Newtown, PA March 2023

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VIVA M AGENTA 2023

ALSO SERVING NEW HOPE, UPPER MAKEFIELD, WASHINGTON CROSSING AND WRIGHTSTOWN

M A R C H 2 02 3

Newtown Real Estate Pulse brought to you by Marcolla Realty Considering buying, selling or investing in real estate?

Regardless of your plans, it’s best to know the value of your home and how much equity you may have. As your local real estate experts we can help. Reach out today.

6 0 9. 42 3 . 9 147 D i r e c t 2 67. 2 9 1 .0 40 0 O f f i c e I N FO @M A R C O L L A R E A LT Y.C O M M A R C O L L A R E A LT Y.C O M 4 4 4 S O U T H S T A T E S T R E E T S U I T E C - 1 , N E W T O W N | L I C E N S E D R E A LT O R S - PA A N D N J

NEIGHBORHOOD

LIST PRICE

BEDS

BATHS

DOM

CLOSE PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

211 S State St

$1,420,000

4

4

29

$1,420,000

100%

217 S State St

$1,420,000

4

4

83

$1,420,000

100%

215 S State St

$1,420,000

4

4

19

$1,420,000

100%

206 S Chancellor St

$1,015,000

4

4

1

$1,015,000

100%

453 Stoneybrook Rd

$924,900

4

3

117

$892,500

97%

31 Brown Ln

$915,000

3

3

54

$865,000

95%

107 Frost Ln

$795,000

4

4

7

$795,000

100%

120 Willow Dr

$750,000

3

3

17

$730,000

97%

18 Bucks Meadow Ln

$525,000

4

3

5

$561,000

107%

19 Bennington Pl

$479,900

3

3

4

$535,000

112%

Source: Bright MLS 12/16/22 - 01/15/23

If you need home coverage, I can help.

I live and work right here in our community. I know what the homes are like in the area. So I can offer advice you can trust to help you get the protection that fits your needs.

If you’re ready to talk home insurance or need some advice about protecting all that’s important to you, call me today.

NEWTOWN INSURANCE ADVISORS 215-579-0700

Allstate home products not available in FL, and may also not be available in certain areas of other states. Policies may be written by a non-affiliated third-party company. Insurance subject to terms, conditions and availability. Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Company & affiliates: 2775 Sanders Rd Northbrook, IL. ©2016 Allstate Insurance Co.

16705832

Protect the home you love.

Greg Kramer kramer@allstate.com allstate.com/kramer

WWW.THEWELLNEWTOWN.COM

WELCOME TO GIVE + GET

Donate a new blanket to our cold weather collection for the homeless and families in need and receive 10% off skincare or your next treatment.

L I V E C O N F I D E N T L Y , Be Well

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March 2023 PUBLISHER

Dana Weissenberg Dana.Weissenberg@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com

Home, Casa, Dom, Maison

SALES DIR ECTOR

Catrina Tier | catrina.tier@citylifestyle.com ACCOUNT MANAGER

Ryan Ahern | Ryan.Ahern@citylifestyle.com STAFF PHOTOGR APHER

Jeff Robinson CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Home. So much contained in that little four letter word. Home is our grounding. Our base. Our launchpad. It’s where we start and end each day.

And while the particulars look different for each of us, the meaning and value it holds for all of us is undeniable.

Author Wendy Wunder stated: “The magic thing about home is that it feels good to leave, and it feels even better to come back.” As we thought about the concept of homes, we wanted to highlight what makes them special to our readers. We feel lucky in that we get to learn more about the businesses and individuals that comprise this region and hope the small lens into their lives and work brings together people in this community. For example, at press time, Princeton-based Blue Point Grill was still planning to open in Newtown this spring. Jack Morrison, owner of the Witherspoon Grill, Kristine’s and the Blue Point Grill restaurants, and the Nassau Street Seafood & Produce Co., all located in Princeton, says he’s been eyeing Newtown for quite some time.

As you flip through the pages of this edition, we hope you’ll feel encouraged and connected to the people around you.

Every month, we hear from readers who keep this magazine for longer than just the month labeled on the cover. They say they hold onto it as coffee table art or an accessory in their home. We feel proud to create a resource that’s valued in our community and strive every month to deliver the value you expect. Thanks for letting us be a part of your home.

Happy March!

