Bucks County Magazine Summer 2025

BucksCounty

Summer 2025 CONTENTS

The renewal and preservation of this 1847 Lower Saucon Valley farmhouse involved restoration, addition and a design that allowed a harmonious blending of rooms and of the indoors and outdoors / By Beth. S. Buxbaum

Get lost on the backroads of Uppper Bucks County this summer. A photo Essay takes you on a trip to Erwinna / By Bobby Waite

Bucks County is a major destination for millions of visitors who come to see sights, engage in activities and relax–and we can do the same by taking our vacation right here / By Bob Waite

Bucks County Magazine’s Education Guide is a handy reference for parent and students interested in educational options

Bucks County’s Annual Healthy Living Guide features local hospitals, physicans and useful information about the staying healthy and fit for 2025

Our Artist in Residence Jennifer Hansen Rolli depiction of two boys perparing for the annual Grange Fair.

44 g Art Galley / By Michele Malinchak

Painter and mixed media artist Holly Markoffconstantly studies the world around her and then paints with the use of a highly attuned imagination, producing a large and polished works

48 g In the Garden / By Lori Rose

Some of the plants we may have in our gardens and backyards are invasive and proliferate supplanting native plants and even infringing on animal habitats

52 g People / By Cynthia Marone

Mark Sfirri lets instant creative insight have its way with him rather than creating a body of work in a signature style, and has achieved many awards and accolades for following his muse

106 g At Home / By Chrysa Smith

Ted’s Pools in West Chester has a long history of providing regional residents with so much more than just a pretty place to swim—they build dreams and backyard retreats

112 g Getaway / By Bob & TanyaWaite

Tanya and I got to view Doo Wop Style architecture, tour the towns and boardwalk, watch the waves roll over wide beaches and see why so many visitors choose the Wildwoods for summer fun

150 g County Fare / By Diana Cercone

You cannot get a croissant in the America that has the taste and texture of a traditionally made croissant unless you go to France or the Mamie Colette bakery in Newtown

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 Lancaster, 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.

Signature

By Bob Waite

As soon as June arrives I get this question from friends and family: “What are your plans for the summer?” No one asks me that question about any other season. In fact it would sound silly for someone to ask, “What are your plans for the winter?” And the reason is that summer is the traditional time for vacations. (Although snowbirds take theirs in the winter.) In case you do not yet have plans for the summer, we have a feature about taking a staycation right here. Bucks County is a major destination for tourists and frankly, most of us have not really spent time exploring all our county has to offer. In the Summer 2025 issue of Bucks County Magazine in our feature, “Bucks County Staycation,” we present you with some ideas of what it would be like to go on vacation while staying home.

We also have a photo essay called “A Back Roads Trip to Erwinna” where photographer Bobby Waite takes us with his camera by barns, tractors and farmhouses he drove by on a trip he took from Dublin to Erwinna. Be careful, the photos in this photo essay induce longings for a simpler, less virtual life.

Our house feature, “A Harmonious Renewal,” by Beth S. Buxbaum is about the renewal and preservation of a 1847 Lower Saucon Valley farmhouse. Step by step Beth shows us how a collaboration between and an architect and his clients were not only able to add onto the house and restore it, but also how they designed a harmonious blending of rooms and of the indoors and outdoors.

In the Getaway Department, my wife Tanya and I visited the Wildwoods in New Jersey a couple of weeks before the summer season began. Staying at the Madison Resort Hotel in Wildwood Crest, we toured the three municipalities (Wildwood, Wildwood Crest and North Wildwood) and watched the preparations that were being made for a fun summer.

Every Summer we enclose in our magazine “The Bucks County Guide to Healthy Living.” In this guide we present the best in healthcare, tips on fitness and exercise and the practitioners, who through their care can make a difference in the quality of our lives. We also feature “The Education Guide,” where we introduce to the best private schools in the area.

In Summer 2025 issue of Bucks County Magazine, we introduce you to the nationally known wood carving artist, Mark Sfirri, show you the difference between what we accept as a Croissant and what it’s like to eat a one made the French way. We also help you identify invasive plants that many people grow in their gardens and the damage they can do to native plants and wildlife habitats. We have articles on swimming pools, the First Lady of Fitness at age 100, and two Bucks County restaurants, and much more about the people, places and things to do in Bucks County.

Silverman Gallery

JEAN CHILDS BUZGO

RHONDA GARLAND

JIM RODGERS

…come in or go online to browse collections of furniture & more. Their products are tariff-free and available for immediate delivery! They always offers free in-store, athome or virtual consultations and has their own delivery and set up crew. Ski Barn is located at 2990 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville, NJ; 609-530-1666: www.skibarn.com click on Summer Furnishings.

Sampler

…Secrets of the Heart necklace in sterling silver, bronze, and 14k gold fill wire work, with ruby and moonstone. Available at Heart of the Home, 7 Lambert Lane, Lambertville, NJ: 215-862-1880: www.heartofthehome.com.art.

…Summertime is always time for ice cream. Check out Chubby’s in Plumsteadville. This is a hidden gem that is known for it’s large selection of 24 flavors and great tasting Dutch farm ice cream. They also offer ice custome made cream cakes, and speciality ice cream treats. Visit them at 5904 Easton Road, Plumsteadville, PA, 215-766-9777: www.cubbysdairybarn.com.

… The Breckenridge shuffleboard table by Olhausen Billiards is made from solid pine and features natural characteristics of live edge wood along with bandsaw distressing with rustic bolts. All Olhausen Billiard shuffleboard tables are handcrafted in Tennessee, U.S.A. and feature an exclusive Accu-Lock leveling system and a lifetime warranty. Available at Royal Billiard & Recreation. For more information visit www.royalbilliard.com.

… The Matrix Rower offers 10 resistance levels, and extra-large backlit LCD display, and extra-long ergo grip handlebar. Learn more about the Matrix Rower.Available at Johnson Fitness & Wellness Store,921 Bethlehem Pike, Montgomeryville, PA: 267-708-0211: www. johnsonfitness.com.

... Decades before celebrities and athletes promoted health and fitness, Jack LaLanne, The Godfather of Fitness, was already recognized for publicly preaching the health benefits of regular exercise, proper nutrition and a positive attitude. Pride & Discipline: The Legacy of Jack LaLanne reintroduces Jack's message to a new generation. Available on Amazon or at your favorite bookstore.

… Honeysuckle at Peace Valley Park painted by Jim

For more information and to view his painting visit Main Street Gallery, 1236 W. Broard Street, Quakertown, PA, 610-442-4112: www.jimlukensart.com.

Lukens.

THE NAKASHIMA TRADITION

Mira Nakashima became president and creative director of George Nakashima Woodworkers in 1990, after her father George Nakashima died. Mira, a Harvard graduate, followed in her father’s footsteps by majoring in architecture, although her interest at the time was languages. After graduating Harvard, Mira pursued post graduate studies in Japan.

George Nakashima practiced architecture in Seattle for seven years, but after traveling abroad to India and Japan, he decided he didn’t want to be an architect anymore, so in 1941 he started a furniture business. Mira says,“He saw that furniture was the same as architecture, only smaller. Today we work with raw material that comes from logs and trees in Bucks County that nobody wants.The process is the same as when my father began.”

When Mira returned from graduate school, she worked in the office.“I was my mother’s gopher, so I did all the grunt work in the office.” Eventually Mira learned the craft from design to actual handson furniture making, although she hasn’t worked on the bench since 1990. She now helps clients pick out the wood and she designs their

furniture.

For the actual crafting of the furniture, Mira gives credit to skilled craftsmen, some who had been trained in Europe. She explains, “We have a shop of about 17 people that we've assimilated over the years. We just retired one of them after he's been with us for 50 years. We try to maintain this tradition of furniture making. It's passed on from one person to the next. .As time goes on, and things evolve, some ways of doing things change a little bit, but we have basically kept the same methodology.”

Nakashima only makes furniture out of wood. “My father spent a lot of time in the north Pacific woods, and he actually majored in forestry for two years before he switched to architecture. In the beginning our dad was trying to buy lumber to make furniture, but he couldn't afford the good lumber. So he went to the lumber yard and bought cut offs from the leftovers, and the parts of the trees that nobody wanted. He decided that these leftover pieces of wood with the natural edges on them and all their flaws were beautiful.”

With the exception of chairs, the wood itself determines the shape

of Nakashima furniture.“We have a lot of variations in the filtches.The seats themselves are cut out of wood that we have here, and there's a lot of variation in the different kinds of seat blanks. We often invite people to pick out their own, and then we make the chairs. But the dimensions, and the forms, and so forth, are pretty much the way Dad set them.”

A Nakashima finish allows you to see deep into the wood. Mira says,“We use only a natural oil finish. Dad did not believe in a hard lacquer finish, because people in the previous centuries used to think that was a way to preserve the wood. But Dad understood that if you do a penetrating oil finish, you actually get to see the character and the color of the wood much more easily than if you just put a coat on the outside. Plus, he felt that people should be able to feel the grain, and be

in contact with the wood, if they have a piece of furniture, rather than being sealed off from each other.”

To get Nakashima furniture, you do not come directly to the showroom.You have to make an appointment. “During the pandemic,” Mira explains, when we were not allowed to have visitors, people were very good about resolving the wood selection and so forth by emailing photographs. And the majority of our business is still done that way, but now that we're open to the public, people will come in by appointment and buy their wood in real life.”

To inquire or set up an appointment with George Nakashima Woodworkers, call 215-862-2272 and for more information, visit www.nakashimawoodworkers.com.

A LIFELONG DREAM

The area’s newest Art Gallery opens at Galvanized America Inn in Pipersville this June. Housed in a converted bank barn, the gallery features the unique Razor Blade Art, breathtaking Watercolors and handmade Reclaimed-material Furniture of local artist Ed Bennett. A lifelong dream, the 1830s barn was painstakingly renovated (over an 8 year period) utilizing locally-sourced reclaimed materials throughout.

An “artist since birth”, his award-winning watercolors depicting local landscapes, captures “glimpses of bucolic Southeast Pennsylvania life”. Looking for something cutting edge for your

living room or corporate environs? The signature Razor Blade Art (made from discarded industrial blades) is both mesmerizing and truly unique. It has been described by one art critic as “Abstract Americana at its very best!” Why not add some character to a bedroom, office or great room. Check out the ever-changing selection of tables, lamps and mirrors crafted from reclaimed barnwood and discarded elements. And as a bonus, whether you choose an original painting or a limited-edition print, all of his works can be fitted with a custom frame...also handcrafted!

Gallery hours will be Thursday thru Saturday from 11:00 to 5:00 (other times by appointment). Come experience the “finest in fine art” in beautiful Bucks County...and be sure to bring along a friend. Or why not opt for a relaxing “staycation” and spend the weekend at the Artisan Bed and Breakfast — voted “Best in Bucks” for 4 years in a row” located in the restored 1754 farmhouse.The best in paintings, panoramics and pampering all rolled into one!

Galvanized America Inn & Art Gallery, 6470 Durham Road (Route 413) in Pipersville, PA 18947. Located just 200 yards South of the Historic Piper Tavern (look for the big red barn...it sits right on the road!). Or if you are traveling North on Route 413 from Doylestown and Lower Bucks, look for our small red barn emblazoned with a one-of-a-kind mural featuring a large American flag held skyward by a “galvanized” group of hands...and, you guessed it, designed and painted by the artist! Visit www.galvanizedamerica.com.

SUMMER IS CALLING–AND YOUR WARDROBE IS READY

At Fox & Holly, summer fashion is more than just a seasonal update—it’s a celebration of effortless style and everyday comfort. Whether your plans include jet-setting to a tropical paradise, sipping cocktails under twinkle lights at a summer soirée, or dancing barefoot at a backyard BBQ, they are here to make sure you do it in style.

Fox & Holly’s curated collections reflect the spirit of the season: breezy, bold, and made to move with you. They bring together fashion-forward pieces and timeless staples from all your favorite brands, so you can build a wardrobe that fits your life and your summer calendar.

Need help finding the perfect outfit for a destination wedding or planning looks for an extended getaway? Their team of talented stylists are always ready to assist you, offering personalized service and thoughtful recommendations tailored to your unique needs. From beach-ready ensembles to effortlessly chic dresses and casual weekend wear, we’ll help you find outfits that feel as good as they look.

They believe that looking great should feel easy—and shopping should be a joy. At Fox & Holly, you'll discover pieces that blend trend and comfort, quality and individuality.Think lightweight fabrics, vibrant prints, versatile accessories, and styles designed to make you feel confident no matter where the season takes you.

So whether you're soaking up the sun poolside or heading out for an impromptu adventure, let Fox & Holly be your go-to destination for all things summer fashion. Visit us in-store and find the looks you’ll love all season long. Everything you’ll need is at Fox & Holly, Peddler's Village Shop 162, Lahaska, PA.You can reach them at 215-302-4300;www.foxandhollybuckscounty.com.

THE BUCKS COUNTY FOODSHED ALLIANCE

The Bucks County Foodshed Alliance (BCFA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a more sustainable food production and consumption system. Our mission is to connect consumers, producers, and other stakeholders to strengthen our farming community and improve the availability of local, healthy, sustainably produced food for our community.

We accomplish our mission through various initiatives including our most prominent one: the administration of the Doylestown and Wrightstown Farmers Markets where dozens of local food producers interact with the community, providing locally grown products. BCFA works to assist those in need through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Feed a Family-Support a Family Farm. Eligible vendors accept SNAP dollars and BCFA matches users with $2 for every $5 spent with SNAP. The Feed a Family initiative purchases produce at the Farmers Markets and donates this food to local food pantries. Since 2022, we have donated thousands of dollars of produce, assisting both the farmers and those in need.

BCFA assists local food producers directly through their Small

Farm Grants. Each year, applicants can apply to BCFA for funds to upgrade their existing infrastructure and be more efficient, productive and profitable. Awarded grants include funds for such projects as new hoop houses, farmers market tents, moveable chicken houses, drip irrigation lines, and many more.

In an effort to connect the community with their farming neighbors and their food, we host a variety of educational events throughout the year including our Summer Farm Tours, where the community members visit various farms in the area and connect with farmers that are locally producing their food.

Creating and maintaining the connection between the community and local farmers is an ongoing effort. By helping local farmers, you are helping your neighbors and strengthening the ties that bind us together and our local economy. This effort has only been possible due to the tremendous support that we have received from the community. Should you be interested in supporting this effort of connection, please consider donating to BCFA at www.BucksFoodshed.org

Wrightstown Farmers Market

WE ELEVATE AVIATION TO AN ART FORM

In a world where time is currency and comfort is non-negotiable, private aviation is no longer just a luxury — it’s a necessity for discerning travelers who demand flexibility, privacy, and efficiency. At Aviation Charters, we understand this deeply. For over three decades, we’ve provided premier private jet charter services with a singular focus: delivering safe, seamless, and stress-free travel experiences tailored to the unique needs of each client.

What sets us apart isn’t just our meticulously maintained fleet or our 24/7 concierge service — it’s our unwavering commitment to excellence. From the moment you contact us to the time you land, every detail is handled with precision and discretion.Whether you’re flying for business, leisure, or a medical emergency, our experienced flight team ensures your journey is as smooth as it is swift.

Our base in the heart of the Northeast corridor—at Trenton-Mercer Airport—puts us within quick reach of major metropolitan areas like New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. But our reach is global.With on-demand charter flights and access to thousands of airports worldwide, you set the schedule, and we make it happen.

In a post-pandemic world, the value of private aviation has never been clearer. It’s not just about avoiding crowded terminals or delayed commercial flights. It’s about reclaiming your time, safeguarding your health, and flying on your terms. Aviation Charters is proud to offer solutions that reflect those priorities—whether through personalized charter services, full aircraft management,

or expert aircraft acquisition consulting.

Our team of FAA-rated Airline Transport Pilots have collectively amassed more than one hundred thousand hours of flying time and have each surpassed the Argus and Wyvern standards. Each Aviation Charters pilot is type-rated by the FAA for every type of aircraft they fly, and each holds the proper certification for those aircraft.

Private aviation should feel effortless. At Aviation Charters, we make sure it does.

If you can dream it, we can deliver it. That’s the Power of Yes. Visit www.aviationcharters.com or call 866-830-2014.

BEACH HOMES IN POINT PLEASANT, NJ

Sun Ray Beach Resort has been in operation for over 10 years as a summer destination in Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey. Located a half block from Jenkinson’s Boardwalk and the beach, this collection of homes is a summer rental property situated on three side-by-side lots and offers four houses and one poolside apartment for rent. It is the perfect destination for family and friends to relax while enjoying the best the Jersey Shore has to offer.

The property has shared common areas with a heated mineral in-ground pool swimming pool that is a located at the center of the property. On either side of the pool is additional patio space for sitting, eating and enjoying a beautiful day with family and friends. Each home offers a private outdoor dining area and grill.

These traditional style beach homes are referred to as the “Yellow House” (sleeps 10), the “Pink House” (sleeps 10), the “Red Townhouse” (sleeps 5), the “Blue Bungalow” (sleeps 4), and the “Pink Apartment” (sleeps 4). our pink house along with the apartment (only when rented together) sleep 14 people.

The homes are available for rent from May through September. Partial weeks with a two-night minimum also available. Point Pleasant

Beach is a shore destination that offers something for everyone, and we are located in the heart of it all at 30-34 Central Avenue in Point Pleasant Beach. Visit our website at www.sunraybeachresort.com for additional information.

Beach badges included. Our homes are also “dog friendly.” Don’t delay! With summer right around the corner, weeks are booking quickly. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy a vacation and stay in your own beach home down at the Jersey Shore!

Monthly or Seasonal rental options - Cable, WiFi and Badges included. Heated in-ground pool

and

outdoor spaces Inquire today to book your stay in one of our beach homes at the Jersey shore Call/Text 732-892-5635 or visit www.sunraybeachresort.com

Safari in the Sand at Peddlers Village June 1 through August 31

ANTIQUES

Golden Nugget Antique and Flea Market

Ongoing: The Golden Nugget offers authentic antiques, collectibles, art, and interesting items. Over 60 indoor shops and 200 outside dealers. Free parking. Open Wed., Sat, and Sun. 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. 1850 River Road, Lambertville, NJ. 609-397-0811; www.gnflea.com.

Renningers

Ongoing: Food Truck Thursdays

June 27-28: Vintage Antiques and Collectors Extravaganza

July 19; September 13: Flash Train Meet Admission. Rain or shine. 740 Noble Street, Kutztown, PA. 570-385-0104; www.renningers.net.

Doylestown’s Classic Car Show

July 19: classic car show featuring over 500 hundred cars annually. Located on the streets of Doylestown, Pennsylvania, the show offers a unique experience for car owners and admirers. Enjoy music, local restaurants and much more–all free

to the public. doylestownatdusk.com

Das Awkscht Fescht

August 1-3: This three-day antique and classic car show celebrates its 55th annual season. Admission includes all events, shows, and entertainment. Macungie Memorial Park, Macungie, PA; 610-967-2317; www.awkscht.com.

New Hope Auto Show

August 9-10: This annual auto show features both antique and classic cars. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission. Fee for parking. New Hope-Solebury High School, New Hope, PA. www.newhopeautoshow.com.

Warren County Antiques Show & Vintage Marketplace

August 23-24: Spend a few days shopping in the country for antiques. Along with antiques and collectibles, there will be lectures from respected historians, demonstrations, and world class exhibitions. Don’t miss the live entertainment and food vendors. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission. Free parking. Warren County

County

Bucks County Renaissance Faire from August 31 - September 2. and surronding

Fairgrounds, Harmony, NJ; 908-343-5873; www.warrencountyantiqueshow.com.

ART

Canal Frame-Crafts Gallery

Ongoing: A full-services gallery and frame shop, Canal Frame features both originals and prints. Many fine quality local artists are represented. 1093 General Greene Road, Washington Crossing, PA; 215-493-3660; www.canalframe.com.

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.

Patricia Hutton Galleries

Ongoing: Patricia Hutton Galleries will once again launch their annual Summer Vacation Exhibition. Expect to see New England’s rocky shores and charming villages as well as Bucks County’s rivers, streams, meadows and hills. The gallery wide show will feature the work of twenty award - winning artists painting their favorite summer destinations in oil, watercolor, and pastel. Boats, marine works, beaches, gardens, and all the joys of Summer will be on display. Come, be inspired. 47 West State Street, Doylestown, PA; 215-348-1728; www.patriciahuttongalleries.com.

The Silverman Gallery of Bucks County Impressionist Art

Ongoing: This exclusive gallery features artists that continue the Bucks County Impressionist tradition. Buckingham Green Shopping Center, 4920 York Road (Route 202), Holicong, PA. 215-7944300; www.silvermangallery.com.

James A. Michener Art Museum

Through July 27: Yesterday Dreams Are

Real: Collecting Black Art and The Legacy of Lewis Tanner Moore

Through September 14: Judith Schaechter:Super Natural Through September 2026: The Short Line September 6-January 2026: Anila Quayyum Agha:Interwoven

138 South Pine Street, Doylestown, PA. 215-340-9800; www/michenerartmuseum.org

Princeton University Art Museum

Ongoing: Princeton History Walking Tour Through July 6: Robert Lugo-Orange and Black

July 19-November 9: Leni Paquet-Morante:Extract /Abstract Princeton, NJ. 609-258-3788 www.artmuseum.princeton.edu

The Barnes Foundation

Ongoing: Barnes Collection

Ongoing: Highlights Tour

June 29-August 31: From Paris to Provence: French Painting at the Barnes Until September 15: The Battle of the Bather

2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA, 215-278-7000. www.barnesfoundation.org.

Brandywine River Museum of Art

Through June 15: Andrew Wyeth: Human Nature

June 3-July 22: Drawing and Painting with Karl J. Kuerner

June 22-September 28: Andrew Wyeth at Kuerner Farm: The Eye of the Earth

Through September 7: This Earthen Door: Nature as Muse and Material

1 Hoffman’s Mill Road, Chadds Ford, PA; 610-388-2700; www.brandywine.org.

Artists’ Gallery

Through July 6: Celebrating Color & Light

July 10-August 3: Footsteps _Journeys Near and Far

August 7-August 31: Alla Podolsky and Laura Rutherford Renner

September 4-October 5: Alan Klawans and Andrew Werth

18 Bridge Street, Lambertville, NJ; 609397-4588; www.lambertvillearts.com.

Artists of Yardley (AOY)

June-August: Summer Camps

September 21: Art on the Farm 949 Mirror Lake Road, Yardley, PA.

215-493-1205; www.aoyarts.org.

Philips Mill

Through June 29: Selma Burke Invitational African American Art Show

Through July 10: Plein Air Mornings at the Mill

July 24 - 27: Premiere Showcase at Phillips' Mill Community Association presents a workshop production of Morpholog a new play by Jillian Blevins

July 27 – August 24: Submission period for the 96th Juried Art Show at Phillips' Mill.

