Children + Pets = Unconditional Love
This edition is always one of my favorites of the year, because of the immense joy that children and pets bring to their families and the significant impact they make on their communities.
Children aren't merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow; they're the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Kids represent some of our hardest work and greatest investment.
Who could forget pets? The special kind of companionship with our fur kids can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide us with unconditional love, the opportunity to learn, grow and develop essential life skills in a nurturing environment. And who could ignore the bond between kids and their furry or feathery friends? The bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility and companionship.
I'm dedicating this edition to Freddy, my cat who crossed the Rainbow Bridge. We miss him dearly. I’d also like to give a shoutout to Julie, the magazine’s editor, who for years has assisted community cats and rescue dogs with her dedicated care and personal funding.
Although children are of infinitely more value, what children and pets share in common is that they need us. Our care, attention and intention shapes how they're raised and who they become. We hope this edition inspires you to pour a little extra into the pets and children in your life this month.
Cheers!
DANA WEISSENBERG, PUBLISHER
August 2024
PUBLISHER
Dana Weissenberg
Dana.Weissenberg@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Catrina Tier | catrina.tier@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Brian Wagner
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Becky Diamond, Angela Broockerd, Stephanie Yoder, Julie Brown Patton
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Janie Jones, Lisa Schaffer
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
Newtown Real Estate Pulse
1: Marcolla Realty and The Junkluggers of Bucks hosted
business monthly
Bucks County Photo Printing Offers Archival Photo Prints, Image Restoration
Yardley resident Bill Nyman specializes in printing stunning archival photo enlargements, as well as new services providing detailed scanning and quality photo restoration. He says he uses state-of-the-art technology, and that his professional equipment offers a high color gamut and higher black density of dark tones. He adds, "The finished products are beautiful creations that capture attention due to their bold contrasts and dynamic colors." Call Bill at 215.499.7031 or visit BucksPhoto.com
Wegmans Celebrates 40th Anniversary Of Employee Scholarship Program
Since 1984, more than 46,500 Wegmans employees have been awarded scholarships totaling $145 million. During 2024, approximately 1,500 new recipients were awarded scholarships. Company managers indicate they expect to pay out more than $6.5 million in tuition assistance to both new and returning scholarship recipients during the 2024-2025 school year. Part-time employee scholarship recipients are eligible to receive up to $8,000 over four years, and full-time employees can receive up to $16,000 over four years.
Successful Newtown Welcome Day
Newtown Business Association members organized the 2024 Newtown Welcome Day, and the event was presented by Capital Health. Held on Sycamore Street with approximately 150 vendors, appreciation goes to entertainment/music/ photo/shirt/activity sponsors: Platinum Suites of Newtown, Designer Game Rooms, Funding America Mortgage LLC, ProLift Garage Doors of Lansdale, Robert A. Lantzy, Bucks County Dental, Renewal By Andersen and C&N. Rob Howell, WSFS Bank retail office manager/assistant vice president, chaired the NBA Welcome Day Committee.
Photography by Wegmans
Photography by NBA
Photo: We Laugh We Love
REAL ESTATE COMPANY
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN WAGNER
The Mish Family (left to right; second row): Madison, John, (front row) Penelope, LJ, Owen
MISH REALTY PROVIDES TAILORED, PERSONALIZED CLIENT SERVICES AS INDEPENDENT BROKERAGE BASED FROM NEWTOWN
No matter if families have children, furry kids, feathered friends, aquatic buddies, reptiles or pocket pets, one local real estate team specifically knows how to find the perfect home for each household.
Mish Realty, a family-operated, boutique real estate office, opened during February 2023 in Newtown at 123 N. Sycamore St., #B-1. Co-owned and operated by mother-son duo Judy and John Mish, they have 45 years of combined experience in residential sales. John, and his wife, Madison, realize firsthand what amenities are helpful to different family compositions, given they have a 3-yearold son, LJ, plus 1-year-old boy and girl twins, Owen and Penelope.
Realtor, devoted MiMi and anchor-agent Judy says, "Personalized service is our top priority, with prompt responsiveness and professional representation offered to our clients. Sales and purchases aren't just business transactions to us. Whether a first-time homebuyer or seasoned investor, our team is dedicated to meeting client goals."
