Sean & Nicole Murray bought their dreamhouse and then found a dream team consisting of Architect Ralph Fey, Designer Maiken Palazzo and Irwin Build to make their dream come true / By Beth S. Buxbaum
Tussock Sedge Farm in Blooming Glen practices genuine regenerative farming as an outgrowth of Sean & Tonya’s love of farming, family, community and their faith / By Chrysa Smith
From the mid-19th century to the early 20th, architects and carpenter-designers were employed by wealthy and middle class residents to build homes in all the fashionable Victorian styles / By Jeffrey L. Marshall
The Cover
Bucks County Magazine’s Annual Guide to fine galleries, museums, antiques shops, fall events, artists and artisans
Our artist-in-residence, Jennifer Hansen Rolli’s painting, “Autumn Verandayvoo,” shows us that the colorful homes built in Newtown’s Guilded Age are still places for people to gather indoor and outdoors.
My Autumn Journey / Photo Essay By Bobby Waite
50 g Art Galley / By Michele Malinchak
Perceptual artist and teacher Alexandra Schnabel delves into the human experience with highly saturated primary colors using light as the driving force in her paintings
54 g People / By Cynthia Marone
Appointed by Governor Milton Shapp as the first female boxing judge, Carol B. Polis’s career was stellar and an example of female success, although she insists she’s “just one of the guys”
60 g In the Garden / By Lori Rose
This fall it is time to start thinking about how to overwinter herbs so they not only can survive the winter, but also so you can enjoy their scents and flavors all year round
108 g Getaway / By Bob & TanyaWaite
Tanya & I visit the Pennsylvania Dutch Country, go to Sight & Sound Theatre and then take a six-mile journey to the luxurious Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square and enjoy Lancaster City
116 g At Home / By Chrysa Smith
Derek Schroeder, owner and president of Rolf Schroeder General Contractors Inc., sees his relationship with his clients as a partnership that offers all services to his clients under one roof
122 g Style / By Chrysa Smith
Whether landscape, hardscape, boulders, stepping stones or sustainable gardens, Justin Braley of Sycamore Landscape Design Build wants to adapt to his client’s needs and be versatile
164 g County Fare / By Diana Cercone
At Wild Fork in Horsham you can walk on the wild side and cook exotic meats like ostrich, bison, yak, alligator and wild boar and also lamb, beef, chicken, turkey and seafood
Publisher
William N. Waite
Executive Editor Bob Waite
Art Direction
BCM MEDIA CO., INC.
President
Vicky M. Waite
Administration Melissa Kutalek
Calendar Editor
Melissa Kutalek
Marketing Assistant Bobby Waite
Cover Artist
Jennifer Hansen Rolli
Contributing Writers
Beth Buxbaum, Diana Cercone, Michele Malinchak, Cynthia Marone Frank Quattrone, Chrysa Smith, Vicky Waite, Bob Waite
Circulation
BCM MEDIA Co., INC.
Contributing Photographers
Randl Bye, Stacey Simcik, Bobby Waite, Paul Wesley
Account Executives
Rich Baldwin, Frank Boyd, , Ann Ferro Murray, James Padilla, Bobby Waite
Bucks County Magazine, (ISSN 2164-9847), 309 W. Armstrong Drive, Fountainville, PA 18923, phone 215-766-2694 • Fax 215-7668197. www.buckscountymag.com. Published quarterly by BCM Media Company Inc., Fountainville, PA. All contents copyright by BCM Media Company DBA/Bucks County Magazine. All Rights Reserved. Published quarterly. Four-issue subscription for U.S. is $18.95, in Canada $35.00, U.S. dollars only. Periodical postage is paid at Mechanicsburg, PA. Permit # 25863. Single-copy price is $5.95 plus $3.00 postage and handling.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Bucks County Magazine, PO BOX 36, Morrisville, PA 19067. This magazine welcomes, but cannot be responsible for, manuscripts and photos unless accompanied by a stamped, selfaddressed return envelope.
Two themed group
Signature
ABy Bob Waite
utumn comes to Bucks County in resplendent apparel—decked in bright red, yellow, orange and earthy brown. She is seen in fallen leaves and felt in the slight chill that bodes an even colder time.
She draws people to view her splendor and tourists come to see her dazzling effects on the Bucks County Landscape. They also come to the flea markets to find an old treasure that will connect their homes with the county’s past. She is felt in art galleries where Pennsylvania Impressionist paintings hang being admired by sweater-clad art lovers.
The Fall 2025 issue of Bucks County Magazine shows off Bucks County’s arts and antiques world in its “Annual Arts & Antiques Guide.” In it this fall is an introductory article on The Bucks County Antiques Show by our publisher Bill Waite. There small articles about such eminent Bucks County artists as Jane Ramsey, Steve Zazenski, Alex Sarka, Dave Ballai, Al Lachman and our own cover artist, Jennifer Hansen Rolli. You can also find out about art shows, antiques shops and art galleries in Bucks County and the surrounding area.
Newtown is a pretty town. It’s history goes back before the founding of our country and between then and now it grew, and as it grew different kinds of houses were built that reflected the times. Jeffery Marshall, historian and retired director of the Heritage Conservancy, writes about the homes built in the Victorian age in his accurately interesting story, “Newtown’s Gilded Age.” In the feature we learn about the varieties of styles that were built during this age and how a couple of architects and several carpenters planned and built these beautiful structures. In consonance with Jeff’s article, Jennifer Hansen Rolli paints a colorful cover for us that shows Newtown Victorian houses in today’s Newtown.
Our featured house is the Upper Makefield home of Sean & Nicole Murray, which was a house they dreamed of when years ago they took drives through this section of the county. They found it again while they were living in Lambertville. A beautiful home that they made more amenable to their lifestyle and tastes by hiring a dream team that consisted of Architect Ralph Fey, Designer Maiken Palazzo and Irwin Build. Our writer Beth S. Buxbaum tells the story of this amazing remodeling in “Upper Makefield Dream House.”
Our writer Chrysa Smith’s article “Farming, Faith & Family” is the story of Tussock Sedge Farm in Blooming Glen. It is a family farm that raises cattle, pigs, chickens and sheep. The beef they produce is from grass fed regenerative fields and they do this together. It is an almost iconic picture of farming that blends traditional methods with modern knowledge to produce excellent food for health and taste conscious people.
In our departments you will meet the first woman to be a professional boxing judge, a young artist from Upper Bucks County, a creative builder, a talented landscape designer. We also have a fall photo essay that showcases the work of Bobby Waite and his autumn journeys. We take you on a getaway to Lancaster City and the Amish Country and visit a store that takes a walk on the wild side. We have a Real Estate Guide and a market report, and we can learn how overwinter herbs.We even have an article about treadmills for dogs. And we present much more about the people, places and thngs to do in Bucks County.
Lddi S T ORT R Lead St HOP ders in th T ED h ICS ronge r Tooge er
Enhancing Or
thopedic
thopedic car our local or Yo Y
techniquesforsportsinju and knees, advanced pro surgical, including same Our team of specialists d
hniques for sports inju e can no
olved to ver leading-e -day total joint re cedures and mi Wecanno uries eli e has ev . offer Grand View patient comprehensive orthoped leading expertise.
’remor W Wee’rre reethan e y ’r w wee’rre yoour neighb eeping y k ke yoou mov
“ — Douglas Lundy Chairman,Orrtth
Chairman, Or
s more access to ic care with orrtthopedic spec committ bors, , ttteed ing and thrriivin y, , MD, hopedics
“ g dto ists,cial
…dress in your spookiest or most original Halloween costume and come to Peddler's Village Slightly Batty Halloween WingDing on October 5th. Let loose at a spooky DJ dance party, and take part in games, photo ops, and a Halloween craft. Prizes will be awarded for all kids participating in the Halloween costume parade. For more information, visit the family fun section at www.Peddlersvillage.com.
Sampler
… RTV-XG850 Sidekick. Powerful 54 HP gasoline engine gives you speeds up to 40 mph. With impressive acceleration and torque, you’ll take on every big hill. When the great outdoors call, jump into your Sidekick. Available at Eagle Power and Equipment. Contact them at 215-699-5871;www,eaglepowerandequipment.com.
… Eagles 54” walk-up bar, locally made, is functional, fun, and also a great furniture piece. Available in three standard sizes and can also be customized to fit your space. Available at Royal Billards. Contact them at 215-704-8252; www.royalbillard.com.
walnut and resin river bench handcrafted from woods grown natively in Bucks County. Each tree is carefully selected for its quality, beauty, & unique characteristics, ensuring high-quality furniture. Availabe at Tinicum Woodcrafters. By appointment. Contact them at 267-410- 0053.
… Transform your home or business into a festive winter wonderland with our professional winter decorating services! At The Garden Girl, we bring holiday cheer inside and out—taking the stress out of decorating so you can enjoy the magic of the season. For more inforamtion contact The Garden Girl Company, Ottisville, PA; 215-795-8159 or visit www.thegardengirlcompany.com.
… artisan jewelry handmade including rings, earrings, necklaces, pendants and bracelets. Available at Thistle & Torch Artisan Jewelry in Sellersville, PA. Contact them at 215- 622-8035 or visit www.thistleandtorch.com
… When you're in the market to decorate your home, your selection of window treatments sets the stage for the personality of each and every room. Styles, colors, opacity, function Custom Window Treatments by Robert Kline at 609-707-7742 or visit www.cwrak.com.
… customize your shutters with handmade in the USA to match your existing historic shutters. Made from the strongest cedar. No screw, no nail, no glue. Pegged and pocketed joinery, for endurance and strength. Available at Vixen Hill. Contact them at 610-286-0909 or visit www.vixenhill.com.
A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY
The Walter family has been in Point Pleasant, Bucks County, Pennsylvania since the 18th century, working as farmers, teachers, merchants, doctors, and for the past four generations, nurserymen and garden designers at Walter’s Nursery.They are celebrating their 95th Anniversary, continuing to operate as a family business, upholding the Walter family legacy.
John Willis Walter, Jr. graduated from North Carolina State University with a B.S. in Forestry in 1930. That same year he opened Walter’s Nursery with newly planted tree and shrub seedlings that he had started while in school. During the depression and war years, he grew and planted evergreens for state and federal reforestation projects, as well as fruit trees for victory gardens. His clientele was limited to the few who could afford landscape gardens during those hard times. Following World War II, John’s design abilities were put to good use as his small client list grew and his nursery expanded to keep up with demand. After years of growth, John retired and entrusted the firm to his two sons, John J. and Craig, in 1975.
Through the 1970s and 80s, John and Craig expanded their client base and their reputation for quality plants and workmanship. Craig’s talented wife Dot became the lead designer for Walter’s in the 1980s. The nursery is currently owned and operated by John’s sons Seth, Jim and Buck, and Craig’s sons Joey and Jesse. Jim, Buck, and Joey studied
design and horticulture at Temple University, preparing for their future with the family business.Today, fifteen descendants of John Willis Walter, Jr., and a score of other folks are working hard to keep his nursery going strong.
Walter’s Nursery is a full-service Design-Build firm that has been handcrafting Bucks & Hunterdon County landscapes for 95 years. They offer expert garden design and installations, estate maintenance, stonework and a 33-acre retail and wholesale nursery filled with thousands of specimen trees and shrubs, from natives to exotics.Walter’s Nursery is located in Point Pleasant, PA. For more information about Walters Nursery Inc., please visit www.waltersnurseryinc.com or call 215.297.5860.
Left to right, Jesse, Buck, Jim, Seth and Joey Walter
DESIGN WITH HEART
Interior design is personal. It is about the deepest part of your being—your heart. An insightful father-daughter duo, Phillip and Lexie are busy making a name as designers in the heart of Bucks County—Peddler’s Village. And through their business, Paramount Home Interiors, they blend timeless craftsmanship with a modern aesthetic, bringing a unique balance of experience and fresh perspective to every project.
Phillip and Lexie work closely with their clients and seek to un-
derstand the unique way they can help them create spaces that are both beautiful and deeply personal. The personal approach to collaboration is a discovery of what the right fit for you, whether you are looking to redesign a single room, refresh your entire home, or simply bring in a few new pieces to elevate your space. Phillip and Lexie are there, a father-daughter team, ready to help you get what you desire in design. Paramount Home Interiors offers a range of custom services including in-home consultations, kitchen and bath design, window treatments, bedding —all tailored to fit your style, needs, and lifestyle.
At the heart of their business is their thoughtfully curated storefront located at 163 Carousel Lane Peddler’s Village, a charming destination in Lahaska. Inside, clients will find a welcoming atmosphere filled with handpicked furnishings, home décor, and inspired design. It's more than just a store—it’s a space that reflects Phillip and Lexie’s shared passion for design and commitment to quality.
With years of combined experience and innovation Phillip and Lexie are redefining what it means to design with heart.Their work is not just about making homes look beautiful—it’s about making them feel like home.Visit their showroom in Peddlers Village or contact them at 484-919-8504; www.paramount-homeinteriors.com.
TINICUM CSA 13TH SEASON
Tinicum CSA, now in its 13th season, continues a proud tradition of growing top quality produce for 350+ families in Upper Bucks County. Located on the Pennsylvania side of the Frenchtown Bridge, the farm sits on fertile river bottom soil perfectly suited for diversified vegetable production.
CSA stands for “Community Supported Agriculture,” and is a popular model for veggie farms focused on marketing their produce to the local community. You sign up before the season begins.This helps the farm to handle its early expenses– to buy seed and supplies for the growing season. And then you come to the farm each week or everyother week to pick up your “share” of the harvest. Members enter a direct and mutually supporting relationship with their farm and their farmers, sharing both the risks and rewards inherent in farming. With a 24 weeklong season, you get to enjoy some of the freshest produce available from May through November.
Tinicum CSA has always focused on providing a reliable harvest of healthy veggies for an entire growing season. Although not certified organic,Tinicum CSA follows all organic principles and methods.The farm grows over 40 different vegetable crops.The key is diversity. If one crop struggles, there are dozens more to fill in the gaps.The farm grows a few things you might not find at the grocery store like fennel and radicchio, while growing literally tons of the more popular crops like lettuce, tomatoes, potatoes, and carrots. By balancing the rare items with the popular items CSA Members are rewarded with a pleasing offering of produce every time.
The farm also offers a Pick-Your-Own patch at no extra charge.The PYO includes cut-your-own flowers and cherry tomatoes. The Farmer, John Crooke, says, “It’s all about maximizing the value of the share for the Members.”
Tinicum CSA is reopening registration for the 2026 Season in October. Anyone who signs up early will be invited to a Thanksgiving Bonus Share on the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Go to the farm’s website www.tinicumcsa.com to learn more or send an email to tinicumcsa@gmail.com.
GRAND VIEW JOINS ST. LUKE’S NETWORK
Grand View Health officially joined St. Luke’s University Health Network on July 1, with Grand View Hospital in Sellersville becoming St. Luke’s 16th campus. “Grand View and St. Luke’s are an exceptional match for one another since Grand View, like St. Luke’s, is committed to clinical excellence, has a similar culture and enjoys a long and proud history of providing high quality, compassionate care to its community,” said St. Luke’s President & CEO Rick Anderson.
Doug Hughes, who was named president and CEO of Grand View in 2022, will continue to serve as President of the St. Luke’s Grand View Campus.
Grand View was established in 1913 as Bucks County’s first hospital, and has It has grown into a nonprofit, community-based health system of 2,000 employees, caring for residents of Bucks and
Montgomery counties. It has received an ‘A’ grade for safety from the Leapfrog Group and has earned five stars (the highest) for quality from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
St. Luke’s has an unparalleled track record of successfully integrating community hospitals, including the Quakertown (1995), Allentown (1997), Miners (2000), Warren (2012), Blue Mountain (2017), Sacred Heart (2018) and Easton (2020) hospitals. Penn Foundation, a mental health and addiction services provider based in Sellersville, joined St. Luke’s in 2021.
“St. Luke’s philosophy remains that health care is a local issue, which has allowed all of the hospitals and other organizations that joined our Network to not only survive, but to thrive for the health and wellbeing of their patients and the economic benefit of their respective communities,” Anderson said.
CREATING DELIGHTFUL EXPERIENCES
At Nase Architects, their work begins with listening—understanding not only what clients want, but also identifying the most effective first moves that shape their design vision. The logo features the “datum” symbol, defined in blueprints as the reference point from which all else is measured. Likewise, ther first line is guided by architectural expertise, supported by planning, engineering, and interiors, providing a strong foundation for the entire design solution.
For more than 25 years, discerning homeowners, institu-
Ltions, and organizations have come to Nase Architects entirely by word of mouth. Their recommendations speak for themselves. Nase develops each client’s vision and transform it into “Designs You Love”—creating meaningful spaces that reflect both lifestyle and purpose.
Founded by Robert M. M. Nase in 2000, Nase Architects LLC specializes in custom residential design as well as adaptive reuse and historic rehabilitation. They bring expertise in historic restoration, accessibility compliance, aging-in-place solutions, and creative approaches to complex building conditions.Their work spans residential, commercial, ecclesiastical, and institutional projects, all guided by principles that enhance quality of life and connect people with place.
Bob’s career includes serving as Project Manager and Lead Architect at respected Philadelphia firms, where he oversaw multidisciplinary residential, medical, and educational projects. Since establishing Nase Architects, he has built strong builder relationships across Bucks and Montgomery Counties and earned a reputation for thoughtful, precise design. His passion for historic architecture and adaptable creativity continue to shape new homes, businesses, and institutions.
Nase Architects Studio is located in Harleysville, PA. For more information, call 610-287-5565 or visit www.NaseArchitects.com.
LAVILLA PIZZA & RESTAURANT
aVilla is not only known for its Chambersburg pizzas and Italian cuisine, but also caters inside the restaurant and will bring food outside to your event. Known as a respected caterer for birthdays, graduations, funeral repasts, baby showers, bridal showers, anniversaries, corporate events, office parties and retirements. Packages are available and all orders are brought in trays.
Inside private parties of 35 people or less can use La Villa’s private patio room for the event. For the holidays there are three family style packages to choose from: Package #1 includes Soft Drinks, Bruschetta, Garden Salad, a choice of two pastas, a choice of three chicken entrees that are served with mixed vegetables. Package # 2 adds Antipasto Itataliano,Tomato Pie and Mini Cannolis. Package #3 also includes Fried Calamari.
Catering favorites for outside and inside parties are Chicken Marsala, Chicken Parmesan, Tomato Pies. Owner Gino Lenti said, “We cater anything. We do a sausage, peppers, meatballs, lasagna. Anything that's on the menu, we can make.” Gino recalls making 400 cheesesteaks for a corporate event. All outside events include setting up.
LaVilla Pizza & Restaurant is located at 21 S. Pennsylvania Ave., Morrisville, PA; 215-736-3113; www.lavillapizzamenu.com.
Lisa and Bob Nase
e h r u yo of h e t e e s W . th l ea re tu c i l p l u e f
At Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic, we believe accurate care st imaging using the best technology. Our St. Mary Imaging just that—advanced imaging services delivered by highly compassionate environment. With the latest innovations techniques in 3D modeling, we’re able to get a clearer pic means a thorough evaluation to detect issues earlier for p that treat all of you.
Scan the code or visit trinityhealthma.org/im an appointment. Please have your referral r
tarts with expert diagnostic g at Richboro practice offers experienced providers in a in imaging and cutting-edge cture of your health. That precise treatment plans maging-richboro to schedule ready when scheduling.
TABORA FARMS
Fall is when Tabora comes alive. It the season for apples, pears, pumpkins, scarecrows, hot coffee drinks, apple cider donuts. And there are two great spots to explore and experience all the magic of fall. You can experience a nice jaunt in the country on a wagon ride to the orchards. With each twist and turn of the ride you’ll experience Bucks County’s beautiful countryside.Then you will arrive at the orchards, where five varieties of pears and 13 varieties of apples are grown. After your trip to the orchards, you can walk through the pumpkin patch and pick that perfect pumpkin for your front porch.
Then there’s the market at Tabora. On the porch you can experience the aroma of freshly picked apples. When the fall crops are ready, there is a huge selection of sweet, semi-sweet and tart apples—perfect for a quick crunchy treat or your favorite apple crisp dessert. On the porch, you’ll also find many varieties of fall décor. And you’ll also see the fall pumpkin trail, loaded with everlasting pumpkins and other seasonal items to help you celebrate the season.
Inside the market you will encounter another aroma— the warm smell of apple cider donuts. Besides the large collection of fresh fall produce, you’ll find caramel apples, apple baked goods and more. And if you are hungry, you can have a handcrafted lunch in the deli where you’ll see entrées with winter squash, pears, apples, and of course, our famous pumpkin apple soup.
Whether you come for a quick trip or a fun day outing with family or friends, Tabora has all that you need for a great time. Tabora Farms is located at 1104 Upper Stump Rd., Chalfont, PA. For more information, visit www.taborafarm.com.
Quayyum Agha exhibit September 6, 2025 through January 11, 2026 at Michener Museum
A NTIQUES
Golden Nugget Antique and Flea Market
Ongoing: The Golden Nugget offers authentic antiques, collectibles, art, and interesting items. Over 60 indoor shops & 200 outside dealers. Open Wed., Sat, and Sun. 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. 1850 River Road, Lambertville, NJ. 609-397-0811; www.gnflea.com.
Greater York Antiques Show
September 19-20: Featuring Fine Early China & Glassware – 18th & 19th C Silver –Chinese Export Porcelain – Oriental Rugs, Fine Antique Jewelry – Antique Toys – Pewter – Early Kitchen & Fireplace Accessories, American & English Samplers –Historic American Militaria
Navajo Rugs, Pueblo Pottery, Baskets, and Native American Artifacts
York Fairgrounds and Convention Center, Memorial Hall East, 334 Carlisle Avenue, York, PA; www.theoriginalyorkantiquesshow.com.
Allentown Fairgrounds
October 4-5 Allentown Antique Book & Paper Show
October 18-20: Antique & Modern Arms Show November 1: Allentown Antique Toy ShowHarris Hall
November 8-9: Frist Frost Train Meet 302 North 17th Street, Allentown, PA. 610433-7541; www.allentownfair.com.
Annual Delaware Antiques Show
November 10-12: The country’s most distinguished dealers present the finest offerings of American antiques and decorative arts, including furniture, paintings, rugs, ceramics, silver, jewelry, and more.
Admission. Chase Center on the Riverfront, Wilmington, DE; 800-448-3883. www.winterthur.org.
2025 Annual Antiques Show
November 8-9: The Bucks County Antiques Dealers Association presents their annual antiques show—the largest of its kind in Bucks County. Saturday hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.,
Anila
and Sunday hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $6. Children under 16 are admitted free. Free parking. 1410 Almshouse Road, Jamison, PA; 215-290-3140; www.bcadapa.org.
A RT
Gratz Gallery & Conservation Studio
Ongoing: A full-service fine art investment firm specializing in 19th- and 20th-century American paintings. There is an emphasis on the Pennsylvania Impressionists, the Philadelphia Ten, and artists from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Fine art framing services, as well as conservation services, also are provided. 5230 Silo Hill Road, Doylestown, PA. 215-348-2500; www.gratzgallery.com.
Allentown Art Museum of the Lehigh Valley
Ongoing: Ai Weiwei: Golden Age Through October 6: German Expressionism: Anxiety and Arcada
Through October 26: Nineteenth-century Quilts from the Collection of Arlan & Pat Christ Through February 8: American Galleries Fall
2025
31 North Fifth Street, Allentown, PA; 610432-4333; www.allentownartmuseum.org.
Artists of Yardley (AOY)
September 21: Art on the Farm our annual outdoor art festival held on the beautiful grounds of the AOY Art Center on Patterson Farm
This year’s event will include Fine Arts & Fine Crafts Market–A curated outdoor marketplace where visitors can purchase one-ofa-kind pieces directly from artists and artisans. live music, face painting, delicious food, and treats. 949 Mirror Lake, Yardley, PA; 215-493-1205; www.aoyarts.org.
