RIDLEY TOWNSHIP — It was an exciting afternoon at the James May Costume Co. on Thursday, when longtime costume designer Jim May presented checks, totaling $18,000 to two local charities.
The donations were made possible, thanks to the talented, generous business owner, his flashy designer Liberty Beret, and many local residents who purchased the hats to support the worthwhile causes.
May handcrafted the stylish red, white and blue Liberty Beret to celebrate the nation’s semiquincentennial, pay tribute to the Philadelphia’s Mummers’ 125th anniversary this year, and to raise money for The Chapel of the Four Chaplains and the Mummers against Cancer.
The berets are handmade from durable cotton fabric, and embellished with red, blue and gold sequins, a gold sequin band and topped with bright red feathers spotlighting a large emblem that reads “250 Anniversary 1776-2026” under a bald eagle. Inside each original handcrafted hat is a label reading “Created by James May,” personally signed by the longtime award-winning designer.
Sales of James May’s unique Liberty Beret raised almost $20,000 this summer. Buyers were able to designate if they wanted the money from their hat purchase to benefit Mummers Against Cancer, which helps local Mummers and their family members who are battling cancer, or the Chapel of the Four Chaplains, which assists local veterans in need who are struggling. (PEG DEGRASSA/ DAILY TIMES)
May donated every cent from the hat sales to the two charities, without taking any money for his time or material. Each buyer wrote out their check to their choice of the two charities.
On hand to accept a $12,000 check from May for Mummers Against Cancer was George Balzar, a member of the Woodland String Band and chairman of the charitable organization. His wife, Janice, who accompanied George to accept the donation, is the treasurer. Mummers Against Cancer provides financial assistance to Mummers dealing with a cancer diagnoses and treatment expenses. Previously, May raised $26,000 for the organization from the sale of his Philadelphia Eagles uniquely designed Championship Hats, and $25,000 for the Wounded Warrior Project.
“We are very grateful to Jim May and everyone who purchased a hat,” Balzar stated. “This donation will help Mummers in our organization, and their family members, who are battling cancer.”
Balzar said Mummers can seek help from the nonprofit organization for themselves or a family member, and a board of 17 members votes on how the money will be spent.
May, who designed and made thousands of Mummers costumes throughout his decades-long career, said he was motivated to help the charitable organization after witnessing friends and fellow Mummers struggle with cancer and financial hardships over the years.
May also presented a check for $6,000 to The Chapel of Four Chaplains at The Philadelphia Navy Yard, which assists homeless and veterans in need with food, clothing, shelter, memorial services and chapel use, as well as all veterans with outreach, emotional and spiritual support, and more.
“We are very grateful for this donation,” said retired Capt. Louis Cavaliere, chairman emeritus of The Chapel of the Four Chaplains. “We are expanding our outreach to better serve veterans, focusing on broadening our suicide prevention efforts and this will help us a lot.”
Donors received a written acknowledgment for their donation from whichever nonprofit charity they chose.
May said he chose The Chapel of the Four Chaplains in honor of his family members who served in the military and in gratitude to all veterans who served, as well as active servicemen and women.
“I designed The Liberty Beret specifically to honor the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration, to pay tribute to our honorable U.S. military, and acknowledge Philadelphia’s Mummers heritage,” May said. “God gave me a gift and I am blessed to be able to share it to help others.”
There are a very limited number of the unique collectible hats still for sale and all proceeds will continue to benefit these charities.
James May Costume Company is at 450 MacDade Boulevard in Folsom. Liberty Berets may be ordered by calling 610-532-3430.
To find out more about Mummers Against Cancer, go to the organization’s Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/MummersAgainstCancer.
For more information about the Chapel of The Four Chaplains, go to http://FourChaplains.org or contact Michelle Nolfi at 215-218-1943.
‘The Prom’ takes the stage at Neumann University
Center Stage Productions will bring “The Prom” to life at Neumann University’s Meagher Theatre from Thursday, Aug. 6 to Sunday, Aug. 9.
Winner of the Drama Desk Award for Best Musical, “The Prom” tells the story of four eccentric Broadway stars who desperately want to step back into the spotlight. When they hear that trouble is brewing around a small-town prom, they take advantage of the opportunity and insert themselves into the controversy.
The town’s parents want to keep the high school dance on the straight and narrow, but when one student wants to bring her girlfriend to prom, she sparks a civic debate that threatens the event.
On a mission to make a difference, the Broadway stars team with the courageous student, leading to a transformation that brings everyone together in the name of love and acceptance.
Capturing the humor and heart of a classic musical comedy, “The Prom” inspires and entertains with its blend of heart, humor and show-stopping musical numbers that resonate with audiences of all ages.
Performances are scheduled for Aug. 6, 7, and 8 at 7:30 p.m. and Aug. 9 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for students and seniors, and $15 for children. To order in advance: www.csptheatre.com/buy.
Center Stage Productions is one of seven groups in the Arts Guild at Neumann University, a collection of organizations that bring plays, music, dance, lectures and exhibits to Delaware County.
Other members include the Cultural Arts Forum, Delaware County Symphony, International Ballet Classique, Neumann University Art Gallery, Neumann University Jazz Band and Neumann University Players.