"Unlike many 'big-box' realty agencies, our focus isn't increasing agent headcount, or streamlining transaction processes. We don't hand our clients off to inexperienced agents, assistants or closing coordinators," she adds, stating most of their work comes from referrals of satisfied former clients.
In fact, both Judy and John indicate their clients often keep in touch with them to discuss how home additions or select household decisions may affect future market values.
"From getting to know what's going on in our clients' lives, they become like family to us," Judy asserts.
She says they train other agents who work with them to be resourceful and flexible because "real estate is not a cookie-cutter business that can be learned in one course or real estate classes." Instead, she says the best agents learn by hands-on maneuvering through varied transactions.
Within her 35-year career in real estate, Judy's expertise has earned her recognition and honors in the Hall of Fame and Platinum Club, along with a Five Star Professional acknowledgment. She confirms that she especially enjoys applying her negotiation skills for clients during their real estate journeys.
Judy and John primarily handle full-time real estate sales throughout Bucks County, Montgomery County, Delaware County and Philadelphia. Madison also contributes to the business through administrative and marketing activities. With stilltight housing inventory, they state regional buyers and sellers are hyper-focused on mortgage rates.
John, broker of record, was named a "Top 35 Agents Under 35" by Philadelphia Real Producers during December 2022. He is a 2009 graduate of New York University with professional credentials, including Accredited Buyer Representative and Seniors Real Estate Specialist. He contributes to the BCAR Technology Committee (Branch County Association Of REALTORS), ensuring his clients benefit from top marketing resources available.
He says as an independent brokerage, Mish Realty professionals offer tailored customer service, whether clients are buying, selling or investing. The typical Mish process for buyers includes meeting in their office with clients even before walking through the properties to consult them regarding critical questions or arrangements. He adds they can "review mortgage and closing costs for multiple scenarios" with clients to ensure all budget considerations are covered. He states they also can bring in a loan officer for those needing to get pre-qualified.
"For sellers, we emphasize online exposure is the new curb appeal. We use professional, high quality photography/video, and leverage our large social media reach to drive interest in their property," John explains.
He says their real estate goal is not just to sell properties or find buyers, but rather to cultivate the best terms among multiple offers.
As trusted property managers, John says they currently supervise approximately 60 locations, handling the day-to-day operations, including responsibilities such as setting and collecting rent from tenants, virtual staging, showing available housing options, screening and approving new tenants, coordinating leases, securing permanent appliances and following up on maintenance requests.
Serving as a beneficial buffer between tenants and property owners is where John says they help immensely. He says real estate has taught him to "take things in stride" and to patiently work through challenges to reach resolutions.
"We also work especially well with investors, and guide them through the process of scouting out potential properties before serving as their real estate experts through the purchasing process," John says.
For properties that may need a little TLC, such as painting, John says they have a large network of contractors who can be drawn in for projects.
When putting a house on the market, Judy says it's vital to declutter but not to depersonalize a house too much, stripping it of its soul. "It's important for a house to feel like a home, and as though it has good karma."
267.284.2100
Judy Mish
John Mish
Example of property representation by Mish Realty; 117/119 Bustleton Pike, Southampton.
Hey Newtown, Does a parttime agent really have your full attention?
The best ability, is availability. Mish Realty is always ready when opportunity knocks Our boutique, family-owned office is designed to cater to your schedule and needs.
Help Shelter Pets From Home
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY BUCKS COUNTY SPCA
Bucks County SPCA Lahaska Shelter In New Hope Seeks These DIY Items
Since 1912, work at the Bucks County SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) has been funded by compassionate animal lovers. Managers there indicate they’ve achieved and sustained an average Live Release Rate of 93% (above the 90% no-kill shelter benchmark), compared to 2015 when the lifesaving rate averaged only 63%.
Many people can assist conveniently with the rescuing and rehoming of these animals in need by saving household items and using Do-It-Yourself techniques to create enrichment products for them. Spotlighted here are two of the those most-needed ideas. Final products should be delivered to the shelter in New Hope at 1665 Street Road.