2619 River Road, New Hope PA; www.phillipsmill.org.

Stover Mill Gallery

June 28-July 27: Art in Harmony: Where Oil Meets Clay

August 2-24: Inviting Nature’s Alchemy

September 6-28: A Celebration of The River

Tinicum Civic Association, 852 River Road, Erwinna PA.

CRAFTS

Manayunk Arts Festival

June 21-22: One of the largest outdoor arts festivals in the region, the Manayunk Arts

Festival draws upwards of 200,000 attendees every year to Manayunk’s historic Main Street for a two-day festival of arts, crafts, music, food and more. Hundreds of artists from around the country head to the annual event to sell handmade items of all sorts. 4312 Main Street, Philadelphia, PA; 215482-9565; www.manayunk.com.

Tinicum Arts Festival

July 12-13: 300-plus artisans and artists gather for this annual event featuring live entertainment, children’s activities, picnic food, white elephant sale, silent auction, author’s table, discovery tent, and book sale. Sat. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission. Free parking. Sponsored by the Tinicum Civic Association. Tinicum Park, Route 32, Erwinna, PA; www.tinicumartsfestival.org.

The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center

July 26-27: Greenberg’s Train and Toy Show

August 8-10 Eagle Shows

100 Station Avenue, Oaks, PA; 484-754EXPO; www.phillyexpocenter.com.

Traditional Artisan Show

August 16-17: Bedminster Land Conser-

vancy hosts this annual show. There will be over 40 artisans from 12 states selling Redware pottery, Windsor chairs, hooked rugs, Shaker boxes, floor cloths, Theorem paintings, stained glass, and more. Visitors also can see craft demos. Admission. The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Hall E; 100 Station Ave, Oaks PA; www.traditionalartisanshow.com.

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 shine. New Hope-Solebury High School, New Hope, PA; http://www.newhopearts.org.

Peace Craft Show and Marketplace

September 27: We’re excited to showcase

the works of Bucks County and eastern PA’s talented artists, artisans, and local businesses. Bring the whole family! Discover unique and high-quality goods from talented local artists, artisans, and businesses, including handmade crafts, home decor, jewelry, clothing, and more. 100 Old Bethlehem RoadPerkasie, PA; www.peace-tohickon.org/craft-show.

ENTERTAINMENT

The Princeton Festival

Through June 21 : This event has offered staged operas, musical theater, jazz, chamber and symphonic concerts, piano and organ recitals, dance, world music, a piano competition for young artists, even puppet theatre. Princeton, NJ; www.princetonsymphony.org.

Sellersville Theater

June 25: 1964 Tribute

June 27: Peter Ascher: A Musical Memoir

July 2: One Hit Wonderers

July 5: Live at the Fillmore

July 13: Danny Aiello’s The Italian Chicks

July 19: The Slambovian Circus of Dreams

July 26: The Divine Hand Ensemble

August 2: WXPN Welcomes Bob Mould

Solo Electric

August 9: Funny Women of A Certain Age

August 17: Jersey Beach Boys

24 W. Temple Ave., Sellersville, PA 215-257-5808; www.st94.com.

Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival

Through June 29: The Producers

June 25-July 13: A Raisin in the Sun

July 9-August 3: Hamlet

July 17-August 2: Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead

July 23-August 3: Timon of Athens

The Professional Theatre at DeSales University, 2755 Station Avenue, Center Valley, PA. 610-282-WILL ; www.pashakespeare.org.

Bristol Riverside Theatre

Through June 15: Alibi

June 25-29: Beatles vs Stones

July 16-July 20: Purple Xperience

July 23-July 27: Oy Vey! It’s the Calamari Sisters

120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, PA. 215785-0100; www.brtstage.org.

Town and Country Players

Through June 14: Picasso at the Lapine Agile BRINGING BEAUTY & FUNCTION TO YOUR BATHROOM NO MATTER THE SIZE

Celebrating more than 25 years of award-winning craftsmanship in Bucks and Montgomery Counties. GemmiConstruction.com

July 11-26: Titanic the Musical

September 19-October 4: Witness for the Prosecution

4158 York Road, Buckingham, PA. 215348-7566; www.townandcountryplayers.org.

Newtown Arts Company

June 19-22: Pride and Prejudice

July 31-Augst 3: Footloose the Musical Newtown, PA. 215-860-7058; www.newtownartscompany.com.

New Hope Winery

June 21: Tell Me Lies-The Fleetwood Mac Experience

June 22: Forever Everly-Special

June 28: Kashmir-Spirit of Led Zepplin

July 18-19: Classic Stones Live

August 15: Laurel Canyon Band

August 23: Bad Animals-Heart Tribute Live

September 20: Don Jovi-Bon Jovi Tribute Band

6123 Lower York Road, New Hope, PA; 215-794-2331; www.newhopewinery.com.

Musikfest 2025

July 31-August 10: This popular festival returns to Bethlehem and includes music on

several stages, arts and crafts vendors, and concessions. Admission. Bethlehem, PA; 610-332-1300; www.musikfest.org.

Bucks County Playhouse

June 20-July 20: Leader of the Pack

July 27: Marissa Mulder

August 15-September 14: She Loves Me

70 S. Main St, New Hope, PA; www.bcptheater.org.

McCarter Theatre Center

September 13-October 12: I and You: The Musical

September 26: Camill A Brown and Dancers I am.

September 28: Mary Chapin Carpenter 91 University Place, Princeton, NJ. 609-258-2787; www.mccarter.org.

The Actors’ NET of Bucks County

June 13-29: William Shakespeare’s Much ADO About Nothing

August 4-22: Summer Stars Camp

The Heritage Center Theatre, 635 North Delmorr Avenue, Morrisville, PA. 215295-3694; www.actorsnetbucks.org.

State Theatre Center for the Arts

June 15: The Music Box

September 5: Get the Let Out

September 12: The Australian Pink Floyd Show

September 13: Celtic Thunder

453 Northampton Street, Easton, PA. 800-999-7828; www.statetheatre.org.

EQUESTRIAN

Tinicum Park Polo Club

June 14: Bill Thomas Memorial Cup

July 5: USPA Max Berger

August 9: River Road Classic

August 16: USPA Women’s Challenge Cup

August 23: Pooches & Polo

September 6: Octoberfest

September 13: Hat Day

961 River Road, Erwinna, PA. 908-9963321; www.tinicumparkpoloclub.org.

Bucks County Horse Park

June 22: USEA Recognized Horse Trail

July 12: USEF/USDF -Dressage at the Park III

July 15: Tuesday Eve Dressage

July 4,25, August 7: Thursday Morning Horse Show

August 26, September 12: Friday Evening Eventing

September 08: Invitational/Hunter Derby/Fall Jumper Classic

September 27: Judged Trail Ride

8934 Easton Road, Revere, PA. 610-8478597; www.buckscountyhorsepark.org.

Radnor Hunt Concours d’Elegance

September 5-7: Come celebrate this annual event, complete with a collection of fine cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Several events will be held during the three days, including a BBQ on Friday, Chester County Road Rally on Saturday, and the show on Sunday. Admission. 826 Providence Road, Malvern, PA; www.radnorconcours.org.

EVENTS

Bucks Fever Events

June-August: Brown Bag It with the Arts

June 18: Women in Business Spring Fling Luau

June 30: Annual Golf Outing

July 17: Chamber Collab Mix and Mingle

July 25: Young Professionals Cornhole Tournament

August 13: New Member Orientation

August 24: Veteran’s Event at the Bucks County Playhouse

Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce, Doylestown, PA; 215-348-3913.

www.centralbuckschamber.com

Mount Hope Estate & Winery

June 28-29: Celtic Fling & Highland Games

July 12: Blues & Brews

August 12-October 26: Pennsylvania Renaissance Fair

2775 Lebanon Road, Manheim, PA. www.parenfaire.com.

Peddler’s Village

June 21: Bucks Fever Talent Show

June -August: Safari in the Sand

Through July 6: Bucks Fever- Art & Sculpture Exhibition

July 4: Red, White, Blue BBQ Bash

August 2-3: Peach Festival

Routes 202 and 263, Lahaska, PA. 215794-4000; www.peddlersvillage.com.

Newtown Welcome Day

June 8: An Annual Event sponsored by the Newtown Business Association and held along Sycamore Street, drawing over 5,000 people to Newtown in the past. Artists, crafters, vendors and fun activities for the whole family are organized by members of the NBA. Enjoy Tasty Treats from eateries along the street! Arts and Crafts exhibits with Local Art-

ists! www.newtownba.org/

Southampton Days

June 30-July 5: Fair attendees can enjoy live entertainment, rides, crafts, food vendors, face painting, children’s games, and much more. On July 4, there will be the Baby Parade, followed by the Annual Fourth of July Parade. Fireworks begin at 9:35 p.m. Tamanend Park, 1255 Second Street Pike, Southampton, PA. www.southamptondays.com.

Annual Tri-Municipal Fourth of July Parade

July 4: Bring your chairs and watch this community parade with marching bands, scout troops, antique cars, decorated floats, fire trucks, and more. Starts at 9:30 a.m. New Britain Township, Chalfont, PA. 215-822-1391; www.newbritaintownship.org.

Annual Pennridge Community Day

June 28: This annual fun-packed day begins with awards ceremonies and flag raising. The day also features food vendors, pony rides, children’s activities, live entertainment, games, parades, and amusement rides. 12 to 6 p.m. Rain date

July 15. Lenape Park, Route 152, Perkasie, PA: www.pennridgecommunityday.org.

Doylestown Road Angels

July 27: Street Rods, Rat Rods, Customs, Muscle Cars, Trucks, Antiques and Classics at least 30 years old are welcome. 194 N Main Street, Dublin PA; www.roadangelsdoylestown.com.

Summer Fun at Pennypacker Mills

June 14: Pollinator Party

July 26: Victorian Game Day www.montcopa.org/928/Pennypacker Mills

Quakertown Alive

August 30: Upper Bucks Brewfest Quakertown, PA; 215-536-2273; www.quakertownalive.com.

Under the Stars Car Show

August 16: Featuring antique, classic, and custom cars, this annual show offers great summertime fun. There also will be live music and lots of food. Perkasie, PA; www.perkasieborough.org.

Ukrainian Folk Festival

August 24: Enjoy a day of food, music, dancing, arts, and crafts. There also will be a vendors’ grove. 12 to 8 p.m. Admission. Ukrainian American Sport Center, Lower State and County Line Roads, Horsham, PA; www.tryzub.org.

Bucks County Renaissance Faire

August 31 - Sept. 2: Moravian Pottery & Tile Works. The Faire is from 11am-6pm, and the gates close at 5:30pm. Join us for a day of fantasy, fun, food, and drinks! Visit www.bucksrenfaire.com.

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; www.quakerpeacefair.org.

FAMILY

Bucks County Children’s Museum

Ongoing: An 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. Admission. 500 Union Square, New Hope, PA; 215-693-1290; www.buckskids.org.

The Crayola Experience

Ongoing: This colorful children’s attraction features interactive Crayola exhibits. 30 Centre Square, Easton, PA; www.crayolaexperience.com.

Da Vinci Science Center

Ongoing: This Lehigh Valley science center promotes creativity, curiosity, and imagination with exhibits designed to encourage science and math learning. 3145 Hamilton Boulevard, Allentown, PA; 484-664-1002; www.davincisciencecenter.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. 215-794-4000; www.peddlersvillage.com.

New Hope & Ivyland Railroad

Ongoing: Train Excursions

July: Christmas in July

32 West Bridge Street, New Hope, PA. 215-862-2332; www.newhoperailroad.com.

The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

Ongoing: Dioramas

Ongoing: Dinosaur Hall

June 30-July 3: Mini Academy Camp: Buggin’ Out!

Through August 31: The Ecology of Fashion

Through November 2: Living Within the Watershed Admission. 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA; 215-299-1000; www.ansp.org.

The Franklin Institute

Ongoing: Science After Hours

Ongoing: Second Thursdays

Through September 1: Body Worlds Vital 222 North 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA; 215-448-1200; www.fi.edu.

Shady Brook Farm

June-September: This Bucks County farm has lots in store this coming summer.

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They will be having festivals honoring different fruit crops, including strawberries, blueberries, peaches, and apples. 931 Stony Hill Road, Yardley, PA: 215968-1670; www.shadybrookfarm.com.

Tree Trails Trevose

Ongoing: Tree Trails Adventures

June to August: Summer Glow Makes You Feel Fine

June 15: Father’s Day Climb

June 17-31: Congratulations Class of 25

July 4: Happy 4th

September 1: Labor Day Summer Finale 301 West Bristol Road Suite A. Trevose; PA; www.treetrails.com

Lehigh Valley Zoo

June 21: Fiesta en el Zoo

June 28-29: Breakfast with the Beasts

July 4: Independence Day Celebration

July 25: Christmas in July

August 9: Run Wild for Animal Conservation

August 18: Bluey at the Zooey

August 30-September 1: Food Truck Festival

September 13: Brew at the Zoo Admission. 5150 Game Preserve Road, Schnecksville, PA; 610-799-4171; www.lvzoo.org.

Snipes Farm and Education Center

June –August : Snipes Farm Day Camp

Saturdays: Farm Market 890 West Bridge Street, Morrisville, PA. 215-295-1138, ext. 102; www.snipesfarm.org.

2018 4-H & Agricultural Fair

August 20-24: 4-H exhibits, animal shows, food vendors, live entertainment, antique tractors, and amusement rides all can be found at this annual Hunterdon County fair. Free admission. Fee for parking. South County Park, 1207 Route 179, Lambertville, NJ; www.hunterdoncountyfair.com.

GARDENS

Bartram’s Garden

Ongoing: Visit this National Historic Landmark and House, circa 1728. The grounds are free and open to the public. Guided tours are available of both the historic garden, as well as the Bartram family home. Don’t miss The Bartram Nursery, complete with native plants and those discovered by the Bartram family. 54th Street and Lindbergh Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA. 215-729-5281;

www.bartramsgarden.org.

Chanticleer

Ongoing: A 35-acre pleasure garden open to the public. The garden is a study of textures and forms, where foliage trumps flowers, the gardeners lead the design, and even the drinking fountains are sculptural. Educational programs are offered year round. 786 Church Road, Wayne, PA; 610-687-4163; www.chanticleergarden.org.

Longwood

Gardens

Ongoing: Festival of Fountains

Ongoing: Spotlight Walks

Ongoing: Family Strolls

June 19: Stories in the Garden

June 20: Comedian Preacher Lawson

June 21, July 6: Live Music in the Beer Garden

June 22: Carillon Concerts

July 2: Wonders of the Waterlilies Talks

July 3: Fireworks and Fountain Shows

July 8: Vines and Groundcovers

July 30: Youth Workshop: Nature-Inspired Mixed Media Art

August 2: Introduction to Irrigation

August 16: Orchid Pot Workshop

August 20: Snarky Puppy

Admission. 1001 Longwood Road, Ken-

nett Square, PA; 610-388-1000; www.longwoodgardens.org.

Mt. Cuba Center

April-November: The Mt.Cuba Center is situated on 600 acres. Its woodland wildflower gardens are recognized as the region’s finest. Guided docent tours are available by reservation. Special events are scheduled regularly. Admission. 3120 Barley Mill Road, Hockessin, DE; 302239-4244; www.mtcubacenter.org.

Tyler Arboretum

Saturdays: Wildflower Walk

Ongoing: Saturday Explorers

Ongoing: Bluebird Nesting Box Tour

June 26: Trail Hike with the Chester County Trail Club

515 Painter Road, Media, PA; 610-5669134; www.tylerarboretum.org.

The Morris Arboretum at the University of Pennsylvania

Weekends: Garden Highlights Tour

June 18: Gardening for Native Wildlife

June 21: Native Plants and Pollinators Tour

June 24: Firefly Night

July 25: Native Azalea Talk and Walk 100 East Northwestern Avenue,

Philadelphia, PA.\; 215-247-5777; www.morrisarboretum.org

Morris Goes Mesozoic

New Hope Historical Society

Ongoing: Museum Tours

Ongoing: Walking Tours 215-862-5652; www.newhopehs.org.

The Gardens Mills Fluers

Ongoing: Garden Tours.The Gardens at Mill Fleurs is a private collection garden. We are a proud member of America's Garden Capital, the 36-Public-GardenConsortium surrounding Philadelphia. We specialize in against-the-grain horticulture! Since it is not always apparent what rules we are breaking, we take the time to personally guide people through the gardens.

www.thegardensatmillfleurs.com.

HISTORY

Lambertville Historical Society

Through November: Guided Walking Tours of Lambertville

Marshall House Museum, 60 Bridge Street, Lambertville, NJ. 609-397-0770; www.lambertvillehistoricalsociety.org.

New Hope Historical Society

Through November: Tours of Downtown New Hope and the Parry Mansion

July-August: All Tours

45 South Main Street, New Hope, PA; 215-862-5652; www.newhopehs.org.

Holcombe-Jimison Farmstead Museum

Through October: Visit this Hunterdon County Museum that has preserved the region’s agricultural history from the 18th through 20th centuries. The site features regular events for the public. Admission. 1605 Route 29, Lambertville, NJ; 609397-2752; 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, May through October. Open house hours are 1-5 p.m. Admission is free. Corner of Swamp Road and Second Street Pike, Wrightstown Township, PA.

Historic Fallsington

Through Mid-October: Guided Tours Admission. 4 Yardley Avenue, Fallsington, PA. 215-295-6567; www.historicfallsington.org.

TILE

MARBLE

Mercer Museum

June 14: 4th Annual Juneteenth at the Mercer Museum

August 10: Shoot Out! The Doan Gang and the Raid on Halsey’s Cabin

August 17: Special Lecture: The Provincial Corps Raised in Philadelphia, 17771778

Through October: Movies at the Mercer Museum

Through December 26: The Doan Gang Outlaws of the Revolution Admission. 84 South Pine Street, Doylestown, PA; 215-345-0210; www.mercermuseum.org.

Newtown Historic Association

June 20: Historic Walking Tour of Newtown

September 15: General Meeting-A History of the Grand Army of the Republic Newtown, PA. 215-968-4004; www.newtownhistoric.org.

Pennsbury Manor

June 15: Open Hearth Cooking:17th Century Pudding

June 22, July 27: Beer Brewing & Garden Highlights

July 20: Open Hearth Cooking: Preserving the Harvest

400 Pennsbury Memorial Road, Morrisville, PA; 215-946-0400; www.pennsburymanor.org.

The Friends of Howell Living History Farm

June 14: Pleasant Valley House Tours

June 21: Dairy Day

June 28: Ice Cream Party & Wheat Harvest

July 5: Evening Blacksmithing

July 12: Evening Animal Chores

July 19: Evening Animal Chores

July 26 & 27: Mercer County 4-H Fair & Wheat Threshing

August 2: Honey Harvest

August 9: Potato Harvest

August 16: Canning & Pickling

August 23: Fiddlin' Contest

September 6: Back to School

September 13: Fall Plowing

September 20: Harvest to Hearth & Corn Shocking

September 27: Wheat Planting, Weaving, Threshing & Baking

70 Wooden’s Lane, Lambertville, NJ; www.howellfarm.org.

Fonthill Castle

Ongoing: Fonthill Castle Evening Tours

July 4: Fonthill Castle 4th of July

July 5, August 30-31: Fonthill Castle

Meander Days

July 11-12: Shakespeare at the Castle East Court Street and Route 313, Doylestown, PA; 215-348-9461; www.fonthillmuseum.org.

Pearl S. Buck House

June 12, July 12: Pearl and Petals CuratorLed House Museum Tour

July 21-August 1: High School Global Leadership Program

August 21, September 18: Volunteer Orientation

520 Dublin Road, Perkasie, PA; 215-249-0100; www.pearlbuck.org

Heritage Conservancy

June 21: Farm to Table

Historic Aldie Mansion, 85 Old Dublin Pike, Doylestown, PA; 215-345-7020; www.heritageconservancy.org.

Heritage Day

July 13: History comes to life in Easton during this free, full-day festival that is perfect for the family. There will be reenactors, musical performances, fun for the kids, and a firework display over the Delaware. Easton, PA. www.heritageday.org.

Historic Bethlehem

Ongoing: Free Sundays at the Museum

July 19-20: Blueberry Festival

September 19: Market to Go September 20-21: Apple Days Bethlehem, PA; 610-882-0450; www.historicbethlehem.org.

Erwin Stover House

June 12: The Assassination of Arthur Erwin

August 13: An Evening of Card Games and Gossip

September 13:1920s Jazz Age Barn Dance

Upper Black Eddy, PA; www.buck scounty.gov/1550/The-Erwin-StoverHouse

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.

August 16: Revolutionary War Reenactment featuring military demonstrations, crafters, and area historical sites.

Warwick Township Historical Society, 1641 Old York Rd. Hartsville, PA;

View

CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS

by Robert A. Kline

215-918-1754;www.moland.org

Bucks County Joyrides

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! 215-664-7092; www.buckscoountyjoyrides.com.

NATURE

Bucks County Audubon Society at Honey Hollow

Ongoing: Saturday Morning Bird Walks 2877 Creamery Road, New Hope, PA. 215-297-5880; www.bcas.org.

Bucks County Covered Bridge Tour

Ongoing: The Bucks County Conference & Visitors Bureau and the Bucks County Covered Bridge Society present this selfguided 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.

Churchville Nature Center

Ongoing: Saturday Morning Bird Walks & Sunday Naturalist Walks

July 26: Nature Seminar Series: A Nature Trip to India

August 2-3: Arthropalooza 501 Churchville Lane, Churchville, PA; 215-357-4005; www.churchvillenaturecenter.org.

Peace Valley Nature Center

Ongoing: Bird Walks, Evening Bird Walks, Moonlight Walks, Naturalist Forays

June 26-27: Firefly Walk

June 16: First Day of Summer Camp

June 20: Summer Solstice Hike & Campfire

July 13; August 10: Grounded in Nature: A Forest Mindfulness Series

July 17: Nature Stretch Group

August 27; September 24: Yoga

September 3-24: Wednesday Walkabout 170 North Chapman Road, Doylestown, PA; 215-345-7860; www.peacevalleynaturecenter.org.

Silver Lake Nature Center

Ongoing: Saturday Morning Bird Walks

June 21: Tookany Creek Bluegrass Band

June 28: SLNC Mini Bio Blitz

June 21; July 12; August 9: Kindness Rock Garden Series

June 21; July 19; August 16: SLNC Earthship Tours

1306 Bath Road, Bristol, PA; 215-7851177; www.silverlakenaturecenter.org.

Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve

June 13: 21: Therapy Walk: A Shinrinyoku Experience with Sharon Lohse and Patty Kleiner

June 21: Knowing Native Plants: Invasive Species ID and Management with Mary Anne Borge

July 11; August 16: Nature Therapy Walk: A Shinrinyoku Experience with Sharon Lohse

July 26: Knowing Native Plants: Meadow Magic with Mary Anne Borge

August 23: Knowing Native Plants: Confusing Yellow Composites with Mary Anne Borge

August 29: Annual Land Ethics Symposium: Creative Approaches for Ecological Landscaping

1635 River Road, New Hope, PA; 215-862-2924; www.bhwp.org.

Barn Nature Center

Ongoing:Our staff guided tours offer experiences that include up close and personal encounters with some of our diverse and fascinating species. Each tour is guided by one of our trained Educators who will teach you about our animals, and allow you to experience hands on interaction with our ambassador species.All guided tours are scheduled for Monday-Friday between 9 and 3pm and must be scheduled at least 48 hours in advance. $12 per person for an hour long tour with a minimum of 4 people ($48 minimum).