To learn more about the arts at Neumann University, visit www.neumann.edu/arts.
COSA seeks volunteers for Foster Grandparent Program
Delaware County’s Office of Services for the Aging (COSA) is calling on residents to make a difference by mentoring and tutoring children who need guidance, support and a caring adult through the AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program.
The program, sponsored nationally by AmeriCorps Seniors and locally by COSA, is open to individuals 55 and older who want to help children achieve their full potential.
Volunteers can help guide students to higher academic achievement, care for infants and young children, and serve as role models for those with exceptional needs. Interactions take place in schools, childcare centers, and Head Start programs.
Foster Grandparent provides the type of comfort and encouragement that can set a child on a path toward success. AmeriCorps seniors also report better health and longevity through service, as well as meaningful new relationships within their community.
AmeriCorps Seniors service provides tangible benefits for volunteers, including a tax-free stipend up to $640 a month, transportation assistance, training opportunities, paid time off for sickness, vacation and holidays, and community recognition.
Orientation is scheduled to begin in late August, although the program is ongoing. Participants must be available at least 15 hours per week.
Seniors interested in joining the program can contact Alisha Freeman at 610-490-1498 or freemanas@co.delaware.pa.us, or visit the AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program website for more information.
Marcus Hook concert series to feature The Fabulous Greaseband
The Marcus Hook Concert Series 2026, Down By The River, will present The Fabulous Greaseband, at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5 at Marcus Hook Park on the waterfront, 7 E. Delaware Ave., Marcus Hook.
All ages are welcome to attend the free concert. For more information, call the borough municipal building at 610-485-1341.
The ribbon will be cut to officially open the new LifeBridges neighborhood at Chestnut Ridge in Wallingford on Thursday. LifeBridges is designed for seniors who require high-acuity care but prefer a residential environment over a skilled nursing facility. Above, a common area where residents can gather. (COURTESY OF CHESTNUT RIDGE)
Chestnut Ridge to cut ribbon on new LifeBridges Neighborhood this week
Chestnut Ridge Wallingford will celebrate the opening of its new LifeBridges neighborhood with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and celebration on Thursday, July 30 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Delaware County senior living community, 2700 Chestnut Parkway, Wallingford.
LifeBridges is designed for seniors who require high-acuity care but prefer a residential environment over a skilled nursing facility. The neighborhood provides personalized support while emphasizing comfort, dignity and meaningful connections.
“Loved ones often worry about whether family members will receive the around-the-clock care they need,” said Selena Cheng, executive operations officer at Chestnut Ridge Wallingford. “LifeBridges offers a solution by providing comprehensive care in a home setting rather than a skilled nursing facility. Our team delivers 24/7 personalized care in a supportive environment. Our LifeBridges residents will receive attentive assistance with daily tasks, medical needs and emotional support. We work hard to ensure they are always safe, comfortable and cared for.”
LifeBridges offers individualized care plans, dining with dignity, therapeutic activity programming, rapid call-bell response and 24-hour admissions. Residents also benefit from specialized design features, including mobility lifts, adaptive equipment and layouts created to support those with complex physical needs.
“People often compare LifeBridges to skilled nursing,” said Community Relations Director Tanissa Reed. “The difference is that skilled nursing facilities are medical institutions, while LifeBridges is a home designed for residents with mobility challenges and complex care needs. The specialized environment helps reduce risks and supports greater independence with daily activities.”
Through its Guided Provider Network, LifeBridges brings essential health care services directly to residents, including physical and occupational therapy, audiology, dentistry, podiatry, optometry and other clinical specialties.
“Some seniors need enhanced care, mobility support and daily structure,” said Paola Fusaro, area general manager at IntegraCare, which operates Chestnut Ridge Wallingford. “LifeBridges combines the clinical expertise people expect from skilled nursing with the warmth and comfort of our senior living community. Residents receive the care they need in a place that truly feels like home.”
The neighborhood’s relationship-based approach to engagement is centered on each resident’s personal history, interests and strengths, helping foster purpose and connection.
“Connection matters,” Cheng said. “LifeBridges provides that connection.”
For more information about Chestnut Ridge Wallingford, call 60-549-1550.
Chamber hosts Delco Night with Philadelphia Union
The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will host Delco Night with the Philadelphia Union, an evening designed to bring people together, Thursday, Aug. 6 at Subaru Park, 2501 Seaport Drive, Chester.
The fun will begin with the Chamber Tailgate, 5:30 p.m. at Union Yards, followed by the Philadelphia Union vs. Cruz Azul game at 8 p.m.
More than just a tailgate, Union Yards offers a lively outdoor atmosphere where Chamber members can connect, unwind, and enjoy summer before kickoff. Live music and entertainment, Yard games and outdoor activities can be enjoyed and food and beverages will be available for purchase.
Whether planning an employee appreciation outing, entertaining clients, spending time with family, or gathering friends for a fun night out, this is a chance to enjoy a memorable summer evening with the Chamber community.
To purchase tickets, contact the Philadelphia Union Sales Team at Groups@philadelphiaunion.com.
Readers can send community news and photos to Peg DeGrassa at pdegrassa@21st-centurymedia.com.