Newtown, PA November 2025

Delighted That Holiday Parade Is Around The Corner

Consider this your personal invitation to participate in or watch the magic of the 2025 Newtown Holiday Parade in the heart of Newtown on Saturday, Dec. 7, likely to start at 12:30 p.m. The parade is being organized by Newtown Business Association and sponsored by the Newtown Athletic Club.

As always, the parade will kick off from South State Street at the Stocking Works. It then continues north to Washington Avenue and makes a left turn, then turns right onto Sycamore Street, ending at the corner of Sycamore Street and Durham Road. Parade announcers will be located at Goodnoe Corner next to the Green Parrot.

Santa will make a grand entrance at the end of the parade, riding on the back of the fire truck. Before the parade, enjoy face painting, balloons, treats for furry friends, hot cocoa, warm drinks and more in the Christmas Village!

Watch our social media for parade-related updates @NewtownCityLifestyle.

Wishing everyone an amazing fall season and most of all, Happy Thanksgiving! Giving thanks to you for supporting our modest contribution to our community.

DANA WEISSENBERG, PUBLISHER @NEWTOWNCITYLIFESTYLE

November 2025

PUBLISHER

Dana Weissenberg

Dana.Weissenberg@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Brian Wagner

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Haley Weltz

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Madeline Marriott, Julie Brown Patton

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Heather Raub/FrontRoom Images, Michael Napp/ M. Snaps Media, Jeff Robinson, Brian Wagner

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

inside the issue

Declaring Independence: Newtown holds importance in American history as George Washington's headquarters after the Battle of Trenton in 1776, a strategic location during the Revolutionary War, and as the seat of Bucks County from 1726 to 1813. Newtown's tangible link to the past includes the historic district established in 1969 to protect wellpreserved landmarks.

Newtown Real Estate

business monthly

Heine Family Dentistry Celebrates 3rd Anniversary For Present Office

Oct. 3 marked the third anniversary of Heine & Associates Family Dentistry at the group's location at 12 Penns Trail, Ste. A. Founder Matthew “Matt” Heine, D.D.S., says they maintain a family-friendly, comforting ambiance that ties nicely with the fact the team handles comprehensive dental care for people of all ages. Services include general dentistry, orthodontics and pediatric dentistry. This dental practice has been operating in Newtown since 1977.

New Christmas Cookbook Launched By Newtown City Lifestyle Contributor

In time for holidays, Becky Diamond makes available  The Gilded Age Christmas Cookbook, with recipes such as Christmas cake, plum pudding, holiday jumbles, spice gems and lemon drops, all adapted for today’s kitchens. Intermingled are colorful stories from the era, such as how Hanukkah and New Year’s were celebrated during the Gilded Age. Becky says it's equal parts cookbook and Christmas time machine. Purchase the cookbook for $25.69 hard cover/$24.41 Kindle at BeckyLDiamond.com/The-Gilded-Age-Christmas-Cookbook

Council Rock Students Qualify As National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists

Nineteen students in the Council Rock School District were named semifinalists in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship program. These students are among 16,000 semifinalists in the running for 6,930 National Merit scholarships worth nearly $26 million to be offered next spring. Those Newtown-based Council Rock North High School students: Mark Cai, Kathan Desai, Benjamin Eayre, Darren Lee, Ayaan Mattoo, Isabel Mayarovich, Pray Panchal, Shrey Sarangi, Phoebe Tetreault, Zeynep Tipi and Rhianna Zhang.

Thankful For Local History

Join History Enthusiasts At 125-Year-Old, Restored Golden Rod House

In Newtown Nov. 17

Since its founding by William Penn in the 17th century, Newtown has been a hotbed for historical developments of national importance and local intrigue alike.

Newtown Historic Association (NHA) representatives have been on a quest to catalogue information and preserve locations of historical importance since 1964. The group was first formed in response to concerns about zoning for development in Newtown, particularly after “Washington’s Headquarters,” a recreation of the building that served as George Washington’s home base after the nearby Battle of Trenton in 1776, was demolished to build a gas station. Since a donation in 1964, the group has been headquartered at the Court Inn, previously known as the Half-Moon Inn, where they host monthly meetings during which speakers educate the group about particular aspects of Newtown’s history.

Currently, NHA supporters are preparing a Semiquincentennial Exhibit for the 250th anniversary of the country’s founding in 2026. The exhibit, located on the second floor of the Court Inn, will include a timeline of 28 key moments of Newtown’s history with corresponding visuals.

Previous projects include various sign and home restorations, including at the Court Inn and the Thorton/ Hicks House, as well as the installation of the Newtown Heritage Walk signs on State and Sycamore Streets explaining the significance of historical landmarks there.

