The nine “couples” profiled here are as eligible as they come. Single and definitely ready to mingle, all have plenty to bring to the party—cool careers, interests and hobbies, along with a clear perspective on who they are, inside and out. Most had no idea what they were getting into when we paired them up in front of the camera. Thankfully, there was enough chemistry to keep everyone entertained.
After playing 20 questions with this bunch, we soon discovered that what looks like a good match in these photos might not work so well in real life. That should put everyone on equal footing at our Eligibles Party Nov. 18 at the Paddock at Devon.
For more information on the event, go here.
Melissa Shertz
29, Newtown Square
Director, Huntington Learning Center, Exton
Shane Rineer
26, Conshohocken
Assistant Men’s Soccer Coach, Villanova University
Young and full of spunk, Melissa and Shane are straight-shooters who prefer rural acres to city blocks. Both would definitely turn down tickets to the orchestra for a rock concert—and for either, a blind date is worth a shot. The worst thing about being single for Melissa: “plus one” wedding invites. Best thing: being able to sing as loudly as she wants in the car. The downside for Shane: not having anyone to put his trust in.
Brenda Helber
45, Devon
Sales and Marketing Executive
Kevin Gallagher
42, Gladwyne
Police Officer, Radnor Township
Energy wise, you’ve probably never met anyone like these two. When he’s not on the beat in Radnor, Kevin flies airplanes and helicopters. He’s also a volunteer firefighter for the Gladwyne Fire Department. As much as he enjoys being single, Kevin would love having someone to share in a long list of activities that also includes motorcycle riding. Up early and going nonstop all day long, Brenda is an adept tennis player, golfer, skier and beach bum. Her downtime is also spent gardening, working out, doing needlepoint and “making people laugh.”
Tanya Tecce
39, Springfield
President, Tecce Advertising
Jonathan Isen
49, Wayne
Executive Producer,
Phasmatrope Studios
Finding free time is a challenge for both Tanya and Jonathan—unless it’s the right activity with the right person. Jonathan is willing to spend some time getting to know a newfound interest before bailing. Tanya, however, is more of a heartbreaker (we call it knowing what you want). Then again, one bad pickup line too many is enough to make any girl take up kickboxing. And, ladies, if swanky is your thing, Jonathan prefers lounging poolside to tearing it up.
Dana Cost
44, Devon
Corporate Catering Manager, Meridith’s Catering, Berwyn
Bill Fell
38, Malvern
Independent Consultant,
Medical Device Sales
Some people like to play it close to the vest, but not Dana. “I’ve got nothing to hide,” says this independent, resilient, nurturing and openminded mom. Dana’s never been on a blind date, but she’s willing to take a chance—so long as it involves laughter, good music, great food and ample communication. If you’ve been waiting for a chance to hit the dance floor, Bill just might be your guy. Whether it’s lacrosse, mountain biking, cooking, playing golf or chillin’ at happy hour, there’s not much this risktaker isn’t up for.
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Donna Jankiewicz
51, Devon
Dentist
Herman DeJong
66, Gladwyne
Architect, Sculptor, Jazz Bassist
An avid arts and culture buff, Herman hosts at-home music events with plenty of fine wine, nibbles and interesting conversation. He’s enjoyed almost every blind date he’s been on (if you can believe that). Always the gentleman, Herman believes in sharing common goals and caring for the world around him. Donna shares a similar passion for music and sings regularly at several area churches. Blind dates? Not so much. The best thing about being single for Donna: sleeping in the middle of the bed.
Jami Osiecki
37, Bala Cynwyd
Talent Booker, NBC 10
Hal Farber
52, Bala Cynwyd
Dermatologist and Cosmetic Surgeon
A diehard romantic, Hal finds “weeding through the façade” a challenge and is disappointed when a woman’s actions don’t match her initial persona. Physical features are important, he says, but ultimately it’s personality that makes a person more or less attractive. Though she enjoys “everything” about being single, Jami is ready to find the love of her life—and someone who actually looks like his online picture. When asked about her best hidden attribute, she says, “Get to know me, and you’ll find out.”
Linda Ricci
42, Narberth
Jewelry Designer, Quatrain & Co.
Paul Fritsch
54, Kennett Square
Museum Insurance Underwriter
“It’s amazing what you can learn from someone just by paying attention,” says Paul, a “helpless romantic” who wears his heart on his sleeve, holds the door open for his date, buys dinner and flowers, and has no problem staying awake all night to clean up after a party. City life, rock concerts and motorcycles appeal to Linda, an occasional adrenaline junkie whose adventures include a marriage proposal in the Moroccan Sahara. She’s looking for a partner to share “the adventure that life is.”
Vanessa Walling
45, Gladwyne
Financial Services Representative, Kodi Consulting
Chris Cioffi
39, Blue Bell
Contract Specialist, De Lage Landen, King of Prussia
An adventurer at heart, Vanessa golfs, scuba dives and is a skilled photographer. All work and no play make Chris a dull boy. He spends much of his free time on the ice in winter, and on rollerblades in summer. He’s got a sense of humor, which is also one of Vanessa’s strong suits—though maybe not as strong as her intuition. “If you know it’s not right—or is—trust your gut,” she says.
Meredith Krase
33, Philadelphia
Corporate Catering Sales Manager, Meridith’s Catering, Berwyn
Ryan Long
25, Conshohocken
Insurance Sales Representative, Aetna Healthcare
Wise beyond his years, Ryan learned an important relationship lesson early on: Walk away from conflict until you’re ready to deal with it calmly and reasonably. This chivalrous, career-driven sales rep likes to ponder the desired outcome before choosing whether or not to put all his cards on the table when he meets someone. Meredith, meanwhile, likes to take the “everything in moderation” approach at first. But deep down, she believes good communication is the best way to navigate any relationship.