DANA WEISSENBERG, PUBLISHER @NEW TOWNCIT YLIFEST YLE

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/NE W TOWN |

Erica Brooke Gordon, John Fiduccia, Donna Hoffman CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Peter Rymwid, Alimya Kubov, Vidal Photography, Heather Raub

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise Proverbs 3:5-6 Newtown City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Newtown area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Newtown City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but

4

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

MARCH 2023

inside the issue The Home Issue

28

24

12

20

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

12 Interest In Luxury Condos Heats Up

4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Business Monthly

12

Must See R EA L ESTAT E

16

Decor Trends HO ME + DES I GN

20

Curb Appeal HO ME S ERV I C ES

24

Open House R EA L ESTAT E

28

Education Corner EDU CAT I ON

32

Events

34

Trend Setter A RTS + C U LT U R E

Mary Dinneen Team At Berkshire Hathaway Stands Ready To Assist

20 Home, Family And Service

Local Roofing Company Guided By Its Values And Commitment To Veterans

24 Trends In Real Estate

Local Realtor Dave Marcolla Shares Patterns, Addresses Questions For 2023

28 New Bucks Scholarship Provided By Fitzpatrick Foundation

Program Supports Bucks County Students Focused On Public Service Careers

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Alimya Kubov Just a coat of paint on doors with the bold, brilliant hue of 'Viva Magenta,' Pantone's Color of 2023, and the design will speak volumes, let alone allow for grand entrances, like this in Morocco.

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Our team provides a wide range of contracting and renovation solutions for residential projects.

We believe that a well-managed project should exceed customers’ expectations in terms of quality and service.

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505 Washington Avenue Newtown, PA 18940 MAR CH 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / N E W TOW N

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MARCH 2023

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Congratulations To Newtown Police Sgt. Sean Orr Newtown Borough Police Corporal Sean Orr advanced to the rank of sergeant. He initially worked as a parttime officer before making the transition to full-time. He was hired as a corporal in May 2006 and has spent the last 16 years protecting and serving the borough. Police Chief James Sabath says the promotion has been in the works for a number of years, but the Civil Service Commission wasn’t meeting due to COVID-19.

2023 Newtown Shamrock Shuffle Is Set For March 11 The seventh annual Newtown Shamrock Shuffle 5K is March 11, a day when everyone is a little bit Irish. Once participants finish running through historic Newtown, they can stay in Newtown where participating bars, restaurants and shops will be offering specials and giveaways. This year's charity partner is A Love for Life, which raises funds for pancreatic cancer research. For updated details regarding the Newtown Shamrock Shuffle 5K and Festival, visit NewtownShamrockShuffle.com or call 215.295.1133.

Photography by Newtown Borough Police Photography by Newtown Shamrock Shuffle 5K

8

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Largest Redevelopment Project In Newtown History Still Being Planned The deadline for the final plan of the second phase of the Steeple View redevelopment/mixed-use project was extended until March 31, 2023. At press time, developer Allan Smith and lawyer, Tim Duffy, were working on the presentation to borough council members. The plan approved in 2016 envisioned redeveloping 8.5 acres, stretching from Centre Avenue to the former Stockburger property on South State Street, with 11 mixed-use buildings containing office, retail, restaurant and residential uses.

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Newtown Rail Trail Receives $2.5M In Grants For Bucks County The Newtown Rail Trail, from the Montgomery County line to Newtown Borough, received a financial boost when Bucks County Commissioners received $2.5 million in grants to help fund the second phase of trail construction. A $1.5 million grant came from the state Department of Transportation, and $1 million from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Developers want to extend the trail to the end of the former Newtown-Fox Chase rail line.

Photography by Courtesy of Metrotrails

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INTEREST IN LUXURY CONDOS HEATS UP MARY DINNEEN TEAM AT BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY STANDS READY TO ASSIST

ARTICLE BY JOHN FIDUCCIA PHOTOGRAPHY BY JUAN VIDAL

12

M UST SE E | R EA L ESTATE

Condo-style living continues to gain popularity in suburbs, such as Newtown, confirms real estate professionals with the Mary Dinneen Team at Berkshire Hathaway.

Mary Dinneen team professionals currently represent ‘The Residences’ at 202 South State Street in Newtown Borough, which is part of the multimillion-dollar Steeple View redevelopment project.