For more information contact them at 445205-0793 or visit www.barnnaturecenter.org.

Send calendar listings to Melissa Kutalek. at melissa@buckscountymagazine.com.

215.292.3462 • Rostarti

Observing & Imagining

Painter and mixed media artist Holly Markhoff constantly studies the world around her and then paints with the use of a highly attuned imagination, producing a large and polished works

Once a year, artist Holly Markhoff comes up with a painting that, according to her, ‘ticks off every check box.’ She may set a high bar, but many would say that more often than not her expressive paintings reach that level of perfection.

Best known for her stylized figurative work, she has been in-

fluenced by the elongated figures of Amedeo Modigliani and the gilding of Gustav Klimt. Henri Matisse’s bold simplification of form is also evident in her work. “Sculpture also inspires me and suggests poses and movement for my paintings,” she said. She is particularly drawn to the sculptures of Henry Moore and his abstractions of the human figure.

Holly is a contemporary mixed media artist, using fabric and paper in addition to thick applications of paint that give her paintings a textural, sculptural quality. Like Klimt, she loves the effect of gold, and embellishes most of her pieces with metallic spray, liquid paint or gold leaf. “Ninety-eight percent of my work has it,” she said, adding, “I like the subtle elegance of gold highlights to show through.”

Her work is also characterized by a high polished look similar to ceramics or glass. She achieves this glass-like translucence by applying up to 10 coats of varnish to glaze her work, often varnishing five to six paintings at a time. “Sometimes I will rub away to show a color beneath and the varnish glaze pulls the texture and colors together into a cohesiveness.” In her figurative work entitled, “Sharing Tales,” she painted the background in red oxide, allowing it to show through in some areas, especially in the outlines of the figures.

Holly typically uses acrylic paint or even latex house paint, often wearing

She wants the eye to travel all around the painting and likes working on large canvases at least three or four feet high.

gloves to spread it on the canvas. “I’ve also used powdered pigments which requires spraying clear acrylic over them and using a respirator mask, but it’s not as safe,” she said.

Her work stems almost entirely from her imagination and powers of observation. “I constantly study the world around me for my inspiration,” she said. “I note color combinations in nature, on buildings, in fabric. I people watch and look at the clothes they wear, the way they walk, talk and interact.” She has a vivid memory for

recalling color combos and looks through Pantone books to inspire her to use new colors.

To create her compositions, she sketches her observations which, she said, “will be expressed over and over in pen and ink sketches or directly onto a canvas.” Her paintings include figurative, floral, landscape, abstract expressionist and Judaica work.

Seeking a free-form look, her work is free flowing and unsymmetrical. She wants the eye to travel all around the painting and likes working on large canvases at least three or four feet high. Holly takes photos of her work at every stage so she can check her progress. “I even look at them in bed!” she said.

The figures in her paintings are generic and not people she knows. “I want them to look like they could be anyone’s friend or family,” she said. “My figurative paintings are joyful and take more emotional energy to paint.”

Positivity and joy are recurring themes

throughout her work. With titles such as Delightful, Tranquil Moment, Enchanted and Blissful Dance, we see the subjects happily engaged in their activities. “I want to bring something uplifting into my work,” she said.

Holly began painting professionally about 20 years ago, but her background in art goes back much further. Though she was born in New York City, she and her twin brother, Hal, grew up in Alexandria, Virginia in a creative environment. “My mom had a handful of beautiful paintings in our home, and loving art rubbed off on both of us,” she said.

Both her parents had an interest in culture and the arts and engaged their children in them. Her father, an engineer, painted and made pottery in a kiln they had in their house. The family would tack large canvases to the walls and paint murals together. Living near the Potomac River, Holly would often go there to paint.

Her mother was a writer who wrote articles for newspapers and magazines like

Her mother was a writer who wrote articles for newspapers and magazines like Women’s World, the Alexandria Gazette and National Enquirer. Holly remembers a group of puppeteers coming to the house to be interviewed by her.

Women’s World, the Alexandria Gazette and National Enquirer. Holly remembers a group of puppeteers coming to the house to be interviewed by her.

Her mother was also a ghost writer whose work included a newspaper medical column for a doctor and writing sermons for priests.

In high school Holly had a transformative teacher who made art an integral part of her life. Still, she always viewed art as something you do, not something to earn a living. She played with the idea of becoming a lawyer or journalist and took some courses in those fields before deciding on a career in counseling. Majoring in psychology at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, she earned her BA in 1989, She then began graduate course work in rehabilitation counseling while working as a counselor helping to mainstream people that had debilitating, long term mental illness.

Even while working in the mental health field, art was always a large part of her identity. She took courses in ceramics at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and printmaking at the Visual Arts Center of Virginia.

In addition to being a rehab counselor, Holly worked as a pre-school teacher and pre-school art specialist for a number of years. She’s also been a part-time Hebrew

and Judaic studies teacher as well as an art specialist in Synagogue Hebrew Schools for more than 25 years.

Holly is the mother of two children, a son and a daughter. As they became older and more independent, her career path in the art world became a reality. She entered her paintings in a local art festival in Richmond, Virginia, called ‘Arts Around the Lake.’ “When all of them sold,” she said, “I was encouraged to paint more.”

She always had a studio wherever she lived. Currently she paints in an old school building in the museum district of Richmond. “When I walk into my studio I may not feel centered or at ease, but by the time I walk out I always do. It’s a cathartic experience,” she said.

Inspired by other artwork, she frequently visits the Virginia Museum of Fine Art which is only four blocks from her studio.

Her painting Silent Celebration, pictured here, is currently on display at the Bernard Heller Museum in New York City. It will

It will be part of a traveling exhibit called ‘Seeking Joy’ and is featured on the cover of the program.

You can see the use of metallic gold and multiple layers of paint that create its rich texture.

be part of a traveling exhibit called ‘Seeking Joy’ and is featured on the cover of the program. You can see the use of metallic gold and multiple layers of paint that create its rich texture.

The painting, which was done doing the Covid pandemic, features three women wearing party hats, though their expressions are somber. Holly said their message is, “that we have to move forward, to go on

in life and find joy. To be humble in the knowledge that there is someone around you in pain.”

She’s grateful to do something she loves and feels fortunate to have met wonderful people along the way. “I’ve worn many hats to evolve to here,” she said, “which I guess is the lifelong path of growth and finding ourselves.”

Holly exhibits her smaller work at the Crossroads Art Center in Richmond, VA. She also exhibits her work at Stravitz Sculpture & Fine Art Galleries, Virginia Beach, VA. Holly’s paintings can be viewed at www.hollymarkhoff.com.

In Bucks County Holly Markoff paintings are available at the Rich Timmons Fine Art Gallery located at 3795 Route 202, Doylestown, PA. For more information, call 215-262-1634 or visit www.richtimmons.com.v

Michele Malinchak is a freelance writer who has a degree in art and enjoys oil painting.

Backyard Invasive Plants

Some of the plants we may have in our gardens and backyards are invasive and proliferate supplanting native plants and even infringing on animal habitats

Over the past few years, I have noticed a sprinkling of what looked like young Bradford pear (Pyrus calleryana) trees appearing along the roadsides here in Bucks County. “How cute,” I thought, “baby Bradford pears!” Everyone has seen this tree – it is the big teardrop-shaped tree that has been planted as a street tree in neighborhoods, as sentinels flanking long driveways, and as a specimen tree in lawns. In the 1980s it was the second most popular tree in the country. When they are in flower in early April,

when we are in such desperate need of a taste of spring, they really are a remarkable sight.

Also known as the Callery pear, the Bradford pear tree originally had sterile fruit, meaning it would not produce seedlings. But, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), more recent cultivars were created to resist splitting by wind and snow. These trees were able to cross pollinate and produce viable seeds that are spread by wildlife. It also spreads vegetatively, with new trees

sprouting from the roots of an older tree. These trees will tolerate a wide variety of conditions—sun or shade, wet or dry— and the cute little seedlings have now spread and become veritable thickets. We are just beginning to see this invasion here in Pennsylvania, but Virginia and Maryland have been dealing with it for some time.

This past spring, when the flowers bloomed, I was awestruck by just how many of these thickets there are. It seems like just this year the youngsters of the landscape trees planted 10-20 years ago have taken over our native greenways, including a small patch of woods in my own back yard. As much as I enjoyed them over the past few years, this April, while they were flowering and easily identifiable, I cut them all down in hopes that some of the native trees would reclaim their habitat. Since the Bradford pear will resprout from a cut stump, the DCNR suggests treating stumps with an herbicide such as glyphosate. And since glyphosate is not environmentally friendly, I used a paintbrush to apply it to my stumps to ensure that it did not inadvertently land on the soil or any other nearby plants.

As I was researching the Bradford pear tree, I noticed many other trees and shrubs on the DCNR’s list of invasive species that have been landscape staples for decades. The recommendations for eliminating them from our local environment are the same as for the Bradford pear–remove them, root and all, and if that is not possible, cut them down and apply an herbicide to the stump. Here is a list of some of the most common invasive species used in landscape plantings: Butterfly bush (Buddleja davidii), or summer lilac, was brought to the U.S. in the early 1900s as an ornamental shrub from its native China. Its long spikes of fragrant purple flowers are very attractive to butterflies, and the flower clusters become heavy enough to make the branches bend, giving the shrub a pretty weeping silhouette. The thousands of tiny seeds spread far and wide, and will grow in poor,

dry soil where many native plants will not survive, such as along roadsides and train tracks. It also grows well in wet areas, invading stream and riverbanks and forest edges. The DCNR says because this shrub has been planted so extensively, it commonly escapes into a variety of habitats where it displaces native plants. Instead of butterfly bush, try planting blazing star (Liatris spicata), summersweet (Clethra alnifolia), or butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa).

Burning bush (Euonymus alatus), or winged euonymus, was introduced into the United States in 1860 for use as an ornamental shrub. Its gorgeous, bright red fall foliage and neat habit has made this shrub a popular ornamental plant for landscape designers. Because of this, and because it grows quickly, it is commonly planted along interstate highways, as hedges and in foundation plantings. They are so pretty it is hard to reconcile cutting them down, but according to the DCNR, the burning bush gets so large and dense it easily outcom-

petes native plants. Lacking pests and tolerant of deep shade, this shrub can force itself into moist forested sites, creating large thickets that displace native herbs and shrubs. Some native alternatives include witch-hazel (Hamamelis), common winter-

The DCNR says that once established, orange day-lily spreads to form dense patches that displace native plants.

berry (Ilex verticillata), and Virginia sweetspire (itea virginica).

Here in Pennsylvania we have both versions of the invasive periwinkle vine, Vinca major and Vinca minor. They look and act very similarly, trailing along the ground with pretty pinwheel-shaped pale purple flowers in late spring, with evergreen leaves that are sometimes all green and sometimes green edged with white. It

was brought over from Europe in the 1700s as an ornamental ground cover and is still sold in nurseries today. Please do not buy it if you see it for sale. The DCNR says this plant can form thick mats and extensive infestations under even dense, dark canopies. It has the ability to take over an understory, removing habitat for native vegetation. Try the native evergreen partridge berry (Mitchella repens) instead. It has pretty star-shaped white flowers that glow in the late-spring shade, followed by bright red berries in summer and fall.

We all know and love that harbinger of summer, like fireworks, the orange daylily (Hemerocallis fulva). It is an easy plant to hybridize, and there are thousands of cultivars, but the original orange daylily is unfortunately invasive. A very popular ornamental, prized by gardeners for its hardiness and versatility, it was introduced from Asia into the United States in the late 19th century. The DCNR says that once established, orange day-lily spreads to form dense patches that displace native plants.

Its thick tubers, which are buried under a dense mat of its own vegetation, make orange daylily a challenge to control. Gardeners often inadvertently spread orange daylily to new locations when throwing away whole plants. This last sentence made me laugh – I always joked that you can throw an orange daylily into a ditch upside down and it will still thrive. Dig them up, throw them on the compost heap or in the trash, and replace them with one of the many sterile and more demure cultivars.

Japanese pachysandra (Pachysandra terminalis), or Japanese spurge, is an evergreen perennial groundcover brought to the U.S. from eastern Asia. It spreads quickly through underground stems and roots, and easily escapes from cultivation, colonizing forests and meadow edges. It

Try the native evergreen partridge berry.It has pretty star-shaped white flowers that glow in the late-spring shade, followed by bright red berries in summer and fall.

tolerates sun, loves partial shade, and will even grow in deep shade, forming dense mats that suffocate native species and, according to the DCNR, provides little benefit to wildlife. Instead of pachysandra, try creeping phlox (Phlox subulata), wild ginger (Asarum canadense), or foamflower (Tiarella cordifolia).

I am heartbroken. I have all of these plants in my yard. It will take some effort, and I will grieve for my old garden friends, but I will do the right thing and remove them. I hope you will do the same and encourage others to do so as well. 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.

Unknown Directions

Mark Sfirri lets instant creative insight have its way with him rather than creating a body of work in a signature style, and has achieved many awards and accolades for following his muse

It’s been quite a year for Mark Sfirri — and it’s only the halfway point — but 2024 wasn’t so bad either. Last year, the artist added another national award to his list of accolades, and this year saw solo shows of his sculptures that opened in late 2024 at two different museums continue their simultaneous runs. This hat trick occurring at the same time certainly wasn’t planned that way—and that’s exactly how Mark prefers it. “A lot of makers, you could identify their work because every piece is tied to the next one, and it has a similar kind of feel to it. For me, I like a whole new landscape. The expression I

Photos: Paul Wesley

use is linear versus big bang theory, and I'm a big bang theory kind of guy,” the 72-year-old said. “What am I going to be making tomorrow? I don't know. It depends on what side of the bed I wake up on. When I walk out to the shop, I could be starting a new print or I could be designing the next big thing.”

Primarily a furniture maker and sculptor working in wood, Mark has plenty of other jumping-off points to fill his creative blank slate when he heads to the studio near his New Hope home. He could craft another masterpiece, whether it’s in the form of furniture, a turning or a sculpture, or maybe he will resume his research on artist and designer Wharton Esherick or continue curating a show. Perhaps his photography or printmaking will win out, or it’ll be time to write a book or an article. No matter the artform, Mark always meets his muse.

He has been in more than 300 exhibitions, and his most recent showcases,

“Mark Sfirri: The Flower Show” at the James A. Michener Art Museum in Doylestown and “La Famiglia” at the Museum for Art in Wood in Philadelphia, were his first ever solo museum shows. If they closed before you could catch them, no need to worry. Mark’s creations can be found in museums throughout the country, as well as Europe, including the Museum of Arts and Design in New York, the Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh, Musée de Bugey-Valromey in France, the Honolulu Museum of Art in Hawaii and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

Mark’s work has appeared in 260 publications, and he has written numerous articles and been a juror or curator for 30 exhibitions. The lion’s share of this was done while presenting more than 200 workshops and lectures and teaching full time at Bucks County Community College for 36 years as a coordinator of and professor in its fine woodworking program. He was honored

with the college’s Professional Achievement Award for Faculty in 1987. Numerous other accolades have come his way, including on the national level with last year’s American Association of Woodturners’ Professional Outreach Program Merit Award, 2012’s Lifetime Achievement Award from the Collectors of Wood Art, now known as the Wood Art Alliance, and 2010’s Distinguished Educator Award from The James Renwick Alliance for Craft of The Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum.

Seeing the numbers, it’s hard to believe Mark did not start out with a passion for wood turning or even woodworking, though his grandfather was a cabinetmaker. His first foray into the artform came out of need: He made balsa wood dividers for his coin collection holder. The next was by way of requirement when his seventh-grade art class assigned a carving. He chose to craft a dog. “I wouldn't say it was huge

spark. In hindsight, it's something I did and I can remember and it's part of how I got to where I'm going,” Mark, who grew up in Middletown Township in Delaware County, said. “Tenth grade is when we could major in art. That was revelatory to me, just opening up the floodgates of all the possibilities of all the different kinds of things one could do in the art realm.”

If the flame caught at Penncrest High School in Delaware County, where Mark studied everything from drawing to painting to silk screen five days a week until his 1970 graduation, it only grew at the Rhode Island School of Design. Mark, who is known for his multiaxis spindle turning, graduated with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in furniture design in the 1970s and went on to become the director of design and engineering for an office furniture manufacturer. His three years of industry experience turned out to be crucial to his life’s path. “Other people were getting

If the flame caught at Penncrest High School in Delaware County, where Mark studied everything from drawing to painting to silk screen five days a week until his 1970 1970 graduation, it only grew at the Rhode Island School of Design.

their degrees and trying to get a teaching job somewhere and continue with their

artistic work. By me doing this, I didn't take that route,” Mark, who has been married to wife Lucy Green for 45 years, said. “On the other hand, it's what gave me the edge when I applied to the program at Bucks County Community College.”

Mark retired from the Newtown school in 2017 and holds the title of professor emeritus. Along the way, he shaped the lives of countless students, cofounded and co-organized the annual Echo Lake Collaborative Conference that, to this day, brings together students and artists, and personally collaborated with the college’s painting and drawing instructor Robert Dodge. For years, the two created pieces such as folding screens, sculptures and furniture. That is, until the recession hit in the 1990s. “What it seemed to affect the most was the furniture market. I noticed sales ending, drying up,” Mark, whose creations also include 2D pieces, said. “So instead of thinking about the market, I was

thinking about myself as a creator. That's when the baseball bats and the candlesticks and the figures, all of that stuff emerged in the 1990s. I think it comes through that a lot of it is a humorous kind of look, but it was just me doing things I found fun and interesting. That was the major shift for me.”

“Rejects from the Bat Factory,” which are surprisingly shaped baseball bats, are in the collections of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown, New York, the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory in Kentucky and the Smithsonian, among others. What would become his signature series was inspired by his son Sam’s request for a bat he spotted at a game. The then-6-year-old made his case for its creation by pointing out Mark already had the wood and the lathe. “When I did that, I thought, 'There's something really interesting about a bat being a 100 per cent functional. Every aspect of the design of it is about pure

function. Maybe I could use that as a blank canvas for creating different effects, like having a bat look like it hit a ball and got deformed out of shape and it almost looks like it's clay or something like that,'” Mark, who lived in Doylestown prior to his move to New Hope in 1983, said. “Giving the material — wood —characteristics that aren't native to the material just seemed like a really intriguing idea.”

Decades later, Sam again unwittingly would inspire his father. When he and his fiancée Kim were to be married at a spot that did not allow fresh flowers, Mark volunteered to create a substitute that would include boutonnieres and the bridal bouquet. This would grow into “The Flower Show.”

“The Flower Show” running alongside “La Famiglia” was great timing and pure chance. The latter was ready to go but was delayed due to the pandemic. Playing on the theme of family, it eventually opened six weeks before the

equally family-tied “Flower Show.” Both continued into 2025. “All that represents about eight years’ worth of work,” Mark, who is the grandfather to one year-old Simona, said. “It's just coincidental both shows were up at the same time.”

The shows’ appearances may be serendipitous, but when it comes to inspiration, the muse arrives, as it has throughout Mark’s career, in the same way: with a bang. “What I find most exciting is when I touch on a new direction or I'm working in a series and I have a new piece that evolved from the one that I did before it. I don't really have a plan,” Mark Sfirri said. “There's something about the spontaneity of design that's just very appealing to me and needs to be nurtured.”

For more information about Mark Sfirri’s art, visit www.marksfirri.com. v Cynthia Marone is a freelance writer who lives in Philadelphia.

Frenchtown Riverfest

Frenchtown for the 2024 Riverfest Sunday August 31. 2025. It will span Sunbeam Park, River Mills Courtyard on Bridge Street and the Frenchtown parking lot. This annual street fair celebration of life along the river has been a tradition since 2004. Stroll Bridge Street and Sunbeam Park for a fun filled day of live music, art, food, family friendly activities, and paper boat races with the Frenchtown Vikings, all with an ecologically and sustainability focused lens. Honor the mighty Delaware and join in festivities truly unique to Frenchtown. Details of this event

A HARMONIOUS RENEWAL

The renewal and preservation of this 1847

Lower Saucon Valley farmhouse involved restoration, addition and a design that allowed a harmonious blending of rooms and of the indoors and outdoors

By Beth S. Buxbaum

New life is given to a centuries-old homestead.

New owners purchased this historic property in Lower Saucon Valley with plans for major restorations. Built in 1847, the white stuccoover-stone farmhouse was previously owned by a prominent Bethlehem Steel attorney who lived in the farmhouse since 1950. The original farmhouse was used by farmers in the 1800s. During later years, according to historical notes left by the prior owner’s son, Amish farmers operated the farm before big steel came to the Valley. On this land for centuries, the farm served many during this time.

Now, with new owners, it was time for a renewal. “We were always looking at homes, both old and new, in the Saucon Valley area,” explains the owner. When we found this property, we were drawn to the land and the quiet, peaceful, setting,” she adds. The privacy of a five-acre

Photograhy by Juan Vidal

expanse was also an attraction. With the structures on the land and a pristine landscape, there were many options to create the homestead they envisioned. They were intent on preserving all the structures on the property; including the barn, garage and farmhouse, with the priority to refurbish the original 1847 farmhouse.

Working with John Wolstenholme, founder of Wolstenholme Associates, and Matt Wagner, lead designer, the owners shared their vision. “We understood that they wanted a more updated country home while maintaining the historic integrity of the original house,” John explains.

The owners appreciated the barn structure and envisioned this to be their home. Upon further inspection they discovered that the barn was too dilapidated to restore. “The wood was dam-

They were intent on preserving all the structures on the property; including the barn, garage and farmhouse, with the priority to refurbish the original 1847 farmhouse.

aged and unusable,” John adds. Without the use of the barn for restoration they had to reimagine the entire project. “At this point we put the project on hold for several years,” explains John.

In 2019 they re-visited this project and a new plan took shape. “We leaned away from the barn residence,” John explains, “disassembled the barn and repurposed the timber for other parts of the project.” Eventually, a new barn was rebuilt in its original location on the stone ruins, detached from the house, providing storage space and a workshop on the loft floor for the owner.

