Historic Preservation Committee

Volume 22, Number 2 Spring 2013

New Britain Borough and

the Community and

Business Committee

Would like to Invite all

Borough Residents and

Business people to a

Town Hall Meeting

Thursday, May 2

7:30 p.m.

Delaware Valley College

Student Center Coffee

House, 2

floor

We are pleased to announce that

two design student teams from Dela-

ware Valley Colleges’ Department of

Landscape Architecture and Environ-

mental Science will be presenting their

study, recommendations, and plans for

their respective ideas on Reinventing

New Britain Borough as a regional

destination and creating a plan for the

future. A major part of this study will be

recommendations and plans for physi-

cal and beautification improvements of

the old Route 202 /Butler Avenue cor-

ridor. The ultimate goal of this study is

to find sustainable solutions to sustain

this plan into the future. Please plan to

attend.

Historic Preservation Committee

The New Britain Borough Historic Preservation Committee was formed by the

Planning Commission in 2005 to create a framework for a positive coexistence between

the past and future. If you have an interest in local history, please join the committee.

The Committee's first objective was to establish an historic preservation overlay

zone to provide control over demolition of historic buildings and help in controlling

additional commercial development along Butler Avenue.

Mission: The New Britain Borough Historic Preservation Committee’s mission

is to preserve our historic properties and artifacts and to enhance citizen

enjoyment of our history through public education and access.

What we do:

Provide programs for the enjoyment and education of our citizens. Some

examples include An Evening Reminiscing about Forest Park with Robert L.

Showalter and John Malack; Researching Our Historic Homes with Jeffrey

Marshall; A Postcard History: Chalfont and New Britain by Robert L. Showalter;

Culture of Eastern Woodland Indians with Wesley Dunn and Walking Tours of

the Ancient Cemetery at the New Britain Baptist Church with Bill and RuthAnn

Focht.

Maintain an inventory of historic properties in the overlay zone and on-going

research about the history of the properties and their inhabitants.

Protect historic artifacts and documents with a long term goal of procuring a

space to house and display them for public enjoyment and education.

Participate in Wreaths Across America. December 2012 was our first time

participating in WAA. Donations from our local residents’ were used to purchase

wreaths to honor each of 75 known veteran graves in the historic New Britain

Baptist Church Cemetery. The ceremony coincided with over 750 memorial

ceremonies all across the country in collaboration with WAA. We plan to

continue this ceremony every year.

Targeted involvement in the community and political process to protect and/or

enhance historic properties and create a pleasing integration of those properties

with future development. The committee was responsible for the restoration

and rededication of the Walter Harvey WW I Memorial.

The meeting day and time for the Committee have been changed to the fourth

Monday of the month, beginning with April 22 at 7:00 p.m. in the Borough Office. All

are welcome.

Around Town

AROUND TOWN is a regular column in our newsletter. It is a section

about residents and businesses in the borough who have special

events, and we’d like to acknowledge good deeds. If there is a birth,

marriage, milestone anniversary, special birthday, someone in the

family graduating college, getting special honors for academic

and/or business achievement, someone that performs a good deed

or gets special recognition, please let us know by calling Marie

Esher Coia at 215-348-1043 or email mecoia@verizon.net.

Congratulations Graduate!

Ariel Marie Ries, of West Butler Avenue, graduates on May

4, 2013 from the Pennsylvania State University’s College of Arts

& Architecture with a degree in Landscape Architecture, a 5

year program. Her minors were Art History & Architectural

History. She was on the Dean’s List every semester.

Ariel now seeks a position with a company that will utilize

her combination of creative & technical design skills for large

projects such as resorts, zoos, entertainment complexes or

restoration projects.

Hair Café Celebrates Anniversary

The Hair Café hair salon, in the Town Center Shopping

Center, celebrated its fifth year anniversary on Friday, March 8

with refreshments and a ribbon cutting sponsored by the

Chalfont-New Britain Business Alliance (CNBBA). The

owners of the Hair Café, Linda and Tom Rasmussen and their

employees, would like to thank all who shared in their celebra-

tion. They also appreciate the support of their patrons who

helped them raise $715 to be donated to help in the rebuilding

of Kids Castle. In addition, they want to thank New Britain

Borough for its support of small family businesses in the

community.

The Hair Café offers all hair services including cuts, colors,

high lights, low lights, relaxers, texture perms and keratin

treatments. For more info call 215-230-3343 or visit

thehaircafe.biz.