Team leader, Mary Dinneen, has 27 years of experience and expanded her team to include her daughter, Katie, and long-time colleague, realtor Heather Oberhau. Prior to entering real estate, Mary says she worked in the securities industry as a commodity executive and later at the Philadelphia Stock Exchange,

heading options compliance. Katie, with 10 years as a real estate agent, says she previously operated a successful equine and training business. Heather, as an integral part of the team for 17-plus years, says her background is in sales and marketing.

The team represents a wide range of properties in Bucks County as well as Mercer and Hunterdon counties in New Jersey.

Mary describes The Residences as a breathtaking luxury condo development on a 9-acre parcel with top-notch building quality and the concept of quiet living faceted into every part of the construction. As the brainchild of developer Allan Smith and architect J. Robert Hillier, the first phase of 10 residential units located on South State Street include radiant heated floors, 10-foot minimum high ceilings and large windows exposing the living space to the views of Newtown.

She says the condo building won an AIA award for design excellence.

“Constructed of concrete and steel, with sound-deadening windows and doors, this building wraps you in a cocoon of quiet luxury. Several units have floor-to-ceiling windows, expansive terraces, solid wood doors, a bespoke entry foyer with barrel-vaulted ceilings, comfortable seating and a welcoming fireplace,” Mary adds.

One of the main selling points of the new development, Mary shares, is the walkability factor of in-town living. “We’re seeing an increase in clients wanting a lifestyle focused on accessibility.”

CONTINUED >

MAR CH 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / N E W TOW N

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Additionally, condos offer residents the opportunity to embrace homeownership without the hassle of yardwork, snow removal or exterior home maintenance.

The Steeple View project, as featured through The Residences, is a prime example of experiential living, with balconies offering views of streetscapes and open spaces. “Just steps outside the door will be restaurants, parks and shops. Future plans of a piazza and public creek walk also will serve to advance the vision that Allan Smith has designed for his hometown,” Mary adds.

Allan’s previous projects on South State Street included redeveloping The Brick Hotel and the Stocking Works office complex.

Katie notes that this current, initial phase of the Steeple View project is just the beginning of what will eventually include mixed-use buildings, parking and plenty of green space for residents and visitors to enjoy. She says they routinely apprise clients of this project and other important developments. "We like to approach working on behalf of our clients' residential needs in a warm way of doing business that's benefited by our great knowledge of Newtown and beyond," she adds.

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M UST SE E | R EA L ESTATE

Steeple View Redevelopment Project The Residences Luxury Condominiums 202 South State St., Newtown Winner: "Design Excellence, Large Project Award" Developer: Allan Smith Architect: Robert Hillier Contact: The Mary Dinneen Team at Berkshire Hathaway 267.253.1187 Facebook.com/DinneenTeamRealEstate

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15

Donna Hoffman

Move , Renovate Or Redesig n Home?

Advice Editorial: The Unbiased Scoop From Interior Design Consultant Donna Hoffman

a power like no other to completely transform it.

Despite furniture costs being at an alltime high, staying put, skipping the reno, and investing in excellent new design, furnishings and appointments will always be the “lowest cost” option, while bringing notable results.

REDESIGN:

RENOVATE:

Without exaggeration, people are consistently amazed by how powerful interior design alone is to completely re-invent the vibe and experience of an entire home. New clients always state: “We considered moving and didn’t want the hassle, or, we love our location but we want this to feel like a totally new residence – can it be done without moving a wall?” The answer is yes.

Color, line, form, shape, light, placement and everything else that goes into a seamlessly well-designed space have

Renovation is the optimal choice if one enjoys a lot about the home or location, but the desire is to update finishes, such as in kitchens, or to increase space for added functionality and enhanced quality of life.

Provided that one has adequate “set back” allowance on the owned property, reno with an addition is a fantastic option. It builds upon the good that one already has while making incredible new things happen.

One popular option is expanding the kitchen and adding a new or larger

D E C OR T R E N D S | HOM E + DE S I GN

ARTICLE BY DONNA HOFFMAN

16

With spring’s awakening, there's a popular question that curls through the brains of 'home-itchy' interior design lovers everywhere: is it time to move, renovate or redesign?!

To focus thinking, let's spill the tea about what to do, what’s possible, when and why.