Rejuvenating the original 1847 white stucco-over-stone farmhouse was the initial phase of this restoration. A team from Erwin Fisher Builders, Inc, led by Keith Hoening, orchestrated the stucco removal. “Our intent was to restore in place,” John adds. “During the stone removal it was apparent that salvaging the original structure for restoration was not feasible and the stonework not salvageable,” John continues. “The façade was not conducive to repairing and reusing,” John adds, “and a lot of the stone was not sound and lacked building stone quality. Our

Opposite top, an inviting outdoor swimming pool and living space offers spots to gather and enjoy the season. Opposite bottom, a glass breezeway was designed to connect the structures and create a focus for the eye between the new addition and historic portion of the home. Center of page, in this view of the house, the contrasting exterior colors were designed to differentiate the old and new.

Above, a newly built barn was constructed to replace the original barn that was in disrepair. Opposite, a peek into the front entrance of the addition, accented in grey wood trim, showcases the stylized staircase and the owner’s huskie.

option was to rebuild the structure with new stone in the same spot,” John says. They completed the façade with a new layer of stucco to restore the 1847 structure, which included an early 1900s wood frame addition. For authenticity, they placed the windows and doors where they were originally. With the façade restored the next phase of the project was the interior of the 1847 farmhouse.

Original interior features in the 1847 farmhouse included an entry parlor, with a steep stair, and a dining room, along with a small reading room. The second-floor featured bedrooms and a newer bathroom. The first floor was reconstructed and to create a den, formal living room and bathroom, along with the two original natural wood burning fireplaces, which were rebuilt. In collaboration with the owners the team constructed a private second floor retreat on the second floor using the space from several small bedrooms. An expansive cathedral ceiling, accented with repurposed wood beams, was designed with several sized windows for natural light and views. A bright and airy retreat, this bedroom suite is accented with a handmade wood framed bed crafted by the owner. A modern spa-like ensuite bathroom has been appointed with tiles and slate in muted tones of grey and white, along with white oak cabinets. A modern, freestanding tub is tucked into one side of the space, with the remaining area an expansive walk-in shower and spa. Color tones and materials combine

Original interior features in the 1847 farmhouse included an entry parlor, with a steep stair, and a dining room, along with a small reading room. The second-floor featured bedrooms and a newer bathroom.

Above, the front entranceway opens to the expansive living space. Below, a closer view showcases the custom, handmade front door fashioned by the owner out of repurposed barn wood. Opposite, a view of the twostory great room into the open concept kitchen and dining room reveal décor and accents in muted tones.

Toconnect the old and new sections a glass breezeway was designed, minimizing the divide between the historic home and the new garage.

to establish the serene feel of a spa retreat. With the addition of this secondfloor suite, the 1847 farmhouse’s restoration is complete.

For the next phase, a new timber frame addition was constructed next to the 1847 farmhouse. “We reused the timber frame from the deteriorated/collapsed barn for a “rebuilt” barn frame addition built onto the existing plasterover-stone historic house,” John explains. Exterior features are done in an iron-grey lap siding, finished with black-framed windows. “The grey siding was chosen because the clients were eager to have something to differentiate the old and new,” explains Matt Wagner, lead designer. To connect the old and new sections a glass breezeway was designed, minimizing the divide between the historic home and the new garage. “This visually appealing glass breezeway not only offers much needed light to the service entrance of the home, but also creates a focus for the eye between the new addition and historic portion of the home,” John explains.

John points out that the original features of the 1847 farmhouse; the white stucco façade and nine-over-nine historic white windows, were juxtaposed

Awash in tones of grey and off-white, the two-story great room’s central focus is the floor-to-ceiling fireplace. Repurposed wood beams embellish the ceiling and fireplace. Walls of windows bring in the natural light and views of the landscape.

Interior

design elements were applied to create an open and free flowing footprint. One predominant feature throughout the first floor is the walls of windows that

brighten the space and bring the outside in.

with the grey and black exterior of the addition. Built to pay homage to the original barn, the addition has a barn-like design. Exterior features of the addition belie the architectural design of the interior, appointed with sleek, clean lines and a modern presentation.

Interior design elements were applied to create an open and free flowing footprint. One predominant feature throughout the first floor is the walls of windows that brighten the space and bring the outside in. Beautiful views of the landscape can be enjoyed from any room through the many windows. “Our vision was to have an open space to accommodate large family gatherings. The dining room opens to the great room and three-season room offering lots of space to gather and take advantage of views,” adds the owner. Designed in an open concept, the first-floor footprint moves easily from room to room defined with repurposed wood beams from a barn. Bathed in natural light, the living space has an earthy, natural feel established with the predominance of wood accents throughout. Several handmade furniture pieces, made by the owner who repurposed wood from the property, add unique style to the décor. “We wanted the color palette to be clean, neutral, and natural to blend in with the

Opposite, in this wide expanse is the open concept kitchen and dining area framed out with repurposed wood beams and enveloped in windows offering views of the landscape. Above, accented in earth tones, the kitchen is designed with a rustic appeal.

Beautiful views of the landscape can be enjoyed from any room through the many windows.

Above, illuminated by three candelabras, the dining area completes the open concept kitchen. Surrounded by windows, the window seats invite views of the landscape. Opposite top, accented with a natural brick floor and stained dark pine ceiling, this sunroom has a relaxed and earthy presence with natural wood to create a warm, cozy space. A set of customized barn doors, that lead out to the pool area, pay homage to the original 1800s disassembled barn. Opposite bottom, finished with a grey porcelain tile floor, contrasted with off-white, grey, and natural wood tone is the mud room/laundry room. Designed with plenty of storage and work space.

natural setting,” the owner explains. Complimenting the natural wood elements is an application of stone and tile. The owners curated the selection of all the wood, tile, and cabinetry to infuse their living space with a harmonious, calm feel. Melding the natural aspects of the interior features with the exterior landscapes was paramount to the design.

By blending spaces, this harmony flows effortlessly, moving through the living space and transversing old to new. First floor spaces complement each other with soft, serene shades to focus on the architectural features and bucolic views. A centerpiece to the first floor is the two-story great room. A masterfully designed floorto-ceiling fireplace, built by Erwin Forest Builder, Inc, defines this room. Repurposed wood beams embellish the ceiling and fireplace.

Several handmade furniture pieces, made by the owner who repurposed wood from the property, add unique style to the décor.

Moving through the great room, living space continues with an open concept kitchen and dining room. With an ethereal presence, this expansive space is also enveloped in walls-of-windows. Lighting over the kitchen bar and dining room create the appearance of floating above the space.

A free-flowing movement continues throughout the interior living space. Just beyond the dining room is a three-season room. Accented with a natural brick floor and stained dark pine ceiling, this sunroom has a more relaxed and earthy presence. “In this room we chose a natural wood to bring in some of the warmth and create a cozy feel,” adds Matt. This informal space is filled with light from the set of customized barn doors leading out to the pool area.

“The barn door was designed to pay homage to the original 1800s barn,” John adds. In keeping with the design signature, this

Opposite top, on the second-floor landing is an inviting window seat to stop and appreciate the surroundings. Opposite bottom, another view of the mud room/laundry room with the oversized side entryway and a view into the kitchen area. Above, a private bedroom retreat was designed in the original 1847 farmhouse on the second floor. An expansive cathedral ceiling, accented with repurposed wood beams, was designed with numerous-sized windows for natural light and views. A bright and airy retreat, this space is accented with a handmade wood framed bed crafted by the owner.

Top, a modern spa-like ensuite bathroom has been appointed with tiles and slate in muted tones of grey and white, along with white oak cabinets and an expansive walk-in shower and spa. Bottom, tucked into one side of the space is a modern, freestanding tub. Opposite, a special bedroom was created for the daughter in the addition. Wood beams embellish the cathedral ceiling and complement the American Chestnut floors. A double window and window seat were placed to overlook the pool.

room’s décor elements, including the furniture and wood trim, are grey and off-white. First floor space continues with the mud room/laundry room finished with a grey porcelain tile floor contrasted with off-white, grey, and natural wood tones. This room, off of the kitchen area, is a side entry to the house. Access to the second floor is a wood and metal staircase. Appearing to float, this open stringer and closed riser staircase was designed in a modernized colonial styling. On the landing is an inviting window seat to stop and appreciate the surroundings. On this second level, one special bedroom was created for the daughter. Wood beams embellish the cathedral ceiling and complement the American Chestnut floors. A double window and window seat were placed to overlook the pool. Several other guest bedrooms and baths complete this level. Second-floor rooms offer lots of windows

with views to the pool and landscape, areas of special focus during the spring and summer months.

Outdoor living is enjoyed this time of the year with the new outdoor entertainment area. Created for hours of relaxation and entertaining, the large patio is set for summer dinners and an in-ground pool features waterfalls adding a sense of calm. From the outside this addition complements and honors the original farmhouse. Skillfully designed and executed, this restoration and construction satisfied the original vision. Harmoniously combining two eras with an artistically subtle design, the interior elements blend with the exterior landscape. v

Beth S. Buxbaum is a freelance writer from the Philadelphia area.

50 Years of Combined Experience

WOLSTENHOLME ASSOCIATES IS A FULL SERVICE,

award winning, professional architecture and interior design fir m located in historic Doylestown, PA. Founded in 2005 by architect, John Wolstenholme, the fir m specializes in a wide range of design styles, from period correct historic preservation to modern architecture. The fir m provides both custom residential and commercial projects, as well as historic preservation and the adaptive re-use of historic structures.

Reflecting over 50 years of combined experience, the team consists of individuals with the expertise and versatility to work seamlessly with contractors, designers, consultants, and specialists. Utilizing a collaborative approach, the fir m’s interior designer, builder, and landscape architect are involved in all custom residential projects; including new homes, renovations, additions, adaptive reuse and historic preservation, ensuring a cohesive design from start to finish.

A collaborative approach is also key to working with their clients and keeping the client involved in the design process. The team sits with the clients and discusses ideas through inspirational photos and reviews every client’s design objectives, budget and timeline. The kick-off meeting

gets the creative juices flowing for all designs to follow. The design studio is located in a multiple award-winning historic preservation building in Doylestown Borough, which they designed.

Wolstenholme Associates’ mission is to provide individual service to all of their clients, tailored specifically for each of their circumstances. The team provides this personal service while maintaining deadlines and remaining within monetary constraints so that the client’s vision is achieved on time, on budget, and on target.

Wolstenholme Associates is proud to have staff that is affiliated and certified with the A m erican Institute of Architects (AIA), National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ), and the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art (ICAA).

Wolstenholme Associates, LLC is located at 08 N. Main Street, Lower Level Doylestown, PA. To speak to John Wolstenholme about a project, call 215-701-3065 or email him at johnw@WolstenholmeAssoc.com. For more information, visit www.wolstenholmeassoc.com

John Wolstenholme

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Erwinna A Backroad Trip To

Photo Essay By Bobby Waite

Reddish hues dance across the countryside as I drive by barns and tractors and farmhouses. A barn, a grayish structure has a hex sign, making me think of settlers who came here several centuries ago. Tractors and grassy farmlands support houses whose life seems to come from the very ground on which they stand as does the produce reaped from the fields around them. It is a pagent that displays remnants from a simpler time, an era not completely lost, but hidden on the backroads to Erwinna.

Photos: Bobby Waite

Bucks County Staycation

Bucks County is a major destination for millions of visitors who come to see sights, engage in activities and relax—and we can do the same by taking our vacation right here | By

Bob Waite

Bucks County is a major tourist destination for people all over the United States. Last year alone there were 8.4 million visitors who came to Bucks County. A million come each year to New Hope alone. A few people can be wrong—but the numbers speak for themselves. Yet, I know that many of us, including myself, do not see Bucks County—its scenic country roads,

small towns, historic sites, museums, galleries, restaurants, wineries and river sports are ignored and we carry on our lives without realizing that we live in place that is very attractive to many people. We drive the same roads, visit the same restaurants, and shop at the same stores. We don’t see Bucks County as somewhere to vacation, simply because we live here. But if we do take a vacation right in our backyard, we save ourselves the trouble that comes with traveling, such as driving in unfamiliar

Opposite top, a Washington Crossing Park historic stone farmhouse in Taylorsville Village on the river. Above right, New Hope Ivyland RailroadTrain. Bottom left, the Bucks County Playhouse. Bottom right, a relaxing day canoeing in a Bucks County lake.

places and often being a slave to an itinerary and check in times.

So, what’s a staycation? Actually it is anything we want it to be. I believe, for the most part, we go on vacations for three reasons. We take a vacation to see the sights, do things we like to do and to have time to relax and leave the workaday world behind. Planning a staycation in Bucks County is easy if we keep sightseeing, activities, and relaxation as our agenda. I am just providing you with an outline and some suggestions on what I like see, the things I like to do and what I consider relaxation. The opportunities for being a backyard tourist in our county and the surrounding area are endless.

SIGHTSEEING

Just driving on the backroads of Bucks County away from what’s familiar will reward us by seeing rural Bucks County and its small towns, farms and wooded areas with new eyes and we may find small villages we have never seen before. Just a long drive on River Road will open our eyes to one of our country’s most scenic drives. Self-guided walking tours of towns like

Above, The Tile Works in doylestown. Center left, a couple with dogs relax in a park Center right, Fonthill Castle in Doylestown. Bottom, a view of the Michener Art Museum in Doylestown.

Newtown and Doylestown will help us see how many historic sites there are in relatively short hikes. Old cemeteries and churchyards can connect us to our ancestors and people who lived here centuries ago. The New Hope Historical Society offers guided tours of the town on the first and third Saturdays of the month for $10. For more information, visit www.new hopehistorical.org/visit.

Another way to sightsee is to take the self-guided covered bridge tour. Bucks County’s covered bridges are, not only romantic, but they are historic treasures that we can enjoy. On the self-guided tour, you can see 12 Bucks County covered bridges in the comfort of your car, while driving through some of the most beautiful parts of our county. Information, directions and an app that can be used for taking this pleasurable tour can be found at www.buckscountycbs.org.

If you need help with your scenic investigation. Chris’s Jeep Joyrides will take you by jeep on tours of Bucks County’s backroads. For more information on this very unique service, call 215-664-7092, email ridewithus@buckscountyjoyrides.com or visit www.buckscountyjoyrides.com.

Bucks County is rich in historic museums and sites. After all, our nation’s founding depended on a battle in Trenton, NJ and General George Washington taking the Continental Army across the Delaware to Trenton, New Jersey on Christmas night 1977 to surprise-attack a garrison of Hessian mercenaries.

Washington Crossing State Park commemorates this historic crossing of the Delaware. The battle fought there was a turning point in the American War for Independence. In the park is a visitor’s center where visitors can find information on the crossing, find out about events, watch videos and look at other educational exhibits and material. Also, the town that stood there, Taylorsville with houses, a blacksmith shop and an inn are preserved for us to see.

This historic Pennsylvania State Park also has two other locations: Bowman’s Hill Tower, located at near the corner of Rt. 32 (River Road) and Lurgan Road, a few miles south of New Hope, PA, and the Thompson-Neely House & Farmstead where you can see sheep gathered on the grounds and watch them be sheared. For more information, visit www.washing toncrossingpark.org.

Across the river is the Old Barracks Museum in Trenton, New Jersey that has housed soldiers during the French and Indian War. It also played a role in the Battle of Trenton and was used as a hospital during the Revolutionary period and played an important role in various capacities throughout the 18th and 19th century. Artifacts and documents are exhibited that give us a glimpse of what we were when we first became a nation. For more information on this historic treasure, visit www.barracks.org. While in Trenton, you may also want to visit the New Jersey State Museum and the Planetarium that

Above, the Sheard’s Mill Covered Bridge in East Rockhill Township and Haycock Township. Top Right, dinner at the Yardley Inn with view of the Delaware. Bottom right, two women shopping at Peddlers Village.

has Ultra-High Resolution 8K projection system and 140 spacious, specially-designed reclined seats. For more information on the Planetarium, visit www.nj.gov/state/museum. Another ther historic sites to visit on your sightseeing tour is Pennsbury Manor, which is a reconstruction of William Penn’s 17th century plantation along the Delaware. It is located at 400 Pennsbury Memorial Road. Morrisville, PA. There you can take guided tours and catch a glimpse of early colonial life in Pennsylvania. There are special programs for children. It is a magnificent recreation of early colonial history. For more information, visit www.pennsburymanor.org.

While in the Morrisville area, you may want to visit Summerseat, which was General George Washington’s Headquarters in December 1776 and owned by two signers of both the Declaration of Independence and the American Constitution, Robert Morris and George Clymer.

One of my favorite museums is the Gather Place, a converted historic AME church in Yardley that has been restored and turned into a regional African American history museum through the efforts of Shirley Lee Corsey and a group of supporters. In the museum you can see Shirley perform as Harriet Tubman and other women who made a difference in the struggle against slavery. It is a place to gather and tell the stories of the

African-Americans of Yardley. And, not just African-Americans, but all who lived in Yardley. For more information, visit www.gatherplace.org.

Afew other historical jewels are the Bucks County Civil War Museum in Doylestown (www.civilwarmuseumdoyles town.org), the Bolton Mansion in Levittown (www.boltonmansion.org), Pearl S. Buck National Historic Landmark in Perkasie (www.pearlsbuck.org), Summerseat in Morrisville, the Grundy Museum in Bristol and The Moland House in Warminster (www.moland.org). Craven Hall in Warminster, which is the home of the John Fitch Museum. John Fitch built the first steamboat before Fulton. To learn more about steamboats on the Delaware during the early days of America, visit www.craven-hall.org. On Saturdays and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. throughout the summer, the New Hope Historical Society offers tours of the Parry Mansion Museum.

No staycation in Bucks County should be taken without a visit to the Mercer Museum. The museum founded by Henry Mercer, an eccentric genius, left us a legacy by preserving preIndustrial Revolution crafts. A historian and archaeologist, Mercer, who lived from 1856-1930, designed a six-story concrete

Pennsbury Manor

castle to display the over 30,000 items ranging from hand tools to horse-drawn vehicles. Such everyday life items as the instruments for the healing arts, tinsmithing, dairying, lighting and even such large objects that include a whale boat, stage coach and Conestoga wagon. This huge collection and large concrete building that houses these items were donated to the Bucks County Historical Society to be shared with the public. Now because of the Society’s continuing efforts, the collection has increased to 40,000 objects. To see hours and a schedule of events and exhibits, visit www.mercermuseum.org.

Another museum, owned and operated by the Bucks County Historic Society is Henry Mercer’s house, Fonthill Castle. The Historic Society says on its website, “… the castle serves as an early example of reinforced concrete architecture and features forty-four rooms, over two hundred windows and eighteen fireplaces.” The Fonthill Castle is located at East Court Street & Route 313, Doylestown, PA. For information about events and tours of this amazing structure visit www.mercermuseum.org/visit/fonthill-castle.

Bucks County is known for being the center of an art movement known as Pennsylvania Impressionism. And the Michner Art Museum in Doylestown has one of the largest collections Pennsylvania Impressionist paintings in the country. The Michner

Art Museum is now considered a world class art museum that identifies itself on its website as “… home to a world-class collection of Pennsylvania Impressionist paintings and a permanent collection that explores a variety of artistic expressions. The Museum presents changing exhibitions, and hosts a wide range of programs, including lectures, artist conversations, gallery talks, artist studio tours, dance and music performances.”

Founded by means of a grant from novelist and philanthropist James Michener, the museum, which began in the former Bucks County Jail, has expanded by the addition of the “Patricia D. Pfundt Sculpture Garden, terraces, and courtyard that encompasses 40,000 square feet of public space that includes the Gift Shop, Terrace Cafe, Education Center, the Research Library, and gallery space.” The Michener Art Museum is located at 138 S. Pine Street, Doylestown, PA. For information on the collections, exhibits, programs and events, visit www.michenerartmuseum.org.

ACTIVITIES

Shopping in Bucks County is not just shopping anywhere. In New Hope you can find everything from quirky novelty shops, bookstores, boutiques, souvenir shops, upscale clothing for men and women and gourmet foods. Doylestown’s State Street and Main Street have stores, boutiques and many niche shops. Newtown is surrounded by shopping centers and two

Porches on the Towpath

areas are very prominent—State Street and Sycamore Street. In every town in Bucks County from Bristol to Yardley, to Quakertown and in between there are many compelling shopping venues. The quality boutiques, furniture stores, haberdasheries, home décor stores, gourmet food stores and bookstores are so numerous that it is not possible to list them all.

Peddler’s Village is a shopping village that also has amusements, dining and inns. It is a major tourist destination for people outside the county and therefore a great place to go when taking a staycation. At Peddler’s Village you can find 60+ specialty shops that sell apparel, accessories, home goods, furniture, fine art and handcrafted items, books, toys and games, and plenty of gifts and collectibles. Events and themed decorations are always going on. Peddler’s Village is located at Routes 202 & 263, Lahaska, PA. For information on hours, events, stores, restaurants, amusements and inns, visit www.peddlersvillage.com.

It is estimated that there over 65 art

galleries in Bucks County and many more if you include Hunterdon County, Mercer County and Burlington County on the other side of the River. The artistic talent in Bucks County and surrounding areas brings art lovers from all the northeastern states.

Painters, sculptors, fine craftsmen and more are displayed in New Hope, Newtown, Lahaska, Doylestown, Buckingham, Bristol, Quakertown,

Sellersville, Perkasie, Yardley, Lambertville, NJ Frenchtown, NJ. And if your staycation includes July 12th and 13th you may want go to the Tinicum Art Festival at 852 River Road, Erwinna PA. For more information, dates & times, visit www.tinicumcivicassociation.org.

Area farms are a great place to visit while taking a staycation in Bucks County. On farms there are country stores that sell produce, meats, baked goods, ice cream, sandwiches and other foods which can be eaten outside on the premises. Hellerick's Adventure Farm, located at 5500 N. Easton Road, Doylestown, PA has miniature golf, a silo climbing wall, and Aerial Adventure, where children can soar through the air on ziplines. Hellerick’s Farm also has corn mazes, farm animals, slides and a tractor tire playground. Some of the farms fun to visit are Tabora Farm in Chalfont, Bolton Farms in Silverdale, Merrymead Farms in Lansdale, PA, Doyle Farm in Neshanic Station, NJ, Charlann Farms in Yardley, PA, Bobolink Dairy & Bakehouse in Mil-

ford, NJ, Cherry Grove Farm in Lawrence Twp, NJ, and Shady Brook Farm in Yardley.

Outdoor recreation in Bucks County includes fishing, kayaking, hiking, bicycling, climbing, white water rafting, tubing and swimming, ziplining, and of course golfing. Along the Delaware, on both sides of the river, are places where canoes, rowboats, tubes, kayaks, rafts and other recreational equipment can be rented. The Delaware Canal towpath is 60 miles long and stretches from Bristol to Easton. The Towpath is used for biking, walking, fishing, bird watching, dog walking and exploring.

Lake Nockamixon, the largest lake in Bucks County, is located in the 5,286-acre Nockamixon State Park. Popular activities at the park are picnicking, swimming in the pool, hiking, biking, disc golfing, hunting, fishing, boating and camping. For more information on this Upper Bucks County park and lake, visit www.visitbuckscounty.com.