Princeton University Art Museum
Through November 9: Léni Paquet-Morante: Extract / Abstract
November 22-March 15: Jordan Eagles: Centrifuge
Princeton University campus, Princeton, NJ. 609-258-4057; www.artmuseum.princeton.edu.
Artists’ Gallery
Through October 5: Marking Time, Alan Klawans and Andrew Werth
October 9-November 2: TingTing Hsu and
Carol Sanzalone
November 6-November 30: Michael Berardesco and Nancy Lloyd
September 21: Celebrating the talents of local artists and crafters of all ages and backgrounds, the annual Art Exhibition and Crafts Festival takes place in the heart of Sellersville, PA. Booths lining the streets filled with art and crafts, the day also features live music throughout the festival, children’s entertainment and activities. Sellersville Restaurants open to the public.
Main Street, Sellersville, PA; www.galleryofthearts.org.
96th Juried Art Exhibition at Phillips’ Mill Online Show
September 20-October 26: This year the show will be on site and online showing beautiful works of art and feature stories of art, its creators, and the community it builds. Road, New Hope, PA; 215-862-0582; www.phillipsmill.org/juried-art-show.
James A Michener Art Museum
October 3: Jazz Night: Victor Provost
October 11-March 15: Peter Paone:Not So Still Life
October 30: Artful Arrangement-Pumpkin Arrangement Workshop with Ambler Flower Shop
Through November 23: Lisa Naples: Grounded in Gold
Through January 11: Quayyum Agha:Interwoven
138 S Pine Street, Doylestown PA; www.michenerartmuseum.org
Patricia Hutton Galleries
September 13-October 4: Remembering Steven Zazenski,AWS (1948-2025)
October 11-November 22: Autumn Landscape and Still Like in Oil
47 West State Street, Doylestown, PA; 215-348-1728; www.PatriciaHuttonGalleries.com.
Artwrkd Gallery and Exhibition Space
September 13: ArtWRKD Black Tie Gala and Art Auction
September 13-28: Love Me: A Solo Exhibition of Represented Artist Jae Martin
September 20: Artist Reception & After Party
October 3: Art Noir Opening Reception
October 4-26: A Solo Exhibition of Represented Artist Lucine Kaplan
October 18: Evening Performance Art Featuring Shometha Monet & Lucine
October 25: Poetry Reading and Artist Dialogue
November 7: Art Noir - An Immersive Experience
November 8-30: Sea & Sky:A Solo Exhibition of Represented Artist Michael Palladino
November 22: Artist Dialogue 126-128 South State Street Newtown PA;215.377.9766; artcurator@artwrkd.com
C RAFTS
Doylestown Arts Festival
September 6-7: For this special weekend in September Doylestown turns into a festival. You will discover over 100 artists, live music on multiple stages, activities, food courts, and a bike race. Doylestown, PA; www.doylestownartsfestival.com.
New Hope Arts & Crafts Festival
September 27-28: Visit this festival for over 160 artists and craftsmen with such media as ceramics, sculpture, pastels, glass art, and jewelry. Free admission and shuttle. Rain or Public Farm Tours, Country Store/Boutique, "More Fun on the Farm". v We also do private tours! Parties, scouts, summer camps, school tours, and team building.
shine. New Hope-Solebury High School, New Hope, PA; www.newhopeartsandcrafts.com.
Keystone Quilters Guild Quilt Show
October 9-10: 250 + quilts and quilted items, some for sale. Boutique and Recycle Room. Chance drawings and free demonstrations. Finland Mennonite Church 1750 Ziegler Rd, Pennsburg PA; www.keystonequilters.org.
Crafts in the Meadow Fall Invitational Craft Show
October 18-19: This fine art and craft event showcases excellence in craftsmanship alongside a weekend of live music, children’s activities, demonstrations, performing arts, and cuisine. Over 100 exhibitors will represent the mediums of wood, fiber, ceramic, metal, glass, jewelry, and sculpture. Admission. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tyler Park Center for the Arts, Tyler State Park, 10 Stable Mill Road, Richboro, PA; 267-218-0290; www.tylerparkarts.org.
Annual Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show
November 7-9: This annual art event is for the benefit of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Funds raised are used to purchase works of
art and craft for the permanent collections, to fund conservation and publication projects, and support exhibitions and education programs. Admission. Pennsylvania Convention Center, 1101 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA; 215-684-7930; www.pmacraftshow.org.
Christkindlmarkt
November -December: This noted Lehigh Valley holiday market offers aisles of handmade works from around the globe. PNC Plaza, SteelStacks, 101 Founders Way, Bethlehem, PA. 610-332-1300; www.artsquest.org.
Pearl Buck Holiday Craft Show
November 28-December 7: Juried artists and crafters display their works in the pre-Civil War barn located on the historic Pearl S. Buck estate. There will be art, ceramics, glass, pottery, wood, and jewelry. Visitors also will find decorative accessories, holiday décor, antiques, and holiday candies, jams, and jellies. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. Admission. 520 Dublin Road, Perkasie, PA; 215-249-0100; www.pearlsbuck.org
E NTERTAINEMENT
Langhorne Players
Through September 21: Pocatello
October 17-31: The Thanksgiving Play Route 332, Newtown, PA; 215-860-0818; www.langhorneplayers.org.
McCarter Theatre Center
Through October 12: I & You: The Musical October 17: Aída Cuevas – “The Queen of Mariachi”
November 21: Heather Headley
December 9-28: A Christmas Carol 91 University Place, Princeton, NJ; 609-258-2787; www.mccarter.org.
Town and Country Players
September 19-October 4: Witness for the Prosecution
November 7-23: Shrek the Musical 4158 York Road, Buckingham, PA. 215-348-7566; www.townandcountryplayers.org.
Bucks County Playhouse
October 10-November 2: The Rocky Horror Show
November 21-January 4: Elf the Musical 70 South Main Street, New Hope, PA. 215-862-2121; www.bcptheater.org.
New Hope Winery
September 20: Don Jovi-Bon Jovi Tribute
September 26: Joel Hoekstra and Brandon Gibbs
September 27: Broken Arrow-The Music of Neil Young
October 3: Adrenazlize:The Ultimate Def Leppard Experience
October 11: The Ledbetters-Pearl Jam Tribute
October 24: Jingo: The Heart and Soul of Santana
November 1: The Sensational Soul Cruisers 6123 Lower York Road, New Hope, PA; 215-794-2331; www.newhopewinery.com.
Bristol Riverside Theatre
September 16-October 5: Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike
December 9-28: The Nice List 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, PA. 215-785-0100; www.brtstage.org.
Act I
September 25-October 5: Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike
October 9-19: The Fantasticks
November 20-December 7: The Games Afoot or Holmes for the Holidays
DeSales University, 2755 Station Avenue, Center Valley, PA; 610-282-3192 ;
www.desales.edu.
Newtown Arts Company
October 16-19: Blithe Spirit
December 4-7: She Loves Me
Newtown Theatre, 120 North State Street, Newtown, PA; 215-860-7058; www.newtownartscompany.com.
Roxey Ballet
October 5-27: C-Word: Stories of the Triumph Over Breast Cancer
October 17: Dancing on the Green November 29-December 7: The Nutcracker 609-397-7616; www.roxeyballet.org.
E QUESTRIAN
Tinicum Park Polo
September 20: Delaware River Classic
September 27: Tinicum Park Cup River Road, Erwinna, PA; 908-996-3321; www.tinicumparkpoloclub.org.
Through October 26 : Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire
November 28-Decmeber 14 : Yuletide at the Pennsylvania Renaissane Faire 2775 Lebanon Road, Manheim, PA. 717-6657021; www.parenfaire.com.
Peddler’s Village
Through October 26: Scarecrow Competition & Display
October 11-12: OctoberFeast
November 1-2: Apple Festival
November 14: Grand Illumination Celebration
November 14-16: Holiday Kickoff Weekend
November 14-January 28: Gingerbread House Competition and Display
Routes 202 and 263, Lahaska, PA; 215-7944000; www.peddlersvillage.com.
GEMMI EXTENDS YOUR OUTDOOR LIVING THROUGH THE FALL
Gemmi Construction brings beauty, function, and more than 25 years of award-winning craftsmanship to your renovations in Bucks and Montgomery Counties. GemmiConstruction.com
Annual Harvest Day
September 20: Come to Yardley for the day and celebrate its history, shops, and restaurants. The special day features arts and crafts, music, food, and historic tours. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Yardley, PA; www.yardleyharvestday.com.
New Hope Arts and Crafts Festival
Sept 27-28: Paintings, Pastels, Sculptures, Jewelry, Photography, Woodwork, Leather, Glass, Metalwork, Illustrations, Fiber Arts, and More Food and Music, too! 10 to 6 pm. www.newhopeartsandcrafts.com.
Annual Celtic Classic
September 26-28: Come to Historic Bethlehem to celebrate all things Celtic. There will be a whisky tasting tent, Haggis contest, Highland games, fiddle competition, pipe bands, drum major competition, and much more. Bethlehem, PA; www.celticfest.org.
Peace Fair
September 20: This fair is dedicated to promoting harmony in the home, community, environment, and world. There will be fun for children, live entertainment, food, local crafts, poetry readings, and a book sale. Buckingham Friends Meeting & Buckingham Friends
School, 5684 York Road, Routes 202 and 263, Lahaska, PA; 215-794-5816; www.quakerpeacefair.org.
Historical Society of Hilltown Township
September 20-21: Our 50th Anniversary Weekend Event
October 12: Artifacts from the "Original People"
October 22: Outlaws in the UnderworldBucks County Caves and the Doan Gang 407 Keystone Dr & Bethlehem Pike, Sellersville, PA; www.hilltownhistory.org.
Bucks Fever Events
Fridays: Brown Bag It
September 17: The NetSeptember 25: Annual Business Conference
October 2: Young Professionals Hellericks Adventure Farm
October 7: Chairman’s Circle Dinner
November 12: State of the State of the Address and Cocktail Reception
Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce, Doylestown, PA. 215-348-3913; www.centralbuckschamber.com.
Annual Fall Harvest Sampler at Peace Valley Nature Center
September 26: The celebration includes an extraordinary selection of craft beers expertly paired with tasty harvest foods and desserts served by B&B Beverages. There is live music, silent auction, door prizes and lots of fun. 170 North Chapman Road, Doylestown, PA. 215-345-7860
Newtown Market Day
October 4: Newtown Historic Association present the annual craft fair. Over 45 crafters, artists and demonstrator will present a wide variety of interesting crafts. 105 Court Street, Newtown PA 18940; www.newtownhistoric.org
Quakertown Alive
October 18: Autumn Alive
November 22: Christmas Tree Lighting Festival Quakertown, PA; 215-536-2273; www.quakertownalive.com.
Canal-O-Ween
October 30-November 5: Canal-O-Ween is annual weeklong traditional style lighting of Jack-O-Lanterns that starts before Halloween with the Carve-O-Thon. Located on the North Edgewater Avenue along the historic Dela-
ware Canal in the Rivermawr Neighborhood, The Canal-O-Ween stroll enable residents and visitors to enjoy the fall’s beauty within the natural setting of the canal.
Ghost Tours of Historic
Hulmeville Borough
October 3-11: View a short film about the history of Hulmeville and the paranormal hot spots in town. Then follow lantern led walking tour through downtown historic Hulmeville exploring 152 years of haunted history. Be sure to bring your camera to see if you can capture any ghosts in your photos.Hulmeville Borough Hall, Hulmeville PA; www.hulmeville150.org.
Newtown Haunted Hustle 5K
October 18: The Newtown Haunted Hustle 5K is a scenic run (or walk) through historic Newtown Borough, PA. Race begins and ends at 30 N Chancellor Street. Participants are strongly encouraged to wear their best or spookiest costumes and festive Halloween gear. Participants will receive a finisher medal and a Haunted Hustle T-shirt (while supplies last) Prizes for top 3 males, females, and 12 & under runners. Costume prizes as well! Professional timing provided by Pretzel
City Sports. Race is USATF certified. The event is rain or shine. All runners/walkers must complete the course by 10 AM. No refunds available. Follow @newtownhauntedhustle5k on Instagram and Haunted Hustle 5K on Facebook.
30 N Chancellor Street, Newtown, PA.
F AMILY
Bucks County Children’s Museum
Ongoing: A fun, interactive, and educational environment for children, parents, and schools, with exhibits that reflect Bucks County’s history and culture. Exhibits include Town Square, Factory Works, Artifact Dig, Covered Bridges, Tree House, and Hot Air Balloon Ride. Activities are planned year round. 500 Union Square, New Hope, PA; 215-693-1290; www.buckskids.org.
Giggleberry Fair
Ongoing: Climb Giggleberry Mountain, learn at Giggles Discovers, visit The Game Room, and take a ride on the antique Grand Carousel at Giggleberry Fair. Peddler’s Village, Routes 202 and 263, Lahaska, PA. 215-7944000; www.peddlersvillage.com .
New Hope & Ivyland Railroad
September-October: Fall Excursions
November-December: North Pole Express Train
32 West Bridge Street, New Hope, PA. 215-862-2332; www.newhoperailroad.com.
Northlandz
Ongoing: Visit the home of the Great American Railway, doll museum, and art gallery. Up to 100 trains travel over 8 miles of track, 40-foot bridges span huge canyons, and cities and villages feature thousands of buildings. Admission. 495 U.S. 202, Flemington, NJ. 908-782-4022; www.northlandz.com.
Please Touch Museum
Ongoing: Visit the Children’s Museum of Philadelphia, where the key word is play. Families can enjoy over a dozen themed exhibits, theater, art, music, special programs, the carousel, and storytime and character appearances. Admission. 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA. 215-581-3181; www.pleasetouchmuseum.org.
Together on the D&L
This Fall, the Trail is Yours at St. Luke’s D&L RaceFest Four Fantastic Races. One incredibly inspirational day.
On Sunday, November 9, 2025, the D&L Trail will come alive with runners, walkers, and relay teams for St. Luke’s D&L RaceFest — a celebration of movement, community, and the beauty of fall in Pennsylvania.
The event offers something for every pace and goal: a Boston qualifier marathon, a half-marathon run/walk, and a marathon relay for teams of up to five. Each course follows the D&L Trail’s gently graded, crushed-stone surface — kind on joints and perfect for both seasoned runners and newcomers looking for an active day outdoors.
Along the way, participants will take in sweeping river views, quiet tree-lined stretches, and the historic charm of canal towns. Peak autumn colors turn the trail into a postcardworthy backdrop, making every mile a photo opportunity.
What sets RaceFest apart is its welcoming spirit. Whether you’re chasing a personal best, walking your first half marathon, or sharing the miles with friends, you’ll find encouragement at every turn and a finish line atmosphere that’s more about celebration than competition.
The D&L Trail connects more than just towns — it connects people. On race day, it becomes a shared space where goals are met, memories are made, and the trail truly belongs to everyone.
Choose your challenge: Marathon • Half Marathon Run/Walk • Marathon Relay Date: Sunday, November 9, 2025 For details and registration, visit race.delawareandlehigh.org.
Bucks Country Gardens
September 18: Workshop -Fall Planters
December 4: Workshop: Winter Planters
1057 North Easton Road, Doylestown, PA; 215-766-7800; www.buckscountrygardens.com.
Terhune Orchards
September –October : Apple Days Fall Harvest Festivals
September-November: This farm has lots in store this coming fall. They will be having festivals honoring different crops, including apples and pumpkins. Late November brings Santa and the Holiday Light Show. 931 Stony Hill Road, Yardley, PA. 215-968-1670; www.shadybrookfarm.com.
Linvilla Orchards
September- October: Pick Your Own
September 13-14: Arts and Crafts Festival
September 19-October 31: Hayride to the Witches House
October 17-31: Jack -O-Lantern Exhibit
November 8: Fall Food Frenzie 137 West Knowlton Road, Media, PA;
610-876-7116; www.linvilla.com.
Black River & Western Railroad
Ongoing: Historic Tour & Train Ride
November-December: North Pole Express
Liberty Village, Flemington, NJ; 908-7826622; www.blackriverrailroad.com.
Snipes Farm and Education Center
October: Fall Harvest Fun
890 West Bridge Street, Morrisville, PA; 215295-1138, ext. 102; www.snipesfarm.org.
Tree Trails Adventures
September: Fridays: Glow Friday, Glow Friday-Go!
October: Haunted Tree Trails
November 14-16: Thank You Vets
November 28: Thanksgiving Gobbling Got You Waddling?
301 West Bristol Road Suite A. Trevose, PA; www.treetrails.com.
Car Show & Family Fun Day for Autism
September 27: This beloved event brings together dazzling automobiles, lively entertainment, and family-friendly activities—all in support of a meaningful cause. Whether you're a car enthusiast, a local business, a
supporter of autism services, or all the above, there’s something for everyone. Admission is free, though parking donations are gratefully accepted.
Bucks County Community College 275 Swamp Rd, Newtown, PA; www.potentialinc.org
H ISTORY
Washington’s Headquarters at the Moland House
Ongoing: Tours of historic house and antique furnishings,
Through October: Hearth cooking demonstration included on the 2nd Sunday, and blacksmith demonstration on the 4th Sunday. Warwick Township Historical Society, 1641 Old York Rd. Hartsville, PA ;215-918-1754; www.moland.org.
Historic Craven Hall & The John Fitch Steamboat Museum
Ongoing: House and John Fitch Steamboat Museum Tours
Street and Newtown Roads, Warminster, PA; 215-675-4698; www.craven-hall.org.
New Hope Historical Society
Ongoing: Walking Tours of Downtown New Hope
Ongoing: Parry Mansion Museum Tours
October 27: NHHS Fairy Tale Harvest Masquerade Ball at Sunset Cocktail Reception 45 South Main Street, New Hope, PA; 215862-5652; www.newhopehs.org.
Newtown Historic Association
Ongoing: Self-Guided Walking Tours
September 21: Tyler Park Self-Guided Walking Tour
October 4: Markey Day in Historic Newtown
December 6: Holiday Open House Tour Newtown, PA; 215-968-4004; www.newtownhistoric.org.
Summerseat
Ongoing: First Saturday of every month: The stately Georgian mansion of Summerseat is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free tours also available by appointment. Historic Morrisville Society, Hillcrest & Legion Avenues, Morrisville, PA; www.historicsummerseat.com.
Holcombe-Jimison Farmstead Museum
September 14: Annual Craft Festival
October 26: Farmers Honor Roll & Closing Day
December 13-14: Annual Christmas on the Farm
Admission. 1605 Daniel Bray Highway, Lambertville, NJ; 609-397-2752; www.holcombe-jimison.org.
Octagonal Schoolhouse
Through October: Come to the open house of this unique schoolhouse. It is open the third Sunday of each month, Open house hours are 1-5 p.m. Admission is free. Corner of Swamp Road and Second Street Pike, Wrightstown Township, PA.
October 5: Princeton Community Cook Off Updike Farmstead, 354 Quaker Road, Princeton, NJ; 609-921-6748; www.princetonhistory.org.
Mercer Museum
September 18 & October 16: Movies at the Mercer Museum
September 21: Gather Place presents Harriet Tubman: Her Life, Legacy – Journey Through Time
September 25: Dendrochronology: Demystified
September 26, October 31 & December 5: Coffee and Doanuts
October 11: Cocktails at the Castle
October 15: Spill the Tea! The Making of the Doan Exhibition
October 7: Postcards of Bucks County: The
Complete Arnold Brothers Series
October 18: The Craftery Market at the Mercer Museum
November 2: Good But Not Too Good: Women’s Musical Accomplishments in the Early American Republic
November 28: Gingerbread in the Log House
December 2: Holiday Open House Admission. 84 South Pine Street, Doylestown, PA. 215-345-0210; www.mercermuseum.org.
Fall Festival and Open House
September20- 21: The Historical Society of Hilltown Township presents this annual event. You can tour the homestead, see local artisans, buy baked goods, even get antique appraisals. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rain or shine. Free admission. Hartzel-Strassburger Homestead, 407 Keystone Drive and Bethlehem Pike, Sellersville, PA; 267-614-9174; www.hilltownhistory.org.
The Friends of Howell Living History Farm
September 27: Wheat Planting, Weaving, Threshing and Baking
September 13-November 23: Behind the Scenes Tours: Fonthill Castle from Tower to Crypt September 25-October 30: Fonthill Castle Evening Tours
November 15 – December 23: Winter Wonderland Daily Tours at Fonthill Castle
December 6-31: Fonthill Castle Holiday Lights East Court Street and Route 313, Doylestown, PA. 215-348-9461; www.fonthillmuseum.org.
Bristol Cultural & Historical Foundation
October 18: Historic Bristol Day. There will be private house tours, riverfront tea, historic cars, a food court, fun for the kids, and free entertainment. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
321 Cedar Street, Bristol, PA; www.bristolhistory.org.
Heritage Conservancy
September 27: A Pollinator Picnic Garden
Right Care Starts with Confidence
Caring for a loved one comes with daily challenges—but you don’t have to do it alone. At Pine Run Village Lakeview, we provide trusted personal care solutions that help deliver the highest level of care with confidence. From assistance with daily tasks and medical management to creating a setting for socialization, we’re here to support both you and your loved one every step of the way.
Ongoing: Experience a one-of-a-kind private tour with Bucks County Joyrides! Join us as we explore the area, showcasing scenic landscapes, traversing meandering creeks, and visiting historic covered bridges and landmarks along the way. We do the driving, so you don’t have too! www.buckscoountyjoyrides.com;215-664-7092
N ATURE
Bucks County Covered Bridge Tour
Ongoing: The Bucks County Conference & Visitors Bureau and the Bucks County Covered Bridge Society present this self-guided tour of Bucks County’s covered bridges. The tour begins at Washington Crossing Historic Park. The 90-mile tour makes a large circle through Bucks County and is designed so that travelers can start at any one of the bridges. GPS coordinates are given for each of the bridges. Pick up a copy of the brochure Visit the Historic Covered Bridges of Bucks County at locations throughout Bucks County. www.visitbuckscounty.com; www.buckscountycbs.org.
Peace Valley Nature Center
September 26: Fall Harvest Sampler
October 11: Public Seed Swap
October 8: Sustainability Round Table
October 12: Grounded in Nature: A Forest Mindfulness Series
October 19: Mrs. Spider’s Search and Storytime
November 5: November Full Moon Walk
November 16: National Take a Hike Day 2025
November 29: Nature Connections: Backyard Bird Feeding 101 170 North Chapman Road, Doylestown, PA; 215-345-7860; www.peacevalleynaturecenter.org.
October 4: Knowing Native Plants: Trees of the Preserve with Ed Lignowski, Ph.D
November 1: Knowing Native Plants: From Flowers to Seeds with Ed Lignowski, Ph.D. 1635 River Road, New Hope, PA. 215-8622924; www.bhwp.org.
Churchville Nature Center
Ongoing: Saturday morning Bird Walks
September 20, October 18: Invasive Plants Removal
November 1: Charlie Zahm & Tad Marks
Tribute to Folk 60s and John Denver Concert 501 Churchville Lane, Churchville, PA; 215357-4005; www.churchvillenaturecenter.org.
Bucks County Audubon Society at Honey Hollow
Ongoing: Bird Walks
September 13: Faclonry at Honey Hollow
October 23: Pumpkin Carving Night 2877 Creamery Road, New Hope, PA; 215-297-5880; www.bcas.org.
Light the Night Walk
September 27: The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night Walk brings help and hope to people battling blood cancers. Central Park, 452 Wells Road, Doylestown, PA; www.lightthenight.org
Central Bucks Bicycle Club’s Annual Covered Bridges Ride
October 12: This cycling event takes bikes through scenic Bucks County. Riders have many routes to choose from. Travel through up to six historic covered bridges. Rides start and end at Tinicum Park, Route 32, Erwinna, PA; www.cbbikeclub.org.