Here are four fun facts about Newtown’s history to jump-start interest: 1682

“This is where I propose to build my

‘new town’” was

the alledged William Penn announcement in the late 17th century as he surveyed land that he purchased. Newtown's Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

William Penn purchased the land that would become Newtown from the local Indigenous people after being granted use of the space by Charles II of England. The name “Newtown” quickly evolved from the moniker of “New Township” used by those developing the land. Penn planned for the 5,000 acres of land to be developed into 16 farm plots with a common space in the center.

1776

George Washington spent a week running the Continental Army from the corner of Swamp Road and Sycamore Street. From there, he marched his troops to the Delaware River where he famously surprised the Hessians in the Battle of Trenton on Christmas Eve. He stayed at the Newtown headquarters the following week, writing letters to Congress giving his official reports of the events.

1889 1906

Newtown Stocking Works opens after moving from Yardley due to a fire. The building functioned as a hosiery mill, a stained glass factory and a bobbin factory before being operated by the Lavelle Aircraft Corporation to meet the need for aircraft parts during World War II. After the war, the production of stainless steel continued, including the manufacturing of the world’s first weather satellite.

The first movie is shown at the Newtown Theatre, making it the oldest movie theatre in the United States. Known as Newtown Hall since its opening in 1831, it was the site of concerts, theatrical productions, magic lantern shows and speeches from the likes of Frederick Douglass and Lucretia Mott before the advent of the silver screen. Movies are still shown there today.

The Golden Rod House

Since 2021, Rebecca Rescate and her family have been renovating and restoring the Golden Rod House, a colonial revival home with Victorian influence on Chancellor Street in Newtown.

Rebecca, a two-time veteran of “Shark Tank” grew up watching her parents renovate a 1700s farmhouse and other historical homes, and says she always had an interest in restoring household features to their original beauty.

“I like things to be authentic, but more importantly than that, the way they built things in 1900 was right,” Rebecca says. “It was all done correctly and can be amazing for a house if you maintain it correctly.”

For example, one of her restorations included stripping decades of paint off the exterior of the home to “allow the wood to breathe.”

“The wood that was used in 1900 is better than any wood you can get today,” she explains. “Everything about the house, down to the way the gutter system worked, if you put it back the way they had it in 1900, works wonderfully.”

Rebecca and NHA representatives are collaborating this month to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the house’s construction in 1900. At the association’s Nov. 17 meeting, from 7-9 p.m, board member Jeff Marshall will share key points about the history of the house, followed by comments from Rebecca about the restoration. This event is free for members; nonmembers also are welcome to attend.

“The event will focus on breathing life and original beauty back into a historic home,” Rebecca says. “With attention to detail, time and appreciation, a house can be truly transformed to shine the way it did in 1900.”

Exceptional Outdoor Living Spaces

GRATEFUL FOR REAL ESTATE EXPERTISE

Bucks County top-producing real estate agent Jay Spaziano, broker/founder of Jay Spaziano Real Estate in Washington Crossing, espounds that fall and winter months still are good times to buy and sell homes. From motivated buyers to reduced competition, listing properties in the autumn months can offer significant advantages. In the office, Jay is joined by his daughter, Julie Spaziano, who began her real estate career in 2018 while working as a salesperson with Compass Center City Philadelphia. Known for attention to detail, she specializes in assisting first-time buyers.

"I'm very thankful to have my Dad showing me the ropes, based on his 40-plus years of real estate experience," she states.

With an office based in Washington Crossing and being residents of Upper Makefield, both Jay and Julie understand the regional market from firsthand perspectives. "We live here, too, and are eager to help neighbors with their real estate needs," Jay assures. "I know every season brings unique market conditions. As we head into fall, I can say today’s market seems solid."

From grand estate properties to charming townhomes, this real estate team represents the full spectrum of the area's real estate.

With the recent Federal Reserve cut to the benchmark interest rate, also known as the federal funds rate, Jay says that step quickly influenced market activity, with available housing inventory beginning to expand. At press time, officials signaled the possibility of two more rate cuts this year. "As borrowing conditions improve, I anticipate continued shifts in both buyer demand and seller confidence," he adds.

For buyers, Jay says this translates to more options and less competition than during the traditionally busy spring season. For sellers, motivated buyers are still actively searching, and many are eager to make a purchase before the holidays and year’s end.

Since January 2025, Jay has listed and sold 94 homes throughout Bucks County, with prices ranging from $525,000 to $4.4 million. He currently has an additional 23 home properties under agreement moving through the closing process. "This record reflects not only the diversity of the market, but also my dedication to achieving exceptional results for every client," he adds.

"Whether someone is considering buying, selling or simply curious about their home’s current market value, I'd be delighted to put my experience and expertise to work for them," says Jay.