There are areas for fishing, hiking, boating and picnicking throughout the County. Some of the most popular are Tyler Park in Newton, Peace Valley Park in Chalfont, Core Creek Park in Langhorne, Lake Towhee Park in Applebachsville, Playwicki Park in Langhorne by the Neshaminy Creek and Silver Lake Park in Bristol.

An exciting park for children and adults alike is Ringing Rock Park in Upper Black Eddy, which has a deposit of large boulders brought there by a moving glacier. The rocks can be made to ring by striking them with a hammer. Nearby the Tohickon Creek flows through the 45acre Ralph Stover State Park, making a scenic picnic area. Activities at Ralph Stover Park are fishing, hiking, rock climbing, picnicking and whitewater boating. And these are all only a sampling of the parks in Bucks County. For more information on parks in the area, visit www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation, www.buckscounty.gov/162/Parks and

www.visitbuckscounty.com.

Though not a park, a novel kind of recreation can be found At Tree Trail Adventures, where the adventurous can have “the thrill of balancing on quirky bridges made of wood, cable and rope that span 10 to 50 feet above the forest floor. There are also zip trails where you can glide on a series of tree-to-tree zip lines that weave through the forest. There are also adventures tailored to children seven years old and up. For more information about Tree Trail Adventures, visit www.treetrails.com.

RELAXATION

Sometimes on vacation we are looking for a way to just take it easy—to sit outside, viewing the scenery and drinking a glass of wine as we are sung to by birds, enamored by flowers and trees and surrounded by rows of grapevines. At times like those we may want to take a jaunt down The Bucks County Wine Trail. The Wine Trail is comprised of family owned wineries not far from each other. There are eight wineries on the trail: Aviator Vineyard & Winery, Bishop Estate Vineyard and Winery, Buckingham Valley Vineyards, Crossing Vineyards and Winery, Manoff Market Cidery, Rose Bank Winery, Rushland Ridge Vineyard & Winery, and Sand Castle Winery. They have events and a brochure and a map that can be downloaded from their website (https://www.buckscountywinetrail.com).

Two wineries on the New Jersey side of the river that are relaxing to visit are Federal Twist Vineyard and Unionville Vineyard. Federal Twist Vineyard is located at 8 Federal Twist Rd, Stockton, NJ. Federal Twist Vineyards is owned and operated by a multigenerational family. For information about wines, events and even staying at the vineyard, visit www.federaltwistvineyard.com. The Unionville Vineyards team manages and sources grapes from six vineyards, spread across three New Jersey counties. Unionville Vineyards is located

Exploring

Michener Art Museum as the historical site of the Bucks County Jail

The Short Line by acclaimed artist jackie sumell uses detoxifying plants like clover, sunflower, and willow in a garden bed that traces the footprint of "the short line," a former corridor of jail cells.

The Short Line has been supported by The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage as part of the multi-year community engagement initiative Behind These Walls: Reckoning with Incarceration

On view May 30, 2025 through the Fall of 2026

at 9 Rocktown Rd, Ringoes, NJ. For information about wines, shopping online and events, visit www.unionvillevineyards.com.

New hope is a town steeped in romance. And it is a has its share of the over 40 Bed & Breakfasts located in Bucks County. Spending a few nights in a romantic B&B is a perfect way to spice up your marriage and enjoy being home and away from home at the same time. And while you are there you can enjoy the town and perhaps see a play at the Bucks County Playhouse amd dine at one of New Hope’s fabulous restaurants.

The Aaron Burr House isa fully renovated Victorian beauty in New Hope. This New Hope B&B is known for its wonderful breakfasts. The host, Lisa Pretecrum, is a graduate of the acclaimed Ballymaloe Cookery School in East Cork, Ireland. She works with local farms to bring you the best and freshest ingredients. In the rooms at the Aaron Burr House, are antiques, private bathrooms, air conditioners, streaming flat screen TV, free Wi-Fi connection and free on-site parking. The Aaron Burr House is located at 80 West Bridge Street, New Hope, PA To book a room, call 215-862-3277 or visit www.aaronburrbandb.com.

Porches on the Towpath is another charming B&B in New Hope. Their website states, “Porches is tucked away at the end of a quiet lane and fronts the historic Delaware Canal. Walkers and cyclists pass by on the towpath right outside our garden gate, mules clip-clop past pulling barges, and the whis-

tle of the steam train floats across the canal.” Originally a granary built in the 1830, Porches has been extensively renovated and carefully preserved. They offer thirteen charming and comfortable guest rooms, all with central air and private bathrooms. To book a room call 215-862-3277 or visit www.porchesonthetowpath.com.

Across the River in Hunterdon County, but close to New Hope is the Woolverton Inn Bed & Breakfast that also has an onsite restaurant. The Woolverton’s website states, “Our romantic inn offers 14 luxurious cottages and guest rooms which are styled with relaxation in mind.” The Woolverton Inn is located at 6 Woolverton Rd Stockton, New Jersey, To book a room, call 609-397-0802 or visit www.woolvertoninn.com.

This is a taste of what a vacation in Bucks County can include. It is not a full meal. There is much left out—the towns, the entertainment venues, the nature centers, the trails, antiques, summer celebrations, festivals, music venues, and much more things that would fit into or even transcend the categories of sightseeing, activities and relaxation. We are a major tourist destination and also a wonderful place to live. So, we can do both— live here and visit by taking a staycation.

Bob Waite is the editor of Bucks County Magazine.

jackie sumell working in the Solitary Gardens on Andry Street, New Orleans, Louisiana. Photo: Maiwenn Raoult

WINE TASTING

DURING THESE SUMMER MONTHS MY wife and I love to drive to the wineries in Bucks County and it’s surrounding areas. We like to go to sample various wines, often ones we’ve never tried. Buck County’s vineyards are exceptional because of the grapes that can be grown here. We are a designated viticultural district, meaning that we have soil that is able to produce a variety of grapes with equal success. One Bucks County winery explains on its website that we are, in fact, one of the few places in the world that can grow these grapes with equal success.

Wine tasting is fun. You get to try a variety of wines and can buy wines based on your tasting experience. Tasting wine does not have to be intimidating. You don’t have to be an ex-

perienced oenophile or sommelier to taste wine. In fact, whether you are a professional wine taster or someone who typically only drinks wine at special occasions, there are five steps to tasting wine. These are known as the 5 S’s of wine tasting. Here are those steps:

SEE: Look at the wine. Notice if the wine is clear and brilliant or cloudy and dull. A wine’s color is better judged by putting it against a white background. Colors give the taster clues to the grape variety, and whether the wine was aged in wood. Typically, wine that had been oak aged is darker in color. The intensity of color within each varietal gives the drinker an idea of how the wine will taste. As a general rule, color saturation tends to go hand in hand with flavor intensity.

SWIRL: Swirl the wine a couple times. Heavy wines will be deeper in color and generally more intense on the nose. Sweeter wines, being denser will leave thick, viscous streaks (called legs) down the inside of the glass when swirled.

SNIFF: Smell is the main sense used in wine tasting, so sniffing the wine before tasting is essential. A wine’s quality can be judged by its nose and taste. Consider what you are smelling. What does the aroma remind you of? Fruits or vegetables? Herbs or spices?

SIP: Take a slightly larger sip than usual and hold the wine in your mouth for 3-5 seconds letting it coat the surface. It is here that the complex taste experience and characteristics of a wine actually happen. Look for sweetness, fruitiness, saltiness, acidity, bitterness, and alcohol. What’s your overall impression? Does any component over power the others or is the wine is balanced?

SAVOR: The finish is the sensation you get from actually swallowing the wine and it can be very different from the taste you get on your palate. What you want to look for is an alcohol taste and the length of time the wine taste stays with you. This length of time is called the finish and some wines can linger for as long as a minute.

Generally we do not follow all the steps above. Trips to wineries in Bucks County and Hunterdon County are dates

Plan to visit a winery this weekend and mark your calendars to visit other wineries throughout this summer and fall

for us. We go to these wineries and order a tasting board to enjoy the wine and the beauty of the Bucks County countryside. Often our tasting results in us buying something different. Trips to Bucks County and Hunterdon County wineries are romantic times when we can relax, enjoy a day, and bring home some exceptional wines made from grapes grown right here in our own backyard.

We’re sure you’ll enjoy the wine tasting guide we put together for you. These fine wineries are waiting for you this summer and fall. Get out there and enjoy!

Wine Tasting Guide

COME AND RELA X!

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!

2730 Hilltown Pike

Perkasie Pa 18944

BishopEstatePa.com (215) 249-3559

Aviator Vineyard & Winery

Aviator Vineyard & Winery is located in the hangar at AGA Farms in Perkasie. Since opening in 2023, the winery produces 11 varieties of wine. The tasting room is open weekends seasonally and is situated on 100-acres of scenic outdoor space. Learn more: agafarms.com/winery

Buckingham Valley Vineyards & Winery

Founded in 1966, Buckingham Valley is one of Pennsylvania’s first wineries. Offering more than two dozen wine varieties, ranging from deep oak-aged reds to light whites and Bucks County’s only champagne - all very reasonably priced. Tastings, picnic tables, wine by the glass or bottle. A nice place to visit!

Bishop Estate Vineyard and Winery

Bishop Estate Winery offers fun to go with your wine, beer, or wine slushy, with 21 wines to choose from, dry to sweet. Do a tasting and find a wine you’ll love. Live music and food trucks on weekends. We are open every day, year-round, with seating inside and outside!

Crossing Vineyards and Winery

Crossing Vineyards and Winery is tucked away on a 200year-old Bucks County estate in the heart of historic Washington Crossing. The lovely grounds offer a unique setting for weddings, private parties, corporate gatherings, wine tasting events, classes and concerts. A calendar of activities, tasting options, pricing and availability is listed at www.crossingvineyards.com.

Federal Twist Winery

Federal Twist Vineyard was established in 2012 and sits nestled between the steep rolling hills of Hunterdon County and the Delaware River.The location of the vineyard takes advantage of the sandy river soil that is conducive for growing vines. Visit www.federaltwistvineyand.com.

Manoff Market Cidery

The Manoff family began producing hard cider from fruit grown at their Bucks County orchard in 2018. The cidery

Wine Tasting Guide

makes 13 varieties of dry, sparkling cider with no added sugar. The main varieties are Comfort, Goldrush and Pink Lady. All ciders are matured in wood for 1 year. Learn more: https://www.manoffmarketgardens.com/cidery

Rose Bank Winery

Located in the heart of historic Bucks County, Rose Bank Winery isthe definition of rustic elegance. From award-winning American fruit wines to fully customizable event spaces, Rose Bank Winery is theplace for memories to be made and cherished for years to come. To learn more, visit www.rosebankwinery.com.

Rushland Ridge Vineyard and Winery

Rushland Ridge Vineyard and Winery has been owned and operated by the Ullman family since 1986. The property is home to 18 grape varieties used to make 16 types of wine.

Its Cabernet Franc won “Best Red” in a 2017 Pennsylvania Winery Association contest. For more information, visit http://www.rushlandridge.com/.

Sand Castle Winery

Located in Upper Bucks County, Sand Castle Winery is a pioneer in East Coast viticulture. Its mature European vinifera vineyards have been producing world-class wine for over 40 years. Visit our estate to experience not only our products but the property’s commanding Delaware River view. Visit www.sandcastelwinery.com to learn more.

Unionville Vineyards

The Unionville Vineyards team manages and sources grapes from six vineyards, spread across three New Jersey counties. The range of soil types, macroclimates, and topography allows our winemakers to craft diverse wines which showcase the often-discussed and hard-to-define concept of terroir. Visit unionvillevineyards.com.

Summer FARM GUIDE

OUR FARMS ARE NOW OPEN TO US IN

so many different ways. Although we still see the farmstands along country roads with tomatoes, cucumbers, fruit and everything from string beans to broccoli, the newer farm stores now have more than you can imagine: fresh produce, grass fed beef, cakes, cookies, pies, gifts and more. The walking tour of local farms has given way to camps, educational centers for children, petting zoos, playgrounds and all sorts of family adventures. Many farms have opened themselves to the community in a big way.

In rural Bucks County you can visit butcher shops, pick your own fruit, take courses on everything from growing flowers to cooking your own farm-to-table dinners. And yet they are farms—fully functionally farms. When we say grace and thank God for our food, we are also thanking Him for those who grow it. Farmers specializing in growing organic

food are willing to take the risk of not using pesticides, hormones and antibiotics and finding innovative ways to grow delicious produce and raise tender meat. All farmers take risks and are subject to weather conditions, market fluctuations, and a host of other things that make their work sometimes difficult, but they also witness the beauty of producing food and get the satisfaction of people enjoying the fruit of their hands.

Farmers in Bucks County are an important part of our local economy. Along with restaurants that “buy locally” and stores that sell their harvest, our farmers and others in the agricultural market work hard making life in Bucks County better. Besides being a part of the beautiful diversity that includes our towns, scenic vistas and rural countryside, our farms preserve our land and heritage, increase our understanding of nature, nurture families, and provide us with a sense of place. Visit our farms on the following pages this summer.

SUMMER FARM GUIDE

Bobolink Dairy & Bakehouse

369 Stamets Road, Milford, NJ www.cowsoutside.com

TABORA FARM AND ORCHARD

From our farm to your table, our delicious, award-winning, and critically acclaimed foods are made using traditional techniques that maximize the joy of the eater, rather than the convenience of the manufacturer.

Bolton Farm Market

1005 Route 113, Silverdale, PA 215-257-6047 www.boltonfarmmarket.com

We are a fourth generation Bucks County family farm raising our own turkey, chicken and beef. We specialize in making turkey products, as well as homemade soups and salads. We also carry a large variety of other local vendors; produce, baked goods, and milk in glass bottles to name a few.

Bucks County Foodshed Alliance

Supporting local sustainable food in Bucks County. www.bucksfoodshed.org.

Charlann Farms

586 Stony Hill Road, Yardley, PA 215-493-1831 www.chalannfarms.com

Farm fresh fruits and vegetables. Local meat, bread, milk, eggs and more. Farmstand open 7 days a week 10am to 6pm.

Cherry Grove Farm

3200 Lawrenceville Road (Rt. 206) Lawrenceville, NJ

609-219-0053 www.cherrygrovefarm.com

Doyle’s Farm

806 US 202, Nehantic Station, NJ 908-824-2479 www.doylesfarm.com

Dublin Agway

10 W. Rt. 313, Dublin, PA 215-249-3117 www.dublinagway.com

*Based on EDA/UCC Data fr

We practice regenerative methods to craft farmstead cheese, raise grassfed beef, whey-fed pork, and heritage eggs. We share the best the Garden State has to offer with food enthusiasts near and far!

Doyle’s Farm, a sixth-generation family farm, is passionate about educating individuals on the importance of farming. Our goal is to acquaint our visitors with the vanishing heritage of farm living while producing products for the community.

215-766-8330 www.haringbrothersmeats.com

We are a full-service country butcher shop offering a wide variety of quality meats including: fresh beef, veal, lamb, poultry, fowl, seafood and more! Our meats are freshly cut to order and hand trimmed to our customers' satisfaction.

Merrymead Farm

2222 S. Valley Forge Road, Lansdale, PA 610-584-4410 www.merrymead.com

We are open year-round with baked goods from our country bakery, seasonal items in our outside market, and premium homemade ice cream!We specialize in producing & processing milk on-site with the freshest milk from our own Holsteins

Since 1958, we have been providing knowledgeable and personalized service to Dublin and its surrounding areas, working one on one with you to answer your questions about plants, nutrition for animals, and farming needs.

Eagle Power

697 North Main Street, Doylestown, PA www.eaglepowerandequipment.com

If you’re moving dirt, hauling equipment, installing pipelines, or completing any project that demands muscular machinery, you’ll make life much easier by partnering with Eagle Power and Equipment for all of your heavy equipment needs.

Haring Brothers Country Butcher Shop

5484 Haring Road, Doylestown, PA

PieBird Farm Roadside Stand Ottsville, PA www.Piebirdfarm.com

Pie Bird Farm is a 58 acre, 1860's Bucks County farmstead reimagined as a regenerative, community focused farm. We specialize in: strawberries, heirloom hot peppers, herbs and operate a farm kitchen and bakehouse here on site.

Tabora Farm and Orchard 1104 Upper Stump Road, Chalfont, PA 215-249-3016 www.taborafarm.com

Gourmet Bakery, Country Store, Gift Shop, and Deli, We offer the best in gourmet, 100% from scratch baking - breads, cookies, muffins, bars, cakes, pies and more. Pick your own fruit, wagon rides and field trips.

Building Dreams

Ted’s Pools in West Chester has a long history of providing regional residents with so much more than just a pretty place to swim—they build dreams and backyard retreats

Igrew up in the city. I don’t swim. Yet I’ve always been intrigued by how the right pool can magically transform a landscape. And while I don’t believe I have enough yard space for one even now, even in the ‘burbs of Bucks, I may in fact be wrong. Because when I spoke to Joe Perchetti, co-owner with wife Carol, of Ted’s Pools in West Chester, PA, he told me the sky’s the limit.

There are several types of pools: vinyl, fiberglass, traditional concrete and gunite pools. Gunite, which is the only kind built by Ted’s Pools, is essentially a transformation of concrete. The

process takes the thick material, a mix of sand, water and cement, and converts it into a sprayable form. It is attached to a rebar form, thus giving the pool its unique shape. Not only are the pools more versatile in design, but they also stand the test of time.

Ted’s has a long history. While the original owners of the company, Ted and Bobbie Tretiak retired some time ago, Joe and his wife Carol carried on the legacy, which is now in its 43rd year. The business began after Ted spent years designing custom pools. Fast forward to Carol and Joe who’ve had it for about

four years now—a business which Joe says is a proud woman-owned business. Carol’s been at it for 23 years; long before they made it their own.

To me, the company name doesn’t say nearly enough. Because Ted’s doesn’t just build pools. They build dreams. The relaxation, the exercise, the entertainment landscapes offer to those who want to enjoy some pleasure just steps from their door. It’s experiential. And with more families than ever choosing the backyard retreat, Joe says business is good indeed.

“During the pandemic, I was doing five meetings a day, six days a week,” says

Joe. “We were in Newtown Square and got so busy, we outgrew a space we were in for over 20 years. We found a much larger facility in West Chester with yard space for vehicles, equipment and supplies.” That enabled them to almost double the warehouse space. When asked how he managed to man and deliver such an increase, Joe credits it to a background in a government agency, doing emergency management. “I’ve always been adept at preparing for the worst— having a backup plan. I’ve always maintained that thought process,” adds Ted, “The business is much bigger than Carol

and me. That’s why I always refer to it as a third party.”

Every project begins with a client meeting. The meetings define the client’s wants and dreams—their aspirations. “Our clients usually know what they want,” says Joe, “they’re very knowledgeable. Because of social media and the internet, they’re able to come in with what they want.” Of course, Joe and Carol help with options and guidance, and desires are determined partially by budget; the other by space and township requirements. But he made one thing clear. His clients are generally affluent, which makes Joe’s work much easier— and perhaps a lot more challenging and rewarding. Because it can be a straight pool project. Or one that includes other backyard ‘play’ areas like kitchens, basketball courts, beach entries, grottos and more.

Once Joe and Carol understand what a client wants, a design is drawn up using a 3D rendering of not only what will be done, but how it will actually look in their own yard. Joe is amused by a client who’s wowed by a drawing of their own landscape. He says clients will come back, see the drawings and say ‘Hey, that’s my yard!’ Once review and any changes are made, plans are finalized and it’s off to meet with the various sub-contractors that make the project a reality. Landscape and architectural designers share digital files that allow them to go back-and-forth to each other, without any need for multiple drawings. ‘We help clients figure out the space. Federal stormwater and run-off regulations need to be considered. We’re very conscious of not only following plan/permit stage but maintaining a natural setting. We don’t want to remove trees if unnecessary.” says Joe. And he emphasizes their involvement on the job every step of the way.

From a simple rectangular reflecting pool to a more involved design with irregular shape, caves, waterfalls, hot tubs and fire features, Ted’s has done it all. One of

the company’s showcase properties is a 1,460 ft geometric pool, ranging from three to eight feet in depth. With a 64 square foot level spa, surrounded by an 81 square foot sun shelf—essentially a flat platform within the pool for sunbathing and miniscule submersion. Thirty-three feet of infinity vanishing edge (where the edge fades into the background, rather than it being a hard break). This goes into a trough for water recirculation. It’s all surrounded by 7,100 square feet of Travertine stone decking, raised planters, and a full pool house. Naturally, the pool is heated, has LED lighting, and a cleaner all controlled through an app. I’d say it rivals many a resort and represents just how far you can stretch the imagination. As Joe said, the sky really is the limit. While Joe is the design person, Carol is the go-to for everything else. From the coping to tile selections, edge options to lighting, the options are many, and her long tenure in the pool business helps her figure it all out. They’ve chosen who their long experience has shown them to be the best suppliers. According to Joe, “I’d rather invest more in someone’s pool rather than return for a problem. I never want to have to return to someone’s backyard when I’m done. That is, unless they want me back for service and maintenance. Then I know it’s a great relationship—partnership.” Naturally, with such precision going into the design and installation, Joe wants to make sure the pool is kept in great shape. Regular maintenance includes checking chemistry, emptying filter baskets, removing leaves and brushing the pool, which gives it that smooth feeling.

Still, even after the design stage, a client will come in and say they were just at a home with a certain type of waterfall, slide or island, wanting to know if Joe can incorporate that into the plan. And with the proper design and implementation, it can and will bring enjoyment for decades. With Carol’s long tenure in pool design/aesthetics, and Joe’s management

of construction, installation and service, they cover all the bases. They attend annual training sessions to learn the latest practices; not just for construction and renovation, but also office staff and design. “There’s never a pause in learning. Always something new to test,” he says.” The key is if it’s worthwhile for a budgetary item, and will it benefit the client. The clients are the ones that are most important.”

While new installations are perhaps the most interesting and largest part of the business, so is restoration work. The company can take an existing pool, resurface it, replace the coping, tiles and if the layout and space permits, add a new feature, such as a spa or waterfall. Pretty nice redo for an aging pool. Joe has seen it all—even reconstructed a 100-year-old pool. With older technology, a pool may have been built to last, but it also lacked the ability to make it more than just a place to swim. So for neglected, aging or less than attractive existing pools, there is hope.

Joe’s personality inevitably has much to do with their success. Not only is he personable, but Joe says,” I came from a disciplined and military background.”

preorder. Isabelle politely told her that not only didn’t they have room for preorders, but also, in doing so, there would not be enough of a selection for customers coming in. The woman argued, saying what did they care as long as they sell and make money. Isabelle tried again to explain. But the woman couldn’t see the merit in their business mission.

This serves him well in managing the business and in preparing for the unexpected. And as for the team, he continues, “I treat all employees as if they’re the next owners. In fact, I call them ambassadors. We have a good name and reputation, and I won’t let anyone ruin that.” Sounds like a perfectionist to me—exactly what’s needed for such work. With one of Ted’s pools, I might even wade a bit deeper. Well, at least a bit further than the steps.

