Each new year brings hopes, goals, resolutions and visions for the future. And as our clocks ticked down to the final seconds of 2025, we all surely came together to raise a glass and welcomed 2026 with open arms.
What are your goals and dreams for this new year? We set out to ask a few notable residents what they will most appreciate, what they want to do more of and how their 2026 resolutions will differ from years past.
Cheryl Grosso
Newly Elected Supervisor for Newtown Township
In 2026, I’ll most appreciate the lessons that come from not giving up. There’s something powerful about continuing to show up—even when the outcome is uncertain or the path feels steep. Over time, I’ve learned that each setback builds resilience, and every effort, even the ones that fall short, helps lay the foundation for future success. I’ll appreciate the moments that require persistence—the times that test courage and hope— because those are the moments that shape who we become and remind us that real progress rarely happens all at once. It happens when we choose to try, try, and try again.
In 2026, I want to focus more on pursuing projects that spark joy and foster growth. Starting a podcast has shown me the value of diving into something new, even without having all the answers. I’ve discovered that the act of beginning—learning as you go, experimenting and refining along the way—can be incredibly rewarding. This year, I want to lean into that approach even more: embracing curiosity, staying open to learning and trusting that progress comes with practice and patience.
My approach to New Year’s resolutions in 2026 feels different from past years because this year I want to focus on making room for more joy and moments that make life feel lighter. I want to laugh more, find humor in the everyday and notice the little moments that bring a smile… and maybe even learn how to crochet something more ambitious than a scarf.
Michael Barkann
Sports Host and Anchor for NBC Sports Philadelphia
Michael Barkann is one of Philadelphia’s best-known sports media personalities and a long-time Newtown Square resident. He and his family were featured in our magazine in October 2023, where we learned that life for the Barkanns is Philled with Phun, Phamily, and Philadelphia Pride.
What do you think you’ll most appreciate in 2026 and why?
My daughter, Emily, is getting married in April. I am really looking forward to celebrating!
What do you think you’ll try to do more of in 2026?
Exercise! I’ll be running the New York City Marathon. (I’m actually not, but it’s a nice thought, isn’t it?)
How are your New Year’s Resolutions for 2026 different from those of past years?
I won’t break even one resolution in 2026. Why? Because I’m not making any!
Leonard B. Altieri, III, Esquire
Chairman of the Newtown Township Board of Supervisors
In 2026, I think I’ll most appreciate the people around me — my family who keep me grounded, and a community that keeps me inspired. As Chairman of the Board of Supervisors, I’ll appreciate every step forward we make together… and fewer late-night meetings. As a husband and father, I’ll appreciate any year that includes a few quiet weekends and maybe even a completed household project. Mostly, I’ll appreciate the chance to keep serving, and the progress we make as a community when we look out for one another, all while still being the guy my family counts on at home, and that everyone else simply knows as just ‘Leonard.’
This year, I want to spend more time with my family, catch up with the people I don’t see nearly enough and say ‘yes’ to more of the fun, spontaneous moments. And maybe even finish a project or two without starting three more, I’ll call that a major win.
My New Year’s resolutions for 2026 are different because I’m keeping them simple and fun. In past years, I’d come up with a whole list and aim ridiculously high and then wonder by February why I thought I suddenly had superpowers. This year, it’s more about enjoying the moments and being a little more present.
Thank you to our Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors for sharing your hopes for this new year. Whatever your dream is for 2026, here’s to hoping it happens—and in a big way!