She has a BFA from Washington University in St. Louis as a Fred Conway Scholar and an MFA from Indiana University with post-graduate studies in Florence, Italy with S.A.C.I and Indiana University, Bloomington, IN. Currently she teaches at PAFA, Drexel University, Wilmington Friends, and the Fleisher Art Memorial. @mjoosterbaan; www.michelleoosterbaan.com
Michelle Partlow
N/A
Michelle is a professional educator and teaches Mah Jongg locally and around the country. She is a tournament player, lauded as an outstanding teacher who is enthusiastic and patient.
Sharon Pastore
sharongpastore@gmail.com
Sharon Pastore, CDP, MPA is an entrepreneur, educator and avid dreamer. She is a Certified Dreamwork Professional through the Institute for Dream Studies, and is an active member of International Association of Study of Dreams. She has tracked her dreams for over 7 years, recorded over 500 dreams, and interpreted over 250 dreams. She works with entrepreneurs, creatives, teens and young adults, to follow their dreams and live lucid. This includes: career, business, and major life decisions, personal and business branding, high levels of creativity, relationships, or heal from loss. She founded Dream Girl Power and has been published in Chicken Soup for the Soul, Dreams that Change Our Lives, and Lucid Dream Magazine. In addition to dreamwork, Sharon spent 17 years in nonprofits and education, and the past 8 years as co-founder of Main Line Family Law Center, a mediation and legal services firm that helps couples separate and divorce in a holistic, peaceful and structured way. She is also a business and marketing consultant and freelancer. She holds a Master in Public Administration from University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor in Education from University of Delaware. She lives in Havertown with her husband, 2 daughters and 2 guinea pigs. For private dreamwork, business coaching or to organize a workshop, connect with Sharon at dreamgirlpower.com
Robert Peters
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Robert Peters, Wine Specialist, Best of 'Philadelphia Magazine' has over 25 years of experience in the wine and spirits industry. Wine Specialist at the Ardmore Fine Wine & Good Spirits store which is the number one store in the southeast Pennsylvania area. Rob has been working with MLSN for over 20 years.
Pamela Petro
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Pamela Petro is an author, artist, and educator living in Northampton, MA, with her partner, Marguerite, and Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Topaz. She has written four books of creative nonfiction including her latest, The Long Field – Wales and the Presence of Absence, a Memoir, as well as Travels in an Old Tongue, also about Wales; Sitting up with the Dead, about the American South; and The Slow Breath of Stone, about Southwest France. Her articles and essays have appeared in The New York Times, The Guardian, The Sunday Telegraph, The Atlantic, Granta, Guernica, The Paris Review, and others. The Long Field was shortlisted for The Wales Book of the Year Award and was named to Top Ten Travel Book lists by The Financial Times and The Sunday Telegraph. Pamela teaches creative writing at Smith College and on Lesley University’s MFA in Creative Writing Program, and is co-Director of the Dylan Thomas Summer School at the University of Wales, Trinity St Davids, where she is also a Fellow. She has widely exhibited her photography and has also created an artist book, AfterShadows - A Grand Canyon Narrative, and a graphic script, Under Paradise Valley. Of The Long Field, Gillian Clarke, Wales’ longest-serving National Poet, has said, “Not since Annie Dillard’s Pilgrim at Tinker Creek have I felt so involved, as a reader, in ‘finding out what it all means.’ This is a beautifully written, un-put-downable book about language, love, and being alive, here, now.”
Gail Plant
gailplant@diveconsult
Gail Plant is an inspirational Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion advocate. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems from Drexel University and a Master of Arts in Leadership Development. Immediately following graduation, she began her career with a local company, where she worked for 27 years until retirement in June 2022. During her tenure, she held several leadership roles and spent her time coaching, mentoring, and leading others on the journey of embracing and fostering the value of themselves and others. Her purpose in life is to practice the behaviors and characteristics that are consistent with her core values and to use those traits to help and serve others. Her life’s vision is to share her passion with others through advocacy for equity, inclusion and belonging through professional/leadership development and 1-on-1 coaching. She resides in the Philadelphia area with her husband and 3 children.