CAT NO-SEW FLEECE BLANKETS
Supplies Needed:
• Fabric to make two 24-25 inch squares (or bigger if desired)
• Scissors
Instructions:
1. Line up both pieces of fleece with the ‘dull’ sides facing in toward each other; lay that down on a flat surface (floor, dining room table, driveway). Trim off any extra pieces, so it’s even, then carefully smooth out any bumps.
2. Cut a 4x4-inch square from each of the four corners. Cut each fringe about 1 inch wide, and 4 inches long. Once you’ve completed the cutting, start tying the knots. Feel free to use any knot style desired but be sure to double knot.
PUP DIY SNUFFLE MAT
Supplies Needed:
• Anti-fatigue mat or doormat with holes
• Scissors
• 119 strips of fleece 10x3 inches, several different colors (1.5 yards total; this may vary depending on the size and shape of mat)
Instructions:
1. These mats are used for interactive feeding and scent games in which treats or food is hidden for stimulating multiple senses. Start by lacing the fleece strips through two adjacent holes. Tie the ends together. Lace the next strip of fleece into the second hole of the first strip. There should be two colors in every hole. Continue this until the end of the row.
2. Lace a strip vertically on each end on the row. Continue lacing the fleece horizontally until you get to the end of each row.
3. Follow this pattern until you get to the end of the mat, and make sure all the ties are knotted.
Editor's Note: This shelter also assists and rehomes pocket pets, such as guinea pigs, mice, rats and rabbits.
Bucks County SPCA receives no federal, state or local tax dollars, nor funding from the ASPCA or PSPCA. In addition to DIY items for shelter pets, this local shelter In New Hope benefits from direct donations, rescue partners, volunteer fosters and planned giving. Contact Cindy Kelly at ckelly@buckscountyspca.org or 215.794.7425.
youth injury
SYNERGY SPORTS REHABILITATION AND CHIROPRACTIC PROVIDES NEW SHOCKWAVE THERAPY AS NON-SURGICAL SOLUTION
ARTICLE BY BECKY DIAMOND
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN WAGNER
Dr. Jennifer Grozalis of Synergy Sports Rehabilitation and Chiropractic
All athletes are vulnerable to overuse injuries, and young people are no exception. Being active is beneficial and gratifying, but with children starting sports at younger ages, medical experts indicate youth injuries continue to rise in the overall number of cases. As a chiropractor who specializes in sports injuries, specifically those involving soft tissue and bone, Dr. Jennifer Grozalis of Synergy Sports Rehabilitation and Chiropractic in Newtown, sees youth athletes from preteen age through young adulthood.
A recent addition to the Synergy practice, highly successful in treating young athletes, is a new shockwave therapy providing a nonsurgical solution to get youths back to their sports faster than traditional methods. Using acoustic shockwaves, the technique locates damaged tissue and remodels it at the cellular level, providing significant, fast-acting results, typically within a couple of weeks. Dr. Grozalis says conditions that can be addressed include scar tissue, calcification, tendinopathy, bursitis and capsulations.
“Often, when kids get sports injuries, they seek out a physical therapist to strengthen injured areas. But athletes don't get injured because they're weak; they get injured from overuse," says Dr. Grozalis.
"Overuse injuries are usually strain sprains and are basically micro tears that turn into scar tissue, which decreases range of motion and prevents athletes from performing. We specialize in this area, using shockwave to break up scar tissue and then restore the patient’s range of motion. Shockwave is unique, better and more effective."
Some examples of the sports injuries treated by Dr. Grozalis include knee, shoulder, lower back, elbow, ankle and foot for athletes ranging from baseball and football players to cheerleaders, swimmers and runners. "I've also treated young people with other overuse issues, such as a high school marching band drummer with lower back pain. Although this technique is new for physical therapy, Shockwave has actually been previously used in hospitals to break up kidney stones," she adds. CONTINUED >
Synergy Sports team
In addition to specializing in soft tissue-related physical challenges, other therapies that Dr. Grozalis incorporates into her practice include laser therapy, Active Release Techniques, Graston Technique, Triton DTS Decompression Therapy, Neuromuscular Re-education and Myofascial Release/Trigger Point. As she explains, because there are many tools to address physical issues, there’s "always a new technique to try if one in particular isn’t working." For example, she says laser therapy speeds up healing time, cutting it in half, and gets athletes back to participating more quickly.
