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Join us in 2013 at Brookside

April 29, 2013 By

Summer is right around the corner and before you know it, the kids will be home from school with nothing to do.

Enjoy summer the way it is supposed to be: relaxed, fun and completely lacking any pretense. For over 50 years, local families have been spending their lazy summer days poolside while their kids are occupied with friends at Brookside Swim and Tennis Club.

Established in 1956, Brookside was the vision of a group of train bridge builders who using scrap materials from their projects, built the facilities that still stands today. These workers and their families envisioned a place where adults could cook out and enjoy the warm summer months as they watched their kids play. The same simplicity and charm that was Brookside’s inspiration over 50 years ago still exists today.

Brookside Swim and Tennis Club is now accepting memberships for the 2013 season. Brookside is private, so you won’t be bothered by enormous crowds or frivolous rules. They do not limit memberships to specific area codes.

Brookside Swim and Tennis Club is located at 499 Stony Hill Road, Yardley.

For more information visit www.brooksideswimandtennis.com.

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Filed Under: Yardley Voice News Tagged With: , , , ,

Seasonal memberships now available for Lower Southampton Township Dolphin Swim Club

April 26, 2013 By

Seasonal memberships for families, individuals and seniors 60-years of age or above are now available for the Lower Southampton Township Dolphin Swim Club, located at 260 W. Bristol Road in Feasterville, it was announced recently by Matt Gilbert, Parks and Recreation Director for Lower Southampton Township.

Matt says that he is already gearing up for a terrific summer season for swimming enthusiasts of all ages.

“Our large L-shaped pool, heated adult pool and baby pool for youngsters up to five years of age will be in excellent condition and ready to go for the 2013 season.”

All of the pools will be supervised and life-guarded. Parking is free at the Dolphin Swim Club.

“I’d like to invite all area residents to join us this season,” Matt states. “However, please do not wait too long to join because our space is limited.”

For residents in the 19053 zip code, special full season resident rates are available. For families it’s $395, individuals cost $240, and seniors 60-years plus will be $149.

The Dolphin Swim Club will be open weekends from May 25th to June 16th, and then will swing into full operation seven days a week, 11:00am to 8:00pm beginning on Saturday, June 22nd. The season will end on Labor Day.

Daily admission for individuals will be $12 for adults and $8 for children 12 and under. Children under three years of age are free. A special twilight admission rate of $5 per person for both adults and children who would like to swim Monday through Thursday from 5:00 to 8:00pm, will be in effect throughout the season.

For non-residents full season rates will be $525 for families, $315 for individuals, and $189 for seniors 60-years of age and above.

The Dolphin Swim Club is owned and operated by Lower Southampton Township and is managed by Sparkling Pool Services, Inc. Lower Southampton Township offices are headquartered at 1500 Desire Avenue in Feasterville.

For memberships and information call 215-357-7300, extension 340, or go online at www.lowersouthamptontownship.com.

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Filed Under: Southampton Spirit News Tagged With: , , , ,

Warmer pool, lower bills, cooler world

April 24, 2013 By

submitted by Mark Bortman, Exact Solar, mark@exactsolar.com

Ahh – spring has sprung! Time when people’s thoughts turn to playing outside and planting flowers.

It’s also time to think about one of my favorite summer activities – swimming.

I don’t know about you, but I really enjoy swimming. One of the things I don’t like, however, is getting into cold water.

I don’t know how my kids do it – it seems that they are part penguin (must be from their mother’s side) and dive right in no matter what the temperature. On the other hand, if the pool is cool, I’m the guy that takes forever to get in, if I get in at all.

Of course, there is a way to avoid this – heat the swimming pool. This can be an expensive proposition, however.

Natural gas, propane and electric bills can skyrocket to hundreds of dollars during the swimming season, not to mention the untold environmental impacts of mining and burning those fossil fuels.