Naomi Pliskow
npliskow@gmail.com
Naomi Pliskow MD, MA, is the author of numerous medical-related works. After a stint as an instructor at the University of Michigan Medical School, she spent her career writing about medicine for both professional and nonprofessional audiences. In her sixties, she became a psychotherapist, which has given her profound insight into our human journey. Dr. Pliskow is the author of the forthcoming book Ungrowth: An Affectionate Look at How Our Bodies Change as We Age.
Nancy Plummer
N/A
Nancy has been a wellness and relationship coach for over a decade, helping men and women transform their lives! In 2016 she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer stage 4 that metastasized to her brain, and this year decided to write a book about her journey. Her son Robert left his job in finance to help tell their story. Together they founded the coaching and speaking group Becoming the Best U to help the world become a little more Upbeat, Unstoppable, and Unafraid!
Joel Price
jfwp@jfwp.com
Joel F. W. Price is the Technology Outreach Team Lead at Swarthmore College. In addition, he has consulted for schools, musicians, and small businesses, including social media strategy and implementation, individual and small-group training and photography. He has spoken nationally at conferences on the topic of responsible and creative emerging media implementation.
Rita Qubain
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Margo Rabb
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Margo Rabb’s essays, journalism, book reviews, and short stories have been published in The New York Times, The New York Times Book Review, The Atlantic, Slate, Salon, and Marie Claire, and have been broadcast on NPR. She is the author of the award-winning novels Lucy Clark Will Not Apologize, Kissing in America, and Cures for Heartbreak, all published by HarperCollins. She has taught writing at Rosemont College and Vermont College. Visit her online at http://www.margorabb.com.
Catherine Robert
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Catherine Jeanne Robert, PhD, BA, Connecticut College for Women, MA, PhD, University of Pennsylvania, has taught at Haverford and Bryn Mawr Colleges. She is currently on the Liberal Arts faculty of the University of The Arts. Dr. Robert wrote her dissertation under the direction of Dr. Robert Regan.
Marie Roberts
heart239@hotmail.com
MARIE ROBERTS, M.A. World Religions, M.S. Counseling Psychology, is an author, counselor, ordained Presbyterian minister, and teacher of yoga and meditation. She has taught well-being through body/mind/spirit integration for the past thirty years. Her website is www.marierobertsheartandsoul.com and she can be reached at heart239@hotmail.com.
Leslie Robison
leslie@masteryconsulting
Leslie Robison has provided coaching and organizing services 1999. She is passionate about helping you achieve more ease, credibility and satisfaction at home and at work. Master your day, master your life: Leslie@MasteryConsulting.net
Jason Rodriguez
N/A
Jason D. Rodriguez is an illustrator who specializes in comic art and picture books for children, working digitally and traditionally. He teaches drawing and illustration to adults, teens and children. https://jdrpictures.bigcartel.com/
Nicole Rodriguez
nicole@painfreeinphilly.c
Nicole Rodriguez is an exercise therapist. She is certified in Exercise Therapy Skills and Posture Alignment through the Egoscue Institute.She worked as an exercise therapist at Egoscue of Philadelphia before opening Pain Free Philly. She was disabled in a car accident and a chronic pain sufferer for years until she was healed by corrective exercises. Nicole works with clients privately and semi-privately at MovementRx Studio in Wynnewood, where she teaches strengthening/cardio and dance fusion classes. Learn more at https://painfreeinphilly.com/
Robert Rugart
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Lindsey Sansoni
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Lindsey Sansoni, Owner Why Not Macrame
Raymond Saracini
rasaxa1908@gmail.com
I hold a Ph.D. in drama from Tufts University and have studied a number of Bergman's films and theatre productions. I have taught a number of Bergman's films to my students at Villanova University and I have also taught several courses at Bryn Mawr Film Institute (though none would repeat material that I would offer here).
Rona Satten
ronasatten@mac.com
RONA CORDISH SATTEN is a Professional Member of the National Qigong Association and a Certified Level III Instructor. She is certified by Master Li JunFeng to teach Sheng Zhen Wuji Yuan Gong, and has been certified as an Associate Healing Tao Instructor. Rona is a lifelong shamanic qigong student of Master Zhongxian Wu. She is also certified as a Medical Qigong Therapist through the International Institute of Medical Qigong and has a healing practice combining qi healing with other energy therapies. Rona loves teaching and her priority is to share the joyful, self-healing qigong practice with everyone interested. More information is available from her at: innersageqigong@gmail.com.