She typically sees younger athletes throughout the season even after they're healed. “They get better outcomes if they maintain a normal range of motion, maintaining their peak level of fitness,” she says. “For example, pitchers will enhance their sports performance, getting to their optimal level.”
Before starting treatment, Dr. Grozalis personally meets with athletes or youths and their parent(s) to talk through therapy options, which she states are covered by most insurance plans. She says some patients want to try a specific technique, but she always makes sure to tailor therapy to each patient.
“When people see results and how effective it is, they see the benefits [of a specific therapy],” she explains. "Some of my patients are youths that I've seen since the time they were a tween, and now they are coming back to us during and after college."
215.860.9798
SynergyRehabAndChiro.com
Now offering SHOCKWAVE THERAPY
Uses your body’s existing and natural healing agents such as red blood cells, growth factors and metabolism stem cells.
New Young Chefs Academy Coming
Yardley Couple Set To Teach Children And Teens The Joy And Value Of Cooking
An interactive, innovative cooking school for kids and teens is slated to open in Yardley/Lower Makefield Township during this October at 301 Oxford Valley Road, Ste. 804.
"Our class curriculum at Young Chefs Academy immerses youths in a world of culinary creativity and discovery, and goes beyond most kids’ cooking programs to teach real culinary and life skills,” says Yardley resident Anne Moyer, who's opening the academy with her husband, Matt Moyer.
Anne and Matt, parents of youths 17, 13 and 7 years old, indicate they researched children's enrichment-based concepts and businesses for a year before settling on YCA, known as the nation's top culinary school for youths.
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY BRIAN WAGNER
Right: Grace, 7-year-old daughter of Anne Moyer, practices navigating recipes for Young Chef Academy.
"As Sunday School teachers and coaches of sports teams, we both value teaching kids new lessons and rooting them on," Anne explains.
YCA classes incorporate unique monthly themes. Anne adds each session's skills build upon previous ones so students advance into more complex food preparation and presentation.
With classes grouped to meet kids at their level of experience and comfort in the kitchen, YCA members will be a part of the school’s KinderCooks, JuniorChefs or SeniorChefs program. Members, who are 5 years old through teenagers, can progress through the curriculum, earn badges for new knowledge, and attain the elite item that signifies individual mastery: a black chef coat.
“At every step, cooking dishes of varying complexity will build kids’ confidence in and out of the kitchen. They’ll also pick up valuable lessons about where food comes from, nutrition and the value of teamwork,” Anne adds.
Cooking is a recipe for improving reading skills, too. Anne, a former preschool teacher and Afton Elementary Book Fair chair, says cooking helps with reading in that following recipes boosts comprehension skills; new culinary terms expand vocabulary; hands-on learning makes words remembered; visual aids enhance understanding and problem-solving hones critical thinking.
This program was developed to also assist youths in practicing and honing decision-making skills, which builds self-esteem. Anne says the experience also can be an excellent social outlet for teens, who will carry lessons learned into their soon-to-be independent living.
The YCA team also will offer birthday parties and summer camps, as well as holiday workshops, private group events and special opportunities for families and adults.
215.835.8448 Facebook.com/YCAYardleyPA
Private Pilates Sessions
Pilates Classes (6 max)
Pilates Duet and Trio Sessions
DOG gone GOOD
Try these simple and healthy homemade treats for your furry friends. Not only are they easy to make, they are nutritious and seemingly delicious.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls
Ingredients:
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup milk or half and half
• 3 cups oatmeal
Directions:
In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, peanut butter and milk on medium for 1 minute. Gradually add 2 1/2 cups oatmeal and stir. Use a small scoop or spoon to create 1/4 inch balls. Roll balls into remaining 1/2 cup oats to lightly top. Place into a closed container and refrigerate.