Of course, there is a way to avoid this, too – harness the natural, free energy of the sun. Solar pool heating systems do an excellent job of adding 10 to 15 degrees to the temperature of an unheated pool.

They don’t cost much more than any other type of heater but they cost nothing to run! The heat from the sun is free and will never go up in price.

Solar pool heaters work by circulating the water from the pool through solar collectors. These collectors are made from a special blend of polymers and are designed to capture the heat from the sun and transfer it to the water.  Each collector is rated for up to 48,000 BTU’s per day.

Although solar pools heater are not as well-known as the other types of heaters, they have been around for over 30 years and their popularity is growing. They have withstood the test of time and their warranty supports this.  The panels come with a full 10-year and limited lifetime warranty – far longer than any other type of heater.

As the swimming season starts, think about the difference solar energy can make – a warmer pool and a cleaner environment. Then, make a choice to make a difference.

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Filed Under: Going Green, Yardley Voice Columnists Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Schembri Pools: Offering one stop shopping for above ground pools

March 21, 2013 By

Schembri Pools by June Portnoy

Purchasing an above ground pool can be a stressful, time-consuming experience especially as you go from store to store, not knowing exactly what you’re looking for or how a pool will look outside your home. And once you buy the pool, you’ll have to find a reputable contractor to install it, because virtually no retail store sells and installs above ground pools.

For all these reasons, you want to buy your pool from Schembri Pools, the company that sells, installs, and services your pool.

“We truly are your one-stop shop for above ground pools,” says owner Steve Schembri.

Schembri Pools, established in 1998 with over 20 years experience, offers the unique service of coming to your house with pool samples and brochures from a variety of its authorized dealers. So, instead of going to multiple pool stores, this company brings everything you’d see at these stores to you!

And unlike any store salesperson who more than likely will never see the layout of your home, Joe Weston, Schembri Pools’ Above Ground Specialist, will look at the size and shape of your backyard to help you select the best pool that meets your needs.

He can even mark the outline of the pool in different areas outside so you can visually see how it will look, helping you decide where you want it installed.

“Our in-home service provides you with a better product and service because there is no retailer involved,” says Joe. 

Plus, before Joe leaves, he will give you a free estimate of your entire job, from the cost of your pool to your installation, in the privacy of your home.

“We are an honest company, and will not sell you anything you don’t need,” says Steve.

The majority of pools sold by Schembri Pools are resin, the newest trend in pools, and some come with up to a 60-year warranty.

All Schembri Pool contractors are knowledgeable in-house employees who will arrive at your house with their own equipment and company truck. Crew leaders have a minimum of 18 years experience.

If you have an old pool you’re getting rid of, these contractors will take it off your property and discard if for you before replacing it with your new pool.

“We stand behind our work and offer a warranty on our labor,” says Steve. “If you have any problem with your pool after it’s installed, we will come back to fix it. We want to earn your trust in order to build a long-term business relationship with you.”

In the future, Schembri Pools can provide you with such important services as opening and closing your pool, installing filters, repairing leaks and being available for after-hour emergencies.

Underground plumbing on above ground pools is also one of its specialties.

In addition, Schembri Pools features in ground and above ground vinyl liner installations and replacements.

“Over the years, we have become experts in vinyl liner installations,” says Joe.

Steve and Joe both have 23 years of experience in this industry. So if you want an experienced pool company that does it all, call Schembri Pools today at 215-943-3441.

For information about the additional services it provides, along with references, visit www.schembripools.com.

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Filed Under: Northampton Herald Business Profiles Tagged With: , , ,

Start your summer out right at Doc’s Pool & Spa

March 20, 2013 By
Doc’s Pool & Spa, Inc.

 

by June Portnoy

Doc’s Pool & Spa, Inc. will soon become your number one destination for superior pool and spa equipment. Opening April 1st, this new store will sell everything you need to keep your pool and spa running smoothly, ranging from pool liners, safety covers, filters and pumps to pool chemicals and pool toys, all in one location.