Cara Schneider Bongiorno
caraschneiderbongior
Cara Schneider Bongiorno represented the city to travel media for more than 20 years at VISIT PHILADELPHIA® and now shares her love of the region through her entertaining Philly History Pop Ups – interactive talks on surprising parts of Philly history to inspire curiosity and future visits. For more, visit www.phillyhistorypopups.com
Julie Seville's Lifetime Fitness
julie@sevillefitness.com
Julie has been leading group exercise classes for nearly 30 years and has been teaching classes at Main Line School Night since 1995. Fostering a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Julie strives to make every class fun, informative and motivating, and to help her students achieve their health and fitness goals.
Carol Shelkin
N/A
CAROL SHELKIN is an artist that honed her skills as a painter, potter and educator. After attending Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts she has continued a successful, lifelong career as an art educator and showing her work at The Museum of Man, San Diego, Clauiano Gallery, Italy, Smith Gallery, Nashville, Painted Bride, The Clay Studio, and Philadelphia Magic Gardens to name a few. Carol is a founding memeber and past president of The Mosaic Society of Philadelpha, Juried Master Artisan of The PA Guild of Craftsmen and founder of Worldwide Mosaic Workshops, Retreats and Tours. http://www.carolshelkinmosaics.com.
Staff, Shofuso Japanese House
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Staff, Japanese Tea House
Ginny Simon
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Ginny Simon has had her own writing business, Project Marketing, for more than 25 years. She has published hundreds of articles under her own name as well as on behalf of many and varied clients. She has taught at Drexel University and is the author of "Getting Started in Freelance Writing," published by CornerOffice Books.
Cheri Skipworth
phillyhandmadeu@gmail.com
Cheri Skipworth is the owner of the HandmadeU Studio. HandmadeU inspires creativity in others through offering a monthly craft subscription box as well as craft workshops. Cheri has been an avid crafter for more than 30 years and has been teaching arts and crafts to others for more than 20 years. https://www.phillyhandmadeu.com
Ken Sklar
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Ken Sklar has moderated MLSN course Topics in the News since 2014. Before that he created the popular Global Issues and Contemporary American Studies classes at Radnor H.S., where he taught for 37 years. While there, Ken served on the faculty of the Governor’s School for International Studies, helmed the Model UN Club, the Global Responsibility Organization, the student newspaper, led trips to the Soviet Union and China, ran Radnor’s gifted education program, and hosted guest speakers from area colleges, US and foreign governments as well as former students. Always seeking to promote the teaching profession, Ken served as President of Radnor’s Teachers union and was its Chief Negotiator. Ken considers himself a lifelong learner who transitioned from teaching 17 year-olds to septuagenarians. A political junkie and an avid traveler, Ken has visited over 80 countries. He is married with three sons and two grandchildren
Emily Smith
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Emily Smith began her practice in 2003 and is now a licensed massage and bodywork therapist with expert level training in The John F. Barnes’ Myofascial Release Approach®, a Physicalmind Institute certified Pilates, yin yoga, restorative movement and qigong practitioner trained in Daisy Lee’s Women’s Radiant Lotus Qigong. She began her journey into myofascial release in 2012 receiving, studying, and practicing the healing art with John Barnes. Emily’s practice is rooted in an open and sensitive heart, genuine curiosity about her clients, and love for helping people care for themselves. She brings practical knowledge from her own experiences of healing and transformation and lifelong learning from innovative masters of the healing and movement arts. Through a unique combination of myofascial release, massage therapy, and nourishing movement, Emily helps you improve mobility, posture and balance, restore the balance of softness and tension, and remember your reflexive core strength. She offers long term solutions for living a healthy, happy, and active life free of pain. Emily is grateful to have loved practicing and living in Pennsylvania, Hawaii, Colorado, and Alaska and has been happy to be home in Black Mountain, NC since 2020.