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph & Linda Cangelosi of Keeley Avenue

are happy to announce the engagement of their daughter,

Victoria Cangelosi to Brian Guentter of Hatfield.

Victoria is a 2003 graduate of Central Bucks High School

West and a 2006 graduate of Penn State-University Park. She

works for the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College in Wyncote,

PA and part time for Keller Williams Real Estate in Blue Bell,

PA. She is also a business owner; she owns Smelly Cat Soaps,

where she makes soap (www.SmellyCatSoaps.com) and co-

owns Crow Canyon Jewelry (www.CrowCanyonJewelry.com).

Brian is a 2004 graduate of North Penn High School, a

2008 and 2009 graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, and

will graduate from the University at Buffalo with a DDS in

May.

The two met as teenagers, when both worked at Clemens

Family Markets in New Britain. An October 2013 wedding is

planned.

Engaged: Victoria & Brian

Joining in the Hair Café celebration standing from left to right

are: Pat Schimony, Hair Café; Amy Price, Save Kids Castle;

Louise Hettler, Hair Café; Susan Stroh, Wellington

Photography; Candice Raabe, Hair Café; Mary Callanan, Hair

Café; David Holewinski, Mayor New Britain Borough, Robert

Showalter, CNBBA & Showalter and Associates; Linda

Rasmussen, owner Hair Café; Kate Knoble, CNBBA & Univest

Bank; Lisa Wuko, CNBBA & McQuaite Chiropractic Center;

Scott Stokes, CNBBA & SWAT Pest Control. Kneeling in the

front row from left to right are: Dawn Byers, Save Kids Castle;

Dale Rimmer, CNBBA & Dale Rimmer Siding; Kathleen

Cauffman, Hair Café; Dawn Breen, Hair Café; Taylor Breen,

Hair Café; and sitting is Diane Kelly, Hair Café.

Photo compliments of Wellington Photography.

The Borough has received County Open Space Board

approval to purchase approximately 5 acres at 225 Keeley

Avenue with County funding. Settlement is expected the end

of April. The Borough is hoping to use part of the property

as a community garden.

Breaking News

Spotlight on Borough Businesses

We will be highlighting a different borough business in each newsletter to

help promote them so they can continue to be viable and prosperous-

which benefits us all. We will also inform you of new businesses in the

borough. Small business provides goods, services, and employment to the

community. Please shop and frequent our borough businesses.

Melissa Ceresi DMD PC

960 Town Center

New Britain PA 18901

www.drmelissaceresi.com

215-230-7060 T

215-230-7907 F

ceresioffice@verizon.net

Exceptional dentistry. . . beautiful smiles — that’s what Melissa

Ceresi, DMD and her staff have been providing for over 15 years.

Conveniently located in the heart of New Britain Borough in the offices

behind the Town Center Shopping Center, theiroffice offers quality

dentalcare for patients of all ages.Theytakepridein pro-

vidingcomprehensive dental care in a fun and comfortable environment

where qualitypatient care is their firstpriority. The doctors and staff are

trained in the latest technologyin oral cancer detection,cosmetic and

restorative dentistry, custom teeth whitening, and periodontal (gum) care.

Dr. Ceresi and her staff strive to educate patients about their dental

health ina caring andconservativemanner. They present customtreatment

optionsthatnot only suitthe needs of each patient, but optimize oral

health.Dr. Ceresi contributes to various fund raising projects throughout

the community. Thestaff uses Pink Ribbon™ clinical supplies (5% of

purchase proceeds go toward breast cancer research). They alsocare for

our community by providing a latex free and an amalgam (mercury filling)

free environment. They also use digital xray technology which minimizes

radiation exposure.

Their Services Include:

Preventive care: usual 6 month cleaning

Digital x-rays and computerized dental charting

Custom periodontal programs (gum treatment)

Oral cancer detection technology using ViziLite®Plus™

Zoom Custom teeth whitening

Invisalign®

Cosmetic restorations including composite (tooth colored) fillings,

porcelain crowns, bridges, inlays and onlays

Smile makeovers using lumineer® veneers and crowns

Implant restorations

Dr. Ceresi and her staff can help you with your dental needs so stop

by and meet the team to see what they can do for you and your family!

Or call to make an appointment. They welcome new patients and have

convenient hours.