It will sell only top brand above ground pools and spas, featuring Sunrise Spas.

Get a jumpstart on summer by stopping by any weekend in April to receive 20% to 40% off select pools and spas. Also enjoy free hot dogs and refreshments while you shop.

From April 1st through May 15th, the first 150 people who spend $250 on anything in the store will be entered into a drawing to receive a free Dreammaker five-person hot tub, a retail value of $7,000! Weekly specials will be offered year-round.

“What will truly stand out about Doc’s Pool & Spa is the caliber of our salespeople,” says store owner, Doc Flesch, who established Doc’s Pool & Spa Service, Inc. six years ago. “I will only have professional, well-trained salespeople on staff who are knowledgeable about all the merchandise we sell.”

In addition, Doc plans to be a hands-on store owner, who will be readily available to answer all of your questions. Customer service will be key at Doc’s Pool & Spa.

Don’t wait a month for a part you need now for your pool. Instead, go to Doc’s who will order it so you receive it within 24 to 48 hours. And if you’re too busy to make a trip to the store, no worries because Doc’s offers same day or next day delivery of any pool or spa equipment sold here.

The store will also deliver and install hot tubs.

Having been in the pool industry for so many years, Doc’s can refer you to many reputable companies who can install your pool. As an added bonus to the community, Doc’s will offer free classes to educate people about caring for their pools. 

“These classes will be particularly helpful to people who have moved into homes with existing pools that these new homeowners have no idea how to maintain,” says Doc.

While Doc manages the new store, his son, Domenic, will continue overseeing their service business. Both father and son are certified in every type of pool service available. In fact, they are the only certified chemical experts in the area.

“We run our business the way all businesses should be run,” says Doc. “We provide clean, professional service at fair prices, and show up within 15 minutes of the time we give you. Plus, all of our workers are our employees. We don’t subcontract out any of our work.”

Doc’s Pool and Spa Service offers various services depending on your unique requests. They can solely come out the beginning and end of each season to open and close your pool or spa, or they can care for them all summer long.

Doc’s services all pool and spa models, and is available afterhours for emergency calls. When it comes to pools and spas, Doc’s truly is the expert you can count on.

Doc’s Pool & Spa will be located at 332 West Trenton Avenue (in the Burger King Shopping Center) in Morrisville. 

For more information about the store or Doc’s Pool & Spa Service, call 215-295-1555 or visit www.docspool.com.

PHOTO CAP: Domenic (left) and Doc run a tight ship at Doc’s Pool & Spa, Inc.

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Filed Under: Spring Home & Garden 2, Yardley Voice Business Profiles Tagged With: , , , ,

Tips on preventing dehydration

August 6, 2012 By

submitted by CareOne at Ewing

Everyone has their favorite way of keeping cool during the dog days of summer. For senior citizens, keeping cool and hydrated is more than just a matter of comfort; it can be a matter of life and death.

Dehydration, or the loss of water and salts from the body, is one of the most common forms of heat disease, but it can also occur in humid or cold weather, at high altitudes, or during increased physical exertion.

It’s important to know how to recognize dehydration before it becomes a critical health problem.

Unfortunately, the early stages of dehydration do not exhibit symptoms, so you may not recognize that your body is in danger.

According to Dawn Kotkiewicz, Director of Nursing at CareOne at Ewing, seniors are at greater risk due to the fact that thirst sensation, sweat production and the ability to concentrate decline with age. “Dehydration gives general signals that do not become pronounced until the body is approaching the danger point,” says Dawn.

“Once a person exhibits symptoms such as thirst, dry mouth, or decreased urine output, the person is already in the moderate stages of dehydration.”

If you are mildly dehydrated, simply drinking enough liquid, and eating a typical American diet, which is high in salt, will replace the fluids and electrolytes.

Symptoms of early or mild dehydration include a flushed faced, thirst, dry, warm skin, dizziness, weakness, headaches, irritability and a dry mouth.