MLSN Staff
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Staff, MLSN
Staff, Stoneleigh: A Natural Garden
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Staff, Stoneleigh: a natural garden
Jackie Strauss
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Broadcast Pioneers Board member Jackie Strauss is a Philly girl, born and raised. Her memories of growing up in the city led her to her position as "Neighborhood Correspondent" on the "Remember When” radio program, along with hosts, Steve Ross and Jim Murray, formerly on “CBS 1210 AM” and then on “ 990 AM WNTP” for over a decade. During the six years Jackie was a part of the radio show, her segment was one of the longest-running features; reporting on people's birthdays, anniversaries, reunions and events in their lives, and researching the various neighborhoods in the Delaware Valley which prompted calls from listeners anxious to talk about their memories and their pride in the places where they grew up. Jackie was always a part of the conversational dialogue between Steve and Jimmy and their listeners, as they took their weekly trip together down "Memory Lane”.
Lawrence Swesey
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I am a retired educator and military officer, married with three adult children. My educational experience is primarily in mentoring and instructing adult (both young and mature) students in a variety of disciplines. My professional educational career centered upon instructing juniors and seniors in a highly regarded academic public high school in Princeton Junction, New Jersey. My military career included a long assignment as a primary instructor at the U.S. Army’s Reserve Officer Advanced Course at Ft Knox, Kentucky. Additionally, my professional career included several years as an adjunct facility instructor at the college level. I have also, presented lectures, learning sessions and workshops at professional conferences and various organizations, developed and conducted educational tours of historical significant locations and mentored young professionals. After retiring from public school instruction I accepted a position as Adjunct Professor at Valley Forge Military College instructing Ethics and History. Since my professional retirement I have continued to give occasional lectures and conduct historical site educational tours. I also serve as a volunteer in the Museum Programs Department at The Benjamin Franklin Institute , Philadelphia, PA. Certifications and degrees include: Bachelor of Science The United States Military Academy, West Point, New York 1969 Master of Education Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 1978 U.S. Army Instructor 275th U.S. Army Reserve School, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 1985 Major educational assignments include: High School Teacher Lower Moreland High School Huntingdon Valley, PA High School Teacher Lower Merion School District Lower Merion, PA Advanced Course Inst U.S. Officer Reserve Advanced Course Ft Knox, KY High School Teacher West Windsor-Plainsboro Sch. Dis trict Princeton Junction, NJ Adjunct Professor Valley Forge Military College Wayne, PA
Mary Anne Sylvester
maryanne.sylvester02@g
Mary Anne works with both men and women who struggle with making lifestyle changes. Her specialty areas are health and work-staying healthy and finding purpose in life. She has helped hundreds of people take action to improve their lifestyles through coaching. She believes there is no-one-size-fits-all when it comes to living a life of mission and passion. Her three-step approach to making lifestyle changes has worked for so many people.
Dana Thomas
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Dana Thomas is an award-winning journalist and bestselling author of Fashionopolis: The Price of Fast Fashion and the Future of Clothes, Gods and Kings: The Rise and Fall of Alexander McQueen and John Galliano and Deluxe: How Luxury Lost Its Luster, all published by PenguinPress, and Fashionopolis Young Readers Edition, published by Dial Books. She is a freelance contributor to the New York Times, and the host of The Green Dream, a bi-weekly podcast on sustainability, produced by Talkbox Studio. She wrote the screenplay for Salvatore: Shoemaker of Dreams, an award-winning feature documentary directed by Luca Guadagnino, which premiered at the Venice Film Festival in 2020. Distributed by Sony Classics, Salvatore: Shoemaker of Dreams was nominated for a Critic’s Choice Doc Award in 2022. Her book Deluxe was adapted for the docuseries, Kingdom of Dreams. Thomas began her career writing for the Style section of The Washington Post, and for fifteen years she served as a cultural and fashion correspondent for Newsweek in Paris. Thomas has written for The New York Times Magazine, The New Yorker, The Wall Street Journal, the Financial Times, Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, T: The New York Times Style Magazine, and Architectural Digest, and most recently served as the European Sustainability Editor for British Vogue. She has spoken at a host of major conferences and institutions, including the Aspen Institute’s Ideas Festival, Harvard Business School, and TED. In 1987, Thomas received the Sigma Delta Chi Foundation’s Ellis Haller Award for Outstanding Achievement in Journalism. In 2016, the French Minister of Culture named Thomas a Chevalier of the Order of Arts and Letters. In 2017, she was a Logan Nonfiction Fellow at the Carey Institute for Global Good. In 2023, Thomas was named an ambassador for the Prince’s Foundation, King Charles III’s sustainability center, based in Ayrshire, Scotland. She lives in Paris.