New Britain Welcomes

New Businesses to the

Borough

A.Bella Hair Design & Boutique

210 W. Butler Ave. G-210

New Britain

215-341-6456

www.abellashairdesign.com

abellashairdesign@gmail.com

There is a new hair/nail salon that has been

recently renovated and remodeled to make everyone

feel relaxed and comfortable. The salon offers many

hair care services such as haircuts/styling, highlight-

ing/lowlighting, color, perms and the New Keratin

Smoothing Treatment. The salon also specializes in

Bridal/special occasion hairstyle and bridal parties.

Nail care consists of manicures, pedicures, acrylic

nails, pink and white and OPI gel polish nails in a

private oasis for full relaxation and pampering. Skin

care is facial waxing and tweezing. Besides all hair/

nail services there is a Boutique that has many gifts

items of jewelry, purses, accessories, lotions, and it is

ever changing as the seasons do.

Bargain Book Warehouse

406 Town Center Shopping Center

New Britain

215-348-1555

The Bargain Book Warehouse has a great selec-

tion of books for everyone. They have fantastic deals

everyday with new books coming in regularly. 10%

discount offered to teachers, grandparents and se-

niors. Find them on Facebook. They are opened

Monday through Saturday 9am to 8pm and Sunday

10 to 6 p.m. Please come in and browse. They look

forward to seeing you soon!

Support our borough

businesses

One of the oldest buildings in the

borough sits at the corner of South

Tamenend and Butler Avenues. To-

day it is Executive Commons and

houses Welcome Tours and the Relo-

cation and Referral Center; but to old

timers in the area, it will always be

known as “Van Toor’s Store.” In 1753,

the original land owners, Thomas and

Jane James, deeded a small lot to one

Rebecca Humphrey, widow. She af-

terward married William Thomas, who

probably built a log house on the lot

before 1760, the first at the crossroads

and the only house at the time in New

Britain Village.

From 1794 until 1816, Alice Gray

owned the property and kept a store.

Around 1840, Benjamin Mathews built

the adjacent stone house for his daugh-

ter. It is not clear if a store operated

from the property between 1816 and

1877, although it is probable. Jesse and

Mary Ann Shay bought the property

and kept a store from 1877-1882. The next owner of the

property, from 1882 until 1907, was William Hawkins. Mr.

Hawkins manufactured kid gloves and also chamois skin gloves

for the use of employees of the Philadelphia Mint. Although he

owned the property at the crossroads, Mr. Hawkins lived in a

house on North Tamenend, now the Hawkins- Moxey House.

He started the growing of water cress in the stream flowing

from the old baptistery in the church yard below the Walter

Harvey Memorial to be used by the people of New Britain. In

1907, Mary Whitehead became the owner of the property. She

was the oldest daughter of Rev. and Mrs. William Manlove

Whitehead who lived in the New Britain Baptist Church

Parsonage next door to Mr. Hawkins.

As early as 1886, Paul Van Toor worked in the store helping

a Mr. Barclay for one year and then clerking for Mr. Hawkins

for five years. Mr. Hawkins asked Mr. Van Toor to take over

the store in April 1892 then on March 31, 1897, during President

William McKinley’s administration, Mr. Van Toor was ap-

pointed Postmaster and operated the Post Office from his

store.

Borough Treasures

Van Toor’s Store and Post Office

2 West Butler Avenue

Mr. Van Toor assumed owner-

ship of the property in 1915 and made

extensive alterations in the store part of

the property, changing the entrance

from the side to the front, facing the

highway and installing two large win-

dows. When electricity became avail-

able, he added refrigeration, a coffee

grinder and meat cutter.

On August 5, 1939, President

Franklin D. Roosevelt signed a retire-

ment act, which required all Fourth

Class Postmasters, age seventy or older,

to automatically retire from the office

on January 31, 1940. As Mr. Van Toor

explained in a letter to his friend Louise

P. Burkart, he was at that time seventy

one years old and came under the new

act. Mr. Van Toor then affixed the

letter with his last post mark as Post-

master after having served under eight

US Presidents and having made some

40,000 trips to the train to pick up the

mail.

Mr. Van Toor, just shy of his 75

birthday, decided to

close his store on March 31, 1943 after 52 years serving his

neighbors. His decision was a result of a government mandated

point rationing system. He was quoted in the paper as saying

“What’s the use; you can’t get merchandise to sell. I can see the

handwriting on the wall. Rationing is a real headache for the

small merchant who is really being driven out of business.” A

sentiment heard often today from small business people re-

garding government programs. In retirement, Mr. Van Toor

and his wife, Edna, worked a Victory Garden.