Therapy

In-person

Children,

Welcoming,

Support

Specialized Services

Psychoeducational

Exposure

PLEASING TIPS FOR ROOFS, GUTTERS

ARTICLE BY MADELINE MARRIOTT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY UNITED VETERANS ROOFING

UNITED VETERANS ROOFING TEAMS STAND READY TO HELP PROPERTY OWNERS PREPARE FOR WINTER

United Veterans Roofing crews are helping homeowners prepare their exteriors for the cold winter months and any urgent weather factors that come along with them.

This Newtown-based, full-service exterior services company performs replacement and emergency repairs for residential and commercial properties — using a variety of materials, from slate to metal to asphalt — throughout Greater Philadelphia and New Jersey. Their expertise includes residential and commercial roofs, gutters and siding, and they offer affordable financing options and exclusive discounts for veterans.

According to Amanda Capoferri, UVR sales and marketing manager, winter conditions require additional measures for exterior home care. Here are her four expert tips for keeping homes safe and functioning properly.

267.908.9099

UnitedVeteransRoofing.com

GET ROOF INSPECTED

CLEAN GUTTERS REGULARLY

Clogged gutters can damage every part of a home’s exterior from the roof to walls to the foundation. Keep a close eye on them, especially in the fall when falling leaves and frozen water can add weight, causing the gutters to sag or pull away from the house and require replacement.

Roofs have telltale signs that they're nearing the end of their lifetime usefulness. Amanda recommends getting a roof inspection prior to colder months, particularly if one isn't sure of the roof's age or its true condition. During the inspection, a technician checks the protective barrier on the shingles that prevents leaks.

CHECK VENTILATION AND INSULATION

TRIM OVERHANGING BRANCHES

Though not part of the house itself, tree limbs coming down in the winter due to the weight of snow can cause holes, scratches or breaking of the shingles, and the possibility of falling onto the roof. Anything that's overhead the roof should be cut back to avoid these possibilities over the winter, and truly the rest of the year as well.

Insulation is crucial for preventing heat from escaping, which allows sitting snow on roofs to melt and refreeze. A properly insulated roof shouldn’t have melt spots in the snow; rather, the snow should cover the roof like a blanket. Snow acts as a natural insulator for roofs by trapping air, which helps prevent heat loss and maintain a more stable indoor temperature.

APPRECIATION FOR ADOPTIONS

APPRECIATION

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAMARTH “SAM” JOSHI

It took five years, but two young sisters from India, now reside in Newtown with adoptive parents Ashni “Baba” Kumar and Priya Trivedi.

"I am so, so thankful for everyone in our local community who kept me emotionally afloat through these years. We had a kind of a village going until the girls came home," says Priya. "To watch them living here, and being very socially happy, makes it and the drama all worthwhile."

The sisters, Arya and Riya, 18 months apart in age, are both presently 11 years old. Priya states there's no formal, organized foster care system for youths in India. After she took custody of them during 2020, she says she took turns with her mother and sister as caretakers of them physically in India, based from a rented apartment. That level of care meant many trips back and forth between the two continents, and Ashni also stayed with them for two months in India.

Priya's story as an adoptive parent certainly is one of love, perseverance, anger, negotiation, heartaches, discipline, networking, strategy and persistence. She says she felt left in 'no man's land' plenty of times. But as iconic musician, songwriter, activist and Outlaw Country music pioneer Willie Nelson is fond of saying: "Don't take no for an answer. Keep going. A winner never quits. A quitter never wins." And, Priya refused to let Arya and Riya not be granted a life of love, opportunities and safety.

After exhaustive gathering of documents and navigating protocols in India, one day before Mother's Day, Priya says she was told her entire file of records was rejected by Indian officials, with no reasons cited. "I had to hire two different attorneys. Eventually, our entire years' of work had to be redone all in three months," she states.

"It was hard not to get mad, but I didn't give up. I've been living in the United States for 21 years. But, several times during the ordeal, I considered moving back to India permanently," she recalls.

She thought things were straightened out during September 2024, but again the process stalled out. It got delayed after Priya received word from US Immigration staffers that they needed original documents all over again to secure birth certificates and passports in her name as the girls' parent. "I woke up every day, working on this."

Finally, her tenacity and determination came to fruition. "The day after this past Christmas, I got an email from a US Embassy representative that the adoptions had been officially approved. It was the best Christmas present ever in my whole life!" she smiles.

However, even that positive news took five more months of intense effort, given that the sisters' birth certificates and new passports needed to be taken care of.

These adoption-related setbacks over such an extended period took their toll on Priya and Ashni's restaurant business. They currently are attempting to reorganize their restaurant operations and get back to typical lives of hard work, family plans and education for their daughters.