Fukue (Fay) Toyozato
fkfay8@gmail.com
Fay Toyozato, Chef, Japanese Cooking Instructor
Ellen Trachtenberg
braintreebooks@gmail.com
Ellen Trachtenberg is the owner of the Narberth Bookshop, which she opened in 2016 after more than 25 years of book industry experience. Prior to opening the bookshop, Ellen served as a book publicist and publishing consultant.
Staff Tri-State Training
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Staff, Tri-State Training
I US Coast Guard Aux. 5NR
bayardanderson@comcast.net
Staff, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Marie Uberti-Benz
mariebenz@yahoo.com
Marie O. Uberti Benz MD FAAD St. Joseph's college, Thomas Jefferson Medical School, Lankenau Hospital Internship, University of Pennsylvania Dermatology residency. 35 years Dermatology practice at Presbyterian Hospital; Diverse practice treating inpatients and outpatients, taught dermatology to medical students, residents and other physicians. I am also the editor of MedicalResearch.com, [https://PainRelief.com,]PainRelief.com, WeightControl.com and FightAcne.com. Met my husband Robert Benz, a Nephrologist, at medical school. Three grown children, two grandchildren.
Steven Ujifusa
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Steven Ujifusa is an historian and resident of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. His second book, Barons of the Sea: And the Race to Build the World's Fastest Clipper Ship, tells the saga of the great 19th century American clipper ships and the Yankee merchant dynasties they created. Warren Delano II, maternal grandfather of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, takes center stage in the narrative. For this project, he was the recipient of a 7-week writing fellowship from the MacDowell Colony in Peterborough, New Hampshire. Barons of the Sea was published by Simon & Schuster in July 2018. In 2012 The Wall Street Journal named his first book, A Man and His Ship: America's Greatest Naval Architect and His Quest to Build the SS United States (Simon & Schuster), as one of the 10 best nonfiction books of the year. He has appeared on National Public Radio, CBS Sunday Morning, and numerous media outlets. He is a frequent contributor to the urban history website PhillyHistory.org. He is also the author of the corporate history of Airgas, Inc., and is currently working on the official history of J.M. Forbes & Company, one of the oldest independent financial services firms in the United States. A native of New York City and raised in Chappaqua, New York, Steven received his undergraduate degree in history from Harvard University and a joint masters in historic preservation and real estate development from the University of Pennsylvania. He serves on the boards of the Independence Seaport Museum and the Boys Latin Charter School of Philadelphia. He is a rowing member of the University Barge Club and a singing member of the Orpheus Club of Philadelphia. Steven resides with his wife Alexandra (a pediatric emergency room physician) and son in Philadelphia's historic Cedar Park neighborhood.
Beth Ulcay
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Beth Ulcay, MA MS Drexel University Adjunct Professor, ELD Specialist
Staff, Union League
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Richard Unti
richardunti@verizon.net
Rich Unti has been a wine professional in the Philadelphia region for over 30 years as a Broker, Importer and Sales Representative. He has visited many wineries around the world and is always on the lookout for the new trends in the industry.
Kate Varley
kateoffcenter@gmail.com
Kate Varley earned a BA from Clark University, MS and PhD from University of Pennsylvania. She has worked as a therapist, psych adjunct, teacher, editor, tutor, and even had a brief stint as a quasi-forger (totally legal). She was founder and editor of the late, lamented zine of autobiographical writing and poetry, Creek Road Gang, and author of a comic mystery Off Center.
Justin Villere
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Justin serves as Director of Civic Education for the Committee of Seventy. He has worked with C70 since 2016, previously as the Chief of Staff for its redistricting project, Draw the Lines PA. A native of Colorado, Justin has lived in the Philly area since 2012 and continues to find gems that make this one of America's greatest cities. Justin is a 2-time AmeriCorps alumnus, possessing a Bachelor's degree from the University of Colorado at Boulder and a Master's in Public Administration from Cornell University.