Ted’s Pools is located at 823 Lincoln Avenue, Building #3, Unit #3, West Chester, PA. Installations can be found throughout most of Southeastern Pennsylvania including Bucks County, New Jersey and Delaware. For more information, call 610-359-1301or visit www.tedspools.net. v

Chrysa Smith is a contributor to the magazine, with a keen interest in all things home.

County Fare from page 151

Isabelle says they never sell day-old croissants, pastries or breads. That is not the French way. Should any of them be left, she says, they are donated to the local Code Blue, food pantry or given to neighbors.

The rich, buttery taste and multi-texture of her croissants are achieved, Chef Magali says, through her love and passion for making them. Without them, she says, you can taste it. They are not right.

Part of that passion, Isabelle explains, comes from the goal of making their customers happy. “The point is not to make money. Although you want to make enough for a comfortable living. Our mission is to create happiness for our customers and our employees … and where we have conversations with our customers. We get to know them. They get to know us.”

Case in point: Shortly after they had opened, a woman wanted to place a large

However other customers who also wanted to place large orders did. And are still regular customers, content with the limit of six for the number of baked goods they can purchase. Knowing each one will

They never sell day-old croissants, pastries or breads.

be fresh and flavorful, making their day a bit brighter. They also like the welcoming, cozy setting and the feel of being recognized as regulars and part of the Mamie Colette community. Like the two women I saw on my way in, Isabelle says, customers feel comfortable to come in and practice speaking French with them or just to check on each other’s news.

Chef Magali and Isabelle also listen. In response to their customers wanting a larger selection of breads, Breton specialties such as crepes and other baked goods, as well as longer bakery hours, they opened L’Annexe de Mamie Colette at 1462 River Road in Titusville, NJ (lannexedemamiecolette.com).

I did apologize to my friend and thanked her for setting me straight about croissants. Because there is, indeed, a difference. You taste it at Mamie Colette. Vive la différence! Vive Mamie Colette!

Mamie Colette is located at 202 South State St., Newtown, PA. For more information, visit them online at www.mamiecolette bakery.com.v

Diana Cercone is an area freelance writer who specializes in food, art and travel.

Exploring the Wildwoods

Tanya and I got to view Doo Wop Style architecture, tour the towns and boardwalk, watch the waves roll over wide beaches and see why so many visitors choose the Wildwoods for summer fun

Tanya and I are dazzled by seeing what is called doo wop architecture as we come off the George Redding Bridge and are swept into a world that seems at first sight different than anything we have ever seen down the Jersey Shore. My response to the large “Welcome to the Wildwoods” quirky neon sign is a simple, “Cool.” Tanya, much more expressive than I am, exclaims, “Check that out!” I think, We must be in a retro movie. Assured we are not, we see that the Wildwoods will be something new and unexpected. We both have a scanty history with the Wildwoods. I remember being there in the 1970s and Tanya recalls being there in the ’80s and ’90s. We don’t know what to expect, except that it will be fun. We follow the GPS to the Madison Resort Hotel in Wildwood Crest. The hotel is definitely built in what is called Doo Wop Style, with the slanted roof and windows. However, it also looks more modern than the examples of doo wop that you see in some of the older hotels. We are more than pleasantly surprised. We check in. In the lobby we can hear R&B music from the late ’50s and ’60s. In fact it can be

Opposite top, the exterior of the Madison Resort Hotel. Opposite bottom, a view of the swimming pool at the Madison Resort Hotel. Top left, inside the Doo Wop Experience Museum. Top right, people playing midway games on the Wildwood boardwalk. Center left, a large metalic sculpture of a bicycle across from the Madison Resort Hotel. Center right, the boardwalk Sightseer tram. Bottom, Tanya standing in front of Wildwoods sign at an entrance to the boardwalk. The concrete beachballs are repainted before the beginning of every summer.

heard outside as we enter the hotel. Tanya & I love R&B and I love the doo wop hits from the late ’50s and early ’60s. No wonder, I am originally from Trenton, New Jersey and she is from South Philly.

After checking in, we do not go directly to our rooms, but instead we explore the outside of this gorgeous hotel. Walking to the right side of the building we see a pink phone booth, covered with flowers and a bench in front of it. It says something about the era Wildwood celebrates. We take turns sitting on the bench and standing in front of this inoperable phone booth from yesteryear. By the way on the coin drop it reads ‘10 Cents.’

We then walk by the pool, which is open and heated, but we are here a couple of weeks before the season begins. And it is a gorgeous day, but cool. Alongside the pool there are furnished cabanas and behind it are umbrellas with seats and reclining pool furniture. Going back toward the hotel are rows of tables and chairs. Not everything is set up yet, but there are workmen on the premises, who are busy getting everything ready in this new doo wop fantasyland called Madison Resort Hotel.

We go to our room and unpack. The microwave in the room is aquamarine and has a retro look. The refrigerator is a Frigidaire with the same doo wopish color. The handle is chrome. Tanya likes the view and the table with two chairs outside our room, where she plans to sit and look at the beach. It is 2:30 in the afternoon and we are waiting for Dr. Susan AdelizziSchmidt the president of Suasion Marketing to pick us up and give us a tour of the Wildwoods.

Our tour begins in Wildwood Crest where we are staying. Susan drives to the beach and we see how the wide beach already has sunbathers on it in the middle of May. She then turns around and drives us up and down the streets of Wildwood Crest. Susan was born and raised in Wildwood Crest. We drive by hotels—some old that are restored but continue sporting a Doo Wop Style. Susan notes that there is now a mixture of both

modern traditional and Doo Wop Style hotels. We take a detour and drive to Sunset Lake. It is a beautiful lake in an idyllic setting that has a large dock, and during the season, people swim, picnic there and rent paddle boats. Several people are sitting in the park by the lake.

We drive by the hotel that Susan’s grandmother owned. Her father owned one too. A hotel that catches our eyes is the Caribbean Hotel that maintains the angular windows and slanted roof. Palm trees decorate the exterior and a crescent

We drive by the Wildwood’s boardwalk water parks and Morey’s Pier, gaping at the mammoth roller coasters that would have people shrieking as their carts speed down the steel hills and make hairpin curves.

shaped swimming pool can be seen in the center of two stories of rooms that surround it. What looks like an island inside of the crescent has palm trees and flowers. It is one of many hotels in Wildwood that has kept the Doo Wop Style and has renovated it to keep its historic appearance while being able to serve generations of visitors who are more affluent and technologically savvy.

As we enter Wildwood, we see among the historically renovated and the not so renovated, a more traditional and chic design of the hotels. The Wildwoods are proud of their past, but are living in a new forward looking era that gives a nod to the past, but is also leaning towards a 21st century appearance.

Doo wop architecture is native to Wildwood and although it has some roots

in the glitz of 1950s Las Vegas, it is truly unique. Called doo wop after the music that was being played in its clubs during the late 50s and early 60s, its blingy exteriors and neon signs complemented the colorful interiors furnished with Danish Modern furniture. Susan, our guide for the day, takes us by many examples of the architecture of this era. We are mesmerized by the bling of the old and how chic the new looks.

We drive by the Wildwood’s boardwalk water parks and Morey’s Pier, gaping at the mammoth roller coasters that would have people shrieking as their carts speed down the steel hills and make hairpin curves. We think about how our grandchildren would relish the chance to be scared half to death on one of these wellconstructed and safe amusements. Also in view, as we slowly drive alongside the boardwalk, is one of the three waterparks.

As we are driving we hear the word “free” over and over. A big celebration on the beach is free. The beach itself is free. Most of the many events and celebrations are free. As we look at the ocean and the notably wide beaches, we see dollar signs with question marks disappear and realize that Wildwood is a unique destination, considering that our experience when traveling is that everything costs money. Not complaining, but realizing that the Wildwoods are the exception. Perhaps family fun and a great time is really something that money can’t buy.

Our next stop is the Doo Wop Experience Museum on 4500 Ocean Avenue in Wildwood. I have been looking forward to visiting this jewel that is kept by the Doo Wop Preservation League. Before coming in we discover that the building that houses the small doo wop styled museum was once a restaurant called the Surfside. The Doo wop Preservation League’s website describes the restaurant as having an “…unusual space-age architecture—including a pinwheel-shaped roof with jutting angles and large glass panes all around.” Outside the museum is the Neon Continued on page 117

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

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

Continued from page 114

Sign Garden which is “a display of fullyrestored and re-assembled neon signs from classic Wildwood motels that have since been demolished or remodeled.”

We walk into the museum and our eyes pop. We are smitten by the mid20th century Americana eye-feast and know that after browsing for about 20 minutes, we will still have not seen everything. We see old bicycles, Danish furniture, lamps that our mothers used to use, a juke box, a hi fi record player, couches and menus from restaurants that do not exist any longer. There is an interactive “I-Wall” exhibit that takes you on a journey back in time “…to learn more about Wildwood’s iconic doo wop Motels and the resort’s history as a premier summer vacation destination and rock 'n roll hot-spot in the 1950s.”

We meet John Donio, president of the Preservation League. He takes us on a tour and brings up night clubs, singers,

and restaurants, while he shows us countless artifacts that have all been donated to the museum. We are thrilled and the time flies. To do justice to this museum, we would have to stay for hours and return

Doo wop architecture is native to Wildwood and although it has some roots in the glitz of 1950s Las Vegas, it is truly unique.

several times. Susan hurries us, because it is time to take a tour of the boardwalk with Ben Rose, the Director of Marketing and Public Relations for Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority (GWTIDA). I once spoke over the phone with Ben about another feature

and couldn’t wait to see him in person.

We arrive at the Convention Center that is on the Boardwalk that has an indoor arena that can seat up to 7,000 spectators. Ben greats us with a warm welcome. He wants to know if we have any questions. I have so many I can’t think of what to ask first. He tells us that the Wildwoods have more than 9 million visitors every year. And that USA Today named Wildwood as the winner of Best Boardwalk in USA this year.

In front of the Convention Center is a large golf cart. The three of us jump in with Ben, and he drives us the length of the two-and-a-half-mile, 38-block-long boardwalk. The boardwalk seems new.

Tanya loves the Ringer Park on the beach for children and the large Dog Park. From the boardwalk we see large groups of lockers on the beaches that can be rented to keep beach chairs, blankets, balls and whatever else people bring to beach. This saves visitors from having to carry these

Continued on page 130

Considering Private Education?

Although academic outcomes are the main reason to consider a private education for your children, there are also other compelling reasons

By Mary Crystal

The comparisons between a private and public education usually focus on outcomes, specifically in terms of test scores and grades in the next level of education. These are good reasons to send a child to a private school, but they are not the only reasons, and academic performance is not the only reason why parents choose private schools, nor why they choose a particular private school.

A sense of community and belonging is very important to both students and their parents. Public schools offer this through sports and extracurricular activities. Sports get everyone involved, foster school loyalty and a sense of belonging to those who may only know the school song and colors and do not actually play sports. And most private schools have sports and activities that promote school loyalty and a sense of belonging. But there is more to a community than cheering a team.

Real community in a school setting begins with people knowing each other. Private schools have smaller classrooms, which allow even the shyest of students to know the names of others and most

Mimportantly to be known by others. Lifelong friends and future networking often begin at school.

Community, whether big or small is based on a set of shared values. Parents can choose a private school based shared beliefs. For example, religious families can send their children to schools that promote and teach their religion and it values—something a public school cannot legally do. This, not only fosters belonging, but brings together a preexisting community. There are many choices when it comes to shared values promoted by private schools.

Private schools also foster community by specialization. Some schools have a strong emphasis on sports and athletic accomplishment, drawing students who want to excel in these areas. Schools can also emphasize an academic discipline such as math, science and languages. Some schools help gifted students by specializing in music, art, and other pursuits. Specialization promotes community based on common interests and a shared purpose.

Besides community there are choices between consistent

ontessori is not a method. It isn’t a style, an approach or a set of materials. It… rather she… was a person, a physician and researcher, a 19th century girl with a dream who grew up to be an indomitable woman, a voice of reason in a dehumanizing industrial age, a reformer who challenged institutions and governments to look carefully at the young souls around them, to see their faces hope and their innocence, and to offer them the dignity and compassion that we all deserve.

Maria Montessori. In 1896, she was the first woman to earn her Medicinae Doctoris (with distinction) from the University of Rome. Industrial Europe’s appetite for coal was exceeded only by its appetite for working-class males whose 12 hour days six days a week kept factories running. Boys were expected to follow their fathers into the workhouses. Prussian-model factory schools prepared them for that work, separating them from their families at 6 years old, dividing them by age, and confining them with an instructor whose primary job was to produce compliant young men. After nearly a hundred years of this type of compulsory servitude, boys (being boys) had become unwilling to cooperate. In response, city officials began arresting dissenting youths, deeming them “incorrigible”, and sentencing them to… (wait for it)… factory work.

In 1897, Maria chose to spend her residency years working in the relatively new field of psychiatry. “My colleagues,” she wrote, “are far too ready to apply medical treatments to children whose only illness seems to be that they are too healthy to be treated as slaves. We have raised children instinctively for tens of thousands of years. Surely that process is not broken.”

And so began the mission that would consume the remaining 55 years of her life. From her first days as a public health physician at Rome’s San Lorenzo tenement in 1907, Dottoressa Maria Montessori was drawn to the work of restoring, protecting and enhancing the natural processes that drive human development. An insightful systems thinker with a singular aptitude for research, Maria produced hundreds of intricate, elegantly designed works and lessons for children ages 2 through 12, offering her world (and ours) an organic, holistic view of the wonders of early childhood. It’s our privilege, our pleasure and our passion to study and practice Montessori at Maria’s House Doylestown. The children around us are remarkable, always curious, constantly becoming. They truly are our heroes.

v Maria’s House Montessori

educational philosophies. This has to do with how a parent wants their child educated. An example is Montessori education, which is based on eight principles that Montessori schools put into practice. Other philosophies may include classical education, progressive education and so on. The point is that private schools have the ability to adopt and be consistent with a particular philosophy of education, and well-informed parents can choose among these philosophies and methods.

Finally, there is no doubt that private schools have an edge when it comes to academic outcomes. U.S News reports, “The most recent NAEP data shows what other research has found: Private school students score better in almost all subjects … On college entry tests such

as the SAT, NAIS found that students in private schools consistently outperformed their public-school peers in all subject areas.”

Students attending private schools make up 25 percent of all students. They are there because of parental choices based on intangibles like community, values and a sense of belonging, and more tangible things such as smaller classrooms, more individual attention, better academic outcomes, specialization, and choices between educational philosophies. Private schools offer parents and students more choices and better outcomes. v

Mary Crystal is a freelance writer who specializes in business, education and public relations.

George School

At George School, we’re brighter together. Our academic experience for students in grades 9–12 is a collective effort to cultivate each student’s highest ambitions. The George School Academic Program re-imagines the school day. It empowers teachers to be bold, creative, and collaborative. It empowers students to choose their own challenges: the IB diploma, IB courses, APs, adventurous opportunities for global study, artistic expression, service learning and more. The result: an education that gives students the freedom and the support to become their most authentic selves.

Our graduates go forth with a lifelong connection to George School and apply what they've learned—core values, adaptability, transformative habits of heart and mind—to advance the common good. As mentors to current students, as facilitators and leaders in organizations and communities across the country and around the world, they're living proof that we're brighter together.

v1690 Newtown Langhorne Road, Newtown, PA 18940 215.579.6547 • www.gerogeschool.org

highest ambitions.

Our community leads with kindness and proceeds with hope.

Our Quaker values—centuries old—are a force for good.

an education that gives students the freedom and the support to become their most authentic selves.

All-gender • Grades 9–12 • Quaker Boarding and Day • Newtown, PA

Scan to learn how we cultivate graduates with sharp minds, big hearts, and a global consciousness.

Notre Dame High School

Notre Dame High School, established in 1957, provides an exceptional college-preparatory xperience on 100 beautiful acres in Lawrenceville, New Jersey. We challenge students to think critically, imagine, and engage in extraordinary moments, fostering new levels of understanding. Our curriculum offers diverse academic opportunities, including handson learning, AP courses, and internships, with pathway in Biomedical Sciences, Political Science, Multimedia Communications, and International Business.

Generous scholarships and financial aid ensure accessibility. Our faculty and staff are committed to stude success, helping them chart their course to college and beyond through robust partnerships with prominent col leges and universities. Rooted in our Mercy core values and Catholic faith, Notre Dame prepares students for a life of purpose and service, fostering passion and comm ment in the classroom, on stage, in athletics, and in the community.

Notre Dame showcases its academic excellence through SAT, ACT, and AP scores that surpass national averages. An impressive 98% of graduates continue thei education at top-tier institutions and secure millions in scholarships. At Notre Dame, the values of hard work and commitment are respected and valued. The community provides every student a safe and welcoming en vironment to thrive and feel a sense of belonging.

Newtown Friends School

Newtown Friends School is a private independent school serving pre-kindergarten through eighth grade students in historic Newtown, PA. We give students throughout Bucks County and nearby New Jersey communities an exceptional academic foundation, stimulating enrichment opportunities, and an affirming campus community that builds confidence and inspires a love for learning. Students and their parents find Newtown Friends to be a place of warmth and acceptance where they can truly feel at home.

Open to families of all faiths, Newtown Friends School embodies the timeless Quaker traditions of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship — values that prepare our students to make a difference in the world.

Nazareth Academy High School

NVilla Joseph Marie

Villa Joseph Marie is a private Catholic college-preparatory high school for young women located on 55 scenic acres in Bucks County. The Villa experience is fully focused on the needs and strengths of young women, empowering them through exceptional expectations and support. With small class sizes, Villa delivers a global education on a personal scale, developing women with character, confidence, and a passion for learning. Life at Villa is filled with friendship and fun, enriching extracurricular activities, local and international travel, and opportunities to serve. Whatever the challenge, Villa girls work together to exemplify the Villa mission—Always more, Always better, Always with love.

azareth Academy High School is the only private, Catholic high school for young women in Philadelphia. Offering more than 40 clubs, 13 athletic teams, and 10 performing arts groups, Nazareth Academy empowers its students to develop their interests and become lifelong learners in a global society. Young women who attend Nazareth live out the school’s mission each day by embracing faith, family, and education as they are challenged to attain their full potential academically, spiritually, and personally. For more information, visit NazarethAcademyHS.org/Admissions, or contact Ms. Ashley Figaniak '08, Director of Admissions, at 215.268.1026 or at Admissions atNazarethAcademyHS.org.

4001 Grant Ave., Philadelphia PA 215.637.7676 • www.NazarethAcademyHS.org

Buckingham Friends School

At Buckingham Friends School, an independent K-8 school, we believe deeply that each individual, at every age, offers unique and powerful promise. We cultivate that promise through our flexible and responsive curriculum, within our comprehensive specials programs that add breadth and depth to their individual learning experience, across our expansive 44-acre campus that encourages play and risktaking, and within a diverse and inviting community. We are excited to get to know you and discover together how your child can thrive with Buckingham Friends School.

Individual Promise. Inspiring Curriculum. Inviting Community.

The best way to truly understand our community and what BFS can offer your child is to visit our school. To learn more, register for an open house, or schedule personal tour, visit www.bfs.org or contact our Director of Admission and Financial Aid, Melissa Clayton, directly at mclayton@bfs.org.

The Value Is Clear

Bucks County Community College’s 2+2 Dual Admission Pathways Help Families Save Money

You may already know that Bucks County Community College provides access to high-quality, affordable education. But did you know that the College’ s 2+2 dual admission transfer agreements with topranked universities allow students to earn a bachelor’s degree for 26% - 72% less when they complete their first two years at Bucks? Savings can range from $11,330 to more than $178,000 based on 2024-25 tution and fee.s

Bucks has more than 25 dual admission university partners to choose from including Penn State, Temple, West Chester, Holy Family, Drexel, Rider, Gwynedd Mercy, Kutztown, Delaware Valley, and Bloomsburg.

Students complete their first two years at Bucks, and their second two years at the dual admission university partner. They simply need to sign an intent-to-enroll form before accruing 30 credits and complete their associate degree at Bucks before transferring. They’ll receive guaranteed admission, junior status, and an application fee waiver at the four-year university. They’ll also be eligible for exclusive merit scholarships at the four-year partner that can amount to substantial savings.

By taking advantage of the 2+2 dual admission transfer opportunities, students will minimize student debt while receiving a high-quality education and be in a better financial position to launch their career upon graduation.

To learn more, visit bucks.edu/save.

Earn a bachelor’s degree our 2+2 dual admission two years at Bucks and dual admission at a top-ranked university for less transfer pathways. Complete your your second two years at one of partners to save thousands. with first our

LEARN MORE!

At B

Bucks, you can:

Save mon

Receive a transfer to Benefit fro with 55+

bucks.edu//save an: dent debt ion and reements

Be in a be launch yo eer

ney and minimize student high-quality education o a top university om 125+ transfer agr institutions etter financial position to our car upon graduation

Here We GROW Again!

In 2026, FCA will unveil our new Health and Wellness Building, which will emphasize STEM education, nutrition, athletic training, nursing, and science with dedicated laboratories. This facility will also provide 250 seats for aspiring individuals who have the potential to make a significant impact on our world for Christ. We are seeking students in grades 6-12 who desire an innovative learning experience in an environment that encourages them to dream ambitiously and think critically, all while emphasizing the importance of contributing to their community. As the saying goes, 'To whom much is given, much is required.' FCA has been fortunate to serve this community for the past 50 years (19732026), and by God’s grace, we’ve only just begun.

Advantages

Of An Independent Curriculum

Private school education isn’t obligated to follow the National Curriculum, so they can offer a wider range of subjects and unique programs.

Private Schools, which are not tethered to governmental guidelines and have freedom to create their own programs, have several advantages that can benefit students, teachers and families. An example would be a school that wants the students to be able to think critically and be creative in their studies can focus more on challenging projects that stretch their intellectual powers without worrying about teaching students to memorize facts in order to pass standardized tests.

Teachers are more creative and effective when they have some control over what they teach and are more likely to be passionate about the subjects they teach. Subjects overlooked in public school curricula can be offered without worry about whether they are not on the standardized tests. Students can learn at a faster pace and in areas where they are gifted and be given more help in areas where they are behind. Only private schools are able to provide such a flexible curriculum that is more productive for students, teachers and parents.

HANSEN ROLLI

As we ride through North Wildwood we drive by the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse which was constructed to mark the mouth of the Inlet to help prevent shipwrecks.

items back and forth to their hotels. There are also parks on the beach where kids can play marbles and piers for fishing and boating.

Ben tells us that there are 160 special events and festivals throughout the year and most of them are free and on the beach. One that’s not free is the Barefoot Country Music Fest, which is a four-day festival that is located at 3600 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ. It begins on Thursday June 19th and ends on Sunday June 22nd. It has a lineup of the best in country music performing on two stages. For tickets and more information, visit www.barefootcountrymusicfest.com.