Heritage Conservancy
October 24: Glow Hike Croydon Woods Nature Preserve. Experience Croydon Woods Nature Preserve like never before during this year's Glow Hike! Join our experienced guides for a safe and enchanting exploration of Croydon Woods Nature Preserve, during this after-hours adventure. Each group will receive a blacklight, and we’ll make stops along the trail to discover the hidden wonders. of plants, animals, and fungi. Join www.heritageconservancy.org.
CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS
Paint Slapper
Perceptual artist and teacher Alexandra Schnabel delves into the human experience with highly saturated primary colors using light as the driving force in her paintings.
Alexandra Schnabel is a perceptual artist who, in her words, is a “paint slapper.” Less concerned with accuracy, she paints presently in the moment from direct observation. Her expressive paintings are not highly rendered, but instead emphasize the visual experience of painting and the personal nature of her art. “A painting feels like a portal to a moment made immortal,” she said. “My works delve into felt human experience, investigating a wide variety of subject matter.”
A native of Bucks County, Alexandra, also called Lexi, is
a young artist who at 29 has already made a mark for herself. As a fine artist and art instructor, she combines the best of both worlds. “It’s a symbiotic relationship,” she said.
Chiefly a colorist, she uses only primary colors with white and black. The majority of her work consists of bright, highly saturated colors such as her self-portrait, Very Much Here, in which we view the artist from a unique perspective.
Whether natural or artificial, light is the driving force in her work. She enjoys painting landscapes for this reason, and stated, “Light creates cohesion.”
Lexi is especially adept at depicting light in her night scenes. You can almost feel the air and hear the sounds in some of her nocturnes, such as her rendition of a gas station illuminated by eerie green and red lighting, or in her painting of live performers at an open mike. In Dark Waters, a cellphone provides the only light in the painting, creating its own mysterious glow.
Pictured here is a bar scene entitled, Jim Thorpe in the Winter, done from a sketch she did at the Marion Hose Bar. “It was a snowy February morning and the bar was one of three places open in the entire town,” she said. The dark setting is illuminated by overhead lamps which cast their light onto the customers seated at the bar.
The painting of a deer on the staircase called, Who Goes There, was inspired by a grand staircase she saw at a gallery in Poughkeepsie, NY. She took several photos, and after painting the staircase, thought something was missing. The answer came as she looked out her window and saw a deer walking by which she later added to the painting. She called this “an example of a piece that is subtly cheeky, or packs a complicated and variable message,” such as loss of habitat or the sheer element of surprise.
Sometimes her work is fraught with tension as in her painting, Why Do This. It’s a shocking scene with white ibises locked
in a fierce battle, their snowy plumage covered in blood. “The point of art is not always to be pretty,” she said. The painting came about as a reaction to something that deeply disturbed her. “The painting served as a portal to my own emotional experience,” she said.
Lexi comes from an artistic family. Both her parents received degrees in illustration from University of the Arts (formerly Philadelphia College of Art). They both painted and her father plays guitar in a band, Waterfront Blue, which recently released a CD.
She grew up on the 137 acre tract of land known as Schnabel’s Woods in Haycock Township. Started by her grandparents, the private recreational colony provides vacation cottages and cabins for those who want to get away and enjoy nature.
“It’s a multigenerational family business and I know all its moving parts,” she said. As assistant manager, she wears all
kinds of hats, but her favorite involvement with the business is interacting with people. She does everything from showing potential customers around to helping existing owners, who are called ‘Woodsers.’ Additionally, she drives a tractor and a snowplow when needed.
The scenic countryside with its ponds and creeks has offered countless inspiration for Lexi who is at home in nature. She lives in her own cabin and has her studio here.
Everywhere she goes she carries a small 3-inch by 6-inch sketchbook and a tiny set of acrylic paints. She even takes them along when mountain biking, making sudden stops to capture a scene that sparks her interest. This often to the annoyance of her biking friends who impatiently ask, “Are you done yet?” The paintings are usually done quickly, anywhere from one to three minutes, but are beautifully rendered. In addition, she has
a miniature watercolor set that looks like a doll’s toy. She uses a water brush with them and paints on a small block of watercolor paper.
Her encounters with nature can be prickly at times, such as her run-ins with
Don’t Be Afraid to Feel Great!
RECOVERY | PERFORMANCE
bears.
Once a bear meandered over towards her as it was eating berries. “I was sitting cross-legged, getting eaten by bugs. The bear left and I went back to painting.”
In another instance, a mother bear and her cub approached about 15 feet away. “She actively began to enter our campsite!” she said. “She looked curious and I did not feel threatened, especially and mostly because the cub was behind her, not between us. That was when I stood up and said “hey mama…” and at the sound of my voice, she turned around.”
Lexi first discovered her passion for oil painting at her high school, Lehigh Valley Charter School for the Arts in Bethlehem, PA. As senior, she was president of their Arts Alliance and helped organize art shows and fundraising events.
In 2018, she earned her BFA from Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in Philadelphia (PAFA) with a concentration in oil painting. There she studied with Al Gury who taught alla prima painting
classes. Alla prima, which means “at first attempt,” is a technique that captures the immediacy of the subject through spontaneous brushstrokes, applying wet paint to still wet layers.
Though she admires Baroque artists like Rubens and enjoys reading Van Gogh’s journals, she is inspired by contemporary artists such as Pascal Möhlmann, Felicia Forte and Jeremy Miranda.
Lexi’s paintings have been shown at Lehigh University, Bethlehem; Allentown Art Museum; Abington Art Center, Jenkintown; Exhibit B Gallery, Souderton and Main Street Gallery, Quakertown. Her work has also been exhibited at Phillips’ Mill Juried Art Show in New Hope.
This fall she’ll be included in the 15th Annual Traditional Artists Show, October 18-19 at the Cornerstone Barn in Pipersville, PA.
Lexi’s teaching background includes working at ArtZ, a therapeutic arts center in Quakertown where she taught a creative arts workshop for adults with special
needs and intellectual disabilities.
She currently offers classes in drawing and painting at Arts Quest in Bethlehem for adults and children. In addition, Lexi teaches evening classes for adults at Souderton High School which include watercolor, acrylics, oils, dry media and more. She is also happy to travel to people’s homes for private one-on-one lessons and teaches creativity mentorship programs out of her home studio.
She is honored to take on commissioned work and has samples of some of her pet portraits and homes on her website: www.alexandraschnabel.com.
At the time of this writing, Lexi was away on a trip to Colorado. Whether she’ll return with more bear stories is unknown, but one thing is certain—she’ll have several new paintings in hand. For wherever she goes, “You’ll never catch me without my paints,” she said.
Michele Malinchak is a freelance writer who has a degree in art and enjoys oil painting.
One of the Guys
Appointed by Governor Milton Shapp as the first
female boxing
judge, Carol B. Polis’s career was stellar and an example of female success, although she insists she’s “just one of the guys”
Everybody, at some point, has taken great care in choosing what they wear to work. Flashy and fashionable or just plain functional, the right outfit is the thin line between comfort and chaos. When Carol B. Polis went to her job, she always took great pains to pick the right attire. It made the flying blood less noticeable, she said. “I always wore dark colors when I judged because they could bleed on you—and it did on me as well as my scorecard,” the Southampton resident said. “I mean, nobody looks forward to that, but that’s just part of the whole picture.”
“The whole picture,” as Carol puts it, is the world of professional boxing and Carol holds an esteemed position in it. In 1973, when then Governor Milton Shapp named her the first female professional boxing judge in Pennsylvania, she automatically became the first woman in the world who would sit ringside, score-
card in hand, and professionally judge a fight. She would ultimately judge countless professional matches, including 27 title bouts in nine different countries.
In the decades that followed Carol’s appointment, there would be accolades, TV and movie appearances, a book and, most recently, paid speaking engagements, but her initial encounter with the sport hardly indicated it would go the distance. “When I first started going, I thought it was very barbaric and cruel, and I couldn’t understand why there was bleeding, why they didn’t stop the fight,” the 2020 inductee of both the Philadelphia Jewish Sports Hall of Fame and the Pennsylvania Boxing Hall of Fame as well as the World Boxing Association Official of the Year runner-up in the 1980s said. “Now I’ve learned through osmosis — I’ve learned something new at every fight I’ve ever judged—they do not stop the fight unless the blood is interfering with the vision. I
Photo: Paul Wesley
didn’t like it, but he was a referee, dragged me to the fight, so I went.”
“He” was Bob Polis, Carol’s husband at the time, who was a part-time boxing referee. Carol would sit in the stands at his fights and, after a few visits, he gave her a quick tutorial that became her ringside onramp. “One night when he was a referee at the Spectrum, he taught me how to keep score on the back of a program, but it was only a 20-second lesson,” Carol, who lived in Cape Coral, Fla., prior to her move to Bucks County, said. “After the fights ended, Bob said he wanted to turn my scores in to the commissioner, Zack Clayton. I begged him not to do it as I didn’t want to make a fool of myself—but he did it anyway. Zack said he liked my scores better than the men and told me to keep doing it. He sent me a small but super thick book, which I studied for one and a half years. Long story short, what evolved after that is I continued going to the fights and turning in my scores plus Zack always asked me questions.”
Carol’s first official title bout was at the Spectrum a mere 18 days after her appointment where she judged heavyweight world title contenders Jimmy Young and Earnie Shavers. Though her talents took her to countries throughout Europe, South and Central America and Asia, she also judged in Delaware, New York and her home state of Pennsylvania.
Carol has judged nontitle bouts with boxers Mike Tyson and Larry Holmes and personally made history once again in 1984 at Madison Square Garden. That event marked the first time a title bout was professionally judged by two women, Carol and her fellow judge Carol Castellano. For all of her skill, there were those that doubted her and some who could barely hide their disdain, but Carol knew her pioneering role was important. “You have to develop a tough skin. By that I mean, they announce your score. They use your last name—Polis—and give the score. Then you hear these characters in the audience say something like, ‘Polis,
what fight were you watching?’ or ‘Did you know that was a jab?’ Different things like that, but I never got a tough enough skin. I never liked that,” Carol, whose favorite fighter is Roberto Durán, said. “From the beginning, I heard, ‘She should be home baking.’ Well, I’d rather dig dirt than cook. I had to really fight my way through everything. And being the first, you have to set a good example. I tried to do that as well.”
Carol got a dose of how critical her role then has become to women today when she was the keynote speaker at a Cape Coral Chamber of Commerce gathering. Her audience was predominantly women. It was a first for her, as she mostly spoke to men’s groups with a few women in attendance. “When I was done, I would say half of the 80 women lined up. They all wanted to hug me,” Carol, who attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison where she earned an associate degree in philosophy, said. “One girl was crying, saying ‘if only my dad was still alive. He
loved boxing. He would’ve loved to have heard you speak.’ They all said, ‘You broke the glass ceiling. You did this and that. This is great.’ I was surprised. I really was surprised.”
Speaking engagements have not been the only time Carol has been in the public eye. When she was growing up in Jenkintown, she dreamed of various futures, including being an actress, a veterinarian, a ballerina and a French interpreter for the United Nations. One of these became a reality when she was cast in “Rocky V.”
“When one of the ‘Rockys’ was coming through, I thought, ‘Gee, I’d love to be in this movie.’ I just wanted to be an extra. Someone said, ‘Oh, there’s the assistant director.’ I introduced myself, gave him my card, and I said, ‘I would really love to eventually sit in the judge’s seat because that’s what I do in real life.’ ‘Oh sure,’ he said, and kind of whisked me away, and I thought, ‘Well, that’s that,” Carol, who has four children, four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, said. “I went up to
the nosebleed section. I wasn’t there five minutes when I heard over the loudspeaker, ‘Would the lady boxing judge, please report to ringside.’ Well, you would’ve thought I had wings. I flew. And I sat in that seat for two full days, having to go to the bathroom, hungry as could be, but was not really allowed to get out of my seat. It was just a great experience in every way.”
Carol’s many extraordinary experiences, from asking Muhammad Ali if he was ever afraid when he entered the ring to meeting artist LeRoy Neiman on the set of “Rocky V,” where he played a fight announcer, to appearing on the TV game shows “What’s My Line?” and “To Tell the Truth,” could fill a book—and they did when Carol wrote “The Lady is a Champ” with Rich Herschlag. Published in 2012, it chronicles her career as well as her battle with breast cancer.
Today, Carol B. Polis’s focus is on her speaking engagements that have the theme “With Courage, Anything is Possible” and
enjoying her days combing garage sales and thrift stores for finds from books that satisfy her voracious reading habit to costume jewelry and singing karaoke, which always includes her go-to song “Mr. Sandman.” Whether behind the podium inspiring others or perched on a stool with her eyes cast on the squared circle, there hasn’t been a moment when Carol wasn’t a contender. “I’ve been thrown in the deep water a lot, and I’ve had to survive. I’m not crazy about that, to put it mildly. I did the best I could, and I always got the respect of the people once they understood I was just one of the guys,” Carol B. Polis sai
For more information on Carol B. Polis and her paid speaking engagements, contact www.carolpolis.com, apricot4631@yahoo.com or 610-804-9379. Her book, “The Lady is a Champ,” is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and various other outlets. v
Cynthia Marone is a freelance writer who lives in Philadelphia.
Overwintering Herbs
This fall it is time to start thinking about how to overwinter herbs so they not only can survive the winter, but also so you can enjoy their scents and flavors all year round.
Some perennial herb plants, such as lavender, rosemary and thyme can survive the winter outdoors in our area. Here are a few tips to put them to bed for the winter, and help ensure they return to their full glory next spring: If you fertilize your herbs during the growing season, stop doing so in late August to prevent tender new growth that may succumb to frost. Keep plants well-watered during the heat of the summer and into the fall. Drought will stress the plants, making them more susceptible to damage from the cold. Then, after the first hard freeze, prune the plants down to about six inches tall and cover the soil around the roots with a few inches of mulch. Say goodnight to them and look forward to seeing strong new growth on the plants next spring.
But, don’t you miss having fresh herbs in the winter? I know I do. Their scent and flavor would surely lift our spirits during the short winter days, when it seems like spring will never arrive.
Why not try bringing some garden herbs indoors and keeping them as houseplants for the winter? They can even be harvested for cooking, drying or just enjoying their scent throughout the colder months. A bright window or grow lights on a timer will keep them, and you, happy over the dreary days of winter.
Some plants can cope with the short days of winter and dry indoor air better than others. Be aware of either hot or cold drafts, and of placing plants too close to radiators or hot air outlets. The plants may not look their best in February, but if you can hold out until the frost has passed, you can bring them back outside again for another season of flavor and scent.
The easiest herb plants to overwinter indoors are softstemmed herbs like basil and mint. Simply cut a stem about six inches long, remove the bottom leaves, and put them in a glass of water. Once roots form, pot them up in clean pots filled with commercial houseplant soil.
Although hardy herbs, like thyme, mint, oregano and chives should survive most winters outdoors in our area, especially if you follow the tips above, they are also very easy to overwinter indoors. Frost-sensitive herbs can also be dug up and repotted, including annuals like basil and chamomile and tender perennial herbs like lemon verbena. If you'd like to try growing some indoors over the winter, follow the directions below to dig some up and re-pot them.
In mid-fall, dig up a few stems of thyme, mint and oregano with roots attached. Dig up the entire plants of chives, basil, chamomile and lemon verbena and try to keep the roots intact. Trim them a little, but cut no more than one-third off the top and/or sides of each plant. Gently remove as much garden soil as possible from the roots. Use a commercially prepared houseplant potting mix and clean pots. Garden soil will not drain as well and may contain weed seeds, insects and other pests. Window boxes are a space-saving way to bring a collection of herbs inside for the winter. Once the plants are potted up, water them well. Place them in a shady spot outside to recover for a day or two and then put them back in the sun. Water them every day until you are ready to bring them indoors.
When night temperatures dip into the 40s, gradually reduce light levels by moving plants from sun to light shade to heavy shade over the course of one week. Then, inspect the plants carefully, removing any dead, damaged or diseased parts and any visible insects. Wash the leaves and stems and allow them to dry. Spray the entire plant (upper and lower surfaces of leaves) with Neem or insecticidal soap.
Before the first frost, re-spray them with Neem or insecticidal soap, and then submerge each pot in a bucket of water. That cleans the pot and makes any insects left in the soil float to the top. Keep these plants separated from other indoor plants for at least a few weeks in case pest problems develop.
No sunny window? No problem.
Herb plants are more likely to grow compact and bushy indoors if you add grow lights to supplement any natural light they receive throughout the day. They will grow healthier and happier and provide you with more flavor and fragrance. If there isn't enough natural light in the house to grow light-loving herb plants.
Here’s an inexpensive step-by-step procedure for lighting indoor plants: Choose a sturdy shelf or table to hold potted plants. Line the shelf or table with bright white paper, aluminum foil or a mirror to reflect the light. Place the potted plants on top. Hang a grow light twelve inches above the plants. Or, place desk lamps on the shelf or table and raise them over the plants with a stack of books if necessary. Put the lights on a timer to give the plants twelve to eighteen hours of light per day.
Some perennial herbs, like sage, may or may not make it through the winter outdoors. Follow the steps above to give sage the best chance of surviving the winter outdoors. Or, to bring sage indoors, prop-
agate it from a cutting. First, select containers about four inches deep and fill them with moist (not overly wet) houseplant potting mix. Then, cut off shoot tips three or four inches long and remove the leaves on the lower part of the stem. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone powder and insert them into the potting mix about an inch and a half deep. Put the containers in clear plastic bags, twist-tie the tops closed and place the containers in a warm location that receives bright but indirect sun. Check the condensation on the plastic bags occasionally and open the tops of the bags now and then to release some excess moisture. Remove the plastic bags after about a week and keep the soil moist but not soggy. Other herbs that can be propagated and overwintered this way include thyme and oregano.
In the spring, wait until the danger of frost has passed before bringing over-wintered herbs back outside. Bring the pots outside and place them in the shade (no direct sun) for a few days, bringing them back inside at night. Then each day for
about a week move them throughout the day to receive more and more sun each day. Keep them well-watered, do not let the pots dry out. They can be left outside overnight as long as the night temperatures are above 50 degrees F. Once the potted plants are adjusted to full sun, transplant them back into the garden. Keep them shaded and well-watered for a few days as they make the transition back to the outdoor garden.
Try overwintering some of your favorite perennial herbs indoors, like chives, thyme, rosemary, lavender and pineapple sage or tender herbs like basil, chamomile and lemon verbena. Have fun with them and enjoy the beauty of growing plants for scent and flavor, even on the bleakest winter days.v
Lori Rose, the Midnight Gardener, is a Temple University Certified Master Home Gardener and member of GardenComm: Garden Communicators International. She has gardened since childhood and has been writing about gardening for over twenty years.
Built in 2003 by Ferman Lex, this traditional Bucks County Colonial is finished with Bucks County fieldstone. A breezeway between the garage and houses offers convenient, weather-proof access.
Upper Makefield Dream House
Sean & Nicole Murray bought their dream house and then found a dream team consisting of Architect Ralph Fey, Designer Maiken Palazzo and Irwin Build to make their dream come true.
Text by BETH S. BUXBAUM | Photography by RANDL BYE
Enjoying drives around Upper Makefield was a favorite activity for Sean and Nicole Murray. During their dating years, they would tour around the area dreaming about future possibilities. Their path inevitably led them up one country road where they always admired the properties. “As we drove by, we would say that one day we will own one of these homes,” adds Sean. Little did they know that it was more than possible. Years later, they were living in a townhouse in Lambertville and discovered that their favorite house was for sale by auction.
Pumpkins and yellow, orange, and red mums, dress the front entrance along a flagstone walkway.
“We knew that we wanted to live in this area,” adds Nicole, “so we put in a bid.” Weeks later, while on vacation, they received a call that they got the house. “Panic set in,” says Nicole. This was an unexpected turn of events. Not considering the possibility that their bid would be accepted, Sean and Nicole were unprepared for this reality. Immersed in their lives, with their two young children and demanding professions, Sean and Nicole considered their priorities. Wanting to live in New Hope and having better schools for their children drove their decision.
“We bought the house sight-unseen,” reveals Nicole. They
took possession of the property on January 30, 2023. “On that day we walked into the house,” Nicole explains, “and we had no idea what we were going to find.” Thinking ahead they asked Ralph Fey, a well-known Bucks County architect, and Maiken Palazzo, the firm’s director of interior studio, to join them. “We were thinking we would do some renovating to open the space a little,” adds Sean. “We walked in and were relieved that the interior was in good condition,” Nicole adds. “But the rooms were very divided, there were no open spaces, and a lot of hallways.” Sean describes how Ralph Fey walked in and shared his vision to transform the living space. The first item that caught Ralph’s attention was the staircase in the middle of the first-floor space, between the kitchen and the living room. Maiken recalls the conversations during the initial walk-through. “Ralph pointed to the staircase and said ‘we need to move that.’”
During their first consultation Maiken led Sean and Nicole on a conceptual walk-through where they had discussions about their vision. “We offered ideas that were big moves to enhance the house,” Maiken continues. Essentially the original living space did not fit their lifestyle. “Spaces were closed-off,” Maiken says, “and not conducive to gathering with family and friends.” Maiken explains that people want to see everybody and be a part of the action. The first-floor rooms were not designed to have an open footprint. Built in 2003 by renowned Bucks County builder Ferman Lex, the home was a traditional Bucks County Colonial. Typical for this architectural style, the house’s interior footprint was very divided and closed-off. “Ralph Fey and his team presented us with options for changing the living space,” says Sean. “They explained what needed to be done was to make the space feel larger and still feel cozy,” continues Sean, “and we knew that is what we wanted,”
“Ralph was very persuasive, convincing us to go for the bigger changes to create our dream home,” adds Nicole. “We wanted the house to be timeless, not trendy or in vogue, just surrounded by all the things that we enjoy.” Understanding what Sean and Nicole wanted was key to the renovation. As Maiken explains, “We follow what our clients need and do what we can to support their vision.” An essential step was finding the right builders who would understand the vision. Ralph Fey recommended several builders and they selected Irwin Build. A master collaboration took place with the teams of Ralph Fey Architects and Irwin Build. Sean and Nicole remained in their Lambertville townhouse for a year while the renovation was taking place. With the goal of opening up the space and changing the flow, the renovation began with moving the staircase, knocking down walls and removing
First-floor space has been transformed into an open-concept kitchen and great room. A second-floor galley defines the two-story open atrium with views of the space below.
doorways. “This renovation became something much grander than what we expected,” Sean says, “the project changed the entire floor plan.”
Moving the staircase was the focal point to reconfiguring the first-floor living space. After weighing the options of rebuilding the stairs in another spot or moving them, the decision was to move the staircase. Formerly sitting in the center of the living space, midway between the kitchen and great room, the staircase was relocated to the entrance hall. Not only did moving the stairs
open the living space, now the staircase was positioned more strategically. This sweeping staircase is a centerpiece leading to the second level atrium galley overlooking the first floor. With this reconfiguration, they did lose a fourth bedroom but gained a second-floor laundry room.
Creating new space was a true collaboration with Maiken directing the interior design details along with the construction team of Ryan and Sean, from Irwin Build Architects. “The synergy was great between the two teams,” adds Nicole. Once they moved the
Opposite, kitchen styling begins with a massive black wood-based center island topped with Cristallo quartzite. White cabinetry adds contrast to the dark wood floors. Top right, sitting by the fireplace in the great room enjoying a view of the dining room in the far-left corner. Bottom right, along the back wall of the kitchen a custom coffee and beverage bar was added. Embellishing the window wall is an artistic treatment by Gabirel Franklin, owner of The Art of Plaster. In the left corner is an entry into the butler’s pantry.
An intimate space tucked away on the other side of the first floor, the dining room is awash in a warm, saturating blue tone for a cozy ambiance. This palette was inspired by the artwork on the back wall, a depiction of a teal-toned race car done by a Vietnamese artist.
stairway and knocked out walls, the space was ready for a redesign. A redefinition of the kitchen and great room footprint was in motion. In designing this open-concept space, the kitchen flowed into the great room. Two-story ceilings, lots of windows and no walls created an open and airy feel.