I Wayne Ballet
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Musical Theatre Dance instructor Barby Hobyak Roche Barby received degrees in Theatre & Education from Villanova University and an MFA in Dance from the University of Michigan. Favorite theatrical roles over the years include Maria (West Side Story/Vasey Theatre), Cinderella (Into The Woods/Vasey ), Masie (The Boyfriend/Vasey), Eve (The Meat Opera/Phila & NY Fringe Festivals), Cassie (A Chorus Line/Candlelight Dinner Theater), Peggy (42nd Street/Candlelight), Polly (Crazy For You/Candlelight), Give My Regards to Broadway & Hooray for Hollywood (Three Little Bakers). She has performed with a variety of Dance Companies: Opus, Koresh Dance Company, Jazz Dance Theatre, Ann Arbor Dance Works, Artichoke Dance Co, NetCo, and Fiddlekicks. Barby has enjoyed teaching dance (and choreographing musicals) in Villanova University’s Theatre Dept. for the past 24 years.

Tap Beginner instructor Sarah Vogan Sarah began her training at a young age. Her performance highlights include: ABC Boscov's Thanksgiving Day Parade, Sunoco Welcome America 4th of July Parades, Republican National Convention in 2000, Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell Inauguration Parade, and in 2003, Sarah made her debut dancing at Carnegie Hall in concert with Janellen Farmer. A dancer with The Lady Hoofers Tap Ensemble, she was recognized in 2019 by Camille Bacon-Smith of Broad Street Review as the "star turn" of The Lady Hoofers' annual spring concert, On Tap. With The Lady Hoofers, Sarah has also been cast in the premier performances of guest choreographers: Dolores Sanchez, Caleb Teicher, Michele Dunleavy, Robyn Watson, Lisa LaTouche, and Michael J. Love.

Tap Experience instructor Gail Oldfield Gail is a dancer, choreographer, and teacher. From touring the country in her early career to becoming a Radio City Music Hall Rockette, she has enjoyed many memorable dance experiences. She was Dance Director at Cabrini College for several years, as well a choreographer for over sixty musical productions across the tri-county area. Recently, she served as Vice President of the Rockette Alumnae Association in New York City.
Mike Weilbacher
mike@mikeweilbacher.com
Naturalist Mike Weilbacher is an environmental educator with 40 years of experience teaching through lectures, walks, newspaper essays, theatrical performances, and radio. A frequent lecturer, Mike has been traveling the Delaware Valley the last five years offering public lectures on environmental concerns. He’s also been a keynote speaker and workshop leader at state and national education conferences, speaking before groups like the National Science Teachers Association, the Pennsylvania Association for Environmental Educators, the National Association of Interpretation, and the Association of Nature Center Administrators. As an environmental educator, he has designed a diverse array of programs across the region, including family festivals, Earth Day events, town meetings, lecture series, nature walks, and so much more. Over a 30-year career, he served as the executive director of the Lower Merion Conservancy, the Briar Bush Nature Center in Abington, and the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education in Roxborough. As an emcee and radio personality, Mike hosted Earth Talk on WHYY-FM, an early 90s newsmagazine on regional environmental concerns. Over the show’s five-year run, his guests included Al Gore, biodiversity pioneer Edward O. Wilson, environmental activists Paul Ehrlich and Barry Commoner, writers Bill McKibben, Terry Tempest Williams, and Michael Pollan, and many more. Mike is also well-known as “Mike the All-Natural Science Guy” on the Peabody award-winning live children’s radio show “Kid’s Corner” on WXPN-FM in Philadelphia and worldwide at XPN.org, where he has been talking to children about nature and the environment for more than 30 years. As a writer, his first book, Wild Philly, has just been released with Timber Press. He has authored weekly columns on preservation and environmental issues for two different local newspapers since 1997, where in 2006 the Suburban Newspapers of America honored him for outstanding writing. He has published articles in Green Teacher, E: The Environmental Magazine and Learning, placed numerous book reviews and op-ed pieces in The Philadelphia Inquirer, and wrote an acclaimed regular column in his state’s environmental education journal. As a performer of original vaudevillian-style theater about nature and science, Mike has performed on stages across the country, in parks, festivals, museums, nature centers, and more, from the American Museum of Natural History in New York to the Tallahassee Museum in Florida.