Photo by Peter Rymwid

Photo by Peter Rymwid

Photo by Peter Rymwid

CONTINUED > MAR CH 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / N E W TOW N

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Adding Viva Magenta 2023 Color of Year

family room. The upsides are many, starting with directly enhancing daily living by adding space where one “lives” the most.

Plus, happy-making elements, such as adding more glass with larger windows or potentially leveraging higher ceilings, can be accommodated.

Another common reno option is expanding the upstairs primary bedroom, possibly adding a sitting or dressing room, while simultaneously adding space directly below it in the first-floor kitchen or family room.

MOVING: Moving always costs more than anyone anticipates. There is a slim likelihood that all existing furniture will seamlessly work in a new nest. Some will. Some will be too large or too small. Some pieces that have been hated for years will be hated more in a new space.

There’s also little chance one will like the prior owner’s design tastes, so plan on costs for painting, window coverings, furniture, area rugs, new carpets, lighting – the works.

Beyond the cost of the move, furnishings costs, or reno costs, if an updated kitchen or bath is desired, there is a personal cost. It typically takes people a solid year to feel fully settled in a new residence. Anticipate all this, and it'll be golden.

When to really move: If more space is needed (and renovation isn’t possible); if less space is needed; or if a new location is required. Set realistic expectations: Is the fantasy about living in a half-filled new home, or is it gorgeous spaces wanted? If it's the second option, set aside an adequate budget.

In any of these scenarios, one may need an expert or two to drill into the unique logistics and budget. But, it's good to focus on how the best home awaits!

About Donna Hoffman: Multiple awardwinning and Bucks County-based firm, Impeccably Designed Homes by Donna Hoffman, specializes in new construction, renovation, whole home- and full-room design, delivering livable luxury to discerning clients.

As seen in Forbes, Real Simple and on television, IDH works locally as well as throughout the United States.

215.736.8693 | ImpeccablyDesignedHomes.com | Instagram: @idhdesigns

18

D E C OR T R E N D S | HOM E + DE S I GN

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home, family and service Local Roofing Company Guided By Its Values And Commitment To Veterans Amanda Capoferri and Rich Lazar

ARTICLE BY ERICA BROOKE GORDON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEFF ROBINSON Values embedded with 'family, service and community strongholds' are evident in projects handled by the team of Newtown-based United Veterans Roofing. Amanda Capoferri, project manager for the company and stepdaughter of its chief financial officer, Rich Lazar, offers a look for Newtown City Lifestyle readers at what's to come for this family-owned, full-service roofing replacement and repair company.

WHAT DOES THE WORD "HOME" MEAN TO YOU? Home is where everything most important to you exists.

It's made up of caring and love, shared experiences and memories; it houses the people and things that mean the most. We're honored whenever a customer chooses us to protect their home. The roof is the most important piece of the structure. If that's faulty, everything else is in jeopardy.

We understand the impact of our work and the importance

it plays in protecting our customers' homes, something we don't take lightly.

HOW ARE THE MISSION AND VALUES OF UNITED VETERANS ROOFING CARRIED OUT EVERY DAY? Our mission is to provide quality craftsmanship and topnotch customer service, to make each customer feel a part of the United Veterans Roofing family and to bring their vision to fruition. Giving back to veterans and building strong relationships in our communities is a cornerstone of our company.

We're constantly looking to give back in some way.

WHAT COMMUNITY INITIATIVES HAS THE COMPANY SUPPORTED RECENTLY? In November, we teamed up with the Wild Bill Guarnere Fund in Delaware County to purchase and deliver towels,

"Giving back to our veterans and building strong relationships in our communities is a cornerstone of our company. We're constantly looking to give back in some way.”

—Amanda Capoferri, United Veterans Roofing project manager

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C UR B A P P E A L | HOM E SERVI CE S

long johns, underwear and socks to veterans at a Camden shelter just before Thanksgiving. These items we often take for granted were at the top of their wish lists, and we were happy to provide them before winter.

In December, my mom and I baked and sold cookies at a West Chester holiday shopping extravaganza, generating more than $100 for the West Chester Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW Post 106).

UNITED VETERANS ROOFING IS FAMILY-OWNED AND OPERATED. HOW DOES THIS CONTRIBUTE TO YOUR SUCCESS?

ANY OTHER CHARITABLE ASSISTANCE COMING UP?