Submitted by Donna von Lipsey

Excerpted from: The History of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Chap-

ter XXIII, New Britain, by WWH Davis, 1876 edition; The Evening

Bulletin, March 25, 1943 and New Britain Borough Bicentennial

Issue, January 1976, article by Louise P. Burkart.

Getting to Know Our

Council Members

The Council of New Britain

Borough is a body of seven elected

officials who serve without com-

pensation. The role of Council is to

oversee all activities of the Bor-

ough, including the management

of Borough employees. Council is

responsible for making policy,

passing ordinances, approving con-

tracts and agreements, voting ap-

propriations, approving all per-

sonnel decisions, and establishing

and maintaining the Borough’s

budget.

In this and future articles, we will interview our Borough Council

members so that our residents and businesses can get to know them.

In this issue we will meet Margaret “Peg” Remmey, Vice President

of Council.

How long have you been on Council

? Over six years. Prior to Council,

I was on the Zoning Hearing Board for four years.

Why did you decide to run for Council?

I wanted to have more input

in decision-making and a greater involvement in the community.

How long have you lived in the Borough?

19 years.

Are you married?

I am married to John Remmey who serves on the

Borough Planning Commission.

Do you have children?

I have three children: Charley, Meredith, and

Ashley.

What is your profession?

I have been an emergency room registrar at

Doylestown Hospital for 25 years. I’ve seen the emergency room go

from seven beds to the 40 beds they have currently.

Any other volunteer activities other than Council?

Volunteer for the

MS Society.

Do you have any hobbies?

I practice yoga and love to walk a few miles

a few times a week.

What goals do you have for the Borough?

Continue to be part of the

enhancement of the Borough and assist the Borough with embracing new

technologies.

What would you like people to know about you?

I would like people

to know that I was born in a small town where my family was very

involved in the community. Early in my life I was exposed to the

importance of community involvement be it a town issue as well as the

concern and welfare of the people in the community. I would like the

community to know that I am committed to maintaining our Borough

as a nice place to live. I will strive to be an informed decision-maker as

we continue to face many challenges.

Councilwoman Margaret “Peg”

Remmey

Can You Help?

The New Britain Borough Council recently es-

tablished a committee, the Appointment Advisory

Committee, to identify and recommend individuals

to Borough Council for consideration for appoint-

ments to the various boards, commissions and com-

mittees. The committee will keep a database of

interested individuals who will be contacted when

vacancies occur. Some of the positions the commit-

tee will consider applicants for are, but not limited to,

Borough Council, Planning Commission, Zoning

Hearing Board, Nature Preserve Committee, Com-

munity and Business Committee, and the Historic

Preservation Committee. We will highlight one of the

boards, commissions, and committees in each future

newsletter. This newsletter will highlight the Plan-

ning Commission.

The New Britain Borough Planning Commis-

sion, an advisory board to the Borough Council,

consists of seven appointed members. The commis-

sion members serve without compensation. They

provide guidance and advice on planning and land

use issues within the borough. They meet the third

Tuesday of nearly every month to transact the busi-

ness of the commission. State laws, including the

Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (Act 247),

requires the planning commission review plans of

proposed land development as well as sub-division

of existing tax parcels. In addition, the Planning

Commission develops and recommends to Bor-

ough Council the Borough Open Space Plan and

Borough Comprehensive Plans. The Planning Com-

mission has a professional planning consultant, a

municipal engineer, and a code enforcement person

to provide guidance and technical knowledge to the

Commission members. There are no vacancies at the

present time so interested residents can put their

names on a waiting list.

Submit a CV, resume, letter or email expressing

your interest in a particular position with your quali-

fications and/or experiences to 45 Keeley Ave., New

Britain, 18901 or nbbo[email protected].

Please consider participating in your local gov-

ernment. You can have an impact on the future of

our borough and get to know your neighbors at the

same time.

Do I Need a Permit for

my home project?

Check with the Borough before beginning any home-

improvement projects. Requirements vary, but the Common-

wealth of Pennsylvania requires the Borough to issue permits

for home-improvement projects, including electrical, mechani-

cal, structural or plumbing work. As a result of getting a permit,

an inspector will check the work. Inspections provide a mea-

sure of safety to protect your life and property.