Closing the season is the Wildwoods Thunder Over the Waves Airshow on September 5th and 6th. Spectators can enjoy the show across the entire island with the beach and boardwalk areas showcasing optimal viewing areas.

The boardwalk has more than we can imagine. We see midway games, arcades, a shopping pier, Morey’s Piers and Waterparks, lots of eating venues, interesting retail shops and major chains such as Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts.

After coming back to the Convention Center and our whirlwind tour we jump back in Susan’s car and are given a tour of North Wildwood. There we drive through a residential community with nice homes, schools, churches and everything that show us that besides being place to visit, the Wildwoods are also places where people live. I remember Ben telling us that

the Wildwoods attract multi-generational tourists. “There is something for every age group to do and things they can do together.” It really is a family destination.

As we ride through North Wildwood we drive by the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse which was constructed to mark the mouth of the Inlet to help prevent shipwrecks. This year it is celebrating its 150th anniversary, and as Tanya says, “It is so cute.” And like the beach and so many other things in Wildwood, it is free to visit and walk inside.

We hurry to get back to the hotel, because we have reservations at The Surfing Pig, which is located in South Dock Marina on 231 W 10th Ave, North Wildwood, NJ. We meet a friendly host who seats us by an open window a stone’s throw from the dock. The boats are lined up and birds fly by our window. Tanya says, “Lovely.” I say, “I’m hungry.” She replies, “Oh you.”

The interior is rustic, like being on a large 18th century ship. Our server Christine Larkin visits our table. She is working hard that day, moving from table to table

and making sure she speaks to each of the guests. Tanya finds her to be a kindred spirit, so they talk a while. We find out that she is one of the managers. After ordering drinks and looking at the menu, we order our dinner. The menu is divided into Starters, Sandwiches & More, Salads & Bowls, Dinner Entrees, Sides, and Real Wood Pit BBQ, My eyes go directly to BBQ. And it takes me only a few seconds to decide on the BBQ Combo. Tanya, not up for a large meal, orders from the Starters section, the Firecracker Shrimp and a Ceasar salad.

Our meals come and they are large. I am no pipsqueak when it comes to eating, but I can see that I will not be able to finish this plate that has five hearty ribs, a large portion of brisket, and a good sized portion of pulled chicken and also comes with two sides. I order Cole Slaw and French Fries. Tanya’s Firecracker Shrimp, which includes hand battered shrimp tossed in the house firecracker sauce, with a Caesar Salad is more than she can eat. So after a delicious dinner by a gorgeous waterfront,

we go back to the Madison with boxes of leftovers.

We are back at the Madison around 9 p.m. and sit outside listening to the sounds of the ocean and enjoying the cool salty air. Across from where we are sitting is a bicycle renting venue and on the grounds is a beautiful metal sculpture of a big silver bicycle.

The next day we drive by the murals of iconic music legends Bobby Rydell, Chubby Checker and Bill Haley & The Comets. We don’t go surfing, fishing, boogie-boarding, body surfing, nor do we play beach volleyball in the sand. The season is beginning next week and the people who come will get to do all those things and more. We leave a little early and drive through several other scenic South Jersey beach towns. In no time we are home in Bucks County. And we both want to go back. v

Bob Waite is the editor of Bucks County Magazine and Tanya is his wife, travel companion and the co-writer of this department.

A Guide To Healthy Living

Every year since 2011 we at Bucks County Magazine have been producing this Guide To Healthy Living so that our readers can use it as a reference for the kind of superior healthcare we enjoy in this Bucks County and the surrounding area.. We have award-winning hospitals, the best of the best medical practitioners, and many other professionals who can help get us get fit, survive cancer, improve our smiles, vision and show us how to live more fulfilling, longer lives.

In this section you will read stories of triumphs over long term sicknesses, advise to maintain health and fitness, new technologies and the latest in dentistry, oncology, colon health, beauty concerns after cancer treatments, senior exercise, dental health, vision care and footcare. We appreciate our healthcare practitioners and want you to know what a special region we live in ways we can enjoy it to the fullest.

RELIEF FROM HIATAL HERNIA

Michael Mallon had no idea that, for about 40 years of his life, he had an ever-worsening hiatal hernia. Slowly over time, his stomach slipped up into his chest, resulting in a host of symptoms that made enjoyable activities feel like a burden.

He quickly became fatigued while exercising and had to regularly excuse himself at restaurants due to feeling discomfort after eating just a few bites. Despite being a naturally active and personable man, Mallon found himself dreading invitations.

This continued on and off until 2023, when Mallon, a 65year-old Newtown resident and father of four daughters, was admitted to St. Mary Medical Center for diverticulitis. While there, he met Alfred Trang, MD, a general and bariatric surgeon at Surgical Associates Langhorne, who informed Mallon that a hiatal hernia, discovered during a CAT scan, was the culprit behind his symptoms.

Dr. Trang let Mallon know about a new, non-invasive surgery offered at St. Mary that would fix the hiatal hernia for good with no recurrence, eliminate all symptoms and, most importantly, give him a sense of vitality that he hadn’t felt in a long time. Mallon was on board, and a little over a year later, he feels 10 years younger. He no longer gets fatigued and can enjoy meals without needing to leave the table. St. Mary Medical Center is located at 1201 Langhorne Newtown Rd, Langhorne, PA. To read Michael’s story, visit the May 16, 2025 blog posting on the St. Mary Medical Center’s website’s blog at www.trinityhealthma.org/newsroom/blog-articles,

HealthyLiving

ACANCER SURVIVORSHIP PROGRAM

t Penn Medicine Doylestown Health’s Cancer Institute, we recognize that cancer impacts every part of life. The Survivorship Program offers comprehensive care that goes beyond medical treatment.The program is designed to improve the lives of cancer patients by ensuring personalized care before, during, and after cancer treatment.

Your healthcare needs evolve as you shift from cancer-focused treatment to wellness-oriented care. Our Survivorship Program connects you with an advanced practice survivorship specialist who will partner with you and follow your health as you reach important milestones in your treatment.

Each visit begins with a review of your medical history followed by ample time to discuss your concerns and goals in a private, supportive, and comfortable environment.

The advanced practice survivorship specialist will work collaboratively with your oncologic providers to offer you comprehensive care, tailored to your needs, with ongoing support and resources designed to empower you and keep you well.

If you have a history of cancer, even if your cancer treatment is being delivered elsewhere, you are eligible for a survivorship appointment and do not need a referral unless required by your insurance.

At the Cancer Survivorship Program you can expect seamless coordination of care between specialists, oncologists, and primary care providers a review of your medical history, surveillance for recurrence, screening recommendations for other cancers, management of treatment side effects, including heart health, sexual health, neuropathy, and lymphatic health. You can also expect a physical exam and testing, as needed, emotional support and counseling on health habits, referrals to experts and

resources and a personalized survivorship care plan.

The Penn Medicine Doylestown Health Cancer Institute is located at Pavilion II at 599 West State Street in Doylestown. To make an appointment, call 215-345-2489. For more information, visit www.DoylestownHealth.org/CancerSurvivorshipProgram. Telehealth visits are also available.

HealthyLiving

PRIORITIZE YOUR SMILE AND YOUR HEALTH

Your dental health plays a critical role in your overall well-being. A healthy smile not only boosts your confidence, but also supports proper nutrition, clear speech, and can even help prevent serious health conditions. Gum disease, for example, has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses.That’s why regular dental check-ups, cleanings, and early treatment are essential parts of staying healthy — from head to toe.

At Chalfont Family Dentistry, Dr. Marie Groncki and Dr. Sarah White are committed to helping you achieve and maintain optimal oral health in a warm, welcoming environment. They are excited to announce the newest addition to their team, Dr. Frido Buschmann. Dr. Buschmann is a third generation dentist, who is compassionate and highly skilled. He is dedicated to providing exceptional care for patients of all ages.

Drs. Groncki, White and Buschmann bring their expertise in preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry, and are passionate about educating patients on the connection between oral health and overall wellness. Whether you’re due for a routine cleaning or interested in improving your smile, Chalfont Family Dentistry is there to help you every step of the way.

healthy, one smile at a time.

Now is the perfect time to schedule your next appointment and meet Dr. Buschmann! Let us help you and your family stay

Chalfont Family Dentistry is located at 350 N. Main Street, STE 200, Chalfont, PA. To book an appointment, call 215-822-3838 For more information, vist www.chalfontdentist.com.

COMPASSION AND UNDERSTANDING

Rosemary Bergamini the owner and founder and owner of A House of Wigs. Her mission is to make a woman’s journey a little easier by providing the kind of personal service that she knows you’re looking for and deserve.Your true beauty is on the inside, it’s who you are, but your appearance is how you’ll feel.

Her journey began a moment when she heard the word cancer in March of 2015. She was so overwhelmed and frightened and wondered how long it would sheher hair falling out, she knew she had to face the fact that she would be without hair and would have to wear a wig.

Rosemay was so fortunate to find a salon that offered compassion, understanding and a wig that was very much like the hair I had lost. Today she is on a mission to offer the same experience that she so gratefully received, to you. During this complicated time. Her goal is to make you look your best and in the process help you to be your best.

For more information visit www.ahouseofwigs.com or call 973-460-8002.

Dr. Sarah White, Dr. Marie Gronci and Dr. Frido Buschmann

At Chalfont Family Dentistry, we are committed to delivering the highest quality dental care in a warm, welcoming environment. Using state-of-the-art technology, we provide accurate diagnoses, advanced treatments, and exceptional results—whether you need preventive, restorative, or cosmetic care. We understand that visiting the dentist can be stressful, so our friendly and compassionate team takes the time to listen, answer questions, and ensure you feel relaxed at every visit. From the moment you walk in, your comfort and care are our top priorities.

We are now offering C5 Hidden Orthodontics. Call and schedule your free consultation!

CLEANING & EXAMS • COSMETIC DENTISTRY• PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY • EXT

HealthyLiving

ADVANCING ONCOLOGY CARE

In a continued commitment to providing the most advanced cancer care to the community, Jefferson Health’s Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center has opened a new Medical Oncology suite at Jefferson Bucks Hospital in Langhorne, Bucks County.The facility features 14 state-of-theart infusion chairs, 12 private bays, a semi-private bay, along with a designated space for clinical appointments.

The suite brings the benefits of an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center to patients in the Bucks County community, including nationally renowned specialists who deliver compassionate care. Among these benefits are leadingedge technology, a wide breadth of clinical trials and supportive care resource—such as social work, support groups, nutrition and financial advisors.

“This marks a significant milestone in response to the growing need for an expansion of cancer services across the region,” said Brian Sweeney, RN, MBA, FACHE, President, North Region, Jefferson Health. “With a team of expert clinicians and support staff backed by the latest in technology and clinical trials, we are committed to providing the most advanced cancer care to our patients close to home.”

Through the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer

Center at Jefferson Bucks Hospital, patients have the opportunity to access new cancer treatments through clinical trials. These studies benefit our patients with innovative developments before they are widely available.The Center for Clinical Research participates in more than 145 cancer-related trials in various phases. Jefferson Health, in partnership with Sarah Cannon Research Institute, has one of the largest Phase I cancer research programs on the East Coast. Now, many of these trials are open on-site, allowing patients to participate close to home.

With a team approach to cancer care, medical oncology is part of a growing number of specialty services offered at Jefferson Bucks Hospital, including breast surgery, colorectal surgery, ENT, gastroenterology, gynecology, interventional oncology, neurosurgery, pulmonology and urology.

To make an appointment, call 215-890-3030. If you’ve been recently diagnosed with cancer, Same Day/Next Day Cancer Care offers telehealth appointments with an oncology clinician within 48 hours.

For more information about Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Jefferson Bucks Hospital, visit www.JeffersonHealth.org/Cancer.

HealthyLiving

CENTER FOR HOPE & HEALING

St. Luke's Cancer Center unveiled its new Center for Hope & Healing at the St. Luke’s Upper Bucks Campus earlier this year—the only facility of its kind in Bucks County and the greater Lehigh Valley area.

The Center for Hope & Healing uses an integrative, patientcentric approach to support patients, families and the community, providing space to the Mastectomy Bra Boutique, American Hairlines and LuxCare Clothing.

“These services reflect our commitment to ensuring every patient receives comprehensive care that addresses their physical needs, their emotional needs and their sense of self,” said MaryKate Cellmer, St. Luke’s Vice President Department of Oncology.

The Mastectomy Bra Boutique in partnership with Adapt Health, empowers women on their journey to recovery by offering a wide range of post-op bras, mastectomy bras, prosthetics and specialized garments designed for comfort and symmetry. American Hairlines offers patients hair/wigs, makeup and nails services. The team at American Hairlines uses advanced customization, precise sizing, and tailored cutting techniques. The Lux-

Care Clothing, founded by a survivor, creates stylish, medically adaptive clothing and headscarves for cancer patients. Its scanfriendly garments provide chest port and vein access, while the custom print headscarves, made from soft organic fabrics, offer comfort and confidence.

“It’s very serene, it’s calming, it’s relaxing,” Cellmer said following the ribbon cutting. “You don’t feel like you're going to a durable medical equipment fitting ... We wanted it to feel like you’re actually going to a boutique-like experience.”

Kate DeBellis is a physical therapy assistant and certified mastectomy fitter at the Center for Hope & Healing. “We want to continue to educate survivors about the benefits that they receive with these products for the rest of their lives,” DeBellis said.

Additionally, the Center will host support groups for various cancer types, including a new blood cancer support group. The Center for Hope & Healing, located at 3000 St. Luke’s Drive at the St. Luke’s Upper Bucks Campus in Milford Township, was made possible with support from Penn Stainless and the Evergreen Donor Advised Fund.

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When it comes to your heart, you deserve exceptional care, no matter how complex o routine the issue. That’s why Sherry chose St. Luke’s – an eight-time 50 Toop Heart Hos St. Luke’s consistently leads the region in adopting innovative technologies, ensuring patient receives the highest quality care and outcomes. With St. Luke’s, Sherry knew h heart was in the best hands every step of the way. Discover the excellence of St. Luke s scan the QR code or visit sluhn.org/heart to learn more.

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HealthyLiving

RECOVERY PERFORMANCE & LONGEVITY

On Valintine’s Day 2017, Lee Dittmar, entrepreneur, adventurer, athlete and skier, was preparing to take a trip with his daughter to Antarctica when he was diagnosed with throat cancer. There were four tumors—four stage cancer. It was incomprehensible. “I was healthy and fit, didn’t smoke,” Lee says. The diagnosis led to a grueling treatment of both chemotherapy and radiation. At that point, Lee made two decisions: he would recover and he would use his well-honed research skills to beat the cancer and endure the treatment. So, with a change in diet, a positive attitude, multiple supplements and other holistic treatments, he was clear of cancer by September of the same year.

Lee’s astonishing recovery from cancer got him to think about how he could give back all that was given to him. He says, “I made this decision in 2017 that I was going to do something. The details of which would be determined later. Our health care system, as good as it is, is about treating injury and sickness. Not keeping you well.”

Lee researched several technologies and he documented the experience of others who used them. And he had some very

well-documented cases of recovery from maladies like advanced Lyme disease, arthritis and joint problems, injuries, fatigue, emotional and mental problems and the list kept growing. “And I hit on this formula to make these technologies available to the average person—the technologies that wealthy people and rock stars and professional athletes use all the time. But they weren't things that were prescribed by their medical caregivers.”

So in 2019 Lee opened RPL (Recovery, Performance, Longevity) and his focus was to help people recover from injuries, long term health problems, improve the performance of those trying to accomplish personal fitness and athletic goals, and to help people live a more vital and long life. Considering himself a nurturer, his desire is to help people and keep the costs as low as possible. Lee said, “My goal here is to help as many people as I can. I mean, it is a for-profit business, but I don't run it for profit. Most of the time, I'm contributing out of my own pocket on an monthly basis.

The cases of miraculous help that Lee provided for his clients are numerous and heart-warming—people totally devastated by Lyme disease, unremitting back pain, chronic fatigue, depression,

long-term COVID, breathing difficulties, asthma, allergies, chronic inflammation, memory deficit, aging of body and skin and the list goes on. He is especially concerned with people who want to remain mobile, have a positive outlook and stay thrive as they age.

The technologies Lee and his team use are cryotherapy, infrared Sauna, Pulsed Electro Magnetic (PEMF), Hyperbaric Oxygen, Dynamic Sequential Compression and Red Light Therapy. The equipment to provide these treatments have a well-researched basis in science. In a world overrun by conflicting medical advice, RPL stands out as a trusted source of clarity. “There’s so much hype in the wellness world,” Lee says, “Our role is to cut through the noise and deliver what works—with integrity and care.”

RPL offers flexible hours, and expert staff in a judgment-free atmosphere.You are free to walk in with any questions you may have. RPL is located at 650 Durham Road, Suite 7, Newtown, PA. For more information, call 267-3600775, email RPLsolutions@comcast.net. To learn more about these technologies, visit www.rplpersonalsolutions.com.

Above, Lee Dittmar standing in front of the Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy equipment.Bottom left, Lee standing next to the cyrotherapy equipment. Bottom right, Lee with manager Aden Tully,

CANNABIS FOR SENIOR HEALTH CONCERNS HealthyLiving

As the percentage of US adults that use cannabis continues to rise, more seniors are turning to the plant to manage a range of age-related health concerns and symptoms. At Union Chill Cannabis Co. in Lambertville, we’ve seen firsthand how cannabis and cannabinoids can offer meaningful relief and improved quality of life for older adults.

Cannabis interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a key role in regulating functions like sleep, pain perception, mood, and inflammation. This can be particularly beneficial for seniors managing conditions like arthritis, chronic pain, insomnia, or anxiety.These are common issues that often require pharmaceutical treatments with side effects or dependency risks. Many of our senior customers find that THC and CBD products offer a gentler, more natural alternative.

seniors. Many of our older customers use CBD to ease joint pain, reduce anxiety, and promote restful sleep—all without the “high” associated with THC.

CBD, a non-intoxicating compound, is especially popular among

Beyond physical relief, cannabis can also enhance emotional wellbeing. Our customers have reported feeling more relaxed, social, and engaged— which can help to combat loneliness or depression. At Union Chill, we prioritize education and product guidance to ensure seniors feel empowered and informed in their cannabis journey.

Whether it’s a discreet gummy, soothing topical, or low-dose tincture, cannabis is opening new doors to wellness for older adults. Union Chill Cannabis Co. in Lambertville is proud to support this growing community with compassion, highquality products, and personalized service every step of the way. Adults over 55 get 10% off every day at Union Chill, and 20% off every Wednesday. This editorial is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace or supplement actual medical advice. Union Chill is located at 204 N Union St, Lambertville, NJ. For more information, visit www.unionchillco.com.

lat feet, or fallen arches, is a condition where the arch of the foot is low or absent, often leading to pain and discomfort. While not always a problem, flat feet can worsen over time, particularly in seniors, and may cause pain in the feet, ankles, knees, and even the back.

A podiatrist or other healthcare professional can assess your condition, recommend appropriate treatment options, and help you manage your symptoms. Usually they recommend arch supports, stretching exercises, weight management, physical therapy and to avoid high-impact activities.

Flaherty’s shoes of Southampton make custom foot orthotics. Many consider them the best functioning custom molded inserts in the tri-state area. They our soft, semi-rigid orthotics depending on the customer’s foot needs. All of their inserts are made on the premises and when the cushion wears down, they can be refurbished. It’s been a family business for over 60 years and prides itself on supplying will fitting and well-functioning footwear, footwear appliances, and alterations.

For more information visit them at 461-463 Second Street Pike, Southampton, PA or contact them at 215-257-3621 or visit www.fahertyshoes.com.

EYE CARE THAT PUTS YOU FIRST

Eye Associates of Bucks County (EABC) has been serving the Langhorne area for over 40 years. As a leader in cataract surgery, they use the latest technology and lenses to improve and preserve sight. Their primary goal is to improve each patient’s quality of life while making them less dependent on glasses.

A recent patient, Dr. Barbara Shonberg, MD, chose EABC based on her personal experience with sending her own patients to Dr. Pendse for cataract surgery, patient referrals, and the outstanding reputation EABC has in the Langhorne community. When she met with Dr. Pendse, he gave her a wealth of information regarding the procedure (pre and post), recovery, expected results from the surgery, and lens options.

According to Dr. Shonberg, “Dr. Pendse provided all the information to make me comfortable with my choices for the surgery. He was very open and caring while

providing key recommendations to help me make the best decisions.” With the guidance of Dr. Pendse, she chose to have cataract surgery on both eyes with a PanOptix multifocal lens, that would improve her near, intermediate, and far-distance vision.

Dr. Shonberg reports that throughout the experience, she did not feel pressured or rushed, which gave her assurance that the surgery would be successful. Because of the education beforehand, her results were exactly what she expected, and she was pleasantly surprised at the quick re-

covery time.

The EABC physicians dedicate themselves to protecting, improving, and preserving eye health for each patient. At Eye Associates of Bucks County, Dr. Pendse and his fellow physicians believe that every decision should be informed and personal. If you would like to be involved with making an informed decision about your eye health, call Eye Associates of Bucks County at 833-921-6200 or visit www.centerforeyes.com to schedule an appointment.

Although most of the popular literature that you read about nutrition makes green tea seem like it is in a class all by itself and never neglects to mention a favorite breakfast tea—black tea. Researchers, in fact believe there is little difference in the health benefits of either.

Pine Run Village

So, for us who prefer a tea that is bolder and gives a little more of a jolt, black tea is as good for our health as green tea. Black tea offers the same health benefits as green tea it also is rich content of antioxidants and polyphenols.These compounds contribute to improved heart health, better gut health, and potentially lower risks of certain cancers and may also help manage blood sugar levels, according to research. Healthline (www.healthline.com) a trusted internet source of information on foods, medicines and foods states, “Both green and black tea are rich in polyphenols, a group of protective antioxidants. Specifically, they contain flavonoids, a subgroup of polyphenols.”

And it help concentration. Black tea contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which combined with caffeine, can keep you in the zone, says the research that has been done using black tea extract to figure out all these health benefits. One study looked at the effects of black tea on attention and found that those who drank black tea performed more accurately on both a taskswitching test and a self-reported alertness questionnaire.

So, when using tea because you both enjoy it and want the health benefits that come with it, drink green or black tea— whichever you like best.

EXERCISE FOR SENIORS

Dr. Angelo Ratini and Dr. Melinda Ratini, both board-certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Family Practitioners, specialize in geriatrics and are dedicated to helping individuals improve their health through appropriate exercise and lifestyle choices.

Exercise is an essential pillar of good health, yet a staggering 70% of Americans find themselves overweight or out of shape. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death, while the average individual spends five hours each day glued to a screen.

For those with underlying health conditions, the idea of exercising can be daunting. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider about appropriate exercises tailored to your individual needs.