Constructing a small bump-out addition to expand the far side of the great room also enhanced this space. On one side was a wall with a fireplace adjacent to a wall of windows overlooking the patio. With this additional bump-out they removed some of the windows and added sliding doors to the patio. An enhancement of the fireplace wall was artistically orchestrated by Gabriel Franklin, a Bucks County master plasterer and owner of the ‘Art of Plaster.’ Gabriel creates custom home finishes and added his mastery to several areas of the house, including the fireplace wall. To create the illusion of a floor-to-ceiling fireplace, Gabriel added six to seven layers of plaster to the drywall, from the base to the ceiling. He unveiled his artistry with a unique textured
Top, in the entrance hall the sweeping staircase, made of metal and wood, is an architectural centerpiece leading to the second level atrium galley overlooking the great room. Bottom, designed in tile and glass, the primary bathroom shower and freestanding tub create a bright and airy space with fresh tones and crisp lines.
finish on the surface of the entire wall. Finishing off the great room, expansive skylights were designed to add light and an extra architectural feature to the two-story ceiling.
Architectural features have been carefully orchestrated in this transformation from closed to open space. Walls came down and accents were created to embellish and define the flow from room-to-room. Tall, sleek columns were placed throughout the first-floor footprint accenting the flow. Movement continued with the former dining room transformed into a butler’s pantry and powder room. On the other side of the first-floor space, a dining room was recreated where
Above, in the first-floor primary bedroom, a cozy seating area is arranged, in front of the floorto-ceiling windows, allowing panoramic views of the landscape. Bottom, an adult playroom, the finished lower level is equipped with a fireplace, gym, pool table and pinball machines.
the formal living room once resided. An intimate space, the dining room is tucked away in this cozy, private corner. Maiken remarks that she understands how Sean and Nicole love to entertain. Living dayto-day in the wide-open areas suits their busy lives. For a change of pace, they have the option of entertaining in a more intimate space.
Having an understanding and respect for a client’s lifestyle and preferences was what guided the team. Maiken explains that in conversations with Sean and Nicole it was clear that they were looking for something timeless.
“They wanted to use all of their furniture and artwork,” Maiken adds, “which actually inspired me. They have great taste, and I designed around what they had.”
She incorporated all their pieces into the interior spaces. “Their furniture was anchored in a more industrial quality,” adds Maiken. “She took cues from that styling to position the pieces in their living space.”
Architectural features have been carefully orchestrated in this transformation from closed to open space. Walls came down and accents were created to embellish and define the flow from room-to-room. Tall, sleek columns were placed throughout the first-floor footprint accenting the flow. Movement continued with the former dining room transformed into a butler’s pantry and powder room. On the other side of the first-floor space, a dining room was recreated where the formal living room once resided. An intimate space, the dining room is tucked away in this cozy, private corner.
All the furniture and artwork set the palette for the walls, floors, cabinetry and tiles. Neutral tones and natural materials
fill the living space, imbuing a calm and cozy feel.
Applying a neutral palette, in soft
shades of white and taupe, worked well with their furniture. Natural wood accents blend with the neutral tones. Flooring is engineered walnut, enhanced by walnut wrapped columns and staircase rails. In the kitchen, a massive black wood- based center island is topped with a Cristallo quartzite. White cabinetry completes the kitchen area, adding contrast to the dark wood floors. Flowing into the great room, a similar palette was applied to refresh and compliment the furnishings. Styled in natural woods and metals, and finished in shades of white and tan, the great room pieces fit perfectly into this open-concept space. “I took inventory of their furniture and artwork to design,” Maiken explains, “looking at key pieces to find somewhere special for placement.” A special placement was selected for one unique art piece in the dining room. Maiken explains that the wall color was inspired by the artwork on the back wall. “We pulled the color from the painting,” she adds. This piece of art, a depiction of a teal-toned race car, was
In the kitchen, a massive black wood- based center island is topped with a Cristallo quartzite. White cabinetry completes the kitchen area, adding contrast to the dark wood floors.
done by a Vietnamese artist who printed this on old oil cans. Set in a warm saturating blue tone, the dining room is infused with a cozy, warm ambiance. “We designed this space to feel like you are enveloped in a moment while dining,” Maiken continues.
Invoking a feeling of spatial freedom, this home’s interior has been reset. Once a chopped up, closed-in living space is now a free-flowing footprint with calming tones and simplified features.
Describing the style as transitional, with hints of modernism and industrialism,
Maiken emphasizes its timeless appeal. “We refreshed the space in a modern way, while being respectful of the home’s architectural style,” Maiken explains. Some of the elements are more modern than others, and some have a more industrial presence. Working diligently to make it all work was the skill of the team. Sean notes that Irwin Build Architects won a national award for the renovation.
After a year of renovations, this home’s interior has been transformed. “We moved back in on April 15th, 2024,” says Nicole. With the entire footprint of this home reimagined, the end result was everything they envisioned, and more. Surrounded by all that they cherish and enjoy, their newly transformed home fits the way they live. Thinking back to their first views of this home on their drives, Sean and Nicole are now living in their dream … a home that has transformed their lives.v
Beth S. Buxbaum is a freelance writer from the Philadelphia area.
25 years serving Bucks County with product knowled and professional installation. From all types of Floori Accent Walls to Full Bathroom Renovations. Let our family’s next home project. Large 2-story showroom Appointments recommended. Schedule your Fr
ge, design assistance ng, Backsplashes and family help with your of samples.
60 | bellaflooringllc@gmail.
ee estimate today. com
TILE | MARBLE | STONE
HARDWOOD
Farming, Faith & Family
Tussock Sedge Farm in Blooming Glen practices genuine regenerative farming as an outgrowth of Sean & Tonyaʼs love of farming, family, community and their faith.
Written by Chrysa Smith | Photography by Paul Wesley
When I sat down with Sean Ryan and Tonya Rosenberger, the owners of Tussock Sedge Farm, I learned lots. Like I may not be the informed shopper I had thought. Labels can be misleading. And true regenerative, completely natural farming exists—at least on the almost 1000 acres the couple’s farm in and around the village of Blooming Glen.
Tussock Sedge, for those of us who don’t know biomes, is a type of wetland grass. And perhaps there is no better name since not only are 60 acres of their property wetlands, but all their animals graze on a variety of grasses daily. And according to Sean, there’s no healthier, better-tasting meat you can buy than 100 percent grass-fed beef and lamb, truly pasture-raised, Heritage pork (from breeds that are older, rarer and many say, more flavorful) chicken, and several other nonmeat, mostly local products that appeal to them. Everything, and I
Above, standing amidst grass-fed cattle are Tussock Sedge Farm owners, Sean Ryan and Tonya Rosenberger with their four children .
Above, (from left to right) standing in front of a tractor are Sean Ryan (owner), Benjamin Divens (Ranch Hand), Tyler Gray Blair (Ranch Manager), Eileen Kristman (Ranch Hand). Opposite top, Keri McDaniel (Order Fulfillment Associate). Bottom right, children playing on a swing by the barn.
mean everything is more than what many food companies call natural—all non-GMO, soy and corn free, antibiotic and hormone-free, vaccine, drug, and chemical free.
“In mass produced meat farming,” Sean says, “marketing terms are used loosely.” As he explains, pasture-raised may mean a building full of cattle, with a tiny access door to the outdoors. Or grain-fed animals marketed as grass-fed. Many cows and chickens don’t even see the outdoors, and as a farmer, as a man of faith, that’s just wrong.
Their Red Angus cattle have run of a pasture—for a day. Tonya says they have a better temperament, stay cooler—and as she jokes, are prettier. Once they have sufficiently eaten down a field, they are moved to an adjoining, fresh pasture. Sean and Tonya believe it not only helps the cattle be healthier, but that it sort of mows down a nutrient-rich field, letting it grow in time for another herd to come for the day. Thus, it is regenerative. Ruminants, as they are called, naturally graze, and when they eat down the plants, stomping the grass down into the soil, it grows the topsoil. And so, the farm exhibits the cycle of life—nature in process.
According to Sean, “People have taken barren landscapes, added cattle and in a short time, the land will recover and become lush, beautiful pastures. But if the cattle were left in one field for too long, it would look bad again,” which, in addition to nutrition, is the reason for herd rotation.” You can tell by the height of the pasture, where cattle have been and where they’re going,” Sean says. The couple believe it’s the healthiest method of farming. In fact, Sean pointed out that the brown lines you see below the cattle-fencing on some farms are from pesticides being sprayed. That’s just something you’ll never see at Tussock Sedge.
After our chat, I took a little ride in Sean’s small farm truck—out to far pastures where we got to meet one grazing herd. As if magic, the herd, which are all about the same age came to check us out. They know the sound of Sean’s vehicle, and his call—one to call them in and one to push them back. They’re enormous and beautiful animals and seemingly happy grazing in
their pasture. A full-grown steer comes in at around 1400-1500 pounds. Heffers, around 1200. And smarter than you might think. According to Sean, while cattle, like us, can be picky if presented with too much of a favorite food item, and not everything nutritionally needed, they will find what is good for them when they need it. Again, nature at the helm.
At any given time, the family may have as many as 300 cattle out grazing on the property, which will be with them for about 30-36 months. Sean says “That’s a long time in the world of beef. Many farmers harvest in 14-15 months. We finish our cattle in more than double the time of conventional beef.” Of course, big farming is all about the bottom line. How fast can we finish a cow to get them to market?
“Most grass-fed beef is considered too lean because they’re harvested too early” he adds. It’s all about doing it right. Finishing means all intramuscular fat
After our chat, I took a little ride in Sean’s small farm truck—out to far pastures where we got to meet one grazing herd. As if magic, the herd, which are all about the same age came to check us out.They know the sound of Sean’s vehicle, and his call—one to call them in and one to push them back.
that the cow can put on is. So, for flavor, longer is better. I learned much about cattle, including that fat accumulation works its way from the front to the back of the animal. “There are fat bubbles that form in the rear of the cow. This is not only how you know the cow is almost ready for processing, but the longer time results in more marbling,” according to Sean. Those cattle prematurely rushed to market don’t get to that point, and therefore, can’t compare in
marbling. And those who grill, or enjoy a good steak know, marbling is what gives great flavor, but it’s also more nutritious. Tonya says that their steaks are called burgundy—they’re that rich in color and flavor.
As labor intensive as it is, you might wonder why they do it. The couple manages the farm operation, Sean says, “Splitting time between work in the field, animal husbandry, mechanical repairs, order ful-
fillments and various sales, administrative and marketing tasks.” It takes about an additional year to raise their cattle versus conventionally processed beef, which also means a larger investment. “For us, we want to raise the best beef available, in the way God intended it.”
The couple views what they have as God’s creation. Devout Mennonites, their way of life clearly answers to a higher calling. The couple believes Jesus is the center of their faith, community is the center of their life and reconciliation is the center of their spiritual and farm work.
“We see ourselves as stewards of what we have. Modern techniques remove anything natural. Nature functions to keep things thriving in balance. And we are called to take care of it,” says Sean. They see a responsibility for protecting streams, reservoirs and all of creation from chemicals, unnatural additives and processes. It not only hurts them, but their surrounding community as well.
In addition to their faith, there’s the matter of the farm being in the family for a generation. When Tonya’s parents, Henry and Charlotte Rosenberger bought 80 acres back in 1990, it was barren. According to Sean, “They began acquiring other farmland from retiring farmers that didn’t want their land developed. They planted thousands of trees and created
Top, ranch hand Eileen Kristman takes a break from her duties to pose for Paul Wesley, our photographer. Center, ranch hand Benjamin Divens working on one of the fences. Opposite right, ranch manager Tyler Gray Blair posing in front of some farm equipment.
Then, in 2017, when Tonya’s father wasn’t well enough to manage the farm, Sean and Tonya’s siblings were faced with the difficult decision whether to continue this generational practice or put the farm up for sale. Fortunately for this family, their children and their customers, it’s thriving. Paul left an IT position and Tonya, a nursing job to make it all work.
protected wetlands for wildlife. And, although Tonya’s father raised conventional cattle until shortly after 2000, about the time when the fields were planted in pasture, her father wanted the cattle to be healthier than what feeding them grain produces. That’s when they transitioned to pasture-raised, 100 percent grass fed beef. Then, in 2017, when Tonya’s father wasn’t well enough to manage the farm, Sean and Tonya’s siblings were faced with the difficult decision whether to continue this generational practice or put the farm up for sale. Fortunately for this family, their children and their customers, it’s thriving. Paul left an IT position and Tonya, a nursing job to make it all work. With land originally inhabited by the Lenape Native Americans, several hundred years as some type of family farm, their own family’s history, a circa 1700s farmhouse and a demand for clean food, Tussock Sedge is truly a success story at the intersection of history and modernity. When I asked about the effect of farm life on their four children, they were quick to say that they don’t know any other way. “They have a totally different view of the world,” Sean says. “They see life and death. They see slaughter when cows are injured or ill. Our kids know where food comes from. How can you eat food when you don’t know where it comes from? They don’t live in front of screens; they play outside and explore.” Between the ages of five to twelve, they help where they can, in between their homeschooling and adventures on the farm. Sean and Tonya’s passion for farming is palpable, and they hope their legacy will be built upon as their children grow up.
Besides the hard work of running the farm, they operate an online retail store. At their retail ‘pick up’ barn, their freezers are full. Tonya says prior to Covid, they could keep up with restocking freezers. But when people were awakened to the food supply, including how fragile it can be when shelves were bare, Tonya believes people developed a greater interest in buying locally grown and harvested food.
Sean adds, “It also made people seek out nutrient dense food for healing.” During Covid, there was a line out the driveway— a long way to the street. So, they discovered an online ordering system would work better. So far, it has. Orders are usually turned around within three days, with customers having the option of pickup dates—everyday but Sunday.
You can find online ordering here: www.tussocksedgefarm.com/store. From cheese and spices through seafood and bakery items—as well as raw milk, which Sean says is more highly digestible if not more perishable. We talked a bit about the controversy surrounding the product, which he says, the A2/A2 raw milk that comes from 100 percent grass fed and pasture raised cows can often be tolerated by people who have an intolerance to processed milk—something to do with the pasteurization process. There are also completely pasture-raised eggs, teas and a hand-selected variety of provisions from other like-minded people they’ve partnered with. And, while expansion has been contemplated, it’s got to be the right time—they’re working on shipping products in the near future. “We sold wholesale in the past,” Tonya says. But with competition driving the prices down and
highest quality, nutrient dense food we can provide,” says Sean. “We operate with complete transparency.” And that comes at a price. “Farming is expensive. Knowing how and where your food comes from is a priority for us,” says Sean. “You determine if our process aligns with your values.” He says it’s important to support such farms because more are disappearing.
In the end, their philosophy aligns with nature and ultimately, the health and wellness of their customers, and their employees. They’re part of it all, just like their ancestors were and will continue to be. They’re quick to say that they couldn’t have done it without their entire team—including Ranch Manager, Tyler Gray Blair, who Sean says has been with them since the beginning and has worked tirelessly to support their mission. During our conversation, Sean quoted an old, appropriate native proverb—"Treat the earth well. It was not given to you by your parents. It was loaned to you by your children.” And so it is at Tussock Sedge.
Tussock Sedge Farm, LLC is located at 1239 Souderton Road, (Rt. 113) Perkasie, PA. (Perkasie mailing address; geographically in Blooming Glen). They can be reached at 267-450-4024 or email info@tussocksedgefarm.com. For farm in-
not knowing ordering patterns, it became too unpredictable. At times they had freezers full of food with no place to go. “It just became unmanageable.”
“Our focus has always been on the
formation and online shopping, visit www.TussockSedgeFarm.com.
Chrysa Smith is a regular contributor, who enjoys shopping at local farms and farmers markets.
Newtown’s Gilded Age
From the mid-19th century to the early 20th, architects and carpenter-designers were employed by wealthy and middle class residents to build homes in all the fashionable Victorian styles.
By Jeffrey Marshall
In addition to its robust eighteenth century history, Newtown contains a rich collection of Victorian period buildings. Despite the name, there is no single Victorian style. Newtown has scores of classic examples of many Victorian-period styles such as Gothic Revival, Italianate, Second Empire and Queen Anne styles. Each of these styles have hallmark features. A house with cross gables and decorative bargeboard is likely to be Gothic Revival. If a house has a low pitched roof supported by heavy brackets and windows with elaborate rounded surrounds, think Italianate. A house with a boxy Mansard roof with dormers is a Second Empire structure. If you see a house with turrets, towers, wraparound porches and stained glass windows, consider it Queen Anne Style. Information about Newtown’s houses is easier to trace after the Newtown Enterprise newspaper began publication in 1868. Interestingly, contemporary period newspapers did not use the same names for styles that we use today.
Newtown has elaborate, architect-designed houses and their less-expensive carpenter-designed
Photos: Bobby Waite
cousins. Philadelphia architects designed several Newtown houses while Newtown’s own local architect J. B. Chamberlain (1825-1905) designed others. The houses designed by professional architects were built mostly by the wealthy. The average middle class homeowner certainly shared the same urge to live in a fashionable Victorian house, even if they couldn't afford a professional architect. Therefore they had houses designed by a local carpenter using standard pattern books. These houses resulted not in a textbook example of the style, but a design including elements of styles that were currently
fashionable among the upper crust. These houses tended to be smaller and less ornamental than the house the more wealthy could afford. Two carpenter-builders predominated the building of houses during the Victorian period. They were Garrett B. Girton (1831-1913) and his nephew David McClanen (c1860-1946). The two men built a large percentage of all the houses, stores, churches and barns built between 1865 and 1910. Girton alone is credited with building 120 houses, stores, factories and mills, as well a large number of additions, in and around Newtown, at the time of his 70th birthday
318 Washington Street
322 Washington Street
These houses resulted not in a textbook example of the style, but a design including elements of styles that were currently fashionable among the upper crust.
18 S. Chancellor Street 105 N Chancellor Street
Washington Street
14 S. Chancellor Street
E. Washington Street
in 1901. He went on to construct more up until his death in 1913.
Perhaps the first group of Victorian Period houses were those in the 200 block of East Washington Avenue. The group of similar looking houses with Victorian Gothic cross gables were constructed between 1861 and 1872 by Hutchinson C. Girton and his brother Garret B. Girton. A similar house was built across the street in 1866.
A dramatic change to houses in the town occurred after the opening of the Worstall brickyard along Washington Avenue in 1868. Grand houses and stores, many three stories tall, were constructed over the next decade. Dr. Lettie
A. Smith had a large brick house with modern conveniences and eleven bed rooms, suitable for boarders in 1872. A year later, John K. Torbert, a retired farmer from Upper Makefield, built a similar house next to Smith’s house.
Washington Avenue has several example of houses with Mansard roofs which had become fashionable. One is an ornate double house built for Samuel T. Buckman and Stephen B. Cornell. The August 17, 1869 Bucks County Intelligencer reported that the double house of Samuel T. Buckman and Stephen B. Cornell has been covered with a fine French (Mansard) roof, and now looks quite imposing. It is regarded as the finest private dwelling about Newtown. There are now some six or eight houses with French roofs in the Borough, and they seem to be liked.”
The Newtown Enterprise often followed the construction of individual houses. The April 28, 1888 edition announced that a “One of the finest houses erected in Newtown is that of Samuel C. Case, on East Washington Avenue” The house, which is built of dressed Newtown brown stone, was designed by Mr. Case with George H. Fettus, a Philadel-
35 S. Chancellor Street
28 S. Chancellor Stdreet
There are now some six or eight houses with French roofs in the Borough, and they seem to be liked”. 217-219 Washington Avenue.
phia architect, perfecting the plans. Garrett B. Girton was the contractor. On the first floor there are four large rooms and spacious hall. The parlor is finished in cherry, while the sitting-room and dining-room have an oil finish. All the rooms were connected by sliding doors. The kitchen was supplied with all modern conveniences, including dumb waiter, hot and cold water. A beautifully carved red oak stairway in the hall led up to the second floor. It is regarded as a very comfortably arranged dwelling in the interior and presents an imposing appearance from the outside.”
The local supply of Newtown brownstone resulted in the construction of two unique houses built of Newtown brownstone along South Chancellor Street. In 1873, Hannah Bunting had a new house featuring a Mansard roof and Romanesque arched windows built at 28 South Chancellor Street. George C. Blackfan purchased an adjoining lot the same year (32 South Chancellor Street), but did not build his Mansard roof house with a tall tower until he retired from his farm in Wrightstown in 1880.
208
217 & 219 Washington Street
Washington Street
One of the houses that created a stir was the house at 205 South Chancellor Street. The April 16, 1882 Newtown Enterprise reported that H. C. Worstall would build a house at corner of Penn and Chancellor as soon as weather settled. “It will be built of brick, dashed and blocked off.” Work was delayed when a July fire at the Watson & Buckman lumberyard nearly destroyed the material for what was described as H. C. Worstall’s “new Queen Anne Cottage” that was in the mill. Worstall moved into the house at the end of March, 1883.
Between 1894 and 1895 two classic Queen Anne style houses were built at 120 and 128 North Chancellor Street by Garret B. Girton for J. C. Hutchinson and Sarah A. McCown. The Hutchinson house was described October, 1894 as “a frame structure built on a modification of the colonial style of architecture. There is nothing like it in Newtown, and Mr. Girton says ‘nothing equal to it.’ in town.”
Mrs. McCown purchased a building lot on from Samuel Willard next to J. C. Hutchinson. By December 12, 1894 Girton’s crew was working on the weather board exterior with the goal of getting the house under roof and the heater in place before the cold weather sets in.
Mrs. Sarah A. McCown and niece, Miss Mamie L. Carey, moved into the house by the next April 1st.
Perhaps the most “Victorian” of streets in Newtown is North Lincoln Avenue. Here David J. McClanen built numerous large houses. In October of 1895 he began work on a new house for Edward Horne. McClanen stated that the work would be completed by February first. According to the newspaper “The drawings and plans prepared by Mr. McClanen and J. B. Chamberlin indicate a house quite different from anything else in town. It will contain ten rooms and will be supplied with hot and cold water and electric lights. The four rooms on the first floor will be so arranged that they can be one when so desired. On the southeast corner of the building there will be a tower commencing with the second floor. There will be porches in front and on the south side.”
The newspaper reported in April, 1896 that “The design of Edward Horne’s house is very different from any other residence in town and is much admired by many who have seen it … heated by hot water… piped for the use of acetylene, which will be used as soon as that new illuminant is available.” This was one of three houses McClanen was
building at the same time. The houses were described as being “well built in every particular and are among the most substantial structures in town, and reflect great credit on their builder.” All were designed by Chamberlin. The second house was built for James T. Keith. Keith’s house is larger than the other two. It contained about the same number of rooms as the other houses, but they were more commodious. The third house was intended for McClanen’s own use. It was “a modern dwelling in all particulars and a credit to that section of the town of which Mr. McClanen might be styled the father, as he has built nearly all the house in that locality.” He decided to rent the house and eventually sold it to Mrs. Abbie K. Rice who, with her daughters, occupied the house.
In 1899 McClanen advertised two houses for sale. The December 31, 1899 Newtown Enterprise even had photographs of them with the notice: “For Sale 2 NEW FRAME HOUSES, of my own building on North Lincoln Avenue, Newtown. They are finished in hard wood and have all modern improvements. Hot water heating. Electric lights. The above cuts are from photographs of these houses. Prices reason-
able; part of purchase money can remain on bond and mortgages. Apply to David J. McClanen, or Horace G. Reeder, his agent.” Reeder was McClanen’s cousin Horace Girton Reeder.