WHAT KIND OF FEEDBACK DO YOU GET REGARDING CUSTOMER SERVICE?

We're sponsoring a dinner on March 7th at the Volunteers of America Home for the Brave Veterans Homeless Shelter in Camden. My mom and I will cook an Italian feast. To be able to do it for men who have given the most for our country and who are down on their luck is an honor.

It makes our company stronger. We know each other's strengths and weaknesses and are able to help cover any gaps.

We know no one else would have our backs as we do for each other. There's a reassurance to working with family and knowing the business means so much to each of us.

Our customers are truly the best. They are why we do what we do and why the quality of our work matters so much to us.

We're lucky our customers recognize our dedication to our craft, the timeliness of our installations and our attention to detail throughout the entire process.

CONTINUED >

MAR CH 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / N E W TOW N

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One customer has an older house in South Jersey. This was not an easy installation, so we were delighted by her stellar review, noting that we "went above and beyond." This makes it all worthwhile.

UNITED VETERANS ROOFING IS NOW FIVE YEARS OLD. HOW HAVE YOU EVOLVED? We're constantly evolving. When we started, we worked primarily with storm damage and insurance claims. Over time, we've far expanded. We now work with local real estate offices and property management companies and on commercial projects. We've also shifted from mainly new installations to more repair projects. A small leak in a residential property is just as important to us as a major leak at a commercial property. We take pride in our motto that no project is too big or too small.

WHAT'S NEW AND NOTEWORTHY? We opened a new division in Eastern North Carolina, primarily around New Bern, where our office manager lives.

We've done a few community events there, including the New Bern North Carolina Home Show, and we're committed to their Spring Home Show.

Locally, we've joined the Newtown Business Association and the West Chester Referral Network group in Chester County. A 2023 goal is to enhance our professional network by growing the local business groups in the areas we service.

WHAT'S NEXT FOR UNITED VETERANS ROOFING? We look forward to evolving further, including expanding our charitable giving and volunteer projects. We're only as valuable as the communities we serve, and it's part of our job to continue giving back. As our footprint grows, the communities we interact with and impact do also.

267.908.9099 800.966.0686 UnitedVeteransRoofing.com

"A small leak in a residential proper t y is just as impor tant to us as a major leak at a commercial proper t y. We take pride in our mot to that no projec t is too big or too small."

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C UR B A P P E A L | HOM E SERVI CE S

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23

Trends In Real Estate

(Left to right): Ted, Dave Marcolla and Charlie

Local Realtor Dave Marcolla Shares Patterns, Addresses Questions For 2023 ARTICLE BY ERICA BROOKE GORDON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATHER RAUB

24

O PE N H OU SE | R EAL ESTATE

Dave Marcolla puts his all into his passions. After moving to real estate in 2018 from a longtime career in sales, marketing and financial services, the licensed Realtor, associate broker for Pennsylvania and New Jersey and principal of The Dave Marcolla Group was named a top producer at Keller Williams Newtown three consecutive years. Who better to share expectations for the year ahead?

HOW HAVE YOU NAVIGATED A ROLLERCOASTER MARKET? Last year, my team and I sold or leased 60-plus homes. This year, that number will be less, as we have one fewer team member, and the market shifted dramatically mid-year.

With real estate, you have to ride the ups and downs, and work harder to generate more business when the market’s down. For me, being successful is doing just that, while loving what you do, which is helping people achieve their dreams.

FOR A WHILE, HOME PRICES WERE AT AN ALL-TIME HIGH, NOW THEY’RE DROPPING. ANY PREDICTIONS? In our region, from the end of 2019 through mid2022, home values went up 38%. In a normal period, that would have been about 8%. That additional 30% came from record low-interest rates and a pandemic that allowed people to live almost anywhere for the first time ever. Add this to a pre-existing sellers’ market driven by little inventory, and you get the perfect storm. That storm is now calming, driven by increased mortgage rates from inflation.

Home values haven’t declined, though. In fact, 2022 alone will likely show a 10% year-over-year increase. With a normal year about 3%, home values are still ahead of where they were before 2020. Mortgage rates will likely stabilize with no additional increases in the first half of 2023

and slowly return to a new normal of around 5% -- well below the 20-year average. With low inventory, we’ll see a strong 2023, similar to 2022.