Moderate or severe dehydration symptoms include low blood pressure, fainting, severe muscle contractions, convulsions, a bloated stomach, sunken dry eyes, rapid breathing, a lack of elasticity of the skin, and a fast weak pulse.

If someone is exhibiting these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

To avoid dehydration, the experts have come up with a few tips:

  • Start drinking plenty of water before activity. Water should be cool, but not ice cold.
  • Continue to drink through your activity.
  • Avoid fruit juices or non-diet soft drinks. Sugar can aggravate dehydration and cause bloating and cramps.
  • Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages. They increase dehydration.
  • Weigh yourself before and after activity. For each pound lost weight, you need to drink a pint of water to replace water lost through sweating.
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Filed Under: Senior Scene Tagged With: , , , , ,

Dive in and make a splash this summer

July 16, 2012 By

Summer is here and the kids are home from school. Rather than send them to some expensive camp or invest in the few trips down the shore, enjoy summer the way it is supposed to be: relaxed, fun and completely lacking any pretense.

For over 50 years, local families have been spending their lazy summer days poolside while their kids are occupied with friends and competing in various activities at the Brookside Swim and Tennis Club. These families have made Brookside their summer home.

Established in 1956, Brookside was the vision of a group of train bridge builders who, using scrap materials from their projects, built the facilities that still stand today. These workers and their families envisioned a place where adults could cook out and enjoy the warm summer months as they watched their kids play and grow up while making lifetime friends.

The same simplicity and charm that was Brookside’s inspiration over 50 years ago is as vibrant as it ever was today.

Families are cooking out. Kids are playing. Summer memories are being formed. And friendships are bonding over the wonderful days spent at Brookside.

The Brookside Swim and Tennis Club is now accepting memberships for the 2012 season.

Brookside is private, so you won’t be bothered by enormous crowds or frivolous rules. They do not limit memberships to specific area codes.

Anyone who is looking for something relaxing and always fun to do this summer, Brookside is your answer.

The Brookside Swim and Tennis Club is located at 499 Stoneyhill Road, Yardley. For more information visit www.brooksideswimandtennis.com.

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Filed Under: Spring Home & Garden 2, Yardley Voice News Tagged With: , , ,

Make summer plans with Northampton Parks & Recreation

July 3, 2012 By

Take a moment to take advantage of the many programs offered by Northampton Township Parks & Recreation. Bring the family, friends and neighbors for a relaxing evening in the Park.

The 2012 Sights & Sounds of Summer Series is in full swing.  Check the website, northamptonrec.com, for details, times and dates of these FREE concerts, movies and theater held at the Northampton Municipal Park off of Hatboro Road, Churchville throughout the summer.

Cool off this summer at the Northampton Valley Swim Club. Monday through Friday memberships are still available at the best prices in town! Youth swim lessons for all levels are still available. Small size classes and individual attention make this a great value.

Plan a great summer for the kids with a variety of summer specialty camps for interests of all ages: art, music, science, sports and more.

Take advantage of discount savings for area amusement parks and movie tickets. Regal Cinema tickets are still a great savings at $7.50.

Certain restrictions apply, however there are no expiration dates.  Tickets may be purchased Mon through Friday, 8:30am to 4:00pm at the Parks and Recreation Office, 55 Township Road, Richboro.

Join Parks and Recreation for a baseball game featuring the Trenton Thunder vs. The Reading Phillies. Take the family, kids and neighbors out to the ballgame on Tuesday, August 7th for a 7:05pm game with a special ticket rate of only $11.

Dollar dogs for adults, kids eat free, Mascot Boomer will stop by for a visit, and a lucky someone will get to throw out the first pitch. Tickets are available for purchase at the Northampton Recreation office in the Administration Building, or call 215-357-6800 for details.  