Horace G. Reeder had his own new house constructed at 105 South Chancellor Street in 1895. Plans were drawn by Newtown’s own J. B. Chamberlin. The October 19, 1895 Enterprise indicated that “Horace’s house is a combination of the Queen Anne and Old Colonial styles of architecture. It contains twelve rooms and bath, will be heated by hot water, and is wired for electric lighting. The house and barn are connected by a complete system of electric bells. The house is finished in white and yellow pine with the exception of the hallways, where chestnut has been
used.” Horace G. Reeder contracted his uncle Garret B. Girton for the house, and his cousin McClanen for the barn “they being respectively the lowest bidders on each”.
One of the largest Victorian period houses in Newtown is what was originally known as the Anna M. Skeer residence called “The Golden Rod.”The August 4, 1900 Newtown Enterprise noted that “the Golden Rod” was designed by architect J. Sheldon Kunkle and built by Charles Wilson of Philadelphia. “The building will be 40 by 41 feet, with verandas around three sides. A circular veranda, with tower, will be built on the southwest corner. A handsome balustrade will surmount the top of the house. When completed, the building will be the finest of its kind in town, and will be supplied
with the most modern and up-to-date conveniences.”
While the Victorian Era can be considered as ending with the Queen’s death in 1901, there are a number of large houses that reflect the architecture of the era. A large house was built at 125 North Chancellor Street for J. Herman Barnsley in 1903. It was described in the April 18, 1903 Newtown Enterprise “as the most commodious dwelling in town measuring 42’ by 64’ with 16 rooms and 4 baths. It was designed by Architect Henry L. Reinhold of Philadelphia. Reinhold also designed the bell tower for St. Luke’s church and the Newtown Library.
The houses at 322 and 323 East Washington Avenue represent Newtown landmarks. In 1904 David J. McClanen began building a house for Mary T. Copper lot on northwest corner of Washington and Lincoln avenues. The architect was R. C. Luce of Philadelphia who had designed the Methodist Church on Green Street. The local newspaper prophesied that “it will be an important addition to that part of town.” The house was built on a lot formerly occupied by Robert Pidcock’s blacksmith shop. Towards the end of 1906, Garret B. Girton began building a house for William M. Watson, on his lot at the corner of Washington and Lincoln avenues. James B Chamberlin was the architect.
Newtown property owners, the borough Historical and Architectural Review Board and the Newtown Historic Association have done a remarkable job in preserving its architectural and historical legacy. It is a credit to its residents who have gone the extra mile to keep its heritage intact for all of us to enjoy.v
Jeffrey L. Marshall has been involved in land conservation and historic preservation for almost 50 years. Until his retirement in 2021 he served as President of Heritage Conservancy, a regional non-profit land conservation and historic preservation organization.
Why is Dave Marcolla the Moving Expert for Newtown?
Dave Marcolla is more than just a realtor, he is the Broker / Owner of the bespoke Newtown real estate firm Marcolla Realty and he’s a long-standing local resident, community leader, and strategic real estate professional. Whether you're exploring historic homes, looking for excellent schools, or connecting to a tight-knit community, Dave combines local insight, integrity, and innovation. He has over 300 sales in recent years and top reviews for reponsiveness, negotiation and making deals stress-free. He is involved in the community, offers a $3000 grant to first responders and has served as President of the Newtown Business Association.
If you're making plans to move to Newtown, he’s the trusted advisor who ensures the journey not only meets—but exceeds—your expectations.
If you are considering buying, selling or investing in real estate let Dave Marcolla guide you in the right direction. The real estate market is competitive. Who you work with matters. At Marcolla Realty we truly believe you should and can expect better. Find out how today.
Dave Marcolla
roker/Owner/Licensed Realtor
COMPLETE
HEALTH DENTISTRY
At Robert A. Lantzy DMD, LLC we are dedicated to more than just your smile, we’re here to enhance your complete well-being. We connect oral health to overall wellness and offer unique services with personal attentive care.
Root Cause Care • Preventive & Cosmetic
Excellence • Mercury-Free Philosophy
Sleep Health • Pediatric Growth Therapies
Dr. Lantzy believes your health span should match your lifespan—thriving, not just surviving. It’s dentistry with intention, impact, and integrity.
Robert A. Lantzy, DMD, LLC
11 Friends Lane, Suite 100 Newtown, PA 18940
215.860.5901 buckscountydental.com
Where Panoramic Beauty Meets Inspired Design
In the heart of Upper Makefield Township, on 5.5 rolling acres of Bucks County’s most breathtaking landscape, a new-construction masterpiece is taking shape. From its elevated perch, this home captures sweeping, unobstructed views of Jericho Mountain and the tranquil rhythm of a neighboring horse farm—a view that changes with every season, yet never loses its magic.
Step onto the welcoming wraparound porch or the expansive rear deck and feel the air of serenity surround you. Inside, soaring ceilings in the two-story great room frame the views through a dramatic wall of windows, bathing the space in light. At the heart of the home, a gourmet kitchen awaits— featuring Wolf Sub-Zero appliances, custom cabinetry, and an oversized island—perfect for both intimate dinners and grand gatherings. The floor plan offers four bedrooms, including the option for a first-floor guest suite, and thoughtful touches such as a mudroom for everyday ease and a three-car garage for ample storage.
This is not just a house—it’s a statement. A seamless blend of timeless architecture and modern luxury, designed for those who value privacy, beauty, and the art of living well.
100 Brandywine Boulevard, Suite 302 Newtown, PA 18940 | cell 215.802.8187 - Office 267.350.5555 Call me today! Your Newtown Specialist. Dana Boyd
Head to Toe Menswear
As autumn settles into Bucks County, Head to Toe Menswear unveils a season defined by texture, style, and versatility—true to its name, offering elevated options from head to toe. The fall collection commands attention with brushed wool coats, quilted knits, and sumptuous cashmere blends that balance warmth with elegance, while earthy tones like charcoal, forest green, and deep navy set the tone across every category. From impeccably tailored trousers and premium shirting to refined accessories and footwear, each piece has been thoughtfully
I understand the local marketplace.
Living in Newtown boro and having renovated a 100-year old home in the historic district, Kris brings her personal experience and knowledge of the renovation process, as well as a true connection to the community, to the real estate transaction. Her background as an executive at a Fortune 500 company enables her to integrate this local knowledge with true professionalism, strategic insight, and a commitment to detail. She is passionate about the Newtown area and helping her clients achieve their real estate goals.
curated to complete the look with polish and purpose.
Custom clothing made in Italy remains a cornerstone, now joined by expanded offerings in personalized suiting and bespoke layering pieces. Whether it’s a cashmere crewneck for weekend comfort, a structured blazer for weekday confidence, or leather boots built to carry you through winter, Head to Toe delivers a cohesive wardrobe rooted in craftsmanship, individuality, and timeless appeal
Will Evans, owner of Head to Toe Menswear, began his career at Bergdorf Goodman, where he cultivated a deep understanding of luxury menswear and customer service. His journey continued through successful store ownership and a Hugo Boss franchise, blending corporate insight with entrepreneurial drive. Today, as the owner of Head to Toe Menswear in Newtown, he brings over 40 years of industry expertise to a local stage. Will invites you to experience a different kind of shopping—where premium fashion meets personal connection, and every piece, from outerwear to accessories, reflects his commitment to quality, style, and the community he proudly calls home. Visit Head to Toe Menswear at 110 S State St, Newtown, PA or visit www.H2Tmenswear.com. 445-448-9209.
Autumn Journeys
Essay by Bobby Waite
Photo
Above, Trauger’s Far m , Kintnersville, PA.
I love autumn leaves, pumpkins, hay rides, Hallloween, apple pie and perfect crisp clear fall skies. I love to photograph fall wherever I find it. These are some of my favorite images that I took for my Autumn Journeys. They are not all in Bucks County because sometimes I am drawn to photograph this beautiful season in the Pocono Mountains and in Lancaster County. I journey after the season, searching for that perfect image that says autumn. I hope I never find it, because if I do, my journeys will come to an end.
Above, Ski Slope in the Poconos.
Opposite, a view of Font Hill through a ring of yellow leaves. Above, an Amish Buggy Ride in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
Above, Upper Bucks County far m, Below, Frankenfield bridge.
Above, Wycombe Pennsylvania sunrise, Below, Doylestown far m sunset.
A pile of gourds.
Above, Doylestown street scene and a car show in Bucks County
Creating “Designs You Love”- to meet your lifestyle
Getaway / Bob & Tanya Waite
A Six-Mile Journey
Tanya & I visit the Pennsylvania Dutch Country, go to Sight & Sound Theatre and then take a six-mile journey to the luxurious Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square and enjoy Lancaster City.
It’s about a 100-mile drive from Langhorne to Lancaster City. For us, a short jaunt, but we decide to take two days for us to go to the city of Lancaster. “Two days to take a two-hour drive?” Tanya asks. I say, “Because of you.” And of course our reserved seats at Sights & Sounds Theatre. We could leave from home and go directly to the theatre for the 11 o’clock show, but that would mean we would have to leave by about 8:30. And Tanya rarely can leave the house by that time. That’s when she wakes up and if I get her up early, it has to be a couple of hours earlier for her to be ready. We experience this every Sunday as we get ready to go to church. After I explain my logic, she says, “Sure, sure, sure!” We both laugh. We get to our destination, about six miles from the Lancaster
is a Federal period house enclosed within the hotel building used for small conferences, business meetings and events. Center, the large indoor swimming pool. Bottom, a three story stage setting of the interior of Noah’s ark at Sight & Sound Theatre.
Opposite top, the exterior of the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square and the entrance to Plough Restaurant. Opposite bottom, Tanya & I waiting for lunch at a cafe in the Pennsylvania Dutch area of Lancaster County. Top left, a view of the Ambassador Suite at the Lancaster Marriott. Top right, a view of lobby looking at the brick side of the Montgomery House, which
GRAND REOPENING!
Newly Expanded & Renovated Offices
Hunterdon Family Medicine at Phillips-Barber
Family Medicine (newborns - adults) • Obstetrics • Sports Medicine
Integrative Medicine • Acupuncture • Osteopathic Medicine and Manipulation
Open 7 Days a Week
Same Day Appointments Available 72 Alexander Avenue Lambertville, NJ 08530
To schedule an appointment, call 609-397-3535.
Access to primary care and specialty services just got easier with the recently expanded and renovated Dr. Laurence M. Russell, Jr. Campus at Phillips-Barber. The new campus offers primary care, imaging services, and specialists all in one convenient location.
Expanded services coming soon:
• Endocrinology
• Pulmonary
• Neurology
• Podiatry
• Pain Management
• Dermatology
• Imaging - X-Ray
Scan the QR code to learn more.
Marriott at Penn Square. We have time before we check in and take a drive past the small towns, farms and many shops and restaurants that are found in the area. Lancaster County, easily identified by the Amish farms and buggies that slow down traffic creating a delightful break from the rush-rush driving we experience in the large megapolis that stretches from Boston to Washington, DC. It is good to see the families working together, going places together and enjoying each other. It is also good to sample all the Pennsylvania treats from chicken and waffles to farm fresh ribs and homemade ice cream.
This is a pleasant experience and we always enjoy this countryside. We look forward to staying at the Lancaster Marriott. The last time we visited, we were shut in by Covid restrictions and neglected to visit the Pennsylvania Dutch countryside. This has to be rectified. Although the City of Lancaster has so much to offer, we want a twofer. Why not stay in Lancaster and visit the Pennsylvania Dutch towns and countryside that surround the city?
We arrive at Sight & Sounds Theatre in the nick of time. Cutting it close is my fault. I think that we can go there at 11:30 but the doors to the theatre close at 11:30. We have five minutes from the parking lot to showtime or miss it altogether. Tanya has a field day with this. After all I cannot even attempt to blame her us getting there late. However, when we get into the building, they are still taking tickets and the show hasn’t begun. Almost the minute we sit down the doors close and the show begins.
We have a coveted end seat and in no time we are are transported into the days of Noah through multi-media, side stages and people and animals walking down the aisles. There are also videos that appear on curtains and the side walls of the theatre. The whole theatre is the stage. Sight & Sounds breaks all the rules of traditional theatre. We see birds flying, horsemen coming alongside us up the aisles. There is the front of a huge ark that has geese running into it, and cattle, horses, goats that are taken into it by members of Noah’s
family. There is an attempt to burn the ark by the evil, totalitarian king of the city of Nod (something not in the Biblical account but it adds drama to the story). The inside of the ark when it takes center stage is three stories high and full of animals and automated manmade animals that look like the real thing. And there is one beautifully performed song after another. Noah sings, his wife sings, his three sons sing and their wives sing. There is dancing—lots of it.
But, in spite of all the animals and singing, there is a solemn message that God is just and must punish unrepentant sin. The Old Testament ark is a picture of Jesus Christ, who is our ark and all that will keep us from judgment. Sinners need to flee to that ark to escape the floods of judgment. Although there is more in the play Noah than in the Biblical narrative, it gets to the point—loud and clear. God promises that he will never flood the earth again, but at some time it will be judged by fire. So we, like the sinners of Noah’s time, need to flee to Jesus just as Noah and his family had to flee to the ark for refuge. Tanya can’t
help herself—she screams, “Hallelujah!” I teary eyed simply say, “Amen” as we leave the theatre.
We leave the Amish Country taking the six-mile journey to Lancaster. We park and bring in our suitcases. At the checkout desk we meet a manager trainee, Andrea Velez and her front desk trainer and the person who checks us in, Roman Parham. Both Andrea and Roman are friendly and helpful. Since no one else is checking in this early in the afternoon, we talk with Andrea and Roman for a few minutes and notice the lobby is filling up with people.
The lobby is remarkable. Unlike most hotel lobbies, it is not built around the front desk. It is spacious with many sitting areas, potted trees, tables, and even work areas with access to electricity for laptops and USB ports to charge phones. At the far end of the lobby you can see the Lancaster County Convention Center, which is housed in the same building as the hotel. On our way to the 18th floor we see servers carrying trays scurrying back and
forth to the kitchen of Plough—one of the restaurants at the Lancaster Marriott. One of the servers offers us some hors d'oeuvres, and without blinking an eye, we each take one.
Sitting on what feels like the top of the world, we see more than we can from our suite. The Exchange has both outdoor and indoor seating and both are available with a beautiful view.
We get off the elevator and cannot believe the beautiful view we have in our room. The large renovation project that Lancaster Marriott had done several years
ago is evident in the sleek design of the room. Entering the room through a hallway over the shiny hardwood floors, we pass the bathroom. Tanya practically pushes me out of the way in her enthusiasm to take of photo of the sliding bathroom door with translucent glass and two vertical and two horizontal black iron strips that cross each other about two feet from the bottom and two feet from the top. Inside is a rain forest shower, a granite countertop with the sink set seamlessly inside.
Once inside the room we can’t help noticing the three large windows that overlook Lancaster giving us a surround view of the city. Right next to us is the top of the Griest Building, which is the second tallest building in Lancaster—the Lancaster Marriot is the first. Below, not too far from us is the Lancaster Central Market—the oldest continually operating market in the United States. We long to revisit Queen Street with its shops, boutiques, food stores, and restaurants making it look
a little like our downtown Doylestown, Newtown or New Hope.
We love the large mahogany king size bed and the desk. There is a very comfortable chair that I claim. Tanya looking out the window watches a marching band practicing in a little square across the street from the hotel.
At 6 p.m. we have reservations for The Exchange. The Exchange on the rooftop of the Lancaster Marriott’s East Tower is ensconced by glass, and also gives us a wonderful view of the city. The refined rooftop features an extensive beverage-driven menu spotlighting creative twists on the classics and quirky, creative cocktails, alongside thoughtful wine and beer selections showcasing seasonal and local flavors.
Sitting on what feels like the top of the world, we see more than we can from our suite. The Exchange has both outdoor and indoor seating and both are available with a beautiful view. As we are sitting in cushioned chairs at a round table waiting for our server, we see to the right, the kitchen behind glass and directly in front of us is the chandelier that looks like stars suspended in midair.
Our server comes with our menus and she offers us drinks. We ask for water. The menu is divided into The Exchange Board, which gives us the choice of cheeses and meats to build our own cheeseboard. The next section is Starters, some of which sound scrumptious, such as Pea and Strawberry Salad made with Spring Mix, mint, sunflower seeds, lemon buttermilk vinaigrette and feta. Others that catch my eye are Marinated Olives, Calabrian Chili Chicken Wings, and the Seafood Tower (oysters, shrimp, smoked salmon dip, Old Bay Crab Dip, chips and crackers, Mignonette, and Tomatillo Cocktail Sauce). There is a Wood Fried Pizzas section, then the Large Plates.
We take our order from the Large Plates. Tanya orders Spicy Crab Bucatini with Salumeria Biellese pepperoni, garlic, San Marzano tomato, cream, breadcrumb and basil. I order the Steak Frites which is
YOUR HEAL LTTH,
OUR COMMITMEN
Care with Heart and Expertise.
At Prime Healthcare, Pennsylvania Region, our team of doctors, nurses, and care providers is committed to foste and wellness. We believe that by partnering with our pat can achieve enhanced health outcomes for our commun
dedicated ring healing ients, we ities.
At the core of the Prime Healthcare Pennsylvania netwo unwavering focus on best practice care, all delivered wit human kindness. T r, let’s create a healthier tom when you choose us, we choose you!
rk is our h genuine orrow
an 8 oz Coulotte Steak, parmesan and arugula pommes frites, black garlic aioli, and green garlic pesto. We both enjoy the food, although Tanya cannot finish all hers and brings a box to the room. The experience is superb. However, it cannot be over until we try a dessert. So we share the Lavender and Almond Polenta Cake a devilish combination of raspberry sorbet, toasted almonds, whipped mascarpone, and lemon zest. We leave impressed by the décor, the server and especially the meal. Tired from eating and travelling, we return to our room, review our day and turn on the smart tv to watch several episodes of a Turkish series with English subtitles. I fall asleep before Tanya.
Morning awakens us with a craving for coffee. There is a Starbucks in the lobby, so I get the coffee and a couple of Starbucks treats and bring them back to the room. Tanya is sleeping again, so I quietly sit on the comfortable cushioned chair, drinking coffee and reading a book on my Kindle. Tanya wakes, stretches and
Enclosed in the hotel is the Montgomery House, which Hans explains, is a Federal Period house. It was once the home of William Montgomery, an affluent Revolutionary War veteran, who entered the war as a teenager and rose from rank of private to being a colonel.
joins me in our morning snack.
After Tanya literally takes an hour to shower and dress, we leave the hotel and take a walk. We head down Queen Street
and are enamored by the little shops, art galleries and one particular store called The Snack Stand, which sells snacks from all over the world. I am especially interested in the Dove Chocolate Wafer Rolls from China and the Lays cucumber flavored potato chips made in Canada and sold in China. Tanya says, “To each their own,” while looking at all the international gummies.
We walk to Gallery Row on Prince Street. We enter the Lancaster Museum of Art, housed in a staid Federal era brick building, we peruse the local art, and realize that the local artists of this area are talented and worth viewing. Sometimes we Bucks Countians imagine that we are the only ones in Pennsylvania that have great artistic traditions—not so.
Time is slipping through our fingers when I realize that we have a reservation at Plough, the restaurant in the lobby of Lancaster Marriott. I know from another trip that we are in for quite an experience. The restaurant, which has a large bar and
itself is quite large, was our favorite on our last trip to Lancaster. The comfortable seating and friendly staff make it feel like a home away from home. The same noted chef, Ryan McQuillan, whose menu we enjoyed at The Exchange is the captain of this kitchen too. Open from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. on weekends but closes at 12 a.m. on weekdays, Plough offers a “modern American menu with ingredients sourced from the region’s lush farmlands.”
Our server visits our table with menus and takes our drink order. I order an Our Town Proper Pils, a local craft beer, and Tanya orders a Margarita. And we look at the menu that changes seasonally. The fact that it is not yet fall means that we do not see the menu that Chef McQuillan will have created for this issue of Bucks County Magazine. However, there are some things that are on the menu year-round.
We are in time to order from the lunch menu, which has Small Plates, Salads, Bowls and Handhelds. Tanya orders the Shaved Ribeye Cheesesteak that has Caramelized Onions, Cooper Sharp Cheese, Roasted garlic mayo on a seeded roll and a Caesar salad as a side. I order the Plough Burger, which is a 6 oz dry aged burger patty, smoked cheddar, caramelized onions, steak sauce, baby arugula, all on a seeded bun. I had a side order of the soup of the day, which was a crab bisque. We are in culinary heaven. Afterwards we share a Decadent Chocolate Cake and by then we are ready for a late afternoon nap.
We awake from our nap at 7 p.m. I tell Tanya and she says, “You’re kidding.” We both slept soundly. We have snacks, so our dinner consists of chips, candy and treats that the hotel graciously left for us on our arrival. We again watch the Turkish series, but the episodes stop having English subtitles, so I use my iPad to watch some American tv shows. Tanya keeps watching the series in Turkish and can actually know what’s going on by the facial expressions and actions of the actors.
We wake up early. I have an appointment with Hans Schrieber, the director of
sales and marketing for the Lancaster Marriot at Penn Square. He is an affable tour guide, whose love for this hotel is evident in everything he shows me. We being with a walk outside. He points to other buildings, such as the Lancaster Central Market. He gives me a history of the building which houses much of the Lancaster Marriott Penns Square that began as a department store and had many lives before it became the hotel it is today. The façade is on the national register. The department store dates back to 1898. The combination hotel convention center and new wing has 2.9 acres under its roof. And within its walls is a archeological dig uncovering an Underground Railroad stop.
Enclosed in the hotel is the Montgomery House, which Hans explains, is a Federal Period house. It was once the home of William Montgomery, an affluent Revolutionary War veteran, who entered the war as a teenager and rose from rank of private to being a colonel. Since then the house was home to several families, a YMCA, hardware store and became part of the department store. This Federalstyle house is now restored and can be used for smaller conferences. He shows me the Charter Board Room with its long hardwood, polished to-the-max table and surrounded by soft black leather cushioned chairs. The candelabra chandelier adds to the dignity and gravity of the room. The Montgomery House has four stories of rooms for meetings, social events and weddings. As we go up the elevator to the top floor, we see a
bride and her entourage getting ready for the big event tomorrow.
Hans shows me the Convention Center and I see the 10,000 square-foot ballroom that is already set up for a wedding. I am impressed. After that we visit the pool and the spa. The pool is magnificent with lots of space around it and many places to sit comfortably in between dips. The spa has everything a spa could have. The tour is extensive and I enjoy it and Hans very much.
After the tour Tanya I return to the room. Tanya has packed her bag. I pack mine. We sadly leave Lancaster City. We drive home through the Pennsylvania Dutch area of Lancaster County one more time. Then we get on the turnpike and go home. My advice to our readers is to go to the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square as a springboard to visiting both the Amish farmlands and the city of Lancaster. v
Bob Waite is the editor of Bucks County Magazine and Tanya is his wife, travel companion and the co-writer of this department.
Under One Roof
Derek Schroeder, owner and president of Rolf Schroeder General Contractors Inc., sees his relationship with his clients as a partnership that offers all services to his clients under one roof.
Derek Schroeder always says, “We put our clients in the driver’s seat.” The Owner and President of Rolf Schroeder General Contractors Inc. understands that in the end, what matters is the partnership. “It’s not I’m working for you or that you’re hiring me. We’re doing it together. And we want our clients to be thrilled with the experience and result.” It could be a kitchen or bath remodel. Perhaps changing the
design of a home’s exterior or turning an attic into more usable space. Derek says his Design/Build company offers its clients an experience all housed under one roof. “It used to be you were either a construction company or contractor. We’re a collaborative team.” A client does not need to hire a separate architect or designer, because the company offers it all.” They’re responsible for the project. And if the job requires skills beyond the scope of their in-house craftsmen, their professional affiliations
“ Order Now for the Holidays”
WE CARRY - butter cremes, carmels, mint patties, nuts, party favors, wedding favors, sugar free candies, counter candies (spearmint leaves, gummy bears, licorice all sorts, nonparells, malt balls, ect.), chocolate covered pretzels, truffles and more .
with a handful of experts will bring it all together.