Moderation is key when beginning a strength training regimen. Carrying excess weight can make some exercises challenging, but adapting them to fit your ability can help you get started. As your fitness improves, many of these adjustments may become unnecessary, leading to significant health benefits and a reduction in existing health issues.

Starting an exercise program can feel overwhelming, especially when progress seems slow. Setting small, achievable goals can create a sustainable path forward. Remember, exercise is not merely about weight loss or muscle gain; it’s fundamentally about enhancing your overall health and well-being.

An effective exercise plan for seniors should encompass strength training, endurance activities, flexibility exercises, and balance training. Consulting with your doctor prior to starting a new exercise program is advisable.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Angelo Ratini or Dr. Melinda Ratini for yourself or a loved one, please call (215) 785-9830.

True Croissants

You cannot get a croissant in the America that has the taste and texture of a traditionally made croissant unless you go to France or the Mamie Colette bakery in Newtown

If you’ve never tasted a true croissant, you either have never been to France or to Mamie Colette bakery in Newtown. Either way that’s easily corrected. No passport needed nor transatlantic flight. Just set your GPS and head to Mamie Colette’s artisanal French bakery at 202 S. State Street for the rich, flaky pastry that has been celebrated the world-over for more than 200 years and, perhaps, has become more iconic of France than the Eiffel Tower.

But, you say, croissants can be found at most food stores and bakeries—even convenience stores. So why Mamie Colette? Simple: Not all croissants are equal. Nor are they traditionally made.

I learned this the hard way. For more years that I care to admit, I was under the impression that I had been eating French croissants. Though I have been to France, it was their baguettes that I remember most. But it wasn’t until I tasted one of Mamie Colette croissants recently that I understood the difference. And understood why years ago one of my friends had pushed aside the croissant I had served her for breakfast, claiming with disdain that it was not a true French croissant as she disappointedly reached for a bowl of plain yogurt and fruit instead.

Her dismissal of the croissant that day stuck in my mind like a paper cut. And, then, one morning at the Wrightstown Farmer’s

Photo: Paul Wesley

Market I overheard a conversation about croissants that a new bakery in Newtown was making. “I’m telling you, you’ll think you’re in France,” said the shopper. “And the baker and owner is a French woman.”

I leaned in closer, and not containing myself, begged him to tell me the name. He not only did, but proceeded to rhapsodize about the different croissants he and his friends had enjoyed.

My curiosity and palate were peaked. So on a bright, sunny day last spring I set my navigator for Mamie Colette and parked on South State Street.

I eagerly strode down a couple of blocks past Washington Ave. But no Mamie Colette. Panicking, I ducked into a tony shop, asking if they knew where it was. The sales clerk, laughing, said they were very familiar with her croissants and walked me outside, gesturing to the small sign proclaiming Mamie Colette with an arrow pointing down Penn Street.

I scurried down, only to find a large parking lot. There on my left was Mamie Colette. Outside were several, inviting patio tables and chairs. As I passed one, two women were sitting, sipping coffee, an empty, crumpled pastry bag on the table, and conversing in French. I took this as a good omen.

Walking in confirmed it. Perfuming the air were the sweet smells of freshly baked croissants and pastries which were displayed in the large case under the front counter. Behind it held an array of freshly baked breads, including crusty baguettes. On the wall, a chalkboard proclaims “Life without croissants is no life at all.” (Very wise words as I soon found out.) Through the large picture window on my left, I could see Chef Magali Henry making croissants in her open kitchen. Her strong hands expertly folding the delicate croissant dough.

As arranged, Isabelle Noblanc, Chef Magali’s business partner, greeted me and led me to two comfortable chairs with trayshaped arm rests at the opposite side of the shop. (Dubbed a Grab-n-Go bakery, with take-out only, these, as well as the patio tables are the only sit-down options—typi-

cal of French boulangeries where the croissants and pastries are meant to be enjoyed on a park bench or spot of your choosing.) A native of France herself, Isabelle is from Brittany, not far from where Chef Magali grew up in Chartres, about 50 miles southwest of Paris. But it wasn’t until their adult years that they met.

Isabelle first came to the U.S. as a student in 1988 which led to working for American companies, eventually as CEO of a few. But it was as an American expat in Chartres for one that she met her wife. Eventually the two settled in the U.S. In 2020, they opened Mamie Colette in Newtown. The bakery is named to honor Chef Magali’s grandmother, Mamie Colette, who emigrated to Chartres from the Caribbean island of Guadelsoupe with her six children, working long hours to provide them with a good home.

Joining us, Chef Magali explains that from her grandmother she not only learned baking. “She taught me the value and ethics of work and the value and love of family and friends.” And though she baked with her, it wasn’t until much later, after she had gone to culinary school to learn the art of viennoiserie, the French word for baked goods such as croissants, brioches and Danishes, did she start making croissants.

All through culinary school, she says, she hated making them. But while working in a Netherlands restaurant, she was put in charge of making croissants. Like finding the key to a treasure box, Chef Magali found her passion. Making croissants, she says, is a combination of passion, science and art.

“Croissant dough is the most difficult,” she says. “Every step is sensitive to temperature and humidity.” If for example her hands become too warm from working with the dough, she must stop. Put the dough in the refrigerator to rest and cool her hands in cold water before beginning again. It is 2:30 in the afternoon. Chef Magali started her day in the kitchen twelve hours earlier. She will finish when the last of the day’s croissants emerge from the oven in time for their customers before

closing. And begin again at 2:30 the next morning.

It takes two days and 24 folds of the dough to make one of her croissants. It is a culinary dance of flour, unsalted European butter, sugar, yeast and milk that she has perfected. Each fold and turn of the dough is layered in butter, which begins as a 12 by 12 by 1-inch sheet. Through the process called laminating, the butter is folded into the dough multiple times to create thin, alternating layers of fat and dough, producing a multi-layered, flaky texture. Each new fold and roll of the dough builds another layer until when Chef Magali finishes, the dough is crescent-shaped and about five inches long. A short rest along with applying an egg wash before popping them in the 375 °F oven for 15 minutes yields deep caramelcolored, flaky croissants about seven inches long.

Look closely and you can count the folds. Then eat as the French do, tearing off small pieces of the croissant with your hands rather than biting into it. No need to add butter or preserves but not unFrench to do so or to dunk a chunk in coffee. Again in keeping with a traditional French boulangerie, Chef Magali also offers ham and cheese croissants for breakfast and lunch.

On any given day, there are about 15 different croissants offered such as those filled with Nutella, fruit jam, spinach, almond and ham and cheese. Other pastries include cheese Danish, Palmiers, creative brioches, abricotine and about 13 different breads, both traditional and Isabelle-inspired. All are made using only natural ingredients with no preservatives or chemicals added. The flour is non-GMO, never bleached or bromated. As with Chef Magali’s croissants, the baguettes are traditionally made, crusty on the outside with nooks and crannies in the soft dough on the inside. Perfect to smear on dabs of sweet butter, drizzle with olive oil or slice in half and envelop with your favorite sandwich filling.

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Restaurants with Taste / Frank D.Quattrone

Honey Restaurant

Although it’s moved on from its original concept—featuring honey, in some form, in virtually every item on the menu—Honey Restaurant has been consistent in one regard. In the words of co-owners Executive Chef Joe McAtee and his wife, Amy, who manages the thriving restaurant, it’s been a “love fest” from the word go.

An abiding love between the ebullient chef and his charming wife, who easily finish each other’s sentences and plan the exciting menu together. A love fest for their staff, chosen as much for their passion and personality (like servers Felicity Mangeri and Joey Coughlin, both students at Bucks County Community College) as much as for their experience. A love fest in the kitchen, for inspired food, and in the front of the house, to make guests feel like cherished family and friends.

At Honey’s cozy twelve tables, prepare yourself for a unique dining experience. The warm greeting is one thing, but the “small plates” menu will have your palate, as well as your heart, palpitating with anticipation.

Let’s start with the amuse-bouche, that single, bitesized hors-oeuvre that magically appears on each table shortly after you’re seated. Our server, the calm, goateed

Zen master Jason Brown, said, “We’ll start you off with a teaser, to whet your palate for the feast to come.” That teaser was a sourdough crouton topped with goat cheese and spiced cherry mustard. “A pleasant surprise, no?” as our cheerful complementary server Felicity soon added. Since Honey has evolved into an exclusively “small plates” restaurant, there is but one menu, so a party of two will generally order five to six small plates. Chef Joe describes his menu as “reimagined American comfort food,” so prepare yourself for those special accompaniments that give each dish what the chef modestly calls “a little sparkle.”

Our first plate was Spring Rolls, stuffed with butternut squash, Napa cabbage, wood ear mushrooms, vermicelli noodles, and carrot sesame, accompanied by a spicy walnut sauce. The next, served in a metal Martini cup, was Fried Rock Shrimp Martini, embellished with sour apple guacamole, salted peanuts, puffed purple rice, and (believe it or not), a subtle splash of wasabi! Also in the seafood family was our third plate—Maryland Crab Cake (one of the chef’s favorite dishes anywhere!), served on a bed of sweet corn kernels, bell pepper bits, and “sparkling” diced pickled chorizo (!) in a saffron-chili aioli. Wow!

Photos: Paul Wesley

Francisco’s On the River

How about this for the perfect outing on a warm summer evening? Seated in the River Room at Francisco’s on the River, just a mile or so from Washington Crossing State Park, you can enjoy a marvelously refined Italian or Mediterranean dinner within view of the scenic Delaware River.

Long known as a destination restaurant, Francisco’s has been delighting guests since its opening in 2008. Selftaught executive chef-owner Francisco Argueta, who came to America from his native El Salvador in 1986, has learned his craft from a variety of sources, starting with his family’s farm.

“I was the only boy among nine siblings, with eight sisters. We all worked with my father, harvesting coffee beans and sugar cane, milking cows—everything you can imagine,” he recalls. “My mother made breakfast and lunch every day for the thirty or forty who worked the farm. I learned so much about fresh food and nutrition from them.

“When I came to my new country, I started as a dishwasher and moved fast up the line to cook and, eventually, to chef. I learned from all the chefs I worked for, as well

as research in libraries, cooking shows, and,” Francisco began to laugh, “from an incredible internet site that featured more than 30,000 recipes!”

Through the years, Francisco has come to realize that “every dish has its own distinction. Personally, I love working with fresh ingredients and don’t follow specific recipes per se.”

The truth of that vision was fully evident the evening of our most recent visit. After the chef sent out a plate of hard cheese, green and black olives, and roasted red peppers to tease our palates, we ordered an amazing appetizer—Sautéed Calamari. Reminiscent of a dish my own grandmother loved to cook, and unlike the Calamari Fritti so popular in many Mediterranean restaurants, Francisco served up his calamari with garlic, shallots, and green onions in a delectable marinara sauce—a dish generous enough to serve as an entrée. My nonna would have been proud!

Our entrées, both from the Specials Menu, were even better. A crab fancier from the time I was a kid, I ordered the Jumbo Soft Shell Crabs Oreganata, a taste sensation, with soft shells tossed with shallots, fresh plum tomatoes, sherry wine, and fresh sprigs of aromatic oregano on a bed

Next, we tried the chef’s inspired variations on two Italian staples. They were the “Meatball Parm,” featuring lamb meatballs served in a harissa tomato sauce, with Cypress Grove “Purple Haze” goat cheese over crostini (maybe not psychedelic, but certainly sumptuously spicy!), and “Risotto Cakes,” flavored with fried saffron, pine nut caponata, and aged goat cheese in a light oregano tomato sauce.

Still not full (and definitely not stuffed, as we decided to save half our meal for the following evening), we ordered our nearfavorite small plate, Honey’s signature item—what Jason described as probably the only dish to survive all 18 years of Honey’s flavorful existence—the twicecooked Black Tea Glazed Spare Ribs, falling easily off the bone and topped with pine nuts and toasted sesame, with a scoop of ginger ice cream (yes, you heard me!) on the side. Perhaps our best spare ribs— ever!

The only dish we enjoyed even more than the spare ribs was our dessert— “Take Six,” inspired by what Jason calls

of spinach, accompanied by the best red bliss mashed potatoes I’ve had in years.

Eve’s entrée was our favorite dish of the night. She ordered the delicate, flavorful Halibut, topped with bits of fresh fennel in a saffron and citrus sauce, served with a side of sautéed zucchini, broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower, and a scoop of those great mashed potatoes.

Francisco says that plum tomatoes and fennel are staples of Italian cuisine, where he clearly excels. On a previous visit we reveled in the best Eggplant Parmigiano we’ve ever had—in any restaurant or Italian home. He and his sous chefs slice the eggplant as thin as they can, sop up the natural oils with paper towels, then lightly flour and pan-fry it. Between each two layers, the chefs add fresh basil, Parmigiano, and their signature homemade marinara. Sixteen mouth-watering layers of eggplant—a world-class delicacy, for sure!

But Francisco’s menu is far more diverse than simply Mediterranean. He says

“the chef’s favorite, a deconstructed Take 5 candy bar”—a Callebaut bar of soft chocolate complemented by a scoop of peanut butter surrounded by a ring of peanut-pretzel crumbs, caramel, and malted raisins. OMG! With a demitasse of espresso, the perfect ending to an unforgettable meal.

So, where did all this inspiration originate? A self-taught chef, Joe McAtee credits his wife Amy, both of whom have extensive experience in the food business, for the synergy they create together. They’re also musicians. You can hear their first album of original music, “Kitchen Sync, Vol. 1-Honey Radio” (on Apple Music), permeating the restaurant and lending itself to the warm ambiance guests feel.

The chef says, “I don’t have a pedigree in cooking. Just like an original piece of music, what I do in the kitchen is not exactly a ‘recipe,’ like a cover song; it’s kind of unpretentious and creative—just the right amount of seasoning and creative flair—what tastes good to Amy and me.”

FRANCISCO’S

he trusts his vendors to recommend the best produce, seafood (like barramundi), or meats available for specials, as well as regular menu items. One that proved popular the evening we visited was Imported Kurobuta Pork Chop. Originating in Japan and initially imported there from Berkshire, England, Kurobuta is considered a heritage breed with high marbling, flavor, and tenderness. Guests raved about this special, topped with sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, and gorgonzola cheese, drizzled with a balsamic reduction.

Although we passed on dessert (full from an exceptional meal), the restaurant offers a nice variety of homemade offerings, including Coconut Cream Cake, Crème Brûlée, New York Style Cheesecake, Tiramisu, Triple Layer Chocolate Mousse Cake, Flourless Chocolate Torte, gluten-free gelatos and sorbets, and Lemon Nonna, a lemon custard served in a pastry tart, topped with slivered almonds

And Amy says, “we just want our guests to have some fun, try something they know, then maybe try a wild card that will surprise and delight them.” The chef adds, “We don't serve anything that you could find at another restaurant because we want our customers to take a chance and try something new.” Anyone not satisfied with their small plate can simply “trade” that dish for another. No argument, no problem.

And every guest will receive what Joe calls “a secret parking tip upon making a reservation”—a bonus on the crowded byways of Doylestown.

Honey is a dazzling “love fest” of warm hospitality and inspired food. Don’t miss it!

Honey Restaurant is located at 42 Shewell Avenue, Doylestown, PA; 215-489-4200; www.honeyrestaurant.com. Open for dinner only, Wednesday to Sunday, from 5 p.m. Closed Monday & Tuesday. Reservations highly recommended, especially on Friday & Saturday. Parking: see Amy’s texts. No catering, private parties, or delivery. Cocktails, wine, beer available.

and powdered sugar. Next time!

Francisco says, “I love to make our guests comfortable and invite them to ask any questions they have about the menu items. Our staff are well-trained to answer any questions.” True enough. Both our server, Kelly Sliker, a veteran of thirteen years at Francisco’s, and our bus boy, the precocious and delightful Jackson Edgington, who said he’s excited to learn the business, entertained and delivered on a host of our questions during our last visit.

You would do well to make Francisco’s on the River a destination the next time you crave an inspired meal in a scenic location you won’t soon forget.

Francisco’s on the River is located at 1251 River Road, Washington Crossing, PA; 215-321-8789; www.franciscosontheriver.com. Open for dinner Tuesday to Thursday, 5–9 p.m.; Friday & Saturday, 5–10 p.m.; and Sunday, 4–9 p.m. Closed Monday. BYOB. Reservations suggested weekends. Full range of catering options available.

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.

Dining & Food Guide

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.

Ferndale Inn, 551 Churchill Road (Route 611), Ferndale, PA 18921; 610-847-2662;

www.theferndaleinn.com.

Casual fine dining with Chef Karen Baron’ signature dishes that include jumbo lump crab au gratin, soft shell crabs, duck with green peppercornbrandy 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

Dining Out Guide

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.

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.

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

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

Staying Fit at Any Age

IFIRST LADY OF FITNESS TURNS 100 IN MARCH

by Vicky Paraxismos Waite

was concerned when a dear friend of mine hadn't sent me a Christmas card. She always does every year and then when I called her, I became more concerned because she is the type that responds quickly. I didn't hear back from her, so I now got very concerned knowing she lives in California where her area was affected by the wildfires. After a very long period all my worries left when I found out she was ok. To me and her friends and family she is known as LaLa. But the world knows her as Elaine LaLanne, the first lady of fitness.

It’s funny how I met her the first time. It was when I was six years old watching The Jack LaLanne Show and Jack and his wife Elaine working out. I was kind of a chubby little kid who grew up in a Greek family from New Jersey. My parents owned a food business, and they brought leftover cookies and cakes home almost every day. I found myself becoming a human garbage disposal as I enjoyed watching the show while eating cookies and trying out new exercises. I thought I could grow up and be like Elaine.

Over the last 65-70 years she has helped teach and motivate people to live a healthy and balanced life. A movement that started the fitness world as we know it today. It was great to hear she and her home were safe from the fires. Unfortunately, one of her family members did lose their home, but were safe and sound. While talking she was quick to remind me that she sends her Christmas cards out after the holidays which I now remembered from the past years. This 99-year-old pushing 100 is sharp as a whistle, reminding me what I totally forgot. She certainly has no plans on slowing down. That’s right physically nor mentally. It’s hard to believe she will be turning 25 four times in March!

“You have to move, if you don't move you become immovable.” she says. Her typical day starts from her bed, lying stretched out on the top of the covers with about 20 Jack knife sit-ups that target her lower abs. She'll head to the bathroom sink and do some incline push-ups, which target the upper chest muscles. She makes it a point to stretch her whole body every day, including face and neck. To relieve tension in her shoulders, she'll shrug them up towards her ears and then down towards her back. She does the knee-to-chest to relieve tension in her lower back and hips, then it's squats and toe raises. Lala heads to her home gym and walks uphill on a

treadmill for a few minutes. She does lat pull-downs on a machine which target all her back muscles. She likes to stretch and hang from a pull up bar letting her body hang like a ragdoll. Weights are coordinated along with her workout.

If you're just starting and never exercised before she says to go easy, one step at a time. Work your way up. Lala says everything starts in the mind. She says you have to believe you can. It certainly has helped her live as if she were decades younger. She’s a true believer in keeping things simple. She feels if you want to combine healthy habits into your life whether it's diet, exercise or stress management, it's all about keeping it simple. Otherwise, she says it's less likely for it to stay a habit. LaLa and Jack always kept an attitude of a positive mindset. They would tell you “Your mind is like a mine that is full of diamonds. All you have to do is dig them up”. LaLa says. The mindset is key to aging healthfully.

Being that I'm no spring chicken, maybe I better start maintaining a more positive mindset so I can break 100 like Lala! She goes on to say instead of focusing on what you can’t do, focus on what you can. She believes everything in moderation. Lala is big on our minds controlling our bodies. She says in order to keep your mind active; you have to be active. She goes on to say, what moves your finger, your foot or your

arms? It’s your mind.

People with a fixed mindset believe their qualities are fixed traits and cannot change. People with a growth mindset have a belief that they're learning, and intelligence grows with time and experience. Jack and Lala both have that growth mindset. They believe all great things start with the right mindset and

Having a sense of humor and finding time to have a good laugh could be the keys to aging in good health. The benefits of laughter include boosting the level of oxygen in the blood and the release of cortisol, endorphins and the immune system’s T-cells. Laughter also boosts levels of dopamine and other stress busting chemicals and hormones that can naturally help

attitude also is so important. It's a way of thinking, acting or feeling. It can be negative or positive. Jack and Lala always knew that attitude can either make you or break you. Even though Lala eats nutrient rich foods, she goes for that piece of cake every now and then.

If you ask LaLa what are the words she lives by? She’ll tell you in the pattern of the acronym ARCH: A is for ATTITUDE. Have a positive one. The way you think becomes your attitude. YOU ARE YOUR ATTITUDE. R is for RESISTANCE. Resistance is the key to building muscle and toning your body. She also emphasizes how important it is to resist foods that undermine your health. C is for CONSISTENCY. She believes in being consistent in your workouts and in healthy eating habits. It will prolong your life. H is for HARMONY. When you put all this together with s sense of humor, you have a life of Harmony! For LaLa a sense of humor is a biggie when it comes to aging. And that she has a lot of! I can easily say she is a natural comedian!

to lower anxiety and depression. It’s hard to feel that stress when you are laughing. LaLa explains tomorrow is what you eat today and how much exercise you get. “The rest is to rust!”

In one of her many published books, If You Want to Live Move with Jaime Brenkus, she shares how to take control of the aging process and lessen the risk of cancer, depression, diabetes and hypertension through better nutrition and offers her recipes for meals with less salt, fat, sugar and dairy content. LaLa encourages the elderly to engage in ongoing projects. This can be a great way to promote cognitive function, physical activity, and overall well-being. The idea of always having a project can be a source of meaning and purpose in life. Finding fulfillment and engagement through personal projects, whether they be creative, intellectual, or physical.

Having a project gives a proactive and engaged approach to life, helping individuals to stay connected, creative, and stimulated throughout their lives. Her latest book Pride and Discipline–The Legacy of Jack LaLanne and Those He Inspired, including LaLa, with forward by Lou Ferrigno delves more into the mind, and how she was inspired by her husband, Jack LaLanne and has been a best seller on Amazon. It is co-authored by Greg Justice with quotes from many people including Arnold, Mark Wahlberg, Denise Austin, Tony Danza and Keith Morrison. Her LaLanne Pass It On Podcast is becoming very popular and can be seen on You Tube.

Elaine LaLanne continues to play a vital role in the fitness world. In the last few years, she’s been featured on national Television and in the New York Times, London Telegraph, Daily Mail and in national publications. She is an inspiration to me and many others throughout the world. She is a great friend, and I just love talking to her and feeling her positive energy.

You know the saying: Behind every great man is a great woman and Elaine was always that woman and more! She still runs her family’s business. BeFit Enterprises. It sells archival videos and memorabilia and licenses the LaLanne name. Check out one of her many latest books on page 17 Pride and Discipline. Great Read!

Sunset

From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the Lord's name is to be praised. The Lord is high above all nations, and his glory above the heavens. Psalm113:3-4

Photo: Stacey Simcik