IS IT TRUE MORE PEOPLE ARE BUYING NEW CONSTRUCTION? Yes. When inventory is low, new construction is essential. After two years of limited construction from the pandemic, builders are trying to catch up and capture that demand. New construction is the only way to design every aspect of your home versus purchasing someone else’s. If purchasing new, remember the value of land and materials is up from multiple factors, so overall costs to build a new home will continue to be higher than expected.

DO YOU FORESEE THE TREND TOWARD LOW-MAINTENANCE LIVING CONTINUING? Yes. With the pandemic and more remote work opportunities, homeowners can choose where and how they want to live. Tiny homes, greater mobility and renting will continue for the near future, likely becoming the norm. Plus, Baby-Boomers are no longer the driving force for buyer sentiment.

Now, it’s Gen Z. Investing in real estate and renting versus owning are other trends. With low levels of inventory for purchase and increased demand for mobility, renting is gaining in popularity. With this increase in demand, comes higher rent, so it’s a good time to invest.

REGARDING HOME DÉCOR TRENDS, BEIGES APPEAR TO BE COMING BACK. The softer, earthier tones are back, and gray is returning to its more modern, cooler collection. In addition to warm earthy tones, expect darker primary colors like navy, dark greens and reds. Accents will likely continue with brass and gold tones for fixtures.

CONTINUED >

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HOME OFFICES BECAME POPULAR DURING THE PANDEMIC, AND MULTIGENERATIONAL LIVING HAS BECOME MORE PREVALENT. DO YOU FORESEE THIS CONTINUING? Yes to both. Home offices are here to stay.

I’m even finding buyers seeking an extra bedroom to serve as a second home office.

As for in-law suites, Americans are living longer. That means taking care of one or both parents, often an unplanned-for expense. If there are kids at home, Mom, Dad or both can live there in their own space, help with the kids and possibly with the mortgage. This has long been the norm in other countries, so I don’t see it going away.

WHAT ARE YOUR CURRENT COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP ROLES? Over the past five years, I’ve devoted more of my time to two organizations.

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O PE N H OU SE | R EAL ESTATE

I’m chair of the board of directors of the Cancer Support Community Greater Philadelphia, which covers the five-county Philadelphia region and parts of Mercer County. The organization provides social and emotional support to anyone touched by cancer at any age or stage at no charge.

Each year, we raise about $1 million from grants, donations and fundraisers.

2023 will be our 30th year.

I’m also president of the Newtown Business Association, which has served nearly 300 member-businesses for 70 years. In addition to member-business engagement and monthly events are the annual Newtown holiday parade, car show, business expo, job fair and Newtown Welcome Day. Office: 215.860.4200 Mobile: 609.423.9147 DaveMarcolla.KW.com

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NEW BUCKS SCHOLARSHIP PROVIDED BY FITZPATRICK FOUNDATION

SCHOLARS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL FITZPATRICK

PROGRAM SUPPORTS BUCKS COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE STUDENTS FOCUSED ON PUBLIC SERVICE CAREERS

EDU CAT ION COR N E R | EDUCATI ON

Applications are open for scholarship recipients via the new Michael G. Fitzpatrick Scholars Scholarship Program, which is devoted to students with interests in public service. Recipients attending Bucks County Community College will be selected over the summer of 2023 for the 2023-2024 academic year.

The 501(c)(3) nonpartisan, charitable Scholars Scholarship program honors the legacy of Michael Fitzpatrick, longtime Bucks County commissioner and congressman, who passed on in 2020 at age 56 after a 12-year battle with cancer. Preference for the scholarships will be given to families of veterans and first responders.

The program also connects students with financial resources and a success coach, and requires recipients to attend public service-related events at the college, such as the new Michael G. Fitzpatrick Scholars Student Club.

For consideration, students must complete their FAFSA, answer required essay questions, and submit the online application.

James Fitzpatrick, Michael's father, says family and friends established the Michael G Fitzpatrick Foundation in memory of Michael's legacy of selfless public service. "It's our hope these scholars, during their time in school and after graduation, will establish and promote a countywide 'peace corps' of selfless public service," he adds.

Fitzpatrick Foundation representatives committed to contributing to the Bucks County Community College Foundation for at least three years, with a minimum donation of $180,000, further establishing the fund while contributing toward employing a success coach.