Like many design/build companies, there’s a process. First, a design consultation, where a client will describe the project and provide their input. Based on that, Derek’s team goes to work on a plan they believe will best meet the client’s needs and budget. It is presented, a 3D rendering is provided, tweaks might be made, then agreement on pricing and delivery.
What this building pro says differentiates them from others is not only the willingness to really listen to their clients,
but in offering all potential services under one roof—which offers options and protects costs. “Often, since architects are not involved with physical labor, it can result in plans that don’t align with a client’s investment level. We want our clients to make an informed decision.” Derek believes, doing so allows clients to decide what’s most important to them. “In a design, they might want to focus on one aspect of a project more than another. They might give up the marble countertop for granite and use the cost-savings somewhere else in the plan.” It’s a very fluid way of doing things. Too often when a po-
tential customer gets disappointed with the sheer number of people involved or lack of options, Derek says they walk away. “We don’t want disappointment,” he says. They try to limit anxiety by providing homeowners with the entire project scope and costs. “If we say a project will come in at a specific cost, it will.” Projects that come in at double the estimate were simply not estimated correctly.
Derek says testimonials through platforms such as GuildQuality offer good input during the selection of a design/build firm. “If there’s a BUT in the review, you know there were problems.” Since most of his work comes from wordof-mouth referrals, their 40-plus years in business says a lot. This isn’t Derek’s first rodeo. But it is his first love.
After building custom homes, he realized how the demand for high-end remodels and additions was largely unmet.
Rolf Schroeder Contractors was started by his father, Rolf, back in 1982. After building custom homes, he realized how the demand for high-end remodels and additions was largely unmet. That’s where they found their sweet spot.
“I grew up around the business,” Derek says, coming to work with his dad, sketching up blueprints and coloring them in with his crayons. He began creating his own designs and the interest grew from there. One of his favorite memories is building an elaborate swing set with his dad. And with a family that valued hard work and dedication, his strong work ethic was established.
Derek took architecture and shop, as well as drafting and architecture at Central Bucks West High School in Doylestown. Because of the work he had already
done with his dad, Derek says he was always ahead of everyone. “My first year in class, I already knew hand drawing, so I went into computer design quicker.” But as a participant in several high school sports, he decided sports medicine might be a good direction for his college career. So, he pursued a college degree in kinesiology, eventually scoring an internship with the Chicago Bears. “But reality came calling—in the form of student loans and the realization that he needed a solid, good-paying job. And as many artisans do, Derek returned to what he first loved, what he was demonstrably good at— building things.
In 2008, he began full-time, saying he worked 40-60 hours a week. Realizing retirement would soon come calling, his dad Rolf understood that Derek was an accomplished craftsman, but now, he needed to learn the office side of the business—and the business began to evolve. Licensed in both PA and NJ, his company now serves both sides of the Delaware. And while he aims to please his clients’ design desires, he’s very dogmatic. “There’s nothing worse than someone walking into your bathroom 30 years after it was remodeled, asking, ‘what they
were thinking?!’” Timeless is his vision, but he also realizes that some clients are tied to a very specific look, and if so, that’s what they’ll get.
They’ve been the recipient of the NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) Contractor of the Year awards at both local and regional/national awards. The honor not only comes with bragging rights but provides them with inspiration for future clients. Derek believes that Rolf Schroeder GC is the perfect size—offering personal involvement and professional capability. “I may be biased,” he says, “but you need to find the balance
Like many design/build companies, there’s a process. First, a design consultation, where a client will describe the project and provide their input.
between business and passion. We’ll be in your life for weeks to months. It’s essential to have a good, trusting relationship. Many of our clients have become friends. They don’t second-guess us, and when they need someone for the next project, there’s no question about who they’re turning to.”
Rolf Schroeder GCRolf Schroeder General Contractors is located at 1979 Stout Drive, Unit #1, Ivyland, PA. For more information, call 215-672-0829 or visit www.rolfschroedergc.com.v
Chrysa Smith is a contributor to the magazine, with a keen interest in all things home.
Adaptation & Versatility
Whether landscape, hardscape, boulders, stepping stones or sustainable gardens, Justin Braley of Sycamore Landscape Design Build wants to adapt to his client’s needs and be versatile.
Sycamore trees have a long, symbolic history. From ancient Egyptian civilizations to Native American and European folklore. They’ve been considered the Tree of Life, sacred and mysterious, So, when Justin Braley, needed a representative name for his landscape business, he knew what it had to be. Sycamore Landscape Design Build is a Central Bucks-based company that offers a variety of services for their customers. As adaptive and long-standing as the ancient tree, Justin says that’s what he longs for in every job—from small Bucks residences to large scale properties. “We want to adapt to what our clients’ needs are. We want to be versatile.
And it begins with a four-step process starting with a design
consultation. It’s a gathering phase. What are the homeowners looking for? What is their vision? Often times they will come in with a visual or mental image. Other times, not sure. It is Justin’s job to envision what he might be able to do. Given direction, availability and durability of plants, sun and shade conditions and water is this next step called a site analysis and base map of the property. What can actually grow? What is the elevation of the property? Drainage? And of course, challenges and obstacles. Based on all of this information gathering, recommendations are offered in the concepts and ideas stage—the presentation of plans. Homeowners get a chance to review, revise and question. And when everyone agrees, a final design and price are submitted. If it’s all good, work begins.
Justin is no novice to the business. “My summer job was always landscaping, building and remodeling. In high school, I got a job with a landscape company doing simple maintenance,” he says. “I forked mulch out of the back of a truck and learned that I liked working with a crew, working hard, making an impact on someone’s property.” So, after a bit of career trial and error, he realized that landscaping was his love. “My generation (beginning of the Millennial age) was notorious for going to college just because they thought they should have,” Justin explains. But he took a different route, and if you see some of the properties or visit his website (www.sycamoreldb.com), you get the picture that he made the right
decision. He was hired by a landscape company, worked his way up to foreman, entered into a sales/operations role, eventually providing him with enough experience to go out on his own. Speaking with him it’s clear, he never looked back.
Since 2016, Justin and his team have been busy—including his certification as an arborist, which he says gave him a greater understanding of plants—looking at them in a new way. Now, they’re set up with three different crews involved in all aspects of installation. “We have a design intern each year,” he says, “But the goal is to have a separate salesman, a full-time designer. We’re in a sweet spot right now.” Besides focusing on doing the plan-
ning and physical work, he claims he wants to provide opportunities for others to demonstrate how great a landscape job can be.”
He’s a dynamic individual with a vision. Working everywhere from Central Bucks, Newtown, Princeton and a few other areas of New Jersey, the foundation is strong. And Justin believes what separates them from other landscape designers/builders is their process. “We ask lots of questions. It’s important to us that the project belongs to the client. We clean up, go home and at the end of the day, it’s the customer’s—not ours.”
Initial plantings are just one of the considerations. Maintenance is the other. He says, “Experienced Garden design
He’s a dynamic indi-
Working everywhere from Central Bucks, Newtown, Princeton and a few other areas of New Jersey, the foundation is strong.
provides both year-round beauty and utility while ensuring each plant can flourish.” So, their team comes back for clean-ups and tweaks. One of their more widely known projects was for a house called the Wycombe Octagon. “It’s pretty well known,” Justin proudly adds. “We still go in a few times a year to do work; sometimes give tours of the garden. We’re always thinking of where a house is placed and how we can accent it within the landscape. This one is terraced to make the home the focal point.”
With only so many plants that will thrive in the region, “We take a holistic approach to property. How does the patio function with the inside of the house. We
Upper Bucks County
Historic small towns and villages connected by country roads that run beside farms, forests, lakes and rolling hills is Upper Bucks County where the old provides a setting for shopping, dining and entertainment. Visit Upper Bucks!
Imagine iconic villages surrounded by rolling hills presenting historic stone farmhouses, barns, open space, parks, and it’s very own Vansant airport where you see vintage biplanes fly above the Delaware river. Then think of new shops, upscale boutiques, fine restaurants, breweries, artists and artisans. Your imagination has taken you to Upper Bucks County. Here we see small farms, baled hay and shoppers scurrying in and out of stores shopping. The contrast seems almost stark; cosmopolitan and small-town, commercial and rural, historic and modern. This is why Upper Bucks County
“DON’T
with its deep roots in the past, scenic countryside, glistening river and bountiful farms is a tourist destination that caters to lovers of natural beauty and up-to-date culture, art, cuisine and fashion.
The towns in Upper Bucks County are connected to each other by state and county roads which traverse the rural countryside. Although there is similarity between them, they each have their own history and character. Take a drive up there and visit the shops and businesses on the attached two pages and enjoy it!
Update your existing cabinets with a high quality factory finish.
Custom carpentry, colors and many other design choices are available. No Brushes or rollers.
And we do it in a fraction of the time & cost of a full renovation.
• Soffit Removals
• Cabinet to Ceiling trim
• Pantry Walls
• Custom Hood Vents
• Beverage & Wine Bars
• Upgraded Door Styles
• Custom Colors
Upper Bucks County
Cabinetry Designed and built by hand to fulfill all of your needs. Kitchen, Bath, Entertainment, Office, Bar, etc... In House Cabinet Refinishing Services as well.
What a great way to spend the day at Bishop Estate Vineyard and Winery’s fun property! Enjoy the wine, beer on tap, wine slushies and wine cocktails and wine-tasting experiences. On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays you’ll find food trucks and great live music! Bring a lawn chair if the weather is nice! Over 25 of wines, something for every palette, from dry reds and whites to sweets and fruit wines! Enjoy a best seller, the Dark Bishop Cabernet Sauvignon, a Cabernet aged in a rye whiskey barrel, or the Bee Sting, a dry honey wine infused with jalapeno. Interesting, historical, and relaxing. View the online calendar at BishopEstatePa.com to see food trucks and music schedules. Open all year, every day!
Upper Bucks County
Style from page 125
consider the views from the inside out,” he adds, “A window is a picture and hopefully it inspires you. I want what you see outside to inspire you too. You spend 70 to 90 percent of time indoors, so what you see through the windows is important.”
Some clients are concerned with sustainability, and Justin says they respect that. Plants are sourced locally, thriving better in their natural environment. But it’s not all without it’s problems as well. Bringing beneficial bugs and birds into the ecosystem can present their own challenges, possibly needing more care. Others are concerned with the overall look, and one of the more popular features he sees these days are boulders. “They’ve become increasingly popular in the last 15-20 years. We have a lot of
quarries here in Pennsylvania. These can add a natural look and feel. Just more components to make the outdoors an oasis.”
And nothing makes an oasis more complete than complimentary lighting and sound. They use a company named Coastal Source Lighting and Audio, which is their go-to source to bring in pieces that enhance entertainment. Long after sundown, Justin says it not only adds to the environment, but makes a place feel quite special.If your yard is new or needs a lift, Justin suggests visits to local gardens. “Philly is the garden capitol of the world. Go. Take photos if you see something you love. Then save the picture to an album to document it. Those are the things that make a garden special.” He speaks of clients who plant the
tree variety they had in their own yards growing up or where some sweet memories were made.
Each landscape is completely unique, and while Sycamore Landscape Design Build wouldn’t dare plant a Sycamore in every environment, the sentiment holds true. Adaptive. Custom. Something with roots anchored to the past, now and to be enjoyed for many years to come.
Sycamore Landscape Build Design’s mailing address is PO Box 909,Doylestown, PA 18901. For more information, call 267-742-3335 or visit www.sycamo reldb.com.v
Chrysa Smith is a regular contributor with a soothing landscape, perfect for drinking tea, listening to music and playing with the family pup.
Bucks County’s Town & Country Real Estate
Are Current Trends Affecting Us?
by Sedia Wyatte
Regardless of the state and national trends in home sales, our market is still a burgeoning seller’s market in which we need the help of professional realtors more than ever to buy or sell homes
TBucks County’s housing market remains robust, offering rising prices, quick sales, and a still-competitive environment—especially for luxury properties. That said, growing inventory and slightly slower turnover indicate a shift toward more balanced dynamics. Homebuyers will soon enjoy more room to negotiate, while sellers still benefit from pricing strategies.
The real estate market in Bucks County is still a seller’s market. Prices have gone up in some areas but are basically remaining stable. In April 2025 the median price for a home in Bucks County was $485,000, up 4.6% from April 2024 while inventory remains low, it is moving up . House remain on the market an average of 23 days, an increase of 4 days since April last year. Changes are slow, indication market an upward movement in sales. This April there were 521 sales showing an increase over last year by 14 percent.
The pandemic crash of rates could not hold forever and now with inflation increasing, rates naturally are going up. But are they prohibitive?
Interest rates on mortgages are softening a little, but are hovering around 6.7%. Freddie Mac/Mortgage Reports cites 6.7% for the year and Bankrate lists 2025 year-to-date is 6.85%, as of August 20, 2025, a decrease of .5 percent from last year. This trend is affecting statewide and nationwide sales.
So, what does this all mean for selling or buying a home in Bucks County and surrounding areas? One thing it means is national trends can and probably will have an effect on first time buyers. But the truth is that historically these rates are still low.
Dave Ramsey, budgeting expert and home finance counselor, says “So, what if you are debt-free and do have a full emergency fund? In that case, now is actually a great time to buy a house. Sure, the interest rates and home prices are high, but they’re only going to keep climbing. And because interest rates are high right now, fewer folks are buying—that means you won’t have as much competition when you make offers. Plus, when and if interest rates do eventually go back down (we’re talking years here, by the way, not months), you can always refinance your mortgage.”
Houses are moving fast and so far, it is still a seller’s market but that could very reasonably change if interest rates continue to climb and if lots of building takes place, which seems to be on the horizon, simply because a limited inventory makes investment
in building a smart move.
For those selling a home in Bucks County, it is still a very good time to sell. And buying a home is the best alternative to renting. The cost of renting a home is continually rising. Younger families are not getting the same tax advantages as homeowners, and they have no accumulation of equity. This is why statistics from the National Association of Realtors show that first-time buyers made up 33% of all home buyers. And although downsizing has been a buzzword for the last decade, 12% of home buyers purchased a multi-generational home, to take care of aging parents or to provide space for children over the age of 18 who are moving back home with their parents.
The market is changing, and it is still complicated for sellers getting the best price and for buyers finding what they need. It is vitally important that sellers and buyers use real estate professionals rather than act as their own agents. The Pennsylvania Realtors Association explains that buyers need a professional realtor because “They understand their local markets and can negotiate on the buyer’s behalf, which is especially beneficial in competitive markets.” As for sellers, “They help navigate the complex home selling process and have the experience to effectively prepare, position and price a home for sale.”
Sedia Wyatte is a freelance writer from Bristol, PA.
REALTORS, THERE IS A DIFFERENCE
THERE IS A
DIFFERENCE,
With over 30 years as a full time Realtor, I bring deep knowledge of the Bucks County market, a strong network, and proven marketing strategies to every client relationship. I'm not just in the business of real estate--I am a matchmaker, connecting people with homes and neighborhoods that fit their lives. Integrity, commitment, and community are the hallmarks of how I work. As a longtime Bucks County resident, I be-
transaction--it's a
CAROL MAYHEW
With a career in real estate since 1984 and proudly serving with Coldwell Banker since 1996, I bring decades of experience, insight, and dedication to every transaction. As a Licensed Broker with numerous professional designations -including Luxury Home Specialist -I have the expertise to guide both high-end buyers and sellers through every step of the process.
From start to finish, my team and I are committed to addressing all of your real estate needs with care, professionalism, and attention to detail. Scan the QR code to visit my website, where you can read the heartfelt recommendations from clients I've been honored to serve. I'm deeply grateful for their trust -and I'd love to earn yours as well.
Colleen Evanchik Team
The Colleen Evanchik ‘family’ Team have been selling homes in Bucks County and beyond since 1993. Whether you are selling a Condominium or a McMansion, we can take care of you.We are a ‘hands-on’ team and can help prep your home for sale; stage; get the honey-do listcompleted, so call us, you won’t be disappointed.
We offer FREE and FRIENDLY real estate advice, so call us at Re/Max TOTAL:
Colleen Evanchik Associate Broker Re/Max Hall of Fame
The Colleen Evanchik “Family” Team Colleen, Tanya & Joe Maher
ColleenTanya
The
Joe
M ARY L OU E RK - Y OUR T RUSTED R EAL E STATE PARTNER
Mary Lou Erk Associate Broker
Meg Roth
Linda Strasburg
Linda Kilroy
Chris Stevens Todd
Janice Iaquinto
Melanie Rush
Heather Walton
Cyndi Zglenski
Marie Kovach
Sherri Belfus Kracht
Carrie Lager
Lorraine Gross
Glenn Nemath
Ashley Rutherford
We
We e are known forour foods, includingthe largest selectio dehydrated, freeze-dried and gently alternative diets.
Open seven days a week with sev neighborhood locations. In Penn Hope, Maple Glen, and Blue Bell. For more
Frenchtown NJ
Thebeginning of the Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park is here. The towpath meanders south from Frenchtown for a bit before it hits the canal itself. From here, bicyclists can pedal along the Delaware River all the way to Trenton. Frenchtown is also a great strolling and shopping town, with numerous small charming boutiques. The town’s three big festivals – Wine and Art in May, Bastille Day in July and RiverFest in September – are a cool way to check out all the local offerings. Visit Frenchtown this spring and enjoy shopping and dining along the Delaware River. It’s just across the Uhlerstown - Frenchtown bridge from Bucks County.
The Bucks County Antique Show
Antiques are appealing for their craftmanship and history of a bygone era that depicts the artistry and culture of previous generations / By Bill Waite
Bucks County has always been a go to area for antique hunting. Many still visit Bucks County from New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia and beyond, looking for the rare find to add to their collection or to bring home to their art gallery or sell in their antique shop. Searching for a treasure may be the most fun of all. The touch, feel and story behind an antique is something to cherish.
Antiques are appealing for their craftmanship and history of a bygone era that depicts the artistry and culture of previous generations. They are collected for nostalgic reasons as well as
their appreciation in value. In Bucks County you have numerous antique shops and interior decorators who look to integrate antiques into your home. Nothing better complements a Historic Stone Farmhouse than a rare antique or a conversation piece. Bill D’Anjolell and his wife Karen own Imagine Antiques & Appraisals in Newtown, Pennsylvania. Bill is the president and Chair of the Bucks County Antiques Dealers Association and president of the Pennsylvania Antiques Appraisers Association. He also a member of the Washington Crossing Card Collectors Club. He acts as a mentor & counsel for the Hunterdon Antiques
Fair in Ringoes, NJ, the Wheaton Arts Antiques show in Millville, New Jersey, and the Long Valley Antiques show in Long Valley, New Jersey.
Bill’s interest and passion for antiques began in college. His favorite subject was history which later merged into a like and later love of antiques. Bill says, “All of our members feel that antiques are simply made better than new items today, especially furniture.”
The Association includes 45 members. In the Association are shop owners, appraisers, specialists, an auctioneer, restoration experts, show exhibitors, and members with over 30 years in the business. These members get together every year for the Bucks County Annual Antiques Show. They have been doing it since 1966.
The gathering includes antique dealers from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and Virginia. This year it is being held
November 8th and 9th at St. Cyril of Jerusalem Church, 120 Almshouse Road, Jamison, Pennsylvania. Bill is busy each year leading up to the event, talking and coordinating with its 45 members to make the event successful and making sure there are many one-of-a-kind items for the numerous collectors who attend.
An antique show offers the pleasure of exploring a variety of items from the past in one location. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just curious about history, you can find a wealth of items, from furniture and toys to paintings, jewelry and memorabilia.
At the show last year Bill took my wife Vicky and I around to the various vendors, and I was amazed at the variety of antiques and collectables there. I saw old toys, coins, furniture, documents, paintings, vases, China, crystal, ceramics, Christmas collection, decoys, tools, books, folk art, old photographs,
who sells and collects Antiques & early 20th-century American toys in Centerville, Delaware. Top, antique toy truck and horse racing carousel from Michael Paul Gunselmans collection. Below, antiques from Long Spring Antiques in Riegelsville, PA.
Opposite, Bill D’Anjolelli Show manager with Michael Paul Gunselman
Art & Antiques
Center left, a fireman’s helmet from Antro's Antiques from Newark, DE. Center right and bottom right, paintings and a toy dog from Georgian Interiors from Summit, NJ. Bottom are posters from Bob Lucas from North Wales, PA.
architectural items, primitives, jewelry, advertising signs, vintage clocks, manuscripts, diaries, Halloween collectibles, redware, wood bowls, sterling silver, art glass and so much more. I saw items that brought back memories of my childhood and visiting my grandmother’s home in Asbury Park, NJ.
Everybody likes a good story and there are stories to tell about most of the items and the people who sell and buy there. Many people love to mingle and talk about what is for sale, the history, condition, value and origin and personal experiences. Bill is a great guide and storyteller, and he knows almost everything about the vendors and can tell some of the stories about them and their finds and collections.
At an antique show you find collectors and buyers who are there to find something. They enjoy the thrill of discovering interesting objects, and a story about them makes these objects even more appealing as an addition to their collection. Antique shows to collectors and casual browsers are a way to hunt for specific items or find out what the dealer has that he couldn’t truck to the show. Something they may meet up later to see and
talk about. The one that they want to buy regardless its cost.
While many collect antiques for pleasure, others want to build a collection. Either way antiques and art a profitable investment. They can appreciate over time offering a good return on investment. With research and market trends some rare antiques in good condition and in demand will appreciate the most. But understand that antiques are for you to enjoy and usually are a medium to long term investment.
Vicky and I enjoyed our time with Bill D’Anjolell. He really has a passion for what he does and has a knack for managing the show every year. He is very knowledgeable and has published a book My Antiques Journey in 2020. It’s a book about everything you need to know about buying and selling antiques today, whether you are a collector or dealer. It’s available in local bookstores and Amazon. It’s a great read and contains some valuable information to use when searching for that specialantique or collectible.v
Bill Waite is the publisher of Bucks County Magazine.
If you are driving the backroads and farmland around Upper Bucks, watch for a woman in a sunhat at an easel. Bucks County artist Jane Ramsey stops wherever she finds inspiration to paint a landscape or farm scene.
And for this gifted watercolor painter, inspiration is in the preserved farms and open spaces all around her. This has led to a unique partnership that has grown over the years with the Heritage Conservancy. Jane has regularly donated paintings of preserved landscapes to their annual Farm to Table fundraisers. Recently, Jane led a nature journaling class for children on the grounds of Aldie Mansion, the Conservancy’s headquarters in Doylestown.
Jane lives in a cottage on the Ulrich Farm, a conserved farm in Upper Bucks, where she documents the workings of agriculture and the ordinary and extraordinary details of farm life.
Jane speaks reverently of the farms she visits to paint and of the stories and history the grounds and buildings harbor. Her connection to these farmscapes and woodlands and their stories fuels her passion for conservation. “Without the conservation efforts of Heritage Conservancy, Bucks County would not be the place
it is,” she says.
That is why Jane has supported Heritage Conservancy over the years. “I think that the work being done is so important,” she says. “Their mission totally aligns with my inspiration.”
All of Jane’s paintings are watercolor and almost all are painted from direct observation. She loves plein air for the way it allows her to really see and interact with her surroundings. Jane’s landscapes overlap with Heritage Conservancy’s conservation areas, and many of the landscapes she paints are protected by their easements.
Jane owns Simons Fine Art Framing and Gallery in Dublin, where her artwork can be seen. She also teaches watercolor classes, both from her studio and outdoors. Her love of plein air painting is contagious, as she and her students draw from the life around them. In her own way, she is preserving the landscapes and open spaces of Bucks County as well, if only on paper.
“I think nothing would please me more than, if for some of the places in my paintings and drawings, you could return ten years from now and these vistas would still be there.”
Visit Jane’s website at www.janeramsey.com to learn more.
Art & Antiques
49th Philadelphia Museum Of Art Contemporary Craft Show
Experience the best in contemporary craft and design by 195 artists from across the United States. Forty artists are participating for the first time. Objects made of clay, glass, metal, fiber, and wood, as well as jewelry, furniture, and art-to-wear, are available for purchase at this event.