Susan Weisgrau
sulear6@gmail.com
Susan Weisgrau is a retired writing and literature teacher with J.M. Barrack Hebrew Academy (formerly Akiba) She is a former board member of JASNA, Eastern Pennsylvania. and judge of national student essay contests for JASNA. Susan has led book groups for many years at libraries and other venues.
Nancy White
nancy@digitalco
Nancy White is owner of Digital Consulting Associates, LLC in West Chester PA. She is a technology course development specialist, and gives private computer lessons to individuals and business in the Main Line area. A graduate of Immaculata University, Nancy has a contagious passion for teaching adults how to make the best possible use of technology. She is also an adjunct instructor at Delaware County Community College. Nancy's company website is digitalconsultingassociates.com and she can be reached at 610-357-1525.
Benjamin Witmer
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Benjamin Witmer draws upon over 20 years of experience in helping clients navigate through the mortgage process. He's received the Philadelphia Magazine's 5 Star Mortgage Award, which celebrates those mortgage professionals that provide and create a superior, low cost mortgage experience, 5 years in a row. Benjamin got his start helping clients buy new homes and second homes on the beaches of Florida to being regional sales manager and SVP of a publicly traded mortgage banker. In 2001, frustrated with the big bank mentality that has little consideration for customer service, he created his own boutique mortgage shop specializing in qualifying to closing, hands on client service. Operating with his staff in a downtown Radnor storefront, he continues to assist his clients in PA, NJ, DE and NY.
Phil Witmer
philip.witmer@verizon.net
Phil Witmer is an avid birder and conservationist with over 30 years birding experience. He is a past board member of Bucks County Audubon Society, past-president of the Delaware Valley Ornithological Club, one of the oldest birding clubs in the country, and was a member of the advisory board of Audubon Pennsylvania State Office. He is currently vice-president of Bird Town Pennsylvania, helping to build bird-friendly habitats in PA municipalities. His work in support of the conservation of birds includes teaching and giving lectures on the forces driving their decline and what we need to do to save them.
Anthony Wood
tonywood1@mac.com
Anthony Wood has been a freelance photographer since 1981. He has worked in many areas of photography including: location shooting for editorial, corporate and non-profits, documentary and fine art. He’s also been teaching all aspects of photography for over 20 years. Learn more at www.Anthonywoodphotography.com
Staff, Workhorse Brewing
katherine@workhorsebre
Staff Wyck Historic House, Garden
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Asil Yaman
ayaman@upenn.edu
Asil Yaman, Archeologist, Dir., Phoenix Archeol. Project, Turkey; Prof., Villanova U. & Penn Museum
Carolyn Zalesne
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I am a graphic designer with a specialty in book design, book editing and self-publishing. I have ghost-written, edited and designed the interior and covers for personal memoirs, professional memoirs, novels, books of poems, photographs, travel essays, personal essays and genealogy collections. I have given numerous design presentations and teach senior adults to be more competent and confident computer users.
Tatiana Zelenetskaya Young
tatiana.young@temple.edu
TATIANA ZELENETSKAYA YOUNG, a native of Ukraine, is a professor of Anthropology, an archaeologist-Mayanist, a world traveler, a professional dancer, a historical fashionista, and an artisan. Digging through history has been her life’s passion which has ultimately led to her attaining doctorate in Anthropology, with emphasis in ancient Maya. Tatiana is well-traveled, has over 10 years of archeological fieldwork – domestic and abroad, and accompanying years teaching cultural anthropology collegiately. Among her other passions is dance. Tatiana has been involved in performing and teaching Middle Eastern dance for over 17 years. She performed across the tri-state area under her stage name, Kahina Asurah; and, appeared on MIND TV in the history of Belly Dance. Additionally, Tatiana also performs historical dance in the outfits of the time (Colonial, Victorian, Regency and Edwardian) which she has sewn herself. Tatiana enjoys creating during her free time. This can be seen through her resin art with dry flowers, necklaces with different stones and objects, and fluid painting. Tatiana has been teaching at MLSN for the past 10 years and has been featured at local station MLTV21.