Peanut Butter Dog Treats
Ingredients:
• 2/3 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter
• 2 eggs
• 2 1/2 cups flour (whole wheat preferred)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix all ingredients except flour and blend well. Gradually add the flour until the dough isn’t sticky. Roll dough into a ball. Lightly flour your surface and lightly knead. Use a rolling pin to roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters and place dough on baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Drizzle with peanut butter (optional).
LiteBrite Wall Built By High School Students
NEW HOPE-SOLEBURY’S LOWER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL INTRODUCES NEW
TOOL FOR EVER-CHANGING EDUCATIONAL LANDSCAPE
New Hope-Solebury’s Lower Elementary School introduced a custom-built LiteBrite wall designed to engage students in grades K-2 in sensory exploration, creativity and academic learning. Local educators indicate this groundbreaking project, inspired by district educators and powered by student collaboration, transformed a traditional elementary school hallway into a dynamic, interactive learning environment.
Lower Elementary Principal Jennifer Bloom, Ph.D., says she recognized the limitations of conventional bulletin boards in reflecting and supporting the diverse learning experiences of students. In partnership with a committee of teachers, she and her team created a vision for a safe space for sensory exploration that could remove the stigma often associated with needing moments of regulation.
As a member of the committee, Lower Elementary special education teacher Michelle Reynolds contributed her knowledge of Applied Educational Neuroscience. Michelle says she envisioned a space where students could engage in constructive play and experience the calming effects of rhythmic, repetitive activities to regulate their emotions. Drawing inspiration from her own experiences with her kindergarten-aged son, she championed the integration of activities such as assembling Legos and manipulating LiteBrite pegs to promote self-regulation among students.
The construction of the LiteBrite wall was a collaborative effort involving both educators and students using the resources of New Hope-Solebury High School’s brand-new, state-of-the-art STEAM wing the district renovated last year.
The STEAM Wing houses a CNC router, an industry-grade precision wood-cutting machine used in most modern manufacturing. Under the guidance of STEAM instructors Richard Curtis and Craig Balmer, New HopeSolebury high school students designed and fabricated the wall, applying their problem-solving skills and demonstrating the exciting possibilities for hands-on learning made available with their enhanced resources.
The project repurposed discarded electronics and LED panels, enabling them to create an installation valued at $8,000 for only $1,500.
As New Hope-Solebury School District educators continue to explore innovative approaches to education, the new LiteBrite wall stands as an important example of successful collaboration and student-led learning. Since its installation, the LiteBrite wall has emerged as a versatile educational resource, facilitating instruction in mathematics, phonics, collaboration and problem-solving.
ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE YODER, NHSD COMMUNITY/ PR MANAGER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NHSD
Photo by Lisa Schaffer
Dr. Joseph Brogan Orthodontist
Dr. Matthew Heine General and Cosmetic Dentist
Dr. Roshni Dhruva Pediatric Dentist
AUGUST 9TH, 16TH, & 23RD
events
SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
2024 Summer Wine & Music Series
Crossing Vineyards & Winery | 7:00 PM
These are rain or shine musical events. Price: $20 in advance; $25 week of event. For further details, phone 215.493-6500. Aug. 9: The Beat Tells, one of the best Beatles' tribute bands in region. Aug. 16: Slippery Band, one of the top party bands on the East Coast. Aug. 23: Eternally Doors, the great songs of The Doors.
AUGUST 14TH - 18TH
Middletown Grange Fair
Wrightstown | 10:00 AM
Activities include 4-H Club animal shows, 4-H market hog sale, hot dog pig races, horse drawn wagon rides, tractor pulls, amusement rides, food trucks, Belmont magic show, chainsaw carver, Aim High dog stunt show and Marshal Steve Pony Rides. With questions, call 215.598.7240 during fair hours (10 a.m. to 10 p.m.) or visit MiddletownGrangeFair.org
AUGUST 15TH
Friends Trivia Night
Newtown Brewing Company | 7:30 PM
Could you be the biggest Friends fan? Would you be willing to bet your apartment, like Monica Geller for the title? If so, gather your friends and test your knowledge on all things Ross, Rachel, Chandler, Monica, Joey and Phoebe with the ultimate Friends trivia at 103 Penns Trail. Head to NewtownBrewingCo.com