"We're trying to find our new footing. I appreciate our entire Newtown community holding us in their prayers and well wishes," says the new mother of two fortunate preteens.

By the way, during this same time period, Priya saved two blind horses, 14 bunnies, three cats and 23 dogs. She says she dreams of starting an animal sanctuary one day in the future; no doubt to continue offering a safe haven to all those who need a buoy and a kindhearted advocate in life.

GURU’S INDIAN CUISINE

Chef Ashni “Baba” Kumar and Priya Trivedi own Guru’s Indian Cuisine in Newtown currently as a “takeout only” operation. While 203 N. Sycamore Street had been their location for 10 years, Priya says it became increasingly difficult to secure refinancing needed to maintain that physical location. They’re pursuing new financing.

INGREDIENTS:

Thanksgiving Blessing Mix

• 2 cups Bugles

• 2 cups mini pretzels

• 1 cup salted peanuts or cashews

• 1 cup M&Ms chocolate candies

• 1 cup candy corn

• 1 cup craisins or raisins

• (optional) 2 cups of Chex

• (optional) Hersey Kiss candy

DIRECTIONS:

Combine ingredients in a large bowl. Stir until well mixed and store in a covered container or immediately measure out into individual, zipped top or tied bags. Enjoy each and every time, with a whisper of gratefulness.

Keep a Jar Full of This Popular Snack for Family and Give Bags to Neighbors, Friends, and Colleagues.

THANKSGIVING BLESSING POEM

• Bugles: shaped like the cornucopia, the horn of plenty.

• Pretzels: arms crossed and folded in thanks and prayer.

• Nuts: the promise of a future harvest if seeds are planted and tended with care.

• M&Ms: memories of those who came before us to guide a blessed future.

• Candy Corn: the sacrifices of the first winter.

• Dried Fruit:  the bountiful fruits of the earth, gathered at harvest time.

• Hersey Kiss Candy (optional): to make a special version for immediate family, add these kisses to remind of the love felt.

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

H O P E

Begins with YOU A SEASON TO SEE THE UNSEEN

The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?

The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.

Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.

“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”

Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:

SCAN TO NOMINATE

“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”

Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:

“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”

Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.

This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.

“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”

Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.

This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.

To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.

2025

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

NOVEMBER 1ST

Lantern Tour

Washington Crossing Historic Park | 6:30 PM

Experience the suspense and determination of the night that changed history. As twilight falls over the Delaware River, walk in the footsteps of General Washington and his troops. This immersive one-hour tour includes stops at the soldier encampment, boat barn and battle map, each brought to life by expert interpreters. Tour Times: 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Space is limited.

NOVEMBER 8TH

New Hope Arts Outdoor Sculpture Project

New Hope Arts Center | 12:00 PM

The New Hope Arts Public Arts Program is a free, accessible, family-friendly program for public viewing. Much of it is within easy walking distance from the town center. At any given time, there are between 30 and 50 sculptures on display.  A list of current sculptures and  information about interactive options are on the website and at the art center.

NOVEMBER 10TH

The Greatest Hits of Broadway

Newtown Theatre | 3:00 PM

This special matinee concert will feature four professional singers and a live band playing Broadway’s greatest songs, old and new; general admission $28. Larry McKenna brings this new Broadway show to Newtown from his popular Mt. Gretna Summer Concert series. This year’s singers include the return of Kate Nice and Noah Bloom, along with newcomers Krystal Bly and Ryan Starczewski.

NOVEMBER 10TH

End Of Summer Wine Dinner

Logan Inn | 6:00 PM

Head to New Hope for a four-course, chef-crafted dinner paired exclusively with refreshing white wines. Each course is designed to complement the crisp, bright and nuanced flavors of these varietals, designed to be perfect for a summer send-off. Price is $85 each. Email play@landmarkhospitality.com or call 215.862.2300.

NOVEMBER 11TH

“Open” Door Blues Jam

Havana Restaurant & Bar | 8:00 PM

All musicians are welcome to bring their instruments and jump in and play with the band at this New Hope location, as hosted by Mikey Junior and The Slidewinder Blues Band. No cover charge. The event runs through 11 p.m. Call 215.862.5501 or email entertainment@havananewhope.com for more information.

NOVEMBER 27TH

Newtown Turkey Trot 5K

129 N. Congress St. | 9:00 AM

Running in honor of Police Officer Brian Gregg:  This event is being held in memory of Officer Gregg, a dedicated member of Newtown Borough Police Department who lost his life in the line of duty on Sept. 29, 2005. Race proceeds benefit the Bucks County Heroes Scholarship Fund. Organizers are Boss Events, a Newtown-based race group known for Shamrock Shuffle.

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