Returning for a second year is the studio art quilt booth, a collective organized by Studio Art Quilt Associates (SAQA).
Two special presentations will be held during the Show. The first is on Friday, November 7, featuring three art-towear artists illustrating the many ways to wear a scarf. On Saturday, November 8 at 1pm, a fashion event will showcase wearables and accessories created by exhibiting artists.
Purchase General Admission tickets in advance on the website (www.pmacraftshow.org) or during the Show at the Convention Center box office (November 7-9). Prices are $20, one-day adult, $25, two-day adult, $5 for children 12 & under.
Show dates and hours: Friday, November 7 (11 a.m.-7 p.m.), Saturday, November 8 (10 a.m.-6 p.m.) and Sunday, November 9, (10 a.m.-6 p.m.).
Party will be held on November 6, 2025 ticket prices start at $250 per person and up. Preview party ticket holders can return to the show every day the show is open.
The Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Art Show will be held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Exhibit Hall F, 12th & Arch Streets, Philadelphia, PA. For specific details regarding gala, preview tickets and for general admission tickets, visit www.pmacraftshow.org.
Gala Preview
Above, Jewelry: John Sterling, Furniture Rocker: Nick & Kristen Martier, Furniture Light: John Sterling.
The Village People Antiques
Step into a world of history, elegance, and timeless treasures at The Village People Antiques, Lahaska's newest and most exciting antique destination. Located in the heart of Bucks County, just across from Peddler's Village, our co-op-style shop features a vibrant mix of seasoned antique dealers and passionate collectors, each bringing their own specialty and style. At the heart of our shop, you'll find Dina’s Dynasty, curated by Constance Marie Definis—a stunning collection of vintage designer women's clothing, fine jewelry, silverplate, crystal, pocketbooks. It's a space where fashion meets nostalgia, and style knows no age.
Attic Treasures invites you to browse its eclectic haven offer primitive farmhouse décor, vintage linens, timeless furniture, and collectible knickknacks that spark joy and memory. Whether you’re a decorator, a treasure hunter, or a curious soul, you're sure to find something that speaks to you.
For coins, gold, and silver, to antique lighting, collectible LLADROS, paintings, and elegant furnishings, we have something for everyone. The dealers are always available to chat, share knowledge, and help you find the perfect piece—whether you're furnishing your home or hunting for a unique gift.
For Constance Marie Definis and her wonderful partner Lynn Lovino, their shop is not just antiques—it's about community, passion, and giving new life to old. Come explore, rediscover, and fall in love with the past— all over again.
The Village People Antiques is located at 5752 Route 202. Lahaska, PA across from Peddler’s Village and is open 7 days a week. Visit us or call 267-756-0664 or 267981-8756. Also, follow The Village People Antiques on Facebook and Instagram.
Beautiful and Unique Décor
At Artefact Antiques you will find the perfect items to fulfill your vision for the extraordinary. We search far and wide to bring you distinct antiques, home decor, furniture, and so much more.
Rick and Salley Fehr own and operate Artefact Antiques. They transformed an 18th -century stone and wood-framed barn, formerly a country inn and stagecoach stop. They are not your typical antique shop. They are much different. Theirfocus is on presenting unique finds … vintage to contemporary… sixty-five hundred square feet of architectural salvage, lighting, furniture, decor, and garden appointments.
Artefact Antiques is holding its 38th Anniversary Sale on October 2 to 4. Artefact Antiques is located at 790 Edison Furlong Road, Furlong, PA. You can reach them at 215-794-8790 or visit them online at www.artefactantiques.com.
Life at an 1890 Chateau
Earlier this year, I traveled to Orquevaux, France for an art residency, and the experience continues to shape my work in ways I couldn’t have imagined. The 1890 chateau where we resided was perched above the quiet village and when the 23 of us arrived from our corners of the world, we were speechless looking out over what we just slipped into. The interior was steeped in art and antiques, and frankly, two weeks wasn’t enough time to take it all in.
My second floor bedroom looked out over the village through tall windows with triple-hinged shutters I never truly figured out how to fold back properly. Belongings were stored in a dark wood armoire faced in curved mirrors. I have to admit, I checked the back wall to be sure I didn’t arrive that way. That too, didn’t close very easily nor did the bathroom door I shared with my wing which required slamming to lock. I wouldn’t have had it any other way.
I loved running my hands over the three massive wood dining tables that each sat ten guests comfortably. Grand sideboards, filled with twinkling crystal that clicked above our lively dinner
By Jennifer Hansen Rolli
conversations, while an original tapestry warmed the room alongside copies of original paintings now housed at the Louvre. Remarkably, nine tapestries remain throughout the chateau, spared even when nearly everything else of value was taken during the Nazi occupation.
My studio, housed in a converted horse stable, carried a history of its own that I happily added to. Artists are invited to leave a piece of their work behind and halls are now lined with paintings from around the world. I contributed a large painting of the parlor, featuring one of the tapestries.
As Bucks County Magazine’s cover artist, I feel honored to share how these new experiences now live within my paintings alongside my roots in Bucks County. Places like Orquevaux and Bucks County remind us that art connects us across time—allowing memory, resilience, and inspiration to live on.
Jennifer Hansen Rolli is a respected Bucks County artist who also paints the beautiful covers that appear on every issue of Bucks County Magazine.
Orquevaux Dining Palor in February
Remembering Steve Zazenski, AWS
Steve was a professional artist since 1978. He is well known for his watercolor and gouache landscapes of Bucks County, New England and his travels abroad. He was the recipient of over 150 awards and is in public and private collections throughout the US. His series of lithographs depicting his native Bayonne, New Jersey have been used on several tv shows and his work has been presented in the past to luminaries such as former Polish President Lech Walesa. The upcoming exhibition will make available to the public the last of Steve’s available paintings. A reception will be held at the gallery on Saturday, September 13. Visit the gallery website for further information. Patricia Hutton Galleries, is located at 47 West State Street, Doylestown, PA. www.Patticiahuttongalleries.com.
An exhibition honoring the life and work of Steve Zazenski (1948 - 2025)
Red Tulip Crafts
Visit Red Tulip Crafts to experience the best in handcrafted fine crafts being made in the Eastern PA and Central NJ regions while meeting the artists who made them. This artists’ cooperative is the hidden gem of the New Hope crafts community, featuring a range of disciplines, such as jewelry, pottery, glass, fiber, pysanky, photography, painting, and wood. Red Tulip is staffed entirely by the artist members, so you can rely on their deep understanding of the crafts represented.. We love to talk about our art and will eagerly answer questions you may have about techniques, materials, and processes. You’ll always find beautiful, unique, and creative pieces that will be treasured for generations—ideal for gifting or adding to your own collection. Red Tulip welcomes you to visit us in person or take a look or visit RedTulipCrafts.com.
Alex Sarka Russian/American artist
Alex Sarka’s painting career began after graduating from Parsons, New York. He traveled to Paris, France to find a career in Fashion Design but instead found his comfort in painting. Alex says, “I was fortunate to meet great people who believed in me and my work. With their help I was able to live and paint between Monaco and Paris.”
When Alex returned to Pennsylvania after nine years, he wanted his own place where he could paint and showcase his work. He was looking for an area
with a vibrant art community. Alex found that New Hope was the perfect place. He says, “It's like no other place in Pennsylvania. Here in Bucks County, there’s a tight community of people who appreciate art. I'm also aware of how rich Bucks County is in its great art traditions that produced such artists as George Sotter, Fern Coppedge, Edward Redfield, Daniel Garber. Although my art is different from what people here love, I really hope I can fit in and become part of it.”
Alex’s work is surrealistic. He says, “When I begin to paint,
BUCKS COUNTY ANTIQUE CENTER
I painted without knowing the end result. It's about putting paint down on a canvas and letting it guide me to an image that satisfies me. I painted that way from very beginning of my career because I have never had traditional schooling as an artist. Instead I had contemporary, New York style schooling.
To discover more about Alex’s work follow him on Instagram @Studiobysarka or you stop by Studio Art located at 5761 Lower York Road, New Hope Pennsylvania. For more information, call 267-383-8033.
Art & Antiques
DWork That Measures
ave Ballai is a retired tech executive with a novel hobby, combining vintage yardsticks with a wide array of antique materials. His work is a delightful collision of nostalgia and wood craftsmanship, where his widely sourced vintage materials meet the humble yardstick. You know, one of those old measuring devices relegated to the closet in most everyone’s home.
Dave’s work is a mosaic of memory, in old boxes, weathered wood and faded advertisements, blended together with early yardsticks. He creates wonderful art, and not with just any yardsticks—these are the kind your grandpa used to measure two-by-fours and your grandma used to swat flies (or your wrists).
Dave’s hobby keeps him busy all year round, and he participates in several craft shows throughout Eastern Pennsylvania. I will caution you that he has heard every measuring joke out there, but enjoys engaging in the delight his customers enjoy with each unique piece of art.
Having collected yardsticks for over 25 years, his process is part treasure hunt, part time- travel, and a good deal of woodworking, although a hobby that his wife Prudy labels simply as “his disease”. Fortunately for Dave, his wife is his constant source of inspiration—she has a tremendous design eye.
The result? Art that doesn’t just hang—it speaks. It tells stories of small-town charm, of measuring life in inches and memories in layers. David’s work reminds us that beauty isn’t always found in perfection, it’s found in patina, in history, and sometimes, in a yardstick that’s seen a few things. In the end, his craft is about giving forgotten things a second life. It is history you can hang on a wall or display on any countertop.
His work most certainly measures up.
Dave is a member of The Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsman. You can learn more about his wonderful craft and find his craft shows at www.YardsticksRule.com.
Art & Antiques
Al Lachman, friend, expressionist painter and passionate artist is going into semi-retirement and is gifting us with his final annual show, “Last Hurrah” from November 8 to November 24 at the Lackman Gallery in Pedler’s village. I am sad, but Al reassures me that this is not an end to his marvelous career that began at the age of 17 in New York. After all, at age 89 he is just as passionate about painting as he ever was, and he continues to paint every day, but now he wants to teach more and paint a little less. His wife and loyal partner Arlene says emphatically, “He will still paint. He will paint until his dying breath.”
So, Al is not going stop painting. He just going to stop having shows. And that is why “Last Hurrah” is such an important show. In fact it is so important that Al Lachman is even going to show paintings that he painted for his own collection—paintings that mean much to him. His show will include a sculpture and also his newest paintings. They range from portraits, expressionist landscapes and abstract works that boggle the senses.
Al explained to me years ago that today’s emphasis on tech-
Al Lachman’s Last Hurrah
nique can result in very skilled artists that paint pretty pictures. He is not denigrating technique. Because Al Lachman is an astute student of color theory and a master of his brush. He is comfortably at home painting with oil, acrylic, pastel, and charcoal. No medium is taboo. But he believes that these things need to be transcended for a painting to be art. He says, “I let my subconscious take over and go into that zone where the soul emerges.” I think it is like a poet finding his voice. Al’s voice sometimes screams, other times it seduces and it always expands the way we see and feel the world.
Al told me once that that the goal of every true artist is to create a perfect moment. “In life one moment may be close to perfect and the next not so. In art the perfect moment lives on.” Al Lachman’s “Last Hurrah” could be a perfect moment for you.
The Al Lachman Gallery is located at Peddler's Village (Shop #44), Street Road, or Routes 202 & 263, Lahaska, PA. For more information call 215.794.5500 or visit www.allachman.com.
Canal Frame-Crafts Gallery
Now in our 35th year, it is time again for our Annual Small Works Show running November 9 through December 31. It is a good opportunity if you are looking for a special new piece of art by a local artist for yourself or as a gift. The opening reception is November 9 from 1pm – 4pm. Also, if you need framing for the holidays, it is best to bring it in asap. Canal FrameCrafts Gallery at 1093 General Greene Rd.; Washington Crossing, PA 18977; www.CanalFrame.com; 215-493-3660.
Image: “Blacksmith Shop” by Tom Furey; Oil on Canvas Panel; 9 x 12. Representative of the artwork in Small Works 2025.
Delaware Valley House Parts
Delaware Valley House Parts is a new local resource for quality house parts. Look for the grand opening this fall. In the meantime the store is open with an “enter at your own risk” policy, and a smile. The store stocks parts salvaged from the Clarkson Mansion in Flatbush, an 1830’s Greek revival house salvaged by the Brooklyn Museum in 1940. Doorways, columns and pilasters from this project were installed in the American Wing of the Met
for a time and can be seen in the store. Current inventory from the Princeton Theological Seminary salvaging project of 2022 includes roof dormer windows, various doors, windows and millwork items. Dutch doors from Lancaster, chandeliers from Rumson, NJ and 18th century Italian marble bolection mantles are a few objects you might find. You will also find a large range of doors, windows, hardware and good old house parts in a variety of styles across many periods. Reggie has a particular interest in unusual, rare and special large scale items.
The mission is to save important historic architectural parts, provide a source to buy them, while promoting historic preservation and restoration practices. Preserving and promoting critical thinking about our built environment and how to minimize waste and landfill is always part of the conversation. As in the Newburgh store, preservation classes will be offered in our upcoming seasons. Visit them at 243 N Union Street Lambertville, NJ 08530; www.delawarevalleyhouseparts.com; (267) 449-1144.
2025 Arts & Antique Guide
AOY Art Center
949 Mirror Lake Road
Yardley, PA
215-493-1205
www.aoyarts.org
AOY Art Center offers various programs, including shows, education for adults and youth, and a popular summer art camp. With over 290 artist members, ranging from beginners to professionals, AOY provides exciting and innovative programs taught by professionals. They host juried and non-juried shows, fundraising events, and social gatherings to showcase artists' work.
Artefact Architectural Antiques
Rt. 263, The Village Barn Furlong, PA
215-794-8790
www.artefactantiques.com
The majority of our inventory is antique and includes fireplace mantels, stained and beveled glass windows, doors and entryways, interior and exterior lighting, decorative objects, furniture, and garden appointments. In the formal gardens, you will find antique and reproduction garden pieces in bronze, iron, marble, stone, terra cotta, and wood.
Bucks County Antique Dealers Association
Newtown, PA
www.bcadapa.org
The Bucks County Antiques Dealers are
an association of professional Antique Dealers located in Bucks County, Pennsylvania and the surrounding areas.
Canal Frame-Crafts Gallery
1093 General Greene Rd. Washington Crossing, PA 215-493-3660
www.CanalFrame.com
We are not just another frame shop, but a full-service gallery. Featuring both originals and prints, we represent many fine local artists.
We have also received awards for our custom framing.
Doylestown Gold Exchange
812 N. Easton Road
Doylestwon, PA 18902 215-345-6630
www.doylestowngoldexchange.com
Turn old and broken jewelry into cash that you can use today.We buy and sell gold and jewelry.
Factory Antiques
130 W. Main Street Silverdale, PA 215-453-1414
Exceptional selection of antiques and vintage from over 45 dealers displayed on three floors.
The Antique & Craft Shop provides a charming selection of collectibles and antiques appropriate to Fallsington. You’ll find candles, vintage dressers, linens, pottery, stenciled slates, primitive cupboards, antique country tables & chairs and antique lighting.
Gratz Gallery
5230 Silo Hill Road
Doylestown PA 215-348-2500
www.gratzgallery.com
Gratz Gallery & Conservation Studio is a full-service fine art investment gallery, located in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. Our gallery specializes in 19th and 20th Century, American paintings, with an emphasis on the Pennsylvania Impressionists, the Philadelphia Ten, and artists from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts.
Delaware Valley House Parts
243 N Union Street
Lambertville, NJ (267) 449-1144
wwwdelawarevalleyhouseparts.comDelaware Valley House Parts is nestled in the charming neighborhood of Lambertville, NJ. Well known for its rich historical legacy as well as its architectural prestige, the Delaware Valley at large has long been a source of rare and treasured architectural artifacts with its deep appreciation for preservation.
MAIN STREET GALLERY
1236 W. Broad Street • Quakertown, PA 18951 Open noon - 5pm, Friday - Sunday 610.442.4112 • JIMLUKENSART.COM
Main Street Gallery
1236 West Broad Street
Quakertown, PA
610-442-4112
www.jimlukensart.com
Bucks County Impressionist oil painter. Landscapes, wildlife and still life.
Mercer Museum
84 S. Pine Street
Doylestown, PA
215-345-0212
www.mercermuseum.org
The Mercer Museum is a six-story reinforced concrete castle designed by Henry Mercer (1856-1930) and completed in 1916. Today, it is one of Bucks County’s premier cultural attractions and a Smithsonian affiliate. The museum complex features local and national traveling exhibits, as well as a core museum collection of over 50,000 pre-Industrial tools.
Michener Art Museum
138 S. Pine Street
Doylestown, PA
215-340-9800
www.michenermuseum.org
The Doylestown-based museum has 35,400 square feet of space, with a landscaped courtyard, an outdoor sculpture garden and
terrace built in the original prison yard, seminar and conference facilities, a museum shop and café, and the George Nakashima Reading Room. As a regional art museum whose principal focus is Bucks County, Pennsylvania, the Michener Art Museum collects both historic and contemporary American works, with a focus on the art of Bucks County.
Patricia Hutton Galleries
47 West State Street
Doylestown, PA
215-348-1728
www.PatriciaHuttonGalleries.com
A fine art gallery located in the charming historic district of Doylestown, specializing in Impressionism and Realism by renowned Bucks County and New England artists. We also offer small antiques, vintage and antique sterling silver and etched glass. We also carry artisan crafted, hand painted wooden bowls, decoys, pottery, and fine frames.
Phillip’s Mill
2619 River Road
New Hope, PA 215-862-0582
www.phillipsmill.org
The historic Phillips’ Mill has been a welcoming space for visual and performing artists for more than 100 years. Yet, our quaint center for the arts was once a working grist mill, a structure of historic significance that we must preserve for generations to come. The Phillips' Mill Community Association supports programming in the visual and performing arts and hosts social and educational events.
Phoenix Art Supplies & Framing
1810 S. Easton Rd
Doylestown, PA
215-345-0980
www.phoenixartsupplies.com
Acrylics, Oils, Watercolors, and Gouaches
... top quality paints are available for beginners and pro artists alike! To suit your needs, a selection of popular paints, mediums, and varnishes ranging from student to professional grades are in stock. And Phoenix Art Supplies & Framing has one of the largest and most eclectic frame selections in the area with over 2,200 frame choices selected from 21 different manufacturers.
Red Tulip Gallery
19C Bridge Street
New Hope, PA
267-454-0496
www.redtulipcrafts.com
Red Tulip Gallery is an artists' cooperative run by members of the Bucks County Guild of Craftsmen, a local chapter of the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen. We're artists and fine craftsmen working in a range of disciplines, such as jewelry, pottery, glass, textiles, photography, painting, and wood.
Silverman Gallery
4920 York Road, Route 202 Holicong, PA 215-794-4300
www.silvermangallerybuck scounty.com
The Silverman Gallery of Bucks County Impressionistic Art is committed to promoting the next generation of fine artists painting in the Impressionistic style. These proven, award-winning artists carry on the tradition of such eminent painters as Edward Redfield, Fern Coppedge, Daniel Garber and the other fine artists that produced a legacy of creative expression reflecting the beauty of Bucks County.
Simons Fine Art
Framing & Gallery
122 N. Main Street Dublin, PA 215-249-9155
Simon’s is artist owned and passionate about art. And it is dedicated to the craft of fine art framing and committed to keeping it affordable and accessible.
The Village People 5752 Route 202. Lahaska, PA 267-756-0664
Aco-op-style shop features a vibrant mix of seasoned antique dealers and passionate collectors, each bringing their own specialty and style.
Bucks County Impressionist Oil Painter Jim Lukens
Holiday Catering—choices
The holidays come fast and a successful holiday event for a small or large gathering requires careful planning. Thanksgiving, Christmas and Hanukkah have almost arrived and New Year’s Eve is not far behind. It is the time we get together as families, co-workers, friends and service groups. And it is a time to choose who is going to serve the food and where? How are you going have it catered?
Having it at venue such as a restaurant or winery or large event space has its advantages for some events, while others may be best catered at home. At a venue you will get professional setup and service. Venues are designed for hosting events, so tables, chairs, linens, lighting, and sound systems are often included or easily accessible. There is also more space and amenities making larger guest lists easier to accommodate. And venues provide a change of scenery that feels more special or formal, which can elevate the overall tone of the event. Having a party or celebration at a venue is also less stress for the host, who doesn’t have to worry about cleaning the house after the event. Having your party or celebration at home has its advantages. Hosting a party at home creates a warm, intimate atmosphere. Timing is more flexible at home. At home, you avoid rental fees and may be able to scale the event more affordably. Guests (especially children or older relatives) may feel more relaxed in a home environment. Some caterers can use your home kitchen, or you can mix professional catering with homemade dishes.
Whether it is for a Thanksgiving dinner, a Christmas lunch for a civic organization an office holiday party, or a party for a group of children, caterers in our fast paced digital age are a blessing on the holidays.
Catering and Ventue Guide
The Wildside Walk
At Wild Fork in Horsham you can walk on the wild side and cook exotic meats like ostrich, bison, yak, alligator and wild boar and also lamb, beef, chicken, turkey and seafood.
OK. You know you want to. You’ve been thinking about it. Even coming close a couple of times. Still, never succeeding. But take heart: Wild Fork on County Line and Easton Roads in Horsham makes it easy for you to take a walk on the wild side. That is, cooking exotic meats like ostrich, bison, yak, alligator and wild boar. Then, there are those heralded by chefs and food magazines yet near impossibles to find like Berkshire cuts of pork, Iberico ham from Spain, Wagu beef from Japan and fully cooked duck leg confit.
I admit I had been curious for some time as well as hesitant to take a walk on the wild side, but Mike Richards, Horsham’s Wild Fork manager, made it easy for me to venture out of my food comfort zone. Mike, whose food background spans 17 years, in-
cluding as a butcher for Whole Foods and opening two food coops, fell in love with the farm to table approach to eating. But before we meet for our interview, I took a quick tour of the store.
One of the first things I noticed was how clean and well organized the aisles of food were, with everything well labeled above each section. For example, if looking for lamb, you’ll find all the various cuts and styles in the freezer under the Lamb signage. And if there’s something you can’t find or are looking for, a member of the friendly and knowledgeable staff, is there to help —even give you tips on preparing a particular cut of meat, poultry or seafood.
Wild Fork, with headquarters in Doral, FL, started in 2017 with the concept of selling freshly frozen foods. In 2022 Wild Fork opened in Horsham, Mike says, adding that there are now
Photo: Paul Wesley
62 Wild Fork stores across various parts of the country, including in Bensalem, Wayne and Philadelphia.
“Wild Fork blast freezes all of their products,” Mike says, “so there’s no loss of nutrients, freshness or flavor.” They blast freeze at peak freshness to lock in straightfrom-the-farm or sea flavor. Wild Fork butchers, product developers and in-house chefs hand-select and taste-test every product they source. For example, the Wagu beef they offer is A5, which is Japan’s highest grade known for its exceptional marbling, rich flavor and melt-in-yourmouth texture.
For U.S. beef, Wild Fork turns to slow-feeder cattle regions in Colorado and Nebraska to offer Choice, Prime and Grass fed beef. And, then, offer every cut imaginable from skirt steaks, ribeye and N.Y. strip to brisket, roasts and ground beef, and to bones, organs and every cut in between. As with most other meats, poultry, seafood and vegetables, pre-seasoned beef with marinades, sauces or spices are also offered.
Beef, as well as lamb, can also be found under its country of origin sign. Wild Fork offers lamb both from the U.S. and Australia. Along with the wide selection of U.S. beef, such as Bacon-Wrapped Tenderloin, USDA Prime Tomahawk Steak, USDA Choice Black Angus Flat Iron Steak, Organic Ground Beef and Beef Bacon, you’ll find cuts of beef from two other countries known for their tasty beef: Brazil and Argentina. Among the Brazilian offerings, you’ll find its flavorful and growing in popularity beef cut picanha (look for a recipe in the July 2025 issue of Food & Wine magazine). Known also as a sirloin cap, picanha is favored for its rich flavor and tender texture, especially when cooked with its fat cap intact.