Get “in the know” on the latest P&R and township happenings. “LIKE” us on Facebook or visit NORTHAMPTONREC.COM to register and view a complete listing of all programs, trips, concerts, summer camps, swim club and ticket prices. 

 

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Filed Under: Northampton Herald Events Tagged With: , , ,

So what’s the deal with sun damage – really?

July 3, 2012 By

submitted by Vicky Rappaport, LMA, Lifestyle Healthcare Group, Richboro

I know you are really tired of hearing about sunscreens, tanning and skin cancer, but…did you know that your skin is the largest organ in your body? Did you know that melanoma is the most common cause of cancer in young adults aged 25 to 29?

It is most common in men over the age of 50. Women aged 39 and under are more likely to develop melanoma than any other cancer, except for breast cancer.

And still every week clients come in and tell me that they have SPF 50 at home, don’t know what the ingredients are, what brand it is but – they got it at the drugstore or the department store so it must be good.  Really?

Let’s get smart, stay healthy and enjoy our summer. Here are some quick tips to remember.

It’s not the number – it’s the ingredients. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to be specific.

Both zinc and titanium are natural sun blockers, minerals to be exact.  They will sit on your skin and just protect it. They don’t irritate it because they are minerals that are good for the skin.  They have been shown to be protective against UVA and UVB rays.  Some sunscreens use chemicals to block out the sun’s rays.

The problems with chemicals are – allergic reactions, unhealthy doses of chemicals that actually cause changes in the skin, i.e. some of the chemicals actually can cause hormone disruptions (oxybenzone), or hormonal imbalance (octinoxate) and more.

This is why the FDA is changing its regulation on sunscreens. 

So, if you are going to the beach, an island, or to the tanning salon, please wear a sunscreen with the proper protection. Reapply frequently, especially if you have been in the water.

And please use an SPF of at least 30 with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.  Have a fabulous summer. 

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Filed Under: Northampton Herald Columnists Tagged With: , , , , ,

Barbecue grilling safety

July 3, 2012 By

submitted by John C. Kernan CFI, FIT, CFEI & CFII, Chief Fire Marshal FM-272, Upper Makefield Township

The weather is now warmer and we find ourselves outside enjoying the weather change as we progress from spring into summer.

One of the activities enjoyed by many is outdoor grilling or barbecuing. It’s important to take a few precautions to ensure the fire safety of your family and friends while enjoying this social activity.

Below are a few target points to consider and follow to insure that everyone remains safe.

-       Clean your grill to insure that any insect, bird or animal friends have been removed.

-       Between 2005-2009 fire departments responded to over 8,200 home fires involving grills.

-       These 8,200 fires caused 15 civilian deaths and $75 million dollars in property damage.

-       Dial “911” to report an emergency and make sure your home address is posted clearly!

-       Never use your grill in an enclosed area like a garage or porch.

-       Keep your grill a minimum of at least 10 feet from any combustible materials.

-       Always have a fire extinguisher nearby and familiarize yourself with its use.

-        Insure that the connection between the tank and the fuel line is tight and not leaking.

-       Keep all children away from the grill while in use and have a dedicated adult monitor all activities while the grill is in use. In 2009, 17,700 people went to hospitals due to injuries involving grills.

-       Do not wear loose clothing while cooking over a grill.

-       Be careful using lighter fluid on a charcoal grill; do not add fluid to an already lit fire!

-       Keep all matches and lighters away from children.

-       Dispose of hot coals properly by dousing them with plenty of water in a controlled way.

-       Allow coals to sit and cool as embers may remain hot for up to 72 hours if not properly extinguished.

-       Never place used coals/embers in plastic bags, plastic trash containers, paper bags or wooden containers.

-       Turn your gas grill off completely at both the tank and control knobs when finished.

-       Allow your grill adequate time to cool before moving it to a garage or storage area.

Have a great grilling-summer and any questions can be addressed to me at jckfm272@aol.com.

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Filed Under: Spring Home & Garden 2 Tagged With: , , ,
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