Common Projects That Require Permits:

•Re-roofing

•Building a deck

•Installing electrical outlets

•Remodeling kitchens or bathrooms

•Installing a pool, spa or hot tub

•Building an addition, including seasonal rooms

•Installing appliances and replacements such as furnaces,

boilers, water heaters, and fireplaces

•Finishing a basement

If you are planning to make home improvements, contact

the Borough to find out what building safety code provisions

apply and if you need a permit.

If you're considering cutting

down trees on your property,

please contact the Borough

before doing so.

Melissa Ceresi, DMD PC

960 Town Center

New Britain, PA 18901

215-230-7060 T

215-230-7907 F

ceresioffice@verizon.net

www.drmelissaceresi.com

Town Hall Meeting of

March 5

The Town Hall meeting, hosted by New Britain Borough

and the Borough’s Community and Business Committee, was

a great success! Many thanks to Lynn Bush, Executive Director

of the Bucks County Planning Commission, and a Planning

Commission staff member, Matt Walters, for facilitating and

organizing the content of the event. Almost 100 Borough

residents and businesses attended. It was held at the Delaware

Valley College Coffeehouse conference room on the second

floor of the Student Center. Thank you to all who attended. It

is important for Borough officials to hear what is important to

the residents and businesses.

It was an interactive meeting in many ways. First, Ms. Bush

began the discussion with examples of why New Britain

Borough is a special place. After that she opened the floor for

residents and businesses to speak their minds about what they

liked about New Britain and what they thought needed im-

provement. Ms. Bush and her staff prepared and handed out

a questionnaire for the attendees to fill out. A couple examples

of the questions are: list the five most important things New Britain

Borough could do to help generate economic development and revitalization

in the Borough and should the Borough work to create a centrally-located

town commons where special events and civic gathering can take place. Ms.

Bush and her staff also prepared display boards with various

questions and ways the attendees could cast their votes and

prioritize what is important to them.

We will report on the responses in more detail in future

issues, but what a majority of participants think is important and

would like the Borough to focus on is a more walkable

community and to enhance and beautify the look of the Butler

Avenue.

Moments with the

Mayor

Spring has brought some

flowers and early spring

brought us some snow and

cold. But, that should all be

behind us. That brings me to

the “community garden” that

I mentioned in my last com-

ments to all of you. The “com-

munity garden” is moving for-

ward and anyone interested in

becoming a member of the

garden should contact Andrea Antell at 215-896-7554 or via

email aantell1@verizon.net. I’m sure she will be able to answer

any questions you may have.

Sushi is coming to New Britain, the Asian Fusion and Sushi

restaurant, in the shopping center, should be opening sometime

in early May. The Borough Community and Business Commit-

tee, as well as the Borough officials, are working with the people

who are looking to develop the Knoll Property as well as the

old Bitzer Cleaners Property to help them achieve their goals in

concert with the overall vision of the Butler Avenue Corridor

development.

Our Borough Engineer and our Traffic Consultant are

working diligently to improve the operation of the traffic

signals at Butler Avenue and Tamenend Avenue as well as the

signal on Butler Avenue at the shopping center. It may take

some time but I’m sure their persistence will pay off in the end.

The Borough is putting the final touches on our new

Website and I’m sure it will be not only be user friendly but a

great vehicle to disseminate information to the residents. If

there is something you feel needs the attention of our Borough

Officials I encourage you to contact the Borough Office or

please attend our monthly Borough Council Meeting held at

Borough Hall the second Tuesday of every month beginning at

7:30 p.m.

David Holewinski

Spring is Here!

Property owners are required to keep grass and weeds

to a height not to exceed 8 inches. The purpose is not

only to keep the community neat and attractive, but to

protect residents from possible health risks associated

with overgrowth.

Save the Date!

The Borough Hall at 56 Keeley Avenue turns 100 years old

this year. It was built in 1913 so the Historic Preservation

Committee will hold a day-long event on Saturday, September

21 to commemorate the building and the people, The Literary

and Library Society, who built it.

Commendation for Bravery

Officer Edward Kraft was presented a Commendation

for Bravery at the April 9, 2013 Borough meeting. On June 17,

2012, Officer Kraft responded to shots fired to assist an officer

at Bittersweet Drive in Doylestown Township. Officer Kraft

took a position on the perimeter of the house from where rifle

fire was emitting. He did not retreat from his position, despite

coming under fire from the suspect, who fired more than 100

rounds over the course of several hours. Officer Kraft’s actions

that day protected life, were done without regard to his personal

safety and were in the highest traditions of police service.