At press time, that coach was secured in the services of Chris Seifert, a professional speaker, workshop director, actor, performer and former paralegal. He is a district director and board member of the Pennsylvania Association of Student Councils. He's also president and founder of Weaver Training & Development, which focuses on leadership training and programs for students and businesses.

For additional details regarding this opportunity, visit Bucks.edu/Scholarships/ MichaelGFitzpatrickScholarsScholarship. Call 215.968.8223 or email scholarships@bucks.edu with questions.

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MARCH 2023

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

M A RC H 2 N D

2nd Annual Holi Celebration

GUR U'S FIN E IN DIAN CUIS IN E CA R LOT | 1 1 :0 0 A M Guru’s in Newtown joins Yogamazia to raise funds for Yoga Gives Back, a nonprofit organization empowering 2,400 women and girls in India to help create a fairer, more equal world. Celebrate the Festival of Colors; enjoy music, dancing, yoga games. Tickets (non-refundable $20-$60) include snack and drink; available on Eventbrite.com . All Holi Celebration sales will be contributed to the fundraiser total.

MA RC H 9 T H

Ladies Night Out

CROS S IN G VIN EYARDS AN D W I NE RY | 6 :0 0 P M Set aside to-do lists and join “wine o’clock." Get dressed up (or come in jeans!) and make time to reconnect and wine down. Organizers promise plenty of seating for cozy conversations and good, old-fashioned talk.

Drink specials and light bites available for purchase from the bar. No reservations required. No cover charge.

See website for details: CrossingVineyards.com .

M A RC H 1 0 T H

Comedian Tom Cotter Live Show

Z LOCK PER FOR MIN G ARTS CENT E R | 7 :30 P M Tom was runner-up and frequent subsequent guest of America’s Got Talent (Season 7) and guest of The Tonight Show, Last Comic Standing and Comedy Central Presents. He was the first comedian ever to be a finalist on AGT, and was the highest finishing human being on the show that year (after losing to a dog act). Tickets: $30 each.

M A RC H 11TH - 12TH

Bucks & Montgomery County Spring Home Show

NEWTOW N S PORTS TR AIN IN G C E NT E R | 1 0 :0 0 A M The goal of this show is to inspire, motivate and excite attendees about upcoming home improvements, whether they're a minor renovation or major remodel. Events feature a wide selection of home improvement professionals in an interactive environment. Admission is free with online registration on BucksMontCoHomeShow.com or $10 at the door. Call 215.613.9032 or email info@acsshows.com with questions.

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M A RC H 1 6T H

Ireland Forever!

CR OS S IN G VIN EYAR DS AND WI NE RY | 6 :0 0 P M Erin Go Bragh! Organizers say they will have Irish music, drink specials and treats from their “Flights and Bites” menu. Draft beer and house wines, just $7. Guests who can come “wearin’ the green" will get a coupon for a BOGO wine tasting. No cover charge. The celebration is on until 9 p.m.

M A RC H 3 1 ST

Live Music With Mike Gruver

N EW TOW N BR EW IN G COMPA NY | 6 :0 0 P M This regional guitarist/singer and music teacher, Mike Gruver, will play until 9 p.m. Mike also is the music department curriculum coordinator for the Central Bucks School District. He plays solo and in bands.

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¡ Viva Magenta !

HOW TO INCORPORATE THIS YEAR'S VIBRANT COLOR OF THE YEAR ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

Viva Magenta is the trendy Pantone 2023 Color of the Year. This deeply saturated, eye-grabbing color is making its entrance through many home accents.

Each year, Pantone Color Institute representatives use color psychology and in-depth research of color influences in society to determine what color speaks for design trends across industries, including web design, fashion and generational marketing. Both this year’s color, and its feisty name, exude power and a celebratory vibe. The word ‘viva’ translates to ‘live’ in many Latin-based languages but is often used to express and promote the long life of something.

Viva Magenta is a strong color that could overtake a design if not applied thoughtfully. But it also yields visuals with pops of color, makes a bold statement or can complement other design elements.

Viva Magenta was inspired by one of the oldest natural dyes: a red derived from a scale insect, cochineal. However, Viva Magenta also leans toward pink. Viva Magenta is characterized as striking a balance between red and pink, communicating power with a touch of playful rebellion.

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T R E N D SE T T E R | A RTS + CULTURE

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