For poultry you’ll find just about every cut of chicken or turkey comes antibioticfree, organic or pasture-raised. And in a wide range of styles—from plain to seasoned, such as Fajita-seasoned Ground Chicken; Turmeric, Lemon and Thyme Seasoned Chicken Breast; and Turkey
Party Wings.
If looking for fish and seafood, you won’t be disappointed. Wild Fork’s freezers are chock full of flash-frozen fish and seafood—both wild-caught and sustainably farmed. Again, as with its beef, poultry, exotics and vegetables, Wild Fork lets you do the seasoning as with its Wild Caught Sea Scallops and Raw, Ahi Tuna, and Peeled & Deveined Large Shrimp with Tail-on. Or, with its team of chefs, does the saucing and marinating for you, e.g., Teriyaki Sesame Salmon, Classic Shrimp Scampi and Coquilles St. Jacques.
I should mention Wild Fork’s Super Lump Crab Cakes (it comes with two fully cooked cakes; just need to reheat). As I was placing one into my toaster-oven to reheat, my friend, whose patio is a few doors away, called to invite me for a glass of wine. Dilemma: Do I decline or take the unheated crab cake with me? Of course, l took it with me, telling her we can share it as an appetizer with our wine.
However as we were finishing our glass of wine, I asked what happened to the crab cake. She laughed and said she had thought that I had brought it over for her dinner and had stashed it in her fridge. Later that night, she called to say how delicious it was and that she was going the next day to Wild Fork to buy more for herself. So much for sharing.
Most items come in single serving size or in packs of two or more. Though they don’t run many sales, Mike says, Wild Fork offers the lowest possible prices every day. And is competitive with Costco. Membership not required to shop, however, there are member benefits (see website for details: www.wildforkfoods.com).
But shopping doesn’t need to stop with Wild Fork’s meat, poultry and seafood. A wide selection of appetizers, desserts, pizzas, bakery goods and ready to heat and eat dishes are available. At any given time there are easily 54 appetizers, such as Beef Empanadas, Chicken and Vegetable Pot Stickers, and Fish and Shrimp toasts. And no worries about not having chicken wings
for an Eagles game or Super Bowl. They have you covered. From antibiotic chicken wings to Chipotle BBQ Wings to an assortment of seasoned ones.
Come the holidays, instead of the usual turkey or ham, roast a goose, capon, duck or pheasant for your family and friends. (Although Wild Fork has those as well.)
Recipe cards, jars of seasonings and bottles of prepared sauces and marinades share shelves next to the back freezers. Recipes can also be found on some of the packaging, as well as Best By Dates and directions. Look for more recipes and suggestions on Wild Fork’s website.
But I did say take a walk on the wild side. With that, Mike leads in with bison, saying it’s their most popular exotic. By my count they offer 18 different cuts of bison, beginning with antibiotic-free bison burgers to various cuts of steak, roasts and sausages. And if you haven’t noticed, bison recipes are popping up in all the popular food magazines, including Food & Wine and bon appétit.
Yak and kangaroo are also popular. Generally speaking, exotic meat is a healthier choice over beef. It has less fat than beef; it’s lower in calories and saturated fats; and higher in iron and omega3s. Plus it’s nutrient-dense.
Along with bison, yak and kangaroo, you’ll find alligator, ostrich, rabbit, frog’s legs, wild boar and venison in various cuts and styles. For example, Alligator Tenderloins, Venison Frenched Rib Rack, Rabbit & Pork Sausage in White Wine, and Wild Boar & Pork Sausage with Cranberry & Red Wine.
So go ahead. Take a walk on the wild side. Just take it at Wild Fork.
Wild Fork is located at 1536 Easton Road in Horsham; 267-769-6496, and in Bensalem at 600 Rockhill Drive; 215-4941048. Both stores are open Mon.-Sun. 8 a.m.-9 p.m.v
Diana Cercone is an area freelance writer who specializes in food, art and travel.
Restaurants with Taste /
Frank D.Quattrone
Johnny Apples
At Johnny Apples, one of Bucks County’s most beloved watering holes, conviviality reigns supreme. Laughter permeates the dining rooms— partly from the tables, partly from the bar, a sure sign of the (good) times (patrons are having).
Perhaps they noticed, as they arrived,
ing server, Michele Pomponi, greeted two first-time visitors with genuine warmth, no doubt a vestige of her twenty-years’ enjoyment in her role at Johnny Apples.
It’s a family restaurant, with generations of the same families returning again and again since the restaurant opened in 2001. The co-owners are siblings Mary Barb, who enjoys mixing fine cocktails
Princeton Tavern in Northeast Philly. And at Johnny Apples, a gastropub named after their fathers (their dad and their stepdad), the blood runs hot and cool.
Chef Patrick has fashioned an accessible, affordable menu with familiar favorites and neat twists on contemporary American cuisine. Drawn to a table of four lively patrons enjoying each other’s com-
atop the restaurant’s roof—the jolly flag of Ireland swaying in the warm evening breeze. Perhaps it was the traditional Gaelic welcome on the front door, or the lighted four-leaf clover adjacent to the TV screen dominating the bar. Not to mention the ten other screens facing each other, five on each side, above the long rectangular bar seating two-dozen lively patrons.
Although it’s not, strictly speaking, an Irish restaurant and bar, there’s no denying the grand Irish tradition of hospitality keenly palpable at every turn. Our charm-
tending bar, and Executive Chef Patrick Bell, a raconteur who claims he owes his passion for cooking from his mother, who turned him loose in the family kitchen, not to mention the many other chefs he’s worked with through the years. His training? He says, with a wink, “I was taught on the streets!”
The business is in the blood. Their parents owned and operated the Hathaway Inn in Germantown for more than a quarter-century (1971 to 2001), and their brother John still owns and operates the
pany as well as the restaurant’s warm ambiance, we asked about the generously laden appetizer filling their table. On their second visit to the restaurant, siblings Dylan and Bella Pontarelli and their friends Mackenzie Gillen and Nicole Davis had ordered “Johnny Apple’s Sampler,” an amazing array of upscale comfort food featuring hot wings, chicken tenders, potato skins, mozzarella sticks, and mini chicken tacos (with side servings of marinara sauce, blue cheese dressing, honey mustard, and sour cream).
Photos:
Paul Wesley
It’s not just its indelible, exciting brushes with history that brings back the faithful, again and again, to McCoole’s at the Historic Red Lion Inn. Any hostelry that has survived— better yet, that has contributed to—the rich stories of our nation is sure to be a lure to the curious. After opening in 1747 under the ownership of Walter McCoole,
McCoole’s
Railroad. Ghosts too, for well over two centuries, have made frequent appearances at the inn, adding to its unmistakably quaint allure.
Never resting on its considerable laurels, McCoole’s continues to play a leading part in the ongoing story of Quakertown, where it’s become a genuine community center, welcoming guests young and old to
hearty three-course prix-fixe dinner at the restaurant.
At McCoole’s Arts & Events Place adjacent to the inn, also under the auspices of Jan Hench, poetry lovers can enjoy a free-admission poetry slam on the third Thursday of every month, with featured poets, and open mic, and food and drinks from the restaurant for purchase.
it served as a tavern during the American Revolution, and was the site of an uprising in 1799 protesting what countless local settlers felt was an unjust tax imposed by the British crown.
The issue was serious enough to draw the ire of Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton, whose fury at these so-called “traitors” was quelled by none other than President John Adams.
Prior to the Civil War, the newly named Red Lion Inn also became a safe haven along the vaunted Underground
its lively bar and friendly tables. Under the auspices of vivacious owner Jan Hench, the restaurant is now celebrating its twentieth anniversary with an array of special programs to entice even more guests to its open arms.
One such experience is “Dinner & A Movie,” a cross-promotion with the reopened R/C Richland Crossings Movies 12. For $30.00 on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, patrons can enjoy a first-run movie at the cinema good for any showing, any time (except IMAX), plus a
Every other month, those who are more spiritually inclined can come to “Dinner and Messages,” featuring popular medium Marianne Michaels, whose next session will take place on Thursday, Oct. 30, at 6 p.m.
This November, McCoole’s will also be hosting weekend workshops for children’s theater, anticipating a late fall production of A Charlie Brown Christmas. Finally, concept chef Eduardo Mora has also helped Jan Hench fashion a special $20 Tavern Menu to coincide with the res-
We thanked them for their recommendation and ordered our own “Sampler” to start our meal that evening (and the next two, for good measure!). And then, for our entrées, came two more pleasant surprises.
From the “Hand Helds” menu, Eve thought she was ordering one of her favorite sandwiches—a Reuben. Little did she know that, far from being a sandwich, far from being possible to hold in her hand, it was a generous, scrumptious plate of corned beef sitting atop a huge slice of rye bread, cradled with Swiss cheese and sauerkraut, smothered with Thousand Island Dressing, all grilled to perfection and accompanied (like all “Hand Helds”) with French fries, coleslaw, and a pickle. Man! Add half of that to our dinner the next night! Dee-lish!
But my favorite dish of the evening was clearly my sautéed Sausage and Shrimp Louisiana, the chef’s deft variation on Jambalaya, served in a spicy Creole sauce over (my choice of pasta) linguine.
JOHNNY APPLES
Okay, okay—more zesty fun to reprise in our next evening meal!
We had no room left for dessert, but took home delectable portions of Key Lime Pie and Tiramisu for our feast the next day.
Although it’s hard to believe the restaurant could be any livelier than our Thursday night visit, we learned that Johnny Apples offers an evening of karaoke every Wednesday and brings in live music every Friday and Saturday night.
Mary Barb says, “Our guests are like family. They have such a good time here.” Patrick adds, “Some were so happy we never closed during the pandemic, but still offered takeout, so they could still enjoy their favorite meals at home. They never forget that we didn’t forget them.”
There are so many favorites on the menu. But the owners say that everyone raves about their Clams Casino, their 14ounce seasoned and grilled pork chop, and their “steakhouse quality” 16-ounce New
York Strip Steak, which is a weekly special every Thursday. Other weekly specials include half-price burgers and $2.00 chicken tacos all-day Tuesday, and Happy Hour drink specials Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m.
Dining is also available on the patio when the weather is kind; but anyone who passes through that front door, listening to the happy buzz emanating from the dining rooms and bar can’t help knowing that that’s the place to be. For the food. For the drinks. For that legendary Irish hospitality. Sláinte!
Johnny Apples Restaurant is located at 184 Buck Road, Holland, PA; 215-953-9900; https://johnnyapplesrestaurant.com. Open 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch/dinner served to 10 p.m. daily; light fare daily until 11 p.m. Happy Hour: 4–6 p.m., Monday –Friday, bar area only. Available for catering on- and off-site. Live music Friday & Saturday evenings. Call for reservations.
McCOOLES AT THE HISTORIC RED LION INN
taurant’s anniversary.
Which brings us to the menu, which really is the principal reason McCoole’s has attracted such a loyal following. Offering what it describes as an “upscale atmosphere for the working person’s wallet,” the restaurant presents “an American style” menu with countless familiar favorites juxtaposed with evolving items sure to satisfy those with nutritional tastes and preferences. Last month, for example, McCoole’s added two vegan entrées— Golden Oyster Mushroom Risotto and Chicken of the Woods Risotto.
On the evening of our most recent visit, Eve and I shared, from the “Soups, Salads & Sandwiches” menu a most delectable Smoked Salmon Flatbread, a unique pairing featuring a Boursin cheese base topped with smoked salmon, puckishly delicious sliced cucumbers, and shaved red onion. We also asked our bright and eager server Brooke Wagner to bring us a side dish of zesty thinly sliced fried pickles from the Tavern Menu to pique our appetite
even more.
For our entrées, Eve and I shared two of the restaurant’s popular seafood items— house-made, filler-free Twin Crab Cakes, served with crunchy Asian green beans, a cilantro lime risotto cake, with a roasted red pepper tartar sauce, and Fish & Chips, a huge and tasty, crispy Atlantic cod, battered with Red Lion Brewery Ale and served with seasoned fries and a red pepper tartar sauce.
Hugely satisfying, especially with my chosen Mimosa Flight, three five-ounce glasses of passion fruit, raspberry, and peach Mimosa (and Eve’s favorite, a zesty Bloody Mary). Everything on the menu is made to order—absolutely fresh fish and vegetables, cocktails free of sugary simple syrup, and ice cream (like caramel cinnamon swirl) custom-made for the restaurant by Allentown’s popular Udder Bar. Our Limoncello Cheesecake, recommended by our bright young server, was simply excellent.
McCoole’s aims to please. Jan Hench
says, “I want our guests to feel at home, with the cool vibe, good food, our friendly staff, the paintings [many done by Quakertown High School art students], the history all around them. We still have the original fireplaces and old stone walls, eighteenth-century floor tiling by the old piano. We even offer Italian Prosecco on draft! McCoole’s is a place with real personality.”
We couldn’t agree more. When the weather is kind, you can also dine on the patio, with a view of Jan’s Main Street Art Gallery across the road. With its menu, charming ambiance, and ever-evolving “Arts & Events” programs next door, McCoole’s has become Quakertown’s unofficial community hub.
McCoole’s at the Historic Red Lion Inn is located at 4 South Main Street, Quakertown, PA 18951; 215-538-1776; www.mccoolesredlioninn.com. Open Wednesday to Saturday, 12 - 9 p.m. and Sunday, 12 – 8 p.m. Closed Monday and Tuesday. Dog-friendly outdoor patio dining. Reservations recommended..
Dining & Food Guide
BUCKS COUNTY
Alessio’s Seafood Grille
827 Easton Road, Warrington, PA
215-483-8500
www.alessioseafoodgrille.com
Alessio’s Seafood Grille serves fresh, flavorful Italian seafood dishes prepared with the finest ingredients from around the world. Everything is made by hand in our restaurant everyday, from delicious appetizers and favorably sauces to our salad dressings and homemade Italian seafood specialties. Serving seafood, Italian dishes and pizza.
Baci Ristorante
Route 202 & 413, Buckingham, PA
215-794-7784
www.baciristorante.com.
A charming Bucks County fieldstone restaurant that offers fireside and balcony dining in the upstairs restaurant. Enjoy the Heart of the Oak Pub offering both the Pub menu and Baci’s menu. Serves Northern Italian cuisine including pasta, seafood, chicken, chops, veal and steak entrees. Facilities for weddings and private parties up to 120. Extensive wine list and imported beers on tap in the Oak Pub. Online menus. Enjoy the piano bar on Friday and Saturday evenings. Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner. Menus online.Reservations accepted. Accepts major credit cards.
Charcoal BYOB
11 South Delaware Ave. Yardley, PA 215-493-6394
www.charcoalbyob.com
A neighborhood gem, since 1995, Charcoal has been crafting seasonal meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. At Charcoal we experiment with modern culinary techniques while incorporating the classics.The room is casual and comfortable, entertaining both young families and long time regulars. In the evening, the music changes, candles are set out on the tables, and many diners show up with some of their favorite bottles of wine. Handmade pastas, the freshest seafood, Painted Hills beef, Griggstown Farm Chickens fried to order, and house made bread and desserts make any evening feel special. Charcoal BYOB is a family restaurant, with a bit of a modern twist.
Casual fine dining with Chef Karen Baron’ signature dishes that include jumbo lump crab au gratin, soft shell crabs, duck with green peppercorn-brandy cream, angel hair pasta with lobster, and creme brulee. Full bar. Online menus. Open for dinner Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 5–9 p.m.; Sunday 4–8 p.m. closed Tuesdays. Reservations accepted. Accepts Visa, MC, and American Express.
Golden Pheasant Inn
763 River Road
Erwinna, PA 18920
610-294-9595
www.goldenpheasantinn.com
Indulge in French-inspired cuisine, enhanced by the charm of Bucks County’s lush surroundings. With a commitment to seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients, each dish showcases fresh, vibrant flavors crafted by renowned chefs
who blend classic techniques with innovative touches. Signature dishes might include pan-seared duck breast, tender filet mignon, and elegant vegetable-forward creations, all accompanied by an extensive wine list curated to enhance the flavors of each course. Whether for a special celebration or a leisurely meal, dining at the Golden Pheasant Inn is an experience that celebrates the art of fine dining in an intimate, countryside setting.
La Villa Pizza and Family Restaurant
21 S. Pennsylvania Ave., Morrisville, PA 19067; 215-7363113; www.lavilla-restaurant.com
La Villa is a family owned and operated restaurant. You will always receive the most pleasant and quick service. We offer the best in Italian Cuisine. Everything is prepared from scratch, from our Bruschetta to our Fettuccini Alla Villa. We have Trenton tomato pies. BYOB. Hours are Sunday Thursday 10 a.m.—10 p.m.; Friday & Saturday 10 a.m.—11p.m. Weekday buffet 11a.m.—3 p.m. Major credit cards accepted.
Dining Out Guide
Country Inn Serving Fine & Casual Fare
We invite you to sample freshly prepared seasonal specials…
Come in and relax in our comfortable dining rooms featuring unique pieces of original art
Wed., Thur., Fri., Sat. dinner from 5pm • Sun. dinner from 4pm
Closed on Mon. & Tues.
Reservations Appreciated 610-847-2662
Rt. 611 and Churchill Road, Ferndale, PA
15 miles N. of Doylestown on Rt. 611 www.theferndaleinn.com
McCoole’s at the Historic Red Lion Inn, c 1750, corner of Main & Broad Quakertown, PA; 215-538-1776 www.mccoolesredlioninn.com
Upscale atmosphere for the working person’s wallet, featuring humanly raised, antibiotic and growth hormone free foods with cooperation of local farms. The best of live entertainment on weekends and Al fresco dining on the patio in season. Online and phone reservations available and suggested for weekend dining.
Tonys Place
1297 Greeley Ave, Ivyland, PA 215-675-7275
www.tonysplaceivyland.com
Prepared by a world class culinary staff, the menu at Tony’s Place features a full array of small plates, sandwiches, salads, and entrees that are sure to delight. Our chefs have developed a menu that adapts to the seasons with locally sourced ingredients to satisfy your taste buds. Cocktail bar and entertainment.
Vela Restaurant
140 Veterans Ln, Doylestown, PA 215-230-8352
www.veladoylestown.com
Vela is named for our location on Veterans Lane in Doylestown. We opened our doors in 2018, excited to join the com munity at the heart of Bucks County.We believe that the best ex-
www.lavilla-restaurant.com
periences are shared with friends and family enjoying food and drink with warm hospitality. From fresh, house-made pastas to craft cocktails featuring local spirits, we offer a taste of Doylestown that values traditions, both new and old.
Staying Fit at Any Age
NDOGERCISE
by Vicky Paraxismos Waite
ot too long ago I had someone email me who had been following my department for some years now. She asked me if I ever thought about doing pets? Her dog was recovering from an injury and needed controlled exercise for full recovery. Kim mentioned the Garvee 2 in 1 dog treadmill. I decided to investigate it being a pet lover myself it was a no-brainer. I found out treadmills for dogs are a great way to maintain fitness year-round in bad weather and especially good for maintaining your dog’s fitness for a healthy and longer life. It builds stamina, weight control, strengthens muscles and improves mental stimulation.
I caught up with Kim the following week to see what the Garvee 2 in 1 dog treadmill was all about. When meeting up with Kim’s dog and it being a hot scorching day in August, you could say it was a dog day afternoon. I left Bill behind since he is deathly allergic to dogs. But the good news is there is nothing for him to put together. Kim’s adorable beagle’s name is Cleo.
Cleo‘s treadmill is made out of carbon steel with the maximum speed of 6 mph. It includes three adjustable modes: time, distance and calorie. It has 12 preset programs. With the remote control you can customize an exercise program for your pet as they burn calories efficiently. This small to medium dog treadmill is designed with a detachable side safety fence on both sides. It has a 2.5 hp silent motor and a load max weight capacity of 220 pounds. The foldable pet treadmill with wheels is well-made and comes with a thorough manual and is easy to assemble. It also comes with a large area 4-layers rubber running belt that decreases the impact while running to protect your dog’s joints and muscles. It’s a low noise treadmill so your furry one will not be disrupted. No
worries of bad weather. Your pet will never miss a daily run. It comes in three colors: orange, blue and black.
Kim had Cleo do a little power walking to show me how the Garvee 2 in 1 dog treadmill operates. The short time Cleo was on the treadmill it worked out fine. It gave me a good idea of how it works. Cleo did great even as she was recovering from her injury, she still worked out like a dog! The Garvee 2 in 1 dog treadmill is a cute piece of fitness equipment and watching Cleo on it doing her thing it just makes it that much cuter.
The Garvee 2 in 1 dog treadmill improves your pooch's blood circulation and controls its blood pressure. Regular treadmill workouts can strengthen a dog's heart and improve its endurance. Controlled treadmill exercise can be favorable for older dogs, or those recovering from injuries, helping to
strengthen joints and muscles with less impact. The newness of the treadmill and the need to focus on staying on the belt can provide mental stimulation and prevent behaviors that can come from pentup energy. What's nice about this custom workout is the ability to adjust speed and incline allowing for tailored rehabilitation programs that lineup the specific needs for your dog. Many veterinarians use treadmills for physical therapy or rehabilitation for an injured dog. Treadmills can be a great way to give your dog a full body workout without the impact. When Cleo was doing her power walk, Kim simply turned the dial one way to increase the speed and turned the dial in the opposite direction to decrease the speed and then all the way down to instantly stop the treadmill. I had asked Kim how long is the length of time to keep Cleo on the treadmill? She says as a regular exercise Cleo uses the treadmill daily for 5 to 20 minutes. Cleo has been doing it for a while, so she mostly takes it to the 20 minutes of either running, trotting, or walking. Kim emphasizes it all depends on what each dog’s endurance is. Some dogs may even go up to 40 minutes. Cleo does take a few days of rest per week. Consider your dogs breed, age and overall health when determining the appropriate duration. A certified canine fitness trainer can help tailor a program for your dog’s individual needs.
Treadmills can be a practical solution for urban pet owners who may have limited space or access to safe outdoor areas for their dogs to run. Having your dog exercising on a treadmill, can help reduce anxiety and promote a calmer more balanced behavior in your dog by providing them with an outlet for excess energy. A dog treadmill is a great way to keep senior dogs moving without overexerting them. You can use The Garvee 2 in 1 dog treadmill to build your dog’s muscle by applying the notion of resistance on any incline
I had asked Kim how long is the length of time to keep Cleo on the treadmill? She says as a regular exercise Cleo uses the treadmill daily for 5 to 20 minutes. Cleo has been doing it for a while, so she mostly takes it to the 20 minutes of either running, trotting, or walking.
you set. For a dog who has never been on a treadmill, 3% incline could build muscle. The higher the incline the more resistance is constructed.
Regular walking or light jogging on
the treadmill helps reduce strain on the dogs’ joints, keeping them in tiptop shape. This is mostly helpful for older pets or those with mobility issues. A consistent treadmill routine helps dogs maintain a healthy weight which is major to avoiding future medical problems. If your fourlegged fur baby is recovering from an injury or surgery, the Garvee 2 in 1 dog treadmill is a great way to ease them back into an exercise program. The managed pace makes sure they're not overdoing it making it the recommended tool for rehabilitation.
Every dog has its day. Give your dog that day on the Garvee 2 in 1 dog treadmill. When leaving Kim’s, the weather had changed dramatically and leaving my umbrella in my truck didn't help matters. I kid you not, it was raining cats and dogs! For more information about the Garvee 2 in 1 dog treadmill visit Garvee.com.
Before starting your dog on a treadmill exercise program it’s essential you consult with your veterinarian to ensure it’s appropriate for your dog’s individual needs and health condition.
Sunset
Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. Psalm 32:7