Police Merger

New Britain Borough Police and Doylestown Borough

Police continue to work on the police merger. Currently, a

Charter Agreement to create a Police Commission is under

review.

Identity Theft

It is especially important to take preventative measures. The

first step is to photocopy all of the information contained in

your wallet, both fronts and backs. If you lose your credit card,

report it to the financing institution immediately. The second is

to request credit reports from each of the three major compa-

nies. Review your credit report to any unauthorized activity. By

federal law, a person can request a free report once a year from

Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. Other tips include keeping

important information in a safe, updating virus protection

software, using secure Internet browsers, being cautious when

responding to promotional offers, picking up new checks

from the bank instead of ordering them through the mail, and

deleting all personal information before disposing of a com-

puter. Victims should file a report with the police to document

the theft.

Are You Okay?

NBBPD offers a FREE telephone reassurance program to

it’s elderly and disabled residents. This service is for those who

do not have daily contact with family or friends. The program

consists of daily check-in phone call with the police. If a phone

call is not received within the time that you specify, a phone call

will be made to your home. If the police are unable to contact

you, calls will be made to your designated emergency contact

that you provide to us. If the police are still unable to locate you,

an Officer will be sent to your home to check on your well

being. If you are interested in further details or signing up, please

stop by the police station during business hours or give us a call

215-345-1080.

Like us on FACEBOOK

NBBPD is now on Facebook! Visit us often and give us a

“Like”… keep up to date with Police news!

Notes from the Borough Police

Solicitors

NBBPD enforces it’s Solicitation Ordinance. If a salesper-

son comes to your door, ask to see their Solicitation Permit

issued by NBBPD. If they are unable to produce one, please

Skateboard Ordinance

As a reminder, skateboarding in parking lots and on

Borough roads is prohibited. Please encourage youngsters to

adhere to this ordinance. Possible citations can be issued for

violating the ordinance which holds a fine of up to $300.

Vacation House Checks

Vacation season will soon be upon us. Call the New Britain

Borough Police Department at 215-345-1080 and request a

vacation house check while you’re away. An Officer will check

the exterior of your home at various times during your absence.

What makes New Britain

Borough unique

More open space owned by the municipality and the Civic

Association as a percentage of total area than any municipality

in Bucks County

14 acre Covered Bridge Park

23 acre Wilma Quinlan Nature Preserve

Miriam Groner Historic Home & Meadow

World War I Memorial rededicated and restored in 2011

“To All Who Serve”

A Lovely Historic District

A Shopping center within walking distance for many resi-

dents with a large grocery, a drug store, a bank, various

specialty stores and restaurants

Historic New Britain Baptist Church

Delaware Valley College

Historic cemetery with veterans interred from the Revolu-

tionary War through the Civil War

Home of Bucks County folk Music Shop, one of the oldest

acoustic stringed instrument stores in the U.S.

Pine Valley Covered Bridge built in 1842

Home of Peace Valley Tile Works

Small town Americana – Fourth of July Parade; Duck Derby;

astronomy in the park; children’s summer camp

Minutes to Fordhook Farm – the former Burpee Estate

Only a few miles to Doylestown the county seat of Bucks

County

Minutes to the Mercer Museum, Spruance Library, Fonthill

Castle and Michener Museum

Minutes to Peace Valley Park and Lake Galena, a county-

owned 1500 acre recreational area

A short distance to the National Shrine of Our Lady of

Czestochowa

Minutes to Doylestown Hospital recently voted among the

100 Best Hospitals in the U.S.

Proximity to restaurants of every cuisine and price range

Only a few miles to shopping in Doylestown and

Montgomeryville

Proximity to Peddler’s Village and New Hope

Minutes to the Delaware River

Proximity to several farm stands and farmer’s markets,

including pick your own fruits, organic produce, locally

raised meats and several award winning wineries

Access to center city Philadelphia and the Philadelphia airport

by train

Access to New York City by bus

Two hours to the Atlantic Ocean, Pocono Mountains, New

York City and Washington, DC

Protect our Streams and

Waterways

Managing our own yards and disposing of yard waste

responsibly is the first step in protecting our streams:

1. Dispose of leaves, grass clippings, and yard waste properly

(outside of flood and waterways where they can be washed

downstream causing pollution and possibly blocking pipes,

inlets and restrictions in streams). If you notice an inlet

clogged, either call the Borough or safely clear the grate and

dispose of the debris properly.

2. Direct your mower discharge back onto your yards, not

into the streets where it is quickly washed into streams.

3. Minimize lawn fertilizer use as this is one of the largest

contributors to stream pollution. Remember, the less you

fertilize the less you have to cut the grass. It’s best to only

spot fertilize where necessary, this will save money also.

4. Pool owners are required to discharge water responsibly as

per Borough and PADEP rules and regulations. The Clean

Stream Law prohibits the discharge of chemically contami-

nated water into streams or storm sewers. Contaminated

pool water quickly makes its way to streams where aquatic

life is damaged or killed.

5. Dispose of hazardous materials properly at hazardous

waste drop offs, before the containers begin to leak, no one

wants to be responsible for a toxic spill clean-up. Be sure

to store any hazardous materials (paint, oil, anti-freeze, etc.)

in safe places outside of the floodplain. Unexpected stream

high water levels and stormwater pick up pollutants and

cause catastrophic pollution issues.

6. ‘Rain barrels’ are a great way to conserve water and save on

your water bill during the dry summer months ahead.

Simply place a 55 gallon drum under one or more of your

downspouts with a valve and a hose bib at the bottom, then

use to water your garden / yard. The rain barrels act as little

detention basins that help decrease stream flooding.

7. ‘Rain gardens’ are also becoming a popular method of

decreasing runoff and beautifying your property.

8. If you notice illegal dumping or drainage activities, please

report it immediately to New Britain Borough at 215-348-

4586.

Saturday, April 20 - 8:00-10:00 AM Earth Day Clean Up sponsored by the Chalfont-New

Britain Business Alliance - cnbba.org

Saturday, April 20- 3:00-10:00 PM Concert to Benefit Kids Castle sponsored by the

Chalfont-New Britain Business Alliance - cnbba.org

Sunday, April 21 – 3:00 PM Delaware Valley College Chorale- Student Center Auditorium

Friday, April 26 thru Sunday-April 28 A-Day at Delaware Valley College- a student organized event that benefits the

A-Day Scholarship Fund

Saturday, April 27 - 12:00-3:00 PM Community Wellness Day at Lenape Middle School

sponsored by the Bucks County Wellness Centre - buckscountywellnesscentre.com

Saturday, April 27 - 10 AM - 3 PM BC Habitat - Woman Build Shopping Boutique. Chalfont United Methodist Church

Sunday, Apr 28 - 3:00-5:00 PM Bucks County Symphony Spring Concert at Central Bucks South High School –

buckscountysymphony.org

Thursday, May 2 - 7:30 PM New Britain Borough and Delaware Valley College’s Design Studio IV class

Public Meeting in the Coffee House on the 2nd floor of the Student Center building

Saturday, May 4 - 9:00 to 1:00 PM Car Wash to benefit Sr. High Youth Mission trip-

Lenape Valley Presbyterian Church

Sunday, May 5 - 3:00 PM Delaware Valley College Symphonic Band Concert: Student Center Auditorium

Saturday, May 11 - 7:00-9:30 PM Martha & Mary’s Coffeehouse hosted by Lenape Valley Presbyterian Church

Thursday, May 16 - 8:45 PM Star Watch, Covered Bridge Park, New Britain Civic

& Bucks-Mont Astronomical Association

Tuesday, May 21 – 1:00 PM JULIET presents “Norman Rockwell & Saturday Evening

Post presented by Phyllis Stoltz

Friday, June 14 - 1:30-7:30 PM Red Cross Blood Drive-Lenape Valley Presbyterian Church

Contact 215-345-1099 to donate blood

Friday, June 14 – 8:00 PM Bucks County Gilbert & Sullivan Society presents Patience, or Bunthorne’s Bride

Saturday, June 15 – 2:00 & 8:00 PM at the Delaware Valley College Student Center Auditorium

Thursday, July 4 – 9:30 a.m. 4th of July Parade: Town Center

Calendar of Community Events

Owner

524 East Butler Ave.

New Britain, Pa. 18901

267-880-1190

Outrageous BBQ & Much More

Please support the New Britain Civic Association

Annual Membership Dues

Family $15 (all members of othe same household)

Business $25

Larger Donations - It is important to acknowledge your

support. In addition to our appreciation, expressed in a

letter suitable for framing, prominent donations will be

reported in the New Britain Borough Newsletter. Sup-

port for capital improvements to the Park can be recog-

nized with signage at the Park or a plaque on the capital

item and may also receive newspaper coverage.

NAME

ADDR ESS

CITY/STATE/ZIP

PHONE EMAIL

David Holewinski, President Rich Sabol, Vice President

Malcolm Rolllins, Treasurer Peg Havner, Secretary

New Britain Civic Association

PO Box 5124

New Britain, PA 18901

215-345-8750

Summer

Camp

July 1 to August 9, 2013

(6 weeks)

9 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays

(fair weather only)

An exciting array of supervised pro-

grams are planned at this year’s

summer camp including arts and

crafts, sports and special event days

Ages: Children age six (or starting first grade in September)

through age 12.

Location: Covered Bridge Community Park, Keeley Avenue

Pre-registration is required at New Britain Borough Adminis-

tration Building, 45 Keeley Avenue. No on-site registration.

Registration dates:

New Britain Borough residents: April 8- June 28

New Britain Township and Chalfont Borough residents:

April 15 - June 28

All municipalities including those listed above:

April 22- June 28

Registration forms are available at the Borough office or on the

Borough website: www.newbritainboro.com.

Fee for 6-week program (checks payable to New Britain

Borough):

Residents - First child: $200

Each additional child in family: $195

Non-residents: First child: $250

Each additional child in family: $245

of July Parade

The 2013 parade will be held on Thursday, July 4,

beginning at 9:30 a.m. It will start at Town Center on Route

202 and end at 207 Park Avenue. This tri-municipal parade

is hosted by New Britain Township, New Britain Borough

and Chalfont Borough.

Be part of the fun!

Floats from neighborhoods, organizations and busi-

nesses are welcome. Floats will be judged for Most Patriotic,

Most Original and Most Humorous. Also needed are march-

ing bands, Scout Troops, dancers, etc. Prizes are awarded

and complimentary refreshments provided to participants.

The parade will also feature antique cars, and fire trucks.

You're encouraged to decorate your bikes and baby strollers

in a patriotic theme.

Local businesses are encouraged to get involved with this

family-oriented community event. Please consider becoming

a sponsor. Call the New Britain Township office, 215-822-

1391.

New Britain Borough

45 Keeley Avenue

New Britain, PA 18901

New Britain Borough Officials

Mayor: David Holewinski

Council: Meets 2

Tuesday of each month in Borough Hall, 7:30 PM

Robert Belchic, President; Margaret Remmey, Vice-President; Mary Pat Holewinski; Peter LaMontagne;

Joseph Cangelosi; Jeffrey Gilmore; Craig Sturza

Planning Meets 3

Tuesday of each month in the Borough Office, 7:30 PM

Commission: David Holewinski, Chairman; Karl Dieterichs, Vice Chair; Denise Spence, Secretary;

Jack Brady; Joseph Cangelosi; Paul Land; Michael T. Parke; John Remmey

Zoning Meets, as needed, 3

Thursday of the month in Borough Hall, 7:30 PM

Hearing Board: Robert Bair , Chairman; Andrea Antell; Anthony Coia; John Wolff, Jr.; David Ziegfried;

Alternates: William Schaefer and Jackie D’Agostino; Solicitor, Christen Pionzio

Tax Collector: Richard Sabol, 215-489-8658 (Hours: Tuesday, 6 - 9 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. - noon)

Solicitor: Michael Goodwin Police Chief: James Donnelly, Office215-345-1080

Newsletter Contributor & Coordinator: Marie Esher Coia

The following Borough personnel are located at the Borough Building, 45 Keeley Avenue.

Phone 215-348-4586. The office is open Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Website: www.newbritainboro.com Email: NBBORO@comcast.net

EMERGENCIES:DIAL 911

Borough Manager: ...................................Robin E. Trymbiski

Treasurer: ...............................................Lloyd J. Vansant

Roadmaster ..............................................

Mark Hintenlang

Building Inspector and Fire Marshal: .......Dan Jenkins, Keystone Municipal Services

Assistant...............................................Austin C. Brown

PRST STD

US POSTAGE

PAID

Doylestown, PA

Permit No. 640

Borough Secretary: ..................................Jane Kinyon

Zoning Officer: ........................................Thomas Yatsky